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So This Is Love: The Peterson Brothers Book Two
LaceyHe was the gangly boy who had no friends and was beaten up by bullies.
I was the kid from the wrong side of town who had to fight to be seen. He's been my best friend, my confidant and my lifeline, and now that I'm up shit creek without a paddle, he's the one I need. There's just one problem, he told me all those years ago, we couldn't be anything more than friends, but as he steps in to save the day, I fall hard.
What happens when he walks away?
Cole
I'm in love with my best friend.
She's the woman of my dreams, the one I compare everyone else to and stupidly, because of an accident, I pushed her away. Told her we couldn't be anything more. But when her life is flipped upside down and she needs someone, I'm there.
Only what happens when she realises I can't give her all she needs?
I was the kid from the wrong side of town who had to fight to be seen. He's been my best friend, my confidant and my lifeline, and now that I'm up shit creek without a paddle, he's the one I need. There's just one problem, he told me all those years ago, we couldn't be anything more than friends, but as he steps in to save the day, I fall hard.
What happens when he walks away?
Cole
I'm in love with my best friend.
She's the woman of my dreams, the one I compare everyone else to and stupidly, because of an accident, I pushed her away. Told her we couldn't be anything more. But when her life is flipped upside down and she needs someone, I'm there.
Only what happens when she realises I can't give her all she needs?
- GenresRomance
315 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
November 7, 2025
*Tears* That's all I've got!
4.5 ⭐ 2.5 🌶️
J.J. Cross and Ever After PR, thank you both for allowing me to be an early reader. I knew it was Book 2 and could be read as a stand alone, but I did a quick read of Book 1. It gave a decent back story insight to Cole and Lacey.
Lacey and Cole.... best friends since childhood, and he's in love with her. And she cares for him just as much, but he pushed her away when they were teenagers and said they could only ever be friends. Both continued to hold a torch for the other. Cole's family basically help raise Lacey as her father was a drunkard who did not want her. Fast forward quite a few years, and as adults Lacey and Cole are still orbiting around each other as best buds. Cole had lived with Lacey for a stint while he was recovering from his baby brother's wife's ex's psychotic brother. They drifted apart after Cole moved out and got a GF. And this is where the story gets real good. Cliff notes version: Lacey is pregnant from a ONS, baby daddy is cray cray and tries to extort them, Lacey's dad pops back in and their relationship is mended, DBD (deadbeat babby daddy) attacks both Lacey and Cole, and Peanut is born given the name Penelope. Now there's tons of juicy details that make this an amazing book of the Peterson brothers, because J.J. Cross is a mastermind at writing great love stories with a twist of suspense and thrill. In the end, it is a HEA and I love it! I can not recommend this book enough!
4.5 ⭐ 2.5 🌶️
J.J. Cross and Ever After PR, thank you both for allowing me to be an early reader. I knew it was Book 2 and could be read as a stand alone, but I did a quick read of Book 1. It gave a decent back story insight to Cole and Lacey.
Lacey and Cole.... best friends since childhood, and he's in love with her. And she cares for him just as much, but he pushed her away when they were teenagers and said they could only ever be friends. Both continued to hold a torch for the other. Cole's family basically help raise Lacey as her father was a drunkard who did not want her. Fast forward quite a few years, and as adults Lacey and Cole are still orbiting around each other as best buds. Cole had lived with Lacey for a stint while he was recovering from his baby brother's wife's ex's psychotic brother. They drifted apart after Cole moved out and got a GF. And this is where the story gets real good. Cliff notes version: Lacey is pregnant from a ONS, baby daddy is cray cray and tries to extort them, Lacey's dad pops back in and their relationship is mended, DBD (deadbeat babby daddy) attacks both Lacey and Cole, and Peanut is born given the name Penelope. Now there's tons of juicy details that make this an amazing book of the Peterson brothers, because J.J. Cross is a mastermind at writing great love stories with a twist of suspense and thrill. In the end, it is a HEA and I love it! I can not recommend this book enough!
November 10, 2025
So This Is Love by J.J. Cross is the second book in The Peterson Brothers series, but it works perfectly as a standalone. The story follows Lacey and Cole - childhood best friends whose bond has endured years of hardship, unspoken feelings, and life-changing decisions. When Lacey finds herself unexpectedly pregnant after a one-night stand (not with the ML), it’s Cole - her steadfast confidant - who steps up to support her. As they navigate this new chapter, long-buried emotions and unresolved tensions rise to the surface, forcing them to confront what they truly mean to each other.
I was already invested in their story from the glimpses we got in the first book, but this one brought their dynamic to life. Lacey and Cole’s friendship felt authentic - full of shared memories, quiet heartbreak, and deep-rooted affection. I especially loved Cole’s quiet devotion and Lacey’s fierce independence. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the slow-burn romance had me rooting for them every step of the way.
What really stood out to me was how it explored Cole’s internal struggle with his infertility and the deep-seated fear that he might never be enough for Lacey. The way therapy and open conversations helped him grow was handled with such care. This was beautifully juxtaposed with Lacey’s own emotional wounds - her abandonment issues and the belief that she was difficult to love. Watching Cole show up for her, time and again, without her ever needing to ask, was incredibly moving. His quiet presence and unwavering support slowly helped heal the broken parts of her, making her feel truly seen, loved, and wanted. Without being preachy, the story gently reminds us that the people who stand by us through life’s hardest moments - regardless of blood - are the ones who truly matter.
Another one of the most endearing aspects was the warmth of the Peterson family and the strong theme of found family. The group chats, the sibling banter, and the unwavering support added so much heart and humor to the story. The emotional moments hit hard - I laughed, teared up, and even gasped at a few unexpected twists.
Overall, So This Is Love is a heartfelt, emotional friends-to-lovers romance that beautifully blends vulnerability, healing, and hope. If you love small-town love stories with real emotional depth, this one is a must-read!
I was already invested in their story from the glimpses we got in the first book, but this one brought their dynamic to life. Lacey and Cole’s friendship felt authentic - full of shared memories, quiet heartbreak, and deep-rooted affection. I especially loved Cole’s quiet devotion and Lacey’s fierce independence. Their chemistry was undeniable, and the slow-burn romance had me rooting for them every step of the way.
What really stood out to me was how it explored Cole’s internal struggle with his infertility and the deep-seated fear that he might never be enough for Lacey. The way therapy and open conversations helped him grow was handled with such care. This was beautifully juxtaposed with Lacey’s own emotional wounds - her abandonment issues and the belief that she was difficult to love. Watching Cole show up for her, time and again, without her ever needing to ask, was incredibly moving. His quiet presence and unwavering support slowly helped heal the broken parts of her, making her feel truly seen, loved, and wanted. Without being preachy, the story gently reminds us that the people who stand by us through life’s hardest moments - regardless of blood - are the ones who truly matter.
Another one of the most endearing aspects was the warmth of the Peterson family and the strong theme of found family. The group chats, the sibling banter, and the unwavering support added so much heart and humor to the story. The emotional moments hit hard - I laughed, teared up, and even gasped at a few unexpected twists.
Overall, So This Is Love is a heartfelt, emotional friends-to-lovers romance that beautifully blends vulnerability, healing, and hope. If you love small-town love stories with real emotional depth, this one is a must-read!
November 5, 2025
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and will voluntarily be giving my honest review. This is Book 2 in The Peterson Brothers. Even though I did not read the first book I was able to read this just fine. I will say it was an emotional roller coaster had me crying in some chapters but drew me in from the bring!! Love the family dynamic in this story!! The love the FMC Lacey and MMC Cole was incredible loved these two!! Best friends since grade school who practically grow up together! I hope there is more to this family’s story because Im invested in this series!! Thank you Author JJ Cross chefs kiss just phenomenal.
“Lacey
He was the gangly boy who had no friends and was beaten up by bullies.
I was the kid from the wrong side of town who had to fight to be seen. He's been my best friend, my confidant and my lifeline, and now that I'm up shit creek without a paddle, he's the one I need. There's just one problem, he told me all those years ago, we couldn't be anything more than friends, but as he steps in to save the day, I fall hard.
What happens when he walks away?”
“Lacey
He was the gangly boy who had no friends and was beaten up by bullies.
I was the kid from the wrong side of town who had to fight to be seen. He's been my best friend, my confidant and my lifeline, and now that I'm up shit creek without a paddle, he's the one I need. There's just one problem, he told me all those years ago, we couldn't be anything more than friends, but as he steps in to save the day, I fall hard.
What happens when he walks away?”
October 26, 2025
My first ever ARC and my first read by Cross — and I’ve got to say, I’m definitely excited to dive into more of her work!
From the moment I saw a little teaser, I was hooked and knew I had to apply for an ARC copy. Full disclosure: I didn’t realise this was book two in the Peterson Brothers series (rooky error of not doing my research) — but don’t worry, it’s super easy to follow even if you haven’t read the first!
The story felt so real — the emotions, the relationships, the family dynamic — everything pulled me in. The Petersons are such a beautifully mismatched but close-knit bunch, the kind of family where you just know someone always has your back.
Lacey and Cole’s story had me rooting for them from the start. Childhood best friends (after she stood up for him — you’ll have to read it to find out why 😉 Wildcat), years of friendship, and then life throwing a few curveballs that make them realise maybe they’re meant to be something more. 💞
But of course… love is never that simple, right? 😍
From the moment I saw a little teaser, I was hooked and knew I had to apply for an ARC copy. Full disclosure: I didn’t realise this was book two in the Peterson Brothers series (rooky error of not doing my research) — but don’t worry, it’s super easy to follow even if you haven’t read the first!
The story felt so real — the emotions, the relationships, the family dynamic — everything pulled me in. The Petersons are such a beautifully mismatched but close-knit bunch, the kind of family where you just know someone always has your back.
Lacey and Cole’s story had me rooting for them from the start. Childhood best friends (after she stood up for him — you’ll have to read it to find out why 😉 Wildcat), years of friendship, and then life throwing a few curveballs that make them realise maybe they’re meant to be something more. 💞
But of course… love is never that simple, right? 😍
November 18, 2025
I freaking ADORE Cole! Are you serious?!
ARC| When they say the perfect man doesn’t exist J.J Cross has proven they indeed do 🫠
Don’t get me wrong Lacey is strong, independent, brave, SASSY! Everting you want from an expecting mum.
This story is love x 5000. It’s beautiful, it’s painful, it’s raw, it takes no prisoners and leaves you BARE.
Ugh totally taken with this book 5*
ARC| When they say the perfect man doesn’t exist J.J Cross has proven they indeed do 🫠
Don’t get me wrong Lacey is strong, independent, brave, SASSY! Everting you want from an expecting mum.
This story is love x 5000. It’s beautiful, it’s painful, it’s raw, it takes no prisoners and leaves you BARE.
Ugh totally taken with this book 5*
November 10, 2025
I had the lovely opportunity to Beta reader this book, tank you, J.J.Cross, for having me.
I am on Love with the Peterson brothers since Built on Love, the first book in the series and Cole was such a big brood in book 1 that I was immediately drawn to him and wondered what his story might be.
So This Is love has to be one of the most emotional childhood friends to the lover books I've read in recent years.
Cole and Lacey were always meant to be.. Friendship that developed into love and family.. Their story is sweet, wholesome, and truly emotional.
Coles care and effection towards Lacey was swoonworthy to say the least, and Lucey's love and support towards Cole has always been special.
The Peterson Family are the best. They're funny, supportive, and fiercely loyal and protective of their own, and once you're in, you're in, and they will keep you for life.
Beta/Arc Review 5⭐️
I am on Love with the Peterson brothers since Built on Love, the first book in the series and Cole was such a big brood in book 1 that I was immediately drawn to him and wondered what his story might be.
So This Is love has to be one of the most emotional childhood friends to the lover books I've read in recent years.
Cole and Lacey were always meant to be.. Friendship that developed into love and family.. Their story is sweet, wholesome, and truly emotional.
Coles care and effection towards Lacey was swoonworthy to say the least, and Lucey's love and support towards Cole has always been special.
The Peterson Family are the best. They're funny, supportive, and fiercely loyal and protective of their own, and once you're in, you're in, and they will keep you for life.
Beta/Arc Review 5⭐️
November 4, 2025
Okay, the way I was lucky enough to be on JJ’s Beta team for the second book was amazing!!
I couldn’t wait to jump back into the Peterson brothers lives and find out what they were up to!!
Cole & Lacey : OBSESSED.
The childhood best friend trope is just one of my fav reads as it just makes me so giddy because they legit know everything about each other can read each other so well.
Poor Lacey, I felt every time she got to finally enjoy her pregnancy a certain someone came along and ruined it for her! Thank god for Cole and his brothers!
Not gonna lie, the things Lacey had to endure because her one night stand turned out to be a jackass was insane!! Like the random guy just popping up 🤯
Honestly, I’m glad this book had the drama because it really added to the plot and pushed Lacey and Cole together.
10/10 for the spice 🥵
Once again.. round of applause for the family groupchat 👏🏼
Archie.. I’m obsessed. I was so emotional at the genre reveal with him. I need his book ASAP
I couldn’t wait to jump back into the Peterson brothers lives and find out what they were up to!!
Cole & Lacey : OBSESSED.
The childhood best friend trope is just one of my fav reads as it just makes me so giddy because they legit know everything about each other can read each other so well.
Poor Lacey, I felt every time she got to finally enjoy her pregnancy a certain someone came along and ruined it for her! Thank god for Cole and his brothers!
Not gonna lie, the things Lacey had to endure because her one night stand turned out to be a jackass was insane!! Like the random guy just popping up 🤯
Honestly, I’m glad this book had the drama because it really added to the plot and pushed Lacey and Cole together.
10/10 for the spice 🥵
Once again.. round of applause for the family groupchat 👏🏼
Archie.. I’m obsessed. I was so emotional at the genre reveal with him. I need his book ASAP
January 27, 2026
This was a lovely story and a nice, gentle romance read. This story focuses on Cole & Lacey, who have been best friends since school. Lacey is already part of the family, but somewhere between an accident & Cole pushing her away for all the right reasons, Lacey now has completely the wrong end of the stick.
This is my first accidental pregnancy trope & I'm so glad I dived in, as I really loved the story. Sometimes, two imperfect problems make a delightful solution.
Really easy 5☆ rating & read. I love JJs books & and I look forward to seeing how the rest of the brothers' stories develop over the series..
This is my first accidental pregnancy trope & I'm so glad I dived in, as I really loved the story. Sometimes, two imperfect problems make a delightful solution.
Really easy 5☆ rating & read. I love JJs books & and I look forward to seeing how the rest of the brothers' stories develop over the series..
May 9, 2026
J.J Cross is really out her making me enjoy the surprise pregnancy trope. I never thought I would see the day! Who even am I, she who hates the surprise pregnancy tropes, rating this 5 stars?? As someone who physically wants to crawl out of my own skin when reading anything to do with pregnancy, not only did I read it all, I actually enjoyed it! It was so sweet.
⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹
ᰔ This book we so sneaky, I did not expect it to make me so emotional. It had me on the verge of tears at one point, and that is why I absolutely had to rate it 5 stars. Found family is my weakness and I will never not enjoy a book that has this trope, and this book is bursting with it! The Peterson brothers are back at it again, being all adorable and funny. I love each and every one of them and I’m pacing my enclosure waiting for their very own books and love stories.
ᰔ So This is Love is built on the notion that DNA doesn’t make you family. It’s the people who show up, with no expectations and love you for who you are. Families come in all shapes and sizes, not one family looks the same and I absolutely love that we leant into these themes in this book. The Peterson family is one that when they choose you, that’s it, you’re one of them now and don’t you ever forget it. This family could absolutely heal me and I will be taking no further questions.
ᰔ Lacey is our independent FMC, she’s had a tough life and carries the weight of her mother’s passing, and her alcoholic father, whom she no longer speaks to, every single day. You can see the doubt she holds about herself, because if her own dad couldn’t clean himself up and actually choose her, how can she expect anyone else to. She truly thinks she’s unlovable and that killed me. I loved loved loved seeing her found family rally around her and support her through her pregnancy. It’s satisfying to see her learn that it’s ok to ask for and accept help, you don’t need to offer anything in return and that yourself is always enough for the people who love you.
ᰔ May, the mother of the Peterson clan, really gets her moment to shine here. I literally don’t think I will be complete without one of her famous mum hugs. I love the women in these books so much. Hayleigh is as fiery as always and I love this for her, honestly I wish I was a little more like her. She is passionate and fierce and I’m so excited to see more of her and Nate 👀 Daisy, our newest member of the group, is sunshine in human form, I love that she isn’t afraid to challenge Ethan when he deserves it. She radiates so much light and love. I cannot wait to see her story as well! I’m loving every second I get to see this friendship group grow in size and in love for one another.
ᰔ Cole is the literal definition of ‘if he wanted to, he would’. Because what do you even mean he brought Lacey fruit for each week of her pregnancy, to symbolise how big her baby was at that stage?? It was so cute and so thoughtful! He sets the standard! The mental health representation in this book is so important as well. Cole’s willingness to better himself so he can be the man that Lacey and Peanut need was like a knife to my heart, in the best way possible. He did get in his own way, a lot, but when this man commits, he COMMITS.
ᰔ So This is Love teaches us not to let our fears of today, ruin our tomorrow. So many of us borrow worries and fears and ruin perfectly good moments for ourselves. It’s like when anything good happens, you’re just waiting for the other shoe to drop, and something bad to happen. Good things are allowed to happen! We don’t have to ruin our happiness in fear that something will go wrong. Because even if something does go wrong, if we have the right people beside us, we can face the world.
⊹₊˚‧︵‿₊୨ᰔ୧₊‿︵‧˚₊⊹
ᰔ This book we so sneaky, I did not expect it to make me so emotional. It had me on the verge of tears at one point, and that is why I absolutely had to rate it 5 stars. Found family is my weakness and I will never not enjoy a book that has this trope, and this book is bursting with it! The Peterson brothers are back at it again, being all adorable and funny. I love each and every one of them and I’m pacing my enclosure waiting for their very own books and love stories.
ᰔ So This is Love is built on the notion that DNA doesn’t make you family. It’s the people who show up, with no expectations and love you for who you are. Families come in all shapes and sizes, not one family looks the same and I absolutely love that we leant into these themes in this book. The Peterson family is one that when they choose you, that’s it, you’re one of them now and don’t you ever forget it. This family could absolutely heal me and I will be taking no further questions.
ᰔ Lacey is our independent FMC, she’s had a tough life and carries the weight of her mother’s passing, and her alcoholic father, whom she no longer speaks to, every single day. You can see the doubt she holds about herself, because if her own dad couldn’t clean himself up and actually choose her, how can she expect anyone else to. She truly thinks she’s unlovable and that killed me. I loved loved loved seeing her found family rally around her and support her through her pregnancy. It’s satisfying to see her learn that it’s ok to ask for and accept help, you don’t need to offer anything in return and that yourself is always enough for the people who love you.
ᰔ May, the mother of the Peterson clan, really gets her moment to shine here. I literally don’t think I will be complete without one of her famous mum hugs. I love the women in these books so much. Hayleigh is as fiery as always and I love this for her, honestly I wish I was a little more like her. She is passionate and fierce and I’m so excited to see more of her and Nate 👀 Daisy, our newest member of the group, is sunshine in human form, I love that she isn’t afraid to challenge Ethan when he deserves it. She radiates so much light and love. I cannot wait to see her story as well! I’m loving every second I get to see this friendship group grow in size and in love for one another.
ᰔ Cole is the literal definition of ‘if he wanted to, he would’. Because what do you even mean he brought Lacey fruit for each week of her pregnancy, to symbolise how big her baby was at that stage?? It was so cute and so thoughtful! He sets the standard! The mental health representation in this book is so important as well. Cole’s willingness to better himself so he can be the man that Lacey and Peanut need was like a knife to my heart, in the best way possible. He did get in his own way, a lot, but when this man commits, he COMMITS.
ᰔ So This is Love teaches us not to let our fears of today, ruin our tomorrow. So many of us borrow worries and fears and ruin perfectly good moments for ourselves. It’s like when anything good happens, you’re just waiting for the other shoe to drop, and something bad to happen. Good things are allowed to happen! We don’t have to ruin our happiness in fear that something will go wrong. Because even if something does go wrong, if we have the right people beside us, we can face the world.
November 14, 2025
It took me a hot minute to be able to write this review because I went through every single emotion reading this book!!! Wow!!!!
Lacey and Cole have been best friends since they were kids. Lacey’s mom died when she was very young and her Dad was a bad alcoholic so she didn’t have the best childhood. When she met Cole and the Peterson clan they took her in as one of their own. Cole and Lacey loved each other forever but wouldn’t allow themselves to go there because they didn’t want to risk their friendship. But, Cole was in an accident when he was a teenager and as a result wasn’t able to father children. So he wouldn’t allow himself to see a future with Lacey because he knew she wanted a big family and he wouldn’t do that to her!! But nobody knew about Cole’s inability to have children except for his parents. So they just forever kept each other in the friend zone.
Then Cole gets attacked and beaten up pretty badly. He and his girlfriend had recently broken up and he needed a place to stay so Lacey insisted he stay with her while he heals. But it didn’t take long for both of them to realize their feelings were more than just friends and Cole realized he needed to find a place of his own before he did something he couldn’t come back from so he moved out of Lacey’s apartment. Soon after he meets another woman named Gabby and begins to casually date her supposedly with the understanding that he doesn’t want anything serious. But he allows Gabby to put a wedge in his friendship with Lacey. Then at his brother’s wedding Cole and Lacey have to walk down the aisle together as bridesmaid and groomsman and Gabby makes a scene. So Cole breaks up with her. The same night Lacey faints on the dance floor and ends up in the hospital and finds out she’s pregnant!!! Lacey is pregnant from a one night stand but can Cole step up and be the man she needs?? The only woman he’s ever loved is pregnant with another man’s baby. The one thing he can’t give her!!!
This book!!!!! I felt so many emotions while reading it!!! I absolutely adore the entire Peterson family!!! All of the brothers are swoon worthy and May, the mom, I just love her!!! But the man that Cole Peterson is!!! Once he finally gets out of his own way and allows himself to love and be loved!! It was just beautiful!!! And Lacey’s Dad!!! 😭😭 I absolutely can’t wait for the rest of the brother’s stories!!!
***Thank you Ever After PR and JJ Cross for the opportunity to ARC read this book!!***
Lacey and Cole have been best friends since they were kids. Lacey’s mom died when she was very young and her Dad was a bad alcoholic so she didn’t have the best childhood. When she met Cole and the Peterson clan they took her in as one of their own. Cole and Lacey loved each other forever but wouldn’t allow themselves to go there because they didn’t want to risk their friendship. But, Cole was in an accident when he was a teenager and as a result wasn’t able to father children. So he wouldn’t allow himself to see a future with Lacey because he knew she wanted a big family and he wouldn’t do that to her!! But nobody knew about Cole’s inability to have children except for his parents. So they just forever kept each other in the friend zone.
Then Cole gets attacked and beaten up pretty badly. He and his girlfriend had recently broken up and he needed a place to stay so Lacey insisted he stay with her while he heals. But it didn’t take long for both of them to realize their feelings were more than just friends and Cole realized he needed to find a place of his own before he did something he couldn’t come back from so he moved out of Lacey’s apartment. Soon after he meets another woman named Gabby and begins to casually date her supposedly with the understanding that he doesn’t want anything serious. But he allows Gabby to put a wedge in his friendship with Lacey. Then at his brother’s wedding Cole and Lacey have to walk down the aisle together as bridesmaid and groomsman and Gabby makes a scene. So Cole breaks up with her. The same night Lacey faints on the dance floor and ends up in the hospital and finds out she’s pregnant!!! Lacey is pregnant from a one night stand but can Cole step up and be the man she needs?? The only woman he’s ever loved is pregnant with another man’s baby. The one thing he can’t give her!!!
This book!!!!! I felt so many emotions while reading it!!! I absolutely adore the entire Peterson family!!! All of the brothers are swoon worthy and May, the mom, I just love her!!! But the man that Cole Peterson is!!! Once he finally gets out of his own way and allows himself to love and be loved!! It was just beautiful!!! And Lacey’s Dad!!! 😭😭 I absolutely can’t wait for the rest of the brother’s stories!!!
***Thank you Ever After PR and JJ Cross for the opportunity to ARC read this book!!***
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2025
I’d like to start this BETA review with a massive thanks to JJ, the author, who gave me the absolute pleasure to read this book early- I love you girl 🥰
This romance novel tells the story of Cole and Lacey, childhood best friends whose deep connection is tested by sacrifice and unspoken love. Cole's quiet devotion to Lacey is the emotional anchor of the story. His decision to date someone else, allowing Lacey the opportunity to pursue her dreams of motherhood, showcases a love that prioritizes her happiness above his own.
The narrative beautifully explores themes of selfless love and the pain of hidden feelings. The angst is palpable as readers witness Cole and Lacey navigate their separate lives, Cole in a relationship with Gabby -who will make you want to rip your hair out- and Lacey who attempts to forget about her childhood crush, Cole. Yet again, JJ does an amazing job at creating tension and anticipation!
The setting of Cole's brother's wedding serves as the perfect catalyst for their reunion, reigniting the spark that had been simmering beneath the surface for years. As Cole and Lacey navigate the complexities of their renewed proximity, they are forced to confront the feelings they've long suppressed when Gabby walks out the door and Lacey collapses at the wedding. Will they finally seize their chance at happiness, or will the sacrifices of the past continue to dictate their future?
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You HAVE to give this book a read! (But make sure you read this first which is just as good💞)
The brothers group chat is a MUST- there’s always something going on in there🤣 You can’t help but fall in love with all the brothers and I can’t wait to read about all of their love lives.
The girls friend group is addictive, Emmy (from book one) , Hayleigh and new addition- Daisy are a close group of friends every girl dreams of!
This is a heart warming HEA that will either have you laughing out loud or crying! (For me, both👀)
What to expect:
💛 Accidental Pregnancy
🌻 Best friends to Lovers
💛 Small Town
🌻 Golden Retriever MMC
💛 Healing
This romance novel tells the story of Cole and Lacey, childhood best friends whose deep connection is tested by sacrifice and unspoken love. Cole's quiet devotion to Lacey is the emotional anchor of the story. His decision to date someone else, allowing Lacey the opportunity to pursue her dreams of motherhood, showcases a love that prioritizes her happiness above his own.
The narrative beautifully explores themes of selfless love and the pain of hidden feelings. The angst is palpable as readers witness Cole and Lacey navigate their separate lives, Cole in a relationship with Gabby -who will make you want to rip your hair out- and Lacey who attempts to forget about her childhood crush, Cole. Yet again, JJ does an amazing job at creating tension and anticipation!
The setting of Cole's brother's wedding serves as the perfect catalyst for their reunion, reigniting the spark that had been simmering beneath the surface for years. As Cole and Lacey navigate the complexities of their renewed proximity, they are forced to confront the feelings they've long suppressed when Gabby walks out the door and Lacey collapses at the wedding. Will they finally seize their chance at happiness, or will the sacrifices of the past continue to dictate their future?
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You HAVE to give this book a read! (But make sure you read this first which is just as good💞)
The brothers group chat is a MUST- there’s always something going on in there🤣 You can’t help but fall in love with all the brothers and I can’t wait to read about all of their love lives.
The girls friend group is addictive, Emmy (from book one) , Hayleigh and new addition- Daisy are a close group of friends every girl dreams of!
This is a heart warming HEA that will either have you laughing out loud or crying! (For me, both👀)
What to expect:
💛 Accidental Pregnancy
🌻 Best friends to Lovers
💛 Small Town
🌻 Golden Retriever MMC
💛 Healing
November 18, 2025
Thanks you @everafter.pr and @jjcrossauthor for giving me the chance to read it in advance. 💚
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧
🩷 Small Town
🌼 Friends to Lovers
🩷 Accidental Pregnancy
🌼 Found Family
💭 𝗠𝗬 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦
This is one of those romances that doesn’t just ask to be read, it asks to be felt. A story that’s tender, messy, and beautifully real, weaving together vulnerability, slow-burning chemistry, and the quiet ache of wanting someone you’re not sure you can have. ❤️🩹
From the very first page, the emotional tension is almost tangible. The dynamic between the protagonists unfolds with a rare authenticity: every stolen glance, every hesitation, every moment of longing feels earned. Lacey and Cole aren’t just friends, they’re each other’s anchor. Their connection is built on shared wounds, quiet support, and years of knowing one another in ways no one else ever could. That’s what makes their story hurt so much. And that’s what makes it so addictive. 💕🔥🫧
☀️ Lacey’s journey is deeply emotional. She’s carrying more than just the weight of an unexpected pregnancy; she’s carrying years of wounds that never fully healed. And when her entire world tilts, the person who stands beside her - as he always has - is Cole.
🧸 Cole is the kind of hero who doesn’t need grand gestures to make an impact. His loyalty, his softness, and his steady presence speak louder than any declaration ever could.
🖊️ This isn’t a story full of dramatic fireworks. It’s made of stolen moments, emotional honesty, misunderstandings that cut deep, and realizations that arrive like slow dawns. 💖 @jjcrossauthor excels at capturing the messy parts of love: the fear of losing what you already have, the hesitation to admit what you feel, and the courage it takes to choose someone even when life feels impossibly heavy. 🫶🏻
📖 If you’re searching for a romance that makes you feel everything this book is exactly what you need. ❣️
⭐ 4.8/5 — 🌶️ 3.5/5
𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗢 𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗘𝗖𝗧
🩷 Small Town
🌼 Friends to Lovers
🩷 Accidental Pregnancy
🌼 Found Family
💭 𝗠𝗬 𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗚𝗛𝗧𝗦
This is one of those romances that doesn’t just ask to be read, it asks to be felt. A story that’s tender, messy, and beautifully real, weaving together vulnerability, slow-burning chemistry, and the quiet ache of wanting someone you’re not sure you can have. ❤️🩹
From the very first page, the emotional tension is almost tangible. The dynamic between the protagonists unfolds with a rare authenticity: every stolen glance, every hesitation, every moment of longing feels earned. Lacey and Cole aren’t just friends, they’re each other’s anchor. Their connection is built on shared wounds, quiet support, and years of knowing one another in ways no one else ever could. That’s what makes their story hurt so much. And that’s what makes it so addictive. 💕🔥🫧
☀️ Lacey’s journey is deeply emotional. She’s carrying more than just the weight of an unexpected pregnancy; she’s carrying years of wounds that never fully healed. And when her entire world tilts, the person who stands beside her - as he always has - is Cole.
🧸 Cole is the kind of hero who doesn’t need grand gestures to make an impact. His loyalty, his softness, and his steady presence speak louder than any declaration ever could.
🖊️ This isn’t a story full of dramatic fireworks. It’s made of stolen moments, emotional honesty, misunderstandings that cut deep, and realizations that arrive like slow dawns. 💖 @jjcrossauthor excels at capturing the messy parts of love: the fear of losing what you already have, the hesitation to admit what you feel, and the courage it takes to choose someone even when life feels impossibly heavy. 🫶🏻
📖 If you’re searching for a romance that makes you feel everything this book is exactly what you need. ❣️
⭐ 4.8/5 — 🌶️ 3.5/5
October 25, 2025
Arc Review
So this is love by
@jjcrossauthor
@everafter.pr , thanks you for the e arc for an honest review
You do certain know how to write green flags in men. I wholely love the Petersons Brothers.
Knowing in my life, people in my life this story kind of reflects alot in my heart. Especially knowing blood, DNA 🧬 don't make you family. It's the people who show up, who are there for you. Who show you unconditional support, through the hard times, the good times. That's what family is. Not blood but the family that you create through bonds.
Thanks you JJ Cross for putting the message through this book. It literally means so much to me and people I know in my life. I was very weepy through moments of this book.
Cole, bless your heart. Letting the one you love go, keeping that distance even though it pains you. Just so she could explore option of motherhood.
We need more men to be more attentive throughout woman's pregnancy cause. I'm sorry but Cole set the bar too high for my standards. If you know, you know 😉
Lacey sassy, independent. I adore her so much. She is a mama bear. She is adored. I'm glad she was able to reconnect and forgive and forge a relationship with her father. I'm also glad she learns that she has so many loved ones.
I may have through my phone at the floor and walked away at one point in gasped shocked. You had me in a wreck.
Seriously 😒 Maggie and Ted, I hunt you down myself you maniacs.
The group chats were much needed it's so freaking hilarious 🤣 both the men's a and woman's
The final few chapters sorry but that's was so adorable and my heart is going to burst.
So this is love by
@jjcrossauthor
@everafter.pr , thanks you for the e arc for an honest review
You do certain know how to write green flags in men. I wholely love the Petersons Brothers.
Knowing in my life, people in my life this story kind of reflects alot in my heart. Especially knowing blood, DNA 🧬 don't make you family. It's the people who show up, who are there for you. Who show you unconditional support, through the hard times, the good times. That's what family is. Not blood but the family that you create through bonds.
Thanks you JJ Cross for putting the message through this book. It literally means so much to me and people I know in my life. I was very weepy through moments of this book.
Cole, bless your heart. Letting the one you love go, keeping that distance even though it pains you. Just so she could explore option of motherhood.
We need more men to be more attentive throughout woman's pregnancy cause. I'm sorry but Cole set the bar too high for my standards. If you know, you know 😉
Lacey sassy, independent. I adore her so much. She is a mama bear. She is adored. I'm glad she was able to reconnect and forgive and forge a relationship with her father. I'm also glad she learns that she has so many loved ones.
I may have through my phone at the floor and walked away at one point in gasped shocked. You had me in a wreck.
Seriously 😒 Maggie and Ted, I hunt you down myself you maniacs.
The group chats were much needed it's so freaking hilarious 🤣 both the men's a and woman's
The final few chapters sorry but that's was so adorable and my heart is going to burst.
March 26, 2026
📚BOOK REVIEW 📚
So This Is Love - @jjcrossauthor
This is the book that made me buy the series from the author at @heabookshop
I was drawn to the character art and when I read the blurb I knew this was going to be right up my street. I was not disapponted with this read. I absolutely loved it.
I buddy read this with my gal @books_with_kel and it generated lots of discussions for us and kept us fully engaged.
Lacey is pregnant after a one night stand. But she decides that she is going to keep the baby. She has been in love with her best friend Cole for years but he's ghosted her and so she is navigating feelings of loneliness as she goes on tbe journey to motherhood. The biological father wants nothing to do with the baby and so it's fair to say she has some fear. But she is determined to do right by her baby and she is strong and sweet. And want her baby to have the family she never had.
Cole has also been in love with Lacey all his life but he has been struggling mentally after an accident left him with some trauma that he's never fully deal with. This has resulted in him pushing away the person he loves most.
When he finds out Lacey is pregnant he decides that it's now or never. And boy does this guy show up for her. Cole is the definition of a guy that is truly down bad for his woman. The things he did for her in this book had me swooning, jumping for joy and at times full on sobbing. I absolutely adored him and I appreciated that he worked on his issues in order to live the life he wanted for Lacey and the baby.
Lacey was a great character. I really liked her. She was strong, smart and an all round great person. Together these two were a match made in heaven. There were some very funny parts in this book also which provided a light heartedness even though there were some difficult themes in the book.
As this is book two we have gotten to know some of the Peterson brothers by now and their group chats were hilarious as we got all the different personalities shining through. I highly recommend both books. They are perfect escapism.
I can't wait for the next installment and I'm so happy I found this author. I'm really enjoying this world.
So This Is Love - @jjcrossauthor
This is the book that made me buy the series from the author at @heabookshop
I was drawn to the character art and when I read the blurb I knew this was going to be right up my street. I was not disapponted with this read. I absolutely loved it.
I buddy read this with my gal @books_with_kel and it generated lots of discussions for us and kept us fully engaged.
Lacey is pregnant after a one night stand. But she decides that she is going to keep the baby. She has been in love with her best friend Cole for years but he's ghosted her and so she is navigating feelings of loneliness as she goes on tbe journey to motherhood. The biological father wants nothing to do with the baby and so it's fair to say she has some fear. But she is determined to do right by her baby and she is strong and sweet. And want her baby to have the family she never had.
Cole has also been in love with Lacey all his life but he has been struggling mentally after an accident left him with some trauma that he's never fully deal with. This has resulted in him pushing away the person he loves most.
When he finds out Lacey is pregnant he decides that it's now or never. And boy does this guy show up for her. Cole is the definition of a guy that is truly down bad for his woman. The things he did for her in this book had me swooning, jumping for joy and at times full on sobbing. I absolutely adored him and I appreciated that he worked on his issues in order to live the life he wanted for Lacey and the baby.
Lacey was a great character. I really liked her. She was strong, smart and an all round great person. Together these two were a match made in heaven. There were some very funny parts in this book also which provided a light heartedness even though there were some difficult themes in the book.
As this is book two we have gotten to know some of the Peterson brothers by now and their group chats were hilarious as we got all the different personalities shining through. I highly recommend both books. They are perfect escapism.
I can't wait for the next installment and I'm so happy I found this author. I'm really enjoying this world.
November 18, 2025
So This is Love is book two of The Peterson Brothers Series. While it’s an interconnected standalone, it is better enjoyed if you’ve read book one. JJ Cross is a new author to me, and I was interested in this book because of the accidental pregnancy (but not his baby) trope. Ultimately, it was a good read and I would read more books about the Peterson family.
Characters:
Lacey Fullman
Cole Peterson
This is a surprisingly light read despite some of the topics. Lacey and Cole have been best friends since they were children but never crossed over to a romantic relationship due to a variety reasons. Of course though, there was mutual pining.
Mourning Cole’s moving on to a new relationship and a smaller role in her life, Lacey has a one night stand with a stranger and becomes pregnant. It sets off a cascade of events.
Cole is a great representation of self-awareness and understanding his need for additional help with processing his past trauma. He’s trying to be the best version of himself in order to be there for Lacey. He’s very protective of his growing family.
The Peterson family are their own vibe and it seems like we are in for a good time with the other brothers’ stories.
What to Expect:
Dual pov
Small town
Accidental pregnancy (not his baby)
Romantic suspense
Found family
Cinnamon roll MMC
Best friends to lovers
Mental health rep
Spice:
🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you JJ Cross and Ever After PR for providing me with an advanced copy of this book!
Characters:
Lacey Fullman
Cole Peterson
This is a surprisingly light read despite some of the topics. Lacey and Cole have been best friends since they were children but never crossed over to a romantic relationship due to a variety reasons. Of course though, there was mutual pining.
Mourning Cole’s moving on to a new relationship and a smaller role in her life, Lacey has a one night stand with a stranger and becomes pregnant. It sets off a cascade of events.
Cole is a great representation of self-awareness and understanding his need for additional help with processing his past trauma. He’s trying to be the best version of himself in order to be there for Lacey. He’s very protective of his growing family.
The Peterson family are their own vibe and it seems like we are in for a good time with the other brothers’ stories.
What to Expect:
Dual pov
Small town
Accidental pregnancy (not his baby)
Romantic suspense
Found family
Cinnamon roll MMC
Best friends to lovers
Mental health rep
Spice:
🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you JJ Cross and Ever After PR for providing me with an advanced copy of this book!
November 18, 2025
In this book we follow best friends Lacey & Cole. Lacey & Coles friendship has seen them through some tough moments, Lacey’s family life was not great and Cole’s family treat her as one of their own. Lacey has a one night stand and finds out weeks later she’s pregnant. As she progresses through her pregnancy their relationship evolves into something more.
I loved this book. Lacey is fiercely independent and so resilient after all her trauma she still continues to be a great friend to everyone. I enjoyed the character development from the beginning days and weeks of Lacey’s pregnancy to the postpartum chapters.
Cole Peterson! What a guy! Dealing with his own trauma and demons but when he realises he needs to tell Lacey how he feels he seeks therapy to help deal with those demons so he can be there better for Lacey & the baby. I loved how quiet and reserved Cole is but when needed he protected Lacey & the baby. Such a supportive, attentive man.
The Peterson family. I loved the banter, the support, the group chats and I cannot wait to read Rafe’s book! I’m so intrigued by his character. The way May cared for Lacey from a teen who needed help right through into adulthood was just so beautiful!
Not only did this book have the most gorgeous friends to lovers romance it came with some suspense moments that had me reading quicker to find out what happens next!
I am so grateful to JJ cross and Ever After PR for this ARC and cannot wait to read the rest of the series!
I loved this book. Lacey is fiercely independent and so resilient after all her trauma she still continues to be a great friend to everyone. I enjoyed the character development from the beginning days and weeks of Lacey’s pregnancy to the postpartum chapters.
Cole Peterson! What a guy! Dealing with his own trauma and demons but when he realises he needs to tell Lacey how he feels he seeks therapy to help deal with those demons so he can be there better for Lacey & the baby. I loved how quiet and reserved Cole is but when needed he protected Lacey & the baby. Such a supportive, attentive man.
The Peterson family. I loved the banter, the support, the group chats and I cannot wait to read Rafe’s book! I’m so intrigued by his character. The way May cared for Lacey from a teen who needed help right through into adulthood was just so beautiful!
Not only did this book have the most gorgeous friends to lovers romance it came with some suspense moments that had me reading quicker to find out what happens next!
I am so grateful to JJ cross and Ever After PR for this ARC and cannot wait to read the rest of the series!
November 24, 2025
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I really loved this book, especially the themes and message of found family.
Cole and Lacey reuniting, and his family (LOVED THEM) being there for her when she had (or thinks) she has no one. Cole and Lacey reunite at his brother’s wedding after some distance and difficulty with his girlfriend. Well, she is out of the picture, and Lacey finds out she is pregnant from a one-night stand (I absolutely despise Ted). Cole stepped up. I loved their yearning for each other as friends and the heartbreak they feel at the thought of never getting together after being in love for so long. But Cole stepped up before he even thought he had a chance at a romantic relationship. I love their friendship, a wonderful and honest relationship they have, before they finally give in.
I loved every moment of this book. I loved how his brothers and his mum were there for Lacey, with no judgment and just support and love. I loved how each chapter showed what size peanut was. This book made me cry at every moment, ugly crying, happy tears at reuniting with loved ones and joyful tears when Peanut was born. My heart filled with the beauty of a found family, showing that no matter what, you can make your own family filled with love, support and knowing they are there for you, even if you don’t think you have anyone. Overall, this book is sweet, wholesome, heartwarming, and beautiful.
Thank you so much JJ cross, and Everafter PR, for the ARC opportunity
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I really loved this book, especially the themes and message of found family.
Cole and Lacey reuniting, and his family (LOVED THEM) being there for her when she had (or thinks) she has no one. Cole and Lacey reunite at his brother’s wedding after some distance and difficulty with his girlfriend. Well, she is out of the picture, and Lacey finds out she is pregnant from a one-night stand (I absolutely despise Ted). Cole stepped up. I loved their yearning for each other as friends and the heartbreak they feel at the thought of never getting together after being in love for so long. But Cole stepped up before he even thought he had a chance at a romantic relationship. I love their friendship, a wonderful and honest relationship they have, before they finally give in.
I loved every moment of this book. I loved how his brothers and his mum were there for Lacey, with no judgment and just support and love. I loved how each chapter showed what size peanut was. This book made me cry at every moment, ugly crying, happy tears at reuniting with loved ones and joyful tears when Peanut was born. My heart filled with the beauty of a found family, showing that no matter what, you can make your own family filled with love, support and knowing they are there for you, even if you don’t think you have anyone. Overall, this book is sweet, wholesome, heartwarming, and beautiful.
Thank you so much JJ cross, and Everafter PR, for the ARC opportunity
November 1, 2025
They swore to be best friends forever—until forever changed.
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶️ 2/5
TᕼE ᒪOᐯE I ᕼᗩᐯE ᖴOᖇ ᕼIᗰ ᕼᗩᔕ GᖇOᗯᑎ IᑎTO ᔕOᗰETᕼIᑎG… ᗰOᖇE. ᔕOᗰETᕼIᑎG I ᑕᗩᑎ’T ᖴᑌᒪᒪY ᑭᑌT IᑎTO ᗯOᖇᗪᔕ.
☀️ Small Town
🌼 Best Friends to Lovers
☀️ Golden Retriever MMC
🌼 Accidental Pregnancy
☀️ Not His Baby
🌼 Healing Journey
☀️ ‘Fuck it’ moment
🌼 Found family
☀️ Reunions
📕: So This Is Love
✍️:
🗓️: 7th November 2025
📍: Amazon & Kindle Unlimited
Oh my gosh. This book 🥲 I have never cried so many happy tears one minute whilst belly-laughing the next.
I absolutely loved this story and it was everything and more. This is my first ever best friends to lovers book and it has converted me.
TᕼIᔕ ᗰᗩᑎ. TᕼIᔕ ᖴᑌᑕKIᑎG ᗰᗩᑎ Iᔕ EITᕼEᖇ GOIᑎG TO ᗷE ᗰY ᕼOᗰE Oᖇ ᗰY ᕼEᗩᖇTᗷᖇEᗩK.
Lacey and Cole are the absolute cutest and most wonderful best friends. Their devotion to each other is so heartwarming and their love just grows stronger by the day.
If this doesn’t convince you, Archibald, the most hilariously silly brother, was an added bonus. Some of the scenes with him had been belly laughing and I got a few weird looks from my husband 🤣
“ᒪOOK ᗩT ᗰE ᗯᕼIᒪE I ᗰᗩKE YOᑌ ᑕ*ᗰE, ᒪᗩᑕEY. I’ᐯE ᗯᗩITEᗪ ᗰY ᗯᕼOᒪE ᒪIᖴE TO ᗯᗩTᑕᕼ TᕼIᔕ, ᗩᑎᗪ TᕼEᖇE Iᔕᑎ’T ᗩᑎY ᑕᕼᗩᑎᑕE Oᖴ ᗰE ᗰIᔕᔕIᑎG IT.”
The added spice, sealed this story and this was one of my favourite contemporary romance reads this year!
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶️ 2/5
TᕼE ᒪOᐯE I ᕼᗩᐯE ᖴOᖇ ᕼIᗰ ᕼᗩᔕ GᖇOᗯᑎ IᑎTO ᔕOᗰETᕼIᑎG… ᗰOᖇE. ᔕOᗰETᕼIᑎG I ᑕᗩᑎ’T ᖴᑌᒪᒪY ᑭᑌT IᑎTO ᗯOᖇᗪᔕ.
☀️ Small Town
🌼 Best Friends to Lovers
☀️ Golden Retriever MMC
🌼 Accidental Pregnancy
☀️ Not His Baby
🌼 Healing Journey
☀️ ‘Fuck it’ moment
🌼 Found family
☀️ Reunions
📕: So This Is Love
✍️:
🗓️: 7th November 2025
📍: Amazon & Kindle Unlimited
Oh my gosh. This book 🥲 I have never cried so many happy tears one minute whilst belly-laughing the next.
I absolutely loved this story and it was everything and more. This is my first ever best friends to lovers book and it has converted me.
TᕼIᔕ ᗰᗩᑎ. TᕼIᔕ ᖴᑌᑕKIᑎG ᗰᗩᑎ Iᔕ EITᕼEᖇ GOIᑎG TO ᗷE ᗰY ᕼOᗰE Oᖇ ᗰY ᕼEᗩᖇTᗷᖇEᗩK.
Lacey and Cole are the absolute cutest and most wonderful best friends. Their devotion to each other is so heartwarming and their love just grows stronger by the day.
If this doesn’t convince you, Archibald, the most hilariously silly brother, was an added bonus. Some of the scenes with him had been belly laughing and I got a few weird looks from my husband 🤣
“ᒪOOK ᗩT ᗰE ᗯᕼIᒪE I ᗰᗩKE YOᑌ ᑕ*ᗰE, ᒪᗩᑕEY. I’ᐯE ᗯᗩITEᗪ ᗰY ᗯᕼOᒪE ᒪIᖴE TO ᗯᗩTᑕᕼ TᕼIᔕ, ᗩᑎᗪ TᕼEᖇE Iᔕᑎ’T ᗩᑎY ᑕᕼᗩᑎᑕE Oᖴ ᗰE ᗰIᔕᔕIᑎG IT.”
The added spice, sealed this story and this was one of my favourite contemporary romance reads this year!
November 9, 2025
This story was such a cozy, feel-good read that had me smiling nearly the whole way through (minus the few moments with DBD 😅). JJ Cross really knows how to balance heart, humor, and that swoony slow-burn tension that makes friends-to-lovers shine.
Cole and Lacey’s connection felt so natural — you can tell they’ve known each other forever, and that history makes every little look, tease, and joke between them hit even harder. Their banter is adorable, and I love that even though life keeps throwing obstacles their way, they never lose that easy friendship underneath it all.
And Cole? 🥹 He loved her first — and he proves it through weekly sweet gifts that melted my heart every single time. It’s those quiet, thoughtful gestures that make this story feel so real and tender.
I also can’t get enough of the Peterson family dynamic. Every scene with the brothers had me grinning; you can just feel how much they care for each other. They’re the kind of fictional family you want to hang out with — loud, teasing, loyal, and full of love.
This book is definitely on the lighter, more wholesome side for the majority of the story, but it still has plenty of emotion and charm. I’m really hoping we get more books for the other brothers because a few definitely seem like they’re being set up for future stories 👀🤞
Cole and Lacey’s connection felt so natural — you can tell they’ve known each other forever, and that history makes every little look, tease, and joke between them hit even harder. Their banter is adorable, and I love that even though life keeps throwing obstacles their way, they never lose that easy friendship underneath it all.
And Cole? 🥹 He loved her first — and he proves it through weekly sweet gifts that melted my heart every single time. It’s those quiet, thoughtful gestures that make this story feel so real and tender.
I also can’t get enough of the Peterson family dynamic. Every scene with the brothers had me grinning; you can just feel how much they care for each other. They’re the kind of fictional family you want to hang out with — loud, teasing, loyal, and full of love.
This book is definitely on the lighter, more wholesome side for the majority of the story, but it still has plenty of emotion and charm. I’m really hoping we get more books for the other brothers because a few definitely seem like they’re being set up for future stories 👀🤞
November 4, 2025
𝙎𝙤 𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙄𝙨 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙗𝙮 𝙅.𝙅 𝘾𝙧𝙤𝙨𝙨
𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 4/5⭐
.
.
Tropes:Best Friends to Lovers
Small Town Romance
Accidental Pregnancy (Not His Baby)
Golden Retriever (MMC)
Healing Journey:
Found Family
Dual POV
Mental Health Representation
If you're looking for a romance novel that makes you feel everything,the heartbreak, the hope, the frustration, and the overwhelming warmth of true connection,this is the book for you. J.J. Cross has given us a deeply emotional story that digs into the raw realities of life, trauma, and the complex path to healing. Its not a delightful, fluffy read its a raw, authentic experience that will likely leave you in a bucket of tears, but also with a full heart. And the story will really amaze you. I was literally into the book from the start, as you see the aesthetic its really like this. We all need a best friend who give their everything to you, and will be always there when you needed them and Cole is that to me, he's such a gentleman coded. And yes its a Best Friend to Lovers book, I really like Enemies to Lovers type but this story give my every atom a new form.
Thank you @jjcrossauthor for this amazing, heartwarming book with so many emotional dialogues. I loved every line in this book.
𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 4/5⭐
.
.
Tropes:Best Friends to Lovers
Small Town Romance
Accidental Pregnancy (Not His Baby)
Golden Retriever (MMC)
Healing Journey:
Found Family
Dual POV
Mental Health Representation
If you're looking for a romance novel that makes you feel everything,the heartbreak, the hope, the frustration, and the overwhelming warmth of true connection,this is the book for you. J.J. Cross has given us a deeply emotional story that digs into the raw realities of life, trauma, and the complex path to healing. Its not a delightful, fluffy read its a raw, authentic experience that will likely leave you in a bucket of tears, but also with a full heart. And the story will really amaze you. I was literally into the book from the start, as you see the aesthetic its really like this. We all need a best friend who give their everything to you, and will be always there when you needed them and Cole is that to me, he's such a gentleman coded. And yes its a Best Friend to Lovers book, I really like Enemies to Lovers type but this story give my every atom a new form.
Thank you @jjcrossauthor for this amazing, heartwarming book with so many emotional dialogues. I loved every line in this book.
November 7, 2025
This was such a healing and sweet read!
In this story we have Lacey, our MFC, she’s sweet, stubborn and strong willed. Her father was an alcoholic and was absent during her childhood, but she found a family that loved and took care of her. She’s dealing with feelings of abandonment and “why am I not good enough” in her life already and then suddenly her best friend ghosts her.
Then we have Cole, our MMC and Lacey’s best friend, he’s the eldest of six brothers and part of the family that took Lacey in. He was in an accident as a teenager which left him with feelings of inadequacy, which he buried. He secretly loves Lacey, but ghosts her and starts dating someone else, due to these feelings.
The book starts with Cole being on rocky footing with Lacey, she was blindsided when he ghosted her and made some questionable choices, the result is a surprise pregnancy. But this seems to be the catalyst that makes Cole wake up. The healing in this book is angsty and emotional, the characters are lovely and it’s great once they are on the same page. All round the was good emotional read that had a sweet happy ever after.
One thing I will add is that I think you need to read book 1 first, are is a lot of backwards references to storylines that I assume are in the first book, and so I felt I was missing some parts, but that’s on me.
In this story we have Lacey, our MFC, she’s sweet, stubborn and strong willed. Her father was an alcoholic and was absent during her childhood, but she found a family that loved and took care of her. She’s dealing with feelings of abandonment and “why am I not good enough” in her life already and then suddenly her best friend ghosts her.
Then we have Cole, our MMC and Lacey’s best friend, he’s the eldest of six brothers and part of the family that took Lacey in. He was in an accident as a teenager which left him with feelings of inadequacy, which he buried. He secretly loves Lacey, but ghosts her and starts dating someone else, due to these feelings.
The book starts with Cole being on rocky footing with Lacey, she was blindsided when he ghosted her and made some questionable choices, the result is a surprise pregnancy. But this seems to be the catalyst that makes Cole wake up. The healing in this book is angsty and emotional, the characters are lovely and it’s great once they are on the same page. All round the was good emotional read that had a sweet happy ever after.
One thing I will add is that I think you need to read book 1 first, are is a lot of backwards references to storylines that I assume are in the first book, and so I felt I was missing some parts, but that’s on me.
November 7, 2025
This book. It made me laugh, it made me cry, it was devastating and it was wholesome.
So This Is Love is the second book in the Peterson Brothers series. It’s best to read the books in chronological order, as book two refers to scenes from the first book, but it’s not an absolute must. You can read it as a standalone, since each story focuses on a different couple. This one tells the story of Lacey and Cole, who have been best friends since childhood.
JJ Cross is a master at bringing emotions to the written word. It’s been a long time since I shed a tear while reading a book, but this one did the trick more than once. It was surprisingly easy to feel what the characters were feeling. Not only the pain, but also the love and happiness.
This book isn’t just a small-town romance. It touches on subjects such as the loss of a parent, accidental pregnancy, infertility, and mental health. All handled in a clear and respectful way. These themes add depth to an already beautiful story.
I can’t wait to see what JJ Cross has up her sleeve for the next Peterson brother, and I’d gladly be an ARC reader for every book she writes in the future.
P.S. I really love Archie and hope there’ll be lots of him in the other books. When will you write his story?
So This Is Love is the second book in the Peterson Brothers series. It’s best to read the books in chronological order, as book two refers to scenes from the first book, but it’s not an absolute must. You can read it as a standalone, since each story focuses on a different couple. This one tells the story of Lacey and Cole, who have been best friends since childhood.
JJ Cross is a master at bringing emotions to the written word. It’s been a long time since I shed a tear while reading a book, but this one did the trick more than once. It was surprisingly easy to feel what the characters were feeling. Not only the pain, but also the love and happiness.
This book isn’t just a small-town romance. It touches on subjects such as the loss of a parent, accidental pregnancy, infertility, and mental health. All handled in a clear and respectful way. These themes add depth to an already beautiful story.
I can’t wait to see what JJ Cross has up her sleeve for the next Peterson brother, and I’d gladly be an ARC reader for every book she writes in the future.
P.S. I really love Archie and hope there’ll be lots of him in the other books. When will you write his story?
November 8, 2025
So This Is Love is the second book in The Peterson Brothers series and while these can be read as standalone, I highly recommend reading Built On Love too as these stories have consumed me.
So This Is Love is based on Cole and Lacey finally admitting their feelings. They have spent years being best friends and have spent those years loving each other but hiding their feelings from each other.
It was heartbreaking when I read Cole’s trauma and it explains a lot of why he avoids his feelings for Lacey for so long but it’s also so heartwarming when he sticks by Lacey’s side through all her struggles.
Lacey is an absolute legend and I just love her attitude and how strong she is, an inspiration to women.
I cried through some of the bits (JJ Cross, you know which parts I mean!) but I couldn’t have asked for a better journey and so far they are one of my favourite couples.
Saying that, knowing that this series is based on the Peterson Brothers I’m very excited for what’s to come with the rest of their stories.. I think I’ve already worked out some of the couples and I’m bouncing inside for the next book!
Tropes:
💛 Small Town
💛 Romantic Suspense
💛 Forced Proximity
💛 Golden Retriever MMC
💛 Best Friends to Lovers
💛 Accidental Pregnancy (Not His Baby)
So This Is Love is based on Cole and Lacey finally admitting their feelings. They have spent years being best friends and have spent those years loving each other but hiding their feelings from each other.
It was heartbreaking when I read Cole’s trauma and it explains a lot of why he avoids his feelings for Lacey for so long but it’s also so heartwarming when he sticks by Lacey’s side through all her struggles.
Lacey is an absolute legend and I just love her attitude and how strong she is, an inspiration to women.
I cried through some of the bits (JJ Cross, you know which parts I mean!) but I couldn’t have asked for a better journey and so far they are one of my favourite couples.
Saying that, knowing that this series is based on the Peterson Brothers I’m very excited for what’s to come with the rest of their stories.. I think I’ve already worked out some of the couples and I’m bouncing inside for the next book!
Tropes:
💛 Small Town
💛 Romantic Suspense
💛 Forced Proximity
💛 Golden Retriever MMC
💛 Best Friends to Lovers
💛 Accidental Pregnancy (Not His Baby)
November 17, 2025
So This Is Love is a gentle, heartfelt journey about two people who were meant for each other long before they ever realized it. Lacey and Cole’s childhood friendship is the foundation of the story, and it’s portrayed with such honesty and tenderness that it’s easy to root for them from the start.
Lacey’s struggles - both past and present - give her depth and resilience that ground the entire book. When life gets overwhelming, seeing Cole step forward with quiet steadiness is incredibly moving. Their emotional push-and-pull is subtle but powerful, filled with small moments that speak louder than any grand gesture.
As the story unfolds, the soft romance is balanced with surprising bursts of tension and danger. The threats surrounding Lacey, the turmoil with her family, and the chaos around her pregnancy add texture and urgency without overshadowing the emotional core. These twists challenge them in ways that make their connection even stronger.
It all comes together in a satisfying, heartfelt conclusion that feels well-earned. Engaging, emotional, and a little bit thrilling, this is the kind of romance that keeps you turning pages late into the night.
I was grateful to receive an advanced copy of this book; all opinions are my own and are shared voluntarily.
Lacey’s struggles - both past and present - give her depth and resilience that ground the entire book. When life gets overwhelming, seeing Cole step forward with quiet steadiness is incredibly moving. Their emotional push-and-pull is subtle but powerful, filled with small moments that speak louder than any grand gesture.
As the story unfolds, the soft romance is balanced with surprising bursts of tension and danger. The threats surrounding Lacey, the turmoil with her family, and the chaos around her pregnancy add texture and urgency without overshadowing the emotional core. These twists challenge them in ways that make their connection even stronger.
It all comes together in a satisfying, heartfelt conclusion that feels well-earned. Engaging, emotional, and a little bit thrilling, this is the kind of romance that keeps you turning pages late into the night.
I was grateful to receive an advanced copy of this book; all opinions are my own and are shared voluntarily.
November 17, 2025
So This Is Love by JJ Cross is a heartfelt, slow-burn romance that captures the tender, terrifying, and intoxicating journey of falling for someone who sees past your walls. At the center of it all are Lacey and Cole, two characters whose connection feels both inevitable and deeply earned.
Lacey is guarded, carrying quiet wounds she’s not quite ready to unpack, while Cole is steady, patient, and disarming in all the ways she doesn’t expect. Their dynamic is magnetic from the start—equal parts banter, tension, and that delicious sense of two people fighting a pull they can’t escape. Cross writes their chemistry with an effortless warmth, allowing their relationship to unfold slowly, intimately, and with emotional honesty.
One of the standout strengths of the book is how authentically it portrays vulnerability. Lacey’s hesitations, Cole’s persistence, and the way they learn to trust each other bring a realistic depth to the story. The build from cautious friendship to something undeniably deeper is beautifully paced, with moments of humor and heat woven throughout.
By the time Lacey and Cole finally let themselves fall, the payoff is everything—soft, consuming, and absolutely satisfying.
Lacey is guarded, carrying quiet wounds she’s not quite ready to unpack, while Cole is steady, patient, and disarming in all the ways she doesn’t expect. Their dynamic is magnetic from the start—equal parts banter, tension, and that delicious sense of two people fighting a pull they can’t escape. Cross writes their chemistry with an effortless warmth, allowing their relationship to unfold slowly, intimately, and with emotional honesty.
One of the standout strengths of the book is how authentically it portrays vulnerability. Lacey’s hesitations, Cole’s persistence, and the way they learn to trust each other bring a realistic depth to the story. The build from cautious friendship to something undeniably deeper is beautifully paced, with moments of humor and heat woven throughout.
By the time Lacey and Cole finally let themselves fall, the payoff is everything—soft, consuming, and absolutely satisfying.
October 27, 2025
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review
This was beautiful! Having read the first book in the series, I was already invested in Lacey and Cole and was so excited to read their story!
Both MCs are a little damaged, in their own ways, by events of their pasts, leading to neither thinking they are good enough/worthy of love. Best friends since childhood, there has always been an element of “will they, won’t they”, but they’ve always held back from crossing that line.
I don’t like to discuss tropes in my reviews, I feel like they are spoilers in a way. But I will say, this contained one of my favourite tropes and it was lush! I feel like I became the little heart eye emoji the whole way through!!
As with the first book, there was a little suspense/thriller plot line. Not quite to the same scale but there nonetheless. I liked the added tension this brought to the story as it balanced the lovey-dovey.
The brothers continued to be the best source of entertainment throughout and I’ve got my fingers crossed already for what may come in the rest of the series! I loved seeing glimpses of Emmy and Cas (1st book MCs) too!
Lovely little read for any romance readers out there.
This was beautiful! Having read the first book in the series, I was already invested in Lacey and Cole and was so excited to read their story!
Both MCs are a little damaged, in their own ways, by events of their pasts, leading to neither thinking they are good enough/worthy of love. Best friends since childhood, there has always been an element of “will they, won’t they”, but they’ve always held back from crossing that line.
I don’t like to discuss tropes in my reviews, I feel like they are spoilers in a way. But I will say, this contained one of my favourite tropes and it was lush! I feel like I became the little heart eye emoji the whole way through!!
As with the first book, there was a little suspense/thriller plot line. Not quite to the same scale but there nonetheless. I liked the added tension this brought to the story as it balanced the lovey-dovey.
The brothers continued to be the best source of entertainment throughout and I’ve got my fingers crossed already for what may come in the rest of the series! I loved seeing glimpses of Emmy and Cas (1st book MCs) too!
Lovely little read for any romance readers out there.
March 23, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars)
Just finished So This Is Love by J.J. Cross and wow… my 18th indie read and another five star! ⭐️
This one follows Lacey and Cole, who have been best friends since childhood, and the best friends to lovers tension in this?? Unreal. Cole has always been in love with her, but pushed her away when they were younger, so there’s years of history, feelings, and “what ifs” between them.
Lacey’s life gets turned completely upside down and she ends up relying on Cole again, and watching him step up, protect her, and just be there for her had me in my feelings the entire time. There’s also so much more going on, unexpected pregnancy, a bit of chaos and danger, family drama, and emotional healing which just adds layers to their story and keeps things interesting the whole way through.
What I loved most though was the found family aspect. Cole’s family basically is Lacey’s, and you really feel that throughout the book, it just makes everything hit that little bit harder emotionally. The tension, the history, the way they slowly come back to each other… yeah I was hooked.
Indie authors are seriously winning for me right now because this one?? SO good 🫶
Just finished So This Is Love by J.J. Cross and wow… my 18th indie read and another five star! ⭐️
This one follows Lacey and Cole, who have been best friends since childhood, and the best friends to lovers tension in this?? Unreal. Cole has always been in love with her, but pushed her away when they were younger, so there’s years of history, feelings, and “what ifs” between them.
Lacey’s life gets turned completely upside down and she ends up relying on Cole again, and watching him step up, protect her, and just be there for her had me in my feelings the entire time. There’s also so much more going on, unexpected pregnancy, a bit of chaos and danger, family drama, and emotional healing which just adds layers to their story and keeps things interesting the whole way through.
What I loved most though was the found family aspect. Cole’s family basically is Lacey’s, and you really feel that throughout the book, it just makes everything hit that little bit harder emotionally. The tension, the history, the way they slowly come back to each other… yeah I was hooked.
Indie authors are seriously winning for me right now because this one?? SO good 🫶
October 27, 2025
4.5⭐️
I really enjoyed JJ cross first book in this series which was built on love! In that one you kind of got a feel for Lacey’s and Cole.
And now it’s time for Lacey’s and Cole’s story. This was really sweet because it’s friends to lovers, it’s a pregnancy trope (with the baby not being his) I loved how Cole stepped up to be there for her no matter what, even though it wasn’t his baby and with his history it was a selfless act because it was something he would never have.
Poor Lacey she was so overwhelmed at the beginning with the thought of motherhood, but soon realised that she isn’t alone, that she was never alone.
I love the Peterson brothers, them all together are hilarious and chaotic together. (I’m hoping they all might get there own book one day) because this sibling group is fantastic.
The story was great, it had sweet and tender moments, fun moments for the characters but it also had a little bit of suspense that kept me interested and to see what was about to happen.
It was written very well, had fantastic characters, I really enjoyed it.
I really enjoyed JJ cross first book in this series which was built on love! In that one you kind of got a feel for Lacey’s and Cole.
And now it’s time for Lacey’s and Cole’s story. This was really sweet because it’s friends to lovers, it’s a pregnancy trope (with the baby not being his) I loved how Cole stepped up to be there for her no matter what, even though it wasn’t his baby and with his history it was a selfless act because it was something he would never have.
Poor Lacey she was so overwhelmed at the beginning with the thought of motherhood, but soon realised that she isn’t alone, that she was never alone.
I love the Peterson brothers, them all together are hilarious and chaotic together. (I’m hoping they all might get there own book one day) because this sibling group is fantastic.
The story was great, it had sweet and tender moments, fun moments for the characters but it also had a little bit of suspense that kept me interested and to see what was about to happen.
It was written very well, had fantastic characters, I really enjoyed it.
November 18, 2025
It was such a cozy , warm , cute and feel good book . I really enjoyed reading this . although it was kind of light read , the author has discussed really sensitive topics that too very maturely and beautifully.
It was my first book by this author and I loved it very much. its a second book in the series but can be read ad standalone too .
cole and lacey were sooo.... adorable 😘😘 the way cole supported her throughout was really commendable , their comfort level with each is just awesome.
the most beautiful part of the book was how Cole's family loved and protected Lacey — it was wholesome , they treated her as a part of their family since the beginning. And and..... the Petersons brothers stole the show the way they were protective of Lacey like her real brothers , they added the light humor to the story ❤️❤️
especially the brothers group chat was my favorite 🤣🤣 the friends group was truly special 🫶🫶
overall it was a nice , wholesome read i liked it . I am definitely going to read the remaining books in the series 🤗🤗
It was my first book by this author and I loved it very much. its a second book in the series but can be read ad standalone too .
cole and lacey were sooo.... adorable 😘😘 the way cole supported her throughout was really commendable , their comfort level with each is just awesome.
the most beautiful part of the book was how Cole's family loved and protected Lacey — it was wholesome , they treated her as a part of their family since the beginning. And and..... the Petersons brothers stole the show the way they were protective of Lacey like her real brothers , they added the light humor to the story ❤️❤️
especially the brothers group chat was my favorite 🤣🤣 the friends group was truly special 🫶🫶
overall it was a nice , wholesome read i liked it . I am definitely going to read the remaining books in the series 🤗🤗
October 28, 2025
Lacey has been in love with her best friend for most of their lives, but when he friend-zoned her in their teams, she resigned herself to being his best friend. When a one night stand results in an unexpected pregnancy, she is determined to stand on her own and do what is needed for her baby. As much as she needs her best friend, when he steps up to help her, she can’t help herself but fall further.
Cole has always wanted Lacey, but an accident in their teens convinced him he would never be worthy of her, so he pushed her away and told himself he could accept the fact that he would always be on the sidelines, watching her live her life. When she ends up needing him more than ever, he can’t stay away, and can’t help himself but hope that they might have a chance after all.
I received an early copy of this book and absolutely loved it. I am happy to say that the concerns I had with the dialogue in book 1 are completely resolved, the writing here was impeccable! I loved the slow build of their romance over the years, and how it all came to a head. And how Cole immediately stepped in without question to claim Peanut even if Lacey didn’t want to be with him, just melted my heart.
Cole has always wanted Lacey, but an accident in their teens convinced him he would never be worthy of her, so he pushed her away and told himself he could accept the fact that he would always be on the sidelines, watching her live her life. When she ends up needing him more than ever, he can’t stay away, and can’t help himself but hope that they might have a chance after all.
I received an early copy of this book and absolutely loved it. I am happy to say that the concerns I had with the dialogue in book 1 are completely resolved, the writing here was impeccable! I loved the slow build of their romance over the years, and how it all came to a head. And how Cole immediately stepped in without question to claim Peanut even if Lacey didn’t want to be with him, just melted my heart.
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