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Lake Spark Inn

Should Have Known

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Stone is Harlow’s opposite and the retired hockey player with whom she ends up sharing a bed with…

Showing up to a small town for an author retreat began with a bad arrival at the inn. Stone Madden, the cocky retired hockey star with a tight jawline, and my opposite? He’s actually the man behind a writer I assumed was a recluse. And he’s ready to make my day miserable due to our apparent lack of enthusiasm for one another. But it doesn't take long to discover we click with an inflammable instant attraction. The fire I thought I’d lost inside of me begins to return.

Because of him.

Together, we unlock the unexpected, a strong bond we don’t want to break. There may be distance on a map between us, but our emails and visits bring us even closer. Stone entered my life as the key to healing my emotional wounds and giving me my own love story. But eventually, something has to give, and I’m not sure my heart can handle the risk, even if he won't give up. In retrospect, the moment our eyes first connected, I should have known…Stone and Harlow bring the feels and steam in this he-falls-first and instalove romance. It is the first standalone book in the Lake Spark Inn series, which is part of the Lake Spark world where small-town romance has a hint of hockey.

Author's Like all of my books, Should Have Known is a heartwarming, feel-good romance full of banter and steam. However, it does reference assault from the past (off-page).

255 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 9, 2024

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About the author

Evey Lyon

28 books314 followers
Evey writes heartwarming romances with steamy moments, often in small-town settings with an element of sports. An American from the Midwest, she now lives in a tiny country in Europe where it rains a lot. That is probably why she occupies her days typing away on her laptop with music on repeat and slow-roast coffee nearby. Oh, and she vows to never break up with cake.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for Julie Booklover.
1,411 reviews70 followers
April 9, 2024
We have returned to Lake Spark, IL. Stone Maddon has retired from professional hockey and now writing fiction inspired by his playing days. A writers retreat is happening at the Dizzy Duck Inn in Lake Spark, and he is participating.

Harlow Olive is a romance writer also participating in the retreat. She is hoping to get herself back into the writing process. I love these two from their first meeting. I was drawn in immediately by the chemistry and the banter. But the two have some distance to overcome as they do not live in the same state. Will their relationship progress or will one of them make the effort.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for TheSassyNerdBlog.
932 reviews369 followers
April 10, 2024


I’m still fairly new to Evey books but I’m really enjoying them. She has a way of pulling you in with her words and she did exactly that with Should Have Known (Book 1 in the Lake Spark Inn series)


Stone is a hockey player, but now he no longer plays, he moved back to his hometown and has become a writer of hockey fiction.

Harlow is also a writer and has been for a while. Her passion and what she loves to write is a romance with a decent amount of steam.

When Stone and Harlow’s publisher sends them both on a writer's retreat, the two meet. They can’t stand each other at first but when paired together it forces them to become closer and what started as a hate-to-love relationship slowly turns into intense chemistry, undeniable attraction and sexual desire! However, they both have secrets and past trauma they haven’t dealt with and this is making it hard for both of them to open up.

I was so invested in this book and these characters. I love a good enemies-to-lovers when written well and this was perfection! I couldn’t put this down!

5 STARS!!

Profile Image for AJ.
3,035 reviews1,013 followers
April 9, 2024
3 stars

The first book in Lake Spark Inn series, this is a spin-off, set within the author’s Lake Spark world, all set in the same small town, all with a hockey flavour, but easily read as standalones. This is a fun yet emotional enemies-to-lovers romance with long-distance angst and a sweet love story.

Harlow is a romance author heading to Lake Spark for a writer’s retreat. Stone is a retired hockey player (and brother to Vaughn, from Waiting to Play, Lake Spark Off-Season #3), part owner of the Lake Spark Inn, and also a writer attending the same retreat. From the moment they lay eyes on each other, they are snarky and bickering, but it doesn’t take long for things to shift, and then the sparks are really flying.

The attraction is fast and strong, and they’re both feeling it, but more than just mad lust, they are developing true feelings. Their time together is short, and when Harlow returns to life on the other side of the country, they stay in touch. Over emails and visits, they grow closer, they share their lives, and they effortlessly start a relationship which is fun, playful, and all kinds of intense, and they fall hard.

“You’re tearing down the boundaries I thought I had, and I’m not complaining. I want you to break more.”

