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Love & Legal Aid #2
The Escalation Clause
Eden Yates never expected to end up on the wrong side of the law.
She’s a free spirit, not a criminal. But two months after her last relationship ends, she finds herself answering questions about her ex’s illegal dealings. Safe to say she isn’t interested in another relationship, especially one where she has to be someone she’s not. She’s spent years finding herself and if experience has taught her anything, being in a partnership always leaves one person broken.
Enter Ted Hughes. He’s a lawyer and as buttoned up as they come.
Ted is looking for forever, but he just hasn’t found the right woman yet. It’s definitely not the free-spirited artist too naïve to realize that she needs an attorney. Of course he’s going to help her. Ted can’t walk away from a damsel in distress. It has nothing to do with how cute she is.
Eden doesn’t enjoy being in anyone’s debt. Ted helped her so she’ll help him. All he needs is a wedding date and who doesn’t love weddings? Aside from sizzling chemistry, they have absolutely nothing in common. There’s nothing for them to worry about, right? It’s one weekend away. They’ll even put it in writing. No sex, no feelings, just a favor for a favor. Maybe they both should have studied the fine print.
She’s a free spirit, not a criminal. But two months after her last relationship ends, she finds herself answering questions about her ex’s illegal dealings. Safe to say she isn’t interested in another relationship, especially one where she has to be someone she’s not. She’s spent years finding herself and if experience has taught her anything, being in a partnership always leaves one person broken.
Enter Ted Hughes. He’s a lawyer and as buttoned up as they come.
Ted is looking for forever, but he just hasn’t found the right woman yet. It’s definitely not the free-spirited artist too naïve to realize that she needs an attorney. Of course he’s going to help her. Ted can’t walk away from a damsel in distress. It has nothing to do with how cute she is.
Eden doesn’t enjoy being in anyone’s debt. Ted helped her so she’ll help him. All he needs is a wedding date and who doesn’t love weddings? Aside from sizzling chemistry, they have absolutely nothing in common. There’s nothing for them to worry about, right? It’s one weekend away. They’ll even put it in writing. No sex, no feelings, just a favor for a favor. Maybe they both should have studied the fine print.
315 pages, Paperback
First published June 12, 2023
13 people are currently reading
4146 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
July 2, 2023
Thank you, Stella Stevenson, for the ARC ❤️
Eden finds herself in potential trouble with the police because of her ex-boyfriend. Ted, who happens to be a lawyer, overhears a couple police officers talking about Eden, and he decides to step in and help her. He tells Eden to lawyer up, but not with him. He gives her a business card, and as a thank you, Eden stops by his office and says she'll return his help with a favor of his choosing. He opts for her to go with him to a wedding.
Ted wants to find a wife and get married. Eden is a free spirit who likes to go with the flow. They're opposites in every way, but maybe a weekend together could lead to more.
• Dual pov
• insta-love/lust
• opposites attract
• forced proximity
*potential spoilers below*
Overall, I liked this book! I'm not into insta-love/insta-lust, so this book was a little harder for me to get into. Right after the meeting, she goes to his office and gives him a gift and then makes out with him in his office even though they JUST met. Then he invites her to go away with him for the weekend to a wedding and she agrees. The pacing felt a little fast up until halfway through the wedding. The story felt a little disconnected, like it didn't fully commit to the whole police investigation or the wedding aspect. A lot of things were sort of glossed over, and it mostly focuses on Eden and Ted's relationship. If the book would have been longer I think it would have flowed better.
That being said, I really liked the characters in this story. Ted is a slightly gruff cinnamon roll who adores Eden from the moment he meets her. He's got a savior complex and will do anything for her. Eden is afraid of losing herself in a relationship and is avoiding love. Ted very quickly grows on her, and she begins to see that it's possible to love someone and not lose sight of who you are.
The way these two care for each other just melted my heart into a puddle! I love that she calls him Bear, and when he bought her art supplies, I couldn't take it. This man is so thoughtful and deserves the world. They had great communication skills and constantly checked in to make sure the other person didn't feel like their boundaries weren't being respected, which I feel like you don't see a lot in romances (I'm looking at you miscommunication trope) so this was great!
3 stars
This was a very fast read, and I had a good time! It's a perfect beach read that's wholesome with some spice!
Eden finds herself in potential trouble with the police because of her ex-boyfriend. Ted, who happens to be a lawyer, overhears a couple police officers talking about Eden, and he decides to step in and help her. He tells Eden to lawyer up, but not with him. He gives her a business card, and as a thank you, Eden stops by his office and says she'll return his help with a favor of his choosing. He opts for her to go with him to a wedding.
Ted wants to find a wife and get married. Eden is a free spirit who likes to go with the flow. They're opposites in every way, but maybe a weekend together could lead to more.
• Dual pov
• insta-love/lust
• opposites attract
• forced proximity
*potential spoilers below*
Overall, I liked this book! I'm not into insta-love/insta-lust, so this book was a little harder for me to get into. Right after the meeting, she goes to his office and gives him a gift and then makes out with him in his office even though they JUST met. Then he invites her to go away with him for the weekend to a wedding and she agrees. The pacing felt a little fast up until halfway through the wedding. The story felt a little disconnected, like it didn't fully commit to the whole police investigation or the wedding aspect. A lot of things were sort of glossed over, and it mostly focuses on Eden and Ted's relationship. If the book would have been longer I think it would have flowed better.
That being said, I really liked the characters in this story. Ted is a slightly gruff cinnamon roll who adores Eden from the moment he meets her. He's got a savior complex and will do anything for her. Eden is afraid of losing herself in a relationship and is avoiding love. Ted very quickly grows on her, and she begins to see that it's possible to love someone and not lose sight of who you are.
The way these two care for each other just melted my heart into a puddle! I love that she calls him Bear, and when he bought her art supplies, I couldn't take it. This man is so thoughtful and deserves the world. They had great communication skills and constantly checked in to make sure the other person didn't feel like their boundaries weren't being respected, which I feel like you don't see a lot in romances (I'm looking at you miscommunication trope) so this was great!
3 stars
This was a very fast read, and I had a good time! It's a perfect beach read that's wholesome with some spice!
May 13, 2023
I was grateful to be given and be a part of this ARC team in exchange for an honest review.
Let me just start off by saying WOW, just wow. Stella Stevenson definitely knows how to keep a reader entranced in her book. The moment I started reading, I could not set it down. The plot, the banter, and the spice was all so fantastic. I love how the FMC was so independent and stayed true to herself no matter what, which in turn helped the grumpy but not so grumpy MMC become true to himself. This book had me giddy all throughout reading, and I will definitely be in my pile to read over and over again.
Let me just start off by saying WOW, just wow. Stella Stevenson definitely knows how to keep a reader entranced in her book. The moment I started reading, I could not set it down. The plot, the banter, and the spice was all so fantastic. I love how the FMC was so independent and stayed true to herself no matter what, which in turn helped the grumpy but not so grumpy MMC become true to himself. This book had me giddy all throughout reading, and I will definitely be in my pile to read over and over again.
May 29, 2023
Thank you again for the ARC copy! ❤️
It’s an interconnected standalone. So if you’ve read her other books you’ll have more background on some side characters.🙌🏼
I’ll have to say that it took me around 30% to really get into the book.
Eden is a free spirited artist/ yoga teacher who doesn’t want to be in a relationship ever again. Right in the beginning she gets into legal trouble because of her ex.
Ted our male main character is a loyal lawyer who is searching for a wife and saves her from an uncomfortable situation with the police.
I found Eden a little bit to naïve in the beginning and I couldn’t really connect.
She want’s to pay back Ted with a favour and thats how she becomes his date to his best friends wedding. Here comes the contract into play.🙈
As soon as the wedding weekend started I enjoyed the book and the setting way more. 🙌🏼
The book also hast a mystery aspect which was really cool. Sadly this one fell a bit flat for me at the end.
Overall I would give this book 3.5 stars✨
I like my romance books more drama filled so this one wasn’t a 100% fit for me. I still really enjoyed my time reading this book and it’s just a wholesome and cute romance with a lot of communication.😍
I would definitely recommend it❣️
April 8, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
There were parts I liked and things I didn’t like. But the main characters were so good. The writing was a bit dull at times.
There were parts I liked and things I didn’t like. But the main characters were so good. The writing was a bit dull at times.
June 13, 2023
Actual rating 3.5 stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The plot: One day Eden is detained by the police because they have questions concerning her ex-boyfriend. At the police station, she meets Ted (the lawyer) who unexpectedly comes to her rescue. And when she wants to return the favor, he asks her to go to the wedding with him. From this point on their relationship is regulated by the contract, but there is always an escalation clause that can be written in.
What I didn't like:
1. the POVs weren't clearly identified. It took some time to understand that the story is told from 2 characters' views, and even then it is not stated which chapter is which.
2. repetitions. In some parts of the book, almost the same feelings/thoughts are written. Saying that they can not be together over and over, in their thoughts and to each other. I understand why this is done, however, it would have been better to just let Ted do what he has to, and show how Eden responds to that.
What I liked:
1. the story. It is unusual to see that the man wants to marry and the woman has commitment issues. It was a first for me. And I quite enjoyed this story. It develops gradually, starting with the undeniable attraction between Ted and Eden. Then throughout time, we see how they both change and how they deal with their feelings. I also liked that there was a bit of a mystery in the book - what happened to Eden's ex and the whole investigation of his activities.
2. the writing. The book is easy to read and humorous. The dialogues between characters are well-written and funny, especially the flirty ones. And the conversations between friends at the wedding had me laughing out loud.
3. Ted as a character should be illegal 😊 He is such a great man - caring, attentive, romantic, always listens and does what is necessary, sometimes even when not asked to. I'm sure he is many women's dreams, but to me, it was a bit unrealistic. No one is this perfect, however, this is the reason I love such characters - they are a pleasure to read about.
4. the trigger warning in the beginning. Bless the author for warning us about topics in the book in advance.
Content warnings: profanity, sex, illegal substances, death.
Overall opinion: The book is easy to read, with an unusual love story and good characters. Although it is too sweet and perfect at times, we sometimes need something like this as a reminder that great things can happen and that communication is everything. So, I would definitely recommend this book if you are looking for an entertaining read with hot scenes and an interesting story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The plot: One day Eden is detained by the police because they have questions concerning her ex-boyfriend. At the police station, she meets Ted (the lawyer) who unexpectedly comes to her rescue. And when she wants to return the favor, he asks her to go to the wedding with him. From this point on their relationship is regulated by the contract, but there is always an escalation clause that can be written in.
What I didn't like:
1. the POVs weren't clearly identified. It took some time to understand that the story is told from 2 characters' views, and even then it is not stated which chapter is which.
2. repetitions. In some parts of the book, almost the same feelings/thoughts are written. Saying that they can not be together over and over, in their thoughts and to each other. I understand why this is done, however, it would have been better to just let Ted do what he has to, and show how Eden responds to that.
What I liked:
1. the story. It is unusual to see that the man wants to marry and the woman has commitment issues. It was a first for me. And I quite enjoyed this story. It develops gradually, starting with the undeniable attraction between Ted and Eden. Then throughout time, we see how they both change and how they deal with their feelings. I also liked that there was a bit of a mystery in the book - what happened to Eden's ex and the whole investigation of his activities.
2. the writing. The book is easy to read and humorous. The dialogues between characters are well-written and funny, especially the flirty ones. And the conversations between friends at the wedding had me laughing out loud.
3. Ted as a character should be illegal 😊 He is such a great man - caring, attentive, romantic, always listens and does what is necessary, sometimes even when not asked to. I'm sure he is many women's dreams, but to me, it was a bit unrealistic. No one is this perfect, however, this is the reason I love such characters - they are a pleasure to read about.
4. the trigger warning in the beginning. Bless the author for warning us about topics in the book in advance.
Content warnings: profanity, sex, illegal substances, death.
Overall opinion: The book is easy to read, with an unusual love story and good characters. Although it is too sweet and perfect at times, we sometimes need something like this as a reminder that great things can happen and that communication is everything. So, I would definitely recommend this book if you are looking for an entertaining read with hot scenes and an interesting story.
June 14, 2023
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for my honest review and YALL
being an arc reader for stella is NEVER a disappointment & i ALWAYS love what she writes but this one, it’s giving THE TROPE a run for its money as my favorite book of hers.
i don’t even know where to start just know this review might end up becoming a 5 star but for right now it’s 4.5 just because i always take forever settling on a final star review.
we follow ted and eden as they navigate “not dating”. ted saved eden’s ass in a police precinct, she saved his ass at a wedding, and she swore she wasn’t going to date and ted swore he wasn’t going to fall in love with her, he couldn’t.
stella does such a great job at writing the characters to have such amazing personalities. even the side characters. and i love that all the characters seem to interlope almost from every book. as much as i absolutely ADORED eden, i do want to give a special shout out to romy because as someone who was coloring their hair AGAIN while reading the ending of this book… i relate girl. i relate.
stella had me when she said grumpy/sunshine. i love grumpy sunshine relationships and the trope. and eden is the walking epitome of sunshine. i could not be upset when reading about her. and to see ted become less grumpy around her made my pisces heart SWELL.
also, the spice in this book? 👀 think i can convince my boyfriend to call me sweetness too? stella has such a great way of writing spice so it’s not TOO much but is just enough. there’s plot with the spice & its top tier.
you can tell she researched her stuff too while writing and i genuinely learned a lot from it because i didn’t know half the legal things in here.
also, as someone who has a bad relationship with my step dad/dad and who has some serious daddy issues i really fully related to ted and eden with their struggles. and while it isn’t outright stated but the thought that someone who has probable familial trauma can lead a good life and be happy gives me hope.
and i know this has nothing to do with the plot of the book but the dedication in the beginning… is a reminder i think a lot of us need to see & it had me crying like a little baby.
i’m absolutely terrible at reviews and i don’t even know if i am doing this right but i hope me ranting excitedly about the things i loved in this book helps you to check it out even more.
we got:
a bisexual FMC
more queer side characters
grumpy/sunshine trope
beach summer theme
open door spice (can someone say beach/ocean spice?!)
lovable characters
and more!
stella, once again, i adore you.
i love this book
and now i’m going to scream about it for a hot second.
being an arc reader for stella is NEVER a disappointment & i ALWAYS love what she writes but this one, it’s giving THE TROPE a run for its money as my favorite book of hers.
i don’t even know where to start just know this review might end up becoming a 5 star but for right now it’s 4.5 just because i always take forever settling on a final star review.
we follow ted and eden as they navigate “not dating”. ted saved eden’s ass in a police precinct, she saved his ass at a wedding, and she swore she wasn’t going to date and ted swore he wasn’t going to fall in love with her, he couldn’t.
stella does such a great job at writing the characters to have such amazing personalities. even the side characters. and i love that all the characters seem to interlope almost from every book. as much as i absolutely ADORED eden, i do want to give a special shout out to romy because as someone who was coloring their hair AGAIN while reading the ending of this book… i relate girl. i relate.
stella had me when she said grumpy/sunshine. i love grumpy sunshine relationships and the trope. and eden is the walking epitome of sunshine. i could not be upset when reading about her. and to see ted become less grumpy around her made my pisces heart SWELL.
also, the spice in this book? 👀 think i can convince my boyfriend to call me sweetness too? stella has such a great way of writing spice so it’s not TOO much but is just enough. there’s plot with the spice & its top tier.
you can tell she researched her stuff too while writing and i genuinely learned a lot from it because i didn’t know half the legal things in here.
also, as someone who has a bad relationship with my step dad/dad and who has some serious daddy issues i really fully related to ted and eden with their struggles. and while it isn’t outright stated but the thought that someone who has probable familial trauma can lead a good life and be happy gives me hope.
and i know this has nothing to do with the plot of the book but the dedication in the beginning… is a reminder i think a lot of us need to see & it had me crying like a little baby.
i’m absolutely terrible at reviews and i don’t even know if i am doing this right but i hope me ranting excitedly about the things i loved in this book helps you to check it out even more.
we got:
a bisexual FMC
more queer side characters
grumpy/sunshine trope
beach summer theme
open door spice (can someone say beach/ocean spice?!)
lovable characters
and more!
stella, once again, i adore you.
i love this book
and now i’m going to scream about it for a hot second.
June 13, 2023
PUB DAY REVIEW: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
THE ESCALATION CLAUSE BY STELLA STEVENSON
Tropes:
•Grumpy-Sunshine
•Opposites Attract
•Strong FMC
•Broody MMC
•Found Family
•Fake Dating
•One Bed
Eden has been pretty independent since she left home at 18. She says relationships aren’t for her and despite all of this, she’s pretty naive.
Ted is a big teddy bear hiding behind his gruff demeanor and suits. He’s afraid that he’ll never find someone who likes the person he is underneath it all.
So what happens when these two meet?
Eden and Ted are inevitable. Their attraction isn’t just skin deep, no matter how much Eden tells herself that. As their relationship deepens, they will both question things about themselves and face a lot of their fears.
I loved watching the two of them grow and all of their back and forth banter. And I think you will, too!
This is the third book in her Trope series!
BLURB:
Eden Yates never expected to end up on the wrong side of the law. She’s a free spirit, not a criminal. But two months after her last relationship ends, she finds herself answering questions about her ex’s illegal dealings.
Safe to say she isn’t interested in another relationship, especially one where she has to be someone she’s not. She’s spent years finding herself and if experience has taught her anything, being in a partnership always leaves one person broken.
Enter Ted Hughes. He’s a lawyer and as buttoned up as they come. Ted is looking for forever, but he just hasn’t found the right woman yet. It’s definitely not the free-spirited artist too naïve to realize that she needs an attorney. Ted can’t walk away from a damsel in distress. It has nothing to do with how cute she is.
Eden doesn’t enjoy being in anyone’s debt. Ted helped her so she’ll help him. All he needs is a wedding date and who doesn’t love weddings? Aside from sizzling chemistry, they have absolutely nothing in common. There’s nothing for them to worry about, right? It’s one weekend away. They’ll even put it in writing. No sex, no feelings, just a favor for a favor. Maybe they both should have studied the fine print.
Huge thank you to @stellastevensonwrites for this ARC copy! All opinions and reviews are my own!
THE ESCALATION CLAUSE BY STELLA STEVENSON
Tropes:
•Grumpy-Sunshine
•Opposites Attract
•Strong FMC
•Broody MMC
•Found Family
•Fake Dating
•One Bed
Eden has been pretty independent since she left home at 18. She says relationships aren’t for her and despite all of this, she’s pretty naive.
Ted is a big teddy bear hiding behind his gruff demeanor and suits. He’s afraid that he’ll never find someone who likes the person he is underneath it all.
So what happens when these two meet?
Eden and Ted are inevitable. Their attraction isn’t just skin deep, no matter how much Eden tells herself that. As their relationship deepens, they will both question things about themselves and face a lot of their fears.
I loved watching the two of them grow and all of their back and forth banter. And I think you will, too!
This is the third book in her Trope series!
BLURB:
Eden Yates never expected to end up on the wrong side of the law. She’s a free spirit, not a criminal. But two months after her last relationship ends, she finds herself answering questions about her ex’s illegal dealings.
Safe to say she isn’t interested in another relationship, especially one where she has to be someone she’s not. She’s spent years finding herself and if experience has taught her anything, being in a partnership always leaves one person broken.
Enter Ted Hughes. He’s a lawyer and as buttoned up as they come. Ted is looking for forever, but he just hasn’t found the right woman yet. It’s definitely not the free-spirited artist too naïve to realize that she needs an attorney. Ted can’t walk away from a damsel in distress. It has nothing to do with how cute she is.
Eden doesn’t enjoy being in anyone’s debt. Ted helped her so she’ll help him. All he needs is a wedding date and who doesn’t love weddings? Aside from sizzling chemistry, they have absolutely nothing in common. There’s nothing for them to worry about, right? It’s one weekend away. They’ll even put it in writing. No sex, no feelings, just a favor for a favor. Maybe they both should have studied the fine print.
Huge thank you to @stellastevensonwrites for this ARC copy! All opinions and reviews are my own!
June 4, 2023
I read this as an ARC. It was pretty cute and a little cheesy, but I enjoyed it.
Eden is a young woman living in Boston. She's a bit of a hippie, a yogi, a free spirit. She's dates the wrong men and has decided she won't ever get married so that she can't be hurt again.
Ted is a straight-laced lawyer, a good guy, who wants to get married, have kids, and live up to his familys expectations. He just hasnt found "the one."
Eden gets into a legal bind because of her ex-boyfriend, and Ted rescues her. She then offers to pay him back by being his date to a friends wedding. Because hes a lawyer, he draws up a contract for them, but they can always add an escalation clause should they want to change the terms and conditions after the fact.
