Recipe for Rivals by Kasey Stockton: Book Review

 **ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own. 

The Book

She thought she could steer clear of romance in a town full of cowboys, but then she met the fireman.

After signing divorce papers and leaving her New York life behind, Nova Walker needs a refuge. She finds it in small town Texas with her Aunt Gigi, along with the opportunity to earn her keep working in Gigi’s diner. Since she’s going to Arcadia Creek, Nova expects the cowboys, but she doesn’t expect the extremely attractive firefighter who—living up to his fiery title—seems to butt heads with her at every turn.

With his charm and cocky attitude, Dusty Hayes—as hickish as they come in this backwater place—has a knack for pushing Nova's buttons and propelling her competitiveness into overdrive. Friendly battling with Dusty gives her a break from her insurmountable trials, but though his antics soon change from teasing to flirting, Nova can’t allow her walls to crumble. Because the last time they did, she lost everything.

And with two small kids depending on her, Nova will never allow that to happen again.

Book three in the Arcadia Creek romance series, Recipe for Rivals is a competition-based enemies-to-lovers story with a single mom, a fire fighter, and plenty of banter. This modern romance will continue the saga in Arcadia Creek, Texas and show you just how cozy it can be.

The Author

Kasey Stockton is a staunch lover of all things romantic. She doesn't discriminate between genres and enjoys a wide variety of happily ever afters. She publishes both contemporary and historical novels, and all of her titles fall under clean romance. She loves reading, chocolate, and period dramas, but nothing tops her very own prince charming, their three children, and their sweet goldendoodle.

Book Review

Recipe for Rivals is the third book in the Arcadia Creek series. While those who have read the previous books will enjoy seeing some familiar characters, this could absolutely be enjoyed as a standalone as well. 

I just adore this fictional town of Arcadia Creek, Texas and was so excited to take another trip back for Dusty and Nova's story... and it absolutely did not disappoint! Despite her initial hesitation for romance after her divorce, the chemistry between these two was so good right from the very start. Not only did they have amazing banter (though theirs was definitely more of a friendly rivalry), but I also loved how caring Dusty was, not just for Nova (and her kids), but also for all that he cared about. It was so hard not to love him! It was such a sweet and tender story and one that had me smiling from start to finish! Firefighters, two adorable kids, small town charm, football and some (mostly) friendly competition--- there was so much to love! 

Recipe for Rivals is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. While the story is overall lighthearted, there is a brief mention of domestic abuse with a side character. 


You can purchase your copy here: https://amzn.to/49YGNHy