What do you think?
Rate this book
Cherry Falls #44
1130 Free Spirit Ln
Friends.
Daphne Dawes and Garret Blake are friends.
Nothing more.
So what if they accidentally kissed in the middle of a rainstorm? And who cares that it was the hottest thing either of them has ever experienced?
When Daphne finds herself in need of a place to stay, Garret generously offers his spare room. Suddenly these "roommates" find themselves navigating much more than an accidental kiss.
They can stay friends, right?
Wrong.
Because the fire they lit that night in the rain? It’s not going out, it's growing stronger.
Daphne Dawes and Garret Blake are friends.
Nothing more.
So what if they accidentally kissed in the middle of a rainstorm? And who cares that it was the hottest thing either of them has ever experienced?
When Daphne finds herself in need of a place to stay, Garret generously offers his spare room. Suddenly these "roommates" find themselves navigating much more than an accidental kiss.
They can stay friends, right?
Wrong.
Because the fire they lit that night in the rain? It’s not going out, it's growing stronger.
86 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2021
52 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
About the author
Abby Brooks
55 books909 followersAbby Brooks writes heartfelt contemporary romance with small-town charm, found family, and happily-ever-afters that feel earned. Her stories feature relatable characters, emotional depth, and just the right balance of humor and heat—perfect for readers who love cozy communities, strong connections, and hope-filled love stories.
A lifelong storyteller raised in the Midwest, Abby draws inspiration from close-knit towns and the beauty of everyday moments. She lives in Ohio with her husband and their three cats and believes the best love stories are the ones that feel like coming home.
A lifelong storyteller raised in the Midwest, Abby draws inspiration from close-knit towns and the beauty of everyday moments. She lives in Ohio with her husband and their three cats and believes the best love stories are the ones that feel like coming home.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 11, 2022
"1130 Free Spirit Ln" is the story of Daphne and Garrett.
The hero and heroine have always been good friends. When a kiss in the middle of a rainstorm evokes some feelings, and circumstances lead to some space problems, the heroine moves in with the hero. Ofcourse, feelings ignite, drama happens and the book ends in a HEA.
Now I really enjoyed the angst element of the book- but the resolution was too quick!
Safe for me/ SWE for some
3/5
The hero and heroine have always been good friends. When a kiss in the middle of a rainstorm evokes some feelings, and circumstances lead to some space problems, the heroine moves in with the hero. Ofcourse, feelings ignite, drama happens and the book ends in a HEA.
Now I really enjoyed the angst element of the book- but the resolution was too quick!
Safe for me/ SWE for some
3/5
January 9, 2022
Para ser un Friends To Lovers acelerado no estuvo del todo mal, le falta mas profundidad y tambien darle mas matices a los personajes ( resultan un tanto superficiales ) pero para ser un relato relajado y simple, entretiene.
Francamente, para pasar un rato distraida cuando no te apetece leer un libro demasiado elaborado.
2 Estrellas!
December 5, 2021
Friends-to-lovers is my catnip and I loved Daphne Dawes and Garret Blake in the latest edition of the Cherry Falls series, with each novella being written by a different author about a different resident in this fun fictitious small town.
Even though this book is considered a novella, it is fully developed and follows Daphne and Garret as they share their romantic first kiss, to becoming temporary roommates when her sister comes into town and takes over her house, and realize it is worth risking their friendship to explore the smoking hot chemistry that they share.
I love her bravery and how upfront Daphne is, and how Garret is sweet and protective yet super sexy and alpha at the same time. I love how they were friends first with loads of flirty banter, and truly enjoyed each other’s company in and out of the bedroom. Loved how they learned to communicate their feelings even when it was uncomfortable. There were many scenes that made me smile, some that made me tear up, and several that made me fan myself!
1130 Free Spirit Lane is low and angst and big on feels as Abby Brooks pens another wonderful couple finding love in Cherry Falls!
Even though this book is considered a novella, it is fully developed and follows Daphne and Garret as they share their romantic first kiss, to becoming temporary roommates when her sister comes into town and takes over her house, and realize it is worth risking their friendship to explore the smoking hot chemistry that they share.
