What do you think?
Rate this book
The Guys Who Got Away #1
Birthday Suit
There is no rule in the Man Code as unbreakable as this: no matter how beautiful, smart, clever, and witty she is, do not—under any circumstances—fall in love with your best friend’s woman.
Yeah. So there’s that. Look, it’s not like I didn’t know I screwed up by falling for her.
Also, for the record, unrequited love sucks big time.
And, I might have cut myself some slack by now, given everything that went down in the last few years, but Lulu just walked back into my life in a big way.
***
There are three things I've never been able to resist—my friends, my family, and chocolate.
Leo Hennessy? He was nowhere on that list. He's been a true friend—a friend who walked through hell and back with me.
Now, I'm stepping into my new future. I didn't expect it to include a riddle-filled, race-against-the-clock scavenger hunt across New York City.
With Leo.
Suddenly, I'm looking at this man with new eyes...
But my life spun out because of a man once before, and I can’t risk my fresh start, no matter what the temptation. And Leo is most definitely a temptation of the sexiest, sweetest, and most dangerous variety.
More irresistibly delicious than chocolate...
Yeah. So there’s that. Look, it’s not like I didn’t know I screwed up by falling for her.
Also, for the record, unrequited love sucks big time.
And, I might have cut myself some slack by now, given everything that went down in the last few years, but Lulu just walked back into my life in a big way.
***
There are three things I've never been able to resist—my friends, my family, and chocolate.
Leo Hennessy? He was nowhere on that list. He's been a true friend—a friend who walked through hell and back with me.
Now, I'm stepping into my new future. I didn't expect it to include a riddle-filled, race-against-the-clock scavenger hunt across New York City.
With Leo.
Suddenly, I'm looking at this man with new eyes...
But my life spun out because of a man once before, and I can’t risk my fresh start, no matter what the temptation. And Leo is most definitely a temptation of the sexiest, sweetest, and most dangerous variety.
More irresistibly delicious than chocolate...
312 pages, Paperback
First published January 17, 2019
About the author
Lauren Blakely
215 books19.5k followersA #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that's sweet, sexy and witty. Her heroines are strong and smart and her heroes have hearts of gold and fantastic funny bones. She'd love to give you a free book today! Check out her web site to grab your free read: https://laurenblakely.com/one-free-book/
Connect with Lauren here
➜ WEBSITE: laurenblakely.com
➜ NEWSLETTER: laurenblakely.com/newsletter
➜ FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/LaurenBlakelyBooks/
➜ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/laurenblake...
➜ TWITTER: www.twitter.com/laurenblakely3
Connect with Lauren here
➜ WEBSITE: laurenblakely.com
➜ NEWSLETTER: laurenblakely.com/newsletter
➜ FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/LaurenBlakelyBooks/
➜ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/laurenblake...
➜ TWITTER: www.twitter.com/laurenblakely3
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 622 reviews
January 17, 2019
There's only one rule a man should never break. Don't fall for your best friend's woman...
BIRTHDAY SUIT, my brand new standalone romance, is available everywhere!
✦ Kindle US ➜ https://amzn.to/2Fojsnp
✦ Kindle UK ➜ https://amzn.to/2CiH4Wl
✦ Kindle AU ➜ https://amzn.to/2ALzzYe
✦ Kindle CA ➜ https://amzn.to/2QHDU3D
✦Apple Books ➜ blkly.pub/BdaySuit-AB
✦Kobo ➜ blkly.pub/BdaySuit-KB
✦Nook ➜ blkly.pub/BdaySuit-NK
✦Google Play ➜ blkly.pub/BdaySuit-GP
✦Amazon PB ➜ https://amzn.to/2ySLrXw
✦Audible: blkly.pub/BirthdaySuitAudible
BIRTHDAY SUIT, my brand new standalone romance, is available everywhere!
✦ Kindle US ➜ https://amzn.to/2Fojsnp
✦ Kindle UK ➜ https://amzn.to/2CiH4Wl
✦ Kindle AU ➜ https://amzn.to/2ALzzYe
✦ Kindle CA ➜ https://amzn.to/2QHDU3D
✦Apple Books ➜ blkly.pub/BdaySuit-AB
✦Kobo ➜ blkly.pub/BdaySuit-KB
✦Nook ➜ blkly.pub/BdaySuit-NK
✦Google Play ➜ blkly.pub/BdaySuit-GP
✦Amazon PB ➜ https://amzn.to/2ySLrXw
✦Audible: blkly.pub/BirthdaySuitAudible
July 21, 2020
5 The Timing Needs to be Right Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
Timing is Everything...We can think something is just right; we then can have it ripped away from our grasp and feel devastated. It could be a pursuit of career advancement or a personal relationship. It doesn't matter...if you thought it was The Real Deal...it can hurt.
Yet, as painful or frustrating the situation may be...life has a way of making us push forward and learn our life lessons. These life lessons make us who we are and who we become...and so if we are presented with another opportunity which could involve that promotion or lost love...Timing Could Mean Everything.
Because of timing, those life lessons... they have helped you be the person you are now, not who you were...and maybe now you are just the person who needs to be standing before that lost love.
This is the premise of Birthday Suit by Lauren Blakely. Ms. Blakely writes all sorts of romances and each of them brings a swoon factor coupled with real-life situations. She takes three friends who had been close as close can be...and have one of the men hiding his love for the woman. He missed his very small window of opportunity to show his interest in her. His best friend showed up and before you could say Hey, I am interested in her...The sparks between the friend and the gal were happening. He never threw his hat in the ring, never tried to be an option for her interest...
Instead... He stayed the Best Friend of both of them for a decade. It was painful but also wonderful because he still was in this woman's orbit. He loved both of them and was always there for both. He was there for the marriage as the best man, he was there for the opening of their restaurant and supported all the good times.
But he was also there for the difficult times...for the friend who married the gal had issues. He couldn't handle the social pressures of being a chef with a successful restaurant. The booze became the "other woman" and finally after many asks and then rehab attempts, our gal finally needed to step away and end the marriage. Our chef has a tragic end leaving both friends, Leo and Lulu, with memories and emotional hurdles to handle.
Now life throws these two back together after a couple of years separation. Lulu had left NYC for California to heal herself and finally grow her own career. She was a chocolatier and was able to take her talents and finally open her own boutique shop. She has the perfect business partner and now has two locations, Miami and now the city. Her life has been devoted to making herself strong and her business known. Her talent is so solid, people have been discovering her goodies.
Leo's love of chocolate has guided his career. He had the taste buds but also had the business smarts too. He followed his dreams and goals and now works with a chocolate company he loves. He is back in NYC after traveling the world sourcing great chocolate. These two meet at a chocolate convention and although both have "moved on in life", the friendship is still there.
What is a shock for Lulu is the new eyes she sees Leo with...When did Leo develop those hard muscles...What is that sexy scent he has...and why am I looking and that rock hard ass...Leo is taken with Lulu yet, continues to play things close to the vest...He doesn't want to lose her friendship.... yet the feelings he thought he had buried...are starting to creep back up.
What is the game-changer is Lulu... and when she decides to take a risk...for Leo, all bets are off.
This story is so loving... it had me so many times. It touches on so many real feelings a person can have. I also loved the development of these characters. Each was fleshed out and you could understand them from the start. What was telling was their growth... their need to understand who they were now and how that impacted everything. There were other secondary characters who made their presence know. Lulu's mom was amazing. Her wisdom was the best. Lulu's business partner also was given some reading time giving us a tease about a possible future storyline.
Lauren Blakely gives swoon-worthy men all of the time...Leo is a very special one. Lulu was a perfect fit for him and when you finish this book, your heart will be full and have a true understanding of how Timing Really Can Be Everything.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Lucky me, my year is starting on the right foot...
I have Birthday Suit there is a Grin slapped on my face!
❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️
So let's see what else Blakely has in store...
She has this title of Birthday Suit, huh...
There are just so many ways she could go...
If I play my cards right...
Pay Attention...
My Heart may Melt...
But you will never see me in my...
Birthday Suit- January 14th 2019
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * * Spoiler Free
Timing is Everything...We can think something is just right; we then can have it ripped away from our grasp and feel devastated. It could be a pursuit of career advancement or a personal relationship. It doesn't matter...if you thought it was The Real Deal...it can hurt.
Yet, as painful or frustrating the situation may be...life has a way of making us push forward and learn our life lessons. These life lessons make us who we are and who we become...and so if we are presented with another opportunity which could involve that promotion or lost love...Timing Could Mean Everything.
Because of timing, those life lessons... they have helped you be the person you are now, not who you were...and maybe now you are just the person who needs to be standing before that lost love.
This is the premise of Birthday Suit by Lauren Blakely. Ms. Blakely writes all sorts of romances and each of them brings a swoon factor coupled with real-life situations. She takes three friends who had been close as close can be...and have one of the men hiding his love for the woman. He missed his very small window of opportunity to show his interest in her. His best friend showed up and before you could say Hey, I am interested in her...The sparks between the friend and the gal were happening. He never threw his hat in the ring, never tried to be an option for her interest...
