Insta-family By Linda Kage May 2026

: Kage is praised for creating "imperfect" characters who feel like real people. Vaughn is particularly noted for his depth, struggling with "survivor's guilt" while falling for the one woman he feels he shouldn't.

: Lucy Gamble grants a "sympathy sex" request to a dying coworker named Duke. Insta-Family by Linda Kage

: Duke passes away from lung cancer, leaving Lucy unexpectedly pregnant. : Kage is praised for creating "imperfect" characters

: While the plot features over-the-top drama, the romantic development between Lucy and Vaughn is described as a "steady" and "beautiful" bloom. Reader Perspective Insta-Family by Linda Kage

: The story centers on Vaughn’s determination to be an involved uncle and the subsequent romantic tension as he and Lucy navigate their shared loss.

Critics and readers highlight several standout elements of the book: