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Arcadia Creek #1
Love on Deck
He calls it fake dating, but she calls it being caught between the devil and the deep blue sea. Lauren Foley and Jack Fletcher already tried to be amicable once—on a blind date that ended in complete disaster. Now, years later, they have to put up with each other for the sake of her sister and his best friend, who are eloping on a cruise to the Bahamas. But that’s not the worst of it. No, Lauren’s in even deeper water when she finds herself agreeing to play Jack’s fake girlfriend for the duration of the cruise. Now the only thing on her mind is trying not to strangle him when he dials up the charm, but it becomes harder to remember exactly why she ever hated him in the first place. Jack, on the other hand, is enjoying the perks. Until the cruise lands on American soil again and real life hits them square in the face. Lauren is up for a promotion at work, and Jack promised her something that would secure it. But promises are easily broken, vacation life doesn’t always translate to the real world, and sometimes enemies start that way for a reason. Book one in the Arcadia Creek romance series, Love on Deck is a fake dating enemies-to-lovers story with forced proximity and a happily ever after. This modern romance will also introduce you to small town Texas and show you just how cozy it can be.
314 pages, Paperback
Published August 15, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 274 reviews
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
February 12, 2024DNF at 20%
It's probably the grudge holder in me, but I can't get past what he did, despite it being two years ago. Lauren (h) and Jack (H) were set up on a blind date by Lauren's sister and Jack's best friend, and it was a total disaster. So what happened?
Note: "Her" is their waitress
And in the story, they were stuck for eight days because it's her sister's and his best friend's wedding party. A college friend (OW) of the sister was invited who's got the hots for Jack, and Jack out of nowhere lied to the OW that he and Lauren are in a relationship. So they fake dated since day one to keep off the OW.
I skimmed it, and within a few days, at 53%, he told her that he's falling for her, sure buddy, whatever you say. Also, after that confession, this was his lame line about their failed date.
There you go, aaaand I'm out! 👋
It's probably the grudge holder in me, but I can't get past what he did, despite it being two years ago. Lauren (h) and Jack (H) were set up on a blind date by Lauren's sister and Jack's best friend, and it was a total disaster. So what happened?
Note: "Her" is their waitress
H: “You left before I kissed her.”
h: “I left because you kissed her,”
H: “She was waiting for me when I came out of the bathroom to tell me you’d left. We talked for a minute, and she kissed me, which wasn’t expected. It took me a while to stop her.”
h: “I saw you guys, Jack. It took a long while.”
H: “Why would she lie about you leaving?”
h: “I took a phone call.”
H: “So she assumed . . . and then you came back and saw us. [...] I’m not proud. But I didn’t seek her out. I knew her already—her cousin worked in my office and we’d hung out before. It wasn’t like she was a total stranger. I don’t kiss every attractive woman I speak to.”
h: “You were on a date with someone else, though.”
H: “I didn’t know that. I thought the date had ended.”
h: “It doesn’t matter. It’s the past, and it’s why we don’t have a future.”
H: “That’s why you left the restaurant and didn’t return any of my texts.”
And in the story, they were stuck for eight days because it's her sister's and his best friend's wedding party. A college friend (OW) of the sister was invited who's got the hots for Jack, and Jack out of nowhere lied to the OW that he and Lauren are in a relationship. So they fake dated since day one to keep off the OW.
I skimmed it, and within a few days, at 53%, he told her that he's falling for her, sure buddy, whatever you say. Also, after that confession, this was his lame line about their failed date.
“I’m sorry, Lauren. I’m sorry for what happened on our date. I regret it, and I don’t know what I was thinking—well, I wasn’t thinking, obviously. I should have looked for you. Can you find it in you to forgive me? To give me a real chance?”
There you go, aaaand I'm out! 👋
August 31, 2023
Y'all this book was just so stinkin' cute!!! I couldn't even get enough of Lauren and Jack! These two had a major kerfuffle on their first and only blind date together! Like, make me want to cover my eyes and cringe over it all kerfuffle! And then two years later Lauren's sister is getting married to Jack's best friend and they find themselves on a cruise together for the wedding. Eeeekkk!!!! Seriously I would be like, no way at all will we be on a cruise together! But guess what, not only that but they keep ending up together. Hahaha! Oh, Lauren you're a saint girl! And to make matters worse? I know you're thinking, "It could get worse?" Yep, the answer is a loud resounding yep! They end up in a fake-dating relationship! Hahaha! Total Saint Lauren! But then again, the agreement will help them both, so what's a week stuck on a cruise ship together?
Seriously, you're going to LOVE this one! And I know I keep saying that Lauren is a saint, which she is, but honestly, Jack is pretty great too! Misunderstandings can definitely skew our sense of reality.
I loved the characters (minus one-you'll know who very quickly when you start reading it) and the fun and goodness that they bring to the story!
And we can't forget the whole small-town Texas aspect! Y'all better be ready for it all! I need more! So happy that this is only book one and that there'll be more of these characters and of Arcadia Creek! Woot Woot!!!
I just want to tell you so many things that I loved about this book and so many scenes. I was highlighting like crazy!!! If I could see the percentage that I highlighted, I'm sure it would be waaaaaaay more than half the book, probably even more than 75%! Just sayin'! *smirks*
Grab it! Read it! Laugh! Smile! Swoon! Cheer them on! Ache with them! And Fall in Love with them!!!
Content: Clean. Due to some circumstances, characters share a room but nothing happens, it is very clean. Some sweet kisses and nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Seriously, you're going to LOVE this one! And I know I keep saying that Lauren is a saint, which she is, but honestly, Jack is pretty great too! Misunderstandings can definitely skew our sense of reality.
I loved the characters (minus one-you'll know who very quickly when you start reading it) and the fun and goodness that they bring to the story!
And we can't forget the whole small-town Texas aspect! Y'all better be ready for it all! I need more! So happy that this is only book one and that there'll be more of these characters and of Arcadia Creek! Woot Woot!!!
I just want to tell you so many things that I loved about this book and so many scenes. I was highlighting like crazy!!! If I could see the percentage that I highlighted, I'm sure it would be waaaaaaay more than half the book, probably even more than 75%! Just sayin'! *smirks*
Grab it! Read it! Laugh! Smile! Swoon! Cheer them on! Ache with them! And Fall in Love with them!!!
Content: Clean. Due to some circumstances, characters share a room but nothing happens, it is very clean. Some sweet kisses and nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
September 8, 2023
Let me tell you, the snappy banter in this enemies-to-lovers, fake-dating romance was SO GOOD. Jack was a relentless flirt to the nth degree; the perfect sunshiny opponent for the spreadsheet-loving, workaholic Lauren. The constant sultry whispers, nicknames, and slight touches had me unravelling with giddiness.
Lauren Foley has despised Jack Fletcher since their blind date two years ago. But now with her sister eloping onboard a cruise, plans to avoid Jack become even more hopeless—he being the best man, of course. And the cherry on top? To ward off an annoyingly persistent bridesmaid, Jack ropes Lauren into a temporary scheme of pretending to be his girlfriend.
With its transition into a cozy small-town setting, and a sweet family reunion, I am officially invested in Arcadia Creek and the Fletcher brothers. I am really looking forward to the next release, Falling in Line: A Second Chance Romance!
(heat level: kissing only)
Lauren Foley has despised Jack Fletcher since their blind date two years ago. But now with her sister eloping onboard a cruise, plans to avoid Jack become even more hopeless—he being the best man, of course. And the cherry on top? To ward off an annoyingly persistent bridesmaid, Jack ropes Lauren into a temporary scheme of pretending to be his girlfriend.
With its transition into a cozy small-town setting, and a sweet family reunion, I am officially invested in Arcadia Creek and the Fletcher brothers. I am really looking forward to the next release, Falling in Line: A Second Chance Romance!
(heat level: kissing only)
August 12, 2023
I love when an author can jump genres and do it all so well. Love on Deck was so much fun. Second chance romance, enemies to lovers, and fake relationship. All done so well. The pacing of the book was perfect. I never got bored or wanted things to speed up. With dual points of view I could see into each character’s perspective, which helped me like them both more.
Lauren and Jack had an awful blind date years ago. Now Jack’s best friend and Lauren’s sister are getting married on a cruise trip with a small group of supportive friends. When Jack’s ex won’t leave him alone he talks Lauren into a fake relationship. I love fake relationships because it pushes the characters past their comfort level and into situations where they are forced to open up.
I loved these two main characters! They were so relatable and made me want to ditch suburbia. I loved the settings and people and was so exited when I realized the book was leading towards a series. I cannot wait for more! I’d been in a bit of an emotional funk and it was seeping into my ability to get lost in a book. This book completely pulled me out of that. I love when books do that!
Lauren and Jack had an awful blind date years ago. Now Jack’s best friend and Lauren’s sister are getting married on a cruise trip with a small group of supportive friends. When Jack’s ex won’t leave him alone he talks Lauren into a fake relationship. I love fake relationships because it pushes the characters past their comfort level and into situations where they are forced to open up.
I loved these two main characters! They were so relatable and made me want to ditch suburbia. I loved the settings and people and was so exited when I realized the book was leading towards a series. I cannot wait for more! I’d been in a bit of an emotional funk and it was seeping into my ability to get lost in a book. This book completely pulled me out of that. I love when books do that!
August 8, 2024
4.25 ⭐️
This was such a fun end-of-summer read that perfectly balanced light-heartedness with deep impact!
Jack & Lauren are majorly enemies-to-lovers (at least according to Lauren, haha) plus they have a reverse grumpy-sunshine dynamic. They were a blast to hang out with, and I loved taking a cruise vicariously through them as my weak stomach hates sailing. 😂
I found Lauren to be one of those relatable FMCs… structured, kinda uptight, allergic to spontaneity, no nonsense, struggles with anxiety, and not wanting to be a burden or inconvenience. As for the tough family relationships of both Lauren & Jack—whew—those were no joke, but they added such deep dimension to the story.
All around, this is a sunny sea-faring summer read with plenty of laughs and more than a few heart-melting moments!
This was such a fun end-of-summer read that perfectly balanced light-heartedness with deep impact!
