What do you think?
Star Harbor #4
In Full Bloom
Not yet published
Expected 13 Oct 26I never meant to accidentally date my brother’s best friend.
Brody Shepard has been Star Harbor’s golden boy for as long as I can remember. Decorated police officer and all-around sexiest man alive, it’s taken years to get over my girlhood crush.
Trouble is, my brother Hayes might actually be cursed. The ghost stories in our small town run wild, but there’s no denying that when it comes to epic bad luck, my brother wins the prize. It’s why I was determined to set him up with the perfect woman.
For that, I needed Brody’s help. Together, we could increase my brother’s happiness and prove to him that he isn’t really cursed. But all our spying and conspiring meant late night talks, dinner reservations to check on him, and a few too many accidental touches.
Touches that start to feel a little too real.
I know better than to fall for Brody’s cocky charm, smoldering looks, and affable humor. Besides, he’d never cross that line with me . . . right?
But the more we work together, the more lines are crossed and boundaries blurred. Our lifelong friendship started to change. Now we’re both making excuses to spend time together. Whispered secrets turn into secret touches.
Soon, I learn all too quickly that the girlhood fantasy I’d thought I’d cut down just might be in full bloom.
Brody Shepard has been Star Harbor’s golden boy for as long as I can remember. Decorated police officer and all-around sexiest man alive, it’s taken years to get over my girlhood crush.
Trouble is, my brother Hayes might actually be cursed. The ghost stories in our small town run wild, but there’s no denying that when it comes to epic bad luck, my brother wins the prize. It’s why I was determined to set him up with the perfect woman.
For that, I needed Brody’s help. Together, we could increase my brother’s happiness and prove to him that he isn’t really cursed. But all our spying and conspiring meant late night talks, dinner reservations to check on him, and a few too many accidental touches.
Touches that start to feel a little too real.
I know better than to fall for Brody’s cocky charm, smoldering looks, and affable humor. Besides, he’d never cross that line with me . . . right?
But the more we work together, the more lines are crossed and boundaries blurred. Our lifelong friendship started to change. Now we’re both making excuses to spend time together. Whispered secrets turn into secret touches.
Soon, I learn all too quickly that the girlhood fantasy I’d thought I’d cut down just might be in full bloom.
530 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 13, 2026
About the author
Lena Hendrix
31 books4,254 followersLena Hendrix is a USA Today and Amazon Top 5 bestselling contemporary romance author living in the Midwest. Her love for romance started with sneaking racy Harlequin paperbacks as a teenager and now she writes her own hot-as-sin small town romance novels. Lena has a soft spot for strong alphas with marshmallow insides, heroines who clap back, and sizzling tension. Her novels pack in small town heart with a whole lotta heat.
When she's not writing or devouring new novels, you can find her hiking, camping, fishing, and sipping a spicy margarita!
Want to hang out? Find Lena on FB, Tiktok or IG!
When she's not writing or devouring new novels, you can find her hiking, camping, fishing, and sipping a spicy margarita!
Want to hang out? Find Lena on FB, Tiktok or IG!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
September 29, 2026
Gah!!
First off, I love how Lena Hendrix writes a mystery storyline that weaves through the entire series.
And this one is probably my favorite.
Small town ghost story.
I had goose bumps at one points.
Ok next up: Brody
I am a lawman girl
And I absolutely adored him
The pining
Ralph. One of my favorite dog characters to date 🤣
Kit Darling
The last sister to find love
The youngest sister
She was absolutely a likable person to me.
I would want to be bffs with her. Good vibes.
Probably my favorite Darling girl
Small town
Fake dating scenario
Best friends sister
Secrets galore
Funny but serious
Arc review ✨
First off, I love how Lena Hendrix writes a mystery storyline that weaves through the entire series.
And this one is probably my favorite.
Small town ghost story.
I had goose bumps at one points.
Ok next up: Brody
I am a lawman girl
And I absolutely adored him
The pining
Ralph. One of my favorite dog characters to date 🤣
Kit Darling
The last sister to find love
The youngest sister
She was absolutely a likable person to me.
I would want to be bffs with her. Good vibes.
Probably my favorite Darling girl
Small town
Fake dating scenario
Best friends sister
Secrets galore
Funny but serious
Arc review ✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
Every book by Lena is always a BANGER!!
September 28, 2026
In Full Bloom is my new favourite Lena Hendrix book and I already can’t wait to reread it. So many times I had goosebumps reading it, and had to pause to giggle with glee or kick my feet giddily. There is nothing I love more than a MMC that is down so bad that he isn’t fooling anyone. Brody is absolutely charming, and totally smitten over Kit. Right from the first few pages I was completely loving the vibe, and the quiet chemistry they have. There’s a lot of honesty between them throughout. Confessions with no take backs. Trust. It was a relationship that really built in a solid way.
The entire book is deliciously tender, and is brother’s best friend perfection. The way they both care about Hayes and his happiness is beautiful. To have them drawn together over Kit’s schemes to find Hayes love was kind of perfect.
Every time Brody was on page, I just kind of picture this stoic, steadfast, competent police man, with heart eyes every time he sees Kit. AND he blushes!! I’m serious when I say the sexual tension between them sizzles. Lena really lays out Brody’s thought process wonderfully. The third act breakup isn’t that bad when it makes sense for the character and their actions.
The Lady of the Dunes is a really special and fun subplot throughout this series, and I think this book really gave it emotional weight without being a silly ghost story. The way The Keepers take the Lady of the Dunes and turn her story into something powerful is beautiful.
Ralph is a character on his own. Absolutely hilarious. Love how much trouble he gets into, and how he only listens to Kit. I adore a cute doggie character.
Thank you to Lena Hendrix for an advanced copy of this book for review.
The entire book is deliciously tender, and is brother’s best friend perfection. The way they both care about Hayes and his happiness is beautiful. To have them drawn together over Kit’s schemes to find Hayes love was kind of perfect.
Every time Brody was on page, I just kind of picture this stoic, steadfast, competent police man, with heart eyes every time he sees Kit. AND he blushes!! I’m serious when I say the sexual tension between them sizzles. Lena really lays out Brody’s thought process wonderfully. The third act breakup isn’t that bad when it makes sense for the character and their actions.
The Lady of the Dunes is a really special and fun subplot throughout this series, and I think this book really gave it emotional weight without being a silly ghost story. The way The Keepers take the Lady of the Dunes and turn her story into something powerful is beautiful.
Ralph is a character on his own. Absolutely hilarious. Love how much trouble he gets into, and how he only listens to Kit. I adore a cute doggie character.
Thank you to Lena Hendrix for an advanced copy of this book for review.
October 7, 2026
Kit and Brody were soul tied from the moment we were introduced to them, a deep rooted connection forming over their intertwined lives and every sneak peek before this built their connection into what it was! The yearning and chemistry between these two is otherworldly, seeing both of their internal struggles to grasp the person they loved was truly devastating (in the most complimentary way).
I really loved Kit’s journey of not only coming into her own with her dreams, but the way she fights for the person she wants by making sure she be loved out loud and proudly. And Brody, our down bad man masked in duty and loyalty, not seeing how his honor forces him to remain disconnected from the ones he loves. Seeing their journey together, watching their chemistry unfold the moment they stop holding back was beyond anything i could have imagined. But most importantly, their story showcases the vulnerability and trust built through saying the hard thing, we really get such a clear picture of each characters inner workings and the hurdles they each face.
&& our Lady in question, Alma Barker. This subplot has continued to grow, bringing an additional layer into the story and even more connection to each characters journey. This book’s revelations of her story, mannnn I don’t know that i’ve cried more in a Lena book (that’s truly surprising). The beauty in this story, and our Lady of the Dunes story, was breathtaking; a deeply emotional connection that brought forth the rawest forms of our MCs and such human experiences of our own insecurities, while giving the strength through the characters to take ownership of their own needs.
