Former child stars Shelby Springfield and Cameron Riggs find themselves working together again after years apart and years of missed connections and running away, as they are now filming a pilot of a home renovation show.

This book was so cute and I really enjoyed it! I loved Shelby and Cameron individually as well as their chemistry and interactions together (hashtag Spriggs). They had a complicated history to work through together and I liked the dual POV as we got to see them deal with their own personal family issues and trauma from the past as well. The supporting characters including Lorelei, Maren, Kevin and Beth were such good friends to Shelby and Cam. And I can't not mention Daniel and how encouraging he was to both of them, adding to the great cast of loveable characters. I really enjoyed the HGTV / home reno and antiquing aspect of the book too. Another one of my favourite elements was that each chapter had a song title to go with it which I thought captured the feelings of the chapter really well. The ending might have wrapped up almost too perfectly, but I still liked where things landed and that there was no third act breakup.

Overall, I enjoyed this one! If you are looking for a friends to lovers, second chance romance with a love triangle from the past which features a home renovation show that gives HGTV vibes and also has great supportive friends, check out Built to Last (out October 18, 2022)! I saw somewhere that we might be getting a Lorelei story AND a Maren story and I will definitely check out Hahn's future books.

Thank you to NetGalley, St.Martin's Press and Erin Hahn for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

Second chance romances are not my go-to trope. I love the idea of two characters meeting for the first time and falling for each other. But if anyone can make me love a second chance story, it’s Erin Hahn. She never misses.

Cameron and Shelby grew up together, playing friends on a tween sitcom and falling in love off-screen. They were each other’s first everything, but at eighteen, Cam leaves for college and to get away from Hollywood. Shelby stays, becoming another child star cautionary tale and dating their other costar, until she hits rock bottom and finally escapes the limelight. Five years later, her sleazy ex manipulates them into filming the pilot for a home renovation show, and all the old feelings are dredged back up to the surface.

I think this second chance worked so well for me because it’s easy to understand why two teenagers would fall apart and come back together as adults, once they have their lives figured out. Both Cam, a NetGeo documentarian, and Shelby, who has found her true calling restoring antique and historic furniture and homes, have full and interesting lives on their own. Being together makes them better, but they have a good balance. No one is trying to fix or save anyone else, and it was really nice to see such a mature relationship blossoming between them.

The characters and emotions always jump off the page in an Erin Hahn novel. My frustration grew with Cam and Shelby’s as the producers tried to manipulate the “reality” of their home flip. Hahn has crafted both great friendships and complicated family relationships along with a charming lead couple. I loved watching Shelby realizes she’s more and more sure of herself and where she should be, and Cam is swoony, both sweet and hot and the kind of good person you can’t help but root for.

The book easily sets up a follow up, and I’m already counting down the days until it’s announced. I can’t wait to visit this world again.

I love a good second chance romance, and this was perfect honestly! Super swoony and adorable with just the perfect amount of drama.

Cute concept but I don't know. I think that I had such a hard time with the evil ex and how over the top that entire plot line was and it took away from my enjoyment of the story. Loved the female main character's father and how he was involved. And of course, second chance romance, yes please. I think the whole former child star part of the plot was kind of weird and didn't work for me.

This story was very slow. It took a while to get going and I lost interest a few chapters in.

Thank you to St. Martin’s Press, Erin Hahn and NetGalley for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. This book realizes October 18, 2022.

Shelby Springfield just wants to move on from her past and be left alone to live the life she's created. Unfortunately life has other plans. Enter Lyle, her ex, and former co-star, who wants Shelby for a new home renovation show focusing on renewing old homes. Exactly what she's become so good at. It's not terrible, at least he's also enlisted Cameron Riggs. It's an appealing idea...even if Cameron isn't really handy (yet). Lyle seems genuine about his offer but their common history is more than enough reason to have reservations. Against their better judgement, they agree to the show. What's the worst that could happen while working closely with two former flames?

Oh my GOD this book! So charming, sweet, wholesome and the perfect amount of spicy. The chemistry between Shelby and Cameron was perfect and super believable. The chemistry between all the other characters was so much fun as well! (Even Lyle) I found myself laughing and smiling a lot while reading this, which doesn't seem to happen that often considering how many rom-coms I read. I loved Erin Hahn's breezy style of story-telling; it really felt like I was in the same room, hanging out with all these characters the whole time. She really painted a picture throughout the settings and situations. I could feel Shelby's butterfly's, I could hear the music in the bar, I even really began to understand their strong lack of trust in Lyle as the story unfolded. I loved how everything fell into place with the plot, organically. It never felt like, "Well of course that had to happen," as some often do. The best thing was there were even some surprises. I don't really read rom-coms for the surprises in the plot, more so the warm fuzzy feelings that come with reading about love, but it's definitely nice when there are some. I loved this book so much - it definitely is in my top 10, if not top 5 rom-coms of all time. I cannot wait to see what stories Erin Hahn tells next.

Built to Last by Erin Hahn

Published: October 18, 2022
St. Martin’s Griffin
Pages: 330
Genre: Romantic Comedy
KKECReads Rating: 4/5
I received a copy of this book for free, and I leave my review voluntarily.

Erin started writing her books when her little sister gave her shade about a country music-themed Twilight fanfic. By day, she gets to share her favorite stories with her elementary students. By night, she writes swoons. Erin married her own YA love interest, whom she met on her first day of college, and has two kids who are much, much cooler than she ever was at their age. She lives in Michigan, aka the greenest place on earth, and has a cat, Gus, who plays fetch.

“No ghosts here; only dusty sunbeams and rejection.”

Former child stars Shelby and Cameron have a complicated relationship. Despite having feelings for each other, things never seemed to fit. When an opportunity falls in their laps to cohost a renovation show together, they take the project. They are adults now, after all. But history does have a way of repeating itself.

The plot of this story was different, and it was interesting to read. It took me a while to get into the storyline, though. I didn’t connect with the characters, and I wasn’t overly drawn to their story.

I felt the character development between Shelby and Cameron should have gone a step further. For most of the book, they both came off as emotionally stunted. I know that was part of their development, but in the story's first half, I found them both kind of shallow.

The development does take off. And luckily, the side characters are all pretty great and add some flavor to the central plot. I think the idea of this book was a complicated theme to focus on because it had to be brought to life in a 3D way.

I did enjoy the sentimentality between Cameron and Shelby, and I enjoyed witnessing their coming together. The redemption they went through was fantastic. I was so glad they got their moment.

I do wish we had more time with Daniel, Shelby’s dad. He was such a fantastic character, and I love his purity. He was the perfect catalyst for the trauma both Shelby and Cameron had.

This was a sweet story, and I enjoyed the unique plot. I loved the way things fell together. Something I really found remarkable about this story was the absolute respect Cameron had for Shelby from the beginning. I love that their relationship was a partnership from the start. They truly brought out the best in each other, and their connection was genuine.

I loved the epilogue. It was the best way to bring this story to a close and give us some finality to this journey. I also like that it almost hinted at a possible spin-off featuring Lorelai and Drake. To be continued?

This is my first read from Erin Hah, and I’m going to be stalking her backlist now! It was very well-written, extremely enjoyable, super sweet and I read the entire thing in a single sitting because I didn’t want to go on with life without knowing what happened next in the story.

It’s a tale of two child/teen stars with a history but life took them in very, very different directions as they grew up and left the spotlight… brought them back together briefly and 10 years after their tv show wrapped, together again for a home renovation reality show along with the third actor from their old series as a producer, and the third point in a terrible love triangle.

While I don’t normally like to pick up books that have anything to do with a love triangle trope, this one is a triangle from the past, and even then it wasn’t a true one. Modern day situations between the three characters are them trying to navigate through being adults and thrust into a situation none of them want to be in, but old feelings still exist.

I’m definitely recommending this book (I think it’s a bit higher than a 4-star, leaning more to 4.25) - it’s just such a sweet second chance romance, with very low angst and basically no triggers. Easy to recommend to everyone!

n advance copy from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, St. Martin's Griffin, and this is my honest review and feedback.

A swoony second chance romance! I really loved all the characters and watching their growth throughout this book, it felt real life. My biggest problem was all the miscommunication.. although it felt real it just drove me crazy at times. I love home reno shows so this book was fun in that aspect too!

Thank you netgalley and St Martin's Publishing for my e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

Shelby, Cameron and Lyle spent much of their teens starring on a TV show that made them famous. After the series was completed, life changed for them all. Shelby and Cameron who had a secret romance parted ways when Cameron went on to college. Shelby established herself as an actress and singer and went into a relationship with Lyle. Five years later when Lyle broke up with Shelby in a very public way it was Cameron that Shelby called. He did what he needed to do and went on his way.

Fast forward another five years. Shelby is now working with her father as a furniture restorer. Cameron is working for National Geographic making documentaries. Lyle is working in television and approaches Shelby and Cameron about doing a home renovation show pilot back in their home state of Michigan. Although they do not fully trust Lyle they sign on for the pilot.

The story is much about relationships that the characters have had with their parents and others in their lives. As positive a force that Shelby’s father was in her life, her mother was a stage mother who was there to reap the benefits of having a famous daughter. Cameron’s father on the other hand couldn’t see any of the work Cameron had ever done as being worthwhile. His mother is a supportive parent.

There is plenty of steam in this second-chance romance as Shelby and Cameron discuss their prior relationship and build on it. Lyle is a narcissist and opportunist who interferes in their relationship far outside the expectations of his role with the TV station. I loved the strength of Shelby and Cameron’s relationship and the supportive friends and family around them.

I enjoyed the outside of the filming scenes between Shelby and Cameron. A weekend trip to find antiques for the home, and the night of karaoke was particularly fun to read. I found the steam factor just perfect for my tastes.

I recommend Built To Last for those readers who enjoy romance.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher but the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

4.5 stars

Second chance romance AND friends to lovers tropes? This one was right up my alley. I was so excited to get to read this eARC thanks to Netgalley.

Shelby, Cam, and Lyle worked together years ago on a teenage tv show. Now, after years being separated, Shelby and Cam have been asked by their producer (Lyle) to star in a DIY television show. Shelby and Cam have always loved each other, Lyle is trying to find his way to sabotage their relationship.

What I liked:
*There was a good balance between family drama and rom-com love story.
*Sometimes we all need a low-key book. This wasn't too heavy but kept the reader interested.
*The banter was perfectly written.

This book is perfect for someone that loves a sweet, easy rom-com.

This is a new to me author and I really enjoyed this book.

Shelby, Cameron and Lyle all starred together as children in what I picture to be a Disney or Nickelodeon type show. Shelby had a bit of a rocky road and left Hollywood behind several years ago and has not looked back. She now has a business restoring and works with her dad, who is a house flipper. She is approached to star in a pilot of a home renovation show. The co-star would be Cameron, also out of the Hollywood scene for years. He is her former co-star and her first love.
Lyle, her other former co-star and significant other of 5 or so years, is the producer. And he seems to have another agenda other than just the show.

Shelby and Cameron were adorable! Despite both of them trying to fight their feelings, that love was still there. Both had some amazing side characters as friends which made the story even more fun.

I adored Shelby! She did not let Lyle, or anyone, tell her how to live her life! She owned her prior mistakes and was determined not to repeat them.

Such a fun, delightful romance.

I'm really hoping Lorelai's story is next, and will definitely be on the lookout for more from ths author!

Many thanks to NetGalley. St. Martin's Press and OrangeSky Audio for an ARC as well as an advance audio copy in exchange for my honest review. Finished this one up in a day!

Shelby is trying to regain a normal life after a hint as a childhood star. Oh and she has a relationship with two costars, Cameron, her first love who walked away from Hollywood and Lyle, her rebound and on-again/off-again boyfriend who cheated on her then claimed she was the cheater. Shelby spiraled, then retreated to her hometown in Michigan and now enjoys rehabbing older homes with her father. When she gets a chance to have her own rehab show, there is a catch. Lyle, her ex is the producer, and he wants Cameron, the other ex to be her co-star. Shelby agrees because the show will also bring her father on as a contributor/paid employee.

As Shelby and Cameron find the house and begin work, they are reminded of their past and also why Cameron ran away from Shelby…twice. Lyle tries to throw all the problems into the situation – Shelby’s estranged mother, Lyle’s now wife/Shelby’s ex-best friend, and purposefully trying to sabotage the show. Shelby and Cameron must find a way to overcome all these wrenches while also navigating their feelings for each other. Cameron must find a way not to run away again and Shelby finally realizes to stand up for herself to Lyle, her mother and Cameron.

This is a great second-chance love with a little bit of HGTV-like show thrown in there as well. Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Griffin for an advanced reader copy of the book.

This book was absolutely perfect. I loved the second chance romance, the friends to lovers, the home renovation show. There wasn’t a third act break up! There wasn’t the drama that I thought there would be! It was amazing.

I loved Shelby and Cameron so much. So. Much. They also loved each other so much. Even with 10 years and a lot of baggage between them, they still held on to those feelings of love. I loved that instead of being annoyed and hurt but the past, and feeling inconvenienced by the fact they were reunited to do this show they were going to hold on to all of the negative things, they both just decided that this was their second chance and they weren’t letting it slip by.

Cameron did have a lot of prove. He’s never felt like what he’s doing is good enough, his father never felt like he was. So now this was his chance, even if the show did work out, he was going to make it work with Shelby and stay in Michigan and finally be in one place.

Shelby also had a lot to prove. She stayed in the limelight longer than Cam did, and when she left she was kind of a mess. So she wants the world to see that she’s okay, that she’s whole and healthy and happy. And even though working with her ex that got her into the mess in the first place, with Cam by her side she’s determined to make it work.

I also loved every single secondary character (except Lyle, he sucks). Lorelai and Maren are such amazing champions for Shelby; they always know what to say and what she needs. I HOPE we get a story about Lorelai, I am dying to know more about her. Her song at the end had me in tears. Kevin and Beth are my favorite, their sweet married life and humor and their friendship and dedication to Cameron was so heartwarming. Shelby’s dad, Daniel, was so amazing to both Shelby and Cam. All the advice Cam desperately needed he got from Daniel in the most loving way.

This book was so beautifully written. We got enough information from their past without it being too much, but we knew exactly what was happening. We got to see how difficult it was to grow up as a child star, and the consequences of that that followed Shelby into her young adult life. How gross people can be to people just because they’re famous. It was also funny! How gone for Shelby Cam was, and always had been. Shelby and her chicks! How much care Shelby put into her new life in Michigan working with her dad. I loved every single second of this book.

Thank you so much to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for this ARC in exchange for an honest review! I cannot wait to see what else Erin Hahn writes because I’ll read anything she puts out!

sooooo good! high 4’s!!

i didn’t know what to expect but i really liked this one! it immediately draws you in and was so addictive! especially with tropes like friends to lovers and loved since they were kids :’)

it was such a warm and cozy read which i find sometimes is hard when books are written in the world of celebrity. it can be so cold and dramatic but erin hanh did such a wonderful job. with characters like cameron and shelby, it was easy to love the book. they were so lovable and kind and their mutual pining just sealed the deal. the pining from childhood to adulthood was so well done especially when you see the ways their lives came together and split apart. i just love a repressed love with silence since they part. right person, wrong time and all that *dreamy sigh*

the writing was also so easy and light. i adored the pacing and feel like it agreed enough with the plot. sometimes books with home renovation plots go too deeply into the home renovation part and i get lost or bored with it but there was just enough here that i was into it, respected it but also was happy to focus on the romance and plot of the book.

hahn truly wrote such a charming book with sweet characters and i’m glad i was able to read it! i will be buying my own copy when it’s published! thanks to netgalley and the publisher for sending an arc my way for an honest review in return.

Former best friends and child stars, Shelby and Cam reunite after 10 years to flip a house for a new TV show. They have an intense chemistry and quickly deeper feelings start to stir, as this project becomes their second chance...

I loved the two leads, and their romance felt genuine. A lovely afternoon read!

I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was a cute romance novel and it was a fun read.

A cute second chance romance, but didn’t really speak on a level that made me love it. Shelby and Cameron have cute chemistry and growth, but the plot/premise behind this book is very similar to others that have released this year and therefore it just doesn’t stand out amongst those other books. If you love HGTV and home renovations, this would likely be a good romance pick for those individuals

3.5 stars
I enjoyed this book! We follow Shelby and Cameron, who were once costars, as they currently navigate being back in each other's lives while doing a home renovation show. I love anything home-related in books, so I was very excited to pick this one up because of that. The story itself was fun, but I found that it lacked overall. I didn't feel as connected to the characters as I wanted to, and to me, the relationship seemed like there was no real strain or struggle--they could've easily gotten together 100 pages in and been fine--so I'm not quite sure why it was dragged out so long. I did like both of our characters, and that we got to see both of their perspectives. The home renovation element was what I was really looking forward to, but there wasn't a whole lot of it in the story. Sure, it was the "driving factor" that brought the characters together, but there really wasn't much about the actual renovation. Overall I would recommend this for an easy-to-read story, but it wasn't my favorite rom-com.

Built to Last is a friends-to-lovers romance between former child stars Cameron and Shelby. They have wonderful chemistry and talk openly about nearly everything, except for the words that matter. The miscommunication trope serves as the major barrier between the two friends who both mention how easily they slip back into their friendship despite the distance and time apart. Their problem would have been solved had they just been willing to put their hearts on the line.

While this is one of my most disliked tropes, it was not enough to prevent me from loving the book. Shelby and Cameron’s chemistry overshadowed the trope. They made me a bit teary because this felt like the best kind of love. The one where two people just fit together so easily, like coming home, and it appealed to the hopeless romantic in me. Hahn made me believe this is what love is supposed to feel like, and I wanted to hold onto it just a bit longer. Individuals who dislike the miscommunication trope may need to stay away, but those looking for friends-to-lovers will enjoy this one.