Tension: This installment of Arranged Hearts offers a heartfelt and layered exploration of love, trust, and emotional healing through the unlikely pairing of Dakota Buck and Mariah Stanfill. Dakota, a hardened music executive, and Mariah, a warm and empathetic counselor, are worlds apart in demeanor but united by a shared longing for something real and lasting. Their whirlwind union through an elite matchmaking service sets the stage for a captivating journey of self-discovery and vulnerability.

The story deftly contrasts Dakota’s guarded nature, shaped by past betrayals, with Mariah’s struggle to embrace vulnerability and seek validation for her own voice. Their dynamic, filled with tension, chemistry, and moments of raw honesty, keeps the reader invested in whether they can overcome their personal baggage and external pressures to build something genuine.

The emotional stakes are high, as unspoken truths and lingering fears threaten to unravel their fragile bond. Yet, the promise of enduring love adds a hopeful undertone, making this a compelling read for fans of romance that delves deep into character growth and the complexities of human connection. Arranged Hearts once again proves that love, even when orchestrated by chance, can be a transformative force.

I enjoyed this book and found myself upset it ended. I decided to listen again and ended up getting the entire series.

"Be careful putting humans on pedestals and don't let anyone put you on one either."
"Your trauma is your responsibility"

This was my first C. Monet and certainly won't be my last! I loved her author's note for this book and how she shared her own unconventional love story. Her writing voice in this book was so strong and rooted in the bond of marriage. (given she's been married 9 years herself) I loved how she focused on therapy and communication between the characters. Each one of their arguments felt real and relatable, so much so I found myself taking sides. However C. Monet did a great job of bring both viewpoints into the picture. Then how she provided comparison and the real life consequence of drifting too far away from each other was perfect.

Additionally, C. Monet's writing style shined through in her comedy and love for music. I found myself wanting to create a playlist and go back and watch old tv shows. That Lovita and Big Ceddie reference was definitely a IYKYK moment.

Tension is for the girls that love reading about FMCs getting their soft, princess treatment life. There was never a want or a need of Mariah's that didn't go unattended to. Even when Dakota was pissed he still cared and made sure she knew it. I was completely caught off guard by the conflict in this book but appreciated that C. Monet introduced it. This is a topic that I have never seen broached. (which is something I've been mentioning about this series) If you want a crash course in experiencing the ups and downs of a marriage in less than 300 pages this is the one!

Tension by C Monet and narrated by Dylan Ford and Simone Rothschild was a fantastic introduction to the series and this very talented author. The narration is pristine and engaging, both narrators work seamlessly together

The story follows Dakota Buck, a highly successful Music Exec, betrayed in his previous relationships, creating a personal barrier that he is unwilling to let down. Still, he joins a matchmaking service which introduces him to Mariah Stanfill, a HIgh School Counsellor and the opposite to him in every way.

A perfect grumpy X sunshine/ cinnamon roll slow burn that delves deep into the complexities of rebuilding trust and relationships. Monet has an exceptional abilioty to convey the deepest intricacies and nuances of bbuilding a relationship, of learning about each other and this comes across in the compelling narrative.A great series for lovers of urban romance

Thank you to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, C Monet and the narrators for this excellent ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own

*Tension* by C. Monet is a gripping contemporary romance that expertly intertwines themes of desire, betrayal, and personal growth. The narrative follows two protagonists drawn together by a magnetic attraction yet held apart by their pasts and the complexities of their respective lives.

Monet's writing is sharp and evocative, creating a palpable atmosphere of tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is expertly crafted, weaving in moments of high stakes alongside quieter, more intimate scenes that allow for character introspection. The dialogue is authentic and often laced with an undercurrent of tension, reflecting the characters' struggles and the chemistry that simmers beneath the surface.

The characters are well-developed, each grappling with their own inner demons and conflicts. This depth adds complexity to their relationship, making the stakes feel real and high. Readers will find themselves empathizing with their journeys, rooting for their growth, and hoping for a resolution that feels both satisfying and earned.

Key themes of trust, vulnerability, and the consequences of past decisions resonate throughout the story. Monet skillfully explores how these elements shape relationships, reminding readers that love can be both a sanctuary and a battlefield.

Overall, *Tension* is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance looking for a story that balances emotional depth with steamy moments. C. Monet delivers a tale that captures the intricacies of human connection, making it a must-read for those who enjoy romance infused with real-life challenges.

The cover didn’t feel like it matched the main character and I’m not quite sure why that bothers me so much but it definitely does. The main male character seemed legit but the female character had some issues she really needed to work through. I liked the concept well enough but it just didn’t resonate and sit well with me. Unfortunately, I just don’t feel like it’s worth the read (or listen).

I definitely wasn’t expecting that last POV! He’s in the music and she’s a counselor or something like that cause she works with kids. Employment aside, can we talk about their chemistry!? Mariah and Dakota have my heart and money cause if C Monet wants to write forevermore about these two imma put my card on tab.

The Arranged Hearts series just keeps getting better and better. I loved Dakota & Mariah's relationship. Their relationship most definitely resembled real life-- no fairytale fluff relationship. They faced real life problems with real life experiences that couple's face-- critical family's, rough upbringings, fear of being hurt, painful interpersonal relationships, and the need for control.
I would reread and recommend this book to any of my friends that love to read.

Enjoyed this installment in the Arranged Hearts series by C. Monet. In Tension, the next lucky people to sign up and get paired through Arranged Hearts matchmaking, is Mariah Stanfill and Dakota Buck. Dakota is a music exec ready to commit but past betrayal has him leery with opening his heart. Mariah is a counselor is also dealing with past issues that she is hesitant to reveal her whole self. As these two enter into holy matrimony, the bliss they expected met with challenges. Will distrust and fear overpower the budding love Mariah and Dakota feel for each other?

I enjoyed Dakota and Mariah’s story. Each had their issues to face and needed to communicate and show transparency. Ms. Monet does a good job fleshing out the issues and displaying the couple’s determination to work through the issues. I initially received an advance audio copy but needed to also download the electronic version as the male narrator was not very engaging. Overall good read.

Note: I received an advance audio copy from Netgalley

This novel offers a fascinating take on the idea of entering a committed relationship without prior knowledge of one another. The story explores how two individuals, both strangers, navigate the complexities of a marriage formed through a unique matchmaking process. The characters’ contrasting views on family, traditions, and personal beliefs are depicted thoughtfully, adding depth to their journey together.

There are moments where the blend of religious and secular elements felt somewhat jarring, creating a mix of emotions for the reader. However, this contrast also highlighted the characters’ growth and evolution throughout the book. Watching them transform from guarded individuals into a rare connection was compelling.

Overall, I found it to be an engaging listen that challenges conventional notions of love and marriage. It’s particularly recommended for those who enjoy stories that are honest and grounded in reality, capturing the raw essence of human relationships. This would make an excellent choice for a black romance book club discussion, as it offers plenty of material to reflect on and debate. These are new narrators for me, and I think the female narrator in particular has a nice voice.

This novel presented with an interesting concept - that of going into a sacred union, sight unseen. It was unreal and yet the experiences the couple faced were very much realistic. The opposing perspectives on family structure, expectations, and values was nicely written. The back and forth between religious talk/actions and non religious talk/actions threw me for a loop quite a few times; it seemed odd. In a way, I suppose that shows growth. Both characters went from raw to rare over time. At the end of the day, it was a good read.

Other: Readers who prefer down home, in your face, keeping it real ships, this one is for you.

* Tension would be a fantastic book club read. There is so much food for thought.

Thank you to the author, to the publisher (Dreamscape Media), and to NetGalley for sharing an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest review.

4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars! Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC! I am really enjoying this series! Mariah is a high school counselor and she is ready to take a chance on love. Dakota is a music executive who is ready to settle down with one woman.

They both decide to try Arranged Hearts in hopes of finding the love of their life. With the Arranged Hearts program, you are matched up with your perfect mate by meeting with the matchmaker who asks a series of questions, and she will match you with your person based off of your responses, and you marry each other sight unseen.

We follow Dakota and Mariah’s relationship and see if they will live happily ever after. They encounter some bumps in the road along with their own personal issues that they have to work through, and see how they work through these issues in hopes of them working it out. I really enjoyed their story and look forward to reading the other books in the Arranged Hearts series.

Thank you for this Arc, I really enjoyed this story. Dakota and Mariahs' love story was very cute and just love arranged marriages.

This is a fast paced, arranged marriage romance featuring two people looking for love and romance,. Dakota is a music producer. He didn’t have the best role models as parents. He built himself from nothing and has the lifestyle he wants but not the love. His last relationship broke him. He puts it all on the line for Mariah.

Mariah is a school counselor. She has a big heart. She is looking to settle down with a good man. She is not one to face her issues, while Dakota is pretty open, she keeps things close until things explode. Her secrets could cause her the love and always wanted.

Good story, good character development and plenty is steam.

In the beginning I was not feeling Mariah but eventually I started to understand her. Dakota was instantly lovable. I liked going through the journey of their relationship. They both had trust issues and it was interesting to see how each of them dealt with it. Simone Rothschild did a great job with the narration. Dylan Ford was ok but didn't wow me.

Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed this story and appreciated that it was in first person. The narrators were enjoyable to listen to and made this story come to life.

Dakota, Dakota, Dakota!! Whew he is just that dude!! This series so far is amazing. Mariah is a high school counselor and Dakota is a successful music executive who both are looking to settle down and decide to go through Arranged Hearts.

This story was very relatable in the sense of each character’s background and dynamics with others in their life. Being vulnerable and putting your trust wholeheartedly into another can be hard when you’ve been constantly let down. But these 2 truly overcame and gave the marriage their all.

I would recommend this book, this series, every chance I get!

This is my first book from C. Monet..
I really enjoyed the Married at First Sight theme..I also enjoyed the realistic dialog with this book. Dakota and Mariah's marriage wasn't easy but with communication and understanding it grew into something beautiful. I received a complementary copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

This Arranged Marriage book was so great. I enjoyed this so much. I liked how quickly they connected and listened/made time for each other. This series is people that really want to make relationship work and communication is key. I enjoyed this so much. SOSO MUCH.

I got an alc of this book on NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Absolutely loved Dakota and Mariah!!

This story I thought had way more depth with the marriage hiccups and really symbolized how marriage is a union of two broken people coming together with their own baggage to become one. Loved these two and the journey they went on.

I am loving this series so much. I love that so far the characters are in their 30’s and mature for the most part. Each person knows what they want and they stand up for themselves. This story had a hiccup in the Mariah’s and Dakotas bond built i love that they loved each other to want to see their marriage through this issue. I am excited to continue through the other books in the series and I’m loving that the black love is positive.