What do you think?
Rate this book
Haven Hallways #1
Just a Little White Lie
A little white lie to solve one problem is about to snowball out of control…
When party girl Lauren finds herself in bucket loads of debt and having to return home to live with her controlling brother, she thinks life can't get any worse.
She's wrong.
Her brother is living with the world's biggest irritation—his best friend, Jack—the tower of muscle who loves to tease her.
Desperate to pay off her debts, she spruces up her résumé, turning herself into the world's best teacher in the hopes of finding a job fast.
It works! She's invited to substitute at the elite Haven Academy… as a dance teacher. Whoops. Maybe she shouldn't have made herself sound so accomplished, but what's one little white lie, right?
She quickly figures out that a class of reluctant students are not about to dance one step for a fraud. She needs to come up with the right moves to win them over and get them working as a team. And who better to help her than champion dancer, Jack.
But will Jack be willing to show her some moves?
Or will teaching his hot little roommate be too much for him to handle?
She wasn’t supposed to grow up into a gorgeous woman… just like he’s not supposed to break any kind of bro code like: never fall in love with your best friend’s little sister…
When party girl Lauren finds herself in bucket loads of debt and having to return home to live with her controlling brother, she thinks life can't get any worse.
She's wrong.
Her brother is living with the world's biggest irritation—his best friend, Jack—the tower of muscle who loves to tease her.
Desperate to pay off her debts, she spruces up her résumé, turning herself into the world's best teacher in the hopes of finding a job fast.
It works! She's invited to substitute at the elite Haven Academy… as a dance teacher. Whoops. Maybe she shouldn't have made herself sound so accomplished, but what's one little white lie, right?
She quickly figures out that a class of reluctant students are not about to dance one step for a fraud. She needs to come up with the right moves to win them over and get them working as a team. And who better to help her than champion dancer, Jack.
But will Jack be willing to show her some moves?
Or will teaching his hot little roommate be too much for him to handle?
She wasn’t supposed to grow up into a gorgeous woman… just like he’s not supposed to break any kind of bro code like: never fall in love with your best friend’s little sister…
400 pages, Hardcover
First published May 18, 2022
123 people are currently reading
3629 people want to read
About the author
Melody Sweet
17 books65 followersMelody Sweet is a romance author who loves to write about love. Her first series - Lyrics of Love, is coming-of-age romance at its best.
These novels will appeal to readers who love escaping into a book and getting caught up in a journey of self-discovery and romance.
She is also about to release a new rom-com series set in an elite boarding school. Enter the hallways of Haven Academy and watch these teachers fall in love. (Includes all your favorite rom-com tropes and feel good moments.)
****
Melody Sweet is a Forever Love Publishing author. If you'd like to download the Starter Library (3 books for FREE), then you can copy and paste this link into your Internet browser: http://bit.ly/FLP_Library
Website: www.foreverlovepublishing.com
Email: melodysweetauthor@gmail.com
These novels will appeal to readers who love escaping into a book and getting caught up in a journey of self-discovery and romance.
She is also about to release a new rom-com series set in an elite boarding school. Enter the hallways of Haven Academy and watch these teachers fall in love. (Includes all your favorite rom-com tropes and feel good moments.)
****
Melody Sweet is a Forever Love Publishing author. If you'd like to download the Starter Library (3 books for FREE), then you can copy and paste this link into your Internet browser: http://bit.ly/FLP_Library
Website: www.foreverlovepublishing.com
Email: melodysweetauthor@gmail.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
May 21, 2022
Wow. This book is awesome and I loved every single page. One you won't be able to put down and I suggest reading it. You will love it.
May 18, 2022
What a great story this was. Lauren was your classic party girl, living it up in Europe, maxing out her credits cards on expensive clothes, shoes and living the high life in London with her friends on her parents dime. Then her world comes crashing down when she is cut-off and forced to come back home to live with her older brother Luke until she gets her life back in order and pays back the debts she has racked up to her parents.
Now she must find a job and start acting like the twenty six year old adult she actually is. However, her ability to tell white lies comes too naturally and after saying she had dance experience on her resume, her white lie snowballs and she finds herself hired as the new dance teacher for a bunch of misfits at a private highschool. Luckily her brother's best friend Jack is available to lend a hand and turns out these two may just have their own spark of hot chemistry bubbling beneath the surface.
There were some real touching and heartfelt moments that had me teary throughout, watching Lauren go from a self-absorbed woman without a thought for those around her, to a caring teacher that wants to bring out the best in a bunch of students that have had a rough break and deserve better. Along the way, she may even find her own happily ever after. A wonderful romantic comedy that had me hooked from the get go. I really enjoyed this and can't wait to see what is coming up next.
Now she must find a job and start acting like the twenty six year old adult she actually is. However, her ability to tell white lies comes too naturally and after saying she had dance experience on her resume, her white lie snowballs and she finds herself hired as the new dance teacher for a bunch of misfits at a private highschool. Luckily her brother's best friend Jack is available to lend a hand and turns out these two may just have their own spark of hot chemistry bubbling beneath the surface.
There were some real touching and heartfelt moments that had me teary throughout, watching Lauren go from a self-absorbed woman without a thought for those around her, to a caring teacher that wants to bring out the best in a bunch of students that have had a rough break and deserve better. Along the way, she may even find her own happily ever after. A wonderful romantic comedy that had me hooked from the get go. I really enjoyed this and can't wait to see what is coming up next.
May 20, 2022
Note: My review is for the original version of this book. After feedback from her readers, Melody has changed up the story. There is more focus on the romance now and includes chapters from Jack's point of view. I haven't re-read the book yet, so my review is for the version before that change.
I received a free copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
I was looking forward to starting this new series by Melody Sweet. It took me some adjusting to this book as has quite the different vibe from Melody Sweet's other series and the further I got the more I got into it. Unfortunately I just never fully got into this book. I didn't like the set up and the main character at first, although I did really like how Lauren was a teacher and how she sets out to help the misfits at the school. I really liked the teaching part of the story.
My main issue was the whole set up for the plot with the main character. There's this whole plot with how she lied to her parents and then spend thousands of their dollars on shopping and vacations just didn't really make her likable in my eyes. Then after that all she didn't really seem that motivated to fix things and everyone else treated her like a kid and decided what she could do, which meant she had little free agency to live her life. It just didn't work for me and in my current mood I couldn't get over that and it kept bothering me.
I also didn't really get her motivation behind her behavior or even which of the two was her main problem, the fact that she lies or the fact she easily spends money. And neither of those really play a role in the rest of the book or seem to be a recurring thing she struggles with. The lying thing comes up a few more times and there a bit of character development with that, but it mostly takes for the end of the book for that to happen and it didn't really feel like that was a big part of her character or who she was. I felt that Lauren's past and set up didn't really seemed to fit with the rest of who she was when teaching and fighting for the kids.
My favorite part of this book was the teaching and misfits part of the plot. I really liked how Lauren does her best to help out the misfits she teaches and really is there for them and fights for them. I was invested in seeing how this all would turn out and seeing her win the trust of the misfits and telling them they were worthy and showing them. I felt that this part of the book was more the plot than the romance, I certainly was more invested in the teaching plot line than the romance. This book has a satisfying ending and I especially liked seeing how everything with the Misfits and the dance competition worked out. I hope to see more of them!
The romance kinda fell flat to me. I felt like the romance was more the sub plot here and didn't get enough page time, but at the same time I was kinda glad there wasn't more as I was more invested in the teaching part of the plot line. Lauren and Jack have a clear mutual attraction and I liked how they connected with the dancing and the helping these kids, but I felt like there wasn't really much more to it. The ending was sweet and it was clear they were dedicated to one another, I just didn't really feel their romance.
The Haven school was an interesting setting and I look forward to see more of it in future book. I liked that we got a cameo appearance from Bianca and Cam from one of Jordan Ford's series. There are also some hints for characters who could get their own book and I am looking forward to see whose stories will be next.
To summarize: This is the first book in a new series by Melody Sweet, I liked the focus on the Haven school and the teaching plot line and am looking forward to see who the next couples are. Unfortunately the set up for this one didn't really work for me, the way Lauren spend money that wasn't her own and now she has to live with her bother. I didn't really get Lauren's motivation for her past behavior and it didn't really seem to fit with who she was now and she didn't really struggle much with those urges. I didn't really like Lauren who she was at first, although I did warm up to her a bit as the book progresses and I really liked who she is as a teacher. I liked how she would fight for the misfit kids and help them however she could. It just didn't really seem to mesh with the person she was in the past. The romance fell kinda flat for me and I didn't really feel it. There is a lot of focus on the teaching plot line which I liked, but that did mean there wasn't as much page time for the romance. Their mutual attraction was clear and I liked how they worked together on the dance program, but there wasn't much besides that. I look forward to the next book in this series!
I received a free copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
I was looking forward to starting this new series by Melody Sweet. It took me some adjusting to this book as has quite the different vibe from Melody Sweet's other series and the further I got the more I got into it. Unfortunately I just never fully got into this book. I didn't like the set up and the main character at first, although I did really like how Lauren was a teacher and how she sets out to help the misfits at the school. I really liked the teaching part of the story.
My main issue was the whole set up for the plot with the main character. There's this whole plot with how she lied to her parents and then spend thousands of their dollars on shopping and vacations just didn't really make her likable in my eyes. Then after that all she didn't really seem that motivated to fix things and everyone else treated her like a kid and decided what she could do, which meant she had little free agency to live her life. It just didn't work for me and in my current mood I couldn't get over that and it kept bothering me.
