Title: With Spite
Series: Don't Date Him #8
Author: Lani Lynn Vale
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Tropes: Brother's Best Friend, Stalker (Him)
Forced Proximity, Commitment Issues
Release Date: August 4, 2026
BLURB
Huxley Hosea was at the lowest of the lows.
Exhausted—both mentally and physically—he could barely put one foot in front of the other. Tired to the bone due to a never-ending war. He was desperate to find a new everyday that didn’t revolve around getting shot at by kids who could barely hold a rifle steady. War had broken his soul, and the last thing he wanted to do was go home and pretend that he was just a normal citizen.
But then he sees her, also at her lowest of lows, for the first time, and his soul latches on. Bernice, his salvation.
He’s convinced that she’s the answer to his woes, and he develops an unhealthy attachment to her that carries over to his civilian life. For five years, he has watched her. Protects her. Keeps her safe when she won’t protect herself. Hux follows her every move and hides in the shadows so she’ll never see.
Then she shows up in his town, and all bets are off.
She’s in his town now. That means his rules. His way. And no more highway.
She’s stuck, and she’ll never know it until it’s too late for her to run.
Do you believe in soulmates or fated mates? This compelling question lies at the heart of the story woven around Bernice and Hux, whose journey of love, family secrets, and resilience has captured the hearts of many. The essence of this contemporary romance shines through as a testament to the enduring power of connection and healing.
This novel is much more than a simple love story—it’s a delicate blend of romance, family drama, suspense, and emotional depth. What makes it noteworthy is its ability to balance lightness and gravity, humor and heartbreak, in a plot that feels authentic and deeply human. From the start, I was drawn into Bernice’s world: a woman defined by her warmth, indomitable spirit, and fierce loyalty to her brother, despite the medical challenges that test her resolve. Her character is refreshingly vibrant and relatable—her sense of humor and kindness brighten the pages and invites genuine affection from the reader.
Hux, her counterpart, adds an intriguing layer of tension and tenderness. The story builds around his quiet struggle to maintain distance despite a profound attraction, a push-and-pull dynamic that feels convincingly natural rather than contrived. His gruff exterior, softened by the respect and compassion he shows Bernice, creates a swoon-worthy model of masculinity—flawed, vulnerable, yet unwaveringly protective. Their chemistry crackles in a way that rings true, avoiding the usual pitfalls of instant love clichรฉs and instead maturing into a grounded, heartwarming partnership.
Beneath the romance, the plot’s suspense and family drama enrich the story. Bernice’s search for her lost brother and the secret that threatens them injects a gripping tension that keeps the momentum brisk and the stakes high. Moments of heartbreak and vulnerability are handled with sensitivity, allowing the plot's emotional punches to land with real impact. The friendships and second chances woven through the story add layers that resonate beyond the central couple, painting a fuller picture of human connection.
A tale driven by heartfelt characters and genuine emotional stakes. Readers who appreciate romances infused with family complexity, personal growth, and a hint of suspense will find this story thoroughly rewarding.
This is a heartfelt and engaging romance that delivers on all fronts: love, drama, and emotional catharsis. It’s a perfect pick for anyone who enjoys stories where soulmates must navigate real-world challenges and secrets to find their happy ending. I found myself moved by Bernice and Hux’s journey—not just for their romance but for the way their story celebrates resilience, loyalty, and the messy beauty of life itself. This book leaves you reflecting on the ties that bind us and the extraordinary power of love to heal old wounds. Who among us hasn't longed for a connection that feels truly fated?
PURCHASE LINKS
ALSO AVAILABLE IN THE
DON'T DATE HIM SERIES
COMING SOON
Releasing September 8
AUTHOR BIO
Lani Lynn Vale is an American author of humorous romantic suspense novels. Born in the Great State of Texas, she has lived the majority of her adult life in East Texas where most of her novels are based. She’s married to her high school sweetheart whom her readers refer to as “LLV’s Bearded Half.” She published her first novel, Boomtown. in the summer of 2013 after the birth of her third child. She’s gone on to publish over 100 novels, with most of them going on to become USA Today Bestsellers.
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I swore I would never return to Driftwood Bay.
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