So incredibly grateful & honored to be a part of Team Lena and having the opportunity to read an early copy for review💐✨
I really loved Kit’s journey of not only coming into her own with her dreams, but the way she fights for the person she wants by making sure she be loved out loud and proudly. And Brody, our down bad man masked in duty and loyalty, not seeing how his honor forces him to remain disconnected from the ones he loves. Seeing their journey together, watching their chemistry unfold the moment they stop holding back was beyond anything i could have imagined. But most importantly, their story showcases the vulnerability and trust built through saying the hard thing, we really get such a clear picture of each characters inner workings and the hurdles they each face.
&& our Lady in question, Alma Barker. This subplot has continued to grow, bringing an additional layer into the story and even more connection to each characters journey. This book’s revelations of her story, mannnn I don’t know that i’ve cried more in a Lena book (that’s truly surprising). The beauty in this story, and our Lady of the Dunes story, was breathtaking; a deeply emotional connection that brought forth the rawest forms of our MCs and such human experiences of our own insecurities, while giving the strength through the characters to take ownership of their own needs.
So incredibly grateful & honored to be a part of Team Lena and having the opportunity to read an early copy for review💐✨
October 5, 2026
It feels so good to be back in Star Harbor with the Darlings and the mystery of the Lady of the Dunes because who doesn’t love a small town romance with a ghost story woven in?
Brody Shephard is a local police officer and Hayes Darling’s best friend. Little does Hayes know, Brody has had his eye on Hayes’ little sister, Kit, and the feelings may just be reciprocated.
Hayes, being the cursed one that he is, seems to be getting more and more down. Kit, being the ever-so-helpful instigator that she is, finds herself wanting to fix the situation. Enter Operation MeetCute. Brody finds out what Kit is up to, one thing leads to another, and all of the sudden Kit and Brody find themselves fake dating… Or is it fake?
Let’s be real though. The real star of this show is Ralph. Brody’s new K9 companion with a questionable appetite, quirky personality, and a real stubborn streak when it comes to listening skills. He is undoubtably a town hero, who stole my heart from the very beginning.
Then we have the mystery surrounding the Lady of the Dunes. Every book in this series unravels more and more of her tragic history and who she truly is, Alma Barker. She’s becoming less of a mythical legend and more of a person with a heartbreaking past. We get some spooky encounters in this book, which was the best, especially as this book is releasing during spooky season. Perfection.
This book was funny, cute, sweet, sad, and a little bit spooky. I loved every bit of it. Now, I cannot wait until we get Hayes’ story!
Brody Shephard is a local police officer and Hayes Darling’s best friend. Little does Hayes know, Brody has had his eye on Hayes’ little sister, Kit, and the feelings may just be reciprocated.
Hayes, being the cursed one that he is, seems to be getting more and more down. Kit, being the ever-so-helpful instigator that she is, finds herself wanting to fix the situation. Enter Operation MeetCute. Brody finds out what Kit is up to, one thing leads to another, and all of the sudden Kit and Brody find themselves fake dating… Or is it fake?
Let’s be real though. The real star of this show is Ralph. Brody’s new K9 companion with a questionable appetite, quirky personality, and a real stubborn streak when it comes to listening skills. He is undoubtably a town hero, who stole my heart from the very beginning.
Then we have the mystery surrounding the Lady of the Dunes. Every book in this series unravels more and more of her tragic history and who she truly is, Alma Barker. She’s becoming less of a mythical legend and more of a person with a heartbreaking past. We get some spooky encounters in this book, which was the best, especially as this book is releasing during spooky season. Perfection.
This book was funny, cute, sweet, sad, and a little bit spooky. I loved every bit of it. Now, I cannot wait until we get Hayes’ story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Brody and Kit were all the yearning goodness of a brother's best friend forbidden love!!
Their love was complicated in the most uncomplicated way that kept me swooning, kicking my feet and even cursing Brody's overprotective sense duty. Brody saw Kit in ways that even her family and those closest to her didn't. He made her FEEL seen in ways she never had. These two were perfect for each other. They pushed each other beyond their comfort zones, their banter was foreplay and it was page after page of straight giddiness and feet kicking when things finally stopped holding back!
In Full Bloom is full of absolutely delicious secrets that I ate up from beginning to end.
I don't know how Lena does it, but the way she manages to weave mystery throughout an entire series without taking away the spotlight from each and every beautiful love story is the greatest talent. I have been invested in The Woman Behind the Veil since book one, and each story has brought us closer to finding out the truth.
🌸Brother's best friend
✨Fake dating
🌸Friends to lovers
✨Funny animal sidekick
🌸She's always had a crush on him
Their love was complicated in the most uncomplicated way that kept me swooning, kicking my feet and even cursing Brody's overprotective sense duty. Brody saw Kit in ways that even her family and those closest to her didn't. He made her FEEL seen in ways she never had. These two were perfect for each other. They pushed each other beyond their comfort zones, their banter was foreplay and it was page after page of straight giddiness and feet kicking when things finally stopped holding back!
In Full Bloom is full of absolutely delicious secrets that I ate up from beginning to end.
I don't know how Lena does it, but the way she manages to weave mystery throughout an entire series without taking away the spotlight from each and every beautiful love story is the greatest talent. I have been invested in The Woman Behind the Veil since book one, and each story has brought us closer to finding out the truth.
🌸Brother's best friend
✨Fake dating
🌸Friends to lovers
✨Funny animal sidekick
🌸She's always had a crush on him
October 5, 2026
Thank you to the publisher and author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Headed back to Lena-land for her newest book, In Full Bloom, featuring fun-loving kid sister, Kit, and her brother’s grumpy sheriff bff, Brody. Reading this one felt like the coziest, warmest hug.
The fake dating for matchmaking was a fun twist on the trope, and it made for some fun “do it for the plot” moments. Brody resisting his desire made his yearning that much more satisfying, and we all breathed a sigh of relief once they finally got together 😌
I have loved the Lady of the Dunes thread throughout the Star Harbor series, and this one is #4 of 5, so we got a lot of juicy updates! I’m so excited to find the resolution in Hayes and Maren’s story next. Mark your calendars for Oct 13 to enjoy it for yourselves ❣️
2🌶️
Headed back to Lena-land for her newest book, In Full Bloom, featuring fun-loving kid sister, Kit, and her brother’s grumpy sheriff bff, Brody. Reading this one felt like the coziest, warmest hug.
The fake dating for matchmaking was a fun twist on the trope, and it made for some fun “do it for the plot” moments. Brody resisting his desire made his yearning that much more satisfying, and we all breathed a sigh of relief once they finally got together 😌
I have loved the Lady of the Dunes thread throughout the Star Harbor series, and this one is #4 of 5, so we got a lot of juicy updates! I’m so excited to find the resolution in Hayes and Maren’s story next. Mark your calendars for Oct 13 to enjoy it for yourselves ❣️
2🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely adore this charming small town and its ghost legend! This is the fourth book in the series, and I’m eagerly anticipating Haynes' story next.
Lena Hendrix's novels captivate me; they are incredibly addictive! I find myself immersed in the story, feeling like a local as I watch the couple fall in love. Additionally, it’s rare for a book to evoke strong emotions in me, but this one truly hits home.
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
Lena Hendrix's novels captivate me; they are incredibly addictive! I find myself immersed in the story, feeling like a local as I watch the couple fall in love. Additionally, it’s rare for a book to evoke strong emotions in me, but this one truly hits home.
Thank you for this amazing opportunity to read the eARC, and I am happy to provide my honest review in return.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This one might be my favorite of the star harbor series! There is enjoyable banter between the two main characters and tension. Lena is great with small town romance, but what I also appreciate is there is a side plot that weaves through all the stories in the series (yet somehow these can also be standalones, even though I'd still highly recommend reading the entire series!)