I really enjoyed watching Stone and Harlow come together. Neither of them are looking for a relationship, and everything between them develops so naturally, and though they have fears and reservations, and vulnerabilities from the past, they just go with it. They do have hurdles to overcome, of course the distance, which is so hard, but there are more personal issues as well. It’s angsty and emotional at times, and my heart hurt for both of them, but they’re open and honest with each other as they figure it all out.

“I believe the future between us is what we’ve been waiting for. I just need you next to me to make that happen.”

Stone kinda stole my heart in this book. He’s a playful sweetheart with strong family ties, and though he’s never really had a serious relationship, he follows his heart and puts himself out there for Harlow, and it’s gorgeous to see. He’s also a sex god, with a bit of a dominant streak, which is hot as hell. I could feel the connection between the two of them, and though their story had its frustrations, I was happy to see them get their happy ending.

This is a sweet and easy story, and an enjoyable read.

3 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

March 17, 2024
As a huge fan of the previous series set around the fabulous Lane Spark, I was looking forward to this next interlinked series.

No spoilers - This book has all the warmth, banter, small town spice that you want but it’s been amped up. This story was captivating and I fell in love with Stone and Harlow as they meet at the writers retreat and go on a journey getting to know each other. They both have their past secrets and I loved the emails they wrote to each other as they struggle to fight their connection despite living far from each other. Check trigger warning. I loved the depth of this story, I felt for both characters and was utterly invested in them. I loved this story - it had all the feels and took me through all the emotions and was sad when it ended ( a sure sign of a great book). There will be more for this spin off series and I can not wait. Evey Lyon has done it again and everyone will love this gorgeous heartfelt story.

I received this book as an ARC - these comments are my honest views given voluntarily
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
4,910 reviews181 followers
April 6, 2024
4.5-star Review of Should Have Known (Lake Spark Inn) by Evey Lyons

Having read the first book in the latest series from Evey Lyon I was excited to dive into Should Have Known which is retired hockey player Stone Madden and Harlow’s story.
This was an entertaining, beautifully written story with characters whose story you cannot help but be drawn into. These two could not be more opposite and should not work together, and yet they do.
Neither of them was expecting to find love, but fate works in mysterious ways. Both have secrets that they want to keep but the heart wants who the heart wants. The chemistry between them was intense and it was entertaining to watch as their relationship developed.
Profile Image for Natalie.
299 reviews
March 24, 2024
Stone is the ex hockey player turned writer. At a writers retreat, he meets Harlow, a writer of spicy romances. There’s an instant connection.

The banter, connection and spice are all on point in this book. Evey has a way of bringing to life a character, their flaws and insecurities. And boy does Harlow have some, understandably. Harlow is a little frustrating as a character, but her trauma makes you understand why.

This is Book 1 of the Lake Spark Hill series, but has links to previous series from Evey. I recommend reading some of the book backlist as it will enhance this story further. But of course, this is a standalone book.

This book is a small town, long distance, opposites attract story, with great characters, and an easy to flow storyline. I love Evey’s style of writing. She draws me in and makes me fall for her characters as they fall in love.

4 stars
Profile Image for Kassie.
95 reviews1 follower
March 26, 2024
“Turns out, I should have known that you’d be the only door I’d want a key to.”


I loved the Lake Spark books and enjoyed the spin off debut. Stone and Harlow met at a writer's retreat and had an instant attraction.  I loved their ‘letters’ (emails) and how they developed a relationship. I really enjoyed the character development. Being back in Lake Spark was sweet and spicy. I was hoping to see more of the other characters but enjoyed the glimpses of Vaugh and Isla. Overall, great book!!


Thank you Evey Lyon and Wordsmith Publicity for the ARC!
Profile Image for Ktsues_booknook.
140 reviews2 followers
April 22, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
In the new Lake Sparks Inn series we follow Stone and Harlow. Stone lives in Lake Sparks but Harlow is in town for business. It end up are both at authors at a retreat in where they are forced to be partners. Their attraction and draw towards each other in immediate. They are so feisty and their banter is great. They fight adorably about their perspective works and writing methods that are quirky. I empathized with Harlow, she was so strong and reserved yet loves, love. To watch her find herself and what felt right for her while Stone was there steady for her was so sweet. The connection these two had was something so special. I adored their interactions and how much they showed that they cared for each other. Another good start to a series, can’t wait to see what else Sparks Lake brings.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,398 reviews203 followers
April 13, 2024


Universal / Amazon / Apple / Nook



Harlow has come to Lake Spark for a writer's retreat when she meets a man who instantly gets under her skin. Is it his snarky words? Or is it the heat running through those words that she can't shake? The more time they spend together, the more the sparks develop into something much more than just attraction. But Harlow's past trauma, and the distance between their lives will mean they have a lot of work to do to make this thing they've developed into something lasting.



I love it when the guy falls first, and damn did Stone fall, hard! He knew his feelings almost from the beginning, he was just waiting for Harlow to come to grips with how she was feeling. All her fears, all her insecurities from her trauma, had her waffling so much that it's a wonder Stone was as patient as he was. But given that trauma, her indecision was very understandable, and I hurt for her even though it was frustrating to read. Stone and Harlow's story is heartfelt, sweet, with all the steam you could ask for. I love them together, and can't wait for the next couple in Lake Spark to fall in love.



ARC provided by Wordsmith Publicity for an honest review.

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Profile Image for Amanda Brown.
81 reviews
April 9, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️.5

Tropes:
📖 Small Town Romance
✍🏼 Ex hockey player
📖 Enemies to lovers
✍🏼 Opposites attract
📖 He falls first
✍🏼 Long distance
📖 Insta attraction

Should Have Known by Evey Lyon is book 1 in the Lake Spark Inn series which is a spinoff of the Lake Spark Off-Season series. This book takes you on a long slow burn journey of Stone Madden and Harlow Olive.

Stone Madden is an ex hockey player turned author who has taken up residence in Lake Spark where his brother now lives as well. Harlow is a romance writer who has had some trauma in her past. Stone and Harlow meet in Lake Spark when their publisher sends them both to a Writer’s Retreat. Of course things don’t start off all roses and butterflies for Harlow and Stone.

I enjoyed this book, it was a very heartwarming story of healing and allowing yourself to jump into the unknown feet first without knowing the outcome but hoping to come out on top. There was an instant connection between Harlow and Stone and their banter is next level. They pick on each other relentlessly and enjoy each other’s company so much. I loved watching Harlow and Stone slowly show more and more interest in each other. Their passion for each other bloomed with each email they sent to each other. Their emails were laced with lots of innuendos and lots of quirky flirtiness. They started a long distance relationship which consisted mainly of emails back and forth and little surprise meet ups to see each other. Harlow’s character development was amazing, going from timid, thinking she’s not worthy of Stone or having her happily ever after. But with Stone’s compassion and love she finally realizes her worth and that she deserves to be happy and stop living in the past.

If you love fun quirky banter, interactions that are witty and charming, a story that’s funny, steamy and heartfelt then this story is for you. It will definitely pull on your heartstrings with how their relationship is back and forth. This story keeps you engaged from start to finish by allowing Stone and Harlow’s romance to blossom organically, complete with twists, turns, and bumps along the way. It’s the perfect happily ever after for Stone and Harlow.
Profile Image for BlinaBlume Books.
62 reviews3 followers
April 15, 2024
ʟᴀᴋᴇ ꜱᴘᴀʀᴋ ɪɴɴ #1 ꜱʜᴏᴜʟᴅ ʜᴀᴠᴇ ᴋɴᴏᴡɴ - ᴇᴠᴇʏ ʟʏᴏɴ 4 ☆

Harlow and Stone met on a writers retreat, but did not get along right from the beginning. After a truce and spending time together (ending with a sweet kiss), both know that they share a connection they’re not yet ready to let go. So eventually they keep in touch.

Both of them are experiencing quiet unexpected feelings. Stone is being a gentleman, giving Harlow the time to accommodate to the situation. Where Harlow on the other hand finally feels more for a man. Finally thinks Stone could be the one breaking down her walls. Or how someone you didn’t know, but spent some time with, can be the one! She trusts him with her biggest secret. He could be the one helping her get over her difficulties. She knows that deep inside. Is she willing to take the risk, though.

Writing emails (as a romance writer) makes her open up more, and gives her the ability to write down her darkest and dirtiest fantasies. But also improves her writing style as an author. And when they do meet, the attraction and chemistry is undeniable, even off the pages. With the distance between them, they have to make an extra effort to keep growing feelings and eventually (hopefully) a relationship 🥰

It was my first Evey Lyon book, and I really enjoyed reading it! I’ve read it with a constant smile on my face. Really liked the mails they’re sending to one an other. They are so sweet, and sometimes spicy, loved the way they played with romance bookish terms and hockey terms. The book was fun with all the banter, sweet with the gentleman actions of Stone, but also spicy when they met in reality! Loved the combination and wanted to highlight a lot of beautiful quotes in the story. You really get to know the main characters (positive element is the double pov) and just want to keep reading. At the end you even get a little peek of what might be happening in book 2 of the series. Certainly going to read more of Evey Lyon’s books.

Thanks @wordsmithpublicity for the opportunity for read and review this book!

Profile Image for Cat.
1,680 reviews1 follower
April 8, 2024
This is a wonderful read by Evey Lyon and I am really enjoying her writing and the stories she is creating.
Stone and Harlow are such a fiery and adorable couple and I was so enchanted by their unexpected love story.Theirs is a enemies to Lovers,Opposites attract,small town,romance and I loved it to pieces,there is emotion and steam and a story so charming and captivating you really won't be able to put it down.
Stone Madden is an injured Hockey player going into early retirement because of this he moves back to the small town he grew up in.
He is now a writer who is sent on a writer retreat by his publisher,this is were he meets Harlow a romance author.
Harlow is as sassy as her stories and they have an instant connection,but not in a positive way at first,they hate eachother.
I enjoyed the back and forth between these two and the banter between them that as they spar with words.
That hate soon becomes something more as they relent to their attraction and chemistry they have despite pretending to not like eachother....and so share many nights of hot,steamy and passionate encounters together.
They are the epitome of opposites attract because it is so true for Stone and Harlow,and they want to carry on with their relationship after the retreat.But they live miles apart fom eachother so they have to embark on a long distant relationship.
Using random visits and emails to keep in touch they try to keep their romance going and I loved the email exchanges between them.
I fell in love with Stone he was all in with Harlow and falls hard and fast and he is so insistent in his pursuit of Harlow and it was so swoony...It was Harlow who was faltering and had the doubts.
This is book 1 in a new series from Evey Lyon and I know I am going to love it because I already cannot wait for more.
This is a fabulous book and I loved reading it,Evey Lyon is a magnificent creator of great characters and addictive stories.
Excellent.
5 Stars.
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Book Blog.
4,642 reviews257 followers
April 8, 2024
This is a wonderful read by Evey Lyon and I am really enjoying her writing and the stories she is creating. Stone and Harlow are such a fiery and adorable couple and I was so enchanted by their unexpected love story. Theirs is an enemies to lovers, opposites attract, small town romance and I loved it to pieces. There is emotion and steam and a story so charming and captivating you really won't be able to put it down. Stone Madden is an injured Hockey player going into early retirement because of this he moves back to the small town he grew up in. He is now a writer who is sent on a writer retreat by his publisher, this is where he meets Harlow, a romance author. Harlow is as sassy as her stories and they have an instant connection, but not in a positive way at first, they hate each other. I enjoyed the back and forth between these two and the banter between them, as they spar with words. That hate soon becomes something more as they relent to their attraction and chemistry they have despite pretending to not like each other....and so share many nights of hot, steamy and passionate encounters together. They are the epitome of opposites attract because it is so true for Stone and Harlow, and they want to carry on with their relationship after the retreat. But they live miles apart from each other so they have to embark on a long distant relationship. Using random visits and emails to keep in touch, they try to keep their romance going and I loved the email exchanges between them. I fell in love with Stone, he was all in with Harlow and falls hard and fast and he is so insistent in his pursuit of Harlow and it was so swoony. It was Harlow who was faltering and had the doubts. This is book 1 in a new series from Evey Lyon and I know I am going to love it because I already cannot wait for more. This is a fabulous book and I loved reading it, Evey Lyon is a magnificent creator of great characters and addictive stories. Excellent. 5 Stars.- Cat W.
Profile Image for BookishRaquel.
197 reviews30 followers
April 26, 2024
Star Rating: 4/5 ⭐
Spice Rating: 3/5 🌶️

What to Expect:
- Small Town Romance
- Opposites Attract
- Enemies to Lovers
- He Falls First
- Chemistry & Banter
- Enemies to Lovers
- Retired Hockey Player MMC
- Romance Writer FMC
- Insta Attraction
- Long Distance

This is my first Evey Lyon read, and I am happy to start with the first book in a brand new series (Lake Spark Inn). Should Have Known tells the story of Stone and Harlow. Stone is a retired hockey player turned writer, and Harlow writes spicy romance books. Both end up attending the same author retreat in Lake Spark. Their first impressions of each other are not great; however, sparks fly when they are paired together during the retreat, and their connection grows.

Stone and Harlow had great chemistry, and their banter was fun to read. Although their time together at the retreat was short, they continued to communicate and get to know each other via email after the retreat was over. Stone can't handle the distance and quickly finds himself visiting Harlow. I love it when characters are adamant about not looking for a relationship but can't help but end up in one together. Stone fell first and had to give Harlow time to admit her feelings for him. Harlow's past trauma and insecurities caused her to struggle with making decisions about their relationship.

Since they live in different states and struggle with the distance, there are issues they are forced to confront. I loved Stone and Harlow and was truly invested in their relationship. There was a lot of back and forth with their relationship, and I couldn't put this book down until I knew how things ended. Should Have Known is an easy-to-read, emotional, small-town romance with spice. The character development is great, and I enjoyed Evey's writing style. I am excited to continue reading this series.

Thanks to Evey Lyon and Wordsmith Publicity for the eARC. Opinions expressed are my own.
2,333 reviews35 followers
April 9, 2024
Should Have known - Evey Lyon Lake Spark Inn Book #1 ) Tropes 💜Small Town 💙He Falls First 💜Opposites Attract 💙Retired Hockey player 💜Enemies to lovers 💙Hate to love and all the feels . Evey Lyon is actually a brand new author to me so i honestly was not really sure what to expect when I first sat down and started reading. Well all I can say is I have definitely found myself a new favorite author. There really are not enough words to express how much I loved loved loved Stone and Harlows character. I can’t really put it into words but something just pulled me to them like a moth to a flame and before I knew it I was tumbling hook line and sinker in love . I mean what’s not to love about two people who are complete opposites yet have this undeniable chemistry ( because phew sparks really do fly every time they’re around each other . Harlow is a romance author - sassy strong and confident, Stone is a hockey player going into early retirement after being injured . He decided it’s time for a change and ends up moving back to the small town he grew up in . The last thing he ever expected was to fall in love with Harlow but that’s exactly what happens. Hot and steamy passion filled nights , angst , humor , witty banter , heartbreaking and heartfelt moments, drama , unexpected surprises, obstacles, second chances, family and friendships, Should Have Known is the type of love story that will grab onto your heart so fast , that will play on all your emotions in ways you won’t even be expecting. You’ll smile , you’ll laugh, you’ll cry like a baby and you’ll find yourself rooting so freaking hard . You may even yell outta pure frustration ( I know I did quite a few times . Definitely make sure you put plenty of free time aside because there is no way you’ll be able to stop once you start
March 19, 2024
Stone is an ex-hockey player turned hockey fiction writer. He moved back to his home town after an injury that in-turn ended his hockey career.

Harlow is a writer as well but she writes romance. The spicy kind🌶️🥵🔥. She has been writing for a while but has reached a block. As Well as writing spicy books she has a spicy personality to go along with it that can sometimes be a bit hidden. But will that be the downfall of these two?

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐/5
Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐/5
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐/5
Hook:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐/5
Length:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐/5
Heat: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Ending: 💗 {HEA}
POV: 👫 {DUAL}

📚 Genre: Romance

✨ Tropes:⁣ Opposites attract, Insta attraction, Long distance, Small town, Love after trauma, He falls first, Banter, Hockey, Enemies to Lovers

💋⛓️ Kinks: N/a

⚠️ Warning: This is spicyyyyy , but also you will be pissed of with some characters.

🗂️ Type: Should Have Known by Evey Lyon is book 1 of the Lake Spark Hill series, but can be read as a standalone

The constant chemistry between these two was 🥵. Small town romance is my vibe and combined with hockey romance is just mmmmmm. Délicieuse! These two meet at a writers retreat that their combined publisher sends them to. Both have the belief that the other is an ignorant author who uses a ghostwriter. Ohhh how they were so so wrong! Their feisty first meeting has them hating each other but when they go to this retreat, the "head lady" of this camp pairs them together and they go off track for the whole retreat. They become close and firey moments take over their every thought. They end up being "casual" but past trauma and present hesitation makes it hard. Will they fight the suffocation dragging them down or will he use it to make her c*m on his face.
Profile Image for Book Nerdy 2020.
502 reviews6 followers
April 11, 2024
SHOULD HAVE KNOWN By Evey Lyon

