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Not for a Moment
IPPY Awards silver medalist 2024
Desperate situations call for desperate lies in this charming, fake-relationship lesbian romance.
Andi Barrons has no time for kids or the chaos they bring—certainly not when she runs a high-end decorating business. Mischief and little fingers around expensive materials? No thanks!
But then her gorgeous friend, Sarah Santoro, winds up in a custody battle with Sarah’s former in-laws and now… Well, somehow Andi’s agreed to pretend she’s Sarah’s live-in partner.
She’s still not quite sure how she got stuck playing a role she’s so utterly clueless about and that’s everything she doesn’t want in life. But as long as Sarah and Noa, the world’s cutest seven-year-old, don’t get a hold of her heart, she’ll be fine.
Easy, right?
Desperate situations call for desperate lies in this charming, fake-relationship lesbian romance.
Andi Barrons has no time for kids or the chaos they bring—certainly not when she runs a high-end decorating business. Mischief and little fingers around expensive materials? No thanks!
But then her gorgeous friend, Sarah Santoro, winds up in a custody battle with Sarah’s former in-laws and now… Well, somehow Andi’s agreed to pretend she’s Sarah’s live-in partner.
She’s still not quite sure how she got stuck playing a role she’s so utterly clueless about and that’s everything she doesn’t want in life. But as long as Sarah and Noa, the world’s cutest seven-year-old, don’t get a hold of her heart, she’ll be fine.
Easy, right?
309 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 8, 2023
About the author
Cheyenne Blue
90 books419 followersG’day and welcome. I’m Cheyenne Blue. I write big-hearted sapphic romance with strong women, mainly set in Australia.
My fourteenth romance, A Heart Full of Hope is out October 2024. It's an opposites attract, city girl-country girl romance between a high-flying executive and a handyperson.
I hope you enjoy all of my sapphic romances featuring strong women finding love.
You can find out more about me on my website cheyenneblue.com, Facebook or on Twitter @Iamcheyenneblue
My fourteenth romance, A Heart Full of Hope is out October 2024. It's an opposites attract, city girl-country girl romance between a high-flying executive and a handyperson.
I hope you enjoy all of my sapphic romances featuring strong women finding love.
You can find out more about me on my website cheyenneblue.com, Facebook or on Twitter @Iamcheyenneblue
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
February 14, 2023
Andi Barrons thought she was just helping out in the moment when Sarah’s ex mother-in-law berated her for being a single parent. Stepping in to say that her and Sarah were a couple felt like the right thing to do to protect her friend. Andi never considered that she would have to repeat her performance every time the mother-in-law visited. The idea of having a long term girlfriend with a daughter was never something in her world of possibilities, be it real or fake. Andi never wanted to be a mother. She simply wouldn’t know how to be good at it.
Cheyenne Blue takes the fake girlfriend trope and turns it into a gut wrenching custody battle with a slow burn romance simmering on the side. Not for a Moment is for readers looking for some heft with their romance. There is a maturity to this novel which thoroughly engaged my sensibilities. We are all the walking wounded yet Blue shows us our frailties can be turned into our strengths.
Hands down these are the best characters Blue has ever written. Sarah, Andi and Noa the daughter each bring a richness of personality and diversity of backgrounds to this story. The mother-in-law is displayed as an open book to understand the rationale behind her actions and her self belief in doing what is best for Noa. I praise Blue for not redeeming this character in the end. This is a refreshing counter to the norm.
Not for a Moment is a full five out of five read and I highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy from Ylva Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Cheyenne Blue takes the fake girlfriend trope and turns it into a gut wrenching custody battle with a slow burn romance simmering on the side. Not for a Moment is for readers looking for some heft with their romance. There is a maturity to this novel which thoroughly engaged my sensibilities. We are all the walking wounded yet Blue shows us our frailties can be turned into our strengths.
Hands down these are the best characters Blue has ever written. Sarah, Andi and Noa the daughter each bring a richness of personality and diversity of backgrounds to this story. The mother-in-law is displayed as an open book to understand the rationale behind her actions and her self belief in doing what is best for Noa. I praise Blue for not redeeming this character in the end. This is a refreshing counter to the norm.
Not for a Moment is a full five out of five read and I highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy from Ylva Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 26, 2023
Raising children.
This is a romance novel that explores the complexities of falling in love when life circumstances seem to differ from how you would prefer it to be and it is also about family. The story centers around Sarah, a divorced woman who has dedicated her life to raising her young daughter, Noa. Sarah has a friend named Andi, with whom she has always felt an attraction to but doesn't attempt a romantic relationship with, knowing Andi has an aversion to children. But a sudden interest by her ex's parents to apply for full custody of Noa while the ex is out of the country, somehow throws Sarah and Andi together into a fake romance.
Cheyenne Blue does a good job portraying the conflicting emotions that both Sarah and Andi experience throughout the book. Sarah struggles with her attraction towards with Andi while knowing that pursuing a relationship with her isn't a good idea. Andi grapples with her feelings of uncertainty as she navigates her growing affection for Sarah and her reluctance to become involved with someone who has a child. Furthermore, as she interacts more with Noa, she has to manage her own feelings as her own childhood memories come to mind. But as the story progresses, the characters learn to compromise and find a way to make their relationship work.
People who are uncomfortable with young children are underrepresented in sapphic novels and so I'm glad Blue has written a book with such a character in it. I found Andi's awkward interactions with Noa to be real and Andi's feelings to be relatable.