Jack & Lauren are majorly enemies-to-lovers (at least according to Lauren, haha) plus they have a reverse grumpy-sunshine dynamic. They were a blast to hang out with, and I loved taking a cruise vicariously through them as my weak stomach hates sailing. 😂
I found Lauren to be one of those relatable FMCs… structured, kinda uptight, allergic to spontaneity, no nonsense, struggles with anxiety, and not wanting to be a burden or inconvenience. As for the tough family relationships of both Lauren & Jack—whew—those were no joke, but they added such deep dimension to the story.
All around, this is a sunny sea-faring summer read with plenty of laughs and more than a few heart-melting moments!
August 30, 2023
I've never wanted to highlight pretty much the whole entire book like I wanted to with this one.
This story has everything I love and I've been waiting for a time to savor every delicious moment, every dripping-with-chemistry interaction, and every witty word. I'm not kidding when I say I wanted to highlight all of it. Stockton knows just how to word things in clever ways that had me laughing and swooning through every single page.
Can we talk about Jack and Lauren for a minute? For very good reasons, their blind date two years ago didn't work out and a fierce hatred for one another developed. Now on a cruise for his best friend and her sister (and only family), they strike up a sudden, mutually beneficial (and very much appreciated) fake relationship with a bonus bargain, and I couldn't get enough of it. This reverse grumpy sunshine (he's the sunshine and she's the serious grump) delivered many great moments of learning to go with the flow, let the hair down, and think of the bigger picture.
"Jack stepped a little close, making his cologne fly up my nose against my will. It had a weird effect of calming me and grating at me at the same time. Stupid, hot, nice-smelling man who wanted to share my room and my personal space." Jack was absolute persistent perfection. Who could resist him?? Lauren, all work driven and spreadsheet obsessed, wasn't immune (and truth be told, I wasn't either). These characters--oh, how I LOVE and ADORE them!
I loved the character development and the twists this story took. In fact, Love on Deck is a solid contender for favorite book of the year! And the best part? It's Book 1 of a new series!
Content: mild+ romance (kissing, shared room)
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
This story has everything I love and I've been waiting for a time to savor every delicious moment, every dripping-with-chemistry interaction, and every witty word. I'm not kidding when I say I wanted to highlight all of it. Stockton knows just how to word things in clever ways that had me laughing and swooning through every single page.
Can we talk about Jack and Lauren for a minute? For very good reasons, their blind date two years ago didn't work out and a fierce hatred for one another developed. Now on a cruise for his best friend and her sister (and only family), they strike up a sudden, mutually beneficial (and very much appreciated) fake relationship with a bonus bargain, and I couldn't get enough of it. This reverse grumpy sunshine (he's the sunshine and she's the serious grump) delivered many great moments of learning to go with the flow, let the hair down, and think of the bigger picture.
"Jack stepped a little close, making his cologne fly up my nose against my will. It had a weird effect of calming me and grating at me at the same time. Stupid, hot, nice-smelling man who wanted to share my room and my personal space." Jack was absolute persistent perfection. Who could resist him?? Lauren, all work driven and spreadsheet obsessed, wasn't immune (and truth be told, I wasn't either). These characters--oh, how I LOVE and ADORE them!
I loved the character development and the twists this story took. In fact, Love on Deck is a solid contender for favorite book of the year! And the best part? It's Book 1 of a new series!
Content: mild+ romance (kissing, shared room)
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
August 29, 2023
This was cute!! Full review coming soon
April 13, 2024
Just three now. The more I think about it, the more things I find I did not like. This is my second Kasey Stockton book and I feel about the same for both. I don’t know why, but her characters and I don’t mesh. But this just my personal opinion, don’t let it stop you from trying this book. 🫶🏻
October 5, 2023
Apparently, I am a sucker for the fake dating troupe, and this book did not disappoint!
Lauren is a workaholic who wants to be on her laptop while on her sister's wedding cruise. Jack is the guy who refuses to let that happen.
Although Jack and Lauren had a blind date that could have ended better - Jack made out with the waitress and then left a less-than-stellar voicemail due to a butt dial - they decide to put their differences aside for the wedding weekend.
Jack begs Lauren to be his girlfriend to protect himself from one of the bridesmaids he dated briefly in the past, and Lauren agrees because she wants his company's business for her hotel. The two begin to realize their feelings are not just pretend and that there is something between them. They have to decide if they are continuing with the story they've told or if they will come clean to have a fresh start.
Is Lauren the grandmother of the group as she believes, or does she and her sister not communicate well?
Can Jake & Lauren have a good relationship after their terrible first date?
I liked this read, and if you want something light, this is for you!
Lauren is a workaholic who wants to be on her laptop while on her sister's wedding cruise. Jack is the guy who refuses to let that happen.
Although Jack and Lauren had a blind date that could have ended better - Jack made out with the waitress and then left a less-than-stellar voicemail due to a butt dial - they decide to put their differences aside for the wedding weekend.
Jack begs Lauren to be his girlfriend to protect himself from one of the bridesmaids he dated briefly in the past, and Lauren agrees because she wants his company's business for her hotel. The two begin to realize their feelings are not just pretend and that there is something between them. They have to decide if they are continuing with the story they've told or if they will come clean to have a fresh start.
Is Lauren the grandmother of the group as she believes, or does she and her sister not communicate well?