I love her bravery and how upfront Daphne is, and how Garret is sweet and protective yet super sexy and alpha at the same time. I love how they were friends first with loads of flirty banter, and truly enjoyed each other’s company in and out of the bedroom. Loved how they learned to communicate their feelings even when it was uncomfortable. There were many scenes that made me smile, some that made me tear up, and several that made me fan myself!
1130 Free Spirit Lane is low and angst and big on feels as Abby Brooks pens another wonderful couple finding love in Cherry Falls!
December 1, 2021
I'm so sad the Cherry Falls series is nearing its end, these have been some of the greatest stories and your going to love the newest book. Garrett and Daphne are the perfect new pair to join the couples of Cherry Falls. This book was sweet and absolutely meant to be. Abby always gives us that five star read.
April 17, 2022
Sweet
A short, sweet and romantic story that makes the heart melt. If you like a quick read them this is your book. I couldn't put it down.
A short, sweet and romantic story that makes the heart melt. If you like a quick read them this is your book. I couldn't put it down.
October 17, 2023
WOW!! Fab*u*lous Absolutely love this one!! I couldn't put this one down. This was a nice quick, short read.
Garret and Daphne have known each other since she has been running The Reef Beach Bar. Garret comes in every Friday night to unwind from working at The Blake Brother's Auto shop which he owns with his brother's. Daphne is short staffed and when her one waitress quiets Garret tells her he'll help out. Daphne gets a surprise visit from her little sister who needs a place to stay. Garret and Daphne work side by side through out the night, then close up the bar to head home. While on their way to their vehicles it starts to rain, for no reason Garret kisses Daphne but then they both head to their homes. The next day Daphne sister, Simone comes and she offers her home for her to stay. Daphne shows up at Blake Brother's Auto Repair shop because she is having some problems with her car, they tell her she needs to leave it with them for a few day to get it repaired, so she calls her sister and uses her car. The next night Daphne head to work, since it's Friday she knows Garret will be in. Daphne keeps getting message from her sister, she did a little damage to her kitchen while heating up some leftovers. Garret offers his spare bedroom to Daphne to use while her sister is staying with her, but she refuses to take his spare room. When Daphne gets home and sees all the damage that her sister, Simone has done to her kitchen plus there's smoke damage. Daphne decide to take Garret up on his offer if it's still good. Garret offers to make Daphne coffee since it's Sunday morning and the only one he has off. He tries to make her breakfast but she tells him she not a breakfast eater. Daphne talks to Garret about making a drink and naming it after him. Garret head out for a meeting with his brothers while Daphne takes a shower, but he comes back when he realize he forgot some paperwork. Daphne is just getting out of the shower when he comes, he startles her and she drops her towel. Garret know now he can't ignore the pull he has towards Daphne. She brings home several things so that they can come up with a drink for Garret, she gets ready just before he comes home. After several tries Garret thinks they have a winner. As Garret and Daphne talk he finds out she never did a lot of things in her life. They soon head to bed, but Daphne can't ignore the pull she is having towards Garret, when he gets to his bedroom door she stops him. She tells him she thought something was happening and she doesn't know what she did wrong. She tells him she loves their friendship but when he touches her it sets her on fire. Garret tells her he doesn't want to ruin what they have because it's special. Garret starts kissing Daphne, soon they are in his bedroom stripping each other of their clothes. He pleasures her then they make love. She stays in his bed all night and they make love several more times. He wants the next morning and Daphne is gone, not sure if she thinks this was a mistake. Then Daphne comes through the door, with a tray of breakfast. They don't leave the bedroom all day, they take a shower they fall back into bed with one another. They order a pizza they talk about their hopes and dreams. When the night comes Daphne tells Garret it's been fun but she knows he needs to get some sleep, she hopes he asks her to stay but he doesn't. Garret wakes the next day and leaves for work early, Daphne wakes but she doesn't get up with him. Daphne finds out her sister is finished repairing her kitchen. Daphne heads to Blake Brother's Auto Repair her car is done and she decides she needs to talk to Garret. Garret gets a earful from his brother, Grayson 608 Alpha Avenue. When Garret tries to defend himself