MORE THAN FRIENDS - Reese Ryan
The Love & Music Suite (Book #4)
Sinfully Sweet Publishing
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Reviewer: Brenda Larnell | Rating: A
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

REVIEW: MORE THAN FRIENDS is Book #3 in The Love and Music Suite series. I have read SPIN THE BLOCK and NEVER THE RIGHT TIME, the first two books of the series. I must admit MORE THAN FRIENDS hit differently. It is much more than a second chance ‘friends-to lovers’ romance. This story explores a real-life issue that the heroine had to live with her entire life. It strikes home because prolific writer, Reese Ryan, has something in common with her heroine, Leilani Stephens. They both had to live with undiagnosed adult ADHD. I loved how Ms. Ryan shared a part of her life with us through this engaging story.
We are back with the talented crew of Peachtree School of the Arts: Ward, Karris, Cedrick and Nikki. This story introduces us to Leilani “Lei” and Toby Hanlon, Lei’s best friend, ride or die, and love of her life. Toby and Lei have been together since high school, and everyone who knows them knows that they belong together. Lei is a talented session singer for top artists in the industry, and is considering an offer from Peachtree Records to relocate to her old stomping grounds, Atlanta, from New York. Toby lives in LA, but due to a disappointing decision by his mentor and boss, he is considering joining his friends at Peachtree Records. There are some things holding him back, and you will discover them when you read the story. Although Toby lives on the opposite coast from Lei, if she needs him, he is on a flight to wherever she is. Toby is the yin to Lei’s yang. He “is organized and fastidious” where Lei can be “chaos personified.” Yet, they are perfect for each other. When they both realize they are “more than friends” is one of the highlights of the story. The other one is when Lei discovers why she is “wired” like she is. It is a pivotal point in the story! Toby also has a “life and death” family issue that has the potential of coming between him and Lei. No spoilers. You will get it when you read the book.
I love the reunion of the talented Peachtree School of the Arts graduates who are getting married, engaged, having babies, and making boss moves in the music industry. They are instrumental in bringing Lei and Toby together. Two intriguing characters are Lei’s mother, and Toby’s grandmother who are “major” minor characters in the development of Lei and Toby, and critical to the ingenious storyline. Lei and Toby’s HFN is so sweet and a long time coming.
I loved this story. So far, it is my favorite of the three stories. This is a four-part series, and I am looking forward to reading the next book. Reese Ryan did an awesome job of incorporating a serious subject matter into the storyline and allowing the characters to handle their situations by seeking help. There are also some great discussion questions for book clubs at the end of the story. I recommend MORE THAN FRIENDS for your reading pleasure.
22nd January 2025 | romcol@gmail.com
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