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Love in Blackwater #2
Love for a Lifetime
They’ll always be friends, but they can never be more.
Dawson Keller has held a torch for his best friend’s little sister for as long as he can remember. He might be a flirt, but his heart will always belong to Olivia.
Olivia Lawrence lives to serve others and work on the family farm. Helping people and tending animals keep her mind off the one thing she wants but can’t have—a family.
Her brother’s best friend might joke that they’re meant to be, but he doesn’t know how little she has to offer a husband. Especially a man like Dawson who loves kids and makes everyone laugh.
On top of that, Olivia’s best friend is head over heels for Dawson, and hurting her friend is out of the question.
Dawson keeps showing up to save her at all the wrong times. From a disastrous wedding date to an unfortunate camping incident, Dawson is always there when Olivia needs him.
When Dawson finds out her secret, and her friend feels betrayed, Olivia is at risk of losing them both.If you loved the Blackwater Ranch series and the Wolf Creek Ranch series, get ready to fall in love all over again in Blackwater, Wyoming.
Dawson Keller has held a torch for his best friend’s little sister for as long as he can remember. He might be a flirt, but his heart will always belong to Olivia.
Olivia Lawrence lives to serve others and work on the family farm. Helping people and tending animals keep her mind off the one thing she wants but can’t have—a family.
Her brother’s best friend might joke that they’re meant to be, but he doesn’t know how little she has to offer a husband. Especially a man like Dawson who loves kids and makes everyone laugh.
On top of that, Olivia’s best friend is head over heels for Dawson, and hurting her friend is out of the question.
Dawson keeps showing up to save her at all the wrong times. From a disastrous wedding date to an unfortunate camping incident, Dawson is always there when Olivia needs him.
When Dawson finds out her secret, and her friend feels betrayed, Olivia is at risk of losing them both.If you loved the Blackwater Ranch series and the Wolf Creek Ranch series, get ready to fall in love all over again in Blackwater, Wyoming.
426 pages, Paperback
Published April 28, 2024
365 people are currently reading
316 people want to read
About the author
Mandi Blake
43 books834 followersMandi Blake was born and raised in Alabama where she lives with her husband and daughter, but her southern heart loves to travel. Reading has been her favorite hobby for as long as she can remember, but writing is her passion. She loves a good happily ever after in her sweet Christian romance books and loves to see her characters' relationships grow closer to God and each other.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 178 reviews
December 13, 2025
I’ll readily admit to passing on books featuring chronic illness, especially holiday reads, but this book was highly recommended. I ended up binge-reading it, not only for the great story, but for the opportunity to understand more about endometriosis.
𝘽𝙡𝙖𝙠𝙚’𝙨 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙗𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙖𝙘𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙘 𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨. Her focus on care, connection, and community was outstanding and I have no doubt that this novel will be a lifeline of hope and empathy for readers who are mid-trek in their own chronic illness journey.
Blake also touches on female friendships and the reality of navigating dating someone within one’s friendship circle. It’s a touchy subject for females - especially when a bestie considers dating your love interest.
𝗕𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗼𝗺 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲: this one is stuffed full of hard-won compassion and optimism and is a must-read, if not for anything else other than the opportunity to learn and become empathetic towards others you meet who struggle with chronic illness.
𝘽𝙡𝙖𝙠𝙚’𝙨 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙡𝙮 𝙗𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙖𝙘𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙞𝙘 𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨. Her focus on care, connection, and community was outstanding and I have no doubt that this novel will be a lifeline of hope and empathy for readers who are mid-trek in their own chronic illness journey.
Blake also touches on female friendships and the reality of navigating dating someone within one’s friendship circle. It’s a touchy subject for females - especially when a bestie considers dating your love interest.
𝗕𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗼𝗺 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲: this one is stuffed full of hard-won compassion and optimism and is a must-read, if not for anything else other than the opportunity to learn and become empathetic towards others you meet who struggle with chronic illness.
May 15, 2024
Love for a Lifetime by Mandi Blake - 5 Stars (Book 2 in the Love in Blackwater series)
WOW. LET. ME. JUST. SAY. NEW FAV MANDI BOOK RIGHT HERE! I absolutely love her books and this one is a new favorite now! Dawson was the SWEETEST guy and he reminds you of what a Godly man looks like. I loved the friends to lovers trope in this because he continued to pursue Olivia and always be there for her no matter what. He was a great cinnamon roll MMC!
In this story, we see Olivia Laurence, who is a nurse and lives to serve others in her community, church, family and friends. She works on a farm and helping people and animals are her passion. She desperately wants a family of her own one day but her struggles with endometriosis have her worried about that future. Dawson Keller has cared for his best friend's sister, Olivia. Dawson is a police officer and always shows up when Olivia needs help. He loves kids and is bound to make you laugh! We see the feelings unfold between Olivia and Dawson, but Olivia's lifelong best friend has a huge crush on Dawson and Olivia doesn't want to hurt her so she keeps her distance for the sake of her friend and the story takes off here as Olivia tries to refrain from her feelings for Dawson.