Instead... He stayed the Best Friend of both of them for a decade. It was painful but also wonderful because he still was in this woman's orbit. He loved both of them and was always there for both. He was there for the marriage as the best man, he was there for the opening of their restaurant and supported all the good times.
But he was also there for the difficult times...for the friend who married the gal had issues. He couldn't handle the social pressures of being a chef with a successful restaurant. The booze became the "other woman" and finally after many asks and then rehab attempts, our gal finally needed to step away and end the marriage. Our chef has a tragic end leaving both friends, Leo and Lulu, with memories and emotional hurdles to handle.
Now life throws these two back together after a couple of years separation. Lulu had left NYC for California to heal herself and finally grow her own career. She was a chocolatier and was able to take her talents and finally open her own boutique shop. She has the perfect business partner and now has two locations, Miami and now the city. Her life has been devoted to making herself strong and her business known. Her talent is so solid, people have been discovering her goodies.
Leo's love of chocolate has guided his career. He had the taste buds but also had the business smarts too. He followed his dreams and goals and now works with a chocolate company he loves. He is back in NYC after traveling the world sourcing great chocolate. These two meet at a chocolate convention and although both have "moved on in life", the friendship is still there.
What is a shock for Lulu is the new eyes she sees Leo with...When did Leo develop those hard muscles...What is that sexy scent he has...and why am I looking and that rock hard ass...Leo is taken with Lulu yet, continues to play things close to the vest...He doesn't want to lose her friendship.... yet the feelings he thought he had buried...are starting to creep back up.
What is the game-changer is Lulu... and when she decides to take a risk...for Leo, all bets are off.
This story is so loving... it had me so many times. It touches on so many real feelings a person can have. I also loved the development of these characters. Each was fleshed out and you could understand them from the start. What was telling was their growth... their need to understand who they were now and how that impacted everything. There were other secondary characters who made their presence know. Lulu's mom was amazing. Her wisdom was the best. Lulu's business partner also was given some reading time giving us a tease about a possible future storyline.
Lauren Blakely gives swoon-worthy men all of the time...Leo is a very special one. Lulu was a perfect fit for him and when you finish this book, your heart will be full and have a true understanding of how Timing Really Can Be Everything.
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
Lucky me, my year is starting on the right foot...
I have Birthday Suit there is a Grin slapped on my face!
❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️💕❤️
So let's see what else Blakely has in store...
She has this title of Birthday Suit, huh...
There are just so many ways she could go...
If I play my cards right...
Pay Attention...
My Heart may Melt...
But you will never see me in my...
Birthday Suit- January 14th 2019
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
January 21, 2019
First of all, there are few words that will make this audiobook justice. I’m not skilled enough to write something that will reflect what this audiobook really is.
Birthday Suit is not only an amazing romantic comedy, it’s an ode to audiobooks. A love letter to romace audiobooks. Lauren Blakely’s love and passion for audio shines through. The idea to gather a cast of 12 amazingly talented narrators is simply brilliant. And it not only works, it elevates Birthday Suit to a whole new level.
Birthday Suit is primarily narrated by Sebastian York and Andi Arndt, the best of the best. They alone could have delivered an amazing performance, and given life to all the characters flawlessly. Instead, we had the pleasure of listening to each character through the voices of 10 other extraordinary narrators. The way it simply flows is fantastic. It’s so natural it feels like listening to a play. It is simply magnificent.
Birthday Suit is everything you want a great romance novel to be. It’s trademark Lauren Blakely. It’s sexy, sweet, beautifuly written, simply flawless. It’s romantic comedy at its best. I enjoyed everything about this book. The characters are so real and likable, the story engages you from the start, and you just can’t stop listening. It’s a story of unrequited love between two longtime friends that will make you smile, laugh out loud, and crave chocolate.
I would give this audiobook 10 big fat golden stars because it is impeccable in its production and delivery, and the story truly makes it justice. Let’s hope Lauren feels the need to do this kind of thing again in the future because it was amazing!!!
Birthday Suit is not only an amazing romantic comedy, it’s an ode to audiobooks. A love letter to romace audiobooks. Lauren Blakely’s love and passion for audio shines through. The idea to gather a cast of 12 amazingly talented narrators is simply brilliant. And it not only works, it elevates Birthday Suit to a whole new level.
Birthday Suit is primarily narrated by Sebastian York and Andi Arndt, the best of the best. They alone could have delivered an amazing performance, and given life to all the characters flawlessly. Instead, we had the pleasure of listening to each character through the voices of 10 other extraordinary narrators. The way it simply flows is fantastic. It’s so natural it feels like listening to a play. It is simply magnificent.
Birthday Suit is everything you want a great romance novel to be. It’s trademark Lauren Blakely. It’s sexy, sweet, beautifuly written, simply flawless. It’s romantic comedy at its best. I enjoyed everything about this book. The characters are so real and likable, the story engages you from the start, and you just can’t stop listening. It’s a story of unrequited love between two longtime friends that will make you smile, laugh out loud, and crave chocolate.
I would give this audiobook 10 big fat golden stars because it is impeccable in its production and delivery, and the story truly makes it justice. Let’s hope Lauren feels the need to do this kind of thing again in the future because it was amazing!!!
January 12, 2019
Lauren Blakely delivers a mouthwatering, hooking romance with all the feels that hits the perfect spot between sweet, sexy, swoony and emotional.
Leo fell in love with his best friend’s girl from the moment he met her. But for over a decade he put on his best poker face, suffered through his unrequited love and moved on. Until Lulu stumbles into his life again with her big smile, quick and witty comebacks and all around big heart. Can he resister her now that their circumstances have changed?
Lulu has always been a chocolate-loving, follow-your-heart kind of gal, but after a dire ordeal she’s looking to steer her life back on track. She never expected Leo Hennessy, the man that walked by her through hell and back, to be part of that fresh start. Can she maintain her course or will Leo be the best distraction she could ever have?
The book is a delicious slow burn going from Leo and Lulu’s re-encounter to flashbacks of their past from the moment they met and back to their delightful newfound relationship laden with chemistry. Their story perfectly captures the tricky friends-to-lovers, my-bestfriend’s-girl genre as it gradually moves Leo and Lulu from the easy patterns of friendship to the more complex ones of swoony romance and sexy times.
Blakely’s writing style is engrossing with a hit of mouthwatering chocolate confections you can’t get enough of and the perfect amount of emotional depth. Leo’s loyalty to his best friends was admirable but the strength of his love for Lulu was timeless and absolutely swoon worthy.
Blakely writes about undying love while maintaining a heartwarming level of wit and humor, offering a sexy, playful and delectable romance to feast on.
The Birthday Suit is a standalone contemporary romance by author Lauren Blakely. It is told from both points of view with a supremely happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2VM8zR1
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via InkSlinger. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Twitter * Instagram * More reviews
Leo fell in love with his best friend’s girl from the moment he met her. But for over a decade he put on his best poker face, suffered through his unrequited love and moved on. Until Lulu stumbles into his life again with her big smile, quick and witty comebacks and all around big heart. Can he resister her now that their circumstances have changed?
Lulu has always been a chocolate-loving, follow-your-heart kind of gal, but after a dire ordeal she’s looking to steer her life back on track. She never expected Leo Hennessy, the man that walked by her through hell and back, to be part of that fresh start. Can she maintain her course or will Leo be the best distraction she could ever have?
The book is a delicious slow burn going from Leo and Lulu’s re-encounter to flashbacks of their past from the moment they met and back to their delightful newfound relationship laden with chemistry. Their story perfectly captures the tricky friends-to-lovers, my-bestfriend’s-girl genre as it gradually moves Leo and Lulu from the easy patterns of friendship to the more complex ones of swoony romance and sexy times.
Blakely’s writing style is engrossing with a hit of mouthwatering chocolate confections you can’t get enough of and the perfect amount of emotional depth. Leo’s loyalty to his best friends was admirable but the strength of his love for Lulu was timeless and absolutely swoon worthy.
Blakely writes about undying love while maintaining a heartwarming level of wit and humor, offering a sexy, playful and delectable romance to feast on.
The Birthday Suit is a standalone contemporary romance by author Lauren Blakely. It is told from both points of view with a supremely happy ending.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2VM8zR1
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via InkSlinger. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Twitter * Instagram * More reviews
January 17, 2019
Leo has been in love with Lulu for a decade.
But she's only ever been his 'buddy' - because back then she fell for his best friend.
And now - all these years later - Leo and Lulu are both back in New York for work.
And they will even have to work together at Leo's chocolate company.
Can they still be best friends? Because Leo's feelings haven't disappeared and Lulu might start feeling more than friendship the more time they spend together?
What will happen with Lulu & Leo?
Will there be a HEA?
READ THE BOOK TO FIND OUT! ☺
══════════════════
Awww ... I loved it!
It was so funny and adorable and ... wait for it .... sweet! LOL!
It's all about chocolate in this book.
Leo is working for a chocolate company and Lulu is a chocolatier. And there is A LOT of chocolate in here - what could be better than being surrounded by chocolaty goodness that won't make you gain a hundred pounds?!?!