I also didn't really get her motivation behind her behavior or even which of the two was her main problem, the fact that she lies or the fact she easily spends money. And neither of those really play a role in the rest of the book or seem to be a recurring thing she struggles with. The lying thing comes up a few more times and there a bit of character development with that, but it mostly takes for the end of the book for that to happen and it didn't really feel like that was a big part of her character or who she was. I felt that Lauren's past and set up didn't really seemed to fit with the rest of who she was when teaching and fighting for the kids.
My favorite part of this book was the teaching and misfits part of the plot. I really liked how Lauren does her best to help out the misfits she teaches and really is there for them and fights for them. I was invested in seeing how this all would turn out and seeing her win the trust of the misfits and telling them they were worthy and showing them. I felt that this part of the book was more the plot than the romance, I certainly was more invested in the teaching plot line than the romance. This book has a satisfying ending and I especially liked seeing how everything with the Misfits and the dance competition worked out. I hope to see more of them!
The romance kinda fell flat to me. I felt like the romance was more the sub plot here and didn't get enough page time, but at the same time I was kinda glad there wasn't more as I was more invested in the teaching part of the plot line. Lauren and Jack have a clear mutual attraction and I liked how they connected with the dancing and the helping these kids, but I felt like there wasn't really much more to it. The ending was sweet and it was clear they were dedicated to one another, I just didn't really feel their romance.
The Haven school was an interesting setting and I look forward to see more of it in future book. I liked that we got a cameo appearance from Bianca and Cam from one of Jordan Ford's series. There are also some hints for characters who could get their own book and I am looking forward to see whose stories will be next.
To summarize: This is the first book in a new series by Melody Sweet, I liked the focus on the Haven school and the teaching plot line and am looking forward to see who the next couples are. Unfortunately the set up for this one didn't really work for me, the way Lauren spend money that wasn't her own and now she has to live with her bother. I didn't really get Lauren's motivation for her past behavior and it didn't really seem to fit with who she was now and she didn't really struggle much with those urges. I didn't really like Lauren who she was at first, although I did warm up to her a bit as the book progresses and I really liked who she is as a teacher. I liked how she would fight for the misfit kids and help them however she could. It just didn't really seem to mesh with the person she was in the past. The romance fell kinda flat for me and I didn't really feel it. There is a lot of focus on the teaching plot line which I liked, but that did mean there wasn't as much page time for the romance. Their mutual attraction was clear and I liked how they worked together on the dance program, but there wasn't much besides that. I look forward to the next book in this series!
May 24, 2022
Melody Sweet is amazing. Hands down perfection. She can take a book that’s good but missing something & put in just the right amount of everything. I throughly enjoyed this. The dual POV really helps you get the “feels” more. The first read through, I wasn’t sure I liked Jack, but after getting more in his head I can see why Lauren was so hung up on him all these years. Definitely recommend
I also love that all Melody’s books are sweet with all the feels but no details. I really appreciate it & always look forward to her books.
I also love that all Melody’s books are sweet with all the feels but no details. I really appreciate it & always look forward to her books.
April 29, 2022
Lauren ‘s life is a mess. She is back in New Zealand without money, work, and in debt with their parents for her reckless behaviour while living in London. Can a bunch of lost kids from a very expensive boarding school give her the purpose for amend her life and also help them feel valued for the first time in their lives? A really good story about second chances, friendship, believing in oneself and always telling the truth. Haven Academy is a place to come back and get to know more of their occupants.
May 25, 2022
Read if you love:
🕺Friends to lovers
🕺Nicknames
🕺Dance competitions
🕺Underdogs
🕺Reformed party girls
🕺Brother’s best friend
🕺Student/teacher dynamics
🕺Dual POV
After party girl Lauren incurs a mound of debt in London at the expense of her parents, she’s forced to return to New Zealand with her tail between her legs and live with her big brother and his best friend/roommate, Jack. The same Jack who tormented and teased her while growing up. Jack is also running from his own demons that he left in Australia. To payback her parents, Lauren takes a job teaching dance (whoops!) to a bunch of outcasts at Haven Academy. When she recruits dance expert Jack to help her, the sparks start to fly!
This was such a fun romcom with a lot of heart. Jack and Lauren had great chemistry and banter right off the bat. I love the way dancing brought them together. This story is full of romance but the storyline that really shined for me was that of Lauren and her band of misfit students. The way she got them to believe they were worth something just warmed my heart. They in turn helped Lauren to see the benefit of being selfless and putting others before yourself. There are some amazing lessons in this book and the romance was sizzling!
CW: closed door, mild language
*Thank you to the author for an ARC. My thoughts are my own.