I really enjoyed all the feels of this book. It's light and funny, yet heartfelt and warm, there's yearning and spice and a little bit of mystery.
I listened to the audiobook and the duet narration was also good and was easy to listen at various speeds.
Rounding up to 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks to Lena and her street team for the ALC! I'm honored to share my thoughts and keep rooting for a small town romance series by a Midwest author!
I really enjoyed all the feels of this book. It's light and funny, yet heartfelt and warm, there's yearning and spice and a little bit of mystery.
I listened to the audiobook and the duet narration was also good and was easy to listen at various speeds.
Rounding up to 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks to Lena and her street team for the ALC! I'm honored to share my thoughts and keep rooting for a small town romance series by a Midwest author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love Kit and Brody with all my heart!!!! This was such a perfect story and probably one of the best books of Lena!
It’s so funny and there’s so much banter between these two!!!!
But Ralph stole the show entirely!!!! Absolutely my favorite of the series! 10/10 no notes!!!
It’s so funny and there’s so much banter between these two!!!!
But Ralph stole the show entirely!!!! Absolutely my favorite of the series! 10/10 no notes!!!
September 28, 2026
I think I loved this book the most in the series so far. The banter is perfect, sprinkles of spice and the storyline keeps you guessing and needing the next page. Ralph is the cherry on top
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: ✩✩✩✩ ½
Spice: 🌶🌶 ½
Narration: ✩✩✩✩✩
➛ Duet Narration
➛ CJ Bloom & Stephen Dexter
TROPES:
♡ Small Town Romance
♡ Friends to Lovers
♡ Fake Dating
♡ Brother's Best Friend
♡ Opposites Attract
♡ "Setting Up a Friend Gone Wrong"
Wow talk about a fun time! And that is in great part to one particular character... Ralph! I love this goofy dog with no impulse control. In a sense, I can relate to Ralph: born for greatness but perhaps the lack of self discipline and being greatly motivated by tasty treats has held souls like us back. 😅
In all seriousness, this was another exceptional addition to the "Star Harbor" series. Both Kit and Brody were witty, charming, sweet, and complex in their own way. It was such a joy to listen to them flirt and bicker and banter and open up! From them doing homework over wine, to researching the mystery behind the Lady of the Dunes, to dancing at the local watering hole, to spying on Hayes at the farmer's market, to late afternoon softball games, to family dinners at the Darlings, these two were just a delight to read about. All of it made even cuter with the addition of Ralph (Brody's son... colleague... dog).
I was baffled at first as to why Brody thought he couldn't (or shouldn't) pursue Kit, but the yearning from this man was so delicious!
Yet, when it's finally revealed that Brody reasoning for keeping his distance from her was because he didn't want to be like his father, who had carelessly took the things he wanted without taking into consideration the potential consequences of his actions, I was heartbroken to realize that Brody can't seem to see himself the way the people around him do. He was kind, loyal, considerate, full of empathy -- almost to a fault! And its sad that he can't seem to comprehend that his twisted sense of righteousness, is actually hurting all of his relationships. Hiding behind the "fakeness" of the relationship protects him because there aren't any stakes. He wants that safety net of having her without having to risk anything on his end. So when he finally steps up after the incident at the lake, I am so relieved that he finally communicated his feelings with her (and I'm so glad to see that Kit knows her worth enough to tell him what she wants).
Speaking of which, omg, the incident at the dock with the lanterns was so heart pounding! I won't spoil anything so all I'll say is I was on the edge of my seat! GO RALPH! :D I mean, go Hayes and Brody too but OMG GO RALPH! The bestest boy ever!
OMG, this is getting so long but I loved the audiobook narration! Stephen Dexter and CJ Bloom shone so bright with the banter and the shenanigans in this and I loved every second of it! What a joy this had been to listen to... I really hope Mrs. Hendrix will deliver an amazing story for poor Hayes! Here's hoping!
Spice: 🌶🌶 ½
Narration: ✩✩✩✩✩
➛ Duet Narration
➛ CJ Bloom & Stephen Dexter
TROPES:
♡ Small Town Romance
♡ Friends to Lovers
♡ Fake Dating
♡ Brother's Best Friend
♡ Opposites Attract
♡ "Setting Up a Friend Gone Wrong"
Wow talk about a fun time! And that is in great part to one particular character... Ralph! I love this goofy dog with no impulse control. In a sense, I can relate to Ralph: born for greatness but perhaps the lack of self discipline and being greatly motivated by tasty treats has held souls like us back. 😅
In all seriousness, this was another exceptional addition to the "Star Harbor" series. Both Kit and Brody were witty, charming, sweet, and complex in their own way. It was such a joy to listen to them flirt and bicker and banter and open up! From them doing homework over wine, to researching the mystery behind the Lady of the Dunes, to dancing at the local watering hole, to spying on Hayes at the farmer's market, to late afternoon softball games, to family dinners at the Darlings, these two were just a delight to read about. All of it made even cuter with the addition of Ralph (Brody's son... colleague... dog).
I was baffled at first as to why Brody thought he couldn't (or shouldn't) pursue Kit, but the yearning from this man was so delicious!
"I looked away first because I knew better. Because Hayes sat beside me, my best friend, her brother, trusting me with the easy confidence of a man who believed I would never take something I had no right to want." - Brody (ch.3)
Yet, when it's finally revealed that Brody reasoning for keeping his distance from her was because he didn't want to be like his father, who had carelessly took the things he wanted without taking into consideration the potential consequences of his actions, I was heartbroken to realize that Brody can't seem to see himself the way the people around him do. He was kind, loyal, considerate, full of empathy -- almost to a fault! And its sad that he can't seem to comprehend that his twisted sense of righteousness, is actually hurting all of his relationships. Hiding behind the "fakeness" of the relationship protects him because there aren't any stakes. He wants that safety net of having her without having to risk anything on his end. So when he finally steps up after the incident at the lake, I am so relieved that he finally communicated his feelings with her (and I'm so glad to see that Kit knows her worth enough to tell him what she wants).
Speaking of which, omg, the incident at the dock with the lanterns was so heart pounding! I won't spoil anything so all I'll say is I was on the edge of my seat! GO RALPH! :D I mean, go Hayes and Brody too but OMG GO RALPH! The bestest boy ever!
OMG, this is getting so long but I loved the audiobook narration! Stephen Dexter and CJ Bloom shone so bright with the banter and the shenanigans in this and I loved every second of it! What a joy this had been to listen to... I really hope Mrs. Hendrix will deliver an amazing story for poor Hayes! Here's hoping!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ALL THE STARS!!! Each book in this series gets better and better and I absolutely loved this one! In Full Bloom was a breath of fresh air. It had it all including a dog that loves to get into mischief! And the romance was just so beautifully written. Please go read this series!
Brody and Kit were everything! The longing, the pining, THE TENSION!! It was perfection. Every look, every touch had me kicking my feet!! These two have wanted each other for YEARS and now they finally have their chance! Kit was such a lovable character. Her personality made me wish she was real so I could be friends with her! She was chaos in a cute little package and I loved her! And Brody! He came in with his quiet kind of love and jumped head first in her chaos without question. I mean the guy bought her panties online anonymously because he didn't want anyone else getting them! These two were made for each other. And Ralph! That dog was the best furry sidekick and I adored how he was supposed to be a K9 dog but wouldn't listen to a single command! And the Lady of the Dunes mystery storyline that is woven into each book is so hauntingly beautiful!! It has been so fun to uncover a little bit of the mystery in each book in this series. Lena's writing is one of my favorites. She writes mature characters that communicate and the most beautiful romances ever! She has me swooning, giggling, and crying in every single book. This is one of my favorite series. Every single on has been 5 stars!
AUDIO: This was narrated in duet by CJ Bloom and Stephen Dexter and they were absolute perfect for Kit and Brody! CJ was the sunshine to Stephen's grumpy and it was so fun to listen to! The humor was spot on! I could feel the tension and chemistry between the characters with every word they spoke. And the emotional moments were so well done I was brought to tears!! They elevate this already incredible story so much with their voice acting. Highly recommend listening to this one!
-Small Town
-Brother's Best Friend
-Fake Dating
-Matchmaking gone wrong
-He buys her panties online!
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-Law Enforcement Officer
-Town Mystery
Thank you Lena for the #gifted ALC!
Brody and Kit were everything! The longing, the pining, THE TENSION!! It was perfection. Every look, every touch had me kicking my feet!! These two have wanted each other for YEARS and now they finally have their chance! Kit was such a lovable character. Her personality made me wish she was real so I could be friends with her! She was chaos in a cute little package and I loved her! And Brody! He came in with his quiet kind of love and jumped head first in her chaos without question. I mean the guy bought her panties online anonymously because he didn't want anyone else getting them! These two were made for each other. And Ralph! That dog was the best furry sidekick and I adored how he was supposed to be a K9 dog but wouldn't listen to a single command! And the Lady of the Dunes mystery storyline that is woven into each book is so hauntingly beautiful!! It has been so fun to uncover a little bit of the mystery in each book in this series. Lena's writing is one of my favorites. She writes mature characters that communicate and the most beautiful romances ever! She has me swooning, giggling, and crying in every single book. This is one of my favorite series. Every single on has been 5 stars!
AUDIO: This was narrated in duet by CJ Bloom and Stephen Dexter and they were absolute perfect for Kit and Brody! CJ was the sunshine to Stephen's grumpy and it was so fun to listen to! The humor was spot on! I could feel the tension and chemistry between the characters with every word they spoke. And the emotional moments were so well done I was brought to tears!! They elevate this already incredible story so much with their voice acting. Highly recommend listening to this one!
-Small Town
-Brother's Best Friend
-Fake Dating
-Matchmaking gone wrong
-He buys her panties online!
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-Law Enforcement Officer
-Town Mystery
Thank you Lena for the #gifted ALC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It’s only the first chapter of In Full Bloom and I am already loving it. You are introduced to the newest resident of Star Harbor, Ralph. Ralph is a floppy eared, poor impulse control, and possible K9 blunder. I just love Ralph. The description for him is so spot on. Ralph provides a lot of comedic levity throughout the book. This first chapter just has me laughing. Poor Hayes. He really is cursed. The whole situation that takes place in the first chapter is ridiculous enough where you will chuckle.
I am loving the duet narration by Stephen Dexter and CJ Bloom. The kid voice by CJ Bloom is too adorable. Stephen Dexter is such a good choice for Brody. He has the clear yet grumpy voice for Brody. I really like CJ Bloom as Kit. Her tone of voice matches Kit’s vibes.
The emotions they use while narrating will get you in the feels. There is one part that almost had me in tears.
The banter between Kit and Brody is just too good. These two love to making the other slightly nutty. They give as good as they get. These two really love to argue with each other. Reading each time they banter just brings a smile to my face.
I have been smiling for the majority of this book. The whole town of Star Harbor is happy that Brody and Kit are finally together. Every time someone mentions that had me laughing out loud. The matchmaking mishaps will have you shaking your head. Kit’s heart is in the right place but the delivery is comedically off.
The Lady of the Dunes mystery continues in In Full Bloom. More clues are revealed but there are more questions let unanswered. I was shocked. That story arc will have you wanting more to read.
I just had a great time immersive reading In Full Bloom. I loved being back in Star Harbor. That small town has heart and mystery. This book had me smiling so much my cheeks were getting tired.
Thank you Lena Hendrix for the advance reader copy. I reviewed advance copies (ARC & ALC) of this book freely and voluntarily. I received no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
I am loving the duet narration by Stephen Dexter and CJ Bloom. The kid voice by CJ Bloom is too adorable. Stephen Dexter is such a good choice for Brody. He has the clear yet grumpy voice for Brody. I really like CJ Bloom as Kit. Her tone of voice matches Kit’s vibes.
The emotions they use while narrating will get you in the feels. There is one part that almost had me in tears.
The banter between Kit and Brody is just too good. These two love to making the other slightly nutty. They give as good as they get. These two really love to argue with each other. Reading each time they banter just brings a smile to my face.
I have been smiling for the majority of this book. The whole town of Star Harbor is happy that Brody and Kit are finally together. Every time someone mentions that had me laughing out loud. The matchmaking mishaps will have you shaking your head. Kit’s heart is in the right place but the delivery is comedically off.
The Lady of the Dunes mystery continues in In Full Bloom. More clues are revealed but there are more questions let unanswered. I was shocked. That story arc will have you wanting more to read.
I just had a great time immersive reading In Full Bloom. I loved being back in Star Harbor. That small town has heart and mystery. This book had me smiling so much my cheeks were getting tired.
Thank you Lena Hendrix for the advance reader copy. I reviewed advance copies (ARC & ALC) of this book freely and voluntarily. I received no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another 5 star read from Lena! Thank you so much for the opportunity to arc read this. All opinions are my own.
This book was nothing what I expected, yet I loved every. single. second. Brother's best friend is probably my favorite trope. It never fails. The dedication had me immediately running to Lena's dms... because it's so true. As someone with an older brother I WISH one of his best friends would have seen me as more than the little sister.
Brody was a MAN WHO YEARNS from page 1. I did not expect that at all. He was such a green flag that I didn't see coming. All of Lena's MMCs are green flags, but Brody hit different. With Kit and Brody being in each other's lives for so long they had a dynamic and relationship that jumped off the page. Their banter was everything and it never felt forced or performative.
This has a totally different vibe than Beneath the Frost, which I think was needed, because that was heavy and I'm thinking Hayes's story will pull at the heart strings. Brody's POV and inner thoughts were hysterical, especially when related to Ralph. Body had a quite a few layers and was torn between helping Kit and staying loyal to Hayes. While they were both trying to help Hayes, the secrets that they were keeping definitely had some fall out.
Kit - I loved how much she wanted to help Hayes. I related alot to her- always trying to help other people, put other people's needs first, break the tension with jokes, and a smile. Her side story of was also a fun treat and that fall out of that was fun.
I also loved how the ghost story continues through this story and more and move of it comes out in this story and keeps the reader engaged and interested. Lena also continues to do an amazing job of circling back to past books, by Brody having an honest and raw conversation with Austin. She is also a master of balancing so many characters and plots from other books and weaving them into later books.
I'm so ready for Hayes, even though I fear I will be wrecked by him. This was the calm before the storm.
This book was nothing what I expected, yet I loved every. single. second. Brother's best friend is probably my favorite trope. It never fails. The dedication had me immediately running to Lena's dms... because it's so true. As someone with an older brother I WISH one of his best friends would have seen me as more than the little sister.
Brody was a MAN WHO YEARNS from page 1. I did not expect that at all. He was such a green flag that I didn't see coming. All of Lena's MMCs are green flags, but Brody hit different. With Kit and Brody being in each other's lives for so long they had a dynamic and relationship that jumped off the page. Their banter was everything and it never felt forced or performative.
This has a totally different vibe than Beneath the Frost, which I think was needed, because that was heavy and I'm thinking Hayes's story will pull at the heart strings. Brody's POV and inner thoughts were hysterical, especially when related to Ralph. Body had a quite a few layers and was torn between helping Kit and staying loyal to Hayes. While they were both trying to help Hayes, the secrets that they were keeping definitely had some fall out.
Kit - I loved how much she wanted to help Hayes. I related alot to her- always trying to help other people, put other people's needs first, break the tension with jokes, and a smile. Her side story of was also a fun treat and that fall out of that was fun.
I also loved how the ghost story continues through this story and more and move of it comes out in this story and keeps the reader engaged and interested. Lena also continues to do an amazing job of circling back to past books, by Brody having an honest and raw conversation with Austin. She is also a master of balancing so many characters and plots from other books and weaving them into later books.
I'm so ready for Hayes, even though I fear I will be wrecked by him. This was the calm before the storm.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Lena for this ARC!!
Back in Star Harbor. Back with the Darling family. And back to figuring out what exactly happened to Alma Barker. We do get more answers in this book and it is heartbreaking!
But first, Brody and Kit!
Brody has known the Darling family most of his life. Hayes is his best friend which also means that Kit is Hayes' little sister. And that means she is off limits. At least to Brody's way of thinking. He has brooded over Kit Darling for years! The yearning is so thick that the entire town sees it but Brody and Kit are oblivious.
Kit Darling is well.....DARLING!! She is witty and fun and very much someone who cannot stand to see others hurting. She has the very best intentions when she decides that Hayes is lonely and needs to meet someone special. So Kit being Kit creates a MeetCute dating profile for him and sets him up without his knowledge on "dates" hoping he will meet the love of his life. Things do not go as planned.
Brody gets dragged into Kit's setups for Hayes and this brings them into close proximity to each other and well.....they get almost get caught and things definitely escalate!
Brody and Kit are absolutely charming and fun and completely made for each other! But let's talk about the STAR of this book and that is a K9 dropout named Ralph!! He is just too sweet for police work and what a thief he is because he also stole Kit's heart!!
My heart tries to say it's ready for Hayes' story but honestly, I'm not sure it is! Hayes has had me by the heartstrings since we were first introduced to him and I feel like he will be my favorite Darling family member yet. My heart breaks for him and I need to Happily Ever After more than I have needed any character's HEA before!
Back in Star Harbor. Back with the Darling family. And back to figuring out what exactly happened to Alma Barker. We do get more answers in this book and it is heartbreaking!
But first, Brody and Kit!
Brody has known the Darling family most of his life. Hayes is his best friend which also means that Kit is Hayes' little sister. And that means she is off limits. At least to Brody's way of thinking. He has brooded over Kit Darling for years! The yearning is so thick that the entire town sees it but Brody and Kit are oblivious.
Kit Darling is well.....DARLING!! She is witty and fun and very much someone who cannot stand to see others hurting. She has the very best intentions when she decides that Hayes is lonely and needs to meet someone special. So Kit being Kit creates a MeetCute dating profile for him and sets him up without his knowledge on "dates" hoping he will meet the love of his life. Things do not go as planned.
Brody gets dragged into Kit's setups for Hayes and this brings them into close proximity to each other and well.....they get almost get caught and things definitely escalate!
Brody and Kit are absolutely charming and fun and completely made for each other! But let's talk about the STAR of this book and that is a K9 dropout named Ralph!! He is just too sweet for police work and what a thief he is because he also stole Kit's heart!!
My heart tries to say it's ready for Hayes' story but honestly, I'm not sure it is! Hayes has had me by the heartstrings since we were first introduced to him and I feel like he will be my favorite Darling family member yet. My heart breaks for him and I need to Happily Ever After more than I have needed any character's HEA before!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have yet to meet a Lena Hendrix book that I didn't absolutely love! Brody and Kit were absolutely everything. From the mystery aspect of the Lady of the Dunes, to the secret yearning for YEARS from the MMC, to the secret he kept about her alter ego, to the family aspect between Kit and her siblings, her hilarious meddling, the funny side character of Ralph the dog, and the fake dating aspect, everything just messed together so well and you just cant help but fall in love with them both.
From the get go, Kit was 100% her own person, owning her personal brand of chaos and mayhem that makes it hard not to love her character. She's hilarious, a bit meddlesome (with good intentions), knew how to banter with the best of them, and is also super determined and focused to accomplish what she sets out to do. Her relationship with Ralph was so funny to experience, as he definitely saw Kit as the main human and Brody as the spare human 🤣 and i was absolutely cackling over her ridiculous disguise when she was spying on Haye's first MeetCute!
Brody was just perfection. He was protective, always gave more of himself just to help out, and he was the definition of a man down bad and a man who was YEARNING for this girl for years. He kept his distance for so long, but that never stopped him from noticing her and longing for what he thought he couldnt have. Then, when he finally said f*** it and gave in to admitting this was more than just fake, it was electric. This man has been waiting years to finally claim his feelings for Kit and he delivered in every aspect.
If you love:
🌼 brother's best friend
🌼 fake dating
🌼 small town romance
🌼 hilarious animal characters
🌼 an MMC that yearns
🌼 friends to lovers
Then you will love Brody and Kit!
From the get go, Kit was 100% her own person, owning her personal brand of chaos and mayhem that makes it hard not to love her character. She's hilarious, a bit meddlesome (with good intentions), knew how to banter with the best of them, and is also super determined and focused to accomplish what she sets out to do. Her relationship with Ralph was so funny to experience, as he definitely saw Kit as the main human and Brody as the spare human 🤣 and i was absolutely cackling over her ridiculous disguise when she was spying on Haye's first MeetCute!
Brody was just perfection. He was protective, always gave more of himself just to help out, and he was the definition of a man down bad and a man who was YEARNING for this girl for years. He kept his distance for so long, but that never stopped him from noticing her and longing for what he thought he couldnt have. Then, when he finally said f*** it and gave in to admitting this was more than just fake, it was electric. This man has been waiting years to finally claim his feelings for Kit and he delivered in every aspect.
If you love:
🌼 brother's best friend
🌼 fake dating
🌼 small town romance
🌼 hilarious animal characters
🌼 an MMC that yearns
🌼 friends to lovers
Then you will love Brody and Kit!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
•Brody & Kit
Star Harbor book 4
*I was provided an ARC of this book from the author and their promotion team
Brody and Kit's brother's best friend, fake dating story is officially my new fav of the series, and I ATE THEM UP!!
As a law enforcement officer for his hometown, Brody Shepard is reliable and steadfast. The town relies on him for their safety, and it's a role he takes seriously. Few things shake him...with the exception of his best friend's younger sister, Kit Darling. It's been years since he saw her as the girl he met as a kid, but there's a million and one reasons Brody can't cross that line. So now, he lives with the torment of admiring the woman she's become from afar. Kit is the family's "fix it" girl. She's always available to step in whenever and wherever her family need. It's not how she envisioned her life, but until she figures it out, it's who she'll be. She'll do just about anything to see her siblings happy, including devising a plan to fake date Brody get her brother out of his funk. The plan seems straight forward enough, but there's so much more between these two than their history of just "friends". When they finally give in to the undeniable chemistry, it's obvious, what they share was never fake...
From book 1, the Darling family had my heart, but Kit's story and her discovery in the town's lore had me captivated in this book! The YEARNING and pining between these two was soooo good, but also made for playful banter that I could not put down! Throw in the training chronicles of Ralph the police K9, and I knew these two were gonna hold a special place in my heart! I love how much more Lena drove into the tale of the Lady of the Dunes in this story! The twist and turns of the legend we learn in this book is something I never expected which only made me love it more! Overall, a phenomenal addition to this unique series! The Darlings are truly a one of a kind fictional family, and I will be waiting with baited breath until we return for Hayes' story!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
•Brody & Kit
Star Harbor book 4
*I was provided an ARC of this book from the author and their promotion team
Brody and Kit's brother's best friend, fake dating story is officially my new fav of the series, and I ATE THEM UP!!
As a law enforcement officer for his hometown, Brody Shepard is reliable and steadfast. The town relies on him for their safety, and it's a role he takes seriously. Few things shake him...with the exception of his best friend's younger sister, Kit Darling. It's been years since he saw her as the girl he met as a kid, but there's a million and one reasons Brody can't cross that line. So now, he lives with the torment of admiring the woman she's become from afar. Kit is the family's "fix it" girl. She's always available to step in whenever and wherever her family need. It's not how she envisioned her life, but until she figures it out, it's who she'll be. She'll do just about anything to see her siblings happy, including devising a plan to fake date Brody get her brother out of his funk. The plan seems straight forward enough, but there's so much more between these two than their history of just "friends". When they finally give in to the undeniable chemistry, it's obvious, what they share was never fake...
