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Good Bad Idea #4
Love Fool
Xander Dandridge
Everybody thinks my best friend is in love with me, including my cheating ex-boyfriend. When I have to see that jerk at my boss’s wedding, bringing Jules as my fake date is the perfect revenge. But why stop there? After all, if everyone is going to accuse Jules and I of being together, why shouldn’t we enjoy ourselves as friends-with-benefits?
Ohhhh, it’s because our arrangement makes me fall in love with him for real. Oops?
Jules Tourneau
I’ve ignored my feelings for Xander so many years that I’m convinced I only love him as a friend. It’s totally a coincidence that thinking of him with his awful ex-boyfriend makes me burn with raging hellfire, right? When we’re fake dating, I’m obviously going to have fun teasing him with obnoxiously cutesy nicknames, like calling him my pookie—crap, I’m actually in love with Xander, aren’t I?
How do you tell your best friend, “Surprise! I just figured out I’ve been stupid in love with you forever,” without sounding like the world’s biggest idiot?
Love Fool is the fourth book in the Good Bad Idea series. This novel features a friends to lovers, fake boyfriends, banter-filled romance. Full of cute sweetness and sexy fun, every story ends with a satisfying HEA and no cliffhangers. Each book can be read as a standalone or as part of the series in order.
Everybody thinks my best friend is in love with me, including my cheating ex-boyfriend. When I have to see that jerk at my boss’s wedding, bringing Jules as my fake date is the perfect revenge. But why stop there? After all, if everyone is going to accuse Jules and I of being together, why shouldn’t we enjoy ourselves as friends-with-benefits?
Ohhhh, it’s because our arrangement makes me fall in love with him for real. Oops?
Jules Tourneau
I’ve ignored my feelings for Xander so many years that I’m convinced I only love him as a friend. It’s totally a coincidence that thinking of him with his awful ex-boyfriend makes me burn with raging hellfire, right? When we’re fake dating, I’m obviously going to have fun teasing him with obnoxiously cutesy nicknames, like calling him my pookie—crap, I’m actually in love with Xander, aren’t I?
How do you tell your best friend, “Surprise! I just figured out I’ve been stupid in love with you forever,” without sounding like the world’s biggest idiot?
Love Fool is the fourth book in the Good Bad Idea series. This novel features a friends to lovers, fake boyfriends, banter-filled romance. Full of cute sweetness and sexy fun, every story ends with a satisfying HEA and no cliffhangers. Each book can be read as a standalone or as part of the series in order.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 22, 2020
155 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
About the author
A.F. Zoelle
10 books125 followersA.F. Zoelle loves spicing up her angst with some fiery heat. Her books are a dramatic wild ride, but there’s always a guaranteed happily ever after. She embraces the philosophy of “the more the merrier” when it comes to her passionate characters finding their perfect partners. But sometimes she’s in the mood for something more light-hearted. If you are too, check out her Ariella Zoelle books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
May 1, 2022
This is my least favorite in the series so far which is quite a let down since I've been finding Xander to be an interesting character from the get go in the first book. You can't win them all, can you?
I couldn't get over how petty and immature both Xander and Jules came off in this one. They are best friends who both have had a secret crush on each other forever but Jules is too afraid to even think about it and Xander went and got a douchebag of a secret boyfriend. When said secret boyfriend cheats on him he decides to get some revenge... the rest is this book.
Hopefully the next one will be better.
I couldn't get over how petty and immature both Xander and Jules came off in this one. They are best friends who both have had a secret crush on each other forever but Jules is too afraid to even think about it and Xander went and got a douchebag of a secret boyfriend. When said secret boyfriend cheats on him he decides to get some revenge... the rest is this book.
Hopefully the next one will be better.
April 28, 2021
Well, I certainly feel like odd man out on this one. I didn’t like this book at all. I like a slow burn and these guys were hopping into bed and having wild sex while still claiming to be just friends. This was so sugary sweet you’ll probably need to see a dentist after reading it.
There really wasn’t any discernible plot. it was just two guys having lots of sex and an ex-boyfriend who was a cartoon caricature of a villain. Most of the time when they weren’t having sex they were having boring conversations about such topics as is Xander too demanding, or what stupid pet name they should give each other. I’ve enjoyed most books I’ve read by A. F. Zoelle so I gave it an extra star.
There really wasn’t any discernible plot. it was just two guys having lots of sex and an ex-boyfriend who was a cartoon caricature of a villain. Most of the time when they weren’t having sex they were having boring conversations about such topics as is Xander too demanding, or what stupid pet name they should give each other. I’ve enjoyed most books I’ve read by A. F. Zoelle so I gave it an extra star.
October 3, 2020
Do you love nicknames cuter than love?
When best friends finally manage to get past best friends to realize the strengths and balances that they bring to each other, the process of linking up is much faster than expected. Good friends set better examples for them as they try to help others find true love. The breakup with Josh triggers much regret and need to cuddle, which brings thoughts, previous loves, and memories of the past to the surface.
With both Jules and Xander really connecting this time while Xander plans his boss's wedding, Josh shows up to put down Xander. But the realities have changed after Josh's treatment of Xander and his cheating with Elias to get a big promotion.
Food, friends, desserts, wedding cake, associates, family, and circumstances swirl into a whipped cream dream muffin until Xander saves Elias from Josh and Jules helps with neither blaming Elias. Josh gets caught with more cheating and pays the price as everyone else achieves a happy ending. And more fun in the next book. Hang on to clothes and body parts as Elias finds someone to love.
When best friends finally manage to get past best friends to realize the strengths and balances that they bring to each other, the process of linking up is much faster than expected. Good friends set better examples for them as they try to help others find true love. The breakup with Josh triggers much regret and need to cuddle, which brings thoughts, previous loves, and memories of the past to the surface.
With both Jules and Xander really connecting this time while Xander plans his boss's wedding, Josh shows up to put down Xander. But the realities have changed after Josh's treatment of Xander and his cheating with Elias to get a big promotion.
Food, friends, desserts, wedding cake, associates, family, and circumstances swirl into a whipped cream dream muffin until Xander saves Elias from Josh and Jules helps with neither blaming Elias. Josh gets caught with more cheating and pays the price as everyone else achieves a happy ending. And more fun in the next book. Hang on to clothes and body parts as Elias finds someone to love.
November 25, 2020
Another cute couple with an equally endearing story. I’m loving this series and the stories keep getting better.
September 27, 2020
Universal Link
Can a fake boyfriend turn real? Especially when the two are best friends since the age of 8?
Xander always turns to his best friend when things aren't right in his life. No one comforts him like Jules does. But is it true that the two have been in love with each other this whole time? Xander doesn't think so, but after bringing Jules as his fake date to a wedding, feelings are turning decidedly more than friendly, veering into the hot and you give me butterflies, pookie territory.
This is a fluffy, but hot friends to lovers story. I enjoyed it, maybe not as much as the previous story (Love Fancy), but I thought Jules and Xander were adorable together. Friends to lovers is sort of a comforting trope to me, and here it's definitely comforting, in a warm, fun way. This series so far has been so good, can't wait for the next one - Love Directions: An MM Love at First Sight Romance.
ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for an honest review.
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January 3, 2021
goddamn you marie, for enabling me to read this trashy book by tagging me as it in a powerpoint. 1.5 stars rounded up to 2, it was a bit too cute and the ~villain~ was cartoon-esque at times which was pretty unbelievable.
I can’t believe this was my first book or 2021 🙈
I can’t believe this was my first book or 2021 🙈
January 7, 2023
disappointed the shift from best friends to fuck buddies was a bit disappointing and the shift from fuck buddies to lovers was more disappointing and not believable. yes they love each other as friends but the tenderness or sweetness i feel like the mcs are not taking themselves seriously. the nicknames were too cringey not cute at all. idk maybe i wont read the next books in the series i saw people being disappointed over the books of my fave characters in this series. sadly. well.
September 25, 2020
Let me start by saying that I think I would have gotten more enjoyment out of this if I had read the previous books in the series. There was a lot of mentions and cameos about previous events and couples that made me feel like I was missing out. The MCs are life long best friends whom it appears everyone already thinks are dating, even the people the Xander or Julian are ACTUALLY dating. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to see how much these two adore each other. Xander openly admits that Julian is the only person he can ever be himself with. The only question anyone ever has is what took them so long?
On top of this friends to lovers themed sweet romance was a TON of heat. I'm talking these two might need to find a hobby other than doing each other. It got to the point I started to skim the sex, which rarely happens for me. It's not that it wasn't hot, it's just these two needed to give their poor selves a break. If they weren't having sex, they were teasing each other about when they were going to have sex next.
One other niggle I had was the pet names. Ugh I cringed every time Xander called Julian bunny or Julian called him pookie. I guess that type of pet name just isn't for me. I'm a "babe" type of gal. I did find it amusing when Xander was looking up different pet names he could call Julian. The names on the list were even more cringeworthy. Could you imagine your significant other calling you slut muffin? Just ew
On top of this friends to lovers themed sweet romance was a TON of heat. I'm talking these two might need to find a hobby other than doing each other. It got to the point I started to skim the sex, which rarely happens for me. It's not that it wasn't hot, it's just these two needed to give their poor selves a break. If they weren't having sex, they were teasing each other about when they were going to have sex next.
One other niggle I had was the pet names. Ugh I cringed every time Xander called Julian bunny or Julian called him pookie. I guess that type of pet name just isn't for me. I'm a "babe" type of gal. I did find it amusing when Xander was looking up different pet names he could call Julian. The names on the list were even more cringeworthy. Could you imagine your significant other calling you slut muffin? Just ew
February 18, 2022
Loved this steamy best friends romance!
Xander and Jules’ relationship was adorable from the beginning, even when they were simply best friends denying their feelings for one another. The way their relationship progressed was steamy, fun, and so satisfying. Definitely worth five stars and more!
Xander and Jules’ relationship was adorable from the beginning, even when they were simply best friends denying their feelings for one another. The way their relationship progressed was steamy, fun, and so satisfying. Definitely worth five stars and more!
October 17, 2020
"A Beautiful, Exciting, Swoon-Worthy Love Story"
A beautiful story full of love, revelations, and never-ending devotion. I absolutely loved my most recent read as the unwavering long-time bond between two young men has turned a hopeful story into such a wonderfully amazing read, that in the end, has left me with so many different kinds of warm and gushy feelings.
Love Fool, by A.F. Zoelle, is a lengthy friends-to-lovers, slightly angsty story, filled with moments of discovery, including moments of triggered indirect abuse, leading to emotional heartbreak. In addition, it's also an incredibly sweet, sexy, heartwarming story about true love.
I absolutely loved the main characters, Xander and Julian, as their past, their bond, and their newly-discovered passion, is what made their connection already written in the stars. Oh, and those secondary characters? Pfft I am already addicted to them as their own stories are practically oozing right off of the pages already, and for this, I really look forward to their own prospective stories as well.
However, I am also desperate for more development. I also need to read more about the main characters and their clearly rich background as well. And, I am just as eager to read about that moment when the fake relationship finally transitioned into a real one, one that had been simmering in the background for so many years.
That all being said, Love Fool, is a great story. With its addicting storyline, its wonderful plot, and with an additional nail-biting angsty sub-plot, it is one story that I enjoyed reading. Following the journey of Xander and Julian, as they continued to make their way thorough their wonderfully lengthy relationship, was such a joy to read as it ultimately morphed into such a beautifully heartwarming journey..I really liked it! :)
*star rating: 4.35 ‘I really liked it’ story stars*
June 8, 2024
old post reposted
I stumbled across Ariella Zoelle's books on K.M. Neuhold's Facebook fanpage. She promises sweet, fluff, low/no angst, lots of humor, and no slow burn. This is her Good Bad Idea series (which kicks off her Sunnyside universe). The fourth book is titled "Love Fool."
["Xander Dandridge
Everybody thinks my best friend is in love with me, including my cheating ex-boyfriend. When I have to see that jerk at my boss’s wedding, bringing Jules as my fake date is the perfect revenge. But why stop there? After all, if everyone is going to accuse Jules and I of being together, why shouldn’t we enjoy ourselves as friends-with-benefits?
Ohhhh, it’s because our arrangement makes me fall in love with him for real. Oops?
Jules Tourneau
I’ve ignored my feelings for Xander so many years that I’m convinced I only love him as a friend. It’s totally a coincidence that thinking of him with his awful ex-boyfriend makes me burn with raging hellfire, right? When we’re fake dating, I’m obviously going to have fun teasing him with obnoxiously cutesy nicknames, like calling him my pookie—crap, I’m actually in love with Xander, aren’t I?
How do you tell your best friend, “Surprise! I just figured out I’ve been stupid in love with you forever,” without sounding like the world’s biggest idiot?"]
Turns out, Jules wasn't the one who needed to wake up; Xander was the love fool....I love it when I'm wrong about things like this. It made the dynamic more fun and less cliched (I mean, we all thought that Xander loved Jules when we met Xan in "Bet On Love." I'm not the only one that thought that).
These two were SO. DAMN. CUTE. and hot. and fluffy. and steamy. and fucking perfect. I mean it. They were just...goals. I love them. I love their dynamics. I love how perfect Xander is for everyone but Jules. I love how Jules can read Xander's mind. I love how they just...calm and complete each other. I love it. I love all of it. Even the a-little-to-long scene where they were finding each other's perfect but nauseating pet names (so. damn. cUte.).
These two might just live rent-free in my brain for a while...welcome..
#betonlove #servinglove #lovemeansmore #lovefancy #lovefool #lovedirections #picturelove #lovepractice #ariellazoelle #goodbadidea #goodbadideaseries #sunnyside #sunnysideuniverse #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
I stumbled across Ariella Zoelle's books on K.M. Neuhold's Facebook fanpage. She promises sweet, fluff, low/no angst, lots of humor, and no slow burn. This is her Good Bad Idea series (which kicks off her Sunnyside universe). The fourth book is titled "Love Fool."
["Xander Dandridge
Everybody thinks my best friend is in love with me, including my cheating ex-boyfriend. When I have to see that jerk at my boss’s wedding, bringing Jules as my fake date is the perfect revenge. But why stop there? After all, if everyone is going to accuse Jules and I of being together, why shouldn’t we enjoy ourselves as friends-with-benefits?
Ohhhh, it’s because our arrangement makes me fall in love with him for real. Oops?
Jules Tourneau
I’ve ignored my feelings for Xander so many years that I’m convinced I only love him as a friend. It’s totally a coincidence that thinking of him with his awful ex-boyfriend makes me burn with raging hellfire, right? When we’re fake dating, I’m obviously going to have fun teasing him with obnoxiously cutesy nicknames, like calling him my pookie—crap, I’m actually in love with Xander, aren’t I?
How do you tell your best friend, “Surprise! I just figured out I’ve been stupid in love with you forever,” without sounding like the world’s biggest idiot?"]
Turns out, Jules wasn't the one who needed to wake up; Xander was the love fool....I love it when I'm wrong about things like this. It made the dynamic more fun and less cliched (I mean, we all thought that Xander loved Jules when we met Xan in "Bet On Love." I'm not the only one that thought that).
These two were SO. DAMN. CUTE. and hot. and fluffy. and steamy. and fucking perfect. I mean it. They were just...goals. I love them. I love their dynamics. I love how perfect Xander is for everyone but Jules. I love how Jules can read Xander's mind. I love how they just...calm and complete each other. I love it. I love all of it. Even the a-little-to-long scene where they were finding each other's perfect but nauseating pet names (so. damn. cUte.).
These two might just live rent-free in my brain for a while...welcome..
#betonlove #servinglove #lovemeansmore #lovefancy #lovefool #lovedirections #picturelove #lovepractice #ariellazoelle #goodbadidea #goodbadideaseries #sunnyside #sunnysideuniverse #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
October 1, 2020
Love Fool is the fourth installment in the Good Bad Idea series, but you don’t need to read the other books first. This book focuses on Jules and Xander, childhood BFFs with a soul deep connection. Jules and Xander show up in some of the prior books so if you’ve read them, you’ve already gotten a glimpse into their relationship and have seen how attached they are to each other.
Jules and Xander’s story is not so much a romance as a foregone conclusion. Everyone around them thinks they’re a couple and have been together for years. Jules and Xander inexplicably seem to be the only ones that haven’t figured out that they belong together as a romantic couple ... until this book. And even then, there’s no big reveal. They just fall into the friends with benefits situation without much deliberation or hesitation about it and from there, it’s just a short step to being together for real.
This book is a bit odd in that respect. I kept waiting for the angst, the plot twist … something to disrupt the monotonous flow. This story hits one note and sticks with it from start to finish. It’s definitely a nice note to hit - Jules and Xander are sweet together but also very hot and sexy. It’s heartwarming to see their unshakeable trust in each other and their love. But there’s no development - they’re already together, they’re already in love - and there’s no drama. It’s like hanging out with your favorite couple and basking in their happiness together.
So if you are looking for a light, fluffy story, this fits the bill. But if you are looking for an engaging plot, action, angst, or falling in love, you won’t find that here. While I enjoyed the book, it felt like simply a vehicle to introduce Elias and set him up for the next book. Not a wasted effort in my opinion, because you’ll immediately like Elias and want to see him get his HEA. I’m looking forward to the next installment to find out. But because this book really didn’t bring anything new to the table, I don’t think I’d read it again now that the table has been set.
October 9, 2020
Love Fool: A Good Bad Idea Story
MMy Thoughts and Review:
Jules and Xander have been best friends since they were kids. So, when Xander dumps his lying, cheating boyfriend of six years Jules is who he turns to. Xander doesn’t have to say a word and Jules knows from a simple look that his best friend needs one of Jules’ world-class comforting hugs.
Everyone who knows the two best friends knows they are perfect for each other. Heck, even their subconscious minds know and act out the most delectably dirty dreams of the pair. So, following their minds, and quite possibly their hearts Julian and Xander decide to try being friends with benefits while pretending to be in a REAL relationship with each other for an upcoming wedding that Xander’s cheating Ex will be attending with the guy he was cheating on Xander with. Sounds foolish, right? Nothinggggg can go wrong with this scenario…RIGHT????
AHHHH…all my fellow despisers of too much angst, you can relax. Without giving away too much of the story, if you have read any of the God Bad Idea Series, you know how cute, snarky, sweet, and sMMexy these books are. Love Fool is no different. The antics Jules and Xander get up to are fun and some will cause you to fan yourself and you may even invoke George Takei’s famous, “Ohhh Mmmyyy!!!” a time or two because the scenes are so steaMMy.
I have enjoyed getting to know all the guys in the series so far, and their extended friends and found family. They even added to their number in this story and it was very endearing. You can most definitely read this as a stand-alone. However, reading the series from the beginning allows you the privilege of knowing each member of the family and their back story. You will not regret it. 🥰
Sharonica’s Logic: 4.00 sweetest-ever-bunny-&-pookie-stars🌟🌟🌟🌟
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review. 🐰🌈🐰
MMy Thoughts and Review:
Jules and Xander have been best friends since they were kids. So, when Xander dumps his lying, cheating boyfriend of six years Jules is who he turns to. Xander doesn’t have to say a word and Jules knows from a simple look that his best friend needs one of Jules’ world-class comforting hugs.
Everyone who knows the two best friends knows they are perfect for each other. Heck, even their subconscious minds know and act out the most delectably dirty dreams of the pair. So, following their minds, and quite possibly their hearts Julian and Xander decide to try being friends with benefits while pretending to be in a REAL relationship with each other for an upcoming wedding that Xander’s cheating Ex will be attending with the guy he was cheating on Xander with. Sounds foolish, right? Nothinggggg can go wrong with this scenario…RIGHT????
AHHHH…all my fellow despisers of too much angst, you can relax. Without giving away too much of the story, if you have read any of the God Bad Idea Series, you know how cute, snarky, sweet, and sMMexy these books are. Love Fool is no different. The antics Jules and Xander get up to are fun and some will cause you to fan yourself and you may even invoke George Takei’s famous, “Ohhh Mmmyyy!!!” a time or two because the scenes are so steaMMy.
I have enjoyed getting to know all the guys in the series so far, and their extended friends and found family. They even added to their number in this story and it was very endearing. You can most definitely read this as a stand-alone. However, reading the series from the beginning allows you the privilege of knowing each member of the family and their back story. You will not regret it. 🥰
Sharonica’s Logic: 4.00 sweetest-ever-bunny-&-pookie-stars🌟🌟🌟🌟
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews in exchange for an honest review. 🐰🌈🐰
April 29, 2023
Unfortunately, this one was really not for me. I was excited for Xander and Jules’ story from the previous books, but I just couldn’t quite work out why two gay guys who have a deep emotional connection and then start having sex together take so long to figure out that they actually love one another romantically. At least if Jules had acknowledged the love from the beginning of the book, I think I would have felt better, but they were both weirdly in denial for no real reason, and then there was just so much sex. The ratio was off for me, and I would have preferred a higher concentration on the romance.
I couldn’t really see Xander sticking with a terrible boyfriend for six years. Josh seemed over the top bad for him to have put up with it. And Xander seems so invested in getting revenge that it made Jules still sort of feel like a rebound to me. (Not saying that he shouldn’t have been upset with the cheating and terrible behaviour, but I just felt like a lot of emotional bandwidth went into that, making it not the best time to start another relationship.)
Xander beating himself up anytime he perceives himself as not being perfect seemed to skew in unhealthy ways to me (and didn’t change beginning to end of the story, so I didn’t feel like there was any growth there.) I’m pretty sure we didn’t learn Jules’ profession until the epilogue, and I didn’t feel like we had the chance to fully connect to him as a character.
I really liked their friendship (which was maybe part of the problem. Things that would otherwise have been romantic gestures had already been coded as platonic in their relationship, so they just had lots and lots of sex to show it was different now). I liked Elias a lot and was glad the guys protected him. I enjoyed the visit to Renée and Maria as always. (That snow globe dessert sounded amazing!) I just didn’t end up invested the way I hoped to be.
I couldn’t really see Xander sticking with a terrible boyfriend for six years. Josh seemed over the top bad for him to have put up with it. And Xander seems so invested in getting revenge that it made Jules still sort of feel like a rebound to me. (Not saying that he shouldn’t have been upset with the cheating and terrible behaviour, but I just felt like a lot of emotional bandwidth went into that, making it not the best time to start another relationship.)
Xander beating himself up anytime he perceives himself as not being perfect seemed to skew in unhealthy ways to me (and didn’t change beginning to end of the story, so I didn’t feel like there was any growth there.) I’m pretty sure we didn’t learn Jules’ profession until the epilogue, and I didn’t feel like we had the chance to fully connect to him as a character.
I really liked their friendship (which was maybe part of the problem. Things that would otherwise have been romantic gestures had already been coded as platonic in their relationship, so they just had lots and lots of sex to show it was different now). I liked Elias a lot and was glad the guys protected him. I enjoyed the visit to Renée and Maria as always. (That snow globe dessert sounded amazing!) I just didn’t end up invested the way I hoped to be.
October 16, 2020
4 Stars!
Xander and Jules have been best friends for years and everyone thinks they are in love with each other. After a particularly rough day at work, Xander goes to Jules for the comfort only Jules can give him. Throwing caution to the wind, they find themselves changing their perceptions avout a lot of things.
I liked Xander and Jules. It was easy to see how close they were and how reliant Xander was on Jules to be the place he could let go and be himself completely. I loved that Jules was that place for Xander. I was definitely caught off guard how they went from best friends to lovers in a split second, but it's clear this has been brewing underneath for a long time. For a while, I was really worried about Jules and if he was getting what he needed and wanted out of this arrangement, but thankfully, they eventually talked about it and more. These two are so insync that I can totally see why everyone assumed they were together before this. However good they are together, don't go looking for the falling in love moment, they are already there for the most part and just needed some self-realization. I felt bad for Elias once it becomes clear how badly he's being treated, and I hope that we see him in the next book.
If you're looking for a good, easy read with no angst and best friends becoming lovers, this one might be for you. While Love Fool is the fourth book in this series, it can totally be read as a standalone. I had no problem reading this one even though I haven't read the other books yet. However, that doesn't mean that I'm not going to go back and read them just so that I can see not only Xander and Jules' story building up, but also so I can see how their friends and family got together as well.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Xander and Jules have been best friends for years and everyone thinks they are in love with each other. After a particularly rough day at work, Xander goes to Jules for the comfort only Jules can give him. Throwing caution to the wind, they find themselves changing their perceptions avout a lot of things.
I liked Xander and Jules. It was easy to see how close they were and how reliant Xander was on Jules to be the place he could let go and be himself completely. I loved that Jules was that place for Xander. I was definitely caught off guard how they went from best friends to lovers in a split second, but it's clear this has been brewing underneath for a long time. For a while, I was really worried about Jules and if he was getting what he needed and wanted out of this arrangement, but thankfully, they eventually talked about it and more. These two are so insync that I can totally see why everyone assumed they were together before this. However good they are together, don't go looking for the falling in love moment, they are already there for the most part and just needed some self-realization. I felt bad for Elias once it becomes clear how badly he's being treated, and I hope that we see him in the next book.
If you're looking for a good, easy read with no angst and best friends becoming lovers, this one might be for you. While Love Fool is the fourth book in this series, it can totally be read as a standalone. I had no problem reading this one even though I haven't read the other books yet. However, that doesn't mean that I'm not going to go back and read them just so that I can see not only Xander and Jules' story building up, but also so I can see how their friends and family got together as well.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
September 24, 2020
The Good Bad Idea series is such a delight! And this fourth installment has all the goodness that the other books have as well. Sometimes, I have trouble judging how standalone books in a series are, especially when I have read them all and see how fun they can be when you know ALL the backstory. But I do believe that if you are just finding the series and the blurb for this one sounds like you want to give it a try, I think you will find it satisfyingly enjoyable on its own. (But I would also recommend reading them all!)
Jules and Xander have been best friends since they were 8 years old and have been in contact in some way all through the years. This sets up my favorite kind of friends-to-lovers story because they keep having all this platonic contact, but one or both is in love. One of the things I love most about this series is that the characters have such a gooey-sweet center. Jules and Xander allow me to love them from the very beginning and keep loving them page after page. Jules had me swooning very early in the chapters and when that happens I want that feeling to go on and on and on. I'm an unapologetic romance reader and I am here for all the feel-good romance.
If you are looking for a very sweet story that employs some strategic hugging and cuddling, with a LOT of steamy heat, funny banter, and very low angst, then stop right here. You need to go no farther than Love Fool to get a hit of romance at its finest.
Jules and Xander have been best friends since they were 8 years old and have been in contact in some way all through the years. This sets up my favorite kind of friends-to-lovers story because they keep having all this platonic contact, but one or both is in love. One of the things I love most about this series is that the characters have such a gooey-sweet center. Jules and Xander allow me to love them from the very beginning and keep loving them page after page. Jules had me swooning very early in the chapters and when that happens I want that feeling to go on and on and on. I'm an unapologetic romance reader and I am here for all the feel-good romance.
If you are looking for a very sweet story that employs some strategic hugging and cuddling, with a LOT of steamy heat, funny banter, and very low angst, then stop right here. You need to go no farther than Love Fool to get a hit of romance at its finest.
September 26, 2020
Xander and Jules were the sweetest, most oblivious best friends-turned-lovers. Though they each insisted their love was platonic at the start, even I could see how years of trust and warm affection bridged the gap from friends to something more. Sure, each man put up a valient fight, squashing their feelings for each other even as their hook-ups soared to new heights of passion and intimacy. At times I could hardly believe that these two didn't see their deep connection for what it really was, but I can't deny that it was pretty adorable to watch as they clumsily circled each other for ages before admitting it at last. The drama with Josh provided a convenient backdrop for Xander and Jules to grow even closer to each other. I've never been so thankful for bastard cheating exes, because without him Xander may have never approached Jules for anything more than warm hugs and conversation. As the situation with Eli and the wedding planning chaos grew more urgent, I love the way Jules and Xander supported each other and didn't let outside drama dim their firey passion. These men proved, over and over, that though their chemistry burned bright, what made their love stronger than anything was how deeply they trusted each other.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
September 24, 2020
4.5 Stars
AF Zoelle's Love Fool, the fourth book in the A Good Bad Idea series, is another fabulous read. It's easily read as a standalone, but don't miss the rest of the series, as they are all great books.
Xanders and Jules' story is a best friends romance, which is always fun. And just like I've come to expect from this series, the author carries it all out well.
This friends to lovers tale is full of humor, including some delightful banter about nicknames. Love it! The men make for great friends, and even better lovers. My favorite aspect it that their friendship naturally leads to them cuddling and more.
Their story includes a cheating ex, and a date to mutual friends' wedding.
It also regret and reassurance. And, yes, add in a friends with benefits development, and cue the real fun as these two friends figure out their feelings for one another.
And to make the sex even better, let me just tease you that one of the men likes pain.
Written in alternating 1st person pov, I love it all, as I am able to feel every emotion, action, and motivation.
Love Fool is a sweet, feel good read. AF Zoelle will make you smile throughout, at least in between laughs that is. It is a wonderful book that had me consumed throughout.
AF Zoelle's Love Fool, the fourth book in the A Good Bad Idea series, is another fabulous read. It's easily read as a standalone, but don't miss the rest of the series, as they are all great books.
Xanders and Jules' story is a best friends romance, which is always fun. And just like I've come to expect from this series, the author carries it all out well.
This friends to lovers tale is full of humor, including some delightful banter about nicknames. Love it! The men make for great friends, and even better lovers. My favorite aspect it that their friendship naturally leads to them cuddling and more.
Their story includes a cheating ex, and a date to mutual friends' wedding.
It also regret and reassurance. And, yes, add in a friends with benefits development, and cue the real fun as these two friends figure out their feelings for one another.
And to make the sex even better, let me just tease you that one of the men likes pain.
Written in alternating 1st person pov, I love it all, as I am able to feel every emotion, action, and motivation.
Love Fool is a sweet, feel good read. AF Zoelle will make you smile throughout, at least in between laughs that is. It is a wonderful book that had me consumed throughout.
September 28, 2020
I have enjoyed every book so far in this series and Love Fool does not disappoint. It's a low angst best friends to lovers romance that was hinted at in the previous book and all of their friends have been trying to convince Xander and Jules of for years. There is a little drama with Xander's ex but also a lot of fun had at his expense as Jules is not afraid to stand up to the guy and show off his place in Xander's life whether as best friend, fake boyfriend or actual boyfriend. From the first moment that Xander bangs on Jules door demanding "just shut up and hug me", you can feel the deep bond of friendship and trust that these two men share. Together they are fun, flirty and boost each other up in all aspects of their lives.
I love that we get to interact with others from the series, getting the chance to catch up with everyone whilst enjoying all of the friendships on offer. My heart went out to Elias's character and I hope that we get to hear more from him in the future.
Cannot recommend this series enough. The story is so easy to fall into and enjoy from start to finish, definitely a recommended read.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
I love that we get to interact with others from the series, getting the chance to catch up with everyone whilst enjoying all of the friendships on offer. My heart went out to Elias's character and I hope that we get to hear more from him in the future.
Cannot recommend this series enough. The story is so easy to fall into and enjoy from start to finish, definitely a recommended read.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
September 17, 2020
So, first I have to admit I jumped into this series with this book. I haven't read any of the previous books in this series. Having said that, I wasn't lost at all and could follow the story very well. So I'd say this book is okay to read as a standalone. Based on the couples I met in this book though, I'd probably read the previous books because they seem to be really good.
On to the book! Xander and Jules! They're best friends and have been best friends since they were 8. My favourite trope! This book is extremely low angst, saccharinely sweet and fluffy - usually not something I'd go for but it's so sweet and sexy that I kept going and going until it ended before I was ready. Jules is so sweet and patient and everything else you'd want and he's been in love with Xander for forever. Xander is a little high strung but Jules is his comfort zone and has been for forever. The story starts off with a friends with benefit arrangement so it's sexy from the start!
I'd say if you're looking for fluffy, sweet and sexy with a well developed storyline, this would be great!
On to the book! Xander and Jules! They're best friends and have been best friends since they were 8. My favourite trope! This book is extremely low angst, saccharinely sweet and fluffy - usually not something I'd go for but it's so sweet and sexy that I kept going and going until it ended before I was ready. Jules is so sweet and patient and everything else you'd want and he's been in love with Xander for forever. Xander is a little high strung but Jules is his comfort zone and has been for forever. The story starts off with a friends with benefit arrangement so it's sexy from the start!
I'd say if you're looking for fluffy, sweet and sexy with a well developed storyline, this would be great!
Read
December 5, 2023Best friends to lovers, but make them get together as revenge to make a cheating ex mad, but make them be friends with bennies because, I mean, we're both single and why not? (Such a strange concept to me, the notion of "yes, I'll just bone down with my friend, why not?")
Given that Xavier's exes have always been jealous about Jules, and given that everyone thought they were already dating, I'm not sure this was the best choice in terms of making Xavier and Jules look honorable OR in terms of throwing a curve ball, but we'll just brush that aside.
This one kind of got to me in that Jules has set his own feelings aside for years to be Xavier's friend, and he even expresses how this hurt him over time, but when Xavier starts to realize how much he didn't really take care of their relationship in the past because boyfriends would come and go but Jules would always be there, Jules would end up comforting Xavier and never really came to terms with his own feelings, and I didn't think that was a great way to start their romantic relationship.
Given that Xavier's exes have always been jealous about Jules, and given that everyone thought they were already dating, I'm not sure this was the best choice in terms of making Xavier and Jules look honorable OR in terms of throwing a curve ball, but we'll just brush that aside.
This one kind of got to me in that Jules has set his own feelings aside for years to be Xavier's friend, and he even expresses how this hurt him over time, but when Xavier starts to realize how much he didn't really take care of their relationship in the past because boyfriends would come and go but Jules would always be there, Jules would end up comforting Xavier and never really came to terms with his own feelings, and I didn't think that was a great way to start their romantic relationship.
September 26, 2020
Although it can probably be read as a stand-alone just fine, I definitely think you’ll get more enjoyment if you read the whole series since we see a lot of cameos from other couples. In either case, this is a wonderfully sweet and steamy short read about two lifelong best friends finally realising they’re head over heels for each other. Which is old news to everyone else apparently... Having just come out of the worst relationship with one of the worst people ever, Xander needs Jules to help him out by fake dating him. Only, why not have some actual fun if they’re going to be pretending anyway. I absolutely adored Jules and how he would do literally anything for Xander. And when Xander finally got to realising his feelings and actually talking about them, then I loved him too. He may have been a tad selfish in the beginning I thought, but they both grow together beautifully. Their relationship definitely has that “finally” feeling to it that leaves your heart rejoicing!
September 17, 2020
This book is just a lot of fun. These two guys, Jules and Xander have been best friends since they were eight. They are so comfortable around each other that neither one of them really thinks twice about it. When Xander needs a plus one for a wedding, he naturally asks his best bud to be his fake date. But what happens when Julian has been secretly in love with him since they were kids? And when they both realize what everyone else already knows.... No angst here. While it may seem like insta-love, it has actually been years in the making and they are already perfect for each other. A great sweet little read to help you escape from the horrors of reality for a while. A great book. It's part of a series, but it can be read without having read the other 3. (Although I will certainly be reading them!)
September 26, 2020
Gets you right in the feels
I am so in love with this series. The characters, the storyline, the progression between books, it is all so beautifully written. Each character has a very specific type of personality and it continues flawlessly from one book to the next. Xander and Jules have long been a favorite couple of mine. I kept all my crossables crossed that they would finally find their way to each other and I am so glad they did. Their story is filled with longing and it is so exciting to watch the moment when they both realize what’s been right in front of them all along. I cannot wait for Elias’s book and for him to find his Jules. Although this review is a reflection of my unbiased and honest thoughts after reading an ARC, I want to make mention that I also purchased my own copy for my personal library.
I am so in love with this series. The characters, the storyline, the progression between books, it is all so beautifully written. Each character has a very specific type of personality and it continues flawlessly from one book to the next. Xander and Jules have long been a favorite couple of mine. I kept all my crossables crossed that they would finally find their way to each other and I am so glad they did. Their story is filled with longing and it is so exciting to watch the moment when they both realize what’s been right in front of them all along. I cannot wait for Elias’s book and for him to find his Jules. Although this review is a reflection of my unbiased and honest thoughts after reading an ARC, I want to make mention that I also purchased my own copy for my personal library.
December 18, 2022
Lol meatball…
I think someone needs to congratulate the author for having her MCs use an extensive vocabulary. I love that in all of her books, the characters are intelligent and well-spoken. It’s refreshing.
That being said, as much fun as the whole swearing thing was in another book, the pet name game in this one was literal perfection and I couldn’t get enough!
There were a few things that irked me, but nothing of any real note, and definitely didn’t detract from the story or my rating. Just personal things that made me go “that’s a no for me” and move on. But, that aside, I still 10/10 recommend this book (and the series) with gusto if you’re looking for happiness, because that’s all you’re going to find in this book. Even the parts that could’ve been heavy were suffused with light and love.
I think someone needs to congratulate the author for having her MCs use an extensive vocabulary. I love that in all of her books, the characters are intelligent and well-spoken. It’s refreshing.
That being said, as much fun as the whole swearing thing was in another book, the pet name game in this one was literal perfection and I couldn’t get enough!
There were a few things that irked me, but nothing of any real note, and definitely didn’t detract from the story or my rating. Just personal things that made me go “that’s a no for me” and move on. But, that aside, I still 10/10 recommend this book (and the series) with gusto if you’re looking for happiness, because that’s all you’re going to find in this book. Even the parts that could’ve been heavy were suffused with light and love.
October 1, 2020
I haven't read any of the other books in this series but that didn't detract from the story at all. I loved that this story basically started with Xander telling Jules to just hug him; it sets up the wonderful theme of hugs in this book. I like that both Zander and Jules realize that they have always loved the other one and they just needed to take that next step, and for Xander to breakup with Josh, to get there. I loved the connection that they had after being friends for so long because it made it so believable for the one time for them to realize that they were perfect for each other in all ways. There were plenty of steamy scenes between the two. I absolutely hated Josh and felt so sorry for Elias to be swindled by him. I would definitely recommend this book.
September 14, 2020
So we first met Xander in Rhys book Bet in Love, if you haven’t read the series yet I suggest you do. You don’t want to miss these amazing men fall in love. This authors love for there stories just comes out on every page.
Xander and Jules have been best friends since childhood. They know everything there is to know about one another. Or do they? Jules has been hiding a secret and it’s about to come to light when Xander suggest a friends with benefits for them.
Xander and Jules story was sweet, beautiful, loveable, with a little drama in the mix. But they deserve each other. They are amazing together.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series!!
Xander and Jules have been best friends since childhood. They know everything there is to know about one another. Or do they? Jules has been hiding a secret and it’s about to come to light when Xander suggest a friends with benefits for them.
Xander and Jules story was sweet, beautiful, loveable, with a little drama in the mix. But they deserve each other. They are amazing together.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series!!
September 14, 2020
Xander and Jules have been best friends since they were in grade school. This is a true story of opposites attract. Xander is control and Jules is chaos...but they fit together beautifully. Jules is always there for Xander with a warm hug and complete adoration whenever he needs him. Xander, on the other hand, is more of a taker than a giver. I loved the progression of the story that brought out just how much each of these characters mean to each other. Sometimes the love you need has been with you all along. Xander are Jules are scandalous and quite funny together. Relationship goals, for sure! Very steamy. ; )
September 23, 2020
For years everyone we knew said I was in love with my best friend Xander but after he broke up with his cheating boyfriend asked me to attend the second wedding of our mutual friends as his date since his ex would be attending with his new boyfriend also. I told him we would have to act the part before they would all believe it was true and he told me it wouldn't be a problem. But after playing make believe with my best friend I'm having a really hard time not believing that this love we share could turn into something very real but now I just need to convince him we should be together, forever.
September 29, 2020
All in a nickname.
I have jumped into this series half way through and although I didn't need to have read the books that came before, I definitely believe that I would have enjoyed this book more of I had read them as situations and couples kept popping in and being mentioned. This book is about two long term friends who did over while faking a relationship that they should have made it real years ago. This is a truly lovely fluffy wuffy story with all the hot sexy times and cutesy nicknames you could possibly want.
I liked the authors style of writing and will be going back to read the others soon. Well worth reading.
I have jumped into this series half way through and although I didn't need to have read the books that came before, I definitely believe that I would have enjoyed this book more of I had read them as situations and couples kept popping in and being mentioned. This book is about two long term friends who did over while faking a relationship that they should have made it real years ago. This is a truly lovely fluffy wuffy story with all the hot sexy times and cutesy nicknames you could possibly want.
I liked the authors style of writing and will be going back to read the others soon. Well worth reading.
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