Leo has been so in love with Lulu back then - and those feelings never went away. And now she's back and talking to him, joking with him, touching and hitting him while making a point. He's not made of stone - he doesn't think he can be just her friend.
And Lulu? Does she have feelings too?
But wouldn't it be wrong and weird and verboten to fall for each other???
But of course they do fall - even if it won't be an easy road to that happily ever after - but we'll love every second of reading about it!
GREAT ROM-COM!!!!!!
I loved it! Even though it kinda confused me a tiny bit in the beginning. No idea what it was? They talked too much and too fast and too jokingly and too much back and forth and so much chocolate - maybe that's why I couldn't concentrate. ☺☺☺ There's chocolate everywhere!!!😜😜
The story tried a bit too hard to be a rom-com - there was almost no rom to all that com in the first half of the book. No romance and sparks and chemistry at all. It was all jokingly talking about chocolate and whatnot. And then once the first kiss finally comes? No idea - I still didn't feel the romantic chemistry between them. Maybe because they just joked too much for my tastes. Ugh, I didn't really feel the love in between all the chocolate and joking. I almost stopped reading in the middle of the second kiss..... But ... I still kinda really loved Leo and Lulu!!! Even though Leo was a tiny bit too softish for my tastes. But they're so adorable and have been through so much with Tripp and their friendship. We just want them to end up together.
It was a sweet romance with lots of heartbreaking moments and very funny moments - and I loved the scavanger hunt they're doing with all the food companies through the city. I really wouldn't mind seeing this book on tv one day - that might work better than the book ...
But please don't be afraid to read it. It was very sweet and adorable and funny and emotional. Most readers will adore it!
Maybe it just wasn't my day for this book. ☺ Maybe I saw too many mega-raving 5-star reviews on goodreads and went in with too high expectations - which you should never do!!!! Grrr. Maybe this books works better as an audiobook - most reviews I saw were audio reviews. I hate audiobooks - so I'll never know! 😜 Ugh - I feel so bad talking sh*t about this book - it wasn't bad at all - please don't run away screaming when you see it! Buy it - it's adorable and choclaty and so very read-worthy! Just wasn't my day I guess!
BIRTHDAY SUIT was a fun and adorable chocolate love story!! Run to your nearest amazon asap for your own Leo - this one is MINE !!!
♡
♡
♡
February 7, 2019
4 Leo & Lulu Stars
This is a really enjoyable story about Leo , who has had unrequited love for Lulu for ten years , and Lulu - who had no clue whatsoever that Leo loved her.
They met at College but on the day they meet , Leo introduces her to his best friend Tripp and a little way down the line Tripp and Lulu become romantically involved. My heart ached for Leo. He watched the woman of his dreams marry his best friend and it impacted his life hugely. He saw other women but no one lives up to Lulu.
He tells nobody of his feelings and the three of them remain friends. This is NOT a love triangle. Ten years on , Leo & Lulu reconnect and Tripp has been out of the picture for a while. Tripp may have been the more vivacious of the two men but he had his own demons to battle. Leo comes across as very grounded and reliable and so loyal. I liked him as a hero but I wanted him to loosen up a little at times and to have more glimpses of him with his guard down because fun Leo is sexy Leo.
Lulu was a really well written heroine with great resilience & strength. She had clearly learnt from her marriage & was ready to embrace her new life. Leo just had to catch up. Great secondary characters & the dark themes were well tempered by the lighter moments provided by them.
HEA? Awww - yes!!
Cheating? No
Trigger? Alcoholism. Death of a partner
Audio review: I listened to this book on audible and it was unusual in the there was a full cast of narrators. It took me a little while to get used to that but once I did I really enjoyed it. I would love more audiobooks to be done this way. Also , the interview at the end of the book with Sebastian York ❤️❤️❤️ and Andi Arndt 💖💖💖 was gorgeous to listen to. The highlight might have been Sebastian swearing with an English accent!
This is a really enjoyable story about Leo , who has had unrequited love for Lulu for ten years , and Lulu - who had no clue whatsoever that Leo loved her.
They met at College but on the day they meet , Leo introduces her to his best friend Tripp and a little way down the line Tripp and Lulu become romantically involved. My heart ached for Leo. He watched the woman of his dreams marry his best friend and it impacted his life hugely. He saw other women but no one lives up to Lulu.
He tells nobody of his feelings and the three of them remain friends. This is NOT a love triangle. Ten years on , Leo & Lulu reconnect and Tripp has been out of the picture for a while. Tripp may have been the more vivacious of the two men but he had his own demons to battle. Leo comes across as very grounded and reliable and so loyal. I liked him as a hero but I wanted him to loosen up a little at times and to have more glimpses of him with his guard down because fun Leo is sexy Leo.
Lulu was a really well written heroine with great resilience & strength. She had clearly learnt from her marriage & was ready to embrace her new life. Leo just had to catch up. Great secondary characters & the dark themes were well tempered by the lighter moments provided by them.
HEA? Awww - yes!!
Cheating? No
Trigger? Alcoholism. Death of a partner
Audio review: I listened to this book on audible and it was unusual in the there was a full cast of narrators. It took me a little while to get used to that but once I did I really enjoyed it. I would love more audiobooks to be done this way. Also , the interview at the end of the book with Sebastian York ❤️❤️❤️ and Andi Arndt 💖💖💖 was gorgeous to listen to. The highlight might have been Sebastian swearing with an English accent!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2021
I let this review go too long since reading the story. So that sucks. I liked Leo and Lulu. I liked their friendship and seeing it turn into more. I liked how unstintingly he supported her. And I particularly liked Leo's sense of honor in ensuring that he didn't interfere in Lulu's relationship while she was married.
And since it's Lauren Blakely, I was never really worried that they would blow up or not talk things out, even if they needed time to process or assimilate new information. Lulu, in particular, impressed me for her maturity and determination to not overcorrect for her perceived past mistakes.
And that's all I've got. Good book. 4½ stars that I'm rounding up. Wish I had reviewed it sooner.
A note about Steamy: There was steam. About the middle of my tolerance, though I've lost the details. That means a few/couple explicit sex scenes that don't drag out.
And since it's Lauren Blakely, I was never really worried that they would blow up or not talk things out, even if they needed time to process or assimilate new information. Lulu, in particular, impressed me for her maturity and determination to not overcorrect for her perceived past mistakes.
And that's all I've got. Good book. 4½ stars that I'm rounding up. Wish I had reviewed it sooner.
A note about Steamy: There was steam. About the middle of my tolerance, though I've lost the details. That means a few/couple explicit sex scenes that don't drag out.
January 13, 2021
“Loving you from afar was painful and exquisitely torturous. Loving you near is wonderful and exquisitely blissful.”
“Sometimes life gives you a second chance at love, and if you’re lucky enough to spot it and wise enough to seize it, you better be strong enough to keep it.”
Synopsis:
Things didn’t even get off the ground when Leo met the girl of his dreams. Instead his best friend swooped in and knocked the girl off her feet leaving Leo as the third wheel. The three were extremely close throughout the years, but nonetheless, Leo was just the “friend”. An event causes Lulu to leave NYC and when Leo and Lulu run into each other 2 years later their friendship doesn’t miss a beat. But for Leo, the desire is still there and maybe this time will be different.
My Thoughts: The following are my thoughts about this book:
General:
- Trigger warning: loss of a loved one (mostly off page), alcoholism (mostly off page)
- Setting: New York
Characters:
- Leo (32, an exec in charge of business development and looking for the next Rising Star chocolatier they can partner with):
- “Now, at age thirty-two, I have the job I want. I’m the guy who strikes the deals. I’m exactly where I want to be in business, and that’s because I set a goal when I was younger, and I worked my ass off to reach it.”
- Outside of work: he recently spent time in South America and is obsessed with their history. He’s committed to learning the history and geography of a different country every month. And, he likes to restore old furniture he finds at garage sales.
- The following words/phrases were used to describe Leo: successful, wise, satisfied, busy, focused, ambitious, determined, lonely, kicking unholy ass
- Lulu (32, chocolatier trying to get her business off the ground):
- she loves riddles and is awesome at them
- Divorced, no children
- “Lulu is not a neat freak. Lulu is like a suitcase that you sit on to try to close, but bright emerald-green scarves poke out the corners, a fuchsia-pink heel sticks out one side, and a polka-dotted dress spills from the zipper.”
- The following words/phrases were used to describe Lulu: bright, bold, a little crazy, rolls with the punches, soft heart, tough as nails, mesmerizing, charming, enchanting
Story Thoughts:
- awww. After the chapter 6 flashback I felt bad for Leo. 😕 He didn’t even get a chance with LuLu.
- So in the beginning, I was sure there was no way the author could make me feel like Leo was not second best. But, by the end I knew that Lulu was able to separate her feelings and I loved how the author was able to clearly separate the trio and make Leo and Lulu a believable duo.
- I could “feel” the bond between Leo and Tripp. The author did a good job of creating their close friendship
- the ah-ha moment that Leo had at the end was heart tugging.
