What's a little marriage of convenience between best friends? Just a tasty appetizer for real love!

My life was flowing smoothly until Jordan Carmichael, the adventure tour guy I've known since high school, hit a rough patch.

His five-year-old son, Ryder, needs stability after losing his mother, and with her parents fighting for custody, I propose a bold plan: let's get married for a year.

I want to help him keep his family together, and when Jordan offers to assist me in securing a loan for the local bakery, it seems like a win-win for both of us.

There's just one tiny hitch-I've sworn off marriage after escaping my emotionally abusive ex-husband. I'm terrified of repeating past mistakes and dragging anyone else into my mess, especially Jordan.

But as we draft a contract with rules-including only kissing when necessary to convince the town we're "really" married-I feel sparks rising faster than a soufflé...

Once I move in with Jordan, all bets are off as those rules crumble faster than a cookie. Late-night talks turn into stolen snuggles, and playful moments leave my heart racing.

Suddenly, we slip into a closeness that feels all too real. It seems like maybe we've figured out a delicious recipe for a love that just might last...

But when our secret is exposed, Jordan's custody case hangs in the balance-and so does my heart.

Can we whisk together this tempting blend of friendship, pretend love, and true emotions without creating a hopeless mess?

Beachside Kisses With My Best Friend is Book 3 in the Hallmark Beach small town sweet romantic comedy series, where a charming yet quirky town on the coast of California comes to life. It's the story of baker Marilee Moffitt and her best friend, single dad Jordan Carmichael. This dual-POV novel is filled with all the sizzling romantic tension and swoons possible without on-page intimacy. Each book in the series stands alone, but you may want to read them in order for the most enjoyment.