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I was back in Brooklet Georgia and things were far from how they were when I left years ago.

Maddison used to be one of the guys, but that was definitely not the case anymore...

She had changed and damn if it didn’t make my heart race. With each passing second she began to consume me. Her smile made my knees weak and the way she looked at me took my breath away.

She captivated me, but she was forbidden. She was the one girl I had no right to crave.

Things became messy, and fast, but to hell with the consequences...she was worth it.

215 pages

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C.A. Harms

94 books2,158 followers

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5 stars
256 (56%)
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124 (27%)
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60 (13%)
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10 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,130 reviews1,764 followers
May 27, 2019
Favorite Quotes:

Trouble never looked so good.

This entire thing has been so that you can prove that you hold the upper hand in this relationship… Truth is you’ve always had the power over me… Damn, Mad, you’ve always been the one girl I could never say no to… I’m at your mercy. You could crush me, though I hope you never will.

I’m eighteen and still a virgin. I’ve never even kissed a guy unless you count little Jimmy Jones slobbering on my cheek in the fifth grade. But even then, Rhett threatened to beat him up when he found out, and he and my daddy have made sure no other boy has come within a foot of me since. At this rate, they’ll be doing a remake of the 40-Year-Old Virgin, starring yours truly.

I felt for the girl, I truly did, because Reed and Rhett were for sure gonna drive her insane for years and years to come. But the guy had my most sympathy; I just hoped whoever she ended up with, he was strong enough to survive.

My Review:

Angst and conflict are not my friends - I find them extremely tiresome. As such, the first half of this book was a tedious slog for me, but it was worth it to get to all the good stuff found in the second half. I was just about to give up when the stubborn girl finally stopped playing games and regained her facility for sassy and mischievous taunting. Thank the goddess of ink, I was growing increasingly concerned that Ms. Harms had lost her mojo but she redeemed herself with delicious slices of sizzle and playful levity. Written in my favorite dual POV, the storylines evolved slowly with many of the same lively cast of irreverent and endearing characters found in Allure. Mike was simply delectable.
Profile Image for Nerdy Dirty & Flirty.
3,985 reviews351 followers
May 30, 2019
description
Sweet, angsty romance…

Mike and Mads were friends. Until they were more. Grown up and settling into adulthood suddenly had them looking at each other in a whole new light. Surrounded by friends and family, they were unsure of their new found feelings, reluctant to talk about them with each other let alone with anyone else. What that meant was a heart-swirling courtship of angst-y romance…

This spin off series has everything that is right with next gen stories. So many known and loved characters taking on new roles of parenting adult children and offering counsel of their own. It seems not that long ago that they were the ones in need of sage advice! Mike and Mads were likable characters and felt so right for each other even as they had to wade through all the ‘should they’ and back and forth conversations. If it seemed to take a long time to get down to the heart of the matter, once they did, well, it was all worth waiting for…
Profile Image for Michelle Krystel .
1,992 reviews51 followers
June 1, 2019
I was given an advance readers copy of this book and have decided to write a voluntary honest review. Ok first I have to say I'm usually not a huge fan a of slow burn book, but this book was perfect in every way. The wait, the sexual tension, the jeliousy. It all just fit perfectly together. This is my second book by this author and now I'm itching to read more. I'm also can't wait for next book to this series. I will have to go back now and read Rhett and AJ's book. Mike is honestly perfect I loved everything about him. His need to protect his country and love he has for his family he's an honorable man. Now Maddison I love this girl she's type of person I would be come instant friends with. I adore her.
May 24, 2019
I loved the idea of this book, but it took a few chapters in before I realized what was happening between the characters. This had a slow burn, long-time friends to lover aspect (and I'll admit I didn't see it coming).

Maddison and Mike have been friends forever, they grew up together, their parents are friends (this is a second generation series so definitely check out the others), and Mikey has just retired from the military. They both know the idea of them getting together would either be incredible or disastrous but I swear neither character could get the gonads to go for it and communicate their feelings. It just seemed like an unnecessary amount of miscommunication.

Saying all that CA Harms knows how to write a story to pull you in. I was captivated (pun intended) from the beginning. I look forward to reading more by her.

Reviewed by: Paige R.
Profile Image for Marnie.
1,157 reviews23 followers
May 27, 2019
☆•❀Second Generation of those sexy Southern Boys❀•☆

Captivate is Book #2 in CA Harms’ Brooklet Dreams series and is the second generation of the original Southern Boys that I loved reading about so much. Each is an absolute stand-a-lone within the series, and is told in my favourite dual POV.

It is a beautiful and passionate Friends to Lovers story where Rhett’s (from Book #1, Allure) best friends realise that their feelings of friendship have morphed to attraction, and it was something neither had prepared for, nor knew how to deal with. Especially with the complication that they had grown up as family, or rather, cousins. The tiny but significant fact that there was no blood ties didn’t seem to mitigate the feelings of the forbidden in regards to any romantic relationship between them, so this made it a slow burn romance that was a little more on the sweet side that some of CA Harm’s other books.

In my mind, it showcases Ms Harms ability to inspire every reaction for her readers from the singeing of corneas from our eyes with scorching heat, to the charming of our hearts with sweet words of soul ensnaring words of love from our very gorgeous and tattooed ex-military book boyfriend. Mike is everything that you would want in your own man.

It was hard not to get frustrated with Maddison’s reluctance to deepen the relationship with Mike, and hell, I totally understood their need to want to take on any person that the other dated, because I wanted to smash everyone as well! Mike and Madd needed to have their heads butted, and the poor unfortunate who dared a relationship with either of them was due for some fallout as well!

It is only once they can get past the possible embarrassing stigma of family ties and accept the risk of their friendship changing forever that they can truly move forward with the relationship that always seemed to be on the cards. And I loved seeing the amazing families that our original couples created, be there for each other and our romantic couple. 4 Stars
Profile Image for Deborah Harrell-jones.
445 reviews3 followers
May 27, 2019
Mike and Maddison have been best friends since they were little. They have always felt a connection with one another because they both came into the family by adoption. When Mike returns home after military he is all about being with family and pursuing his medical degree. One day though he finds that his feelings for Maddison have changed but doesn’t know what to do with those feelings. Maddison is confused about what she is feeling for Mike and pushes him away which causes an unintentional hurt within their family. When their fighting feelings comes to a head there is something to be said about the delayed gratification, they put us through. Once they give into their attraction the story takes on this beautiful quality that makes you have the feels. Maddison and Mike have this intense love that is undeniable and romantic. Their whole life they felt this bond from the time they were small because they came from situations beyond their control.
I love the fact that this story was filled friendship and family. A little drama and heartache in the story made it well rounded and bittersweet. It is so great to see the kids all grown up and how we get to see what our favorite couples from their parent’s series are doing. The next generation is always much sweeter and filled with drama. Mike and Maddison’s story will give you laughs, tears, and chemistry of the best kind. It is a fast read and you will not want to put it down. Come and visit the next generation and revisit the couples we loved reading about.
Profile Image for April Symes.
5,013 reviews441 followers
May 28, 2019
Captivate is Book 2 in author CA Harms’ Brooklet Dreams series and is the second generation of the original Southern Boys series.
This is Maddison and Mike's story- a friends to lovers romance read. They have been friends forever ( they grew up together since their parents are friends- read the OG Southern Boys series for background on parents) and Mike has just retired from the military. The chemistry is intense between them and the push/pull is definitely there. They put up a good amount of front, trying to pretend that they don't want each other but soon it falls apart and they succumb to their feelings for one another. How much longer can they pretend that they don't want each other? Who is going to be hurt when they admit how much they have these deep emotions and feels for one another? Dare they run the risk of diving in and giving in and letting what feel take course and risk their friendship? So many things and people at risk yet two people who are in love. This story has such deep emotions and feels. The love that pours out is powerful and poignant. Keep tissues handy ... I enjoyed the characters and the chemistry between the main characters. The secondary characters also helped enchance the story. I can't wait for book 3.


My Rating: 4.5 stars *******
Profile Image for Ga Books LoverX.
2,362 reviews23 followers
May 21, 2019
You know when you see two people interact with each other and you just KNOW that they are meant for each other? This was Maddison and Mike so freaking much. These two were best friends and that eventually blossomed into more but there were a few factors that made them feel that their feelings were not possible.