- I was really rooting for Leo and Lulu. They had such a great friendship and really clicked well together. I loved their inside jokes and how they just “got” each other
- I didn’t really need Tripp’s POV at the end
- I was a bit surprised about Tripp’s issue. There was no foreshadowing so it felt out of character and was hard to buy into. Did the author take it this direction just to vilify him a little and thus make Leo more appealing? If so, it wasn’t necessary because Leo’s character was strong enough to stand on his own. He was sexy and fantastic and I had no problem understanding how a woman would fall for him.
- I loved Leo ❤️🥰
- there are a few chapters of flashbacks sprinkled throughout the story. That didn’t bother me, but I know some really detest flashbacks.
- This is not a “triangle” story. Lulu is not in love with both men at the same time and Leo doesn’t cross any lines while Lulu and Tripp are a couple.
Overview:
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: No, but I’m guessing some of the side characters were from other books as there was this feeling that I “should” know them
- POV: dual POV
- H likable? Yes. I loved him 🥰❤️
- h likable? Yes. She was fun and upbeat and brought a lightness to the story
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 47%
- First time they sleep together: 73%
- First time they say I Love You 74%
- steamy? Yes
- OW/OM drama? Yes. The best friend Tripp is a constant topic of conversation. Also, there are flashbacks that include Tripp and Tripp also has one chapter with his POV
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? After they are a couple, I think a couple weeks??
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? Kind of. Lulu was unaware of Leo’s feelings when they were in college
- Did I cry? No. Although, there are portions of this story that deal with the heavy subject of addiction and death, so it’s not all sunshine and roses and there is some sadness
- Did I laugh? I chuckled a few rimez
- Cliffhanger? no
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? Epilogue 1: 1 month later. Epilogue 2: A week after that
- Recommend? Yes
Quotes
“If you have to sniff the food in your fridge to decide if you can eat it, just toss it. You’ll be glad you did tomorrow.”
“You can tell everything you need to know about a person by how he or she treats the waiter.
“She always looked like she’d ridden in astride a rainbow-colored unicorn while fireworks rained down on all of us.”
“Leo made me laugh, and then as we came to know each other, he made me think. He was patient, more introspective than Tripp. He was a quiet rainstorm at night, the kind that turned the air earthen and fresh the next morning.”
“Seeing you in a pantsuit is like seeing a unicorn giving traffic tickets. That shit isn’t right.”
“I feel a little bit like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer did when Clarice told him he was cute. I could go skipping and jumping and flying into the air. She thinks I’m cute, she thinks I’m cuuuuuuuuuuute.
But I can’t say that aloud, for fuck’s sake.”
“She’s wearing zebra panties, and they are the cutest, unsexiest panties I’ve ever seen.
“Zebra panties are officially the best thing ever.”
“Wait till you see my dolphin undies.”
“I’d like to get to know the whole safari and maritime collection.”
“Leo is who he says he is. The ingredients that comprise him are the ones I want most in the recipe for a man to love—he’s loyal, he’s kind, he’s funny, he’s caring. Also, he’s one hell of a fiend in the sack.”
“Sometimes life gives you a second chance at love, and if you’re lucky enough to spot it and wise enough to seize it, you better be strong enough to keep it.”
Synopsis:
Things didn’t even get off the ground when Leo met the girl of his dreams. Instead his best friend swooped in and knocked the girl off her feet leaving Leo as the third wheel. The three were extremely close throughout the years, but nonetheless, Leo was just the “friend”. An event causes Lulu to leave NYC and when Leo and Lulu run into each other 2 years later their friendship doesn’t miss a beat. But for Leo, the desire is still there and maybe this time will be different.
My Thoughts: The following are my thoughts about this book:
General:
- Trigger warning: loss of a loved one (mostly off page), alcoholism (mostly off page)
- Setting: New York
Characters:
- Leo (32, an exec in charge of business development and looking for the next Rising Star chocolatier they can partner with):
- “Now, at age thirty-two, I have the job I want. I’m the guy who strikes the deals. I’m exactly where I want to be in business, and that’s because I set a goal when I was younger, and I worked my ass off to reach it.”
- Outside of work: he recently spent time in South America and is obsessed with their history. He’s committed to learning the history and geography of a different country every month. And, he likes to restore old furniture he finds at garage sales.
- The following words/phrases were used to describe Leo: successful, wise, satisfied, busy, focused, ambitious, determined, lonely, kicking unholy ass
- Lulu (32, chocolatier trying to get her business off the ground):
- she loves riddles and is awesome at them
- Divorced, no children
- “Lulu is not a neat freak. Lulu is like a suitcase that you sit on to try to close, but bright emerald-green scarves poke out the corners, a fuchsia-pink heel sticks out one side, and a polka-dotted dress spills from the zipper.”
- The following words/phrases were used to describe Lulu: bright, bold, a little crazy, rolls with the punches, soft heart, tough as nails, mesmerizing, charming, enchanting
Story Thoughts:
- awww. After the chapter 6 flashback I felt bad for Leo. 😕 He didn’t even get a chance with LuLu.
- So in the beginning, I was sure there was no way the author could make me feel like Leo was not second best. But, by the end I knew that Lulu was able to separate her feelings and I loved how the author was able to clearly separate the trio and make Leo and Lulu a believable duo.
- I could “feel” the bond between Leo and Tripp. The author did a good job of creating their close friendship
- the ah-ha moment that Leo had at the end was heart tugging.
- I was really rooting for Leo and Lulu. They had such a great friendship and really clicked well together. I loved their inside jokes and how they just “got” each other
- I didn’t really need Tripp’s POV at the end
- I was a bit surprised about Tripp’s issue. There was no foreshadowing so it felt out of character and was hard to buy into. Did the author take it this direction just to vilify him a little and thus make Leo more appealing? If so, it wasn’t necessary because Leo’s character was strong enough to stand on his own. He was sexy and fantastic and I had no problem understanding how a woman would fall for him.
- I loved Leo ❤️🥰
- there are a few chapters of flashbacks sprinkled throughout the story. That didn’t bother me, but I know some really detest flashbacks.
- This is not a “triangle” story. Lulu is not in love with both men at the same time and Leo doesn’t cross any lines while Lulu and Tripp are a couple.
Overview:
- Do you need to read previous books in series?: No, but I’m guessing some of the side characters were from other books as there was this feeling that I “should” know them
- POV: dual POV
- H likable? Yes. I loved him 🥰❤️
- h likable? Yes. She was fun and upbeat and brought a lightness to the story
- h virgin? No
- First time they kiss: 47%
- First time they sleep together: 73%
- First time they say I Love You 74%
- steamy? Yes
- OW/OM drama? Yes. The best friend Tripp is a constant topic of conversation. Also, there are flashbacks that include Tripp and Tripp also has one chapter with his POV
- H/h cheat? No
- Time apart? After they are a couple, I think a couple weeks??
- Did I skip pages? No
- Big secrets? Kind of. Lulu was unaware of Leo’s feelings when they were in college
- Did I cry? No. Although, there are portions of this story that deal with the heavy subject of addiction and death, so it’s not all sunshine and roses and there is some sadness
- Did I laugh? I chuckled a few rimez
- Cliffhanger? no
- HEA? Yes
- Epilogue? Epilogue 1: 1 month later. Epilogue 2: A week after that
- Recommend? Yes
Quotes
“If you have to sniff the food in your fridge to decide if you can eat it, just toss it. You’ll be glad you did tomorrow.”
“You can tell everything you need to know about a person by how he or she treats the waiter.
“She always looked like she’d ridden in astride a rainbow-colored unicorn while fireworks rained down on all of us.”
“Leo made me laugh, and then as we came to know each other, he made me think. He was patient, more introspective than Tripp. He was a quiet rainstorm at night, the kind that turned the air earthen and fresh the next morning.”
“Seeing you in a pantsuit is like seeing a unicorn giving traffic tickets. That shit isn’t right.”
“I feel a little bit like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer did when Clarice told him he was cute. I could go skipping and jumping and flying into the air. She thinks I’m cute, she thinks I’m cuuuuuuuuuuute.
But I can’t say that aloud, for fuck’s sake.”
“She’s wearing zebra panties, and they are the cutest, unsexiest panties I’ve ever seen.
“Zebra panties are officially the best thing ever.”
“Wait till you see my dolphin undies.”
“I’d like to get to know the whole safari and maritime collection.”
“Leo is who he says he is. The ingredients that comprise him are the ones I want most in the recipe for a man to love—he’s loyal, he’s kind, he’s funny, he’s caring. Also, he’s one hell of a fiend in the sack.”
January 25, 2021
Performed by Andi Arndt, Sebastian York along with January LaVoy, Julia Whelan, R.C. Bray,, Shane East, Joe Arden, Erin Mallon, Dion Graham, Savannah Peachwood, Jason Clarke, and Robin Miles. I devoured this audio. I had been following the making of the audiobook thanks to clips, videos and more provided by Blakely and suspected this would be downright awesome and oh baby..it was!
Caffeinated Reasons to Grab Your Earbuds and listen to Birthday Suit
You love a sweet, adorkable, sexy romance that delivers all the feels while giving your ears goosebumps!
What happens when you love your best friend's girl from the moment you both met her? You say nothing, do nothing and be their best friends. Forever..until suddenly things change. I love the best friend trope and this had a twist. While I saw it coming, Blakely has a gift in the telling.
Foodie books excite you and the mention of chocolate makes you melt! Set in NY, these two meet up again at a Chocolate convention.
You love dual narratives and all the thoughts...so many thoughts!
You love a RomCom and hilarious one-liners that will make you burst out laughing as you write it down to remember.
If you like to become emotionally invested in the characters and tend to yell at them...you need Birthday Suit.
The full cast narration with some of our favorite narrators was just icing on the cake for this romance. Love it!
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
There's only one rule a man should never break. Don't fall for your best friend's woman...
Caffeinated Reasons to Grab Your Earbuds and listen to Birthday Suit
You love a sweet, adorkable, sexy romance that delivers all the feels while giving your ears goosebumps!
What happens when you love your best friend's girl from the moment you both met her? You say nothing, do nothing and be their best friends. Forever..until suddenly things change. I love the best friend trope and this had a twist. While I saw it coming, Blakely has a gift in the telling.
Foodie books excite you and the mention of chocolate makes you melt! Set in NY, these two meet up again at a Chocolate convention.
You love dual narratives and all the thoughts...so many thoughts!
You love a RomCom and hilarious one-liners that will make you burst out laughing as you write it down to remember.
If you like to become emotionally invested in the characters and tend to yell at them...you need Birthday Suit.
The full cast narration with some of our favorite narrators was just icing on the cake for this romance. Love it!
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
January 17, 2019
***Available Now - FULL REVIEW ***
5 Riddled CROWNS
I love a Lauren Blakely book. The banter is always on point, the chemistry, physically and emotionally is electric, and the whole host of characters are lovable. And, yes Birthday Suit delivers all of these things. But do you know what made me really love this book? Like LOVE it? Lulu!
Lauren’s heroes are normally my favorites, and Leo is so dreamy, but my girl, Lulu just took the cake. I love all aspects of her character, from her love of chocolate to her style to her exuberance for life. I think, though, what sealed the deal for me was that she gets to a point in her life when she knows what she deserves, she knows how hard she has worked to get to this point in her life and she won’t settle. She is a heroine who knows who she is and what she deserves and refuses any less. Sounds amazing, right? She completely is.
Leo is no slouch. He is smart and sexy. Loyal. This man is one of the most loyal characters, even to the detriment of his own happiness. His internal conflict is relatable, understandable. Readers will sympathize with his plight, but, like the heroine will want him to leave the past, live in the present, and grab his future happiness because Leo, the sweetest hero ever, deserves it.
So here is what really makes this one a must read. On its own, the Birthday Suit has all the signatures or a Lauren Blakely book - witty dialogue, smart humor, lovable characters, and fun plots. Recently, though, I feel as though her novels have taken a reflective, more didactic in nature tone. Readers can glean from Leo and Lulu the importance of grabbing a future you want by forgiving your past. They can learn that second chances can come, and that a second love can be just as real and true as the first. You can see that people you have always known can change and grow and the love can form when we look at people through different lenses.
The Birthday Suit is a Lauren Blakely favorite. Not just because of all I’ve mentioned above but also because it made me happy. I read it with a huge small on my face and my favorite chocolate in my hand.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
.
5 Riddled CROWNS
I love a Lauren Blakely book. The banter is always on point, the chemistry, physically and emotionally is electric, and the whole host of characters are lovable. And, yes Birthday Suit delivers all of these things. But do you know what made me really love this book? Like LOVE it? Lulu!
Lauren’s heroes are normally my favorites, and Leo is so dreamy, but my girl, Lulu just took the cake. I love all aspects of her character, from her love of chocolate to her style to her exuberance for life. I think, though, what sealed the deal for me was that she gets to a point in her life when she knows what she deserves, she knows how hard she has worked to get to this point in her life and she won’t settle. She is a heroine who knows who she is and what she deserves and refuses any less. Sounds amazing, right? She completely is.
Leo is no slouch. He is smart and sexy. Loyal. This man is one of the most loyal characters, even to the detriment of his own happiness. His internal conflict is relatable, understandable. Readers will sympathize with his plight, but, like the heroine will want him to leave the past, live in the present, and grab his future happiness because Leo, the sweetest hero ever, deserves it.
So here is what really makes this one a must read. On its own, the Birthday Suit has all the signatures or a Lauren Blakely book - witty dialogue, smart humor, lovable characters, and fun plots. Recently, though, I feel as though her novels have taken a reflective, more didactic in nature tone. Readers can glean from Leo and Lulu the importance of grabbing a future you want by forgiving your past. They can learn that second chances can come, and that a second love can be just as real and true as the first. You can see that people you have always known can change and grow and the love can form when we look at people through different lenses.
The Birthday Suit is a Lauren Blakely favorite. Not just because of all I’ve mentioned above but also because it made me happy. I read it with a huge small on my face and my favorite chocolate in my hand.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
.
February 25, 2022
We meet the fun and carefree Lulu Diamond. An amazing Chocolatier, a woman looking forward to moving on and making her career a priority after a past she needs to move on from but when you meet part of that past in the most fun and accidental way there is always a reason why.
Leo Hennessy is man that seems to have it all, a great job, great family & friends but when one of your best friends reappears in your life you need to try and get past the past and look to the future.
Leo & Lulu are amazing together the fun just pours off the pages and you can’t help have a smile on your face when you read there story. There will be some emotional roadblocks that will get in there way but with the help of some good friends and good advice you know that maybe they will find there way to one another.
Leo Hennessy is man that seems to have it all, a great job, great family & friends but when one of your best friends reappears in your life you need to try and get past the past and look to the future.
Leo & Lulu are amazing together the fun just pours off the pages and you can’t help have a smile on your face when you read there story. There will be some emotional roadblocks that will get in there way but with the help of some good friends and good advice you know that maybe they will find there way to one another.
January 16, 2019
“I ᴅᴏɴ’ᴛ ᴡᴀɴᴛ ʜᴀʟғ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜ. I ᴡᴀɴᴛ ᴀʟʟ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜ. I ᴅᴇsᴇʀᴠᴇ ᴀʟʟ ᴏғ ʏᴏᴜ. I ᴡᴀɴᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡɪᴛʜᴏᴜᴛ ʀᴇsɪɢɴᴀᴛɪᴏɴ, ᴡɪᴛʜᴏᴜᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ʟᴏᴏᴋɪɴɢ ᴏᴠᴇʀ ʏᴏᴜʀ sʜᴏᴜʟᴅᴇʀ. Aɴᴅ I ᴡᴀɴᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ᴡɪᴛʜᴏᴜᴛ ʜɪᴍ."
𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐒𝐮𝐢𝐭 by the amazingly talented Lauren Blakely was an absolute DECADENT romance! Comedy, sex, romance, emotion, and of course chocolate, made a hefty appearance and with all of that goodness combined, it made for one hell of an addicting romantic comedy! Every single character stole my heart, with Lulu and Leo taking center stage. This swoony and lighthearted, sexy as sin love story had me from page one and I just knew there was no putting it down once I started! Lauren Blakely has never had any issues taking me to my happy place with her clever words, and Lulu and Leo’s unputdownable rom-com is no exception!
GRAB IT HERE:
Kindle US ➜ https://amzn.to/2Dg1Esp
Kindle UK ➜ https://amzn.to/2CiH4Wl
Kindle AU ➜ https://amzn.to/2ALzzYe
Kindle CA ➜ https://amzn.to/2QHDU3D
𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐒𝐮𝐢𝐭 by the amazingly talented Lauren Blakely was an absolute DECADENT romance! Comedy, sex, romance, emotion, and of course chocolate, made a hefty appearance and with all of that goodness combined, it made for one hell of an addicting romantic comedy! Every single character stole my heart, with Lulu and Leo taking center stage. This swoony and lighthearted, sexy as sin love story had me from page one and I just knew there was no putting it down once I started! Lauren Blakely has never had any issues taking me to my happy place with her clever words, and Lulu and Leo’s unputdownable rom-com is no exception!
GRAB IT HERE:
Kindle US ➜ https://amzn.to/2Dg1Esp
Kindle UK ➜ https://amzn.to/2CiH4Wl
Kindle AU ➜ https://amzn.to/2ALzzYe
Kindle CA ➜ https://amzn.to/2QHDU3D
January 18, 2019
Birthday Suit is a sweet mix of friends-to-lovers/unrequited love/in love with my best friend's girl tropes. Throw in some chocolate, a scavenger hunt, fun, flirty banter, a tear or 2 for good measure, and you've got the makings of one very entertaining read, Lauren Blakely style.
The romance between Leo and Lulu was a definite slow burn- there's a lot of build up as they rekindle their friendship. We're given glimpses into the past, so we can see where it all began for them, and how it led to where they are now. I especially enjoyed the "behind the scenes" times with Leo.
While having all the romcom goodness we come to look for from Ms. Blakely, there was an added layer of emotion in this book that really hit me in the feels. It was unexpected, but gave me a deeper appreciation of the story.
I really loved the last couple chapters of this book, the story came together so well. And like always, the epilogue was the icing on the cake!
