I absolutely adore everything Maggie North writes. It’s smart and insightful, which still maintaining the humor and spice I love in a good romance novel. The way she describes her world is breathtaking, and I found myself wanting to crawl between the pages to experience it myself. I can’t wait for what’s next from her brain!

Thank you to St. Martin's Press and Maggie North for this ARC.

This one was cute and had a lot going for it, even if it wasn’t a new favorite for me; definitely a solid, middle-of-the-road read. Think black cat x golden retriever, outdoor romance, and plenty of forced proximity.

The slow build between the characters was done really well, and I didn’t see one of the late twists coming (bonus points for that!). I loved the summer camp + romance retreat setting; it felt fresh, fun, and perfect for a sunny weekend read.

We’ve got:
⛺ Only one tent
💍 Fake engagement
💉 Burned-out ER doc
🌲 Nature vibes for days

If you’re in the mood for a charming, feel-good romance with a few surprises, this one delivers.

2.5 stars.
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.

Publisher description: A grumpy burnt out physician and a sunshine psychologist must fake an engagement to save his whitewater canoeing/ relationship therapy startup in Maggie North's sparkling second novel about starting over.

Read if you like...
☑️ grumpy/sunshine( reverse)
☑️fake dating
☑️ Whitewater rafting
☑️one-night stands that turn into something more, a year later
☑️camping


That cover made an insta request for this title. It's incredibly gorgeous, and it depicts two characters who look like average people. Unfortunately, the story is through the eyes of Stellar, our main female character, and Stellar needs to get over herself. Not that I cannot empathize with why she is so angry and resentful, she did have some stuff happen that legitimizes those feelings, it's just I found it heavy. I would have loved to have Lyle's perspective. I don't read too many books of this genre where the male main character is the sunshine character, and I would have loved to see more into his inner thoughts.



Publication Date 17/06/25
Goodreads Review 28/06/25

While i didnt love this author's debut, the cover on this one was too pretty to pass up and I was hopeful about falling in love with this story!

A fake engagement, forced proximity work place romance with a little side of something wilder. This story had so much promise but ultimately fell flat for me, there wasn't really chemistry between stellar and lyle, it was hard to keep track of all the side characters and there were too many side plots that lacked resolution and/or depth. I just wanted more. This was a quick read that I would have enjoyed a bit more with some additional substance but I would still try another book by this author regardless.

Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the ARC in exchange for my review!

Forced proximity in the open wilderness in Canada with two people have hooked up before? Sign me up. There is a lot of complicated backstory to Stellar J as a character, and at times I enjoyed but at other times I felt like it was too much. She has trouble trusting that people will stay, which makes it seemingly hard for her to connect in relationships. I think overall, the parts of the story that were added to explain this about her were sometimes distracting to me. Lyle 'McHuge' is a big man, one who tries to keep his emotions in line since most people don't trust a big man who gets angry, this means pushing his emotions away sometimes. He is also the running of the 'Love Boat' and hires Stellar to be their doctor. The Love Boat is supposed to be an outdoor adventure that brings couples together, and that it did. I loved the cast of extra characters in the Love Boat and how they interacted throughout the story. Though Brent sucked a bit at times. There was a fun range of ages and feelings in that group. overall, I enjoyed this book, it wasn't one of my 'top reads' but I definitely have people I can recommend it to.

Thanks to St. Martin's Press for this e-arc in exchange for my honest review! The Ripple Effect was such a tender story and I loved going on the adventure of Lyle and Stellar's fake feelings that turn so real so fast. There's a lot happening in the plot and even the backdrop of this book, but it adds some depth and richness to the cast of characters we are following. It was fun to see Stellar and Lyle have to grow and have to trust each other to make the trip they are leading for The Love Boat work and ultimately for their not-so-fake-anymore relationship to work. One thing I found a little tedious was the dependence on Stellar's childhood con man dad trauma - it did make for a good reason for some of her actions and deeply held beliefs but it was a thread I was tired of pulling by the end; maybe it's just that we were in Stellar's perspective so it felt a little exaggerated by the end. All in all, the writing was beautiful, the casual queer rep provided verisimilitude, and I appreciated the things we were exploring as the story unfolded - this will be a great summer/fall read!

Maggie North’s The Ripple Effect is an awesome summer read set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Canadian wilderness. Rooted in themes of healing, connection, and the unexpected turns life takes, this novel effortlessly balances introspective storytelling with moments of natural wonder.

The story follows a group of young adults brought together by a wilderness couples therapy program program—an experience that promises personal growth, but delivers much more. Through canoe trips, campfires, and the rhythm of life in the wilderness., North explores how people open up when stripped of distraction and immersed in nature.

One of the standout qualities of The Ripple Effect is how it weaves LGBTQIA+ representation into its fabric without making it the focal point. Characters’ identities are part of who they are—naturally integrated, respectfully handled, and never tokenized. Relationships (both romantic and platonic) evolve with an authenticity that feels true to real-life outdoor programs: bonds formed quickly, challenged by the elements, and tested by self-discovery.

The forest setting of this novel is one of the stars. I'm ready to find a lodge, park up on the porch and watch the Candian widerness.

Due to medical reasons, I was unable to fully read this book but I throughly enjoyed what I did read, however I cannot write a proper review due to this. I apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

In this thoughtful, emotional romance, emergency physician / odd-jobber / canoe guide Stellar, is thrust into a wilderness relationship therapy business with the oversized cinnamon roll psychologist, Lyle, with whom she once had a too-intense one-night stand. Against her better judgement, Stellar becomes attached to both the business and the guy, but fighting for either might mean giving up the detachment she needs to survive.

The beating hearts of this novel - Lyle's, wide open, and Stellar's, closed like a fist around the few things she loves - are what keep it grounded despite the nuanced, sometimes distracting details of its premise. Much of the story is spent exploring Stellar's backstory, and although these passages are well-done, I sometimes found Stellar difficult to connect with.

I much preferred the in-the-moment action of the story, during which - over the course of their inaugural ten-day group canoeing expedition - Stellar and Lyle build their relationship alongside their clients'. The secondary characters and their interactions are beautifully drawn, with moments both humorous and poignant, and the story has a lot to say about relationships even aside from the central romance.

This book is the second in a loosely connected series. You could read it without having read the amazing Rules for Second Chances, but why would you want to?

4.5 stars.

[I received a complimentary ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. Opinions are my own.]

Stellar J. Byrd, a burnt out Emergency Room physician joins into a fake engagement to support acclaimed psychologist, Lyle McHugh to lead a white water rafting relationship therapy start up. Stellar is able to solve most problems but her own life. Could this job help more than just the clients?

This is gentle giant, fake dating, second chance, one room trope romance with a medical and outdoorsy twist book. Despite all successful ingredients, this book did not work for me. I struggled to emotional connect with the main characters and the side characters were just a blur with barely any depth or motivation at all. Despite the white water rafting setting, which should have felt quick filled with tension and expectation the pace felt sluggish. This is a book with a lot of the right ingredients: unique main characters, a unique cast of side characters, a little mystery and intrigue, and some opportunities for growth all around, but just didn’t come together for me.

This book felt refreshingly real and the characters’ emotional growth felt honest, showing that healing is messy and ongoing. The side characters were also great.

My only gripe: a few moments felt like I was missing background info that is possibly from the author’s previous book, though this one isn’t clearly marked as part of a series.

Maggie North does a great job writing solid character focused romance. Sometimes it's a bit overwritten for me, but the quality of the story is definitely there.

Stellar and Lyle have mutual friends (from North's previous book) and had a one night stand, but Stellar ghosted Lyle after and now they avoid each other. When she loses her job as an ER doctor, she ends up going to work for Lyle at his marriage wilderness/whitewater rafting retreat. Sparks fly again between the two, but can they both get over their past hurts to commit to each other?

I really enjoyed this romance novel. It tackled more issues than a typical rom-com, which is my preference. The characters had a lot of depth and backstory. I enjoyed all the side characters that were on the marriage retreat especially Sloane, Stellar's sister. Lyle was such a gentle giant but struggled with repressing his feelings. Stellar was prickly and had a lot of past hurts. They both grew a lot throughout the book. I also loved the Canadian wilderness setting. I will continue to read more from Maggie North.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin Griffin for the e-book in exchange for my honest review.

Dr. Stellar Byrd agrees to become the on-site physician for Dr. Lyle “McHuge” McHugh’s outdoor couples therapy camp. As neither of them are in a relationship, they form a fake engagement for appearances.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Ripple Effect is the follow-up to Rules for Second Chances. Both books are considered stand-alones but the MCs for The Ripple Effect are introduced in Rules for Second Chances. If you want more background info on the MCs of this book, especially “McHuge”, I highly recommend reading Rules for Second Chances first. This book does contain open-door content.

This book has a little bit of everything that I love to see in a contemporary romance - second chances, fake relationship, slow burn, forced proximity. He definitely falls first (again?) in this grumpy/sunshine situation. It doesn’t seem like Lyle really ever got over Stellar to begin with.

There’s something about Maggie North’s writing that is just so beautifully descriptive. Her characters are layered. There is always good banter when MCs are opposites but there is realistic and meaningful depth to the author’s dialogue. I’ve read through The Ripple Effect twice (so far) and found myself even more emotional during the second reading knowing full well what was going to happen.

I look forward to seeing what Maggie North has next for her readers whether it is something in this same “universe” or something completely different.

Diving into the second book from an author after unequivocally loving their debut is a nerve wracking proposition- What if it doesn't stack up to its predecessor? Lightening doesn't usually strike twice... but when it does- it's absolutely magical!

And that magic is exactly what I experienced while reading Maggie North's subsequent book, The Ripple Effect!

Starting off where we ended in Rules for Second Chances, Tobin and Liz, along with their friend and relationship saver Lyle "McHuge" McHugh, are doing well for themselves. Tobin and McHuge are getting set to launch their new joint venture, "The Love Boat", a whitewater based relationship camp, while Liz and Tobin are expecting their first child. With Tobin needing to take some time for Liz and the baby- Liz's best friend, Stellar J. Byrd is the perfect fill in! Too bad Stellar and McHuge have not been able to be in the same room together since they had a one night stand a year ago!

McHuge both have their own reasons to move forward with this awkward working arrangements, but neither of them could have predicted that they would be soon faking an engagement to save their fledgling venture... and that being one of the smaller secrets they will end up keeping as they keep The Love Boat afloat and bringing their fellow camping couples closers together.

I think I said this last time, but I need McHuge's relationship book or this whitewater canoe relationship trip to be real- and I'm signing up RIGHT NOW! I love how the psychology and relationship building is so well done and integral to the story. It makes it easy to believe what is happening and root for all (the campers and Stellar and McHuge) involved.

Since we met McHuge in the last book, it was so fun to have him meet his match with his exact opposite! Where he is cuddly and giving, she is hard and always keeping track of give and take. Both have a history that has brough them to this place and only together can they move past it.

Overall, I went through the full gamut of emotions while reading this book- my definition of a top read. I am confirmed and my stanning of Maggie North and I can't wait to see what she blesses us with next!

The Ripple Effect by Maggie North, Stellar Bird is an educated medical Doctor Who for reasons not known in the beginning is now working for a rideshare company. When we meet her The Ripple Effect by Maggie North, Stellar Bird is an educated medical Doctor Who for reasons not known in the beginning is now working for a rideshare company. When we meet her however she’s out at concert in Canada with a tank top on and despite the fact the gorgeous lumberjack next to her who is soon learn is named Lyle McHugh offers her his flannel shirt something she refuses because she doesn’t want to owe him anything although it doesn’t stop her from going home with the stranger and rubbing her most private parts all over him. After spending the night with him and giving him her number she ignores every text he sends her. It’s not until a year later when she’s in need of a job and he who is starting a relationship outdoor marriage counseling thing is in need of an employee that they reunite. when things start coming out about his counseling practices he asked her to pretend to be his fiancé during the trip because who wants advice from a single man about their marriage. she agrees and of course she eventually falls for him as he does with her. Let me be honest and say I only got maybe 50% into this boat I just found her to be insufferable I mean everything about her was a contradiction she had a tattoo sleeve and had no communication skills yet she was a doctor a medical doctor her and her best friend started out as a one night stand an old loyal was so hippie dippy with his 101 phrases to help you get back on track advice book (not the real name.) I think the book would’ve been much better it just seemed like it was just trying too hard to be fun quirky all inclusive and really just turned out corny and hippie dippy. I know we’re not supposed to judge women who go home with others for one night stands and that’s all fine and dandy I mean they did that in the 70s it was called free Love and by the 80s people were judging and they were judging hard but I mean do you I just can’t help but to think someone’s decision-making isn’t all that if they go home with somebody whose last name they don’t even know. I mean judge me for judging them that’s fine. it’s supposed to be the age of independent women and yet they don’t even know how to scratch their own itch… Really? OK I’m going off on a tangent either way didn’t like the book didn’t like her nor her name which really Stellar? OK this review is way too long for a book I didn’t even like. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #TheRippleEffect, #MaggieNorth, however she’s out of concert in Canada with a tank top on and despite the fact the gorgeous lumberjack next to her who is soon learn is named Lyle McHugh offers her his flannel shirt something she refuses because she doesn’t want to owe him anything although it doesn’t stop her from going home with the stranger and rubbing her most private parts all over him. After spending the night with him and giving him her number she ignores every text center. It’s not until a year later when she’s in need of a job and he who is starting a relationship outdoor marriage counseling thing is in need of an employee that they reunite. when things start coming out about his counseling practices he asked her to pretend to be his fiancé during the trip because who wants advice from a single man about their marriage. she agrees and of course she eventually falls for him as he does with her. Let me be honest and say I only got maybe 50% into this boat I just found her to be insufferable I mean everything about her was a contradiction she had a tattoo sleeve and had no communication skills yet she was a doctor a medical doctor her and her best friend started out as a one night stand an old loyal was so hippie dippy with his 101 phrases to help you get back on track advice book (not the real name.) I think the book would’ve been much better it just seemed like it was just trying too hard to be fun quirky all inclusive and really just turned out corny and hippie dippy. I know we’re not supposed to judge women who go home with others for one night stands and that’s all fine and Daddy I mean they did that in the 70s it was called free Love and by the 80s people were judging and they were judging hard but I mean do you I just can’t help but to think someone’s decision-making isn’t all that if they go home with somebody whose last name they don’t even know. I mean judge me for judging them that’s fine. it’s supposed to be the age of independent women and yet they don’t even know how to scratch their own itch… Really? OK I’m going off on a tangent either way didn’t like the book didn’t like her nor her name which really Stellar? OK this review is way too long for a book I didn’t even like. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #TheRippleEffect, #MaggieNorth,

The Ripple Effect is a heartfelt rom-com that explores the unlikely pairing of a burned-out physician and an eternally sunny psychologist, both of whom find themselves faking an engagement to save a quirky relationship therapy startup. Full of laughs, a touch of drama, and plenty of chemistry, this novel has all the ingredients for a perfect escape.

North excels in creating strong, relatable and witty characters. Stellar is a breath of fresh air as a grumpy, sharp-witted heroine who has a clear sense of self but is also vulnerable in her own way. Lyle, the sunshine-y psychologist, could easily have been a one-note character, but North gives him depth, showing that his unshakeable optimism hides a man with real struggles and emotional layers. Their chemistry crackles off the page, and their banter is pure gold.

The setting—an idyllic, slightly ridiculous relationship therapy camp—adds to the charm, providing plenty of funny and tender moments (and only one tent!). The "fake engagement" trope is executed well, balancing the comedic aspects with more serious emotional beats, making the romance feel earned rather than forced.

The perfect summer escape, The Ripple Effect is a fantastic sophomore release for North who is becoming one of my go-to romance writers for vulnerable and intimate relationships.

I want to express my gratitude to @mggienorthauthor and @stmartinspress for the #gifted e-book.

This was my second novel by this author, and I was captivated from the very first page. I adored her debut, Rules for Second Chances, where both main characters were introduced as memorable side characters.

In this delightful tale, we meet Stellar, an ER doctor faced with an unexpected career setback, who embarks on a transformative journey with McHugh to launch his innovative whitewater relationship therapy business. Their attempt to set aside their undeniable attraction only makes their connection stronger, and their chemistry is palpable.

The writing is not just beautiful; it’s richly descriptive, bringing each scene to life. The characters’ introspections and emotions add depth to the narrative, making their experiences resonate deeply with readers. I was particularly enchanted by the vibrant, outdoorsy setting that perfectly complements the light-hearted yet poignant romance these two share. The supporting characters are equally charming, adding humor and thoughtfulness to the story.

Stellar's journey of overcoming anger and disappointment, bolstered by McHugh’s calming presence, is both inspiring and relatable. Their partnership unfolds with authenticity, making it a truly captivating read.

If you’re a fan of second-chance rom-coms, this book is an absolute must-read!

Stellar J Byrd is a former ER doctor. She is looking for a job as her financial prospects are disappearing. She is living in an expensive wilderness town. A year ago Lyle McHugh and Stellar met at a concert which was cancelled. She decides that she will take a ride from him. Her plan is to stay the night at his place. He texts her saying “I didn’t hear you leave. Is everything okay?” When Liz, her best friend tells her to go to work for McHugh. Stellar doesn’t feel comfortable about working with him, but ends up doing it. McHugh has to have a doctor so she becomes an employee of his business. He is a psychologist that has a whitewater canoeing/relationship therapy. Somehow, he and Stellat fake an engagement to save his therapy business. It’s strictly business. However, Stellar realizes her feelings for McHuge are anything but professional. How does McHugh feel?

A romance novel that is funny and smart. It is is clever and gorgeous, with characters that feel unique and relatable in the beautiful landscape. It’s a sweet romance that I enjoyed.

I delayed finishing this book for days because I just didn’t want it to end. It’s that rare kind of story that leaves you feeling like you could start a whole new life just to stay a little closer to the world these characters inhabit. Maggie North writes with such insight and heart. Her characters are so wildly different from one another, yet each one feels deeply human and relatable. I honestly don’t know how she does it—but I do know I’ll read absolutely anything she writes. This book will stay with me for a long time.

This was a DNF at 33%. I really had a hard time connecting to the characters and the pacing was off. I needed more swoon in my romance. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC for my honest opinion.