Showing up to a small town for an author retreat began with a bad arrival at the inn. Stone Madden, the cocky retired hockey star with a tight jawline, and my opposite? He’s actually the man behind a writer I assumed was a recluse. And he’s ready to make my day miserable due to our apparent lack of enthusiasm for one another. But it doesn't take long to discover we click with an inflammable instant attraction. The fire I thought I’d lost inside of me begins to return.
Because of him.
Together, we unlock the unexpected, a strong bond we don’t want to break. There may be distance on a map between us, but our emails and visits bring us even closer. Stone entered my life as the key to healing my emotional wounds and giving me my own love story. But eventually, something has to give, and I’m not sure my heart can handle the risk, even if he won't give up. In retrospect, the moment our eyes first connected, I should have known…

😊What i liked -

✔ He Falls First/Insta-Love/Author Retreat/Small Town/Hockey Player Turned Author.
✔ Stone is an absolute treat. He was so patient, sweet and caring.
✔ Harlow's character was complex and had fantastic growth.
✔ I loved the email exchange.
✔ Amazing chemistry, great build up, emotional and really angsty.

🤔What could have been better -

✔ Too small to mention.

📚Who Should read :

👶Beginners
💝Romance Lover
💞He Falls First Romance
🏡Small Town Romance

📈My Rating : 4/5


Thank you, Evey Lyon and Wordsmith Publicity, for a copy.
2,099 reviews53 followers
April 12, 2024
Should Have Known is a great series starter, continuing Evey Lyon's books set in Lake Spark. This time around, we have Stone Madden (Vaughan's brother) and Harlow Olive, two writers who meet during a writer's retreat at the Dizzy Duck Inn.

From their snarky meet-cute at the front desk of the inn to the epilogue at the end, Harlow and Stone stole my heart. This book was a little deeper than some of EL's previous books in this connected series, as Harlow has some trauma in her past that she's struggling with. It happened off page before the story began, and it is referenced, not detailed; I thought EL did a great job of dealing with that trauma and how it has affected Harlow ever since. Even though there is an immediate connection between them, Harlow is hesitant to let down her guard with him. Stone really has his work cut out for him, but he manages to break through her walls with patience and support.

The problem? Harlow lives in Florida and Stone's life is in Michigan. Over several months, these two embark on a long-distance love affair, flying to see one another when they can and exchanging romantic emails in the weeks between. But when the time comes that they either have to commit to a life together or say goodbye, will one of them be willing to relocate for the other?

I love that EL has expanded the Lake Spark world, and I look forward to seeing what comes next for Holden!

I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.
Profile Image for BookAddict.
1,770 reviews148 followers
April 7, 2024
We’re back in small-town Illinois and the off-season training home of the Spinners NHL team. Lake Spark is a town I would love to visit. It's warm and inviting with delightful townsfolk.

Now that Stone Madden is retired from hockey, he's writing hockey-related fiction. He meets romance author, Harlow Olive, at a writer's retreat in Lake Spark, and the chemistry is undeniable. The only problem? She lives in Florida, so they begin a long-distance relationship through emails and sporadic visits to each other.

There are so many things I love about this one, so let me get my one critique out of the way first. I was a little disappointed in Harlow because she was what stood in the way of them being together. A story where the conflict is from external sources is more authentic and makes me love the characters more for what they overcome, rather than one's confusion, indecision or fear being the driving force.

That said, I love the way the relationship progressed through emails and visits. I love that Stone was all in and how determined he was to make things work. And I love the comparisons Stone and Harlow made between romance tropes and their real-life romance. Their banter and interactions are witty and charming, and their relationship definitely tugs the ol' heartstrings. Funny, steamy, and heartfelt, I was cheering for these characters from beginning to end.
1,790 reviews4 followers
April 9, 2024
Evey Lyons’ stories always draw me in effortlessly. They ebb and flow, are simple in premise, but so full of heart and emotion.
We met Stone in “Waiting the Play” (his brother, Vaughan’s story). Stone is a former hockey player who is now a writer. While on an author’s retreat he meets romance author, Harlow.
Sparks fly between them instantly and their banter is brilliant. As their time together grows so does the attraction and soon the fiery chemistry turns to passion and steam. However, they return to their respective homes after the retreat and begin a long distance relationship. Oh, the emails … 🫠.
Harlow took a little longer to fall due to some past hurts, but Stone was all in and persistent.
Totally swoony, with steamy moments, wonderful banter, some angst and drama, overwhelming emotion that had me laughing, crying and everything in between. Wonderfully relatable characters including some appearances by several familiar ones from previous books.
This romance overcame obstacles and hesitation in its journey and it totally grabbed my heart.
Another amazing series starter from Ms Lyon and I’m looking forward to more Lake Sparks Inn stories.