🕺Friends to lovers
🕺Nicknames
🕺Dance competitions
🕺Underdogs
🕺Reformed party girls
🕺Brother’s best friend
🕺Student/teacher dynamics
🕺Dual POV
After party girl Lauren incurs a mound of debt in London at the expense of her parents, she’s forced to return to New Zealand with her tail between her legs and live with her big brother and his best friend/roommate, Jack. The same Jack who tormented and teased her while growing up. Jack is also running from his own demons that he left in Australia. To payback her parents, Lauren takes a job teaching dance (whoops!) to a bunch of outcasts at Haven Academy. When she recruits dance expert Jack to help her, the sparks start to fly!
This was such a fun romcom with a lot of heart. Jack and Lauren had great chemistry and banter right off the bat. I love the way dancing brought them together. This story is full of romance but the storyline that really shined for me was that of Lauren and her band of misfit students. The way she got them to believe they were worth something just warmed my heart. They in turn helped Lauren to see the benefit of being selfless and putting others before yourself. There are some amazing lessons in this book and the romance was sizzling!
CW: closed door, mild language
*Thank you to the author for an ARC. My thoughts are my own.
May 21, 2022
Editing my review because the author changed up the story. I enjoyed the story before but she added Jack’s version of the story to add depth and character to the book. I thought it was amazing before but the way she added Jack’s mutual attraction, his way of thinking, and his story, it helped build up the romance. I thought it was a good romance story but other reviewers had different opinions. I could see it being more of a subplot than an actual main storyline but she had to build up her character. Lauren is a spoiled rich kid that thought she could just have fun and Luke, her brother, took her in to show her responsibility.
I did think the main part of the story was definitely developing the teenagers in the book into learning responsibility also and it was amazing but still, I give it credit to being a romance also. If anyones seen a Hallmark movie, the romance doesn’t always have to be front and center, it can also be a portion of the movie to help build up each of the characters. Partners should influence each other, help each other out, and grow from experiences. I think she captured that well.
Below is my review for the original:
I couldn’t get enough of this story! Everyone makes little white lies but this book made an impact I’ll never forget.
Lauren was an English teacher that was traumatized by teenagers. She ended up finding it wasn’t for her and began partying and blowing a bunch of money. Now severely in debt, she ends up living with her brother and her brothers best friend, Jack. Being drunk, she types up her resume and then when she finds herself teaching again, she doesn’t expect dancing.
Haven academy is for the privileged kids and those who end up getting a scholarship because of their circumstances. Those kids are the group of students she has been presented to teach. None of them care for the idea of dance or want anything to do with her till she gives them purpose.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved seeing how she turned these kids lives around. Not only does she have a positive impact on the kids but she turns other peoples perspectives around as well. I’ve had amazing teachers that have been a great impact to my life and I’m thankful. I love this story and can’t wait for the second story to commence!!
I did think the main part of the story was definitely developing the teenagers in the book into learning responsibility also and it was amazing but still, I give it credit to being a romance also. If anyones seen a Hallmark movie, the romance doesn’t always have to be front and center, it can also be a portion of the movie to help build up each of the characters. Partners should influence each other, help each other out, and grow from experiences. I think she captured that well.
Below is my review for the original:
I couldn’t get enough of this story! Everyone makes little white lies but this book made an impact I’ll never forget.
Lauren was an English teacher that was traumatized by teenagers. She ended up finding it wasn’t for her and began partying and blowing a bunch of money. Now severely in debt, she ends up living with her brother and her brothers best friend, Jack. Being drunk, she types up her resume and then when she finds herself teaching again, she doesn’t expect dancing.
Haven academy is for the privileged kids and those who end up getting a scholarship because of their circumstances. Those kids are the group of students she has been presented to teach. None of them care for the idea of dance or want anything to do with her till she gives them purpose.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved seeing how she turned these kids lives around. Not only does she have a positive impact on the kids but she turns other peoples perspectives around as well. I’ve had amazing teachers that have been a great impact to my life and I’m thankful. I love this story and can’t wait for the second story to commence!!
May 15, 2022
Rom-Com is not a trope that I grab very often, I guess comedy doesn't always seem as funny across continents. With that I love this author and knew it would be a good read.
At first I thought I am not going to like this character, Lauren was a self absorbed party girl and immature, she lived her young adult life in debt.
Coming back home to live with her brother there are strict rules in place to cover her debts. First she needs a job, trained as a teacher surely there would be some relief work. She didn't expect to end up in an elite school teaching dance. The school took in 'underprivileged teens' who did not fit in and caused disruptions. Lauren's job was pretty much to keep them out of sight, who would have thought they were what each other needed.
Also living with her brother is his best mate, the guy she's had a crush on since she was 12. There is tension in the house and you know that teasing is going to erupt into something more. I really enjoyed their journey, at first denial then sparks.
This was a read I could dive into and read in one lazy Saturday afternoon. It had the heartfelt feels, her connection with the group of misfits as she supported their achievements left me warm and fuzzy.
Wonderful story, I loved it.
At first I thought I am not going to like this character, Lauren was a self absorbed party girl and immature, she lived her young adult life in debt.