I love the difference in their characters. Eden is so unsure about everything and pushes Ted away. Ted is rock solid and keeps his arms and heart open for Eden. They both have poor relationships with their father figures but dealt with them differently in life. They are very opposite but balance one another so well. And their chemistry is off the charts!
This was a light and easy read. It was a little wordy at times and could have been a bit shorter, and I would have preferrwd first person POV. But overall, it was cute and fun, a perfect little summer read!
3.5 ⭐️
Eden is a young woman living in Boston. She's a bit of a hippie, a yogi, a free spirit. She's dates the wrong men and has decided she won't ever get married so that she can't be hurt again.
Ted is a straight-laced lawyer, a good guy, who wants to get married, have kids, and live up to his familys expectations. He just hasnt found "the one."
Eden gets into a legal bind because of her ex-boyfriend, and Ted rescues her. She then offers to pay him back by being his date to a friends wedding. Because hes a lawyer, he draws up a contract for them, but they can always add an escalation clause should they want to change the terms and conditions after the fact.
I love the difference in their characters. Eden is so unsure about everything and pushes Ted away. Ted is rock solid and keeps his arms and heart open for Eden. They both have poor relationships with their father figures but dealt with them differently in life. They are very opposite but balance one another so well. And their chemistry is off the charts!
This was a light and easy read. It was a little wordy at times and could have been a bit shorter, and I would have preferrwd first person POV. But overall, it was cute and fun, a perfect little summer read!
3.5 ⭐️
June 13, 2023
I’ll be totally honest when I tell you that life lately has been kind of crazy. I haven’t been able to read as much as I’d like to and sometimes, that has to be okay.
I made time for this book though, because when I tell you that it’s worth it - I truly mean it.
Stella Stevenson has a way of making her characters so lovable, so real, and so relatable that you just feel an immediate connection to them, just the same way her characters seem to have an immediate connection to each other.
I find myself in every main character (and even sometimes the side characters) that Stella writes, and when their characters find happiness, so it seems do I.
Ted and Eden immediately had me falling in love, with their stories, their personalities, and their chemistry. I absolutely blazed through this book, when I haven’t had the energy to blaze through any others lately. It’s that ability, to breathe life back into reading, because her stories are SO good, that I love Stella Stevenson’s books.
I can’t thank her enough for the opportunity to read this ARC, not just for me, but for my entire book club. We all have absolutely loved it and I can’t wait until everyone has an opportunity to read this tomorrow! 🩵
I made time for this book though, because when I tell you that it’s worth it - I truly mean it.
Stella Stevenson has a way of making her characters so lovable, so real, and so relatable that you just feel an immediate connection to them, just the same way her characters seem to have an immediate connection to each other.
I find myself in every main character (and even sometimes the side characters) that Stella writes, and when their characters find happiness, so it seems do I.
Ted and Eden immediately had me falling in love, with their stories, their personalities, and their chemistry. I absolutely blazed through this book, when I haven’t had the energy to blaze through any others lately. It’s that ability, to breathe life back into reading, because her stories are SO good, that I love Stella Stevenson’s books.
I can’t thank her enough for the opportunity to read this ARC, not just for me, but for my entire book club. We all have absolutely loved it and I can’t wait until everyone has an opportunity to read this tomorrow! 🩵
May 17, 2023
"It takes a lot of strength and courage to be yourself unapologetically."
Eden and Ted have an agreement. He helps her with some legal trouble and she is his date for his best friend's wedding. While Ted is looking for marriage, Eden isn't. So there aren't any misunderstandings, they draw up a contract to make sure there are clear boundaries. But sticking to the rules is harder than either of them imagined.
This incorporates some of my favorite elements of a contemporary romance! I really enjoy the "opposites attract" element mixed with a little grumpy/sunshine dynamic. Eden is a bit of a free spirit, artsy type, while Ted is a serious lawyer (on the surface). What makes this work so well is that they both, at one point, conformed to what was expected of them. Together, they are just able to be themselves. It's also nice to read stories where family isn't who you are born to (if they don't understand you or are toxic) but are who you choose. This was a really sweet romance and would be a perfect summer beach read. Go check it out!
A big thank you to the author, Stella Stevenson, for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Eden and Ted have an agreement. He helps her with some legal trouble and she is his date for his best friend's wedding. While Ted is looking for marriage, Eden isn't. So there aren't any misunderstandings, they draw up a contract to make sure there are clear boundaries. But sticking to the rules is harder than either of them imagined.
This incorporates some of my favorite elements of a contemporary romance! I really enjoy the "opposites attract" element mixed with a little grumpy/sunshine dynamic. Eden is a bit of a free spirit, artsy type, while Ted is a serious lawyer (on the surface). What makes this work so well is that they both, at one point, conformed to what was expected of them. Together, they are just able to be themselves. It's also nice to read stories where family isn't who you are born to (if they don't understand you or are toxic) but are who you choose. This was a really sweet romance and would be a perfect summer beach read. Go check it out!
A big thank you to the author, Stella Stevenson, for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 13, 2023
Ted from The Escalation Clause by Stella Stevenson is the ONLY MAN IN THE WORLD I trust to take me home and safe. Because there is NO ONE. I repeat, NO FKING ONE else.
And I'm letting you know how much I would love if anyone let's this man (Ted Hughes) know that I'm single and looking for affection and some chatty time in the bedroom. Purely platonic of course. Except for the sex 💋💕
Back to the topic at hand, Ted Hughes dick. Or was it his brain. Both of them are big enough for a gal like me. Anyway THIS BOOK I TELL Y'ALL. This book. Is my new religion. I'd SELL my soul TO UNCLE SATAN if I could have a love like theirs.
Eden is a sweetheart. She's the kind of girl I'd go to work for. She's the kind of girl you love, have kids with and cherish for ever and ever. Ted is a guy version of Eden but like, I'm bi. These are problems each of us deals with everyday. #beingbiishard and plus there's a bi main character!
Okay so, Eden needs legal counsel because she's like Jess from New Girl. Ted is like Ryan Goesinyou (idc Google the right spelling) He comes to the rescue of damsels who are distressed (legally) Ted and Eden have chemistry. And the way their personalities fit is probably illegal in the States (idk my imagination is wild when it comes to the US)
[Flash Forward]
Both of them need to bone and they do. At a wedding that's not theirs. At the beach. At his office. At the floor of his friend's mansion. And those were quite the times. I've never been more turned on in my entire life.
Ted and Eden carry so much truama thanks to their resp. Stepfathers. If I were Ted or Eden I'd be in jail. Or worse, on a Wikipedia page.
Anyway, this book is a five star and if you're not picking up this new book baby and worshiping it like your first born, then Uncle Satan (my good friend and humanitarian) would come find you..
And I'm letting you know how much I would love if anyone let's this man (Ted Hughes) know that I'm single and looking for affection and some chatty time in the bedroom. Purely platonic of course. Except for the sex 💋💕
Back to the topic at hand, Ted Hughes dick. Or was it his brain. Both of them are big enough for a gal like me. Anyway THIS BOOK I TELL Y'ALL. This book. Is my new religion. I'd SELL my soul TO UNCLE SATAN if I could have a love like theirs.
Eden is a sweetheart. She's the kind of girl I'd go to work for. She's the kind of girl you love, have kids with and cherish for ever and ever. Ted is a guy version of Eden but like, I'm bi. These are problems each of us deals with everyday. #beingbiishard and plus there's a bi main character!
Okay so, Eden needs legal counsel because she's like Jess from New Girl. Ted is like Ryan Goesinyou (idc Google the right spelling) He comes to the rescue of damsels who are distressed (legally) Ted and Eden have chemistry. And the way their personalities fit is probably illegal in the States (idk my imagination is wild when it comes to the US)
[Flash Forward]
Both of them need to bone and they do. At a wedding that's not theirs. At the beach. At his office. At the floor of his friend's mansion. And those were quite the times. I've never been more turned on in my entire life.
Ted and Eden carry so much truama thanks to their resp. Stepfathers. If I were Ted or Eden I'd be in jail. Or worse, on a Wikipedia page.
Anyway, this book is a five star and if you're not picking up this new book baby and worshiping it like your first born, then Uncle Satan (my good friend and humanitarian) would come find you..
June 12, 2023
This book was super sweet.
I really enjoyed the characters. Ted & Eden were cute right from the start and I just kept falling harder for them throughout the book. I loved the nicknames, the sweet gestures and their personalities. They seem like opposites at first but they find out they’re similar.
The pacing is, admittedly, slow. It took me some time to get into the story but once the relationship between Eden & Ted started to blossom, I couldn’t stop. My other issue was that there was too much description /info dumping at times.
This is a slow burn romance in the sense of the HEA. The characters do have open door spicy times early on but the romance takes longer to develop since there’s a lot of will they/won’t they. If you enjoy angst & mutual pining this is the romance for you!
Overall, I had a good time reading this and think it would make a great beach read.
Rating: 3.5/5
🌶️ Rating: 3/5
I really enjoyed the characters. Ted & Eden were cute right from the start and I just kept falling harder for them throughout the book. I loved the nicknames, the sweet gestures and their personalities. They seem like opposites at first but they find out they’re similar.
The pacing is, admittedly, slow. It took me some time to get into the story but once the relationship between Eden & Ted started to blossom, I couldn’t stop. My other issue was that there was too much description /info dumping at times.
This is a slow burn romance in the sense of the HEA. The characters do have open door spicy times early on but the romance takes longer to develop since there’s a lot of will they/won’t they. If you enjoy angst & mutual pining this is the romance for you!
Overall, I had a good time reading this and think it would make a great beach read.
Rating: 3.5/5
🌶️ Rating: 3/5
June 14, 2023
This is my first book that I have read by Stella Stevenson! What a super sweet story it is! I look forward to reading more of her work!
Eden & Ted are so cute together! I love a good damsel in distress story. I did get annoyed with Eden at times & sometimes I felt that Ted said some cheesy stuff. I loved the self development of both of these characters. Both have similar troubling pasts but together they overcome them and are able to find their HEA.
It was a quick & easy read. I do think at times it got a little wordy but I adore the story itself. It could be considered a little too insta-love but again, the story makes up for it. I loved all of the secondary characters but I was a little confused about who was who at the wedding.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐡𝐚𝐬
Grumpy vs Sunshine
Insta-Love
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Thank you to Stella Stevenson for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Eden & Ted are so cute together! I love a good damsel in distress story. I did get annoyed with Eden at times & sometimes I felt that Ted said some cheesy stuff. I loved the self development of both of these characters. Both have similar troubling pasts but together they overcome them and are able to find their HEA.
It was a quick & easy read. I do think at times it got a little wordy but I adore the story itself. It could be considered a little too insta-love but again, the story makes up for it. I loved all of the secondary characters but I was a little confused about who was who at the wedding.
𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐡𝐚𝐬
Grumpy vs Sunshine
Insta-Love
Forced Proximity
Found Family
Thank you to Stella Stevenson for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
June 1, 2023
Stella does it again!
Perfectly capturing the insecurities that cause challenges in relationships because of the pressures put on kids by their parents. She also again proves the importance of found families versus blood.
The characters are so relatable and the story is fascinating. I know I’d be just as clueless as Eden if I was being questioned by the cops so this is good information to have.
I also loved the big moment in here! (I won’t spoil what it is) I loved all the call backs from other books she’s written (which you don’t have to read to understand this one) I’m huge fan of adding little Easter eggs from past occurrences, kind of like we get to see how they are doing and that they did get a HEA.
The spice is 🌶️ and had me routing for the characters from the beginning. They just took a little bit longer to realize that they belonged together.
Perfectly capturing the insecurities that cause challenges in relationships because of the pressures put on kids by their parents. She also again proves the importance of found families versus blood.
The characters are so relatable and the story is fascinating. I know I’d be just as clueless as Eden if I was being questioned by the cops so this is good information to have.
I also loved the big moment in here! (I won’t spoil what it is) I loved all the call backs from other books she’s written (which you don’t have to read to understand this one) I’m huge fan of adding little Easter eggs from past occurrences, kind of like we get to see how they are doing and that they did get a HEA.
The spice is 🌶️ and had me routing for the characters from the beginning. They just took a little bit longer to realize that they belonged together.
May 4, 2023
Stella Stevenson doesn’t miss!! This is my second book by her and I have adored both…Eden and Ted stole my heart and I loved getting to see the growth they both went through and how it was so realistic and relatable. Their love is so sweet and soft and accepting, and I’m a SUCKER for grumpy x sunshine😍. My only issue that made it four stars instead of five was that sometimes there was a lot of thought or description in the middle of dialogue and I would get distracted from what they were actually saying, but it was only a few times and really didn’t take away from how much I loved this story!!
*I received a free ARC of this novel and am voluntarily leaving an honest review
*I received a free ARC of this novel and am voluntarily leaving an honest review
June 19, 2023
I flew through this book over the weekend and enjoyed every moment of it!
I appreciate that the book was filled with pining and tension, but was overall truly romantic! We knew why the characters were how they were, and no character ever truly “changed” for the other (one of the worst type of tropes). Both leads were true to themselves the entire story, they both just needed an extra push in the end. It was a feel good smutty romance that had me enthralled the entire time! I will keep reading every book from Stella!
I appreciate that the book was filled with pining and tension, but was overall truly romantic! We knew why the characters were how they were, and no character ever truly “changed” for the other (one of the worst type of tropes). Both leads were true to themselves the entire story, they both just needed an extra push in the end. It was a feel good smutty romance that had me enthralled the entire time! I will keep reading every book from Stella!
May 1, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. Its the perfect mix between clichés, banter (i love banter), spice (of course, and that beache scene omg), and cute moments. I honestly fell for Ted and he is now considered my book boyfriend (thank you very much). He is so sweet but also so hot and grumpy but also not and its just doing it for me. I would absolutely recommend this to people!
I received an advance reader copy for free , and I am leaving his review voluntarily.
I received an advance reader copy for free , and I am leaving his review voluntarily.
May 28, 2023
4.5/5 stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'm not going to lie, this book took me a little bit to get into(due to being in 3rd person, not my favorite) but in the end I could not put the book down.
Eden and Ted both have their mindset on what they want for their future. Two completely different people with opposite wants. Yet they both stay true to themselves.
I loved the banter between Eden and Ted, and their chemistry together was undeniable. The Grumpy sunshine, opposites attract tropes has me on a choke hold.
Ted gives me golden retriever vibes with how sweet and understanding he is toward Eden, he takes her thoughts and opinions and doesn't push her for anything she doesn't want. I LOVE THAT.
Thank you to Stella Steveson and Booksirens for letting me be part of this ARC team.
(Ted is up there on my list of Book Boyfriends ughhhh)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I'm not going to lie, this book took me a little bit to get into(due to being in 3rd person, not my favorite) but in the end I could not put the book down.
Eden and Ted both have their mindset on what they want for their future. Two completely different people with opposite wants. Yet they both stay true to themselves.
I loved the banter between Eden and Ted, and their chemistry together was undeniable. The Grumpy sunshine, opposites attract tropes has me on a choke hold.
Ted gives me golden retriever vibes with how sweet and understanding he is toward Eden, he takes her thoughts and opinions and doesn't push her for anything she doesn't want. I LOVE THAT.
Thank you to Stella Steveson and Booksirens for letting me be part of this ARC team.
(Ted is up there on my list of Book Boyfriends ughhhh)
June 13, 2023
Eden has found herself in some legal trouble. Ted has found himself needing a date to his best friends wedding. So Eden and Ted strike a deal, she attends the wedding as his date and he helps her with her legal stuff.
Eden’s carefree spirit and Teds buttoned up attitude are the perfect version of opposites attract. This story was sweet and fun and a quick read!
My thoughts:
•She calls him Bear 🥹
•Ted supports Eden being unapologetically herself and I loved that.
Eden’s carefree spirit and Teds buttoned up attitude are the perfect version of opposites attract. This story was sweet and fun and a quick read!
My thoughts:
•She calls him Bear 🥹
•Ted supports Eden being unapologetically herself and I loved that.
May 14, 2023
A fun grumpy-sunshine romance with some high quality spice!
Eden is an artist/yoga instructor who has run into some unexpected interactions with the law. Ted is a lawyer who shows up at just the right time. A wedding, a beach, and some spice make for a fun summer read!
I got to read an ARC of this book, but the opinions are my own!
Eden is an artist/yoga instructor who has run into some unexpected interactions with the law. Ted is a lawyer who shows up at just the right time. A wedding, a beach, and some spice make for a fun summer read!
I got to read an ARC of this book, but the opinions are my own!
May 31, 2023
I was gifted this ARC through my book club and so excited to be given the chance to read it before the release date! It was my first of Stella's books, and it was so cute! Third person romance isn't my first choice, but the writing style hooked me in pretty quickly. Eden could be naive at times, but Ted barged in to save the day and proved to be the hot, grumpy MMC I always love to read about. Their chemistry was my favorite part of the story. I highly recommend it for those looking for a good grumpy/sunshine HEA! I guess Im off to read Mother Knows Best now, as I also loved Ted and Edens' interactions with the characters crossed over from that story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2023
I was lucky enough to get an ARC for this book before release date and had so much fun reading it. This is the second book by Stella that I have read and she does such a good job with cute (and spicy🥵) romance! Eden and Ted have the cutest opposites attract chemistry and I couldn't get enough of them; my only complaint is that I wish it was longer just so I could get more of them!! Thank you Stella and if you love rom-coms you won't wanna miss this one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2023
If I didn't have to sleep, I would have read this in one sitting. Loved this almost as much as I loved The Trope. Really adored Ted, and how patient he was waiting for Eden. Two well developed characters who you fall in love with over the whole book. Loved it!
Stella's books are supposed to be Open Door, but the sex scenes I've found are not overly explicit. It's a comfortable amount of description without being overly explicit, and could be a good stepping stone for someone who wants open door, but is perhaps a little shy about reading them.
Stella's books are supposed to be Open Door, but the sex scenes I've found are not overly explicit. It's a comfortable amount of description without being overly explicit, and could be a good stepping stone for someone who wants open door, but is perhaps a little shy about reading them.
May 30, 2023
THIS BOOK WAS GIVEN TO ME AS AN ARC FOR FREE, AND I AM REVIEWING IT VOLUNTARILY!
First, this book is amazing. I really had to just get straight to the point with this one because it deserves to be called exactly what it is, amazing. I’ve been reading Stella’s books since she first started writing them, so watching her grow into the writer she has become is absolutely astonishing. With each book she continues to find her place as a writer. Something I LOVE about each and every single one of her books is that no matter who you are, anyone can find a character that they relate to. I truly can’t say enough good things about this book and the work Stella puts in to make her books absolutely wonderful and appealing to everything single person who reads them
OK… now that I’m done ranting about how much I love Stella let’s really talk about the book (LOL). Eden (the fmc) is an artist who has recently decided that she doesn’t need a man in her life to be happy anymore which is a fact that I LOVE. However, she finds herself i. some legal trouble after her ex was convicted of a crime which leads us to meeting out mmc who is a lawyer and helps Eden find her way around speaking to the police.
There really are only 3 (three) reasons why this book lost a start for me. 1 (one) it’s in their person which is like Stella’s other books so I was expecting it, but i still didn’t love it. I feel like there is a more intimate experience with the characters in first person rather than third. 2 (two) Sometimes Eden could be just a smidge naïve which isn’t a bad this per se but it could get a bit annoying at times. Lastly while I did like the ending for the most part it fell just a little bit flat. Like I was expecting fireworks and I got something more like sparklers (if that makes sense LOL)
Once again overall I did REALLY like this books and definitely recommend it!!!
First, this book is amazing. I really had to just get straight to the point with this one because it deserves to be called exactly what it is, amazing. I’ve been reading Stella’s books since she first started writing them, so watching her grow into the writer she has become is absolutely astonishing. With each book she continues to find her place as a writer. Something I LOVE about each and every single one of her books is that no matter who you are, anyone can find a character that they relate to. I truly can’t say enough good things about this book and the work Stella puts in to make her books absolutely wonderful and appealing to everything single person who reads them
OK… now that I’m done ranting about how much I love Stella let’s really talk about the book (LOL). Eden (the fmc) is an artist who has recently decided that she doesn’t need a man in her life to be happy anymore which is a fact that I LOVE. However, she finds herself i. some legal trouble after her ex was convicted of a crime which leads us to meeting out mmc who is a lawyer and helps Eden find her way around speaking to the police.
There really are only 3 (three) reasons why this book lost a start for me. 1 (one) it’s in their person which is like Stella’s other books so I was expecting it, but i still didn’t love it. I feel like there is a more intimate experience with the characters in first person rather than third. 2 (two) Sometimes Eden could be just a smidge naïve which isn’t a bad this per se but it could get a bit annoying at times. Lastly while I did like the ending for the most part it fell just a little bit flat. Like I was expecting fireworks and I got something more like sparklers (if that makes sense LOL)
Once again overall I did REALLY like this books and definitely recommend it!!!
June 14, 2023
Charming, passionate and cleverly written Rom-Com
Since “The Trope” I read anything written by Stella Stevenson. It is always excellent. The banter between Eden and Ted is so well-written and believable. In my mind’s eye I could see the scenes taking place. I also liked that we got to see cameo appearances of AJ and Will from “Mother Knows Best.” Will we get a book for Logan, the third partner in their law practice? Hope so…
If I could give this book more than five stars, I would. I enjoyed every minute of it. I’ve always loved the alpha male who has a soft side and “waits out” his intended love interest, which is exactly what Ted aka “Bear” does for Eden aka “Sweetness.” Eden is an almost 30yo free spirit, artist, musically talented and teaches yoga. After telling her step-father she was finished at 18yo with his emotional abuse, she left and started living the life she wanted. She meets 36yo Ted at the police station when he comes to her aid after overhearing the cops talking about their plans for her. Not on his watch! He is so sensitive to her needs and she reciprocates without really noticing. He wants forever with someone but Eden is terrified after her dating history and watching her step-father change her mother to someone she doesn’t know. Ted has lived a similar experience with his step-father, which only adds to their mutual understanding. There were some delicious scenes when they finally profess interest and others prompting a fist-pump because certain characters get what they deserve. I could go on and on because this book was so good. Try it, I can guarantee you will too if you like well-written Rom-Coms. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.
Since “The Trope” I read anything written by Stella Stevenson. It is always excellent. The banter between Eden and Ted is so well-written and believable. In my mind’s eye I could see the scenes taking place. I also liked that we got to see cameo appearances of AJ and Will from “Mother Knows Best.” Will we get a book for Logan, the third partner in their law practice? Hope so…
If I could give this book more than five stars, I would. I enjoyed every minute of it. I’ve always loved the alpha male who has a soft side and “waits out” his intended love interest, which is exactly what Ted aka “Bear” does for Eden aka “Sweetness.” Eden is an almost 30yo free spirit, artist, musically talented and teaches yoga. After telling her step-father she was finished at 18yo with his emotional abuse, she left and started living the life she wanted. She meets 36yo Ted at the police station when he comes to her aid after overhearing the cops talking about their plans for her. Not on his watch! He is so sensitive to her needs and she reciprocates without really noticing. He wants forever with someone but Eden is terrified after her dating history and watching her step-father change her mother to someone she doesn’t know. Ted has lived a similar experience with his step-father, which only adds to their mutual understanding. There were some delicious scenes when they finally profess interest and others prompting a fist-pump because certain characters get what they deserve. I could go on and on because this book was so good. Try it, I can guarantee you will too if you like well-written Rom-Coms. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.
June 16, 2023
Rating• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice• 🌶️🌶️
Blurb:
•Eden Yates never expected to end up on the wrong side of the law. She's a free spirit, not a criminal. But two months after her last relationship ends, she finds herself answering questions about her ex's illegal dealings. Safe to say she isn't interested in another relationship, especially one where she has to be someone she's not. She's spent years finding herself and if experience has taught her anything, being in a partnership always leaves one person broken.
Enter Ted Hughes. He's a lawyer and as buttoned up as they come. Ted is looking for forever, but he just hasn't found the right woman yet. It's definitely not the free-spirited artist too naïve to realize that she needs an attorney. Of course he's going to help her. Ted can't walk away from a damsel in distress. It has nothing to do with how cute she is. Eden doesn't enjoy being in anyone's debt. Ted helped her so she'll help him. All he needs is a wedding date and who doesn't love weddings? Aside from sizzling chemistry, they have absolutely nothing in common. There's nothing for them to worry about, right? It's one weekend away. They'll even put it in writing. No sex, no feelings, just a favor for a favor. Maybe they both should have studied the fine print.
Mini review:
•Ted is a lawyer who stumbled upon Eden’s case while he was at the precinct. She wants to avoid relationships whereas Ted wants to get married and have a family and kids as soon as possible. How will these two work in a relationship?
•Read if you enjoy opposites attract, grumpy sunshine and he falls first!
•"I hoped that much. I took a page out of your book. I manifested a relationship. Just in case. Even when I told myself I wasn't doing it."
Spice• 🌶️🌶️
Blurb:
•Eden Yates never expected to end up on the wrong side of the law. She's a free spirit, not a criminal. But two months after her last relationship ends, she finds herself answering questions about her ex's illegal dealings. Safe to say she isn't interested in another relationship, especially one where she has to be someone she's not. She's spent years finding herself and if experience has taught her anything, being in a partnership always leaves one person broken.
Enter Ted Hughes. He's a lawyer and as buttoned up as they come. Ted is looking for forever, but he just hasn't found the right woman yet. It's definitely not the free-spirited artist too naïve to realize that she needs an attorney. Of course he's going to help her. Ted can't walk away from a damsel in distress. It has nothing to do with how cute she is. Eden doesn't enjoy being in anyone's debt. Ted helped her so she'll help him. All he needs is a wedding date and who doesn't love weddings? Aside from sizzling chemistry, they have absolutely nothing in common. There's nothing for them to worry about, right? It's one weekend away. They'll even put it in writing. No sex, no feelings, just a favor for a favor. Maybe they both should have studied the fine print.
Mini review:
•Ted is a lawyer who stumbled upon Eden’s case while he was at the precinct. She wants to avoid relationships whereas Ted wants to get married and have a family and kids as soon as possible. How will these two work in a relationship?
•Read if you enjoy opposites attract, grumpy sunshine and he falls first!
•"I hoped that much. I took a page out of your book. I manifested a relationship. Just in case. Even when I told myself I wasn't doing it."
June 13, 2023
3.5 ⭐
I want to start by thanking Stella Stevenson and Booksirens for letting me be part of this ARC team.
"The Escalation Clause" is a standalone that features Eden Yates, a yoga teacher who doesn't want to be in a serious romantic relationship ever, and Ted Hughes, an attorney with a very black and white view on the world who wishes to find "the one".
Ted is sweet, patient, and really just wants Eden to feel comfortable when she’s with him. He’s always encouraging Eden to be herself and I adore him for that.
Eden is a free spirited and artistic woman, who is more concerned with being herself than what other people think of her. I did, however, find Eden a little too naïve throughout the book, to the point of being a bit annoying from time to time.
Eden and Ted's relationship and chemistry were amazing, there was a lot of communication between them as well as respecting each other's boundaries, two things that you don't see a lot in romances (especially communication). I love that she calls him Bear, and when he bought her art supplies, my heart simply melted.
I'm not a big fan of insta love/lust, however somehow it made sense in this book! Maybe them being opposites is what allowed insta love to work out here.
The story felt like it didn't fully commit to the whole police investigation, a lot of things were sort of glossed over. If the book would have been longer I think it would have flowed better.
Also, while I did like the ending for the most part it fell just a little bit flat.
Despite some of my issues with the story, I had a good time reading it! It's a wholesome romance with summer vibes and some spice (be warned: it's explicit), perfect to read during the summer!
I want to start by thanking Stella Stevenson and Booksirens for letting me be part of this ARC team.
"The Escalation Clause" is a standalone that features Eden Yates, a yoga teacher who doesn't want to be in a serious romantic relationship ever, and Ted Hughes, an attorney with a very black and white view on the world who wishes to find "the one".
Ted is sweet, patient, and really just wants Eden to feel comfortable when she’s with him. He’s always encouraging Eden to be herself and I adore him for that.
Eden is a free spirited and artistic woman, who is more concerned with being herself than what other people think of her. I did, however, find Eden a little too naïve throughout the book, to the point of being a bit annoying from time to time.
Eden and Ted's relationship and chemistry were amazing, there was a lot of communication between them as well as respecting each other's boundaries, two things that you don't see a lot in romances (especially communication). I love that she calls him Bear, and when he bought her art supplies, my heart simply melted.
I'm not a big fan of insta love/lust, however somehow it made sense in this book! Maybe them being opposites is what allowed insta love to work out here.
The story felt like it didn't fully commit to the whole police investigation, a lot of things were sort of glossed over. If the book would have been longer I think it would have flowed better.
Also, while I did like the ending for the most part it fell just a little bit flat.
Despite some of my issues with the story, I had a good time reading it! It's a wholesome romance with summer vibes and some spice (be warned: it's explicit), perfect to read during the summer!
May 22, 2023
My Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks to the author.
General Thoughts: A cute, fun, enjoyable, quick read with characters that I loved and an interesting plot and background. I liked both Eden and Ted, but I really liked Ted a lot. And they were super cute together. If you like books with extremely lovable characters and a cute romance, this is a fun one. The author crafted an interesting story and filled it with a host of great characters. It's an interconnected standalone. This is the first I've read by her, and you can definitely read out of order, but if you want to give her a go, I'd recommend starting with the first one.
This one was the perfect blend of cuteness and steam, and it seems like a great summer read. The author did a great job crafting interesting backstories for her characters, I would have liked a little bit more there, but I also think that if she had, maybe it would have been overdone. There is bisexual representation throughout this novel for those who like to read novels featuring bi characters. However, the main relationship is MF here.
Steam Meter: ❤️🔥❤️🔥 It’s steamy, but more cute than steamy. It's not the most graphic or most frequent, though.
Romantic Tropes
-contemporary romance
-dual POV
-he falls first
-friends to friends with benefits to more
-close proximity
You can read more of my reviews at mylastromance.com. You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks to the author.
General Thoughts: A cute, fun, enjoyable, quick read with characters that I loved and an interesting plot and background. I liked both Eden and Ted, but I really liked Ted a lot. And they were super cute together. If you like books with extremely lovable characters and a cute romance, this is a fun one. The author crafted an interesting story and filled it with a host of great characters. It's an interconnected standalone. This is the first I've read by her, and you can definitely read out of order, but if you want to give her a go, I'd recommend starting with the first one.
This one was the perfect blend of cuteness and steam, and it seems like a great summer read. The author did a great job crafting interesting backstories for her characters, I would have liked a little bit more there, but I also think that if she had, maybe it would have been overdone. There is bisexual representation throughout this novel for those who like to read novels featuring bi characters. However, the main relationship is MF here.
Steam Meter: ❤️🔥❤️🔥 It’s steamy, but more cute than steamy. It's not the most graphic or most frequent, though.
Romantic Tropes
-contemporary romance
-dual POV
-he falls first
-friends to friends with benefits to more
-close proximity
You can read more of my reviews at mylastromance.com. You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
June 8, 2023
So here is a book that checks all the sweet boxes : romance, sizzling chemistry, forced proximity, fake dating, friendship, damsel in distress situations
Meet Eden our naive and full of life girl.. who lands into police custody because of her Ex boyfriend who she didn’t knew was also a drug dealer.. When she is questioned by the police and unknowingly becomes the suspect lands our hero Ted Hughes.. our button up grumpy lawyer.. He whisks her away..
Ted makes her understand the situation and definitely helps her how dangerous the situation looks!! But then Eden thinks to return the favour and so their story starts..
Ted is attending the wedding of his best friend and needs a date and Eden fits perfectly in the loop.. These two just instantly connect and the chemistry is off the charts.. too hot to handle 😎😎
What I liked in the story is its always kept the pace on.. even feeling like a sweet romance book it had layers.. the past of these two characters are so lightly and effectively touched that you instantly realise why the situations and decisions are made.. Both these characters understand each other’s underlying emotions and connect at the level which are hidden from the outside world..
I loved Ted.. he is such a gem of a person .. a boyfriend every girls would want to have..and Eden., even being so naive she was sweet..
Enjoy this book if you want to read a fast paced nice romance book with all the beautiful touches ❤️❤️
Meet Eden our naive and full of life girl.. who lands into police custody because of her Ex boyfriend who she didn’t knew was also a drug dealer.. When she is questioned by the police and unknowingly becomes the suspect lands our hero Ted Hughes.. our button up grumpy lawyer.. He whisks her away..
Ted makes her understand the situation and definitely helps her how dangerous the situation looks!! But then Eden thinks to return the favour and so their story starts..
Ted is attending the wedding of his best friend and needs a date and Eden fits perfectly in the loop.. These two just instantly connect and the chemistry is off the charts.. too hot to handle 😎😎
What I liked in the story is its always kept the pace on.. even feeling like a sweet romance book it had layers.. the past of these two characters are so lightly and effectively touched that you instantly realise why the situations and decisions are made.. Both these characters understand each other’s underlying emotions and connect at the level which are hidden from the outside world..
I loved Ted.. he is such a gem of a person .. a boyfriend every girls would want to have..and Eden., even being so naive she was sweet..
Enjoy this book if you want to read a fast paced nice romance book with all the beautiful touches ❤️❤️
July 30, 2023
Such a delightfully fun and cute romantic comedy! I was pulled into the story right from the beginning and completely engrossed till the end. Eden is a good girl, wouldn't ever dream of breaking the law. But two months after she breaks up with her ex, she finds herself answering questions from the police about his illegal dealings. After that experience, she's pretty much washed her hands of relationships. Ted is a lawyer. When he overhears a conversation between some police officers about Eden, he offers his help. She is grateful for his assistance and offers to help him with something in return and he asks her to accompany him to a wedding. While Eden is done with relationships, Ted is looking for a long-term commitment. So these two together shouldn't work, right? But the heart works in mysterious ways, and these two couldn't help the sweet relationship that was developing between them. I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow into something more.
The book definitely left me with a smile on my face and a happy feeling afterwards. The characters were interesting and well-developed with realistic qualities that gave them an authentic personality and were easily relatable. The story was delightfully cute and I really enjoyed it. If you're looking for a fun, quick and light read, that will put a smile on your face then you definitely will want to pick this one up.
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
The book definitely left me with a smile on my face and a happy feeling afterwards. The characters were interesting and well-developed with realistic qualities that gave them an authentic personality and were easily relatable. The story was delightfully cute and I really enjoyed it. If you're looking for a fun, quick and light read, that will put a smile on your face then you definitely will want to pick this one up.
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
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