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Doll Face
Barbara Ann (Barbie) as her friends know her, is the CEO of her parents toy company Up, Up, Away toys. All Barbie wants to do is pop a bottle of champagne, create and sell the best toys in the world and maybe forget about the girl who broke her heart.
Kenzie might be one of the world’s top models right now but under the lipstick and dresses, all she can think about is her first love. She left Barbie years ago to pursue her career in modeling and has been lonely ever since. So when a week long shoot in NYC lands her back in town with Barbie, she can’t help but want to rekindle things. She has a week to convince her that they belong together.
Can she get back her one true love or will she be thrown out like a used toy?
Sapphic Barbie with a ton of spice & rom-com moments.
Kenzie might be one of the world’s top models right now but under the lipstick and dresses, all she can think about is her first love. She left Barbie years ago to pursue her career in modeling and has been lonely ever since. So when a week long shoot in NYC lands her back in town with Barbie, she can’t help but want to rekindle things. She has a week to convince her that they belong together.
Can she get back her one true love or will she be thrown out like a used toy?
Sapphic Barbie with a ton of spice & rom-com moments.
136 pages, Paperback
First published August 31, 2023
47 people are currently reading
577 people want to read
About the author
Shannon O'Connor
64 books854 followersShannon O’Connor is a twenty something, bisexual, self published poet of several books and counting. O’Connor enjoys life’s simple pleasures: coffee, reading, traveling, and spending time with her new baby. O’Connor is continuously working on new poetry projects, book reviews, and more, while also diving into motherhood. She loves supporting local indie authors & shops as much as possible.
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/shans...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
September 14, 2023
A quick, hot second chance romance with a beautiful cover.
The storyline was interesting but unfortunately, I just couldn't connect with leads Barbie or Kenzie - the angst seemed too much so my satisfaction was limited.
Perhaps I'm jaded by the whole Barbie movie, etc., since even as a child to me the dolls seemed unrealistic.
Just my humble thoughts. There are lots of positive reviews out there so please read and decide for yourself and check out O'Connor's other books.
The storyline was interesting but unfortunately, I just couldn't connect with leads Barbie or Kenzie - the angst seemed too much so my satisfaction was limited.
Perhaps I'm jaded by the whole Barbie movie, etc., since even as a child to me the dolls seemed unrealistic.
Just my humble thoughts. There are lots of positive reviews out there so please read and decide for yourself and check out O'Connor's other books.
August 16, 2023
Reading Kenzie and Barbie after this Barbie movie fest going on? Holy sweet and spice! Quick read but wow did I fall for their relationship! Their chemistry is organic, their sass off the charts and honestly so great together!
I received this ARC for an honest review, all thoughts/opinions above are my own!
I received this ARC for an honest review, all thoughts/opinions above are my own!
April 15, 2025
Content warnings: sexual scenes.
Rep: Kenzie (MC) is cis, white, and plus sized, and sapphic. Barbie (MC) is cis, white, and sapphic. No on page labels are used. Kenzie does say that her guy friend is "as gay as she is" but *shrug* lesbian is used to say 'lesbian stereotype' but no one actually identifies as that, which is sad tbh.
This was alright. It was short, hot, and sweet.
I did enjoy the modern take on Barbie/Ken, too.
Rep: Kenzie (MC) is cis, white, and plus sized, and sapphic. Barbie (MC) is cis, white, and sapphic. No on page labels are used. Kenzie does say that her guy friend is "as gay as she is" but *shrug* lesbian is used to say 'lesbian stereotype' but no one actually identifies as that, which is sad tbh.
This was alright. It was short, hot, and sweet.
I did enjoy the modern take on Barbie/Ken, too.
December 19, 2024
This was a super SPICY second chance, dual POV, Sapphic romance novella between a plus size model and a bad ass sex toy company CEO. I liked the characters and their chemistry was off the charts but the narrator wasn't my fav. She did a good job distinguishing between the two women but her sex scene sounds were extremely cringe and totally put me off. Would recommend this one in print over the audio.
September 1, 2023
Is it worth a second chance?
Quick book about Barbie and Ken-zie and their second chance at hea. Awesome spice. Sweet story. A smidge of angst but thankfully they had good support and open communication so the angst didn’t take over and derail their chance. A sweet, feel-good, body positive second chance rom com.
Quick book about Barbie and Ken-zie and their second chance at hea. Awesome spice. Sweet story. A smidge of angst but thankfully they had good support and open communication so the angst didn’t take over and derail their chance. A sweet, feel-good, body positive second chance rom com.
August 30, 2023
Sweet as pink and definitely hot. What Barbie’s life would be like if she would have found her Kenzie. A steamy second chance romance.
I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Barbara, better know as Barbie, runs her family’s toy company. She works her ass off to make it a success but that leaves her zero time to devote to her personal life. Five years earlier she had her heart broken when her girlfriend Kenzie took a job in London and left her alone and miserable. While concentrating on making the company into a success, she never opened her heart again to the possibility of love.
Kenzie has a thriving career as a plus-sized model. Although she doesn’t regret taking the job in London, she does regret letting her relationship with Barbie go. When she visits New York for a week she devotes that time to get Barbie back in her life. Because whatever happened, Kenzie is still in love with her.
Barbie is reluctant to say the least when Kenzie shows up in New York. It takes no time at all for her to see and feel the love Kenzie still has for her. That’s all great but the obstacle of them living on different continents remains. O’Connor does a great job in revealing the connection the main characters still have. Jumping from viewpoint between the two, you get a real feel of both their personalities through their own eyes and through the descriptions of and feelings for each other.
One thing Barbie and Kenzie haven’t lost is their physical connection. I loved reading a body positive story about a character that doesn’t fit in a size two but makes her curves an actual strength and super power. The steamy scenes definitely call for some icewater in case you’re reading this in public!
I really enjoyed investing a few hours in this story. Doll Face is an easy, hot, low angst and lovely read.
I received an advance review copy for free from Booksirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Barbara, better know as Barbie, runs her family’s toy company. She works her ass off to make it a success but that leaves her zero time to devote to her personal life. Five years earlier she had her heart broken when her girlfriend Kenzie took a job in London and left her alone and miserable. While concentrating on making the company into a success, she never opened her heart again to the possibility of love.
Kenzie has a thriving career as a plus-sized model. Although she doesn’t regret taking the job in London, she does regret letting her relationship with Barbie go. When she visits New York for a week she devotes that time to get Barbie back in her life. Because whatever happened, Kenzie is still in love with her.
Barbie is reluctant to say the least when Kenzie shows up in New York. It takes no time at all for her to see and feel the love Kenzie still has for her. That’s all great but the obstacle of them living on different continents remains. O’Connor does a great job in revealing the connection the main characters still have. Jumping from viewpoint between the two, you get a real feel of both their personalities through their own eyes and through the descriptions of and feelings for each other.
One thing Barbie and Kenzie haven’t lost is their physical connection. I loved reading a body positive story about a character that doesn’t fit in a size two but makes her curves an actual strength and super power. The steamy scenes definitely call for some icewater in case you’re reading this in public!
I really enjoyed investing a few hours in this story. Doll Face is an easy, hot, low angst and lovely read.
August 20, 2023
If you are looking for a short story with plenty of sex scenes, this will fit the bill.
I thought the blurb sounded fun and I was in the mood for a light humorous book. This didn’t quite do it for me on any level. The issue was me, I like to read love making scenes and sex scenes where I’ve got to know the characters rather than straight in to the sex. I also didn’t really buy into the mains, therefor even when I knew them better the sex scenes didn’t work for me. The title is doll face, which goes with the whole Barbie joke but I got irritated every time doll face or princess was used as an endearment. 2.5 but as personal taste I would normally round up to a 3, but the walk on characters were one dimensional and issues arose then we didn’t hear more of or solutions to.
I thought the blurb sounded fun and I was in the mood for a light humorous book. This didn’t quite do it for me on any level. The issue was me, I like to read love making scenes and sex scenes where I’ve got to know the characters rather than straight in to the sex. I also didn’t really buy into the mains, therefor even when I knew them better the sex scenes didn’t work for me. The title is doll face, which goes with the whole Barbie joke but I got irritated every time doll face or princess was used as an endearment. 2.5 but as personal taste I would normally round up to a 3, but the walk on characters were one dimensional and issues arose then we didn’t hear more of or solutions to.
August 24, 2023
This was a cute but spicy romance that was quick read!
Barbie and Kenzie thought they would be together forever but when Kenzie had to go to London for work, she doesn’t come home and their relationship falls apart. 5 years later Kenzie is back and determined to win Barbie back! The cute ways Kenzie works to prove that Barbie is the love of her life leads to some super spicy scenes. You can really feel the hurt form both when they were apart and you can also feel the love that they have for each other!
I loved being in the world of Ken-zie and Barbie! Thank you Shannon O’Connor for the ARC! I
Barbie and Kenzie thought they would be together forever but when Kenzie had to go to London for work, she doesn’t come home and their relationship falls apart. 5 years later Kenzie is back and determined to win Barbie back! The cute ways Kenzie works to prove that Barbie is the love of her life leads to some super spicy scenes. You can really feel the hurt form both when they were apart and you can also feel the love that they have for each other!
I loved being in the world of Ken-zie and Barbie! Thank you Shannon O’Connor for the ARC! I
October 8, 2023
Given the Barbie mania of the summer, it was only a matter of time that a book like this would surface. Unfortunately, this is not a good homage.
Barbie and Kenzie became lovers in their early 20s, and although they were crazy about one another, Kenzie took a job in London. Unable to maintain a long distance relationship, they broke up. Five years or so later, Barbie is the CEO of her family's toy company. Kenzie travels to NYC for work determined to spend the week winning Barbie back.
Much of this novella is padded with multiple sex scenes from both the past part of the relationship and the present second chance. It's just too much for a book that isn't labeled erotica. Also, the writing is just not strong.
Recommendation: skip it.
Barbie and Kenzie became lovers in their early 20s, and although they were crazy about one another, Kenzie took a job in London. Unable to maintain a long distance relationship, they broke up. Five years or so later, Barbie is the CEO of her family's toy company. Kenzie travels to NYC for work determined to spend the week winning Barbie back.
Much of this novella is padded with multiple sex scenes from both the past part of the relationship and the present second chance. It's just too much for a book that isn't labeled erotica. Also, the writing is just not strong.
Recommendation: skip it.
January 8, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was such a cute (and hot) read! I loved the chemistry between Kenzie & Barbie. The only thing that was missing was maybe some angst and maybe a little bit more character development. I loved the relationship between the two characters but I sometimes felt like I didn't really know them? I don't really know how to explain, but it was still a really good book!
This was such a cute (and hot) read! I loved the chemistry between Kenzie & Barbie. The only thing that was missing was maybe some angst and maybe a little bit more character development. I loved the relationship between the two characters but I sometimes felt like I didn't really know them? I don't really know how to explain, but it was still a really good book!
August 19, 2023
I am IN LOVE with Kenzie and Barbie!!! This was the sweetest, steamiest novella and I really hope we will be seeing more of this couple. I couldn’t put it down once I started
September 18, 2023
Thank you to Shannon O'Connor & her publisher for this ARC!
The title!
The cover!
THE SPICE!
This book was so good. As someone who grew up on Barbie, I loved the play on Barbie & Ken-zie & was happy to see Ken in it as well! I loved the little Easter eggs that were relevant to Barbie scattered throughout the book. This was one of the first FF books I've ever read & I was not disappointed at all! The spice was consistent & written well (minus the fact that the word "core" was used like a billion times in two scenes). The only thing I wasn't a fan of with this book was the underlying story was a little hard to follow & I found the jump from Barbie fantasizing the one day to suddenly being extremely upset about her work day to be very choppy. There was no explanation until later & I felt like it was a little weird. Other than that though, this book was so good! Just in time for the Barbie hype too! Can't wait to see what else this author puts out!
The title!
The cover!
THE SPICE!
This book was so good. As someone who grew up on Barbie, I loved the play on Barbie & Ken-zie & was happy to see Ken in it as well! I loved the little Easter eggs that were relevant to Barbie scattered throughout the book. This was one of the first FF books I've ever read & I was not disappointed at all! The spice was consistent & written well (minus the fact that the word "core" was used like a billion times in two scenes). The only thing I wasn't a fan of with this book was the underlying story was a little hard to follow & I found the jump from Barbie fantasizing the one day to suddenly being extremely upset about her work day to be very choppy. There was no explanation until later & I felt like it was a little weird. Other than that though, this book was so good! Just in time for the Barbie hype too! Can't wait to see what else this author puts out!
August 31, 2023
My first FF book and I can positively say that I’m in love. I’m not usually a sweet romance reader but this was great. This is the prefect novella pallet cleanser FULL of spice. Barbie and Kenzie are hilarious and sexy their relationship is so sweet. Second chance romance that everyone needs to read.
October 14, 2023
This book is ok on a superficial level. Frankly, it's a bit crass for me. It's an unfortunate trend becoming more common in sapphic books where the sex reads like the girl on girl action straight men trundle out for other men. Other than that, it's a light, consumable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 1, 2023
I don't know why I keep putting myself through this.
September 25, 2023
⭐️ 5
🌶️ 4/5
🥵 5/5
Age range: 18+
Content Warnings:
Quotes:
- I’ve been getting tailor-made pink business attire. If people are going to joke about me looking like a Barbie doll, I might as well lean into it.
- He holds up one bright pink penis-shaped dildo, and my eyes widen.
- “Ken and I got Sushi. He’s a doll, you’d love him,”
- Why would a sex toy company be called ‘Up, Up, Away’ anyway?” I ask, confused, and that’s when the man starts laughing uncontrollably. “It’s actually called Up, Up, & Anal, ma’am,”
- “Your doors are see through, you can see me coming.”
- “You do realize I’m a model, right? Dressing to impress is literally my job.”
- “So, how was work?” “Are you really asking me about work? Was how’s the weather too generic?” she teases.
- “Sit on my face, Doll Face,”
- “If I’m going to marry anyone, I want it to be you,”
- “I love you more than words can describe,”
- “Well, are you going to just stand there or are you going to pick up your jaw and come fuck me?”
- “Barbie, you’re telling me that the girl you love called off a very important shoot to her. She ran to your side, bringing all your favorites, and spent the night with you to make sure you’re okay. But you aren’t sure what that means? Are you stupid?”
- “Is your brain made of plastic?”
- You’re protecting your heart, but you don’t want to put up so many walls that no one can get in.”
- I chose you because you needed me. And I would do it again in a heartbeat.”
- If this is our last night together for a while I want to make the most of it. I want to spend every second we have wrapped in her arms and tangled with her tongue.
- I promise to take care of your heart—and the rest of you. I never want to hurt you again.
- We are Barbie and Ken-zie. Built for each other for life.
Review:
Everyone knows that Barbie and Ken are end game and in the story it’s the same but Barbie is with Kenzie. They fell in love when they were very young and just starting their careers. Kenzie being a model is offered a job in London that she takes and then never comes back. They tried to make long distance work but it was just too hard. 5 yrs later and Barbie is running her parents company as the CEO and just happens to bump into Kenzie on the way out. Can they get their 2nd chance to make things work this time? This story was so cute, funny, and sexy. It’s everything I wanted it to be when I read the summary and then some.
Tropes & Vibes:
- LGBTQ+
- Rom-Com
🌶️ 4/5
🥵 5/5
Age range: 18+
Content Warnings:
Quotes:
- I’ve been getting tailor-made pink business attire. If people are going to joke about me looking like a Barbie doll, I might as well lean into it.
- He holds up one bright pink penis-shaped dildo, and my eyes widen.