From book 1, the Darling family had my heart, but Kit's story and her discovery in the town's lore had me captivated in this book! The YEARNING and pining between these two was soooo good, but also made for playful banter that I could not put down! Throw in the training chronicles of Ralph the police K9, and I knew these two were gonna hold a special place in my heart! I love how much more Lena drove into the tale of the Lady of the Dunes in this story! The twist and turns of the legend we learn in this book is something I never expected which only made me love it more! Overall, a phenomenal addition to this unique series! The Darlings are truly a one of a kind fictional family, and I will be waiting with baited breath until we return for Hayes' story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I can’t get enough of this author’s small town romance, and In Full Bloom was a really fun read.
Kit is a very well intentioned little sister, but she is also pretty meddlesome. She hates seeing her brother Hayes afflicted with a possible curse and loneliness. She decides to make him an online dating profile (without his knowledge) to “help.” Her brother’s best friend, Brody, quickly discovers her antics. To try to save Kit from her brother’s wrath, they end up in a fake relationship. Unbeknownst to the other, they’ve both been harboring secret feelings for the other.
I loved how surprised Kit and Brody were when everyone’s reaction to their relationship announcement was that it was about time. It was so funny as a reader. It seemed like everyone else knew they belonged together before they did. They were so great together. I especially loved their spicy secret.
While the romance in this one was extra swoony, Brody’s dog Ralph was the real star of the show. That dog is the most lovable menace. I could not stop cracking up at his hilarious antics.
One of my favorite thing that this author does in her romance is weave in a larger suspense/mystery arc that continues throughout the series. In this book, we get some devastating revelations about The Lady and what actually happened to her.
In Full Bloom is the fourth book in the Star Harbor series, I am so excited for the next (and last) book in the series, which will focus on my most anticipated Darling sibling, Hayes.
Kit is a very well intentioned little sister, but she is also pretty meddlesome. She hates seeing her brother Hayes afflicted with a possible curse and loneliness. She decides to make him an online dating profile (without his knowledge) to “help.” Her brother’s best friend, Brody, quickly discovers her antics. To try to save Kit from her brother’s wrath, they end up in a fake relationship. Unbeknownst to the other, they’ve both been harboring secret feelings for the other.
I loved how surprised Kit and Brody were when everyone’s reaction to their relationship announcement was that it was about time. It was so funny as a reader. It seemed like everyone else knew they belonged together before they did. They were so great together. I especially loved their spicy secret.
While the romance in this one was extra swoony, Brody’s dog Ralph was the real star of the show. That dog is the most lovable menace. I could not stop cracking up at his hilarious antics.
One of my favorite thing that this author does in her romance is weave in a larger suspense/mystery arc that continues throughout the series. In this book, we get some devastating revelations about The Lady and what actually happened to her.
In Full Bloom is the fourth book in the Star Harbor series, I am so excited for the next (and last) book in the series, which will focus on my most anticipated Darling sibling, Hayes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“What I had buried for years had not died in the dark. It had waited. And now, with Kit Darling in my arms, it was finally in full bloom.”
I loooove a brother’s best friend trope! Lena Hendrix has been teasing us with Kit Darling and Brody Sheppard this entire series and she DELIVERED!
“Kit Darling was Hayes’s little sister. Family adjacent. Off-limits by every decent standard.”
For years Brody has watched from a distance and Kit has dreamed of being noticed by him. Now a situation has presented itself where Brody can claim they are dating and he jumps at the chance. A fake relationship to allow him what he never thought he would have? Perfect. But what starts as fake doesn’t stay that way. Truths slowly come out and their relationship becomes so much more.
“You know, for a man who claims to hate chaos, you spend a suspicious amount of time around me.”
Kit was simply hilarious, I loved how she interacted with her family and Brody. She was always ready to help anyone and her attitude was always great with a side of sarcasm. She was perfect for Brody’s strait laced personality, providing some chaos in his controlled life.
Also looooving the Lady developments!!
🔥: “I’ve wanted you for years.”
I loooove a brother’s best friend trope! Lena Hendrix has been teasing us with Kit Darling and Brody Sheppard this entire series and she DELIVERED!
“Kit Darling was Hayes’s little sister. Family adjacent. Off-limits by every decent standard.”
For years Brody has watched from a distance and Kit has dreamed of being noticed by him. Now a situation has presented itself where Brody can claim they are dating and he jumps at the chance. A fake relationship to allow him what he never thought he would have? Perfect. But what starts as fake doesn’t stay that way. Truths slowly come out and their relationship becomes so much more.
“You know, for a man who claims to hate chaos, you spend a suspicious amount of time around me.”
Kit was simply hilarious, I loved how she interacted with her family and Brody. She was always ready to help anyone and her attitude was always great with a side of sarcasm. She was perfect for Brody’s strait laced personality, providing some chaos in his controlled life.
Also looooving the Lady developments!!
🔥: “I’ve wanted you for years.”
Review of advance copy
Finally! Brody Shepard has moved out of his own way!!!!
What a fun story, Kit and Brody have such a lovely relationship. She heckles him and he lets her! He notices everything about her, all the small things that would usually go unnoticed, he’s quietly supporting her and making sure she shines!
Kit is the chaos that Brody needs in his ordered, law abiding life. She brings ‘the mayhem’ and he lives for it!
I love how strong and steady Brody is. He doesn’t question her, he just goes with it, which makes him perfect for her!
The introduction of his new ‘partner’ has also brought madness to Brody’s routine and I loved how Ralph challenged and defied him at every turn!!
These two could have been together an awful lot sooner if Brody had trusted himself to be good enough and not worry that another persons past transgression would rub off onto him! He should have trusted that Kit Darling would be the voice of reason and wouldn’t let him loose himself in misplaced guilt.
They finally get their act together and in the process of their story we learn a lot more about the lady of the dunes and it would appear that nothing was as it first seemed….the plot thickens and yet the lady is still holding her secrets close.
Hayes next and please let’s give the poor guy a break!!!
What a fun story, Kit and Brody have such a lovely relationship. She heckles him and he lets her! He notices everything about her, all the small things that would usually go unnoticed, he’s quietly supporting her and making sure she shines!
Kit is the chaos that Brody needs in his ordered, law abiding life. She brings ‘the mayhem’ and he lives for it!
I love how strong and steady Brody is. He doesn’t question her, he just goes with it, which makes him perfect for her!
The introduction of his new ‘partner’ has also brought madness to Brody’s routine and I loved how Ralph challenged and defied him at every turn!!
These two could have been together an awful lot sooner if Brody had trusted himself to be good enough and not worry that another persons past transgression would rub off onto him! He should have trusted that Kit Darling would be the voice of reason and wouldn’t let him loose himself in misplaced guilt.
They finally get their act together and in the process of their story we learn a lot more about the lady of the dunes and it would appear that nothing was as it first seemed….the plot thickens and yet the lady is still holding her secrets close.
Hayes next and please let’s give the poor guy a break!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Booked Emina former The Romantic Bosnian
*ARC review *6+ Stars (top 2026 must read)
Where do I begin with this, besides the fact that I have loved this series thus far and I just knew this one would be a top read for me. We got to meet both characters in the previous books. My favorite part is that I loved both MMC & the FMC equally, they complimented each other so well. Two souls that are meant for one another from the very beginning. The FMC is sweet, funny, strong, independent and has been in love with the MMC and our MMC is serious, cop, knows how to handle her and has the cutest funniest k9 who also loves the FMC more hehe and has been in love with the FMC from the very beginning. Their families are intertwined since the MMC is her brother's best friend. These two come together because the FMC loves her brother and the MMC loves her so he is in. There is a very adorable k9 that is a menace and probably shouldn't be a k9 but here he is living his best life with the MMC. There is a little secret here that the FMC does and includes the MMC possibly purchasing her underwear, that's all I am saying. There was so much yarning, foreplay, fun scenes, realization about each character, sweet moments, the smex scenes were on point and hit all the spots....I just loved everything about this book! I can't wait for Haynes the FMC's brother who we all have fallen in love with through out the books and now it's his turn!!!!!!
tropes
friends to lovers
fake dating
opposite attracts
brother's best friend
mysterious
setting up someone gone wrong
longing
spicy
Are you a BOOKSTAGRAMMER come hang out with me -> CLICK HERE
*ARC review *6+ Stars (top 2026 must read)
Where do I begin with this, besides the fact that I have loved this series thus far and I just knew this one would be a top read for me. We got to meet both characters in the previous books. My favorite part is that I loved both MMC & the FMC equally, they complimented each other so well. Two souls that are meant for one another from the very beginning. The FMC is sweet, funny, strong, independent and has been in love with the MMC and our MMC is serious, cop, knows how to handle her and has the cutest funniest k9 who also loves the FMC more hehe and has been in love with the FMC from the very beginning. Their families are intertwined since the MMC is her brother's best friend. These two come together because the FMC loves her brother and the MMC loves her so he is in. There is a very adorable k9 that is a menace and probably shouldn't be a k9 but here he is living his best life with the MMC. There is a little secret here that the FMC does and includes the MMC possibly purchasing her underwear, that's all I am saying. There was so much yarning, foreplay, fun scenes, realization about each character, sweet moments, the smex scenes were on point and hit all the spots....I just loved everything about this book! I can't wait for Haynes the FMC's brother who we all have fallen in love with through out the books and now it's his turn!!!!!!
tropes
friends to lovers
fake dating
opposite attracts
brother's best friend
mysterious
setting up someone gone wrong
longing
spicy
Are you a BOOKSTAGRAMMER come hang out with me -> CLICK HERE
October 4, 2026
eARC review
Brody is our deliciously grumpy cop and Hayes' best friend, who has a big 'ole crush on Hayes' little sister Kit. And Kit, well she has secretly wanted Brody for as long as she can remember. When Hayes' bad luck starts bringing him down, Kit decides setting him up with a girl will be the cure...enter Operation MeetCute and an epic fake dating scheme.
The mutual pining between these 2 was off the charts....OMG so good! I swear Brody's POV chapters completely ruined me. Fake dating allowed them to finally cross the lines they've only dreamed about. Those small touches and little interactions, they made it impossible to hide their feelings anymore. I swear the slow burning tension was absolutely insane. Oh and this might be my new standard for banter as foreplay - I was blushing and cackling at the same time.
Brody is the ultimate book boyfriend. He was protective, supportive, he LISTENS and was just there for her no matter what. I can't possibly forget to mention Ralph, the greatest literary K9 and best wingman ever.
Between the romance Lena weaved such a great layer of mystery with the Lady of the Dunes. I cannot wait to find out what else is uncovered up next.
Tropes:
Brother's best friend
Fake dating
Small town
Friends to lovers
Cop MMC
Grump/Sunshine
Town mystery
Spice 2/5
*a huge thank you to Lena & her team for an opportunity to read any early copy in exchange for my honest review.
Brody is our deliciously grumpy cop and Hayes' best friend, who has a big 'ole crush on Hayes' little sister Kit. And Kit, well she has secretly wanted Brody for as long as she can remember. When Hayes' bad luck starts bringing him down, Kit decides setting him up with a girl will be the cure...enter Operation MeetCute and an epic fake dating scheme.
The mutual pining between these 2 was off the charts....OMG so good! I swear Brody's POV chapters completely ruined me. Fake dating allowed them to finally cross the lines they've only dreamed about. Those small touches and little interactions, they made it impossible to hide their feelings anymore. I swear the slow burning tension was absolutely insane. Oh and this might be my new standard for banter as foreplay - I was blushing and cackling at the same time.
Brody is the ultimate book boyfriend. He was protective, supportive, he LISTENS and was just there for her no matter what. I can't possibly forget to mention Ralph, the greatest literary K9 and best wingman ever.
Between the romance Lena weaved such a great layer of mystery with the Lady of the Dunes. I cannot wait to find out what else is uncovered up next.
Tropes:
Brother's best friend
Fake dating
Small town
Friends to lovers
Cop MMC
Grump/Sunshine
Town mystery
Spice 2/5
*a huge thank you to Lena & her team for an opportunity to read any early copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
You might know Kit. Or think you do. I promise, you don’t. I mean, sure, we knew she was feeling unsettled before now. It was clear that she’s been relegated to “little sister” status and not really taken seriously, but the depth of her ambition and her brains will honestly shock you. As will a few other things, but I won’t spoil those. Those secrets are yours to discover when the time is right.
And Brody? Oh, boy. He loves hard, even if he thinks he has to do it in secret without any witnesses to what he truly wants. Except Ralph. Because Ralph knows all. Trust me. He’s also quite the hero when the occasion calls for it. But Brody does need some coaxing to realize that he’s ALLOWED to want for himself. Don’t worry, he does figure it out. And he manages not to ruin everything beyond repair.
And now? Well, now it’s all about to come to a head. More questions were answered, more mysteries appeared. And the past is coming back to very much become the present. I just hope the curse is lifted and we’re all ready for the angst we’ll likely feel before all is revealed….
And Brody? Oh, boy. He loves hard, even if he thinks he has to do it in secret without any witnesses to what he truly wants. Except Ralph. Because Ralph knows all. Trust me. He’s also quite the hero when the occasion calls for it. But Brody does need some coaxing to realize that he’s ALLOWED to want for himself. Don’t worry, he does figure it out. And he manages not to ruin everything beyond repair.
And now? Well, now it’s all about to come to a head. More questions were answered, more mysteries appeared. And the past is coming back to very much become the present. I just hope the curse is lifted and we’re all ready for the angst we’ll likely feel before all is revealed….
October 4, 2026
Man this one hit my feels.
Seeing how hard Kit loves was truly something. How she truly sees the people that she loves and wants nothing but the best. She’s a little crazy sometimes in how she goes about it. But she sees them and sees what they need…she sometimes just forgets that they need to find those things themselves.
Brody is the good guy. The one that is terrified of becoming someone who destroys lives. He’s trying so hard to be good to everyone. He’s a little lost in what that means.
These two come together to help someone they both love. Kits brother. Seeing him needing a win and losing who he is to life and all the things that are going wrong.
These two team up after Kit makes some choices. Brody is there to help her because he loves her and is all around terrified. These two come together to help but also found each other. I loved getting to see them fall or re fall in love with each other and discover all the things they knew but had hidden.
Can’t recommend this series enough but I truly loved this one.
Seeing how hard Kit loves was truly something. How she truly sees the people that she loves and wants nothing but the best. She’s a little crazy sometimes in how she goes about it. But she sees them and sees what they need…she sometimes just forgets that they need to find those things themselves.
Brody is the good guy. The one that is terrified of becoming someone who destroys lives. He’s trying so hard to be good to everyone. He’s a little lost in what that means.
These two come together to help someone they both love. Kits brother. Seeing him needing a win and losing who he is to life and all the things that are going wrong.
These two team up after Kit makes some choices. Brody is there to help her because he loves her and is all around terrified. These two come together to help but also found each other. I loved getting to see them fall or re fall in love with each other and discover all the things they knew but had hidden.
Can’t recommend this series enough but I truly loved this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Lena has done it again!!! We are back in Star Harbor and I loved every second of it…the mystery, the forbidden love aspect, the tension, the spooky stories…I couldn’t put it down!
Kit and Brody are two all around very lovable characters. Kit, the little sister with witty comebacks who has never found love and Brody, the town Sheriff that is also her brother’s best friend. Even from the very beginning the tension was palpable and that only grew and simmered as the book went on leading to the best moments. And Ralph, the not so well trained police dog, may have been one of the best characters of the book. He always provided the best comedic relief!
I was able to listen to the audiobook with narrators CJ Bloom and Stephen Dexter and WOW did they bring this book to life. They did such a fantastic job, especially when scenes got more emotional, really diving deep into the characters and making it feel as if you were living in the book.
I cant wait to head back to Star Harbor and see what Lena has in store for us next! Thank you to Lena and her team for the ALC.
Kit and Brody are two all around very lovable characters. Kit, the little sister with witty comebacks who has never found love and Brody, the town Sheriff that is also her brother’s best friend. Even from the very beginning the tension was palpable and that only grew and simmered as the book went on leading to the best moments. And Ralph, the not so well trained police dog, may have been one of the best characters of the book. He always provided the best comedic relief!
I was able to listen to the audiobook with narrators CJ Bloom and Stephen Dexter and WOW did they bring this book to life. They did such a fantastic job, especially when scenes got more emotional, really diving deep into the characters and making it feel as if you were living in the book.
I cant wait to head back to Star Harbor and see what Lena has in store for us next! Thank you to Lena and her team for the ALC.
October 7, 2026
Thank you to Lena Hendrix and BookFunnel for an advanced copy of In Full Bloom! 🌸
Just when I thought this series couldn’t get any better, I read In Full Bloom. This is a VERY solid 4.5 star read for me, and I will be thinking of Brody Shepard for a very long time.
What do you MEAN they have been pining over one another for YEARS but never acted on it - and had no idea about the other person’s mutual feelings? Brody might be the closest to the blueprint of the type of man I hope to find that I’ve ever read and I really wish I could just pluck him right off the page and into my real life.
I very much enjoyed the relationship between Kit and Brody and how it developed from friends, to fake dating, to love. It feels like they are the perfect fit for one another. The way Brody supports Kit without judgment? The way Kit pushes Brody to loosen up a little? It’s literally *chef’s kiss*
I can’t explain how invested I am in Alma Barker’s story. It has been fun to have new clues and revelations about the Lady of the Dunes, her baby, and what really happened to her. The way the two stories were connected was INCREDIBLE. I can’t wait to see how the rest of the pieces fall into place!
Just when I thought this series couldn’t get any better, I read In Full Bloom. This is a VERY solid 4.5 star read for me, and I will be thinking of Brody Shepard for a very long time.
What do you MEAN they have been pining over one another for YEARS but never acted on it - and had no idea about the other person’s mutual feelings? Brody might be the closest to the blueprint of the type of man I hope to find that I’ve ever read and I really wish I could just pluck him right off the page and into my real life.
I very much enjoyed the relationship between Kit and Brody and how it developed from friends, to fake dating, to love. It feels like they are the perfect fit for one another. The way Brody supports Kit without judgment? The way Kit pushes Brody to loosen up a little? It’s literally *chef’s kiss*
I can’t explain how invested I am in Alma Barker’s story. It has been fun to have new clues and revelations about the Lady of the Dunes, her baby, and what really happened to her. The way the two stories were connected was INCREDIBLE. I can’t wait to see how the rest of the pieces fall into place!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Lena Hendrix and brother's best friend?!? Yes, please! 𝑰𝒏 𝑭𝒖𝒍𝒍 𝑩𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒎 is a small town romance with a spooky factor that is the PERFECT read for October (or any time)! I love how Lena's books are all standalones but we get updates on other couples and characters we love, and the mystery that runs through the series ties everything together so well.
Brody and Kit have danced around each other for years, both crushing on the other but thinking it was unreciprocated. The sibling meddling is perfect and leads to them fake dating. The banter and adoration in this book were just what I needed, and there is a sweet dog that made me love this book even more.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒:
🌸Fake Dating
🩷Brother's Best Friend
🌸It's Always Been You
🩷Small Town
🌸Town Mystery
🩷Friends to Lovers
𝐃𝐮𝐞𝐭 𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐁𝐲: Stephen Dexter & CJ Bloom
These narrators are veterans for a reason-both brought this book to life beautifully. And anytime I can listen to Stephen Dexter's smooth voice, I'm in. This was a fabulous and enjoyable listen!
Thank you to the author for this ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Brody and Kit have danced around each other for years, both crushing on the other but thinking it was unreciprocated. The sibling meddling is perfect and leads to them fake dating. The banter and adoration in this book were just what I needed, and there is a sweet dog that made me love this book even more.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒:
🌸Fake Dating
🩷Brother's Best Friend
🌸It's Always Been You
🩷Small Town
🌸Town Mystery
🩷Friends to Lovers
𝐃𝐮𝐞𝐭 𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐁𝐲: Stephen Dexter & CJ Bloom
These narrators are veterans for a reason-both brought this book to life beautifully. And anytime I can listen to Stephen Dexter's smooth voice, I'm in. This was a fabulous and enjoyable listen!
Thank you to the author for this ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kit and Brody have had a thing for each other for a long time, but it always seemed off limits since Brody is Kit’s brother’s best friend. So, naturally, it didn’t take long for their fake dating arrangement to turn into something very real. And I absolutely loved watching it happen!
I adored both Kit and Brody, but especially loved them together. They’re both incredibly sweet, caring people who love deeply and genuinely want nothing more than for everyone around them to be happy. Seeing them finally find that happiness with each other made my heart so happy.
CJ Bloom and Stephen Dexter could not have been more perfect for Kit and Brody. They both did an incredible job bringing their characters’ sweet, loving personalities to life, and their performances made it so easy to fall in love with them.
I love this series so much, and this book was no exception!
Thank you, Lena Hendrix for the ALC.
I adored both Kit and Brody, but especially loved them together. They’re both incredibly sweet, caring people who love deeply and genuinely want nothing more than for everyone around them to be happy. Seeing them finally find that happiness with each other made my heart so happy.
CJ Bloom and Stephen Dexter could not have been more perfect for Kit and Brody. They both did an incredible job bringing their characters’ sweet, loving personalities to life, and their performances made it so easy to fall in love with them.
I love this series so much, and this book was no exception!
Thank you, Lena Hendrix for the ALC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
BROTHER'S BEST FRIEND WILL ALWAYS BE A SUPERIOR TROPE. THERE I SAID IT.
Oh Kit and Brody. They were always supposed to be together yet neither one of them wanted to make the first move.
I found myself laughing, swooning and smiling the whole time throughout this. I got to meet my new favorite book dog Ralph who I am convinced is the funniest dog ever.
Brody is so smitten with Kit and it was so adorable. He yearns for her so much. I loved the sexual tension between them before everything started between them. THE SPICEEEEEEEEEEE was so fire!
I love everything Star Harbor and never want to leave this town! The mystery, the small town found family. All the laughs! It truly has everything.
Highly recommend the audio from CJ Bloom and Steven Dexter :)
“What I had buried for years had not died in the dark. It had waited. And now, with Kit Darling in my arms, it was finally in full bloom.”
Oh Kit and Brody. They were always supposed to be together yet neither one of them wanted to make the first move.
I found myself laughing, swooning and smiling the whole time throughout this. I got to meet my new favorite book dog Ralph who I am convinced is the funniest dog ever.
Brody is so smitten with Kit and it was so adorable. He yearns for her so much. I loved the sexual tension between them before everything started between them. THE SPICEEEEEEEEEEE was so fire!
I love everything Star Harbor and never want to leave this town! The mystery, the small town found family. All the laughs! It truly has everything.
Highly recommend the audio from CJ Bloom and Steven Dexter :)
“What I had buried for years had not died in the dark. It had waited. And now, with Kit Darling in my arms, it was finally in full bloom.”
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