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It's Raining Men
Screw Flirting
Sometimes you just have to chuck the bro-code.
Brooke, a.ka. “Bug,” Stewert is practically invisible. With her short hair and baggy overalls, everyone thinks of her as just one of the guys. She keeps to herself, spends most of her time fixing up her sailboat and planning her escape from her bizarro hometown, Spring, FL - where the men outnumber the women by like ten to one. Honestly, in a town overrun with hard up dudes, being different and unapproachable would suit Bug just fine, if it weren’t for her unrelenting crush on her brother’s best friend.
Jackson Winters is following in his father’s footsteps. He’s gonna be an accountant. Sadly, he doesn’t even like math. Secretly he wants to be a writer - and not the practical kind. Jackson wants to write fiction but he’s basically never told anyone that - except Bug. She’s the only one he talks to. God, he thinks about her all the time. But she’s his best friend’s little sister.
You can’t want your best friend’s little sister, right?
This small town is paradise. Beautiful beaches, year-round warm weather and friendly neighbors. There’s only one thing missing—single ladies. It’s Raining Men in Spring, Florida and the lonely residents are hungry to find their soulmates. During the month of April, some of your favorite instalove authors are bringing you stories set in this fictional town where the men significantly outnumber the ladies. Come meet us in Spring to find your next book boyfriend.
Brooke, a.ka. “Bug,” Stewert is practically invisible. With her short hair and baggy overalls, everyone thinks of her as just one of the guys. She keeps to herself, spends most of her time fixing up her sailboat and planning her escape from her bizarro hometown, Spring, FL - where the men outnumber the women by like ten to one. Honestly, in a town overrun with hard up dudes, being different and unapproachable would suit Bug just fine, if it weren’t for her unrelenting crush on her brother’s best friend.
Jackson Winters is following in his father’s footsteps. He’s gonna be an accountant. Sadly, he doesn’t even like math. Secretly he wants to be a writer - and not the practical kind. Jackson wants to write fiction but he’s basically never told anyone that - except Bug. She’s the only one he talks to. God, he thinks about her all the time. But she’s his best friend’s little sister.
You can’t want your best friend’s little sister, right?
This small town is paradise. Beautiful beaches, year-round warm weather and friendly neighbors. There’s only one thing missing—single ladies. It’s Raining Men in Spring, Florida and the lonely residents are hungry to find their soulmates. During the month of April, some of your favorite instalove authors are bringing you stories set in this fictional town where the men significantly outnumber the ladies. Come meet us in Spring to find your next book boyfriend.
70 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2021
89 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
About the author
Lola West
22 books379 followersLola's Website
Lola's Instagram
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Lola West is the queen of sweet, smart, silly, sexy romance! She has a PhD in women's studies and a flair for the dramatic. She likes cotton candy, astronomy, kitten heels
and small town hunks.
Lola is a pen name.
The minds behind Lola are just like you - everyday people living regular lives, happy to day dream about sexy men and the sassy women they love.
LONG LIVE THE BOOK BOYFRIEND!
Lola's Instagram
Lola's Facebook
Lola's Bookbub
Lola's Amazon Author Page
Lola West is the queen of sweet, smart, silly, sexy romance! She has a PhD in women's studies and a flair for the dramatic. She likes cotton candy, astronomy, kitten heels
and small town hunks.
Lola is a pen name.
The minds behind Lola are just like you - everyday people living regular lives, happy to day dream about sexy men and the sassy women they love.
LONG LIVE THE BOOK BOYFRIEND!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 11, 2021
This cute, fast-paced, childhood sweetheart romance will leave you excited for this couples future. Bug and Jack have been in love for years. Only problem is they’re both too scared to act on it.
I loved how their coming together played out. A little forced proximity turned into a steamy romp with barriers dropped and emotions shared. Sadly miscommunications and insecurities lead to a disastrous morning after. Fast forward and I was so happy they were forced back together again. In true isolation there was no way Jack and Bug would be able to ignore each other.
When I hit about 80% into this book the emotions got high I found myself tearing up. We’re at a HFN but pretty sure it’s a HEA. For how much these two love each other completely I can’t see it going any other way.
Don’t forget to snag the bonus epilogue. You won’t want to miss the glimpse ahead and learning how these two are surviving post graduation.
Bugs brother Ryan has his own book with a cute HEA, you can read Reckless Boy anytime for free with KU.
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
Instagram | Facebook | Bookbub
I loved how their coming together played out. A little forced proximity turned into a steamy romp with barriers dropped and emotions shared. Sadly miscommunications and insecurities lead to a disastrous morning after. Fast forward and I was so happy they were forced back together again. In true isolation there was no way Jack and Bug would be able to ignore each other.
When I hit about 80% into this book the emotions got high I found myself tearing up. We’re at a HFN but pretty sure it’s a HEA. For how much these two love each other completely I can’t see it going any other way.
Don’t forget to snag the bonus epilogue. You won’t want to miss the glimpse ahead and learning how these two are surviving post graduation.
Bugs brother Ryan has his own book with a cute HEA, you can read Reckless Boy anytime for free with KU.
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
Instagram | Facebook | Bookbub
April 30, 2021
I love friends to lovers romance and Brooke and Jackson were so much fun. This couple has known each other their whole lives and may have been crushing on each other since they were young teens, but never acted on it. Now as they are each on the cusp of young adulthood and choices, it seems like a chance that needs to be taken but will it ruin the friendship or be so much more than with expected?! This couple is sweet, romantic, funny, cute and so right for each other now let's hope that they can figure it out and make it work!!! This is a fast paces friends to lovers romance that will have you rooting for this couple all the way!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
~~Michele McMullen ~~
May 2, 2021
Screw Flirting was a short, fast paced, entertaining novella that had me hooked until the end. This story contains friends to lovers, best friends little sister and small town romance all into one quick read and I was hooked from beginning to end. The story was sweet, steamy and a little bit angsty and I loved how perfect Brooke and Jackson were for each other. The author made you falling love with these characters and you will be rooting for them throughout the story. The secondary character Ryan was also a great addition to the story and I can't wait to get his book. This was a well written novella, and I would highly recommend it to lovers of small town romances.
Quote:
“When the woman you love climbs you like a mad cat racing up a tree, the only thing you should do is be thankful you’re the tree she chose to climb.”
Quote:
“When the woman you love climbs you like a mad cat racing up a tree, the only thing you should do is be thankful you’re the tree she chose to climb.”
April 27, 2021
This was a sweet and spicy novella for the “It’s Raining Men” series.
Jack and Brooke, aka Bug, have known each other their whole lives. Jack is best friends with Bug’s brother, Ryan. One night leads to another but abruptly ends the next morning.
These two were ridiculously sweet and stubborn and I loved both of them so much. Both characters had relatable qualities and that’s what I love about Lola West’s writing. You can always find a character to love and relate with.
I always look forward to her stories and can’t wait for the next one.
Jack and Brooke, aka Bug, have known each other their whole lives. Jack is best friends with Bug’s brother, Ryan. One night leads to another but abruptly ends the next morning.
These two were ridiculously sweet and stubborn and I loved both of them so much. Both characters had relatable qualities and that’s what I love about Lola West’s writing. You can always find a character to love and relate with.
I always look forward to her stories and can’t wait for the next one.
April 27, 2021
You know how sometimes you just want a quick read that will leave you smiling? Well, author Lola West has just the thing to fill that need.
"Screw Flirting" is a brother’s best friend/friends-to-lovers story. It was a fast, easy read so well-written it managed to still deliver wonderfully multidimensional characters. The story about childhood friends who find themselves feeling much more than friendship for one another is sweet, then steamy, angsty then so satisfying. ‘Bug’ is a girl who knows her own mind. Her only real area of vulnerability centers around her feelings for Jackson. He is a kind, thoughtful person, conflicted about his path in life after high school graduation because his parents have goals for him that don’t fit with what he wants for himself. The one thing he knows sure is that Bug is the love of his life.
I don’t want to write much about the plot because you should discover that for yourself. I do want to say that I thought the family members were awesome and behaved in ways that I didn’t expect. The lead characters are young so we are left with a great HFN, but the connection between them is so strong, you just know it’s going to become an HEA when the time is right.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy.
"Screw Flirting" is a brother’s best friend/friends-to-lovers story. It was a fast, easy read so well-written it managed to still deliver wonderfully multidimensional characters. The story about childhood friends who find themselves feeling much more than friendship for one another is sweet, then steamy, angsty then so satisfying. ‘Bug’ is a girl who knows her own mind. Her only real area of vulnerability centers around her feelings for Jackson. He is a kind, thoughtful person, conflicted about his path in life after high school graduation because his parents have goals for him that don’t fit with what he wants for himself. The one thing he knows sure is that Bug is the love of his life.
I don’t want to write much about the plot because you should discover that for yourself. I do want to say that I thought the family members were awesome and behaved in ways that I didn’t expect. The lead characters are young so we are left with a great HFN, but the connection between them is so strong, you just know it’s going to become an HEA when the time is right.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy.
January 17, 2022
The couple: Jackson and Brooke (Bug)
Romance genre: friends to lovers; brother's best friend
Series: It's Raining Men
Length: 70 pages
Plot: Jackson and Brooke (AKA Bug) have been friends since elementary school. Jackson is also best friends with Bug's brother. But each of them has had a secret crush on the other for a long time. One night it all comes to a head when they spend the night together and take each other's virginity. But the next morning Bug overhears Jackson laughing about her, so she thinks, and that sets off a separation that eats away at them both. How will they resolve this miscommunication?
Commentary: This was actually a more involved story than I was expecting (not in a bad way). Usually, with novellas like this, there isn't much room for plot development, but there was in this book. I didn't really find the heroine appealing, but Jackson did, and that's what counts. I liked that his parents caved in the end and allowed Jackson to follow his dreams (namely, Bug). Entertaining story! 3.5 stars.
Previous book in the series: Puppy Love
Romance genre: friends to lovers; brother's best friend
Series: It's Raining Men
Length: 70 pages
Plot: Jackson and Brooke (AKA Bug) have been friends since elementary school. Jackson is also best friends with Bug's brother. But each of them has had a secret crush on the other for a long time. One night it all comes to a head when they spend the night together and take each other's virginity. But the next morning Bug overhears Jackson laughing about her, so she thinks, and that sets off a separation that eats away at them both. How will they resolve this miscommunication?
Commentary: This was actually a more involved story than I was expecting (not in a bad way). Usually, with novellas like this, there isn't much room for plot development, but there was in this book. I didn't really find the heroine appealing, but Jackson did, and that's what counts. I liked that his parents caved in the end and allowed Jackson to follow his dreams (namely, Bug). Entertaining story! 3.5 stars.
Previous book in the series: Puppy Love
May 1, 2021
This book is so much fun. It’s also sweet and steamy with characters I could read about all day! Bug and Jack have known each other forever and both have secret feelings for each other. I loved how Lola describes Jack’s feelings. He’s so serious but also so romantic. A misunderstanding costs them a year but things chance after graduation. I loved her brother Ryan. He adds an extra element to the story that I loved. I don’t want to give away anything important to the story but the ending with Ryan was the BEST!!! He brings so much fun to this already terrific story. I would love a book with her brother as the main character too! I definitely recommend reading this book as well as anything else by Lola. I have read most of her books and they never disappoint!
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 16, 2021
Published: April 30, 2021
Lola West
I received a copy of this book for free. I leave my review voluntarily.
Lola West writes short, sweet, intelligent, silly, sexy romance. With a Ph.D. in women's studies and a flair for the dramatic, Lola likes to keep it real. Her loves are cotton candy, astronomy, kitten heels, and small-town hunks. Lola’s heroes make you swoon and her heroines that talk back. Also, she believes that consent is always sexy, even in books.
“When the woman you love climbs you like a mad cat racing up a tree, the only thing you should do is be thankful you’re the tree she chose to climb.”
Bug has loved Jack for as long as she can remember. The only problem, he is her brother's best friend, and she is pretty sure he sees her as one of the guys. Another problem, there is nothing but guys in Spring. So to help protect herself, Bug became one of the guys. When a night of partying ends up with Jack and Bug making some move- Bug realizes that Jack sees her. Until the following day, when everything comes crashing down.
I loved the characters in this book! Despite being a secondary character, Ryan is my absolute favorite. He is such a good friend and an incredible brother. He is funny and intelligent and stubborn to boot. Bug is a total badass and a classic Lola female character.
Something to truly admire about how Lola writes her characters is that they are imperfectly perfect. They are so real, so raw, and their internal dialogue is something easy to imagine. Her female characters are strong and smart, sassy and bold. And her male characters are on the right side of history- respectful, sexy, fun, vulnerable, and they all find consent sexy.
I loved this novella; from start to finish, this is a super sweet, super hot summer romance. I enjoyed the setting, and I loved that each character had such a fully developed, well-rounded aspect to them.
If you are looking for something super quick, incredible steamy, and sugary sweet- climb aboard cause Screw Flirting is about to embark on a journey.
Lola West
I received a copy of this book for free. I leave my review voluntarily.
Lola West writes short, sweet, intelligent, silly, sexy romance. With a Ph.D. in women's studies and a flair for the dramatic, Lola likes to keep it real. Her loves are cotton candy, astronomy, kitten heels, and small-town hunks. Lola’s heroes make you swoon and her heroines that talk back. Also, she believes that consent is always sexy, even in books.
“When the woman you love climbs you like a mad cat racing up a tree, the only thing you should do is be thankful you’re the tree she chose to climb.”
Bug has loved Jack for as long as she can remember. The only problem, he is her brother's best friend, and she is pretty sure he sees her as one of the guys. Another problem, there is nothing but guys in Spring. So to help protect herself, Bug became one of the guys. When a night of partying ends up with Jack and Bug making some move- Bug realizes that Jack sees her. Until the following day, when everything comes crashing down.
I loved the characters in this book! Despite being a secondary character, Ryan is my absolute favorite. He is such a good friend and an incredible brother. He is funny and intelligent and stubborn to boot. Bug is a total badass and a classic Lola female character.
Something to truly admire about how Lola writes her characters is that they are imperfectly perfect. They are so real, so raw, and their internal dialogue is something easy to imagine. Her female characters are strong and smart, sassy and bold. And her male characters are on the right side of history- respectful, sexy, fun, vulnerable, and they all find consent sexy.
I loved this novella; from start to finish, this is a super sweet, super hot summer romance. I enjoyed the setting, and I loved that each character had such a fully developed, well-rounded aspect to them.
If you are looking for something super quick, incredible steamy, and sugary sweet- climb aboard cause Screw Flirting is about to embark on a journey.
April 25, 2021
Love these 2 characters! Perfect short Lola book. I love Lola's stong female characters and Bug makes you want to be that confident bad-ass pirate sailor. Anyone got a boat?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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April 29, 2021
A cute little friends to lovers story. 3½ stars
April 21, 2021
Jack and Bug are the absolute sweetest. I loved their love story. There is nothing like small town friends turned lovers. Throw in brother’s best friend, and it’s absolutely awesome. I highly recommend this book.
April 18, 2021
Lola has continued to amaze us with her friends to lovers romance! I’m hoping this is just the beginning of Jack and Bug because I NEED to know more! Absolutely lovely! And now excuse me while I start booking my next adventure to the Bahamas ☺️
April 15, 2021
This is a great short love story, I couldnt put it down. Jack and Bug have stolen my heart completely, Garenteed to give you the feels.and warm fuzzies. Lola you rock!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 28, 2021
This is a quick, fun story about two young adults determined to follow their dreams and let their feelings be known. Bug and Jackson have been holding back their feelings for each other. Finally, they give into those feelings but don’t want anyone to know...”Bug” is afraid her brother will be mad that she likes his friend! Jackson has been in love with Brooke (bug) as long as he can remember. He is willing to keep their relationship a secret along with another secret he is keeping.
