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Plus One
After one disastrous date too many, Olivia Winters has made a vow: no more men. She has an amazing condo in the city, great friends, and a successful bakery she built from the ground up…what more does she need?
Ian Donnelly has been in love with his older sister's best friend, Olivia, for years. He even moved away after college to get some distance from her and the intense feelings she stoked in him. But when Olivia swears off men just in time for wedding season, he impulsively volunteers to be her stand-in wedding date.
The sparks that fly between them take Olivia by surprise. Ian is nothing like she remembered, and when they fall into bed, he’s everything she could ever want. What’s the harm of a no-strings summer fling? Strictly physical, of course—her track record in relationships isn’t exactly glowing.
Nine wedding dates. That’s all that Ian has to show Olivia he wants more than just a summer of fun. He wants to be her plus one forever.
Ian Donnelly has been in love with his older sister's best friend, Olivia, for years. He even moved away after college to get some distance from her and the intense feelings she stoked in him. But when Olivia swears off men just in time for wedding season, he impulsively volunteers to be her stand-in wedding date.
The sparks that fly between them take Olivia by surprise. Ian is nothing like she remembered, and when they fall into bed, he’s everything she could ever want. What’s the harm of a no-strings summer fling? Strictly physical, of course—her track record in relationships isn’t exactly glowing.
Nine wedding dates. That’s all that Ian has to show Olivia he wants more than just a summer of fun. He wants to be her plus one forever.
125 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2013
46 people are currently reading
1268 people want to read
About the author
Brighton Walsh
53 books2,163 followersAward-winning USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Brighton Walsh spent nearly a decade as a professional photographer before taking her storytelling in a different direction and reconnecting with her first love: writing. When she’s not lost in her own made up worlds, she’s probably either reading or shopping—maybe even both at once. She lives in the Midwest with her real life hero of a husband, her two kids—both taller than her—and her dog who thinks she’s a queen. Her boy-filled house is the setting for dirty socks galore, frequent dance parties (okay, so it's mostly her, by herself, while her children look on in horror), and more laughter than she thought possible. Visit her online at brightonwalsh.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
July 11, 2019
Cute, fast paced, sweet and romantic. Love this author's writing!!
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September 1, 2015I told Brighton this the first time I read Plus One, and it still remains true after re-reading it again: this is my favorite thing she's ever written. This little novella is short, sweet, hot and will leave you wanting more when you get to the last page.
Olivia and Ian have known each other for years. She's best friends with his sister, and the three of them have been as close as people can get--as friends. Olivia's been on a never-ending string of bad dates, and with wedding season approaching, Ian goes out on a limb and offers to be her plus one for the duration. To save her from having to date anymore men who just don't make the cut. What starts out as two friends attending a few weddings together quickly turns into more when feelings from the past start creeping back up. Olivia is seeing Ian in a whole new light, and Ian, well...he's always been in love with her. So when these two come together, it's...sigh. That's the best way I can describe it! It's wonderful and as with all of Brighton's work: just the right amount of sweet and sexy.
I thought Olivia was the perfect female lead. She was smart, confident and not afraid to take what she wanted. And Ian--oh, Ian--he was sexy, sweet and totally book-boyfriend material. I would read about these two over and over again. Trust me when I say you do not want to pass this one over. You want to buy it right now and read it immediately.
Olivia and Ian have known each other for years. She's best friends with his sister, and the three of them have been as close as people can get--as friends. Olivia's been on a never-ending string of bad dates, and with wedding season approaching, Ian goes out on a limb and offers to be her plus one for the duration. To save her from having to date anymore men who just don't make the cut. What starts out as two friends attending a few weddings together quickly turns into more when feelings from the past start creeping back up. Olivia is seeing Ian in a whole new light, and Ian, well...he's always been in love with her. So when these two come together, it's...sigh. That's the best way I can describe it! It's wonderful and as with all of Brighton's work: just the right amount of sweet and sexy.
I thought Olivia was the perfect female lead. She was smart, confident and not afraid to take what she wanted. And Ian--oh, Ian--he was sexy, sweet and totally book-boyfriend material. I would read about these two over and over again. Trust me when I say you do not want to pass this one over. You want to buy it right now and read it immediately.
August 26, 2016
3.5 stars!
Ian and Olivia's journey from friendship to love is sexy, plausible and one that I very much enjoyed.
Thank you, Jilly, for leading me to this fun, feel good read:)!
Ian and Olivia's journey from friendship to love is sexy, plausible and one that I very much enjoyed.
Thank you, Jilly, for leading me to this fun, feel good read:)!
May 4, 2013
What a fun, sweet story! After a string of horrible dates, Olivia resorts to dragging her long-time friend, Ian, along with her to a series of upcoming weddings. Ian goes willingly, happy to be tagging along as Olivia's 'plus one' just for the chance to be spending some time with her. The more time they spend together, though, the harder it is to hide growing the attraction between them.
The characters in this story were fun and quite developed for the short length of the novella. Oliva and Ian were great together, and the banter between them was quite entertaining. The chemistry between Olivia and Ian was evident from the beginning, and the buildup of tension between them was amazing, making the sex scenes super steamy. If you are looking for something light and fun, this is a must!
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The characters in this story were fun and quite developed for the short length of the novella. Oliva and Ian were great together, and the banter between them was quite entertaining. The chemistry between Olivia and Ian was evident from the beginning, and the buildup of tension between them was amazing, making the sex scenes super steamy. If you are looking for something light and fun, this is a must!
I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2021
Cute and sexy!
March 26, 2013
I have to disclose up front that I personally know this author. But I'm pretty sure I didn't let that sway my opinion of Plus One at all. One of the reasons I know Ms. Walsh personally is because I admire her as a writer and she always seems to know just what I'm looking for in heroines and heroes and she brings that to her writing.
In Plus One, we meet Olivia, who is tired of endless dates with men that she just can't connect with. In fact, we meet her while she's on one such date... and I can't blame her for setting up a rescue phone call once I heard some of the first date horror stories! It turns out it isn't her best friend, Emma, calling to rescue her though. It's her best friends, younger brother, Ian.
Ian has always been a part of her life, and over the years has become one of her best friends. Olivia has never entertained the idea of looking at him romantically simply because in her mind he was never an option. When Ian finds out that Olivia has 9 weddings to attend, either as a bridesmaid or a guest, he offers to be her 'Plus One' to each of them and after a moments hesitation, Olivia accepts.
Like I said above, Walsh knows how to write heroines. The problem I often have with romance is that I find the actions of the characters to be unbelievable or just plain unexplained at times which then leads me to dislike the heroine/hero. I never had that problem with Plus One - the characters are so wonderfully written and developed, I thought I was reading a story about friends that I knew! Olivia is smart and successful and yet she struggles in this one area of her life. And while I may not have agreed with every decision she made along the way, her actions made sense. She struggled to wrap her head around the idea that this person who has been so much to her could possibly become more. And the niggling fear that is always there when you mess around with such an incredible friendship... what if something goes wrong, how do I go on without this person in my life, is excellently conveyed here, not only because he's her friend, but his sister is also her friend... would she lose both of them if it didn't work out? Definitely a believable struggle.
Okay... so another thing that Brighton does wonderfully well... the naughty stuff. The banter between the two characters is so well done. It's light and funny, showing us just how great their friendship is and then it's full of tension and UST showing us their incredible chemistry.
Ian ... *fans self* remember when I said Brighton knows what women want in a hero? well... imagine this ...
While there's nothing wrong with a woman having her way with me, I prefer to be the one calling the shots in the bedroom."
or
He brushed a single finger down the line of her jaw, and instead of moving away, swept his finger over her lips.
or
Leaning in, he brushed his lips against her ear. "I need to taste you."
I mean... he's sweet, and wonderful to her... not just as a guy trying to get in her pants, but also as a friend and confidant. And man, can that guy talk in the bedroom...
Ian's story is slowly revealed to us and it turns out that he's crushed on Olivia for years. convincing himself that any sort of relationship other than friendship just isn't going to happen and so he's moved away trying to put some space between them and pursued other relationships which all ended up missing something. But he never ditched Olivia ... he has always been her friend and I admire that.
His feelings for Livvy are obvious from the start to us readers, but it makes sense that Olivia didn't and couldn't see it and getting to see the evolution from friend to lover is one of my favorite kinds of romances around and Brighton Walsh captures what I love about it best.
If you're a contemporary romance fan, this is definitely something you're going to want to pick up when it comes out on May 6th. It's a quick, light, read that will have you falling in love right along with Ian and Olivia. Definitely put Ms. Walsh on your favorite authors list... she's for sure on mine!
Thank you to Ms. Walsh for an advance copy for an honest review.
This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare:
In Plus One, we meet Olivia, who is tired of endless dates with men that she just can't connect with. In fact, we meet her while she's on one such date... and I can't blame her for setting up a rescue phone call once I heard some of the first date horror stories! It turns out it isn't her best friend, Emma, calling to rescue her though. It's her best friends, younger brother, Ian.
Ian has always been a part of her life, and over the years has become one of her best friends. Olivia has never entertained the idea of looking at him romantically simply because in her mind he was never an option. When Ian finds out that Olivia has 9 weddings to attend, either as a bridesmaid or a guest, he offers to be her 'Plus One' to each of them and after a moments hesitation, Olivia accepts.
Like I said above, Walsh knows how to write heroines. The problem I often have with romance is that I find the actions of the characters to be unbelievable or just plain unexplained at times which then leads me to dislike the heroine/hero. I never had that problem with Plus One - the characters are so wonderfully written and developed, I thought I was reading a story about friends that I knew! Olivia is smart and successful and yet she struggles in this one area of her life. And while I may not have agreed with every decision she made along the way, her actions made sense. She struggled to wrap her head around the idea that this person who has been so much to her could possibly become more. And the niggling fear that is always there when you mess around with such an incredible friendship... what if something goes wrong, how do I go on without this person in my life, is excellently conveyed here, not only because he's her friend, but his sister is also her friend... would she lose both of them if it didn't work out? Definitely a believable struggle.
Okay... so another thing that Brighton does wonderfully well... the naughty stuff. The banter between the two characters is so well done. It's light and funny, showing us just how great their friendship is and then it's full of tension and UST showing us their incredible chemistry.
Ian ... *fans self* remember when I said Brighton knows what women want in a hero? well... imagine this ...
While there's nothing wrong with a woman having her way with me, I prefer to be the one calling the shots in the bedroom."
or
He brushed a single finger down the line of her jaw, and instead of moving away, swept his finger over her lips.
or
Leaning in, he brushed his lips against her ear. "I need to taste you."
I mean... he's sweet, and wonderful to her... not just as a guy trying to get in her pants, but also as a friend and confidant. And man, can that guy talk in the bedroom...
Ian's story is slowly revealed to us and it turns out that he's crushed on Olivia for years. convincing himself that any sort of relationship other than friendship just isn't going to happen and so he's moved away trying to put some space between them and pursued other relationships which all ended up missing something. But he never ditched Olivia ... he has always been her friend and I admire that.
His feelings for Livvy are obvious from the start to us readers, but it makes sense that Olivia didn't and couldn't see it and getting to see the evolution from friend to lover is one of my favorite kinds of romances around and Brighton Walsh captures what I love about it best.
If you're a contemporary romance fan, this is definitely something you're going to want to pick up when it comes out on May 6th. It's a quick, light, read that will have you falling in love right along with Ian and Olivia. Definitely put Ms. Walsh on your favorite authors list... she's for sure on mine!
Thank you to Ms. Walsh for an advance copy for an honest review.
This review can be found on my blog, Fic Fare:
May 4, 2013
I was so lucky to win an ARC of this book and believe me, I devoured it very quickly this evening because I was so excited!
"Friends to more" are my favorite types of stories.
I loved every thing about Ian and Livvy. Their banter, friendship and their chemistry. Also, the sex scenes were HOT as well!
I've been reading this Authors stories for a few years now and she is one of my favorites. This story definitely didn't disappoint. :-)
"Friends to more" are my favorite types of stories.
I loved every thing about Ian and Livvy. Their banter, friendship and their chemistry. Also, the sex scenes were HOT as well!
I've been reading this Authors stories for a few years now and she is one of my favorites. This story definitely didn't disappoint. :-)
May 7, 2013
I wish I could leave a well written, eloquent review for Brighton Walsh. But seeing as how I'm reviewing from my iPad while I'm still lounging in bed in vacation, this will have to make do.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Novella length books are a fav for me in erotica. And this one didn't disappoint. It was long enough to connect me to the characters, but short enough that nothing felt repetitive and everything about the story felt fresh.
I loved the heroine, Livvy. And she only made me bitchface twice. But all of that was storyline driven, and was completely acceptable.
But Ian. OMFG, this man is everything you dream about when you conjure the perfect man in your mind. You know, the one who knows you, makes you laugh, and oh yeah, makes you come. Screaming his name and all that. He was a sweet, dirty talker. My absolute favorite kind!
This book is a great, easy read. It pulls you in and makes you root for the characters. You want to just push them in a room and not let them come out until they admit that they are in love with each other and bang repeatedly.
Love.
Love.
Love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Novella length books are a fav for me in erotica. And this one didn't disappoint. It was long enough to connect me to the characters, but short enough that nothing felt repetitive and everything about the story felt fresh.
I loved the heroine, Livvy. And she only made me bitchface twice. But all of that was storyline driven, and was completely acceptable.
But Ian. OMFG, this man is everything you dream about when you conjure the perfect man in your mind. You know, the one who knows you, makes you laugh, and oh yeah, makes you come. Screaming his name and all that. He was a sweet, dirty talker. My absolute favorite kind!
This book is a great, easy read. It pulls you in and makes you root for the characters. You want to just push them in a room and not let them come out until they admit that they are in love with each other and bang repeatedly.
Love.
Love.
Love.
May 1, 2015
Love love love Olivia. She's smart and successful and knows what she wants out of life. Without being a bitch about it.
Ian. *sigh* I don't even have words for him. He's sweet and swoony and so fucking hot I would beat someone's ass to get to him. The banter between the two of them is some of the best.
It's such a great rollercoaster ride in such a short amount of time. And even though you know where the story is going, Brighton has made it entirely hers.
Brighton has such a way with words that I'll definitely be reading anything and everything she publishes. Even if it's her grocery list.
Ian. *sigh* I don't even have words for him. He's sweet and swoony and so fucking hot I would beat someone's ass to get to him. The banter between the two of them is some of the best.
It's such a great rollercoaster ride in such a short amount of time. And even though you know where the story is going, Brighton has made it entirely hers.
Brighton has such a way with words that I'll definitely be reading anything and everything she publishes. Even if it's her grocery list.
May 6, 2013
Fun and flirty and unffy and can I have Ian please?
From the moment I turned on my Kindle until the very last word, I couldn’t put it down. It was as amazing as I knew it would be.
I am a sucker for a “friends becoming more” story and Plus One does not disappoint. The banter, the flirty-ness, the UNF, the sexy times…they were exactly what I look for in a story. Olivia is smart and sassy with a backbone and Ian…sweet lord, he is delish! Ms. Walsh weaves their story in a way that is fluid and entertaining and an extremely enjoyable read.
From the moment I turned on my Kindle until the very last word, I couldn’t put it down. It was as amazing as I knew it would be.
I am a sucker for a “friends becoming more” story and Plus One does not disappoint. The banter, the flirty-ness, the UNF, the sexy times…they were exactly what I look for in a story. Olivia is smart and sassy with a backbone and Ian…sweet lord, he is delish! Ms. Walsh weaves their story in a way that is fluid and entertaining and an extremely enjoyable read.
July 5, 2015
3.5-4 stars
Short, sweet, and sexy! I love that it's the boy who has been in love with his older sister's best friend for most of his life, rather than the other way around. Ian is so adorably whipped. :)
I've been spoiled on Brighton's books lately; I can feel the withdrawals already starting. Her romances are amazing, no matter if they are less than one hundred pages or three hundred pages. Will be counting down the days until the next. <3
Featured on my romance novellas REC IT post.
Short, sweet, and sexy! I love that it's the boy who has been in love with his older sister's best friend for most of his life, rather than the other way around. Ian is so adorably whipped. :)
I've been spoiled on Brighton's books lately; I can feel the withdrawals already starting. Her romances are amazing, no matter if they are less than one hundred pages or three hundred pages. Will be counting down the days until the next. <3
Featured on my romance novellas REC IT post.
February 18, 2025
Maaaan, this was good!
The story revolves around two childhood friends sort of fake-dating: After a lot of bad dates, Olivia is complaining about all the weddings she'll habe to attend single. Ian, who's been in love and a professional piner, offers to be her Plus One.
The entire story is fast, funny and so, so readable. There were some small moments I wasn't super into and I think the relationship progressing would have benefitted from a few more pages, but overall this was just a really entertaining read.
The story revolves around two childhood friends sort of fake-dating: After a lot of bad dates, Olivia is complaining about all the weddings she'll habe to attend single. Ian, who's been in love and a professional piner, offers to be her Plus One.
The entire story is fast, funny and so, so readable. There were some small moments I wasn't super into and I think the relationship progressing would have benefitted from a few more pages, but overall this was just a really entertaining read.
April 21, 2013
Plus One is a fun and sexy story that is a super quick read but gives you enough character development and story to really enjoy it. The whole friends to more in a book has always been one of my favorites and it is easy to get right into it with Olivia and Ian.
Olivia is sick of the dating scene and just happens to have a bunch of weddings she has to go to over the next few months but no date. Enter Ian. Ian and Olivia have been friends for a long time as she happens to be best friends with Ian’s sister Emma. When he takes Emma’s place to make the “emergency” call during one of Olivia’s dates, he finds out about the weddings and offers to be her “plus one”. Never mind that he has secretly (or not so secretly to some) been in love with Olivia and the second he offers to do it, he starts to wonder if he is setting himself up for some serious heartbreak.
I loved reading the banter and seeing the relationship that Ian and Olivia had. It started with the first phone call and carried all the way through the book. Also, when they finally do get to the sexy times…perfect. Even I may have to claim Ian as one of my favorites…just saying. He’s smart, sexy, and wants more than just a hook up…he wants the whole relationship thing with her.
If you are looking for a quick and easy read, this may be the one for you. For me, characters make the story and sometimes with a shorter novel it is tough to do. Not so here, Walsh does a great job of creating a believable story along with some great characters.
Olivia is sick of the dating scene and just happens to have a bunch of weddings she has to go to over the next few months but no date. Enter Ian. Ian and Olivia have been friends for a long time as she happens to be best friends with Ian’s sister Emma. When he takes Emma’s place to make the “emergency” call during one of Olivia’s dates, he finds out about the weddings and offers to be her “plus one”. Never mind that he has secretly (or not so secretly to some) been in love with Olivia and the second he offers to do it, he starts to wonder if he is setting himself up for some serious heartbreak.
I loved reading the banter and seeing the relationship that Ian and Olivia had. It started with the first phone call and carried all the way through the book. Also, when they finally do get to the sexy times…perfect. Even I may have to claim Ian as one of my favorites…just saying. He’s smart, sexy, and wants more than just a hook up…he wants the whole relationship thing with her.
If you are looking for a quick and easy read, this may be the one for you. For me, characters make the story and sometimes with a shorter novel it is tough to do. Not so here, Walsh does a great job of creating a believable story along with some great characters.
June 19, 2014
From Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
A short , steamy and enjoyable read.
Olivia is a thirty-two-year old woman who has decided to give up dating and instead of looking for a date to the weddings she has to attend she accepts Ian offer to be her plus one. Ian and his sister Emma have been Livvy's best friends for twenty years and he's been in love with her for the whole time.
I would have loved more details about the characters their families and even the weddings,like whose weddings were they , a few sentences would have gone a great way to make it more believable and most important of all how old was Ian .It was said that he was younger than Olivia but by how much.Having details like that are what make the story for me.
There was these two short references in there that shouldn't have been there. It didn't add anything to the story and it was out of character for Ian.Him tending to be in charge in the bedroom ,didn't go well with his character.
What I loved was that he knew he loved her and it wasn't something he discovered after they got intimate.I loved the ending and how they got together. I liked the writing .It was short but it wasn't rushed I really enjoyed it.
I received an e-copy from Netgally in exchange for a review.
A short , steamy and enjoyable read.
Olivia is a thirty-two-year old woman who has decided to give up dating and instead of looking for a date to the weddings she has to attend she accepts Ian offer to be her plus one. Ian and his sister Emma have been Livvy's best friends for twenty years and he's been in love with her for the whole time.
I would have loved more details about the characters their families and even the weddings,like whose weddings were they , a few sentences would have gone a great way to make it more believable and most important of all how old was Ian .It was said that he was younger than Olivia but by how much.Having details like that are what make the story for me.
There was these two short references in there that shouldn't have been there. It didn't add anything to the story and it was out of character for Ian.Him tending to be in charge in the bedroom ,didn't go well with his character.
What I loved was that he knew he loved her and it wasn't something he discovered after they got intimate.I loved the ending and how they got together. I liked the writing .It was short but it wasn't rushed I really enjoyed it.
I received an e-copy from Netgally in exchange for a review.
December 13, 2022
I did like this book. I liked the characters.
But the thing is, it was to easy and not much of a story. It was almost boring because it just so straight forward.
Already from the beginning we know that the male character has been in love with the girl for twenty years and of course he want more when they start to go to the weddings together. They sleep together and the girl wants to take it slow, he confesses his love and without much drama or anything really, she is just "alright, I love you too" and they have a happy ending.
2 stars from me.
But the thing is, it was to easy and not much of a story. It was almost boring because it just so straight forward.
Already from the beginning we know that the male character has been in love with the girl for twenty years and of course he want more when they start to go to the weddings together. They sleep together and the girl wants to take it slow, he confesses his love and without much drama or anything really, she is just "alright, I love you too" and they have a happy ending.
2 stars from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2013
After a few NA books, I needed an CA with urgently so I can reset my mind :)
When you feel such a need in the middle of night, the best solution is a short story. So I red Plus One and I had great time. I've read a lot of books about this plot but still it's one of my favorites. As I have always said if writing style is good, guarantee that I'll enjot it in any case.
Thank you Jill! This is one of the many books that I've read after your review and had enjoy :)
When you feel such a need in the middle of night, the best solution is a short story. So I red Plus One and I had great time. I've read a lot of books about this plot but still it's one of my favorites. As I have always said if writing style is good, guarantee that I'll enjot it in any case.
Thank you Jill! This is one of the many books that I've read after your review and had enjoy :)
March 16, 2013
A fun, sexy, sweet read that I devoured in less than an hour. Friends to more is totally my jam, and Ian is a sweetheart. I had a smile on my face the entire time. Definitely looking forward to more from Brighton.
September 9, 2015
Really quick, cute story with best friends to more as the theme which I love.
March 17, 2022
Entertaining at first, then I got a bit bored with all the drama!
May 9, 2013
I started reading Plus One because the blurb sounded like a fun, flirty wedding romance with the "from-friends-to-lovers trope" that I just love, and it didn't disappoint! It was cute, it was light and it was delightful! Brighton Walsh just got added to my must-read authors and I can't wait to read more of her stories (hopefully full length novels)!
Although the story is just 68 page-long, Brighton Walsh managed to tell a well rounded story with three-dimensional, well-developed, interesting characters the reader could root for, and despite its shortness Plus One left me fully satisfied.
I think one of the reasons for Plus One's success is that the premise can resonate with a lot of people, because at one time or another all of us had to go through what Olivia has to: who didn't have to suffer through one or more awful first date(s)? And who didn't dread going to a wedding alone, sans date? And because of that, Olivia was a very relatable heroine. It didn't hurt that she was a lovely, genuinely nice and funny character too.
And Ian... *sighs* he was dreamy! Even though we are told he is quite handsome, what stayed with me was what a warm-hearted, devoted and gentle guy he was. I just love the "best friend to lovers" trope and Ian was the bf of my dreams. He was funny, considerate, tender and thoughtful. He was a great friend besides being a hunk ;-)
"He definitely wouldn’t be a bad guy to be on the arm of at all these weddings. At six foot three, he exuded a certain innate manliness, but even with all that height, he still had this gentleness about him that could only come from being raised around women. The youngest—and only boy—of four kids, he grew up to be sensitive and understanding. Not to mention the fact that it wasn’t exactly a chore to look at him, with his tousled blond hair and clear green eyes. No, he wasn’t her normal type—which was to say he wasn’t tall, dark, broody and a complete asshole—but she could definitely see his appeal."
I loved the easy banter and familiarity between Livvy and Ian, their every scene and conversation radiated that deep and strong camaraderie and affection that shows how close they grew through their many years of friendship. And Brighton Walsh is to be lauded because despite this strong bond their sexual chemistry was believable and utterly hot, and their love intense:
"Shaking his head, he dropped his gaze to his feet. “I can’t do it anymore. I thought I could, I thought I could take whatever you could give, but I can’t do this half-assed bullshit anymore.” He looked up, his eyes boring into hers. Almost seeming to steel himself for what he was about to say, he took a deep breath. “I have been in love with you for twenty years. Twenty goddamn years.” Reaching up, he ran both hands through his hair in a sign of frustration. “I can’t pretend I’m not anymore. I want to be yours, Liv. Not just your plus one.”"
Brighton Walsh's writing is captivating and delightful. I fell hook, line and sinker in love with Plus One right from the very first page when she shared this laugh out loud funny horrible date scene:
"“So, interesting fact,” the guy sitting across from her said. His confident tone suggested he really did think it was interesting. “Cat urine is one of the most difficult things to get out of carpet.” Olivia Winters just stared at him, no longer surprised by what came out of the mouths of the men she dated. After a solid eighteen months of nothing but shitty and shittier dates, she was done. Done. She didn’t need this. She wasn’t a leper, for God’s sake. She was cute and fun. She owned her own bakery—her own successful bakery, thank you very much. She had a great sense of humor, if she did say so herself, and gave one mean blow job—or so she’d been told."
Who could resist bursting out in laughter after that first paragraph? I certainly couldn't :-D
Verdict: Plus One was a delightful little story I devoured in no time. Both Olivia and Ian were loveable characters and their chemistry besides being sizzling had more depth due to their strong friendship and affection. I loved Brighton Walsh's writing style, her dry humour shining through Olivia's thoughts made me chuckle out loud, while her well developed 3D characterization was infused with so much heart and emotion that it made me sigh. A wonderful funny and romantic story I can only recommend you pick up!
Plot: 9/10 - I just love the "best friends to lovers trope" and here it was executed to perfection!
Characters: 9/10
Writing: 10/10
Ending: 8/10
Cover: 8/10
I give Plus One 4.5 stars full of happy sighs!
Although the story is just 68 page-long, Brighton Walsh managed to tell a well rounded story with three-dimensional, well-developed, interesting characters the reader could root for, and despite its shortness Plus One left me fully satisfied.
I think one of the reasons for Plus One's success is that the premise can resonate with a lot of people, because at one time or another all of us had to go through what Olivia has to: who didn't have to suffer through one or more awful first date(s)? And who didn't dread going to a wedding alone, sans date? And because of that, Olivia was a very relatable heroine. It didn't hurt that she was a lovely, genuinely nice and funny character too.
And Ian... *sighs* he was dreamy! Even though we are told he is quite handsome, what stayed with me was what a warm-hearted, devoted and gentle guy he was. I just love the "best friend to lovers" trope and Ian was the bf of my dreams. He was funny, considerate, tender and thoughtful. He was a great friend besides being a hunk ;-)
"He definitely wouldn’t be a bad guy to be on the arm of at all these weddings. At six foot three, he exuded a certain innate manliness, but even with all that height, he still had this gentleness about him that could only come from being raised around women. The youngest—and only boy—of four kids, he grew up to be sensitive and understanding. Not to mention the fact that it wasn’t exactly a chore to look at him, with his tousled blond hair and clear green eyes. No, he wasn’t her normal type—which was to say he wasn’t tall, dark, broody and a complete asshole—but she could definitely see his appeal."
I loved the easy banter and familiarity between Livvy and Ian, their every scene and conversation radiated that deep and strong camaraderie and affection that shows how close they grew through their many years of friendship. And Brighton Walsh is to be lauded because despite this strong bond their sexual chemistry was believable and utterly hot, and their love intense:
"Shaking his head, he dropped his gaze to his feet. “I can’t do it anymore. I thought I could, I thought I could take whatever you could give, but I can’t do this half-assed bullshit anymore.” He looked up, his eyes boring into hers. Almost seeming to steel himself for what he was about to say, he took a deep breath. “I have been in love with you for twenty years. Twenty goddamn years.” Reaching up, he ran both hands through his hair in a sign of frustration. “I can’t pretend I’m not anymore. I want to be yours, Liv. Not just your plus one.”"
Brighton Walsh's writing is captivating and delightful. I fell hook, line and sinker in love with Plus One right from the very first page when she shared this laugh out loud funny horrible date scene:
"“So, interesting fact,” the guy sitting across from her said. His confident tone suggested he really did think it was interesting. “Cat urine is one of the most difficult things to get out of carpet.” Olivia Winters just stared at him, no longer surprised by what came out of the mouths of the men she dated. After a solid eighteen months of nothing but shitty and shittier dates, she was done. Done. She didn’t need this. She wasn’t a leper, for God’s sake. She was cute and fun. She owned her own bakery—her own successful bakery, thank you very much. She had a great sense of humor, if she did say so herself, and gave one mean blow job—or so she’d been told."
Who could resist bursting out in laughter after that first paragraph? I certainly couldn't :-D
Verdict: Plus One was a delightful little story I devoured in no time. Both Olivia and Ian were loveable characters and their chemistry besides being sizzling had more depth due to their strong friendship and affection. I loved Brighton Walsh's writing style, her dry humour shining through Olivia's thoughts made me chuckle out loud, while her well developed 3D characterization was infused with so much heart and emotion that it made me sigh. A wonderful funny and romantic story I can only recommend you pick up!
Plot: 9/10 - I just love the "best friends to lovers trope" and here it was executed to perfection!
Characters: 9/10
Writing: 10/10
Ending: 8/10
Cover: 8/10
I give Plus One 4.5 stars full of happy sighs!
May 7, 2013
Review can be seen
here
on
Books and Swoons
.
My rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
I loved this novella. It was short, sweet and juuust right. It was exactly what I needed after reading so many YA novels back to back. Brighton Walsh knows how to weave a story and have you falling in love right alongside with the characters. And I love the story line of friends to more. It makes my girly heart sigh in contentment and have me cheering the couple on.
Olivia is the kind of female heroine that I wish I see more of in books. She's a strong and independent woman without coming off as bitch. Ian is, oh my god, he's the kind of guy you would want to end up with in real life. He is so sweet and swoony and knows what he wants and knows how to work a suit.
Olivia has been on a string of bad dates and have nine (!) weddings to attend and Ian offers to be her plus one. They have been friends for twenty years but Ian has always nurtured a crush on Olivia and it has resurfaced when he sees her all dolled up for wedding #1. For her part, Olivia has always thought that Ian was attractive but when she's sees him working his suit for the wedding, she realizes that her friend is a lot more attractive than she originally thought.
For being a novella, Olivia's and Ian's story did not feel rushed at all. Everything happened at the right time and it felt believable. Most times, I'm always turned off from a book by how rushed and unrealistic the story line feels. This was not the case with Plus One. You can tell that there is history between Olivia and Ian by how they interact with each other. You can also see when it starts becoming more than just a friend doing a favor for another friend for Olivia. And it felt very natural when Ian realized that Olivia is the woman for him. If I wasn't already a fan of Ms. Walsh's work, I would have become a fan of hers with this novella.
Plus One is a wonderful story that I can see myself going back and rereading and recommending to all my friends. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Walsh's work and falling in love with more of her heroes. I may have gotten a copy from the publisher but I went out and bought my own ebook copy and you should too!
**I received an early copy of this book through NetGalley but it did not influence this review any way.**
My rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
I loved this novella. It was short, sweet and juuust right. It was exactly what I needed after reading so many YA novels back to back. Brighton Walsh knows how to weave a story and have you falling in love right alongside with the characters. And I love the story line of friends to more. It makes my girly heart sigh in contentment and have me cheering the couple on.
Olivia is the kind of female heroine that I wish I see more of in books. She's a strong and independent woman without coming off as bitch. Ian is, oh my god, he's the kind of guy you would want to end up with in real life. He is so sweet and swoony and knows what he wants and knows how to work a suit.
Olivia has been on a string of bad dates and have nine (!) weddings to attend and Ian offers to be her plus one. They have been friends for twenty years but Ian has always nurtured a crush on Olivia and it has resurfaced when he sees her all dolled up for wedding #1. For her part, Olivia has always thought that Ian was attractive but when she's sees him working his suit for the wedding, she realizes that her friend is a lot more attractive than she originally thought.
For being a novella, Olivia's and Ian's story did not feel rushed at all. Everything happened at the right time and it felt believable. Most times, I'm always turned off from a book by how rushed and unrealistic the story line feels. This was not the case with Plus One. You can tell that there is history between Olivia and Ian by how they interact with each other. You can also see when it starts becoming more than just a friend doing a favor for another friend for Olivia. And it felt very natural when Ian realized that Olivia is the woman for him. If I wasn't already a fan of Ms. Walsh's work, I would have become a fan of hers with this novella.
Plus One is a wonderful story that I can see myself going back and rereading and recommending to all my friends. I look forward to reading more of Ms. Walsh's work and falling in love with more of her heroes. I may have gotten a copy from the publisher but I went out and bought my own ebook copy and you should too!
**I received an early copy of this book through NetGalley but it did not influence this review any way.**
April 17, 2013
For this review and more my blog
Plus One is a sweet little novella that does exactly what it says on the tin. It is short, cute and full of some delicious sexual tension. Books about friends turning into lovers can be hot or miss. Often the chemistry isn’t there or it is not quite believable. Plus one suffers from none of these problems it was done just right and I liked the journey from friends to more.
Both Olivia and Ian are strong characters, I liked both of them equally and liked their relationship from beginning to end. Ian is a little hasty to judge towards the end which was a smidge annoying but he was mostly charming.
The love scenes were well executed and just the right length. I often find that this is one of the hardest things to get right in a novella. Due to the length of the story the love scenes are sometimes to short or too long, but again Plus One got it just right.
There is nothing wrong with this book, it is very enjoyable and very sweet but the issue is that it falls very neatly into the ‘nice’ category. It is a story that is unlikely to stay with me and as soon as I start reading something else it will probably slip my mind completely.
If you are looking for a short and cute romantic read Plus One is perfect, it is a nice little novella that is very entertaining.
The publisher provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Plus One is a sweet little novella that does exactly what it says on the tin. It is short, cute and full of some delicious sexual tension. Books about friends turning into lovers can be hot or miss. Often the chemistry isn’t there or it is not quite believable. Plus one suffers from none of these problems it was done just right and I liked the journey from friends to more.
Both Olivia and Ian are strong characters, I liked both of them equally and liked their relationship from beginning to end. Ian is a little hasty to judge towards the end which was a smidge annoying but he was mostly charming.
The love scenes were well executed and just the right length. I often find that this is one of the hardest things to get right in a novella. Due to the length of the story the love scenes are sometimes to short or too long, but again Plus One got it just right.
There is nothing wrong with this book, it is very enjoyable and very sweet but the issue is that it falls very neatly into the ‘nice’ category. It is a story that is unlikely to stay with me and as soon as I start reading something else it will probably slip my mind completely.
If you are looking for a short and cute romantic read Plus One is perfect, it is a nice little novella that is very entertaining.
The publisher provided me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
April 21, 2013
I was in a rut. For a long time, I thought I was broken. I couldn't find anything to read that I truly enjoyed. I thought that there was something wrong with me, maybe I just read too much. Then I won an ARC of Plus One by one of my favorite writers and I realized that its not me, its them. Finally a truly good book with a writing quality that is both precise and deliciously enjoyable.
Brighton Walsh has such a wonderful way with words. Her work is vivid. I often feel like I am watching a movie rather than reading her words. That is rare and fantastic. To be able to really picture things as they unfold, for me, is gratifying in so many ways. She is also the Queen of Anticipation. Those moments before a kiss that are often better than the act itself. Those first touches when a romance begins. Anticipation is abundant but it is never forced. Things happen as they should. I sometimes feel like chemistry is forced down our throats. It doesn't need to be. Brighton Walsh clearly knows this as this book is short, but that doesn't stop her from letting things take their time and let us take it all in. I have but one complaint, this was far too short. I want more.
If you like clever, witty and snarky flirting, this book is for you. If you love that friends to something more feeling of goodness, then this book is for you. If you love a truly delicious romance with delectable characters and red hot romance, this book is for you. Basically, you need to read this book. DO IT NOW!
Brighton Walsh has such a wonderful way with words. Her work is vivid. I often feel like I am watching a movie rather than reading her words. That is rare and fantastic. To be able to really picture things as they unfold, for me, is gratifying in so many ways. She is also the Queen of Anticipation. Those moments before a kiss that are often better than the act itself. Those first touches when a romance begins. Anticipation is abundant but it is never forced. Things happen as they should. I sometimes feel like chemistry is forced down our throats. It doesn't need to be. Brighton Walsh clearly knows this as this book is short, but that doesn't stop her from letting things take their time and let us take it all in. I have but one complaint, this was far too short. I want more.
If you like clever, witty and snarky flirting, this book is for you. If you love that friends to something more feeling of goodness, then this book is for you. If you love a truly delicious romance with delectable characters and red hot romance, this book is for you. Basically, you need to read this book. DO IT NOW!
March 14, 2013
I received this book as an ARC via Net-galley
Olivia has nine weddings to attend during the next few weekends and after multiple horrible dates, she just doesn't think she can face going to them stag. Ian, her best friends baby brother, offers to be her date for all the weddings. He has had an unrequited love for her for as long as he can remember and thought that moving away from his hometown would get him away from Olivia and his crush and he could get over it. Seeing her has squashed all hopes of leaving that crush behind.
Olivia has never ever thought of Ian as anything but her friends kid brother. Now dancing with him and being close to him has her thinking very naughty thoughts. She's trying to keep them under-wraps but sometimes you can't hold back what is dying to come out.
Nice short novella. Easy to read and the flow was good. Hot sex and grown up issues that weren't danced around. I had a bit of an issue with the repetition in his head of how much he loved her and how long he had loved her, it just seemed to go on a little too long. All in all it was a great book that took no time to read and I enjoyed it thoroughly. You won't be disappointed with this!!
Olivia has nine weddings to attend during the next few weekends and after multiple horrible dates, she just doesn't think she can face going to them stag. Ian, her best friends baby brother, offers to be her date for all the weddings. He has had an unrequited love for her for as long as he can remember and thought that moving away from his hometown would get him away from Olivia and his crush and he could get over it. Seeing her has squashed all hopes of leaving that crush behind.
Olivia has never ever thought of Ian as anything but her friends kid brother. Now dancing with him and being close to him has her thinking very naughty thoughts. She's trying to keep them under-wraps but sometimes you can't hold back what is dying to come out.
Nice short novella. Easy to read and the flow was good. Hot sex and grown up issues that weren't danced around. I had a bit of an issue with the repetition in his head of how much he loved her and how long he had loved her, it just seemed to go on a little too long. All in all it was a great book that took no time to read and I enjoyed it thoroughly. You won't be disappointed with this!!
April 26, 2013
Olivia has been on a string of rotten dates. Unfortunately, she has a series of weddings that she has to attend and dreads the thought of going alone. While lamenting this fact, her childhood friend, Ian, suggests that he accompany her to the weddings.
Ian has been in love with Livvy for over twenty years. Having spent the past 7 years two hours away from her Ian has convinced himself that he has moved on. Ian now wonders if it is even possible to get over her. After spending several weekends as Livvy's plus one, Ian finds himself in a perpetually aroused state and his heart in greater jeopardy than it's ever been.
And then, one night, Ian and Olivia give in to the sexual tension.
This is an exceptionally quick read. Many moments between Olivia and Ian could have been expanded or explored more deeply. It almost seems to rush ahead at times, but it is still very enjoyable. Even though it is quick, I still felt a strong connection between the characters.
If you are looking for something quick and sexy, give Plus One a try.
Ian has been in love with Livvy for over twenty years. Having spent the past 7 years two hours away from her Ian has convinced himself that he has moved on. Ian now wonders if it is even possible to get over her. After spending several weekends as Livvy's plus one, Ian finds himself in a perpetually aroused state and his heart in greater jeopardy than it's ever been.
And then, one night, Ian and Olivia give in to the sexual tension.
This is an exceptionally quick read. Many moments between Olivia and Ian could have been expanded or explored more deeply. It almost seems to rush ahead at times, but it is still very enjoyable. Even though it is quick, I still felt a strong connection between the characters.
If you are looking for something quick and sexy, give Plus One a try.
May 11, 2013
I'm not going to give a summary in my review because everything you need to know to pick up this book Brighton Walsh has already summarized for us...except for the fact that the chemistry between Ian and Olivia is off the charts!! There is all kinds of tension, both of the 'I love her but she doesn't know it yet', and of the sexual variety. The heroine is a believable, independent, every-day girl who has been through the dating wringer and Ian is just an all-around good guy. He's handsome and smart and not overly saccharine-sweet like some authors tend to get wrong when writing the male point of view.
If you ever need a palate cleanser between heavier books, this is PERFECT! You can read it in one sitting or you can just take a few snippits here and there until your book hangover subsides. Plus One will leave you with everything you wanted in a 'just enough' little bite of sweet HEA.
If you ever need a palate cleanser between heavier books, this is PERFECT! You can read it in one sitting or you can just take a few snippits here and there until your book hangover subsides. Plus One will leave you with everything you wanted in a 'just enough' little bite of sweet HEA.
June 1, 2013
NetGalley free read
more like a 4.5. I loved it. It was cute, sweet and a little Hot! Ian was a little sappy, but not in the bedroom. And after reading quite a few dominate intense males, this was a welcome change. The only thing keeping me from giving it a complete sweep is because it was a novella. Not a whole lot of character development with friends and family or employees and employers. But it didn't really need it. Olivia and Ian were enough and that's saying a lot.
I'm getting through all my short stories and novella's in my library and have to say that if they all went to the Brighton Walsh school for story telling, they would do very well. Unfortunately they haven't and feel like I've kissed a lot of toads until getting to this story.
If you are interested in a great little romance to tide you over between intense stories, check this one out.
more like a 4.5. I loved it. It was cute, sweet and a little Hot! Ian was a little sappy, but not in the bedroom. And after reading quite a few dominate intense males, this was a welcome change. The only thing keeping me from giving it a complete sweep is because it was a novella. Not a whole lot of character development with friends and family or employees and employers. But it didn't really need it. Olivia and Ian were enough and that's saying a lot.
I'm getting through all my short stories and novella's in my library and have to say that if they all went to the Brighton Walsh school for story telling, they would do very well. Unfortunately they haven't and feel like I've kissed a lot of toads until getting to this story.
If you are interested in a great little romance to tide you over between intense stories, check this one out.
April 15, 2013
Brighton Walsh delivers a super cute, erotic romance about a boy whose been in love with his sister's best friend for years, and a girl who has a hard time believing that the boy in question might actually love her. Both are afraid to ruin a long friendship by giving in to the mutual attraction. The author crams a lot of character development into a short story, letting both parties have their say, and then culminates the romance just the way I like it.
It's a perfect book to read on the beach or in front of a fire, dreaming of a hot summer romance.
Nicely done. I'll be checking out more from this author, that's for sure!
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
It's a perfect book to read on the beach or in front of a fire, dreaming of a hot summer romance.
Nicely done. I'll be checking out more from this author, that's for sure!
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 30, 2013
After a miserable string of bad dates, Olivia is fed up. But she has a bunch of weddings coming up and doesn't want to go alone. In steps her good friend, Ian, who also happens to be her best friend's brother. What she didn't expect was to be so attracted to him. Now Ian needs to convince her he wants to be her plus one for life.
This was a short novella, but packed a punch. The quick wit writing and humor were the right blend, and the sudden attraction between two people who've known each other all their lives was believable. I had a hard time putting it down. The setting, details and secondary characters only added to the charm. Highly recommended!
This was a short novella, but packed a punch. The quick wit writing and humor were the right blend, and the sudden attraction between two people who've known each other all their lives was believable. I had a hard time putting it down. The setting, details and secondary characters only added to the charm. Highly recommended!
May 19, 2013
4.5 stars rounding it up to 5 stars
I really enjoyed Plus One.
For a novella the author Brighton Walsh does a very good job of making you connect with her characters.
The story for me was perfect.
It had everything I love in a book.
Looking forward to reading more from Brighton Walsh in the near future.
I really enjoyed Plus One.
For a novella the author Brighton Walsh does a very good job of making you connect with her characters.
The story for me was perfect.
It had everything I love in a book.
Looking forward to reading more from Brighton Walsh in the near future.
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