Such a cute read! Loved the chemistry between Shelby and Cameron. I loved HGTV so I knew I would really enjoy reading this one and I wasn’t wrong!

I’ve read this author’s young adult books before, so when I saw she was coming out with a second-chance adult rom-com? I had to check it out! And wow, I’m so glad I did! It’s sweet and hilarious and has the perfect amount of pining.

“Obviously, costarring with my first girlfriend on a reality home-renovation show is not what I had in mind.”


Shelby, Cameron and Lyle were all child stars together on a tween show. While the romance on the show was purportedly between Shelby and Lyle, Cameron was always the one she was interested in, even if she did have a well-publicized romance (and breakup) with Lyle. Ten years later, she’s content restoring vintage furniture in small town Michigan with her dad, far away from the cameras. Cameron, on the other hand, switched being in front of the camera to being behind it. Working for National Geographic means he’s constantly on the move which has grown tiring. When he accepts an interview to talk about a TV pilot, he’s surprised to see it’s being produced by Lyle – and will star him and Shelby as they renovate an old house. Shelby’s dad needs the money, though, and Cameron will do anything to help Shelby. Between learning a whole new set of skills and some unexpected roadblocks, can Shelby and Cameron refurbish their own relationship?

“I told you. He’s in denial.”
“It was ten years ago. And a kid’s show. Not real life.”
“And now?”
“And now we’re on a reality show. Even less real than the scripted kind.”


I cannot overemphasize how sweet Shelby and Cameron are together. It’s the sort of situation where they had something as kids, before Cameron suddenly took off for college. But when Shelby was at her lowest (thanks to Lyle cheating on her with her best friend and writing a Grammy-winning song about it) she calls him, and Cameron doesn’t hesitate to hop on the first plane to come back to LA for her and tell her some hard truths. It’s clear that both of them are deeply in love with the other but convinced that their past mistakes have ruined any chances at a relationship. There’s a ton of top-notch pining and yearning and angst before they, oh, communicate and start to figure things out.

“I had you first, and I’ll have you last.”
“You’ll have me forever.”
“It’s only fair. I’ve been yours since the moment I saw you.”


Cameron is ridiculously kind and caring, an absolutely sweet golden retriever of a man. He’s practically perfect except for one thing: he runs from his problems. Tired of LA and child star life? Leave suddenly for college. Not sure how to reconnect with his family who stayed in Michigan? Avoid coming home and blame it on his job. For Shelby, she feels like her past mistakes will always haunt her. It’s easier to hide out in small town Michigan than to deal with that perception of her, to show everyone that she’s changed. But the show forces both of them to deal with their issues, as Shelby’s in front of the camera again and Cameron’s forced to stay in one place. The sweetest part? Watching them support each other. They don’t rush in to save the other person but instead give them the space and encouragement they need to deal with their problems themselves. Serious relationship goals!

Besides the core relationship, there’s plenty more to love. There’s plenty of humor to go with the pining and I highlighted so many favorite passages. The secondary characters are lovely, too, especially Shelby and Cameron’s best friends, but my favorite was Shelby’s dad. Not only does he take Cameron under his wing in learning house restoration, but he’s a source of encouragement and advice that Cameron’s lacked for a long time.

Overall, this is practically peak second chance romance vibes and easily a 4.5 star read! There’s some good hints towards where this series will go next and I can’t wait to see what happens with Shelby’s friend!

I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Read this if you:
*Enjoy second chance romance
*Appreciate slow burns with lots of banter and shenanigans
*Believe in owning what you’re worth and fighting for the one who got away

Meet the Author: Erin Hahn shares her favorite stories with her elementary students during the day and writes swoons by night. Erin married her own YA love interest whom she met on her first day of college. They have two children. She resides in Michigan and has a cat named Gus.

Synopsis: Shelby and Cameron were best friends in their teenage days. Being separated, it has been quite some time since they have spoken and seen one another. When Shelby is put on blast from a recent incident she turns to Cameron for support. At every beck and call from Shelby, Cameron is readily available, on a plane, at her side. When an opportunity arises for the two of them to partake in the filming of “Homemade” sparks begin to fly.

Reader’s Thoughts: This was my first opportunity to read a book written by Erin Hahn. Built to Last was a slow start for me but once it began to pick up I was sucked in and couldn’t put it down. The sweet chemistry between Cameron and Shelby had me rooting for them the entire way. The characters were wonderful. At many times, I disliked Lyle but I think that was the intention for this character. The banter and shenanigans throughout the book had me laughing out loud at moments. I have read quite a few heavy books recently and it was nice to read something so pure and innocent that could make me laugh. I will definitely keep my eye out for another novel written by Erin Hahn in the future.

