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Archer & Everleigh #1

Forcing You Away

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As I search for a fresh start, a friend convinces me to move to his small town. Considering I don’t have a place to live, his little sister offers me her spare room.

She’s every man’s dream—witty, down to earth, and gorgeous as hell—too bad she’s off-limits. Unspoken words and stolen glances have me eager to please her in all the forbidden ways. My broken past makes it hard to open up, however, she inspires me to face my demons and be the man she deserves. 

I shouldn’t fantasize about my roommate, but it’s impossible when Everleigh’s sleeping next to me—her lips whispering my name.

FORCING YOU AWAY is book 1 in the Archer & Everleigh duet and must be read first.

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 19, 2021

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About the author

Kennedy Fox

78 books5,749 followers
Brooke Cumberland and Lyra Parish are a duo of romance authors under the USA Today pseudonym, Kennedy Fox. Their characters will make you blush and your heart melt. Cowboys in tight jeans are their kryptonite. They always guarantee a happily ever after!

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5 stars
414 (59%)
4 stars
191 (27%)
3 stars
70 (10%)
2 stars
15 (2%)
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5 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
October 18, 2021
Highly anticipated story of Everleigh and Archer! I have been waiting for this book ever since we met Everleigh and per usual these authors did NOT disappoint! After getting to know Everleigh in previous books, I was really excited to see what type of guy would be the one to tame her, and Archer is that man. This book really focuses on establishing both characters, while we meet Archer for the first time and understand not only why he was in prison but also his personality and who he is as a person. We also get to know Everleigh and more about her outside of the base level we have experienced in the previous books. Archer is extremely dedicated to re-establishing his life and moving on from his time served, while also looking to reconnect with his sister. What starts as immediate attraction between these two, and some extremely comedic banter, turns into more when they have different experiences than Everleigh typically has with men. Without giving anything away, it’s not clear who is behind the cliffhanger in this book, but there have been seeds dropped that have you questioning the who and why, and per usual the cliffhangers are some of the best I’ve read! I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book after being on the edge of my seat!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Rina's Reads.
1,523 reviews34 followers
November 25, 2021
This slow burn, roommates to lovers, brother's best friend book will leave you in shock.
Kennedy Fox have outdone themselves with this one. This cliffhanger was more brutal than any of the previous ones.


From the crumbs we were given in the previous books, I already knew Archer was a protective person.
This was evident by the way he treated Everleigh, how he cared for her.

We have already been introduced to the hot mess that Everleigh can be. Although she has always been loyal, caring, and the life of any party, her bluntness and sass are on full display this time round.

Together? They just make sense.
They balance each other out.
He is the calm to her crazy.
The big spoon to her little spoon.
They are so cute together.
And I am HERE FOR IT ALL.

Could it be her man-eating history that forces them apart?
Or will it be someone from his past that makes an appearance?
Well, prepare yourselves... my chest is still pounding from that shocker of an ending.

Lia, as always, rocked the narration. Tor did a decent job.
Profile Image for PP's Bookshelf.
2,356 reviews365 followers
October 17, 2021
Forcing You Away by Kennedy Fox was full of emotional tension, sexy chemistry and an intriguing undertone of suspense. It is a roommtes to lovers, brother's best friend small town romance that had steam, swoon and mystery together.
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Ex convict Archer went to prison to save his sister from the murder charge of her abusive drug addict boyfriend. Now he is out and his best friend from prison Tyler has invited him to Lawton Ridge where Tyler has started a new life. And he is going to stay with Tyler's sister Everleigh. She is full of sass and wit and she is irresistible. But she is also off limits. Both have secrets and dangers in their past.
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Everleigh was such a beautiful and colourful woman! She is smart, independent, successful and reckless almost all the time. She lives life at her own risk and by her own rules. She is also caring and loving and never judges Archer for her past. Archer is a good man through and through. He has a charm and great sex appeal that makes every woman fall for him. He is hard working and determined to leave his past behind. He is confident and vulnerable and protective. Their chemistry was instant and explosive but Archer resisted as long as he could. The slow burn was sweet and torturing as they played a sexy game. Their friendship was so sweet and I enjoyed reading about the fun times they spent with each other and their families and friends. It had a major cliffhanger as the past creeps back to their lives.
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If you love steamy and swoony small town romance with twists, Forcing You Away by Kennedy Fox is your choice.
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I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Profile Image for A Book Obsessed Brit.
552 reviews66 followers
December 6, 2021
I feel like I have been waiting for this duet for so long with the little hints and build up throughout the previous books in the Lawton Ridge series. Archer and Everleigh's first book is a super slow burn and a different dynamic to what I expected. I thought there would be more push and pull and plenty of sass from Everleigh's devil may care attitude but I found quite the opposite for the most part.

Forcing You Away focused on the Hero and heroine building up a friendship, as they do their attraction to one another intensifies but they hold back because of Tyler (Everleigh's brother and Archer's best friend). After his time in prison Archer wants to get his life back on track and a relationship isn't part of that plan but when Everleigh enters his world he realises he is in trouble.

In typical Kennedy Fox style the chemistry builds as the book progresses and just as you get comfortable you get smacked upside the head with a cliff hanger you don't see coming! Sprinkled throughout is breadcrumbs of a sub plot that is going to throw a spanner in the works but I was blindsided by how this book ended and I want book 2 ASAP.

I listened to Forcing You Away on Audio and with Tor Thom and Lia Langola narrating I settled right into listening to the story play out. I am a big fan of Lia anyway and she nailed it as always. Tor played Archer perfectly for me, understated and thoughtful bringing that gentleness that Archer exudes.
Profile Image for SCBookAddict.
640 reviews49 followers
October 19, 2021
I have been wanting this one for so long and Everleigh is exactly what I was hoping for. She's bold, brazen and so much fun! And Archer! Poor thing! He never stood
a chance, did he?

Forcing You Away is part one of Archer and Everleigh’s duet. Everleigh is Tyler's younger sister and Archer is Tyler's friend. With Archer needing a place to live, Everleigh's place is deemed to be where he'll be staying. (With rules set by big brother Tyler, of course.)

I love that these two connect right away. Not sexually, although they both admit to being attracted to each other, but they just mesh. They were fun to read!

Now, while I love these two characters, I'm not too fond of Kennedy Fox and that cliffhanger! Not cool ladies! Not cool!

I will say that this is one of the best cliffhangers I've seen in a while. I wanted to be able to turn the page for just a little more but of course I couldn't.

I need Wanting You Close (book 2) ASAP because I need answers!
Profile Image for Alecia (The Staircase Reader).
1,037 reviews71 followers
October 25, 2021
description
Forcing you away is the first book in Archer and Everleigh duet and the fifth book in the Lawton Ridge Duet series. Their duet is best read within the series, but can also be read as a standalone. It all comes down to how you like to read your series.

I’ve been waiting for Everleigh’s story since she showed her face in this series! I love this woman’s independence. When she sets her sights on something she wants, she goes for it, and doesn’t let anyone stand in her way. I loved her vibe and I loved how she was with her family and her friends. One thing I appreciate about this duo’s writing style is the strong family vibes. I’m a sucker for a tight family and strong relationships all around in my reading and Kennedy Fox hit the hammer right on the nail.

Now let’s talk about Archer. This man is so much more than what I expected. Having spent time in prison, you’d think this man would be stone cold or hard as a rock. You’d think wrong, this man is just trying to live his best life and get acquainted with the outside world. He has a job at his best friend, Tyler’s, gym and a roof over his head thanks to Tyler’s sister, Everleigh. The only drawback with having Everleigh as a roommate, she’s off-limits by her older brother’s orders. And this is where I came to love Archer the most. The fact that Archer fought with himself and refused to cross that line shows how much friendship meant to this man.

I can’t even begin to tell you all how much I loved this novel. Everything about this novel is the exact reasoning behind why I read romance. From the scorching sexual tension between Everleigh and Archer, to the sweet cuddly vibes. These two are a match made in romance novel heaven!

I’m seriously sitting here wide eyed. I’m not sure whether I want to throw my kindle across the room or if I should curl up in a ball under my covers and cry all the tears!! I need answers!!

If you are questioning whether you should read the Lawton Ridge series by Kennedy Fox here’s your answer. If you love suspenseful tales with romantic vibes, check this series out. If you are a fan of the Older Brother’s Best Friend and the Roommates to Lovers tropes, that’s even more of a reason for why you should 1-click this novel. If you love swoony heroes and feisty heroines… Do I really have to say it again!?

Overall, I couldn’t get enough of Archer and Everleigh! I want more!!!

________________

description

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Profile Image for Elsa Gomes (BookishAurora).
2,170 reviews295 followers
October 19, 2021
Rate:  4,5/ 5 stars

A fast, delightful read. I read this baby in one sitting! I loved watching the friendship grow between these two, the sexual tension was 👌🏻. I love it when I got to see two characters pin for each other like these two.

Archer is a sweetheart and so hot, lorddd. And Everleigh is just something else, I absolutely lovedddd her! She’s so fun and her little games🙌🏻

The ending omg!! I need book 2 stat!! Tyler better have a good reaction once he finds out that his bff and sister are together. I mean after that ending, it won’t really matter, will it?! 🤞🏻

Another fabulous book from this incredible duo! Now bring on book 2!!

➳ARC kindly provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.

➳ Order at: Amazon US

➳ Follow me on: InstagramFacebook Tiktok
Profile Image for Amy [Book Addict Reviews].
2,313 reviews167 followers
October 19, 2021
Forcing You Away captures you from page one and keeps you on the edge of your seat with the suspense and the tension between Archer and Everleigh.

Archer is out of prison and is getting a second chance at life thanks to his friend, Tyler. His new roommate is Tyler’s sister, Everleigh. Everleigh is hardworking, but she is also a little bit of a spicy disaster. Really, they are two people you’d never expect them to be roommates, let alone become friends. Yet, there is something that just clicks with them.

The chemistry between Archer and Everleigh is so perfect. The tension and the build up between the two of them is addictive. They are complete opposites yet they are also so perfect for each other. They are walking a fine line though and slowly creepy over it. Archer made a promise and he doesn’t want to break that, he doesn’t want to risk his second chance at life.

Their pasts are coming back to haunt them, but can they survive the skeletons in both of their closets? I am DYING for book two. I can’t wait to see what will happen next with Archer and Everleigh!

If you’re looking for a small town, brothers best friend, opposites attract romance with the suspense this is one to read!
Profile Image for Jess Ostrander.
274 reviews31 followers
October 22, 2021
Everleigh is my favorite and I love Archer!! This was the most fun of the duets so far! I adore this series, and this was no exception. Everleigh is such a spitfire and I love her. She's so unapologetically herself and I love her banter. Archer is great too. I like how he fit in with Everleigh and the rest of the gang. He tries to be loyal to Tyler and a good friend. It's a bit of a slow burn, but with quite the spicy payoff. I loved their romance and how it developed. And of course, this wouldn't be a Lawton Ridge story without a twist and a cliffhanger! I think I have things figured out, but they've surprised me before, so I definitely can't wait for book two!! I know the HEA will be worth the pain of waiting! I definitely wanted this book to keep going and never be over. I couldn't put it down.
Archer and Everleigh have taken the prize as my top KF couple so far! I can't wait for more of them and more of this series!
Profile Image for Tanja OMGReads.
2,059 reviews48 followers
October 18, 2021
Before I get into why i gave this 4,5* I'd like to start with my eyeroll:
My big eyeroll was her way of pushing his buttons when he refused to give into their attraction and she trying to make him jealous. That was a big NO-NO for me. She was my spirit animal up until this point. This dimed the shine a little... But just a little :)

Now let's talk about what I did like; their friendship. It was so genuine and sweet. The chemistry was just waiting to boil over and when it did I swear I felt my fingers burn.
I found it cute the way they spent all of their time together but refused to make a move unit It became unbearable to not touch each other. The banter was funny and easy going despite her not having much of a filter.
The mystery who is following them is making me crazy but there are many that could be after them so I'm super excited for book 2 because these two need more time together to feel happy in each other's arms and prove to themselves that their love is worth fighting for.