Coming back home to live with her brother there are strict rules in place to cover her debts. First she needs a job, trained as a teacher surely there would be some relief work. She didn't expect to end up in an elite school teaching dance. The school took in 'underprivileged teens' who did not fit in and caused disruptions. Lauren's job was pretty much to keep them out of sight, who would have thought they were what each other needed.
Also living with her brother is his best mate, the guy she's had a crush on since she was 12. There is tension in the house and you know that teasing is going to erupt into something more. I really enjoyed their journey, at first denial then sparks.
This was a read I could dive into and read in one lazy Saturday afternoon. It had the heartfelt feels, her connection with the group of misfits as she supported their achievements left me warm and fuzzy.
Wonderful story, I loved it.
May 23, 2022
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
This was such a great start to a new series. I loved how the heroine had flaws and problems that she was able to grow with as the story went on. The hero also had issues of his own that the romance helped him solve. I loved the heroine’s brother. He was super helpful and I liked that he also had character growth even if he was a side character. I loved the kids. It was a wonderful introduction to them since I believe they will also have a series. It was great getting to know Maverick and his problems since he, I believe, is the first in the other series. I enjoyed the ups and downs and the way that they all gained something out of this situation. Love this book and can’t wait for the next!
I received a review copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was such a great start to a new series. I loved how the heroine had flaws and problems that she was able to grow with as the story went on. The hero also had issues of his own that the romance helped him solve. I loved the heroine’s brother. He was super helpful and I liked that he also had character growth even if he was a side character. I loved the kids. It was a wonderful introduction to them since I believe they will also have a series. It was great getting to know Maverick and his problems since he, I believe, is the first in the other series. I enjoyed the ups and downs and the way that they all gained something out of this situation. Love this book and can’t wait for the next!
I received a review copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 11, 2022
After a telling a series of white lies and Lauren’s life begins to unravel. She has no other option than to move in with her older brother and go back to teaching. To make matters worse, that also means living with her brother’s annoying best friend, Jack.
I was initially disappointed that we only see Lauren’s perspective, but I ended up liking that it kept me guessing what Jack was thinking. I found his character to be lovable from the start, but Lauren became more relatable to me as the story progressed.
I enjoyed the romance and banter between Jack and Lauren; however, the storyline of Haven Academy is what made the book for me. It was heartwarming and left me eager to go back as this series continues.
The author did a good job of pacing the book in a way that drew my attention back immediately if I began to lose interest. This is my first Melody Sweet book, but I definitely want to read more!
There is lots of chemistry between Jack and Lauren, but it is technically closed door. Sex is implied.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
I was initially disappointed that we only see Lauren’s perspective, but I ended up liking that it kept me guessing what Jack was thinking. I found his character to be lovable from the start, but Lauren became more relatable to me as the story progressed.
I enjoyed the romance and banter between Jack and Lauren; however, the storyline of Haven Academy is what made the book for me. It was heartwarming and left me eager to go back as this series continues.
The author did a good job of pacing the book in a way that drew my attention back immediately if I began to lose interest. This is my first Melody Sweet book, but I definitely want to read more!
There is lots of chemistry between Jack and Lauren, but it is technically closed door. Sex is implied.
I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
May 18, 2022
This was a great book! I loved the dual points of view and the romcom feels. Being able to have light/funny moments with Jack and Lauren was the perfect balance to handling a bit of a tough topic. There is an epilogue through the author's newsletter sign up in case you're left wanting more like me! I can't wait to read about April and Angus!
*I was provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
*I was provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
May 29, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I found Lauren a very enjoyable character. She could be a any one of us who gets a little carried away with living life. And Jack is such a sweetheart. I liked his backstory, as it was something unusual and I’ve never read before.
I enjoyed the concept of the Dance Crew that is created and again, I feel I haven’t read anything like that which was a great change. I especially LOVED past characters from other series showing up. Eek.
I liked that there were so many levels to this book.
The love/hate relationship between the main characters.
The love/hate relationship between the siblings.
The strong friendship between the Best Friends. The tight companionship of the ‘Misfits’.
The ‘Elitist’ getting away with everything and looking down on others.
The handful of Adults who believe in the Misfits and help them more than they know.
I think this is a perfect start to a new series and I can’t wait to read more.
I enjoyed the concept of the Dance Crew that is created and again, I feel I haven’t read anything like that which was a great change. I especially LOVED past characters from other series showing up. Eek.
I liked that there were so many levels to this book.
The love/hate relationship between the main characters.
The love/hate relationship between the siblings.
The strong friendship between the Best Friends. The tight companionship of the ‘Misfits’.
The ‘Elitist’ getting away with everything and looking down on others.
The handful of Adults who believe in the Misfits and help them more than they know.
I think this is a perfect start to a new series and I can’t wait to read more.
May 11, 2022
Lauren never considered that all those little white lies she told would end up with her parents not speaking to her, that she would end up sharing a house with her controlling brother and that Jack, her brother’s best friend would also be living in the same house. She had a huge crush on him from the first moment her brother brought him home, and he’s still calling her by those silly nicknames he likes to make up. They will eventually realize that they have deep feelings for each other, but Lauren just may lose his love when she decides to lie to protect someone else.
I think these are wonderful characters, they are all well written, compelling and realistic. I thought this was a fantastic, clean romance that had some interesting twists in the plot that made it impossible to put this book down. Definitely a must read,
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I think these are wonderful characters, they are all well written, compelling and realistic. I thought this was a fantastic, clean romance that had some interesting twists in the plot that made it impossible to put this book down. Definitely a must read,
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
June 6, 2022
This was a fun and very interesting story. How everything changes because of "little white lies". I enjoyed the story and it was a lot of fun to read.
May 29, 2022
This book is a page-turner. I could not stop reading it and I read it in one day.
I loved the story of Lauren and how she had to grow up (at 26) and finally get her life together. She is the kind of teacher that every student needs. Can you imagine the positive change in so many lives if we had teachers like Lauren everywhere?
The flirtation between Lauren and Jack was great to read as well. It was romance without the smut. So refreshing!
I can not wait to read further books in this series. I also would love to see this book turned into a movie!
I loved the story of Lauren and how she had to grow up (at 26) and finally get her life together. She is the kind of teacher that every student needs. Can you imagine the positive change in so many lives if we had teachers like Lauren everywhere?
The flirtation between Lauren and Jack was great to read as well. It was romance without the smut. So refreshing!
I can not wait to read further books in this series. I also would love to see this book turned into a movie!
May 9, 2022
Well written, fun with heart. Great book with lovely characters and a storyline to learn from.
May 31, 2022
If ever I thought about lying this story has helped deter me! Lauren got herself into some messes but I love how she changed over the course of the book and especially how she fought for the misfits! Loved Jacks character too! He's A good guy! So glad got to hear both his and Laurens perspective! Thanks to the author for my copy of this book!
October 18, 2023
Lauren has made some big mistakes in her life but this little white lie is not one of them. It sets of a chain of events that is life-changing, and not only for her. This story was about growing up even when you've technically been a 'grown-up' for years. Lauren's journey from selfish party girl to generous, empathetic and well-respected teacher was so great to immerse myself in. I devoured this book in mere days and cannot wait to read more of this series!
I adored Jack and his many nicknames for Lauren. It felt so right that their powerful connection was finally acknowledged - at a time where they were both ready and with an intervention of fate. Their romance was sweet and funny and everything you want in a romcom.
It was the dynamic between the Misfits and Lauren that really pulled at my heartstrings though. The reluctant students were not used to anyone being in their corner and the way in which these guys turned Lauren's life around was beautiful. She went from being thrown into the dungeon and not giving a damn, to making them her world. She fought hard for them and it was a joy to read. Her connection with Maverick and the way in which she got through to him made me cry it was so beautiful.
I am so excited to read more about the characters that have been introduced here. This series and the upcoming 'Misfits Remix' series have a really strong base written here. I can't wait to read all the stories about the staff and students at Haven Academy. The characters are well developed and the plot is sophisticated. I could imagine the TV series would be spectacular!
I adored Jack and his many nicknames for Lauren. It felt so right that their powerful connection was finally acknowledged - at a time where they were both ready and with an intervention of fate. Their romance was sweet and funny and everything you want in a romcom.
It was the dynamic between the Misfits and Lauren that really pulled at my heartstrings though. The reluctant students were not used to anyone being in their corner and the way in which these guys turned Lauren's life around was beautiful. She went from being thrown into the dungeon and not giving a damn, to making them her world. She fought hard for them and it was a joy to read. Her connection with Maverick and the way in which she got through to him made me cry it was so beautiful.
I am so excited to read more about the characters that have been introduced here. This series and the upcoming 'Misfits Remix' series have a really strong base written here. I can't wait to read all the stories about the staff and students at Haven Academy. The characters are well developed and the plot is sophisticated. I could imagine the TV series would be spectacular!
May 25, 2022
Lauren's been living the sweet life for years but now she's been brought home in disgrace. She owes her parents a fortune and is now under the watchful eyes of her practical big brother. He has her on a 2-year plan starting with a job at one of the local schools. After spending the night wine-embellishing her resume, Lauren is impressed to immediately get a job offer. It's only later she discovers her brother's roommate Jack sent in her application and resume and she has applied to be a dance teacher. To a group of troubled youth! Now the roommate who drives her crazy may be her only hope.
The original book underwent some changes from its initial arc release. It went from being Lauren's POV to a dual POV featuring Lauren and Jack. The changes impacted the book significantly. Lauren isn't always her own best advocate. Sometimes we need to be seen through the eyes of another; someone who loves us. They see a truer version. I think Jack's POV made it a much more enjoyable book. He was such a likable guy. Lauren's character growth was immense. However, the surprise stars of the book were the dancers. I couldn't help but get caught up in their stories. Too often in the name of charity, we open doors but never extend a hand. Watching these kids flourish when someone finally proved they were worthy was my favorite part of the book. The romance was the icing on the cake.
The original book underwent some changes from its initial arc release. It went from being Lauren's POV to a dual POV featuring Lauren and Jack. The changes impacted the book significantly. Lauren isn't always her own best advocate. Sometimes we need to be seen through the eyes of another; someone who loves us. They see a truer version. I think Jack's POV made it a much more enjoyable book. He was such a likable guy. Lauren's character growth was immense. However, the surprise stars of the book were the dancers. I couldn't help but get caught up in their stories. Too often in the name of charity, we open doors but never extend a hand. Watching these kids flourish when someone finally proved they were worthy was my favorite part of the book. The romance was the icing on the cake.
April 21, 2023
This is a new to me author, to be honest I judged the book by it cute cover and thought I would give this series a go.
The cover matches the book, the characters are both very loveable and the book it told from both perspectives which added more depth to the story. Party girl Lauren returns home to New Zealand after her lavish lifestyle partying in London, finds her broke. She moves in with her brother and has to start living by his rules and grow up. Also sharing her brothers home is his best friend Jack, who Lauren happens to have had a crush on since she was a teenage. You can feel the tension and the sparks about to fly.
Having previously been an English teacher which she hated, she gets a job at the elite Haven Academy teaching dance to privileged children who are there on scholarships. As per the title, she might have told a few white lies about her skill set. She enlists the help of champion dancer, Jack and the rest is history.
The pair obviously have lots of chemistry from the off. She has crushed on him forever and he begins to realise that his best friends sister is all grown up. It is a sweet rom-com, perfect to pass a few hours and leave a smile on your face.
The cover matches the book, the characters are both very loveable and the book it told from both perspectives which added more depth to the story. Party girl Lauren returns home to New Zealand after her lavish lifestyle partying in London, finds her broke. She moves in with her brother and has to start living by his rules and grow up. Also sharing her brothers home is his best friend Jack, who Lauren happens to have had a crush on since she was a teenage. You can feel the tension and the sparks about to fly.
Having previously been an English teacher which she hated, she gets a job at the elite Haven Academy teaching dance to privileged children who are there on scholarships. As per the title, she might have told a few white lies about her skill set. She enlists the help of champion dancer, Jack and the rest is history.
The pair obviously have lots of chemistry from the off. She has crushed on him forever and he begins to realise that his best friends sister is all grown up. It is a sweet rom-com, perfect to pass a few hours and leave a smile on your face.
May 19, 2022
The book starts with Laurie having to go home to live with her brother because she partied way too much and ended up very much in debt. Her brother puts her on a strict budget so she can get her life together. She also finds out that her longtime crush and brothers best friend Jack is back in town and lives with him.
Jack and Laurie together have so many great moments. Their bickering and all of Jacks nicknames for her are hilarious. The dual point of view really helped me to understand why both acted a certain way and how they felt towards one another.
I loved the misfits. Laurie also fights for them when others isolated them. She believes in them and it’s a great dynamic. It shows the huge impact that teachers have in their students lives.
This book really shows how we can grow. Laurie is a great example of how even when you make big mistakes they don’t define you and you can change to be the person you want.
I will say that this read as more of a PG-13 to me. It is closed door but there is some mild profanity.
Jack and Laurie together have so many great moments. Their bickering and all of Jacks nicknames for her are hilarious. The dual point of view really helped me to understand why both acted a certain way and how they felt towards one another.
I loved the misfits. Laurie also fights for them when others isolated them. She believes in them and it’s a great dynamic. It shows the huge impact that teachers have in their students lives.
This book really shows how we can grow. Laurie is a great example of how even when you make big mistakes they don’t define you and you can change to be the person you want.
I will say that this read as more of a PG-13 to me. It is closed door but there is some mild profanity.
May 21, 2022
I loved Lauren and Jack! This is a phenomenal start to a new series. It has a little bit of everything, fun and swoony moments, a little drama, forgiveness and redemption. Melody Sweet is a talented author and always manages to balance the sweetness of the story while tackling some hard issues. This book has genuine characters that will keep you rooting for them throughout. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
April 7, 2023
I really liked this. The storyline was super cute and I loved the character development, the reason why I gave it four stars instead of five is because some of the wording made me cringe (ex: calling someone a hottie) and there were quite a few spelling and grammar mistakes, especially towards the end.
May 19, 2022
I’m so excited for how this story turned out. My review team was instrumental in making it what it should be and I’m so grateful. I can’t wait for sweet romcom fans to read this book 🥰
January 16, 2023
I really didn’t like Lauren at the beginning of her story, she was a huge brat. I’m so thankful she grew up and I loved the relationship between her and Jack as well as her and her brother.
