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Eight Dates
With a brother like this, who needs enemies?
Ben Weiss is perfectly fine on his own, thank you very much. After his last failed relationship, he doesn’t need the drama. But his brother has decided to play matchmaker this year and has set him up with eight blind dates, one for each night of Chanukah.
And with eight in a row, there has to be one decent guy in the lot…right?
With Ben’s luck, apparently not. From a date that bites, to one rude to the server, to the guy who brought along his mom, every single one has been a nightmare. Ben’s ready to give up on love for good, adopt a cat, and call it a day.
But there’s one bright light in Ben’s week he hasn’t expected in the form of Nova, the adorable, kind-hearted bartender who’s come to his rescue every time a date has gone wrong. And while Ben’s not sure he believes in holiday miracles, he’s starting to think that each bad date has brought him closer to the happily ever after he was always meant to have.
Can someone fall in love in eight nights? In Ben’s case, during a wild string of bad luck, the answer might still be yes.
Eight Dates is a stand-alone friends to lovers, swoony, spicy holiday romance featuring terrible blind dates, rooftop espionage, the merits of fine hot chocolate and crispy latkes, and finding love where you least expect it.
Ben Weiss is perfectly fine on his own, thank you very much. After his last failed relationship, he doesn’t need the drama. But his brother has decided to play matchmaker this year and has set him up with eight blind dates, one for each night of Chanukah.
And with eight in a row, there has to be one decent guy in the lot…right?
With Ben’s luck, apparently not. From a date that bites, to one rude to the server, to the guy who brought along his mom, every single one has been a nightmare. Ben’s ready to give up on love for good, adopt a cat, and call it a day.
But there’s one bright light in Ben’s week he hasn’t expected in the form of Nova, the adorable, kind-hearted bartender who’s come to his rescue every time a date has gone wrong. And while Ben’s not sure he believes in holiday miracles, he’s starting to think that each bad date has brought him closer to the happily ever after he was always meant to have.
Can someone fall in love in eight nights? In Ben’s case, during a wild string of bad luck, the answer might still be yes.
Eight Dates is a stand-alone friends to lovers, swoony, spicy holiday romance featuring terrible blind dates, rooftop espionage, the merits of fine hot chocolate and crispy latkes, and finding love where you least expect it.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2023
114 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Lindsey
142 books1,339 followersE.M. Lindsey is the author of MM contemporary romance. She presently lives and works in the southeastern United States.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
did-not-finish
November 22, 2023I preordered this because I'm intrigued by the premise - Ben's brother sets him up on eight blind dates over Chanukah. All the guys are awful, and he ends up falling for the bartender at the gastropub instead. "Romantic Comedy" is right there in the title, so this should be fun, yes?
Um, no.
First of all, heed the content notes on the copyright page, and imagine them twice as worse as written. Both of these guys have trauma to varying extents - one MMC suffered , and the other is coming off a bad relationship . And the dates are awful. I was expecting the boring guy who can only talk about himself, sure, but one of the dates excuses himself to the bathroom, only to film himself having public sex in there with a different guy (!)
Another date literally bites Ben on the arm (quote) This is traumatic! And the text recognizes that - Ben has a harder and harder time getting out of his car to meet the next blind date.
What keeps him trying, though, is Nova. It's a hurt/comfort relationship of sorts - Ben suffers through these awful dates and Nova jumps in to save him, often making latkes or cookies afterward to cheer Ben up.
However, I don't believe their relationship. It feels like Ben is falling in love with his savior. The moments of intimacy aren't really intimacy, just sharing past traumas to pull heartstrings. It's hard to understand what's bringing them together in the here and now beyond Nova wanting to save Ben, and Ben being thankful for the saving.
I wondered how much longer I'd be able to hold on, and around halfway through I hit my breaking point. Nova and Ben finally talk about being into each other, and Ben is all 'now I can drop these crappy blind dates, finally.' But Nova wants him to go on them all.
So basically - Ben, please continue to put yourself in situations that have been dangerous, if not to life definitely limb, so that my ego can be soothed not only by rescuing you but by "knowing" that we're fated to be together. If this makes me an asshole, so be it.
And Ben is like, okay.
GRRRRAH. Not okay. DNFed at 51%.
Content notes: in addition to what's mentioned above
Um, no.
First of all, heed the content notes on the copyright page, and imagine them twice as worse as written. Both of these guys have trauma to varying extents - one MMC suffered , and the other is coming off a bad relationship . And the dates are awful. I was expecting the boring guy who can only talk about himself, sure, but one of the dates excuses himself to the bathroom, only to film himself having public sex in there with a different guy (!)
Another date literally bites Ben on the arm (quote) This is traumatic! And the text recognizes that - Ben has a harder and harder time getting out of his car to meet the next blind date.
What keeps him trying, though, is Nova. It's a hurt/comfort relationship of sorts - Ben suffers through these awful dates and Nova jumps in to save him, often making latkes or cookies afterward to cheer Ben up.
However, I don't believe their relationship. It feels like Ben is falling in love with his savior. The moments of intimacy aren't really intimacy, just sharing past traumas to pull heartstrings. It's hard to understand what's bringing them together in the here and now beyond Nova wanting to save Ben, and Ben being thankful for the saving.