The romance between Leo and Lulu was a definite slow burn- there's a lot of build up as they rekindle their friendship. We're given glimpses into the past, so we can see where it all began for them, and how it led to where they are now. I especially enjoyed the "behind the scenes" times with Leo.
While having all the romcom goodness we come to look for from Ms. Blakely, there was an added layer of emotion in this book that really hit me in the feels. It was unexpected, but gave me a deeper appreciation of the story.
I really loved the last couple chapters of this book, the story came together so well. And like always, the epilogue was the icing on the cake!
January 15, 2019
Birthday Suit has been one of my most anticipated audiobooks for 2019. I have always wanted to listen to an audiobook with a full cast and this book didn’t disappoint at all. It felt like magic to my ears and it was like a play being told as I listen.
This was such a great cast of narrators and they all brought their ‘a’ game to this narration. I think I’m ruined for any audiobooks going forward. If you’re a fan of audiobooks you NEED to listen to this story. Even if you don’t do audios, you NEED to listen to this story.
As far as the story plot goes I loved Leo and Lulu. They have know each other for a very long time but certain circumstances have kept them apart until now.Leo and Lulu had some insane chemistry and I loved the banter between the couple and seeing them fall for each other. I also loved the secondary characters and it felt like I was with old friends!
In typical Lauren Blakely fashion she was able to create a cute romantic story that will make you laugh, pull on your heart strings and leave you smiling when it's all over. I was so sad when this book was over and I definitely be re reading this book in the future!
This was such a great cast of narrators and they all brought their ‘a’ game to this narration. I think I’m ruined for any audiobooks going forward. If you’re a fan of audiobooks you NEED to listen to this story. Even if you don’t do audios, you NEED to listen to this story.
As far as the story plot goes I loved Leo and Lulu. They have know each other for a very long time but certain circumstances have kept them apart until now.Leo and Lulu had some insane chemistry and I loved the banter between the couple and seeing them fall for each other. I also loved the secondary characters and it felt like I was with old friends!
In typical Lauren Blakely fashion she was able to create a cute romantic story that will make you laugh, pull on your heart strings and leave you smiling when it's all over. I was so sad when this book was over and I definitely be re reading this book in the future!
February 10, 2019
There is no rule in the Man Code as unbreakable as this: no matter how beautiful, smart, clever, and witty she is, do not—under any circumstances—fall in love with your best friend’s woman.
There are three things I've never been able to resist—my friends, my family, and chocolate.
Leo Hennessy?
I really liked this book, I listened to it on audiobook with a cast of 10 narrators who all did a brilliant job of bringing this sweet, second chance at love to life. The characters were lovable, the chemistry between them was sweet and the story line was wonderful and engaging. The bonus talk at the end of the story with Andi Arndt and Sebastian York was so interesting and enlightening. This was all over a feel good story and a must read.
There are three things I've never been able to resist—my friends, my family, and chocolate.
Leo Hennessy?
I really liked this book, I listened to it on audiobook with a cast of 10 narrators who all did a brilliant job of bringing this sweet, second chance at love to life. The characters were lovable, the chemistry between them was sweet and the story line was wonderful and engaging. The bonus talk at the end of the story with Andi Arndt and Sebastian York was so interesting and enlightening. This was all over a feel good story and a must read.
January 31, 2019
This book was so good. It had me laughing, sighing, tearing up at parts. I loved it. I would recommend this book to anyone. If you can, listen to it on Audible - 12 narrators who really helped the characters come alive. I was lost in the story and i didn't want it to end.
January 19, 2019
3.25 stars
To be very honest i read the blurb very quickly and thought the guy was falling in love with his best female friend. I quickly found out it was actually his bestfriend's woman lol.
I wasn't expecting the serious subject either. I thought it was light and easy and in a certain way it kinda was but still the all thing around the friend's condition and the guilt spoiled the story for me.
Anyway overall nice but the same recipe as ever... Yet i still buy these books lol
To be very honest i read the blurb very quickly and thought the guy was falling in love with his best female friend. I quickly found out it was actually his bestfriend's woman lol.
I wasn't expecting the serious subject either. I thought it was light and easy and in a certain way it kinda was but still the all thing around the friend's condition and the guilt spoiled the story for me.
Anyway overall nice but the same recipe as ever... Yet i still buy these books lol
January 18, 2019
I was so excited about this book... the fact that all my favorites working together blew my mind. I mean so excited!!!
And if I had to rate the book just on that fact, or on the secondary characters alone it would absolutely be a 5-star rating. However, my rating is for the whole book and it just failed me in the end...
I loved every character in this book, each one had their own uniqueness that endeared me to them. I was especially fond of Dean, Cameron, and Kingsley. They were laugh out loud funny.
My problem with the book is that bottomed out after Leo and Lulu got together. The milestone that stood in their way didn't seem to weigh enough to carry me through the rest of the book (I hope I'm saying that right). Maybe I should say Leo's guilt/apprehension wasn't enough to serve as the turmoil that kept the book moving. This point is funny to me because oftentimes I will think to my self "the characters didn't need to go through all that", but I guess the turmoil is what makes the story great. What these two characters had to overcome did make the book interesting in the second half. They were too much a foregone conclusion.
And if I had to rate the book just on that fact, or on the secondary characters alone it would absolutely be a 5-star rating. However, my rating is for the whole book and it just failed me in the end...
I loved every character in this book, each one had their own uniqueness that endeared me to them. I was especially fond of Dean, Cameron, and Kingsley. They were laugh out loud funny.
My problem with the book is that bottomed out after Leo and Lulu got together. The milestone that stood in their way didn't seem to weigh enough to carry me through the rest of the book (I hope I'm saying that right). Maybe I should say Leo's guilt/apprehension wasn't enough to serve as the turmoil that kept the book moving. This point is funny to me because oftentimes I will think to my self "the characters didn't need to go through all that", but I guess the turmoil is what makes the story great. What these two characters had to overcome did make the book interesting in the second half. They were too much a foregone conclusion.
January 18, 2019
I absolutely LOVED Leo and Lulu’s story! I was hooked right from the start and I didn't want to put it down. This second chance-ish friends to lovers slow burn rom com was everything I love about Lauren Blakely's books and more. It was sweet and sexy, but also poignant and heartfelt. I loved the overall message of grabbing life by the horns and not waiting on your dreams. Nothing in life is guaranteed and this theme was so beautifully woven into the story.
You will be hardpressed to find a hero and heroine more wonderful than Leo and Lulu. They are smart, loyal, strong, honest, and so beautifully human. I loved them individually and together and couldn't wait to unravel all the history between them. The book is told in dual POV, but also past and present as it cycles through moments in their 10 year friendship. Leo's longing was practically tangible and my heart broke for him as he buried his own feelings and happiness for that of his best friend. When a second chance presents itself, Lulu and Leo's mutual pain and concerns haunt them like a ghost, as they try to navigate their new relationship and growing feelings. I loved how each reconciled their emotions and sense of obligation to the past. The issues they face felt heartbreakingly realistic and honest. Throw in the sweetest moments with riddles, postcards, and kisses, and I was 100% sold. *swoon*
I'm pretty sure this is my new favorite Lauren Blakely title and I'm positive that fans will be swooning for Leo and Lulu just as much as I am! Don't miss this one!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*
edited 1/17/19
Audiobook Review
Overall 5 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 5 stars
This is the most amazing audiobook that I have listened to to date! Birthday Suit introduced me to several new to me narrators (yum Jason Clarke!), but I also got to hear many of my favorites (Joe Arden was amazing as Noah). I have listened to romance books in both dual and duet narration, but this was like duet narration on steroids. It was fantastic to have all the different narrators voicing every character and never wondering who was speaking. This group performed so well together and you could feel the energy and enthusiasm as they brought the book to life. The interview with SebYo and Andi Arndt at the end was awesome and I loved their candid answers to the questions. It's clear that they are great friends and colleagues and it's always a treat to listen to their performances. The included outtakes after the previews made me laugh out loud and was another fun addition to an already incredible audio experience. Do yourself a favor and buy it or use that credit. Just make sure you don't miss this one!
You will be hardpressed to find a hero and heroine more wonderful than Leo and Lulu. They are smart, loyal, strong, honest, and so beautifully human. I loved them individually and together and couldn't wait to unravel all the history between them. The book is told in dual POV, but also past and present as it cycles through moments in their 10 year friendship. Leo's longing was practically tangible and my heart broke for him as he buried his own feelings and happiness for that of his best friend. When a second chance presents itself, Lulu and Leo's mutual pain and concerns haunt them like a ghost, as they try to navigate their new relationship and growing feelings. I loved how each reconciled their emotions and sense of obligation to the past. The issues they face felt heartbreakingly realistic and honest. Throw in the sweetest moments with riddles, postcards, and kisses, and I was 100% sold. *swoon*
I'm pretty sure this is my new favorite Lauren Blakely title and I'm positive that fans will be swooning for Leo and Lulu just as much as I am! Don't miss this one!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*
edited 1/17/19
Audiobook Review
Overall 5 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 5 stars
This is the most amazing audiobook that I have listened to to date! Birthday Suit introduced me to several new to me narrators (yum Jason Clarke!), but I also got to hear many of my favorites (Joe Arden was amazing as Noah). I have listened to romance books in both dual and duet narration, but this was like duet narration on steroids. It was fantastic to have all the different narrators voicing every character and never wondering who was speaking. This group performed so well together and you could feel the energy and enthusiasm as they brought the book to life. The interview with SebYo and Andi Arndt at the end was awesome and I loved their candid answers to the questions. It's clear that they are great friends and colleagues and it's always a treat to listen to their performances. The included outtakes after the previews made me laugh out loud and was another fun addition to an already incredible audio experience. Do yourself a favor and buy it or use that credit. Just make sure you don't miss this one!
