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Valentine's Inc. Cruises #5
Luck of the Ship
You won! I have two tickets for the Valentine’s Inc. Singles Cruise in August. All expenses paid for you and a friend.”
Elio~
When I get a call about winning a cruise, at first I think it’s a scam, but when they start sending me the info—and the tickets—I realize it’s the real deal. My best friend was supposed to go with me, but when he dropped out at the last minute, I don’t want to go alone. Somehow he convinces me to call Lamar, the guy I went on one date with a few months ago and haven’t been able to get out of my head. Lamar agrees to go, and now I’m panicking because the most gorgeous man I’ve ever seen is going with me… Me, the nerdy, dorky guy that’s so nervous I can hardly speak when I’m around him.
Lamar~
I’ve been working for Valentine’s Inc. for a while now, so I’ve been on a ton of dates. So many men, I usually forget them after a few days, and none that I want to date for real. But then there’s Elio. It’s been months, and the sweet, shy guy never called me, but I still find myself thinking about him. And then he contacts me, asking me to go on a cruise, and I jump at the opportunity. For one thing, I’ve never been able to travel, so I want the experience; for another, it’s Elio. I’ve been drawn to him since we met, and now I’ll have a whole week where he won’t be able to run from me again.
Maybe with a little luck, Elio and Lamar will find the one thing they didn’t know they needed: love.
Luck of the Ship is a standalone contemporary romance following Elio and Lamar (Dakota’s best friend from Color My Kiss). It is intended for adults 18+.
Elio~
When I get a call about winning a cruise, at first I think it’s a scam, but when they start sending me the info—and the tickets—I realize it’s the real deal. My best friend was supposed to go with me, but when he dropped out at the last minute, I don’t want to go alone. Somehow he convinces me to call Lamar, the guy I went on one date with a few months ago and haven’t been able to get out of my head. Lamar agrees to go, and now I’m panicking because the most gorgeous man I’ve ever seen is going with me… Me, the nerdy, dorky guy that’s so nervous I can hardly speak when I’m around him.
Lamar~
I’ve been working for Valentine’s Inc. for a while now, so I’ve been on a ton of dates. So many men, I usually forget them after a few days, and none that I want to date for real. But then there’s Elio. It’s been months, and the sweet, shy guy never called me, but I still find myself thinking about him. And then he contacts me, asking me to go on a cruise, and I jump at the opportunity. For one thing, I’ve never been able to travel, so I want the experience; for another, it’s Elio. I’ve been drawn to him since we met, and now I’ll have a whole week where he won’t be able to run from me again.
Maybe with a little luck, Elio and Lamar will find the one thing they didn’t know they needed: love.
Luck of the Ship is a standalone contemporary romance following Elio and Lamar (Dakota’s best friend from Color My Kiss). It is intended for adults 18+.
198 pages, ebook
First published August 26, 2019
64 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Michele Notaro
79 books966 followersMichele is married to an awesome guy that puts up with her and all the burnt dinners she makes—hey, sometimes characters are a bit distracting, and who doesn’t plot when they’re supposed to be cooking? They live together in Baltimore, Maryland with two little monsters, a three-legged princess, a four-legged goofball, and a cutie with giant ears (aka their two kids, their two cats, and their dog). She hopes to rescue another cat soon, and if her hubby wouldn’t kill her, she’d get more than one… and maybe a few more dogs as well.
She loves creating worlds filled with lots of love, chosen family, and of course, magic, but she also likes making the characters fight for that happy ending. She hopes to one day write all the stories in her head—even if there are too many to count!
If you would like updates on my new books or to be notified when a new book is released, please join my mailing list:
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You can find me on Facebook here:
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Feel free to contact me. I’d love to hear from you.
She loves creating worlds filled with lots of love, chosen family, and of course, magic, but she also likes making the characters fight for that happy ending. She hopes to one day write all the stories in her head—even if there are too many to count!
If you would like updates on my new books or to be notified when a new book is released, please join my mailing list:
http://eepurl.com/cseIXT
You can find me on Facebook here:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
Feel free to contact me. I’d love to hear from you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
August 29, 2019
DNF ~15%
This one just didn't grab me. The concept was ridiculous and so unbelievable that I just couldn't by into it, and I frankly wasn't interested much in either of the characters, nor did I really feel any chemistry.
This one just didn't grab me. The concept was ridiculous and so unbelievable that I just couldn't by into it, and I frankly wasn't interested much in either of the characters, nor did I really feel any chemistry.
May 13, 2020
2.5 stars. Maybe it’s because I read back to back fluff-fests, but this was just too much cheese and not enough substance. (The all telling not showing and stilted dialogue didn’t help).
August 13, 2020
Sooo sweet.
July 5, 2022
Sweet as candy, but still with a bit of seriousness
August 27, 2019
Oh this was the sweetest story. It has a few tear jerking moments, but it's just a beautiful love story. And I loved it.
Elio won a cruise on the Valentine's Inc thing, so he planned to take his best friend Soren, so they could have fun. But Soren decided to get back with his ex, who's a douchebag, and so Elio had to find someone else to go. He almost didn't go, but his family and friends told him he needed to and he decided to call Lamar, whom he had a previous Valentine's Inc date with. He really had liked Lamar and wanted to call him again but he was so shy. And Lamar had a bad date this last time and things were ending with it for him. But he still thought of Elio, so he jumped on board to go with him. At first it was nervous, and for Elio, downright scared, but Lamar worked under his skin quickly and they got to start being friends. And eventually a little more. Enough of more, that neither wanted to end it when the cruise was over. But Elio was terrified to call and Lamar was taking it wrong, so it took a kick in the pants from their best friends for them to get it together. And once they did, there was no turning back. Through some really rough moments, they stuck together and made it through, until Elio wanted Lamar to move in. And Lamar froze. Elio was hurt and Lamar tried to explain, but it's now up to Lamar to make it right and make Elio see, he wants to, but with his past, he just needs a little time. Hopefully, Elio will understand.
I love these two so much. They are so special. Elio is so damn quiet and shy but he's so adorable. Everything makes him blush and he has a heart of gold. He's just so sweet. And Lamar has this way of bringing him out of that shell and that's why they're perfect for each other. Because Elio helps Lamar remember his exes were douchebags and Lamar is a great guy. They boost each other. Lift each other up. They're there for each other no matter what and have formed a bond like no other. I just adore them.
This is just a perfect love story.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Elio won a cruise on the Valentine's Inc thing, so he planned to take his best friend Soren, so they could have fun. But Soren decided to get back with his ex, who's a douchebag, and so Elio had to find someone else to go. He almost didn't go, but his family and friends told him he needed to and he decided to call Lamar, whom he had a previous Valentine's Inc date with. He really had liked Lamar and wanted to call him again but he was so shy. And Lamar had a bad date this last time and things were ending with it for him. But he still thought of Elio, so he jumped on board to go with him. At first it was nervous, and for Elio, downright scared, but Lamar worked under his skin quickly and they got to start being friends. And eventually a little more. Enough of more, that neither wanted to end it when the cruise was over. But Elio was terrified to call and Lamar was taking it wrong, so it took a kick in the pants from their best friends for them to get it together. And once they did, there was no turning back. Through some really rough moments, they stuck together and made it through, until Elio wanted Lamar to move in. And Lamar froze. Elio was hurt and Lamar tried to explain, but it's now up to Lamar to make it right and make Elio see, he wants to, but with his past, he just needs a little time. Hopefully, Elio will understand.
I love these two so much. They are so special. Elio is so damn quiet and shy but he's so adorable. Everything makes him blush and he has a heart of gold. He's just so sweet. And Lamar has this way of bringing him out of that shell and that's why they're perfect for each other. Because Elio helps Lamar remember his exes were douchebags and Lamar is a great guy. They boost each other. Lift each other up. They're there for each other no matter what and have formed a bond like no other. I just adore them.
This is just a perfect love story.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
March 21, 2021
This was so sweet. There was no relationship angst, which was lovely, and I loved watching the guys navigate building a relationship. Elio was a shy guy with low confidence; Lamar was more outgoing. They were a great match, and I loved seeing Elio blush. :-) He was so adorable. I haven’t read Dakota and Poe’s story yet, but I really want to now.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
August 30, 2019
sooo adorable and cute... sweet and fluffy and interesting. sexy and fun.. it was just all around an entertaining read and i enjoyed it a lot.
June 5, 2024
old post reposted
Okay, yes, another deviation from my TBR piles, but in all fairness, this series (Cruises) is linked to the Valentine's Inc series (a lot of the same authors were invited to contribute, the whole cupid company idea is the same, and a lot of the side characters in the original series are now main characters in this one) and each book has a cute ship-themed title. The fifth book in this series is titled "Luck Of The Ship," and it's by Michele Norato.
["Elio
When I get a call about winning a cruise, at first I think it’s a scam, but when they start sending me the info—and the tickets—I realize it’s the real deal. My best friend was supposed to go with me, but when he dropped out at the last minute, I don’t want to go alone. Somehow he convinces me to call Lamar, the guy I went on one date with a few months ago and haven’t been able to get out of my head. Lamar agrees to go, and now I’m panicking because the most gorgeous man I’ve ever seen is going with me… Me, the nerdy, dorky guy that’s so nervous I can hardly speak when I’m around him.
