Good as Gold features a single woman with a planned pregnancy premise—my personal catnip. As an added bonus, it’s part of the True NorAudiobook Review
Good as Gold features a single woman with a planned pregnancy premise—my personal catnip. As an added bonus, it’s part of the True North universe. This series has long held a soft spot in my heart, and I’m always excited to reunite with the Shipley and Rossi families in their small Vermont town.
Matteo Rossi and Leila Giltmaker were best friends growing up. Neither was aware their attraction was mutual, and Matteo let Leila slip away when he left for college. She fell in love with someone else and married, and Matteo never returned to his hometown because of it. Now, Matteo has come home for his brother’s wedding only to discover Leila is newly divorced. He decides to stay a little longer to make amends with his family and spend time with Leila. Leila is desperate to become a mother, so she asks Matteo to father her child. How could he refuse?
I loved the friends-to-lovers aspect. Leila and Matteo desperately try to compartmentalize the easy rapport of their friendship versus having hot sex solely for the purpose of making a baby. Their chemistry is too strong for that to last. I also enjoyed the roasting Matteo’s siblings give him in their text threads and how he takes it in stride.
Their small town is getting more trendy with each book. I would be a happy regular at the coffee shop and bar. And now there’s a line of craft beers created by Leila’s father that’s all the rage. The Giltmaker Brewery is quite lucrative, so I’m hopeful that the family sticks around for awhile. Maybe Leila’s brother will get his own book, and the True North universe will continue to grow.
Sarina Bowen doesn’t discard old characters and details from previous books, but instead finds ways to lovingly incorporate them into the current story. Reading this series is like comfort food for my soul.
About the audiobook: I hate to say it, but I’m not a fan of the narration. Jason Clarke is as flawless as always. However, Lessa Lamb leaves something to be desired. She can be over the top in her delivery, but the most distracting thing is that she speaks so slowly with loooong pauses. I tried speeding up the audio so it sounded more normal, but then I had to lower the speed again when Jason narrates. It’s problematic.
Recommended for fans of: Friends to lovers Planned pregnancies Snowboarding Beer
*I received an advanced listener copy. This does not affect the content of my review.*
A Long Time Coming is not just my favorite Cane Brothers book, but–dare I say–my favorite Meghan Quinn book so far, hands down. I’ve gAudiobook Review
A Long Time Coming is not just my favorite Cane Brothers book, but–dare I say–my favorite Meghan Quinn book so far, hands down. I’ve got hearts in my eyes, a swoony sway to my body, and a massive smile on my lips to prove it.
I’ll be honest. I have issues with the friend-to-lovers trope. I don’t like it when characters have been friends for ages and then out of the blue they notice that their best friend looks hot in a bikini, so now they have to date them or die. Um… hello? Did you just develop eyeballs?
Surprisingly, this trope worked for me in A Long Time Coming. The depth of Lia and Breaker’s 10-year friendship is well established. I loved their quirks, routines, and inside jokes. Their text exchanges are delightful. It’s while planning Lia’s wedding to a wimpy mama’s boy that the BFFs both begin to realize there might be more to their feelings than just friendship. I reveled in the slow burn of their romance. I also applauded whenever Breaker stands up to Lia’s nightmare of a future mother-in-law.
I admit I had a bit of a crush on Breaker. He lives an ordinary life despite being a billionaire, and he’s incredibly thoughtful. As a friend, he’s sweet and loyal. As a lover, he’s very naughty. I approved of both sides. Lia is a breath of fresh air. Breaker’s wealth doesn’t affect her. She embraces her geekiness and is completely herself when she is around him.
I was going to read the book, but when I found out that the audiobook features J.F. Harding and Erin Mallon–two of my absolute favorite narrators–I didn’t hesitate to listen instead. Not only are the vocal performances phenomenal, but the dual narration is a game changer. My listening experience was greatly enhanced. There’s no male trying to imitate a female voice or vice versa–something that can be challenging to pull off successfully.
I highly recommend this entertaining romantic comedy.
