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Phishing for Love
Perfect for fans of Christina Lauren and Katherine Center, Phishing for Love is a swoony, laugh-out-loud, enemies-to-lovers, workplace romance.
Phishing: When hackers send malicious emails designed to trick people into falling for a scam.
Phishing test: When organizations send deceptive emails to their own staff to test their response to phishing attacks.
It all started with a cat video.
A video that Tess Miller, a sassy and talented greeting card writer, shouldn’t have clicked on. But cat videos are her kryptonite. And how was she to know the video embedded in the email was a phishing test designed to take down the company she works for?
The infuriating man who tricked and humiliated her? Aaron Sinclair, cybersecurity consultant brought on by her paranoid boss to whip their company into peak security shape. A dark-haired man with a dark past, and an unrelenting thorn in her side.
Buried beneath their mutual animosity, however, is an attraction they both have reasons to fight. Thanks to Aaron, Tess’s boss has labeled her a high security risk and her professional reputation is at stake. A fierce battle of wits ensues as Tess uses every trick not to fall for Aaron’s random phishing tests.
With the end of Aaron’s six-month contract fast approaching, Tess is faced with the looming risk of losing not only her job but also her heart to the man who has tested her in every way possible.
Phishing: When hackers send malicious emails designed to trick people into falling for a scam.
Phishing test: When organizations send deceptive emails to their own staff to test their response to phishing attacks.
It all started with a cat video.
A video that Tess Miller, a sassy and talented greeting card writer, shouldn’t have clicked on. But cat videos are her kryptonite. And how was she to know the video embedded in the email was a phishing test designed to take down the company she works for?
The infuriating man who tricked and humiliated her? Aaron Sinclair, cybersecurity consultant brought on by her paranoid boss to whip their company into peak security shape. A dark-haired man with a dark past, and an unrelenting thorn in her side.
Buried beneath their mutual animosity, however, is an attraction they both have reasons to fight. Thanks to Aaron, Tess’s boss has labeled her a high security risk and her professional reputation is at stake. A fierce battle of wits ensues as Tess uses every trick not to fall for Aaron’s random phishing tests.
With the end of Aaron’s six-month contract fast approaching, Tess is faced with the looming risk of losing not only her job but also her heart to the man who has tested her in every way possible.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2024
134 people are currently reading
496 people want to read
About the author
Lara Martin
5 books62 followersLara Martin writes books about imperfect people living messy lives, falling in love, and fighting for their happily-ever-after. She’s lived in South Africa and Australia, and now calls a cozy village in England her home. She's a mom to two kids, an animal lover, and her champion of a husband is always the first reader of her novels.
She likes her book heroes with humor, muscles, stubble, and a wild side. When she’s not writing, she can be found haunting local coffee shops in search of the next story to make your heart race.
https://www.instagram.com/laramartina...
She likes her book heroes with humor, muscles, stubble, and a wild side. When she’s not writing, she can be found haunting local coffee shops in search of the next story to make your heart race.
https://www.instagram.com/laramartina...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
April 26, 2025
4⭐
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Setting ~ Brown Oaks (no clue where that is)
Publication date ~ February 1, 2024
Page Count ~ 327 (35 chapters +e)
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ small town, slow burn, grumpy/sunshine, enemies~ish to lovers, workplace romance, no steamage
Tess (28) works at a greeting card company that has hired Aaron as a cyber security consultant for 6 months. They don't get off on the right foot because Tess can't help clicking on adorable cat videos, which prove to be a scam and the whole reason Aaron is there in the first place.
Tess is sassy and not afraid to speak her mind. She had a wonderful relationship with her family and I especially loved her grandma and her beef with 'the google'. Also, enjoyed her friendship with Sofia and Kenzie and I love what happened with them in the end. I do have to mention that Tess has a boyfriend for a good portion of the book who is a real tool. There is no cheating on her part, but I do wish she would have broken up with him sooner, so we could have had more on the budding relationship of our main characters.
I do love me a good grump and Aaron was a good one. He takes his job very seriously. He has a sad backstory and I didn't like how he let his past affect the decisions he makes now, but all turns out well of course. He was really sweet when he wasn't grumping.
Overall, I had a good time reading this. The banter is on point and the slow burning romance was cute to watch unfold. Looking forward to reading with Lara writes next.
Side note ~ I am so pleased we got to catch up with Nina and Lucas from All the Lost Pieces to see how their life has progressed.
*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Setting ~ Brown Oaks (no clue where that is)
Publication date ~ February 1, 2024
Page Count ~ 327 (35 chapters +e)
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ small town, slow burn, grumpy/sunshine, enemies~ish to lovers, workplace romance, no steamage
Tess (28) works at a greeting card company that has hired Aaron as a cyber security consultant for 6 months. They don't get off on the right foot because Tess can't help clicking on adorable cat videos, which prove to be a scam and the whole reason Aaron is there in the first place.
Tess is sassy and not afraid to speak her mind. She had a wonderful relationship with her family and I especially loved her grandma and her beef with 'the google'. Also, enjoyed her friendship with Sofia and Kenzie and I love what happened with them in the end. I do have to mention that Tess has a boyfriend for a good portion of the book who is a real tool. There is no cheating on her part, but I do wish she would have broken up with him sooner, so we could have had more on the budding relationship of our main characters.
I do love me a good grump and Aaron was a good one. He takes his job very seriously. He has a sad backstory and I didn't like how he let his past affect the decisions he makes now, but all turns out well of course. He was really sweet when he wasn't grumping.
Overall, I had a good time reading this. The banter is on point and the slow burning romance was cute to watch unfold. Looking forward to reading with Lara writes next.
Side note ~ I am so pleased we got to catch up with Nina and Lucas from All the Lost Pieces to see how their life has progressed.
*Thanks to the author for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
February 8, 2025
4 stars
'Phishing for Love' is a standalone novel written by Lara Martin.
This contemporary romance follows Aaron, a cyber security expert on a six-month contract at a greeting card company. Tess is a stubborn, witty individual who does not see the importance of what Aaron is trying to teach the company. Although he is extremely good looking, his teaching techniques are lacklustre.
Aaron is a composed, calculated individual who likes things neat and orderly. From the outside, he seems guarded and closed. However, once someone gets closer to him, his layers begin to unravel. Aaron is shown to be romantic, thoughtful, playful and charming.
Tess speaks first and thinks later. Her witty, sassy mouth easily gets her into trouble. She is fiercely loyal when it comes to her friends and family and cares deeply for those she loves.
Overall, I enjoyed this romance novel. Aaron and Tess begin as workplace enemies and slowly get more under one another's skin as the attraction builds. The writing was charming and incredibly witty. I appreciated that there were not long paragraphs of description but instead short, punchy visuals such as: 'thick eyebrows snap together, like two caterpillars squaring off'. I found Laura's writing technique flowed through the pages as this was a quick and extremely entertaining read. Within the first chapter I released an embarrassing laugh/snort while in public!
My main critique is that the ending threw me a bit. The book flowed well until the last 10% or so. Without giving much away, a part of the story felt as though it abruptly ended. This was so quick; you blinked and were at the epilogue with far too many questions. I felt a little robbed of the story I had become invested in.
I would still recommend this read if you are wanting a quick, witty romance.
Things to look forward to:
Enemies to lovers
Workplace romance
Forced proximity
Grumpy x sunshine
Slow burn
'Phishing for Love' is a standalone novel written by Lara Martin.
This contemporary romance follows Aaron, a cyber security expert on a six-month contract at a greeting card company. Tess is a stubborn, witty individual who does not see the importance of what Aaron is trying to teach the company. Although he is extremely good looking, his teaching techniques are lacklustre.
Aaron is a composed, calculated individual who likes things neat and orderly. From the outside, he seems guarded and closed. However, once someone gets closer to him, his layers begin to unravel. Aaron is shown to be romantic, thoughtful, playful and charming.
Tess speaks first and thinks later. Her witty, sassy mouth easily gets her into trouble. She is fiercely loyal when it comes to her friends and family and cares deeply for those she loves.
Overall, I enjoyed this romance novel. Aaron and Tess begin as workplace enemies and slowly get more under one another's skin as the attraction builds. The writing was charming and incredibly witty. I appreciated that there were not long paragraphs of description but instead short, punchy visuals such as: 'thick eyebrows snap together, like two caterpillars squaring off'. I found Laura's writing technique flowed through the pages as this was a quick and extremely entertaining read. Within the first chapter I released an embarrassing laugh/snort while in public!
My main critique is that the ending threw me a bit. The book flowed well until the last 10% or so. Without giving much away, a part of the story felt as though it abruptly ended. This was so quick; you blinked and were at the epilogue with far too many questions. I felt a little robbed of the story I had become invested in.
I would still recommend this read if you are wanting a quick, witty romance.
Things to look forward to:
Enemies to lovers
Workplace romance
Forced proximity
Grumpy x sunshine
Slow burn
April 21, 2024
Phishing for Love was a workplace, enemies to lovers that was an instant favorite! With banter that will make you laugh and sigh, and so many memorable moments, this book was so easy to fall in love with. The characters leapt from the pages and I didn’t want to put this book down. This story was so effortless to love and I can’t recommend it enough if you love grumpy/sunshine adult romance that has the most fabulous slow burn!
Tess Miller was so relatable, kind, and made me laugh. She worked at a greeting card company along with her two best friends. And from the first moment she met Aaron Sinclair, I was laughing and screaming. Her comment was heard throughout the conference room and I wanted to hide away because of the embarrassment level. So while she definitely put her foot in her mouth, I loved watching Aaron dish it right back!
Aaron’s looks had me melting into a puddle on the floor. He was the silent, grumpy type who you just wanted to steal from the pages. So I desperately wanted to know everything he was thinking! In the moments where he would be kind and thoughtful, like thinking picnics weren’t weird, I fell that much harder for him. But I also loved that he could be so tricky. There were moments, like the bet, where I was gasping out loud afterwards and I couldn’t stop the smile on my face! Aaron was a protective, good guy, who pulled on my emotions.
From that first moment they met, I was glued to the pages. Aaron and Tess didn’t seem to like each other, so the tension and banter between them was delicious. I loved how the sparks flew anytime they were near each other. Whether he caught her drawing him as the devil and I was cracking up, to her teasing him with her sexy boots, the chemistry between them simmered! And while some of their banter was laced with barbs, we got to watch as these two souls shared the emotions that were within them. And that they needed to work through. I loved them both so much!
But I have to say….I had some horrible thoughts. The moment Nathan popped up on the pages, I was not a fan. I mean, who doesn’t laugh at Friends? That’s a deal breaker for me right there haha. But there were so many other characters I adored! Mevia was hilarious with her ability to find out all the gossip. And I loved Tess's best friends and their vending machine moments and texts. They made me laugh and I wanted to be besties with all of them! I also adored the close relationship she had with her parents and grandma. And while I struggled with her sister and some of her choices, I’m excited that she is getting her own book! I feel like she has so much room to grow and I can’t wait to watch it unfold!
This book made me laugh so much! But it also had an emotional side that cut so deep. I cried multiple times. So with characters that you’ll fall in love with and an epilogue that was everything, I can’t recommend this closed door romance enough! If you adore the feelings you’ve gotten while reading a Christina Lauren, Melanie Harlow, Lauren Layne or Livy Hart book, you desperately need this story in your life!
PS, I just loved this quote and wanted to share this one too…
For more of my reviews, please visit:
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This is the moment my ploy backfires dramatically because... those eyes. They seem to see right through me, stripping me bare.
Tess Miller was so relatable, kind, and made me laugh. She worked at a greeting card company along with her two best friends. And from the first moment she met Aaron Sinclair, I was laughing and screaming. Her comment was heard throughout the conference room and I wanted to hide away because of the embarrassment level. So while she definitely put her foot in her mouth, I loved watching Aaron dish it right back!
I turn to see my current nightmare exiting the elevators. My stomach doesn’t know what to do with itself, getting all quivery at the sight of Aaron.
Aaron’s looks had me melting into a puddle on the floor. He was the silent, grumpy type who you just wanted to steal from the pages. So I desperately wanted to know everything he was thinking! In the moments where he would be kind and thoughtful, like thinking picnics weren’t weird, I fell that much harder for him. But I also loved that he could be so tricky. There were moments, like the bet, where I was gasping out loud afterwards and I couldn’t stop the smile on my face! Aaron was a protective, good guy, who pulled on my emotions.
“What happened to ‘sharing is caring?’” he asks, quoting my words back to me.
“It doesn’t apply to my mom. Besides, you don’t seem the kind of man who shares.”
He nods slowly. “You’re right, I’m not.”
For an arrested moment, his eyes hold mine. In their depths, it feels as though there’s a message there for me, a message that sends a shiver through my whole body.
From that first moment they met, I was glued to the pages. Aaron and Tess didn’t seem to like each other, so the tension and banter between them was delicious. I loved how the sparks flew anytime they were near each other. Whether he caught her drawing him as the devil and I was cracking up, to her teasing him with her sexy boots, the chemistry between them simmered! And while some of their banter was laced with barbs, we got to watch as these two souls shared the emotions that were within them. And that they needed to work through. I loved them both so much!
Surrounded by his thoughtfulness, I fall just a little bit more.
But I have to say….I had some horrible thoughts. The moment Nathan popped up on the pages, I was not a fan. I mean, who doesn’t laugh at Friends? That’s a deal breaker for me right there haha. But there were so many other characters I adored! Mevia was hilarious with her ability to find out all the gossip. And I loved Tess's best friends and their vending machine moments and texts. They made me laugh and I wanted to be besties with all of them! I also adored the close relationship she had with her parents and grandma. And while I struggled with her sister and some of her choices, I’m excited that she is getting her own book! I feel like she has so much room to grow and I can’t wait to watch it unfold!
My lips part and my head tilts back as his fingers skim the base of my throat and glide up my neck to cradle my jaw. I hear his breathing quicken.
This book made me laugh so much! But it also had an emotional side that cut so deep. I cried multiple times. So with characters that you’ll fall in love with and an epilogue that was everything, I can’t recommend this closed door romance enough! If you adore the feelings you’ve gotten while reading a Christina Lauren, Melanie Harlow, Lauren Layne or Livy Hart book, you desperately need this story in your life!
PS, I just loved this quote and wanted to share this one too…
I think, this is what everyone deserves to have. And I’m so very, very grateful I have it, because when that giant tidal wave comes out of nowhere and breaks over you, threatening to drag you under, friends and family are who you cling to. People with deep, strong roots.
I close my eyes and take comfort in two truths: I am strong. I am loved.
For more of my reviews, please visit:
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March 7, 2024
“I knew you were going to be trouble the moment you called me a pretty boy.”
I knew from the first chapter I was going to love this book, and did I ever! I’m pretty sure I had heart eyes and a smile on my face the entire time I was reading it.
Tess Miller works as a writer for a greeting card company and is in a “comfortable” relationship with her boyfriend.
Tess and her coworkers are taken by surprise and are less than enthusiastic when their boss hires a cybersecurity expert, Aaron Sinclair, to train them for 6 months against phishing attacks.
Tess is funny, sassy, and has a mouth that often gets her in trouble. Aaron is serious, guarded, and very buttoned up. They’re definitely opposites.
From their very first meeting they butt heads and sparks start to fly, and it becomes Tess’s life purpose to get under his skin. Pretty soon, her feelings towards Aaron are anything but comfortable.
The chemistry, bantering, and the push and pull between these two was fantastic. I adored both of them, and really needed them to get together!
What I loved:
💌 Complex and well drawn characters
💌 The storyline is lighthearted but evolves into one with a lot of depth and emotion
💌 Tess’s two ride or die besties
💌 Grandma vs Google
💌 Grandma’s wisdom & her snark
💌 Soulmates
💌 Aaron’s heart of gold
💌 No cheating with MCs
💌 Sweet gestures
What you can expect:
Enemies to lovers
Office romance
Grumpy/Sunshine
Small Town
Angsty slow burn
Closed door
Death of loved ones (past events)
This story was fabulous and unputdownable. It was beautifully written, full of so much humor and heart, and an absolute pleasure to read. It’s definitely made Lara an auto-read author for me.
Many thanks to the author for an ebook!
I knew from the first chapter I was going to love this book, and did I ever! I’m pretty sure I had heart eyes and a smile on my face the entire time I was reading it.
Tess Miller works as a writer for a greeting card company and is in a “comfortable” relationship with her boyfriend.
Tess and her coworkers are taken by surprise and are less than enthusiastic when their boss hires a cybersecurity expert, Aaron Sinclair, to train them for 6 months against phishing attacks.
Tess is funny, sassy, and has a mouth that often gets her in trouble. Aaron is serious, guarded, and very buttoned up. They’re definitely opposites.
From their very first meeting they butt heads and sparks start to fly, and it becomes Tess’s life purpose to get under his skin. Pretty soon, her feelings towards Aaron are anything but comfortable.
The chemistry, bantering, and the push and pull between these two was fantastic. I adored both of them, and really needed them to get together!
What I loved:
💌 Complex and well drawn characters
💌 The storyline is lighthearted but evolves into one with a lot of depth and emotion
💌 Tess’s two ride or die besties
💌 Grandma vs Google
💌 Grandma’s wisdom & her snark
💌 Soulmates
💌 Aaron’s heart of gold
💌 No cheating with MCs
💌 Sweet gestures
What you can expect:
Enemies to lovers
Office romance
Grumpy/Sunshine
Small Town
Angsty slow burn
Closed door
Death of loved ones (past events)
This story was fabulous and unputdownable. It was beautifully written, full of so much humor and heart, and an absolute pleasure to read. It’s definitely made Lara an auto-read author for me.
Many thanks to the author for an ebook!
December 31, 2023
I read Lara's debut, All The Lost Pieces, during the summer and enjoyed it so much. As soon as my arc of Phishing For Love arrived in my email I had to start it immediately!! It did not disappoint. I'm so happy my last read of 2023 ended on a high note. 5 big stars!
This was such a fun premise for a story. A greeting card company, phishing attacks in the form of a cat video, and cybersecurity, yes please!
I absolutely adored these characters!! Especially Tess and Aaron. Their banter is soooo funny! I found myself laughing out loud throughout the book at their interactions with one another.
A shout out to the character Dana, it was so special having my name used in the book!!
Let's talk tropes my friends. If you have a love of enemies to lovers, found family, grumpy sunshine or witty banter, you're going to need this book when it publishes in February! It's so worth the read.
My thanks to Lara for this e-arc! I'm already looking forward to what's to come in your author journey :)
This was such a fun premise for a story. A greeting card company, phishing attacks in the form of a cat video, and cybersecurity, yes please!
I absolutely adored these characters!! Especially Tess and Aaron. Their banter is soooo funny! I found myself laughing out loud throughout the book at their interactions with one another.
A shout out to the character Dana, it was so special having my name used in the book!!
Let's talk tropes my friends. If you have a love of enemies to lovers, found family, grumpy sunshine or witty banter, you're going to need this book when it publishes in February! It's so worth the read.
My thanks to Lara for this e-arc! I'm already looking forward to what's to come in your author journey :)
March 11, 2024
Phenomenal! I loved this story with all my heart! It is a 5++ for me! This book gave me a case of book hangover for days! I also need to state I do not get book hangovers too often so that should tell you how good this book was!
Tess is a writer for a greeting card company. She is sassy and full of life. When her company hires Aaron Sinclair as a cyber security expert for 6 months, Tess and her coworkers are not at all thrilled by the idea, especially when Tess gets caught by his first test phishing email and decides to rebel against Aaron’s process causing much tension between them. This is a closed door, enemies to lovers rom-com.
I have read one of Lara Martin’s books before so I knew this story would be good but it was honestly so much more than I was expecting. It was beautiful, heartbreaking, and funny! The story just touched my heart to the very core and I felt like I was on this journey with Tess and Aaron. The premise of this book was very unique. I have never read a book before where the main character is a writer for a greeting card company and the office romance is with someone who is a temporary employee sent to help the company out with cyber security. The banter and tension with Aaron and Tess from the beginning was so much fun, but the characters and story grew from there. There were a few times I was blindsided with things I didn’t see coming. There were funny scenes and impactful scenes. I loved Tess’s grandma with her ongoing fight with google that I could totally relate to! Her antics were hilarious, but she also had some great nuggets of wisdom. For example, her watch that has no working parts and her talk on being happy, that I highlighted and screen shot. Aaron’s character had a heart of gold but also so much vulnerability that unfolds with the story and gave him so much depth. The chemistry between Aaron and Tess just sizzled. Wow! I loved their playful flirting and Aaron’s sweet gestures; at one point I thought “can I just marry Aaron myself!?” Lol. The ending was beautiful, fitting, and perfect. I totally fell in love with everything about Phishing for Love! This book is a rom-com but it is also a story of healing and hope. One that I won’t forget anytime soon. I don't think my review can do this book justice, but know that Lara Martin deserves all the praise and that this is one you need to read!
What I loved:
Amazing characters with lots of growth
Beautiful, impactful storyline
Grandma and google
Tess’ besties
“Even his clothes look grateful to be on that body.”
Grandma’s nuggets of wisdom
Strong family connection
Sweet gestures
Lucas and Nina cameo
The beautiful ending
Content Awareness - makeouts, some innuendo, loss in the past
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I also bought a paperback copy for my shelf. Is it ok that I already want to read this book again!?
Tess is a writer for a greeting card company. She is sassy and full of life. When her company hires Aaron Sinclair as a cyber security expert for 6 months, Tess and her coworkers are not at all thrilled by the idea, especially when Tess gets caught by his first test phishing email and decides to rebel against Aaron’s process causing much tension between them. This is a closed door, enemies to lovers rom-com.
I have read one of Lara Martin’s books before so I knew this story would be good but it was honestly so much more than I was expecting. It was beautiful, heartbreaking, and funny! The story just touched my heart to the very core and I felt like I was on this journey with Tess and Aaron. The premise of this book was very unique. I have never read a book before where the main character is a writer for a greeting card company and the office romance is with someone who is a temporary employee sent to help the company out with cyber security. The banter and tension with Aaron and Tess from the beginning was so much fun, but the characters and story grew from there. There were a few times I was blindsided with things I didn’t see coming. There were funny scenes and impactful scenes. I loved Tess’s grandma with her ongoing fight with google that I could totally relate to! Her antics were hilarious, but she also had some great nuggets of wisdom. For example, her watch that has no working parts and her talk on being happy, that I highlighted and screen shot. Aaron’s character had a heart of gold but also so much vulnerability that unfolds with the story and gave him so much depth. The chemistry between Aaron and Tess just sizzled. Wow! I loved their playful flirting and Aaron’s sweet gestures; at one point I thought “can I just marry Aaron myself!?” Lol. The ending was beautiful, fitting, and perfect. I totally fell in love with everything about Phishing for Love! This book is a rom-com but it is also a story of healing and hope. One that I won’t forget anytime soon. I don't think my review can do this book justice, but know that Lara Martin deserves all the praise and that this is one you need to read!