Available now in paperback, eBook, and Audiobook.
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐

Thank you, @Netgalley for providing me with a complimentary review copy. In no way has that influenced my voluntary review.

Lots to enjoy about this warm, sweet romance between Shelby and Cameron, two former child-stars and first loves who reunite a decade after their TV show has ended. As they star on the pilot for a home renovation show, they begin to fall in love once again and pursue the relationship that escaped them when they were younger.

Pick up this book if you enjoy romances that feature hunky lumberjacks, childhood sweethearts maturing into their love for one another, second chance romances, famous or once-famous people, casts of ride-or-die friends, and/or competency porn (you know, when the hero and/or heroine--both, in this case--show off knowledge or skills so impressive they are irresistibly sexy). One of the best parts about Shelby and Cameron's relationship is the maturity they bring to it. They work their miscommunications early, so this doesn't become one of the silly obstacles that make you want to shake the main characters and say "just talk to each other!" From there, it's a matter of overcoming residual insecurities about their feelings for one another and planning for a future together--especially given that fans are still interested in all the details of their private lives.

The main obstacle to their relationship seems to be Lyle, their former co-star and Shelby's former boyfriend. He's shoehorned into the plot as the showrunner of their home renovation show; I realize the story needed a conflict for them to overcome, but his involvement in their show and his ongoing machinations rang false at times, especially given the relative maturity of all the other characters in the story.

That said, it's a minor quibble for a truly enjoyable romance you'll be able to sink into and devour in one go.

From child actors to reunited adults coming back together, Shelby, Lyle and Cameron become entangled in each others lives once again. The unsuccessful relationships that Shelby had with both men didn't really come across as really surprising and I felt disconnected with them all. Though Cameron comes off way more likeable it's only because the bar is set fairly low. Some memorable moments but didn't feel enough chemistry to be really invested in the outcome.
Thanks Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book and give my honest opinion.

Built to Last by Erin Hahn
Contemporary romance. Alternating chapters between male and female perspective.
Childhood tv stars Shelby and Cameron are back together rehabbing a house as a Pilot episode. As adults, they click back into habits and pour their hearts into building something renewed.

Adorable and touching. Hot romance with clever conflicts and a feeling of taking the high road ala Michelle O. A bit of humor and a few deep friendships. All the keys to a wonderful romance and a compelling story.
I want to look for more by this author. The timing and pace made it delightful.

Excerpt:
“I’ve never really delved into the whole ‘soul’ business before, bit of we do have souls and those souls have mates, Shelby’s mine. After all, I am hers in every literal iteration. Why should my soul be any different?”
Excerpt from Built to Last

I received a copy of this from NetGalley.

“Shelby Springfield has spent the last ten years trying to overcome her past, sanding it away like she does the rough spots on the vintage furniture finds she makes over. But as a former child star, it’s hard to forget a mediocre pop career, a meltdown widely documented by the paparazzi, and a huge public break with her former co-star Lyle Jessup. It’s also hard to forget her other co-star and childhood sweetheart, Cameron Riggs — the one who got away.”

I’ve read books about character who were former child stars.
I’ve read books about characters on reality television.
I’ve read books about characters taking on home reno projects.

This book had ALL THE THINGS.

And yet, it didn’t seem too much.

I loved the likeable main female and male characters.

I loathed the repellant ex BF and BFF.

I loved all the characters orbiting the mains, particularly the strong friendships and complex parent-adult child relationships.

There was just the right amount of humour, spice, sentimentality, and romance.

Also: the popular (and relevant) singles as chapter titles was a delight.

I really hope the author takes a few of the orbiting characters and runs with them.

I’m looking at you, Lorelei.

8/10

Thanks to NetGalley, OrangeSky Audio, and St. Martin’s Press for this handy ARC.

Built to Last is the first book I remember reading by Erin Hahn. A second chance romance with some meddling by a third friend this is a fun read. Shelby Springfield, former child star, has been trying to get herself together for years. Her past story could be straight out of a celebrity magazine. Her story here and in the future is the stuff movies are made of. Movies worth seeing that is.

Along with Shelby are Lyle Jessup and Cameron Riggs. All three are now grown up and so much more interesting. Add a home renovation show and you have the making of a great story. An author that I will be on the lookout for more in the future. This is a crowd pleaser read.

