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Friend Zoned
They say the best things come when you least expect it.
Burned by her ex-husband and a messy divorce, Jeannie Dubois isn’t looking for anything more than a good friend. Besides, she’s still dealing with the ex who can’t seem to let her go.
Insert NBA coach, Aiden Walsh. Sure, he wants so much more than friendship with the beautiful woman he met at a wedding, but he’s sure he can play the part and he’s good at biding his time. So, for now he’ll fill any role she wants.
But when these two friends become lovers, things quickly turn complicated when Jeannie finds out Aiden is so much more than just Manhattan’s favorite coach.
Can Aiden prove to Jeannie that they’re meant to be so much more, or will she send him back to the friend zone?
Burned by her ex-husband and a messy divorce, Jeannie Dubois isn’t looking for anything more than a good friend. Besides, she’s still dealing with the ex who can’t seem to let her go.
Insert NBA coach, Aiden Walsh. Sure, he wants so much more than friendship with the beautiful woman he met at a wedding, but he’s sure he can play the part and he’s good at biding his time. So, for now he’ll fill any role she wants.
But when these two friends become lovers, things quickly turn complicated when Jeannie finds out Aiden is so much more than just Manhattan’s favorite coach.
Can Aiden prove to Jeannie that they’re meant to be so much more, or will she send him back to the friend zone?
445 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2023
431 people are currently reading
827 people want to read
About the author
Evelyn Sola
28 books979 followersA Boston native, wife, mother, and wine enthusiast. If she’s not writing, thinking about writing, you will find Evelyn with a book in her hands. While a new publisher, she’s been writing for years, and she will continue to write for many years to come.
Evelyn is obsessed with assertive and confident men who will stop at nothing to get their woman. Her stories are filled with love, passion and humor.
She currently lives in Washington, DC with her husband and two daughters.
Evelyn is obsessed with assertive and confident men who will stop at nothing to get their woman. Her stories are filled with love, passion and humor.
She currently lives in Washington, DC with her husband and two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 235 reviews
February 29, 2024
My favorite book by this author by far! Aiden and Jeannie were literally perfect, I don’t have a single thing to complain about, which says a lot coming from me.
Although…. OLEASE DONT LET SETH BE THE H OF A NEW BOOK PLEASE😭😭😭 he had 3pregnanfy scares with three different women and one turned out to be his. Poor Layla deserves someone else, as she said, someone who she wouldn’t need to be prescribed penicillin just from being in his proximity.
2/28/24 update: I saw in a comment on the authors instagram that Seth and Layla will be getting a book soon😭😭😭😭 I’ll have to power through it though and make myself like Seth because I love this author and I want to at least TRY to read all her books 😭
Although…. OLEASE DONT LET SETH BE THE H OF A NEW BOOK PLEASE😭😭😭 he had 3pregnanfy scares with three different women and one turned out to be his. Poor Layla deserves someone else, as she said, someone who she wouldn’t need to be prescribed penicillin just from being in his proximity.
2/28/24 update: I saw in a comment on the authors instagram that Seth and Layla will be getting a book soon😭😭😭😭 I’ll have to power through it though and make myself like Seth because I love this author and I want to at least TRY to read all her books 😭
June 30, 2023
This book was 90% charming and 10% got on my nerves.
The good parts were the banter and interaction between Aiden and Jeannie. There was a high humor quotient which I always appreciate in romance. And there was a nice wit in the writing.
There is a running gag of Jeannie and her mother insisting that Aiden was a football coach (he coached basketball) which was great. It starts with when they first meet and Jeannie mentions that she is aware he is a football coach, he corrects her that it is basketball. Her response: "Are you sure?" And it ends with her and her mother celebrating his team making the Super Bowl (they make it to the NBA finals). So that was fun.
Also, I appreciated the book showing the grind of his schedule and what toll it could have taken on the relationship. It didn't because Jeannie was chill about his job. In fact, this whole romance was very low conflict.
What conflict there was, was mostly external with her ex-husband and his cheating drama. There is also a rather manufactured 'waiting for the shoe' drop drama of Aidan's family connections that felt like it wanted to be more than it was.
But it is where these external conflicts live that represents all of the 10% getting on my nerves portion of this book.
First is Aidan's family. I am not a fan of billionaire books. I could write a dissertation about why that is. I won't. But there are places where this book hits right in the bullseye of some of my issues with billionaire romances. And sure, this is a personal preference, nothing inherently wrong or bad in this story, just the tropes just make me so tired. I wish Aidan was just a fairly wealthy football (ha!) coach, not the extravagant generation wealth billionaire he was. And yeah, he does all the romance novel billionaire things including, but not limited to, giving Jeannie a black Amex card in her name after only months of being together.
Second, is the ex-husband/OW drama. I was 100% fine with Jeannie being ruthless about cutting her ex and her BFF he cheated on her with out of her life. And being extra about it. The idea of it and some of the beats were great. But overall, the ex and the BFF felt like cartoons. They had no depth and seemed to exist solely so Jeannie could show her glow up and insult them? Which is really too bad because this author has a very deft hand with creating really good secondary characters who are often brimful of personality. But these two were duds. I couldn't really get a grasp on what or who they were supposed to be. And some of their actions and attitudes just felt illogical.
But overall this was pretty good. The romance was great, the family dynamics were stellar, lots of hot sexy times, and as I said I enjoyed the humor.
The good parts were the banter and interaction between Aiden and Jeannie. There was a high humor quotient which I always appreciate in romance. And there was a nice wit in the writing.
There is a running gag of Jeannie and her mother insisting that Aiden was a football coach (he coached basketball) which was great. It starts with when they first meet and Jeannie mentions that she is aware he is a football coach, he corrects her that it is basketball. Her response: "Are you sure?" And it ends with her and her mother celebrating his team making the Super Bowl (they make it to the NBA finals). So that was fun.
Also, I appreciated the book showing the grind of his schedule and what toll it could have taken on the relationship. It didn't because Jeannie was chill about his job. In fact, this whole romance was very low conflict.
What conflict there was, was mostly external with her ex-husband and his cheating drama. There is also a rather manufactured 'waiting for the shoe' drop drama of Aidan's family connections that felt like it wanted to be more than it was.
But it is where these external conflicts live that represents all of the 10% getting on my nerves portion of this book.
First is Aidan's family. I am not a fan of billionaire books. I could write a dissertation about why that is. I won't. But there are places where this book hits right in the bullseye of some of my issues with billionaire romances. And sure, this is a personal preference, nothing inherently wrong or bad in this story, just the tropes just make me so tired. I wish Aidan was just a fairly wealthy football (ha!) coach, not the extravagant generation wealth billionaire he was. And yeah, he does all the romance novel billionaire things including, but not limited to, giving Jeannie a black Amex card in her name after only months of being together.
Second, is the ex-husband/OW drama. I was 100% fine with Jeannie being ruthless about cutting her ex and her BFF he cheated on her with out of her life. And being extra about it. The idea of it and some of the beats were great. But overall, the ex and the BFF felt like cartoons. They had no depth and seemed to exist solely so Jeannie could show her glow up and insult them? Which is really too bad because this author has a very deft hand with creating really good secondary characters who are often brimful of personality. But these two were duds. I couldn't really get a grasp on what or who they were supposed to be. And some of their actions and attitudes just felt illogical.
But overall this was pretty good. The romance was great, the family dynamics were stellar, lots of hot sexy times, and as I said I enjoyed the humor.
June 2, 2023
Friend Zoned stole my heart. I am so head over heels in love with Jeannie and Aiden. The chemistry between those two is off the chart. The writing and storytelling are superb.
Jeannie and Aiden are from different worlds but when their world collide things get scorching HOT.
Jeannie is finally over her ex-husband and is almost ready to move on with her life but he can't quite seem to leave her alone. Aiden is an NBA coach and he's tired of travelling and wants a much slower pace in life. The thing is even though they have crazy chemistry, Jeannie friend zones Aiden.
Reading this book was such a joy. It's funny, spell-binding, and simply invigorating. I adore both Jeannie and Aiden. They have amazing personalities and I could not help but fall for their charismatic, kind and fun banter.
This story is magnificent and memorable.
Jeannie and Aiden are from different worlds but when their world collide things get scorching HOT.
Jeannie is finally over her ex-husband and is almost ready to move on with her life but he can't quite seem to leave her alone. Aiden is an NBA coach and he's tired of travelling and wants a much slower pace in life. The thing is even though they have crazy chemistry, Jeannie friend zones Aiden.
Reading this book was such a joy. It's funny, spell-binding, and simply invigorating. I adore both Jeannie and Aiden. They have amazing personalities and I could not help but fall for their charismatic, kind and fun banter.
This story is magnificent and memorable.
June 3, 2023
just ok (contains spoilers)
The book was long and at times repetitive. The whole drama with the exes felt tedious.
I didn’t warm up to Jeannie either. Aiden didn’t come across as an almost 40 year old, he came across as a bit desperate at times, doing too much with all his apologizing.
My main gripe with the book was the over the top complaining about his schedule and the missing each other. I’m sure it’s difficult but they are not teenagers, 4 days apart is not the end of the world. It felt forced and not a good representation of athletes challenges. Also the idea that the CEO of a billion dollar company works almost a 9-5 and is home every night is laughable.
As an aside, I would really like for authors to stop talking about worshiping the wives. It’s weird.
The book was long and at times repetitive. The whole drama with the exes felt tedious.
I didn’t warm up to Jeannie either. Aiden didn’t come across as an almost 40 year old, he came across as a bit desperate at times, doing too much with all his apologizing.
My main gripe with the book was the over the top complaining about his schedule and the missing each other. I’m sure it’s difficult but they are not teenagers, 4 days apart is not the end of the world. It felt forced and not a good representation of athletes challenges. Also the idea that the CEO of a billion dollar company works almost a 9-5 and is home every night is laughable.
As an aside, I would really like for authors to stop talking about worshiping the wives. It’s weird.
May 27, 2023
4.5 Stars / 3.5 Steam Fans
Loved the push and pull between Jeannie and Aiden. They truly built a friendship that turned into love. My only complaint was the overuse of the "sport" joke (when you read you will see).
Video review available in Week 20: May 14 – May 20, 2023, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
Loved the push and pull between Jeannie and Aiden. They truly built a friendship that turned into love. My only complaint was the overuse of the "sport" joke (when you read you will see).
Video review available in Week 20: May 14 – May 20, 2023, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
July 1, 2023
DNF @77%
Boring!!
Didn’t get any ~feels~. was just meh
Pros
-Characters are grown and act as such. Too many romance novels have childish, characters, or characters who are barely reaching adulthood. It’s nice to see a book where the characters are grownups with establish lives and maturely communicate (for the most part)
-I love how the FMC doesn’t give her ex an inch. She pulls the cold, cool and detached act. Love that for her.
Cons
-I don’t understand why the FMC got into a relationship with the MMC. She repeated so many times throughout the story that she can’t be with him because she needs a man who will be present and the MMC travels all the time. All the MMC does is kiss her and ask her to be his girlfriend, and she immediately says yes. Like what happened to all of that hesitation? I don’t understand that transition.
-This didn’t affect my rating, but I wasn’t a huge fan of the bondage scenes personally. Why can’t the women ever be the dominant ones? :(
-I started losing interest around 50%. They were happy and in a relationship. I don’t understand where there was another 50% left. All they did was FaceTime and have sex.
Overall, had this book been 250 pages, I would’ve given it a higher rating. but it was so long, and nothing happened at all. this is why I typically don’t read friends to lovers.
Boring!!
Didn’t get any ~feels~. was just meh
Pros
-Characters are grown and act as such. Too many romance novels have childish, characters, or characters who are barely reaching adulthood. It’s nice to see a book where the characters are grownups with establish lives and maturely communicate (for the most part)
-I love how the FMC doesn’t give her ex an inch. She pulls the cold, cool and detached act. Love that for her.
Cons
-I don’t understand why the FMC got into a relationship with the MMC. She repeated so many times throughout the story that she can’t be with him because she needs a man who will be present and the MMC travels all the time. All the MMC does is kiss her and ask her to be his girlfriend, and she immediately says yes. Like what happened to all of that hesitation? I don’t understand that transition.
-This didn’t affect my rating, but I wasn’t a huge fan of the bondage scenes personally. Why can’t the women ever be the dominant ones? :(
-I started losing interest around 50%. They were happy and in a relationship. I don’t understand where there was another 50% left. All they did was FaceTime and have sex.
Overall, had this book been 250 pages, I would’ve given it a higher rating. but it was so long, and nothing happened at all. this is why I typically don’t read friends to lovers.
July 10, 2023
🏀
Aiden is persistent and thankfully he didn't turn out to be a weirdo in the end. I wanted ed Jeannine to have a spectacular HEA after douchebag. She got that and lots of s.e.x. my word once they started they were like feral rabbits. I thought it was funny how they acknowledged they were zipping through the relationship phases but I'm most happy that they communicated along the way. Now Camille and Leah were a bit obsessive like girl get a life and stop trying to wear Jeannine's skin. Thankfully Layla and Vickie were there to be real friends.
CN: cheating, assault, gaslighting, emotional abuse, divorce, absentee father (unwanted pregnancy), harassment,
Aiden is persistent and thankfully he didn't turn out to be a weirdo in the end. I wanted ed Jeannine to have a spectacular HEA after douchebag. She got that and lots of s.e.x. my word once they started they were like feral rabbits. I thought it was funny how they acknowledged they were zipping through the relationship phases but I'm most happy that they communicated along the way. Now Camille and Leah were a bit obsessive like girl get a life and stop trying to wear Jeannine's skin. Thankfully Layla and Vickie were there to be real friends.
CN: cheating, assault, gaslighting, emotional abuse, divorce, absentee father (unwanted pregnancy), harassment,
June 5, 2023
FRIEND ZONED by Evelyn Sola is funny, sexy and thought-provoking. Friend Zoned begins where, Take Off ends. Take Off is a previous book by Evelyn Sola that featured Colt and Vickie. This is also where we met Coach Aiden. Friend Zoned is Aiden and Jeannie's story. They meet at Colt and Vicki's wedding. Jeannie was dressed in all black, trying to be invisible. It didn't work. When they caught each other's eye, they both felt that heat of attraction. After the dumpster fire of a marriage, Jeannie was looking for a good friend. That's how Aiden got Friend Zoned. They are now each other Bestie, but they both want more. Get this book and find out what happens. I love it! This is an ARC review
May 17, 2023
In this book, we meet Aiden and Jeannie, two people from different worlds who bonded through friendship which turned to love. All this is mixed with cameos from characters from previous books, funny dialogues, a toxic ex-husband, excentric family members. I don't remember a time where I didn't laugh while reading.
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.
June 6, 2023
It's a good read, I absolutely loved the way the relationship between Jeannie and Aiden developed. Evelyn is a good storyteller. One thing that I didn't love however is how Aiden went after Camille and Jeannie's ex it was a bit excessive.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2023
Sip Approved✅
Let’s Set the Mood Right Quick:
Friend Zoned: A Friends to Lovers Romance by Evelyn Sola
Drink: The Dirty Dancing
Music: Twinnem by Coi Leray
Aiden Walsh: If, “waiting in the wings,” was a person it would be Aiden. My man believed I wasn’t your first, but I will be your last.
Jeannie Dubois: If, “not mad just done,” was a person it would be Jeannie. My good sis had no time or patience for the BS.
One of the sisters is usually not a big fan of friends to lover romances. This story may have changed her mind lol. We adore this couple. They took us on a unique journey to love with their unlikeliest as a pair and yet they fit together so beautifully. The story was so funny. We were tickled for most of it. There were so many funny and endearing moments. It was also wonderful to witness the beauty of friendship and falling in love with your person. This story showed what God has for you is for you. There is no need to go searching. We loved seeing Jeannie win. She did it for all the girlies. She made us so proud with her heart and her strength. Aidan was swoon worthy and so protective. He had us blushing through the whole book. Being inside his head was the best. We loved how seamless the whole series has been. The way Evelyn Sola wrote this book was perfect. The way she intertwined her characters from previous books was pure magic. We loved the whole series. We can’t wait to see whose book is next. This is a must read for sure.
Recipe can be found on Pinterest by The Mirror
Let’s Set the Mood Right Quick:
Friend Zoned: A Friends to Lovers Romance by Evelyn Sola
Drink: The Dirty Dancing
Music: Twinnem by Coi Leray
Aiden Walsh: If, “waiting in the wings,” was a person it would be Aiden. My man believed I wasn’t your first, but I will be your last.
Jeannie Dubois: If, “not mad just done,” was a person it would be Jeannie. My good sis had no time or patience for the BS.
One of the sisters is usually not a big fan of friends to lover romances. This story may have changed her mind lol. We adore this couple. They took us on a unique journey to love with their unlikeliest as a pair and yet they fit together so beautifully. The story was so funny. We were tickled for most of it. There were so many funny and endearing moments. It was also wonderful to witness the beauty of friendship and falling in love with your person. This story showed what God has for you is for you. There is no need to go searching. We loved seeing Jeannie win. She did it for all the girlies. She made us so proud with her heart and her strength. Aidan was swoon worthy and so protective. He had us blushing through the whole book. Being inside his head was the best. We loved how seamless the whole series has been. The way Evelyn Sola wrote this book was perfect. The way she intertwined her characters from previous books was pure magic. We loved the whole series. We can’t wait to see whose book is next. This is a must read for sure.
Recipe can be found on Pinterest by The Mirror
July 4, 2023
3.00 Stars. (BW/WM). Kindle Edition 445 page e-book. Sports romance. Newly acquainted to friends to lovers. Ex-husband drama on steroids.
Setting: Current time USA
Main characters:
Jeannie Dubois, heroine, is a hotel manager and a divorcee of two years.
Aiden Welsh, hero, is a wealthy NBA coach who is considering retirement.
The is story is 'fair to middling", so so. The romance between these mature adults seems juvenile at times. The storyline's pace drags because of repetitiveness. The cheating ex-husband drama goes on too long and is exhausting. The heroine's complaints about the hero 's absences due to his job is nonsensical. Jeannie and Aiden meet during a wedding reception as she reads a self-help book wearing all black tasked as the designated driver for her mother. I did not relate to this couple or care about the outcome of their so called romance because they have zero romantic or sexual chemistry. This book is too long and moves too slowly with a pair of uninteresting characters.
Setting: Current time USA
Main characters:
Jeannie Dubois, heroine, is a hotel manager and a divorcee of two years.
Aiden Welsh, hero, is a wealthy NBA coach who is considering retirement.
The is story is 'fair to middling", so so. The romance between these mature adults seems juvenile at times. The storyline's pace drags because of repetitiveness. The cheating ex-husband drama goes on too long and is exhausting. The heroine's complaints about the hero 's absences due to his job is nonsensical. Jeannie and Aiden meet during a wedding reception as she reads a self-help book wearing all black tasked as the designated driver for her mother. I did not relate to this couple or care about the outcome of their so called romance because they have zero romantic or sexual chemistry. This book is too long and moves too slowly with a pair of uninteresting characters.
May 16, 2023
Another great one by Mrs Sola. You met Aiden in Takeoff (colt & Vickie). He’s colts coach and one sexy Viking looking dude. When he lays eyes on Jeannie Dubois it’s instant attraction but she’s trying to build up her self esteem after a messy divorce and isn’t interested in another relationship so they become friends, besties. This book was funny and the characters were so sweet. Jeannie is quirky with a great sense of humour and Aiden is romantic with a bit of a power kink, giving off sexy alpha protective vibes. There are cameos of characters from other books and it’s nice seeming them all blending together. You can’t go wrong with this author
July 16, 2025
This was a good read; I related a lot to the main character (🇭🇹 girlll, periodt!) and I liked the plot. It was corny and predictable but that's what I was in the mood for. I found that this was too long, it seemed to drag at points. The story would've worked better as a novella. Also, one of the conflicts between the MCs was so stupid and unnecessary . (Also, this was not a friends to lovers romance. Aiden expressed interest in Jeannie, she said she wanted to just be friends, and he stuck around until she changed her mind. If a guy tells you he likes you romantically and then you tell him no but he still sticks around, he's not your friend, he's waiting for his shot 🤷🏾♀️)
June 5, 2023
Well, I’ve never thought about putting a platonic male friend in a friend zone an become besties. Jeanine Dubois has the gall to show up at a NBA Superstars wedding in Black an reads a book, which caught Aiden Walsh (NBA Coach) attention an vivid imagination. Evelyn Sosa has done it again. Even the toxic ex husband who is labeled DB will gather your attention. However Mama Myra has her husband spoiled by cooking an serving his meals daily. How long does Coach stay in friend zone until these love birds decide to go to the next level? Fast paced, sexuality, romantic love story. This is an honest review for a ARC. Great plot an storyline.
July 30, 2024
Great story
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was funny, fun, sweet, romantic and just all around great. Aiden is just so thoughtful, patient and loving and Jeannie is just pure; I loved that she worked on herself before going into a relationship even though she was tempted. The evolution of their love is wonderful and all the emotions in this book could be felt. Definitely my favorite book by Evelyn.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was funny, fun, sweet, romantic and just all around great. Aiden is just so thoughtful, patient and loving and Jeannie is just pure; I loved that she worked on herself before going into a relationship even though she was tempted. The evolution of their love is wonderful and all the emotions in this book could be felt. Definitely my favorite book by Evelyn.
June 9, 2023
GRRREAT!!!
This book is awesome, loved it. Kinda makes me want to go back and read Broken for the third time. Great characters, serious yet funny, plenty of steam. Just an All around good read. Those of you fans of Miss Sola that hasn't read Broken you have not read her best! Waiting for the next one.
This book is awesome, loved it. Kinda makes me want to go back and read Broken for the third time. Great characters, serious yet funny, plenty of steam. Just an All around good read. Those of you fans of Miss Sola that hasn't read Broken you have not read her best! Waiting for the next one.
October 11, 2023
HEA
It’s not the typical romance novel which I enjoyed. I hate love at first sight even tho there was an instant attraction. Of course, the guy is instantly attracted to the heroine but she is jaded by a previous relationship gone bad. They develop a unique friendship and her heart begins to soften.
It’s not the typical romance novel which I enjoyed. I hate love at first sight even tho there was an instant attraction. Of course, the guy is instantly attracted to the heroine but she is jaded by a previous relationship gone bad. They develop a unique friendship and her heart begins to soften.
October 8, 2023
😍😍😍
First time reading this Author and thoroughly enjoyed this book. Aiden and Jeannie were the perfect couple even though she friend zoned him at the beginning. Loved their love. The “ ex and the whore”, glad they got what they deserved. Great job.
First time reading this Author and thoroughly enjoyed this book. Aiden and Jeannie were the perfect couple even though she friend zoned him at the beginning. Loved their love. The “ ex and the whore”, glad they got what they deserved. Great job.
June 12, 2023
This was so camp I need kat and linc's novella my babies I love them felt repetitive towards the end but we got a lot of domestic scenes 🤏🏾🤏🏾 lovedddd it
June 29, 2023
good read
This was a good read. Jeanie went through it with that crazy ex. I think this is my first read by this author, but it will not be my last.
This was a good read. Jeanie went through it with that crazy ex. I think this is my first read by this author, but it will not be my last.
July 27, 2023
Enjoyable story
This was really an enjoyable story. With friends like Leah and Camille who needs enemies? Aiden was everything Jeannie needed in her life, ngl, I was a little upset with Jeannie when she laughed off Aiden saying he’s a heir for the Walsh’s Co.Nevertheless, I was happy they just had their disagreement and apologies but no break up! That was so mature in my eyes.
Anyways… Seth and Layla’s book is going to be epic, I can already see it lol
This was really an enjoyable story. With friends like Leah and Camille who needs enemies? Aiden was everything Jeannie needed in her life, ngl, I was a little upset with Jeannie when she laughed off Aiden saying he’s a heir for the Walsh’s Co.Nevertheless, I was happy they just had their disagreement and apologies but no break up! That was so mature in my eyes.
Anyways… Seth and Layla’s book is going to be epic, I can already see it lol
August 8, 2025
coach has to put in the work….
5 - FRIEND ZONED
Jeannie showed up to a wedding in black, flats and had a book she was reading. Aiden was the long haired white guy with intense eyes. She was only there because her mother needed a ride. She was not happy that she was not at home. She never expected to find someone that she would make a connection with. Aiden was not wanting to be overly social, but there was something about the lady with the book and dressed in black that attracted his attention. At this wedding he did something he had not done in years. And his players made sure to catch it all on video and expose it at just the right time. Jeannie and Aiden had a great time at the wedding and from there became friends. Not even with all her mother meddling did Aiden give up. He was the opposite of what her mother wanted but he was just what she needed. They talked, laughed, shared, and cared for each other. The friend zone was where Aiden began but he was determined to not allow that to stop him from his goal. He wanted so much more from her. Aiden shared so much with Jeannie much of what she did not believe. She was happy with her friendship with him. She was not so excited about her ex and the way he kept trying to insert himself in her life. He was her ex for a reason. He was the one that could not let go.
I loved getting to know Aiden and Jeannie. I am excited to see the next story that will be coming. I could just see it.
Audio update
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Story 5 out of 5 stars
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The Book Junkie Reads . . .
07-06-24
Do we not listen to fished product
I loved the story when I read it. I was so looking forward to the audio release. Jeannie and Aiden are so fab together. The problem was this audio have more than one hiccup. The repeating phrases back to back was annoying. But not enough for me not to be in love with the audio. It’s a go to repeat listen.
Jeannie showed up to a wedding in black, flats and had a book she was reading. Aiden was the long haired white guy with intense eyes. She was only there because her mother needed a ride. She was not happy that she was not at home. She never expected to find someone that she would make a connection with. Aiden was not wanting to be overly social, but there was something about the lady with the book and dressed in black that attracted his attention. At this wedding he did something he had not done in years. And his players made sure to catch it all on video and expose it at just the right time. Jeannie and Aiden had a great time at the wedding and from there became friends. Not even with all her mother meddling did Aiden give up. He was the opposite of what her mother wanted but he was just what she needed. They talked, laughed, shared, and cared for each other. The friend zone was where Aiden began but he was determined to not allow that to stop him from his goal. He wanted so much more from her. Aiden shared so much with Jeannie much of what she did not believe. She was happy with her friendship with him. She was not so excited about her ex and the way he kept trying to insert himself in her life. He was her ex for a reason. He was the one that could not let go.
I loved getting to know Aiden and Jeannie. I am excited to see the next story that will be coming. I could just see it.
5 - FRIEND ZONED
Jeannie showed up to a wedding in black, flats and had a book she was reading. Aiden was the long haired white guy with intense eyes. She was only there because her mother needed a ride. She was not happy that she was not at home. She never expected to find someone that she would make a connection with. Aiden was not wanting to be overly social, but there was something about the lady with the book and dressed in black that attracted his attention. At this wedding he did something he had not done in years. And his players made sure to catch it all on video and expose it at just the right time. Jeannie and Aiden had a great time at the wedding and from there became friends. Not even with all her mother meddling did Aiden give up. He was the opposite of what her mother wanted but he was just what she needed. They talked, laughed, shared, and cared for each other. The friend zone was where Aiden began but he was determined to not allow that to stop him from his goal. He wanted so much more from her. Aiden shared so much with Jeannie much of what she did not believe. She was happy with her friendship with him. She was not so excited about her ex and the way he kept trying to insert himself in her life. He was her ex for a reason. He was the one that could not let go.
I loved getting to know Aiden and Jeannie. I am excited to see the next story that will be coming. I could just see it.
Audio update
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Story 5 out of 5 stars
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07-06-24
Do we not listen to fished product
I loved the story when I read it. I was so looking forward to the audio release. Jeannie and Aiden are so fab together. The problem was this audio have more than one hiccup. The repeating phrases back to back was annoying. But not enough for me not to be in love with the audio. It’s a go to repeat listen.
Jeannie showed up to a wedding in black, flats and had a book she was reading. Aiden was the long haired white guy with intense eyes. She was only there because her mother needed a ride. She was not happy that she was not at home. She never expected to find someone that she would make a connection with. Aiden was not wanting to be overly social, but there was something about the lady with the book and dressed in black that attracted his attention. At this wedding he did something he had not done in years. And his players made sure to catch it all on video and expose it at just the right time. Jeannie and Aiden had a great time at the wedding and from there became friends. Not even with all her mother meddling did Aiden give up. He was the opposite of what her mother wanted but he was just what she needed. They talked, laughed, shared, and cared for each other. The friend zone was where Aiden began but he was determined to not allow that to stop him from his goal. He wanted so much more from her. Aiden shared so much with Jeannie much of what she did not believe. She was happy with her friendship with him. She was not so excited about her ex and the way he kept trying to insert himself in her life. He was her ex for a reason. He was the one that could not let go.
I loved getting to know Aiden and Jeannie. I am excited to see the next story that will be coming. I could just see it.
July 19, 2023
•Dnf at 92%
•I'm bored, and I just had 4 chapters left, and it was taking me forever to finish them.
•This was good until the 70% mark, and then things turned sideways. This is a sports romance, friends to lovers with a white male lead and black female lead and with sports romance comes the element of money but that's okay cause that was well written but we dive deeper and we find out the company she works for is owned by his family and in the beginning she thought it was a joke but when she finds out its true she of course feels uncomfortable cause its not something you can come to terms in a matter of minutes but his reaction was crazy him asking her if it was his fault that he was born into a rich family??? Like no one said that, neither are we blaming you for being born into a rich family. To make matter worse after that he's just throwing money in her face like here is credit card go do this etc and she wasn't poor she was like an assistant manager and is doing well but it just became about money.
Secondly her ex being a constant ich every chapter like I was over it by chapter 3 and to have it being brought up for like 63 chapters as in the whole book man get the fuck out here.
In conclusion, this 3 star rating is for 70% mark of the book when things made sense 😀.
•I'm bored, and I just had 4 chapters left, and it was taking me forever to finish them.
•This was good until the 70% mark, and then things turned sideways. This is a sports romance, friends to lovers with a white male lead and black female lead and with sports romance comes the element of money but that's okay cause that was well written but we dive deeper and we find out the company she works for is owned by his family and in the beginning she thought it was a joke but when she finds out its true she of course feels uncomfortable cause its not something you can come to terms in a matter of minutes but his reaction was crazy him asking her if it was his fault that he was born into a rich family??? Like no one said that, neither are we blaming you for being born into a rich family. To make matter worse after that he's just throwing money in her face like here is credit card go do this etc and she wasn't poor she was like an assistant manager and is doing well but it just became about money.
Secondly her ex being a constant ich every chapter like I was over it by chapter 3 and to have it being brought up for like 63 chapters as in the whole book man get the fuck out here.
In conclusion, this 3 star rating is for 70% mark of the book when things made sense 😀.
June 8, 2023
Ah! How does Evelyn Sola do it every time?? She literally cannot write a bad book! I loved every second of Aiden and Jeannie's story I have up sleep for them. The romance, the chemistry, the STEAM 🔥, the drama, the humour. I was swooning and kicking my feet the entire book.
If you love a good friends - but not really friends because the Hero knew he wanted the heroine from the beginning - to lovers with such a strong and beautiful friendship that develops into so much more then this is definitely your book.
Easy 5 stars 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩
If you love a good friends - but not really friends because the Hero knew he wanted the heroine from the beginning - to lovers with such a strong and beautiful friendship that develops into so much more then this is definitely your book.
Easy 5 stars 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩
June 6, 2023
Aiden Walsh has just pulled up to Colton Chastain's estate for his wedding instead of being at home watching ESPN. He pulls behind a Toyota Rav4 which stands out since all the other cars are worth over 100g and watches as two black women exit. The older woman has on a red overcoat while the younger woman is dressed totally in black, including a large black hat. She looks as if she was attending a funeral instead of a wedding.
When the older woman limps to the younger woman and pulls the hat off her head he discretely rolls his window down fascinated by their interaction and weird boxing jabs. She is obviously not happy to be attending the wedding with her mother and is unimpressed when she is told to smile because rich football players would be there. The mother definitely had her sports mixed up unless Colton also invited a football team to his wedding.
Reminding her daughter Jeannie not to embarrass her they head inside. When he follows them he overhears the mother telling her she is going to check out the men and find her daughter a man since she has given up. Jeannie just rolls her eyes and sits in one of the chairs assembled for the wedding guests and further intrigues him when she pulls out a book.
A big man sits across the aisle from her and she can feel his eyes on her. With his long dirty blond hair and brown eyes, he looks like a displaced Viking ready to kill and pillage. The last place she wanted to be was at a wedding acting as her mother's chauffeur and her ex-husband and her friend's betrayal made sure that the last thing needs or is looking for is a man.
But as her mother brings every single black man at the huge wedding in her direction she grabs his hand and they hit the dance floor. If nothing else, she can use him to avoid her mother and her matchmaking.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. OMG! Jeannie's mother cracks me up and I can't help but laugh when Jeannie deliberately calls Aiden a coach of every sport but basketball.
This book is action packaged from page one and will keep you turning the pages waiting for Jeannie to realize her joke is actually the truth and wondering what her stalker ex will do next.
This is a slow-burn romance that will burst your Kindle in flames once Aiden takes himself out of the friend zone. Although not stated this is part of the Take series and all of the characters from the previous books are actively part of this book. I can actually see an enemies-to-lovers story happening but will have to see if that is the direction Evelyn Sola is going next.
I highly recommend this multicultural romance and can't to see what comes next!
When the older woman limps to the younger woman and pulls the hat off her head he discretely rolls his window down fascinated by their interaction and weird boxing jabs. She is obviously not happy to be attending the wedding with her mother and is unimpressed when she is told to smile because rich football players would be there. The mother definitely had her sports mixed up unless Colton also invited a football team to his wedding.
Reminding her daughter Jeannie not to embarrass her they head inside. When he follows them he overhears the mother telling her she is going to check out the men and find her daughter a man since she has given up. Jeannie just rolls her eyes and sits in one of the chairs assembled for the wedding guests and further intrigues him when she pulls out a book.
A big man sits across the aisle from her and she can feel his eyes on her. With his long dirty blond hair and brown eyes, he looks like a displaced Viking ready to kill and pillage. The last place she wanted to be was at a wedding acting as her mother's chauffeur and her ex-husband and her friend's betrayal made sure that the last thing needs or is looking for is a man.
But as her mother brings every single black man at the huge wedding in her direction she grabs his hand and they hit the dance floor. If nothing else, she can use him to avoid her mother and her matchmaking.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. OMG! Jeannie's mother cracks me up and I can't help but laugh when Jeannie deliberately calls Aiden a coach of every sport but basketball.
This book is action packaged from page one and will keep you turning the pages waiting for Jeannie to realize her joke is actually the truth and wondering what her stalker ex will do next.
This is a slow-burn romance that will burst your Kindle in flames once Aiden takes himself out of the friend zone. Although not stated this is part of the Take series and all of the characters from the previous books are actively part of this book. I can actually see an enemies-to-lovers story happening but will have to see if that is the direction Evelyn Sola is going next.
I highly recommend this multicultural romance and can't to see what comes next!
June 12, 2023
4.5 Stars
FRIEND ZONE is one of my favorite books of the year so far because it has a perfect balance of everything that makes a book wonderful - romance, friendship, fun dialogue and enjoyable secondary characters, plus leaving the reader feeling bloodthirsty and ready to avenge wrongs.
Talk about leveling up in every way! After being betrayed by a cheating husband and disloyal best friends, Jeannie Dubois ditched them to start over. Her plan to focus on herself and give up on love is off to a rocky start when she meets Aiden Walsh at an event she attends under duress from her mom. But that meeting with Aiden becomes the catalyst for the unexpected second act of her life that brings her the fulfilment she never expected.
My favorite things about Aiden and Jeannie's relationship is that:
- There were no games between them. They were friends and that friendship blossomed into love,
even though Jeannie was understandably resistant at first.
- Aiden was at the point in his life where he wanted more than a career, he was very clear about
what he wanted, and he was patient and careful with Jeannie's emotions.
- Even though Aiden never led with his family's wealth and influence, he was always ready to wield
both in defense of Jeannie. What's sexier than that?
-This was in my opinion, an honest look at how careers can impact a relationship and how partners
have to put in the work to maintain their relationships.
There were a couple of cringey moments for me, like how Jeannie's family and friends could not stop taking about her ex-husband and ex-friends and let her move forward, but for the most part I really enjoyed it and found time to read my favorite sections multiple times as well as the bonus epilogue.
I'm definitely going to be reading more of this author's backlist as well as looking forward to more books from her.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
FRIEND ZONE is one of my favorite books of the year so far because it has a perfect balance of everything that makes a book wonderful - romance, friendship, fun dialogue and enjoyable secondary characters, plus leaving the reader feeling bloodthirsty and ready to avenge wrongs.
Talk about leveling up in every way! After being betrayed by a cheating husband and disloyal best friends, Jeannie Dubois ditched them to start over. Her plan to focus on herself and give up on love is off to a rocky start when she meets Aiden Walsh at an event she attends under duress from her mom. But that meeting with Aiden becomes the catalyst for the unexpected second act of her life that brings her the fulfilment she never expected.
My favorite things about Aiden and Jeannie's relationship is that:
- There were no games between them. They were friends and that friendship blossomed into love,
even though Jeannie was understandably resistant at first.
- Aiden was at the point in his life where he wanted more than a career, he was very clear about
what he wanted, and he was patient and careful with Jeannie's emotions.
- Even though Aiden never led with his family's wealth and influence, he was always ready to wield
both in defense of Jeannie. What's sexier than that?
-This was in my opinion, an honest look at how careers can impact a relationship and how partners
have to put in the work to maintain their relationships.
There were a couple of cringey moments for me, like how Jeannie's family and friends could not stop taking about her ex-husband and ex-friends and let her move forward, but for the most part I really enjoyed it and found time to read my favorite sections multiple times as well as the bonus epilogue.
I'm definitely going to be reading more of this author's backlist as well as looking forward to more books from her.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
September 27, 2023
1,75 ✨
This book got on my nerve after 20 % but i withstood and practically finished it.
Pros: - Jeannie beating the crap out of her ex and the side piece was fulfilling. I was getting tired of reading about women crying after getting betrayed (not that crying is bad but reading about someone getting angry was nice too)
- Jeannie not giving an f about her ex and his drama was also chef kiss (but I wish she would have called security on his ass after the first visit)
Cons: - Befriending a girl for the sole purpose of learning everything about her, so you can be the perfect man and date her is ickyyyyy. Just no. I don’t indulge in a ton of “friends to lovers” but starting a friendship under that false guise can’t be the way to go. And if they say the word “friends” or “besties” one more time I will throw the book across the room. We get it y’all are friends.
- Jeannie didn’t want to date him originally because of his schedule and she wanted someone present but all he has to do is ask her nicely and she throws her wants out the window?
- the whole drama that happened over the “she doesn’t know I am practically her boss” was so so so wrong. 1. He intentionally evaded telling her because he thought she wouldn’t date him. 2. His sister and brother-in-law practically told him to manipulate her into thinking it’s her fault she didn’t know because “who doesn’t look people op online” 3. She finds out and he DOES chose to gaslight gatekeep and girlboss (minus the girlboss). How did she end up apologizing?? Am still trying to figure that out.
- They were happy after 50% so therefore the book should have ended there. The rest of the book was literally just them FaceTiming and having sex. If the book was 300 pages I probably would have giving it a higher rating. I didn’t even bother reading the last 30 pages.
I’m just gonna stop here.
This book got on my nerve after 20 % but i withstood and practically finished it.
Pros: - Jeannie beating the crap out of her ex and the side piece was fulfilling. I was getting tired of reading about women crying after getting betrayed (not that crying is bad but reading about someone getting angry was nice too)
- Jeannie not giving an f about her ex and his drama was also chef kiss (but I wish she would have called security on his ass after the first visit)
Cons: - Befriending a girl for the sole purpose of learning everything about her, so you can be the perfect man and date her is ickyyyyy. Just no. I don’t indulge in a ton of “friends to lovers” but starting a friendship under that false guise can’t be the way to go. And if they say the word “friends” or “besties” one more time I will throw the book across the room. We get it y’all are friends.
- Jeannie didn’t want to date him originally because of his schedule and she wanted someone present but all he has to do is ask her nicely and she throws her wants out the window?
- the whole drama that happened over the “she doesn’t know I am practically her boss” was so so so wrong. 1. He intentionally evaded telling her because he thought she wouldn’t date him. 2. His sister and brother-in-law practically told him to manipulate her into thinking it’s her fault she didn’t know because “who doesn’t look people op online” 3. She finds out and he DOES chose to gaslight gatekeep and girlboss (minus the girlboss). How did she end up apologizing?? Am still trying to figure that out.
- They were happy after 50% so therefore the book should have ended there. The rest of the book was literally just them FaceTiming and having sex. If the book was 300 pages I probably would have giving it a higher rating. I didn’t even bother reading the last 30 pages.
I’m just gonna stop here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2023
My first read by Evelyn Sola and I adored Friend Zoned as basketball coach Aiden goes to one of players wedding and is instantly intrigued by a mysterious woman in black. Recently divorced Jeannie has been dragged to the wedding by her mum Myra, the groom’s cook, for the main purpose of finding her a husband whether she wants one or not. Myra trolling for men had me laughing, her prerequisites that they be black, wealthy and preferably their skin unblemished with tattoos. Even the appearance of the long haired, white Viking Aiden wasn’t a deterrent – she just ignored him. Luckily for Aiden he’s made of stronger stuff so when Jeannie uses him as a shield against her mum he’s quick to step into the friend zone and build their relationship from there.
I loved everything about this friends to lovers romance. There was sizzling chemistry between Jeannie and Aiden even if initially she was reluctant to act on it with her ‘bestie’. Their banter was wicked as their relationship developed. I loved how Jeannie was so strong. She didn’t allow interference from her douchebag ex to upset her, treating him as an irritating inconvenience and I cheered her on when she confronted him and kicked his ass. I loved all the relationships between the hero and heroine and various secondary characters, Jeannie and Layla who was more like a sister than friend to her, Jeannie and her family who welcomed Aiden even if they did drive him crazy over sports, Aiden and his players where for some of them, he was the only parental figure they’d known. All these relationships brought something to Friend Zoned and made this book special. I’ll definitely be reading more from this author.
I loved everything about this friends to lovers romance. There was sizzling chemistry between Jeannie and Aiden even if initially she was reluctant to act on it with her ‘bestie’. Their banter was wicked as their relationship developed. I loved how Jeannie was so strong. She didn’t allow interference from her douchebag ex to upset her, treating him as an irritating inconvenience and I cheered her on when she confronted him and kicked his ass. I loved all the relationships between the hero and heroine and various secondary characters, Jeannie and Layla who was more like a sister than friend to her, Jeannie and her family who welcomed Aiden even if they did drive him crazy over sports, Aiden and his players where for some of them, he was the only parental figure they’d known. All these relationships brought something to Friend Zoned and made this book special. I’ll definitely be reading more from this author.
June 16, 2023
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Someone has piqued Aiden’s interest. Jeannie just wants her day to be over. If you’re looking to find an author you’ve never read before, this book would be a good choice. It may be a sports romance but it’s also about the character’s budding relationship and personal lives - less about the sport itself. If you’re more about the sport, have a game playing in the background as you read.
There are scenes that have me quickly think, “with friends like these, who needs enemies”. Those scenes are a good reminder that you need to listen to yourself. If you feel something is off, or doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. You also need to listen to your heart. It took some time but that’s what Jeannie did. Aiden was a man who seemed to have a lot of patience. He knew he couldn’t rush anything if he wanted his future to include his forever.
Not everyone will see the same thing when reading a book – we all see things differently. The author gives her characters what I feel are real life problems. The characters have jobs to do and the author does a good job at mixing those jobs with their downtime – neither seems to overtake the other. Aiden and Jeannie have a couple of good friends that if you make it to the end, you find out that they have their own story. Since I thoroughly enjoyed this story, I know I’m going to have to check that one out.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Someone has piqued Aiden’s interest. Jeannie just wants her day to be over. If you’re looking to find an author you’ve never read before, this book would be a good choice. It may be a sports romance but it’s also about the character’s budding relationship and personal lives - less about the sport itself. If you’re more about the sport, have a game playing in the background as you read.
There are scenes that have me quickly think, “with friends like these, who needs enemies”. Those scenes are a good reminder that you need to listen to yourself. If you feel something is off, or doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. You also need to listen to your heart. It took some time but that’s what Jeannie did. Aiden was a man who seemed to have a lot of patience. He knew he couldn’t rush anything if he wanted his future to include his forever.
Not everyone will see the same thing when reading a book – we all see things differently. The author gives her characters what I feel are real life problems. The characters have jobs to do and the author does a good job at mixing those jobs with their downtime – neither seems to overtake the other. Aiden and Jeannie have a couple of good friends that if you make it to the end, you find out that they have their own story. Since I thoroughly enjoyed this story, I know I’m going to have to check that one out.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
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