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Holliday Family #1
Eye Candy
He's a strict and stuffy ethics blogger who loves knitwear and decorum.
I'm a professional seductress who breaks all the rules.
When my last chance at a paying burlesque gig in New York ends in humiliation, I accept a sketchy job impersonating an heiress to ruin the reputation of a trust-fund dudebro. The problem is the dudebro’s older brother, who isn't proving susceptible to my (many) wiles.
But the more time I spend with Chase Sanford, the more I think there's more to him that meets the eye. He’s not as boring and sexually repressed as everyone believes. Beneath the glasses, and the cardigans, and the excessive wealth ... Chase is nursing some deep wounds and a serious case of Stern-Brunch-Daddy-itis.
Things go from bad to worse when I brat him too far and *things* happen on top of the bar at an upscale club.
The spark between us could ruin my career and send me and my pink sequin luggage back to parochial New Zealand. I tell myself I'll get out, I’ll wash my hands of the Sanford brothers, and go back to minding my broke-a$$ business. But Chase Sanford and his particular brand of goodness is like a drug, and I'm so hooked I can't see straight.
We're from different worlds. The trust fund guy might bang the downtown showgirl, but he’ll never keep her.
... So what could be the harm?
Eye Candy is an opposites-attract SPICY ROMCOM. It’s Burlesque meets Pretty Woman; perfect for fans of It Happened One Summer and Icebreaker.
"Steamy and satisfying." –USA Today bestselling author LENORA BELL.
"Hilarious, heartwarming & deliciously spicy." Pacific Passions author COURTNEY CLARK MICHAELS.
"Divinely Feminist." GOODREADS review of Eyes On.
I'm a professional seductress who breaks all the rules.
When my last chance at a paying burlesque gig in New York ends in humiliation, I accept a sketchy job impersonating an heiress to ruin the reputation of a trust-fund dudebro. The problem is the dudebro’s older brother, who isn't proving susceptible to my (many) wiles.
But the more time I spend with Chase Sanford, the more I think there's more to him that meets the eye. He’s not as boring and sexually repressed as everyone believes. Beneath the glasses, and the cardigans, and the excessive wealth ... Chase is nursing some deep wounds and a serious case of Stern-Brunch-Daddy-itis.
Things go from bad to worse when I brat him too far and *things* happen on top of the bar at an upscale club.
The spark between us could ruin my career and send me and my pink sequin luggage back to parochial New Zealand. I tell myself I'll get out, I’ll wash my hands of the Sanford brothers, and go back to minding my broke-a$$ business. But Chase Sanford and his particular brand of goodness is like a drug, and I'm so hooked I can't see straight.
We're from different worlds. The trust fund guy might bang the downtown showgirl, but he’ll never keep her.
... So what could be the harm?
Eye Candy is an opposites-attract SPICY ROMCOM. It’s Burlesque meets Pretty Woman; perfect for fans of It Happened One Summer and Icebreaker.
"Steamy and satisfying." –USA Today bestselling author LENORA BELL.
"Hilarious, heartwarming & deliciously spicy." Pacific Passions author COURTNEY CLARK MICHAELS.
"Divinely Feminist." GOODREADS review of Eyes On.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 18, 2024
10 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
Esme Brett
10 books142 followersEsme Brett writes spicy romcoms that are horny, heartfelt, and hilarious. She is passionate about stories that intersect humour, heat, and take-no-bs feminism. Her areas of expertise include winged eyeliner, fits that clash, books that bang, peonies, and wine that’s less than 9 dollars. You can find her on Instagram and TikTok at @esmebrettbooks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
September 23, 2024
⭐️ 3 stars!!
𝓜𝓒𝓼:
Chase (34)
Caroline (29)
𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼/𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓔𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽:
💗 Burlesque dancer FMC
💗 Millionaire MMC
💗 Opposites attract
💗 Secret identity
💗 Insta-lust
💗 Less than 300 pages
💗 Spicy
𝓘𝓷𝓯𝓸:
Dual 1st person POV
Verbal sexual harassment (countered)
Slut-shaming (countered)
Parental loss (off page)
Slight ow drama (see note)
Slight om drama (see notes)
No cheating
No virgins (been a while for h & no manwhore)
Open door spice
Third-act breakup
Epilogue (9 months later - dating)
HEA
OWD: H brought a date to an event and the h got jealous, but nothing had happened between MCs yet. H told his date he wasn’t interested (he didn’t even play the friend’s card), and she wasn’t pushy or anything. There wasn’t really any drama, I would say.
OMD #1: H thought h was sleeping with someone, and it made him jealous. H was wrong; there hasn’t been anyone for her in a bit. Again, not really any drama.
OMD #2: h makes H jealous when he fucks up 😁 (no cheating)
𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼:
The first thing I have to say is I love the cover! It’s so cute and pink!!
I love Caroline 🫶🏻🩷
Chase is a feminist, and he even has a blog about it 🙌🏻🙌🏻
Chase is super supportive of her career!!
Finally, a MMC that’s not a freaking giant 😭
This story felt very real, the characters felt real, and even their problems felt realistic and even sometimes relatable. I had a fun time reading!
I really enjoyed the character growth.
The thing I didn’t like was how the MCs tried to address their issues and differences. I didn’t like how the they reacted, tried to “fix” things, and what they said in the heat of the moment. Especially the mmc. Some of the things he said really hurt (both were in the wrong though). I wish they would have just talked more and told each other how they felt, but they’re people, and people make mistakes 🤷♀️
I recommend giving this a try if these tropes interest you.
**Thank you to BookSirens and the author for this E-Arc in exchange for an honest review!**
.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.
𝓹𝓻𝓮-𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭
This looks interesting 👀
𝓜𝓒𝓼:
Chase (34)
Caroline (29)
𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼/𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓔𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽:
💗 Burlesque dancer FMC
💗 Millionaire MMC
💗 Opposites attract
💗 Secret identity
💗 Insta-lust
💗 Less than 300 pages
💗 Spicy
𝓘𝓷𝓯𝓸:
Dual 1st person POV
Verbal sexual harassment (countered)
Slut-shaming (countered)
Parental loss (off page)
Slight ow drama (see note)
Slight om drama (see notes)
No cheating
No virgins (been a while for h & no manwhore)
Open door spice
Third-act breakup
Epilogue (9 months later - dating)
HEA
OWD: H brought a date to an event and the h got jealous, but nothing had happened between MCs yet. H told his date he wasn’t interested (he didn’t even play the friend’s card), and she wasn’t pushy or anything. There wasn’t really any drama, I would say.
OMD #1: H thought h was sleeping with someone, and it made him jealous. H was wrong; there hasn’t been anyone for her in a bit. Again, not really any drama.
OMD #2: h makes H jealous when he fucks up 😁 (no cheating)
𝓜𝔂 𝓣𝓱𝓸𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓼:
The first thing I have to say is I love the cover! It’s so cute and pink!!
I love Caroline 🫶🏻🩷
Chase is a feminist, and he even has a blog about it 🙌🏻🙌🏻
Chase is super supportive of her career!!
Finally, a MMC that’s not a freaking giant 😭
This story felt very real, the characters felt real, and even their problems felt realistic and even sometimes relatable. I had a fun time reading!
I really enjoyed the character growth.
The thing I didn’t like was how the MCs tried to address their issues and differences. I didn’t like how the they reacted, tried to “fix” things, and what they said in the heat of the moment. Especially the mmc. Some of the things he said really hurt (both were in the wrong though). I wish they would have just talked more and told each other how they felt, but they’re people, and people make mistakes 🤷♀️
I recommend giving this a try if these tropes interest you.
**Thank you to BookSirens and the author for this E-Arc in exchange for an honest review!**
.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.
𝓹𝓻𝓮-𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭
This looks interesting 👀
September 23, 2024
This is a shorter read at under 300 pages and it's a fun romantic comedy, so this review is not going to be long and serious.
I love that the author is inclusive of body types, I love that she has been incredibly creative with the separators in her book and made punctuation art. ;)
This is totally my fault - I didn't realize this was a New Zealand author, so this is in slightly different English than I'm used to. The jokes and references are different as well, but this is a fun part of reading!
This book is definitely spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, I would give it a 4 on my spicy scale.
The author even put text bubbles into the book. My eyes were so happy.
This cover is adorable. I'm obsessed. I would absolutely buy a physical version just for the cover. The storyline is funny and spicy. It's such a fun read.
I love the enemies to lover trope and the fun billionaire trait, so this hit the spot.
This is a 4 star book in my world. I don't think I have an immediate need to re-read it, but this was such a fun feel-good silly book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love that the author is inclusive of body types, I love that she has been incredibly creative with the separators in her book and made punctuation art. ;)
This is totally my fault - I didn't realize this was a New Zealand author, so this is in slightly different English than I'm used to. The jokes and references are different as well, but this is a fun part of reading!
This book is definitely spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, I would give it a 4 on my spicy scale.
The author even put text bubbles into the book. My eyes were so happy.
This cover is adorable. I'm obsessed. I would absolutely buy a physical version just for the cover. The storyline is funny and spicy. It's such a fun read.
I love the enemies to lover trope and the fun billionaire trait, so this hit the spot.
This is a 4 star book in my world. I don't think I have an immediate need to re-read it, but this was such a fun feel-good silly book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 6, 2025
4.25 (but 5* for the sex scenes!)
This book was a joy to read.
Great chemistry between the main characters, really enjoyed their development and connection. Fun scenes and sexy times! All in all a great read, always a pleasure to read Esme's books.
This book was a joy to read.
Great chemistry between the main characters, really enjoyed their development and connection. Fun scenes and sexy times! All in all a great read, always a pleasure to read Esme's books.
September 27, 2024
Eye Candy by Esme Brett
This book was an absolute surprise for me!
It was quirky, hilarious, & spicy!
Caroline is such a strong, independent character , I loved that she was proud to be a burlesque dancer!
And I loved that Chase wasn’t your run of the mill trust fund billionaire, but an open minded, anxiety filled, slightly dirty, feminst blogger as well.
These two had all the tension & the banter was so cute!
The side characters were adorable & different. This book had so many layers and I loved it!
I also loved that there was LGBTQ+ And ally representation as well, and it was really well done!
Was Provided an ARC by BookSirens & Esme Brett In exchange for an honest review! ( Thank you so much!)
Rating: 4⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
This book was an absolute surprise for me!
It was quirky, hilarious, & spicy!
Caroline is such a strong, independent character , I loved that she was proud to be a burlesque dancer!
And I loved that Chase wasn’t your run of the mill trust fund billionaire, but an open minded, anxiety filled, slightly dirty, feminst blogger as well.
These two had all the tension & the banter was so cute!
The side characters were adorable & different. This book had so many layers and I loved it!
I also loved that there was LGBTQ+ And ally representation as well, and it was really well done!
Was Provided an ARC by BookSirens & Esme Brett In exchange for an honest review! ( Thank you so much!)
Rating: 4⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
October 1, 2024
This story was fun and I thought shows amazing potential for Brett’s future writing. The characters were quirky and unique. I liked the side friends who will be appearing in book two. I am always obsessed with a cinnadaddy—Gimmie that uptight boy who starts unraveling and dirty talking when he meets that special person.
The MCs are chaos, which I adored, I just expected more deep conversations with them because they are also both emotionally intelligent. I think that was a bit of a let down as far as relationship development. I was also left wishing the on & off again parts of the relationship made more sense. They felt a bit under developed for me.
The idea of a main character bath ✨Sent me✨ I can’t wait for Lyssa’s book!
The MCs are chaos, which I adored, I just expected more deep conversations with them because they are also both emotionally intelligent. I think that was a bit of a let down as far as relationship development. I was also left wishing the on & off again parts of the relationship made more sense. They felt a bit under developed for me.
The idea of a main character bath ✨Sent me✨ I can’t wait for Lyssa’s book!
October 30, 2024
I received an e-book ARC of Esme Brett’s excellent contemporary RomCom, Eye Candy in exchange for an unbiased review. Ideally, I was supposed to post a review during the pre-order time before the book came out, but I was super migrainy, so that didn’t happen.
Better late than never, though.
This is an extremely fun yte w/m opposites attract romance between Caroline—a plus-sized kiwi burlesque performer, who has moved to New York to pursue her dreams, and Chase—a buttoned-up hot-professor-type ethics blogger who co-owns a cool gaming shop. And happens to have come to his obsession with ethics in reaction to his millionaire father’s long history of womanizing.
The book starts out with Caroline auditioning for a gig, which she fails to get, but the club owner wants to hire her to impersonate the former fiancée of a young man Caroline assumes is a trust-fund bro and for her to behave as embarrassingly outrageously as possible. Caroline needs to pay rent, and help her Dad and brother out with her Dad’s business expenses, so she takes the sketchy job.
Chase is her mark’s elder brother, doing his best to help his brother resuscitate his image after youthful peccadillos, and is immediately suspicious, as well as immediately interested, in this person he knows instinctively is not his brother’s ex.
There’s excellent witty banter, good friend/family groups, lots of humor, excellent chemistry, good stuff about family dynamics and the roles we can feel trapped in, class differences, how to treat people appropriately and well, and all the annoying groping and s3xism women—especially performers—have to deal with. I deeply loved all the burlesque details—I have friends in Burlesque, and I loved that Caroline swore using the names of silver screen icons.
This is a very steamy novella with a satisfying relationship arc. And fun text details demarcating the chapters.
Both Caroline and Chase learn things about themselves throughout the story, and deal with miscommunication and misconceptions as mature adults. There is a big fight, but it’s understandable (it doesn’t feel artificially inflated) and they work things out, after taking some time apart.
Highly recommended. I plan on buying a paperback copy (and hope for an eventual audiobook), so I can reread it without the screen time—I have limited screen tolerance.
CW: MC pretending to be someone else, s3xism, groping—dealt with, being mocked for neurodivergent behaviors, classism, body-shaming —dealt with, secondary characters dealing with r@cism, past loss of parent, grief, money troubles, explicit seggs scenes, family dysfunction, drunkenness and vomiting, family fights —resolved, nepotism, night club politics.
Better late than never, though.
This is an extremely fun yte w/m opposites attract romance between Caroline—a plus-sized kiwi burlesque performer, who has moved to New York to pursue her dreams, and Chase—a buttoned-up hot-professor-type ethics blogger who co-owns a cool gaming shop. And happens to have come to his obsession with ethics in reaction to his millionaire father’s long history of womanizing.
The book starts out with Caroline auditioning for a gig, which she fails to get, but the club owner wants to hire her to impersonate the former fiancée of a young man Caroline assumes is a trust-fund bro and for her to behave as embarrassingly outrageously as possible. Caroline needs to pay rent, and help her Dad and brother out with her Dad’s business expenses, so she takes the sketchy job.
Chase is her mark’s elder brother, doing his best to help his brother resuscitate his image after youthful peccadillos, and is immediately suspicious, as well as immediately interested, in this person he knows instinctively is not his brother’s ex.
There’s excellent witty banter, good friend/family groups, lots of humor, excellent chemistry, good stuff about family dynamics and the roles we can feel trapped in, class differences, how to treat people appropriately and well, and all the annoying groping and s3xism women—especially performers—have to deal with. I deeply loved all the burlesque details—I have friends in Burlesque, and I loved that Caroline swore using the names of silver screen icons.
This is a very steamy novella with a satisfying relationship arc. And fun text details demarcating the chapters.
Both Caroline and Chase learn things about themselves throughout the story, and deal with miscommunication and misconceptions as mature adults. There is a big fight, but it’s understandable (it doesn’t feel artificially inflated) and they work things out, after taking some time apart.
Highly recommended. I plan on buying a paperback copy (and hope for an eventual audiobook), so I can reread it without the screen time—I have limited screen tolerance.
CW: MC pretending to be someone else, s3xism, groping—dealt with, being mocked for neurodivergent behaviors, classism, body-shaming —dealt with, secondary characters dealing with r@cism, past loss of parent, grief, money troubles, explicit seggs scenes, family dysfunction, drunkenness and vomiting, family fights —resolved, nepotism, night club politics.
August 11, 2025
After Caroline's last burlesque gig in New York flops, she takes a risky job impersonating an heiress to ruin a trust-fund dudebro’s reputation. The real challenge, though, is his older brother, Chase Sanford, who’s immune to her charm.
As she spends more time with Chase, Caroline discovers he’s not as buttoned-up as he seems. Beneath the wealth and cardigans, he hides deep emotional wounds—and undeniable chemistry.
When things heat up between them, Caroline knows it could wreck her career. She tells herself to walk away, but Chase's charm has her hooked, even though she knows they come from different worlds.
Considering how much work I’ve had lately, I read this book surprisingly fast. Normally, I don’t stay up late because of a book, but this one grabbed my attention so much that it became the exception.
The book is so enticing, the blurb is very interesting, and it’s definitely worth the read. It’s simple, easy to follow, and I quickly grew fond of the characters, they’re interesting, fun, and their relationship is a bit amusing. The story pulls you in right from the start with the identity theft, and it gets even more fun once Chase figures out what’s going on. I really liked how the chemistry between Caroline and Chase was portrayed, they fit so well together, even though they’re completely different characters. Opposites really do attract.
The dual POV was a great touch, making it easy to understand what each character is thinking and justifying their actions. I don’t want to give too many spoilers, but the book is excellent.
Oh, and OMG, the spicy scenes are amazing, I definitely wasn’t expecting that! Things heat up quickly, and the tension builds fast.
I highly recommend reading this if you're looking for something light, funny, but be prepared, you might need something to cool off after those spicy scenes, haha.
Thank you to BookSirens, to the author, Esme Brett, for providing me with this e-copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As she spends more time with Chase, Caroline discovers he’s not as buttoned-up as he seems. Beneath the wealth and cardigans, he hides deep emotional wounds—and undeniable chemistry.
When things heat up between them, Caroline knows it could wreck her career. She tells herself to walk away, but Chase's charm has her hooked, even though she knows they come from different worlds.
Considering how much work I’ve had lately, I read this book surprisingly fast. Normally, I don’t stay up late because of a book, but this one grabbed my attention so much that it became the exception.
The book is so enticing, the blurb is very interesting, and it’s definitely worth the read. It’s simple, easy to follow, and I quickly grew fond of the characters, they’re interesting, fun, and their relationship is a bit amusing. The story pulls you in right from the start with the identity theft, and it gets even more fun once Chase figures out what’s going on. I really liked how the chemistry between Caroline and Chase was portrayed, they fit so well together, even though they’re completely different characters. Opposites really do attract.
The dual POV was a great touch, making it easy to understand what each character is thinking and justifying their actions. I don’t want to give too many spoilers, but the book is excellent.
Oh, and OMG, the spicy scenes are amazing, I definitely wasn’t expecting that! Things heat up quickly, and the tension builds fast.
I highly recommend reading this if you're looking for something light, funny, but be prepared, you might need something to cool off after those spicy scenes, haha.
Thank you to BookSirens, to the author, Esme Brett, for providing me with this e-copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 1, 2024
My Rating⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Amount of spice:🔥🔥🔥🔥7-8 scenes
Explicitness: 🌶️🌶️🌶️Open door & explicit
❤️Opposites attract
❤️Burlesque dancer FMC
❤️New York/Toronto/NZ settings
❤️Secret identity
❤️Stern brunch Daddy
❤️High heat
❤️Loveable supporting characters
Firstly, thank you so much to Esme who has given me the opportunity to read an ARC of her fabulous book ❤️
This one was so much fun! It was even more fun reading it as a New Zealander because it made me feel close to home and like Caroline, I also live far away from home in NZ and have a little bit of a complicated relationship with it. Eye Candy was sexy, it was sweet and heartfelt and it was a whole lot of fun. I really enjoyed the whole opposites attract thing Caroline and Chase had going on too mostly because Chase is such a sweet baby angel and means so well but stumbles a little (lol).
I would recommend it if you like a strong, independent and self-assured FMC and a MMC who finds himself falling head over heels for a gal who is his complete opposite.
Amount of spice:🔥🔥🔥🔥7-8 scenes
Explicitness: 🌶️🌶️🌶️Open door & explicit
❤️Opposites attract
❤️Burlesque dancer FMC
❤️New York/Toronto/NZ settings
❤️Secret identity
❤️Stern brunch Daddy
❤️High heat
❤️Loveable supporting characters
Firstly, thank you so much to Esme who has given me the opportunity to read an ARC of her fabulous book ❤️
This one was so much fun! It was even more fun reading it as a New Zealander because it made me feel close to home and like Caroline, I also live far away from home in NZ and have a little bit of a complicated relationship with it. Eye Candy was sexy, it was sweet and heartfelt and it was a whole lot of fun. I really enjoyed the whole opposites attract thing Caroline and Chase had going on too mostly because Chase is such a sweet baby angel and means so well but stumbles a little (lol).
I would recommend it if you like a strong, independent and self-assured FMC and a MMC who finds himself falling head over heels for a gal who is his complete opposite.
January 6, 2025
How can I express how much I loved this book? The vibes of this book are: the color pink, moody, very sexy, a bit nerdy all wrapped up in a rom-com masterpiece.
I adore Esme’s writing, it’s funny and so quintessentially her. And your girl can write spice. In a nutshell, this book is about a rich American guy with a conscience who ends up getting scammed by a pink haired Kiwi burlesque dancer, but whoops, they fall in love. The story is outrageous and I absolutely ate it up. Treat yourself to this sweet & spicy lollipop of a book.
Easy 5 stars from me.
I adore Esme’s writing, it’s funny and so quintessentially her. And your girl can write spice. In a nutshell, this book is about a rich American guy with a conscience who ends up getting scammed by a pink haired Kiwi burlesque dancer, but whoops, they fall in love. The story is outrageous and I absolutely ate it up. Treat yourself to this sweet & spicy lollipop of a book.
Easy 5 stars from me.
October 26, 2024
I wanted this book so desperately that I preordered it. I spent my own USD to own this book.
I am 71% in and DNF’ing it. I have been trying to force it for the last fifteen days (absurd for me) and I can’t do it anymore.
This book has such a good premise, give me burlesque performers all day long. Like, this had so many elements to make it a winner but it just never came together. The lookalike thing should have ended after the first spectacle. This idea could have been a best seller, career making book but it just didn’t happen.
I am 71% in and DNF’ing it. I have been trying to force it for the last fifteen days (absurd for me) and I can’t do it anymore.
This book has such a good premise, give me burlesque performers all day long. Like, this had so many elements to make it a winner but it just never came together. The lookalike thing should have ended after the first spectacle. This idea could have been a best seller, career making book but it just didn’t happen.
February 11, 2025
This is definitely the book I'm gonna obnoxiously rec to everyone who will listen (or not). It's hot and hilarious, which is precisely the way to my heart, I loved it and will add it to my rotation of yearly rereads ✨
September 14, 2024
*thank you to the author for an eARC; all thoughts are my own*
This was a really great contemporary romance that is just so much fun. I’ve been struggling with traditionally published contemporary romance lately but not with indie contemporary!! Indie authors have been killing it.
Esme Brett’s writing was so fun and so good. I definitely say this over and over about this book but it was just so much FUN!! Everything was plotted tightly and the story moved along at a great pace. I loved the pretending to be someone else element and it went on for *just* the right amount of time.
I always love an eldest sibling moment and Chase has to learn how to not be overbearing with his brother and that was really lovely to see.
I love class difference in historicals and in contemporary it does not always work for me, but it really worked for me here. I always love a luxurious moment in these books and the dress he buys her?? Love it. But I loved it even more when she just joins in with the waitstaff. We also have opposites attract with this one which I also love!! These two are so different and yet the fit together so well?! The power of a well written romance for real.
I will say this one is pretty spicy so if you prefer closed door romance then this one is not for you.
Overall I had a great time with this one and can’t wait to read more from Esme!!
This was a really great contemporary romance that is just so much fun. I’ve been struggling with traditionally published contemporary romance lately but not with indie contemporary!! Indie authors have been killing it.
Esme Brett’s writing was so fun and so good. I definitely say this over and over about this book but it was just so much FUN!! Everything was plotted tightly and the story moved along at a great pace. I loved the pretending to be someone else element and it went on for *just* the right amount of time.
I always love an eldest sibling moment and Chase has to learn how to not be overbearing with his brother and that was really lovely to see.
I love class difference in historicals and in contemporary it does not always work for me, but it really worked for me here. I always love a luxurious moment in these books and the dress he buys her?? Love it. But I loved it even more when she just joins in with the waitstaff. We also have opposites attract with this one which I also love!! These two are so different and yet the fit together so well?! The power of a well written romance for real.
I will say this one is pretty spicy so if you prefer closed door romance then this one is not for you.
Overall I had a great time with this one and can’t wait to read more from Esme!!
September 18, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Loved it. This book was so freaking cute. Despite being opposites, the characters were so likable and I found myself rooting for them and kicking my feet the whole time. Read it in a day. I'd give it a 3/5 on spice level.
Loved it. This book was so freaking cute. Despite being opposites, the characters were so likable and I found myself rooting for them and kicking my feet the whole time. Read it in a day. I'd give it a 3/5 on spice level.
January 6, 2025
This book was fucking brilliant. Literally no notes. I CACKLED, full on outrageous, gut busting, laughed out loud. Esme has always made me laugh with her humor here on IG so it should be no surprise it not only comes through in her writing but it SHINES.
Somehow between my constant cackles, Esme manages to tell a heartfelt love story, hand in hand with her own brand of social commentary.
Caroline is a burlesque artist and Chase is the most (seemingly 😏) uptight man she’s ever met. She’s a Kiwi. He’s Canadian. I love them both because they are SO opposite that they blend so well together. Chase is completely undone by Caroline right from the jump and sweet Caro thinks he’s the only person unaffected by her feminine wiles. OHHHHH LORT HOW WRONG SHE IS. I wish I had more coherent thots because I really think this book is special and whip smart and funny. Just… go read it when it’s out Sept 18 okay?
I’ll scream about this book for as long as you’ll let me. I was fortunate enough to receive a free eArc in exchange for an honest review.
Somehow between my constant cackles, Esme manages to tell a heartfelt love story, hand in hand with her own brand of social commentary.
Caroline is a burlesque artist and Chase is the most (seemingly 😏) uptight man she’s ever met. She’s a Kiwi. He’s Canadian. I love them both because they are SO opposite that they blend so well together. Chase is completely undone by Caroline right from the jump and sweet Caro thinks he’s the only person unaffected by her feminine wiles. OHHHHH LORT HOW WRONG SHE IS. I wish I had more coherent thots because I really think this book is special and whip smart and funny. Just… go read it when it’s out Sept 18 okay?
I’ll scream about this book for as long as you’ll let me. I was fortunate enough to receive a free eArc in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2024
Content warnings: lying, vomit, death of a parent (in the past)
4.5 stars
I loved this. A lot. The characters were delightful. The storytelling was both fun and funny. It's full of charm and I loved how much Aotearoa shines on the page, despite the fact that the bulk of the book is set in the US. I love Brett's writing and I will always eagerly await her next release.
4.5 stars
I loved this. A lot. The characters were delightful. The storytelling was both fun and funny. It's full of charm and I loved how much Aotearoa shines on the page, despite the fact that the bulk of the book is set in the US. I love Brett's writing and I will always eagerly await her next release.
November 5, 2024
In the iconic words of Dionne Davenport:
(I had to make this gif because the internet didn’t have it. … What the actual fuck?)
Come here, I’m going to tell you a secret, it’s important, listen closely…
This book fucking slaps and Esme Brett’s a mother-fucking goddess for bestowing it upon us lowly gremlin creatures.
Accuse me of hyperbole if you must, but I truly could not give the tiniest of shits, because I’m in love with sunshine-nightmare-baby-burly, Caroline Holliday and her sweaterboy-babygirl-smut-mouthed, Chase Sanford.
The perfect, perfect, perfect morons that they are, bouncing around this story like they think they can con us into thinking they’re not obsessed with each other on a cellular fucking level and a happy ending isn’t inevitable. Strutting around like horny peacocks thinking they can makes us feel all these things.
…
I love them so fucking much.
How messy they are, how they’re not actually perfect but perfectly imperfect, the way they speak to each other, the environment they inhabit and manoeuvre within, the HUMOUR. Jesus fucking christ, the humour. I know I shouldn’t really be surprised that NZ shares a special, caustic kind of humour with the Brits, but as a Scot who’s been reduced to tears by Billy Connelly basically since birth, Caroline’s straight-for-the-jugular form of ribbing was nothing short of comforting/delightful/hilarious; especially when it’s aimed at her boy Chase. There are some MMC’s that you desperately want to get your hands ALL over and ruffle their perfectly pressed feathers so they look well and truly despoiled, and Chase Sanford is most definitely one of them - softest, sweetest literal sweaterboy to be immortalised in fiction.
And when you throw the two together?
If I could’ve chewed on my tablet without causing permanent damage to both it and my precious tooth bones (why can’t I just say teeth like a normal bloody person?), I would’ve. Gnawed a corner right off to ingest some of this story’s special brand of OMFG IT’S SO PERFECT AND THEY’RE SUCH HORNY, EMOTIONAL IDIOTS, I’M LEGIT GONNA NEED A PILL TO GET OVER THIS. It’s that good, and the side characters make me fucking feral. It’s a personal love of mine when any story has peripheral characters that make me unhinged to read their story, and not every authors delivers. But Esme? She was throwing character side-eyes left right and damn centre. Am I overjoyed by this? Bet your feather boa-ed ass, I am. And the next book is Caroline’s extrovert “jerk” brother and her bubbly influencer bestie, who were on page together for one tiny scene, and I lost my fucking mind with the hate-flirting. It’s my favourite thing. Their book might wreck me.
But until then, I’m gonna daydream about Caroline and Chase for the next six months whilst forcibly demanding everyone I know - plus some strangers - to read this fucking book.
Read it!
Visuals:
Ps. Follow Esme on Insta. I have for years and she’s fucking delightful.
……………
🎵 Memory Note(s):
Years & Years - Shine
LAUREL - Kissing With The Top Down
MUNA - Silk Chiffon
(I had to make this gif because the internet didn’t have it. … What the actual fuck?)
Come here, I’m going to tell you a secret, it’s important, listen closely…
This book fucking slaps and Esme Brett’s a mother-fucking goddess for bestowing it upon us lowly gremlin creatures.
Accuse me of hyperbole if you must, but I truly could not give the tiniest of shits, because I’m in love with sunshine-nightmare-baby-burly, Caroline Holliday and her sweaterboy-babygirl-smut-mouthed, Chase Sanford.
The perfect, perfect, perfect morons that they are, bouncing around this story like they think they can con us into thinking they’re not obsessed with each other on a cellular fucking level and a happy ending isn’t inevitable. Strutting around like horny peacocks thinking they can makes us feel all these things.
…
I love them so fucking much.
How messy they are, how they’re not actually perfect but perfectly imperfect, the way they speak to each other, the environment they inhabit and manoeuvre within, the HUMOUR. Jesus fucking christ, the humour. I know I shouldn’t really be surprised that NZ shares a special, caustic kind of humour with the Brits, but as a Scot who’s been reduced to tears by Billy Connelly basically since birth, Caroline’s straight-for-the-jugular form of ribbing was nothing short of comforting/delightful/hilarious; especially when it’s aimed at her boy Chase. There are some MMC’s that you desperately want to get your hands ALL over and ruffle their perfectly pressed feathers so they look well and truly despoiled, and Chase Sanford is most definitely one of them - softest, sweetest literal sweaterboy to be immortalised in fiction.
And when you throw the two together?
If I could’ve chewed on my tablet without causing permanent damage to both it and my precious tooth bones (why can’t I just say teeth like a normal bloody person?), I would’ve. Gnawed a corner right off to ingest some of this story’s special brand of OMFG IT’S SO PERFECT AND THEY’RE SUCH HORNY, EMOTIONAL IDIOTS, I’M LEGIT GONNA NEED A PILL TO GET OVER THIS. It’s that good, and the side characters make me fucking feral. It’s a personal love of mine when any story has peripheral characters that make me unhinged to read their story, and not every authors delivers. But Esme? She was throwing character side-eyes left right and damn centre. Am I overjoyed by this? Bet your feather boa-ed ass, I am. And the next book is Caroline’s extrovert “jerk” brother and her bubbly influencer bestie, who were on page together for one tiny scene, and I lost my fucking mind with the hate-flirting. It’s my favourite thing. Their book might wreck me.
But until then, I’m gonna daydream about Caroline and Chase for the next six months whilst forcibly demanding everyone I know - plus some strangers - to read this fucking book.
Read it!
Visuals:
Ps. Follow Esme on Insta. I have for years and she’s fucking delightful.
……………
🎵 Memory Note(s):
Years & Years - Shine
LAUREL - Kissing With The Top Down
MUNA - Silk Chiffon
September 23, 2024
Eye Candy by Esme Brett is a romance following the two protagonists, Caroline and Chase, as they begin to fall for each other despite many differences and a foundation built on dishonesty. Caroline is from New Zealand and has moved to America as a burlesque performer. Chase is from a wealthy family and is trying to keep his younger brother out of trouble so he can obtain his inheritance. Caroline is hired to pretend to be the younger brother’s ex, as they look alike. Chase is peeved because he believes she is trying to get his brother in trouble.
Overall, this is a compelling story. I appreciate the character development in both Caroline and Chase, and the writing style kept me intrigued. My real issue with the story is that I felt zero connection between the two characters until the very end, and it felt very sudden. Chase goes from hating Caroline while also lusting after her, to loving her almost instantly and there is really no impetus to cause this. There is also no transition. The whole relationship seems like lust, and the same goes for Caroline. The pacing was also a little slow for my taste and I felt like these pages could have been used to actually develop a relationship. For most of the first half, Chase is referring to Caroline as “Fake Teddy” as he doesn’t even know her name, so I find it difficult to see a relationship between the two.
This is not to say that I really disliked the book. I would give it 3/5 stars. I just wish I could have seen more of a relationship between the characters. I have a difficult time when I finish a romance and am not convinced the characters will last together following the end of the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overall, this is a compelling story. I appreciate the character development in both Caroline and Chase, and the writing style kept me intrigued. My real issue with the story is that I felt zero connection between the two characters until the very end, and it felt very sudden. Chase goes from hating Caroline while also lusting after her, to loving her almost instantly and there is really no impetus to cause this. There is also no transition. The whole relationship seems like lust, and the same goes for Caroline. The pacing was also a little slow for my taste and I felt like these pages could have been used to actually develop a relationship. For most of the first half, Chase is referring to Caroline as “Fake Teddy” as he doesn’t even know her name, so I find it difficult to see a relationship between the two.
This is not to say that I really disliked the book. I would give it 3/5 stars. I just wish I could have seen more of a relationship between the characters. I have a difficult time when I finish a romance and am not convinced the characters will last together following the end of the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 5, 2024
*Thank you Esme for the eARC. All thoughts are my own*
I jumped with gusto onto the opportunity to grab this ARC read from Esme. I’m endlessly amused and thought-provoked by her Instagram account, and her books are kind of extension of that – but with lots of spice and narrative! I’ve used the word ‘zippy’ in previous reviews of her work to describe her writing style and I’m going to go with that again. Eye Candy is extremely zippy, flows like good champagne and well, it was nigh on impossible to put down!
Female lead Caroline (get out of my head ‘Roses’ by Outkast) is dishy, brash and bold, but she does have her insecurities, making her a well-rounded, lovable character. Esme’s portrayal of life as a ‘burly’ (burlesque performer) comes across as highly authentic; I learned a lot. Either Esme is/has been a burly herself or she did a heap of research!
I love a good ‘stiff-upper-lip in the streets, wild in the sheets’ male lead, and Canadian Chase gives this in spades. (I’ve been re-watching Buffy and checking out Giles just as much as Spike, so yeah… I’m feelin’ it!) I liked that Chase came across as being uncomfortable in the billionaire role, and that even better than that, Caroline did her best to convey to him that he just doesn’t GET the concept of needing money. Not just for the fun and greed of it, but because one will go hungry without that next elusive pay cheque!
Overall, this was a fun, feminist read with PLENTY of spice. Love your work, Esme!
I jumped with gusto onto the opportunity to grab this ARC read from Esme. I’m endlessly amused and thought-provoked by her Instagram account, and her books are kind of extension of that – but with lots of spice and narrative! I’ve used the word ‘zippy’ in previous reviews of her work to describe her writing style and I’m going to go with that again. Eye Candy is extremely zippy, flows like good champagne and well, it was nigh on impossible to put down!
Female lead Caroline (get out of my head ‘Roses’ by Outkast) is dishy, brash and bold, but she does have her insecurities, making her a well-rounded, lovable character. Esme’s portrayal of life as a ‘burly’ (burlesque performer) comes across as highly authentic; I learned a lot. Either Esme is/has been a burly herself or she did a heap of research!
I love a good ‘stiff-upper-lip in the streets, wild in the sheets’ male lead, and Canadian Chase gives this in spades. (I’ve been re-watching Buffy and checking out Giles just as much as Spike, so yeah… I’m feelin’ it!) I liked that Chase came across as being uncomfortable in the billionaire role, and that even better than that, Caroline did her best to convey to him that he just doesn’t GET the concept of needing money. Not just for the fun and greed of it, but because one will go hungry without that next elusive pay cheque!
Overall, this was a fun, feminist read with PLENTY of spice. Love your work, Esme!
October 13, 2025
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via BookSirens. This in no way impacted on my view.
New Zealand burlesque artist Caroline Holliday is down on her luck. Sharing a tiny apartment with her new friend Lyssa, complete with bunk beds, she needs to get a break before she has to call out out, and head back home. So when she's headhunted by club owner Gerard, asking her to pretend to be a stuffy socialite for an evening, to ruin a reputation, for $20,000, she can't really say no. However, she didn't expect to be drawn so much to the handsome professor-type Chase Sanford, who looks like he doesn't know his way around a woman, but underneath it all, there's a fire that's dying to get out.
This was definitely an enjoyable read, especially the funny parts when Caroline was pretending to be Teddy. Chase had always hated the real Teddy, who had got her claws into his younger brother Joe when they were teens, so knew from the beginning that Caroline really wasn't her. He was drawn to Caroline like he'd never been drawn to someone before, and it was hard for him to come to terms with that. Caroline's Teddy and Summer personalities really messed with Chase's head - but in the best way - and he was drawn to them all, but Caroline was always his number one. The angst was a bit too over the top for me, but I liked the reunion, and I'm definitely interested in seeing how Lyssa and Caroline's brother, Mike, get on in the next book.
New Zealand burlesque artist Caroline Holliday is down on her luck. Sharing a tiny apartment with her new friend Lyssa, complete with bunk beds, she needs to get a break before she has to call out out, and head back home. So when she's headhunted by club owner Gerard, asking her to pretend to be a stuffy socialite for an evening, to ruin a reputation, for $20,000, she can't really say no. However, she didn't expect to be drawn so much to the handsome professor-type Chase Sanford, who looks like he doesn't know his way around a woman, but underneath it all, there's a fire that's dying to get out.
This was definitely an enjoyable read, especially the funny parts when Caroline was pretending to be Teddy. Chase had always hated the real Teddy, who had got her claws into his younger brother Joe when they were teens, so knew from the beginning that Caroline really wasn't her. He was drawn to Caroline like he'd never been drawn to someone before, and it was hard for him to come to terms with that. Caroline's Teddy and Summer personalities really messed with Chase's head - but in the best way - and he was drawn to them all, but Caroline was always his number one. The angst was a bit too over the top for me, but I liked the reunion, and I'm definitely interested in seeing how Lyssa and Caroline's brother, Mike, get on in the next book.
September 7, 2024
Opposites Attract with a dash of impersonation and a whole lot of sexy!
Caroline is a brash, never give up burlesque performer who feels like her dream is slipping away day by day. When she’s offered a chance at a show residency for a little light identify fraud she sees it as her big chance, maybe her final one.
Chase is an uptight morality blogger who feels like the only way to keep people in his life is to make sure they need him. Enter Caroline who is a threat to his brother and his own peace of mind…but who turns him on and makes him happier than he’s ever been.
I absolutely adored how communicative Caroline and Chase were, whether it was when they were upset with each other or in the throes of passion neither was afraid to tell the other what they were thinking and feeling…even though they didn’t always say the right thing in the right way.
Esme Brett does a magnificent job of weaving social commentary, old Hollywood starlet trivia, humor, burlesque history and information, tender yet explicit intimacy, deep emotion, and both friend and familia love into a story full of banter, dirty talk, a swoony love.
I canNOT wait for Mike and Lyssa!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but all opinions are my own.
Caroline is a brash, never give up burlesque performer who feels like her dream is slipping away day by day. When she’s offered a chance at a show residency for a little light identify fraud she sees it as her big chance, maybe her final one.
Chase is an uptight morality blogger who feels like the only way to keep people in his life is to make sure they need him. Enter Caroline who is a threat to his brother and his own peace of mind…but who turns him on and makes him happier than he’s ever been.
I absolutely adored how communicative Caroline and Chase were, whether it was when they were upset with each other or in the throes of passion neither was afraid to tell the other what they were thinking and feeling…even though they didn’t always say the right thing in the right way.
Esme Brett does a magnificent job of weaving social commentary, old Hollywood starlet trivia, humor, burlesque history and information, tender yet explicit intimacy, deep emotion, and both friend and familia love into a story full of banter, dirty talk, a swoony love.
I canNOT wait for Mike and Lyssa!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but all opinions are my own.
October 24, 2024
"Growing up in the shadow of a huge personality, forging myself as his opposite had felt like the safest option. But now I was starting to feel like my values, my way of being, were just reactive constructs-like I wasn't even a fucking person. I was just a series of knee-jerk reactions, cultivated by a shitty parent."
Eye Candy tells the story of Caroline, who’s hired to pose as her doppelgänger, Teddy, the ex-girlfriend of Joe—Chase’s brother. Right from the start, Chase is suspicious that “Teddy” isn’t who she claims to be. What he didn’t expect was the undeniable attraction that would develop between them, even as he works to expose her deception. The question remains: can you fall in love with a lie?
This is one of those books where the premise is so wild that it’s actually fun. There were definitely moments where I had to suspend my disbelief, but the plot and the chemistry between the characters were entertaining enough to make me forget about it. I also appreciated how, in such a short space, the author managed to develop these characters and make their story feel cohesive and well-written.
I’ll admit, I’m curious to read more about the Holliday family. The setup was intriguing enough that I’m looking forward to seeing where this series goes next!
Eye Candy tells the story of Caroline, who’s hired to pose as her doppelgänger, Teddy, the ex-girlfriend of Joe—Chase’s brother. Right from the start, Chase is suspicious that “Teddy” isn’t who she claims to be. What he didn’t expect was the undeniable attraction that would develop between them, even as he works to expose her deception. The question remains: can you fall in love with a lie?
This is one of those books where the premise is so wild that it’s actually fun. There were definitely moments where I had to suspend my disbelief, but the plot and the chemistry between the characters were entertaining enough to make me forget about it. I also appreciated how, in such a short space, the author managed to develop these characters and make their story feel cohesive and well-written.
I’ll admit, I’m curious to read more about the Holliday family. The setup was intriguing enough that I’m looking forward to seeing where this series goes next!
November 2, 2024
An opposites attract romance.
Enjoyed this fun romance.There was lots of banter and chemistry between the main characters.
Caroline Holliday left home to pursue a career in burlesque.She is not having much luck in finding a job.When she is offered to pretend to be an heiress to ruin someone's reputation she agrees to do it.She is not counting on meeting his older brother Chase and the explosive chemistry between them.
Chase Sanford follows the rules and he will do anything to protect his brother.When he meets Caroline he wants to break the rules.He finds out the truth about who Caroline is,but cannot deny the chemistry between them.
A fun romantic comedy with lots of laughter,banter,emotions,family,
friendships,lots of spice,romance and a sweet happily ever after.
I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
I recieved an advanced review copy of this book for free via booksirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Enjoyed this fun romance.There was lots of banter and chemistry between the main characters.
Caroline Holliday left home to pursue a career in burlesque.She is not having much luck in finding a job.When she is offered to pretend to be an heiress to ruin someone's reputation she agrees to do it.She is not counting on meeting his older brother Chase and the explosive chemistry between them.
Chase Sanford follows the rules and he will do anything to protect his brother.When he meets Caroline he wants to break the rules.He finds out the truth about who Caroline is,but cannot deny the chemistry between them.
A fun romantic comedy with lots of laughter,banter,emotions,family,
friendships,lots of spice,romance and a sweet happily ever after.
I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
I recieved an advanced review copy of this book for free via booksirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
February 21, 2025
Caroline is a burlesque artist from New Zealand trying to make herself known in New York without much luck. To get some cash and a job at a club she accepts to impersonate an heiress at a party but the problem is that she starts crushing for the big brother of the heiress ex.
Chase is a rich moral blogger who suspects real fast that the Caroline is not the real heiress because he didn't get along with the real one and he never felt any lust for her but now he can't stop thinking about her.
This rom com is written by a New Zealand writer so you can read some expressions that aren't american english.
It's an opposites attract with a high moral compass even when the FMC is impersonating someone else because her family needs money and she has some lines she won't trespass even for money.
I'm not really a fan of the third act breakup and miscommunication and that's why I give it only 4 stars but I will read more books from this author.
-ARC read-
Chase is a rich moral blogger who suspects real fast that the Caroline is not the real heiress because he didn't get along with the real one and he never felt any lust for her but now he can't stop thinking about her.
This rom com is written by a New Zealand writer so you can read some expressions that aren't american english.
It's an opposites attract with a high moral compass even when the FMC is impersonating someone else because her family needs money and she has some lines she won't trespass even for money.
I'm not really a fan of the third act breakup and miscommunication and that's why I give it only 4 stars but I will read more books from this author.
-ARC read-
September 27, 2024
caroline + chase 🫶🏻
What happens when you get paid to impersonate an heiress in order to sabotage the reputation of a trust fund baby? You end up sleeping with his brother 🤭🤭🤭
Caroline is a hardworking, spunky girl who just wants to be on a burlesque stage💃 Although Chase has plenty of money, he spends his time as an ethics blogger and writes advice from questions he’s gets online by the public. When the elite of New York sees Chase as boring and “prudish,”Caroline sees what’s in his heart and his true self 🫶🏻
This story was so good and I enjoyed it reading it! These two couldn’t be anymore opposite and they learned to understand each other. I liked that Chase and Caroline were able to come together after all the obstacles they had to overcome within themselves and with the other characters in the book.
Eye Candy is out now on Amazon!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
What happens when you get paid to impersonate an heiress in order to sabotage the reputation of a trust fund baby? You end up sleeping with his brother 🤭🤭🤭
Caroline is a hardworking, spunky girl who just wants to be on a burlesque stage💃 Although Chase has plenty of money, he spends his time as an ethics blogger and writes advice from questions he’s gets online by the public. When the elite of New York sees Chase as boring and “prudish,”Caroline sees what’s in his heart and his true self 🫶🏻
This story was so good and I enjoyed it reading it! These two couldn’t be anymore opposite and they learned to understand each other. I liked that Chase and Caroline were able to come together after all the obstacles they had to overcome within themselves and with the other characters in the book.
Eye Candy is out now on Amazon!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
April 1, 2025
This one started out super strong for me and would have been a 5 star if it didn’t lag and drag at about 70% - almost like the author wasn’t sure where to take the story so imagined a kind of cliche conflict for who had so far been really delightfully unique characters. I still enjoyed the final resolution and grand gesture though, because I really loved both MCs and wanted to root for them. Caroline was a gem and I loooved her use of classic burlesque and dancer/hollywood names in lieu of swearing (“what the Fffred Astair”, etc) was entertaining and I also loved the little burlesque history folded in. Chase was a doll and I loved how hard he tried despite his silver spoon upbringing, and his so-called friends and family were too hard on him. Loved the consent-centered intimacy with no-shame direct communication. Super hot. Really loved this one.
October 24, 2025
Absolutely loved all the Kiwi-ness of this book!
This book was stuffed full of cat mouse, back and forth banter. The chemistry was absolutely electric. Loved how high energy the story was. The characters were constantly on the go and never a lull in the book.
Caroline and Chase were fantastic characters. Caroline with her Hollywood names had me rolling. Chase with his walls he couldn't keep up with Caroline around. Seriously the chemistry between these two!
I really liked how this author did the dual POV in smaller chunks than you usually seem to see. You got to see both sides give their reactions to the experience right away.
Highly recommend to anyone looking to giggle the entire book!
This book was stuffed full of cat mouse, back and forth banter. The chemistry was absolutely electric. Loved how high energy the story was. The characters were constantly on the go and never a lull in the book.
Caroline and Chase were fantastic characters. Caroline with her Hollywood names had me rolling. Chase with his walls he couldn't keep up with Caroline around. Seriously the chemistry between these two!
I really liked how this author did the dual POV in smaller chunks than you usually seem to see. You got to see both sides give their reactions to the experience right away.
Highly recommend to anyone looking to giggle the entire book!
September 23, 2024
ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I gave *Eye Candy* a solid 4 stars! I really enjoyed the overall story, but I found myself wishing for a bit more depth in the main characters' backstories—especially their childhoods. There are glimpses, but I craved more to fully understand their motivations.
That said, the writing was engaging and easy to read, making it a perfect escape when I needed a break from my busy schedule. The dynamic between the strict ethics blogger Chase and the rebellious professional seductress was delightful, and their chemistry was spicy and fun!
If you love opposites-attract romances with a dash of humor and heart, this one is definitely worth picking up!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I gave *Eye Candy* a solid 4 stars! I really enjoyed the overall story, but I found myself wishing for a bit more depth in the main characters' backstories—especially their childhoods. There are glimpses, but I craved more to fully understand their motivations.
That said, the writing was engaging and easy to read, making it a perfect escape when I needed a break from my busy schedule. The dynamic between the strict ethics blogger Chase and the rebellious professional seductress was delightful, and their chemistry was spicy and fun!
If you love opposites-attract romances with a dash of humor and heart, this one is definitely worth picking up!
September 24, 2024
*Thank you to Esme Brett and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC for an honest review!
This was such incredible fun with great spice mixed in! Reading this made me realize I need more books in my life with burlesque dancers!
Caroline was such a hilarious character, but she had great depth to her as well. I enjoyed how spunky and confident she was. It was no wonder she had Chase wrapped around her finger! Even though they were quite opposites in every sense of the word, they were so darn perfect for each other! I love a book with a nerdy MMC and throw in that he just wants to adore and worship a woman, oh boy!
I couldn't put this book down, and I can't wait for the next book!!
This was such incredible fun with great spice mixed in! Reading this made me realize I need more books in my life with burlesque dancers!
Caroline was such a hilarious character, but she had great depth to her as well. I enjoyed how spunky and confident she was. It was no wonder she had Chase wrapped around her finger! Even though they were quite opposites in every sense of the word, they were so darn perfect for each other! I love a book with a nerdy MMC and throw in that he just wants to adore and worship a woman, oh boy!
I couldn't put this book down, and I can't wait for the next book!!
October 2, 2024
Eye Candy was super fun to read. The characters were flawed and loveable and the writing was sharp! The story was twisty but with little risk. I read primarily romance and this was one of the hottest books I’ve read in a long time. It wasn’t that it was particularly raunchy, but the descriptions and feeling it imbued was special. It’s obvious that the authors foundation is one of feminism and that comes through on every page.
I thought there were some gaps in the plot and that’s the only reason I didn’t rate this five stars. I recommend this to everyone who enjoys romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I thought there were some gaps in the plot and that’s the only reason I didn’t rate this five stars. I recommend this to everyone who enjoys romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 3, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much! Esme is a new author for me, so I wasn't sure what to expect but I couldn't help be intrigued by a FMC who is a burlesque performer.
Eye Candy is full of banter, wit, feminist perspectives and a whole lot of laughs. Uptight and controlled Chase is tested by the flirtatious and vibrant Caroline. Who would have paired cashmere sweater wearers with pink haired vixens??
I didn't expect to tear up, but my goodness, that Casper line hit me right in the feels.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the second in this series as well as other Brett books!
Eye Candy is full of banter, wit, feminist perspectives and a whole lot of laughs. Uptight and controlled Chase is tested by the flirtatious and vibrant Caroline. Who would have paired cashmere sweater wearers with pink haired vixens??
I didn't expect to tear up, but my goodness, that Casper line hit me right in the feels.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading the second in this series as well as other Brett books!
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