I really enjoyed Lauren Landish's writing style. The banter is always A+ and the side characters in this book were fantastic. That said, I struggled a bit with this one, but I think it's a personal preference thing. I'm not a fan of insta-love and the idea that someone runs away from their wedding because they feel like they've been stuck in an identity for 10+ years but then immediately falls in love with the next person they meet (literally hours after they ran away from said wedding), just didn't really stick with me. It felt too fast and rushed. I'm invested in the side characters though so I'll definitely keep reading the series.

I tried with this one but I just couldn't... I mean seriously. Letting someone who was going through something take a call at your house is basic human decency but letting a veritable stranger stay in your house because she was too afraid to face to get family after running out on her wedding is going out of your way to show someone kindness. I mean seriously... I would understand if she was stranded somewhere but good lord she was in the town she lived her whole life in. Her parents and sister are basically 10 minutes away.

And apparently the man she ran out deserved a kick in the balls because he had the audacity to be mad that the woman he was going to marry, ran out on him at the last moment.

All these from the male MC she JUST met. I would understand if it was from a friend but the dude literally just met her. I feel like the author wanted to endear the reader to him and try to make it seem like he was taking her side immediately after meeting her which was so sloppily done. Completely put me off.

Thanks to the publisher for this ARC!

I Do With You by Lauren Landish was a fun book and a great way to spend a summer day reading and enjoying the sun.

Hope is marrying the man of her dreams and long-time love and realizes as she's walking up the aisle to him that he actually ISN'T the man of her dreams and this isn't the right thing to do, so she makes a dash for the woods in her outdoor wedding setting and literally runs into Ben, who is a musician struggling to find the words for the songs he needs to right. Relieved that Hope isn't actually a bear trying to kill him, he helps her and gives her a place to stay while she tries to decide what she is going to do about her fiance', whether she wants to get married after all and oh yeah, what are these feelings she's developing for Ben.

This was a great first book in the Maple Creek series that had likeable main characters, fun AND funny secondary characters, and sub-plots that I hope will play out in what I hope will be subsequent books.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.

My cover to cover review without spoilers!

The cover is cute and simple! As you read the book, the title definitely makes sense of course. Love the color and clean illustration. In a book store, I would pick this up to learn more about the story for sure.

This book is charming, fun, and quirky. It has romance, it has spice, it has surface level drama. It’s a very easy read, it flows a bit like a faster pace Emily Henry story which I can appreciate. We meet Hope who is on a new, somewhat abrupt, journey of self discovery when she runs into Ben who is on his own quest to find himself. The plot overall I can describe as ‘fun’ which sounds a bit lackluster but it’s truly a rollercoaster for the FMC.

Some of my constructive criticism is that while this book has its quirks and quick relevant phrases, sometimes I find some lines to be a little cheesy but hey what’s a little happenstance romance without it.
I found myself cringing just a little at Ben’s reciting of song lyrics to Joy but I’m also the gal who can’t help but to freeze up when people sing Happy Birthday to me.

Overall, it was a comfortable easy read and given the development of other background characters I would definitely check out the next book in the series to find out who gets their own story!

I Do With You, written by Lauren Landish, is the first title in the Maple Creek series.

Publication date: November 12, 2024

Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, Romance
Spice level:🌶️🌶️🌶️

Hope (FMC)⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dental Hygienist

Ben (MMC)⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Musician

This book is so freaking cute and highly recommended!!

Ben meets Hope in the middle of the woods one day, she is running from her wedding ceremony, he is running from his life as a rock musician. They form an instant connection with each other after he helps hide her away from the world for a few days. While in hiding Ben builds up Hope’s self confidence in herself, Hope helps Ben’s lyric writing talent.

The lyrics that he was coming up with throughout the book were so sweet, I was so excited he was able to put them into a song for Hope. 😍

My only complaint was that Hope was a little too harsh on Ben in the last third of the book when she discovered who he really was. It wasn’t like she asked him a bunch of questions about his life, there was no need to be that harsh in him. 🧐

No OW drama, quite a bit of OM drama from the jilted groom but he gets what’s coming to him. No cheating, a little bit of a separation in the third act but guaranteed HEA!