he lets it slip that he wants to stay single the rest of his life and Daphne overhears him. Garret runs after Daphne when she leaves the shop but he doesn't say what he wants to since everyone is around. Daphne tells Garret she'll be moving back into her home since her kitchen is all done. Garret goes home to an empty house and starts to miss Daphne. It's several days pass and she doesn't hear from Garret which isn't unusual, but when Friday night comes and he doesn't come into the bar she gets the message. Garret gets another talk from his brother Grayson about how he acted towards Daphne. Garret comes up with an idea to surprise Daphne. Daphne is locking up the bar when she sees headlights approaching her, she realizes it's Garret. He has the radio blasting and when he steps out he has balloons, a giant bouquet of roses, and a teddy bear holding a box of chocolates. Daphne asks him what is he doing here, he tells her he's here to to make things right. He tells her he couldn't go another minute without making things right, she's never received a romantic gesture. She tells him she doesn't know what to say. He's tells her she doesn't have to say anything, first he wants to tell her he feels more for her than friendship. He tells her living with her showed him how beautiful life can be with the right person. Daphne starts to say something but he presses his fingers to her lips. Garrett asked her to wait he wants to finish, he didn't tell her before he was afraid can you pressure her into something she didn't want. Now he's here and there's no pressure, no one to hear him, no one watching them. He tells her he wants to be with her and he's sorry he let her walk out of the shop feeling any other way. Daphne tells him she's been sad all week she thought they had something special. She tells him she can't believe he bought her all the stuff. He tells her she deserves flowers every day and more candy then she knows what to do with. She deserved trips and concerts, all the things he do if she'll be his. Daphne tells him that's what she wants. Garret asks her if she's in and she tells him one hundred percent. He tells her to climb into his vehicle and she asks him where are they going. Garret tells her he's taking her on a trip and to a concert since she'll be his. A month later Daphne moves in with Garret, in that time he's made sure she experienced everything she's missed out on. Daphne's sister Simone will be renting her home now that she's moved in with Garret. She's is it for him, she's everything.
Garret and Daphne have known each other since she has been running The Reef Beach Bar. Garret comes in every Friday night to unwind from working at The Blake Brother's Auto shop which he owns with his brother's. Daphne is short staffed and when her one waitress quiets Garret tells her he'll help out. Daphne gets a surprise visit from her little sister who needs a place to stay. Garret and Daphne work side by side through out the night, then close up the bar to head home. While on their way to their vehicles it starts to rain, for no reason Garret kisses Daphne but then they both head to their homes. The next day Daphne sister, Simone comes and she offers her home for her to stay. Daphne shows up at Blake Brother's Auto Repair shop because she is having some problems with her car, they tell her she needs to leave it with them for a few day to get it repaired, so she calls her sister and uses her car. The next night Daphne head to work, since it's Friday she knows Garret will be in. Daphne keeps getting message from her sister, she did a little damage to her kitchen while heating up some leftovers. Garret offers his spare bedroom to Daphne to use while her sister is staying with her, but she refuses to take his spare room. When Daphne gets home and sees all the damage that her sister, Simone has done to her kitchen plus there's smoke damage. Daphne decide to take Garret up on his offer if it's still good. Garret offers to make Daphne coffee since it's Sunday morning and the only one he has off. He tries to make her breakfast but she tells him she not a breakfast eater. Daphne talks to Garret about making a drink and naming it after him. Garret head out for a meeting with his brothers while Daphne takes a shower, but he comes back when he realize he forgot some paperwork. Daphne is just getting out of the shower when he comes, he startles her and she drops her towel. Garret know now he can't ignore the pull he has towards Daphne. She brings home several things so that they can come up with a drink for Garret, she gets ready just before he comes home. After several tries Garret thinks they have a winner. As Garret and Daphne talk he finds out she never did a lot of things in her life. They soon head to bed, but Daphne can't ignore the pull she is having towards Garret, when he gets to his bedroom door she stops him. She tells him she thought something was happening and she doesn't