May 31, 2026 – My Sanctuary

Zoe Hart is right where she belongs: in her cozy Maple Falls flower shop with her cat Whiskers. But her oldest friend (and secret crush) Jackson is back in their small town too. And most of all, she longs to be in his strong arms. So when her hopelessly romantic mom bets on them being Couple of the Year at the Spring Festival, Zoe finds herself fake-dating the friend-zoned guy she’s always wanted…

When Jackson returns from military service, even working on his llama sanctuary can’t

heal him. But Zoe is the only person who can truly make him smile. He’d do anything for her… even pretend to be dating for the Spring Festival. There’s nothing fake about his feelings as he crushes his lips to hers. But there’s no way she’d really want a broken man like him, would she?

All eyes are on them as the town prepares to vote for Couple of the Year. But when a hidden wildflower meadow becomes their escape, real passion blooms amid falling cherry blossom. Will the magic of spring turn their make-believe romance into true love forever?

About The Author

My Review

This book is about finding courage, healing old wounds, and letting love bloom in the most ordinary, small-town moments.This book introduces Zoe Hart, a florist holding her life together with determination, humor, and her scene-stealing cat Whiskers. When wedding chaos strikes, her longtime best friend—and secret crush—Jackson Hawthorne steps in, setting the stage for a tender friends-to-lovers romance.

Heather Graham shines with character-driven storytelling. Jackson is a compelling hero: a veteran struggling with PTSD, torn between his feelings for Zoe and his fear of hurting her. His emotional distance feels frustrating at times, but painfully realistic. Zoe, meanwhile, is strong, vulnerable, and deeply relatable, especially as she grapples with fertility concerns and dreams of a future that feels increasingly uncertain.

Their emotional baggage is handled with care and sincerity, allowing their connection to unfold naturally. The fake-dating mishap sparked by small-town gossip adds humor and charm, while side characters—especially Krista—enrich the story with warmth and support. Cozy, heartfelt, and emotionally satisfying, this romance feels like a warm hug, perfect for readers who love gentle love stories with depth, growth, and genuine feeling.

Best friends to lovers

Small-town romance with emotional healing

Fake dating

My Rating

Link To Purchase

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

NHL enforcer Griffin Mahoney has spent years protecting his team on the ice—and his heart off it. The one woman who makes his stone-cold exterior melt? His best friend’s sister, Penny Lee. But when a stolen ring entangles her with the Mob, Griffin’s protective instincts override his promise to stay away.

As a custom jewelry designer, Penny transforms family heirlooms into modern treasures. She’s always thought her brother’s best friend was grumpier than a bear with a hangover—until she discovers the brooding hockey player’s hidden soft side. Their undeniable chemistry catches them both off guard, even as danger circles closer.

With Stanley Cup playoffs looming, Mob threats escalating, and her overprotective brother ready to cross-check them both into the next season, Griffin and Penny’s path to happiness is anything but smooth. Together they’ll discover that true love, like diamonds, can withstand any pressure—and shine even brighter for it.

About The Author

My Review

This is about a fast-paced, witty hockey romance that blends enemies-to-lovers banter with light suspense and plenty of heart. This book pairs sunny, creative Penny Lee with grumpy NHL defenseman Griffin Mahoney, whose mutual irritation has been simmering ever since Penny’s hockey-star brother introduced them five years earlier. Their sharp chemistry crackles from the start, making every interaction feel lively and fun.

Penny’s career as a custom jewelry designer adds a fresh twist, especially when her prized five-carat antique ring becomes the center of chaos. The ring’s accidental mob connection propels the story into an entertaining race against time, forcing Penny and Griffin to work together despite their long-standing antagonism. The suspense element is playful rather than dark, keeping the tone light while raising the stakes just enough to stay engaging.

Griffin is a classic grump with a soft center, and watching him slowly fall for Penny’s warmth and optimism is deeply satisfying. Penny, meanwhile, is capable, clever, and refreshingly confident. Lauren Landish balances humor, romance, and action beautifully, delivering a quick, charming read that’s easy to devour and leaves you eager for more from the series.

Enemies-to-Lovers

Forced Proximity

Grumpy x Sunshine

My Rating