Can Jake & Lauren have a good relationship after their terrible first date?
I liked this read, and if you want something light, this is for you!
October 3, 2023
A blind date gone wrong and Lauren and Jack would really just rather not occupy the same space. But her sister is eloping with his best friend and playing nice seems like the best gift they could give. An unexpected bridesmaid's attendence has Jack desperate to appear taken and the nearest accomplice will have to do. Lauren reluctantly agrees on one condition: Jack has to help Lauren win a promotion at work.
Kasey works her magic with these two and the banter is incredibly fun! I loved the backdrop of the cruise to get their relationship going and that it continues back home in Texas with the pressures of work and family drama. And that intro to book two? Can. Not. Wait.
Thank you to the author for the #gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
Kasey works her magic with these two and the banter is incredibly fun! I loved the backdrop of the cruise to get their relationship going and that it continues back home in Texas with the pressures of work and family drama. And that intro to book two? Can. Not. Wait.
Thank you to the author for the #gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
September 3, 2023
This was my first contemporary Stockton book, I thought she did a great job. I enjoyed the overall story and the cruise setting was fun. I liked that the story actually continues on after the cruise and things didn’t just quickly wrap up. I liked Lauren’s character growth as the story went on. I Liked Logan and thought they had good chemistry.
Content Rated G
Clean romance, kissing. No language or violence
Content Rated G
Clean romance, kissing. No language or violence
August 14, 2023
Such a cute book!
Everything you can expect from an at-sea romantic comedy. Contemporary romances are not my usual cup of tea, but I must admit: I really enjoyed the book and the chemistry between the two characters.
I can't wait to find the story of the other Fletcher brothers! (It's totally giving me Bradwell brothers vibes;))
If you are curious, just read a thread of my unfiltered thoughts while reading this book:
"the dedication is written for me"
"Sunshine ?? oh yes!"
"Whatever you say, I'm here for the fake dating!!!"
"this just sounds so poetic, just hear:a nightmare dropped on us by the romcom gods"
"literal enemies-to-lovers story in real life. This is romance. << sigh >>"
"Oh, goodbye heart. You're so far gone. That was me in that exact moment:)"
"springtime in my heart You cannot be serious! This is so cuteee!"
*I received a copy for review from the author. All the opinions expressed in this review are my own. To be considered that a positive review was not required.
Everything you can expect from an at-sea romantic comedy. Contemporary romances are not my usual cup of tea, but I must admit: I really enjoyed the book and the chemistry between the two characters.
I can't wait to find the story of the other Fletcher brothers! (It's totally giving me Bradwell brothers vibes;))
If you are curious, just read a thread of my unfiltered thoughts while reading this book:
"the dedication is written for me"
"Sunshine ?? oh yes!"
"Whatever you say, I'm here for the fake dating!!!"
"this just sounds so poetic, just hear:a nightmare dropped on us by the romcom gods"
"literal enemies-to-lovers story in real life. This is romance. << sigh >>"
"Oh, goodbye heart. You're so far gone. That was me in that exact moment:)"
"springtime in my heart You cannot be serious! This is so cuteee!"
*I received a copy for review from the author. All the opinions expressed in this review are my own. To be considered that a positive review was not required.
August 21, 2023
'For the next week, I could put aside my well-founded hatred for Jack and make this the best wedding cruise Amelia could possibly hope for. She was my priority here, and I wasn't going to let anything get in the way of that.'
Kasey Stockton contemporaries are some of my favorite!
First, can we take a moment to appreciate this amazing cover? I'm in love!
This book is a mash-up of so many of my favorite tropes! Add in a cruise setting + small town setting and this book is a total win!
The enemies to lovers dialogue is perfect, the fake dating + forced proximity + one bed is perfect, and everything else in between will melt your heart or make you laugh! I loved that this book had so much fun to it that it was light and whimsical but still had a level of depth that made this book relatable.
I loved that Lauren was all about spreadsheets, order and precision and Jack was her complete opposite. It created so many fun scenes that I wont soon forget! Jack's nickname for Lauren was also perfection and trust me when I say YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!
Book two was just announced and I am very much anticipating more to this series because this book was all of the heart eyes, all of the stars and two very enthusiastic thumbs up!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content: Enemies to lovers, forced proximity, Best Man/Maid of Honor, fake dating, one bed, found family, death of close family member, weight of responsibility, fun banter, swoony romance, and kisses.
Kasey Stockton contemporaries are some of my favorite!
First, can we take a moment to appreciate this amazing cover? I'm in love!
This book is a mash-up of so many of my favorite tropes! Add in a cruise setting + small town setting and this book is a total win!
The enemies to lovers dialogue is perfect, the fake dating + forced proximity + one bed is perfect, and everything else in between will melt your heart or make you laugh! I loved that this book had so much fun to it that it was light and whimsical but still had a level of depth that made this book relatable.
I loved that Lauren was all about spreadsheets, order and precision and Jack was her complete opposite. It created so many fun scenes that I wont soon forget! Jack's nickname for Lauren was also perfection and trust me when I say YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!
Book two was just announced and I am very much anticipating more to this series because this book was all of the heart eyes, all of the stars and two very enthusiastic thumbs up!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Content: Enemies to lovers, forced proximity, Best Man/Maid of Honor, fake dating, one bed, found family, death of close family member, weight of responsibility, fun banter, swoony romance, and kisses.
January 15, 2024
So cute!
Jack and Lauren are anything but friends after a blind are a couple of years ago. Now, forced together for a wedding cruise, they land themselves in a fake dating situation! Jack is legitimately trying to be sweet, while workaholic, uptight Lauren is trying her hardest to keep her distance (except when necessary)!
I loved how Jack cute and fun Jack was and how after a lot of attempts at banter and flirting, he’s able to get Lauren to literally let her hair down, have some fun , and give him a chance!
Jack and Lauren are anything but friends after a blind are a couple of years ago. Now, forced together for a wedding cruise, they land themselves in a fake dating situation! Jack is legitimately trying to be sweet, while workaholic, uptight Lauren is trying her hardest to keep her distance (except when necessary)!
I loved how Jack cute and fun Jack was and how after a lot of attempts at banter and flirting, he’s able to get Lauren to literally let her hair down, have some fun , and give him a chance!
December 4, 2023
The plot got sidelined by the sister. Fantastic banter though.
Full review to come!
Full review to come!
January 4, 2024
I got tired of reading about the conference all the time!
May 14, 2024
2.5
It was good but they got together too soon and I lost interest.
It was good but they got together too soon and I lost interest.
August 12, 2024
Jack and Lauren were meant to be but after one fateful blind date, things ended with hard feelings. Nothing could bring these two back together, except maybe being stuck together on a cruise for Lauren’s sister’s elopement. An agreement comes into play which benefits both parties and it’s not long before sparks begin to fly between these two as they banter back and forth. Their chemistry was positively sizzling! The tension was palpable and absolutely swoon-worthy at times! Before long, feelings can no longer be denied and love comes into play. A definite must read for all rom-com lovers who adore the “one bed” trope, a good “fake dating” relationship, and an entertaining “enemies-to-lovers” story!
“𝙰𝚕𝚕 𝚒𝚜 𝚏𝚊𝚒𝚛 𝚒𝚗 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚊𝚛, 𝚂𝚞𝚗𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚎.”
“𝚈𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚗𝚘 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚜𝚘𝚕𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗, 𝙻𝚊𝚞𝚛𝚎𝚗. 𝚈𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚙𝚛𝚒𝚣𝚎.”
“𝙰𝚕𝚕 𝚒𝚜 𝚏𝚊𝚒𝚛 𝚒𝚗 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚠𝚊𝚛, 𝚂𝚞𝚗𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚎.”
“𝚈𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚗𝚘 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚜𝚘𝚕𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗, 𝙻𝚊𝚞𝚛𝚎𝚗. 𝚈𝚘𝚞’𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚐𝚛𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚙𝚛𝚒𝚣𝚎.”
March 2, 2024
I stumbled across this book randomly and I'm so glad I did! This enemies-to-lovers, fake-dating romance was everything you could want and more.
The main characters in this book, Lauren and Jack, were both complex and were fully flushed out as individuals. At first I thought their chemistry was awkward, but by the end of the book, I came to appreciate the slow burn. In some enemies-to-lovers books, the initial event that causes the characters to be enemies is a silly misunderstanding, but I really enjoyed how they went about it in this book.
Add in the elements of the a cruise ship elopement where Lauren and Jack are the maid of honor and best man, a jealous ex and bad friend, hometown family anxiety and career clashes, and this book really has it all!
The main characters in this book, Lauren and Jack, were both complex and were fully flushed out as individuals. At first I thought their chemistry was awkward, but by the end of the book, I came to appreciate the slow burn. In some enemies-to-lovers books, the initial event that causes the characters to be enemies is a silly misunderstanding, but I really enjoyed how they went about it in this book.
Add in the elements of the a cruise ship elopement where Lauren and Jack are the maid of honor and best man, a jealous ex and bad friend, hometown family anxiety and career clashes, and this book really has it all!
August 19, 2023
Loved this book! I’ve realized I really really love the “he falls first” trope. This book has it all - fake relationship, enemies to lovers, he falls first, brother-in-law’s best friend, small town, forced proximity, etc.
Jack is perfectly swoony. Wish there was a little more apologizing about what made her angry at him in the first place. But, his teasing and Nick-names are adorable.
Content: previous death of parents, too-handsy friend, newly wed fights
Romance: lots of kissing
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Jack is perfectly swoony. Wish there was a little more apologizing about what made her angry at him in the first place. But, his teasing and Nick-names are adorable.
Content: previous death of parents, too-handsy friend, newly wed fights
Romance: lots of kissing
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 8, 2023
LOVED. Full review to come
March 16, 2024
So cute! First book by this author and won’t be my last!
August 22, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Romance: M/F
Spice: Mild/Clean 🌶
Format: 📱 eARC
Quick Summary
✨ FMC: Lauren Foley
✨ MMC: Jack Fletcher
✨ Dual POV
✨ Fake Dating
✨ Clean Romance
Lauren and Jack went on a date a couple years ago that ended up being one of the worst dates for both of them. Now they are forced to spend a week together on a cruise ship for Amelia (Lauren's younger sister) and Kevin's (Jack's friend) elopement.
💭 THOUGHTS 💭
Likes
• Jack!! 🥰
• side Characters (except for Sydney)
• Chemistry between Jack & Lauren
• Related to Lauren's character
• Witty Banter
• Fake Dating
• Laughed Out Loud
• The Writing
Seriously, where can I get myself a Jack Fletcher?? **swoon** This book made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside, and just felt cozy to read. There weren't any cheesy or cringey lines, just authentic and cute dialogue. There were several times where I actually laughed out loud, and I caught myself grinning from ear to ear many times. I read about 10% right before bed but was so tired I was falling asleep, but then I woke up the next morning thinking about this book so I proceeded to spend the entire day finishing the book. I didn't want to put it down. Pretty sure this is going on my comfort reads list. Can't wait for the second book, that follows Tucker, one of Jack's brothers.
Dislikes
• some miscommunication
• end felt a little rushed
I don't know how Jack just didn't end up asking Lauren why she hated him. I don't understand that mindset because I have to talk things through to death and get to the bottom, especially if I had to spend any amount of time with someone who hated me and I didn't know why. But that's just me. I wish the end (not the epilogue) was stretched out a little bit more, and instead of skipping some time. I definitely could have read about 50 more pages of this story.
Quotes
It wasn't an aversion to dancing or 90s music that kept my butt on that barstool-it was my inability to dance in front of other people and look good doing it. - Lauren
same girl, same
Not if you're trying to channel the Trunchbull. - Jack
🤭🤭
••••••••••••••
Do I recommend this book? Yes!
Would I read it again? Yes!
••••••••••••••
ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
**Remember: The above are all my own thoughts and opinions. If you don't agree then that's okay, because it just means we have different likes and thoughts.
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Romance: M/F
Spice: Mild/Clean 🌶
Format: 📱 eARC
Quick Summary
✨ FMC: Lauren Foley
✨ MMC: Jack Fletcher
✨ Dual POV
✨ Fake Dating
✨ Clean Romance
Lauren and Jack went on a date a couple years ago that ended up being one of the worst dates for both of them. Now they are forced to spend a week together on a cruise ship for Amelia (Lauren's younger sister) and Kevin's (Jack's friend) elopement.
💭 THOUGHTS 💭
Likes
• Jack!! 🥰
• side Characters (except for Sydney)
• Chemistry between Jack & Lauren
• Related to Lauren's character
• Witty Banter
• Fake Dating
• Laughed Out Loud
• The Writing
Seriously, where can I get myself a Jack Fletcher?? **swoon** This book made me feel all warm and fuzzy inside, and just felt cozy to read. There weren't any cheesy or cringey lines, just authentic and cute dialogue. There were several times where I actually laughed out loud, and I caught myself grinning from ear to ear many times. I read about 10% right before bed but was so tired I was falling asleep, but then I woke up the next morning thinking about this book so I proceeded to spend the entire day finishing the book. I didn't want to put it down. Pretty sure this is going on my comfort reads list. Can't wait for the second book, that follows Tucker, one of Jack's brothers.
Dislikes
• some miscommunication
• end felt a little rushed
I don't know how Jack just didn't end up asking Lauren why she hated him. I don't understand that mindset because I have to talk things through to death and get to the bottom, especially if I had to spend any amount of time with someone who hated me and I didn't know why. But that's just me. I wish the end (not the epilogue) was stretched out a little bit more, and instead of skipping some time. I definitely could have read about 50 more pages of this story.
Quotes
It wasn't an aversion to dancing or 90s music that kept my butt on that barstool-it was my inability to dance in front of other people and look good doing it. - Lauren
same girl, same
Not if you're trying to channel the Trunchbull. - Jack
🤭🤭
••••••••••••••
Do I recommend this book? Yes!
Would I read it again? Yes!
••••••••••••••
ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
**Remember: The above are all my own thoughts and opinions. If you don't agree then that's okay, because it just means we have different likes and thoughts.
January 8, 2024
Kasey Stockton has done it again! Love on Deck was such a great contemporary romance with lots of friendly banter and amazing characters. It really is my favorite when characters can not only take it but also dish it out to one another. Jack and Lauren have a lot to learn and walls to lower before they can move forward with their fake relationship after a horrible first date years before, but the chemistry between the two is on point.
I highly recommend this book if you're looking for something engaging that will completely hold your interest and simultaneously make you laugh and have goosebumps! There are some really fun literary tropes to be found: enemies to lovers, fake dating, flirty banter, one bed, small town, big family issues, small family issues, sibling issues, nicknames (sunshine is my favorite!) and so much more! You will not be disappointed with this book.
Take note this is a clean romance but with plenty of chemistry! A lot of the book is at sea on a cruise ship but you also get introduced to the small town of Arcadia Creek and Jack's family which might be my favorite. Cue Jack's brother Tucker and now I can't wait for the next book!! Arcadia Creek is quickly becoming my favorite small town...
Thanks to the author for an ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
******
SOME FAVORITE QUOTES I'D LOVE TO SHARE:
******
"He was so smooth. At some point I was going to need to stop being surprised every time he touched me. But it wasn’t just the actual, physical touching that threw me off— it was also the way it made me feel."
******
"I still felt the goosebumps from his lips near my ear. “ No unnecessary touching.” Jack surveyed me with sizzling blue eyes and the ghost of a smirk. “What constitutes necessary?”
******
"It was all blending into nothing, because his words ran on a loop in my head.
You can touch me anytime you want. I want you to. The trouble was, I wanted me to, also. I wanted to slide my hands over his strong shoulders and pull him close and feel what it would be like to have someone else help carry my problems for a minute."
******
"What? That sounded like a bad idea. Also, it sounded like a really, really good one."
******
Yeah I know that's going to make you want to pick this book up, mission accomplished! 😏
I highly recommend this book if you're looking for something engaging that will completely hold your interest and simultaneously make you laugh and have goosebumps! There are some really fun literary tropes to be found: enemies to lovers, fake dating, flirty banter, one bed, small town, big family issues, small family issues, sibling issues, nicknames (sunshine is my favorite!) and so much more! You will not be disappointed with this book.
Take note this is a clean romance but with plenty of chemistry! A lot of the book is at sea on a cruise ship but you also get introduced to the small town of Arcadia Creek and Jack's family which might be my favorite. Cue Jack's brother Tucker and now I can't wait for the next book!! Arcadia Creek is quickly becoming my favorite small town...
Thanks to the author for an ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
******
SOME FAVORITE QUOTES I'D LOVE TO SHARE:
******
"He was so smooth. At some point I was going to need to stop being surprised every time he touched me. But it wasn’t just the actual, physical touching that threw me off— it was also the way it made me feel."
******
"I still felt the goosebumps from his lips near my ear. “ No unnecessary touching.” Jack surveyed me with sizzling blue eyes and the ghost of a smirk. “What constitutes necessary?”
******
"It was all blending into nothing, because his words ran on a loop in my head.
You can touch me anytime you want. I want you to. The trouble was, I wanted me to, also. I wanted to slide my hands over his strong shoulders and pull him close and feel what it would be like to have someone else help carry my problems for a minute."
******
"What? That sounded like a bad idea. Also, it sounded like a really, really good one."
******
Yeah I know that's going to make you want to pick this book up, mission accomplished! 😏
December 18, 2023
Firstly, I want to say I loved the fake dating trope and how it was done in this book. Especially during the duration of the cruse. However, it felt a little bit slow, but it may have just been me going into a reading slump. So, three stars for this cute romance book!
November 30, 2023
This was a cute enemies to lovers/fake dating, dual POV, vacation romance that takes place on a Bahamas cruise ship as workaholic Lauren finally takes a break to help her sister elope. What Lauren wasn't expecting was to run into Jack, the guy from a disaster first date who also happens to be her sister's fiance's best friend.
Sparks fly when Jack pretends that Lauren is his girlfriend to help him avoid a clingy ex not realizing why Lauren never showed up for their date. Miscommunication is a big plot point in this book which is never my fav, but if you can get over that, there was lots of family and workplace drama and a sweet second chance romance.
Perfect for fans of books like Shipped by Angie Hockman or Cruise Fling by Laura Brown and good on audio read by two new to me narrators: Sara Young and Rusty Mewha.
Steam level: kissing only
Sparks fly when Jack pretends that Lauren is his girlfriend to help him avoid a clingy ex not realizing why Lauren never showed up for their date. Miscommunication is a big plot point in this book which is never my fav, but if you can get over that, there was lots of family and workplace drama and a sweet second chance romance.
Perfect for fans of books like Shipped by Angie Hockman or Cruise Fling by Laura Brown and good on audio read by two new to me narrators: Sara Young and Rusty Mewha.
Steam level: kissing only
February 16, 2024
It honestly astonishes me how many romance writers hate women.
“When Kevin and Amelia set us up on a blind date, it had started well enough. She was intelligent, and I’d thought of her as a breath of fresh air compared to the women I typically saw. She could actually discuss things of value and had insight to share. None of that breathy, fluttering crap with Lauren. She’d felt authentic.”
Why do you hate women, Jack? Oh. Because your author does.
“When Kevin and Amelia set us up on a blind date, it had started well enough. She was intelligent, and I’d thought of her as a breath of fresh air compared to the women I typically saw. She could actually discuss things of value and had insight to share. None of that breathy, fluttering crap with Lauren. She’d felt authentic.”
Why do you hate women, Jack? Oh. Because your author does.
October 10, 2023
2* I found this unbelievable and thought the characters acted immature for their ages.
September 18, 2023
Once again @authorkaseystockton has wrote a story that proves why she’s one of my auto-read authors! Love on Deck was swoony, sizzling and scrumptious! (Yes the “s” words were on purpose! I got my inspo from Jack! Ch.2!🤣)She actually had me from her Dedication, IYKYK!! 😂
Jack and Lauren were exceptional! They had sizzling chemistry, and were a match for each other! I loved their backstory..the blind date gone wrong! It caused some misunderstandings on both sides, which caused Lauren to despise Jack with a vengeance! So when they are forced to be around each other during a wedding elopement cruise, Jack asks her to be his fake girlfriend to fend off advances from his ex- girlfriend, who’s also in the wedding party. Here’s where it gets very intriguing!
Jack Fletcher! Whew, I loved Jack! Boy, could he flirt!! Not to mention, being charming and handsome! He was determined to find out what he had done wrong on their date years ago. So he set out to crack the code of Lauren Foley! And boy, did he have his work cut out for him!
Lauren was a work focused gal. She loved her sister, who was all she had left of her family! But she tended to let her work consume her, which Jack set out to change. I really liked Lauren. She was so much fun once she let her hair down and let loose. And Jack was the perfect one to #convince her to have some fun!
Fake dating is one of my fav tropes and this book showcased why! The forced proximity, witty banter, flirty moments, and little touches were done to perfection! I laughed and had a silly grin on my face from start to finish!
Things I Loved:
🍦Facial masks and ice cubes
🍦Fake dating
🍦Enemies to lovers
🍦Airport re-meet-cute
🍦One bed
🍦Unnecessary touching rule
🍦The feather filled “Do Not Cross” border
🍦Witty banter
🍦“Spreadsheets“
🍦“Sunshine”
🍦Ice cream cones 🔥
🍦The first kiss
🍦Tickling scene
🍦Small town
If you love fake dating and forced proximity, then give this book a go!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Jack and Lauren were exceptional! They had sizzling chemistry, and were a match for each other! I loved their backstory..the blind date gone wrong! It caused some misunderstandings on both sides, which caused Lauren to despise Jack with a vengeance! So when they are forced to be around each other during a wedding elopement cruise, Jack asks her to be his fake girlfriend to fend off advances from his ex- girlfriend, who’s also in the wedding party. Here’s where it gets very intriguing!
Jack Fletcher! Whew, I loved Jack! Boy, could he flirt!! Not to mention, being charming and handsome! He was determined to find out what he had done wrong on their date years ago. So he set out to crack the code of Lauren Foley! And boy, did he have his work cut out for him!
Lauren was a work focused gal. She loved her sister, who was all she had left of her family! But she tended to let her work consume her, which Jack set out to change. I really liked Lauren. She was so much fun once she let her hair down and let loose. And Jack was the perfect one to #convince her to have some fun!
Fake dating is one of my fav tropes and this book showcased why! The forced proximity, witty banter, flirty moments, and little touches were done to perfection! I laughed and had a silly grin on my face from start to finish!
Things I Loved:
🍦Facial masks and ice cubes
🍦Fake dating
🍦Enemies to lovers
🍦Airport re-meet-cute
🍦One bed
🍦Unnecessary touching rule
🍦The feather filled “Do Not Cross” border
🍦Witty banter
🍦“Spreadsheets“
🍦“Sunshine”
🍦Ice cream cones 🔥
🍦The first kiss
🍦Tickling scene
🍦Small town
If you love fake dating and forced proximity, then give this book a go!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 25, 2023
Synopsis:
Lauren and Jack had a disastrous blind date and staying away from each other was the best option. Until her sister marries his best friend, now they're stuck on a cruise pretending to date for a week. Will that vacation feeling last after they return home?
Includes:
✨Best Man/Maid Of honor
✨Fake dating
✨Enemies to lovers
✨Second chance
✨One bed
✨Found family
✨Opposites attract
✨Slow Burn
🌶️Heat Level:
Just (swoony) Kisses
Attraction / Tension:🔥🔥🔥
My Opinion:
This is my first Kasey Stockton book and I am completely in love with her writing. The book is so good and enjoyable that you can lost track of time (I stayed up too late some nights reading it lol).
The story has so many tropes but they were build beautifully, like pieces being put together effortlessly. I love the world building, it's a great start for the series, the characters are amazing and had their own depth.
Jack is a sweetheart and the story can make us understand him and fall for him as well. Lauren is a complex character. I feel deeply for her, her problems and perks (I related a lot with her) and I can see how people may like her or not. Their conflicts are very relatable, what makes us care about them so much and Jack and Lauren's chemistry was build up in a nice and sweet way.
I can't way to read the next books and I will definitely continue to read her previous books as well.
*I received a free review copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.*
Lauren and Jack had a disastrous blind date and staying away from each other was the best option. Until her sister marries his best friend, now they're stuck on a cruise pretending to date for a week. Will that vacation feeling last after they return home?
Includes:
✨Best Man/Maid Of honor
✨Fake dating
✨Enemies to lovers
✨Second chance
✨One bed
✨Found family
✨Opposites attract
✨Slow Burn
🌶️Heat Level:
Just (swoony) Kisses
Attraction / Tension:🔥🔥🔥
My Opinion:
This is my first Kasey Stockton book and I am completely in love with her writing. The book is so good and enjoyable that you can lost track of time (I stayed up too late some nights reading it lol).
The story has so many tropes but they were build beautifully, like pieces being put together effortlessly. I love the world building, it's a great start for the series, the characters are amazing and had their own depth.
Jack is a sweetheart and the story can make us understand him and fall for him as well. Lauren is a complex character. I feel deeply for her, her problems and perks (I related a lot with her) and I can see how people may like her or not. Their conflicts are very relatable, what makes us care about them so much and Jack and Lauren's chemistry was build up in a nice and sweet way.
I can't way to read the next books and I will definitely continue to read her previous books as well.
*I received a free review copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.*
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