Sunrise Cove, Book 7
From the publisher:
A Cozy Romance with a Touch of Suspense, Perfect for Winter 2025, Snuggle Up and Fall in Love!
Old flames reignite in Sunrise Cove in this charming enemies-to-lovers, second-chance, small-town, forced-proximity love story about family, friendships, and true love from New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis.
When Olive Porter’s off-the-grid parents go missing, she reluctantly seeks out Noah Turner, her ex and the only person she both trusts implicitly and not at all.
As a special investigative agent for the National Park Service, Noah’s used to living under intense pressure. Or he was until he got injured on the job. Now unhappily recuperating at home while being smothered by his loving but nosy family, he’d love nothing more than a good distraction.
So when Olive shows up looking like a million bucks, he has to do a gut and heart check. Because nope, no matter what, he can’t fall for her again, the woman who once blew up his entire life and never looked back. How ironic then that his own personal hell (Olive) is also his ticket out of town. The question is, will the risk be worth the reward?
Bestseller Shalvis returns to Sunrise Cove (after Summer Escape) for an irresistible enemies-to-lovers romance . . . The drama pairs with tenderness and plenty of steam to keep the pages turning. Series fans and new readers alike will be drawn in by the clever plotting and buoyant prose. It’s another winner from Shalvis. —Publishers Weekly
Jill Shalvis has once again delivered a delightful tale in Better Than Friends, the seventh installment in her beloved Sunrise Cove series. This romance easily stands alone yet takes readers back to the charming small town near Lake Tahoe, where love, family, and second chances intertwine beautifully.
The story centers on Olive Porter, a PR firm owner who returns to Sunrise Cove under pressing circumstances: her best friend’s husband, Joe, is hospitalized and in a coma after an accident, then her off-the-grid parents mysteriously disappear. To find them, she must turn to Noah Turner, the man who still holds her heart despite their complicated past.
Noah, now a special investigative agent for the National Park Service, is recovering from a job-related injury that has left him temporarily sidelined and blames himself for Joe’s accident. Staying with his twin sister Katie while recuperating, he’s unprepared for the emotional whirlwind Olive’s return brings. Their chemistry is undeniable, and Shalvis masterfully weaves their shared history into the present-day narrative, revealing glimpses of their high school friendship and romance while unraveling the mystery of why Olive left him years ago.
The novel excels in its exploration of relationships—romantic, familial, and platonic. Olive’s bond with the Turner family, forged during her teenage years living next door to them, is heartwarming. Katie’s quirky personality and unfiltered honesty add humor and depth to the story, while Noah’s adorable nephew Joey steals scenes with his innocent charm (and his knack for catching Olive and Noah in compromising moments). Shalvis also introduces lovable animal companions—a dieting elderly dog and a stray cat named Pepper—who bring additional warmth and laughter.
As secrets from the past come to light and emotions run high, Better Than Friends delivers all the hallmarks of a great romance: second chances, forced proximity, and sizzling chemistry. Fans of these tropes will be captivated by Olive and Noah’s journey toward healing and love.
Whether you’re new to the Sunrise Cove series or a longtime fan, this book is a must-read. It’s sweet, heartfelt, and filled with character growth. I couldn’t help but root for Olive and Noah to finally find their happily ever after!
2/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch
BETTER THAN FRIENDS by Jill Shalvis. Avon (January 21, 2025). ISBN: 978-0063353435. 336p.
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