I’ve been reading this author’s books for well over 10 years. In fact, it was one of her books that converted me into the contemporary romance genre that I love today.
This upcoming release is part of a series set in the Outer Banks, but you don’t necessarily have to read the first book to enjoy this one. I did read it, and this one was just as engaging.
Releasing this summer for a fabulous, perfect beach read, check out my thoughts below.
The Reluctant Flirt by Jennifer Probst
Publisher: Blue Box Press
Publication date: July 15, 2025.
ISBN-13: 978-1963135404
OVERVIEW:
Just one night…
After discovering her husband’s affair, Sierra Lourde flees to New York City for a little damage control—and a lot of wine. A tipsy night in a bar with a charming stranger seems like the perfect way to forget her troubles. No names, no promises, just one night to escape reality and regain her confidence. The next morning, mortified by her vulnerability, she flees without looking back. But who needs closure, right?
But one night changes everything…
Sierra has reinvented herself as the proud owner of Flirt, a trendy boutique in the Outer Banks. Life is good—until Kane Masterson, the man she left behind, walks back into town. And of course, he’s now the developer whose big new project threatens to bulldoze her beloved shop. Kane needs this deal to save his career (and his brother), but Sierra’s not about to let him demolish her hard-won success.
With sparks flying, sarcastic jabs turning into lingering looks, and a family wedding forcing them into close quarters, Sierra and Kane find themselves tangled in a battle of wills—and hearts. But now he has to choose: reclaim his career or risk everything for a second chance with the one woman he can’t forget.
The Reluctant Flirt by Jennifer Probst Review
Small town romance is a great trope, and the story starts in New York City with an explosive connection that follows up four years later into a fiery connection.
I have to say once again, in some of these romance novels, I’m tending to lean more into loving the guy more than the girl. While I understand a lot of hesitation on her part, I also feel that it the author took it a bit beyond where it needed to go or needed to be.
I love it when the guy is all in and isn’t afraid to admit it. Breaking down the barriers is a lot of this book. He was constantly on the chase, trying to convince her that what they had was real.
Blending in with other characters brings that Outer Banks vacation town vibe. They’re all interesting and fun characters, and the author even set it up for another potential romance – maybe another book to come??
Probst is amazing when it comes to setting up those hot romance vibes. The electricity and the intense feelings are all there. It’s just breaking through the ice to make that final connection, but he’s diligent. I was cheering him on all the way through!
I enjoyed the overall story, but she tended to annoy me with her overall lack of trust in herself and him. Third quarter demo scene was drama-filled and crushed their growth. That was sad and unnecessary.
We got the HEA, but I wanted more from it, but after the demo scene, it wasn’t everything I expected. All in all, The Reluctant Flirt by Jennifer Probst is sweet, hot, and funny in many places. Great read for your summer beach vibes!
4 STARS!!
Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.