Sometimes the books we resist the most end up surprising us!

I have to admit something before I start this review: I initially struggled to get into Pot Shot.

The marijuana dispensary setting didn’t immediately appeal to me, and I wasn’t sure I would connect with a story centered around a cannabis industry. Because of that, I think I unfairly judged the book before I gave it a real chance.

I’m glad I kept reading.

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💜 The Premise

This story was a surprisingly sweet enemies-to-lovers romance filled with character growth, chronic illness representation, and thoughtful discussions about the assumptions people make about marijuana and the people who work in the industry.

One of the things I appreciated most about this story was how it challenged stereotypes. While marijuana is definitely an important part of the plot, the book isn’t simply about cannabis. It’s about the stigma surrounding it, the misinformation that exists, and the way people often make assumptions without understanding the full story.

🌿 Marijuana dispensary romance  

❤️ Enemies-to-lovers  

💊 Doctor romance  

🩺 Chronic illness representation  

💬 Banter and character growth  

🥰 Sweet romance with emotional payoff

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💥 The Dynamic

The romance itself was a slow and satisfying journey. Watching the characters move from frustration and misunderstanding to trust and affection felt earned. Their relationship wasn’t held back by a lack of chemistry—it was held back by their own preconceived notions and fears. When they finally stopped standing in their own way, the payoff felt like a genuine triumph.

I also appreciated the chronic illness representation woven throughout the story. It added depth to the characters and helped ground the romance in real-life challenges and experiences.

If you’re hesitant about picking up Pot Shot because the dispensary setting doesn’t sound like your thing, I would encourage you to give it a chance. Beneath the marijuana-themed marketing is a heartfelt romance about understanding people beyond first (second, and third) impressions, challenging assumptions, and finding connection where you least expect it.

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🎧 Pacing & Progression

Once I gave the story a fair chance, I found I really enjoyed the pacing of the book. It was a really fun read that had me engaged quickly.

One of my favorite aspects of the story was watching my perception of the characters change over time. What initially seemed like stubbornness, poor communication, or a personality flaw gradually revealed itself to be the result of past hurts and emotional baggage. As the story unfolded, it became clear that both characters were carrying wounds that shaped how they viewed themselves and each other. Watching them learn to see beyond those defenses was incredibly rewarding. The growing attentiveness and willingness to support each other made the romance feel earned. By the end of the story, it wasn’t just about falling in love— it was about being seen, understood, and accepted for who they really were.

I read both the ARC and the ALC so that I could properly and honestly review both versions.

That being said, I found the narration by C.J. Mission and Elizabeth Lamont (whose voice I recognized from Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood) easy to listen to. I liked listening to the audiobook and found it just as enjoyable to read.

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✨ Final Thoughts

Pot Shot surprised me in the best way. What I expected to be a niche romance centered on a dispensary turned out to be a thoughtful story about prejudice, assumptions, personal growth, and love. Sometimes the books we think aren’t for us end up being the ones that leave the biggest impression.

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🔥 Rating & Spice Level

🌶️ Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️

⭐️ Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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📚 Where to Read

👉 Pick up a copy today!

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