Lamar
I’ve been working for Valentine’s Inc. for a while now, so I’ve been on a ton of dates. So many men, I usually forget them after a few days, and none that I want to date for real. But then there’s Elio. It’s been months, and the sweet, shy guy never called me, but I still find myself thinking about him. And then he contacts me, asking me to go on a cruise, and I jump at the opportunity. For one thing, I’ve never been able to travel, so I want the experience; for another, it’s Elio. I’ve been drawn to him since we met, and now I’ll have a whole week where he won’t be able to run from me again.
Maybe with a little luck, Elio and Lamar will find the one thing they didn’t know they needed: love."]
This book was soooooo good!! It was sweet and supportive. It was having fun and making friends.
It felt much longer than a novella, because there was a ton of storyline that happened after the cruise ended. But it all just strengthened the bond they made.
#luckoftheship #michelenorato
#shipwork #shippingorders #shiphappens #battleship #shippingthecaptain #abandoningship #shippingourloves #shipoff #upshipcreek #cruises #cruisesinc #valentinesinccruises #valentinesinccruisesseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
Okay, yes, another deviation from my TBR piles, but in all fairness, this series (Cruises) is linked to the Valentine's Inc series (a lot of the same authors were invited to contribute, the whole cupid company idea is the same, and a lot of the side characters in the original series are now main characters in this one) and each book has a cute ship-themed title. The fifth book in this series is titled "Luck Of The Ship," and it's by Michele Norato.
["Elio
When I get a call about winning a cruise, at first I think it’s a scam, but when they start sending me the info—and the tickets—I realize it’s the real deal. My best friend was supposed to go with me, but when he dropped out at the last minute, I don’t want to go alone. Somehow he convinces me to call Lamar, the guy I went on one date with a few months ago and haven’t been able to get out of my head. Lamar agrees to go, and now I’m panicking because the most gorgeous man I’ve ever seen is going with me… Me, the nerdy, dorky guy that’s so nervous I can hardly speak when I’m around him.
Lamar
I’ve been working for Valentine’s Inc. for a while now, so I’ve been on a ton of dates. So many men, I usually forget them after a few days, and none that I want to date for real. But then there’s Elio. It’s been months, and the sweet, shy guy never called me, but I still find myself thinking about him. And then he contacts me, asking me to go on a cruise, and I jump at the opportunity. For one thing, I’ve never been able to travel, so I want the experience; for another, it’s Elio. I’ve been drawn to him since we met, and now I’ll have a whole week where he won’t be able to run from me again.
Maybe with a little luck, Elio and Lamar will find the one thing they didn’t know they needed: love."]
This book was soooooo good!! It was sweet and supportive. It was having fun and making friends.
It felt much longer than a novella, because there was a ton of storyline that happened after the cruise ended. But it all just strengthened the bond they made.
#luckoftheship #michelenorato
#shipwork #shippingorders #shiphappens #battleship #shippingthecaptain #abandoningship #shippingourloves #shipoff #upshipcreek #cruises #cruisesinc #valentinesinccruises #valentinesinccruisesseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
January 14, 2022
This worked very well for me except for one teensy tiny problem... unless their name was given or Lamar was calling Elio "sweetheart", "sweetness"... you get the picture, I had NO CLUE who "I" was... *headdesk* ;p
It was the weirdest thing... I would be reading right along and then "I would grab him behind his neck and bring him in for a kiss..." only to realize that I wasn't sure which one was kissing who. So, back I would go until I found a clue, and then I would move on. It was just one of those weird things that was consistent throughout the story.
I'm not sure how I feel about Not sure what it added to the story. I am reading this series for the fluff and humor and even though this is something that most of us have or will have to deal with sometime in our lives... it just wasn't what I wanted to read right now... :'(
Other than that, I truly enjoyed watching Lamar and Elio find their way to each other. And, of course, the cutie at the end is always an added plus!
It was the weirdest thing... I would be reading right along and then "I would grab him behind his neck and bring him in for a kiss..." only to realize that I wasn't sure which one was kissing who. So, back I would go until I found a clue, and then I would move on. It was just one of those weird things that was consistent throughout the story.
I'm not sure how I feel about Not sure what it added to the story. I am reading this series for the fluff and humor and even though this is something that most of us have or will have to deal with sometime in our lives... it just wasn't what I wanted to read right now... :'(
Other than that, I truly enjoyed watching Lamar and Elio find their way to each other. And, of course, the cutie at the end is always an added plus!
May 1, 2023
Elio has a call about winning two tickets for the Valentine’s Inc. Singles Cruise in August with all expenses paid. After making sure it is for real he tries to find someone to go with him but his best friend has to back out and so he is persuaded to call Lamar who he went on a single date months ago. And so that causes panic as he is gorgeous and Elio is so nervous he can hardly speak. Lamar wanted the sweet shy guy to call him but he never did and so was thrilled when he finally called about the cruise. Maybe with a little luck, Elio and Lamar will find the one thing they didn’t know they needed: love.
I loved this story which was a complex maelstrom of emotions at the time but through it all these two men were a strong and protective influence in their lives. I loved how Lemar cared for Elio over an allergic reaction and the death of a family member. I loved the ending where they were together and working towards their HEA with all that it entails. Easy to read, feel and understand I loved this couple. This MM story contains mature content.
I loved this story which was a complex maelstrom of emotions at the time but through it all these two men were a strong and protective influence in their lives. I loved how Lemar cared for Elio over an allergic reaction and the death of a family member. I loved the ending where they were together and working towards their HEA with all that it entails. Easy to read, feel and understand I loved this couple. This MM story contains mature content.
June 7, 2020
2/5
What was this? I have no idea what happened with this book. It started out well, overly cutesy but with promise. Then around 50% things just fell off a cliff. Nothing happened. It was like the author just wanted to show things in life occurring and the awful and stilted dialogue that occurred between these two as a result. There was so little chemistry and if I had to read “sweetheart” once more I might have gauges out my eyes. Around 70% I just started to skim in case something worth the extra pages happened. Nope. Not a thing.
What was this? I have no idea what happened with this book. It started out well, overly cutesy but with promise. Then around 50% things just fell off a cliff. Nothing happened. It was like the author just wanted to show things in life occurring and the awful and stilted dialogue that occurred between these two as a result. There was so little chemistry and if I had to read “sweetheart” once more I might have gauges out my eyes. Around 70% I just started to skim in case something worth the extra pages happened. Nope. Not a thing.
September 23, 2020
A fantastic romance
Lamar and Elio are so sweet and absolutely adorable. They fit so well together. Their shyness is relatable, as well as their hesitancy to take the necessary risks. However when they do, they find it was completely worth it.
Michele Notaro has crafted a funny, sexy, and endearing love story that will stay with you.
Lamar and Elio are so sweet and absolutely adorable. They fit so well together. Their shyness is relatable, as well as their hesitancy to take the necessary risks. However when they do, they find it was completely worth it.
Michele Notaro has crafted a funny, sexy, and endearing love story that will stay with you.
March 14, 2022
2.5 Stars
I did like Luck of the Ship and I thought Elio and Lamar were wonderful characters but man, this book felt LONG. I think it would have benefited with being a lot shorter imo.
I did like Luck of the Ship and I thought Elio and Lamar were wonderful characters but man, this book felt LONG. I think it would have benefited with being a lot shorter imo.
January 27, 2023
The trope I didn’t know I needed!
So adorable! Winning a cruise and taking a stranger! Lamar and Elio are absolutely adorable together! I loved every moment of this story although I wish they would’ve covered the proposal! Absolutely worth the read!
So adorable! Winning a cruise and taking a stranger! Lamar and Elio are absolutely adorable together! I loved every moment of this story although I wish they would’ve covered the proposal! Absolutely worth the read!
June 13, 2021
It wasn't terrible but honestly pretty boring.
August 31, 2022
Not one of her best works.
August 27, 2025
did the author ever write JJ and Amari's story?
September 18, 2025
I adored this so much it was such a good story I loved every second
September 5, 2019
If you're looking for sweetness, subtle yet powerful chemistry, and soulmates look no further. There was very little relationship angst, a tragedy that was dealt with with love and concern, and an incredibly affectionate pair of men who both think they're fishing in a pond they don't belong. I really loved Elio and Lamar together. They were made of soft, cuddly love with just the right amount of passion to bring a bit of spice. The story was surprisingly long for one of these Valentine's Inc. stories and what we got was a thorough relationship evolution with depth and all the bits in between and afterward that make a story complete.
Getting a second chance with someone you felt could have been more is always a chance worth taking, especially when it's featuring two seemingly opposite men that clearly belong together. I really enjoyed the terribly shy Elio and how he blossomed under Lamar's care and attention. Lamar was accepted for everything he is and finally found a partner that could give him all the stability and affirmation he needed. Their relationship was dominated by kindness and compassion. It wasn't without steam though, in fact they were pretty combustible once they moved their relationship forward into a new level. It was super hot! As Lamar quoted, it's always the quiet ones you have to watch out for.
I was pretty shocked at the addition of the grief. The related story, Color My Kiss, was similar in that it dealt with something rather heavy and Luck of the Ship is no different. It wasn't out of place, it actually showed a completely different side to relationships and how we learn to lean on our partners when things aren't all sunshine and roses. While the story didn't take a dark turn, nor did it drag on and on, it was a subject that could have completely derailed the intent of the story; instead it added a layer of humanity and reality and fit surprisingly well in the flow of it all. It was a truncated timeline with dealing with the grief, so it wasn't entirely realistic, but I think it lasted just long enough to show that even though hearts weren't completely bared through words by that point, it was obvious that Elio and Lamar's relationship was built on a solid foundation.
Overall I found this story incredibly sweet, a little long, but immensely enjoyable. This particular couple ticked so many boxes for me with their slight opposites-attract dynamic, the shyness, the earnestness, the chemistry, and all the cheesy love I could stand. It's no wonder why I come back to these themed series again and again when so many of them produce such great stories.
Getting a second chance with someone you felt could have been more is always a chance worth taking, especially when it's featuring two seemingly opposite men that clearly belong together. I really enjoyed the terribly shy Elio and how he blossomed under Lamar's care and attention. Lamar was accepted for everything he is and finally found a partner that could give him all the stability and affirmation he needed. Their relationship was dominated by kindness and compassion. It wasn't without steam though, in fact they were pretty combustible once they moved their relationship forward into a new level. It was super hot! As Lamar quoted, it's always the quiet ones you have to watch out for.
I was pretty shocked at the addition of the grief. The related story, Color My Kiss, was similar in that it dealt with something rather heavy and Luck of the Ship is no different. It wasn't out of place, it actually showed a completely different side to relationships and how we learn to lean on our partners when things aren't all sunshine and roses. While the story didn't take a dark turn, nor did it drag on and on, it was a subject that could have completely derailed the intent of the story; instead it added a layer of humanity and reality and fit surprisingly well in the flow of it all. It was a truncated timeline with dealing with the grief, so it wasn't entirely realistic, but I think it lasted just long enough to show that even though hearts weren't completely bared through words by that point, it was obvious that Elio and Lamar's relationship was built on a solid foundation.
Overall I found this story incredibly sweet, a little long, but immensely enjoyable. This particular couple ticked so many boxes for me with their slight opposites-attract dynamic, the shyness, the earnestness, the chemistry, and all the cheesy love I could stand. It's no wonder why I come back to these themed series again and again when so many of them produce such great stories.
September 5, 2019
I'm never disappointed by any of Michele's books, she is such an author that writes characters that are so easy to connect with and want to get to know. I loved both Elio and Lamar and their story was so sweet.
Elio is this sweet, shy, awkward guy and he wins a cruise with Valentine's Inc. that he plans to go on with his friend Soren...until Soren gets back together with his loser ex-boyfriend and ditches him. When Soren suggest that Elio ask Lamar the guy he went on a date with through Valentine's Inc., go with him on the cruise Elio works up the courage to finally call and ask. I totally loved Elio, he was just so cute and so incredibly shy, he just made me want to wrap him up in this big hug. I loved getting to know him better.
Lamar works for Valentine's Inc. until a bad date has him all but ready to quit. When he went on a date through Valentine's Inc with Elio he really liked him and connected with him really well, plus there was definitely chemistry between them, so he doesn't understand why Elio never called him. So he is quite surprised when Elio calls him to ask him to go on a cruise with him. Lamar who we met in his friend Dakota's book, which was Michele's previous book in this series. I loved Lamar and he is such an amazing guy and friend and would do anything for those he considers family.
I thought Elio and Lamar were so great together and I loved watching Elio gain some self confidence and self esteem. I really hope we get Soren's story in the future because I really want to see him get his HEA and find the perfect person(s) for him. This was a wonderful addition to this series and it was a fantastic book by Michele, as always. I definitely recommend reading this!
Elio is this sweet, shy, awkward guy and he wins a cruise with Valentine's Inc. that he plans to go on with his friend Soren...until Soren gets back together with his loser ex-boyfriend and ditches him. When Soren suggest that Elio ask Lamar the guy he went on a date with through Valentine's Inc., go with him on the cruise Elio works up the courage to finally call and ask. I totally loved Elio, he was just so cute and so incredibly shy, he just made me want to wrap him up in this big hug. I loved getting to know him better.
Lamar works for Valentine's Inc. until a bad date has him all but ready to quit. When he went on a date through Valentine's Inc with Elio he really liked him and connected with him really well, plus there was definitely chemistry between them, so he doesn't understand why Elio never called him. So he is quite surprised when Elio calls him to ask him to go on a cruise with him. Lamar who we met in his friend Dakota's book, which was Michele's previous book in this series. I loved Lamar and he is such an amazing guy and friend and would do anything for those he considers family.
I thought Elio and Lamar were so great together and I loved watching Elio gain some self confidence and self esteem. I really hope we get Soren's story in the future because I really want to see him get his HEA and find the perfect person(s) for him. This was a wonderful addition to this series and it was a fantastic book by Michele, as always. I definitely recommend reading this!
September 2, 2019
Sweetness!