know what she did wrong. She tells him she loves their friendship but when he touches her it sets her on fire. Garret tells her he doesn't want to ruin what they have because it's special. Garret starts kissing Daphne, soon they are in his bedroom stripping each other of their clothes. He pleasures her then they make love. She stays in his bed all night and they make love several more times. He wants the next morning and Daphne is gone, not sure if she thinks this was a mistake. Then Daphne comes through the door, with a tray of breakfast. They don't leave the bedroom all day, they take a shower they fall back into bed with one another. They order a pizza they talk about their hopes and dreams. When the night comes Daphne tells Garret it's been fun but she knows he needs to get some sleep, she hopes he asks her to stay but he doesn't. Garret wakes the next day and leaves for work early, Daphne wakes but she doesn't get up with him. Daphne finds out her sister is finished repairing her kitchen. Daphne heads to Blake Brother's Auto Repair her car is done and she decides she needs to talk to Garret. Garret gets a earful from his brother, Grayson 608 Alpha Avenue. When Garret tries to defend himself he lets it slip that he wants to stay single the rest of his life and Daphne overhears him. Garret runs after Daphne when she leaves the shop but he doesn't say what he wants to since everyone is around. Daphne tells Garret she'll be moving back into her home since her kitchen is all done. Garret goes home to an empty house and starts to miss Daphne. It's several days pass and she doesn't hear from Garret which isn't unusual, but when Friday night comes and he doesn't come into the bar she gets the message. Garret gets another talk from his brother Grayson about how he acted towards Daphne. Garret comes up with an idea to surprise Daphne. Daphne is locking up the bar when she sees headlights approaching her, she realizes it's Garret. He has the radio blasting and when he steps out he has balloons, a giant bouquet of roses, and a teddy bear holding a box of chocolates. Daphne asks him what is he doing here, he tells her he's here to to make things right. He tells her he couldn't go another minute without making things right, she's never received a romantic gesture. She tells him she doesn't know what to say. He's tells her she doesn't have to say anything, first he wants to tell her he feels more for her than friendship. He tells her living with her showed him how beautiful life can be with the right person. Daphne starts to say something but he presses his fingers to her lips. Garrett asked her to wait he wants to finish, he didn't tell her before he was afraid can you pressure her into something she didn't want. Now he's here and there's no pressure, no one to hear him, no one watching them. He tells her he wants to be with her and he's sorry he let her walk out of the shop feeling any other way. Daphne tells him she's been sad all week she thought they had something special. She tells him she can't believe he bought her all the stuff. He tells her she deserves flowers every day and more candy then she knows what to do with. She deserved trips and concerts, all the things he do if she'll be his. Daphne tells him that's what she wants. Garret asks her if she's in and she tells him one hundred percent. He tells her to climb into his vehicle and she asks him where are they going. Garret tells her he's taking her on a trip and to a concert since she'll be his. A month later Daphne moves in with Garret, in that time he's made sure she experienced everything she's missed out on. Daphne's sister Simone will be renting her home now that she's moved in with Garret. She's is it for him, she's everything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2021
When Daphne's sister reeks havoc in her life she needs the help of her good friend Garret to put a roof over her head and help her get through her sister's stay. But when they are in close quarters sparks fly. Can they start a new type of relationship overnight? Or will they remain friends through it all? With great characters and witty banter this was a great read. The only downfall was it was over too soon!!
January 4, 2023
I absolutely adored Garret and Daphne's story! Abby Brooks has once again crafted a wonderfully swoony romance.
February 5, 2025
More than by MeemsAngel82
This was an all around great book! My second ever from Abby, I think she did a fantastic job. I'm not a friends to lovers type of girl but this was done well and so realistic. The entire plot had real people in a real situation and everything felt so natural. These two are really good people and I'm surprised that the whole I want to stay single thing ever worked between the two because those sparks are there! Great writing and the mood stayed mellow and real and yet emotional and sweet. I actually liked each person and how they all related to one another.
