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Billionaire Situation #2
The Friend Situation
After the charming billionaire and I successfully play matchmaker, he asks me to be his fake fiancée. Saying yes might be the biggest slip-up of my life, but what are friends for?
Weston Calloway is the last man I imagined meeting after one of my boring breakups. But there he was, in a dive bar, drinking cheap whiskey, looking like my next favorite mistake. Instead of hooking up, we become secret friends.
When his jealous ex stirs up unnecessary drama, Weston asks me to be his fake girlfriend. Things escalate quickly, and we lose control of the situation. Now, we're roommates, and I'm wearing a diamond ring that he slipped on my finger.
This game may be fun, but we agreed to one unbreakable rule—no falling in love.
Easy, right? It should be.
Weston Calloway is the last man I imagined meeting after one of my boring breakups. But there he was, in a dive bar, drinking cheap whiskey, looking like my next favorite mistake. Instead of hooking up, we become secret friends.
When his jealous ex stirs up unnecessary drama, Weston asks me to be his fake girlfriend. Things escalate quickly, and we lose control of the situation. Now, we're roommates, and I'm wearing a diamond ring that he slipped on my finger.
This game may be fun, but we agreed to one unbreakable rule—no falling in love.
Easy, right? It should be.
500 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 27, 2025
2496 people are currently reading
2950 people want to read
About the author
Lyra Parish
23 books2,395 followersLyra Parish is a hopeless romantic obsessed with writing spicy Hallmark-like romances. When she isn’t immersed in fictional worlds, you can find her pretending to be a Vanlifer with her hubby. Lyra loves coffee, the great outdoors, authentic people, and living her best life.
To learn more, please subscribe to Lyra's newsletter: https://bit.ly/lyraparishnewsletter
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May 23, 2025Part 2
This situation requires psychiatric support.
Without doubt and hesitation I dnf it, the heroine’s mental and emotional state drove me insane. 🤯
Dnf @ 45%
This situation requires psychiatric support.
Without doubt and hesitation I dnf it, the heroine’s mental and emotional state drove me insane. 🤯
Dnf @ 45%
February 28, 2025
Carlee and Weston. Lexi’s bff and Easton’s twin brother.
I’ll be honest as usual. I had high hopes for this book but I got confused about what they were actually doing with each other. Especially by her attitude. They were friends for a quite some time. Then they decided to become friends with benefits then something else, then pretend to be fake engaged all the while they were dancing around real feelings. It didn’t make much sense to me. I couldn’t understand what Carlee wanted. She craved Wes but at the same time wanted to keep a distance. She knew that he wanted her but at the same time she couldn’t believe it? All that just confused me. Her change when they went on a trip seemed too abrupt to me and everything just happened so fast.
Weston is a sweetheart. I adored him. I wasn’t convinced with his dirty talk though.
The spicy scenes were just too many, i skipped them towards the end. I believe the book should have been several pages shorter- after 65% I felt it was dragging.
I probably will read the next one though and hope it has some angst.
A big thanks to Lyra Parish for providing an arc of this book!
-Dual 1st person POV
-Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Overall: 3.5/5 ⭐️
I’ll be honest as usual. I had high hopes for this book but I got confused about what they were actually doing with each other. Especially by her attitude. They were friends for a quite some time. Then they decided to become friends with benefits then something else, then pretend to be fake engaged all the while they were dancing around real feelings. It didn’t make much sense to me. I couldn’t understand what Carlee wanted. She craved Wes but at the same time wanted to keep a distance. She knew that he wanted her but at the same time she couldn’t believe it? All that just confused me. Her change when they went on a trip seemed too abrupt to me and everything just happened so fast.
Weston is a sweetheart. I adored him. I wasn’t convinced with his dirty talk though.
The spicy scenes were just too many, i skipped them towards the end. I believe the book should have been several pages shorter- after 65% I felt it was dragging.
I probably will read the next one though and hope it has some angst.
A big thanks to Lyra Parish for providing an arc of this book!
-Dual 1st person POV
-Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Overall: 3.5/5 ⭐️
March 6, 2025
High Hopes, Disappointing Reality
I have so many thoughts on this one. For starters, I absolutely LOVED The Wife Situation. The characters were consistent even as they were developed and their love story was revealed. And, I was hoping for the same with The Friend Situation.
I was very excited to read Weston and Carlee's story, and I genuinely wish that I enjoyed it more than I did. First, it did not need to be almost 500 pages! There wasn't enough plot to justify that length, and so it just became repetitive. Even the steamy scenes were super predictable because they followed the same exact pattern over and over and over. And the moment with the villainous ex-wife could have been so much more. It was over in a matter of pages, and then they were right back to jumping into bed.
Another thing that I hate is when a woman gets called derogatory words in the heat of the moment. Don't get me wrong; I don't read books like this because I think they're going to teach me life lessons. But you will never convince me that a woman likes being called a wh*re while getting intimate with a man that she loves. Do better. There can be dirty talk without demeaning our MFC.
My final rant is simply in regards to the wayward path that this book took. It's like Parish couldn't decide if she wanted the sub plot to be Weston as an artist, the allure of Merryville, Carlee as the author of LuxLeaks, the evil ex-wife, Weston as a reformed playboy, Carlee as the commitment phobe, the theft of the laptop, Weston's dark history with his ex, etc... The list felt a little endless, and yet it also felt like nothing was happening during large portions of the book! It just didn't do Weston and Carlee's potential justice.
I think that I will still give The Boss Situation a chance when it is published in June. But, if it starts to feel like a million paths that all lead to dead ends, I'm out.
I have so many thoughts on this one. For starters, I absolutely LOVED The Wife Situation. The characters were consistent even as they were developed and their love story was revealed. And, I was hoping for the same with The Friend Situation.
I was very excited to read Weston and Carlee's story, and I genuinely wish that I enjoyed it more than I did. First, it did not need to be almost 500 pages! There wasn't enough plot to justify that length, and so it just became repetitive. Even the steamy scenes were super predictable because they followed the same exact pattern over and over and over. And the moment with the villainous ex-wife could have been so much more. It was over in a matter of pages, and then they were right back to jumping into bed.
Another thing that I hate is when a woman gets called derogatory words in the heat of the moment. Don't get me wrong; I don't read books like this because I think they're going to teach me life lessons. But you will never convince me that a woman likes being called a wh*re while getting intimate with a man that she loves. Do better. There can be dirty talk without demeaning our MFC.
My final rant is simply in regards to the wayward path that this book took. It's like Parish couldn't decide if she wanted the sub plot to be Weston as an artist, the allure of Merryville, Carlee as the author of LuxLeaks, the evil ex-wife, Weston as a reformed playboy, Carlee as the commitment phobe, the theft of the laptop, Weston's dark history with his ex, etc... The list felt a little endless, and yet it also felt like nothing was happening during large portions of the book! It just didn't do Weston and Carlee's potential justice.
I think that I will still give The Boss Situation a chance when it is published in June. But, if it starts to feel like a million paths that all lead to dead ends, I'm out.
February 25, 2025
The Friend Situation is the second book in the Billionaire Situation series and I am OBSESSED. It can read as a standalone but I would recommend starting with the first to get the whole background information on the characters. From the start this book had me in a chokehold, I just couldn't put it down. It was so completely addictive, I kept wanting more of these characters and this story. Lyra, you have outdone yourself with this one, I don't know what kind of dr*g you put it in but I am addicted. It was sweet, it was funny, it was spicy, it was romantic, it was just PERFECTION.
Carlee & Weston were the epitome of 2 people meant to be together. They were constantly there for one another through thick and thin. They respect each other in every single decision. They were patient, they were kind, they loved each other as they were, they were just 2 absolutely beautiful characters. Their chemistry was undeniable, I mean the pages were on literal fire. Once they ignited, man oh man it was hot as hell 🥵 The side characters were as amazing, so supportive, meddling and just wanting the best for their friends. The whole plot, the unfolding of it, the story, I have nothing bad to say about it, it was flawless!
The writing in this book was just stellar, it was addictive, easy flowing and truly the page number might be intimidating, but I could've read about these characters for another 500 pages and I don't like my romances over 350 pages, so that says a lot !!
Overall, as you can see I am completely obsessed with this book. I just adored everything about it ! If you haven't read a Lyra Parish book, what are you even doing ? Do it !
✨️Thank you to @lyraparish for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Carlee & Weston were the epitome of 2 people meant to be together. They were constantly there for one another through thick and thin. They respect each other in every single decision. They were patient, they were kind, they loved each other as they were, they were just 2 absolutely beautiful characters. Their chemistry was undeniable, I mean the pages were on literal fire. Once they ignited, man oh man it was hot as hell 🥵 The side characters were as amazing, so supportive, meddling and just wanting the best for their friends. The whole plot, the unfolding of it, the story, I have nothing bad to say about it, it was flawless!
The writing in this book was just stellar, it was addictive, easy flowing and truly the page number might be intimidating, but I could've read about these characters for another 500 pages and I don't like my romances over 350 pages, so that says a lot !!
Overall, as you can see I am completely obsessed with this book. I just adored everything about it ! If you haven't read a Lyra Parish book, what are you even doing ? Do it !
✨️Thank you to @lyraparish for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 24, 2025
2.5⭐️ I was really looking forward to The Friendship Situation after loving The Wife Situation, but unfortunately, this one fell flat for me. The flow of the book felt too similar to the first, and much of the content was repetitive. The dialogue, especially during the spicy scenes, was almost the same thing in every scene, which made it feel monotonous. I found myself wishing for more plot development and less focus on the spice, there was so much potential for the story to go deeper, but it just didn’t happen.
Without giving too much away, the resolution of the laptop theft at the end felt rushed and anticlimactic. That storyline could have been more drawn out and added some much needed intrigue. Similarly, the ex-wife situation and the attempted murder plot points were introduced but didn’t have the depth they deserved. Everything just felt a bit too surface level, and I kept thinking it could have been so much more exciting.
The majority of the book focused on Weston and Carlee’s relationship lots of sex, and then they randomly get married while visiting Carlees hometown. But there was little time spent with the family, and the scenes set in the hometown were mostly just them being intimate, rather than exploring what life there could really be like. For me, it all felt a little too repetitive and not as engaging as it could have been.
I did feel for Weston, but I had a harder time connecting with Carlee. Overall, it was an okay read, but I was hoping for a lot more. It was just a lot of spice with little plot development.
Without giving too much away, the resolution of the laptop theft at the end felt rushed and anticlimactic. That storyline could have been more drawn out and added some much needed intrigue. Similarly, the ex-wife situation and the attempted murder plot points were introduced but didn’t have the depth they deserved. Everything just felt a bit too surface level, and I kept thinking it could have been so much more exciting.
The majority of the book focused on Weston and Carlee’s relationship lots of sex, and then they randomly get married while visiting Carlees hometown. But there was little time spent with the family, and the scenes set in the hometown were mostly just them being intimate, rather than exploring what life there could really be like. For me, it all felt a little too repetitive and not as engaging as it could have been.
I did feel for Weston, but I had a harder time connecting with Carlee. Overall, it was an okay read, but I was hoping for a lot more. It was just a lot of spice with little plot development.
June 13, 2025
Easton ile ikiz oldukları için mi bilemiyorum ama Weston'ın hikayesi de bana çok benzer bir izlenim verdi.
🔖İlk aşık olan, bunu kabul eden kişi Weston.
🔖Geçmişinde kalp kırıklığı olduğu için ilişkilerden kaçan kişi Carlee.
🔖Weston'ın, Carlee duygularını anlasın diye alan tanıması.
🔖Yine bir sahte ilişki muhabbeti.
🔖Ve bıcır bıcır yolunda giden sevimli bir ilişki.
Bir kaç sahne ve olay dışında, atmosfer olarak çok fazla ilk kitaba benziyordu bence.Hatta ondan bir tık daha bile uzundu.
Aslında çiftler arası bu tür etkileşimleri seviyorum.Bu kitaplar tam benim sevdiğim içeriklere sahip.Ama eksik bulduğum şey yine de aynı. Okurun ilgisini sıcak tutacak kıvılcım pek yoktu.
Araya başka kitaplar alarak okunmalı bence.
🔖İlk aşık olan, bunu kabul eden kişi Weston.
🔖Geçmişinde kalp kırıklığı olduğu için ilişkilerden kaçan kişi Carlee.
🔖Weston'ın, Carlee duygularını anlasın diye alan tanıması.
🔖Yine bir sahte ilişki muhabbeti.
🔖Ve bıcır bıcır yolunda giden sevimli bir ilişki.
Bir kaç sahne ve olay dışında, atmosfer olarak çok fazla ilk kitaba benziyordu bence.Hatta ondan bir tık daha bile uzundu.
Aslında çiftler arası bu tür etkileşimleri seviyorum.Bu kitaplar tam benim sevdiğim içeriklere sahip.Ama eksik bulduğum şey yine de aynı. Okurun ilgisini sıcak tutacak kıvılcım pek yoktu.
Araya başka kitaplar alarak okunmalı bence.
March 7, 2025
DNF 25%. I liked the first book in this series so maybe this is just me… idk. But the writing is making me cringe so hard. 🫠.
And the plot seems weird - I don’t understand the relationship between these two. Why is their friendship a secret? What does she write about in her gossip blog-thing? Why are they so close but also so secretive. Her best friend and his twin are married and literally trying to get them to be together and they’re like “nah, we’re good” meanwhile they’re dodging them to secretly meet in dive bars and watch each other go on dates. wtf? Make it make sense.
I don’t like reading books that feel like a riddle.
I also have zero interest in the drama that is hinted at with the ex wife.
I’m sad.
And the plot seems weird - I don’t understand the relationship between these two. Why is their friendship a secret? What does she write about in her gossip blog-thing? Why are they so close but also so secretive. Her best friend and his twin are married and literally trying to get them to be together and they’re like “nah, we’re good” meanwhile they’re dodging them to secretly meet in dive bars and watch each other go on dates. wtf? Make it make sense.
I don’t like reading books that feel like a riddle.
I also have zero interest in the drama that is hinted at with the ex wife.
I’m sad.
March 2, 2025
This absolutely pains me to give this book 3.5⭐️
I get authors get paid per page reads on KU and I get wanting to drop Easter eggs to link book with the Merryville Christmas books but man, this book was just too long!! So much honestly felt unnecessary (other than peek readers interest to read other series) but it was so much that I just skipped past it because all I wanted to Weston and Carlee.
I LOVED Easton & Lexi and had impossible high hopes for this book, I just wish the focus was more on Weston & Carlee and not so much of the song and dance around the games they played. I had hoped for more growth and not a sudden flipped switch.
Side note, Weston deserves 5⭐️’s for how long he held off from going all the way after their first few intimate encounters.
All this being said, I look forward to Billie and Asher’s story, just hope the author doesn’t make it too long as all the distractions lost me along the way and therefore took away from what in theory was I’d hoped an impeccable read the the Wife Situation.
I get authors get paid per page reads on KU and I get wanting to drop Easter eggs to link book with the Merryville Christmas books but man, this book was just too long!! So much honestly felt unnecessary (other than peek readers interest to read other series) but it was so much that I just skipped past it because all I wanted to Weston and Carlee.
I LOVED Easton & Lexi and had impossible high hopes for this book, I just wish the focus was more on Weston & Carlee and not so much of the song and dance around the games they played. I had hoped for more growth and not a sudden flipped switch.
Side note, Weston deserves 5⭐️’s for how long he held off from going all the way after their first few intimate encounters.
All this being said, I look forward to Billie and Asher’s story, just hope the author doesn’t make it too long as all the distractions lost me along the way and therefore took away from what in theory was I’d hoped an impeccable read the the Wife Situation.
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May 15, 2025ugh I’m kinda bummed out I didn’t love this as much as I expected!
I absolutely ADORE Carlee & Weston, loved them in the previous book & still loved them here 🥹
It was unfortunately the writing I had an issue with.
So many lines & even plot points were the exact same as the first book.
It also got incredibly repetitive, I pretty much skimmed the spice scenes closer to the end because it was just more and more of the same.
I’m still hooked on this series & definitely will continue. Hopefully the next book is a different!
⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ➳❥ pre-read
I just flew through The Wife Situation & THAT EPILOGUE left me needing to jump right into this one 😍
I’m already obsessed with Weston & Carlee
I absolutely ADORE Carlee & Weston, loved them in the previous book & still loved them here 🥹
It was unfortunately the writing I had an issue with.
So many lines & even plot points were the exact same as the first book.
It also got incredibly repetitive, I pretty much skimmed the spice scenes closer to the end because it was just more and more of the same.
I’m still hooked on this series & definitely will continue. Hopefully the next book is a different!
⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ➳❥ pre-read
I just flew through The Wife Situation & THAT EPILOGUE left me needing to jump right into this one 😍
I’m already obsessed with Weston & Carlee
February 24, 2025
I loved Weston and Carlee’s chemistry. Their twist at the end of the Wife Situation was such a shock so this book was highly anticipated. I loved seeing their relationship develop and all the drama that ensues with this family/friend group. I did not see the ending coming once again, but loved reading this book. I will be happily waiting for the next book release.
February 27, 2025
The wrong time is sometimes right!
There is so much to enjoy in Lyra Parish’s The Friend Situation. You’ve got a family saga, billionaire hero, secret friends to lovers, an agonizing (in a good way) slow burn, a small town girl and city boy romance where he falls first and there is NO ridiculous 3rd act break-up. Sounds great already, right? Add in the real, relatable and vulnerable characters from this one and you’ve got a great read. Weston is a reformed playboy who was a bit damaged from his past but he is beautifully enamored with Carlee. He can be a bit egotistical but I think it looks good on him. Carlee is a sassy heroine who has also had a bucket of hurt thrown her way. It was so lovely how Carlee and Weston found each other in their darkness and had this extraordinary soul connection. All the “good girl” praise in this one was also quite delicious. Throw in Easton, Lexi, Billie, Harper and the other secondary characters and you have a well-rounded cast of characters that complements the story. I appreciated that we got a little of the New York jet-setting lifestyle and the slower pace of the familiar Merryville, Texas. I really liked this story overall but there were a few things that I didn’t like. At times I felt like the story was going in circles. I couldn’t determine if they were still guarding themselves and in denial or if they were going to give things a real chance and their dialogue didn’t help. It was a very confusing iteration of will they or won’t they. I also felt like I was in the dark sometimes and missing details. We eventually get some bare bones information about their previous year of friendship and past relationships but it didn’t feel like enough. I like spice in my books but there was an overabundance of it here and I found myself skimming those parts. In the end though this story had a little action, a lot of love, ALL the feelings, and the coveted HEA that made for an emotional and satisfying read.
There is so much to enjoy in Lyra Parish’s The Friend Situation. You’ve got a family saga, billionaire hero, secret friends to lovers, an agonizing (in a good way) slow burn, a small town girl and city boy romance where he falls first and there is NO ridiculous 3rd act break-up. Sounds great already, right? Add in the real, relatable and vulnerable characters from this one and you’ve got a great read. Weston is a reformed playboy who was a bit damaged from his past but he is beautifully enamored with Carlee. He can be a bit egotistical but I think it looks good on him. Carlee is a sassy heroine who has also had a bucket of hurt thrown her way. It was so lovely how Carlee and Weston found each other in their darkness and had this extraordinary soul connection. All the “good girl” praise in this one was also quite delicious. Throw in Easton, Lexi, Billie, Harper and the other secondary characters and you have a well-rounded cast of characters that complements the story. I appreciated that we got a little of the New York jet-setting lifestyle and the slower pace of the familiar Merryville, Texas. I really liked this story overall but there were a few things that I didn’t like. At times I felt like the story was going in circles. I couldn’t determine if they were still guarding themselves and in denial or if they were going to give things a real chance and their dialogue didn’t help. It was a very confusing iteration of will they or won’t they. I also felt like I was in the dark sometimes and missing details. We eventually get some bare bones information about their previous year of friendship and past relationships but it didn’t feel like enough. I like spice in my books but there was an overabundance of it here and I found myself skimming those parts. In the end though this story had a little action, a lot of love, ALL the feelings, and the coveted HEA that made for an emotional and satisfying read.
March 2, 2025
Overall, I’ve gotten bored with billionaire romances because the male romantic leads all have the exact same personality. I am absolutely delighted to announce that is not true in this book. Weston Calloway is not a curmudgeon.
What I loved about this book:
-the friendship between the main characters before they got together was charming and not forced
-the challenges each main character had with trust and their past relationship traumas were believable
-the balance between hesitation to dating and attraction to each other was developed well
-Weston wasn’t just there to fix Carlee’s life with money; they truly emotionally support each other
-So many fake dating/fake engagement schemes are contrived but this one made sense
I also really enjoyed the tie-in with the Very Merry series. We’ve seen some of the overlap before, but it was more overt in this book and that was fun.
The spice amount: Some people might not like the amount of spice in this book, which is plentiful. As soon as they start hooking up, they cannot keep their hands off each other. I found this cute (they like each other so much they can’t stop!), but that number of sex scenes is not for everyone.
One thing I found unbelievable was Weston’s stamina - *at partying.* I am also 40 and I am tired. I cannot drink that much or go out that much or sleep that little or party that hard anymore. I had to go to a med spa and get an IV treatment the day after my 40th birthday. Who is this 40 year old man who parties like he’s in his 20s?
Overall? This is probably my favorite billionaire romance I’ve ever read.
I was provided an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
What I loved about this book:
-the friendship between the main characters before they got together was charming and not forced
-the challenges each main character had with trust and their past relationship traumas were believable
-the balance between hesitation to dating and attraction to each other was developed well
-Weston wasn’t just there to fix Carlee’s life with money; they truly emotionally support each other
-So many fake dating/fake engagement schemes are contrived but this one made sense
I also really enjoyed the tie-in with the Very Merry series. We’ve seen some of the overlap before, but it was more overt in this book and that was fun.
The spice amount: Some people might not like the amount of spice in this book, which is plentiful. As soon as they start hooking up, they cannot keep their hands off each other. I found this cute (they like each other so much they can’t stop!), but that number of sex scenes is not for everyone.
One thing I found unbelievable was Weston’s stamina - *at partying.* I am also 40 and I am tired. I cannot drink that much or go out that much or sleep that little or party that hard anymore. I had to go to a med spa and get an IV treatment the day after my 40th birthday. Who is this 40 year old man who parties like he’s in his 20s?
Overall? This is probably my favorite billionaire romance I’ve ever read.
I was provided an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
March 17, 2025
I was so much looking forward to Weston’s and Carlee’s story since book 1. They got me intrigued.
Friends to lovers: “She’s my friend, my greatest temptation, my ultimate secret”.
Both with trauma from past relationships and a very messy and almost bloody divorce. “I don’t know if love is necessarily the key. I used to believe it was, but now I think it’s friendship that’s actually needed. Love is fleeting. Friendship is forever”.
Weston is a unicorn of a man. He knew from the start they were meant to be together. Serendipity… He falls first and actually has the patience to wait for Carlee who was going back and forth, second-guessing herself (and my patience as a reader) almost till the end… I loved the banter between them, their steamy moments and their conversations. The story and plot was captivating. Easton, Lexi, Brody, Billie were essential to their story. Oh, and I loved how I got to revisit Merryville, Texas and the amazing people there.
You just have to have a little bit of faith… “The wrong time is sometimes right”.
The Friend Situation is book 2 in the Billionaire Situation Series. It can be read as a standalone but I suggest you first read book 1, Easton’s & Lexi’s story. You will enjoy it even more!
Thank you Lyra for another beautiful read and for trusting me with an arc of Weston’s and Carlee’s story.
“Life is better with you in it”
Friends to lovers: “She’s my friend, my greatest temptation, my ultimate secret”.
Both with trauma from past relationships and a very messy and almost bloody divorce. “I don’t know if love is necessarily the key. I used to believe it was, but now I think it’s friendship that’s actually needed. Love is fleeting. Friendship is forever”.
Weston is a unicorn of a man. He knew from the start they were meant to be together. Serendipity… He falls first and actually has the patience to wait for Carlee who was going back and forth, second-guessing herself (and my patience as a reader) almost till the end… I loved the banter between them, their steamy moments and their conversations. The story and plot was captivating. Easton, Lexi, Brody, Billie were essential to their story. Oh, and I loved how I got to revisit Merryville, Texas and the amazing people there.
You just have to have a little bit of faith… “The wrong time is sometimes right”.
The Friend Situation is book 2 in the Billionaire Situation Series. It can be read as a standalone but I suggest you first read book 1, Easton’s & Lexi’s story. You will enjoy it even more!
Thank you Lyra for another beautiful read and for trusting me with an arc of Weston’s and Carlee’s story.
“Life is better with you in it”
February 26, 2025
i had the privilege of receiving an ARC of this book and quite literally could not put it down (which is not great for my gpa lmao). wes and carlee are so cute together it’s actually disgusting (but in like the best way). now this was my first lyra parish books bf it certainly will not be my last! i can’t wait to go back and read the wife situation and best believe i will be reading the boss situation when it drops!!
April 19, 2025
The Friend Situation by Lyra Parish was such a fun read!! Seriously, you need Weston Calloway in your life!!!
I loved Carlee and Weston together. I really liked the how the friends to lovers tropes played out. They had amazing chemistry - there are some really fun and flirty scenes.
But both of them had been hurt in the past and they were both cautious…but the payoff is there!!
There just be a cameo or two too!!
✨What to Expect:
😂Romantic Comedy
💰Billionaire
🩵Fake Dating
❤️🔥Secret Friends to Lovers
🔥Slow Burn ⭐️Reformed Playboy
💋Sassy Heroine
💍He Falls First 👗Small Town Girl x City Boy 🩵Family Saga
🌶️Spicy AF Scenes
🚫No 3rd Act Break-up
💖Complete Standalone
I loved Carlee and Weston together. I really liked the how the friends to lovers tropes played out. They had amazing chemistry - there are some really fun and flirty scenes.
But both of them had been hurt in the past and they were both cautious…but the payoff is there!!
There just be a cameo or two too!!
✨What to Expect:
😂Romantic Comedy
💰Billionaire
🩵Fake Dating
❤️🔥Secret Friends to Lovers
🔥Slow Burn ⭐️Reformed Playboy
💋Sassy Heroine
💍He Falls First 👗Small Town Girl x City Boy 🩵Family Saga
🌶️Spicy AF Scenes
🚫No 3rd Act Break-up
💖Complete Standalone
March 2, 2025
The Friend Situation is the second book in the Billionaire situation series that follows Carlee who is surely not looking for a commitment and so is Weston. He is charming and devilishly handsome. They have an unspoken coordination of understanding and patience while the sparks of passion and attraction begin to fly.
When Weston's ex stirs up some pretty chaotic events, Weston Calloway proposes Carlee to become his fake girlfriend and then his roommate. Love was never in plans but fate has its own path. And Carlee and Weston are about to ramp it up to a double notch.
The friend situation was absolutely amazing. I loved the chemistry and dynamics between the protagonists. I gobbled up this book within a day and I do not regret it one bit. Weston and Carlee complimented each other perfectly. And the other characters were well fleshed out too. The plot was executed in an engaging way and trust me this book will give you that butterflies in the stomach kinda feelings. I loved the entire novel however the second half of the book is my absolute favourite. Lyra you are fantastic! As an author who pours her heart out in the characters, Lyra pulls the readers attention in a magnetic way. Outstanding!
If you are an ardent romance enthusiast with the swoon-worthy tropes of fake dating to real feelings, passion and a sizzling romance then this book should be on your reading list.
When Weston's ex stirs up some pretty chaotic events, Weston Calloway proposes Carlee to become his fake girlfriend and then his roommate. Love was never in plans but fate has its own path. And Carlee and Weston are about to ramp it up to a double notch.
The friend situation was absolutely amazing. I loved the chemistry and dynamics between the protagonists. I gobbled up this book within a day and I do not regret it one bit. Weston and Carlee complimented each other perfectly. And the other characters were well fleshed out too. The plot was executed in an engaging way and trust me this book will give you that butterflies in the stomach kinda feelings. I loved the entire novel however the second half of the book is my absolute favourite. Lyra you are fantastic! As an author who pours her heart out in the characters, Lyra pulls the readers attention in a magnetic way. Outstanding!
If you are an ardent romance enthusiast with the swoon-worthy tropes of fake dating to real feelings, passion and a sizzling romance then this book should be on your reading list.
November 30, 2025
Weston and Carlee
This was the second book in the Billionaire Situation Series by Lyra Parish, a new to me author and I am loving her!
If you're a fan of your romance with banter, humor, sweet, past heartbreak and some spice (this one had a lot), then look no further. You're going to love this series and author.
We met most of the characters in this book in the first one, but now we really get to know Weston and Carlee. Weston is Easton's identical twin, they're both gorgeous, charming billionaires.
Carlee has a more humble profession and also dables in writing about the rich and famous.
They attempt to convince everyone and themselves that they're just friends, but they aren't convincing anyone, let alone themselves. Will they admit their growing feelings and their attraction, or remain just friends and find someone else? Will their family and friends meddle in their lives to push them together?
This was the second book in the Billionaire Situation Series by Lyra Parish, a new to me author and I am loving her!
If you're a fan of your romance with banter, humor, sweet, past heartbreak and some spice (this one had a lot), then look no further. You're going to love this series and author.
We met most of the characters in this book in the first one, but now we really get to know Weston and Carlee. Weston is Easton's identical twin, they're both gorgeous, charming billionaires.
Carlee has a more humble profession and also dables in writing about the rich and famous.
They attempt to convince everyone and themselves that they're just friends, but they aren't convincing anyone, let alone themselves. Will they admit their growing feelings and their attraction, or remain just friends and find someone else? Will their family and friends meddle in their lives to push them together?
May 20, 2025
So much of this book was spent with head games. Weston and Carlee would both verbalize something, and then we'd get the other's POV saying they didn't mean what they were saying. It was either a test for the opposite person, they meant the opposite, or they were lying to themselves and the other person "knew the truth". It was exhausting and confusing.
I also didn't like how often Weston was pulling strings behind the scenes. Some of his big confessions at the end should have resulted in a stronger response from Carlee. He's a master manipulator and I don't like that trait.
I also didn't like how often Weston was pulling strings behind the scenes. Some of his big confessions at the end should have resulted in a stronger response from Carlee. He's a master manipulator and I don't like that trait.
May 21, 2025
deceptive star scale
I liked this story more than The Wife Situation, really enjoyed the whole premise! However the writing seemed even more redundant. I already own the next 2, but may pause before proceeding to maximize my enjoyment.
I liked this story more than The Wife Situation, really enjoyed the whole premise! However the writing seemed even more redundant. I already own the next 2, but may pause before proceeding to maximize my enjoyment.
March 2, 2025
It was ok
I really regret leaving this kind of a review. I normally just don’t rate and leave a review. But if I don’t set expectations, it’s my fault.
I liked the story. Problem was there wasn’t much of it. It was maybe half story the rest was of them thinking about or having sex. I skipped whole chapters.
I have nothing against sex in the story, but come on. It can take away from a good story when it’s half the plot.
I really regret leaving this kind of a review. I normally just don’t rate and leave a review. But if I don’t set expectations, it’s my fault.
I liked the story. Problem was there wasn’t much of it. It was maybe half story the rest was of them thinking about or having sex. I skipped whole chapters.
I have nothing against sex in the story, but come on. It can take away from a good story when it’s half the plot.
February 26, 2025
O.M.G
If the rest of the series follow suit to this then seriously they are going to be amazing! You literally get a little piece of everything in this book with a ton of hot bedroom (and not bedroom) scenes.
I love Weston and Carlee's story so much. It is best friends to lovers but Weston was in love with Carlee it seems like from day 1. Watching this unfold and then how the end up, I literally cried at the end. PLUS there is awesome tie in to Lyra's Merryville books which I wasn't expecting.
Amazing yet again by Lyra 😍 Thank you to her and her team to provide an ARC for an honest review
If the rest of the series follow suit to this then seriously they are going to be amazing! You literally get a little piece of everything in this book with a ton of hot bedroom (and not bedroom) scenes.
I love Weston and Carlee's story so much. It is best friends to lovers but Weston was in love with Carlee it seems like from day 1. Watching this unfold and then how the end up, I literally cried at the end. PLUS there is awesome tie in to Lyra's Merryville books which I wasn't expecting.
Amazing yet again by Lyra 😍 Thank you to her and her team to provide an ARC for an honest review
March 11, 2025
I recall liking the first one well enough and I was looking forward to reading this one but I could write a novel on why I didn’t like it.
***SPOILERS BELOW***
-a 40 year old man regularly using the term bestie gives me the ick.
-I really disliked Carlee’s character. And the entire time she’s basically in a relationship with Weston and clearly in love with him while denying her feelings and saying she can’t fall in love. It was mentioned many times. It got old real quick
-a section of 100 pages where literally nothing that happens adds any value to the story. Cut that and 10 of the 50 sex scenes out and this book could’ve been much shorter
-once Carlee stops being stupid and acknowledges her feelings they’re saying “is this love?, I love you, you’re the love of my life, couldn’t love you more” etc every 2 seconds for tons of pages. Then getting married and talking about babies 2 seconds later.
-the whole thing with the ex wife trying to murder him at the tree farm felt like an afterthought and out of place. Her whole involvement in the story actually felt unnecessary
-IMO Carlee and Weston’s words and actions seemed like that of two people in their 20s. A lot of it felt immature and cringey. She’s 30 and he’s 40. Act like adults please.
- and this is dumb but can someone be 5 months pregnant with triplets and no one notices? I’m not a baby expert but I’m sure she’d be showing?
Lastly, did we ever find out who stole her laptop? I did start skimming when there was maybe 150 pages left so maybe I missed it? I didn’t see any more mention of the laptop?
***SPOILERS BELOW***
-a 40 year old man regularly using the term bestie gives me the ick.
-I really disliked Carlee’s character. And the entire time she’s basically in a relationship with Weston and clearly in love with him while denying her feelings and saying she can’t fall in love. It was mentioned many times. It got old real quick
-a section of 100 pages where literally nothing that happens adds any value to the story. Cut that and 10 of the 50 sex scenes out and this book could’ve been much shorter
-once Carlee stops being stupid and acknowledges her feelings they’re saying “is this love?, I love you, you’re the love of my life, couldn’t love you more” etc every 2 seconds for tons of pages. Then getting married and talking about babies 2 seconds later.
-the whole thing with the ex wife trying to murder him at the tree farm felt like an afterthought and out of place. Her whole involvement in the story actually felt unnecessary
-IMO Carlee and Weston’s words and actions seemed like that of two people in their 20s. A lot of it felt immature and cringey. She’s 30 and he’s 40. Act like adults please.
- and this is dumb but can someone be 5 months pregnant with triplets and no one notices? I’m not a baby expert but I’m sure she’d be showing?
Lastly, did we ever find out who stole her laptop? I did start skimming when there was maybe 150 pages left so maybe I missed it? I didn’t see any more mention of the laptop?
March 3, 2025
Book two is here, featuring Weston and Carlee. As you may recall from the Wife Situation storyline, Easton is Weston’s twin brother. Carlee and Weston’s involvement facilitated their relationship. Because of their close working relationship to ensure that HEA, Weston and Carlee formed a secret friendship, a situation with a foreseeable conclusion. With the clandestine meetings, shared living, and undeniable chemistry between them were clear to all, yet they persistently denied any romantic involvement. I appreciate the gradual development of the relationship, the underlying tension, and the sizzling and entertaining move from friendship to HEA in this one.
I am looking forward to what is next! I received an ARC of this story (thank you) and happily leave my review.
I am looking forward to what is next! I received an ARC of this story (thank you) and happily leave my review.
February 28, 2025
Thank you so much Lyra Parish, for giving me the absolute beautiful opportunity to delve into another ARC for your new upcoming Billionaire Romance Novel🩵💍💋✨
“The Friend Situation”
The Second Installment In The-
“Billionaire Situation Book Series”
7⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️READ!!! I am absolutely OBSESSED with this book hands-down🤩I devoured the book cover to cover, I was so caught up in the story I couldn't put it down until I knew the ending especially the way Lyra Parish, dives you straight into her characters and their atmosphere with ease showcasing her profound talent as an author!
The way she writes this book beautifully it draws you into a richly cinematic detailed world and unfolds smoothly, weaving the pages and chapters together in a way that makes you truly and deeply love it endlessly and even more the way Lyra Parish, crafts her stories of fake relationships, friends to lovers, luxury romance, and the guy falling deeply in love first AKA Head over heels!!!-(I actually NEED
Weston Calloway💋✨ In Real Life)
I seriously cannot wait for the 3rd installment especially after that ending🤩✨
“The Friend Situation,” Stars two profound captivating main characters who’s endless banters will gravel you at your feet making you utterly crave more for it to not to end🤩
(✨🩵Carlee Jolly & Weston Calloway🩵✨)
Lyra Parish begins the journey of her characters lives when-
Weston Calloway, was the last man on earth Carlee, envisioned meeting after another humdrum breakup. But fate had a surprise in store, and she stumbles upon him in a dive bar, savoring cheap whiskey, embodying the essence of her next tantalizing misstep. Rather than a one-night stand, they developed a hidden friendship. Weston’s jealous ex sparks drama, prompting Weston to propose they go public with their friendship. However, the situation quickly gets out of hand. The next thing they know, they’re roomies, and Carlee’s wearing a diamond ring Weston unexpectedly gave Carlee. The game is fun, but they have one non-negotiable rule: no falling in love👀
And the only way to find out how this unexpected love story unfolds you will have to read “The Friend Situation” ASAP!!!🤩But Lyra Parish, doesn’t just delivers us such an amazing plot in this book etc she also does for her two main characters who you will fall in love with from the very first chapter🩷✨
Weston Calloway💋✨My entire new obsession!!
And new favorite book boyfriend and everything & more all in one♥️✨He carries the essence of being such a beautiful character!! Though he may seem rugged at first glance, his true nature is a quintessential golden retriever at heart that’s so sweet and loving especially when he's with his gorgeous Firefly-(Carlee) The love of his beautiful life🥹Always & Forever🫶🏼Weston’s charm and charismatic persona makes him even more special✨leaving me to admire the author's work even more as she created his character and putting the thoughtful development of Weston's character. He has faced numerous challenges, yet he continues to push forward endlessly and his growth throughout the story is so heartwarming & heartfelt and inspiring each page!! And he gets even better with his personality!! Which is hands down one of the most attractive things about him!! The way he prioritizes Carlee's needs and constantly shows his care and affection is seriously gorgeous & swoon-worthy🥹Weston has always had her back since day one! and wants to know everything about her. it's clear as day he's all about giving her the love and care she deserves with dedications to making her happy & constantly seeking affection between the both of them✨speaks so many volumes and words in his character making him the absolute perfect book boyfriend to always love and cherish🥹♥️
Carlee🩷My absolute favorite leading lady is a total powerhouse, bringing a bold and feisty spirit to her character that's both mesmerizing and maddening, that drives everyone sometimes crazy but draws her lovers boy attention endlessly as he always craves her like there’s no tomorrow🥹She consistently embodies her personality with passion that aligns with a captivating presence that is truly remarkable and profoundly influential as she navigates through every obstacle, and continues to strive at her finest, and you even see her development and determination in each new chapter!! with unwavering resolve and tenacity that are genuinely inspiring every step of the way! You also get to love her even more with her intense love and sincere adoration for her lovely Weston, that is so remarkably heartwarming and enthralling, and it’s delicately lovely & beautifully phrased 24/7 as you delved into each page that you literally cannot get enough of their profound happily ever after love story relationship🥹
“You woke me up and freed me. You saw me. And to be seen—to really be seen—is one of the most intimate experiences I’ve ever had with another person. I see you too, gorgeous. I will always take care of you.”
-Weston Calloway💋✨ Ladies & Gentleman✨
“The Friend Situation”
The Second Installment In The-
“Billionaire Situation Book Series”
7⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️READ!!! I am absolutely OBSESSED with this book hands-down🤩I devoured the book cover to cover, I was so caught up in the story I couldn't put it down until I knew the ending especially the way Lyra Parish, dives you straight into her characters and their atmosphere with ease showcasing her profound talent as an author!
The way she writes this book beautifully it draws you into a richly cinematic detailed world and unfolds smoothly, weaving the pages and chapters together in a way that makes you truly and deeply love it endlessly and even more the way Lyra Parish, crafts her stories of fake relationships, friends to lovers, luxury romance, and the guy falling deeply in love first AKA Head over heels!!!-(I actually NEED
Weston Calloway💋✨ In Real Life)
I seriously cannot wait for the 3rd installment especially after that ending🤩✨
“The Friend Situation,” Stars two profound captivating main characters who’s endless banters will gravel you at your feet making you utterly crave more for it to not to end🤩
(✨🩵Carlee Jolly & Weston Calloway🩵✨)
Lyra Parish begins the journey of her characters lives when-
Weston Calloway, was the last man on earth Carlee, envisioned meeting after another humdrum breakup. But fate had a surprise in store, and she stumbles upon him in a dive bar, savoring cheap whiskey, embodying the essence of her next tantalizing misstep. Rather than a one-night stand, they developed a hidden friendship. Weston’s jealous ex sparks drama, prompting Weston to propose they go public with their friendship. However, the situation quickly gets out of hand. The next thing they know, they’re roomies, and Carlee’s wearing a diamond ring Weston unexpectedly gave Carlee. The game is fun, but they have one non-negotiable rule: no falling in love👀
And the only way to find out how this unexpected love story unfolds you will have to read “The Friend Situation” ASAP!!!🤩But Lyra Parish, doesn’t just delivers us such an amazing plot in this book etc she also does for her two main characters who you will fall in love with from the very first chapter🩷✨
Weston Calloway💋✨My entire new obsession!!
And new favorite book boyfriend and everything & more all in one♥️✨He carries the essence of being such a beautiful character!! Though he may seem rugged at first glance, his true nature is a quintessential golden retriever at heart that’s so sweet and loving especially when he's with his gorgeous Firefly-(Carlee) The love of his beautiful life🥹Always & Forever🫶🏼Weston’s charm and charismatic persona makes him even more special✨leaving me to admire the author's work even more as she created his character and putting the thoughtful development of Weston's character. He has faced numerous challenges, yet he continues to push forward endlessly and his growth throughout the story is so heartwarming & heartfelt and inspiring each page!! And he gets even better with his personality!! Which is hands down one of the most attractive things about him!! The way he prioritizes Carlee's needs and constantly shows his care and affection is seriously gorgeous & swoon-worthy🥹Weston has always had her back since day one! and wants to know everything about her. it's clear as day he's all about giving her the love and care she deserves with dedications to making her happy & constantly seeking affection between the both of them✨speaks so many volumes and words in his character making him the absolute perfect book boyfriend to always love and cherish🥹♥️
Carlee🩷My absolute favorite leading lady is a total powerhouse, bringing a bold and feisty spirit to her character that's both mesmerizing and maddening, that drives everyone sometimes crazy but draws her lovers boy attention endlessly as he always craves her like there’s no tomorrow🥹She consistently embodies her personality with passion that aligns with a captivating presence that is truly remarkable and profoundly influential as she navigates through every obstacle, and continues to strive at her finest, and you even see her development and determination in each new chapter!! with unwavering resolve and tenacity that are genuinely inspiring every step of the way! You also get to love her even more with her intense love and sincere adoration for her lovely Weston, that is so remarkably heartwarming and enthralling, and it’s delicately lovely & beautifully phrased 24/7 as you delved into each page that you literally cannot get enough of their profound happily ever after love story relationship🥹
“You woke me up and freed me. You saw me. And to be seen—to really be seen—is one of the most intimate experiences I’ve ever had with another person. I see you too, gorgeous. I will always take care of you.”
-Weston Calloway💋✨ Ladies & Gentleman✨
March 1, 2025
Rating: 5/5⭐️ Spice:4/5🌶️
Tropes:
💍 Friends to lovers
💍 Billionaire
💍 He falls first
💍 Spice
💍 Fake engagement
💍 No 3rd act breakup
💍 Small town girl & city boy
💍 Romantic comedy
Let me just say I absolutely love Lyra Parish, every single book I’ve read of hers I’ve fallen in love with her characters! Her characters are always so sweet, cute, swoony, and relatable and you can’t help but love them. Lyra creates some of the best storylines that make me want to devour it in a day.
In this book we get Carlee and Weston’s love story. You remember Carlee and Weston from The Wife Situation and how they brought Lexi and Easton together, quite the matchmakers except for themselves. Carlee as we know is Lexi’s best friend and Weston is Easton’s twin brother. These two are the epitome of soulmates, 2 people that are meant to be together. The chemistry and the friendship between Weston and Carlee was so well written. The way that they were constantly there for each other, even in the shadows. They had each other’s backs and respected each other. They both have baggage from and trauma from previous relationships so being patient, kind, and loving towards each other helped them break through the trauma and drop that baggage, while slowly falling in love. The flirty banter throughout the entire book was epic. They had me swooning as well as laughing out loud. The way Carlee and Weston dance around their feelings, only wanting to believe that they are besties; afraid to cross the line made me want to shake both of them, but it made for some amazing tension filled scenes. The side characters were amazing, supportive and meddling and will have you cheering them on and loving them.
I loved how they took it slow, they’ve both been burned in the past and they are afraid they are broken and not worthy. Watching them go from friends, to friends with benefits to lovers was epic! The banter back and forth was phenomenal. They were falling in love with each other for over a year disguised as besties. I loved watching Carlee finally realize her feelings, stop denying them, and saying YES! Taking control of her life.
To say I’m obsessed with this book and Carlee and Weston is an understatement. This book was pure perfection; it was sweet, funny, spicy, romantic everything you’d want in your romance read. If you haven’t started this series yet, what are you waiting for, go grab The Wife Situation and then afterwards The Friend Situation, you WILL NOT be disappointed.
Thank you to Lyra Parish for this ARC.
Tropes:
💍 Friends to lovers
💍 Billionaire
💍 He falls first
💍 Spice
💍 Fake engagement
💍 No 3rd act breakup
💍 Small town girl & city boy
💍 Romantic comedy
Let me just say I absolutely love Lyra Parish, every single book I’ve read of hers I’ve fallen in love with her characters! Her characters are always so sweet, cute, swoony, and relatable and you can’t help but love them. Lyra creates some of the best storylines that make me want to devour it in a day.
In this book we get Carlee and Weston’s love story. You remember Carlee and Weston from The Wife Situation and how they brought Lexi and Easton together, quite the matchmakers except for themselves. Carlee as we know is Lexi’s best friend and Weston is Easton’s twin brother. These two are the epitome of soulmates, 2 people that are meant to be together. The chemistry and the friendship between Weston and Carlee was so well written. The way that they were constantly there for each other, even in the shadows. They had each other’s backs and respected each other. They both have baggage from and trauma from previous relationships so being patient, kind, and loving towards each other helped them break through the trauma and drop that baggage, while slowly falling in love. The flirty banter throughout the entire book was epic. They had me swooning as well as laughing out loud. The way Carlee and Weston dance around their feelings, only wanting to believe that they are besties; afraid to cross the line made me want to shake both of them, but it made for some amazing tension filled scenes. The side characters were amazing, supportive and meddling and will have you cheering them on and loving them.
I loved how they took it slow, they’ve both been burned in the past and they are afraid they are broken and not worthy. Watching them go from friends, to friends with benefits to lovers was epic! The banter back and forth was phenomenal. They were falling in love with each other for over a year disguised as besties. I loved watching Carlee finally realize her feelings, stop denying them, and saying YES! Taking control of her life.
To say I’m obsessed with this book and Carlee and Weston is an understatement. This book was pure perfection; it was sweet, funny, spicy, romantic everything you’d want in your romance read. If you haven’t started this series yet, what are you waiting for, go grab The Wife Situation and then afterwards The Friend Situation, you WILL NOT be disappointed.
Thank you to Lyra Parish for this ARC.
March 13, 2025
ARC REVIEW
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Friend Situation by Lyra Parish is pure PERFECTION! 😍🔥 As the second book in the Billionaire Situation series, it completely captivated me from start to finish. While it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with book one to get the full experience! From the very first page, I was HOOKED—I couldn’t put it down! 🤩 Lyra Parish, you have truly outdone yourself with this one! I don’t know what kind of ✨magic✨ you put in these pages, but I am OBSESSED! 😭💖
Carlee & Weston = ENDGAME! 💍💋 Their friendship before romance was EVERYTHING—natural, heartwarming, and full of tension that kept me on edge. Their chemistry? ABSOLUTELY ON FIRE! 🔥🥵 Once things heated up, they REALLY heated up—Weston and Carlee could NOT keep their hands off each other, and I was living for it! 😏💃 Weston isn’t just a billionaire book boyfriend; he’s sweet, thoughtful, and completely head over heels for Carlee. And Carlee? A total QUEEN 👑—strong, independent, and completely lovable. Together, they were pure magic! ✨
The fake dating trope was chef’s kiss 💋💯—it didn’t feel forced or unnecessary, it made total sense for their story! The mix of tension, humor, and swoon-worthy moments had me flipping pages like crazy! 📖💨 AND THE SIDE CHARACTERS?! 🥰 So fun, supportive, and meddling in the best way! Plus, the tie-in with the Very Merry series was such a fun little treat! 🎁🎄
The writing? STELLAR. ⭐ Addictive, smooth, and so immersive that I could’ve read another 500 pages and STILL wanted more! 😭 And let’s be real—the only thing that had me questioning reality was Weston’s ability to party like a 20-year-old at 40… because sir, HOW?! 🤣🍻 But honestly, that just made him even more entertaining!
Overall, this is hands-down one of the BEST billionaire romances I’ve EVER read! 💰💖 If you love:
✨ Friends-to-lovers
🔥 Fake dating done RIGHT
💍 Billionaire romance
💘 The “guy falls first” trope
…then you NEED this book in your life! 📚💖
Lyra Parish, THANK YOU for giving us this masterpiece—I need book 3 like, YESTERDAY! 😭🔥✨
#TheFriendSituation #LyraParish #BillionaireRomance #FriendsToLovers #FakeDatingDoneRight #Obsessed #BookBoyfriendGoals #WestonCallowayILoveYou #SwoonWorthy #RomanceReaders #SpicyReads
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Friend Situation by Lyra Parish is pure PERFECTION! 😍🔥 As the second book in the Billionaire Situation series, it completely captivated me from start to finish. While it can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with book one to get the full experience! From the very first page, I was HOOKED—I couldn’t put it down! 🤩 Lyra Parish, you have truly outdone yourself with this one! I don’t know what kind of ✨magic✨ you put in these pages, but I am OBSESSED! 😭💖
Carlee & Weston = ENDGAME! 💍💋 Their friendship before romance was EVERYTHING—natural, heartwarming, and full of tension that kept me on edge. Their chemistry? ABSOLUTELY ON FIRE! 🔥🥵 Once things heated up, they REALLY heated up—Weston and Carlee could NOT keep their hands off each other, and I was living for it! 😏💃 Weston isn’t just a billionaire book boyfriend; he’s sweet, thoughtful, and completely head over heels for Carlee. And Carlee? A total QUEEN 👑—strong, independent, and completely lovable. Together, they were pure magic! ✨
The fake dating trope was chef’s kiss 💋💯—it didn’t feel forced or unnecessary, it made total sense for their story! The mix of tension, humor, and swoon-worthy moments had me flipping pages like crazy! 📖💨 AND THE SIDE CHARACTERS?! 🥰 So fun, supportive, and meddling in the best way! Plus, the tie-in with the Very Merry series was such a fun little treat! 🎁🎄
The writing? STELLAR. ⭐ Addictive, smooth, and so immersive that I could’ve read another 500 pages and STILL wanted more! 😭 And let’s be real—the only thing that had me questioning reality was Weston’s ability to party like a 20-year-old at 40… because sir, HOW?! 🤣🍻 But honestly, that just made him even more entertaining!
Overall, this is hands-down one of the BEST billionaire romances I’ve EVER read! 💰💖 If you love:
✨ Friends-to-lovers
🔥 Fake dating done RIGHT
💍 Billionaire romance
💘 The “guy falls first” trope
…then you NEED this book in your life! 📚💖
Lyra Parish, THANK YOU for giving us this masterpiece—I need book 3 like, YESTERDAY! 😭🔥✨
#TheFriendSituation #LyraParish #BillionaireRomance #FriendsToLovers #FakeDatingDoneRight #Obsessed #BookBoyfriendGoals #WestonCallowayILoveYou #SwoonWorthy #RomanceReaders #SpicyReads
June 17, 2025
devouring this series one book at a time. I’m truly obsessed. Lyra killed it ! 🔥🩷✨
I’m left speechless once again by Lyra’s storytelling. Each book has been amazingly sweet and captivating. “The Friend Situation” was no different. This slow burn was torture, but it was so delicious.
I love friends-to-lovers stories. I also love it when one person is always waiting for the other to realize that their perfect match has been right in front of them all along. I’ve always found friends-to-lovers to be one of the most emotional, intense, and beautiful tropes. The love is already there, but it’s something else when you start moving into different territory. They’re always wrestling with feelings and actions, and they don’t want to screw everything up.“The Friend Situation” was a little more frustrating than the other books in the series. There was a lot more teasing, a lot more slow burn, and a lot more feeling like you need to scream at the book and characters to wake up! (Lol.) Weston has truly met his match. I love that these boys continue to surprise me. To the public, they maintain an image, but privately , they’re completely rid of the character they play. . Weston is so in love with Carlee, but is terrified of giving his heart away after his ex-wife used and abused him. Carlee battles her own insecurities, so a friendship Is what they settle for until their love and feelings grow. They’ve navigated it for over a year. Hiding it from everyone one they know while also harboring some secrets together
With neither one of them is wanting to make the first move it’s up for outside forces to push them. . Everyone knows and sees it, but the two people at hand. When Weston finally realizes he’s in love with your best friend all best are off as he tries to show Carlee what’s in front her. It’s what makes this book so sweet. To have both a friendship and a relationship the way Carlee and Weston do makes me long for something like it. A true equal match to each other in every category. It’s divine intervention at its finest.
Carlee and Weston’s love story is just as beautiful as his brother and sister’s. This book will make your heart flutter, smile to your cheeks hurt, heat you up, laugh, and fall in love along with the characters. This story doesn’t disappoint. Lyra Parish didn’t mess around with this series. This series has truly been one of my favorite series I’ve ever read.
I’m left speechless once again by Lyra’s storytelling. Each book has been amazingly sweet and captivating. “The Friend Situation” was no different. This slow burn was torture, but it was so delicious.
I love friends-to-lovers stories. I also love it when one person is always waiting for the other to realize that their perfect match has been right in front of them all along. I’ve always found friends-to-lovers to be one of the most emotional, intense, and beautiful tropes. The love is already there, but it’s something else when you start moving into different territory. They’re always wrestling with feelings and actions, and they don’t want to screw everything up.“The Friend Situation” was a little more frustrating than the other books in the series. There was a lot more teasing, a lot more slow burn, and a lot more feeling like you need to scream at the book and characters to wake up! (Lol.) Weston has truly met his match. I love that these boys continue to surprise me. To the public, they maintain an image, but privately , they’re completely rid of the character they play. . Weston is so in love with Carlee, but is terrified of giving his heart away after his ex-wife used and abused him. Carlee battles her own insecurities, so a friendship Is what they settle for until their love and feelings grow. They’ve navigated it for over a year. Hiding it from everyone one they know while also harboring some secrets together
With neither one of them is wanting to make the first move it’s up for outside forces to push them. . Everyone knows and sees it, but the two people at hand. When Weston finally realizes he’s in love with your best friend all best are off as he tries to show Carlee what’s in front her. It’s what makes this book so sweet. To have both a friendship and a relationship the way Carlee and Weston do makes me long for something like it. A true equal match to each other in every category. It’s divine intervention at its finest.
Carlee and Weston’s love story is just as beautiful as his brother and sister’s. This book will make your heart flutter, smile to your cheeks hurt, heat you up, laugh, and fall in love along with the characters. This story doesn’t disappoint. Lyra Parish didn’t mess around with this series. This series has truly been one of my favorite series I’ve ever read.
June 10, 2025
⭐️ARC REVIEW⭐️
The Friend Situation by @lyraparish
4.5 ⭐ / 3🔥🌶
I just love Lyra Parish. This is my 3rd or 4th book by her and every one I think just makes me fall in love with her writing more every time. The Friend Situation is Book 2 in her The Billionaire Situation Series. Weston and Carlee are the cutest thing I’ve ever read! They were complete strangers who hit if off in the bar after Weston figures out who Carlee is. They start out as innocent friends, who scheme to set up his Twin Brother with her best friend in book 1.
Weston needs emotional, romantic and public eye saving. Carlee needs to learn to love and trust. Their friendship continues to grow and we get to witness the swooniness, the banter, the induendos, the sexual tension and a love neither one of them realized they needed, blossom into what has to be one of my favorite “friends to lovers” journey!!!
Their adventure to “save/help” each other is everything! You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you won’t want to put the story down. Just like their friendship, this book was everything I did not know I needed. I read it in less than 32 hours and soaked up every minute of it. I’ve even read multiple chapters over because “hmmm” it’s just that good!
Lyra Parish executes the best stories over and over, and although there are similarities in each story, every single time Lyra puts pen to paper or fingers to keyboard she’s bound to create another story that has you coming back over and over again!
Spicy, sweet, swoony, funny, and everything in between! Add The Friend Situation to your TBR today! Trust me you will not be disappointed!
Thank you @layraparish for my ARC.
#arc #arcreview #angrycatreads #angyrcatreviews #lyraparish #billionairesituationseries #thefriendsituation #bestfriendstolovers #differentworlds #spicyandsweet #allthefeels
The Friend Situation by @lyraparish
4.5 ⭐ / 3🔥🌶
I just love Lyra Parish. This is my 3rd or 4th book by her and every one I think just makes me fall in love with her writing more every time. The Friend Situation is Book 2 in her The Billionaire Situation Series. Weston and Carlee are the cutest thing I’ve ever read! They were complete strangers who hit if off in the bar after Weston figures out who Carlee is. They start out as innocent friends, who scheme to set up his Twin Brother with her best friend in book 1.
Weston needs emotional, romantic and public eye saving. Carlee needs to learn to love and trust. Their friendship continues to grow and we get to witness the swooniness, the banter, the induendos, the sexual tension and a love neither one of them realized they needed, blossom into what has to be one of my favorite “friends to lovers” journey!!!
Their adventure to “save/help” each other is everything! You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you won’t want to put the story down. Just like their friendship, this book was everything I did not know I needed. I read it in less than 32 hours and soaked up every minute of it. I’ve even read multiple chapters over because “hmmm” it’s just that good!
Lyra Parish executes the best stories over and over, and although there are similarities in each story, every single time Lyra puts pen to paper or fingers to keyboard she’s bound to create another story that has you coming back over and over again!
Spicy, sweet, swoony, funny, and everything in between! Add The Friend Situation to your TBR today! Trust me you will not be disappointed!
Thank you @layraparish for my ARC.
#arc #arcreview #angrycatreads #angyrcatreviews #lyraparish #billionairesituationseries #thefriendsituation #bestfriendstolovers #differentworlds #spicyandsweet #allthefeels
February 28, 2025
Weston Calloway is a billionaire, he’s smooth and polished and he and his twin brother Easton, always get what they want. Except Weston wants Carlee Jolly, his best and secret friend. Carlee is his sister in law Lexi’s best friend, he co-conspired with her to connect Easton and Lexi and help them get their happy ever after.
Ever since then, he’s wanted Carlee, but she’s not good at relationships. Being in love scares her after getting her heart broken so she runs away from anything serious. Weston can be patient, he was married once but it ended badly, this time he wants the real deal.
I loved the banter between Carlee and Weston, their sexual chemistry was through the roof and they both knew how to play the other one so they got what they each wanted. Weston gave a good impression of the filthy rich playboy but deep down he just wanted companionship, especially if it came with the sizzle that Carlee gave him.
Carlee thought she knew Weston well after writing about him in her showbiz blog for years, but as their relationship progressed from friends to lovers, she found hidden layers to him which also helped her deal with her own demons.
I didn’t actually connect the surname Jolly to the Very Merry series until they went to visit Carlee’s family and I remembered all the wonderful characters from her previous books, in particular Mawmaw, the fiesty grandmother and ruler of the clan.
Ever since then, he’s wanted Carlee, but she’s not good at relationships. Being in love scares her after getting her heart broken so she runs away from anything serious. Weston can be patient, he was married once but it ended badly, this time he wants the real deal.
I loved the banter between Carlee and Weston, their sexual chemistry was through the roof and they both knew how to play the other one so they got what they each wanted. Weston gave a good impression of the filthy rich playboy but deep down he just wanted companionship, especially if it came with the sizzle that Carlee gave him.
Carlee thought she knew Weston well after writing about him in her showbiz blog for years, but as their relationship progressed from friends to lovers, she found hidden layers to him which also helped her deal with her own demons.
I didn’t actually connect the surname Jolly to the Very Merry series until they went to visit Carlee’s family and I remembered all the wonderful characters from her previous books, in particular Mawmaw, the fiesty grandmother and ruler of the clan.
February 28, 2025
Seriously, wow. Let's just talk about the chemistry between Carlee and Weston for a sec. It was off the charts. From page one, it was just this constant, delicious build-up of flirty banter, and honestly, I was a total mess of giddy smiles and butterflies. My stomach was doing flips, no joke.
The Friend Situation is the second book in the Billionaire Situation series, and while you could read it alone, trust me, you'll get way more out of it if you've read The Wife Situation first. You get some backstory and it will be a more enjoyable reading experience.
Carlee and Weston's "friendship" was just adorable. They're best friends, BFFs, and it's so genuine. It's not your typical friends with benefits or fake dating trope, either. It felt fresh and fun. They really cared about each other, and it showed.
I loved the invisible string revelations that were revealed throughout the story. It was so clever and made me smile from ear to ear. I loved it! It was just a feel good, smile inducing read from start to finish. I was grinning throughout the whole book.
And now I'm already dying for Billie and Asher's book. If it's even half as good as this one, we're in for a treat. Seriously, if you want a sweet, flirty, and totally swoon worthy romance, grab this one. You won't regret it.
Thank you to Lyra Parrish for an ARC of this book! I voluntarily read it and gave an honest review.
4.5 out of 5 stars rounded up to 5.
The Friend Situation is the second book in the Billionaire Situation series, and while you could read it alone, trust me, you'll get way more out of it if you've read The Wife Situation first. You get some backstory and it will be a more enjoyable reading experience.
Carlee and Weston's "friendship" was just adorable. They're best friends, BFFs, and it's so genuine. It's not your typical friends with benefits or fake dating trope, either. It felt fresh and fun. They really cared about each other, and it showed.
I loved the invisible string revelations that were revealed throughout the story. It was so clever and made me smile from ear to ear. I loved it! It was just a feel good, smile inducing read from start to finish. I was grinning throughout the whole book.
And now I'm already dying for Billie and Asher's book. If it's even half as good as this one, we're in for a treat. Seriously, if you want a sweet, flirty, and totally swoon worthy romance, grab this one. You won't regret it.
Thank you to Lyra Parrish for an ARC of this book! I voluntarily read it and gave an honest review.
4.5 out of 5 stars rounded up to 5.
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