I chose this book from an ARC program because I had recently read a book by the same author duo, “My Cover Model” which I enjoyed, so I was hoping for something similar.

The Premise

Long-time besties Griffin and Madeline have grown up together and are comfortable enough around each other for them to talk about their sex lives openly, to be intimate around others without it seeming sexual, and to be in each other’s family and friends circles — not to mention: to change their clothes in front of each other. When she finally dumps her loser ex right before her birthday, she decides she wants an earth-shattering orgasm and asks Griffin to lend a helping hand. Their friends-with-benefits situation soon develops into something more — until it is swiftly cut short by an unexpected event. Being a friend is more needed than ever before — but is it too late for these friends-turned-lovers to get back what they lost… and maybe much more?

The Pros

This was a swift, easy read. The dual POVs were easy to follow without getting confused with the frequent shifting, and I enjoyed getting both perspectives. Thankfully — a noted improvement from my last book by the same author duo — this time the male perspective had just as much weight as the female viewpoint; here, it was more or less equal (that had been a con, my last time!). Griffin was dashingly handsome and sexy, and Madeline seemed to be a pretty girl up for a good time — but they still had their endearing side. As they’ve been friends forever, it was easy to see what each saw in the other. I enjoyed the dialogue, and there were some spicy bits that I loved which were well written, and overall this was a good read.

The Cons

However, the story itself seemed far too simple: friends to lovers with a dash of drama that was easily resolved. It hit the trope boxes with very little deviation, and I wanted more. While I enjoyed reading, and there were funny moments, it wasn’t nearly as hilarious as the last book I’d read in the series (so perhaps my expectations were set high). While I was happy for the couple to get together, there was very little “newness” — these two already know each other inside out, so it was a bit lacklustre for me. I expected more drama, more contention, more temptation… just… well, more.

Conclusion

Though this book didn’t rock my world totally, it was still a good, short read with lively characters that kept me turning the pages to see what would happen. There was also an overall message here that I appreciated, and the role of grief and community friendship was heartwarming. While it wasn’t swoon-worthy enough for my picky tastes, I still liked it a lot and I would recommend to others who like their romance sexy and swift!

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