Recommended for fans of: Scrabble Wedding planning Friends turned lovers
After reading It Happened One Summer, I was excited to learn more about Hannah, Piper’s sister, as well as Fox, Brendan’s best friend. While 3.5 stars
After reading It Happened One Summer, I was excited to learn more about Hannah, Piper’s sister, as well as Fox, Brendan’s best friend. While there are elements of Hook, Line, and Sinker that I truly enjoyed, I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a tad bit disappointed in the characters. Well, one in particular.
The beginning of the book is really catchy and fun. Hannah and Fox come from different worlds—she lives Los Angeles, and he lives in a tiny fishing village—but they develop a friendship while exchanging sweet, music-related texts. Hannah’s whole life revolves around music. Every emotion is tied to a specific song. I loved her passion and creativity. She’s a production assistant for a film company, with aspirations of breaking into the music industry as a producer. People always count on her for encouragement and support. Unfortunately, Hannah lacks the confidence to advocate for herself, and it has held her back in her career and personal life.
Fox has a well-earned reputation as a ladies man, to put it nicely. People think he’s a carefree fisherman who avoids responsibility and racks up one-night stands like it’s his job, and he’s given them little reason to think otherwise. Hannah is the only one who truly sees him—his potential, his wounds, his loving heart.
Personally, I like a little vulnerability in my leading men. I love alpha-males as well, but it’s refreshing to get a break from them sometimes. However, Fox is deeply insecure, and his constant negative self-talk and need for validation is exhausting. I felt sorry for him, but I also wanted to send him to a good therapist ASAP. Hannah is far more patient than I am. She offers repeated assurance that Fox is good for more than just sex. Part of that means keeping him in the friend zone despite her attraction to him.
The sexual tension is wonderfully palpable, and it simmers slowly throughout. Tessa Bailey—God bless her—makes it well worth the wait when Fox and Hannah finally get on the same page. I also liked the storyline about Hannah pursing her dreams and trying to form a connection with her deceased father.
Despite some repetitive character flaws, Hook, Line, and Sinker will likely win over readers with soft hearts who are fond of friends turned lovers scenarios.
Recommended for fans of: Friends turned lovers Vinyl records Small towns Texting
Hard to Score is the third book in the Play Hard series and I’m really enjoying getting to know the four Kincade sisters.
Anyone who had an unrequited Hard to Score is the third book in the Play Hard series and I’m really enjoying getting to know the four Kincade sisters.
Anyone who had an unrequited crush as a teenager should appreciate this second chance sports romance. Brexton Kincade pined over Drew Bowman, the dreamy football player and close family friend, when they were growing up. We get to view their friendship from both their perspectives and it’s sweet, yearning, and naive in the way only adolescence can be.
Fast forward about a decade and Brexton is no longer the awkward and insecure girl Drew once overlooked, but a gorgeous, intelligent, and strong sports agent succeeding in a male-dominated industry. When she crosses paths with Drew, who is now a second string NFL quarterback, it’s her second chance to finally get her dream guy.
The main obstacle between them is a bitter family feud of unknown origin. The mysterious cause is frequently alluded to and the buildup is great, but when the truth is finally uncovered it falls flat for me. It’s difficult to believe the dramatic ripple effect of this one particular incident.
That being said, the bulk of the story is wonderful. Brexton and Drew make a great couple. He is gifted and honorable, and she pushes him to embrace his talent and dream bigger. I loved their flirty exchanges. This book is a winning addition to the series.
Recommended for fans of: Sports romance Unrequited love Romeo and Juliet Second chance romance
*I received an early copy of this book to voluntarily read.*
After reading People We Meet on Vacation, one thing is clear: I need a getaway, stat. I was left with a smile on my face and a dozen travel d4.5 stars
After reading People We Meet on Vacation, one thing is clear: I need a getaway, stat. I was left with a smile on my face and a dozen travel destination tabs open on my browser by the end of the book.
I am willing to go anywhere, but I only want to take a trip with someone like Poppy or Alex. I want to spend a week with a person who knows me inside and out, who won’t judge me but instead loves me because of all my quirks; someone who goes with the flow and makes mundane things and even disasters fun; someone who is unconditionally supportive.
I loved seeing Alex and Poppy’s unlikely 12-year friendship grow. This is a friends-to-lovers story with the slowest of slow burns. It is very subtle at first, but the love they share as friends is potent and only grows stronger each year, just as they come closer to developing and acknowledging their romantic feelings for each other.
The author makes Poppy and Alex infinitely interesting with their completely opposite and well-developed personalities. I fell in love with both of them. Poppy is outgoing and over the top. Alex is a dry witted introvert. Their banter is top notch and their inside jokes are crazy fun. I wish Poppy wasn’t so hard on herself, especially toward the end. Maybe they don’t handle things perfectly, but I admire the fact that they don’t play the blame game with each other. They take responsibility for their own happiness.
All the strange and wonderful characters they encounter along the way serve to round out this funny and heartwarming story. The vacations they take are described with such detail that the locations come to life on the page. I could feel, taste, smell, and see every aspect of each destination. Luckily, summer break is right around the corner, and this book is the perfect beach read to take with you.
Recommended for fans of: Beach reads Friends to lovers stories Banter Traveling Opposites attract
*I received an early copy of this book to voluntarily read and review.*
I rather liked this. One of my issues with erotica is that too often it’s sex, sex, sex, and not enough character development or substance. Wicked EnvI rather liked this. One of my issues with erotica is that too often it’s sex, sex, sex, and not enough character development or substance. Wicked Envy has a good balance — three distinctly different characters with interesting relationships and lots of positively scorching hot sex.
Three best friends gradually find themselves in a friends with very dirty benefits arrangements. I enjoyed the way the dynamics and history between Dane, Avril, and Andrew are explored. A sex club is prominently featured so a whole lot of scorching hot taboo sex is to be expected, and I enjoyed seeing how each person navigates their way through their unconventional arrangement.
If you’re looking for a big love triangle story or LGBTQ erotica you won’t find it here. While there is a menage, the story avoids a bi-curious angle and love triangle drama.
Recommended for fans of: Erotica Friends to lovers romance M/F/M Taboo subjects
Let me start by saying I’m a fan of Meghan Quinn’s baseball series, and I still recommend it even though I was disappointed in The Setup. I enjoyed thLet me start by saying I’m a fan of Meghan Quinn’s baseball series, and I still recommend it even though I was disappointed in The Setup. I enjoyed the start of the book very much. There is lots of fun banter and the beginnings of a nice slow burn between Lincoln and Indie. I also liked their fun competitive nature as well as mutual respect that only two young and gifted athletes could fully appreciate.
Unfortunately, the more I read, the less enamored I became. I wound up disliking Indie. She is thoughtless towards Lincoln, and I really didn’t understand her reluctance to commit to a friendship, let alone any type of meaningful relationship — even though they clearly do have a meaningful relationship. For me, the story devolves into a repetitive and painful mess. By the end I felt like Indie didn’t deserve Lincoln.
Indie’s mom is completely unrealistic. I simply can’t imagine a parent being so cavalier and clueless about their child’s welfare. All the other characters and relationships are delightful though, particularly Indie’s bestie, Scarlett. I also liked the fact that this sports romance includes three sports: baseball, soccer, and football, and it was really nice to have a spotlight on female athletes.
While The Setup is not my favorite book involving the Brentwood boys and girls, I will absolutely keep on reading.
The Girl in the Love Song is a friends-to-lovers new adult story that is custom made for angst junkies like me.
Emma Scott certainly knows how to tug The Girl in the Love Song is a friends-to-lovers new adult story that is custom made for angst junkies like me.
Emma Scott certainly knows how to tug on the heartstrings, and boy did my heart bleed for Miller. The boy’s life is a living hell but his moral compass is strong. He is never less than decent or supportive. Violet is a lonely 13-year-old rich girl, and she meets Miller when he is at his loneliest and poorest. They forge an instant friendship that is destined to last a lifetime — as long as they don’t complicate things by becoming romantically involved.
I loved how deep their friendship is and its power to sustain them in their darkest times. The problem for me is that while Miller’s suffering feels real, I couldn’t really empathise with Violet’s troubles. Even so, I liked Violet’s determination and optimism and I rooted for them as a couple.
Violet’s dream is to become a doctor and health issues are featured heavily in the story. I’ve always been a fan of TV medical dramas so all the medical jargon put me in my happy place. I’m floored by the amount of research Emma Scott must have done.
The book could do with a bit more editing for logistics and some minor grammatical issues. There are several developments towards the very end that defy logic or probability and which left a sour taste in my mouth. However, I very much admired the characters and the enduring strength of their love.
The Girl in the Love Song kicks off the Lost Boys series quite nicely. I’m curious to learn more about Miller’s misfit friends.
Recommended for fans of: Coming of age stories Friends turned lovers Medical dramas Rock stars
The Change Up was so entertaining! I loved the chemistry between Kinsley and Maddox, as well as the humor that only lifelong friends can share. I realThe Change Up was so entertaining! I loved the chemistry between Kinsley and Maddox, as well as the humor that only lifelong friends can share. I really enjoyed it, but I feel the need to give a few disclaimers.
Kinsley is incredibly pushy and she casually and repeatedly disregards Maddox’s wishes. Maddox has some issues for which he really should have sought therapy. However, he is very accepting of Kinsley’s quirks.
The story had me laughing out loud from the very beginning. And break out your fans ladies, because this book also has some of the naughtiest, scorching hot sex scenes I’ve read in quite some time. I’m excited to read Lincoln’s book.
Recommended for fans of: Friends to lovers trope Vegans Animal rescue Baseball Duct tape
This sweet read went down nice and easy, which is just what the doctor ordered for the amount of stress the world has been under recently. Melanie HarThis sweet read went down nice and easy, which is just what the doctor ordered for the amount of stress the world has been under recently. Melanie Harlow and Corinne Michaels make a great pair.
Imperfect Match is a friends to lovers romance. It’s a trope that I find works best when the change in relationship status happens gradually rather than a lightning bolt Oh my gosh, my best friend is sexy moment. I feel like this book does a pretty good job of allowing Willow and Reid to increasingly and somewhat reluctantly come to terms with their romantic feelings.
Their friendship is well established. I loved their fun routines and the strong bond they share. It made me long for a best guy friend like Reid. My fondness for them didn’t change when they became lovers. They truly are perfect together, except…
Willow is a woman who is determined to have children as soon as possible—if not with a boyfriend or husband, then through a sperm donor. Reid is diehard anti-children. This was never a secret to either of them. I understood Willow’s rush to have kids, but Reid’s misgivings seem lame. I did not understand why they would start a romantic relationship knowing they are fundamentally opposed on this major issue. How could they then be surprised and frustrated when it becomes a roadblock?
There are some lovable side characters, including Willow’s new age tree hugger sister and Reid’s freeloader brother. Coupled with Willow and Reid’s chemistry, this is a very entertaining rom com.
Recommended for fans of: Friends to lovers trope Cooking Matchmaking
I enjoyed Abby Jimenez’s The Friend Zone immensely. Way to knock a debut novel out of the park.
This is a friends to lovers romance, and I fel4.5 stars
I enjoyed Abby Jimenez’s The Friend Zone immensely. Way to knock a debut novel out of the park.
This is a friends to lovers romance, and I fell madly in love with Kristen and Josh’s friendship. Their food obsession indulgences, fun times with Kristen’s testy Yorkie, drunken karaoke, and shared pop culture references – I wanted it all. Whenever they are together, even the most mundane things are fun.
Kristen fascinated me. She is sharp as a tack and her bluntness is refreshing and hilarious. I admired her moral compass. Even though her tenacity drove me nuts at times, I respected how she lives her life unapologetically. Kristen suffers from chronic pain and I swear my heart ached for her.
Josh takes Kristen’s quirks and moodiness in style, and is always there to support her without an ounce of judgment. He’s charming, protective, and he truly gets her. Plus, he’s a hot firefighter so he has that going for him. There is a constant push and pull dynamic between them because they are clearly romantically compatible – you actually couldn’t find a more perfect pairing. However, there are obstacles in the way, and while Josh desperately wants Kristen to be his girlfriend, she puts the breaks on any emotional attachments at every turn.
Kristen’s insistence that she knows what’s best for Josh is incredibly frustrating. She doesn’t give him credit for knowing his own mind, and trying to force him from her life grows repetitive. It’s my biggest issue with the plot. Josh is an absolute saint for having the amount of patience he shows.
I might have had difficulties with the ending if it weren’t for the author’s note. It really puts the entire story into perspective. The emotional journey is witty, original, and poignant.
Recommended for fans of: Snarky heroines Friends to lovers romances Hot firefighters Wedding planning
I was hesitant when I found out about this new series of books penned by various authors and set within Penny Reid’s book universe—-specifica4.5 stars
I was hesitant when I found out about this new series of books penned by various authors and set within Penny Reid’s book universe—-specifically in the Green Valley town that is home to the Winston brothers. I wasn’t sure another author could do justice to the kooky but heartwarming vibe I’d grown to love. Well, butter my butt and call me a biscuit if Baking Me Crazy didn’t make me a believer.
This unrequited friends-to-lovers romantic comedy by Karla Sorensen maintains all the humor and charm I craved. Levi is simply perfection. His affection and devotion towards Joss is so evident you have to wonder how she could be so blind to not see that he’s in love with her. Every single thing he does is for the sole purpose of making her happy. I felt like Joss takes him for granted sometimes, but I liked this cheeky heroine. She’s sarcastic, stubborn, funny, and brave. I loved their easy bond.
Joss’s coworker at the bakery makes a lively addition to the small Tennessee town. Joy is aptly named. She captivated me with her bubbly nature and habit of romanticizing the most mundane of gestures. I hope she gets her own love story.
Cletus and Jenn Winston make brief cameos and are snuck seamlessly into the story. It’s merely an added bonus, though, because it's the storyline and quality of writing that won me over.
About the audiobook: The audiobook is fantastic. Chris Brinkley and Reba Buhr do a superb job with the narration. You can hear the smile in their voices and they had me grinning from ear to ear throughout the entire book. It’s sure to lift even the grumpiest of moods.
Recommended for fans of: Romantic comedy Friend turned lovers trope Baking Small towns
Purely in terms of story execution, Best Laid Plans is pretty average. It’s not particularly original and, honestly, it’s predictable.Audiobook Review
Purely in terms of story execution, Best Laid Plans is pretty average. It’s not particularly original and, honestly, it’s predictable. Arden and Gabe are sweet characters and I really liked their bond. However, their denial/blindness, lack of communication, and Arden’s incessant worrying over potentially losing her friend are exhausting. The romantic build-up is nice and slow, and I appreciated the delayed gratification. While the book is fine for a light read, it’s the narration that makes the story most enjoyable.
About the Audiobook: This was my first experience with duet narration, and I’m already a fan. An audiobook can be ruined for me if the male narrator’s “female” voice is cartoonish or grating. Ditto with female narrators impersonating men. In this audiobook, regardless of the point of view, Erin Mallon speaks whenever her character Arden talks and Joe Arden talks whenever Gabe speaks. I enjoyed hearing the two narrators interact. I happen to love Erin Mallon’s male impersonations, but duet narration seems like a safe and fun way to avoid potential problems. After the book ends, Erin Mallon and Joe Arden have a discussion about the ins and outs of audiobook narrating. It’s very entertaining and enlightening so be sure to listen all the way to the end.
Recommended for fans of: Friends to lovers tropes Book stores Firemen Words with Friends
There is something about a Christina Lauren book that just makes me happy, so it comes as no surprise that My Favorite Half-Night Stand left me with aThere is something about a Christina Lauren book that just makes me happy, so it comes as no surprise that My Favorite Half-Night Stand left me with a goofy smile on my face.
Millie is emotionally stunted—often frustratingly so—but also kind and quick-witted. Reid won me over with his charm and easygoing nature. This is a friends-to-lovers romance, and while I obviously couldn’t wait for Reid and Millie to get their act together and jump aboard the love train, I fell equally in love with all five best friends. The funniest moments in the story come from their get-togethers and wacky group chats. They have such a wonderful camaraderie that I really wanted to be part of their close-knit group.
Having just finished a string of highly emotional books, this very fun romantic comedy was just what I needed.
Recommended for fans of: Friends-to-lovers stories Online dating mishaps Group chats Coffee
*I received an early version of this book to voluntarily read.*
This friends-to-lovers story is low on drama and high on humor—just how I like it. Lauren Blakely continues to impress with this series about three brThis friends-to-lovers story is low on drama and high on humor—just how I like it. Lauren Blakely continues to impress with this series about three brothers who used to be members of a famous teen boy band. Single parenthood is integral to each brother’s story, and these sexy former pop stars are blessedly allergic to one-night stands.
It is impossible to dislike Miller. The man is perpetually upbeat about life in general and wrings every ounce of enjoyment out of the simplest of tasks. He is pretty much the full package—funny, talented, generous with his time, and always supportive of those he loves.
Ally is a loyal friend and a completely awesome guardian. Raising a tween girl is not easy, but Ally is determined to kick butt at this single motherhood thing—even if it means sacrificing some of her own desires.
I absolutely loved the ease of Miller and Ally’s friendship. They speak their own language, and their relationship has always been a little bit goofy and a little bit flirty. The transition from friends to lovers tends to be abrupt with this trope, and it’s a bit like flipping a switch here as well; however, it’s handled in a clever way. Miller and Ally have a certain snap, crackle, and pop that’s very appealing. Their chemistry as singers is also wonderful.
Even though their misgivings about being a couple are settled suddenly, I loved the heat and humor of their romance. Had I not read the previous novel, the solution to Miller’s professional problems would have been more satisfying because…duh. That particular aspect left me feeling lukewarm, but it didn’t dampen my overall enjoyment of the story.
Recommended for fans of: Musicians Friend to lovers stories Single parent romance YouTube
*I received an early version of this book to voluntarily read.*
Smile, happy sigh, heart tug, repeat. This book filled me with undiluted joy from beginning to end. The main source of all the warm fuzzies are the twSmile, happy sigh, heart tug, repeat. This book filled me with undiluted joy from beginning to end. The main source of all the warm fuzzies are the two main characters.
Hazel is the OG of quirky. Some refer to her as Crazy Hazie because – let’s face it – she is a total weirdo. She’s come to terms with the fact that most people can’t handle her level of eccentricity in the long run – particularly men. She likes who she is, though, and isn’t willing to tone down her wackiness for anyone, to which I say, “Go ahead and let your freak flag fly, Hazel! You. Do. You.” She’s infectiously endearing, and I admired her. What must it be like to live life without an ounce of self-consciousness? To believe with 100% certainty that you are completely awesome?
While Hazel is impulsive, energetic, messy and childlike, Josh is her polar opposite: calm, neat, measured, and responsible. Basically, he’s the perfect specimen. They clearly don’t make sense together, so a romantic relationship is out of the question. However, Hazel does decide that whether Josh wants to or not, they will become best friends and guess what? (Spoiler alert) They do!
Their disastrous double dates are funny, and unearthing all of Hazel’s quirks provides plenty of entertainment. What sealed my bubble of joy, though, were the simple interactions between Josh and Hazel: making breakfast, watching TV, or eating ice cream. Seeing the impenetrable bond develop between Josh and Hazel and the way in which each influences the other for the better warmed my heart.
The more books I read by Christina Lauren, the more addicted I become to their stories. High five to them for creating a minority as one of the main characters in this book. You mean a romance novel can successfully reflect real life?? No way! Seriously though, I’m thrilled to see more and more romances embracing diversity. Josh’s Korean heritage adds another level of affection. Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Dating is one of those tender romances that gives you lots of feels and makes you smile. I can’t ask for more than that.
Recommended for fans of: Quirky heroines Elementary school teachers Friends to lovers stories Pets
1. The cover is gorgeous! I know they say you can’t judge a book by its cover, but seriously. It’s4.5 stars
Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Read Speakeasy
1. The cover is gorgeous! I know they say you can’t judge a book by its cover, but seriously. It’s sexy yet classy. Both the cover and the story make me proud to be a romance reader. 2. Alec. From his corny bar jokes to his extreme loyalty, I loved every inch of this underestimated man. Despite his ambition and hard work, he can’t seem to shake his slutty party boy image or the voices in his head that tell him he’s not smart enough to succeed. 3. May. This refreshing woman fully embraces her sexuality and faces her vices head on. I’ve never read a romance where one of the main characters is bisexual. Sex between two people can be a beautiful exchange of physical and emotional connections, regardless of gender. However, May’s sexual orientation creates a fascinating kaleidoscope of insecurity, confusion, heartache, and optimism. 4. Alex and May make a terrific couple. They have a common bond since both come from large families, and they consider themselves to be the black sheep among their siblings. Their attraction takes them both by surprise, but they fit so well together. Their easy friendship, late night texts, playful teasing, and spectacular chemistry checked all my boxes. 5. It’s my favorite book in the series. I’m amazed by the diversity of the books in the True North series. Each story is unique, but this one has the perfect balance of humor and emotion, with enough meat to keep me interested.
Well hot damn if L.J. Shen doesn’t serve up all the feels with Broken Knight. This childhood friends to lovers tale is complex and dowAudiobook Review
Well hot damn if L.J. Shen doesn’t serve up all the feels with Broken Knight. This childhood friends to lovers tale is complex and downright addictive.
Knight and Luna are two troubled teens who have been friends since they were in diapers. For those familiar with the Sinners of Saint series, Knight is the son of Dean and Rosie Cole, and Luna is Trent Rexroth’s daughter from a previous relationship. Knight and Luna’s ever-evolving feelings towards each other are both heartwarming and heartbreaking as they wade through a sea of attraction, misunderstandings, and questionable choices. They are two magnets whose pull is palpable and inevitable.
Luna is extremely vulnerable, and we can sense every ounce of her frustration with her emotional constraints. Knight has self-destructive tendencies, but his unbridled devotion to Luna totally obliterated my poor ovaries. The boy is well and truly whipped. Neither is who they are perceived to be, and unearthing their true nature is extremely satisfying.
While aspects of the plot are heavy and emotional, Knight has a wonderfully unexpected sense of humor that gives the narrative levity. I listened to the audiobook, and Jacob Morgan is simply spectacular. His portrayal of Knight embodies passion along with the perfect amount of sarcasm and self-deprecation. Savannah Peachwood is a gem. Her Luna is expressive and tender. Truly, it’s one of the best audiobooks I’ve listened to this year.
The touching relationships between family members, Knight and Luna’s impenetrable bond, and the stellar writing all make for a compulsive reading experience.
Knight’s friend Vaughn is a cold-hearted enigma. I’m not sure if L.J. Shen can top Broken Knight, but I look forward to finding out what’s behind Vaughn’s façade when Angry God is released.
Recommended for fans of: Friends to lovers stories High school drama Tree houses
Christina Lauren, what have you done to me??? I am a hot mess right now. I’m talking about ALL the feels, ya’ll. Love and Other Words is an adult contChristina Lauren, what have you done to me??? I am a hot mess right now. I’m talking about ALL the feels, ya’ll. Love and Other Words is an adult contemporary romance that is equal parts coming of age, friends becoming lovers, loss and heartache, and second chance romance—all combined in one potent fictional cocktail. It is 100% amazing!
You know you have a winner on your hands when you lose sight of the fact that you’re reading fiction because the story seems so real. The intricacies of the plot, as well as the complexity of the characters and their interactions with one another, make the story entirely absorbing and believable. I could not read the pages fast enough.
The fact that Elliott and Macy are fellow bibliophiles makes them kindred spirits. However, I have no words to describe my level of adoration of them. I can say the tale of their meeting as awkward tweens, followed by their transition to best friends and then to high school loves, is just as fascinating as the mystery of their fall-out, decade-long separation, and subsequent reunion.
Sporadic flashbacks in books can be a distraction if not handled with care. In this case, the timelines are purposeful and orderly; each chapter alternates between “now” and “then.” It creates a sense of perfect clarity and honesty to the depth of Macy and Elliott’s relationship. I can’t imagine the story unfolding any other way.
The writing duo of Christina Lauren has truly outdone themselves with this tender and deeply moving romance. I don’t have to think twice about giving Love and Other Words five enthusiastic stars.
Recommended for fans of: Coming of age stories Friends to lovers Second chance romance Reading and book nooks
Angela (Reading Frenzy Book Blog)
>
Books:
friends-to-lovers
(50)
Loading...