Overall, this is a good book that explores the complexities of love and family for anyone who has ever struggled with the challenges of blending a family.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
This is a romance novel that explores the complexities of falling in love when life circumstances seem to differ from how you would prefer it to be and it is also about family. The story centers around Sarah, a divorced woman who has dedicated her life to raising her young daughter, Noa. Sarah has a friend named Andi, with whom she has always felt an attraction to but doesn't attempt a romantic relationship with, knowing Andi has an aversion to children. But a sudden interest by her ex's parents to apply for full custody of Noa while the ex is out of the country, somehow throws Sarah and Andi together into a fake romance.
Cheyenne Blue does a good job portraying the conflicting emotions that both Sarah and Andi experience throughout the book. Sarah struggles with her attraction towards with Andi while knowing that pursuing a relationship with her isn't a good idea. Andi grapples with her feelings of uncertainty as she navigates her growing affection for Sarah and her reluctance to become involved with someone who has a child. Furthermore, as she interacts more with Noa, she has to manage her own feelings as her own childhood memories come to mind. But as the story progresses, the characters learn to compromise and find a way to make their relationship work.
People who are uncomfortable with young children are underrepresented in sapphic novels and so I'm glad Blue has written a book with such a character in it. I found Andi's awkward interactions with Noa to be real and Andi's feelings to be relatable.
Overall, this is a good book that explores the complexities of love and family for anyone who has ever struggled with the challenges of blending a family.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2023
This is only my second Cheyenne Blue book, but I really like the way she writes and will be going back and reading more. Sarah is divorced and raising her daughter, Noa. Sarah’s ex is out of the country. When her ex’s mother decides she should have custody of Noa, Sarah’s friend Andy steps in and pretends to be Sarah’s partner. Andy is ridiculously uncomfortable around children. What could possibly go wrong?
This is a slow burn romance between Sarah and Andy but for me, the best relationship is the one Andy forms with Noa, which totally takes her by surprise. This is a well written family drama. I wish more sapphic romances featured kids, they add so much to the story and are great catalysts for pushing characters together. I enjoyed this one even if I did want to smack Rosalind more than once.
An ARC was received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
This is a slow burn romance between Sarah and Andy but for me, the best relationship is the one Andy forms with Noa, which totally takes her by surprise. This is a well written family drama. I wish more sapphic romances featured kids, they add so much to the story and are great catalysts for pushing characters together. I enjoyed this one even if I did want to smack Rosalind more than once.
An ARC was received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
March 26, 2023
4,5 ⭐️
Very enjoyable read and entertaining storyline.
Very enjoyable read and entertaining storyline.
February 25, 2023
Cheyenne Blue has written a fake girlfriend relationship entwined with a slow burn romance that captures the reader.
Andi, no-nonsense confirmed loner is a successful high-end interior paint refinisher/artist and frankly, she's not comfortable around children. She has only known Sarah for about a year but immediately steps in when an awkward situation arises. Little does she realize that her impulsiveness will upend her routine and bring back painful memories of her childhood. A single mom to Noa after an amicable divorce, Sarah finds herself in a sticky position. With her ex Cait out of the country, Rosalind (Cait's mother) is pressuring her for custody of her granddaughter.
Blue's characters leap off the pages. The protective qualities displayed by Andi and Sarah's vulnerability yet steeliness against Rosalind are all held together by the glue that is Noa.
The slow burn romance fits perfectly as the MC's learn about each other. We worry, hope, laugh and get a bit teary eyed with the storyline hoping for that HEA. I loved how Noa wormed her way into Andi's heart. Rosalind - what a despicable woman, desperate to redeem herself from mistakes made in Cait's upbringing and her husband Lionel who needs to find a spine and stand up to his wife.
A beautiful story about the strength of family blood or found and love healing hurt. I easily recommend Blue's latest as a 5 star read.
Andi, no-nonsense confirmed loner is a successful high-end interior paint refinisher/artist and frankly, she's not comfortable around children. She has only known Sarah for about a year but immediately steps in when an awkward situation arises. Little does she realize that her impulsiveness will upend her routine and bring back painful memories of her childhood. A single mom to Noa after an amicable divorce, Sarah finds herself in a sticky position. With her ex Cait out of the country, Rosalind (Cait's mother) is pressuring her for custody of her granddaughter.
Blue's characters leap off the pages. The protective qualities displayed by Andi and Sarah's vulnerability yet steeliness against Rosalind are all held together by the glue that is Noa.
The slow burn romance fits perfectly as the MC's learn about each other. We worry, hope, laugh and get a bit teary eyed with the storyline hoping for that HEA. I loved how Noa wormed her way into Andi's heart. Rosalind - what a despicable woman, desperate to redeem herself from mistakes made in Cait's upbringing and her husband Lionel who needs to find a spine and stand up to his wife.
A beautiful story about the strength of family blood or found and love healing hurt. I easily recommend Blue's latest as a 5 star read.
March 26, 2024
I listened to the audiobook and very much enjoyed Cat Gould ‘s narration. I’m becoming a big fan of Cheyenne Blue as well. Faux romance is my favorite troupe and this one has a new twist.
All three characters were excellent Andi has had a terrible upbringing and she grows emotionally once she moves in with Sarah and her daughter Noa. Noa was delightful and a fun addition to the story. Sarah surprised me on how slow she was to appreciate Andi
All three characters were excellent Andi has had a terrible upbringing and she grows emotionally once she moves in with Sarah and her daughter Noa. Noa was delightful and a fun addition to the story. Sarah surprised me on how slow she was to appreciate Andi
February 16, 2023
Love, all I need is love - fabulous f/f fake romance
It‘s tough to be a single mom, even if your ex supports you.
It is even tougher, if your former in-laws are gunning for your daughter when said ex is temporarily out of the picture.
Sarah has to navigate these choppy waters. To her surprise rescue comes from the most unlikely of shining knights: the committed childfree lesbian Andi. And off goes a wonderful story where you fake it until maybe you make it. A story with a whole gamut of the feels: poignant at times, heartwarming, heartbreaking, awkward, fun moments, the raging injustice of it, reluctance, desire, heads, hearts and love in so many, sometimes misguided forms.
As a reader I couldn‘t turn the pages fast enough: so many twists, so many feelings. This story is all out and spared nothing to pull those little strings attached to my heart.
Apprentice Noa (I am chuckling with fond memories), Sarah‘s daughter, was one of my favorites. I waited with baited breath for her next shenanigans, wise words and outbursts of love and goodness.
And what about Andi, resilient, wounded warrior Andi? Ah, what a great character and so well written - and swoon: she comes with a toolbelt and tattoos.
Sarah is ordinary. Beautifully, lovely ordinary, no billionaire, not a super successful doctor, lawyer or what not. She panics, she is insecure and she adamantly stays her ground when her daughter is concerned.
Those are good people, salt of the earth - and there are the not so good people which you come not to hate but to pity - all done with a genius change of point of view.
The writing is excellent as I have come to expect from Cheyenne Blue. I really, really liked that the editor left us with a good flavor of the local vernacular aka Aussie slang. I like to get a taste of the setting via words and language („the tennis“) - without having to use a dictionary. The chapter titles were fun - my favorite was: „Part of the Conntrack“ (reading is believing).
Are you looking for a fake romance with all the feels, a cute kid, ordinary, good people and set in Australia? Give this one a try and enjoy.
Thanks to Ylva for the ARC. The review is left voluntarily.
It‘s tough to be a single mom, even if your ex supports you.
It is even tougher, if your former in-laws are gunning for your daughter when said ex is temporarily out of the picture.
Sarah has to navigate these choppy waters. To her surprise rescue comes from the most unlikely of shining knights: the committed childfree lesbian Andi. And off goes a wonderful story where you fake it until maybe you make it. A story with a whole gamut of the feels: poignant at times, heartwarming, heartbreaking, awkward, fun moments, the raging injustice of it, reluctance, desire, heads, hearts and love in so many, sometimes misguided forms.
As a reader I couldn‘t turn the pages fast enough: so many twists, so many feelings. This story is all out and spared nothing to pull those little strings attached to my heart.
Apprentice Noa (I am chuckling with fond memories), Sarah‘s daughter, was one of my favorites. I waited with baited breath for her next shenanigans, wise words and outbursts of love and goodness.
And what about Andi, resilient, wounded warrior Andi? Ah, what a great character and so well written - and swoon: she comes with a toolbelt and tattoos.
Sarah is ordinary. Beautifully, lovely ordinary, no billionaire, not a super successful doctor, lawyer or what not. She panics, she is insecure and she adamantly stays her ground when her daughter is concerned.
Those are good people, salt of the earth - and there are the not so good people which you come not to hate but to pity - all done with a genius change of point of view.
The writing is excellent as I have come to expect from Cheyenne Blue. I really, really liked that the editor left us with a good flavor of the local vernacular aka Aussie slang. I like to get a taste of the setting via words and language („the tennis“) - without having to use a dictionary. The chapter titles were fun - my favorite was: „Part of the Conntrack“ (reading is believing).
Are you looking for a fake romance with all the feels, a cute kid, ordinary, good people and set in Australia? Give this one a try and enjoy.
Thanks to Ylva for the ARC. The review is left voluntarily.
May 10, 2023
Loved this one! I fell in love with each character.
I´m not a fan of set-ups or playing roles like faking a relationship but this one was so cute! I loved all the angsty stuff because was so well written!
Recommended.
I´m not a fan of set-ups or playing roles like faking a relationship but this one was so cute! I loved all the angsty stuff because was so well written!
Recommended.
February 20, 2023
Sarah Santoro is raising her precocious seven year old daughter on her own after she and her partner - who is out of the country doing medical humanitarian work - amicably split. She has a close group of friends as a support network, one being Andi Barrons who runs her own decorative painting business. Sarah has been single for some time and although she finds Andi ridiculously hot, Andi has zero interest in relationships - especially with anyone who has children.
When her former partner's wealthy in-laws show up out of the blue to fight for custody of her daughter because they believe Sarah can't possibly provide the care Noa needs being a single parent, Andi steps in to help, claiming to be Sarah's live-in partner. Andi unthinkingly believed that would be enough to call them off. It didn't. So now they have to keep up the pretense, and even live together temporarily, until Sarah can make sure she keeps custody of her child. Andi curses herself for getting herself into this, but reluctantly agrees to play along for a few weeks or months until this is behind them. She got them into this mess, after all. Yes, Sarah is a beautiful woman who is easy to get along with and Noa is adorable and smart, but coming from a broken home herself, Andi has no idea how to have a successful relationship or raise a child. She wouldn't even want to attempt it and certainly doesn't have the patience for it. And Sarah has her own concerns about Noa getting too attached to Andi, who has already practically lost one parent being so far away with limited contact. Can the two of them really manage to do this? Feeling like she has no choice, Sarah is determined to do whatever is necessary to keep Noa with her.
This is actually one of my favorite Cheyenne Blue books. While it isn't a feel-good romance, it is a poignant, slow burn, moving drama that feels realistic and relatable. And yes - there is a romance, ultimately, but the focus is primarily on family dynamics. Sarah's former partner Cait's relationship with her own parents, Andi's painful childhood experience, the relationship between Sarah and Noa, the relationship between Noa and her grandparents and ultimately, the relationship that Sarah, Andi and Noa build together. There's a really beautiful moment in the book that sold the whole thing for me. I would love to share, but you just have to experience it for yourself.
Give this one a chance. You'll be really glad you did.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
When her former partner's wealthy in-laws show up out of the blue to fight for custody of her daughter because they believe Sarah can't possibly provide the care Noa needs being a single parent, Andi steps in to help, claiming to be Sarah's live-in partner. Andi unthinkingly believed that would be enough to call them off. It didn't. So now they have to keep up the pretense, and even live together temporarily, until Sarah can make sure she keeps custody of her child. Andi curses herself for getting herself into this, but reluctantly agrees to play along for a few weeks or months until this is behind them. She got them into this mess, after all. Yes, Sarah is a beautiful woman who is easy to get along with and Noa is adorable and smart, but coming from a broken home herself, Andi has no idea how to have a successful relationship or raise a child. She wouldn't even want to attempt it and certainly doesn't have the patience for it. And Sarah has her own concerns about Noa getting too attached to Andi, who has already practically lost one parent being so far away with limited contact. Can the two of them really manage to do this? Feeling like she has no choice, Sarah is determined to do whatever is necessary to keep Noa with her.
This is actually one of my favorite Cheyenne Blue books. While it isn't a feel-good romance, it is a poignant, slow burn, moving drama that feels realistic and relatable. And yes - there is a romance, ultimately, but the focus is primarily on family dynamics. Sarah's former partner Cait's relationship with her own parents, Andi's painful childhood experience, the relationship between Sarah and Noa, the relationship between Noa and her grandparents and ultimately, the relationship that Sarah, Andi and Noa build together. There's a really beautiful moment in the book that sold the whole thing for me. I would love to share, but you just have to experience it for yourself.
Give this one a chance. You'll be really glad you did.
I received an ARC from Ylva Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2024
4 Stars
The story, the flow, the relationships were so very personal and intimate. I don’t know why I kept putting off reading this book. It literally took me around 8 months from buying to reading. It was such a good read. The conflict was ominous enough for me to get riled up and infuriated. I had to keep reminding myself that this had HEA so I better chill the feck out.
The story, the flow, the relationships were so very personal and intimate. I don’t know why I kept putting off reading this book. It literally took me around 8 months from buying to reading. It was such a good read. The conflict was ominous enough for me to get riled up and infuriated. I had to keep reminding myself that this had HEA so I better chill the feck out.
March 9, 2023
When I read the first chapters, my hatred for Rosalind came at the speed of sound. I had trouble believing she was delusional at the point of engaging in a several months procedure to have full custody when Noa's second mom, would come back not long after. And It was miracle Noa didn't blurb out the truth in the early phase of the lie; I could have used a scene where Sarah talked to her about Andi's moving in.
At the same time, I couldn’t wait for Andi and Sarah to fall for each other.
Andi and Sarah's relationship is not passionate, it's sweet and cautious as it should be. Cheyenne Blue wrote well the difficulty of finding love when a child is involved, when the risk of breaking a child heart, outdoes the risk of having your own heart broken. I just wish there more scenes between Sarah and Andi, digging deeper their growing feelings for each other. It was really tender and sweet though.
I was rooting for Andi and Sarah but surprisingly, the relationship I liked the most was Andi and Noa's : I liked that Andi's love for children doesn't appear magically like an on and off switch; first she is uncomfortable and clueless, then slowly learn to love Noa and accept being loved by her. With Andi's background story and her will to not have children in her life at the beginning of the book, her growth felt realistic and it was very warming to read. One of Cheyenne Blue's strength is to write realistic characters with simple life you can easily relate to.The portrayal of Noa felt especially realistic : most books I read with children, they were almost more mature than me😝. Here, Noa doesn't always listen to what she is told to do, expresses her fears genuinely and gives her heart to those who are caring for her, in a smart and cute way.
I had a good time reading this book. This was a sweet fauxmance with a really sweet ending. De
At the same time, I couldn’t wait for Andi and Sarah to fall for each other.
Andi and Sarah's relationship is not passionate, it's sweet and cautious as it should be. Cheyenne Blue wrote well the difficulty of finding love when a child is involved, when the risk of breaking a child heart, outdoes the risk of having your own heart broken. I just wish there more scenes between Sarah and Andi, digging deeper their growing feelings for each other. It was really tender and sweet though.
I was rooting for Andi and Sarah but surprisingly, the relationship I liked the most was Andi and Noa's : I liked that Andi's love for children doesn't appear magically like an on and off switch; first she is uncomfortable and clueless, then slowly learn to love Noa and accept being loved by her. With Andi's background story and her will to not have children in her life at the beginning of the book, her growth felt realistic and it was very warming to read. One of Cheyenne Blue's strength is to write realistic characters with simple life you can easily relate to.The portrayal of Noa felt especially realistic : most books I read with children, they were almost more mature than me😝. Here, Noa doesn't always listen to what she is told to do, expresses her fears genuinely and gives her heart to those who are caring for her, in a smart and cute way.