January 17, 2019
5 stars
Oooh! A new charming man and a vibrant woman in a Lauren Blakely rom-com with some more emotional undertones....and Chocolate! What is not to like?!
Leo Hennessy is an executive at a chocolate company named Heavenly. He is smart, handsome, driven, introspective, and loyal.
Lulu Diamond has been friends with him for over a decade. She used to be his best friend's girl. But now years later she is following her dreams with her own chocolate shop and hoping to partner in a venture with Heavenly Chocolates. This brings them back in close proximity again and brings back all of Leo's old feelings for her that he buried.
Lulu is bold, fun, and quirky. And she lights up Leo's safe, predictable, stable world. As they are thrust together during various activities, their attraction begins to grow--something totally new for Lulu. Something that Leo has kept hidden for years. There are reasons to be wary due to the past and present circumstances. But these characters are mature enough and close enough that they actually talk.
Living with regret is hard. Life is about choices and it is not always easy to make the right one. Letting go of the past to live in the present can be challenging, but succeeding can open up possibilities.
I really liked these two together. Leo was so swoony, caring, selfless, and thoughtful. And Lula was so fun and so smart. They were just adorable together. They had a great rapport, witty humor, and snappy banter. They shared common interests and were both so sharp. They had sexual tension and chemistry. But they also had a shared history and baggage that had the potential to weigh them down.
This is a sweet, flirty, humorous, unique, best-friend's-girl and friends-to-lovers and workplace romance. But it also has some serious and emotional situations that were part of the character development. It is full of colorful, dynamic side characters that added humor, drama, and depth to the story. I loved some of them and totally hated one of them so freaking much.
But I enjoyed this whole new world the author created and I felt like I was part of this story and the adventures they went on during it. I liked how the story was structured and timing and separation of some events. I can't say much due to spoilers but timing was really important in this story. I enjoyed the dual points of view and a special one as well.
But seriously heed my warning--there is copious talk of chocolate...all kinds of yummy flavored chocolate...so have some nearby to satisfy your cravings. You are welcome!
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim (Rachel and Jay) | Facebook | Twitter
Oooh! A new charming man and a vibrant woman in a Lauren Blakely rom-com with some more emotional undertones....and Chocolate! What is not to like?!
Leo Hennessy is an executive at a chocolate company named Heavenly. He is smart, handsome, driven, introspective, and loyal.
Lulu Diamond has been friends with him for over a decade. She used to be his best friend's girl. But now years later she is following her dreams with her own chocolate shop and hoping to partner in a venture with Heavenly Chocolates. This brings them back in close proximity again and brings back all of Leo's old feelings for her that he buried.
Lulu is bold, fun, and quirky. And she lights up Leo's safe, predictable, stable world. As they are thrust together during various activities, their attraction begins to grow--something totally new for Lulu. Something that Leo has kept hidden for years. There are reasons to be wary due to the past and present circumstances. But these characters are mature enough and close enough that they actually talk.
Living with regret is hard. Life is about choices and it is not always easy to make the right one. Letting go of the past to live in the present can be challenging, but succeeding can open up possibilities.
I really liked these two together. Leo was so swoony, caring, selfless, and thoughtful. And Lula was so fun and so smart. They were just adorable together. They had a great rapport, witty humor, and snappy banter. They shared common interests and were both so sharp. They had sexual tension and chemistry. But they also had a shared history and baggage that had the potential to weigh them down.
This is a sweet, flirty, humorous, unique, best-friend's-girl and friends-to-lovers and workplace romance. But it also has some serious and emotional situations that were part of the character development. It is full of colorful, dynamic side characters that added humor, drama, and depth to the story. I loved some of them and totally hated one of them so freaking much.
But I enjoyed this whole new world the author created and I felt like I was part of this story and the adventures they went on during it. I liked how the story was structured and timing and separation of some events. I can't say much due to spoilers but timing was really important in this story. I enjoyed the dual points of view and a special one as well.
But seriously heed my warning--there is copious talk of chocolate...all kinds of yummy flavored chocolate...so have some nearby to satisfy your cravings. You are welcome!
I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Follow Me: Reviews by Tammy & Kim (Rachel and Jay) | Facebook | Twitter
January 17, 2019
Birthday Suit by Lauren Blakely
Narrated by a cast of 12, starring Sebastian York and Andi Arndt
Contemporary Romance/RomCom
I know it’s still the beginning of January, but I declare Birthday Suit by Lauren Blakely the BEST AUDIOBOOK OF THE YEAR. Seriously, there is absolutely no way to top this cast of 12 amazing narrators reading an already great Lauren Blakely book that also features CHOCOLATE. OMG, all of my favorite things!
I was a little worried. I thought maybe the narration would be hard to follow or take me out of the story. That was never the case. At first, I didn’t even notice it, it was that smooth. I often find duet narration kind of jarring. It just sounds weird when you have another voice pop into a conversation. But Lauren Blakely writes for audio and she made it work brilliantly.
Leo and Tripp were best friends. When they met Lulu, they both fell for her, but Tripp made his move first, and Leo stepped back, happy for his best friend, but harboring a secret love that would never see the light of day.
"She was breathtakingly beautiful. And never more so than when she pledged to love him till death do us part. I took my own vow that day. No matter what, I had to get over her. There were no runners-up in love."
The three of them were like the three musketeers. They were all three best friends, and Leo hid his feelings well. Unfortunately, Tripp had a drinking problem that ended his marriage to LuLu before it took his life.
A few years later, Leo, who runs Heavenly Chocolates, is at a trade show looking for the next great talent when he runs into Lulu, who now has her own chocolate shop in New York. The banter between them is amazing. You are able to feel the years between them, the ease, the friendship, and something else. Something new, something a bit forbidden, at least in Leo’s mind.
I love their descriptions of each other:
If Leo were chocolate, I'd easily add up the ingredients that comprised him. With a touch of pepper and a dash of spice, he'd be a strong, full-bodied dark chocolate, bordering on bittersweet. You'd pair him with a rich red wine and enjoy him by the fireplace.
Lulu is not a neat freak. Lulu is like a suitcase that you sit on to try to close, but bright emerald-green scarves poke out the corners, a fuchsia-pink heel sticks out one side, and a polka-dotted dress spills from the zipper.
Everything is a little bit messy and wild.
These are excellent descriptions of the characters. I loved Lulu’s excitement for everything and her penchant for riddles. I loved her forward-thinking approach to life with no regrets to bog her down. Leo, however, was a different story. Despite Tripp being long-gone, he can’t help but feel guilty, like he is betraying his best friend. LuLu never thought of Leo as more than a friend, but she sure does now.
“Leo, I don’t think I realized how attractive you were before, and I’m glad I didn’t. But it’s all hitting me at once. And right now, I kind of want to jump you. I want to throw the plates to the ground, crawl across the table, and straddle you. I want to grind against you and kiss you all over and do all sorts of very bad things to you.”
But can Leo let go of the past and go all-in? Listen to this book and find out!
Likes:
•The Narration was absolutely the best ever.
•Chocolate! The whole story is about chocolate!
•I absolutely loved Lulu.
•Kingsley was Leo’s boss at Heavenly Chocolates and I totally loved her, her rivalry with her sister, and her playfulness.
•So many great side characters (all narrated by different people!)
•The NYC setting.
•The amazing interview and blooper reel at the end.
•The flashbacks and current time switching was totally seamless and I never had any issue following along.
Dislikes:
•Needed a little more Lauren Blakely sexiness.
The Narration:
I was worried that 12 narrators would be overkill and hard to digest, but it was so natural sounding! Birthday Suit has by far the best narration I have ever heard in a book. Each person was assigned a character, and they were all so perfect for their roles. You will want to hang on to this cast list, it helped a lot!
The Down & Dirty:
I thought Lauren Blakely ruined me for all other audiobooks before I listened to Birthday Suit. But now, with 12 narrators, there is no way to beat Birthday Suit!! If you have never listened to an audiobook, part of me says you should listen to this, because WOW. But then I worry that you will never be able to listen to anything else because seriously, this sets the bar pretty damn high. Birthday Suit isn’t just an audiobook, it’s a chocolate-covered experience. Don’t miss it!
Rating: 5 Stars, 3.5 Heat, 5++++ Narration
Purchase Birthday Suit by Lauren Blakely
Now LIVE!
Live 1/17
Visit anasattic.com for daily sales, freebies, reviews and recommendations.
July 16, 2019
🎧 Audio Review 🎧
I think we have an Audie Winner for 2019!!!