What I loved:
Amazing characters with lots of growth
Beautiful, impactful storyline
Grandma and google
Tess’ besties
“Even his clothes look grateful to be on that body.”
Grandma’s nuggets of wisdom
Strong family connection
Sweet gestures
Lucas and Nina cameo
The beautiful ending
Content Awareness - makeouts, some innuendo, loss in the past
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I also bought a paperback copy for my shelf. Is it ok that I already want to read this book again!?
January 31, 2024
This book was the right book to read at this moment. I needed a sweet romance with a little bit of tension between the main characters to liven my day.
Aaron has a troubled past, which has him job hopping to not form any attachments. He thinks that this is the answer until he meets Tess. Tess has a sassy mouth and the chemistry between these two lights up the pages. They may not succumb to their desires until much later in the book, but the heat between them kept me reading late into the night.
Tess is in a relationship that seems to be going nowhere. Will it continue? She also has a caring family that just wants to see her happy. Her sister may have her own issues, but they love each other at the end of the day and only care about each other's happiness.
This romance is full of wit, snarky comments, friendship, emotional pasts, and so much more. It engaged me and made me smile, laugh, and fall in love with the characters. And Grandma is a hoot with her issues with Google! I won't even go into her other comments that can be misinterpreted...you will have to read the book to discover those gems.
I do wish that the ending reflected a little more of what happened other than a brief mention in the epilogue. But the epilogue does tie everything up for us. And I didn't recognize the tie to her previous book with Lucas and Nina until I read a few other reviews. So, while not a series, it could be considered a spin-off.
This is a delightful romance; we give it 4 1/2 paws up.
Aaron has a troubled past, which has him job hopping to not form any attachments. He thinks that this is the answer until he meets Tess. Tess has a sassy mouth and the chemistry between these two lights up the pages. They may not succumb to their desires until much later in the book, but the heat between them kept me reading late into the night.
Tess is in a relationship that seems to be going nowhere. Will it continue? She also has a caring family that just wants to see her happy. Her sister may have her own issues, but they love each other at the end of the day and only care about each other's happiness.
This romance is full of wit, snarky comments, friendship, emotional pasts, and so much more. It engaged me and made me smile, laugh, and fall in love with the characters. And Grandma is a hoot with her issues with Google! I won't even go into her other comments that can be misinterpreted...you will have to read the book to discover those gems.
I do wish that the ending reflected a little more of what happened other than a brief mention in the epilogue. But the epilogue does tie everything up for us. And I didn't recognize the tie to her previous book with Lucas and Nina until I read a few other reviews. So, while not a series, it could be considered a spin-off.
This is a delightful romance; we give it 4 1/2 paws up.
October 17, 2024
4.25 rating - Phishing for Love is a sweet, funny lighthearted enemy to lovers story that had me reading late into the night. I loved this clean romance story about two imperfect work colleagues who deal with office and family issues. This is my second novel by author Lara Martin and I enjoy how she develops her characters along with writing clever witty banter. It was also a special treat to read about one character in the book with my name! I will gladly recommend this book if you enjoy a laugh out loud, blissful, clean love story!
I received an advanced electronic copy from author Lara Martin. Thank you for the opportunity to preview this book for an honest review.
I received an advanced electronic copy from author Lara Martin. Thank you for the opportunity to preview this book for an honest review.
March 19, 2024
• phishing for love •
"I read somewhere that worry is a conversation you have with yourself about things you can't change"
I absolutely loved Lara's debut All The Lost Pieces, so when she reached out asking if I wanted to read Phishing for Love, it was an easy yes from me!!
If you love Christina Lauren and if you loved The Hating Game then this is the book for you
Phishing for Love is a small town, grumpy sunshine, laugh out loud, enemies to lovers, slow burn/closed door, workplace romance
It all started with a cat video...
...then from their very first meeting, Tess and Aaron butt heads and sparks fly. Tess is sassy, witty and has a mouth that often gets her into trouble. Aaron is serious, guarded and very straight laced. They are opposites in every way and pretty soon their chemistry, their banter and the push and pull between them is anything but comfortable
Grandma vs Google (hilarious), the storyline, the characters, the sweet gestures, the friendships and the appearance of Nina and Lucas from All The Lost Pieces made this unputdownable and a pleasure to read. I can't wait to read the next one Lara
"I read somewhere that worry is a conversation you have with yourself about things you can't change"
I absolutely loved Lara's debut All The Lost Pieces, so when she reached out asking if I wanted to read Phishing for Love, it was an easy yes from me!!
If you love Christina Lauren and if you loved The Hating Game then this is the book for you
Phishing for Love is a small town, grumpy sunshine, laugh out loud, enemies to lovers, slow burn/closed door, workplace romance
It all started with a cat video...
...then from their very first meeting, Tess and Aaron butt heads and sparks fly. Tess is sassy, witty and has a mouth that often gets her into trouble. Aaron is serious, guarded and very straight laced. They are opposites in every way and pretty soon their chemistry, their banter and the push and pull between them is anything but comfortable
Grandma vs Google (hilarious), the storyline, the characters, the sweet gestures, the friendships and the appearance of Nina and Lucas from All The Lost Pieces made this unputdownable and a pleasure to read. I can't wait to read the next one Lara
February 4, 2024
Thank you lara for sending me an advanced copy to review! Phishing for Love follows Tess Miller, a loveable character who unfortunately fails the phishing simulation sent by the handsome, pretty boy cyber consultant Aaron.
This was my first romance book in a while and I loved every minute, the characters had depth and the storyline progressed really well. As someone who works in aaron’s line of work, I definitely didn’t expect it to be part of a plot anytime soon.
Out of the story, Tess’ nan was my absolute favourite. she had no filter, was witty and also provided some important advice to Tess, which definitely helped her in the end!
This was my first romance book in a while and I loved every minute, the characters had depth and the storyline progressed really well. As someone who works in aaron’s line of work, I definitely didn’t expect it to be part of a plot anytime soon.
Out of the story, Tess’ nan was my absolute favourite. she had no filter, was witty and also provided some important advice to Tess, which definitely helped her in the end!
Read
February 12, 2024Okay, friends. This might be Lara’s second published book but you’ll never believe it is from the brilliance of the writing. She has a superb ability to write the most beautiful slooooooow burn romance that I cannot get enough of reading. Tess and Aaron are fantastically developed; complex and interesting but also hilarious in their sarcasm. Their dance around attraction is the perfect blend of push and pull and I can’t tell you how much I cheered to them to get together. (Happy dancing was involved, in case you were wondering.) But what I loved most of all was that they aren’t syrupy, surface characters. They read just like real people, with hurts, problems, grief, joy, desire and love. They learn and grow, are challenged and stretched and they emerge at the end of the book with a love story that is beautiful because of its scars, not in spite of them. Please, please, please. Go get a copy of this story - and maybe some tissues- so you can enjoy every page of this delightful read. I’m definitely getting myself a physical copy so I can reread it many more times.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
January 31, 2024
This book was everything I hoped it would be and even more. The premise of a greeting card company/office romance is so much fun. The greeting card company aspect is unique, not one I've had in a story before. Aaron's job, the reason he is pulled into the office, cybersecurity, adds a new layer to life that Tess is not ready for and does not want to comply with. Watching it all unfold was entertaining to say the least.
Diving deeper into the characters, Aaron and Tess, the experiences they've had and are going through in the book are so palpable. The weight of what they are going through just feels to real to the reader, at least in my reading experience. It makes the connection to them more real and a special experience really.
While there are damaged and broken hearts in this book there are also the romance touches that balance it all out perfectly. From the enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine aspects to the found family and loveable side characters you get, like I said, balance. And the chemistry is off the charts all things swoony. Aaron and Tess are perfect for each other, as you will discover and with the turn of every page it is a delight to read as the reader.
The ending was absolutely perfect. From the last chapter to how everything is put together in the epilogue. I thought the way Martin finishes off this story was fitting to the characters and oh so clever. While also so tender and beautiful in its own way. Like I said, it was perfect. I've used the word perfect a few times in this review and I mean it ever time.
The cameo from my two favorite characters in Martin's debut novel, All the Lost Pieces was a cherry on top for this story as well. I adore the way Martin tells a story, the way she puts the pieces together and the real, raw take on life and romance that she fills them with. I one hundred percent recommend that readers pick this one up. It will pull at the heart strings; get you thinking and open your eyes to who you are and how you impact your community.
*I received an advanced ecopy from the publisher/author and all opinions are my own.
Diving deeper into the characters, Aaron and Tess, the experiences they've had and are going through in the book are so palpable. The weight of what they are going through just feels to real to the reader, at least in my reading experience. It makes the connection to them more real and a special experience really.
While there are damaged and broken hearts in this book there are also the romance touches that balance it all out perfectly. From the enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine aspects to the found family and loveable side characters you get, like I said, balance. And the chemistry is off the charts all things swoony. Aaron and Tess are perfect for each other, as you will discover and with the turn of every page it is a delight to read as the reader.
The ending was absolutely perfect. From the last chapter to how everything is put together in the epilogue. I thought the way Martin finishes off this story was fitting to the characters and oh so clever. While also so tender and beautiful in its own way. Like I said, it was perfect. I've used the word perfect a few times in this review and I mean it ever time.
The cameo from my two favorite characters in Martin's debut novel, All the Lost Pieces was a cherry on top for this story as well. I adore the way Martin tells a story, the way she puts the pieces together and the real, raw take on life and romance that she fills them with. I one hundred percent recommend that readers pick this one up. It will pull at the heart strings; get you thinking and open your eyes to who you are and how you impact your community.
*I received an advanced ecopy from the publisher/author and all opinions are my own.
January 21, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read if you love:
💖 enemies to lovers
💖 workplace romance
💖 a slow burn
💖 strong female friendship
💖 a funny grandma
Phishing For Love was a perfect read for me! I love rom-coms that make me giggle right away. I immediately connected with the characters. Tess and Aaron made me laugh, but I loved their growth in dealing with past traumas. Add this book to your tbr!
I also enjoyed the little crossover with Lucas and Nina from Lara’s previous book, All The Lost Pieces. I know people will love it as much as I did! I’m looking forward to Kate’s story!
Read if you love:
💖 enemies to lovers
💖 workplace romance
💖 a slow burn
💖 strong female friendship
💖 a funny grandma
Phishing For Love was a perfect read for me! I love rom-coms that make me giggle right away. I immediately connected with the characters. Tess and Aaron made me laugh, but I loved their growth in dealing with past traumas. Add this book to your tbr!
I also enjoyed the little crossover with Lucas and Nina from Lara’s previous book, All The Lost Pieces. I know people will love it as much as I did! I’m looking forward to Kate’s story!
February 3, 2024
4.5 stars! I really adored this book. It was such a cute book. This was a stand-alone book, with a little sneak peek into the characters lives from Lara’s previous book “All The Lost Pieces.” I loved Aaron and Tess. I loved their banter, snark, flirting, and tension. I really loved how Aaron seemed so grumpy on the surface, but was a total softie! I also loved the side-characters, my favorite being grandma-oh she was the best! This book was so fun. I laughed out loud several times! It was such a cute and well-done book.
-workplace enemies to lovers
-grumpy/sunshine
-banter
-small town
TW- death, mental health
-workplace enemies to lovers
-grumpy/sunshine
-banter
-small town
TW- death, mental health
Read
March 1, 2024I ended January on a very high note with this book! It’s so light and smooth to read and I was honestly getting annoyed everytime I had to put it down because of adulting 🙃 lol
When Aaron Sinclair gets hired to Tess’ workplace (greeting card company) to be cyber security, they get off to a very rocky start. Their banter is hilarious. But, she’s in a relationship and he’s only there for 6 months so all is well… right? 😉
This book is the perfect enemies to lovers, workplace romance! So many LOL moments from the start. If you enjoy second hand embarrassment from FMC, this would be it for you. I truly enjoyed seeing Aaron’s and Tess interactions change little by little. They felt so realistic to me. I LOOOVVEED Tess family and her encounters with them. I truly enjoyed them, especially grandma 😂. The groupchat between her and her 2 friends is something I want to be a part of lol they’re the best!
I love when authors highlight side characters to be showcased and show their purpose. Lara did that and more! Every interaction with each character from her loving, supportive family, to her sister, Kate, who has her own struggles but still is there for Tess, to her work friends that are actually her life long friends (aka best group chat ever), made this book so light and enjoyable. Just a breath of fresh air. It’s hard to put down. This rom-com deserves all the love!
Thank you so much for this arc Lara, you definitely wrote a beautiful book!
Read if you like:
-Enemies to Lovers
-Workplace Romance
-Opposites Attract
-Found Family
-Strong Female Friendships
-Healthy Supportive Family Relationships
When Aaron Sinclair gets hired to Tess’ workplace (greeting card company) to be cyber security, they get off to a very rocky start. Their banter is hilarious. But, she’s in a relationship and he’s only there for 6 months so all is well… right? 😉
This book is the perfect enemies to lovers, workplace romance! So many LOL moments from the start. If you enjoy second hand embarrassment from FMC, this would be it for you. I truly enjoyed seeing Aaron’s and Tess interactions change little by little. They felt so realistic to me. I LOOOVVEED Tess family and her encounters with them. I truly enjoyed them, especially grandma 😂. The groupchat between her and her 2 friends is something I want to be a part of lol they’re the best!
I love when authors highlight side characters to be showcased and show their purpose. Lara did that and more! Every interaction with each character from her loving, supportive family, to her sister, Kate, who has her own struggles but still is there for Tess, to her work friends that are actually her life long friends (aka best group chat ever), made this book so light and enjoyable. Just a breath of fresh air. It’s hard to put down. This rom-com deserves all the love!
Thank you so much for this arc Lara, you definitely wrote a beautiful book!
Read if you like:
-Enemies to Lovers
-Workplace Romance
-Opposites Attract
-Found Family
-Strong Female Friendships
-Healthy Supportive Family Relationships
January 28, 2024
Aaron, a security expert and Tess, a sassy writer for a greeting card company, clash from the moment they meet in a staff meeting. The only person caught by a test phishing email (who can resist cute cats), Tess is embarrassed and rebels against Aaron's list of potential cyber security risks. Unable to back down, the tension between the two bubbles just under the surface and erupts in several tense yet cheeky moments throughout the story that had me giggling in my seat.
This is a closed door romance, and although Tess is in a relationship at the start of the book, the MCs do not cheat. The Author has done a brilliant job at writing volatile tension between the two, and their chemistry is incredible! She also ensured that both characters had detailed and specific back storys that explained the different decisions taken at key points in the book. I appreciated Aaron's depth and that mental health is discussed openly in the book, and that Tess's POV gives an honest perspective as to how she processes her emotions.
Thank you to Author Lara Martin for entrusting me with an ARC for this book; I loved your first book All The Lost Pieces and was so happy to see those MCs make a cameo in this book also 💕
This book will be available on February 1st so add it to your TBR!
This is a closed door romance, and although Tess is in a relationship at the start of the book, the MCs do not cheat. The Author has done a brilliant job at writing volatile tension between the two, and their chemistry is incredible! She also ensured that both characters had detailed and specific back storys that explained the different decisions taken at key points in the book. I appreciated Aaron's depth and that mental health is discussed openly in the book, and that Tess's POV gives an honest perspective as to how she processes her emotions.
Thank you to Author Lara Martin for entrusting me with an ARC for this book; I loved your first book All The Lost Pieces and was so happy to see those MCs make a cameo in this book also 💕
This book will be available on February 1st so add it to your TBR!
September 24, 2025
I’m surprised this doesn’t have more reviews! So well written and with such humour. No spice, but high in the romance.
Some might say the romance between Aaron and Tess came too late in the story, but for me it fitted in perfectly. A slow burn, but with the right amount of build up and their interactions and time spent together felt very organic. The storyline just took me along with them.
The humour was right up my street, and I was constantly giggling from the one liners…..everyone needs a grandma like that!!!
The ending did feel a little bit rushed though. I think that the timeline could’ve been explained a bit better with the time apart. The story never dragged though and I was rooting for Aaron and Tess.
Some might say the romance between Aaron and Tess came too late in the story, but for me it fitted in perfectly. A slow burn, but with the right amount of build up and their interactions and time spent together felt very organic. The storyline just took me along with them.
The humour was right up my street, and I was constantly giggling from the one liners…..everyone needs a grandma like that!!!
The ending did feel a little bit rushed though. I think that the timeline could’ve been explained a bit better with the time apart. The story never dragged though and I was rooting for Aaron and Tess.
April 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this! It was lighthearted and fun. The main characters were funny and a good family/friends dynamic. I wanted an easy fun read and that’s exactly what I got!
February 10, 2024
This book was a surprise. I didn't care for the title nor the cover, but I picked it up because I wanted a lighter read. This book could be considered a Rom Com. I found the characters funny and enjoyed reading the book. I did appreciate that there was more to the story than just the romantic plot line.
With all romance books I try to mention in my review the intimacy level. There were no open door scenes in this book. There were a few scenes where intimacy was implied but not described. There were however a handful of passionate make-out scenes that took over and carried the plot for awhile.
With all romance books I try to mention in my review the intimacy level. There were no open door scenes in this book. There were a few scenes where intimacy was implied but not described. There were however a handful of passionate make-out scenes that took over and carried the plot for awhile.
February 1, 2024
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Pub Date: February 1, 2024 (TODAY!)
"𝘞𝘦’𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘶𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘶𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘫𝘰𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭, 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦."
Tess is a writer for a greeting card company whose smart mouth often gets her into trouble, especially when serious and grumpy Aaron, a cyber security expert, starts in her company. Their opposite personalities clash in a series of laugh-out-loud encounters, while both of them try not to give in to the increasingly sweet and vulnerable interactions.
This was SO CUTE and FUNNY. The phrases with double meanings got me laughing, and the banter got me swooning. Tess and Aaron had incredible chemistry from the moment they met, and you can tell they were meant for each other even through some unfortunate setbacks.
Maybe even more than the romance, I found the female friendships greatly enjoyable! Sofia and Kenzie are the friends every girl needs. They had opposing advice for Tess most of the time, but they always stuck with her, and stood up for her especially when she went through difficult times. I gotta get myself a vending machine and start hanging around there 😂
I loved Tess and all the side characters (especially Grandma), but *sigh* Aaron took the cake. He was grumpy but so soft inside 🥹 With an even softer spot for Tess. But once we really got to know him... my heart broke for him 😭
I'm glad they found each other and were willing to work for their relationship, because they both deserve happiness and fairy-lighted picnics.
There were also fun cameos and surprises in the book!
I would like to thank Lara for a chance to read this book in advance in exchange for my honest opinion. Go get a copy now!
Read if you like:
💞 Sizzling chemistry
😆 Hilarious banter
👀 Words and phrases with double meanings
👯 Strong female friendships
❤️🩹 Healing and love
Other details and mild spoilers:
Single POV
Closed door
CW: cheating, emergency rooms, vehicular accidents, death
Pub Date: February 1, 2024 (TODAY!)
"𝘞𝘦’𝘷𝘦 𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘩 𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘶𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘬. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘶𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘫𝘰𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭, 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦."
Tess is a writer for a greeting card company whose smart mouth often gets her into trouble, especially when serious and grumpy Aaron, a cyber security expert, starts in her company. Their opposite personalities clash in a series of laugh-out-loud encounters, while both of them try not to give in to the increasingly sweet and vulnerable interactions.
This was SO CUTE and FUNNY. The phrases with double meanings got me laughing, and the banter got me swooning. Tess and Aaron had incredible chemistry from the moment they met, and you can tell they were meant for each other even through some unfortunate setbacks.
Maybe even more than the romance, I found the female friendships greatly enjoyable! Sofia and Kenzie are the friends every girl needs. They had opposing advice for Tess most of the time, but they always stuck with her, and stood up for her especially when she went through difficult times. I gotta get myself a vending machine and start hanging around there 😂
I loved Tess and all the side characters (especially Grandma), but *sigh* Aaron took the cake. He was grumpy but so soft inside 🥹 With an even softer spot for Tess. But once we really got to know him... my heart broke for him 😭
I'm glad they found each other and were willing to work for their relationship, because they both deserve happiness and fairy-lighted picnics.
There were also fun cameos and surprises in the book!
I would like to thank Lara for a chance to read this book in advance in exchange for my honest opinion. Go get a copy now!
Read if you like:
💞 Sizzling chemistry
😆 Hilarious banter
👀 Words and phrases with double meanings
👯 Strong female friendships
❤️🩹 Healing and love
Other details and mild spoilers:
Single POV
Closed door
CW: cheating, emergency rooms, vehicular accidents, death
February 1, 2024
Who would have thought that clicking on a cute cat video at work would bring a handsome but infuriating man into your life? Tess definitely didn’t expect her honest mistake to bring Aaron to Amell Greetings with all his random phishing tests, hacking prevention online classes and new rules to save this small company from an unwanted cyber attack.
Phishing for Love was such a treat! With its fun & creative workplace environment (how fun does it sound to work for a greeting card company) and its quirky side characters, we couldn’t put it down. Tess and Aaron are the epitome of enemies to lovers in a workplace setting! Their banter was fantastic and the little games they played with each other had us pining for them to get together. What we loved most was that their love story wasn’t rushed. They were able to come together when it made sense and the payoff at the end (after a little heartbreak) was totally worth it.
As big fans of Lara’s debut All The Lost Pieces (read it if you haven’t), getting a little moment with Nina and Lucas was a highlight ❤️ Looking forward to reading Kate’s story in the future.
Many thanks to @laramartinauthor for the e-book ARC in exchange for our honest review. Phishing For Love comes out TOMORROW! February 1st, 2024.
Read if you like:
▪️Enemies to lovers
▪️Workplace romance
▪️Grumpy/Sunshine
▪️Small town
▪️Great female friendships
▪️Angsty slow burn
Phishing for Love was such a treat! With its fun & creative workplace environment (how fun does it sound to work for a greeting card company) and its quirky side characters, we couldn’t put it down. Tess and Aaron are the epitome of enemies to lovers in a workplace setting! Their banter was fantastic and the little games they played with each other had us pining for them to get together. What we loved most was that their love story wasn’t rushed. They were able to come together when it made sense and the payoff at the end (after a little heartbreak) was totally worth it.
As big fans of Lara’s debut All The Lost Pieces (read it if you haven’t), getting a little moment with Nina and Lucas was a highlight ❤️ Looking forward to reading Kate’s story in the future.
Many thanks to @laramartinauthor for the e-book ARC in exchange for our honest review. Phishing For Love comes out TOMORROW! February 1st, 2024.
Read if you like:
▪️Enemies to lovers
▪️Workplace romance
▪️Grumpy/Sunshine
▪️Small town
▪️Great female friendships
▪️Angsty slow burn
February 1, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 /5
I had the opportunity to read her debut novel, All the Lost Pieces, last year and enjoyed it so much, so I was very excited to dive into this one! In Phishing for Love, Tess’s weakness for cute cat videos causes her to fail a phishing test created by her company’s new cyber-security expert, Aaron. Let’s just say this doesn’t start them off on the best foot. Tess works hard to stay one step ahead of Aaron’s security tests going forward and their battle of wits gradually turns into a mutual attraction. Unfortunately, anything they have together has a built-in expiration date - Aaron’s contract at Tess’s company expires after just 6 months.
This book put such a huge smile on my face! There was great chemistry throughout, hilarious banter, and I loved all the characters so much. The slow burn tension between Tess and Aaron was perfect. I loved them both together and as separate characters, too! The friendship between Tess and her two best friends was one of my favorite parts of the book. I just love reading about strong, supportive women! I do wish I had a smidge more than just the epilogue to see where the characters end up. I was so invested that I just wanted a little more.
Read Phishing for Love if you enjoy :
▫️Workplace romance
▫️Slow burn tension
▫️Hilarious banter
▫️Enemies to Lovers
▫️Grumpy/ Sunshine
▫️Closed-door romance
Thank you to Lara Martin for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I had the opportunity to read her debut novel, All the Lost Pieces, last year and enjoyed it so much, so I was very excited to dive into this one! In Phishing for Love, Tess’s weakness for cute cat videos causes her to fail a phishing test created by her company’s new cyber-security expert, Aaron. Let’s just say this doesn’t start them off on the best foot. Tess works hard to stay one step ahead of Aaron’s security tests going forward and their battle of wits gradually turns into a mutual attraction. Unfortunately, anything they have together has a built-in expiration date - Aaron’s contract at Tess’s company expires after just 6 months.
This book put such a huge smile on my face! There was great chemistry throughout, hilarious banter, and I loved all the characters so much. The slow burn tension between Tess and Aaron was perfect. I loved them both together and as separate characters, too! The friendship between Tess and her two best friends was one of my favorite parts of the book. I just love reading about strong, supportive women! I do wish I had a smidge more than just the epilogue to see where the characters end up. I was so invested that I just wanted a little more.
Read Phishing for Love if you enjoy :
▫️Workplace romance
▫️Slow burn tension
▫️Hilarious banter
▫️Enemies to Lovers
▫️Grumpy/ Sunshine
▫️Closed-door romance
Thank you to Lara Martin for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
February 1, 2024
If you’re looking for a slow burner enemies to lovers romance with a unique plot line and strong female friendships, this is it! Loved every bit of Tess and Aaron’s relationship, the little back and forth banter and the cute little moments and interactions kept me going. My favourite bit about this book besides the romance and unique plot-line is the female friendships. I loved tess’s group of supportive friends and family. Particularly, loved the inclusion and characterisation of Mevia. I have never had my name mentioned in a book so i had a special feeling every single time Mevia was mentioned. Also, loved the mention and getting insight into the lives of Lucas and Nina from all the lost piece (another 10/10 romance read).
A book beautifully written & filled with so much love, life and happiness. Truly, a masterpiece that I highly recommend ❤️
Read if you love:
Enemies to lovers
Grumpy x sunshine
Workplace romances
Strong female friendships
Found family
Unique plot line
Thankyou so much Lara for sending an arc of this masterpiece which hold a special place in my heart 🥹love you and our friendship 🤍
January 27, 2024
Phishing for Love by Lara Martin
5⭐️
Release date: February 1st, 2024.
Lovers of The Hating Game! This is the book for you! I loved this book, and the angsty enemies to lovers workplace relationship between Tess & Aaron. Thank you Lara, for giving me the opportunity to read your book!
Phishing for Love: Tess works as a writer at a local card company. Her boss hires a cybersecurity trainer to come into the company and train employees to be able to recognize phishing/scam emails. His name is Aaron Sinclair or better known as “hot guy” he draws the attention of many people in the office when he first arrives.
Tess makes a less than great first impression during their first training when she refers to him as a “pretty boy,” and is the first to fall for a practice phishing email. But it was an adorable cat video, and how could she not?! This lands her in more trainings and on Aaron’s bad side. Soon everyone in the office has noticed the visible tension between the two of them.
Soon, the line between enemies fades as their undeniable attraction to each other begins to grow. However, Aaron is only at this job for six months, and he seems to carry around this dark sadness about him. Tess uses every bit of self control to try and keep things professional and fight this attraction between them. During the six months Tess is faced with being labeled high security risk for failing so many phishing tests, being at risk for losing her job, and possibly falling for the irritating cybersecurity guy who doesn’t promise a future.
ps: if you read Lara’s book, All the Lost Pieces, stay tuned for a crossover in this book which you will love!!
•workplace romance
•enemies to lovers
•grumpy/sunshine
•angsty/slow burn
•small town
•rom com
•closed door
5⭐️
Release date: February 1st, 2024.
Lovers of The Hating Game! This is the book for you! I loved this book, and the angsty enemies to lovers workplace relationship between Tess & Aaron. Thank you Lara, for giving me the opportunity to read your book!
Phishing for Love: Tess works as a writer at a local card company. Her boss hires a cybersecurity trainer to come into the company and train employees to be able to recognize phishing/scam emails. His name is Aaron Sinclair or better known as “hot guy” he draws the attention of many people in the office when he first arrives.
Tess makes a less than great first impression during their first training when she refers to him as a “pretty boy,” and is the first to fall for a practice phishing email. But it was an adorable cat video, and how could she not?! This lands her in more trainings and on Aaron’s bad side. Soon everyone in the office has noticed the visible tension between the two of them.
Soon, the line between enemies fades as their undeniable attraction to each other begins to grow. However, Aaron is only at this job for six months, and he seems to carry around this dark sadness about him. Tess uses every bit of self control to try and keep things professional and fight this attraction between them. During the six months Tess is faced with being labeled high security risk for failing so many phishing tests, being at risk for losing her job, and possibly falling for the irritating cybersecurity guy who doesn’t promise a future.
ps: if you read Lara’s book, All the Lost Pieces, stay tuned for a crossover in this book which you will love!!
•workplace romance
•enemies to lovers
•grumpy/sunshine
•angsty/slow burn
•small town
•rom com
•closed door
January 27, 2024
I always love promoting indie authors, and Lara Martin has quickly become a favourite of mine!! I read and posted a review about her first book, All the Lost Pieces (which I loved), and now I’m back with her newest book (which I loved even more).
I read a lot of this book in one sitting because I didn’t want to put it down. I absolutely love the author’s writing style and I was instantly drawn in to Tess and Aaron’s story. There was some grumpy/sunshine as well as some enemies to lovers, and it was the perfect mix of tropes.
I loved that Tess wasn’t your typical perfect FMC. I find that sometimes female leads in romance can be a bit difficult to relate to because they don’t have any flaws (or if they do, they’re like…cutesy flaws). Tess was a loudmouth and marched to the beat of her own drum in both positive and negative ways. And I loved that! She was so fun to read about.
Aaron was perfect in his very imperfect way, and I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. The fact that his instinct was to take care of Tess while trying to heal his own broken heart from past trauma was too precious.
The only thing I didn’t love was that the ending was a bit abrupt for my liking. I wanted to read more about Tess and Aaron reconciling instead of seeing it briefly in the epilogue. But that wasn’t a big deal!
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy!
I read a lot of this book in one sitting because I didn’t want to put it down. I absolutely love the author’s writing style and I was instantly drawn in to Tess and Aaron’s story. There was some grumpy/sunshine as well as some enemies to lovers, and it was the perfect mix of tropes.
I loved that Tess wasn’t your typical perfect FMC. I find that sometimes female leads in romance can be a bit difficult to relate to because they don’t have any flaws (or if they do, they’re like…cutesy flaws). Tess was a loudmouth and marched to the beat of her own drum in both positive and negative ways. And I loved that! She was so fun to read about.
Aaron was perfect in his very imperfect way, and I couldn’t help but fall in love with him. The fact that his instinct was to take care of Tess while trying to heal his own broken heart from past trauma was too precious.
The only thing I didn’t love was that the ending was a bit abrupt for my liking. I wanted to read more about Tess and Aaron reconciling instead of seeing it briefly in the epilogue. But that wasn’t a big deal!
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy!
January 23, 2024
I read Lara's debut novel, All the Lost Pieces and I was hooked to her writing. I immediately knew that I would be reading anything and everything written by her. And she did it again. I was honored to receive an ARC for Phishing for Love and this book feels like the warmest hug. It is my first 5-star read of 2024 and I think it is going to be one of my most favourite reads of 2024.
The plot was super fun and interesting, nothing like I have read before- a greeting card company, a phishing scam, and from there unravels the funniest and most beautiful story ever. One thing that stands out about Lara's books is that her characters are just so relatable. I can not get over Tess and Aaron. A special mention to the banter between Tess and Aaron. The WITTIEST BANTER ever. It will literally make you laugh out loud. Another special mention to the grumpy Persian cat, Sonam who was my favorite character in the book other than the Grandma, of course.
If you love Enemies to Lovers, workplace romance, banter, slow burn, great female friendships, lovely and funny families, and smart-mouthed female main characters, then look nowhere else and just pick this book. This book is the best Enemies to Lovers book I have ever read. It is perfect for the fans of The Hating Game and even if you did not love that book, trust me you will love this one because it is IMPOSSIBLE to not love this book.
I can't wait for Kate's story.
The plot was super fun and interesting, nothing like I have read before- a greeting card company, a phishing scam, and from there unravels the funniest and most beautiful story ever. One thing that stands out about Lara's books is that her characters are just so relatable. I can not get over Tess and Aaron. A special mention to the banter between Tess and Aaron. The WITTIEST BANTER ever. It will literally make you laugh out loud. Another special mention to the grumpy Persian cat, Sonam who was my favorite character in the book other than the Grandma, of course.
If you love Enemies to Lovers, workplace romance, banter, slow burn, great female friendships, lovely and funny families, and smart-mouthed female main characters, then look nowhere else and just pick this book. This book is the best Enemies to Lovers book I have ever read. It is perfect for the fans of The Hating Game and even if you did not love that book, trust me you will love this one because it is IMPOSSIBLE to not love this book.
I can't wait for Kate's story.
January 27, 2024
Tess is a sassy greeting card copy writer. She is witty and sarcastic and her mouth gets her into trouble a lot. Enter the new cyber security specialist who is determined to get Tess to take things seriously. and we have pages of incredible banter, heated flirting and exasperated arguments. I LOVED IT.
Lara's book have just the perfect level of steam. They are closed door which I prefer. I like when a book relies on its plot rather than pages of explicit sex scenes to fill in the pages.
If you are looking for the PERFECT Valentines Day read, go preorder this gem.
All my reviews can be found on www.adustibookshelf.ca
Lara's book have just the perfect level of steam. They are closed door which I prefer. I like when a book relies on its plot rather than pages of explicit sex scenes to fill in the pages.
If you are looking for the PERFECT Valentines Day read, go preorder this gem.
All my reviews can be found on www.adustibookshelf.ca
February 3, 2024
I truly enjoyed this witty, adorable and heartfelt romance! While this was a fun read filled with hilarious banter that kept me laughing throughout the pages, the story also touches on heavier topics of grief and mental health that added depth. I loved Tess and Aaron’s ever-changing relationship and the way they constantly challenged one another. I also really liked all the supporting characters, especially the sassy grandma and Tess’s loyal best friends. I strongly recommend this beautifully written story that was everything I was hoping for!
January 16, 2024
Tess Miller had no clue that clicking on a video of a cat would lead to 6 months of dealing with the most impossible man on this planet: Aaron Sinclair. Not only did he embarrass her in front of the entire office, but he is stubborn and frustrating and hates adding color into his workspace – oh yeah, and she can’t get him out of her head.
This was the most beautifully written slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance that I’ve read. Tess and Aaron’s story brought a light and awareness to the struggle that mental health and depression/anxiety can have on people in a relationship, and seeing their journey to healing and taking care of one another despite their own individual struggles was incredible. The chemistry between these two felt so real and honest, and as I kept reading, I found myself rooting for them more and more as the story continued.
I also loved the added family dynamic that was throughout this book. Seeing Tess with her family and friends in her highest and lowest moments made for some of my favorite moments of the story. From her grandmother’s quick wit and ongoing one-sided fight with Google, her parents’ unwavering support in whatever brings her joy, and her sister’s own struggles and healing journey while still looking out for Tess to her coworkers-turned-lifelong friends who care deeply for one another – there was something truly wonderful every time these characters were highlighted in a chapter.
If you’re looking for a story filled with joy, laughter, heart-wrenching moments and a wholesome romance, be sure to check out this book!
This was the most beautifully written slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance that I’ve read. Tess and Aaron’s story brought a light and awareness to the struggle that mental health and depression/anxiety can have on people in a relationship, and seeing their journey to healing and taking care of one another despite their own individual struggles was incredible. The chemistry between these two felt so real and honest, and as I kept reading, I found myself rooting for them more and more as the story continued.
I also loved the added family dynamic that was throughout this book. Seeing Tess with her family and friends in her highest and lowest moments made for some of my favorite moments of the story. From her grandmother’s quick wit and ongoing one-sided fight with Google, her parents’ unwavering support in whatever brings her joy, and her sister’s own struggles and healing journey while still looking out for Tess to her coworkers-turned-lifelong friends who care deeply for one another – there was something truly wonderful every time these characters were highlighted in a chapter.
If you’re looking for a story filled with joy, laughter, heart-wrenching moments and a wholesome romance, be sure to check out this book!
February 1, 2024
I fell in love with Lara’s writing when I read her first book. I never imagined I could like this book as much as her last, but somehow I ended up liking it more! I loved the dynamic between Tess and Aaron in this enemies-to-lovers romcom. Their banter was hilarious and all of the characters were well-developed. Tess’s grandmother and her everlasting feud with “the Google” had me in stitches.
This was a slow burn, but I looked forward to picking this book up every night. There’s just something about Lara’s characters that feel like coming home. (And I love that readers get to catch up a bit with Nina and Lucas!) If you like closed door romances heavy on the comedy and full of heart, this book is for you!
This was a slow burn, but I looked forward to picking this book up every night. There’s just something about Lara’s characters that feel like coming home. (And I love that readers get to catch up a bit with Nina and Lucas!) If you like closed door romances heavy on the comedy and full of heart, this book is for you!
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