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CONTEST: WIN A DATE TO MY HONEYMOON

I realize that a social media post isn’t the usual way to secure a date to your honeymoon—for obvious reasons—but here we are.

My wedding was canceled. What’s not canceled is the nonrefundable, ten-thousand-dollar all-inclusive vacation at a luxury resort, and I’m not about to let it go to waste.
I’m packed and ready to hit the beach. ButI can’t deny that it might be more interesting to honeymoon with someone.

Since my track record of picking dates isn’t exactly golden, I’ve done something that I hope I don’t regret. In a moment of weakness—mixed with panic and fueled by margaritas—I agreed to let my friends choose someone to go with me.

It’ll be a blind date / postnuptial vacation—without the nuptials. A few fun days in paradise with no expectations. No obligations.

Before you say, “pick me for a free vacay!” a few things to consider …

The perfect candidate will be single. He won’t talk too much on the plane. And he’ll be able to leave town quickly.

He will also be okay with sharing a bed. It’s a honeymoon suite, after all.

If you want to be considered, email Rebecca and Sara your application at the address below. (Get creative. There’s a free vacation on the line.)

Wheels up next week!

Godspeed, honeymooners.


Grab your suitcase and prepare for the time of your life in this swoony tale that’s as hot as the tropical destination itself. Fans of runaway brides, close-proximity, one-bed, and friends-to-lovers tropes will fall hopelessly in love with this fling-to-forever romance.

290 pages, Paperback

First published August 15, 2022

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About the author

Adriana Locke

68 books14.4k followers
USA Today Bestselling author, Adriana Locke, writes contemporary romances about the two things she knows best—big families and small towns. Her stories are about ordinary people finding extraordinary love with the perfect combination of heart, heat, and humor.

She loves connecting with readers, fall weather, football, reading alpha heroes, everything pumpkin, and pretending to garden.

Hailing from a tiny town in the Midwest, Adriana spends her free time with her high school sweetheart (who she married over twenty-five years ago) and their four sons (who truly are her best work). Her kitchen may be a perpetual disaster, and if all else fails, there is always pizza.

Learn more at adrianalocke.com.

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5 stars
4,030 (48%)
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3 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 685 reviews
Profile Image for Christy.
4,105 reviews34.6k followers
April 17, 2024
4 stars

I was so happy to get back into the ‘Carmichael Family’ series. These books are so fun! Maddox and Ashley have a great friends to lovers romance that starts with them going on her honeymoon… Yes, you heard that right.

After ending her engagement, Ashley is left for a prepaid honeymoon she isn’t going to waste and ends up going with her best guy friend, Maddox. The sparks that have always been between them fly even more and I couldn’t wait to see where it went. After finishing, I’m so excited to get more Carmichael books, especially Banks!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Grace Grant & Joe Arden
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 8h 15m


Profile Image for Marissa.
Author 2 books15 followers
August 12, 2022
Adriana Locke does it again. Absolutely loved Maddox and Ashley. I couldn’t put the book down. Their story is fun and hilarious (mainly due to Banks). Loved the relationship between Maddox and his brothers, sister and parents. I hope we see Ashley’s friends in future books. Prepare to laugh, swoon, and have a good time.
Profile Image for ❤️ Nanda ❤️.
733 reviews401 followers
April 24, 2023
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧

I'm in love with the Carmichael family!
Every single one of them are full of too much fun, love and loyalty and I'm here for their ridiculous pranks on each other!

Maddox is one of the middle child between his 5 siblings and Ash is his childhood best friend. They never crossed that line... and that's just until she comes back to his life, after breaking off her engagement to another man, and they both star to let their eyes and minds wonder.

I really loved how Maddox inserted himself on that plane, and all his dirty talk to convince Ashley to embrace their fling.

He was so sweet and caring with her, so swoon worth it and I was digging their connection fiercely!
That's probably why I didn't liked much when their conflict came up. I mean... I understood that he was scared of commitments (for no reason), and that she was a serial dater, but why would they take a break, to if they were both living their happiest moments together?

Anyway... it was a quick and short break and for that, I'm pleased. I honestly can't wait to have Banks' book! He's the most funny and spoiled between the Carmichael's brothers and I can't with him! 😂😂😂

🎧 About the Audiobook Narration 🎧

That's a good review, both vice actors did a great work with the interpretation of this book, but I don't think her voice was a good fit for Ashley. It was a great narration though.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
157 reviews11 followers
August 16, 2022
Fantastic! Sweet, swoony, sexy & fun. Maddox is much more layered than I expected him to be. Ash is just fun. The banter between these two is amazing.
Plus, you get more Carmichael shenanigans with Banks, and the rest of the family makes you want to move to the beach & become friends who get invited to Sunday dinner. Looking forward to reading the next one.
Profile Image for Jenifer Briggs.
1,426 reviews171 followers
August 15, 2022
This book was SO FREAKING ADORABLE. I haven't enjoyed reading a book so much in a long time, it was just pure fun! The chemistry, the banter, the feels, the sexy times and the brother shenanigans were all so on point! Addy has created such an amazing series and I'm so hooked on these men!!

This is Ashley and Maddox's story-- they have been friends ever since he saved her hair from gum in the first grade, and as they've gotten older, there's always been an undercurrent of flirting with their friendly banter. But when Ashley breaks off her engagement and comes back home, their flirting now feels more intense than ever. When Ashley's friends put out an ad for someone accompanying her on her honeymoon, she never expected Maddox to show up. But the days they spend in paradise allows her to see just what was in front of her all along, if only if they can be both strip away their fears so they can get what they want.

I'm barley scratching the surface here, but MAN, it has to be said again that this was just such a fun read!! I had a smile on my face damn near the entire time, and the chemistry between these two was just F I R E. I loved how they always loved one another-- they just didn't want to admit it to themselves in fear of messing up their friendship. But oh my swoony goodness, this romance was just epic.

Be prepared for bumpy strawberries *winks* swimming with pigs, some truly laugh out loud moments, and a romance you do not want to miss. Addy is killing it with this series!!!


ALSO. so I could be wrong, but one of Ashley's best friend revealed a secret that SHOOKETH me. And if she was referring to whom I believe she was referring to, (channel WITS) then I need her to get her own epic happy ever after like yesterday. Omg, if I'm right, that legit killed me. I just can't. WHO HURT YOU, ADDY?!?


**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
Profile Image for Dela.
154 reviews8 followers
September 20, 2022
This was a fun / quick read! Maddox and Ashley were cute. I will say, I felt the theatrics at the end of the book felt forced so that there'd be conflict for the sake of having it... other than that, it was a good read for sure.

P.s. while I loved Maddox he is no Moss... sorry it had ro be said. Still love him though!

P.s.s. while Ashley isn't the greatest female lead I did think she was better than Brooke in the sense that she stood up for herself and seem to have more personality.
8 reviews
August 12, 2022
Adriana has done it again! Beautiful writing that had me laughing out loud, swooning and falling in love with another of her characters. Maddox does not disappoint! Maddox and Ashley's story is one of the best friends to lovers stories I've read in a while!
Profile Image for Wendy'sThoughts.
2,667 reviews3,274 followers
June 7, 2023
5 Locke Did It Again Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
I read the first book of this series and was so enthused, jumped and read the next entry as soon as I could get my little hands on it.
This series with the Amazing Carmichael Family captured my heart and continues to make me incredibly happy.

Read the blurb, it lays everything out for you to be ready for the fun.

Adrina Locke is on a roll.

Flirt by Adriana Locke Flirt
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Fling by Adriana Locke Fling
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Fluke by Adriana Locke Fluke
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Flaunt by Adriana Locke Flaunt
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Flame by Adriana Locke Flame
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

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Profile Image for Aundi Living That Book Life.
660 reviews60 followers
August 13, 2022
I didn’t think I could love a family as much as I love the Gibson boys but here I am, loving the Carmichaels just as much. I’m infatuated with the way Adriana writes small town romances. The characters she creates and the towns she develops always without fail make me want to visit. I know they don’t exist but that doesn’t stop me from dreaming that they do. This right here is a flawlessly written, beautifully imagined small-town romance that will have you swooning from the start.

I was not prepared for Maddox Carmichael. This man is a cinnamon roll in the best possible ways. He’s sweet, kind, and thoughtful. He deeply cares for Ashley; you can feel it right from the start when they see each other after being apart for a while. And I lived for their interactions. There was this ease and simplicity to their relationship that you can’t help but fall in love with. Seriously from the start you just new that they were end game and the ride was going to be delightfully funny and sexy. And Adriana did not disappoint.

Ashley has gone through some things recently that have left her questioning a lot of stuff in her life. The one thing she’s never questioned is her attraction and friendship she has with Maddox. These two have known each other since they were kids, and you can tell. Their relationship is completely effortless. I died watching them pretend that they haven’t both been harboring crushes on each other since first grade it’s honestly the most wholesome thing I’ve read in a long time, and I loved it.

This book was not what I was expecting but in an amazing way. The story flowed impeccably, leaving you to fall without hesitation into the storyline. Allowing me to blow through this book cover to cover in one sitting all while maintaining a smile on my face throughout. Seriously my cheeks hurt by the end. I will never not pick up an Adriana Locke book and this right here is a prime example as to why! Cannot wait for more Carmichael boys to fall to their knees……..

Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Complimentary Copy
Profile Image for Michele McMullen .
2,343 reviews78 followers
August 15, 2022
We are back with the Carmichael family for book two Fling which is starring Maddox and Ashley.
Friends since grade school Ashley knew that Maddox was always going to be there for her, since he cut that bubble gum from her hair in third grade, they have been thick as thieves. Now years later she finds herself calling off her wedding one month before she walks down the aisle. She may not want the husband, and thank heavens she got rid of him, but she would still love to go on the honeymoon. After all she footed the bill. Her besties aren't able to be her plus one on her vacation, so they do the next best thing, they run a contest. The lucky man gets to share 4 days of sun, sand, swimming and wonderful food. How will the ladies choose the right man for the job or has he always been right in front of them the whole time!
Maddox knows he would do anything for Ashley so when he realizes she is about to take someone on her honeymoon, another man he steps up to the plate. Is it finally their time or is it just a fling!?
This couple is funny, sweet, has great witty sexually charged banter and the sizzle isn't just due to their tropical location!
Love this family and all their antics!
~~Michele McMullen~~
Profile Image for PP's Bookshelf.
2,355 reviews364 followers
August 13, 2022
Fling by Adriana Locke has everything that is Adriana Locke's speciality. A big loving family with an awesome band of brothes with epic bromance. A gorgeous charming swoonworthy alpha hero. A sassy and sweet heroine. Lots of warm fuzzy feels, cute banter and right amount of spice. This friends to lovers romance was all kinds of beautiful.

Ashley just broke off her marriage, moved to her home town but the honeymoon she booked and paid for is not cancelled. Her best friends plot a honeymoon date contest over Social app. And guess who turns up? Her other best friend. Maddox Carmichael. The line they have never crossed is about to get crossed. But will they find a new way to move forward with their relationship or will it destroy their friendship?

These Carmichael brothers are just too perfect. So is Maddox. He loves his family. He is hard working, kind, witty and has unlimited sex appeal. He can charm any woman but he is not an arrogant person at all. He definitely has an easy confidence and bossy side that is just right kind of sexy. He always had a special place for Ashley in his heart and he definitely wanted her more than friends. But he is afraid to commit as he is scared to get hurt. And Ashley always wanted a storybook happily ever after. Her home life wasn't very stable and she always searched for it. They always shares a special bond but their goals were different. This trip obliterated all the barriers and safeguards and they gave into their desires. And they realised that they fit perfectly. Ashley has been hurt and her heart is still healing. But she is strong and beautiful and didn't let her past to stop her from moving forward. I absolutely loved their comfortable friendship and how smoothly it progressed to something else. I cannot wait for more of Carmichael goodness.

PS Banks Carmichael you are my favourite just don't tell your brothers.

I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Profile Image for Ashley.
654 reviews
August 15, 2022
I adored and absolutely swooned over Maddox and Ashley. I feel like Adriana turned up the heat with this one. Along with the sizzling chemistry and history they had, Maddox and Ashley were just amazing together. Can't wait for more Carmichaels!
Profile Image for The Romantic Rush Blog.
1,941 reviews889 followers
August 31, 2022
I am just adoring the Carmichael family and all of their amazing antics and heartfelt stories. Adrianna Locke stories are always so swoony and sexy, and Fling is such a delightful escape. This friends to lovers, healing from heartbreak, all on an unexpected honeymoon.

This story has such an interesting beginning- heroine Ashley is feeling from her failed engagement. Only she’s stuck with a non-refundable honeymoon…for two. So why not have a contest to see how gets to go with her? But her dreamy, flirty, super faithful friend Maddox comes to the rescue- what’s better than a honeymoon vacation between friends?

Maddox- OMG. He’s just so dreamy. Protective, sincere, understanding, sexy. What I loved the most is how much both of them grapple with the risks of taking their friendship to something more. These two have a LONG history, and there’s a lot at stake. But I adore their chemistry, how easily they connect, how much they open their hearts to each other. There is so much depth to Ashley- her hopes, her insecurities, her baggage. I related so intensely to her.

I love how Adrianna builds in the family elements- these brothers crack me up. And we have a few surprises that make this romance more complicated- but what a beautiful way they find a way together. I love their relationships, their comedic relief, and their deliciousness. And Fling is so heartfelt and heartwarming. I adored it.

Profile Image for Nikki'J'.
699 reviews15 followers
August 15, 2022
Adriana Locke has such a fun and beautiful style of writing and every book I read of hers only leads me to want more and more from her.

Fling is the second book in the Carmichael Family series and these boys are just a whole lot of fun, sexy, trouble and I am here for them all. The family dynamic between the brothers only adds to the story and I can't wait to watch each brother fall.

This is a rom-com, friends-to-lovers romance.

Maddox Carmichael and Ashley Thompson are such a fun match. They've been friends since childhood but have never once crossed that line. Considered each other yes, but neither has ever taken that step. Things are changing though and they might just need a little push in the right direction. Her friends and his brothers will be the ones to give them that shove.

This book just made me smile and I loved all those gooey feelings that Adriana was able to produce. I think I was high on the joy this book gave me.

Loved it and I hope the next Carmichael brother comes along soon because I already want more.
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Ashley has finally seen the light and broken free from her fiance. He was never right for her but at a time when she was hurting, he was there and seemed like everything she needed to get through her grief. She's not sure she ever loved him and she's honestly glad she called the wedding off before they made it that far. Her life would have been very different if she'd gone through with it. Now home in Kismet Beach, she might be starting over in a way but her friends and her family are right there to help her.

Maddox is glad to hear Ashley ended thinks with her fiance, he always knew he wasn't right for her and she deserved better. Their friendship has always been easy regardless of time apart they always fall back easily into their friendship. Now she's home again though something seems to be shifting. He's going out of his way to talk to her every day and find reasons to see her. It's not like him and the whole situation is throwing him off. Ashely is the type of girl to want the whole deal, marriage, babies, the white-picket fence, and Maddox has never thought about settling down.
'It's fucking with me because I've been thinking about her since she got home. Because I'm texting her randomly throughout the day and I check my phone to see if she's texted me. It's fucking with me because she's fucking with me - even though she doesn't mean to.'

Ashley has decided to take her non-refundable honeymoon despite not having a groom and when her friends can't go with her they come up with another idea. They are going to go on social and offer the holiday to a man who can go on short notice to have a 'fun' free holiday. But to stop her from picking the wrong guy again they will choose she just has to agree to let them.

When Maddox's brothers tell him of Ashley's social post and their plans to apply to go with her, he tries not to let it bother him but damn if he wants another man on a romantic vacation with her. He applies and her friends send him to meet Ashley at the airport. She freaks out because her plans were to get back on the horse, so to speak, but she can't cross that line with Maddox. After Maddox spells it out for her though they agree that a holiday fling is a perfect solution.

After the holiday is over will that bring their fling to an end and is that what either of them wants anymore?

Once out of the holiday bubble they'll have to find what they really are to each other.

Happy Reading.
Profile Image for Manoela.
1,178 reviews26 followers
August 15, 2022
3.5 Stars

Fing is the second book in the Carmichael Family series, where the author brings another country town romance with the perfect balance of lightness, fun moments and warm moments that made me read this book in one sitting.

Here we have the story of Maddox and Ashley's, two great characters and from the first interaction we see that they have feelings for each other, but are afraid to act on it to ruin their friendship. Throughout the book we can see their journey towards the new stage of their relationship and it was a very pleasant and quick read to do. The book also shows us Maddox's interaction with his brothers which are hilarious and I found myself laughing at several moments of this story.

Just like her previous books Adriana Locke brings readers a romance, those typical afternoon session with charismatic and funny characters, a sweet romance with a small dose of anguish in this story. It is one of those books that I recommend to anyone looking for a light and sweet romance to read.
➖➖➖
Fing é o segundo livro da série Carmichael Family, onde a autora traz mais um romance de cidade de interior com o balanço perfeito de leveza, momentos divertidos e momentos quentes que me fizeram ler esse livro em uma sentada .

Aqui temos a história de Maddox e Ashley's, dois personagem ótimos e que desde a primeira interação vemos que eles têm sentimentos um pelo outro, mas tem medo de agir em relação a isso para ao estragar a amizade deles. Ao longo do livro podemos ver a jornada deles em relação à nova etapa do relacionamento deles e foi uma leitura muito gostosa e rápida de fazer.O livro também nos mostra a interação de Maddox com seus irmãos que são hilárias e me vi rindo em vários momentos dessa história.

Assim como os seus livros anteriores Adriana Locke trouxe aos leitores traz um romance , daqueles típicos sessão da tarde com personagens carismáticos e engraçados, um romance doce com uma pequena dose de angústia nessa história. É um daqueles livros que indico para quem esta procurando um romance leve e doce para ler.

I Received an unreleased copy of this book
Profile Image for ♂️Must Have Book Boyfriends ♂️.
517 reviews2,193 followers
August 22, 2022


I shed my shorts and tank. Maddox growls. “Did you have to wear that?”
“It’s a bikini,” I say, laughing.
He leans closer. “I’m going to get in the water, and they’re going to think I have a banana in my shorts.”






I fell in love with this story! OMG this friends to lovers romance had me SWOONING so hard! I swear Adriana Locke writes THE BEST BOOK BOYFRIENDS! I have adored every single one of her books, so if you haven't checked out her books, you must!
While reading I may have sworn at her in ALLCAPS for things. And also raved while reading. SUPER SWOON ALERT! Only grab this one if you are ready to melt! And the sexytimes were ON POINT as always! MADDOX IS LITERALLY EVERYTHING and I couldn't get enough of these two! The family dynamic and sibling banter was EPIC as always and had me falling in love with the entire family all over again! I cannot wait for the rest in the series! A top read of the year for me! ❤


FLING is LIVE and available in Kindle Unlimited!

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3QXEppL
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/3K7cu4E
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3pAjyxi
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3K7HFww


Profile Image for iAmJulietteXoX.
199 reviews2 followers
December 7, 2022
I guess I'm just not a Ms. Locke fan, I'm so sorry, A.L.!
Every book I've picked up of hers, I do believe I DNF. I went back to see my reviews and her other book I wrote a review (but not the only one I've read) stating that I could not get into it because they (H & h) spent the whole book speaking in internal monologues and not to each other (big pet peeve of mine). So why is it that she wrote in a completely different direction, this book is 100% speaking to each other (I mean 100% speaking, whether to their family members which is useless fillers and would be over 100 pages shorter or to each other, there's no internal monologues), and I'm a hypocrite because I'm still not into it. There were small grammatical errors, I couldn't get into the book because of lack of chemistry, but there was one part where I did get goosebumps from what H said (but I was sleep reading - you know right before you doze off to dreamland, it could have just been a chill, no I kid, I kid, I just can't go back to find it now).
Have to add, I'm not sure why female authors think they can write from a male's point of view... It's quite absurd, y'all out there making them effeminate... I've never heard of a man having a nightmare about his brother ...
I hate to say it but I'm thinking it's just a you problem, Ms. Locke, which is frustrating because I prefer romances & 1st person POV, which is what you write, but I'm catching BORING vibes from from these books.
Profile Image for Anjelica Grace.
Author 11 books530 followers
August 13, 2022
I would rate this book 5 juicy, delicious strawberries!

Adriana Locke blended sexy, sensual, and serious perfectly in this tale of lifelong friends turned lovers in the most unusual, unexpected of ways.

Maddox and Ashley are two of the most fun, hottest characters Adriana has ever written. She upped the steam, the tension, and the romance in this one, and I was most certainly there for it. The writing was tremendous, the character development of both the hero and heroine, along with the secondary and supporting characters was phenomenal, and I found myself unable to read the words fast enough. If you're a fan of friends-to-lovers, forced proximity, fake relationships, and superb storytelling I highly recommend you pick up (or download) this baby as soon as you can; I promise you won't regret it!

Also, I now want to swim with pigs. That new little adventure item is something I will be adding to my bucket-list because pigs and tropical waters are just two things I never would've thought to put together ever.
Profile Image for Amanda.
208 reviews6 followers
August 13, 2022
I love the Carmichael family.
This revisit did not disappoint. This is Maddox story. His BFF has just broken off her engagement and still has a honeymoon to go on so she makes a social media post to find someone to go with her. A vacation fling. Her friends Becca and Sara are the decision makers and surprise her with the "winner".
This book had so much to love. Maddox is so swoony. Banks is back making more trouble for his brother(s). And as always Damaris and Kix are there supporting their boys.
I loved Ashley and her friends Becca and Sara and their friendship.
Profile Image for Sarah DeLong, DeLong Words Editor .
1,566 reviews1 follower
August 12, 2022
Ashley and Maddox's best friends to lovers romance was an incredible reading experience with ALL THE FEELS! These two had me swooning in bliss, snort laughing at their banter and even trying to silently ugly cry while reading at work on my lunch break at some parts. Their supporting characters in his brothers, especially Banks, and her friends, Sara and Rebecca really added depth and more heartfelt goodness to their impressive story.
Profile Image for Noor's Library.
134 reviews25 followers
September 22, 2022
I lost interest like halfway through this book, and ended up skimming the last chapters. Sorry 😭

I was good, but it wasn’t that memorable. The characters were kind of immature, and I feel like there’s an influx of books where they make the middle aged characters act like teens, and it’s kind of getting annoying. Like, you are 35 and have the mentality of a hormonal 15 year old… no more please.
Profile Image for Jami Birnbaum.
229 reviews22 followers
August 14, 2022
*An advance reader copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*

I’m all in for a Friends to Lovers story. Maddox and Ashley have been close friends since the third grade. Only friends, nothing more. Ashley is back home after breaking off her engagement. Staying with Rebecca, one of her best friends, while she figures out her next steps. Which includes going on her honeymoon that she didn’t cancel. Rebecca and Sara (Ashley’s other best friend) decide to take matters into their own hands and put together a little contest for someone to go on Ashley’s honeymoon with her. They will be the ones picking the ‘winner’, since the last couple of guys that Ashley have dated (or was engaged to) were not the right men for her.

Maddox is definitely the right man, if he actually believed in happily ever after. Not that his parents aren’t the perfect role models. He calls himself the perfect “fling” material. Maddox doesn’t want to be in a relationship for too long where they get bored and start to resent each other. He walks away before that can even happen. But this is Ashley, the one woman (even though they never dated) that he compares all the others to. He applies to the contest, with a little nudge from his brothers, Banks and Jess.

Ashley is stunned when Maddox slides into his seat next to her on the plane. She thought she was being stood up since Rebecca and Sara never told her who they picked, they just said she knows him, and he made it with minutes to spare before the plane took off. It takes a good part of the flight for Ashley to be okay with this, to finally let loose and agree to just have fun while they’re away. The one thing they promise each other is that no matter how things turn out, they will always be friends.

With a tropical beach as the stunning backdrop for their ‘honeymoon’, Maddox and Ashley play their parts as a married couple to perfection. Before long, they are acting like one, too. They can’t keep their hands off on another. The chemistry between, just like the banter their entire lives, is electric. Neither one of them wants their time together to end. On the plane home, they agree to continue seeing one another, without making a big deal out of it with his family or her friends.

Once home, it starts to feel all too real. Then Ashley’s ex-fiancé shows up and it isn’t a good thing. Maddox is there to rescue Ashley (not that she really needed or wanted to be rescued), but at a cost. They both decide that they need to take a step back from each other. Will Maddox realize that he is in love with Ashley and needs her in his life to make it whole? Will Ashley realize that her love for Maddox is not a knee jerk reaction to all her heartbreak with her ex?

If I had a big family, I hope we’d be as close as the Carmichael’s. I do agree with another early reader of this book ~ Banks is exhausting. I love the interaction between Ashley, Rebecca and Sara. Plus, Ashley’s mom is a strong role model for all 3 of the girls. Then there’s strawberries and flamingos. As a long time reader of Adriana Locke’s books, she makes fruit delectable. You really shouldn’t miss this book or this family.
Profile Image for Jela  Heneghan.
275 reviews7 followers
August 15, 2022
Funny and delightful, this author has done it again! This book brings us Maddox and Ashley’s story, and it starts with Ashley freshly having gotten out of an awful engagement but still feeling determined to enjoy her honeymoon vacation. She needs a plus one to take her ex’s place, but who will it be? This is a friends-to-lovers story that weaves funny moments into sweet ones and even occasionally more heartfelt and dramatic ones, and we get to see what happens when two people that have fought their connection for an eternity eventually give in.

Maddox is simply the swooniest of main characters. He’s charming and good looking but deeper than he seems on the surface. His character is genuine despite his playboy demeanor, and the way he is both with Ashley and his family is just completely endearing. I loved Moss in Flirt, but Maddox? I’m not sure I even have the words to express how wonderfully his character is written. And Ashley comes off as everywoman in so many ways. Even if you can’t necessarily relate to exactly what she’s going through, I think anyone could understand and empathize with her motivations. She’s a sweetheart, and I love that these two characters were created just right for each other.

Their chemistry is unbelievably good, too. I think part of why I enjoy friends to lovers romances is because there’s the sense that when friendship precedes a physical relationship the couple fundamentally gets one another in all the ways that matter. There's a caring that leads to an even stronger bond between Maddox and Ashley, and it's so sweet to witness.

Plus, add in all the Carmichaels, and you’ve got laugh-out-loud moments that will make you grin like an idiot. I adore them all, and I can’t even decide who my favorite of them is. Just know that there’s this fantastic bunch of secondary characters that pushes the storyline forward in a very natural way and lends a lot of hilarity to the book.

Anyway, I could keep going on about Maddox and Ashley’s book, but just know that I wholeheartedly recommend this romance and series. If you love romance that’s peppered with plenty of humor, then I think you’ll appreciate this engaging romcom.
Profile Image for Amour.Rebelle92 (Bran.d).
1,065 reviews11 followers
November 26, 2022
Is mid forties to old to be adopted?? Not asking for a friend ;) Seriously y’all the Carmichaels are so freaking awesome💕 Kix & Damaris definitely have their hands {and hearts} full!

Fling is Maddox’s book but Banksy kinda stole the show. I can’t imagine what he will get into in Jess’s book😬

I absolutely loved, loved , LOVED Mad & Ashley💕 Y’all they are so comfortable & smitten with each other it’s both cute & smexy.

The one theme that I loved was ‘You can’t make an entrance without making an exit.’ It’s the truth & the fact that it was a little Pearl from Ashley’s grandmother 😍.

Ashley had to exit her sh¡tty relationship & get her groove back. What better person to help with that than her smoking hot, childhood bestie?! Bonus that that chemistry is off the charts & they are finally on the same page 💕


Fave quotes:

“I think you misunderstood the assignment,” I say, laughing. “You touch me when people are around, and I can’t do anything about it. And then once we’re alone, you step away.”
***
“For the record,” he says, licking his lips. “I understood the assignment perfectly. And I will touch you when we’re alone. I’ll touch every inch of your delectable little body with my hands and my tongue.”🥵🔥🥵🔥🥵



“Determination and courage. Beauty, even where it’s not expected. Wonder. Possibility.” “That’s what I see when I look at you.”——yes ladies Maddox is the total package 🥰


“Make the memories, Ashley. Make them while you can. I’m not promising you that it will work out, but I am saying that you don’t know if you’ll get tomorrow. If you want him today, that’s enough.”—-Y’all Becca has my heart!! I just wanted to give her a hug. 😢
Profile Image for Meryl Markowitz.
619 reviews6 followers
August 15, 2022
Ashley has known Maddox almost her entire life. They are long term friends, nothing more. It doesn't matter that Maddox always looks "good enough to eat", as far as she's concerned he's a player and there's no point in even seeing if it would ever work out. She just dumped her cheating ex, but the honeymoon trip was paid for, and she wants to go anyway. Her friends come up with a scheme to have a contest, so Ashley could have a Fling on her trip.
Maddox has always had some secret yearning for Ashley. He just never wanted to cross "the line" past friendship. When he hears about the contest he decides to enter.
On the plane, when Ashly learns who has won the contest, she is shocked! Maddox makes her an offer that is hard to refuse and the Fling commences. Of course, with these two, playing fake honeymoon is bringing up strong intense feelings. Will this last, when they return to "the real world", or will feelings and friendships be hurt as a result?
There are the usual hilarious texts between the siblings, Pranks and antics that will have you laughing out loud and moments so swoony that you just might. When Maddox said " Determination and courage. Beauty, when it's not expected. Wonder. Possibility. That's what I see when I look at you" I truly did swoon.
Banks is a real scene stealer, in every page he's in. Max's mother had the winning line of the story by telling him: "Well you said you were an idiot, I would venture to guess that you can be an idiot in relationships under the right circumstances. I'm not going to argue with you."
This book is a delight to read. I was sorry that it ended.
Thank you to Adriana Locke for the advanced copy.
Profile Image for Sandie Chraponski.
1,357 reviews13 followers
August 15, 2022
No one and I mean no one writes small town, large family stories like Adriana Locke. She writes stories with characters that are real, with realistic insecurities and vulnerabilities that make them so lifelike. I want to be a part of the Carmichael family, I mean I don’t want o be a part of their prank wars, but as for the rest sign me up!

Ashley and Maddox have been best friends since he saved her when they were little by cutting the gum out of her hair. These two have never been successful in relationships but for different reasons, and they didn’t understand their truths until they took a weekend away to the Bahamas and they actually opened their eyes and hearts to some possibilities.

This is a romance, but it is so much more, we have the dynamic of Maddox’s family which is always a fun time, and we get to see the relationships Ashley has with her two best friends. So yeah this is a romance, and I will never look at a strawberry the same way again, it is so much more.

I am a fan of Adriana, I’ve read her entire library of books, I love how she had some references from other books of hers in this story. It was a fun little tickle to my brain, and I’m glad I didn’t miss them.This is an amazing series and I’m so glad I get to read Adriana’s words.
543 reviews3 followers
August 13, 2022
Every time I read a new Adriana Locke book I find a new favorite! Maddox Carmichael has a reputation as a ladies man but that couldn’t be further from the truth. He just has flings because he leave a relationship before it gets messy.. Ashley has been his best friend since kindergarten when he cut a wad of gum out of her hair to help her. She moved away for a couple of years and got engaged. Now she’s home and single after leaving the looser. Now she has a honeymoon paid for to swim with pigs in the Bahamas and her friends decide to have a contest to find her a fling to take with her. Maddox jumps and the chance and her friends are 100% behind it! She doesn’t know it’s him until he shows up on the plane. They agree to a honeymoon fling and have the time of their lives. Then they come home and things get complicated. If you are looking for laughs, heart tugging moments, plenty of heat and all the Carmichael brother antics sit back and enjoy! Just make sure you can laugh loudly when reading it!
Profile Image for Jessica.
342 reviews58 followers
August 26, 2022
Once again Adriana Locke brings a small town romance, but it was filled with friends to lovers, a tropical vacation, lots of dirty talk and more.

I’m always down for a romance book with a tropical paradise atmosphere. I really enjoyed the concept of Ashley still going on her honeymoon after The whole fiasco with her ex fiancé. It was kind of obvious who was going on this trip even though there was some “mystery” on who it would be.

There were some funny moments between all the characters. Of course there was some sibling mayhem with the Carmichaels (as to be expected in the series lol). I thought it was quite unique how Adriana Locke mentioned one of her own books in this book. You’ll know when you get to that part 😉

It’s a sweet, quick summer read.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for M Reads Romance .
271 reviews4 followers
August 22, 2022
This small-town beach, friend-to-lovers romance is sweet and cute. Spice is mild. Chemistry off the charts. I enjoy Adriana Locke's families and wholesomeness.

Ashley called off her wedding but isn't gonna miss the honeymoon. Her friends jump in and find her a rebound to make sure sparks are flying. But it can't just be a rebound because she and Maddox have been circling each other since elementary school. But both are terrified of moving forward. Will they get out of their own way.

Maddox's brothers play a big part in this story, sometimes to the point of being distracting. I realize we're setting up their stories but the pranks albeit clever get a little bothersome. Or maybe it's just the characters l can't imagine a whole book of Banks. Then again she did the same thing in the Laundry series with Lincoln, who has a mention in this book. Boone in the Masons and I'm sure there was one in the Gibson series, it escapes me in the moment.

Not sure why I went down that tangent. Anyway, I just wasn't sucked into this story as much as Flirt with Moss and Brooke, that we see precious little of in this book, in fact no Brooke. Just lots of Banks, Jess and a touch of Foxx. He intrigues me, so broody. I bet his story will be hot. I digress again. See my mind kept wandering while I read this book. Still good, just not a fave. I'm sure it made many swoon, which is awesome!!
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