My favorite line in the book came from Hope’s father:

“…love changes too. Sometimes it’s white-hot and all consuming. Other times, it’s cozy and comfortable. And everywhere in between, sometimes at the same time. But what it’s not, and should never be, is lonely…” 🥰

Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this title!

What a great romance from Lauren Landish. This was a story about romance, second chances and self discovery. It is funny and delightful. I can’t wait for the next in the series!

A charming whirlwind of laughter and love! This The writing sparkles with humor and heart, creating a joyous tale of unexpected romance and self-discovery. A five-star read that's as irresistible as it is uplifting!

It’s been awhile since I’ve read a Lauren Landish book, so I was excited to receive an ARC of this one.

This was an adorable, quick, feel-good read!

First of all - a few times throughout this book, the FMC, Hope says “Hamburger-help-me”, and for some reason this just made me giggle. Then I thought about Hamburger Helper, and after lamenting over how long it’s been since I’ve had that, my husband actually went out, bought some and made me Lasagna Hamburger Helper for supper (is there any other kind worth eating???). I’m straight up married to a green flag book boyfriend ❤️

I loved the self-discovery and progress on finding herself that Hope made throughout this book after literally running away from her fiancé at the altar in chapter one. Things moved quickly with Ben, but they had instant chemistry and their banter was fantastic right from the start. I never once felt like Ben was taking advantage of the situation, and he was wonderful the entire time, championing her and boosting her up to her full potential.

It’s not a band I listen to (but obviously I’m aware of them) - but Ben and Midnight Destruction were clearly inspired by Slipknot. If I could hold a note in a bucket and actually sing, I’d want to be anonymous too! I’m surprised more artists don’t go this route (Slipknot and Orville Peck are the only real life examples I can instantly think of)… I enjoyed this character description for Ben, and it made sense with his character’s personality.

I know this is book one in a series, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed for both siblings to get books - and please let it be a Sean and Joy book! I want to see that grumpy asshole Sean put in his place by feisty Joy ❤️❤️❤️

Thank you to NetGalley, Montlake and the author for the chance to read and review this ARC!

How sweet this book is! I knew when it was a Lauren Landish novel and it was a small town girl and a big city boy, I had to get it. It is an incredibly quick read filled with strong characters, an interesting plot line, and lots of romance along the way. Maple Creek is a picturesque background for these events. It feels like a small town that you know even if you have never even been there before. Highly suggest this book to all who are looking for a quick summer or fall romance and aren’t afraid to fall in love with themselves more along the way.


Thank you to Montlake, Lauren Landish & Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I Do With You by L. Landish, published by Montlake is book one in the Maple Creek Series.
Hope is a runaway bride who had her life all mapped out. Marriage, white picket fence, home dog kids. But then she just can't say I Do. And she runs straight into an hiker's arms.
Ben is out finding his center when a runaway bride runs into him, not knowing he just found his muse.
A wonderful pageturning romance. Soon after starting the book I fell for characters and story hook, line and sinker. The perfect read to snuggle up on the couch and read about Ben and Hope.

Hope Barlowe is on the verge of marrying her high school sweetheart by the lake. She's already mapped out her future: two children, a dog, a house, and a fairy-tale ending. But suddenly, forever feels like a daunting prospect. Instead of saying "I do," Hope decides she can't go through with it and escapes into the woods, stumbling upon the unpredictable life of a rugged tattooed hiker. Ben Taylor, a struggling musician seeking inspiration during a three-week retreat, never expected to encounter a potential bride lost in the wilderness. Hope's mesmerising blue eyes, her complex situation, and her fiercely independent spirit immediately capture Ben's attention. He finds his muse in her and falls deeply and quickly. Meanwhile, Hope discovers something equally significant—herself. Their growing connection becomes the talk of Maple Creek, sparking both admiration and debate. What comes next for them? If Hope has learned anything, it's that true happiness transcends checklists, and dreams can transform in an instant.