A very very shy, introvert Elio. A sweet, happy and confident escort Lamar who just got humiliated by one of their clients at the dating service Valentine’s Inc.
Without him knowing it, his best friend Kota entered Elio and himself into a contest to win a cruise sponsored by Valentine’s Inc. And guess who won? Right, Elio! Elio didn’t want to go but Kota made him swear that no matter what, he will go. Due to a last minute cancellation by Kota, Elio had to look for another plus one. The best friends thought of who can accompany Elio, thus Lamar came to mind. Elio and Lamar went on a date a few months ago, and they clicked.
Lamar has just been humiliated by one of his clients, more of harassed actually, verbally abused. He hasn’t been feeling good about himself because of this. When Elio called him and invited him to be his plus one in the cruise he won, at first he wasn’t too sure, but then he agreed, what could possibly go wrong, right? Elio was shy, cute and sweet!
Could these two individuals who are quite different from each other clicked it really off when in close proximity for a week? Their confidences had been destroyed a few times, can they handle more if ever? In this love story, you see two lovely characters navigate their insecurities individually and together come out of it more confident and stronger! Lovely characters, idealic and romantic setting, quirks and sweetness. Elio and Lamar are both very sweet, loving and thoughtful people, even out of their depth in relationship stuff, they try to do what is right and always in consideration of the other person. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A very very shy, introvert Elio. A sweet, happy and confident escort Lamar who just got humiliated by one of their clients at the dating service Valentine’s Inc.
Without him knowing it, his best friend Kota entered Elio and himself into a contest to win a cruise sponsored by Valentine’s Inc. And guess who won? Right, Elio! Elio didn’t want to go but Kota made him swear that no matter what, he will go. Due to a last minute cancellation by Kota, Elio had to look for another plus one. The best friends thought of who can accompany Elio, thus Lamar came to mind. Elio and Lamar went on a date a few months ago, and they clicked.
Lamar has just been humiliated by one of his clients, more of harassed actually, verbally abused. He hasn’t been feeling good about himself because of this. When Elio called him and invited him to be his plus one in the cruise he won, at first he wasn’t too sure, but then he agreed, what could possibly go wrong, right? Elio was shy, cute and sweet!
Could these two individuals who are quite different from each other clicked it really off when in close proximity for a week? Their confidences had been destroyed a few times, can they handle more if ever? In this love story, you see two lovely characters navigate their insecurities individually and together come out of it more confident and stronger! Lovely characters, idealic and romantic setting, quirks and sweetness. Elio and Lamar are both very sweet, loving and thoughtful people, even out of their depth in relationship stuff, they try to do what is right and always in consideration of the other person. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 27, 2019
"My god, he was the most beautiful man I’d ever seen. He was bigger than me, more muscular than me, fiercer than me, and yet, his eyes held a softness I just wanted to reach out and touch. They pulled me in, and I wanted them to. I wanted to be pulled in by this gorgeous, amazing man."
This is the kind of dreamy phrases and paragraphs you'll find reading Luck Of The Ship by Michele Notaro.
This is the sweetest book she has ever written. The main characters, Elio and Lamar,are the cutest and most adorable men. Elio so shy and Lamar a big softie under the self-assured exterior. Both hoping to someday find their soulmates but never really expecting to find them...definetely not when they agreed to go on a cruise together.
What should have been only a week turns into dating, slowly developing into more. There are some bumps in their road to ever after, but they keep a strong hold onto each other,their love becoming steadfast and unwavering.
I love Elio and Lamar. I wanted to snuggle up with them,smother them with kisses and hug them better when they were sad. I've been either awwww-ing over their cuteness or fanning myself all through the story,and always with a steady smile on my face.
Being happy at the end of a book is the best thing and Luck Of The Ship really gave me that. It's definitely a must read!
This is the kind of dreamy phrases and paragraphs you'll find reading Luck Of The Ship by Michele Notaro.
This is the sweetest book she has ever written. The main characters, Elio and Lamar,are the cutest and most adorable men. Elio so shy and Lamar a big softie under the self-assured exterior. Both hoping to someday find their soulmates but never really expecting to find them...definetely not when they agreed to go on a cruise together.
What should have been only a week turns into dating, slowly developing into more. There are some bumps in their road to ever after, but they keep a strong hold onto each other,their love becoming steadfast and unwavering.
I love Elio and Lamar. I wanted to snuggle up with them,smother them with kisses and hug them better when they were sad. I've been either awwww-ing over their cuteness or fanning myself all through the story,and always with a steady smile on my face.
Being happy at the end of a book is the best thing and Luck Of The Ship really gave me that. It's definitely a must read!
August 30, 2019
Oh my god, this story was so full of cuteness!! Elio is adorable and Lamar is just lush. Together, I just wanted to cuddle them both.
The story itself is full on fluff, love and hotness with some beautiful scenes between the characters but also the places that the guys visited. Elio is very she and kind of reserved but Lamar has the personality and charm to bring him out of himself, despite a couple of mishaps with allergies and over imbibing with the alcohol. Lamar is the perfect gentleman just wanting to be there to comfort Elio however he can but Elio is equally as capable, it just takes him a little time to trust in himself and Lamar. Just because there is a huge cuteness factor between these two doesn't mean that their attraction isn't off the charts and then they do have a stumble once the cruise comes to an end along with a huge event affecting Elio and his family. Yet again this is when Lamar shows his true colours and how much his feelings have grown for Elio.
Such a great read and cannot recommend enough! I am loving this second outing of Valentine's Inc and eagerly awaiting the next installment.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
The story itself is full on fluff, love and hotness with some beautiful scenes between the characters but also the places that the guys visited. Elio is very she and kind of reserved but Lamar has the personality and charm to bring him out of himself, despite a couple of mishaps with allergies and over imbibing with the alcohol. Lamar is the perfect gentleman just wanting to be there to comfort Elio however he can but Elio is equally as capable, it just takes him a little time to trust in himself and Lamar. Just because there is a huge cuteness factor between these two doesn't mean that their attraction isn't off the charts and then they do have a stumble once the cruise comes to an end along with a huge event affecting Elio and his family. Yet again this is when Lamar shows his true colours and how much his feelings have grown for Elio.
Such a great read and cannot recommend enough! I am loving this second outing of Valentine's Inc and eagerly awaiting the next installment.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
September 2, 2019
Delightfully sweet and touching story about finding yourself and love. I really enjoyed these MC's and wanted them to really see themselves and each other. Their journey to finding faith and trust in themselves an each other was tough on the heart but so rewarding. I love the supporting characters and love the positive impact that friends can bring to your life.
Elio and Lamar had a date previously that went well. but Elio had never called Lamar back because he believed that Lamar only was nice to him because that was his job with Valentine's Inc. Lamar is at a perfect place for a change in his life and Elio may just be offering the perfect vacation.
This story is so much about trusting yourself and believing in yourself enough to extend yourself and ask for what you want. Both men want more with the other and they find their way to that option through growth and the help of friends.
This is part of the Valentine's Inc series and can be read as a stand-alone.
I was gifted this book from the LesCourt Author Services and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
Elio and Lamar had a date previously that went well. but Elio had never called Lamar back because he believed that Lamar only was nice to him because that was his job with Valentine's Inc. Lamar is at a perfect place for a change in his life and Elio may just be offering the perfect vacation.
This story is so much about trusting yourself and believing in yourself enough to extend yourself and ask for what you want. Both men want more with the other and they find their way to that option through growth and the help of friends.
This is part of the Valentine's Inc series and can be read as a stand-alone.
I was gifted this book from the LesCourt Author Services and i freely give my honest opinion and review.
January 23, 2020
3,5*
PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!
To my ratings:
A 3,5* is clicked with a 4* but in review marked as 3,5*:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-Away-book like ‘Jesse's Smile’ or ‘Joey’ from Angelique Jurd, ‘Save the the kids’ series
from EM Leya, ‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or ‘Liberty’ from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books and Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader (2-3 times a year),
it's like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (I wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok)
It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolute NO-GO). It's like failure in the
whole line, dismissed, repeat the class
PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!
To my ratings:
A 3,5* is clicked with a 4* but in review marked as 3,5*:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-Away-book like ‘Jesse's Smile’ or ‘Joey’ from Angelique Jurd, ‘Save the the kids’ series
from EM Leya, ‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or ‘Liberty’ from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books and Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader (2-3 times a year),
it's like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (I wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok)
It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolute NO-GO). It's like failure in the
whole line, dismissed, repeat the class
August 27, 2019
Michele Notaro's Luck of The Ship is a cute addition to the multi author Valentine's Inc Cruises series
Lamar's an escort for Valentine's Inc who's hoping to stop working for them soon. When Elio needs a friend to go on the cruise with him, he asks his former escort, Lamar. Elio's rambling is hysterical. If that doesn't win your heart, I don't know what will. The poor man is lacking self-confidence, but he's just so damn adorable.
This is a story of two men who felt a connection in the past, and with a cruise, they're able to get to know each other better. Elio and Lamar are definitely a cute couple. And they're definitely super hot together.
Their story includes some loss and grief, which is very emotional, and a large group of friends and family.
Luck of The Ship is a fun read. If you enjoy fluffy, light-hearted romances, don't miss out on this one. Cute is definitely the word for this book.
