Petty in Pink

by L.J. Shen

Return to the bestselling world of The Devil Wears Black in this Valentine’s Day spin-off where longtime friends with benefits unwittingly find themselves in a serious predicament.

In New York Times bestselling author L.J. Shen’s valentine-themed novella, a surprise pregnancy shakes up expectations between a romance-phobe and her longtime hookup who’s always wanted more.

Layla Schmidt has artfully dodged Cupid’s arrows for six years now, keeping things casual with her standing booty call—no romance, no strings.

As far as Layla’s concerned, it’s the perfect setup. For both of them. With her painful track record, the lively teacher wants nothing to do with commitment, and Grant Gerwig, dedicated oncologist, is too busy for it. Truthfully, Grant wants to make the time, but he knows better than to push where Layla won’t budge.

Their emotional standstill can’t last forever, though.

When a coworker’s wedding brings a blast from Layla’s past, it blows a hole through her future too. Swirling emotions lead to impulsive decisions, and after an adrenaline-fueled night, she finds herself pregnant.

Layla and Grant have a lot to talk about…and a lot to prepare for. Falling in love was never supposed to be part of their equation, but even the best-laid plans unfold with some surprises along the way.

Genres: Romance, Holiday, Novella, Surprise Pregnancy, Contemporary Romance

150 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 3, 2026

About the author

L.J. Shen is a New York Times, USA Today, WSJ, Washington Post and #1 Amazon Kindle Store bestselling author of contemporary romance books.

She writes angsty books, unredeemable anti-heroes who are in Bill Gates's tax bracket, and sassy heroines who bring them to their knees (for more reasons than one).


Keep up with L.J. on all platforms:
Newsletter Sign up ➜ https://bit.ly/3LhsIrb
Instagram➜ shorturl.at/cDJRZ
TikTok ➜ shorturl.at/frw59
Facebook➜ https://goo.gl/fKCSo4
Website ➜ www.authorljshen.com

Reviews

[❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC

As soon as this hit my kindle today, I pretty much dived in, and before I knew it I’d inhaled it..

These two had been tiptoeing around each other for many years, both declaring they didn’t want to be in a relationship, he was too busy with work, and she was scared of falling down the commitment trap again and getting hurt, or losing part of herself.

But time and time again, they came back to the other.

I liked these two, especially him, he was everything we all seek off the pages of a book.He bent over backwards to make her happy, from little things to life changing things, always doing whatever he could..

[Jess • bestiebookshelf_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

OBSESSED. RTC!

[Amity Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!!

This narration by Erin Mallon & Christian Fox was so good. I loved these two together.

This was a fun little Valentine’s Day Spin Off!! I loved glimpses of Layla & Grant in the devil wears black and I’m so glad we got their story! This one was a quick and cute one!! I don’t always love accidental pregnancy, but I adored this one & was rooting for them!! Grant is such a green flag book boyfriend & a top tier MMC. This one had me laughing and just over all loving these two!!

If you’re looking for a fun, banter filled, friends(with benefits) to lovers, surprise pregnancy vibe that is a quick & easy listen. This is the perfect little novella.

Thank you NetGalley & brilliance publishing for this early listening copy!

[Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) · Rating 5 out of 5]

My biggest complaint is that this book is too short! I love Layla’s Petty and wanted more of her fierceness! Grant is everything Layla needs but doesn’t want. Fate though, got the last laugh!!

No karma like good karma and though she’s out spoken and petty, Layla has a beautiful heart and is an amazing friend, co worker and teacher so life finally humbled her and Grant was the perfect person to be by her side!

I love the steadfastness of Grant. He gives Layla room to be herself but shows her what it truly means to be a man. He delivers inside and outside the bedroom! This man was amazing and I loved his little idiosyncrasies! Together these two are unstoppable!

[Joy H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grant is absolutely top tier book boyfriend material. GREEN FLAG 😭😭😭

No notes. I loved every second of this. I was cracking up throughout this book. Layla is such a fun yet slightly oblivious FMC. And Grant, oh my goodness, I just want to squish that little cuddly bear’s cheeks! He was pining for her for years and just had to wait for her to figure it out.

I truthfully LOVE the accidental pregnancy trope and this gave me such a fun read with that.

Christian and Erin did a wonderful job in this dual narrated audiobook. This is a great Valentine’s Day cozy read!!

[Amber Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

LJ Shen has gifted us a sweet and sexy lil’ novella featuring some of our favorite side characters from The Devil Wears Black.
Petty in Pink is the perfect Valentine’s gift, and I am a happy girl. Grant and Layla receiving their happy ending is a perfect way to start the season of love.

[buveurdencre · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back in The Devil Wears Black’s universe, and I’ve missed it so much! I highly and enthusiastically recommend reading The Devil Wears Black, which focuses on Maddie and Chase, both of Layla and Grant’s best friends, respectively, as that is another one of my favorite books from LJ, too! Petty in Pink is a spin-off novella from The Devil Wears Black’s universe that focuses on Layla Schmidt, a preschool teacher, and Grant Gerwig, an oncologist. Layla and Grant have been casually seeing each other for nearly a decade, but have never made the transition into a relationship due to Layla’s traumatic experience from an abusive relationship and Grant’s busy work schedule. When Layla is invited to attend a wedding for an acquaintance, she realizes the groom is her ex-boyfriend. After causing a scene at the wedding, Layla calls Grant, and the two spend the night together, resulting in her pregnancy. Determined to co-parent and make it work, Grant and Layla realize how much of their feelings and fears closely reflect how they regard each other.

Layla is such a relatable and lovable character. I loved her so much in The Devil Wears Black, but I loved her even more in this novella. Her vulnerability, her trauma, and her strength were all pivotal to the development of her character, despite it being only a short read. Layla views herself as someone who isn’t spectacular in any facet of life but is good at providing a good time and companionship. Grant, however, would fervently disagree. Grant is down bad and pining for Layla. He has been passionately and wholeheartedly in love with Layla since the beginning of their casual relationship, but has never pushed for more in fear of losing Layla and knowing her aversion to relationships, as well as his busy career life. His unwavering love, steadfast devotion, and unrelenting belief and support in Layla make him one of my favorite and one of the best male characters LJ has ever written, and I love him so much. Grant’s genuine disposition and conviction provide Layla with the non-judgmental reinforcement she lacked in prior relationships, all while fostering healthy communication and eliminating any expectations in the form of relationship currency. As a result, Layla feels comfortable enough to become vulnerable and is confident enough to be able to accept, indulge in, and reciprocate the love she deserves. 

Petty in Pink is my favorite novella LJ has written so far, and Layla and Grant’s story has been so long-awaited and so exceptionally well-deserved. My heart is so full and elated, and I get so giddy reading their interactions and internal monologues. These two deserved their happily ever after together, and I’m so exhilarated to be able to experience their love story and return back to one of my favorite LJ Shen’s universes once again.

Thank you to Montlake Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

We’re BACK in The Devil Wears Black universe and honestly? I never want to leave. 🖤💓
Petty in Pink is a spin-off novella focusing on Layla Schmidt and Grant Gerwig—and this story was SO worth the wait.
Layla is a preschool teacher with a tender heart, lingering trauma from a past abusive relationship, and a deeply relatable belief that she’s… just “fine.” Grant, however? Would like to strongly object. This man has been down bad and quietly in love with Layla for YEARS. Like, decade-long pining. Soft. Steady. Devoted. The blueprint. 🫠
They’ve been casually seeing each other forever but never crossed into “real relationship” territory—Layla because of fear, Grant because he’d rather protect her heart than risk losing her altogether. Then boom: Layla attends a wedding, discovers the groom is her ex, causes a scene (as she should), calls Grant… and one emotionally charged night later, everything changes.
What follows is not messy drama but emotional safety, healthy communication, and a man who believes in Layla even when she doesn’t believe in herself. Grant’s love is unwavering, non-judgmental, and patient in a way that feels genuinely healing—not performative. Watching Layla slowly open up, accept love, and realize she deserves it? Chef’s kiss. 🥹💖
Despite being a novella, this story packs SO much emotional depth. Layla’s vulnerability, trauma, and growth feel fully realized, and Grant might honestly be one of LJ Shen’s best male leads ever. Protective without being controlling. Passionate without pressure. Devoted without expectation. I loved him so much.
Petty in Pink is hands-down my favorite novella LJ Shen has written. Layla and Grant’s happily ever after felt earned, satisfying, and ridiculously swoony. I was smiling, giddy, and kicking my feet the entire time.
If you love:
✨ longtime friends to lovers
✨ secret pining
✨ emotionally safe men
✨ healing love stories
—this one is for you

[Dark Side of the Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

„Petty in Pink” is a short novella written by L.J. Shen and a Valentine’s Day spin-off to „The Devil Wears Black”. So if you’ve already read Maddie and Chase’s story, you’ll be happy to meet them again here.

Layla and Grant are friends who occasionally sleep together. Neither of them ever thought they could be more than that. Grant is an oncologist who’s too busy for a relationship, and Layla is a kindergarten teacher who adores kids but knows that having one of her own is still a long way off.
Then one night changes everything.

Now Layla and Grant have to figure out what to do with this surprise. They need to try living together — at least give it a chance. Nothing is simple, especially since Grant still puts his career first.
But love has a way of changing everything. Even a workaholic who never imagined himself as a father or a partner before being a doctor.

„Petty in Pink” was a really good read. I loved coming back to „The Devil Wears Black” world, because Maddie and Chase’s story was captivating and amazing. I also enjoyed Layla and Grant’s story — my only complaint is how short it is. They had so much potential, and we only got about 150 pages with them.

In the end, „Petty in Pink” is a funny, cozy, soft story about two people who truly deserve their happy ending. This book feels like honey on the heart. Or like a Band-Aid on a wound — it makes everything feel better and lighter.

And Grant Gerwig? A walking green flag. One of the greenest.
Super satisfying — even if it’s way too short. I still highly recommend this novella.

[Sarah Poulton-Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super satisfying return to the world of The Devil Wears Black. Petty in Pink has it all.... humour, he falls first, perfect HEA for a situationship, sparky banter, finding yourself after a bad breakup, gorgeous romance and a patient MMC willing to wait her out with her aversion to commitment.

This a quickish read with Layla and Grant's HEA tied up in a neat 17 chapters. And for a relatively short LJ book, she certainly packs in the emotion. We get to see what a great fit these two are as a casual hook up partnership (they have been exclusively hooking up together for many years- a relationship without the terminology if you will). But you then also get to see the very mature evolution of their feelings. In Layla confronting the hurts of her past and seeing a new future with a true partner, we get to see her journey of healing. Grant is so open hearted when it comes to Layla. There is little he would not do for her. He is trying to move forward but his heart is hers all along.

This book made my heart soar. It is so positive and so perfect in how it ties everything up. This is one of those reads where a situationship evolves into the real deal in a perfect way. It isn't one person wanting more and being left behind. Then Layla also gets to confront her past and have a resolution there in ways most of us don't get the chance to. There is just something warm and funny and satisfying in Petty In Pink. Definitely a five star HEA.

[Makayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Petty in Pink — L.J. Shen
🎧 Audiobook | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you Brillance publishing for the ALC

This was supposed to be a cute Valentine’s Day novella and instead it emotionally clotheslined me.

Layla and Grant have been doing the friends-with-benefits dance for SIX YEARS. SIX. Which means feelings were absolutely illegal, communication was nonexistent. Toss in a coworker’s wedding, forced proximity, and a surprise pregnancy and suddenly I’m screaming “JUST ADMIT YOU’RE IN LOVE” at my steering wheel.

Grant is a dedicated oncologist, emotionally constipated, painfully devoted and is exactly the kind of man LJ Shen writes to ruin my peace. And Layla? Pink, prickly, guarded, and one sarcastic comment away from spiraling at all times. Their banter was sharp, their tension was constant, and every interaction felt loaded with things unsaid.

AND THE AUDIO 🔥
Erin Mallon and Christian Fox absolutely carried this. The sarcasm hit harder, the angst cut deeper, and the chemistry felt way too personal. This wasn’t background listening, this was pause-the-audio-and-stare-into-space listening.

Short, messy, emotional, this novella gave exactly what it needed to give and then dipped before I could emotionally recover.

Five stars. Zero regrets.
Would absolutely let LJ Shen emotionally bully me again. 💗🎧

[Macie ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

LJ Shen never misses when she writes a book. I was obsessed with Layla and Grant, like it had me smiling from ear to ear.

The banter was pure gold and the one-liners had me giggling like I was back in high school again. It had a couple heavier themes, but for the most part it was light hearted and a damn good time.

The relationship was really well developed for this being a full length novella and I was absolutely invested in Layla and Grant's story.

I'm not usually the biggest fan of an accidental pregnancy but this one was done so well that I was 100% in love with it all from start to finish. Like honestly with Layla being such a commitment phobe, if it wasn't for the accidental pregnancy, she might not have given a relationship with Grant a chance and it was exactly the push she needed to see just how good a man Grant was for her because that man was so down bad for his girl!

If you want an easy, funny, swoony worthy read that you can consume in one sitting, this is the one for you! 💕

“It means you’re making it impossible not to fall for you.”

“Then fall.” He gave me a dimpled, shaky smile, his eyes brightening. “I promise I’ll catch you.”

[💜VGreedyReader🖤 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story came just at the right moment, it was exactly what I needed to help me through a tough weekend, so to have my Monday turn from blue to pink was just what the doctor recommended. Needless to say Leigh delivered the perfect treat.

Although Layla and Grant story isn’t what we are used to get from Ms Shen it still contains all those wonderful feels she got us hooked on.

Grant is a green flag hero and even if my nature gravitates towards red flags I couldn’t help but be enamoured with him. Besides his great looks and nerdy side (I’m a sucker for nerds) he won me over with the way he showed his devotion to Layla. His determination and natural ability to understand her needs are something to wish for in a male character.

Layla’s aversion to relationships is the result of previous experience and where she thinks she’s broken, Grant shows her how perfect she is. The banter is on point and the spice is delicious. And let’s not forget the Easter egg you’ll find here! If you’re familiar with LJ verse I can guarantee you’ll enjoy the cameo 😉

This is a spinoff of 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗹 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸, but it’s not necessary to read that to enjoy this Valentine’s story, of course if you have, have fun revisiting this world.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

“We’re two people who have been slow-burn dating for years. We work.”

Petty in Pink brings us back into the Devil Wears Black universe, this time shining a well‑deserved spotlight on fan‑favorite side characters Grant and Layla. For years, the two have existed in that deliciously tense space between friendship and something more—keeping things casual, pretending their connection is purely physical, and carefully avoiding any emotional landmines. But when one night blurs the lines a little too much, an unexpected pregnancy pushes them to finally face the feelings they’ve both been dodging for far too long.

“I’d choose five minutes in Layla’s company than immortality with anyone else.”

This novella was an absolute delight from start to finish. It’s brisk, addictive, and packed with the kind of sharp, playful banter that makes you want to read “just one more page.” Grant and Layla are impossible not to root for—their chemistry leaps off the page, their vulnerability feels earned, and their journey from avoidance to honesty is deeply satisfying. A true gem that adds warmth, humor, and heart to this world in all the best ways.

[Katherine caraballo · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Fun, fiery, and fiercely entertaining — Petty in Pink kept me hooked!

Petty in Pink by L.J. Shen is exactly the kind of book I didn’t know I needed — bold, sassy, and full of attitude. This story blends sharp wit with steamy romance and just the right amount of drama, making it a totally binge-worthy read.

What stood out to me:
✔️ Unforgettable characters – The main cast is entertaining, unpredictable, and full of personality. I laughed, cringed, and cheered alongside them.
✔️ Sharp dialogue – Shen’s trademark snappy, clever writing had me smiling and quoting lines long after reading.
✔️ Romance with spice – The chemistry between the leads is electric: it’s flirty, fierce, and perfectly paced.
✔️ Great emotional beats – Beyond the fun, there are moments of real heart that added depth to the story.

This was a fast read for me — one I couldn’t put down once it got going. Whether you love enemies-to-lovers, petty banter, or swoon-worthy tension, Petty in Pink delivers on all fronts.

📌 Perfect for fans of contemporary romance who love attitude with their happily-ever-after.

Highly recommend! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Gisele · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is just what my doctor prescribed to get me out of the reading slump I was in! L.J. Shen surprises us with a short but no less spectacular story set in the universe of The Devil Wears Black, featuring two wonderful characters who just needed a little push in the right direction to get their happily ever after. And what a push they got!

Layla and Grant have been friends with benefits for several years, but when Layla suffers a humiliation at a wedding that leads her into Grant's arms and a situation neither of them expected, sparks fly in this story! As soon as Grant hears the news, he is determined to be there for Layla, in whatever way she needs, but proving that they are more than just friends and that love was always there, waiting for its chance.

The banter between the two is brilliant, and the jokes had me laughing out loud. All the gestures they made towards each other gave me butterflies everywhere. It has just the right amount of spice, and it's definitely a delight to read this story.

This is a fun, easy, and romantic read, perfect for devouring in one sitting!

[Denise Hoover · Rating 5 out of 5]

I ADORED this story!!! Accidentally pregnancy is definitely a favorite trope of mine. Add in a golden retriever hero and I. AM. SOLD.

Layla had her own past traumas that made her not want to be in any relationship ever again. Her ex really did a number on her. But Grant… her long time friends with benefits, knew how to sweep her off her feet… eventually. He knew he had to play the long game. But he didn’t expect finding himself tied to Layla in the way of a baby. He’s always had a thing for Layla but knew she was emotionally unavailable. He still held on to hope.

Grant plays the long game. And I just love seeing how he treats Layla. With no expectations of getting anything in return. He just wants to do things directly for her. To make her smile & happy.

I just genuinely loved how the progression of their relationship happened. I also loved how quick witted Layla was and that Grant was giving it right back to her. They were truly a perfect match & I’m so glad they found their HEA.

[Lisa (Two Bookish Brits)]

A new LJ Shen book? Well it’s pretty obvious I just devoured that,

Massive thank you to the author for the early copy.

Grant and Layla have been friends (with benefits) for many years now always sticking to sex and set in their ways of not wanting a relationship. She’s been scorned by a past ex, his life is entirely his work neither are brave enough to admit they may want something more.

But over and over again these two find their way back to each other. They’re similar in certain ways and different in others.

When a wedding ends up with Layla humiliating herself to get certain truths out she needs an out and only one person comes to mind, Grant which leads to a night is sex…

Fast forward a few weeks Layla finds herself surrounded with positive pregnancy tests she’s taken. Determined to make it work Grant steps up and proves how much he wants to be there for her, for their baby. Oh it’s been an absolute joy…watching the back and forth between them has been captivating.

I am so SO grateful that LJ Shen decided to revisit the Devil Wears Black universe and blessed us with these two cuties.

I am actually obsessed with LJ’s writing and the range she hits. From a book with all the triggers to this cute little romance blows my mind. The mind of this woman is fascinating and I’ll be here for every future release.

Petty in Pink is a spin off novella from The Devil Wears Black. If you’re a fan of book recommendations with

Friends With Benefits
Forced Proximity
Accidental Pregnancy
Unrequited Feelings
A ‘who did this to you’ Moment

[Naomi Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Petty in Pink by L.J. Shen is a sharp, deliciously dramatic novella that proves just how much emotional chaos can fit into a short read.
Layla and Grant have been sex buddies for years—easy, casual hookups with very clear no-strings-attached rules. For Layla, that arrangement feels safe. After a toxic relationship, she’s downright allergic to commitment and determined to keep her heart out of the equation.
Everything implodes at her friend and colleague Kellianne’s wedding when Layla realizes—mid-ceremony—that the groom is her ex-boyfriend. In a moment that’s both mortifying and strangely cathartic, Layla stands up during the “speak now or forever hold your peace” portion, detonating secrets, unresolved pain, and long-simmering emotions.
L.J. Shen excels at blending biting humor, emotional vulnerability, and romantic tension. The chemistry between Layla and Grant crackles, the pacing is tight, and the wedding scene alone is worth the read. Petty in Pink is messy in the best way—fun, dramatic, and unexpectedly heartfelt.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

L.J.Shen returns to the world of The Devil Wears Black and gives us a sweet novella. Perfectly for upcoming Valentine’s Day.

As always novellas tend to be way too short especially when it comes from your favorite author. I love this world and the characters. Petty in Pink is a warm, comforting romance that sneaks up on you with its emotional depth. Layla and Grant start out as friends with benefits - easy, uncomplicated, and safe. Grant is an overworked oncologist who has always put his career above everything else, while Layla is a devoted kindergarten teacher who loves children but believes motherhood is still far off in her future. Neither of them expects their arrangement to turn into anything more… until one unexpected night changes everything.

Despite its shorter length, LJ Shen manages to pack an impressive amount of emotion into this story, proving that page count doesn’t limit impact. Petty in Pink is one of those stories where a situationship evolves into the real deal in the best possible way, leaving you with a smile and a full heart. A definite 5 star HEA.

[TheBookPlatypus · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the hilarity laugh out loud moments, the banter, the spice, the slow burn buildup, the entire novella is perfection.

“We’re no strangers to each other, Layla. We’re two people who have been slow-burn dating for years. We work.”

Layla and Grant have been friends for benefits for years, but just that. Nothing more.
Layla was treated horribly by an ex and sworn off love.
Grant is the ultimate golden retriever that’s loved Layla for years but with his job taking most of his time, I mean- he’s trying to cure cancer, he never got the courage to take his friends with benefits to another level with the gorgeous green haired beauty that is Layla Schmidt.

🩷Friends with Benefits
🩷Ultimate Golden Retriever
🩷Spicy!
🩷He’s a doctor. She works at a Daycare
🩷Surprise Pregnancy
🩷Chicken Nuggets and Mistletoe
🩷HEA

A pregnancy just might make her realize that the right guy was already right in front of her all along.

[Ally · Rating 5 out of 5]

Layla and Grant are casual happenings until one night changes everything for both of them. LJ once again did it with the chemistry, romance, banter, plot, character development and truly everything that goes along with her incredible writing. Grant is an accomplished doctor, and Layla a teacher and while they have history off page as a casual hookup, valentine's day shakes that up. Layla has a rough dating past which gets talked about and so she never really does anything more than hooking up and running, Grant has had his eyes on one girl. The perfect time for things to go right. One thing leads to another and SURPRISE (I'm not ruining this one) but they take their relationship to another level and Grant is ready to give up everything for Layla. Funny enough, Layla comes to the same conclusion and decides that moving away from the city she's been in sounds better so off they go and live happily ever after. 😊

[HiFaeJen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for the ALC.

This Valentine novella was an absolute delight. Petty in Pink had me genuinely laughing out loud and, at times, feeling downright euphoric. It’s petty moment hits right at the start drawing the reader in for a playful, and perfectly bite-sized good time—exactly what I want from a holiday novella.

At just over three hours of listening time, I devoured this in one sitting, and honestly? What a fun time I had. The banter was sharp and the chemistry was entertaining.

The audiobook truly shines thanks to Erin Mallon and Christian Fox, who both did a fantastic job bringing the characters and humor to life. Their performances added an extra layer of charm and made the experience even more enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a quick, flirty, laugh-out-loud Valentine read (or listen) that delivers on fun, Petty in Pink is a delectable little morsel you won’t want to miss!

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Petty in Pink follows Layla Schmidt and her friends with benefits Grant Gerwig as they navigate an unexpected pregnancy. Grant has been waiting for almost a decade for Layla to admit that she wants more from him then casual sex. Layla, a preschool teacher has trust issues since her college days from her ex-boyfriend and loves that Grant will drop anything to be with her. When Layla attends the wedding of one of her coworkers on Valentines Day, she finds out that the groom is her ex. After telling everyone what a horrible person he is , Layla flees the venue and calls Grant. Grant who is an oncologist has gotten the offer of his dreams at the Mayo Clinic, however taking the job means losing Layla. With a heavy heart Grant decides to move to Minnesota. This audiobook was fast paced, funny and steamy all rolled up in one. I would like to thank both NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for letting me listen to an advance copy of this audiobook.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a cute fun little novella from LJ Shen that takes us back into the world of the Devil Wears Black. Although you don’t need to read that one in order to enjoy this novella, the characters from TDWB do make an appearance.

The plot centers around commitment-phobe Layla and her longtime FWB Grant who’s been a total goner for her since the get go. Watching their dynamic shift as life throws them a curveball gives you all the feels as Layla finally catches up to the feelings Grant has quietly always shared. Grant is the greenest flag you will ever find and bends over backwards for Layla while expecting little to nothing in return. He is patient with Layla and accepts her as she is. As she works through her insecurities, he is always there as a silent foundation of support and it’s just so sweet.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

ℙ𝕖𝕥𝕥𝕪 𝕀𝕟 ℙ𝕚𝕟𝕜 💕

This is suchhh a fun, sweet Valentine's novella from the world of 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘭 𝘞𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬- and the cameos were truly 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘧𝘴 𝘬𝘪𝘴𝘴!
Layla & Grant have always been eachothers anchor. Grant is down-bad for Layla. He will drop anything and everything(𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦) for just a moment of her time- it always goes back to her.
A '𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦' definitely throws a wrench in things, but it also drew them closer together. You're gonna want to put this one on your tbr for Valentines- nostalgic & wistful & full of banter!!
As always, my fave quotes ￬￬

𝘎𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘦. 𝘎𝘰𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘥.

ɪ’ᴍ ʀᴇᴀᴅʏ ғᴏʀ ᴍʏ ᴅɪɴᴏsᴀᴜʀ ɴᴜɢɢᴇᴛs ɴᴏᴡ, ʜᴀɴᴅsᴏᴍᴇ.

ɪ ᴀʟᴡᴀʏs ᴡᴀɴᴛᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ʙᴇ ʀᴏᴏᴍᴍᴀᴛᴇs ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴀ ᴘsʏᴄʜᴏᴘᴀᴛʜ.

𝘚𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘦. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶? 𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦.

ᴛʜᴀᴛ sᴏᴜɴᴅs ᴡᴀʏ ᴛᴏᴏ ᴘᴇʀғᴇᴄᴛ.
ᴡʜᴀᴛ’s ɪɴ ɪᴛ ғᴏʀ ʏᴏᴜ?
𝘚𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘦. 𝘠𝘰𝘶.

[Katelynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this little novella more than expected. Layla and Grant make an interesting combination of personalities that leans a little opposites attract. I enjoyed that Grant was incredibly patient and intent on waiting for Layla to meet him in the same place as his feelings. I felt his love for her without it feeling like Layla was walking all over him. Layla showed her fierce personality by speaking her peace. I still felt her vulnerability and her determination not to put Grant through the same things her ex had done to her. Grant was a gem and the epilogue was everything. This book felt like the perfect length for their story. It didnt need to be overly angsty and still included spicy content while having a plot line that wasn't muddled. This is a fabulous little novella I think many could enjoy

[Michelle Brashars · Rating 5 out of 5]

Petty in Pink is a fun little Valentine’s Day spin off from LJ Shen!!! We are back in the world of The Devil Wear’s Black with Chase and Maddie’s best friends! Layla and Grant have been Fck buddies for almost a decade. Grant has always wanted more with her, but Layla was hurt so badly by her ex that she swore she wouldn’t do that again. One accidental pregnancy later and Grant is ready to go all in. He can’t believe his luck. He’s ready to make Layla realize he’s the one for her. Layla pretty much knows fallen for Grant, but she tries so hard to keep him at a distance. She’s adorable, but I wouldn’t be able to resist him either. Grant is so down bad and such a good guy. All the green flags!! I loved this little novella! It doesn’t have much spice, but it’s so good!!!

[Stephanie Boling · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖ARC Review📖
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Petty in Pink releases February 3rd! This is a fast, cute Valentine’s novella that’s emotionally charged. The story is centered on Layla and Grant, who have spent years pretending that their connection was only casual. L.J. balances humor and heat with a tender exploration of fear, vulnerability, and the messy work of choosing someone. The pacing is brisk, with some moments moving fast (due to it being a novella), but the emotional payoff is there. I inhaled this book in one setting; it was a very adorable Valentine’s themed read!

Tropes:
Friends with Benefits to Lovers
Surprise Pregnancy
Emotional Wounds
Commitment-Phobic Heroine
Quietly Devoted Hero
Valentine’s Day Setting

Thank you, Netgalley, LJ, and Montlake for the ARC! <3

[Smutty Little Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super cute novella and absolutely perfect for the Valentine’s season! One wild Valentine’s Day night with a friend turns into a surprise baby and a beautifully blossoming love story. Layla carries deep trauma from surviving a toxic relationship, and Grant is the steady, patient friend who shows her what it truly means to be loved the right way.

The narrators did an excellent job bringing this story to life, perfectly capturing the chemistry, emotional depth, and the hilarious, natural connection between Layla and Grant. Their performances made the story even more engaging and heartfelt.

This audiobook is definitely worth the listen.

#friends to lovers
#accidental pregnancy
#valentines day read