"I Do With You" by Lauren Landish begins with Hope Barlowe's spontaneous decision to flee her imminent lakeside wedding, setting the stage for an unpredictable journey. The novel follows Hope and Ben, both evolving characters whose growth and chemistry drive the narrative. Landish skillfully blends humour and heartfelt moments as Hope navigates self-discovery alongside Ben, a tattooed musician with a mix of rugged charm and sensitivity. Set in the picturesque Maple Creek, the story unfolds with an empowering message about embracing change and authenticity for true happiness. The fast-paced plot is filled with unexpected twists, from Hope's escape to her burgeoning relationship with Ben, complemented by a lively supporting cast from Maple Creek. This book is a heartwarming romance that captures the essence of love and self-discovery, perfect for readers seeking a captivating and feel-good story in a charming small-town setting.

A happy woman can change her mind at any moment. Hope does just that in this book and I loved it. This was my first time reading Landish's work, and it was entertaining. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

Title: I Do With You

Author: Lauren Landish
Genre: Romance

Rating: ★★★★


Lauren Landish's I Do With You is a delightful, funny, and empowering romance that sweeps you off your feet and takes you on a journey of self-discovery, love, and second chances.

What I Loved:

Charming Premise: The story kicks off with an unexpected twist – Hope Barlowe, moments away from her lakeside wedding to her high school sweetheart, decides to bolt. This runaway bride scenario sets the stage for a hilariously unpredictable adventure.

Endearing Characters: Hope and Ben are wonderfully crafted characters. Hope's transformation from a checklist-driven bride to a woman discovering her true desires is both relatable and inspiring. Ben, the handsome and tattooed musician, is the perfect mix of rugged charm and sensitivity. Their chemistry is electric from the moment they meet.

Humour and Heart: Landish strikes the perfect balance between humour and heart. Hope's escapades in the woods, including her encounter with Ben, are laugh-out-loud funny. Yet, beneath the humour lies a poignant exploration of self-discovery and the courage to follow one's heart.

Romantic Setting: The picturesque backdrop of Maple Creek adds to the romance. The small-town charm, combined with the natural beauty of the woods, creates an idyllic setting for Hope and Ben's blossoming love story.

Empowering Message: One of the standout elements of I Do With You is its empowering message. Hope's journey is a reminder that it's never too late to rewrite your story and that true happiness comes from being true to yourself. The book encourages readers to embrace change and follow their hearts, even when it means taking a leap into the unknown.

Engaging Plot: The plot is engaging and fast-paced, with plenty of twists and turns to keep readers hooked. From Hope's impulsive escape to her budding romance with Ben, the story is filled with moments of tension, excitement, and heartfelt emotion.

Supporting Cast: The quirky residents of Maple Creek add depth and colour to the story. Their reactions to Hope's runaway bride status and her growing relationship with Ben provide plenty of laughs and touching moments.

I Do With You by Lauren Landish is a heartwarming and hilarious romance that left me smiling. With its charming characters, picturesque setting, and empowering message, this book is a perfect escape for anyone looking for a feel-good love story.

Get ready to fall in love with Hope, Ben, and the enchanting world of Maple Creek.

Thank you to The Publisher Montlake, The Author Lauren Landish & Netgalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

I am so happy I received an ARC of this. I seriously adore this book and will recommend this to anyone who will listen to me.

First, I love that Ben shows emotional intelligence and empathy throughout the entire book. He demonstrated patience and openness that I can only aspire to bring to the table.

Second, the chemistry between Hope and Ben???? I'm obsessed. Like who doesn't love a small town girl with a city boy? Also, the way both characters grow throughout the entire book was immaculate. Lauren Landish did an amazing job at making sure each main character was well thought out and addressed. The changes in Ben when feeling connections to the small town and family matters made my little heart beat.

Lastly, I cannot wait for a second book with Joy and Sean hopefully. I will be crossing my fingers and waiting oh so patiently.