Lamar's an escort for Valentine's Inc who's hoping to stop working for them soon. When Elio needs a friend to go on the cruise with him, he asks his former escort, Lamar. Elio's rambling is hysterical. If that doesn't win your heart, I don't know what will. The poor man is lacking self-confidence, but he's just so damn adorable.
This is a story of two men who felt a connection in the past, and with a cruise, they're able to get to know each other better. Elio and Lamar are definitely a cute couple. And they're definitely super hot together.
Their story includes some loss and grief, which is very emotional, and a large group of friends and family.
Luck of The Ship is a fun read. If you enjoy fluffy, light-hearted romances, don't miss out on this one. Cute is definitely the word for this book.
August 31, 2019
If you are looking for a super cute, sweet book with a beautiful romance then look no further.
I really enjoyed this story, two guys who were unsure of themselves or the feelings of the other get their HEA.
Elio and Lamar have been on one date 6 months ago but it wasn’t really a date, Elio booked Lamar through a dating site Valentines Inc. This dating site brings these boys back together when Elio wins a cruise and circumstances unfold that means he shares his trip with Lamar.
I enjoyed Elio and Lamar getting to know each other on the cruise but even more so when they got home and had to settle back into their real lives. Lamar is the sweetest guy he really wears his heart on his sleeve and wasn’t shy about showing affection. Poor Elio is really shy and unsure of himself, it takes a lot to put himself out there with Lamar.
I loved the epilogue and I really hope get to check in with these guys again.
I really enjoyed this story, two guys who were unsure of themselves or the feelings of the other get their HEA.
Elio and Lamar have been on one date 6 months ago but it wasn’t really a date, Elio booked Lamar through a dating site Valentines Inc. This dating site brings these boys back together when Elio wins a cruise and circumstances unfold that means he shares his trip with Lamar.
I enjoyed Elio and Lamar getting to know each other on the cruise but even more so when they got home and had to settle back into their real lives. Lamar is the sweetest guy he really wears his heart on his sleeve and wasn’t shy about showing affection. Poor Elio is really shy and unsure of himself, it takes a lot to put himself out there with Lamar.
I loved the epilogue and I really hope get to check in with these guys again.
September 3, 2019
This is a sweet story with lots of emotion tugging moments. Only the first half occurs on the cruise ship. The rest is “real life.”
Eliot is a shy, introvert with self-confidence issues. Lamar is more self-confident but has issues of his own that make him hesitant. The author does a really nice job of navigating through the issues and building the relationship. There are obstacles thrown in their path but love and patience and understanding and kindness rule the day. It’s really a sweet message of love and family and friendship.
There are some secondary characters who appear to be there in order to set the stage for future books as otherwise their presence makes no sense. Two characters have a book already and I will defying o back and read that.
This was a quick read with a feel good ending which sends a great message about working through adversity.
*I voluntarily read an ARC and this is an objective review.*
Eliot is a shy, introvert with self-confidence issues. Lamar is more self-confident but has issues of his own that make him hesitant. The author does a really nice job of navigating through the issues and building the relationship. There are obstacles thrown in their path but love and patience and understanding and kindness rule the day. It’s really a sweet message of love and family and friendship.
There are some secondary characters who appear to be there in order to set the stage for future books as otherwise their presence makes no sense. Two characters have a book already and I will defying o back and read that.
This was a quick read with a feel good ending which sends a great message about working through adversity.
*I voluntarily read an ARC and this is an objective review.*
August 28, 2019
Fantastic
A fantastic fifth book in this gorgeous series. I absolutely loved both main characters - sweet and shy Elio and fabulous but worried-he-is-too-much Lamar (bff of Dakota from the first Valentines Inc series, book:Color my kiss, so if you’ve read that you will know what to expect from Lamar).
I loved how the forced-proximity part of the book on board ship gave way to the real-world continuation of the story, meeting families and friends, etc. Authors who can manage to have great MCs and also fully-formed additional characters are my favourite people, and this book really has a great wider-family-Group feel.
Tissues required closer to the end, and if you’re like me you’ll yell at both Lamar and Elio at some point. Michele Notaro clearly has a knack for making readers emotionally invested.
Recommend for anyone, will read again.
A fantastic fifth book in this gorgeous series. I absolutely loved both main characters - sweet and shy Elio and fabulous but worried-he-is-too-much Lamar (bff of Dakota from the first Valentines Inc series, book:Color my kiss, so if you’ve read that you will know what to expect from Lamar).
I loved how the forced-proximity part of the book on board ship gave way to the real-world continuation of the story, meeting families and friends, etc. Authors who can manage to have great MCs and also fully-formed additional characters are my favourite people, and this book really has a great wider-family-Group feel.
Tissues required closer to the end, and if you’re like me you’ll yell at both Lamar and Elio at some point. Michele Notaro clearly has a knack for making readers emotionally invested.
Recommend for anyone, will read again.
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