As they sneak away and begin spending time together, they share their dreams for the future. Young love!
I requested an arc and I’m leaving my honest review.
As they sneak away and begin spending time together, they share their dreams for the future. Young love!
I requested an arc and I’m leaving my honest review.
April 17, 2021
Once again Ms West has introduced me to characters I instantly fell in love with and wanted the absolute best for. I couldn't put this down and it made me so darn happy from beginning to end. If you want a short, fun story full of happiness and warm and fuzzies, then pick this up and while your at it pick up everything else this author has put out. You won't regret it. I volunteered to read and review an early copy of this. All opinions are my own.
May 1, 2021
** I received an ARC of Screw Flirting by Lola West in exchange for an honest review
Brooke "Bug" Stewart has been in love with Jackson Winters since he moved in across the street when she was 6 years old. Jackson became best friends with her older brother (by a year), Ryan instantly.
Jack has also been in love with Bug since the day he met her. As the three grew up together though, both Brooke and Jackson were too scared and worried to act on their desires for one another. The main reason? Her brother, Ryan. Neither one of them wants to ruin their relationship with the brother.
This story starts off just before Brooke and Jackson's final year of high school. They hook up that summer, only to have a misunderstanding tear them apart. Then the story picks up again just after they've graduated high school. With Ryan scheming to help the two love birds get together.
This was a sweet and lovely short story. I loved every moment of this read. It made me smile, giggle and swoon.
Lola West is one of my favourite authors to read, especially when I want a short palate cleanser after a longer or difficult read. 😍🥰
Brooke "Bug" Stewart has been in love with Jackson Winters since he moved in across the street when she was 6 years old. Jackson became best friends with her older brother (by a year), Ryan instantly.
Jack has also been in love with Bug since the day he met her. As the three grew up together though, both Brooke and Jackson were too scared and worried to act on their desires for one another. The main reason? Her brother, Ryan. Neither one of them wants to ruin their relationship with the brother.
This story starts off just before Brooke and Jackson's final year of high school. They hook up that summer, only to have a misunderstanding tear them apart. Then the story picks up again just after they've graduated high school. With Ryan scheming to help the two love birds get together.
This was a sweet and lovely short story. I loved every moment of this read. It made me smile, giggle and swoon.
Lola West is one of my favourite authors to read, especially when I want a short palate cleanser after a longer or difficult read. 😍🥰
May 2, 2021
Sweet brothers best friend romance
This is a sweet brothers best friend romance. Brooke, AKA Bug and Jack have been friends since they were kids. Somewhere along the way they fell in love with each other. But with a weird environment of males outnumbering females and Jack being Bugs brothers best friend, there was no reason for Bug to act on her feelings.
This is a quickish read, set in high school, that is sweet and low drama.
This is a sweet brothers best friend romance. Brooke, AKA Bug and Jack have been friends since they were kids. Somewhere along the way they fell in love with each other. But with a weird environment of males outnumbering females and Jack being Bugs brothers best friend, there was no reason for Bug to act on her feelings.
This is a quickish read, set in high school, that is sweet and low drama.
April 30, 2021
Bug and Jackson have been friends forever and finally their unrequited love turns to more before it explodes again. The story is sweet and I loved how Bug knew what she wanted to do after finishing school and worked towards it. The story moves quickly and is short but still gives us the sweet and steam we need.
May 1, 2021
Loved
Loved Bug and Jack's story. They've loved each other since they were kids, but afraid of telling anyone. With him being her brother's best friend and all only bad things can happen, right? Such a sweet story. I loved all of the relationships between Bug, Jack and Ryan.
Loved Bug and Jack's story. They've loved each other since they were kids, but afraid of telling anyone. With him being her brother's best friend and all only bad things can happen, right? Such a sweet story. I loved all of the relationships between Bug, Jack and Ryan.
May 1, 2021
WOW! So Good!
Well written story and well developed characters! I couldn't put this book down and read it in just a few hours! Loved it!
Well written story and well developed characters! I couldn't put this book down and read it in just a few hours! Loved it!
May 1, 2021
Awesome read!
Great book and an awesome read. Highly recommend. Great addition to the It's Raining Men Collection. Could not put it down.
Great book and an awesome read. Highly recommend. Great addition to the It's Raining Men Collection. Could not put it down.
May 1, 2021
I received an ARC and I'm freely reviewing.
This is a quick read, the only reason it took me so long was because I had relatives over for a visit. Other than that, I'm almost positive this would have done in a day. Jack and Bug have known each other since they were little, the characters are young (18) when they both realize they have feelings for the other. This isn't drawn out and goes fairly quick. I wish I knew Bug's real name other than that, this is a cute read that won't disappoint
This is a quick read, the only reason it took me so long was because I had relatives over for a visit. Other than that, I'm almost positive this would have done in a day. Jack and Bug have known each other since they were little, the characters are young (18) when they both realize they have feelings for the other. This isn't drawn out and goes fairly quick. I wish I knew Bug's real name other than that, this is a cute read that won't disappoint
April 18, 2021
Screw Flirting was a sweet coming of age, brother’s best friend/friend to lovers story. It was a quick and easy read that didn’t skimp on the characters, the storyline, or the super steamy smexy times. I just loved Bug. She is a girl who knows what she wants and who she wants, and is not afraid to go after it when the opportunity presents itself. Jackson is awesome! Sweet and thoughtful, but definitely not as clear with what he wants out of life - except that Bug is his person. It is a perfect, lighthearted and sweet read for any afternoon.
August 8, 2023
WOW!! I absolutely love this book!! I couldn't put this one down. This was a nice quick, short read.
Jackson/Jack and Brooke/Bug met when he was seven and she was six. He moved in across the street from them and she stood in her front yard watching. Jack came over and introduced himself to Bug, later to her brother Ryan Reckless Boy and those to soon would be inseparable. When Bug met Jack she knew she would follow him to the ends of the earth. She would try to get Jack's attention being only one of a handful of girls in Springs Florida. Most of the time Jack knew her move before she did and planned ahead. A year before they were set to graduate, Ryan is going off to college, so he's out celebrating. When they need to help him back to his cabin, on Pirate Island he throws up all over them. So they head inside to take a shower. Bug tells Jack to come in with her so neither one has to stand his Ryan's vomit. Jack doesn't thinks it's a good idea but the sooner he can get the smell off him the better. Jack's is in love with his best friends sister, Bug, but what he doesn't know is she is in love with him. Jack pushes up against Bug and she tells him she needs him to kiss her. There kiss was hard, forceful and soon he realizes she wants this also. Bug tells Jack she wants him to take her upstairs and make her come in every way he can imagine. Jack picks her up and starts to carry her upstair, but she tells him he can't carry her all the way, so he puts her down. They don't have sex, Jack tells Bug he's not going to take her virginity. They pleasures each other, they fall asleep in each others arms. When Bug wakes the next morning Jack is gone, she knows he's out for a swim around the island. When she hears someone call his name she overhears Jack talking to someone else, they laugh at there expense and now she can't forgive him. A year later, Jack and Bug are all ready to graduate. Bug hasn't really spoken to Jack over the past year and he's not sure why. The only time Bug ever came around Jack was when her brother Ryan was in town. Now Ryan has planned a surprise graduation party for Jack and Bug. Ryan has their costumes all ready for them, everything is all planned out. So he tells them to met each other so they can head over to Pirate Island together. When the boat starts to sputter, they run out of gas and get stuck half way to the island. Jack can't believe Bug let the boat run out of gas. She finds out he doesn't like to go on a boat with anyone but her. She asks him if he like boats and he tells her not without her. They head down below and rummage through the cupboard and find food. Bug grabs the four beers in the fridge and head up, while Jack takes his time picking out snacks for him and her. Jack finds Bug sitting on the bow, he know he needs to clear the air between the two of them. So Jack tells Bug he liked making her come, he thinks about her all the time. Jack tells her he doesn't like when she won't talk to him, he misses her and even though what happened between them was a mistake for her, he will put what happened behind them. He tells her he wants to be with her ever night since, but if she doesn't want him, he'll find a way to hide his feeling, they can't go on like this. Bug questions him that he's wanted to be with her. He tells her always he'll always want to be with her. Bug is on Jack even before he know what hit him, her lips attacking his. They undress one another, and they decide it's time to take one another virginity. After they clear up their year long misunderstanding, they head down below. Bug asks Jack what are they going to do about Ryan, about their parents finding out. He tells her it doesn't matter because he needs her. She tells him that's he can only have her a little while he's off to college soon, and she's headed off to sail. He'll soon be surrounded by other girls who'll flirt with him. He tells her he won't flirt back, she tells him she can't asks him to do that. He tells her to Screw Flirting. Soon they fall asleep in each other's arms to be woken the next morning by her brother, Ryan. Bug shakes Jack away, they are both still naked and Ryan is coming on board. Jack wants Ryan to find out about them but Bug tells him they need to talk and she tells him to wait. Jack asks her what difference it'll make if he finds out now or later. They decide to head back to Spring, Florida, but Jack was to tired to go out for breakfast so he goes home. When Bug and Ryan arrive at the restaurant he tells his sister he drained the gas tank. Ryan tells her everyone's not a idiot, Bug and Jack have been into each other for years. Ryan tells her something went wrong last summer and he thought marooning them would help fix it. Bug tells him she was afraid to tell people about them. Ryan tells her everyone knows, the guys don't stay away because she his sister or she wears baggie overalls, they stay away because she belongs to Jack and he belongs to her. Everyone has been waiting for them to figure it out. She asks him what if Jack never forgives her. Ryan tells her they'll make a plan, she'll apologies and if he doesn't he'll kill him. When Jack gets back to his house he heads to his room and slams the door, his mother asks him what's wrong. He tells her he's fine, she tells him she got him a dog. Jack tells his mom he's going to college why would she get him a dog. His father asked him are you, going to college. Jack tells his parents of course, his parents asks him what if he didn't. His father tells him they think he needs a gap year, some time to think of what he wants to do with his life. His mother asks him what he's going to name his dog, and he tells them, Katerina Calabran, Queen of the Sea, she’s going to be a pirate. After Jack showers and rest he head out to talk to Bug, but Ryan's at his door. His mother asks him why is Ryan upset and he tells her he has a thing for Bug. His mother tells him she knows. His mom calls to his dad that she thinks Bug and Jack are finally an item while his dad calls back it's about time. Ryan comes in telling Jack his sister has been crying since this morning. Jack tells Ryan he was just about ready to come and find her. Jack tells Ryan he loves Bug, and Ryan tells him it was a dick move, but he got passed it when they were twelve. Jack finds Bug at the dry dock working on her boat. He asks her what's she painting, she tells him she named her boat. Bug bought her boat when they were Sophomores and she's never come close to picking out a name. She tells him she told Ryan about them, he asks her what the name of the boat is. She tells him she should have told him this morning he tells her he overreact and he's sorry. She asks him if he loves her and he tells her of course he does. She tells him she loves him too, he tells her of course. When he steps closer to the boat he sees the name she has painted on the side, Screw Flirting. She tells him she ignoring it but she's aware he's carrying a dog. He tells her it was a gift from his parents. She tells him that's weird his parents give him a dog before he's headed off to college. Bug tells him she loves him, and he tells her that's good because she going to have to spend a lot of time with him this year. He tells her he wants to start by sailing to the Bahamas. She asks him what, he asks her if he can circumnavigate the globe with her on her grand adventure. He tells her he's parents agreed for him to take a gap year and figure out what he wants to do. Bug is shocked and asks him if he really wants to sail with her. Jack tells her that Katerina Calabran and him want her to show them the world. Jack felt complete even though they are still kids, he'll never love another woman the way he loves her.
Jackson/Jack and Brooke/Bug met when he was seven and she was six. He moved in across the street from them and she stood in her front yard watching. Jack came over and introduced himself to Bug, later to her brother Ryan Reckless Boy and those to soon would be inseparable. When Bug met Jack she knew she would follow him to the ends of the earth. She would try to get Jack's attention being only one of a handful of girls in Springs Florida. Most of the time Jack knew her move before she did and planned ahead. A year before they were set to graduate, Ryan is going off to college, so he's out celebrating. When they need to help him back to his cabin, on Pirate Island he throws up all over them. So they head inside to take a shower. Bug tells Jack to come in with her so neither one has to stand his Ryan's vomit. Jack doesn't thinks it's a good idea but the sooner he can get the smell off him the better. Jack's is in love with his best friends sister, Bug, but what he doesn't know is she is in love with him. Jack pushes up against Bug and she tells him she needs him to kiss her. There kiss was hard, forceful and soon he realizes she wants this also. Bug tells Jack she wants him to take her upstairs and make her come in every way he can imagine. Jack picks her up and starts to carry her upstair, but she tells him he can't carry her all the way, so he puts her down. They don't have sex, Jack tells Bug he's not going to take her virginity. They pleasures each other, they fall asleep in each others arms. When Bug wakes the next morning Jack is gone, she knows he's out for a swim around the island. When she hears someone call his name she overhears Jack talking to someone else, they laugh at there expense and now she can't forgive him. A year later, Jack and Bug are all ready to graduate. Bug hasn't really spoken to Jack over the past year and he's not sure why. The only time Bug ever came around Jack was when her brother Ryan was in town. Now Ryan has planned a surprise graduation party for Jack and Bug. Ryan has their costumes all ready for them, everything is all planned out. So he tells them to met each other so they can head over to Pirate Island together. When the boat starts to sputter, they run out of gas and get stuck half way to the island. Jack can't believe Bug let the boat run out of gas. She finds out he doesn't like to go on a boat with anyone but her. She asks him if he like boats and he tells her not without her. They head down below and rummage through the cupboard and find food. Bug grabs the four beers in the fridge and head up, while Jack takes his time picking out snacks for him and her. Jack finds Bug sitting on the bow, he know he needs to clear the air between the two of them. So Jack tells Bug he liked making her come, he thinks about her all the time. Jack tells her he doesn't like when she won't talk to him, he misses her and even though what happened between them was a mistake for her, he will put what happened behind them. He tells her he wants to be with her ever night since, but if she doesn't want him, he'll find a way to hide his feeling, they can't go on like this. Bug questions him that he's wanted to be with her. He tells her always he'll always want to be with her. Bug is on Jack even before he know what hit him, her lips attacking his. They undress one another, and they decide it's time to take one another virginity. After they clear up their year long misunderstanding, they head down below. Bug asks Jack what are they going to do about Ryan, about their parents finding out. He tells her it doesn't matter because he needs her. She tells him that's he can only have her a little while he's off to college soon, and she's headed off to sail. He'll soon be surrounded by other girls who'll flirt with him. He tells her he won't flirt back, she tells him she can't asks him to do that. He tells her to Screw Flirting. Soon they fall asleep in each other's arms to be woken the next morning by her brother, Ryan. Bug shakes Jack away, they are both still naked and Ryan is coming on board. Jack wants Ryan to find out about them but Bug tells him they need to talk and she tells him to wait. Jack asks her what difference it'll make if he finds out now or later. They decide to head back to Spring, Florida, but Jack was to tired to go out for breakfast so he goes home. When Bug and Ryan arrive at the restaurant he tells his sister he drained the gas tank. Ryan tells her everyone's not a idiot, Bug and Jack have been into each other for years. Ryan tells her something went wrong last summer and he thought marooning them would help fix it. Bug tells him she was afraid to tell people about them. Ryan tells her everyone knows, the guys don't stay away because she his sister or she wears baggie overalls, they stay away because she belongs to Jack and he belongs to her. Everyone has been waiting for them to figure it out. She asks him what if Jack never forgives her. Ryan tells her they'll make a plan, she'll apologies and if he doesn't he'll kill him. When Jack gets back to his house he heads to his room and slams the door, his mother asks him what's wrong. He tells her he's fine, she tells him she got him a dog. Jack tells his mom he's going to college why would she get him a dog. His father asked him are you, going to college. Jack tells his parents of course, his parents asks him what if he didn't. His father tells him they think he needs a gap year, some time to think of what he wants to do with his life. His mother asks him what he's going to name his dog, and he tells them, Katerina Calabran, Queen of the Sea, she’s going to be a pirate. After Jack showers and rest he head out to talk to Bug, but Ryan's at his door. His mother asks him why is Ryan upset and he tells her he has a thing for Bug. His mother tells him she knows. His mom calls to his dad that she thinks Bug and Jack are finally an item while his dad calls back it's about time. Ryan comes in telling Jack his sister has been crying since this morning. Jack tells Ryan he was just about ready to come and find her. Jack tells Ryan he loves Bug, and Ryan tells him it was a dick move, but he got passed it when they were twelve. Jack finds Bug at the dry dock working on her boat. He asks her what's she painting, she tells him she named her boat. Bug bought her boat when they were Sophomores and she's never come close to picking out a name. She tells him she told Ryan about them, he asks her what the name of the boat is. She tells him she should have told him this morning he tells her he overreact and he's sorry. She asks him if he loves her and he tells her of course he does. She tells him she loves him too, he tells her of course. When he steps closer to the boat he sees the name she has painted on the side, Screw Flirting. She tells him she ignoring it but she's aware he's carrying a dog. He tells her it was a gift from his parents. She tells him that's weird his parents give him a dog before he's headed off to college. Bug tells him she loves him, and he tells her that's good because she going to have to spend a lot of time with him this year. He tells her he wants to start by sailing to the Bahamas. She asks him what, he asks her if he can circumnavigate the globe with her on her grand adventure. He tells her he's parents agreed for him to take a gap year and figure out what he wants to do. Bug is shocked and asks him if he really wants to sail with her. Jack tells her that Katerina Calabran and him want her to show them the world. Jack felt complete even though they are still kids, he'll never love another woman the way he loves her.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2021
Screw Flirting is perfect if you’re looking for a quick, steamy, read. The story isn’t all steam but the steamy parts are hot. This probably isn’t one you want to read in a waiting room or at work. As always, I wish there was more. Lola West writes characters that you instantly love and can’t get enough of. Bug and Jack are no exception. The chapters switch off between Bug and Jack, giving you “all the feels” and makes the characters truly come alive.
This is a sweet, summer time, romance that deserves a spot on your To Be Read list. I received a copy of this book for free, I leave my review voluntarily.
This is a sweet, summer time, romance that deserves a spot on your To Be Read list. I received a copy of this book for free, I leave my review voluntarily.
December 21, 2021
Naaw.
Sweet and sexy, this was a great short story. I love a good friends to lovers romance and this one was pretty perfect. They were young but it didn’t feel high school. Bug and Jack grew up together along with her brother Ryan. Their story manages to encompass the confusion and insecurity of figuring out love, without feeling young or being flippant. Lola West really is fantastic at cutting right to the heart of things and putting so much feeling into small packaging. Her books are like the TARDIS of romance stories.
Sweet and sexy, this was a great short story. I love a good friends to lovers romance and this one was pretty perfect. They were young but it didn’t feel high school. Bug and Jack grew up together along with her brother Ryan. Their story manages to encompass the confusion and insecurity of figuring out love, without feeling young or being flippant. Lola West really is fantastic at cutting right to the heart of things and putting so much feeling into small packaging. Her books are like the TARDIS of romance stories.
May 1, 2021
I found this book to short, sweet and very entertaining. It features to young adult romance. Young love can be full of angst and uncertainty as Brooke (Bug) and Jackson (Jack) can attest. Both have harboured fierce crushes on the other for years though neither have acted on it or hinted about for a couple of reasons. The first is the fear of being rejected and losing each other as friends. The second is her brother and his best friend will freak out and beat him to a pulp and never forgive her for ruining his relationship with his best buddy. A very passionate make out session after a rowdy party gave them a taste of what could be ahead for them, but an overheard conversation leads Bug to rebuff and avoid Jack whenever possible over the next year. Jack is clueless about what happened to change the love of his life into someone who can’t stand to be around him. Now they are both graduating from high school, and he is headed to college while she is headed off on an adventure on the high seas. Will they find a way to reveal their feelings to each other and to have the relationship they both want or has that ship sailed?
I loved the chemistry between Bug and Jack. Jack has always seen Bug for who she really is and not just as one of the guys who blends in with everyone else. He sees her strengths, he knows her likes and dislikes and he admires her mechanical and sailing skills. Bug knows Jack too, but her uncertainties get the best of her and she refuses believe that he loves her as more than a friend. It takes a strong nudge from someone else to push them in the right direction...toward each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the chemistry between Bug and Jack. Jack has always seen Bug for who she really is and not just as one of the guys who blends in with everyone else. He sees her strengths, he knows her likes and dislikes and he admires her mechanical and sailing skills. Bug knows Jack too, but her uncertainties get the best of her and she refuses believe that he loves her as more than a friend. It takes a strong nudge from someone else to push them in the right direction...toward each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 30, 2021
Adventurous tomboy Brooke "Bug" Stewart was used to being just "one of the guys," overlooked by nearly everyone, including her brother's best friend, Jackson "Jack" Winters. She secretly had a crush on Jack for years, but never realized that Jack returned her feelings. He chose not to act on them because he considered his best friend's little sister to be off limits. They finally hooked up one summer night shortly before the beginning of their senior year of high school, but a misunderstanding the morning after prevented their relationship from blossoming into the romance they both wanted. A year later, a boating mishap on the way to a graduation party thrown in their honor by Bug's brother Ryan forced Jack and Bug to spend the night alone together. Would Jack be able to figure out what made Bug give him the silent treatment for an entire year and convince her to give him another chance?
I really enjoyed this fast-paced, sweet yet steamy story. Jack and Bug were super cute together, and while I understood their concerns about upsetting Ryan with their relationship, it was very easy for me to root for them to figure things out. Ryan was an interesting secondary character, and his unexpected role in Jack and Bug's reconciliation made me think that there was a lot more to him than his party boy image would suggest. I wouldn't mind getting to know him better in a future story.
I recommend "Screw Flirting" and look forward to whatever Lola West writes next.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
I really enjoyed this fast-paced, sweet yet steamy story. Jack and Bug were super cute together, and while I understood their concerns about upsetting Ryan with their relationship, it was very easy for me to root for them to figure things out. Ryan was an interesting secondary character, and his unexpected role in Jack and Bug's reconciliation made me think that there was a lot more to him than his party boy image would suggest. I wouldn't mind getting to know him better in a future story.
I recommend "Screw Flirting" and look forward to whatever Lola West writes next.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 1, 2021
With a title like this I was ready for something fun with colorful characters. Jackson and Brooke ‘Bug’ have been friends since their childhood. Jackson is her brother’s best friend and she is always seen as the little sis, being part of the team.
So things are kinda complicated. At least in their minds.
I kinda say this situation was a little hilarious because both were in love with the other, oblivious to how the other felt whereas everyone could see it. Add some angst, miscommunication and a strong hint of strong sexual tension in the mix and you are all set!
In the heat of the Florida sun, things are going to escalate quickly between them and it seems like the universe keeps pushing them together, especially in limited places.
I adored the chemistry between Brooke ‘Bug’ and Jackson. They were explosive but sweet and so freaking cute at the same time!
Brooke was always seen like one of the guys but Jackson really saw the real her. More than her looks but about her strength, admiring her on the sidelines and always cheering her on. So freaking sweet! Brooke was on the outside like a badass but she was nonetheless sensitive.
I enjoyed this fast paced Friends to lovers romance.
June 5, 2021
3.75/5 stars
Jack and Brooke “Bug” have been in love with each other since they were little kids. Both have secretly pinned for each other. Bug is Ryan’s little sister so he thought he had to follow the bro code, but everyone knew they had a thing for each other. Growing up in Spring with a very small female population Bug made herself one of the guys to avoid unwanted attention. So she always thought Jack would never see her as a woman. They have their first moments together at the end of their junior year, at Ryan’s graduation party. But the next morning she overhears something that hurts her and she spends the whole senior year avoiding Jack. Poor Jack lost both his best friends that year, Ryan went off to college and Bug ignored him. Ryan hatches a scheme to get them together on their graduation. It works, they are trapped on a boat all night. They give into to their attraction and are each other’s firsts. But the next morning Bug is unsure again. Ryan again steps in and helps them. They finally talk and head off on their great sailing adventure. Bonus epilogue you down load setting up with more info for Ryan’s book.
This was a fade to grey sex scene book, (one one sex scene) which didn’t bother me, I just wish Bug had handled everything better. She was so fearless, strong, and independent that her ignoring Ryan seemed out of character for her. But I guess it’s the ones we love that cause us to be not our usual selves sometimes. Jack needed to be more assertive.
Jack and Brooke “Bug” have been in love with each other since they were little kids. Both have secretly pinned for each other. Bug is Ryan’s little sister so he thought he had to follow the bro code, but everyone knew they had a thing for each other. Growing up in Spring with a very small female population Bug made herself one of the guys to avoid unwanted attention. So she always thought Jack would never see her as a woman. They have their first moments together at the end of their junior year, at Ryan’s graduation party. But the next morning she overhears something that hurts her and she spends the whole senior year avoiding Jack. Poor Jack lost both his best friends that year, Ryan went off to college and Bug ignored him. Ryan hatches a scheme to get them together on their graduation. It works, they are trapped on a boat all night. They give into to their attraction and are each other’s firsts. But the next morning Bug is unsure again. Ryan again steps in and helps them. They finally talk and head off on their great sailing adventure. Bonus epilogue you down load setting up with more info for Ryan’s book.
This was a fade to grey sex scene book, (one one sex scene) which didn’t bother me, I just wish Bug had handled everything better. She was so fearless, strong, and independent that her ignoring Ryan seemed out of character for her. But I guess it’s the ones we love that cause us to be not our usual selves sometimes. Jack needed to be more assertive.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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