I had a good time reading this book. This was a sweet fauxmance with a really sweet ending. De
March 19, 2023
Loved this book though very angsty which was quite hard to read though at times. Fighting over a child is never ‘fun.’ Cheyenne writes beautifully. Recommended.
July 10, 2023
This is the second book by Cheyenne Blue, and it's also the second one I've given 5 stars to. Although I found this book difficult to read at times, I was completely compelled and wanted to just keep reading. The fake romance trope is one of my favourites, if handled well. I really liked the way Blue developed the relationship between Steph and Andi. They start off as acquaintances with a mutual friend, fall into a fake romance and a friendship develops slowly. Andi works through some personal drama and in the meantime, their romance starts to unfold and I loved the slow build up. It made it feel natural but also kept you engaged throughout.
The situation with Noa's custody was an aspect that I found difficult to read. Rosalind's viewpoint was important as without it I think I would've found it difficult to understand her reasoning. I loved the way Andi supported Sarah throughout and the way she develops her own very sweet relationship with Noa. They were all such a joy to read and get to know.
A great novel. I highly recommend a read - especially if you are looking for a romance with a more complex but compelling storyline.
Many thanks to Ylva Publishing for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
The situation with Noa's custody was an aspect that I found difficult to read. Rosalind's viewpoint was important as without it I think I would've found it difficult to understand her reasoning. I loved the way Andi supported Sarah throughout and the way she develops her own very sweet relationship with Noa. They were all such a joy to read and get to know.
A great novel. I highly recommend a read - especially if you are looking for a romance with a more complex but compelling storyline.
Many thanks to Ylva Publishing for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2023
Wow. And then, some more wow.
I devoured this book in 2 sittings (basically unheard of for me since having the kiddo).
The writing is smooth and natural and the story moves forward at a pace that perfectly balanced the speeding heart rate and the deep breaths.
There is so much in this book to love. We have themes of family and abandonment and tropes of fake relationship, slow burn, single parent, and friends to lovers.
Blue does an incredibly brilliant job at representing parenting and what a mother (some mothers) wouldn’t do to protect their kid.
The characters evolve and the story is gut wrenching at times and happy tears at others. Yes, I did cry. Big gulping sobs of tears that came on so unexpectedly but there was no stopping them.
I loved the cameos we got of characters from other Cheyenne Blue books, and the humour weaved throughout was a silver thread of delight.
I can’t recommend this book high enough. I enjoy every page, cover to cover.
I devoured this book in 2 sittings (basically unheard of for me since having the kiddo).
The writing is smooth and natural and the story moves forward at a pace that perfectly balanced the speeding heart rate and the deep breaths.
There is so much in this book to love. We have themes of family and abandonment and tropes of fake relationship, slow burn, single parent, and friends to lovers.
Blue does an incredibly brilliant job at representing parenting and what a mother (some mothers) wouldn’t do to protect their kid.
The characters evolve and the story is gut wrenching at times and happy tears at others. Yes, I did cry. Big gulping sobs of tears that came on so unexpectedly but there was no stopping them.
I loved the cameos we got of characters from other Cheyenne Blue books, and the humour weaved throughout was a silver thread of delight.
I can’t recommend this book high enough. I enjoy every page, cover to cover.
June 1, 2023
3 stars
Barely
TBH I cared way more about the custody dispute than I did about the romance. But it was not bad. I also appreciate how Cait and Sarah managed to be divorced but friendly. Way too often I read about the other half of the divorce being a massive jerk. This was a nice change of pace and more closely aligned with the version of "divorced dynamic" I'm used to seeing IRL, namely "we'll be cooperative, because we're grownups, who should get along for the kid's sake"
Barely
TBH I cared way more about the custody dispute than I did about the romance. But it was not bad. I also appreciate how Cait and Sarah managed to be divorced but friendly. Way too often I read about the other half of the divorce being a massive jerk. This was a nice change of pace and more closely aligned with the version of "divorced dynamic" I'm used to seeing IRL, namely "we'll be cooperative, because we're grownups, who should get along for the kid's sake"
September 26, 2024
I haven't loved my previous attempts with Cheyenne Blue's novels, but decided to give this one a go since the reviews were promising. And, well, I liked. Did it wow me? No. But was it engaging and readable? Yeah. I appreciated that this was a story about real people with real jobs who live in a real city. Plus there's some butch rep which is a rarity in the genre, so kudos, Cheyenne Blue! I also liked that divorce didn't negatively impact Sarah's life much. She and her ex are on the same page throughout the novel regarding their daughter and that was really nice to see.
I didn't love the multiple perspectives beyond the MCs. I didn't need or want the ex-in-law's perspective on anything and don't feel it added much.
So how would I rate this novel? Nice, if not a little stale/bland. I didn't really understand Sarah's hangups about Andi late in the novel and thought it was drama for the sake of drama. But all's well that ends well, right?
3.5 stars.
I didn't love the multiple perspectives beyond the MCs. I didn't need or want the ex-in-law's perspective on anything and don't feel it added much.
So how would I rate this novel? Nice, if not a little stale/bland. I didn't really understand Sarah's hangups about Andi late in the novel and thought it was drama for the sake of drama. But all's well that ends well, right?
3.5 stars.
May 23, 2023
this book was cute. i liked the dynamic between andi, sarah and noa, there are some really sweet moments that warms your heart. noa is great. she's funny, sweet and endearing, and sarah's love for her is beautiful.
the romance... wasn't my favorite thing about the book, i couldn't really feel the chemistry between the two of them and everything felt a bit rushed to me. i didn't even get excited for their first kiss so that says a lot...
i didn't like that we got to see rosalind's pov either, i couldn't care less about that woman or her thoughts really. what i did like was that she was cut off from noa for a while by the end of the book and wasn't forgiven after she apologized for what she did.
i thought this was a good book to spend the time (mostly because of noa) and it was fast paced too but i don't think i would read it again.
the romance... wasn't my favorite thing about the book, i couldn't really feel the chemistry between the two of them and everything felt a bit rushed to me. i didn't even get excited for their first kiss so that says a lot...
i didn't like that we got to see rosalind's pov either, i couldn't care less about that woman or her thoughts really. what i did like was that she was cut off from noa for a while by the end of the book and wasn't forgiven after she apologized for what she did.
i thought this was a good book to spend the time (mostly because of noa) and it was fast paced too but i don't think i would read it again.
February 25, 2023
3.5 stars
I liked the story line but I found it a bit repetitive. The first 75% is full of angst. I kept turning pages hoping it would stop. And of course you finally get relief. And the epilogue was an odd surprise. The two main characters are very interesting, the villains are unrelenting and of course the child was adorable..they always are. The dialog was very moving. Sometimes emotional, sometimes cute, especially when dealing with the child.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review
I liked the story line but I found it a bit repetitive. The first 75% is full of angst. I kept turning pages hoping it would stop. And of course you finally get relief. And the epilogue was an odd surprise. The two main characters are very interesting, the villains are unrelenting and of course the child was adorable..they always are. The dialog was very moving. Sometimes emotional, sometimes cute, especially when dealing with the child.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2023
4.5⭐️ overall rating
5⭐️ enjoyment rating
📖 #CW//explicit sex
A really good book about finding family when and where you don't expect to. Once again, the cute kid is absolutely adorable.
Andi fears committing and family because she was unwanted as a child and doesn't want to hurt others the way she's been hurt. Sarah needs Andi's help because of a sticky custody issue with the parents of he ex-wife.
This is a forced proximity trope as Andi moves in with Sarah and her daughter to show there is a family life and plenty of attention for the child.
I enjoyed that the author explored so much of the characters' emotional baggage.
5⭐️ enjoyment rating
📖 #CW//explicit sex
A really good book about finding family when and where you don't expect to. Once again, the cute kid is absolutely adorable.
Andi fears committing and family because she was unwanted as a child and doesn't want to hurt others the way she's been hurt. Sarah needs Andi's help because of a sticky custody issue with the parents of he ex-wife.
This is a forced proximity trope as Andi moves in with Sarah and her daughter to show there is a family life and plenty of attention for the child.
I enjoyed that the author explored so much of the characters' emotional baggage.
March 22, 2023
True love!
Sarah is having difficulty with her ex-wife’s parents over her daughter, when Andi, a friend, tries to help by pretending to be her partner. While living together to keep up pretences, Andi finds life’s not so bad with Sarah and Noa, and can’t help but falling for a lifestyle she’d always stayed away from.
This was just the sweetest story and a real depiction of true love! What Andi did for Sarah and Noa was above and beyond any expectation of a friend and showed a dedication that was fierce and strong. Andi was such a good person, spurred on by hurtful experiences in her own past to make sure there was no chance of Noa ever having to feel how she remembered feeling. I admired her greatly, and completely understood when she tried to fight against what she felt for Sarah and Noa.
Noa was just the cutest kid. She was infectious and managed to wriggle her way into Andi’s heart in the most endearing of ways. It’s amazing how even if like Andi, you swear you don’t really like children, there is always that one that manages to get you at some point in your life and you just can’t get away from it. Andi had a great connection with Noa and that played the biggest part in Sarah really falling for her beyond initial attraction to her personality and kindness.
There was so much packed into this story, emotional heartbreak, kindness and selflessness on so many scales, and just a really heart-warming story to have you falling in love. I could read it over and over again, and each time I would fall in love with Andi, Sarah, and Noa’s little family all over again.
Sarah is having difficulty with her ex-wife’s parents over her daughter, when Andi, a friend, tries to help by pretending to be her partner. While living together to keep up pretences, Andi finds life’s not so bad with Sarah and Noa, and can’t help but falling for a lifestyle she’d always stayed away from.
This was just the sweetest story and a real depiction of true love! What Andi did for Sarah and Noa was above and beyond any expectation of a friend and showed a dedication that was fierce and strong. Andi was such a good person, spurred on by hurtful experiences in her own past to make sure there was no chance of Noa ever having to feel how she remembered feeling. I admired her greatly, and completely understood when she tried to fight against what she felt for Sarah and Noa.
Noa was just the cutest kid. She was infectious and managed to wriggle her way into Andi’s heart in the most endearing of ways. It’s amazing how even if like Andi, you swear you don’t really like children, there is always that one that manages to get you at some point in your life and you just can’t get away from it. Andi had a great connection with Noa and that played the biggest part in Sarah really falling for her beyond initial attraction to her personality and kindness.
There was so much packed into this story, emotional heartbreak, kindness and selflessness on so many scales, and just a really heart-warming story to have you falling in love. I could read it over and over again, and each time I would fall in love with Andi, Sarah, and Noa’s little family all over again.
February 19, 2023
This book was a fake relationship, slow burn romance containing characters that were all wonderfully developed and enjoyable, except for the grandmother from hell!
I don’t always go for books with children, but the star of the story ended up being 7 year old Noa, who is now my most favorite child character ever. I’ll never forget her! Her birth mother, Cait was an ER doctor, away in a village in Africa on a voluntary mission. Noa lived with her other legal mother, Sarah.
Andi was a custom decorator design painter who was roped into the fake relationship scenario by a mutual friend. She was reluctant for legitimate reasons, understanding that it would only be temporary. Sarah needed the fake partner to demonstrate stability to her ex mother-in-law who wanted custody.
As the story unfolded, the author skillfully presented all the reasons for the hesitancy of both ladies, the grandmother’s pretenses and then as the real reasons unfolded.
Noa was the one who created the magic. She was the cohesive character at the core of the story, helping some adults learn to overcome fears, others to face realities that they couldn’t use a child to make up for the mistakes they made with their own child. Noa added so much joy to the story.
Andi, because of her hesitations, was told she could leave the temporary relationship and return back to her life once the situation with the grandmother was resolved. Sarah was also skeptical, not wanting to get involved with someone she didn’t trust to possibly leave her since she’d already been left by her wife, Cait. Again, this story was marvelous with how the author interjected the reasons why each had legitimate concerns, and also developing the slow burn romance storyline.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Little Noa is now imbedded in my heart.
Thanks to Ylva Publications for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I don’t always go for books with children, but the star of the story ended up being 7 year old Noa, who is now my most favorite child character ever. I’ll never forget her! Her birth mother, Cait was an ER doctor, away in a village in Africa on a voluntary mission. Noa lived with her other legal mother, Sarah.
Andi was a custom decorator design painter who was roped into the fake relationship scenario by a mutual friend. She was reluctant for legitimate reasons, understanding that it would only be temporary. Sarah needed the fake partner to demonstrate stability to her ex mother-in-law who wanted custody.
As the story unfolded, the author skillfully presented all the reasons for the hesitancy of both ladies, the grandmother’s pretenses and then as the real reasons unfolded.
Noa was the one who created the magic. She was the cohesive character at the core of the story, helping some adults learn to overcome fears, others to face realities that they couldn’t use a child to make up for the mistakes they made with their own child. Noa added so much joy to the story.
Andi, because of her hesitations, was told she could leave the temporary relationship and return back to her life once the situation with the grandmother was resolved. Sarah was also skeptical, not wanting to get involved with someone she didn’t trust to possibly leave her since she’d already been left by her wife, Cait. Again, this story was marvelous with how the author interjected the reasons why each had legitimate concerns, and also developing the slow burn romance storyline.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Little Noa is now imbedded in my heart.
Thanks to Ylva Publications for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 1, 2023
A beautiful fake relationship romance, a cute and smart little daughter, a caring and dedicated single mom and a gentle and supportive fake girlfriend, together they formed a perfect loving family. This is one of my favorite books from Cheyenne Blue, I love all the main characters, Sarah, the single mom, Andi, the fake girlfriend and Noa, the adorable eight year old. The legal drama and the manipulative grandparents only make the story more believable. It is a book that will lift your mood and make you smile and happy.
April 5, 2023
Not For A Moment is the feel-good romance you need to read right now! You know those books where the characters are insanely great at communication but carry a load of messy baggage and we get to read along as they come to the realisation that they are worthy of giving and receiving love? This is that book. Cheyenne Blue uses a fake romance trope and creates an original and sweet low angst story with a beautiful happily ever after.
Anna is raising her daughter, Noa, living in their dream home, and even if she doesn’t love her job, it is convenient for now. When her ex-in-laws suddenly decide that Noa would thrive in their care and threaten legal action to gain custody, Andy, a friend of a friend/sometimes drinking buddy, steps in and changes the game.
Andy thinks Anna is cute and good enough company, but not dating material. No mother is, as she has sworn off ever having kids in her life. Her past is full of heartbreak at the hands of those who were supposed to love her, and her scars are still raw. When she inadvertently becomes Anna’s fake live-in girlfriend, she reluctantly steps into the role.
Anna and Andy open up to each other and as the fake touches and caresses begin to happen even when they aren’t required, they both begin to question their motivations for not making what is fake but feels so right permanent.
Blue has created a cast of characters who are relatable and authentic. Anna and her love for Noa, her motherly instincts putting her own happiness on hold, and Andy carrying trauma, which is preventing her from letting true love into her heart. The relationship that is cleverly woven between Noa and Andy is gorgeous. Not For A Moment is written by Australia’s very own Cheyenne Blue, and she really can’t be beaten if you’re looking for a good old-fashioned Aussie sapphic romance.
Anna is raising her daughter, Noa, living in their dream home, and even if she doesn’t love her job, it is convenient for now. When her ex-in-laws suddenly decide that Noa would thrive in their care and threaten legal action to gain custody, Andy, a friend of a friend/sometimes drinking buddy, steps in and changes the game.
Andy thinks Anna is cute and good enough company, but not dating material. No mother is, as she has sworn off ever having kids in her life. Her past is full of heartbreak at the hands of those who were supposed to love her, and her scars are still raw. When she inadvertently becomes Anna’s fake live-in girlfriend, she reluctantly steps into the role.
Anna and Andy open up to each other and as the fake touches and caresses begin to happen even when they aren’t required, they both begin to question their motivations for not making what is fake but feels so right permanent.
Blue has created a cast of characters who are relatable and authentic. Anna and her love for Noa, her motherly instincts putting her own happiness on hold, and Andy carrying trauma, which is preventing her from letting true love into her heart. The relationship that is cleverly woven between Noa and Andy is gorgeous. Not For A Moment is written by Australia’s very own Cheyenne Blue, and she really can’t be beaten if you’re looking for a good old-fashioned Aussie sapphic romance.
April 8, 2023
Sarah is a single mother of Noa. Her ex wife Cait is a dr currently in Africa. One night when Noa is at a friend's overnight, Sarah has her friends Kristen and Andi over for pizza. When the in laws ,Rosiland and Lionel are at the door wanting to see Noa, without calling first. When they are told she's not home, they proceed to tell Sarah they are going to fight for custody. Claiming it will be easier on Sarah to not raise Noa alone. When Andi steps up and says she's in a relationship with Sarah.
The complication is, Andi isn't looking for a relationship especially one with a child.
Noa is a wonderful, nicely outspoken child. This is an endearing slow burn story. I give it 5 stars!
The complication is, Andi isn't looking for a relationship especially one with a child.
Noa is a wonderful, nicely outspoken child. This is an endearing slow burn story. I give it 5 stars!
March 31, 2024
I wasn't digging this at first, took me reading two other books before going back and surprisingly enjoying it.
This story is about a single mum with a threat by her in-laws, finding herself in a fake relationship to show how grounded she is in taking care of her child. It just so happens her fake girlfriend is in no state to be in relationship that has a kid.
I found myself more invested in this story because of the kid actually, she was funny and some parts were pretty emotional.
This story is about a single mum with a threat by her in-laws, finding herself in a fake relationship to show how grounded she is in taking care of her child. It just so happens her fake girlfriend is in no state to be in relationship that has a kid.
I found myself more invested in this story because of the kid actually, she was funny and some parts were pretty emotional.
March 24, 2023
My heart is so incredibly full right now. I can't get the smile off my face and I want to immediately start Not for a Moment again from the beginning.
Books like these are why I read romance novels. Complex, flawed and/or damaged characters who find each other somehow and overcome all obstacles. Of course, the hot sexy times are a bonus, for sure.
Andi broke my heart in so many ways and I wanted to scoop her up and hug her insecurities away. While her situation was very different from mine, there were still plenty of similarities and I had a tough time not remembering my own childhood with sadness while reading. I got my happy ever after and I loved being on Andi and Sarah's journey to find theirs. I also understand the legitimate fear of having relatives who would gladly take my child from me if they could. It's something that, as a mother, kicked me in the gut a few times while reading. The way Ms. Blue handled it felt believable and not over the top.
Another book for the reread/funk reading list. Absolutely loved this book. So much. So, so much.
A HUGE "thank you!" to the author for the ARC. I'm even almost timely!
Books like these are why I read romance novels. Complex, flawed and/or damaged characters who find each other somehow and overcome all obstacles. Of course, the hot sexy times are a bonus, for sure.
Andi broke my heart in so many ways and I wanted to scoop her up and hug her insecurities away. While her situation was very different from mine, there were still plenty of similarities and I had a tough time not remembering my own childhood with sadness while reading. I got my happy ever after and I loved being on Andi and Sarah's journey to find theirs. I also understand the legitimate fear of having relatives who would gladly take my child from me if they could. It's something that, as a mother, kicked me in the gut a few times while reading. The way Ms. Blue handled it felt believable and not over the top.
Another book for the reread/funk reading list. Absolutely loved this book. So much. So, so much.
A HUGE "thank you!" to the author for the ARC. I'm even almost timely!
March 16, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Sarah is single mom to a daughter Noa when her ex in laws show up unannounced asking to spend time with Noa they think more so the grandmother Rosalind she isn’t fit to raise their granddaughter and decides to sue for custody. Andi is Sarah friend thinking she helping she tells them she Sarah girlfriend thinks that’ll be the end of it but it’s wasn’t now they both have pretend they are in relationship. Sarah who trying to do right by her daughter and herself tries not to fall for Andi who hasn’t had a great upbringing doesn’t do relationships especially with children even though I think that was a cop out because I thinks that’s what would make a great relationship because you know what not to do even if sometimes you do do something wrong. This was a great read I enjoy the characters the slow burn of romance with Sarah and Andi.
Sarah is single mom to a daughter Noa when her ex in laws show up unannounced asking to spend time with Noa they think more so the grandmother Rosalind she isn’t fit to raise their granddaughter and decides to sue for custody. Andi is Sarah friend thinking she helping she tells them she Sarah girlfriend thinks that’ll be the end of it but it’s wasn’t now they both have pretend they are in relationship. Sarah who trying to do right by her daughter and herself tries not to fall for Andi who hasn’t had a great upbringing doesn’t do relationships especially with children even though I think that was a cop out because I thinks that’s what would make a great relationship because you know what not to do even if sometimes you do do something wrong. This was a great read I enjoy the characters the slow burn of romance with Sarah and Andi.
February 21, 2023
I really am a fan of Cheyenne‘s books. This new one is such a touching humorous story. Sarah and her daughter Noa are a great team and with Andi as good friend around ..well it gives the reader a warm feeling by reading it.
If you are not a Cheyenne Blue fan , then it’s about time.
If you are not a Cheyenne Blue fan , then it’s about time.
February 15, 2023
This book was lovely. I loved seeing the bond between Andi and Noah especially. Andi and Sarah were great together as well. I loved seeing their friendship grow before they fell in love. It took a while for me to personally warm up to Andi but she was great and many may find her relatable. I love this family dynamic.
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