Best Worst Mistake

Lia Riley has become one of my favorite find authors this year: fun, low angst, drama only when the plot calls for it romances that are loaded with heart, humor and real people that could be your friends. I’ve read this series since the beginning, and each new book gives me that moment of “ooh”. And who can resist the titles – that oxymoronic combination of words that instantly lets readers empathize: we all have (or want) that Last First Kiss, knew the Right Wrong Guy, and have had a Best Worst Mistake.

In Best Worst Mistake, we have a woman obviously addicted to her books and romances in Quinn. She’s got several tropes running through her head, and Wilder’s grumpy hermit routine seems just meant to push people away, as he protects his soft squishy underbelly. She’s intrigued and determined to see just what is beneath the smoke-screen, unafraid of his hedgehog-like prickles.

These two are adorable together, a true clash of dark and light. While Wilder tends to get inside himself, holding on to a long-ago tragedy and the guilt it has created: Quinn isn’t willing to let life get her down without a fight. And there are plenty of reasons for both to have retreated, but the fact that neither has, really, is the spark that starts this story. Add to the fun banter and growing relationship with Wilder and Quinn by tossing an arsonist into Brightwater, and the story has plenty of twists and moments of danger.

The lack of drama from outside forces pushing the couple apart, and Quinn’s ability to break down the multiple barriers that Wilder has placed in her path keeps the story moving forward and intriguing. While the mystery of the arsonist is secondary, the questions around the who and why last to the reveal, and keep our couple from too much navel gazing, or uncomfortable sharing moments: things move naturally from intrigue to depending on one another organically, and leaves you with a smile.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

This is book # 3 in the Brightwater series. As usual, I recommend reading this book in order as the author intended. It is for your benefit, and understanding of what occurs inside the story. This book can be a standalone, but is much more fun if read in order.

Wilder and Quinn met when she came to his home looking for her father. He had previously only communicated with her by email. Now they meet face to face and are instantly attracted to one another.

Wilder has been away from home for a long time. The past chasing him away from his hometown. Now back as what he believes to be a broken man in body and spirit. He is trying to survive from day to day.

Quinn, not knowing if she has a future worth living - takes care of her dad and works at the local bookstore. She has moved home after a lousy boss ruined her job.

Together, these two could make fire. When in the same room, the sparks they are a flying. I loved the banter! Every character makes you love the book more. Best of the series yet. I cannot wait to see the next installment!!

***This ARC copy was given by edelweiss and its publisher for review purposes only.