An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Built to Last, by Erin Hahn, is such a blast to read! This new romance is perfect for those who are a fan of Hollywood starlet tropes and childhood sweethearts.

Any reader will find themselves rooting for Shelby and Cameron from the beginning, from their best to their worst moments. Their chemistry is as strong as Lyle claims, and it’s clear from Erin Hann’s perfect storytelling skills!

Be sure to keep an eye on the songs listed at the top of each chapter. It’s a treat for any music fan, and may even convince those to give it a reread with the full playlist! I know I’m planning to, as this heartwarming novel is sure to stay on my bookshelf for some time.

Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Griffin for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed this book. Cam and Shelby were teenage stars on a popular TV show. They were attracted to each other and acted upon it once but Cam couldn’t handle it and took off. Shelby then ended up in a long-term relationship with the third member of the TV show. When Lyle did her dirty, she reached out to Kim who’s cross the country to come and comfort her only to takeoff again.
Now it’s years later and Cam and Shelby are pushed together to star in in home improvement show. Shelby and her dad are professional flippers and cam has worked as a documentarian. They agree to do the show and then find out they’ll be working with Lyle.
What I liked about this book was how it portrayed the damage that was done to young people in a high stress situation and how long lasting the effects were of that damage. Both of them have moved on but they’ve never resolve the emotional issues between them. Both of them have family issues related to their earlier career. Even as adults, the media finds ways to try and bring them down aided by Shelby’s ex.. The ending is satisfying on several levels and there’s a pretty good teaser for what I assume is going to be the next book in the series. This is a new author to me and I look forward to reading future books.

Happy pub day to Built to Last by @ErinHahn_Author! I finished this one today and wish it wasn’t over.

Erin Hahn always writes characters I love, and her adult debut romance is no different. If you’re sick of miscommunication and a contrived third act break up that makes you crazy, this is the book for you.
Shelby Springfield and Cameron Riggs were child stars on a Nickelodeon/Disney type show, and were each other’s first loves. But when Cameron left Hollywood to go to college, Shelby turned to their other co-star, Lyle Jessup and had a very public relationship that didn’t end well. Years later Shelby has worked to put that life behind her. She works with her father restoring old houses in Michigan and Cameron is flying around the globe shooting documentaries when they’re both called about an opportunity to star in a reality house flipping show—with Lyle, who’s still holding a grudge, as the showrunner.

I’m not one to compare books to blankets, but this one was so cozy I couldn’t put it down. Shelby and Cameron are both great, swoony characters who communicate like adults. Shelby is strong and speaks her mind which I always love to see, and Cameron meets her at every turn. They have some blips in their romantic road, but they’re both reasonable and talk them through (gasp!). I can’t tell you how refreshing that was to read. I was absolutely rooting for the characters through the entire book.

I would have liked to understand Lyle’s character a little better. He’s the villain of the story and I was sort of waiting for him to have a redeeming moment, which doesn’t really come. That said, Shelby has some great moments of introspection and taking responsibility about her relationship with Lyle that I absolutely loved, and I guess it’s not his story.

I got the sense that there’s the possibility of another character getting their own book in this world, which would be amazing. But I’ll read anything Erin Hahn writes.

When I first started Built to Last, I wasn't how I felt about it. It took a bit for it to hook me, but once it did, I became delighted with Cam and Shelby's second-chance romance. I did not want to put this one down!

Former child star and party girl, Shelby Springfield is now a respectable, upstanding part of her hometown in Michigan, learning to refurbish antique furniture under her dad for the last ten years. When producers making a new home renovation show, ‘Homemade’ come calling, she gladly accepts to do the show with her dad as her costar. Daniel Springfield doesn’t test well with the audience and soon her former costars, Lyle Jessup and Cameron Riggs are brought in to be the show runner and costar instead. Shelby has history with both of them, one she never wants to see again and the other is the one that got away.

A simply fabulous second chance romantic comedy, Built to Last captured my attention and I couldn’t put it down, reading it in less than a day. #spriggs , the trending hashtag for the new couple, has such electric chemistry and smart, witty banter, it renewed the fact that second chances, recovering from past mistakes, and positive changes are possible.

Two Michigan kids in L.A. This book was everything and more. Am I biased because I am from Michigan? Specially Grand Rapids and this book mentions it MULTIPLE times and does not fail to remind you that it takes place in Michigan!? Maybe. But this was easily one of my favorite reads. You know a book is good when you don't feel like you read it.. and that you watch it. I felt like the book was a whole movie that I saw. I love the second chance romance, I love the "it was always you". What I would give to be able to see the music video for "what they have". Exceptional. This is my first Erin Hahn novel and I can promise you it won't be my last.

~3.5 stars rounded up~

Built to Last left me wanting just a bit more built. Overall, the premise was so cute and despite not typically loving the friends to lovers trope- the character evolution of Shelby and Cameron was great. I felt most of the side characters, aside from the best friend, we’re just oozing with too much drama and nasty. Which I get to a degree, the exploitation of childhood stars is a serious topic but between Lyle and Ada Mae felt irrelevant to the story and I could’ve handled one of the other.

A very slow going read until it explodes towards the end and we just jump to the happily ever after of I love you. I felt the first half could’ve been skimmed more and the meat of the book should’ve focused more heavily on the actual build and flip with the romance blossoming. I absolutely adored Shelby’s handiwork and creativity and that was what kept me going. If you’re a fan of the HGTV world and home Reno mixed with the Chip and Joanna vibes of cheesy romance- this will be a fun read for you.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book!

Rating: 4.5 Stars

“Two childhood sweethearts find a second chance at love.” From this one sentence, I knew I would adore this book. This is the stuff of my dreams, and Hahn did it so well. She gave me sweet peeks into Shelby and Cameron’s past, let me watch them fall in love as kids, and then allowed me the privilege of seeing them fall in love again. Do you hear that? It’s the sounds of my heart exploding.

I have zero complaints about this couple. They had amazing chemistry, I loved their banter, and Cameron was a swoon worthy hero. A big part of their story was how they had changed since they first met and fell for one another, but the sparks were still there. Now it was time to fall in love with the grown-up versions of each other. I am a sap, and the idea of this couple growing together is one I adore.

The story was elevated with a stupendous supporting cast. Shelby was able to find a great circle of friends in Michigan. They, along with her father, formed an amazing support system for her as Shelby attempted to leave her past behind and embark on a new future. Cameron also had some great friends. It was so much fun spending time with them all, and I am positive that there were allusions to returning to this world. If this is true, I say, YES PLEASE!

Overall: Fun, sweet, and throughly entertaining. I reveled in every minute of this book!

Shelby Springfield was a child star along with Cameron and Lyle. She has struggled for years to get over everything that happened back then. There was so much to this story. Her mother used her for the money and her father wasn’t there when she needed him. She came home and her father was able to help her get past what happened in the past and she has been successful with refinishing wood furniture and wood fixtures in homes that she has been working on alongside her father as they bought and renovated homes. Cameron always came running when Shelby called for help but he didn’t stick around. As for Lyle, I didn’t like him at all. He was a trouble maker and jealous that Shelby and Cameron became successful in their careers. Also the fact that Shelby loved Cameron first didn’t help. I really enjoyed this story. There is a lot more but I will let you enjoy it yourself.

I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a complimentary copy.

It's an HGTV romance I didn't know I wanted but needed and I really enjoyed this book! It's a good one from Erin and I hope to see more of her books!

This book is the love child of Disney and HGTV. It definitely took me a bit to get into it, but it was worth it! The premise of the book relying on the fact that they all were child actors together who went their separate ways to be reunited again on a house renovation show is absolutely insane (but like in the best way). While the book does have some flashbacks to their child acting days, it mostly emphasized the second chance aspect. The banter between Shelby and Cam was so genuine and you truly could tell how connect they were. Honestly a sweet and quick book. Definitely would recommend to fans of any HGTV shows.

Romance

Such a sweet story. Who hasn't had fond memories of their first love and wonder what if?

Cameron and Shelby were child actors and fell in love when they were barely 18. Like many teenagers, communication wasn't their strong suit and misperceptions drove them apart. 5 years later Shelby calls for Cam's help and when he arrives she makes a drunken pass at him. Believing Shelby is on the rebound and not wanting his heart to be shattered again, he leaves.

Another 5 years passes and they are brought back together to film a reality TV show. Can they both drop their defenses enough to be honest? Is Cameron always destined to leave? Can Shelby be unguarded enough to show her true feelings?

Of course the answer is yes, but that didn't stop me from wanting to read about these characters. The best words to describe this novel is sweet. It has its steamy moments, but primarily remains PG -13. I could totally see this one as a Lifetime movie.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my ARC of this novel.