She had a hard time of it suddenly, her waitress quit on the spot and she needed help. He helped then suddenly, the moment came when he helped himself to her lips! But will they both feel the same?
Again, such a natural progression and entertaining characters. I was surely waiting for her sisters visit to be tiring, having your peace disturbed? Shudder at the thought! The easy yet charged dynamic between our leads was so well done. Adults played here and life happened and there wasn't any need to get snarky. They cared about one another and yes things got questionable because you're risking a solid friendship. But their romantic relationship was worth it. I enjoyed her sister and his brothers insights and banter as well. It added to the story and how wonderful was it that she influenced her sister into maturing? This was well rounded and I'm loving how he made sure she experienced all the fun and seemingly regular aspects of a relationship. This was a full and satisfying read!
This was an all around great book! My second ever from Abby, I think she did a fantastic job. I'm not a friends to lovers type of girl but this was done well and so realistic. The entire plot had real people in a real situation and everything felt so natural. These two are really good people and I'm surprised that the whole I want to stay single thing ever worked between the two because those sparks are there! Great writing and the mood stayed mellow and real and yet emotional and sweet. I actually liked each person and how they all related to one another.
She had a hard time of it suddenly, her waitress quit on the spot and she needed help. He helped then suddenly, the moment came when he helped himself to her lips! But will they both feel the same?
Again, such a natural progression and entertaining characters. I was surely waiting for her sisters visit to be tiring, having your peace disturbed? Shudder at the thought! The easy yet charged dynamic between our leads was so well done. Adults played here and life happened and there wasn't any need to get snarky. They cared about one another and yes things got questionable because you're risking a solid friendship. But their romantic relationship was worth it. I enjoyed her sister and his brothers insights and banter as well. It added to the story and how wonderful was it that she influenced her sister into maturing? This was well rounded and I'm loving how he made sure she experienced all the fun and seemingly regular aspects of a relationship. This was a full and satisfying read!
December 1, 2021
Swoon worthy! Romantic and funny! All that you need!
This 2nd installment of the Cherry Falls romance series is perfect.
It’s swoon worthy! Filled with love, laughter, and fun.
Daphne and Garret are great friends, but a passionate and accidental kiss may change that pretty fast.
This is a short story that will pull you in and give you all the feels. It can be read as a standalone. Hurry to enjoy this heartwarming story that will keep you wanting more and claiming Garret as your book boyfriend very fast.
As always, well done Abby Brooks!
Nanedsmomba- reviewer and blogger for Life Reads With Friends
This 2nd installment of the Cherry Falls romance series is perfect.
It’s swoon worthy! Filled with love, laughter, and fun.
Daphne and Garret are great friends, but a passionate and accidental kiss may change that pretty fast.
This is a short story that will pull you in and give you all the feels. It can be read as a standalone. Hurry to enjoy this heartwarming story that will keep you wanting more and claiming Garret as your book boyfriend very fast.
As always, well done Abby Brooks!
Nanedsmomba- reviewer and blogger for Life Reads With Friends
December 2, 2021
Very sweet novella in the standard contemporary romance format. Two very likable people, Garrett and Daphne are attracted to each other but have convinced themselves they're happy in their single lives and don't want to jeopardize the friendship they've formed. Until "the kiss." Then also in typical contemporary romance style they fight the urge to be more than friends and when they finally become physically intimate they allow communication issues to prevent them from truly being together. Until they don't. Just a really sweet little novella with some happy family feels, romance and some sexy. And of course a happily ever after.
December 1, 2021
Another super sweet novella by Abby Brooks. 1130 Free Spirit Ln was her next contribution to the Cherry Falls series and can be read as a stand-alone. It was adorably fun and made me laugh out loud!
Daphne and Garret had been friends but when they got caught in a rainstorm neither one of them knew it would end in a kiss. That kiss changed their relationship, but would it be their ending or the start of something amazing?