This book was great, the story was a fun, witty and had some serious situations too. A perfect blend of emotions for me. Lauren Blakely never disappoints. The characters were deep and witty and the chemistry was off the charts. I love the build up and this book had it in spades. I feel like Leo was a very stand up guy which I always love and he got exactly what he deserves since he was pretty hard on himself. Lulu was a fun and strong character, I loved that she didn't let the past guide her and just wanted to move forward.
WARNING... This book will make you want chocolate so much you may have to stop just to get some.
The narration for this book gets 100 Stars!!! So many amazing narrators recording in duet style and it flowed perfectly. The casting was amazing for every character. Lauren Blakely deserves an award for casting alone. And let me tell you, Joe Arden was so much fun with a silly character and Erin Mallon has an Australian accent... just in case you needed incentive to grab this one the minute it comes out!!
AMAZING AUDIOBOOK....AUDIE'S HERE THEY COME!!!
I think we have an Audie Winner for 2019!!!
This book was great, the story was a fun, witty and had some serious situations too. A perfect blend of emotions for me. Lauren Blakely never disappoints. The characters were deep and witty and the chemistry was off the charts. I love the build up and this book had it in spades. I feel like Leo was a very stand up guy which I always love and he got exactly what he deserves since he was pretty hard on himself. Lulu was a fun and strong character, I loved that she didn't let the past guide her and just wanted to move forward.
WARNING... This book will make you want chocolate so much you may have to stop just to get some.
The narration for this book gets 100 Stars!!! So many amazing narrators recording in duet style and it flowed perfectly. The casting was amazing for every character. Lauren Blakely deserves an award for casting alone. And let me tell you, Joe Arden was so much fun with a silly character and Erin Mallon has an Australian accent... just in case you needed incentive to grab this one the minute it comes out!!
AMAZING AUDIOBOOK....AUDIE'S HERE THEY COME!!!
Shelved as 'i-tried'
January 17, 2019I just can’t get into this.
Nopes.
Nopes.
January 24, 2019
This is definitely my favorite audiobook from Lauren Blakely. It was brilliant and the performance outstanding. Usually books are better but in this case I garantee you that the audiobook experience is epic and the better option. We are talking 12 NARRATORS. Some of my favorite ones like Sebastian York, Andi Arndt, Joe Arden and Erin Mallon. They brought to life Leo and Lulu’s sweet, fun and sexy love story and made sure that even the secondary characters stole my heart. It felt like watching an actual movie but without the pictures. I can’t wait to have more books like this one. A new era in narration for sure.
Birthday Suit is a friends to lovers/ second chance romance. A story about appreciating life, living now because nothing it’s garrantee and loving with your full heart. Our couple Lulu and Leo were sweet, loving and you won’t resist swooning over their amazing chemistry and beautiful hearts. The chocolatier and the business mogul.
Lulu is a hell of a heroine. Intelligent, strong, determine and also so sweet. Leo is swoon worthy. He is sexy as sin, loyal to no end, sweet and caring. You will definitely will want to hug him after knowing all he’s done for Lulu.
Listening to this audiobook not only put a smile on my face, it made me crave chocolate, coconut and pineapple like you have NO IDEA jajaja. I can’t wait to see if Blakely will bring more of this type of audiobooks to her repertoire.
Birthday Suit is a friends to lovers/ second chance romance. A story about appreciating life, living now because nothing it’s garrantee and loving with your full heart. Our couple Lulu and Leo were sweet, loving and you won’t resist swooning over their amazing chemistry and beautiful hearts. The chocolatier and the business mogul.
Lulu is a hell of a heroine. Intelligent, strong, determine and also so sweet. Leo is swoon worthy. He is sexy as sin, loyal to no end, sweet and caring. You will definitely will want to hug him after knowing all he’s done for Lulu.
Listening to this audiobook not only put a smile on my face, it made me crave chocolate, coconut and pineapple like you have NO IDEA jajaja. I can’t wait to see if Blakely will bring more of this type of audiobooks to her repertoire.
February 23, 2022
Maybe listening to this book when you are going through something similar as the female lead is not the wisest choice but alas, here we are...
Lauren Blakely won my heart back in 2020 with A Guy Walks into My Bar but this was my first book of hers with MF leads. I was seriously impressed not just because of how much I liked the story with MF leads but because it was just a heartfelt, feel-good story about finding love. For Lulu it was about finding love after losing the one you loved but for Leo it was about finally being able to fall in love with the girl you have loved for close to a decade.
I will always recommend you listen to a Lauren Blakely book over reading it. She does an incredible job at casting for her narrations, and this was no exceptions. A full cast production with a lot of big names including Sebastian York, Andi Arndt, Julia Whelan, and Shane East this story was told beautifully and effortlessly. This book had another first as this was my first Sebastian York narration and while I won't go into all my feelings I will say now, I get it. I get the obsession.
Lauren has had a fan in me for a couple of years now with her MM romances but now I am a fan of her MF romances which gives me a whole new list of books to devour!!
Lauren Blakely won my heart back in 2020 with A Guy Walks into My Bar but this was my first book of hers with MF leads. I was seriously impressed not just because of how much I liked the story with MF leads but because it was just a heartfelt, feel-good story about finding love. For Lulu it was about finding love after losing the one you loved but for Leo it was about finally being able to fall in love with the girl you have loved for close to a decade.
I will always recommend you listen to a Lauren Blakely book over reading it. She does an incredible job at casting for her narrations, and this was no exceptions. A full cast production with a lot of big names including Sebastian York, Andi Arndt, Julia Whelan, and Shane East this story was told beautifully and effortlessly. This book had another first as this was my first Sebastian York narration and while I won't go into all my feelings I will say now, I get it. I get the obsession.
Lauren has had a fan in me for a couple of years now with her MM romances but now I am a fan of her MF romances which gives me a whole new list of books to devour!!
January 9, 2019
Birthday Suit is Lauren Blakely's newest release and I wish I could give this 10 stars. To be honest, I struggled with writing this review because I know that whatever I write will not do this story justice. This story is just that fantastic!
While reading this book, I laughed out loud, I cried ugly tears from my heart, and I cheered for the hero and heroine to find their way to each other. Leo has had it bad for Lulu for a decade and they've been the best of friends since he first laid eyes on her. Lulu has the best job ever (at least I think so) as a chocolatier. Their business lives and personal lives intertwine as they work through a situation that may bring them together.
Without giving anything away, Lauren does a brilliant job of bringing heart wrenching sadness to Leo and Lulu and putting obstacles in their way of true happiness. Lauren also incorporates a current issue that many people face into the character of Tripp. Leo's realization of how to truly be happy made me feel love for a character like no other.
This is my favorite LB book of all that she's written. I could identify with the feelings that Leo and Lulu felt while struggling to find their own happiness. I believe this book will resonate with all Lauren Blakely fans and find a special place in everyone's heart.
While reading this book, I laughed out loud, I cried ugly tears from my heart, and I cheered for the hero and heroine to find their way to each other. Leo has had it bad for Lulu for a decade and they've been the best of friends since he first laid eyes on her. Lulu has the best job ever (at least I think so) as a chocolatier. Their business lives and personal lives intertwine as they work through a situation that may bring them together.
Without giving anything away, Lauren does a brilliant job of bringing heart wrenching sadness to Leo and Lulu and putting obstacles in their way of true happiness. Lauren also incorporates a current issue that many people face into the character of Tripp. Leo's realization of how to truly be happy made me feel love for a character like no other.
This is my favorite LB book of all that she's written. I could identify with the feelings that Leo and Lulu felt while struggling to find their own happiness. I believe this book will resonate with all Lauren Blakely fans and find a special place in everyone's heart.
January 24, 2019
what we need more of ... Audible narrators ... if u r an author ... i would totally recommend this ... i don't know what kind of pull Lauren Blakely has ...but somehow she got so many amazing narrators together to read or do a book of hers ... AMAZING!!! wowza!! but but but ... no spoiler .. but wait til the end ... JUST WAIT!! one question I wanna ask narrators ... Who would you most wanna narrator with ... if you could pick any one ... who would u like to work with? or hope to work with? I have had a girlie crush on Andi Arndt on gosh several yrs now ... maybe it has nothing to do ... well it's her voice ... very calming. same with Sebastian. I guess what was tough was keeping them separated ... there is a dude in this book ... guess i will have to look up other of his books to determine who was ... either Joe Arden or Shane East (nope?) ... wait maybe Dion Graham .. u can definitely tell it is pieced together ...but i mean how else will it work? I hope to see more books that have a team of narrators ... that would be so so so awesome!! loved it. must listen! ((must say that I am curious about the ex husband though, LB contact me ... me so curious about him ... got a ??? but don't wanna spoil ... HELLO any one know what i mean? ??? here.))
April 6, 2021
Dnf. Bad. Boring
January 18, 2019
Full review can be found HERE --> https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
*ARC provided for a voluntary honest review.* ~Sonal
*ARC provided for a voluntary honest review.* ~Sonal
July 4, 2019
♥ ♥ ♥ 4 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥
Displaying 1 - 30 of 622 reviews