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All's Fair
Roommate Wars
Having a one-night stand with my sister’s billionaire friend was a mistake…
But moving in with the reclusive billionaire would be an even bigger blunder.
Besides the unfortunate time we slept together, the only thing Jack Townsend and I have in common is our aversion to serious relationships.
But after he sees the s***hole I’m staying in, he sweetens the offer to live in his swanky home with the only thing an impoverished government worker like me can’t turn down—one room, rent free.
He makes it clear he’s not interested—our sizzling night together was barely a blip on his playboy radar. I don’t know if I should be offended or relieved.
Either way, my heart says no, but my mouth says yes. And my head says it’s not a handout; I’d be helping him around the house.
One minute I’m washing his designer boxer-briefs, and the next Jack has me pretending to be his girlfriend to ward off the gold diggers.
I don’t need the confusion of a fake relationship, but I could do worse than playing house with a handsome billionaire. Besides, he’s already seen me naked. What could possibly go wrong?
Roommate Wars is a roommates-to-lovers romance, with a commitment-phobe billionaire and a sassy, independent heroine. This novel is a standalone romance guaranteed to give you laughs, feels, and the grand gestures and happy ending you crave.
But moving in with the reclusive billionaire would be an even bigger blunder.
Besides the unfortunate time we slept together, the only thing Jack Townsend and I have in common is our aversion to serious relationships.
But after he sees the s***hole I’m staying in, he sweetens the offer to live in his swanky home with the only thing an impoverished government worker like me can’t turn down—one room, rent free.
He makes it clear he’s not interested—our sizzling night together was barely a blip on his playboy radar. I don’t know if I should be offended or relieved.
Either way, my heart says no, but my mouth says yes. And my head says it’s not a handout; I’d be helping him around the house.
One minute I’m washing his designer boxer-briefs, and the next Jack has me pretending to be his girlfriend to ward off the gold diggers.
I don’t need the confusion of a fake relationship, but I could do worse than playing house with a handsome billionaire. Besides, he’s already seen me naked. What could possibly go wrong?
Roommate Wars is a roommates-to-lovers romance, with a commitment-phobe billionaire and a sassy, independent heroine. This novel is a standalone romance guaranteed to give you laughs, feels, and the grand gestures and happy ending you crave.
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About the author
Jules Barnard
27 books1,219 followersJules Barnard is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic comedy and romantic fantasy. Her rom-com series include the All’s Fair, Never Date, and Cade Brothers series. She also writes romantic fantasy under J. Barnard in the Halven Rising series Library Journal calls ''...an exciting new fantasy adventure.'' Whether she’s writing about sexy men in Lake Tahoe or a Fae world embedded in a college campus, Jules spins addictive stories filled with heart and humor.
When Jules isn’t in her sweatpants writing and rewarding herself with chocolate, she spends her time with her husband and two children in their small hometown in the Pacific Northwest. She credits herself with the ability to read while running on the treadmill or burning dinner.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
November 20, 2023
Rating: 3,5 stars ⭐️
Tropes:
forces proximity 🏙️
enemies to lovers 🩵
fake dating 🫶🏻
billionaire 💵
This was an enjoyable and funny read that had a really fast pace.
This is the book that came out after “Landlord Wars” but you could definitely read it as a standalone.
Elise lives in a toxic and disgusting appartment in San Francisco that has a lot of issues. Jack(son) has a successful virtual reality company named Environ and was Sophie’s (Elise’s sister) former roommate until she decided to move in with her boyfriend. Jackson and Elise once had a one-night stand that they both couldn’t forget…
When Jack got to know how Elise lived, he decided to take her to his home and start an agreement with her to be temporary roommates…
I really liked the friendships in this group and I’m looking forward to reading more from this author! ✨
Thank you to Grey’s Promo, Jules Barnard and the publisher for providing me with this copy. All opinions are my own.
Tropes:
forces proximity 🏙️
enemies to lovers 🩵
fake dating 🫶🏻
billionaire 💵
This was an enjoyable and funny read that had a really fast pace.
This is the book that came out after “Landlord Wars” but you could definitely read it as a standalone.
Elise lives in a toxic and disgusting appartment in San Francisco that has a lot of issues. Jack(son) has a successful virtual reality company named Environ and was Sophie’s (Elise’s sister) former roommate until she decided to move in with her boyfriend. Jackson and Elise once had a one-night stand that they both couldn’t forget…
When Jack got to know how Elise lived, he decided to take her to his home and start an agreement with her to be temporary roommates…
I really liked the friendships in this group and I’m looking forward to reading more from this author! ✨
Thank you to Grey’s Promo, Jules Barnard and the publisher for providing me with this copy. All opinions are my own.
November 10, 2023
Roommate Wars is the second book in the All's Fair series by Jules Barnard and I received an advanced reader copy for free. I read the first one in the series, Landlord Wars, when it was released and I really liked the characters and the story, so it was a no-brainer to request this sequel. This book is about Elise and Jack. Jack is Elise's sister former roommate and when he finds out that Elise is living in a horrible apartment, he can't help but convince her to move in with him, after all he has the space and needs a new roommate. The catch? They had a one-night stand a while ago and she kind of, sort of… ran away after?
This book was really fun to read and I enjoyed their banter, I enjoyed reading about how jealous Jack got when Elise had dates, and it was funny how she pretended not to know how to cook but he would eat whatever she served and not complain. There were some parts that felt a bit flat, but overall, it was a nice romance with good characters and an interesting plot.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. As always, all opinions are my own.
This book was really fun to read and I enjoyed their banter, I enjoyed reading about how jealous Jack got when Elise had dates, and it was funny how she pretended not to know how to cook but he would eat whatever she served and not complain. There were some parts that felt a bit flat, but overall, it was a nice romance with good characters and an interesting plot.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. As always, all opinions are my own.
November 9, 2023
I was lucky enough to receive this ARC in exchange for an honest review! ✨
This book started off great, it had me laughing out loud 7% in which is a great sign. The story centres around Elise who us living in a shitty, rundown apartment as she navigates through life & Jack is our billionaire MMC (who’s ex roommate is Elise’s sister) who offers Elise a proposition, offering her his empty room in exchange for cooking, cleaning and looking after his apartment (this was cute, he had genuine concern for her safety and health) lol IYKYK. She is very hesitant but eventually accepts!
After this, the story moved quite quickly with not much actually happening at all. The story kind of fell flat from there. Regardless of this, I still kept reading as certain situations did intrigue me, it just didn’t leave me feeling overly excited!
I would say this book is 3.5 stars for me;
3.5⭐️
2🌶️
I’d definitely give this authors other books a go, as I did like her writing style.
This book started off great, it had me laughing out loud 7% in which is a great sign. The story centres around Elise who us living in a shitty, rundown apartment as she navigates through life & Jack is our billionaire MMC (who’s ex roommate is Elise’s sister) who offers Elise a proposition, offering her his empty room in exchange for cooking, cleaning and looking after his apartment (this was cute, he had genuine concern for her safety and health) lol IYKYK. She is very hesitant but eventually accepts!