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Profile Image for Kayla Pocernich.
1,541 reviews1 follower
October 20, 2021
This book was amazing and I couldn't put it down once I started reading it. Archer and Everleigh are so good together that the chemistry between them is even to start a small fire or melt your kindle. Everleigh and Archer start off as roommates but that turns into so much more with that mind blowing chemistry that is between them. Archer is trying to get a fresh start after being released from prision but his past is still haunting him when he gets this odd feeling that he is being followed. Everleigh is running her business and living her best life but her life is turned upside down when Archer shows up. Like any other book in this series it ends with a cliffhanger and this cliffhanger will have demanding book 2 now..
Profile Image for Book Maniac Forever.
951 reviews380 followers
October 18, 2021

⭐️ 4.5 "Ever After" Stars ⭐️
Forcing You Away was a highly anticipated release for me! Since book one of the Lawton Ridge Series, I’d been dying for Everleigh’s duet. That woman is a riot and I couldn’t wait to finally see her fall in love. This novel was everything I wanted and more, with some of my favorite tropes: brother’s best friend, roommates, opposites attract and small town romance.

"𝑴𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘𝒔 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝑰'𝒗𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒆𝒍𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆, 𝒓𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒘𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔."

Everleigh is Tyler’s younger sister from Keeping You Away and I absolutely adored her in the previous books. She’s always ready for a good time, bubbly, genuine and so much fun. She’s the complete opposite of Archer who's reserved and quiet, but they just click instantly when he becomes her roommate. He’s Tyler’s friend from prison and new in town. He’s trying to start a new life without drama and keeps to himself.

His relationship with Everleigh evolves truly beautifully from friends to lovers. They balance each other so well and their effortless interactions are purely stunning. The slow burn and simmering attraction between them had me so giddy for their romantic feelings to utimately be explored. Awww, they're such a magnificent couple.

"𝑾𝒆 𝒎𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌 𝒐𝒓 𝒘𝒆 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒓𝒕, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒂𝒕 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒕 𝒘𝒆 𝒄𝒂𝒏 𝒔𝒂𝒚 𝒘𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒅."

The whole Lawton Ridge crew was really interesting too. Tyler, Gemma, Noah, Katie and the others bring a certain depth to the story with their presence. There is also a captivating intrigue with a gripping mystery that had me guessing all read long. The ending had me astounded and so eager for the next book, Wanting You Close! The start of the Archer & Everleigh Duet was a delight!

** ARC received in exchange for an honest review **
Profile Image for Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer).
791 reviews57 followers
October 18, 2021
4/4.25 ⭐️

Everleigh’s story is one I had been looking forward to since reading about her in the start of the Lawton Ridge Duet series with her brother Tyler’s story, Keeping You Away and Needing You Close. So to say I was excited when I finally got my hands on a copy is an understatement.

It should be said Everleigh Blackwood and Archer Boone’s story in Forcing You Away was THE SLOWEST Slow Burn I have ever read, long lasting and forever growing further away as the narrative went on. But I didn’t mind that, because the overall story made up for it.
The narrative took you on a somewhat calm and slow ride, allowing you absorb the build up of the ever blossoming emotions and feelings Everleigh and Archer felt for each other at a easy and steady pace. The bold, sassy, cheekiness of Everleigh plus the charming, loveable, gentleman-ness of Archer together equated to moments of witty and flirty banter making the story fun, entertaining and laughable throughout. Whilst still having moments of angst from the worries that surrounded Everleigh and Archer's individual past that seemed to be making it's way to their present lives. Leading to some mysterious and suspenseful moments that were filled with tension too.
Although it did drive me crazy with the agonising wait that we are forced to endure for them to see they're meant to be together. However given their chemistry, it made the wait all the more alluring and worth while in the end. Especially seeing the sparks that flew just kept on constantly spewing throughout, only to EXPLODE into a BIG BALL of SIZZLING, SUPER HOT, FIERY STEAM when Everleigh and Archer finally gave into one another.

