Book Review: Love on Deck by Kasey Stockton
Synopsis
In Love on Deck, Lauren Foley and Jack Fletcher find themselves trapped in a fake dating scenario on a Bahamas cruise, all for the sake of their eloping friends. Despite a disastrous past blind date, they find it increasingly difficult to remember why they ever disliked each other. However, what happens on the cruise may not withstand the reality back home.
I stumbled upon Kasey Stockton’s Love on Deck as an ARC that I spotted on Bookstagram and boy, I’m glad I did! Its contemporary ‘enemies to lovers‘ storyline promised a fun-filled adventure, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
This was my first venture into Stockton’s writing world, and I can assure you, it won’t be my last. I read this book in its ebook format, but have made a mental note to buy myself the physical copy and fill it with my annotations!
Review of the book
Plot
I’ve got to tell you, I absolutely loved how the story moved so fast! There was never a dull moment. And the romance, oh my, it was like watching two sides of the same coin.
Oh well. I had eight days with the woman and a new goal: she was going to be my friend by the end of it.
Love on Deck by Kasey Stockton
Seeing the love story bloom both on and off the cruise ship was something special. The plot at some points was basic (which I kind of expect in contemporary romances), but that didn’t stop it from being a total page-turner. It was just a blast to read!
Characters
The banter was hands down one of the best parts. I mean, the back-and-forth between Lauren and Jack had me absolutely glued to the pages, giggling into the wee hours of the night.
WHAT? I sputtered, choking on my own shock and spit. Jack Fletcher, spawn of the devil himself, had just called himself my boyfriend.
Love on Deck by Kasey Stockton
The chemistry? Off the charts!
But it wasn’t just that. Watching both Lauren and Jack grow and evolve throughout the story was something special. It just made the book that much better.
Let’s take a moment to discuss the side characters, shall we? I have to say, they were so well developed and I absolutely loved how the main characters interacted with them.
Tropes
I’ve got to say, this book absolutely hit the sweet spot for me. The enemies-to-lovers trope was nailed perfectly, and it had me on the edge of my seat the whole time.
And the forced proximity? Oh, it was just the cherry on top! Nothing beats watching two ‘enemies’ having to spend a lot of time together, gradually chipping away at their walls of animosity.
“That being said, I also know without even a little doubt in my mind that I love you and want to spend the rest of my life with you fixing up this little B&B and making spreadsheets and organizing events in our backyard.” My breath caught. He was listing all my favorite things.
Love on Deck by Kasey Stockton
But what sealed the deal were the subplots of fake dating, second chances, and the charming small-town setting. The complexity and tension added by the fake dating, combined with the hope and redemption offered by second chances, all set within a quaint, close-knit community – it was all just so perfectly woven together.
Your thoughts on the book
Honestly, this book was such a treat to read. It was the perfect blend of contemporary and romance, and it delivered something refreshing to the genre.
It was a solid 4.5-star read for me, and I’m already itching to dive into the second book.
The narrative was superbly constructed with relatable characters, sparkling banter, and a plot that, while somewhat traditional, kept me flipping pages faster than I thought possible.
The enemies-to-lovers trope, the fake dating subplot, the second chances – everything was just wonderfully executed. And the small-town setting just added this comforting, homey charm that I couldn’t resist.
I couldn’t have asked for more from this book – it was a delightful journey from start to finish. And now, the anticipation for book 2 is real, you guys!
If it’s anything like this one, I know we’re in for another awesome ride.
Make sure to check out this awesome list of contemporary romances! It’s perfect for keeping your love for this genre alive.
Happy reading! 📚
About the author
Kasey Stockton, a romance aficionado, was introduced to the Regency period through a copy of ‘Sense and Sensibility’ from her grandma. With a love for all types of romantic endings, she indulges in a wide genre spectrum. Originally from Northern California, Kasey now lives in Texas with her family. Besides writing and reading, she enjoys running, hair-styling, chick flicks and, of course, chocolate.