Thank you to the author and Wordsmith Publicity.
1,045 reviews19 followers
March 24, 2024
Should Have Known is book one in the Lake Spark Inn series. Yes, if you have read this author before it is a spin off from the Lake Spark series and if you have not yet read this author you have a new TBR author to add to your list. Stone and Harlow have an insta-connection although the perception of who they think they are as an author is quite funny cause they are not as they appear. Hello, judge a book by its cover (in this case author), haha! The Author's retreat is hilarious cause truly went opposite of how Gloria thought with the pairing then add in the second one and Stone's speech was priceless. The movie "You've Got Mail" came to mind with how Stone and Harlow did email letters instead of text, call or paper mail. Harlow is like a fish out of water (in this small town) coming from CA and if you add a rowboat it's even funnier (why yes, you must read the book to understand). What's even funnier is that authors should know how things 'end up' and it was like they were blind to it (well OK more Harlow than Stone), hence the title is perfect. It's always nice to see a man fall first in a book, especially a dominant alpha. I look forward to seeing more on the INN series! 
Profile Image for Kelchickbooklover.
1,487 reviews54 followers
April 13, 2024
Should Have Known is the first book in Ms.Lyon's new series, Lake Spark Inn and it is a terrific start. We are given a strangers-to-lovers, opposites-attract romance that is full of fantastic banter, fun times and characters that are easy to relate to and such a joy to read about.
Retired hockey player, Stone and Harlow, a smutty romance writer, meet at a writer's retreat and do not hit it off. They take shots at one another's genre of writing but there seems to be a pull to one another. Breaking the rules and doing what they want brings them closer together. Pasts are revealed that see hearts opening up and love filling them. There was only one thing that was in the way of their love for one another, distance. They find ways to be together both virtually as well as physically. There is spice, banter and honesty between them but the chemistry is off the charts.
Stone was determined to get the woman he loved and stopped at nothing, which had me swooning all over him. Harlow was a woman that I wanted to tell her that everything would be ok and to let Stone have her heart.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to this series's next installment.
Profile Image for Connie.
219 reviews8 followers
April 1, 2024
I have never read a book from this author before and that is one of the reasons why I wanted to read this book. I was not disappointed. Stone the MMC is a former hockey player turned hockey fiction writer, while Harlow the FMC is a long time romance author. When their publisher sends them both on a writer’s retreat the two of them meet. They can't stand each other at first but they are paired together during the retreat and have to work together. What started off as a dislike of each other leads to a love made in heaven for these two once they can overcome the secrets and past trauma they each have faced in the past. 

This book was really good. It has all of the banter, small town vibes, and warmth that you would want and expect from a book like this. I really liked the characters in the book and they complimented each other very well. The writing was good as well as the development of the characters. This story had a lot of depth to it and it really gets you invested into the book. I can't wait to read more by this author. 
Profile Image for Only.ever.books.
876 reviews7 followers
April 9, 2024
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
✨Should Have Known✨
Lake Spark Inn #1

By Evey Lyon

⭐ 5/5 ❤️ 5/5

✨ Contemporary Romance
✨ Small Town Romance
✨ Enemies to Lovers

Stone and Harlow

I really liked the previous series and was excited to read the spin-off. We knew a little about Stone in the last book as he is the brother of Vaughn.
He is a retired hockey player who now writes romance and is a new resident of Lake Spark. As he has family living here by Vaughn, Isla and Baby Nora, his little niece.
Harlow is a writer too and is in Lake Spark because her publisher sent her to a writer's retreat here.
Both start off as two people who like to pick on each other and their back and forth is amusing as you feel the attraction, chemistry and sparks fly between them.
With them paired together and spending time together, they become closer. And of course they can't deny their attraction forever and give in at some point.
But both have secrets and past traumas that hold them back from opening up.
It was easy to feel with these characters and like them. The story has depth and the happy end was well deserved and heartwarming.
Can´t wait for the next book in this series.
1,053 reviews7 followers
April 13, 2024
4.5 Stars!

Stone initially comes off as rude and judgmental when he and Harlow first meet. And she gives as good as she gets. When they decide to call a truce, things really start to get good! The scene with apple core nearly had me in stitches! It was silly and felt like the perfect ice breaker for their war of words.
Harlow had been through an assault that still has a hold on her. Little did she know that she’d meet Stone at the writers’ retreat, and he’d help her heal.
Harlow and Stone had some 5-Alarm-Fire moments, but there were so many heartfelt ones, too. There was also plenty of angst with the fact that Stone knew he wanted to be with her and she had to decide what she wanted. It was at that point where I agreed with Stone when he said he felt “like a yo-yo.” That’s why I too away a half star from the rating. Even I was starting to get annoyed with her constant back and forth. I loved how it did end!
I love coming back to Lake Spark and I can’t wait for Holden’s story!!!
Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
4,771 reviews45 followers
April 15, 2024
Should Have Known is a captivating and emotional read that I couldn't put down. Set in the picturesque Lake Spark Inn, the story follows the lives of its characters as they navigate the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery.

The author's writing style is engaging and immersive, drawing the reader into the world of the inn and its inhabitants. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with their own unique voices and personalities. The romantic tension between the main characters is palpable, and the chemistry between them is sizzling.

The plot is well-paced, with a good balance of drama and romance. The twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat, and I found myself eagerly turning the pages to find out what would happen next.

Overall, Should Have Known is a beautifully written and emotionally charged novel that I highly recommend. While there were a few minor issues that prevented me from giving it a full five stars, it is still a standout addition to the romance genre.
Profile Image for Edie L..
1,845 reviews8 followers
April 19, 2024
SHOULD HAVE KNOWN by Evey Lyon
Ok so I waited to put my review out because I read it twice before I was sure about my opinions on the book. I live this author and I must say i did enjoy the book just not as much as other books by this author. I can’t pinpoint exactly what it was but this book just didn’t hit home. I mean the premise was there but I felt it got a bit bored after reading for a while. I mean don’t get me wrong this might be the book for you. Like I said it has a good premise and it has some really good characters. I loved Stone and Harlow. However the story kinda lost me midway. I think it was the so much lost time just communicating through emails it was a bit frustrating I honestly don’t know but something just didn’t click for me. It is a great book it has great banter and it has drama with a bit of twists and turns thrown in there but I don’t know it just wasn’t for me. I hate that I didn’t love this book but I still would recommend because just because it wasn’t for me I’m sure it can be for someone out there.
Profile Image for Jackie Wright.
5,028 reviews110 followers
April 6, 2024
I was excited to be back in the small town of Lake Spark and to start the new Lake Spark Hill Series. This is retired hockey player Stone Madden and Harlow’s entertaining journey. From the moment I picked this book up I knew I reading something special and there was no putting down until the final word had been read.
Stone is back in his home town after an injury forces his retirement from the game he loves. Moving in a different direction he turns his hand to writing and he meets Amber at a writers retreat. From the moment they meet sparks fly but they are complete opposites and they are not looking for love but it seems fate has other plans for them…..
Should Have Known has it all, it has characters you can’t help loving it’s full of witty banter, passion and love but more importantly it’s beautifully written. If this book is anything to go by Ms Lyons will certainly have another hit series on her hands.
Profile Image for Jackie Wright.
5,028 reviews110 followers
April 6, 2024
I was excited to be back in the small town of Lake Spark and to start the new Lake Spark Hill Series. This is retired hockey player Stone Madden and Harlow’s entertaining journey. From the moment I picked this book up I knew I reading something special and there was no putting down until the final word had been read.
Stone is back in his home town after an injury forces his retirement from the game he loves. Moving in a different direction he turns his hand to writing and he meets Amber at a writers retreat. From the moment they meet sparks fly but they are complete opposites and they are not looking for love but it seems fate has other plans for them…..
Should Have Known has it all, it has characters you can’t help loving it’s full of witty banter, passion and love but more importantly it’s beautifully written. If this book is anything to go by Ms Lyons will certainly have another hit series on her hands.
Profile Image for Mel Southworth (Mels.bookreads).
185 reviews10 followers
April 7, 2024
Harlow is expecting big things from the writing retreat. She didn’t expect cocky Stone Madden, writer and ex ice hockey player to be making her check-in all on edge.

But there’s a fire behind his words and a passion that Harlow just isn’t ready for.

Having read the other books featuring Lake Spark and all the other characters, I don’t feel that you needed to have done so and this could be read as a stand alone although I do enjoy the visiting characters from the last series.

Distance is a big issue and one of them is going to have to jump for this relationship to go anywhere. I enjoyed the back and to with Harlow and all the thinking she heartache she needs to do.

I felt so bad for Stone and I would say he definitely fell first.

Have you read any Evey Lyon books before? If not, then dip your toe into this book and get pulled into her world and the quietness of Lake Spark and all its characters.
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