Can I just say that ending! HOLY SMOKES BATMAN! That was one EPIC cliffhanger that I definitely did not see coming AT ALL! Kennedy Fox definitely had me jaw dropped, throwing me for a loop with just how unexpected it was.
Safe to say, I CANNOT WAIT to see how Everleigh and Archer’s story will play out in the finale to Lawton Ridge Duet series with Wanting You Close.



*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jennie.
244 reviews6 followers
October 29, 2021
I’ve been waiting for Archer & Everleigh’s story and it did not disappoint!! This slow burn, roommates to lovers, older brother’s best friend rom com with a suspenseful undertone will captivate you and leave you shocked at that cliffhanger ending. Everleigh was a favorite side character in the previous books, but as the lead she was amazing. She was independent, sassy, funny, and lived by her own rules. She’s flirty and friendly and makes everyone around her feel welcome. Archer, just got out of prison for a crime he did not commit. Archer had the whole bad boy vibe, but he was reserved, sweet, protective, with a vulnerable swoony side. Their chemistry was explosive and the sexual tension just kept building. They just clicked like they knew each other their whole lives. This story had me hooked, laughing, swooning and surprised at the crazy cliffhanger. Can’t wait to read how their story ends! Kennedy Fox is a new favorite to read and I always look forward to their books. If you love slow burn, friends to lovers, swoony small town romance with a few twists and turns, definitely add this to your TBR.

*Received review copy in exchange for honest review*
Profile Image for Suzanne.
2,569 reviews44 followers
October 19, 2021
OHHHH the slow burn! I have been dying to get my hands on Everleigh’s story since we first meet her as Tyler’s sister in the first duet of this series. I loved her attitude, her sass. Just everything. Now getting to see inside her mind is just EVERYTHING! I could not get enough. That low sizzle that slowly builds for her and Archer is absolutely everything! The push and pull, the will he kiss her or will she kiss him just gave so much energy that I was DYING to know more!
As with the first book in the duet, it will leave on a slight cliffy that will have you with so many questions and begging for answers. It is so intense and raw between these two because they are both so scared to really open up and care and I adored that about this couple. Fox gave us all the swoon, the slow spicy burn and epic wit and banter that you will live for. With how it ended, I am so looking forward to seeing how it will all play out!
Profile Image for Rachel.
42 reviews
October 20, 2021
I think every time Kennedy Fox writes a book it’s just the best one they’ve ever done. They outdo themselves every single time.

Archer and Everleigh are absolutely amazing together. Their chemistry is off the charts hot. But what do you do when someone says the other one is off limits? You resist until you can’t anymore and then watch out! Everleigh is such a fun character and brings Archer out of his shell a bit, which I absolutely adore. They are just perfect together.

There’s also a mystery in the background. An out of place car that’s always around. And a threat that leaves us guessing. Who is it? Who are they after? And why are they around?

Be prepared, this book ends on a cliffhanger and you will have a serious book hangover when you’re done reading. But don’t worry. Book 2 of this duet is coming!
Profile Image for MegMac.
21 reviews
October 19, 2021
What a story and what a cliffhanger!?!
I loved the characters in Forcing You Away however, I may be a little biased as Lawton Ridge is my favourite series!
Archer is any ladies wet dream, protective, handsome and full of tattoos! We have already been introduced to Everleigh in the previous books but she's gorgeous, caring and a little bit of a hot mess! But together they compliment each other.

What will happen when a past incident wants revenge...?