Overall, this was such a sweet romance. We had great faith content with real characters facing real problems together. Mandi knows how to tug at my heart strings with these characters! I loved Olivia and realted to how she felt like she had to do everything for everyone. She truly cared for others and it showed. Dawson was so kind and truly devoted to those around him. The romance was the cute "sliced cheese" ya girl loves in a good book and not that "blocked cheese"! :) Truly felt real and beautiful.
This town also feels so real and I love the friendships and side characters throughout the story. I am looking forward to Gage's story later this year! Thank you Mandi for providing a copy of this book for me to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
WOW. LET. ME. JUST. SAY. NEW FAV MANDI BOOK RIGHT HERE! I absolutely love her books and this one is a new favorite now! Dawson was the SWEETEST guy and he reminds you of what a Godly man looks like. I loved the friends to lovers trope in this because he continued to pursue Olivia and always be there for her no matter what. He was a great cinnamon roll MMC!
In this story, we see Olivia Laurence, who is a nurse and lives to serve others in her community, church, family and friends. She works on a farm and helping people and animals are her passion. She desperately wants a family of her own one day but her struggles with endometriosis have her worried about that future. Dawson Keller has cared for his best friend's sister, Olivia. Dawson is a police officer and always shows up when Olivia needs help. He loves kids and is bound to make you laugh! We see the feelings unfold between Olivia and Dawson, but Olivia's lifelong best friend has a huge crush on Dawson and Olivia doesn't want to hurt her so she keeps her distance for the sake of her friend and the story takes off here as Olivia tries to refrain from her feelings for Dawson.
Overall, this was such a sweet romance. We had great faith content with real characters facing real problems together. Mandi knows how to tug at my heart strings with these characters! I loved Olivia and realted to how she felt like she had to do everything for everyone. She truly cared for others and it showed. Dawson was so kind and truly devoted to those around him. The romance was the cute "sliced cheese" ya girl loves in a good book and not that "blocked cheese"! :) Truly felt real and beautiful.
This town also feels so real and I love the friendships and side characters throughout the story. I am looking forward to Gage's story later this year! Thank you Mandi for providing a copy of this book for me to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 14, 2024
Y’all I absolutely fell in love with these characters and Mandi Blake’s writing. I related so heavily to Olivia and the struggles and internal battles she faced. She’s so empathetic and loves her family and friends deeply. She was so easy to relate to and love!
The MMC Dawson and his love and devotion to those around him but most importantly to the Lord was extremely moving. He exhibited such Christ-like qualities that had me swooning! The plot and characters were real and raw. The romance was everything I loved in a romance book and I laughed so many times I lost count. It wasn’t overly cheesy and the faith felt so real and so encouraging. I was touched so deeply by the end that it brought me to tears. I can easily say this is one of my top favorite romances ever. I wish I would have discovered Mandi’s books sooner. They are treasures.
Thank you to the author Mandi who kindly asked me to honestly read and review this book for her! It releases May 17th and I HIGHLY recommend checking it out. I can’t talk about it enough.
The MMC Dawson and his love and devotion to those around him but most importantly to the Lord was extremely moving. He exhibited such Christ-like qualities that had me swooning! The plot and characters were real and raw. The romance was everything I loved in a romance book and I laughed so many times I lost count. It wasn’t overly cheesy and the faith felt so real and so encouraging. I was touched so deeply by the end that it brought me to tears. I can easily say this is one of my top favorite romances ever. I wish I would have discovered Mandi’s books sooner. They are treasures.
Thank you to the author Mandi who kindly asked me to honestly read and review this book for her! It releases May 17th and I HIGHLY recommend checking it out. I can’t talk about it enough.
May 24, 2024
In case you couldn't tell by now, I'm a Mandi Blake fan girl and I'm so excited I got to read this one early. I love that several of her series overlap so you see characters you've met before but if you're just starting with this book, you won't be lost. And let me tell you, after reading Love in the Storm, I was so ready for Dawson and Olivia's story!
Dawson is such a cinnamon roll book boyfriend if I've ever seen one. Like swoon, he calls Olivia "my queen" when they're just friends (though it's obvious they want to be more!). He is also so funny and witty. Olivia has a lot going on in her life that she feels would hold Dawson back from the life he wants if they were to date, fall in love, and get married. It is certainly understandable on her part, but Dawson consistently shows up to be like nope, I'll show you why this could work! Then there's the unfortunate problem of Anna, who is convinced she's in love with Dawson but is also Olivia's best female friend. Yikes. Well poor Anna will get her chance at some point! But she really needed to step out of the way to allow these two friends to become more because the chemistry just lights up the page!
Also, I totally judge books by their covers and wowza! This just looks amazing. I cannot wait for Gage's story next! I just know he's in for some major redemption! (If you've read The Other Side, you'll know what I mean! But if you haven't read it, never fear! You won't be lost! You'll just get to know Gage through his story.) I love how so many of these books overlap so you continue to see characters you know and love, but I honestly think you can jump into any series at any point and be just fine! But I'm sure you'll get hooked and want more.
Dawson is such a cinnamon roll book boyfriend if I've ever seen one. Like swoon, he calls Olivia "my queen" when they're just friends (though it's obvious they want to be more!). He is also so funny and witty. Olivia has a lot going on in her life that she feels would hold Dawson back from the life he wants if they were to date, fall in love, and get married. It is certainly understandable on her part, but Dawson consistently shows up to be like nope, I'll show you why this could work! Then there's the unfortunate problem of Anna, who is convinced she's in love with Dawson but is also Olivia's best female friend. Yikes. Well poor Anna will get her chance at some point! But she really needed to step out of the way to allow these two friends to become more because the chemistry just lights up the page!
Also, I totally judge books by their covers and wowza! This just looks amazing. I cannot wait for Gage's story next! I just know he's in for some major redemption! (If you've read The Other Side, you'll know what I mean! But if you haven't read it, never fear! You won't be lost! You'll just get to know Gage through his story.) I love how so many of these books overlap so you continue to see characters you know and love, but I honestly think you can jump into any series at any point and be just fine! But I'm sure you'll get hooked and want more.
May 18, 2024
‘He used to come over because Beau was his best friend. Then high school came along, and Dawson’s focus was drawn to another Lawrence family member. Olivia went from a little girl to the woman of his dreams. Things changed so gradually that Dawson hadn’t known what was happening until he was fully wrapped around her finger.’
I was so excited to get Dawson’s story! He is such a fun charismatic character and that personality of his is shown off perfectly with this ‘best friends-to-more’, ‘best friends little sister’ story!!
…and in return Olivia has a self proclaimed label on Dawson that claims he’s off-limits…
‘Dawson didn’t need the uniform to turn every woman’s head. He had personality in spades, making everyone laugh and feel special with one phrase or joke. The uniform only made him lethal.’
Read this one for the banter, he chases, she runs (but really wants to be caught)…he has a heart of gold and so does she; mixed in with real life difficulties and a small town worth writing about!
**also, goats and chickens🤩
Love for a Lifetime is available NOW!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content: medical challenges dealing with possible infertility, a town with colorful characters touched by God’s grace…and a few more possibly waiting to feel that love and grace🫶🏼, romance-kisses only
I was so excited to get Dawson’s story! He is such a fun charismatic character and that personality of his is shown off perfectly with this ‘best friends-to-more’, ‘best friends little sister’ story!!
…and in return Olivia has a self proclaimed label on Dawson that claims he’s off-limits…
‘Dawson didn’t need the uniform to turn every woman’s head. He had personality in spades, making everyone laugh and feel special with one phrase or joke. The uniform only made him lethal.’
Read this one for the banter, he chases, she runs (but really wants to be caught)…he has a heart of gold and so does she; mixed in with real life difficulties and a small town worth writing about!
**also, goats and chickens🤩
Love for a Lifetime is available NOW!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content: medical challenges dealing with possible infertility, a town with colorful characters touched by God’s grace…and a few more possibly waiting to feel that love and grace🫶🏼, romance-kisses only
July 15, 2024
Dawson and Olivia for life
Oh my goodness. These two. They have my heart!!
First off: Dawson is the epic cinnamon roll and wowiewowwow does he do a good job of wooing Olivia exactly how she needs.
I love how these two handled their past and their futures and the secrets between them.
There was a lot of obstacles in their past but they weathered it together and with Jesus. I love that. I love the way faith was woven into the story and supported their love.
So good.
Oh man my heart hurts for Olivia and her diagnosis. I appreciated the way the situation was tenderly handled and all of the feelings around it. It felt like I was struggling right there with her.
I loved every second of this story and can't Wait for the next one.
💋Kisses only
⚠️ Endometriosis, infertility, loss of a parent, abandonment by a parent, dog bites
Oh my goodness. These two. They have my heart!!
First off: Dawson is the epic cinnamon roll and wowiewowwow does he do a good job of wooing Olivia exactly how she needs.
I love how these two handled their past and their futures and the secrets between them.
There was a lot of obstacles in their past but they weathered it together and with Jesus. I love that. I love the way faith was woven into the story and supported their love.
So good.
Oh man my heart hurts for Olivia and her diagnosis. I appreciated the way the situation was tenderly handled and all of the feelings around it. It felt like I was struggling right there with her.
I loved every second of this story and can't Wait for the next one.
💋Kisses only
⚠️ Endometriosis, infertility, loss of a parent, abandonment by a parent, dog bites
April 25, 2024
I had the privilege of reading this book early, and I can tell you Dawson is going to be your new favorite book boyfriend! He doesn't back down from what he wants, and that's Olivia. This friends-to-more is a perfectly paced story with characters who face real challenges. I love how Mandi weaves in past characters from other series, and the small-town setting makes you feel like they are your own friends and family.
August 23, 2024
After reading book 1, I went right onto book 2 and really enjoyed this one as well. Book 3 will be started soon. 🤩
This Christian contemporary romance series is set in small town Northern Wyoming. I will definitely be reading more from Mandi Blake!