April 7, 2024
Cute little book. Nothing smutty at all. I loved how Lauren’s character evolved over time and how she figured out what was really important.
May 30, 2022
I just loved this new series, the characters are really interesting.
After getting involved in so many little white lies that turn out to be a big problem, Lauren is sent back to New Zealand to live with her brother. What she didn't expect was to find Jack, his best friend, living in the same house.
In dire need of a job, Lauren spruces up her resume and ends up getting a teaching position at the elite Haven Academy, as a dance teacher.
She’s responsible for the group of students who are considered a charity case and misfits. It takes her some time to gain their trust and the solution she finds to motivate them is a dance competition. She obviously needs help from Jack, who is a champion dancer, and the chemistry between them is fantastic.
As she works with her students and learns a little more about them, especially Maverick, she and Jack begin to get to know each other better and feelings develop between them, having been stored for a long time.
Will Lauren be able to help these students without having to resort to more lies? And Jack will be able to handle her job?
I loved the story and the characters, Lauren and Jack are perfect for each other. And we even had the opportunity to learn about characters from previous series, such as Bianca and Cam, and from other series, such as Maverick and his friends. I highly recommend the reading.
After getting involved in so many little white lies that turn out to be a big problem, Lauren is sent back to New Zealand to live with her brother. What she didn't expect was to find Jack, his best friend, living in the same house.
In dire need of a job, Lauren spruces up her resume and ends up getting a teaching position at the elite Haven Academy, as a dance teacher.
She’s responsible for the group of students who are considered a charity case and misfits. It takes her some time to gain their trust and the solution she finds to motivate them is a dance competition. She obviously needs help from Jack, who is a champion dancer, and the chemistry between them is fantastic.
As she works with her students and learns a little more about them, especially Maverick, she and Jack begin to get to know each other better and feelings develop between them, having been stored for a long time.
Will Lauren be able to help these students without having to resort to more lies? And Jack will be able to handle her job?
I loved the story and the characters, Lauren and Jack are perfect for each other. And we even had the opportunity to learn about characters from previous series, such as Bianca and Cam, and from other series, such as Maverick and his friends. I highly recommend the reading.
June 1, 2022
loved the Misfits
This was a powerful story. I loved how Lauren grew up throughout the story and how she stood up for The Misfits. The romance is swoony, with tons of chemistry between Lauren and Jack. The side characters were great and you can’t help but love the kids.
This was a wonderful story, with plot depth and real emotion. I am looking forward to reading more stories in the series!!!
This was a powerful story. I loved how Lauren grew up throughout the story and how she stood up for The Misfits. The romance is swoony, with tons of chemistry between Lauren and Jack. The side characters were great and you can’t help but love the kids.
This was a wonderful story, with plot depth and real emotion. I am looking forward to reading more stories in the series!!!
June 28, 2022
Even though this book took me almost 6 days to read; I enjoyed it. I enjoyed the characters and the cute nicknames and the banter they had. This book should be read by high schoolers all the way to adults to show how different everyone is treated in high school.
Lauren is a 26 year old who is in serious debt with her parents because of her party lifestyle she led. She now has to pay them back and move in with her brother. Her brother is currently living with Jack (his annoying best friend).
Jack is struggling with his past and hiding from it as well. He’s a great guy though and obviously cares for Lauren but she’s putting him in a bad place when it comes to asking for help.
I was a little annoyed with Luke at times because of his attitude and how he was towards things.
I loved the misfits and how much Lauren fought for them. Maverick was a fighter but he needed to be. I couldn’t image being in his shoes and going through what he had to go through.
Thankfully we had some major character development in this book from a few different people. This book was fun to read and it was so easy to cheer on these characters.
Lauren is a 26 year old who is in serious debt with her parents because of her party lifestyle she led. She now has to pay them back and move in with her brother. Her brother is currently living with Jack (his annoying best friend).
Jack is struggling with his past and hiding from it as well. He’s a great guy though and obviously cares for Lauren but she’s putting him in a bad place when it comes to asking for help.
I was a little annoyed with Luke at times because of his attitude and how he was towards things.
I loved the misfits and how much Lauren fought for them. Maverick was a fighter but he needed to be. I couldn’t image being in his shoes and going through what he had to go through.
Thankfully we had some major character development in this book from a few different people. This book was fun to read and it was so easy to cheer on these characters.
July 21, 2022
To be honest, it took me a while to warm up to Lauren, she just comes across as such a selfish brat at the beginning of the story. But I truly appreciated not only seeing her grow into her role as a teacher (teachers rock!), but especially how she grew to care - and fight! - for "her" Misfits.
I'm looking forward to reading more books in this world, both in this series as well as the Misfits YA series.
I'm looking forward to reading more books in this world, both in this series as well as the Misfits YA series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews