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The Downstairs Flirt

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Love is on the menu at #1 Love Place

Hazel

Visiting my grandmother, Nonnie Laine, at #1 Love Place is always a sweet escape. The bonus? Her neighbor, Mr. Perpetual Smirk, who always seems to appear whenever I least expect him, armed with a flirty line and dangerous good looks. Totally out of my league, but who am I to refuse a harmless flirt? So imagine my absolute shock when I walk into Nonnie’s for Sunday lunch to find him sitting at her dining table. Suddenly, his playful glances don't feel quite so innocent, and my heart definitely didn't get the memo about playing it cool.

Preston

For weeks, she’s been the mystery girl who got away—a flash of a smile, a quick laugh, and then poof, gone before I can even ask for her number. I promised myself the next time I saw her, I wouldn’t let her slip by. I was ready to chase her down the street if I had to.

Turns out, I didn’t have to run far. Nonnie invites me over for lunch, and just as I’m getting comfortable, in walks the girl of my dreams. Hazel. Finally, a name to match the daydream. Fate has clearly set the table, and I’m done playing games. The catch-me-if-you-can phase? Officially over. Now, the wooing begins—just as soon as she stops looking at me like I’m an alien invasion in her grandmother’s kitchen.

96 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 27, 2026

55 people are currently reading
14 people want to read

About the author

Loni Ree

206 books1,459 followers

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5 stars
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64 (27%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Nicole M.
882 reviews14 followers
Review of advance copy
February 27, 2026
Downstairs Flirt is delightful. This fun, steamy romcom will make you chuckle and also swoon over Preston while he is obsessing over Hazel. Their story is cute and left me waiting for Jude's.
374 reviews12 followers
February 27, 2026
4.5*
This was such a cute, feel good, no drama instalove with a slower, more realistic relationship timeline. I really enjoyed both of their POV's and how they both internally freaked out about each other in different ways. One week flew by for Hazel and the same week dragged on for Preston for similar reasons and it was so cute. The whole book was basically them just falling in love with each other and learning to go at their own paces. Preston stressing over and putting so much thought into the dates and even the flowers to show he was thinking about her always was perfection. I loved Hazel's Nonnie and that she played such a big role in their lives as well. I was a little confused on the comment she made about Hazel's mother though because it seemed to be said and then nothing else was brought up. As well as the fact her parents died when she was young and her Nonnie raised her, so the comment felt odd. No cheating or OM/OW drama, virgin FMC, dual POV, HEA and a sweet epilogue 6 months in the future. Really looking forward to Jude's book, he seems funny and chaotic in the best way, so I can only imagine the woman he falls in love with in is for a wild ride.
Profile Image for Virginia.
426 reviews2 followers
March 5, 2026
The Downstairs Flirt by Loni Ree was a fun, sweet and steamy read.
As a short, small town, instalove, romance the storyline had a definite rom com vibe and the main characters Preston, and Hazel, were both likeable and engaging.
Hazel, a curvy librarian, regularly visits her grandmother at #1 Love Place and appreciates the glimpses of the hot, flirty neighbour with the perpetual smirk. Preston, quickly becomes obsessed with Hazel after a chance meeting but doesn't get her details or see her again but a visit with his neighbour Nonnie Laine allows him to discover that his dream girl Hazel is Nonnie's granddaughter.
Preston and Hazel's mutual attraction is strong and their simmering chemistry soon ignites. Matchmaking Nonnie encourages their steamy connection and the ensuing spiciness kept me turning the pages right through to their satisfying HEA.
I am now looking forward to the next inhabitant of #1 Love Place to fall!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
11.9k reviews49 followers
March 23, 2026
"Darling, sometimes, a peach cobbler is just a peach cobbler. Stop trying to add kale to it."

The Downstairs Flirt is the third book in the #1 Love Place series. This story had me laughing and really enjoying my time. The story is about Hazel Winslet and Preston Voss. She is a librarian who has a regular structure to her life, which does not include opening her heart to a man. Preston is an architect who moved from California to Worthington Hills, Texas for the opportunities of starting his own firm with a friend. Hazel was raised by her Nonnie after her parents died and she is still very close to her, including having dinner and evening with her several nights a week. It is on one of the Tuesday Sushi nights that Hazel literally runs into Preston when she walks into the lobby of the apartment building. Preston has noticed Hazel several times since he moved in and this time he is set on fire to find out just who she is and then how he can get her. Luckily Nonnie plays a bit of a matchmaker between them, and she does it with a twinkle in her eye and sweet smile.
Profile Image for Tiffany  Hill.
837 reviews16 followers
February 28, 2026
**A Delightfully Fun Read!**

I’m absolutely in love with the #1 Love Place series, and I’m so excited about the third book, *The Downstairs Flirt!* In this charming story, Hazel heads to her Nonna’s for their weekly sushi night and literally tumbles right into Preston’s arms. Unfortunately, she rushes off before they can exchange names! But fate steps in when Preston meets Hazel’s Nonna and gets invited to lunch. That’s where he finally discovers Hazel’s name and has the chance to see her again.

The chemistry and attraction between them are simply off the charts! Their slow-burn romance is so cute, and their playful banter, along with the delightful presence of her Nonna, makes for a fun, cozy read. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day. I can’t wait for Jude’s book, which I really hope is next in the series!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
38 reviews
February 28, 2026
#1 Love Place is officially my favorite apartment complex ever — there is just so much love in this place, it’s unreal. I was already in love with this series. Preston and Hazel's story dit it again.

That first meet-cute?! I mean… literally tumbling into his arms? I was grinning so hard. And the way fate keeps pulling them back together (thank you, Nonna!) was perfection. Preston and Hazel’s chemistry is off the charts — sweet, flirty, playful, and so full of tension in the best way.

Their slow-burn romance had me smiling, swooning, and completely hooked. The banter? Adorable. The longing? Delicious. And Nonna? An absolute icon. She made this story even more special.

I loved every single moment.
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.5k reviews94 followers
March 2, 2026
Hazel is a librarian who has a weekly date with her Nonna to share dinner however this week she literally crashes into Preston, a fellow resident. In the time since she hasn’t been able to forget their flirty interaction but the last place she expected to see him was at her Nonna’s when they are both invited for lunch.

Preston is an architect who has been distracted by meeting Hazel both at work and at home. He knows Nonna however he was surprised to find out that Hazel is the granddaughter she has been trying to match him with. Once he finds out they are the same woman he is much more interest in accepting her invitation.

Preston is both sweet and swoony as he shows Hazel that the attraction they share is only the beginning as he wants forever and not just a fling.
Profile Image for Nichole Loza.
353 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 26, 2026
Sushi date with her feisty grandmother was something Hazel always looked forward to. She loved her life, even though she didn’t have a man in her life, she had everything she wanted. A good job at the library, a cute little apartment, and she was happy. That is until fate decided it was her turn. One little trip and she fell into the arms of her future. Preston was new to town, and when this perfect woman fell into his arms, he knew that she was his, but one little problem. He did not even know her name. Then a chance meeting with a feisty older woman in his building changed that. Preston knew his future’s name, Hazel. This is the cutest, sweetest, spiciest story. I loved it!!!
Profile Image for Marie.
5,412 reviews54 followers
February 27, 2026
"Sometimes a peach cobbler is just a peach cobbler, stop trying to add kale to it!"

Nobody gives advice better than a meddling, matchmaking grandmother who is genetically engineered for plotting...Hazel and Preston don't stand a chance! Between Nonnie's interfering and the explosive chemistry that steals their breath and frys their brain, love is inevitable. I love that they are both equally affected by their attraction, seeing the normally calm and confident Preston boredering feral and totally on edge as he obsesses about Hazel is very sweet, his fantasies however leave sweet in the rear view mirror! This is an entertaining visit to #1 Love Place, which I read on Kindle Unlimited.
1,645 reviews4 followers
March 9, 2026
This is book number 3 of the #1 Love Place series and focuses on Preston and Hazel. Preston has grown his professional life in Worthington Hills quite a bit and is content in life. When he has a run in with Hazel, his life gets flipped on its head real quick. His focus shifts from solely professional to Hazel instantly. The problem for him is that he has no idea who she is since their initial interaction was so quick. When his neighbor, and Hazel’s grandmother, decided to play matchmaker, he finally had his chance to make her his. This was a great story and a great addition to the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
5,228 reviews29 followers
March 13, 2026
We are back in Love Place with a sweet and steamy romance. Hazel is on her way to visit her grandmother, Nonnie Laine, when she meets one of her gorgeous neighbors. She avoids him every time she visits Nonnie, with just a smile. Preston is obsessed with the mystery girl, she has invaded his thoughts. But a match making grandmother helps his drive to get to know Hazel better, when she invite him to dinner at her place along with her granddaughter. Their chemistry is hot and fast, Preston is ready to claim his girl.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
770 reviews
February 27, 2026
Hazel and Preston, ummmm, they are so cute, so patient, full of yearning for each other and perfect together.
This is a slow burn insta attraction story. A librarian and an architect meet when Hazel bumps into Preston in the foyer of his apartment building (she is visiting her grandmother). A few dates and lots of talking leads to two strong people getting hot and heavy.
Hazel’s Inner dialogue made me smile
A swoon worthy HEA epilogue.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
446 reviews3 followers
March 5, 2026
Loni Ree is a favorite author of mine, she knows how to grab onto her readers from the 1st page to the last. Her characters are so very delightfully flawed that you can't help cheer for their happily ever after. The story of Preston and Hazel is one of having a chrush on someone and accidentally running into them going to see your Nonnie for dinner. This is the 3rd book of the #1 Love Place series and you will be sorry if you miss it as well as the others in this awesome series!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Becky.
1,890 reviews6 followers
March 7, 2026
This is another fantastic addition to the #1 Love Place series. On her way to her grandmother's apartment, Hazel literally runs into Preston. The chemistry is instant right there in the hall with people around. Now, Hazel's grandmother is trying to get them together, and it is so sweet. This is such a great book! I have enjoyed each one in this series, and I will be reading it again. Excellent book with a perfect happy ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Johanna.
3,439 reviews62 followers
March 7, 2026
Book 3 of the #1 Love Place series. Can be read as a standalone.

'Now, the wooing begins—just as soon as she stops looking at me like I’m an alien invasion in her grandmother’s kitchen.'

The characters were very appealing and likeable. Plot was well written and straightforward. World building continues to be solidly drawn. All in all a very good addition to series of. Recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Amanda Reads.
722 reviews9 followers
March 9, 2026
I really like the #1 Love Place series. This story was about Preston and Hazel.
When they first meet, Preston thinks Hazel is adorable because she seems so nervous and just talks and talks. Hazel thinks Preston is cute but doesn’t think there could be anything that can come from it.
Preston falls hard and fast but can he convince Hazel that he could be her forever? Will Nonnie (Hazel’s grandma) start meddling, tryin to get these two together? Will Hazel finally see how amazing she is?
5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
Profile Image for Michelle.
10.9k reviews28 followers
March 20, 2026
Preston meets the woman of his dreams in the lobby of his building and instantly falls for her, but there's one problem he doesn't know who she is. Luckily for him, Hazel's matchmaking grandmother helps and invites him over for lunch, and fate takes over, sparking a beautiful love story. This is a sweet, instalove romance with fun banter and great characters who get their happily ever after. The Downstairs Flirt is book three and a sweet addition to the #1 Love Place series. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
Profile Image for Angi.
1,585 reviews
March 7, 2026
# 1 Love Place has come through again with an OTT instalove that is too adorable. Preston and Hazel get a little push from Nonnie that just moves their inevitable first date up a little bit. These two fall fast and hard and bring you right along with them. This has been such a cute series and this book is an excellent addition. I can’t wait to see what happens here next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,509 reviews15 followers
March 7, 2026
I am absolutely loving Loni Ree's #1 Love Place series and Book 3, The Downstairs Flirt, is no exception. Preston and Hazel are magic together. From their early near-misses to Preston's determination once he discovers Hazel's connection to his dear neighbour Nonnie, this steamy, entertaining rom-com is another can't miss in this fabulous series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Mary Pack.
218 reviews2 followers
March 10, 2026
I was thrilled to receive this ARC from Instalove and Loni Ree and I am leaving this review of my own free will..

Can't go wrong with a story with a Nonnie in it. She had great advice to give and was also matchmaking. Hazel and Preston met when they literally ran into each other in the lobby of #1 Love Place. They fell instantly, well at least into attraction. They took this romance slow. She wanted them to get to know each other. It's a cute love story. With HEA and some spice.
Profile Image for Courtney.
646 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
February 25, 2026
Another great read by Loni Ree! This one was a short an easy read that will certainly put a smile on your face. Hazel and Preston’s relationship with Hazels Grandma Nonnie was the best and she sure was great. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you Loni and Instalove for the ARC
Profile Image for Didi.
2,104 reviews
Review of advance copy
February 26, 2026
A charming Instalove that had me chuckling throughout as Hazel and Preston navigate their love journey. But believe me the slowburn to sizzle will have you fanning yourself. Wonderful characters, loved spunky Nonnie, sweet moments, witty banter, and a whole lot of heart. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is such a delightful series.
Profile Image for Cathy Moir-Allen.
290 reviews2 followers
March 1, 2026
Hazel enjoys spending time with her grandmother Nonnie and notices a very tall and handsome man who lives in her apartment building. Preston has also taken notice of a very pretty and frequent visitor to the building. After literally running into each other in the lobby, Hazel's grandmother decides to play matchmaker and the results are combustible. Good little novella !!!
5,831 reviews
March 2, 2026
I enjoyed Hazel and Preston's story.

Boy did Preston fall fast!
Lust at first sight, or love?

I think Hazel fell just as hard as Preston.

Loved the grandmother!

Wait until you see how romantic Preston is!

Wonderful, one-sitting read!
Ms. Ree had me laughing out loud!
4,052 reviews7 followers
March 4, 2026
Instantly Obsessed

When Preston bumps into a woman in the lobby of his building he is instantly obsessed but doesn’t see her that often until his older neighbor invites him for lunch and he learns his new obsession is her granddaughter Hazel. These two burn hot and fast and soon are spending all their time together in this sweet read.
Profile Image for Mimirureviewbooks.
2,247 reviews
March 6, 2026
The Downstairs Flirt is book 3 in the Love Place series written by the talented author Loni Ree. This is Hazel and Preston insta love romance story. I laughter, cried, fanned my face. Loved the banter and chemistry. Great characters, I love Nonnie Laine. The book has it all. I just couldn’t put it down.
12.5k reviews76 followers
March 6, 2026
The author has given us a fast-paced story that pulls us into the lives of Preston, Hazel and her grandmother, Nonnie. The heartwarming story keeps us turning the pages with instant connection, insecurities and steam.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jenifer.
2,875 reviews6 followers
March 7, 2026
An instalove romance that filled with accidental run-ins, flirty glances, wildly impressive dates and a meddling grandma who just wants her granddaughter to be happy. It was a pleasurable although quick read and left me smiling when done.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
821 reviews4 followers
March 8, 2026
Things at #1 Love Place are so sweet I think I got a cavity 🥰

The sexual tension in these is off the charts!!!!!

So sweet and cute, completely OTT instalove, with heroes that fall so hard they don’t even know what to do with themselves…. It’s adorable😍😍😍.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Melinda Swaine.
2,526 reviews12 followers
March 9, 2026
I loved every second of it!!

Beautiful insta love romance…well written book…pulled me in and kept me hooked! I just loved this book! I literally couldn’t put it down! The chemistry in this book is off the charts. I loved every second of it! How does this author do it. She just makes me fall in love with her characters every single time. Wish I could give this more than the 5 stars. Happy reading
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews