I was excited to read Zoe Brennan, First crush because I really enjoyed the last book. I didn’t like this one quite as much but it was still a good read. Love the winery setting and the setup for the relationship. The conflict was a little messy but not to the point that it affects my enjoyment of the book. Overall, would recommend

The audiobook of Zoe Brennan, First Crush by Laura Piper Lee is an absolute delight. The narrator perfectly captures Zoe’s journey through first love, self-discovery, and all the heart-fluttering, awkward moments in between. A must-listen for romance fans!

Sometimes you just need a book that feels like a cozy blanket and a warm cup of tea—and Zoe Brennan, First Crush was exactly that for me this week. This story is sweet, spicy, heartwarming, and occasionally heartbreaking, making it a delightful escape that hits all the right emotional notes. Once you get past the slightly cringy opening scene, you're in for a treat.

Zoe Brennan is a complex character, grappling with the grief of losing her mother and living with a father who is a shadow of his former self. Her emotional baggage is palpable, from her struggle to believe in love to her tendency to keep relationships at a surface level. Despite her active sex life, Zoe’s belief that she’s unlovable adds layers to her character, making her journey all the more compelling.

Enter Laine Woods, Zoe’s first crush and the sister of her ex-best friend. Laine isn’t without her own set of issues, as she’s trying to outrun her past and figure out her future. The dynamic between Zoe and Laine is electric, filled with tension that’s both professional and personal. Watching them navigate their complicated history while trying to save the vineyard is as entertaining as it is poignant.

What truly shines in this book are the moments where Laine tries to prove to Zoe that she’s not just another fling. The slow, tender courtship is beautifully written, filled with vulnerability and genuine emotion. The vineyard struggles, the late-night conversations, and the push and pull of their relationship kept me hooked. It’s hard to see how two people with such fragile emotional states could find common ground, but when they do, it’s incredibly satisfying.

Zoe Brennan, First Crush is a story about second chances—not just in love but in life. It's about learning to trust, letting go of the past, and opening your heart to the possibility of something real. If you're looking for a book that will make you laugh, tear up, and maybe even blush, this one’s for you.

Thank you Netgalley and dreamscape media for the free ALC. My opinions are being left voluntarily. Wowww this one super starts out with a bang!!!!!! I was unprepared but obsessed with the high heat of this book. It had me legit sweating while listening.... this was phenomenal I loved the debut book this one could have been a bit shorter but definitely will recommend!!!

Suggest picking it up

4.5/5☆

Firstly the writing was a delight, had witty humor and heartfelt storylines. Its messy in that the MCs are not perfect but are relatable. I am not into wine but it was fun to read about the wine world for a bit. Great to see Hannah and River from the previous book. Laine and Zoe’s relationship began with a childhood crush to a blindfolded threesome to boss to friends to more it was spectacular.

This story has a real authentic storyline that doesn't just feel like a fluffy romance and even borders on women's fiction with it's realness. It was also very funny. I would say that it felt a little too long and maybe dragged at parts but was definitely worth the listen

Laura Piper Lee is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. Her characters feel real. I loved every minute of this queer childhood crush-to-lovers romance.

Also, Lindsey Dorcus knocks the narration for this right out of the park! Love, love, love her as a narrator.

Oh my goodness!! This will be in my favorite books of the year!

This beautiful story is the perfect blend of heartwarming, hilarious, and horny. I adored the found family aspect and was left breathless by the unfiltered depiction of Zoe and Laine’s love, vulnerability, bravery, and ability to keep trying after failing. I was rooting for these two from the first page and truly had the best time with these lovely characters.

I read a physical copy first but when I saw Lindsey Dorcas was narrating, I knew I needed to do a reread on audio. The narration was absolutely spectacular!

All the stars for Zoe and Laine!

This was a SPICY small town queer romance that takes place in the same universe as Hannah Tate, beyond repair and sees Zoe forced to work with her first crush after a HOT night of surprise threesome sex. When Zoe's father hires Laine to help restore the family vineyard, she and Zoe have to figure out how to work with one another despite their different styles. Good on audio and recommended for fans of authors like Amy Spalding or Ashley Herring Blake. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital an audio copy in exchange for my honest review!