This Christian contemporary romance series is set in small town Northern Wyoming. I will definitely be reading more from Mandi Blake!
May 17, 2024
I absolutely loved Dawson & Olivia's heartachingly beautiful, sweet, caring, loving, swoony story!!!
August 24, 2024
My favorite one yet!
March 31, 2025
Love, loved, loved this story! Dawson is absolutely wonderful and I enjoyed getting to know Olivia as well. I LOVE this series!
May 17, 2024
#BookReview : LOVE FOR A LIFETIME by Mandi Blake
I have been waiting to read Dawson’s story and it didn’t disappoint. As a police officer, helping others is his daily routine. But beyond that, his warm personality and genuine compassion make him a true hero in everyone's eyes. He's a real catch, and it seems he's been secretly harboring feelings for his best friend for a long time.
I really like Dawson’s character and I wanted him and Olivia to be happy. I love that this book talked about Olivia’s love language which is acts of service. Her commitment to helping others in the community was truly admirable. Her personal struggles, especially the desire to keep them hidden, were relatable. We all have fears, that yearning to appear strong and independent, to avoid becoming a burden. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Olivia needs to learn to trust in both her faith and the love of those around her. Dawson's unwavering faith is another strength I admired, and it's heartwarming to see him share it with Olivia. Dawson is so good to his queen! I love their chemistry!
It was a pleasure to reconnect with Asa, Lyric, and Jacob in this book and see how their lives have unfolded.I also enjoyed meeting some of their friends in the community and witnessing the supportive network they've built.
The story had a good pace, with some moments that were somewhat scary for me, especially the dog and wolf incidents.This delightful friends-to-lovers story had me laughing out loud too. The antics of the chickens and goats were hilarious, and I'd love to see the videos that Dawson and Olivia created for them. The book's faith messages were woven beautifully, which I love. Highly recommend it! I'm already eager to dive into the next book in the series.
Rating: 5 ⭐
Series: Love in Blackwater Book 2
Pub date: 17 May 2024
Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
I have been waiting to read Dawson’s story and it didn’t disappoint. As a police officer, helping others is his daily routine. But beyond that, his warm personality and genuine compassion make him a true hero in everyone's eyes. He's a real catch, and it seems he's been secretly harboring feelings for his best friend for a long time.
I really like Dawson’s character and I wanted him and Olivia to be happy. I love that this book talked about Olivia’s love language which is acts of service. Her commitment to helping others in the community was truly admirable. Her personal struggles, especially the desire to keep them hidden, were relatable. We all have fears, that yearning to appear strong and independent, to avoid becoming a burden. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Olivia needs to learn to trust in both her faith and the love of those around her. Dawson's unwavering faith is another strength I admired, and it's heartwarming to see him share it with Olivia. Dawson is so good to his queen! I love their chemistry!
It was a pleasure to reconnect with Asa, Lyric, and Jacob in this book and see how their lives have unfolded.I also enjoyed meeting some of their friends in the community and witnessing the supportive network they've built.
The story had a good pace, with some moments that were somewhat scary for me, especially the dog and wolf incidents.This delightful friends-to-lovers story had me laughing out loud too. The antics of the chickens and goats were hilarious, and I'd love to see the videos that Dawson and Olivia created for them. The book's faith messages were woven beautifully, which I love. Highly recommend it! I'm already eager to dive into the next book in the series.
Rating: 5 ⭐
Series: Love in Blackwater Book 2
Pub date: 17 May 2024
Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 14, 2024
Oh my goodness, this book has my heart. The story and the characters were everything. Love for a Lifetime is the second book in Mandi Blake’s Love in Blackwater series. I adored this book!
You meet Dawson and Olivia in the first book but it was fun to read more about them. They had such a sweet relationship story. They had history together but their relationship never seemed to change. It was sweet to read about their interactions and see them falling in love.
I adored both Dawson and Olivia. Dawson was such a teddy bear and you could tell that he loved Olivia. He was trying to figure out how to show her how he felt. Dawson was so swoony. Olivia was spunky and strong. I loved her and her strength. However she had to learn to let others in and see that she didn't need to do everything on her own. She was also trying to figure out how to deal with her health.
This was honestly the perfect friends to lovers book. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I loved the story. I like how they helped each other be better. Oliiva was able to lean on Dawson. The romance was perfect and the characters were lovely. It was also cool to see some old friends from other books.
I could not recommend Love for a Lifetime more! The characters were related and I wanted to see how Dawson and Olivia would work out the obstacles that they faced. I am so excited for the next book too! Love for a Lifetime is a clean Christian romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
You meet Dawson and Olivia in the first book but it was fun to read more about them. They had such a sweet relationship story. They had history together but their relationship never seemed to change. It was sweet to read about their interactions and see them falling in love.
I adored both Dawson and Olivia. Dawson was such a teddy bear and you could tell that he loved Olivia. He was trying to figure out how to show her how he felt. Dawson was so swoony. Olivia was spunky and strong. I loved her and her strength. However she had to learn to let others in and see that she didn't need to do everything on her own. She was also trying to figure out how to deal with her health.
This was honestly the perfect friends to lovers book. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I loved the story. I like how they helped each other be better. Oliiva was able to lean on Dawson. The romance was perfect and the characters were lovely. It was also cool to see some old friends from other books.
I could not recommend Love for a Lifetime more! The characters were related and I wanted to see how Dawson and Olivia would work out the obstacles that they faced. I am so excited for the next book too! Love for a Lifetime is a clean Christian romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
February 19, 2025
Loved this one!! Such a wonderfully romantic Christian fiction love story! I was hooked from the beginning to the end.
Olivia and Dawson were so perfect together! Dawson was flirty and Olivia was sassy, so fun! The added suspense throughout the book was done so well. Olivia and Dawson were so open with each other, especially once they admitted their feelings. Loved the sweet, tender, yet fun relationship they had and how he takes care of her. Also, I loved seeing glimpses into the side characters. I didn't realize that this series is in the same timeline as the Wolf Creek Ranch series. Gotta get my hands on those!
I liked the way the author included endometriosis and infertility into the story. As someone who has dealt with infertility, it was so a relatable and emotional topic but it was very well written. This one definitely brought all the emotions.
Olivia and Dawson were so perfect together! Dawson was flirty and Olivia was sassy, so fun! The added suspense throughout the book was done so well. Olivia and Dawson were so open with each other, especially once they admitted their feelings. Loved the sweet, tender, yet fun relationship they had and how he takes care of her. Also, I loved seeing glimpses into the side characters. I didn't realize that this series is in the same timeline as the Wolf Creek Ranch series. Gotta get my hands on those!
I liked the way the author included endometriosis and infertility into the story. As someone who has dealt with infertility, it was so a relatable and emotional topic but it was very well written. This one definitely brought all the emotions.
May 9, 2024
Don’t mind me quietly mending my heart’s pieces back together again after they BURST at the adorableness of Mandi Blake’s latest!
Love for a Lifetime is the second installment in the series “Love in Blackwater”. We reunite with Officer Dawson Keller from the previous book and, goodness, was this romance worth the wait! I have so much hope after reading Olivia Lawrence and Dawson taken their friends to lovers story. I identify so much with Olivia as a giver and someone who doesn’t want to be a burden; so much so, I too keep prayer requests away from caring people because I don’t want them to feel obligated to help me! The beautiful story of releasing responsibility and worry to the Lord and accepting His love and acceptance was wonderfully done.
Another great piece of this love story was the believability of Olivia and Dawson being childhood friends to best friends in their twenties to lovers. Often, it seems, friends to lovers romances that have the couple start as friends, and that they’ve known each other forever, but it’s never really shown. The chemistry Dawson and Olivia have was jumping off the page! I loved the details of childhood and adolescent memories for each character that would pop up throughout the story, giving it a really authentic friends to lovers feel. Plus, I love how both Olivia and Dawson have lives outside of each other than the romance plot, because that’s realistic too to have friends and jobs and medical situations. Olivia‘s friendship with Anna is sweet; I love how their situation was handled in the third act of the book. I feel like, so often, authors choose to overdue dramatization of a situation for page counts or extra flair, but Mandi wrote in such a realistic and, honestly, applicable manner. I applaud!
I need Blackwater, Wyoming to be real. Until then, I’ll keep visiting through a beloved author’s books.
Love for a Lifetime is the second installment in the series “Love in Blackwater”. We reunite with Officer Dawson Keller from the previous book and, goodness, was this romance worth the wait! I have so much hope after reading Olivia Lawrence and Dawson taken their friends to lovers story. I identify so much with Olivia as a giver and someone who doesn’t want to be a burden; so much so, I too keep prayer requests away from caring people because I don’t want them to feel obligated to help me! The beautiful story of releasing responsibility and worry to the Lord and accepting His love and acceptance was wonderfully done.
Another great piece of this love story was the believability of Olivia and Dawson being childhood friends to best friends in their twenties to lovers. Often, it seems, friends to lovers romances that have the couple start as friends, and that they’ve known each other forever, but it’s never really shown. The chemistry Dawson and Olivia have was jumping off the page! I loved the details of childhood and adolescent memories for each character that would pop up throughout the story, giving it a really authentic friends to lovers feel. Plus, I love how both Olivia and Dawson have lives outside of each other than the romance plot, because that’s realistic too to have friends and jobs and medical situations. Olivia‘s friendship with Anna is sweet; I love how their situation was handled in the third act of the book. I feel like, so often, authors choose to overdue dramatization of a situation for page counts or extra flair, but Mandi wrote in such a realistic and, honestly, applicable manner. I applaud!
I need Blackwater, Wyoming to be real. Until then, I’ll keep visiting through a beloved author’s books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2024
I am obsessed with Dawson and Olivia.
I know I say this with every new Mandi Blake book, but this is my new favorite of hers.
Dawson is best friends with Olivia’s older brother. Since as far back as both Dawson and Olivia remember they have always been friends and gotten along. Now as adults, they have a very strong friendship and bond. They have a level of comfort where they know each other so well, they don’t even realize they act as if they are a couple.
What Olivia doesn’t realize is that Dawson has always been in love her. But his jokester and fun personality lead her to believe his flirting is really just messing around with her. She’s also realizing her feelings for Dawson, but Olivia’s best friend, Anna, has a huge crush on Dawson, and she doesn’t keep it a secret. Olivia is also going through a medical condition, and the last thing she wants to do is hurt neither of her two best friends the truth.
This was such a beautiful story. I’ve said this before. Friends to more is my favorite trope. Olivia and Dawson share a strong friendship but they also share their faith. And I believe that solidifies their love and commitment to each other. Their fun banter is so cute and funny. And when they finally kiss…swoon, melt, blush!
I absolutely loved this book. I loved how Dawson always came to Olivia’s rescue. I loved how selfless they both are to their friends and community. Olivia has such a beautiful heart to serve others before herself. Their love was so special. It was my favorite.
Release Date: May 17th- paperback is already available 😉
Tropes:
💟 police officer
💟 nurse
💟 brother’s best friend
💟 friends to more
💟 strong faith with both characters
May 10, 2024
This is the second book in the Love in Blackwater series and I loved it just as much as the first book! The characters Mandi Blake creates have such depth and go through real world problems! The faith in her books is so encouraging and is a nice reminder to look toward God and to place your faith in him when going through hard times! In this book we follow Olivia who is a nurse among a bunch of other things she volunteers for around town cause helping people makes her happy and it helps her avoid the one thing she doesn’t want people to find out about her. Then there is her brother’s best friend Dawson, they have known each other since kids and Dawson has been in love with Olivia for as long as he can remember. Dawson is a police officer and he is always there when Olivia needs him. The only problem Olivia’s best friend Anna has feelings for Dawson and so does Olivia! I loved this story so much!! I think you can read this as a stand alone book but there is appearances of Asa and Lyric in this book and I loved seeing them again some in this book. Reading the second book in this series just felt like coming home after being away and I loved getting to know more characters in Blackwater! I can’t wait for the next book Love In The Wild and get to know Gage and Hadley!!
👩⚕️👮♂️Disclaimer👮♂️👩⚕️
I was sent this e-book from Mandi Blake for my honest review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
👩⚕️👮♂️Disclaimer👮♂️👩⚕️
I was sent this e-book from Mandi Blake for my honest review. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
May 6, 2024
I really enjoyed the back and forth between Olivia and Dawson. I felt Olivia’s stress in fighting her feelings for Dawson because of her best friend Anna. So stressful! So cathartic when everything finally resolves. 💕
I also really appreciate the struggle with and discussion of endometriosis. It’s not talked about much but it is crippling. Many people don’t know about it. I thought I was just a baby all those years that I struggled with cramps and pain relievers didn’t touch it. I didn’t even learn about endometriosis until we were battling infertility. I love that Mandi has found a way to educate many people about endometriosis through this amazing story. The characters seem real. Their struggles, their feelings, it pulls you in. Dawson’s reminder to not just pray for other people but also to bring our own concerns to God is just so important. It’s so hard to trust that God’s will is best, especially when it doesn’t line up with our wants or perceived needs.
I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone looking for a wholesome and fun romance novel.
I also really appreciate the struggle with and discussion of endometriosis. It’s not talked about much but it is crippling. Many people don’t know about it. I thought I was just a baby all those years that I struggled with cramps and pain relievers didn’t touch it. I didn’t even learn about endometriosis until we were battling infertility. I love that Mandi has found a way to educate many people about endometriosis through this amazing story. The characters seem real. Their struggles, their feelings, it pulls you in. Dawson’s reminder to not just pray for other people but also to bring our own concerns to God is just so important. It’s so hard to trust that God’s will is best, especially when it doesn’t line up with our wants or perceived needs.
I really enjoyed this book and recommend it to anyone looking for a wholesome and fun romance novel.
May 12, 2024
I was hooked on this book as soon as I found out it was a friends to more/brother’s best friend trope! I loved these characters and was absolutely rooting for their love story! Their banter and friendship turned flirting gave me the warm fuzzies and the slow burn romance was absolutely worth the wait! Mandi Blake really hit it on the mark with these characters! I really appreciated this author allowing these characters to work through their obstacles together! It was so refreshing to have a love story that fought for love even in the midst of tough and messy circumstances! Mandi really drove home an important faith message towards the end of this story that is completely relevant and relatable. This was such a fantastic read and gosh, is it my new favorite? It just might be!
January 21, 2025
I absolutely adored getting to know Dawson and Olivia. Dawson is a total sweetheart and head over heels for Olivia. The way he drops everything to come to her aid is the sweetest. I really felt connected to Olivia due to her migraines and endometriosis and I totally understood her physical and mental pain. PS- These were also mentioned throughout the book so if this is a trigger for you, this might not be for you. But I love the way Dawson and her family and friends rally with her in prayer through her situation. Truly heartwarming
The storyline: Dawson and Anna are Olivia’s best friends. Dawson has a crush on Olivia and Anna has a crush on Dawson but Olivia also has a crush on Dawson too. Dawson also wants a family, but Olivia isn’t sure she can have kids. Olivia doesn’t want to let either of her best friends down. Will her love for Dawson win out over her fears??
FMC: Olivia - geriatric nurse
MMC: Dawson - cop
What you’ll find:
🐓 Friends to lovers
🐐 Brother’s best friend
🐓 He pursues her
🐐 Nickname “my Queen”
🐓 “Chicken chick”
🐐 “Goat guy”
🐓 Flirtatious teasing
🐐 One truck
🐓 Love triangle
🐐 Childhood crush
🐓 Third person dual POV
📚: Book 2 of 4 - “Love in Blackwater” series
🔹: Best enjoyed read in order 👉 book 1 bonus epilogue continues in chapter 1 of book 2
📖: 430 pages; 🎧 8 hrs 36 min
🌶️: kisses only
🤬: none
⚠️: endometriosis, infertility, dog attack
The storyline: Dawson and Anna are Olivia’s best friends. Dawson has a crush on Olivia and Anna has a crush on Dawson but Olivia also has a crush on Dawson too. Dawson also wants a family, but Olivia isn’t sure she can have kids. Olivia doesn’t want to let either of her best friends down. Will her love for Dawson win out over her fears??
FMC: Olivia - geriatric nurse
MMC: Dawson - cop
What you’ll find:
🐓 Friends to lovers
🐐 Brother’s best friend
🐓 He pursues her
🐐 Nickname “my Queen”
🐓 “Chicken chick”
🐐 “Goat guy”
🐓 Flirtatious teasing
🐐 One truck
🐓 Love triangle
🐐 Childhood crush
🐓 Third person dual POV
📚: Book 2 of 4 - “Love in Blackwater” series
🔹: Best enjoyed read in order 👉 book 1 bonus epilogue continues in chapter 1 of book 2
📖: 430 pages; 🎧 8 hrs 36 min
🌶️: kisses only
🤬: none
⚠️: endometriosis, infertility, dog attack
May 3, 2024
Absolutely adore this couple. Olivia is so serious and so busy making sure others have what they need and protecting others feelings that she puts herself last daily. Dawson has been her best friend since childhood and he is having none of that. This entire book he dotes on her, helps her and tries to help her see who she really is. When Olivia’s secret comes out he is there to help and support her! Dawson is an amazing friend to Olivia and if he has his way much more! Hard to put down! Wonderful read!
May 5, 2024
Wow! Loved this book and as I continue to read each of this author’s books, I find that I can no longer pick a favorite because I love them all! This author gets right into the feelings and fears that people experience in real life and shows that there is a way to overcome with the help of others and especially love. Dawson and Olivia were great characters and with the authors wonderful writing, you feel pulled into their lives. The story line had grabbed me from the beginning and I didn’t want to put the book down.
May 8, 2024
Let God handle the “what ifs” of life.
Dawson and Olivia have a friendship since their childhood, but Olivia carries a heavy burden that she hides from everyone. Dawson just wants to be more to her than a friend. Journey with them down the path of learning to trust God more and let others share our burdens.
A clean, wholesome story dealing with physical issues, a best friend’s infatuation, longing, trust, and learning to let go. They get their HEA and it is sweet. Eager to see them again hopefully in the series. I received a complimentary copy and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
Dawson and Olivia have a friendship since their childhood, but Olivia carries a heavy burden that she hides from everyone. Dawson just wants to be more to her than a friend. Journey with them down the path of learning to trust God more and let others share our burdens.
A clean, wholesome story dealing with physical issues, a best friend’s infatuation, longing, trust, and learning to let go. They get their HEA and it is sweet. Eager to see them again hopefully in the series. I received a complimentary copy and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
May 6, 2024
Oh my! Dawson was certainly a dream of a boyfriend! He was so sweet and considerate and obviously so much in love with Olivia. He showed up for her again and again. Olivia was also very much in love, but she had reasons for not giving in to that temptation. Their chemistry ramped up once Olivia allowed herself to show that she cared. They also knew how to flirt and have fun with each other. Plus, the chickens and goats were a great addition! I love the journey this couple took and how they continually prayed and sought the Lord in their difficulties and trials. The author brought the Lord into the story in such an easy, seamless way without any preachiness at all. This is a well-written book that kept my attention from the very beginning and was hard to put down.
May 7, 2024
I enjoyed this story with Olivia and Dawson. They've been through a lot over the years. Her secret being the biggest one. This is a sweet, clean romance.
November 15, 2024
One of my absolute favorite rom coms (clean)! So cute and sweet.
April 12, 2025
I really enjoyed this. Despite the fact that the MMC was very goofy or sometimes could be taken to not be serious , when it came to serious matters he still proved himself.
July 28, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up
March 2, 2025
I always have one book that I don't love as much from an author who I've read several books from. Honestly, this is still one of my favorites from her, as I can tell that even between the Wolf Creek Ranch books and this new series, Blake's writing has improved. (Crazy, I know! I LOVED the last few in her Wolf Creek Ranch series, so to think that she can, and is, improving even beyond those? I'm excited!)
I kind of knew that I might struggle with this one. Dawson, while great kind of gets on my nerves, haha. I adore Asa's cinnamon roll personality, and we all know about my...attachment with Linc and Gage (literally, I think as soon as either of them walked on the scene, I was a goner. I'm pretty sure we hadn't even met Linc yet, he was just mentioned *and injured no less* in Better Together, and I already knew from Jess's reaction that I HAD to meet him, haha!)
Oh, yeah I might also really struggle with Gage's story, as much as I'll also probably love it. The whole need to mention 'black s@bbath' in a 'Christian' story? I get it's to show how messed up he is, and how far he'd need to come for any hope of actually making a difference, I still, would have rather avoided the mention of an actual name and reference. Yeah...
On a lighter note, ahh did I mention the animals in this one!? Okay, so Dawson isn't my favorite, but I LOVED seeing him (and Olivia) with the animals! Haha, these two are a hoot, and the fact that they both love animals definitely won a few points in their favor! That and the woods parts were probably some of my favorites in their story. I also really liked the scenes at Beau's garage, which seems random, but *shrug* it's true. Haha.
There's honestly a lot to like about this one, and I enjoy Dawson and Asa's friendship, and really he's great with Olivia too. I can somewhat relate to her in some ways, and I loved that this story conquers a delicate and difficult topic with love, mercy, and grace. Well, there's a few actually, but this was a great story for these challenges, and I did like that. I felt Dawson was a little too...much, at times, but also found him sweet when he wasn't being so extra. Just his natural care for people, adults, children, men, women, didn't matter. He still cared and was always willing to help. That part I liked. The 'I'm your prince' was the part I wasn't as big a fan of. Again, it goes along with my new found appreciation of Biblical truth and values, so it just sort of rubs the wrong way, but I also appreciated that while he was big on that, it was largely in part to the fact that Olivia was just the same in many ways, overexerting herself in-order to be everything for everyone. So, considering the context, it fits, and I think in this case they balance each other out. But yeah, the men are the leaders...It just ends up causing problems. I did really love seeing her dad interacting with Dawson though, and can see from their conversations that in regular situations, Dawson would have a good mentor and role-model (of sorts) in him, which I loved! I also love a good parent/mentorship role in stories, and this is exactly why. Such a wonderful relationship that we often overlook but that can make all the difference in someone's life.
Final rating is probably more around 3.75, since it's not quite a 4 for, but still an enjoyable story and one I'm happy to have read.
I kind of knew that I might struggle with this one. Dawson, while great kind of gets on my nerves, haha. I adore Asa's cinnamon roll personality, and we all know about my...attachment with Linc and Gage (literally, I think as soon as either of them walked on the scene, I was a goner. I'm pretty sure we hadn't even met Linc yet, he was just mentioned *and injured no less* in Better Together, and I already knew from Jess's reaction that I HAD to meet him, haha!)
Oh, yeah I might also really struggle with Gage's story, as much as I'll also probably love it. The whole need to mention 'black s@bbath' in a 'Christian' story? I get it's to show how messed up he is, and how far he'd need to come for any hope of actually making a difference, I still, would have rather avoided the mention of an actual name and reference. Yeah...
On a lighter note, ahh did I mention the animals in this one!? Okay, so Dawson isn't my favorite, but I LOVED seeing him (and Olivia) with the animals! Haha, these two are a hoot, and the fact that they both love animals definitely won a few points in their favor! That and the woods parts were probably some of my favorites in their story. I also really liked the scenes at Beau's garage, which seems random, but *shrug* it's true. Haha.
There's honestly a lot to like about this one, and I enjoy Dawson and Asa's friendship, and really he's great with Olivia too. I can somewhat relate to her in some ways, and I loved that this story conquers a delicate and difficult topic with love, mercy, and grace. Well, there's a few actually, but this was a great story for these challenges, and I did like that. I felt Dawson was a little too...much, at times, but also found him sweet when he wasn't being so extra. Just his natural care for people, adults, children, men, women, didn't matter. He still cared and was always willing to help. That part I liked. The 'I'm your prince' was the part I wasn't as big a fan of. Again, it goes along with my new found appreciation of Biblical truth and values, so it just sort of rubs the wrong way, but I also appreciated that while he was big on that, it was largely in part to the fact that Olivia was just the same in many ways, overexerting herself in-order to be everything for everyone. So, considering the context, it fits, and I think in this case they balance each other out. But yeah, the men are the leaders...It just ends up causing problems. I did really love seeing her dad interacting with Dawson though, and can see from their conversations that in regular situations, Dawson would have a good mentor and role-model (of sorts) in him, which I loved! I also love a good parent/mentorship role in stories, and this is exactly why. Such a wonderful relationship that we often overlook but that can make all the difference in someone's life.
Final rating is probably more around 3.75, since it's not quite a 4 for, but still an enjoyable story and one I'm happy to have read.
December 6, 2024
Dawson and Olivia were adorable. 3.5 stars!!
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