I wondered how much longer I'd be able to hold on, and around halfway through I hit my breaking point. Nova and Ben finally talk about being into each other, and Ben is all 'now I can drop these crappy blind dates, finally.' But Nova wants him to go on them all.
"If you don't finish what you started, I'm always going to wonder if one of those guys was better than me."
So basically - Ben, please continue to put yourself in situations that have been dangerous, if not to life definitely limb, so that my ego can be soothed not only by rescuing you but by "knowing" that we're fated to be together. If this makes me an asshole, so be it.
And Ben is like, okay.
GRRRRAH. Not okay. DNFed at 51%.
Content notes: in addition to what's mentioned above
January 12, 2024
Sweet, heartfelt story that isn't quite a romcom because Lindsey can't quite turn off the angst and tragic life stories but close enough!
Poor Ben going on eight terrible dates with one guy worse than the last - I kept hoping along with him...would the next one really be terrible too?
Luckily Nova was there to save the day - loved their connection and the instantaneousness did not feel forced but instead holiday magical.
I vote for more winter holiday books that aren't Christmas ones!
NSFW infos:
- Jewish gay MC who is nearly forty five (he is younger than his golden child brother who is only having a child >45 though), Single POV, third person
- MC with neglectful mother, age unknown, sexuality unknown apart from "queer awakening" as youth
- two sex scenes (handjobs in shower & edging penetrative sex)
Poor Ben going on eight terrible dates with one guy worse than the last - I kept hoping along with him...would the next one really be terrible too?
Luckily Nova was there to save the day - loved their connection and the instantaneousness did not feel forced but instead holiday magical.
I vote for more winter holiday books that aren't Christmas ones!
NSFW infos:
- Jewish gay MC who is nearly forty five (he is younger than his golden child brother who is only having a child >45 though), Single POV, third person
- MC with neglectful mother, age unknown, sexuality unknown apart from "queer awakening" as youth
- two sex scenes (handjobs in shower & edging penetrative sex)
November 30, 2024
I love E. M. Lindsey. She is definitely one of my favorite authors. This, however, is not one of my favorite books. It was ok. These 8 dates were so bad that they were down right ridiculous. I just couldn’t believe he kept going on them. I also thought it was obvious where the plot was going with Nova. Overall it was an ok story, just not my favorite by E. M.
November 22, 2023
While I did really enjoy this one I wouldn't call this a romantic comedy becuase It did get quite heavy at times. The guys he goes on blind dates with are assholes and are not kind people and a few other things such a assault and trauma make this not light and fluffy things, I don't know I don't want to be spoilery but it was unexpectedly heavy for something that has romantic comedy in the title But anyways I did enjoy it The setup and the characters. Nova was precious I loved him so much . He was a sweetheart with self doubts but in the bedroom became confident, dominant and bossy as f*ck , and Ben submits beautifully to him.
Favorite Quotes:
“Can I hug you?” Ben frowned and looked up. “Why?” “Because this is day two of totally shitty dates, and it’s the holidays, and… I don’t know. I want to hug you.”
“A kiss. Just one kiss. You’ve had five dates and no kissing, and I can’t live with that. Please say yes.” “Yes,” Ben said, like he was capable of answering any other way.
“Yes. And now I just need to figure out how I’m going to get through the night and sit through a date without telling the guy my heart’s being held in someone else’s hands.” “Definitely don’t do that,” Nova said quietly. “You’ll make him feel bad.” Ben softened even more. How was this man even real? “I’ll see you soon, okay?”
Ben was no longer afraid that being vulnerable enough to love would only end in pain.
It was just a feeling, sitting beside his heart like a second beat to the pattern of Nova’s name. It was just… right. It was real. And for the first time ever, he wasn’t afraid.
Nova leaned in and started kissing his neck. When Ben whined, Nova pulled back just slightly and whispered, “Settle.” Ben did. He could feel Nova’s grin against his skin when he was kissed again. “Good boy. I’m going to fuck you now, okay? And you’re going to come on my cock.”
Favorite Quotes:
“Can I hug you?” Ben frowned and looked up. “Why?” “Because this is day two of totally shitty dates, and it’s the holidays, and… I don’t know. I want to hug you.”
“A kiss. Just one kiss. You’ve had five dates and no kissing, and I can’t live with that. Please say yes.” “Yes,” Ben said, like he was capable of answering any other way.
“Yes. And now I just need to figure out how I’m going to get through the night and sit through a date without telling the guy my heart’s being held in someone else’s hands.” “Definitely don’t do that,” Nova said quietly. “You’ll make him feel bad.” Ben softened even more. How was this man even real? “I’ll see you soon, okay?”
Ben was no longer afraid that being vulnerable enough to love would only end in pain.
It was just a feeling, sitting beside his heart like a second beat to the pattern of Nova’s name. It was just… right. It was real. And for the first time ever, he wasn’t afraid.
Nova leaned in and started kissing his neck. When Ben whined, Nova pulled back just slightly and whispered, “Settle.” Ben did. He could feel Nova’s grin against his skin when he was kissed again. “Good boy. I’m going to fuck you now, okay? And you’re going to come on my cock.”
January 13, 2024
DNF, 29% in:
The fundamental problem with this plot is that most self-respecting adults would've bailed after the first 'date,' let alone the second one. Particularly since there is an interested alternative, right there.