- “Ken and I got Sushi. He’s a doll, you’d love him,”
- Why would a sex toy company be called ‘Up, Up, Away’ anyway?” I ask, confused, and that’s when the man starts laughing uncontrollably. “It’s actually called Up, Up, & Anal, ma’am,”
- “Your doors are see through, you can see me coming.”
- “You do realize I’m a model, right? Dressing to impress is literally my job.”
- “So, how was work?” “Are you really asking me about work? Was how’s the weather too generic?” she teases.
- “Sit on my face, Doll Face,”
- “If I’m going to marry anyone, I want it to be you,”
- “I love you more than words can describe,”
- “Well, are you going to just stand there or are you going to pick up your jaw and come fuck me?”
- “Barbie, you’re telling me that the girl you love called off a very important shoot to her. She ran to your side, bringing all your favorites, and spent the night with you to make sure you’re okay. But you aren’t sure what that means? Are you stupid?”
- “Is your brain made of plastic?”
- You’re protecting your heart, but you don’t want to put up so many walls that no one can get in.”
- I chose you because you needed me. And I would do it again in a heartbeat.”
- If this is our last night together for a while I want to make the most of it. I want to spend every second we have wrapped in her arms and tangled with her tongue.
- I promise to take care of your heart—and the rest of you. I never want to hurt you again.
- We are Barbie and Ken-zie. Built for each other for life.
Review:
Everyone knows that Barbie and Ken are end game and in the story it’s the same but Barbie is with Kenzie. They fell in love when they were very young and just starting their careers. Kenzie being a model is offered a job in London that she takes and then never comes back. They tried to make long distance work but it was just too hard. 5 yrs later and Barbie is running her parents company as the CEO and just happens to bump into Kenzie on the way out. Can they get their 2nd chance to make things work this time? This story was so cute, funny, and sexy. It’s everything I wanted it to be when I read the summary and then some.
Tropes & Vibes:
- LGBTQ+
- Rom-Com
September 27, 2023
The appeal of Barbie has evolved over time in complex and varied ways, especially for sapphic readers and writers. While historically Barbie has reflected the heteronormative and patriarchal beauty ideals projected in fashion and beauty magazines, wlw writers are excited to subvert these norms. Along with challenging gender and sexual stereotypes, they enjoy creating romantic and sexual relationships between the female characters within the Barbie universe. That’s exactly what one will find inside the pages of Shannon O'Connor’s new novella Doll Face. It’s a whole lot of sapphic fun wrapped in a pink Barbie bow.
O'Connor is a fun storyteller. She gives readers something that is light, fluffy and easy to read. This is pure escapism; it’s not meant to challenge one’s world view. However, rest assured that it’s not shabbily done by any means. O'Connor’s story world is solid and immersive. There’s some real thought put into its construction.
Since this is a short story, O'Connor quickly jumps right into it. She introduces Barbie and Kenzie with a steamy sex scene and then promptly breaks them up. The rest of the story works to get them back together, as this is a second chance romance. It does feel a bit rushed at times, which undermines the credibility somewhat. However, considering it’s a novella, it isn’t too bothersome. Readers can accept it, especially when the whole thing is meant for fun.
Even though this is a light and entertaining piece of fiction, O'Connor still manages to include character development that challenges harmful beauty standards. Kenzie is a plus-size woman but never once do readers see her as anything less than attractive; her body image is always portrayed in a positive light. And because O'Connor doesn’t shy away from how bodies impact desire, she allows for the exploration of honest sexual intimacy between Barbie and Kenzie. The result is a narrative that feels authentic, valid and empowering.
Final remarks…
O'Connor takes the well-established world of Barbie beyond the dollhouse and creates a new and fresh perspective for lgbtq readers. By incorporating a sapphic perspective into the storyline, O'Connor crafts something that’s imaginative and entertaining for wlw romance fans. Readers will be drawn to the alluring chemistry between Barbie and Kenzie as they work to rebuild their relationship. Overall, Doll Face is the perfect second chance romance for those that are looking for a quick, entertaining read.
Strengths…
Quick and easy reading
Entertaining
Sexy
Fun and lighthearted
O'Connor is a fun storyteller. She gives readers something that is light, fluffy and easy to read. This is pure escapism; it’s not meant to challenge one’s world view. However, rest assured that it’s not shabbily done by any means. O'Connor’s story world is solid and immersive. There’s some real thought put into its construction.
Since this is a short story, O'Connor quickly jumps right into it. She introduces Barbie and Kenzie with a steamy sex scene and then promptly breaks them up. The rest of the story works to get them back together, as this is a second chance romance. It does feel a bit rushed at times, which undermines the credibility somewhat. However, considering it’s a novella, it isn’t too bothersome. Readers can accept it, especially when the whole thing is meant for fun.
Even though this is a light and entertaining piece of fiction, O'Connor still manages to include character development that challenges harmful beauty standards. Kenzie is a plus-size woman but never once do readers see her as anything less than attractive; her body image is always portrayed in a positive light. And because O'Connor doesn’t shy away from how bodies impact desire, she allows for the exploration of honest sexual intimacy between Barbie and Kenzie. The result is a narrative that feels authentic, valid and empowering.
Final remarks…
O'Connor takes the well-established world of Barbie beyond the dollhouse and creates a new and fresh perspective for lgbtq readers. By incorporating a sapphic perspective into the storyline, O'Connor crafts something that’s imaginative and entertaining for wlw romance fans. Readers will be drawn to the alluring chemistry between Barbie and Kenzie as they work to rebuild their relationship. Overall, Doll Face is the perfect second chance romance for those that are looking for a quick, entertaining read.
Strengths…
Quick and easy reading
Entertaining
Sexy
Fun and lighthearted
August 18, 2023
5/5 ⭐️, 3.8/5 🌶️
Okay so my little Barbie fantasy come true with Kenzie and Barbie especially with having curvy representation with Kenzie.
This was such a cute, adorable, hot, and beautiful love story 🩷 Barbie’s parents are the owners of a toy company (hence the Barbie name) who’s looking to take over the company soon and her girlfriend Kenzie is a plus size model and they are so in love. Only downside is Kenzie’s agency is making her move to London leaving Barbie and their relationship attempting long distance for what Barbie believes will be weeks. 5 years later Kenzie never returned and their relationship is nonexistent. As much as Barbie wants to admit she doesn’t she’s still misses and loves Kenzie. One day after work she bumps into a surprise none other than her ex-girlfriend Kenzie and she’s there to win her back which Barbie immediately shuts down. Kenzie promises Barbie one week of her showing Barbie how much they belong together and get back together if she fails she’ll leave her alone forever. Will they get back together or did these two miss their chance at love?
When I tell you those spicy scenes came up I was like woah this is hot. 🥵 I love a good sapphic romance as a bisexual woman this was so heartwarming to read and makes me want to read more books like these 🩷 Definitely recommend reading this one such a fun, easy read that will have you believing in love and finding the right person.
Thank you to Shannon O’Connor for allowing me the opportunity to become an ARC reader for this one and I hope to read more books by you in the future!
Love a Barbie Stan 💗🎀💄
Okay so my little Barbie fantasy come true with Kenzie and Barbie especially with having curvy representation with Kenzie.
This was such a cute, adorable, hot, and beautiful love story 🩷 Barbie’s parents are the owners of a toy company (hence the Barbie name) who’s looking to take over the company soon and her girlfriend Kenzie is a plus size model and they are so in love. Only downside is Kenzie’s agency is making her move to London leaving Barbie and their relationship attempting long distance for what Barbie believes will be weeks. 5 years later Kenzie never returned and their relationship is nonexistent. As much as Barbie wants to admit she doesn’t she’s still misses and loves Kenzie. One day after work she bumps into a surprise none other than her ex-girlfriend Kenzie and she’s there to win her back which Barbie immediately shuts down. Kenzie promises Barbie one week of her showing Barbie how much they belong together and get back together if she fails she’ll leave her alone forever. Will they get back together or did these two miss their chance at love?
When I tell you those spicy scenes came up I was like woah this is hot. 🥵 I love a good sapphic romance as a bisexual woman this was so heartwarming to read and makes me want to read more books like these 🩷 Definitely recommend reading this one such a fun, easy read that will have you believing in love and finding the right person.
Thank you to Shannon O’Connor for allowing me the opportunity to become an ARC reader for this one and I hope to read more books by you in the future!
Love a Barbie Stan 💗🎀💄
August 21, 2023
This was okay, a well written romance that was exactly what you expect from the blurb. A sweet and spicy sapphic second-chance romance, both women seem lovely and very good for each other. It’s not particularly well thought out or explained how they broke up originally and they do just seem to jump straight back into bed and ‘I love yous’ the minute Kenzie is back in town, even though it’s only supposed to be for a week.
I loved Kenzie and especially Barbies sister Kelly, but Barbie wasn’t anything special and a lot of the other characters fell quite flat.
This was a nice quick read that felt very cringe hallmark movie, pretty body positive with the inclusion of Kenzie being a plus size model.
Too many weird barbie references and names, I get that that was kind of the point, but Barbies name is explained and mentioned (‘that’s what you get having toy makers as parents- named after a doll’/people joke I look like my namesake’) Plus Kenzie mentions that they are ‘literally Barbie and Ken’, making them self aware of it, so wouldn’t it be more noticed/remarked on to have Barbie, Ken-zie, Ken, pregnant Midge and little sister Kelly… It just seemed weird and irritating to me.
The light dialogue and most parts between the couple were great, especially banter and jokes. But more important or emotional conversations became unrealistic and stiff.
This book all felt very unrealistic and linear, there was nothing amazing and no spark for me, it took a while to get into.
It was very cute and nicely written, an easy read if you just want an uncomplicated, light romance.
I loved Kenzie and especially Barbies sister Kelly, but Barbie wasn’t anything special and a lot of the other characters fell quite flat.
This was a nice quick read that felt very cringe hallmark movie, pretty body positive with the inclusion of Kenzie being a plus size model.
Too many weird barbie references and names, I get that that was kind of the point, but Barbies name is explained and mentioned (‘that’s what you get having toy makers as parents- named after a doll’/people joke I look like my namesake’) Plus Kenzie mentions that they are ‘literally Barbie and Ken’, making them self aware of it, so wouldn’t it be more noticed/remarked on to have Barbie, Ken-zie, Ken, pregnant Midge and little sister Kelly… It just seemed weird and irritating to me.
The light dialogue and most parts between the couple were great, especially banter and jokes. But more important or emotional conversations became unrealistic and stiff.
This book all felt very unrealistic and linear, there was nothing amazing and no spark for me, it took a while to get into.
It was very cute and nicely written, an easy read if you just want an uncomplicated, light romance.
August 18, 2023
Doll Face by Shannon O’Connor
✨ARC Book Review✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🎀 FF Romance
🎀 Barbie RomCom
🎀 Spicy
🎀 Short Read
🎀 CEO FMC/ Model FMC
Are you looking for a book with Barbie vibes after watching the Barbie movie? Then this is the perfect book for you!
This book was definitely a quick read, but with their relationship and the spice it was absolutely worth it! Their chemistry and sass was off the charts!
Blurb:
Barbara Ann (Barbie) as her friends know her, is the CEO of her parents toy company Up, Up, Away toys. All Barbie wants to do is pop a bottle of champagne, create and sell the best toys in the world and maybe forget about the girl who broke her heart.
Kenzie might be one of the world’s top models right now but under the lipstick and dresses, all she can think about is her first love. She left Barbie years ago to pursue her career in modeling and has been lonely ever since. So when a week long shoot in NYC lands her back in town with Barbie, she can’t help but want to rekindle things. She has a week to convince her that they belong together.
Can she get back her one true love or will she be thrown out like a used toy?
Sapphic Barbie with a ton of spice & rom-com moments.
✨ARC Book Review✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🎀 FF Romance
🎀 Barbie RomCom
🎀 Spicy
🎀 Short Read
🎀 CEO FMC/ Model FMC
Are you looking for a book with Barbie vibes after watching the Barbie movie? Then this is the perfect book for you!
This book was definitely a quick read, but with their relationship and the spice it was absolutely worth it! Their chemistry and sass was off the charts!
Blurb:
Barbara Ann (Barbie) as her friends know her, is the CEO of her parents toy company Up, Up, Away toys. All Barbie wants to do is pop a bottle of champagne, create and sell the best toys in the world and maybe forget about the girl who broke her heart.
Kenzie might be one of the world’s top models right now but under the lipstick and dresses, all she can think about is her first love. She left Barbie years ago to pursue her career in modeling and has been lonely ever since. So when a week long shoot in NYC lands her back in town with Barbie, she can’t help but want to rekindle things. She has a week to convince her that they belong together.
Can she get back her one true love or will she be thrown out like a used toy?
Sapphic Barbie with a ton of spice & rom-com moments.
August 18, 2023
It’s a Barbie summer and I knew when I saw Doll Face, a sapphic second chance romance, I needed to check it out.
Doll Face follows Barbie, the CEO of a toy company as her model ex, Kenzie, comes back to New York with every attempt to get back together with her. Barbie is very hesitant because she doesn’t want to get hurt again, but Kenzie is not willing to go without a fight.
This book was a really cute and steamy read. Barbie is all pink everything (as it should be) and Kenzie’s presence really seems to be calming for Barbie. Kenzie is a plus sized model babe and is resilient in her pursuit of Barbie, which makes her very endearing. Their dynamic was strong and they definitely were meant for each other.
If you are familiar with Barbie lore (is that a thing?) then you’ll see some other familiar names and people in this Barbie inspired book. It was perfection to see how they were added in and brought into the modern world.
If you are looking for a spicy (and I do mean SPICY) sapphic romance to get your the Barbie fix after seeing the movie, I’d definitely check this one out.
Doll Face follows Barbie, the CEO of a toy company as her model ex, Kenzie, comes back to New York with every attempt to get back together with her. Barbie is very hesitant because she doesn’t want to get hurt again, but Kenzie is not willing to go without a fight.
This book was a really cute and steamy read. Barbie is all pink everything (as it should be) and Kenzie’s presence really seems to be calming for Barbie. Kenzie is a plus sized model babe and is resilient in her pursuit of Barbie, which makes her very endearing. Their dynamic was strong and they definitely were meant for each other.
If you are familiar with Barbie lore (is that a thing?) then you’ll see some other familiar names and people in this Barbie inspired book. It was perfection to see how they were added in and brought into the modern world.
If you are looking for a spicy (and I do mean SPICY) sapphic romance to get your the Barbie fix after seeing the movie, I’d definitely check this one out.
September 1, 2023
I received an ARC of Doll Face in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed what there was of this book, but I found it lacking in character development of, well, virtually everyone. Kenzie is a plus size model, Barbie runs a toy company - that's all we really find out about these characters over the course of this novella.
The sex scenes were mostly well-written and enjoyable, but I felt there was too many of them. I would have preferred the author focus on the characterisation rather than titillation. They were well-developed, but it felt like the story was written around them, rather than them being a natural development of the story.
I didn't enjoy at the start how insistent Kenzie was on getting her and Barbie back together, especially with how firmly Barbie was telling her no. Like Barbie, I did come around to Kenzie's point of view eventually, but it was initially distasteful for me.
The names thing was cute, and I loved both Kelly and Midge, but why on Earth was Kenzie's best friend not named Allan? It just didn't make sense for a story so full of toy references to miss that one!
Overall, a quick summer read, and definitely fun.
I enjoyed what there was of this book, but I found it lacking in character development of, well, virtually everyone. Kenzie is a plus size model, Barbie runs a toy company - that's all we really find out about these characters over the course of this novella.
The sex scenes were mostly well-written and enjoyable, but I felt there was too many of them. I would have preferred the author focus on the characterisation rather than titillation. They were well-developed, but it felt like the story was written around them, rather than them being a natural development of the story.
I didn't enjoy at the start how insistent Kenzie was on getting her and Barbie back together, especially with how firmly Barbie was telling her no. Like Barbie, I did come around to Kenzie's point of view eventually, but it was initially distasteful for me.
The names thing was cute, and I loved both Kelly and Midge, but why on Earth was Kenzie's best friend not named Allan? It just didn't make sense for a story so full of toy references to miss that one!
Overall, a quick summer read, and definitely fun.
September 20, 2023
2 stars. Embarrassing confession that I’m actually not embarrassed about: I ship Raquelle and Barbie from ‘Life in the Dream House’. Or is the embarrassing confession that I love 'Life in the Dream House'? Either way the enemies to lovers potential and chemistry between them is there and it’s so, so gay. If an author would like to write that dynamic as a book I’d be all over it so that I can stop searching all corners of the internet for fanfiction of them that would be great.
This book however, was…fine. Nothing spectacular. It’s supposed to be second chance but it didn’t feel like it. Kenzie and Barbie haven’t seen each other in five years and Kenzie comes back, is immediately pushy, and they fall back in bed with each other quickly. Boring. I never felt like we even got to really know or understand the characters either. They're very surface level and underdeveloped. Also, I didn’t really get a clear grasp as to what made them break up in the first place. It’s mainly just (hot) sex and no substance which is fine and y’all know I love me some smut but the synopsis made it seem as if I were going to be getting something else and it didn’t deliver.
This book however, was…fine. Nothing spectacular. It’s supposed to be second chance but it didn’t feel like it. Kenzie and Barbie haven’t seen each other in five years and Kenzie comes back, is immediately pushy, and they fall back in bed with each other quickly. Boring. I never felt like we even got to really know or understand the characters either. They're very surface level and underdeveloped. Also, I didn’t really get a clear grasp as to what made them break up in the first place. It’s mainly just (hot) sex and no substance which is fine and y’all know I love me some smut but the synopsis made it seem as if I were going to be getting something else and it didn’t deliver.
August 31, 2023
3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️
4 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Think of classic holiday Hallmark movies, but remove the holiday, and make it sapphic! Like most guilty pleasure Hallmark movies, this book is slightly cheesy and predictable, yet you keep reading because "ahh love" (and the spice scenes definitely helped!)
A few things I loved:
1) Normalizing all body types, including plus-size characters.
2) Wasn't your stereotypical masc/femme WLW relationship, or a coming of age/discovering their sexuality story. These women knew who they were and embraced it!
3) Spice didn't feel like it was written by a straight person copying porn (and the edging & praise was a nice bonus from the usual romance spice).
4) The name plays on Barbie and "Ken"zie. However, I was a little annoyed when there was also a Ken as a side character.
**Spoilers**
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I will say that the reunion of Barbie and Kenzie was incredibly quick. I expected more resistance from Barbie. I don't know if the jump from broken up to engaged in 3.5 months is a play on the cliche of WLW relationships moving fast, or if it was just because it's a short book.
I also felt there was going to be more plot behind the toy business messing up and making the pink dildos. That could have been a good way to develop the characters more by opening up a pink lesbian toy business or something of the sort. It just felt random.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and would still recommend it as a quick spicy read!
I did receive this book as an E-ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Shannon O'Connor, for the opportunity!
4 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Think of classic holiday Hallmark movies, but remove the holiday, and make it sapphic! Like most guilty pleasure Hallmark movies, this book is slightly cheesy and predictable, yet you keep reading because "ahh love" (and the spice scenes definitely helped!)
A few things I loved:
1) Normalizing all body types, including plus-size characters.
2) Wasn't your stereotypical masc/femme WLW relationship, or a coming of age/discovering their sexuality story. These women knew who they were and embraced it!
3) Spice didn't feel like it was written by a straight person copying porn (and the edging & praise was a nice bonus from the usual romance spice).
4) The name plays on Barbie and "Ken"zie. However, I was a little annoyed when there was also a Ken as a side character.
**Spoilers**
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
I will say that the reunion of Barbie and Kenzie was incredibly quick. I expected more resistance from Barbie. I don't know if the jump from broken up to engaged in 3.5 months is a play on the cliche of WLW relationships moving fast, or if it was just because it's a short book.
I also felt there was going to be more plot behind the toy business messing up and making the pink dildos. That could have been a good way to develop the characters more by opening up a pink lesbian toy business or something of the sort. It just felt random.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and would still recommend it as a quick spicy read!
I did receive this book as an E-ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Shannon O'Connor, for the opportunity!
September 1, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💗🧸👙🥂💦
Another great read by Shannon O'Conner.
Inspired by Barbie, Doll Face is about two lesbians, Barbara Ann (Barbie), a toy company CEO, and Kenzie, a plus-sized lingerie model (side note, wish I had her confidence to model my curves) and their second chance at love.
It starts off with a bang (literally - they were banging each other) in the first chapter, five years earlier before our two parted ways due to Kenzie's career to model in London. She comes back five years later, hoping to rekindle what she and Barbie had while back in New York for a week.
There are lots of Barbie references, including but not limited to, what we used to do with two Barbie dolls when we were younger (come on, admit you made them ✂️). It's spicy as heck, like when you only have a week to prove your everlasting love, of course, there is going to be a lot of 👅. and it's super cute.
Thanks to Shannon O'Conner for the copy of the ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💗🧸👙🥂💦
Another great read by Shannon O'Conner.
