Review: Love on the Lake (Lakeside #2) by Helena Hunting

Love on the Lake

(Lakeside #2)

by Helena Hunting

March 15, 2022

Goodreads Summary:

Teagan Firestone has always been the dutiful daughter, especially since her mom died. But as her father finally begins to move on, it’s her turn to do the same. Her destination: Pearl Lake, a close-knit community with an entrepreneurial spirit and secrets of its own.

One of them is Aaron Saunders, who dropped out of college to work construction for Pearl Lake’s upper class. He’s a mystery and has a playboy reputation—that is, until he meets Teagan. Neither of them is looking for love, but in a town this small, it’s hard not to let your heart get involved.

As their romance heats up, Aaron’s elusive past comes to light and Teagan is there for him, bringing them even closer together. But when Teagan is forced to face her own demons, her inability to accept the support of friends and family threatens the life she’s worked so hard to build.

Can Aaron love her, even when she can’t love herself?

Review

Love on the Lake was a much heavier read compared to Love Next Door. The story dealt with quite serious subject matters. My heart was pounding waiting for everything to fall apart but also trusting the characters would could out fine. Helena Hunting paced the story just right to maximize the feels.

Teagan and Aaron's first meeting in book one made for a most alluring introduction. I was so excited to finally get to read their story in Love on the Lake. It was delightful watching Teagan, the sunshine people pleaser, wear down, Aaron, the sinfully hot grump. Fun and carefree at first, their relationship became more intense and involved as they spent more time together. I loved that when they weren't being sexy and flirty, Teagan and Aaron were supporting each other emotionally.

Teagan was one giant ticking time bomb. I really adored how present she was for Aaron but wow was she blind to her own problems. It was extremely painful to watch Teagan's downward spiral. Especially because her poor choices and dreadful actions were hurting herself and the people she loves. I wasn't the least bit surprised when her carefully maintained life imploded. While it took some time and outside help, I was super happy for Teagan as she regained control of her life. A huge lesson learned.

Aaron also had no less demons to face. His situation was quite unique so I could understand why he kept it under wraps for so long. But it definitely felt very freeing seeing him confess his big secret to Teagan and his mom. Talking about it gave Aaron the chance to start healing. 

Love on the Lake seems to be the last story set in Pearl Lake but I sure wouldn't mind getting a few more books based on the other side characters ;) For now, I cannot recommend the Lakeside series enough. They're sweet and wonderfully heartfelt.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not affected in any way. Any quotes included in my review were taken from the copy I received.