My suspension of disbelief has snapped.
Sigh.
The fundamental problem with this plot is that most self-respecting adults would've bailed after the first 'date,' let alone the second one. Particularly since there is an interested alternative, right there.
My suspension of disbelief has snapped.
Sigh.
December 9, 2023
This was so damn delightful 🥹
December 19, 2023
Ugh I didn’t like this. I kept waiting for the “rom” and “com” portions of this book but it didn’t happen. And I didn’t like the story line either. Eight dates 😑
This is my third book by this author and I don’t think we’re a fit.
Since I don’t have anything nice to say I won’t say anything else.
This is my third book by this author and I don’t think we’re a fit.
Since I don’t have anything nice to say I won’t say anything else.
January 15, 2025
This was my first book by E.M. Lindsey and my god, it was so sweet. I really, thoroughly enjoyed this. I laughed, I swooned, I grinned so much my face hurts. It just gave me all the happy fuzzy feels and it completely sold me on E.M. Lindsey. This is definitely not the last book of theirs for me.
November 22, 2023
This was so over the top that I could not enjoy it and skimmed a lot. The dates were just a mess for the sake of it and not funny. Bonus star for Nova who was actually a funny and lovely character.
November 23, 2023
This was cute and fun! 3.5. I am always a sucker for holiday romances, and EM Lindsey remains one of my favorite writers, so it was an easy sell for me. I also love the trope behind the story (waiter/bartender/server seeing the same person return on multiple failed dates with different people). The story was cute with the anticipated EM Lindsey touches of angst and hurt/comfort, and I did enjoy the relationship between the couple.
There were some things that didn't necessarily work for me as much. I have a personal dislike for any book where there is a traumatic situation and the aftermath involves sex, but I very much realize other readers don't mind (and some actively seek that plot element out). I would also definitely recommend heeding the content warnings, as the dates that the MMC goes on do include people who say things that are homophobic, sexist, etc. I do wish that there was an epilogue one year in the future too to bring everything full circle. Also, I do agree with the reviewers who mention this isn't really a romcom.
Altogether, a good cute holiday read.
*Thank you to the author for generously providing me with an ARC copy of this book. As I read an ARC version, I will not point out any typos/grammatical errors or formatting issues that I anticipate will be corrected before the final version is released.*
There were some things that didn't necessarily work for me as much. I have a personal dislike for any book where there is a traumatic situation and the aftermath involves sex, but I very much realize other readers don't mind (and some actively seek that plot element out). I would also definitely recommend heeding the content warnings, as the dates that the MMC goes on do include people who say things that are homophobic, sexist, etc. I do wish that there was an epilogue one year in the future too to bring everything full circle. Also, I do agree with the reviewers who mention this isn't really a romcom.
Altogether, a good cute holiday read.
*Thank you to the author for generously providing me with an ARC copy of this book. As I read an ARC version, I will not point out any typos/grammatical errors or formatting issues that I anticipate will be corrected before the final version is released.*
November 20, 2023
4.5 stars
Oh my goodness. This book was just such an enjoyable read. Ben Weiss has been single since he caught his ex cheating with his TA. His brother, Aaron, decides to set him up on eight blind dates for Chanukah. Each blind date was worse than the one before it. The only thing that made it worthwhile was Nova, the bartender. Nova continues to save him from these horrible dates and they get to know each other.
I LOVED Ben and Nova together. The chemistry was spot-on, and I adored how they met. It set the scene for how their relationship developed and why Nova felt so drawn to Ben. I would have liked to have know a little bit more about Nova’s history. We only met his sister once though Nova mentioned that he had practically raised her. That seems like they may have had a close relationship. The ending also left me hanging. They never mentioned that they loved each other. An epilogue set a year or two down the line would have been perfect. I just loved them so much and wanted to see what their future looked like. E.M. Lindsey is such an amazing author and this is a wonderful story for the holidays. I highly recommend this one!
I received an ARC for my honest review
Oh my goodness. This book was just such an enjoyable read. Ben Weiss has been single since he caught his ex cheating with his TA. His brother, Aaron, decides to set him up on eight blind dates for Chanukah. Each blind date was worse than the one before it. The only thing that made it worthwhile was Nova, the bartender. Nova continues to save him from these horrible dates and they get to know each other.
I LOVED Ben and Nova together. The chemistry was spot-on, and I adored how they met. It set the scene for how their relationship developed and why Nova felt so drawn to Ben. I would have liked to have know a little bit more about Nova’s history. We only met his sister once though Nova mentioned that he had practically raised her. That seems like they may have had a close relationship. The ending also left me hanging. They never mentioned that they loved each other. An epilogue set a year or two down the line would have been perfect. I just loved them so much and wanted to see what their future looked like. E.M. Lindsey is such an amazing author and this is a wonderful story for the holidays. I highly recommend this one!
I received an ARC for my honest review
December 10, 2023
I truly enjoyed this book!
Poor Ben is set up by his brother to go to eight blind dates as a Chanukah gift. We get to see how each date goes from bad to worse with the only silver lining being the server, Nova, who is there every time to rescue him. I initially was frustrated with Ben for letting himself go through his terrible dates and go through these terrible situations but appreciated that it was part of his growth and also his chance to see and interact with Nova.
This book made me think a lot of back when I was doing online dating and the ordeal that can be. I am grateful I never encounter such terrible dates as Ben but I am happy he found his HEA with a man that truly saw him and accepted him the way he is.
"Ben felt syrupy-soft from the little pet names Nova kept using. No one had ever been like that with him. Ben was quiet but he was also sort of gruff, and everyone called him unfriendly until they got to know him. so being treated like he was worthy of tenderness was everything".
Poor Ben is set up by his brother to go to eight blind dates as a Chanukah gift. We get to see how each date goes from bad to worse with the only silver lining being the server, Nova, who is there every time to rescue him. I initially was frustrated with Ben for letting himself go through his terrible dates and go through these terrible situations but appreciated that it was part of his growth and also his chance to see and interact with Nova.
This book made me think a lot of back when I was doing online dating and the ordeal that can be. I am grateful I never encounter such terrible dates as Ben but I am happy he found his HEA with a man that truly saw him and accepted him the way he is.
"Ben felt syrupy-soft from the little pet names Nova kept using. No one had ever been like that with him. Ben was quiet but he was also sort of gruff, and everyone called him unfriendly until they got to know him. so being treated like he was worthy of tenderness was everything".
November 26, 2023
This book was a big miss for me. It was neither romantic, nor a comedy. It was much closer to gay trauma porn. Without spoiling anything, its "comedic" themes involved dysfunctional family dynamics, abuse, neglect, cheating, betrayal, assault, biting, and loads of unnecessary angst and suffering. Truthfully couldn't finish it. For a book billed as a "rom-com," it fell flat and was a big miss.
December 18, 2023
This was more distressing than it should have been. I have to say this is well below EM’s normal caliber of writing. And, I still have no idea why Nova was sleeping in his car.
January 17, 2024
It was pretty cheesy.
November 22, 2023
Idk. This was sort of fun sort of a mess.
So the straight married brother sets up Ben on 8 blind dates during Chanukah. They’re all awful dates but the one constant is the flirty bartender - this sounds like a great premise!
I wish the dates had been more funny bad instead of scary bad (esp the last one yikes!) and I didn’t understand how the brother set this all up without apparently even speaking to each guy or doing any legwork to see if they were even remotely suitable. Nor did I really understand why Nova insisted Ben see it through when it was clear they were into each other.
I liked the instant connection/attraction and their developing friendship but yeah I guess I wanted more of that and less of the other stuff since it literally was so scary at times.
So the straight married brother sets up Ben on 8 blind dates during Chanukah. They’re all awful dates but the one constant is the flirty bartender - this sounds like a great premise!
I wish the dates had been more funny bad instead of scary bad (esp the last one yikes!) and I didn’t understand how the brother set this all up without apparently even speaking to each guy or doing any legwork to see if they were even remotely suitable. Nor did I really understand why Nova insisted Ben see it through when it was clear they were into each other.
I liked the instant connection/attraction and their developing friendship but yeah I guess I wanted more of that and less of the other stuff since it literally was so scary at times.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 22, 2023
3.5 stars. This was a funny premise, and it was mostly well executed. But it was also a little sloppy and the pacing was not the best. I would have also liked to see more of Ben and Nova together, as well as some kind of real ending. Maybe an epilogue where we see Nova meet Ben's family? Unanswered questions: Why was Nova sleeping in his car that one time? The whole meet cute was never explained. Another time Ben said the next date worked with kids, but then the date starts and he's a CPA. Not like the date lied, but like the author just...forgot.
November 21, 2023
3/5⭐
As the title says this is a romantic comedy, so don't expect much sense. The plot was over the top and each date became more and more ridiculous. It didn't bother me because I knew the steaks going in.
I would have loved more time between Nova and Ben throughout the book. Honestly this would have been a solid 4 stars if the ending wasn't so abrupt and it had an epilogue. After all the ridiculousness of the plot I would have liked a bit more page time with Nova and Ben, but alas it wasn't meant to be.
Cute holiday read and would recommend.
As the title says this is a romantic comedy, so don't expect much sense. The plot was over the top and each date became more and more ridiculous. It didn't bother me because I knew the steaks going in.
I would have loved more time between Nova and Ben throughout the book. Honestly this would have been a solid 4 stars if the ending wasn't so abrupt and it had an epilogue. After all the ridiculousness of the plot I would have liked a bit more page time with Nova and Ben, but alas it wasn't meant to be.
Cute holiday read and would recommend.
December 26, 2024
I love EM Lindsey's writing style, it just clicks so nicely with my brain. This Chanukah romance was a little over the top, and included more unpleasant content (in the form of terrible dates) than I typically like in my holiday romance. But I always appreciate the non-Christmas holiday romances, and the core romance was really lovely.
April 26, 2025
i enjoyed the idea of this.
i loved nova and ben was also the sweetest, even though his luck may not agree.🥲
it just felt too quick, too rushed. everything happened in the span of a week...
i loved nova and ben was also the sweetest, even though his luck may not agree.🥲
it just felt too quick, too rushed. everything happened in the span of a week...
November 27, 2023
Ben’s brother sets him up on eight blind dates, one for each night of Chanukah. They are terrible, but along the way he gets to know Nova, the bartender who witnesses each dating disaster and offers to help along the way.
‘“I like you too,” Ben admitted softly. There was a moment between them—a profound and easy silence that Ben wasn’t used to. It stretched on and on, balancing on the cusp between something and nothing.’
This has a bit of a slow start, but from the moment Ben gives a guy the coat off his back and the dates start happening, things get very interesting. Lindsey must have had a blast coming up with terrible date scenarios and the ways Nova thinks to rescue Ben from them. Ben and Nova are really sweet men who very much deserve each other and to have a HEA. Nova almost seems to good to be true, but even he is revealed to be human after all and it only makes him more endearing to know he’s not entirely perfect. I like too that because Ben is going on all of these crazy dates, it’s giving him and Nova time to get to know each other and become friends first. And the dates are so bizarre that when Ben and Nova interact in the aftermath of them, it intensifies and speeds up the getting to know you process, so it’s more believable that they are both nearly head over heals for each other after barely more than a week. All in all, this is a delightful holiday romance!
‘“I like you too,” Ben admitted softly. There was a moment between them—a profound and easy silence that Ben wasn’t used to. It stretched on and on, balancing on the cusp between something and nothing.’
This has a bit of a slow start, but from the moment Ben gives a guy the coat off his back and the dates start happening, things get very interesting. Lindsey must have had a blast coming up with terrible date scenarios and the ways Nova thinks to rescue Ben from them. Ben and Nova are really sweet men who very much deserve each other and to have a HEA. Nova almost seems to good to be true, but even he is revealed to be human after all and it only makes him more endearing to know he’s not entirely perfect. I like too that because Ben is going on all of these crazy dates, it’s giving him and Nova time to get to know each other and become friends first. And the dates are so bizarre that when Ben and Nova interact in the aftermath of them, it intensifies and speeds up the getting to know you process, so it’s more believable that they are both nearly head over heals for each other after barely more than a week. All in all, this is a delightful holiday romance!
December 31, 2023
I was originally really looking forward to this book. This author usually does real complex characters and trauma stories and when I heard this was going to be a rom com I was really surprised and happy to be getting something different from this author and something more lighthearted and funny, completely different from their other works. Unfortunately this was a let down and I ended up not finishing it.
Going into this book I though it was going to be super sweet with Ben going on eight dates looking for love or connection and slowly falls for the bartender in the process but it went in a whole different direction then I was expecting.
In the beginning we meet Ben who is a college professor and after his last relationship ended terribly with his ex cheating on him with his TA, was just trying to make it through the holidays in one piece after a stressful finales week at his university. His brother ends up signing him up for an app and scheduling him eight dates doing the holiday to help him find someone and feel less lonely. While going on these dates he meets Nova the same guy he met at a cafe near his university that he thought was homeless but ends up working at the bar that he was going to be having his eight dates. Ends up that Nova is the bar owner and had a traumatic upbringing and unlucky in love as well.
You would think that this would be at least a half decent set up for the rest of the book and hopefully bring in some lighthearted rom com in the mix but nope that’s not what we ended up getting.
First off I didn’t like how Bens brother intervene in his life by setting him up on eight blind dates by taking his phone and doing it without his consent. We find out later on why he did this but I didn’t think this gave him an excuse to do what he did.
Though Ben is a really sweet guy I thought he let people walk all over him. I honestly felt bad for what his ex did to him but moving forward with the dates and what his brother did to him, he just let some things happen without standing his ground and demanding better.
The dates that Ben ended up going on are SO AWFUL! I mean like so freaking bad I can’t believe he decided to keep going. They were so bad it made it uncomfortable to keep reading at points and since we know from the blurb that he goes on eight bad dates I just kept waiting for the other shoe to drop and it took away from my enjoyment of the book by being uncomfortable.
Though I thought Nova and Ben together were really cute and they had their moments together it was still unbelievable. I thought they would get to know each other slowly through all the mess that Ben goes through on these dates but halfway through the dates they confess their growing feelings for each other and you would think it would end like that right? And start seeing each other? Wrong it keeps going.
I really hated how Nova kept making Ben go on these awful dates KNOWING how awful they have been for him all because of his insecurities. And Ben allowing this and continue to keep going on these dates knowing damn well he doesn’t want to but going to do it anyway to please Nova. And I think that was my breaking point in this book. It was Novas idea for Ben to continue the dates but when he sees him actually having a decent conversation with a man for once he gets all jealous and upset and this isn’t the first time. It just made me so mad cause he doesn’t have any right to be that way when it was his idea. I don’t care how fast he apologizes and says it won’t happen again the fact it did was enough. Knowing that Ben wanted to end the dates and be with him only.
Overall this was book was not for me and really misleading. This was marketed as a rom com and it definitely is not. Definitely read the trigger warnings before going into this one. I did like Ben and Nova as separate characters I just couldn’t get past the plot of the story and felt like they deserved way more then how the story was told. The family aspect wasn’t good either. It felt way off with Bens family and didn’t like how they apparently treated him and made him feel. I ended up DNFing at 70%. I really did try to push through but at that point I was over the overall plot of the story. Very disappointed in this book.
Going into this book I though it was going to be super sweet with Ben going on eight dates looking for love or connection and slowly falls for the bartender in the process but it went in a whole different direction then I was expecting.