These two were so cute!! From swoons to laughs, this novella had it all! I enjoyed every second of it!
Daphne and Garret had been friends but when they got caught in a rainstorm neither one of them knew it would end in a kiss. That kiss changed their relationship, but would it be their ending or the start of something amazing?
These two were so cute!! From swoons to laughs, this novella had it all! I enjoyed every second of it!
July 28, 2022
Best friends find Heat and passion
I love these two characters, the supporting brothers of Garrett and the sister of Daphne are great.
Both Daphne and Garrett are happy in their lives, single and free. They are best friends. Busy in their lives put always there for each other when the need arises. Then a kiss in the rain starts a fire they didn't see coming. Feeling go wild, enough that both are wondering if they should take that chance or ruin what they have, they just need to talk to each other to see.
I love these two characters, the supporting brothers of Garrett and the sister of Daphne are great.
Both Daphne and Garrett are happy in their lives, single and free. They are best friends. Busy in their lives put always there for each other when the need arises. Then a kiss in the rain starts a fire they didn't see coming. Feeling go wild, enough that both are wondering if they should take that chance or ruin what they have, they just need to talk to each other to see.
December 3, 2021
Amazing!!!
Garrett and Daphne are the stars of this amazing short read by Abby Brooks. This has all the good stuff that’s in a typical Brooks longer book packed into a short read. Unforgettable characters, amazing storyline, a tiny bit of heartache, really NSFW scenes and a HEA that will make everything all right. Fantastic!!!!
Garrett and Daphne are the stars of this amazing short read by Abby Brooks. This has all the good stuff that’s in a typical Brooks longer book packed into a short read. Unforgettable characters, amazing storyline, a tiny bit of heartache, really NSFW scenes and a HEA that will make everything all right. Fantastic!!!!
December 5, 2021
Communication
Daphne and Garret are friends but they have that bit of potential to be more if they can both quit trying to get in the others head and just communicate in this entertain read.
Daphne and Garret are friends but they have that bit of potential to be more if they can both quit trying to get in the others head and just communicate in this entertain read.
May 20, 2022
Friends to Lovers Romance
I love when the main characters have a healthy friendship and a desire for more underneath. All it took was a little push in the right direction for things to move along.
I love when the main characters have a healthy friendship and a desire for more underneath. All it took was a little push in the right direction for things to move along.
May 23, 2022
Garrett and Daphne have been friends for years. When her sister moves in and she needs to escape the carnage her sister brings he offers his spare room. Feelings amp up, but will they be willing to take the leap? A great, quick read.
June 26, 2023
Me encantan los de friend to lovers....más los q no sé lo esperan... Un beso y chan...!!! Q paso...!!!?? Eso m gusta.... Obvio q todo son relatos cortos o mini novelas así q no se puede esperar mucho desarrollo en la historia... Pero es una historia dulce y con muchos malos entendidos....🫶
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2021
I enjoyed this friends to lovers. The foundation was already built and it was nice to see it develop. Garrett and Daphne together are a perfect couple.
December 1, 2021
Delightful friends to lovers story
As promised by the author this was indeed a quick read. That being said it still had all the feels and by the end this reader was satisfied.
As promised by the author this was indeed a quick read. That being said it still had all the feels and by the end this reader was satisfied.
December 9, 2021
Just beary ducky!
This may have been a short story but it was packed with a whole lot of emotions... Loved every minute of two friends trying to decide which way to go..
This may have been a short story but it was packed with a whole lot of emotions... Loved every minute of two friends trying to decide which way to go..
July 16, 2023
Ducky and the Bear
While this was a cute story, I needed both Garrett and Daphne to act their age, not like a couple of teenagers.
While this was a cute story, I needed both Garrett and Daphne to act their age, not like a couple of teenagers.
September 18, 2023
Cursi, corto y le faltó sustancia.
January 26, 2026
This is the ultimate friends to lovers, back to friends and then more! It’s a short read with little drama but lots of feelings. It was fun to read!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews