Love Comes in Small Packages

by Lori Foster, Maisey Yates

A heartwarming duo of tales about unexpected love and family, from the bonds of sisterhood to the magic of friends to lovers, and the joys of infants and fur babies, plus all the surprises romance has to offer, even amid life’s missteps . . .

THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE * LORI FOSTER

Compared to her smart, responsible twin, Laylee has always been labeled the party girl sister. Now she’s really screwed up by finding herself possibly accidentally pregnant, and definitely not in love. With her sister away on her honeymoon, Laylee’s only confidant is her guy friend, Knox. There’s mutual attraction there, yet they’ve been tiptoeing around it. But telling Knox everything may change . . . well, everything. Especially amid a comedy of pregnancy test errors, a robbery, a cat rescue mission—and the realization that Knox sees her as so much more than a pretty face . . . .

THE RANCHER’S UNEXPECTED FAMILY * MAISEY YATES

Ellie Jones helplessly watched her beloved sister, Sarah, spiral into addiction in high school, thanks to her toxic relationship with Ty Porter. Ellie, now a teacher, hasn’t seen Sarah in over a year when she gets a call from Child Protective Services that Sarah has a baby—and she’s surrendered her parental rights. Ellie races to the hospital, but someone’s beat her to rodeo champion Clark Porter, the baby’s uncle. Clark’s a good man and he’ll be damned if his niece grows up without him. Until they find a custody solution, Ellie will just have to move into his ranch house. Temporarily. Obviously. Except that they’re attracted to each other. Risking the unconventional family they’re creating is the last thing they need. Then again, if what they feel is deeper than attraction, it may be what they need most . . .

Genres: Romance

224 pages, Paperback

Expected publication March 31, 2026

About the author

Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. Lori has published through a variety of houses, including Kensington, St. Martin’s, Harlequin, Silhouette, Samhain, and Berkley/Jove. She is currently published with HQN.

Lori hosts a very special annual “Reader & Author” event in West Chester, Ohio. Proceeds from the event have benefited many worthy causes, including the Hamilton County YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter, the Animal Adoption Foundation, The Conductive Learning Center for children with spina bifida and cerebral palsy, and The One Way Farm, Children’s Home.

Each year Lori donates all proceeds from one book to charity. You can see the benefit romance books here: http://lorifoster.com/benefit-books/

Career Highlights
•In 2001, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy.

•In 2002, Lori’s book Too Much Temptation was the top-selling romance title for Amazon books.

•In 2003, Say No To Joe was the second “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for Waldenbooks.

•In 2004, Lori Foster was a clue in the New York Times crossword puzzle.

•In 2004, The Secret Life of Bryan was the “Bestselling Original Contemporary” romance title for the BGI group.

•In 2005, Lori received the prestigious Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Contemporary Romance.

•In 2006, Jude’s Law was the “Bestselling Romantic Comedy” romance title for the BGI group.

•In 2007, Lori launched a new “urban fantasy” series under the name L.L. Foster. See more on her “dark side” at www.llfoster.com.

•In 2007, Causing Havoc was among Amazon’s Top Ten Editor’s picks in Romance.

•In 2008, Hard to Handle made #2 on The New York Times.

•In 2009, Servant: The Acceptance was Amazon’s #1 Editors’ Pick in Romance.

•In 2010, Lori was a clue in the USA Today Quick Cross puzzle.

Reviews

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I love that the authors are supporting animal shelters with part of the proceeds of this book. As an animal lover, I’d buy this book just for that reason, but you get so much more. You’re getting two heartfelt stories from two separate authors. I’m a huge fan of Lori Foster and she was the draw for me to read this book. I’m so glad I did. I hadn’t realized I was getting Laylee and Knox’s story. I met them last year in The Two of Us. I really enjoyed reading about this friend group again and I love that Laylee grew and matured just in time to find her own happiness.

While it was Lori Foster who drew me to this book, I feel like I got a bonus with Maisey Yates story. I loved the storyline of Ellie and Clark adopting Ellie’s sister’s and Clark’s brother’s baby. To find out they were drawn to each other for years but never did anything about their attraction because they were taking care of their siblings who struggled with addiction was heartbreaking but having the baby be the one to bring them together was the perfect ending.

Both stories are worth picking up this book. Great read!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed That Special Someone. Very cute and heartwarming! A book with animals in the story to benefit other animals - perfect!

The Rancher’s Unexpected Family was a pleasure to read! Heartwarming, love and family.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Comes In Small Packages by Lori Foster and Macy Yates, Lorelei Foster is used to telling her twin Laura everything but when she realizes she may be pregnant Laurie is on her honeymoon with Ford and her only option is Knox he is from a group of friends she inherited through the marriage and the one who’s not only single but who she feels the closest to. when she calls Knox he is at work putting up a roof and this is why all of his coworkers here Lorelei saying she may be pregnant. This is when he swiftly falls off the roof. He is OK and tells her he will be there later to help walk Laura and Ford’s dogs. he doesn’t care if his coworkers think it’s his baby because he would love to have a serious relationship with Loreley Baby or not. This is just the beginning of the chaos. Her pregnancy test is a did and so on their walk they decide to get another and this is the time an incident happens that brings all the friends together well except for Laura and Ford because no one wants to tell them Laura lie was in the middle of a hold up. this book is full of craziness and heartwarming swooney romance and that’s the first book the second book involves a long lost sister a baby and the baby‘s uncle; who just so happens to be a hot sexy bronco rider. they both want to be in Baby Marjorie‘s life so they make a deal that’s supposed to be temporary but he’s never been happier and more content and she can’t stop staring at her niece’s hot uncle. I really love these books it’s what you come to expect for Macy Yates and I’m down for all of it I do think this time the first story was my favorite but both are so worth reading. In the first one we get too cute dogs Maybelline is a big old cuddle muffin and tank is it itty-bitty hot pepper and they sounded so adorable and then the second book we get baby Marjorie in the arms of a honk so yeah two pretty good reads definite recommendation for those who love quick looney clean romance you’ll definitely enjoy these books I absolutely did. #NetGalley, #BlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,

[LeeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

That Special Someone by Lori Foster
(I am a longtime fan of Ms. Foster's. I have all of her books in one form or another and in both her names.)
Laylee and Knox are both independent, smart and beautiful people.
The friendships they have, which just happen to be within the same group, is strong and supportive.
Their chemistry is off the charts and took them a minute to admit to each other.
Also, in this book we get to see Tank and Maybelline again. Both amazing dogs who brought their parents together in a previous book in the series.
The four of them make an amazing family dynamic as nephew pups with their Aunt Laylee and future Uncle Knox with lots of love, laughs.
Then when you think things are perfect as it is....nope. I won't give the surprise away.
This fantastic story needs to be experienced by the reader for themselves.
I highly recommend this book.
Oh! We also get to see some characters we grew to love in previous books make appearances. A favorite of mine to have happen.

**********************************
The Rancher's Unexpected Family by Maisey Yates

This is the second book I have read of Ms. Yates. It will not be the last.
I enjoyed this book very much.
The angst, fear, love, support and heat level was great.
Ellie and Clark have known each other for many years and are connected now through their new niece Marjorie. Marjorie is a doll. She brought her aunt and uncle together just by being born and needing a family.
The decision Clark and Ellie made was not difficult to make. They loved Marjorie as soon as they set eyes on her.
Their love, though not acknowledged for a long time was strong and undeniable.
I loved how they chose together to raise Marjorie, adopt her and show what love should be.
Everything about this story was so good. Through rough patches and good.
I highly recommend this book.
I will be watching for more books by this author.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from Kensington Publishing through NetGalley.
Two short stories.
A lovely light read for relaxing time.
That Someone Special by Lori Foster
We return to familiar characters and follow Laylee and KNox as their romance develops amidst humorous situations. Both have had feeling for the other but have stayed in the friend arena. All Laylee wanted was to know if she was pregnant but this turned into a keystone cops type adventure when the first test malfunctioned and she was caught in a difficult situation while buying another one. Knox stepped in both times to offer support and rescue. Their friends' group surrounds and protects them as needed too. When he finally makes his move, he finds Kaylee more than willing to share her feelings too.

The Rancher's Unexpected Family by Maisey Yates
So much history has been part of Ellie and Clark's past that they struggle to be in the same place. When their siblings sign away their parental rights, and give their newborn daughter to Ellie and Clark, they must work together for her sake. We see chapters from each POV and the real reasons for the relationship struggles becomes obvious early on. Yates weaves this tension through the rest of the story. I love the tender tone the author uses and the way she shows her characters working through their own dysfunctional families to make the best one for their daughter. I also appreciate how she portrays the birth parents. Too often, blame is placed without understanding addiction. Kudos to Yates for showing how much they loved their daughter to help her escape the spiral. The Epilogue works well to share how life worked out for all of them.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE * LORI FOSTER

Laylee suspects she might be pregnant, and her first thought is to share this news with her twin sister, Laura. Unfortunately, Laura is currently away on her honeymoon. Laylee now knows Knox through marriage and, before long, they start spending more time together. There’s definitely a strong connection between them. However, Laylee is concerned about how Knox would react to her potential pregnancy. Their story unfolds rapidly, but it’s filled with heartwarming moments. From friendship to chemistry to love, Lori Foster’s story is sure to warm your heart.


THE RANCHER’S UNEXPECTED FAMILY * MAISEY YATES

“Walked into that hospital as two single people and walked out as parents..”

Clark Porter and Ellie Parks, siblings to both parents of a newborn, make the heartfelt decision to adopt the baby they neither want to give up. As co-parents, they will embark on a journey of navigating their lives together. Despite a shared past, reconnecting now that they have a new niece, Marjorie, is bound to alter their lives forever. It soon becomes apparent that Marjorie is not the only link between them. In fact, Clark and Ellie share a chemistry that demands exploration. This heartwarming and tender story is a delightful read.

Lori Foster is my favorite author, so this book was an easy choice for me. I love that the proceeds from this anthology go toward helping pets in animal shelters. Although I received this as a review copy, I’ll definitely be purchasing a copy for my keeper shelf.

Many thanks to Kensington and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book contains two stories. Both about creating families when either couple least expected . Each of the couples having known each other for a while and never expecting that fate would bring them together to find their family as well as their HEA.
THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE by Lori Foster belongs to model Laylee and Knox, owner of a roofing company.
Laylee is considered the pretty twin and the life of the party. Few know she’s more than that. When she believes she’s pregnant, she calls her friend, Knox. The one person that truly “gets her” and unbeknown to Laylee, the one who secretly has a thing for her.
In the midst of it all, we have two adorable dogs, and a newborn whose mother has given her up. This all brings Laylee and Know together. Will their united front lead to an unexpected family and true love?
THE RANCHER”S UNEXPECTED FAMILY by Maisey Yates, belongs to English teacher Ellie Jones and ranch owner and former rodeo star, Clark Porter. These two have known each other forever, but it’s their drug addicted siblings who constantly have them meeting time after time as they attempt to help their siblings. But this last call for help changes everything. A newborn has been left in their care and they are forced to join forces as they create a family for the baby. Will close quarters, secret HS crushes and a baby make them realize that they are meant to truly find their HEA?
Both were sweet stories with happy endings. Perfect for an afternoon of leisure.
I was entrusted a copy of these stories by Netgalley and Kensington Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Janice Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Comes in Small Packages is another novella from Lori Foster and Maisey Yates.

Lori Foster - That Special Someone
Lori's last novella, The Two of Us, was about Skye and Ford. This novella, That Special Someone, is a story of Laylee, Skye's identical twin sister, and Knox, one of Ford's friends.

While Ford and Skye are on their honeymoon, Laylee is babysitting their two dogs, Maybelline and Tank. Knox, who lives next door to Laylee, stops by to see if she needs help with the dogs. Both are attracted to one another, but neither acknowledges it. A series of mishaps occur that brings them closer together. Laylee always felt like she was the wild twin and her sister was the beautiful, smart twin. Together Knox and Laylee discover that they were meant for each other.

A beautiful heart-warming story! I was glad to see that Laylee got her own story.

Maisey Yates - The Rancher's Unexpected Family
Ellie and Clark have a long history of dealing with Melanie, Ellie's sister, and Ty, Clark's brother. They were always being called together to rescue their siblings, both drug addicts. When a baby was introduced into this mix, Ellie and Clark were called to be co-parents. Ellie and Clark were not fond of each other, or so they thought. Clark never felt like he was good enough for Ellie, and Ellie was angry because Ty introduced drugs to her sister. They now had to discover how they could ever co-parent a baby.

This is a heart-warming story between Ellie and Clark. Loved this story!

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, which supports animal shelters, is such a sweet collection of stories.

That Someone Special by Lori Foster

In the first story we get Laylee and Knox’s story. Laylee is a model, who feels insecure about being the pretty one, without the brains. Her sister leaves her dogs with her while she travels, and so she is co-dog sitting with her brother in laws friend Knox. Knox is a roofer, good friend of Laylee’s brother in law and he has been an admirer of Laylee’s for a while. A few incidents happen that lead to Laylee and Knox growing close. Can Laylee accept that Knox liked her for more than her pretty face and what they have might be the real deal? This book was heartwarming, had sweet animals, and wonderful side characters!


The Rancher’s Unexpected family by Maisey Yates

This was a sweet story about found family. Ellie is a teacher, trying to get her life together and save up for a home of her own. Cue a call from a social worker that her sister has given up her baby and Ellie is listed as guardian to take over. However when Ellie gets there she sees Tyler’s brother was also called to step up. Ellie and Clark have been thrown together over the years to clean up their siblings messes, but leaving a baby for them to joint care for is huge even for them. As they care for the baby, feelings they have been trying to suppress for years come up. Can they reach for happily ever after, or is it not meant for people like them?

Both of these stories were very sweet! I received an ARC, and this is my honest review.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book contains two stories that perfectly illustrate the theme suggested by the title—how a “small package” can change lives and open the door to love.

That Special Someone by Lori Foster
This story features characters connected to others from Lori Foster’s previous books, which adds a nice sense of continuity for longtime readers. Laylee, a twin whose sister is married to one of Knox’s friends, finds herself dog-sitting alongside Knox. As they care for the dogs together, their undeniable attraction grows. The discovery of a small package helps push their relationship forward in unexpected ways. I really enjoyed how their romance was woven into the larger world of familiar characters and how naturally Laylee and Knox fit together as a couple.

The Rancher’s Unexpected Family by Maisey Yates
This story also explores how a small package can bring two people together. Ellie and Clark share a long history shaped by the struggles of her sister Sarah and his brother Ty with addiction. Now, they are brought back into each other’s lives when they become caretakers for Sarah and Ty’s baby daughter. Forced into close quarters as they work toward adopting the child they both already love, Ellie and Clark must confront feelings they’ve tried to ignore. I enjoyed watching how much they had both grown over the years and how, despite resisting their attraction, they come to realize their happily ever after may be with each other.

[Reading In the Red Room · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75…. Two great stories in one book..what’s better than that?!? Well that fact that this book helps pets in animal shelters is definitely a bonus to read. My full review of each book is below.
That Special Someone
4.5⭐️
Knox and Laylee have mutual friends and family. They also are extremely smitten with each other…but haven’t told each other..yet. When Laylee finds herself in crisis she calls Knox…and he is definitely there for her…in more ways than one. This is a fast paced story with great characters. Characters with great depth telling a fun story. A story about friendship, being there for each other and everything in between. This author brings it every time and I’m never disappointed.
The Ranchers Unexpected Family
5⭐️
Clark and Ellie were always expecting “the call”. But the call they actually received was the best thing that happened to the both of them. Clark’s brother and Ellie’s sister are a couple. A couple who have been together for years and abusing drugs. When they each receive a call that there is now a baby involved…they jump into action. These two not only open their hearts to a newborn baby…but to each other…eventually. This is a sweet but emotional story that I really enjoyed. The characters were well written and told one heck of a story. A story about family, following your heart and everything in between. This author truly wrote a beautiful story.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

That Special Someone by Lori Foster

Knox and Laylee are sharing dog sitting duties and have been getting to know each other better. A possible pregnancy scare leads to Knox falling off a roof, a trip to the pharmacy for a pregnancy test, becoming part of a holdup, misunderstandings among the close group of friends, and feelings Knox and Laylee can no longer deny.

This was such a fun story! I wish it had been longer.

The Rancher’s Unexpected Family by Maisey Yates

Ellie and Clark watched as their siblings, Sarah and Ty, battled addiction for years, starting in high school. When Ellie and Clark both receive calls to go to the hospital, they find that Sarah has given birth to a little girl and that Sarah and Ty have signed over their parental rights and asked that Ellie and Clark become the baby’s parents, and both Sarah and Ty have disappeared again. Ellie and Clark have both felt an attraction to each other but never let on. Ellie was often downright mean to Clark. As the two share coparenting responsibilities, they get to learn more about each other and see where some of their beliefs from the past were unfounded. Will they ever admit to their true feelings for each other?

I loved this story and wish it had been much longer!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Marti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Comes in Small Packages by Lori Foster and Maisey Yates is a “twofer”. THe book consists of two novellas. The two novellas do not share any information so they each can be read in any order depending on time. What they do share is how to make an unexpected family.

Lori Foster’s “That Someone Special” is about Laylee and Knox. Laylee lives next door to her twin and is taking care of their dogs while they are on their honeymoon. Since her twin is her best friend, she is missing her, luckily Knox is her brother-in-law’s friend and he is helping. Between the both of them they deal with a locked door, a robbery and a couple of other situations which allow them to bond.

Maisey Yates’s novella is called “The Ranchers Unexpected Family”. A surprise baby along with her uncle (father’s brother) and aunt (mother’s sister) make a family in order to help raise the baby. Only with all the time together they begin to realize that maybe they could make the family a little more ‘family’. Ellie Jones and Clark Porter have so much to work through with their families and each other.

I loved each of the novellas. They were well written and allowed for character development along with a positive story line. The stories were each different in many respects but they were all about families. Love Comes in Small Packages was a good read.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was lovely and quick read! Both stories warmed my heart and were truly feel-good reads!

That Special Someone - Lori Foster
I have really enjoyed reading about this group of guy friends and each one finding their loves.

Laylee and Knox's story was just as good as the others have been! After dancing around friendship and attraction for a while, dog sitting for Laylee's sister and Knox's friend (who you meet in a previous story) finally kicks things into overdrive. Laylee reaches out to Knox, wanting to lean on someone in a moment of uncertainty, and that starts a chain reaction of a wild few days for them.

It was also fun to see the apperances from characters that you meet in the previous books. With Lori Foster's books, it always feels like catching up with old friends.

The Rancher's Unexpected Family - Maisey Yates

I haven't read much by Maisey Yates but I plan on changing that! I really adored this one!

Ellie and Clark find themselves coming together in a very unexpected way to step-up and adopt their newborn niece. After years of secretly having feelings for one another, Ellie finds herself now living with Clark to care for the baby they swear they will do right by.

I could of gone on reading about Ellie and Clark all day!

Thank you to Lori Foster for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Gale · Rating 5 out of 5]

That Special Someone - Lori Foster

This story starts with a…fall? I laughed SO hard! Poor Knox Nial is the fall-ee (?) but no worries, he’s fine! He is sharing dog-sitting duties with Laylee Fairchild. She is a sweetie. And gorgeous. And the cause of Knox’s fall from the roof.

That Special Someone is a novella length, hawt story. Both Knox and Laylee are adorable, especially together. They make great pet stand-in parents. The story is funny and sweet. And spicy in parts! They have a back/forth/back/forth that I loved.

The Rancher’s Unexpected Family – Maisey Yates (Second book in the anthology)

A sweet novella length story about Ellie Parks and Clark Porter. Of course, there’s also an adorable baby, Marjorie. Ellie and Clark know one another from long ago but never thought they’d be in this place in their lives – with Marjorie.

I loved how their story unfolded. Their HEA wasn’t as hard-fought as they imagined but it was touching and sweet. How they were able to thumb their noses – metaphorically – to some of the town’s characters was perfect. Great, quick read.

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

You get 2 stories for the price of 1 with this book!

In book 1 we get to meet Laylee and Knox. Both have secretly been in lust with this other, but neither thinks they are good enough for the other. She calls him in her time of need and he’s immediately there for her (well, once he’s off work at her request) even after falling off a roof! Yikes! He even got laughed at (in good nature) by his employees. I knew he was a good one in this moment!
I enjoyed these two characters and hope to see them again perhaps in stories of some of the side characters.

In book 2 we meet Ellie and Clark. I’m gonna be honest with you - I kept thinking of Clark’s Griswold. Probably because I watched the movie twice over the Christmas season, but because of this, I had a hard time picturing him as a sexy ex bulling riding champion opposed to Clark Griswold in chaps. Ewww - I know!
Anyways, I loved the story of them having addicted to drugs siblings who left their newborn baby with them. Super sweet! I’m so glad Ellie learned to forgive Clark for all the times she’s blamed him even though none of them were his fault.

[Beth Moylan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Comes in Small Packages contain 2 short stories, the first story is by Lori Foster and the second story is by Masey Yates. These are 2 very enjoyable quick reads. I have read most of what Lori Foster has written and really enjoy her stories.
Laylee, a twin whose sister is married to one of Knox’s friends, finds herself dog-sitting alongside Knox. They both have been secretly attracted to each other but never acted on it. As they care for the dogs together, their attraction grows even more. I really enjoyed the way their romance blossomed and just loved the characters. Very cute and enjoyable story.
The second Story by Masey Yates is The Rancher's Unexpected Family. I have only read a couple of her books but really enjoyed both. Ellie and Clark have known each other for a while. Ellie's sister and Clark' brother are involved and not on the best track, using alcohol and drugs. Ellie and Clark get a call that their siblings had a baby and want Ellie and Clark to care for her. This was such a moving story and I loved how they came together and the romance grow. Also a very enjoyable story.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC for my honest opinion.

[Sarah Lehman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love when authors support animal shelters so I was thrilled to read this book. I loved Lori's and seeing Laylee who is seen as the irresponsible twin grow up when she thinks she may be pregnant. Knox is in the friend group and the last single guy who has always had a thing for Laylee. They are dog sitting for her sister & husband while they are off on their honeymoon and Knox is willing to help Laylee with whatever help she needs. I loved how their relationship grew from friendship to more and how it merged easily within their family/friends group.

In Maisy's story it was both a beautiful but at times painful story as both Ellie and Clark have had issues with their families as her sister and his brother are addicts. Ellie and Clark worked together to see what they needed to do so they could adopt Sarah & Ty's baby as obviously this sweet baby's parents could not be good parents due to their addiction issues. Clark and Ellie had been attracted to each other but refused to act on that for a long time but they realized that working together and wanting what's best for the baby means finally admitting they are better together. I loved how they didn't rush into anything and took their time.

[Jan Fore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Comes in Small Packages
Lori Foster/Maisey Yates
March 31, 2026

Two remarkable novellas that tell us tales of couples that find each other in ways neither thought could happen. In the first, Laylee opens her door to Knox. Her twin is off on her honeymoon and she is finding no one to share her problem with. Knox has always been a best friend. She is worried she may have committed a wrong that needs an answer. Throughout their time together things are solved and both find themselves sharing secrets.
Elle Parks is worried over her sister. She is off with Ty, her partner who causes a mega of problems that neither will ever solve without professional help. When she finds that Melanie is pregnant and due to deliver soon she fears for the baby. Melanie and Ty cannot raise this precious child. She and Ty’s brother, Carter are both informed that this baby has been signed off for them to adopt and raise.
Love Comes in Small Packages will be published on March 31,2026 by Kensington Publishing. I was able to read Foster and Yates latest novel via NetGalley. It is such a heart-warming journey for each of the pairs involved. Thoroughly enjoyed this novel.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two different stories-one light hearted and one more serious.
Lori Foster's story, That Special Someone, was cute, entertaining, swoony and a fun read. Knox and Laylee met when her twin moved next door and fell in love with Knox' friend Ford. Knox was immediately smitten but settled into being friends with Laylee. Finally, while helping Laylee dog sit and manage a personal scare, Knox makes his move which brings the fun to their HEA.
Maisey Yates' story, The Rancher's Unexpected Family, Ellie and Clark have been in each other lives for years but the last several have been dealing with their addiction hindered siblings which have been stressful. Now Clark and Ellie are brought together when those siblings sign away their parental rights of their newborn and requests Clark and Ellie raise her. Moving in together and dedicating themselves to raising Marjorie together they start to build a family. Allowing themselves to be happy is something they fight for and luckily they get the HEA they deserved.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

The kind of love you search for, for yourself!

“That Someone Special” by Lori Foster


Knox and Laylee are joint pet-sitting Laylee’s twin sister, Skye, and Knox’s friend, Ford’s, dogs while they are on their honeymoon. Knox has loved Laylee for a while now but has been relegated to the friend zone, or so he thinks.

When a scare sends Laylee to Knox and he proves he will be there for her know matter what, Laylee starts seeing him in a different light. They both take advantage of their pet-sitting duties by acting on their mutual attraction.

One rescued cat later, that they are now joint pet parenting, life couldn’t be sweeter. Knox is in this for the long haul but he just has to convince Laylee that this is what he wants his life to be and not just a fling until their sibling/friend return from their honeymoon.

Knox is the last one of his friend group that is still single, we’ve met them in other books, Marcus, Bray & Ford. It was great getting to catch up with old characters and this story, while short, was nothing but amazingly sweet.

[Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two Sweet Novellas

I’m a longtime fan of Lori Foster so my expectations were high. This was my first story to read from Maisy Yates so no expectations, and I was pleasantly surprised.

Lori Foster: That Special Someone – 3 Stars
I was a little disappointed in this story; it seemed like it was trying too hard. My favorite part of this story was about the pets especially the rescued cat.

Maisy Yates: The Rancher’s Unexpected Family - 4 stars
A little angsty but so good. The MCs are both stable people who grew up in different types of dysfunctional families.

Ellie and Clark work together through what’s needed to build a life for the child. Each battling their pre-conceived ideas about what others may think of them and their siblings. As they do this, they find a growing attraction, carried over from high school but never realized. And there’s a nice epilogue at the end.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Sheila Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy short stories, it is so satisfying to finish a book in one sitting. Lori Foster's, "That Special Someone," brings together two endearing characters from one of the author's earlier books. The author has a knack for including pets in her books that make you want to go to a shelter and get your own fur baby. Anyone who loves animals makes me immediately root for them to succeed. Laylee has grown into such a delightful woman and Knox knew she was the one for him way before she did. Their HEA is a bit zany but oh so satisfying.
Maisey Yates, "The Rancher's Unexpected Family," was tragic, heartwarming and romantic. Clark and Ellie are so good to their very core. Their unconditional instant love for their niece Majorie is pure magic. However,, just as moving is their acceptance of their siblings failings and the grace they show them is inspiring. If a couple deserves an HEA it is Clark and Ellie.

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars.

Two cute novellas that prove that love can arrive slowly, quietly and unexpectedly. These were heartwarming stories!

That Special Someone

Laylee and Knox are friends. During a short time when they meet several unexpected incidents, they realize that they are just right for each other.

This was a sweet story but it felt a bit unstructured - quite a lot of things happened but somehow I felt it missed something.

The Rancher's Unexpected Family

Ellie and Clark are not exactly friends. Ellie's sister and Clark's brother just had a baby, but they are not going to keep her. So Ellie and Clark adopt the baby. And this baby gives them both what they have needed: a family.

So sweet and lovely story!

In both stories there was...

POV: dual
HEAT: open doors, but not super steamy
ENDING: HEA
Good communication
"It has always been you"
Small town

[Laura R · Rating 4 out of 5]

That Special Someone
Laylee and Knox are part of the same friend group. While Skye (Laylee's sister) and Ford are on vacation, Laylee and Knox are babysitting their two dogs. This is a sweet love story with humor, adorable animals, and friendship. It seems that everyone else in the friend group has been waiting for Laylee and Knox to realize there is an attraction between the two of them.

The Rancher's Unexpected Family
Ellie and Clark have known each other for years and while there was an attraction between them, they were both busy trying to deal with their siblings (Melanie and Ty) who were dating and drug addicts. But then they find out that Melanie has had a baby and they've given up their parental rights. So Ellie and Clark decide to step up and raise the little girl. It was heartwarming how they came together to raise her and how they learned that they were each attracted to the other.

[Crystal Shavalier · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love Comes in Small packages is a couple short stories that were written for an animal charity fundraiser which makes it great all in itself.
In that Special Someone Laylee & Knox are dog sitting while her twin, Skye is on her honeymoon. We get to see Tank and Maybelline again which is a treat. Knox & Laylee have been interested in each other but finally end up admitting it after finding an abandoned kitten in the stream at the park. River, the kitten is an adorable addition to the animal clan . As always, Lori Foster delights us with her small town stories and the cute animals make them even better.
In The Rancher’s Unexpected Family , Ellie and Clark end up finding themselves thrown in another situation as their siblings leave them with their baby to raise. Both are committed to making sure Marjorie has a better life than they did. While they work to figure out the best way to take care of her they end up giving into an attraction that they have had for years.

[Sara Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Comes In Small Packages

That Special Someone
By Lori Foster

I give this novella 5 stars. I love Lori Foster and the way she has of bringing the characters to life. Characters I want to be friends with and hang out with. Knox and Laylee are two of those people. I love a story that has our main man not afraid to say I love you and I want it all with you. Come enjoy this short story that’s full of heart, heat and crazy dogs! If you are like me, you’ll wish it was longer.

The Ranchers Unexpected Family
By Maisey Yates

You can’t go wrong with a book by Maisey Yates. I love me a hot cowboy. And one who cradles a baby in his strong arms? Yes please! Fall in love with Clark and Ellie as a baby brings them tougher and allows them to finally answer the sparks that have always been between them!

This 2 for 1 could also be called Great Things Come in Smal Packages.

I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

A two stories for one book benefiting an animal rescue. I’m averaging 3 stars for this one. The first story from Lori Foster is 2 stars for me. I think the issue is it did not feel like a standalone story. After reading, I researched and found all the characters were from other books, and the main characters were introduced in her previous charity short story. The whole story felt like I was missing prior knowledge.
The second story from Maisey Yates was fantastic and 4 or 5 stars. It was a true standalone story following the adoption of an addicted couple’s child by their respective siblings. Although a short story, there was so much depth and heart. A must read.

Thank you, Kensington Publishing, for providing this book for review consideration through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Rose G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Comes in Small Packages contains two short stories. One is from my favorite author Lori Foster. The other story is from Maisey Yates. I enjoyed both stories. I especially enjoyed That Special Someone by Lori Foster mainly because I was familiar with all of the characters since I read her previous books with these characters. It was finally Knox's turn for romance. I already read about Marcus, Bray, and Ford's romances. If someone really wanted to get more in depth knowledge of these characters then you would have to go back to some of Lori Foster's older books to read about Marcus' parents' love story.

Maisey Yates's The Rancher's Unexpected Family was also a very good read. Clark and Ellie took on the responsibility of raising their niece and ended up falling in love in the process.

[Terri Tutor · Rating 4 out of 5]

These were two stories that were easy to read and just perfect when you want something to read that makes you feel good. And, of course, having animals involved doesn’t hurt. Lori Foster’s “That Special Someone” features characters from a previous story. Knox is a friend of Ford’s and Laylee is Skye’s sister. Knox and Laylee both agreed to watch Tank and Maybelline (Ford and Skye’s dogs) while they went on a quick getaway. It was a perfect way to get to know each other and, hopefully, get their own happily ever after. Maisey Yates’ “The Rancher’s Unexpected Family” was a pleasant surprise and an unexpected way of gaining a family. Due to their siblings drug problems and giving up their baby, it was left to Ellie and Clark to raise their niece. Will this be the catalyst for both of them to realize their ongoing feelings for each other.