I received an eARC of this book via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.

Feels Like the First Time by Marina Adair is the second in the Destiny Bay about a small town and second chances. I personally really enjoyed this sweet story about best friends and a pretend relationship. We all know how those end ;)

Ali was my favorite side character in Last Kiss of Summer. She’s an independent woman, tomboyish, and the complete opposite of her former cheerleader- sister. And then there’s the small fact she’s always been in love with her best friend who also happens to be her sister’s ex.

Bradley Hawk *swoon* Hawk is a former NHL player turned bar owner. He moved back to his small hometown after his disastrous first marriage. He thinks he’s over Bridget and ready to move on, but he never saw Ali in the light he’s seeing her now.

The plot of this story reminds me a little of the movie The Proposal except these two are already friends. I liked how the author conveyed Hawk’s feelings. The POV alternates each chapter so we the reader know from the getgo know how he feels about Ali and how those feelings grow. I love stories like this! The slow burn, friend turned lover...It’s like watching a Hallmark movie: short, sweet, and heart-warming.

Overall I enjoyed this book. The romance is a slow build but the chemistry is immediate. Hawk and Ali are a fun couple! It isn’t a squeaky clean read though, so if you are looking for fade to black or closed door scenes, you won’t find them here. If you enjoy contemporary romance (especially of the best friend variety) I highly recommend it!