This is a sweet read with a super decent but hot and alpha man and a feisty tomboy. They have extremely close familiar ties and deny their feelings, but it was like a powder keg about to explode. There is MUCHO lust and angst in the beginning of this book and there are some heart stopping moments in the end. I enjoyed this read and very much so look forward to the next one!

Read this book if you like some crazy friends to lovers romance that is real and sweet and just completely right!

PS: I received this book as an ARC but am voluntarily reviewing honestly.
169 reviews2 followers
May 22, 2019
I loved the idea of this book, but it took a few chapters in before I realized what was happening between the characters. This had a slow burn, long-time friends to lover aspect (and I'll admit I didn't see it coming).

Maddison and Mike have been friends forever, they grew up together, their parents are friends (this is a second generation series so definitely check out the others), and Mikey has just retired from the military. They both know the idea of them getting together would either be incredible or disastrous but I swear neither character could get the gonads to go for it and communicate their feelings. It just seemed like an unnecessary amount of miscommunication.

Saying all that CA Harms knows how to write a story to pull you in. I was captivated (pun intended) from the beginning. I look forward to reading more by her.
Profile Image for Andrea Fleury.
962 reviews76 followers
June 9, 2019
Mike and Madison

I simply adored this book just like all her books. I loved Mike and his sexy charm and his love for Madison. I can't wait to read the next one about Chloe and landon
Profile Image for Nancy Metsch.
1,369 reviews3 followers
May 21, 2019
One of the best friends to lovers books EVER!!!!
Maddison and Mikey were the best of friends, they even considered each other cousins. BUT what happens when you grow up and you see each other in a different way..Only your embarrassed. She/he is my cousin how could I feel THOSE feelings? BUT there is no blood between them. Maddison's Step father is Mike's "mother's" brother, so maybe it's ok.
Then let's not forget the fact that Mike joined the service. And every time he came home on leave he came back even stronger and he has INK!!! Double the sexy.
I loved how things happened between Mike and Maddison. Her even trying to date a coworker so maybe she could get over Mike. I have to say one of my favorite scenes in this book was when Mad and Raven got into a drunk fight. They always say your true feelings will be said with enough liquid encouragement.
Profile Image for Brianna at Renee Entress's Blog.
3,809 reviews116 followers
May 28, 2019
4.5 Stars!

CA Harms is back with the second book in the Brooklet Dreams and omg! y'all what a sexy, sweet, swoony, unforgettable journey. A slow burn that'll slowly melt you on the inside... a friends to lovers romance that'll steal your heart in all the ways possible and totally leave you smiling.

Captivate hooked and really did captivate me right from the very start. Madison and Mike's story was so so good... sexy, sweet, intense, emotional, a little frustrating in moments yet still totally worth all the unputdownable, unstoppable feels.

I love this author and her easier, sweeter, afternoon-type-read romances. A little angst. Some of that heat. A whole lot is heart. Can't walt for the next.

I highly recommend this book.

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews159 followers
May 19, 2019
Sometimes Mike needs to take a minute and cool off, “maybe the cool water would help calm me down, but then in order to get into said water, I would have to move.” Again, I was confused. “Babe, my flagpole seems to be a full mast right now, and forgive me, but not everyone here needs to know about my inability to control my needs whenever I’m around you.” I liked this book, I fell in love with Mike.
Profile Image for Kimberly Anne.
3,167 reviews184 followers
June 4, 2019
I found Captivate to be a fairly quick, somewhat predictable, read. Now, that's not really a bad thing, I did enjoy the book. Friends to lovers is what this is and it happens to be an automatic 1-click for me. And, once these two got their act together things flowed nicely and the story really took off.

Mike and Maddison were a lot of fun. Sexy. steamy, albeit a bit timid at times, they made awkward look good. I always enjoy being reminded of where the characters in this series come from and it;s great when the "originals" make an appearance.

~ Kimberly Anne
Profile Image for Djg.
1,881 reviews28 followers
December 6, 2023
while I love this author, the first half of this book almost made it a wall-banger. The h, while not unlikable, was immature and wishy-washy and I needed the H to be a little more alpha and just claim her. It was too much angst. I get the family dynamic but the fact is they were NOT related by blood.
I also didn't like how she handled things with her best friend who was interested in the H. A simple conversation would have solved the issues.
There were tender moments though.
Profile Image for Kim.
992 reviews39 followers
May 30, 2019
Doctor?

Someone is going to have to explain to me how Mike could be a doctor only two years after leaving the military (Madison called him Doc), especially with no mention of his job in the military other than getting in firefights.
I felt like there wasn't a lot of relationship growth, just a lot of sex. Couple that with the editing errors, make for a 3 star rating.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Horbaczek.
765 reviews6 followers
June 7, 2019
This author blows me away every time I read one of her books. It doesn't matter if it's a guy that is horrible then turns kind. A woman that doesn't know what is best for her. Or just couples that can rip your hearts out. Make you cry. Or want to rip them from the book and wrangle some sense into tnem. She makes you call in love with the characters. Makes you love them that them. Hate them then love them, but makes you realize that you, the reader, is part of their life. That's what I get from her books. I'm not in them but I get to live them out with her characters. So with all that I will get down to what everyone wants to know.

Mike. He's back. He was in the army and now he is back. He left his family and his best friends. And now he's coming back for good. I'm not going to give you details but I will tell you that I love what this guy stands for. He loves his country and his family. The more you discontinue character you really see who he is. Now that he's back he sees Madison for who she is, not only his best friend but also someone he wants. But how can he be everything when he feels that she's family. That's where and how this book starts. All it takes is the feelings of what could be and what they can't be collide. I love this man. He's strong. He's a survivor. He will defend and protect to the end. Now to show madison.

Madison. She is a strong person. She can do whatever she needs to do and succeed but she just can't fall for mime. Surprise, surprise she already has. Now how to fix that? You can't but she is going to fight it with everything she's got. She is tough, honest, and one of the strongest ladies I have read for a long time. She is going to fight until she can't fight anymore.

I liked this book as much as I did because it didn't happen overnight. It developed into something and that is the biggest game away. You didn't see it right away it developed and that is what I look for in a book. In addition you have many characters in here that are definitely going to have a book and can't wait. Just another great book from a great author.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.6k reviews165 followers
May 27, 2019
Mikey and Maddison grew up together, basically raised as "cousins" though no blood relation at all, so best friends when he was deployed in the military. When he finally came home, she was all grown up, and something had shifted between them, all of a sudden, they had some serious chemistry going on, which was freaking them both out, making things very complicated. He went on to do his residency, while she started dating a doctor, so a push & pull started really pissing me off with frustration. That seems to really be the order of the day in books right now, these very extreme push & pulls, and I'm afraid I'm going to either A. become an alcoholic, or B. go bald from tearing my hair out. Like I don't always mind the slow burn but these two made me want to knock their heads together for real. Tip toeing around each other, being friends, avoiding each other, being friends, ignoring each other, it seemed never ending, when all they needed to do was pull up their big girl panties, yes, Mike too. I mean the sparks were shooting everywhere, so much so, the secondaries all knew it, though these two thought they were slick. And when finally something seemed to be moving forward, BAM! A huge twist out of nowhere to start the tears flowing, f-bombs dropping, and colorful name calling towards the amazingly evil C.A. Harms. You want to know what it was?! You know what to do, get that one click finger clicking. HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Profile Image for Sharon Moritz-rosenthal.
2,175 reviews25 followers
May 29, 2019
I received a review copy of the book before release for an honest review.


Before I begin I want to say that this story was so awesome At times I wanted to throw my kindle as I got a little frustrated with the female lead, Maddison as she tries hard to fight her feelings about her adopted cousin Mike. At a point she even dates another guy but luckily that ends fairly fast and we don't see that much of that part of the story.

Mike is the male lead and he was absolutely awesome. At the start of the story he is in the military but he gets out and comes home and that is when he starts to have deep feelings for his adopted cousin, Maddison and where the story really starts.

Mike falls very hard and very fast and he chases Maddison but Maddison fights hard because of the cousin relationship. I understood where she came from but at times it also frustrated me. When the two finally get together and I loved how Mike fought for Maddison even as she tried to throw her best friend Raven at him, that's when I fell in love with this story.

It is not all roses for these two, as something very life changing happens before the book ends and that really made it the awesome book it was and wonderful story. Be forewarned you might shed a few tears along the way.
1,044 reviews19 followers
May 22, 2019
One thing about this author’s books is that you don’t have to read each book in a series to enjoy the book you choose to pick up and let’s not forget that you will fall in love with the story and characters while reading this story. This story truly does Captivate you and will have you reading it in one sitting or day.
Maddison and Mike grew up together and are considered family (though they are not) she was one of the boys. They have always held a connection, but as they got older and once, he returned from overseas things start to blur and quickly. Do they ignore their change in feelings to avoid ruining their friendship or do they explore where this can lead? Love how close this family was and how they saw it! Gave them an excuse for a party, right?! (you must read the book to understand that comment).
Grab those M&M’s and be Captivated by this heartfelt story! Your emotions will be like you are galloping on a horse (up/down) and at times your heart is in throat, but I loved how this ended.
Profile Image for Britt Chaotic Creatives.
1,414 reviews95 followers
May 22, 2019
The first thing that comes to mind when I think of a way to describe Captivate is friends to lovers done perfectly. The connection they have, the resistance they put up against the pull between them and the way that resistance crumbles under what is so undeniable. It was all so flawlessly written in a way that really keeps you glued to Mike and Maddison’s story.
Best friends deeply tied together through connections that make them almost like family, these two have known each other most of their lives. Even before Mike returned home he was already beginning to find himself pulled toward Maddison in a way that went beyond friendship, but once he was home for good there was no stopping what these two have together.
I really loved the build up of them falling even more in love with each other. The back and forth along with the hesitation brought on by “what will people think” made their relationship seem much more real. Then you get hit with just how swoony Mike really is and BAM! I guarantee you’ll be a goner just like me.
Profile Image for Thuy Taylor.
1,304 reviews17 followers
May 28, 2019
We are back in Brooklet, GA and now Mike is back from being away in the military. Mike, Maddison and Rhett have been best friends since they were little. We met Rhett in Book 1 of Brooklet Dreams, Allure, and I remember while reading that, I wondered about Mike and Maddison. I was happy to see these two get their book.

Mike changed a bit since coming back from overseas, and he's noticed Maddison in a different way. Its confusing him, changing him, everything feels different around his best friend now. Maddison is definitely feeling the attraction for her long time friend. While they're not related, they grew up acting like family....referring to each other as cousins, but definitely not true. While they fight their attraction, they definitely are perfect for each other.

I loved reading him fall so in love with Maddison. I really enjoyed their story. It was a wonderful best friends to lovers story. It was great to see previous characters from her other books, I am soo looking forward to Grace's story..eeeepppp!!!!
797 reviews7 followers
May 29, 2019
I am in love with each and every one of C.A. Harms books because each one pulls you into the story, making you feel like you know the characters and you become invested in them. Maddison and Mike grew up together and were always together until Mike left to join the service. When he comes home for good, the sparks start to fly! These two dance around each other, neither one wanting to be the first to give in to the attraction they feel pulling them together as more than friends. The characters are believable and you will find yourself laughing, crying, and maybe even yelling at them when they do things that are a little crazy. The story is written so skillfully that you can close your eyes and feel like you are there. What a great idea to be able to read about the first generation that is now all grown up and watching their kids grow up and become adults. This story is hot, sexy, and worth your time to pick up and read. Honestly, I have never met a C.A. Harms book that I didn't fall completely in love with. This story deserves more than 5 stars!!!
Profile Image for Johnaka- Amity Book Blog.
1,163 reviews16 followers
May 20, 2019
Captivate by C.A. Harms
“Love right in front of you, 4 stars”

Mike and Maddison have always been a part of each other’s lives. They are best friends but for years have spent most of their time apart. But now Mike is out of the military and home. He didn’t expect to fall for his best friend but he did, heck he can’t even pinpoint when it happened. Getting Maddison to admit her feelings might be tougher than he thought though. Will he be able to convince her to take a chance on him?
I enjoyed Captivate by Harms. At times I felt like the story might have been a little slow but in the end, it was a solid read and I was happy with how it went. There was no denying that Mike and Maddison belonged together. I loved how their families took the news of their relationship. In Captivate you get to see some previous couples of Harms and you get the foundation of some couples to come. All in all, it was a solid read.
Plot-4/5
Characters-4/5
Heat-4/5
Writing style-4/5
Overall-4/5
Profile Image for Kara (Rotella Reads).
913 reviews50 followers
May 28, 2019
A sweet small-town romance about two best friends who grow up and into their undeniable feelings for one another.

Mike was everything you look for in a man! He was strong, loyal, hard working, kind and sweet! Every time he appeared in the book, it gave me heart eyes. A true gentleman that leaves you swooning.

Maddison was quite the match for him and I loved her strong personality and fearlessness to get down and dirty with the boys on the farm.

The read was a little slow and somewhat repetitive. It felt like a lot of time was spent on the main characters repeating the same thoughts over and over in their inner dialogue. The constant referencing of the two MCs not being blood related but still “family” rubbed me the wrong way.

However, last few chapters were packed with emotion and uncertainty and kept my attention much more than the first half of the read. I just wished there was more story written AFTER the incident. If felt lacking in closure. I wanted more of these two!
1 review3 followers
May 28, 2019
We met Mike and Maddison as secondary characters in Allure (Brooklet Dreams Series Book 1). They are best friends with the main character Rhett. However, they take center stage in this book. They are best friends. When Mike returns from his time as a soldier, he begins to notice Maddison in a whole new way. Considering their families and their childhood history, both push and pull against their attraction. This book had just the right amount of angst. The writing is engaging and throughout the whole book, you are pulling for them to figure it out and get together. The story was fast paced and engaging. It can be read as a stand alone, but if you are like me, you are going to want to check out the Southern Boys series (first generation) as well as Allure (Brooklet Dreams Book 1). I am eagerly awaiting the additional books in this series. C.A. Harms continues to be one of my one click authors.
Profile Image for SCBookAddict.
640 reviews49 followers
May 21, 2019
Wow! This was a first for me from this author and let me tell you, I'm already hooked on this series!
Captivate is a friends to lovers romance that is full of angst, southern charm, and took my emotions on a roller coaster ride.
This series is a second generation series. There is a big family with lots of characters.
In this story, Mike is finally home from serving in the military. His childhood best friends are Rhett and Madison. Only now, Madison is all grown up.
Because they were raised as family, it was something they both fought off initially, which caused tension between these two.
Watching them interact was cute and fun at times and heartbreaking at others. Their chemistry was off the charts!
I highly suggest this if you like men with southern charm, a feisty heroine, and slow burns.
Profile Image for Lydia's Bookshelf.
920 reviews189 followers
May 23, 2019
Love country boys? Love friends-to-lovers stories? Then this book is right up your alley.

Mikey and Maddison grew up together. They were more than best friends; they considered each other family, “cousins” (no blood relation whatsoever). So years later, feeling the attraction they felt, the connection and chemistry, confused them. How could they feel that way? Well, it was clear to everyone else, BUT them.

Their life-long connection always went beyond friendship, but again, they were the last to realize this. Stubborn souls, those two (even more so Maddy, though).

Once they decided to give in, it was smooth sailing from there, making this a sweet romance that had me fully smiling. My heart did skip a bit with that curveball towards the end but I can say that I am very happy with how CA wrapped everything up.

A great read! Go check it out!
Profile Image for Lora.
1,288 reviews20 followers
May 24, 2019

4 out of 5 stars

Mike and Maddison have known each other since childhood. They love each other like family - until Mike returns from his military service and starts to notice that Mad isn’t just a girl anymore, she’s a woman.

Their sexual chemistry and flirting has consequences that neither of them know how to handle. I enjoyed the back and forth in the story. I wished they would pull themselves together earlier and then loved how it all worked out in the end.

There were a few parts of the story that just didn’t seem to belong for me and there was a scene or two that just left me confused. BUT I was happy to see Rhett and AJ make some appearances. The story was fun and entertaining overall.



*** I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review which does not reflect any grammatical or spelling errors that may have been present ***
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