In the beginning we meet Ben who is a college professor and after his last relationship ended terribly with his ex cheating on him with his TA, was just trying to make it through the holidays in one piece after a stressful finales week at his university. His brother ends up signing him up for an app and scheduling him eight dates doing the holiday to help him find someone and feel less lonely. While going on these dates he meets Nova the same guy he met at a cafe near his university that he thought was homeless but ends up working at the bar that he was going to be having his eight dates. Ends up that Nova is the bar owner and had a traumatic upbringing and unlucky in love as well.
You would think that this would be at least a half decent set up for the rest of the book and hopefully bring in some lighthearted rom com in the mix but nope that’s not what we ended up getting.
First off I didn’t like how Bens brother intervene in his life by setting him up on eight blind dates by taking his phone and doing it without his consent. We find out later on why he did this but I didn’t think this gave him an excuse to do what he did.
Though Ben is a really sweet guy I thought he let people walk all over him. I honestly felt bad for what his ex did to him but moving forward with the dates and what his brother did to him, he just let some things happen without standing his ground and demanding better.
The dates that Ben ended up going on are SO AWFUL! I mean like so freaking bad I can’t believe he decided to keep going. They were so bad it made it uncomfortable to keep reading at points and since we know from the blurb that he goes on eight bad dates I just kept waiting for the other shoe to drop and it took away from my enjoyment of the book by being uncomfortable.
Though I thought Nova and Ben together were really cute and they had their moments together it was still unbelievable. I thought they would get to know each other slowly through all the mess that Ben goes through on these dates but halfway through the dates they confess their growing feelings for each other and you would think it would end like that right? And start seeing each other? Wrong it keeps going.
I really hated how Nova kept making Ben go on these awful dates KNOWING how awful they have been for him all because of his insecurities. And Ben allowing this and continue to keep going on these dates knowing damn well he doesn’t want to but going to do it anyway to please Nova. And I think that was my breaking point in this book. It was Novas idea for Ben to continue the dates but when he sees him actually having a decent conversation with a man for once he gets all jealous and upset and this isn’t the first time. It just made me so mad cause he doesn’t have any right to be that way when it was his idea. I don’t care how fast he apologizes and says it won’t happen again the fact it did was enough. Knowing that Ben wanted to end the dates and be with him only.
Overall this was book was not for me and really misleading. This was marketed as a rom com and it definitely is not. Definitely read the trigger warnings before going into this one. I did like Ben and Nova as separate characters I just couldn’t get past the plot of the story and felt like they deserved way more then how the story was told. The family aspect wasn’t good either. It felt way off with Bens family and didn’t like how they apparently treated him and made him feel. I ended up DNFing at 70%. I really did try to push through but at that point I was over the overall plot of the story. Very disappointed in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2023
CW’s and CN’s at the end.
I devoured this darling Chanukah romance in almost one whole sitting (pausing only to sleep–boo!) because I just couldn’t put it down. If you’re looking for a cute, feel-good rom-com with exactly the right mix of feels and laughs then I cannot recommend this book more!
When his brother sets him up on eight dates (his idea of a Chanukah gift), Ben resigns himself to placating his family on their never-ending quest for him to settle down and endure these dates. The comedy of this book comes in these dates and while I wanted to give poor Ben a hug, I was also howling with laughter at the utter ridiculousness of the men he kept meeting. I tend to recommend Lindsey on their prowess at making me cry, but I have to hand it to them–this bit was every one of my favourite rom-com comic scenes contained in one book. And there to save Ben from the truly TERRIBLE dates he was on, every single time, is the very handsome bartender at the restaurant, Nova.
I utterly loved watching them fall in love. If Ben’s dates were hysterical in how disastrous they were, the swoon Lindsey creates as Ben and Nova get to know each other and develop feelings had me sighing and cooing. Something I love in all my fave EM Lindsey books is the absolute kindness that these characters show each other and these two were no different. There is such genuine affection (and hilarity) in the way Nova comes to Ben’s rescue and Ben is helplessly charmed at this unexpected guardian angel. With both characters battling some ghosts from their past, the way they find comfort and solace in each other’s company–long before it turns romantic–just made my heart burst with feels.
If you’re in the mood for a romance with the sweetest holiday feels, winter coziness, friends-to-lovers vibes and some praise kink that had me SWEATING, then go download and read this 5-star adorableness right now!
CW’s: mild violence (not by MC’s); past parental neglect; non-consensual kissing and attempted non-graphic SA (not between MC’s); mentions of cheating (not between MC’s)
CN’s: This is a contemporary MM Chanukah romance featuring friends-to-lovers tropes, praise kink and plenty of swoon and spice. It is a mid-to-high heat and contains multiple on-page sex scenes.
I devoured this darling Chanukah romance in almost one whole sitting (pausing only to sleep–boo!) because I just couldn’t put it down. If you’re looking for a cute, feel-good rom-com with exactly the right mix of feels and laughs then I cannot recommend this book more!
When his brother sets him up on eight dates (his idea of a Chanukah gift), Ben resigns himself to placating his family on their never-ending quest for him to settle down and endure these dates. The comedy of this book comes in these dates and while I wanted to give poor Ben a hug, I was also howling with laughter at the utter ridiculousness of the men he kept meeting. I tend to recommend Lindsey on their prowess at making me cry, but I have to hand it to them–this bit was every one of my favourite rom-com comic scenes contained in one book. And there to save Ben from the truly TERRIBLE dates he was on, every single time, is the very handsome bartender at the restaurant, Nova.
I utterly loved watching them fall in love. If Ben’s dates were hysterical in how disastrous they were, the swoon Lindsey creates as Ben and Nova get to know each other and develop feelings had me sighing and cooing. Something I love in all my fave EM Lindsey books is the absolute kindness that these characters show each other and these two were no different. There is such genuine affection (and hilarity) in the way Nova comes to Ben’s rescue and Ben is helplessly charmed at this unexpected guardian angel. With both characters battling some ghosts from their past, the way they find comfort and solace in each other’s company–long before it turns romantic–just made my heart burst with feels.
If you’re in the mood for a romance with the sweetest holiday feels, winter coziness, friends-to-lovers vibes and some praise kink that had me SWEATING, then go download and read this 5-star adorableness right now!
CW’s: mild violence (not by MC’s); past parental neglect; non-consensual kissing and attempted non-graphic SA (not between MC’s); mentions of cheating (not between MC’s)
CN’s: This is a contemporary MM Chanukah romance featuring friends-to-lovers tropes, praise kink and plenty of swoon and spice. It is a mid-to-high heat and contains multiple on-page sex scenes.
November 22, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Eight Dates is a warm, fun, and romantic holiday story by one of my favorite authors, E.M. Lindsey. Ben agrees to go along with his brother’s plans to set him up and we see poor Ben suffer through date after horrible date. The one bright spot for him is meeting Nova, and as the story develops, it becomes clear that the two men are drawn to one another and that the whole process of these dates is really just a chance for them to spend more time together. There is such great energy between these men, with a bit of a light, quirky fun (especially as Nova comes up with various ways to help Ben extricate himself from bad dates), plus a nice sense of warmth and heat. The guys are clearly into each other from the start, but they also are having Ben see through this blind date process, so there is nice sexual tension between them as they wait for it to all be over.
This story features Chanukah, and we see Ben celebrating by lighting candles, as well as sharing some food traditions with Nova. However, the holiday is more background to set the structure of the story, rather than the main focus. I really enjoyed this one and thought it was a lot of fun, with great warmth and sweetness between Ben and Nova, plus just the right amount of zip and humor to tie it all together.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Eight Dates is a warm, fun, and romantic holiday story by one of my favorite authors, E.M. Lindsey. Ben agrees to go along with his brother’s plans to set him up and we see poor Ben suffer through date after horrible date. The one bright spot for him is meeting Nova, and as the story develops, it becomes clear that the two men are drawn to one another and that the whole process of these dates is really just a chance for them to spend more time together. There is such great energy between these men, with a bit of a light, quirky fun (especially as Nova comes up with various ways to help Ben extricate himself from bad dates), plus a nice sense of warmth and heat. The guys are clearly into each other from the start, but they also are having Ben see through this blind date process, so there is nice sexual tension between them as they wait for it to all be over.
This story features Chanukah, and we see Ben celebrating by lighting candles, as well as sharing some food traditions with Nova. However, the holiday is more background to set the structure of the story, rather than the main focus. I really enjoyed this one and thought it was a lot of fun, with great warmth and sweetness between Ben and Nova, plus just the right amount of zip and humor to tie it all together.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
November 16, 2023
I will admit I don't know much about Jewish holidays aside from the ones I've read in EM's books. I thought it was interesting to learn about Chanukah, and to learn the different ways to celebrate that holiday.
I really felt for Ben, his brother decided to set him up on eight different dates so maybe he wouldn't be so lonely anymore. However, after the first few dates, Ben's starting to wonder if his brother's 'gift' was more of a punishment than a gift. Although it's not all bad, because the person who has helped him get out of those horrid dates is Nova.
I truly enjoyed reading this book, I'm not used to there being so many laughable moments in a book by EM, although I'll be honest, those scenes that make you giggle are also scenes that make you wince simultaneously. I have know idea how the author came up with so many characters for each of the eight Dates, I loved how they took the time to do that. To make those moments believable and realistic.
The relationship that developed between Nova and Ben was so sweet, and so special. They formed a unique bond after they first met, and from that moment on they grew feelings for one another. I loved the slow burn! As much as I wanted Nova and Ben to go on their own date, I liked how EM wrote Nova's character. How Nova wouldn't take Ben on a date until he finished his eight Dates. I liked that aspect, if not only added another horrid date for Ben to go on, but it also made the moment when Ben and Nova got together that much sweeter.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, and I highly recommend you to read this book!
I really felt for Ben, his brother decided to set him up on eight different dates so maybe he wouldn't be so lonely anymore. However, after the first few dates, Ben's starting to wonder if his brother's 'gift' was more of a punishment than a gift. Although it's not all bad, because the person who has helped him get out of those horrid dates is Nova.
I truly enjoyed reading this book, I'm not used to there being so many laughable moments in a book by EM, although I'll be honest, those scenes that make you giggle are also scenes that make you wince simultaneously. I have know idea how the author came up with so many characters for each of the eight Dates, I loved how they took the time to do that. To make those moments believable and realistic.
The relationship that developed between Nova and Ben was so sweet, and so special. They formed a unique bond after they first met, and from that moment on they grew feelings for one another. I loved the slow burn! As much as I wanted Nova and Ben to go on their own date, I liked how EM wrote Nova's character. How Nova wouldn't take Ben on a date until he finished his eight Dates. I liked that aspect, if not only added another horrid date for Ben to go on, but it also made the moment when Ben and Nova got together that much sweeter.
Overall I really enjoyed this book, and I highly recommend you to read this book!
December 15, 2023
I knew I shouldn’t have read this
I read a book almost just like this a couple of months ago but they were for Christmas instead of Hanukkah. Bottom line: Ben was spineless (like the guy in the other book). He let a guy emotionally abuse him for 3 years - knowing that he didn’t love him and Ben didn’t love him either! - and then he falls apart after catching the guy cheating. 2 years later his brother steals his phone, downloads a dating app, and creates a profile for Ben. And Ben is spineless enough to go on all these blind dates, of course each one worse than the last, while being rescued during each one by the “hot” bartender named Nova. Nova had a crappy life and hadn’t been in a relationship longer than 6 months. But he’s weird and he’s pushy and jealous and possessive, and of course Ben is smitten almost immediately. And Nova forces Ben to finish out the rest of the dates (why? No clear, good reason.) Ben does, possibly facing death on the last one. By the time all this is over, and they finally get to their ONE sexual encounter, I no longer care and therefore find it dull. I didn’t like any of the characters and Nova seems like a user.
I read a book almost just like this a couple of months ago but they were for Christmas instead of Hanukkah. Bottom line: Ben was spineless (like the guy in the other book). He let a guy emotionally abuse him for 3 years - knowing that he didn’t love him and Ben didn’t love him either! - and then he falls apart after catching the guy cheating. 2 years later his brother steals his phone, downloads a dating app, and creates a profile for Ben. And Ben is spineless enough to go on all these blind dates, of course each one worse than the last, while being rescued during each one by the “hot” bartender named Nova. Nova had a crappy life and hadn’t been in a relationship longer than 6 months. But he’s weird and he’s pushy and jealous and possessive, and of course Ben is smitten almost immediately. And Nova forces Ben to finish out the rest of the dates (why? No clear, good reason.) Ben does, possibly facing death on the last one. By the time all this is over, and they finally get to their ONE sexual encounter, I no longer care and therefore find it dull. I didn’t like any of the characters and Nova seems like a user.
December 2, 2023
Talk about the worst 8 dates you could possibly get! And why do you keep going on them you ask? The cute bartender who keeps saving you-duh!? This is a silly story of a brother not gifting-gifting- his brother 8 dates during Chanukah because he doesn't want him to be lonely.
I fell in love with Nova and Ben and even though it's utter ridiculousness the things Ben goes through on these dates these 2 are just so cute. Both men have family and life struggles but do not truly shy away from them. They have good conversations and their chemistry is phenomenal! If you like a bossy top this one's for you!
I also appreciated the idea that one can not hold to their faith/beliefs any more but still find comfort in its traditions.
Such a quick fun read!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I fell in love with Nova and Ben and even though it's utter ridiculousness the things Ben goes through on these dates these 2 are just so cute. Both men have family and life struggles but do not truly shy away from them. They have good conversations and their chemistry is phenomenal! If you like a bossy top this one's for you!
I also appreciated the idea that one can not hold to their faith/beliefs any more but still find comfort in its traditions.
Such a quick fun read!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
November 17, 2023
Ok this is the cutest and sweetest idea for a story in the history of meet cutes and romantic stories. This is a low angst story about a guy whose brother sets him up on eight blind dates as a “gift.” It’s a gift that Ben wishes he could get a return on! It would all be a complete time waster if not for the kind (and gorgeous) bartender who keeps rescuing him from the Armageddon of date situations. His rescues get a little crazier each time and Ben gets to know Nova a little better every night. There are few completely perfect books, but this one comes pretty darn close. Absolutely worth a read! I would love an epilogue a year into the future on this one.
December 20, 2023
I loved this. No, I LOVE this. The story was really well told and it captured the true nature of internet dating. I immediately hoped there was a follow up book. I accepted the follow-up story but it really didn't add anything for me.
I was completely caught off guard by the sex scene, to be honest. It was also hot as hell. Like, the edging is crazy hot - and this form a guy who typically just skips the sex scenes because I care more about the story.
I loathe Taylor, and I love to hate him and Chris.
Give me more stories of hot jewish men who have no idea how attractive they are and the guys who appreciate them!
I was completely caught off guard by the sex scene, to be honest. It was also hot as hell. Like, the edging is crazy hot - and this form a guy who typically just skips the sex scenes because I care more about the story.
I loathe Taylor, and I love to hate him and Chris.
Give me more stories of hot jewish men who have no idea how attractive they are and the guys who appreciate them!
December 12, 2023
Great holiday read. I was doing a holiday reading challenge and needed a non-Christmas book. I came across this one and decided to give it a try. It's my first time reading this author. I loved this book. I loved the Jewish representation and Chanukah theme. The eight blind dates for each night of Chanukah premise was unique and boy were those dates entertaining. I mean are people really that wacko. I'm asking for Ben. This book had the perfect mix of humor, sweetness and spice. I really loved Ben and Nova. I really wish there was a bonus epilogue because I couldn't get enough of them.
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