Inspired by Barbie, Doll Face is about two lesbians, Barbara Ann (Barbie), a toy company CEO, and Kenzie, a plus-sized lingerie model (side note, wish I had her confidence to model my curves) and their second chance at love.
It starts off with a bang (literally - they were banging each other) in the first chapter, five years earlier before our two parted ways due to Kenzie's career to model in London. She comes back five years later, hoping to rekindle what she and Barbie had while back in New York for a week.
There are lots of Barbie references, including but not limited to, what we used to do with two Barbie dolls when we were younger (come on, admit you made them ✂️). It's spicy as heck, like when you only have a week to prove your everlasting love, of course, there is going to be a lot of 👅. and it's super cute.
Thanks to Shannon O'Conner for the copy of the ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
August 20, 2023
What a fun, light-hearted second chance romance! A wonderful mix of sweet and spicy, with plenty of heat right from the start. Barbie and Kenzie were both lovable and they had great chemistry together.
I feel like this is the perfect book to bring with you on vacation or to pick up if you want to escape the dreariness of reality for a few hours.
That said, the obstacles the characters faced seemed like they were resolved too easily for my liking. Then again, the low-angst was refreshing, so maybe having things be tougher would have detracted from that.
Also, just my own personal quirk, I wish there had been fewer characters with K names, because early on in the book I sometimes got them mixed up.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving this review.
I feel like this is the perfect book to bring with you on vacation or to pick up if you want to escape the dreariness of reality for a few hours.
That said, the obstacles the characters faced seemed like they were resolved too easily for my liking. Then again, the low-angst was refreshing, so maybe having things be tougher would have detracted from that.
Also, just my own personal quirk, I wish there had been fewer characters with K names, because early on in the book I sometimes got them mixed up.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving this review.
August 22, 2023
This is a new author for me and I couldn’t wait to read something new. I was so excited when this ARC drop in my kindle. From the get-go, the blurb reeled me in and I ended up being captivated by this book.
Barbie and Kenzie took over my heart with their story. I’m a big fan of second chance romance and this was done so perfectly. No matter how much time has passed by, the love they have for each other is still there waiting to be awakened again. It was definitely wrong time, right person type of situation the first time around. They both grown into beautiful and successful women. Both realizing what their hearts truly want and taking those risks.
Those intimate scenes between these two was 😮💨🔥. Not only was the spice mouth watering but the storyline was amazingly written. Perfect combination of the two. Highly recommend to read this once it releases! 😍👏🏼
Barbie and Kenzie took over my heart with their story. I’m a big fan of second chance romance and this was done so perfectly. No matter how much time has passed by, the love they have for each other is still there waiting to be awakened again. It was definitely wrong time, right person type of situation the first time around. They both grown into beautiful and successful women. Both realizing what their hearts truly want and taking those risks.
Those intimate scenes between these two was 😮💨🔥. Not only was the spice mouth watering but the storyline was amazingly written. Perfect combination of the two. Highly recommend to read this once it releases! 😍👏🏼
September 1, 2023
HI BARBIE! It's the mantra we've all been living for every since Barbie and her vivid pink subversively feminst wonderland entered the ecosystem. AND I AM HERE FOR THE BARBenaissance. I've been eyeing this authors lusciously adorable covers for a while, and this Barbie-inspired sapphic novella seemed the perfect place to dive in.
Doll Face is a light and fun short story with ample spice. If you're looking for quick read that's pretty surface level light, this will be a nice diversion. I liked the writing style, but I found myself hankering for more story and substance to Barbie and Kenzie's history. The characters are pretty one note, which meant the chemistry mostly comes from steam alone. For a steamy novella that hits the spot for the most part, and we have plenty of Barbie-themed references sprinkled around the way too.
Doll Face is a light and fun short story with ample spice. If you're looking for quick read that's pretty surface level light, this will be a nice diversion. I liked the writing style, but I found myself hankering for more story and substance to Barbie and Kenzie's history. The characters are pretty one note, which meant the chemistry mostly comes from steam alone. For a steamy novella that hits the spot for the most part, and we have plenty of Barbie-themed references sprinkled around the way too.
August 23, 2023
Right from the beginning Barbie and Kenzie’s relationship is on fire! They are so connected and in sync with each other. I absolutely love Barbie’s nickname Kenzie gave her-Doll Face. Barbie is the owner of a toy company which her parents owned, and Kenzie is a model. Their relationship is going great until Kenzie leaves for London to model. How will this affect them. Can they keep a long distance relationship going? When Kenzie comes back for a visit some years later, her mission is to win Barbie back. Will Barbie be able to take her back-Kenzie left and moved to another country for goodness sakes? Will the connection Barbie and Kenzie once had come back. Reminiscing on the past may help both of them. Wait til you find out what happens in the end. It was well worth the read!
August 27, 2023
Doll face was such a cute rom com FF book. This is only the second FF book I’ve read and I loved it. I was rooting for Barbie and Kenzie so quick and read through this so fast wanting to see how things went and if they end up together. I loved how genuine their connection was even after Kenzie comes back into Barbie’s life 5 years later. I do feel she didn’t have to fight hard enough for her and that Barbie just gave right in. I wanted to see Kenzie have to do more to earn her trust back! I did love that this had the perfect amount of spice too! Cause I sure do love my spice! But, overall, I loved their relationship and everything Kenzie gave up to be with her soulmate. Thank you for the ARC Shannon! I loved this book!!
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