A story perfect for this time of year to get your Christmas spirit flowing. Amazing writing as always by Kennedy Fox with a few steamy scenes and a cliffhanger that makes your heart pound. This book will leave you wanting more!
Profile Image for Tania's Book Blog.
1,642 reviews20 followers
November 2, 2021
Everleigh was always a whole vibe in the other two books so I knew her story was going to be very entertaining. Archer balanced her out; he was different than her personality wise. They both had pasts that they were trying to put behind them. He was an amazing friend and a very protective brother and uncle. He was also very protective of Everleigh. These two tried not crossing the lines because they were also roommates. They had great times together and when they finally crossed that line then something tragic happened. Question is who’s past came back to haunt them? Need book 2!!!
Profile Image for Julie.
230 reviews3 followers
October 17, 2021
Everleigh is free-spirited, bold, carefree, fiercely loyal and has a huge heart. Archer is trying to rebuild his life after getting out of prison and moves to Lawton Ridge to work with his friend and Everleigh's brother Tyler. Archer moves in with Everleigh and after a few months of being roomies they fall hard for each other. Everleigh's antics are so much fun to read and Archer's interactions with Everleigh and his sister are both sweet and hot! But OH MY GOSH, that cliffhanger has me so anxious for the next book so all my questions can be answered. Loved it!
Profile Image for Shirley.
812 reviews5 followers
October 18, 2021
The first in the Archer & Everleigh duet.
Their personalities are almost opposite, but compliment each other. Despite a warning, their chemistry is undeniable. Their story gives new meaning to slow burn. I really like the way this author keeps us guessing while building toward the inevitable, the suspense, the feeling that the other shoe is about to fall, but we're not sure who will be on the receiving end or who the culprit is.
Then there's that cliffy... is it November yet??!
Profile Image for Patti.
1,377 reviews
October 18, 2021
OMG! Totally amazing. But what else could you expect from the awesome Duo Kennedy Fox? Archer and Everleigh may be my favorite new couple from these two. Such wonderful characters, amazing chemistry, and overall great hearts. The story keeps you rivited to your seat until you get to that all expected cliffhanger and you scream, "WHAT???"
Go grab it you will not be disappointed!
Profile Image for Shyanne Lindballe.
147 reviews3 followers
October 24, 2021
HOW DARE YOU?!! I knew there was going to be a cliff hanger but why that! Ughhhh now I have to wait for the next book. I absolutely loved all the tension between A & E the build up was sooo worth it. They are just so perfect together. This book was sooo good though but I just want more right now so could you release the next book ASAP that would be great thank you!!
Profile Image for Janeen.
865 reviews
October 29, 2021
I’ve been waiting for Everleigh & Archer’s story and it certainly did not disappoint.

Roommates to lovers
Brothers best friend

The chemistry is off the charts and Archer tries to fight it but when they finally give in…..🔥🔥🔥

I love Everleigh and her sass and no nonsense attitude.

This is book one of a duet and does end in a cliffhanger.
Profile Image for Ashley Herndon.
1,039 reviews14 followers
October 19, 2021
Yesssss. Finally. Everleigh’s turn!

I love this girl. Hard crushing!!!

And. Gotta say, Archer is dreammmyyy!!!

I loved this book. I cannot wait for book 2!!!

Fun loving, free spirit Everleigh is exactly what Archer needs after the last 5 years. But she’s off limits…

Whatever shall they do!

Hot and wildly recommended
Profile Image for Alexis.
229 reviews69 followers
October 27, 2021
I was hooked from the beginning and I couldn’t put it down! The characters and story just draw you in and keep you interested. A definite must read.
Profile Image for Roz.
135 reviews6 followers
November 15, 2021
This was my most anticipated book in the Ex-Con series. I liked the first two duets but I felt like this one is the one. And Kennedy Fox never disappoints. I can't wait for the next book to be released specially when a cliffhanger like this is present.
Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
4,706 reviews45 followers
October 19, 2021
I feel like Everleigh's reputation has been building ever since the first book of this series. And finally! We got her book and it went beyond what I had expected.

Everleigh has been deemed the maneater by her brother and he had warned both Everleigh and Archer that they're off-limits to each other. Strictly roomies. No matter how much chemistry they have.

I am OBSESSED with these two! I loved how, unexpectedly, they didn't start to get physical with each other despite Everleigh's reputation and they build up a friendship with a side of attraction and chemistry. I loved seeing their interactions and their banter. Everleigh is always fun to read. This first book was easy to read. But I feel like their story is only getting started especially with how their story ended with that cliffhanger. I can't wait to read what happened next!
Profile Image for Kay Daniels (Kay Daniels Romance).
1,765 reviews56 followers
October 17, 2021
Fire! Deep fried southern sassy fire!! Everleigh and Archer bring the sweetness and sassiness to Lawton Ridge and it is perfection!

I've been eagerly awaiting for Everleigh's story and the first half of this duet did not disappoint! Everleigh is sassy, big hearted, and befriends everyone who steps in her path. Of course she was going to help her Archer, her brother's friend when he needed a place to stay. Not only is that southern hospitality, but it is a very Everleigh thing to do. The one thing she was not going to do was stop flirting with the gorgeous hunk of a man, Archer. Flirting was in Everleigh's genetic makeup and she didn't know how to turn it off, even if it did infuriate her brother.

Archer spent the last five years of his life in prison and he needed a fresh start. Tyler knew what it was like having been there himself, so when Archer was released Tyler offered him a job and a place to stay. The open arms of Tyler's family and friends, well, Archer had never really had that before and even though Everleigh was temptation herself, he also knew he didn't want to mess up and throw away his second chance at a new life. However, as each day progressed, living with the vivacious woman got harder and harder, and remaining friends was down right near impossible. 

I love the small town community, but this story in particular really brings home that sweetness of living in a small town aspect. It's probably Everleigh's view of living there more than anything. While she loves it, she does point out how hard dating can be or even shopping, but her spirit of loving everyone the joy she brings to every event is super infectious. It's truly what Archer needed or what any of the guys needed after being released from prison. She is really fun to read. 

Archer is also truly sweet. For a man who was locked away for five years, he didn't let it ruin his soul. He's respectful, courteous, and just a nice guy. He could have let what happened sour him, but instead he's looking to be a better man. I really like that and want the two of them to work out, they both deserve it.

This is a duet and this book does have a small dose of intrigue that leaves us on a big cliffhanger. Their pasts have the potential to harm both of them, but which one will really do it, that is the mystery...I can hardly wait to find out because these two need their joy.

As each book has built within this series, all of the characters linked together and their stories all connected, but by far Archer and Everleigh's connection, sizzling chemistry, and overall story this book can be read as a standalone. Plus, I want to mention they are also my favorite couple by a landslide.
Profile Image for Renee.
4,245 reviews59 followers
October 18, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

As I search for a fresh start, a friend convinces me to move to his small town. Considering I don't have a place to live, his little sister offers me her spare room. She's every man's dream-witty, down to earth, and gorgeous as hell-too bad she's off-limits. Unspoken words and stolen glances have me eager to please her in all the forbidden ways. My broken past makes it hard to open up, however, she inspires me to face my demons and be the man she deserves. I shouldn't fantasize about my roommate, but it's impossible when Everleigh's sleeping next to me-her lips whispering my name.

This is the first book in the Archer and Everleigh duet. These are two characters that you are going to fall so in love with it. I loved Everleigh and Archer so much and a great best friends sister book just really is right up my alley. Archer is one of the most protective men there is out there and you can tell it in the way he treats the people that he cares about and Everleigh is one of those people. I thought that he was so good to her. Everleigh on the other hands is a hot mess but Archer really seems to balance her out. But they both know that they can't have each other in the sweetest ways. He is the opposite to everything that she is and they make a couple you never wants story to end. I couldn't put this book down. I loved every single second of it and can not wait to see what happens in the next book. After all Everleigh was a man eater and I am afraid that will come back to bit them in the butt.
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