After this, the story moved quite quickly with not much actually happening at all. The story kind of fell flat from there. Regardless of this, I still kept reading as certain situations did intrigue me, it just didn’t leave me feeling overly excited!
I would say this book is 3.5 stars for me;
3.5⭐️
2🌶️
I’d definitely give this authors other books a go, as I did like her writing style.
November 10, 2023
What’s not to love about a laid back, protective, insanely hot billionaire, who has just as big of a commitment-phobia as you? Give her a minute, and independent Elise will think of something! Refusing to leave an unsafe apartment to prove your independence is an excessive measure, but luckily, Jack stepped in to address the issue. And that is how this one starts.
The second book in this series is just as delightful as the first. It is to your benefit to have read Max and Sophia’s story first, as this will make this one even more enjoyable.
The spirited back-and-forth between Jack and Elise is just one reason these pages seemed to turn on their own. She is so sassy, and he is so patient! Love it. I found it simple to slip back into these characters’ world and relate to their situations. It was fun to be selected for a complimentary ARC of this book, and I am happy to share my thoughts. This was impossible to put down once I began, and now I can not wait to see what surprises await Lizzie in the next book.
Jack mostly avoided forming real relationships, except with his childhood friends Max and Lizzie. But I am happy that he changed and decided on Elise as his long-term love. I understand Elise's thoughts on relationships, but I was glad Jack won her over. This couple has excellent chemistry and steamy scenes that are very entertaining!
I appreciate this author’s creativity and craftsmanship with these characters. This book and series is just as fun as her others, and I recommend reading more from her catalogue of works. Totally worth your time.
The second book in this series is just as delightful as the first. It is to your benefit to have read Max and Sophia’s story first, as this will make this one even more enjoyable.
The spirited back-and-forth between Jack and Elise is just one reason these pages seemed to turn on their own. She is so sassy, and he is so patient! Love it. I found it simple to slip back into these characters’ world and relate to their situations. It was fun to be selected for a complimentary ARC of this book, and I am happy to share my thoughts. This was impossible to put down once I began, and now I can not wait to see what surprises await Lizzie in the next book.
Jack mostly avoided forming real relationships, except with his childhood friends Max and Lizzie. But I am happy that he changed and decided on Elise as his long-term love. I understand Elise's thoughts on relationships, but I was glad Jack won her over. This couple has excellent chemistry and steamy scenes that are very entertaining!
I appreciate this author’s creativity and craftsmanship with these characters. This book and series is just as fun as her others, and I recommend reading more from her catalogue of works. Totally worth your time.
October 23, 2023
*ARC Review*
I was lucky enough to get an ARC for Roommate Wars. Grumpy x Sunshine, Fake Dating, Roommates and Rom Com sign me up!
With that being said, the story of Jack and Elise fell a little flat for me. Why they got into the fake dating was a bit of a stretch, the need to keep a new hire's hands off of him, ok I'll bite. They both have had feelings for each other since their one night stand and they act like they don't like each other and that night meant nothing. Elise goes on as many dates as she can, to avoid being home with Jack which doesn't help their fake dating situation.
Jack is a billionaire who has been taking advantage of in past relationships and Elise is trying to be independent from the family that is trying to help her, she wants to live on her own and I get why they are this way. As we get to the end of the month of them being roommates, they decide to be in a real relationship for the last week which comes about to jealousy of Elise dating and the acceptance of attraction between them. The ending didn't add much to their HEA it gave a glimpse into the next book in the series.
It was an ok read for me.
I was lucky enough to get an ARC for Roommate Wars. Grumpy x Sunshine, Fake Dating, Roommates and Rom Com sign me up!
With that being said, the story of Jack and Elise fell a little flat for me. Why they got into the fake dating was a bit of a stretch, the need to keep a new hire's hands off of him, ok I'll bite. They both have had feelings for each other since their one night stand and they act like they don't like each other and that night meant nothing. Elise goes on as many dates as she can, to avoid being home with Jack which doesn't help their fake dating situation.
Jack is a billionaire who has been taking advantage of in past relationships and Elise is trying to be independent from the family that is trying to help her, she wants to live on her own and I get why they are this way. As we get to the end of the month of them being roommates, they decide to be in a real relationship for the last week which comes about to jealousy of Elise dating and the acceptance of attraction between them. The ending didn't add much to their HEA it gave a glimpse into the next book in the series.
It was an ok read for me.
November 21, 2023
Roommate wars has a very nice premise but unfortunately the execution wasn't what I hoped.
The hero asks the heroine to live with him because her apartment isn't the best and then he says how he is always surrended by needy women, he was the one who forced her to live with him and then he calls her needy, why?
They had a one night stand that happened before the book starts but it isn't discussed between them for a long time, which I found immature especially since they ended up being roommates.
That was just a couple of example about what didn't work for me in this book and the reason why I found both mcs problematic.
*I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
The hero asks the heroine to live with him because her apartment isn't the best and then he says how he is always surrended by needy women, he was the one who forced her to live with him and then he calls her needy, why?
They had a one night stand that happened before the book starts but it isn't discussed between them for a long time, which I found immature especially since they ended up being roommates.
That was just a couple of example about what didn't work for me in this book and the reason why I found both mcs problematic.
*I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
January 2, 2024
-Cinnamon Roll
-Roomates / Forced Prox
-Fake Dating
-Found Family
-Billionaire
A sleepwalking one night stand with her sisters roommate was fate.
Jack making sure to feed his girl and getting that her love language wasn’t anything more than soft t-shirts and takeout was so lovely.
Sweet contemporary romance. A stand-alone that sets up another friends story in the universe created.
-Roomates / Forced Prox
-Fake Dating
-Found Family
-Billionaire
A sleepwalking one night stand with her sisters roommate was fate.
Jack making sure to feed his girl and getting that her love language wasn’t anything more than soft t-shirts and takeout was so lovely.
Sweet contemporary romance. A stand-alone that sets up another friends story in the universe created.
October 25, 2025
After listening to a Dark Romance Novel, this was much needed lmao. It was cute, however Alice (female main character).. you are quite annoying but funny sooo (have to admit: voice actress did amazing!!).. I’ll forgive you Alice (audiobook)
November 17, 2023
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars! (:
* Arc Review * I thought the overall story was cute and worked really well. The banter had me giggling and their relationship felt very real as I read through it! It was a quick read for me, which caused the middle of the book to fall a little flat. But, I do love the fake dating trope and loved how it was sprung on the fmc quickly, she had no time to react.
Overall, I did love the story and the main characters. This was my first book by this author and I will definitely try out more of their books!
Thank you to the author for this arc copy! (:
* Arc Review * I thought the overall story was cute and worked really well. The banter had me giggling and their relationship felt very real as I read through it! It was a quick read for me, which caused the middle of the book to fall a little flat. But, I do love the fake dating trope and loved how it was sprung on the fmc quickly, she had no time to react.
Overall, I did love the story and the main characters. This was my first book by this author and I will definitely try out more of their books!
Thank you to the author for this arc copy! (:
August 27, 2025
1.5⭐️
Dnf after 70%
Dnf after 70%
November 10, 2023
I absolutely loved this book! I was looking forward to reading Jack and Elsie’s story! I loved their witty back and forth banter! This book also includes the fake dating trope which I love! The way Jack cared for Elsie was so sweet! The chemistry between them was undeniable! There was no denying their feelings for one another! I highly recommend this book!
November 12, 2023
WHY IS THAT MAN SO SCARED OF SOME MOLD?????
It felt a bit…extreme and all I could do was cringe.
I recommend therapy. HE BURNED ALL HER STUFF.
Jack, chill. PLEASE.
I had a lot of problems with this story. The idea was good. But that’s about all positive I can say.
The character portrayal was just lazy. Sorry, I can’t sugarcoat it. The characters all felt very 0815. I’ve read the idea of the characters in a thousand books before. And they had ZERO depth beyond that. What is Jack actually working??? No clue. The only thing they mentioned was his VR company and Thalia. The other several businesses he owns? Just make something up, when you read it.
Speaking of, Elise’s job? Also very blurry. Her backstory? Why she moved into a moldy bug infested apartment? I can’t tell you.
Why they both have commitment issues and struggle with letting people close?
Why they act the way they do? No idea.
As a reader we got a lot of facts just thrown at our head and had to just accept them. Don’t question it or demand details. You won’t get any answers.
This was just lazy and uncreative writing from the beginning to the end. Why I still read it, when I usually preach „life is to short for bad books“?
I HAD HOPES OKAY? I thought maybe it’ll get better. Maybe the author will finally add some depth and meaning to this book.
And despite the lack of everything beyond the bare minimum traits a romance book should have…. I hated the characters. So much. They were both obnoxious.
*spoilers*
They liked each other. What the reasonable behavior now is you ask??
Obviously one side borderline obsessive going on dates every night. And the other side being jealous and pissed about it. And then one day confront her and propose a weird dating but also not actually dating situation. Basically friends with benefits until she moves out, but without the benefits??? They just date. But not for real. They are just both lonely and he’s sick of her dating others. But he also can’t just say he likes her and ask her out for real. Why? please don’t ask me.
*end of spoiler*
Overall this is probably fun for someone that wants a romance that reads like it’s written by a third grader (if we ignore the smut. I hope no third grader writes this kind of stuff). Immature and annoying characters. Boring and very random story and plot. Not very entertaining writing.
Actually, this felt like it was written by one of those Netflix writers that write teenage shows and you can clearly see - they haven’t been a teenager in a very long time. They have no idea how teenagers nowadays act, talk and behave.
And this felt like the author has no idea how NORMAL people act, talk or behave. Cause nothing about this felt realistic. They read like made up characters. And every stereotype imaginable was stuffed into this.
I’m not saying I don’t see why people might enjoy this. It’s the same as with twilight. If you just accept it’s trash, you can enjoy it in a weird way.
And maybe you think this is great. I don’t blame you. I unironically read stuff others think is trash too. But I have also read too many genuinely good and amazing books to pretend this did not give me a headache.
—————————
thank you to Jules Barnard and Grey‘s Promotions for the arc <3
It felt a bit…extreme and all I could do was cringe.
I recommend therapy. HE BURNED ALL HER STUFF.
Jack, chill. PLEASE.
I had a lot of problems with this story. The idea was good. But that’s about all positive I can say.
The character portrayal was just lazy. Sorry, I can’t sugarcoat it. The characters all felt very 0815. I’ve read the idea of the characters in a thousand books before. And they had ZERO depth beyond that. What is Jack actually working??? No clue. The only thing they mentioned was his VR company and Thalia. The other several businesses he owns? Just make something up, when you read it.
Speaking of, Elise’s job? Also very blurry. Her backstory? Why she moved into a moldy bug infested apartment? I can’t tell you.
Why they both have commitment issues and struggle with letting people close?
Why they act the way they do? No idea.
As a reader we got a lot of facts just thrown at our head and had to just accept them. Don’t question it or demand details. You won’t get any answers.
This was just lazy and uncreative writing from the beginning to the end. Why I still read it, when I usually preach „life is to short for bad books“?
I HAD HOPES OKAY? I thought maybe it’ll get better. Maybe the author will finally add some depth and meaning to this book.
And despite the lack of everything beyond the bare minimum traits a romance book should have…. I hated the characters. So much. They were both obnoxious.
*spoilers*
They liked each other. What the reasonable behavior now is you ask??
Obviously one side borderline obsessive going on dates every night. And the other side being jealous and pissed about it. And then one day confront her and propose a weird dating but also not actually dating situation. Basically friends with benefits until she moves out, but without the benefits??? They just date. But not for real. They are just both lonely and he’s sick of her dating others. But he also can’t just say he likes her and ask her out for real. Why? please don’t ask me.
*end of spoiler*
Overall this is probably fun for someone that wants a romance that reads like it’s written by a third grader (if we ignore the smut. I hope no third grader writes this kind of stuff). Immature and annoying characters. Boring and very random story and plot. Not very entertaining writing.
Actually, this felt like it was written by one of those Netflix writers that write teenage shows and you can clearly see - they haven’t been a teenager in a very long time. They have no idea how teenagers nowadays act, talk and behave.
And this felt like the author has no idea how NORMAL people act, talk or behave. Cause nothing about this felt realistic. They read like made up characters. And every stereotype imaginable was stuffed into this.
I’m not saying I don’t see why people might enjoy this. It’s the same as with twilight. If you just accept it’s trash, you can enjoy it in a weird way.
And maybe you think this is great. I don’t blame you. I unironically read stuff others think is trash too. But I have also read too many genuinely good and amazing books to pretend this did not give me a headache.
—————————
thank you to Jules Barnard and Grey‘s Promotions for the arc <3
November 10, 2023
Amazon
After Elise ran out on her one night with Jack, she's fallen off the radar. She's avoiding her sister, and Jack too, and has finally found her own place. Too bad it's a shithole of epic proportions. Or is it too bad? Not really, because when Jack tracks her down and sees where she's living, he convinces her to come crash at his place, for free mind you, as long as she helps him around the house. That shouldn't be a problem for these two commitment-phobes. But for his little problem of needing a fake girlfriend to be a buffer between him and his new clingy CEO. We all know that two people with history, in close proximity, in a fake relationship - yeah that fake relationship isn't going to be fake for long...
Jack is definitely the sweet cinnamon roll Elise told him he was. He's sweet, a bit crusty on the outside (like when he was acting grumpy and cold and as if their ons hadn't affected him), and he's completely obsessed and devoted to her. If a billionaire uses his extensive resources to find where his ons has landed, yeah I think that means he's affected. Not that she knew, or cared, that he was a billionaire, but still - this cinnamon roll is adorable! And so is Elise. She's so prickly and sassy and determined to be independent. I admit to wanting to shake her a bit, to tell her to quit pushing Jack away, but considering her past, she was completely absolved for her bit of ridiculousness. The All's Fair series is sweet and fun so far, now I'm anxiously awaiting Lizzie's story next, Neighbor Wars.
ARC provided by Grey's Promotions for an honest review.
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October 30, 2023
✨𝙰𝚁𝙲 𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚒𝚎𝚠: 𝚁𝚘𝚘𝚖𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚎 𝚆𝚊𝚛𝚜 𝚋𝚢 𝙹𝚞𝚕𝚎𝚜 𝙱𝚊𝚛𝚗𝚊𝚛𝚍✨
𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: All's Fair book 2
𝐩𝐮𝐛 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: Nov 10, 2023
𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: romcom
𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬: 250
𝐩𝐨𝐯: dual [Jack & Elise]
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
* roommates with benefits
* Sister's friend/ex-roommate
* Grumpy x sunshine
* Fake dating
* Secret Billionaire
* He falls first
* One night stand
* Forced proximity
* Slow burn
* Down on her luck heroine
Jack is a reluctant billionaire. He has more money than he knows what to do with after building and selling off several companies. But lives a relatively modest bachelor life. He has sworn off dating because his last relationship went up in flames [literally].
When his best friend's girlfriend/his ex-roommate asks him to use his resources to track down her stubborn younger sister [whom he has the best one night stand with before she snuck out on him] determined to make it on her own without the help of others, he finds her in the most disgusting roach infested apartment. He strong arms her into moving into her sisters old room in his apartment for a month to give her time to make alternate living arrangements.
The problem is, Elise doesn't want hand outs and is, quite frankly, horrified by the amount of money Jack has when she finds out.
The other problem Jack is facing? The woman he hired as the new CEO for one of his companies is behaving in appropriately towards him. And he uses Elise as a buffer... aka a fake girlfriend.
💭 𝘘𝘖𝘛𝘋: 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘦?
Thoughts:
This book had all the makings of a really great romcom, but it fell a little flat for me.
One of the biggest issues for me was I felt like there was a lack of chemistry between Elise and Jack.
There were also a couple phrases in the spicy scene that made me physically cringe and gave me the ick. Things like "tonguing her beauty" and "pass out from carpal tunnel tongue" 😬 no thank you.
Additionally, I'm often not a big fan of when women are pitted against each other or portrayed in a nasty stereotypes. For example, the "villain" in this book was initially presented as a competent woman working her ass off as she makes her way up the corporate latter. But then we later discover she is not only mean to Elise both to her face and behind her back, but she actively tries to pursue mister money bags even when he indicates he's not interested and when he claims he has a girlfriend. Then she goes on to manipulate a scenario so that major business partners believe she and Jack are together. Then after Jack fires her, it's implied that she's moved on to work her manipulations on the next rich man in line.
I just hate this line of characterization, because it feeds into patriarchal bullshit of women in power positions in corporate America either slept their way to the top, are cut throat towards other women, are just looking for a rich man, or all of the above.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was a short and sweet, fun romcom with some quirky characters and some funny moments. I just wanted a little more from it.
𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: All's Fair book 2
𝐩𝐮𝐛 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: Nov 10, 2023
𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: romcom
𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬: 250
𝐩𝐨𝐯: dual [Jack & Elise]
𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
* roommates with benefits
* Sister's friend/ex-roommate
* Grumpy x sunshine
* Fake dating
* Secret Billionaire
* He falls first
* One night stand
* Forced proximity
* Slow burn
* Down on her luck heroine
Jack is a reluctant billionaire. He has more money than he knows what to do with after building and selling off several companies. But lives a relatively modest bachelor life. He has sworn off dating because his last relationship went up in flames [literally].
When his best friend's girlfriend/his ex-roommate asks him to use his resources to track down her stubborn younger sister [whom he has the best one night stand with before she snuck out on him] determined to make it on her own without the help of others, he finds her in the most disgusting roach infested apartment. He strong arms her into moving into her sisters old room in his apartment for a month to give her time to make alternate living arrangements.
The problem is, Elise doesn't want hand outs and is, quite frankly, horrified by the amount of money Jack has when she finds out.
The other problem Jack is facing? The woman he hired as the new CEO for one of his companies is behaving in appropriately towards him. And he uses Elise as a buffer... aka a fake girlfriend.
💭 𝘘𝘖𝘛𝘋: 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘦?
Thoughts:
This book had all the makings of a really great romcom, but it fell a little flat for me.
One of the biggest issues for me was I felt like there was a lack of chemistry between Elise and Jack.
There were also a couple phrases in the spicy scene that made me physically cringe and gave me the ick. Things like "tonguing her beauty" and "pass out from carpal tunnel tongue" 😬 no thank you.
Additionally, I'm often not a big fan of when women are pitted against each other or portrayed in a nasty stereotypes. For example, the "villain" in this book was initially presented as a competent woman working her ass off as she makes her way up the corporate latter. But then we later discover she is not only mean to Elise both to her face and behind her back, but she actively tries to pursue mister money bags even when he indicates he's not interested and when he claims he has a girlfriend. Then she goes on to manipulate a scenario so that major business partners believe she and Jack are together. Then after Jack fires her, it's implied that she's moved on to work her manipulations on the next rich man in line.
I just hate this line of characterization, because it feeds into patriarchal bullshit of women in power positions in corporate America either slept their way to the top, are cut throat towards other women, are just looking for a rich man, or all of the above.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was a short and sweet, fun romcom with some quirky characters and some funny moments. I just wanted a little more from it.
May 16, 2025
3 ⭐️
read @ may 15th - 16th, 2025
not terrible.
just an average forced proximity romance. not the biggest fan of this trope, but jules barnard made it pretty enjoyable.
maybe if i let this book marinate longer in my head, i'd have more nice things to say. for now, here's some of my thoughts:
1) the book liked to tell the audience how independent elise was, but it was barely shown in the story. it felt like the narrative was begging ME to think she was every time elise would complain about every time jack tried to do something nice for her.
2) jack has his charming moments. but he felt a bit bland and even difficult to "read" in some parts. sometimes he's grumpy, sometimes he's too easygoing. i really couldn't get a grasp of what his personality was like.
(i would say tho, i like the sideplot about his dad)
3) i scoffed when jack described elise as "caring," just because she was kind to his dad. that's like, writing a romance FMC 101. this tells me nothing about her. she'd be unlikable if she was a bitch to him, it should be a given! (i do like her moments with the dad tho)
to me, she felt more like a girl who's been itching to gain her independence from her helicopter sister and hoarder mother. (probably a sagittarius considering her commitment-phobic tendencies)
4) ending was meh. a clear teaser for the next book. could've worked if it wasn't so in-your-face.
best thing i could say about it is the performances in the audiobook are stellar.
susannah jones is amazing. her voice is so expressive and manages to make the most cringey (and millennial) phrases less cringey. she nearly fooled me into thinking elise was a unique character. i probably would have liked this book less if it weren't for her.
everyone who knows about my reading habits knows that i'd read anything that's narrated by zachary webber / jacob morgan. some male narrators don't even try, so i love that his "girl" voice is actually pretty convincing for me. not to mention his incredible ability to give other characters distinct voices.
no idea if i'll actually read the sequel when it comes out. max and soph are interesting enough that i might give the prequel a chance.
my overall experience with this book is: not bad, but i'll probably forget about this after a week.
i don't want to sound like i hated this book and i'm aware that jules barnard is probably a newer writer so i don't want to discourage her (if she ever comes across my review) so i would say:
it very much felt like a romcom from the 2000s. if you want to turn your brain off and relax with that genre of media, this is a good one to pick. the audiobook just adds to the quality.
read @ may 15th - 16th, 2025
not terrible.
just an average forced proximity romance. not the biggest fan of this trope, but jules barnard made it pretty enjoyable.
maybe if i let this book marinate longer in my head, i'd have more nice things to say. for now, here's some of my thoughts:
1) the book liked to tell the audience how independent elise was, but it was barely shown in the story. it felt like the narrative was begging ME to think she was every time elise would complain about every time jack tried to do something nice for her.
2) jack has his charming moments. but he felt a bit bland and even difficult to "read" in some parts. sometimes he's grumpy, sometimes he's too easygoing. i really couldn't get a grasp of what his personality was like.
(i would say tho, i like the sideplot about his dad)
3) i scoffed when jack described elise as "caring," just because she was kind to his dad. that's like, writing a romance FMC 101. this tells me nothing about her. she'd be unlikable if she was a bitch to him, it should be a given! (i do like her moments with the dad tho)
to me, she felt more like a girl who's been itching to gain her independence from her helicopter sister and hoarder mother. (probably a sagittarius considering her commitment-phobic tendencies)
4) ending was meh. a clear teaser for the next book. could've worked if it wasn't so in-your-face.
best thing i could say about it is the performances in the audiobook are stellar.
susannah jones is amazing. her voice is so expressive and manages to make the most cringey (and millennial) phrases less cringey. she nearly fooled me into thinking elise was a unique character. i probably would have liked this book less if it weren't for her.
everyone who knows about my reading habits knows that i'd read anything that's narrated by zachary webber / jacob morgan. some male narrators don't even try, so i love that his "girl" voice is actually pretty convincing for me. not to mention his incredible ability to give other characters distinct voices.
no idea if i'll actually read the sequel when it comes out. max and soph are interesting enough that i might give the prequel a chance.
my overall experience with this book is: not bad, but i'll probably forget about this after a week.
i don't want to sound like i hated this book and i'm aware that jules barnard is probably a newer writer so i don't want to discourage her (if she ever comes across my review) so i would say:
it very much felt like a romcom from the 2000s. if you want to turn your brain off and relax with that genre of media, this is a good one to pick. the audiobook just adds to the quality.
November 12, 2023
This book was kindly offered to me by its author in exchange for my opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
After reading and enjoying “The Landlord Wars” I sincerely hoped that Jules Barnard had a story for Jack and Elise, who have an accidental one night stand in that book. Elise is Sophia’s little sister and Jack is Max’s best friend. And this is their book. When Sophia moves out of the apartment he shares with Jack and after Elise’s struggles to find a home, Jack offers her to be his roommate for free or in exchange for a couple of house works. And she agrees because she doesn’t have many more options.
II truly honestly hoped that I would like this book as much as the previous one and, well, I found it fun and entertaining. However, this book isn’t quite what I was hoping, meaning that there’s something very important for me that the book falls short in and it is the romance. I didn’t feel butterflies in my stomach with these two. They have a lot of sexual chemistry and the banter was good and fun. But it all revolved around that, the physical attraction and the sensual vibes. Where were the romantic gestures, the feelings, the touch, the hearts fluttering? I was missing that. In short, I wanted to be moved by both the sentimental and the sensual aspects of a romance.
For me, the second half of the book is where the romance can be glimpsed. The book is not too spicy despite leaning heavily on the physical attraction and the few dirty jokes here and there, the couple respect each other’s boundaries and that was something I wasn’t expecting what with the way it seemed to be leading. And there is one more pleasant surprise towards the end that I won’t spoil for you.
Still I enjoyed the book alright, unluckily I am in the minority of the romance readers who deeply care about love rather than the physical aspect turned into a developing and growing relationship. Jack was such a good guy and he was so good to Elise, who really needed someone apart from her sister to stand by her. Most of the readers will really enjoy this book to the max, I think I’m a bit old for the new wave in romance, but if you are reading this and you love fun rom-coms with amazing characters, this is your book.
On a little last note, I loved Jack’s relationship with his father, their family backstory is a sad one but they grew closer because of that and I felt so much tenderness towards them. That, with the few bits of romantic details, saved the book for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
After reading and enjoying “The Landlord Wars” I sincerely hoped that Jules Barnard had a story for Jack and Elise, who have an accidental one night stand in that book. Elise is Sophia’s little sister and Jack is Max’s best friend. And this is their book. When Sophia moves out of the apartment he shares with Jack and after Elise’s struggles to find a home, Jack offers her to be his roommate for free or in exchange for a couple of house works. And she agrees because she doesn’t have many more options.
II truly honestly hoped that I would like this book as much as the previous one and, well, I found it fun and entertaining. However, this book isn’t quite what I was hoping, meaning that there’s something very important for me that the book falls short in and it is the romance. I didn’t feel butterflies in my stomach with these two. They have a lot of sexual chemistry and the banter was good and fun. But it all revolved around that, the physical attraction and the sensual vibes. Where were the romantic gestures, the feelings, the touch, the hearts fluttering? I was missing that. In short, I wanted to be moved by both the sentimental and the sensual aspects of a romance.
For me, the second half of the book is where the romance can be glimpsed. The book is not too spicy despite leaning heavily on the physical attraction and the few dirty jokes here and there, the couple respect each other’s boundaries and that was something I wasn’t expecting what with the way it seemed to be leading. And there is one more pleasant surprise towards the end that I won’t spoil for you.
Still I enjoyed the book alright, unluckily I am in the minority of the romance readers who deeply care about love rather than the physical aspect turned into a developing and growing relationship. Jack was such a good guy and he was so good to Elise, who really needed someone apart from her sister to stand by her. Most of the readers will really enjoy this book to the max, I think I’m a bit old for the new wave in romance, but if you are reading this and you love fun rom-coms with amazing characters, this is your book.
On a little last note, I loved Jack’s relationship with his father, their family backstory is a sad one but they grew closer because of that and I felt so much tenderness towards them. That, with the few bits of romantic details, saved the book for me.
October 22, 2023
We were guaranteed a read with laughs, feels, grand gestures and a happy ending and Jules definitely delivered! This is the second book in the All's Fair series, a series of interconnected standalones, you don't have to read them in order but I HIGHLY recommend that you do! I ate this up in one sitting, I am a sucker for fake dating and forced proximity and this hit all the right marks.
Elise and Jack had a one-night stand that rocked them both to their core, something that would send ANY and ALL commitment-phobes running for the hills - which is exactly why Elise all but ran from Jacks bed and avoided him at all costs.
"I've been craving Elise in my arms since the morning she slipped out of my bed like
a thief in the night. She's stolen something from me that night, and I wanted it back....
- Jack
Elise was trying to prove not only to her family but herself that she could be independent, she found herself living in a dump with one to many little cockroaches friends and some questionable growths on the walls. Once Jack learned how severe Elise's living conditions were he came up with a plan she wouldn't be able refuse, and he succeeded. Now that he convinced Elise to move in with him temporarily while she figured things out he realized, that he convinced Elise to move in with him...but with rules set for their agreement it was a win-win situation while also getting Elise the hell out of that place.
BUT in true romcom fashion not only are Jack and Elise now living together but it doesn't take long for that extremely thin line to begin fading away- because Jack needs Elise to pretend to be his girlfriend to ward off a persistent gold digger.
Sounds perfect right?!? Because it was! Not only did this have a great plot and great characters but the banter was PHENOMINAL and had me laughing and swooning the entire time. I loved Elise and Jack together and I loved seeing a ton of the first books characters make appearances. I CAN'T wait for Lizzes story in the next book! Thank you to Grey's Promotion and Jules Barnard for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Elise and Jack had a one-night stand that rocked them both to their core, something that would send ANY and ALL commitment-phobes running for the hills - which is exactly why Elise all but ran from Jacks bed and avoided him at all costs.
"I've been craving Elise in my arms since the morning she slipped out of my bed like
a thief in the night. She's stolen something from me that night, and I wanted it back....
- Jack
Elise was trying to prove not only to her family but herself that she could be independent, she found herself living in a dump with one to many little cockroaches friends and some questionable growths on the walls. Once Jack learned how severe Elise's living conditions were he came up with a plan she wouldn't be able refuse, and he succeeded. Now that he convinced Elise to move in with him temporarily while she figured things out he realized, that he convinced Elise to move in with him...but with rules set for their agreement it was a win-win situation while also getting Elise the hell out of that place.
BUT in true romcom fashion not only are Jack and Elise now living together but it doesn't take long for that extremely thin line to begin fading away- because Jack needs Elise to pretend to be his girlfriend to ward off a persistent gold digger.
Sounds perfect right?!? Because it was! Not only did this have a great plot and great characters but the banter was PHENOMINAL and had me laughing and swooning the entire time. I loved Elise and Jack together and I loved seeing a ton of the first books characters make appearances. I CAN'T wait for Lizzes story in the next book! Thank you to Grey's Promotion and Jules Barnard for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2024
Title: Roommate Wars
Author: Jules Barnard
Hero/Heroine: Jack & Elise
Tropes: Billionaire Hero, Roommates, Opposites Attract, Roommates with Benefits
tw/cw: mention of cancer, death of a parent, sexual harassment, mention of hoarding disorder,
✨the good ✨
I honestly didn’t think a couple could be better than Max and Sophia, yet here Jack and Elise were, being all adorable and banter-y.
When Jack finds out that Elise is living in a mould infested dump, he turns up at her front door and demands she move in with him for the next month until Elise can find somewhere else to live. After their somewhat disastrous one night stand in Landlord Wars, Jack and Elise aren’t exactly on friend terms, however Jack refuses to see her struggle.
I immediately loved both Jack and Elise. Their little quirks and their banter filled chats had me smirking throughout, and I couldn’t help but root for a happy ending for them. Having been burned (excuse the pun - IYKYK) by his precious roommate and girlfriend, Jack was firm int he fact that nothing would happen between him and Elise. Then she starts going on dates and he goes from a gooey cinnamon roll to a possessive alpha male and you know what? I was here for it. Elise, in her effort to be independent, refuses to take anything from Jack, knowing that he’s been taken advantage of in this way before. I loved this about her, she was so genuine and likeable, Elise was a great heroine.
Loved Jack and Elise’s story, finished it with a pretty big smile on my face. Now I’m looking forward to reading Lizzie’s book, have a feeling it’s going to be just as great as previous ones in the series.
✨ the bad ✨
Thalia. This bitch just couldn’t take a hint.
Thank you to the author and @greyspromo for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨overall thoughts: loved Jack and Elise’s banter filled story
✨ 3rd act break up: no
✨ heat level: 🌶️🌶️
✨ star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Jules Barnard
Hero/Heroine: Jack & Elise
Tropes: Billionaire Hero, Roommates, Opposites Attract, Roommates with Benefits
tw/cw: mention of cancer, death of a parent, sexual harassment, mention of hoarding disorder,
✨the good ✨
I honestly didn’t think a couple could be better than Max and Sophia, yet here Jack and Elise were, being all adorable and banter-y.
When Jack finds out that Elise is living in a mould infested dump, he turns up at her front door and demands she move in with him for the next month until Elise can find somewhere else to live. After their somewhat disastrous one night stand in Landlord Wars, Jack and Elise aren’t exactly on friend terms, however Jack refuses to see her struggle.
I immediately loved both Jack and Elise. Their little quirks and their banter filled chats had me smirking throughout, and I couldn’t help but root for a happy ending for them. Having been burned (excuse the pun - IYKYK) by his precious roommate and girlfriend, Jack was firm int he fact that nothing would happen between him and Elise. Then she starts going on dates and he goes from a gooey cinnamon roll to a possessive alpha male and you know what? I was here for it. Elise, in her effort to be independent, refuses to take anything from Jack, knowing that he’s been taken advantage of in this way before. I loved this about her, she was so genuine and likeable, Elise was a great heroine.
Loved Jack and Elise’s story, finished it with a pretty big smile on my face. Now I’m looking forward to reading Lizzie’s book, have a feeling it’s going to be just as great as previous ones in the series.
✨ the bad ✨
Thalia. This bitch just couldn’t take a hint.
Thank you to the author and @greyspromo for providing me with a copy of this to read. This is my honest review.
✨overall thoughts: loved Jack and Elise’s banter filled story
✨ 3rd act break up: no
✨ heat level: 🌶️🌶️
✨ star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 10, 2023
The second romcom in Jules Barnard’s Billionaires with Benefits series and after the glimpses we got of Jack and Elise in the previous book I was desperate for Roommate Wars. They’d met when her sister became his new flat mate and while there had been a spark between them, after a one-night stand, student Elise ran all the way overseas supposedly. Now she’s back and working for the city but her low wages mean the best flat she can afford is something that should’ve come complete with a hazmat suit and her roommates are cockroaches! When Jack sees just how bad things are he knows can’t leave Elise in a slum, so he somehow finagles into moving in with him rent free for thirty days in return for her doing some cooking and cleaning before adding on some fake dating in an attempt to thwart the attentions of his new employee who is has a glint in her eyes when she looks at him.
It was obvious right from the start how attracted this pair were to each other, but Elise was such an independent character with problems accepting help and Jack was a complete commitment-phobe probably down to losing his mum at a young age, so they spent a lot of this book swinging from friends to near lovers and then back to mere roommates again. I did enjoy all the verbal sparring and flirting between them especially when Elise dipped her toes in the dating pool and Jack’s jealousy shone through.
I’d been looking forward to Roommate Wars so much, but I can’t help but feel this book fell a little flat for me. It’s not that it’s bad or anything, just I didn’t feel much happened. I do love this author’s style of writing though. Her dialogue is quick-fire and witty, and she creates characters that I love so I still wouldn’t hesitate to read her books in future.
It was obvious right from the start how attracted this pair were to each other, but Elise was such an independent character with problems accepting help and Jack was a complete commitment-phobe probably down to losing his mum at a young age, so they spent a lot of this book swinging from friends to near lovers and then back to mere roommates again. I did enjoy all the verbal sparring and flirting between them especially when Elise dipped her toes in the dating pool and Jack’s jealousy shone through.
I’d been looking forward to Roommate Wars so much, but I can’t help but feel this book fell a little flat for me. It’s not that it’s bad or anything, just I didn’t feel much happened. I do love this author’s style of writing though. Her dialogue is quick-fire and witty, and she creates characters that I love so I still wouldn’t hesitate to read her books in future.
October 22, 2023
Do you know the reason why love marriage of convenience & fake love tropes? All because we can see the man being grumpy but at the same time he keeps saying to her, ‘mine’. It doesn't make sense, right? But I am delusional and I am okay with that.
Roommate War is about Elise who has sleepwalking issues accidentally walks to her sister's roommate's room and slept with him. The next day, she just storm out of his room and decided to act like nothing happen & move out to a very shitty place. She never mentioned anything to anyone but Jack used his billionaire power to track her down & bring her back to his place with certain conditions.
So one day, Jack needs an outlet to get away from his CEO who’s been leeching on him. That’s when the fake love drama started.
So, overall, I think I get smitten by how angry & ‘not being bothered’ vibe from Jack but at the same time he’s activated his ‘Where-Is-Elise’ radar 24 hours to the point where he even helps her to screen her potential hook up candidate, every night. 😆 And this is the best part. I did mention her shitty place when Jack found her? Yes. That billionaire boy BOUGHT THAT DAMN PLACE & RENOVATE THE WHOLE PLACE FOR HER. God! I just..i cannot. He just turned himself from the IT/Technology guy into a Bob The Builder 😂 Girls!
The banter between them? I love it. It’s like a reward every time Jack surrenders to her. With that said, I am happy to rate this book, 4.5/5. It’s worth your time. A pager Turner book & you can certainly finish this book in one sitting.
Roommate War is about Elise who has sleepwalking issues accidentally walks to her sister's roommate's room and slept with him. The next day, she just storm out of his room and decided to act like nothing happen & move out to a very shitty place. She never mentioned anything to anyone but Jack used his billionaire power to track her down & bring her back to his place with certain conditions.
So one day, Jack needs an outlet to get away from his CEO who’s been leeching on him. That’s when the fake love drama started.
So, overall, I think I get smitten by how angry & ‘not being bothered’ vibe from Jack but at the same time he’s activated his ‘Where-Is-Elise’ radar 24 hours to the point where he even helps her to screen her potential hook up candidate, every night. 😆 And this is the best part. I did mention her shitty place when Jack found her? Yes. That billionaire boy BOUGHT THAT DAMN PLACE & RENOVATE THE WHOLE PLACE FOR HER. God! I just..i cannot. He just turned himself from the IT/Technology guy into a Bob The Builder 😂 Girls!
The banter between them? I love it. It’s like a reward every time Jack surrenders to her. With that said, I am happy to rate this book, 4.5/5. It’s worth your time. A pager Turner book & you can certainly finish this book in one sitting.
October 30, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. The characters were strong and witty and so much fun to follow through their story. I didn't want this book to end.
Elise and Jack had a one-night stand a few months ago, while her sister was Jack's roommate. Now, her new apartment is a disaster, and Jack won't have it. He makes her an offer she can't refuse, no rent, with a few stipulations, and gets her to move in with him. Let the awkward fun begin!
What neither one is willing to admit is that they really like the other and have for a while now. The back and forth between these two is so much fun. I love how independent Elise is. She doesn't want handouts and wants to prove she can make it on her own. She's not needy, and she sure is sassy! She doesn't put up with crap, especially from Jack. Jack is an extremely wealthy man who just wants to keep Elise close, and he feels very protective of her. Though he is wealthy, he doesn't show it off. He is humble and kind. He has had loss and sadness in his life, and some of it he has shouldered it all himself. When he finally opens up to Elise, he starts to see just how having someone by his side can help.
This book gave me everything I need and a wee bit more. A laugh-out-loud experience with some spice throughout. I absolutely can't wait to read Lizzie's book and see who this mystery neighbor is. As always, I thoroughly enjoyed Jules' writing. It kept my interest from start to finish. So much so that I plan on going back and re-reading her older work. This is a definite must-read!
Elise and Jack had a one-night stand a few months ago, while her sister was Jack's roommate. Now, her new apartment is a disaster, and Jack won't have it. He makes her an offer she can't refuse, no rent, with a few stipulations, and gets her to move in with him. Let the awkward fun begin!
What neither one is willing to admit is that they really like the other and have for a while now. The back and forth between these two is so much fun. I love how independent Elise is. She doesn't want handouts and wants to prove she can make it on her own. She's not needy, and she sure is sassy! She doesn't put up with crap, especially from Jack. Jack is an extremely wealthy man who just wants to keep Elise close, and he feels very protective of her. Though he is wealthy, he doesn't show it off. He is humble and kind. He has had loss and sadness in his life, and some of it he has shouldered it all himself. When he finally opens up to Elise, he starts to see just how having someone by his side can help.
This book gave me everything I need and a wee bit more. A laugh-out-loud experience with some spice throughout. I absolutely can't wait to read Lizzie's book and see who this mystery neighbor is. As always, I thoroughly enjoyed Jules' writing. It kept my interest from start to finish. So much so that I plan on going back and re-reading her older work. This is a definite must-read!
November 8, 2023
This book was so cute and funny!
It keeps you hooked from the beginning to end with their little roommate drama wars.
Elise is so funny. I didn't expect that from the beginning but as soon as we got into the book, she was so fun and cute. The way she calls him "Jackson" and he secretly loves it because she's the only one to call him that. She was stubborn, not letting Jack pay for her stuff (even though he was the reason she needed new clothes) and even though he had plenty of money, which I admired. She wanted her independence and to prove to herself she could do it. Though Jack did manage to get her a "Hot stuff" apron and some other clothes 😏
The contrast with Jack, how he can be completely carefree at home, lounging in sweatpants and then dress up for work events. I was as seduced as Elise. Especially when he constantly wanted to be with her and helped her with her dates (even though he hated it).
I loved when they just hung out at home or when they went to visit Jack's dad. His dad was so sweet and the way he loved and became protective of Elise as soon as he met her was so endearing.
Their whole inside joke and agreement about the food was funny. And who doesn't want to be with a man who orders food from 4 different restaurants to make sure you like it?
💕 Billionaire
💕 One night stand a few months ago
💕 Roommates/friends to lovers
💕 Fake relationship
💕 No third act breakup
💕 Funny banter
Thank you for my arc copy!
It keeps you hooked from the beginning to end with their little roommate drama wars.
Elise is so funny. I didn't expect that from the beginning but as soon as we got into the book, she was so fun and cute. The way she calls him "Jackson" and he secretly loves it because she's the only one to call him that. She was stubborn, not letting Jack pay for her stuff (even though he was the reason she needed new clothes) and even though he had plenty of money, which I admired. She wanted her independence and to prove to herself she could do it. Though Jack did manage to get her a "Hot stuff" apron and some other clothes 😏
The contrast with Jack, how he can be completely carefree at home, lounging in sweatpants and then dress up for work events. I was as seduced as Elise. Especially when he constantly wanted to be with her and helped her with her dates (even though he hated it).
I loved when they just hung out at home or when they went to visit Jack's dad. His dad was so sweet and the way he loved and became protective of Elise as soon as he met her was so endearing.
Their whole inside joke and agreement about the food was funny. And who doesn't want to be with a man who orders food from 4 different restaurants to make sure you like it?
💕 Billionaire
💕 One night stand a few months ago
💕 Roommates/friends to lovers
💕 Fake relationship
💕 No third act breakup
💕 Funny banter
Thank you for my arc copy!
November 10, 2023
Jack and Elise are back and still hot as ever. Elise moves into a dump of an apartment and Jack finds her and convinces her to take over her sister's room in his apartment now that she moved in with Max. Elise thinks its a bad idea since she had a one night stand with Jack months ago and is still trying to get over him. He promises he has no designs on her and has already forgotten about their one night....OUCH! She finally agrees when he offers rent free and to make her feel better, he barters cooking and laundry to pay him for having her stay there. She can't cook for anything so she feeds Jack frozen meals and Jack being Jack, eats everything she feeds him.
Little does she know Jack has not forgotten their night either but when he woke up the morning after to find her gone and avoiding him, he thinks she regretted their night and convinces her it didn't mean anything to him. She agrees to move in for the month and their developing friendship is hilarious. Now she agrees to be his fake girlfriend because Jack's new CEO is looking to run more than his company. Their relationship develops from fake to real and they agree to date until she moves out after the month is out.
I loved their story! I can't wait for Lizzie because I know she will have a good one!
I received an advance copy from BookFunnel for my honest opinion.
Little does she know Jack has not forgotten their night either but when he woke up the morning after to find her gone and avoiding him, he thinks she regretted their night and convinces her it didn't mean anything to him. She agrees to move in for the month and their developing friendship is hilarious. Now she agrees to be his fake girlfriend because Jack's new CEO is looking to run more than his company. Their relationship develops from fake to real and they agree to date until she moves out after the month is out.
I loved their story! I can't wait for Lizzie because I know she will have a good one!
I received an advance copy from BookFunnel for my honest opinion.
October 30, 2023
This is a romantic comedy that would do well as a movie. It has all the necessary elements, humor, heart and sex to put you a rollercoaster ride.
Elise and Jack have the spark of attraction that they both fight back with witty and cutting banter, creative evasiveness and charm. They are likable characters except when annoying. Elise's compulsion to keep her distance from Jack seems juvenile and her constant reminders of their fake relationship has a nagging effect, but she is loyal and caring. Some of her funniest scenes revolve around dinners and laundry. Jack has his moments of annoyance, but not as grating as Elise's. Why Jack has a commitment phobia is understandable considering his past, but it is his most unattractive character trait he has. His charm is unrelenting, his patience and protectiveness over Elise sweet. He is the perfect boyfriend in spite of himself.
So, with Jack and Elise's crazy dynamic, it becomes more complicated when Jack's newly hired CEO, Thalia enters the picture with an agenda. This is a fun and sexy read that brings together Sophia and Max from the first book in this series and it sets up Lizzie, Jack and Max's longtime friend for the next exciting book. I look forward to catching up with everyone.
Elise and Jack have the spark of attraction that they both fight back with witty and cutting banter, creative evasiveness and charm. They are likable characters except when annoying. Elise's compulsion to keep her distance from Jack seems juvenile and her constant reminders of their fake relationship has a nagging effect, but she is loyal and caring. Some of her funniest scenes revolve around dinners and laundry. Jack has his moments of annoyance, but not as grating as Elise's. Why Jack has a commitment phobia is understandable considering his past, but it is his most unattractive character trait he has. His charm is unrelenting, his patience and protectiveness over Elise sweet. He is the perfect boyfriend in spite of himself.
So, with Jack and Elise's crazy dynamic, it becomes more complicated when Jack's newly hired CEO, Thalia enters the picture with an agenda. This is a fun and sexy read that brings together Sophia and Max from the first book in this series and it sets up Lizzie, Jack and Max's longtime friend for the next exciting book. I look forward to catching up with everyone.
November 6, 2023
*ARC review*
this was such a cute romcom with all of the best tropes: grumpy x sunshine, fake dating, forced proximity, mutual pining, and it’s dual pov!!
after jack finds out the living situation elise has gotten herself into he decides to take her safety into his own hands by having her move in with him. elise agrees to live with jack for a month until she’s able to get back on her feet and find a new place. the fact that elise and jack recently had a one night stand has them quickly rethinking their living arrangements when they both realize that one night may not have been enough. jack later runs into a predicament at work with an interested coworker that has him reaching for elise and calling her his “girlfriend” promptly putting them in a fake relationship to ward off his coworker’s advances, but do things ever really stay fake in situations like these?
i really enjoyed getting to see both povs and getting to see how much they both liked each other without the other knowing. i would say this felt like a bit of a slow burn, as it did take a bit of time for them to actually get together, but the build up was so good!
this was such a cute romcom with all of the best tropes: grumpy x sunshine, fake dating, forced proximity, mutual pining, and it’s dual pov!!
after jack finds out the living situation elise has gotten herself into he decides to take her safety into his own hands by having her move in with him. elise agrees to live with jack for a month until she’s able to get back on her feet and find a new place. the fact that elise and jack recently had a one night stand has them quickly rethinking their living arrangements when they both realize that one night may not have been enough. jack later runs into a predicament at work with an interested coworker that has him reaching for elise and calling her his “girlfriend” promptly putting them in a fake relationship to ward off his coworker’s advances, but do things ever really stay fake in situations like these?
i really enjoyed getting to see both povs and getting to see how much they both liked each other without the other knowing. i would say this felt like a bit of a slow burn, as it did take a bit of time for them to actually get together, but the build up was so good!
November 13, 2023
Roommate Wars - Jules Barnard
“Having a one-night stand with my sister’s billionaire friend was a mistake…”
My Review:
Firstly I would like to start off by saying thank you to Jules for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
‘Roommate Wars’ is a feel good Rom-com with billionaires and fake dating.
You are taken on a journey through the different perspectives of Jack and Elise.
Elise has a dump of an apartment, black mold everywhere. Jack is forced to intervene by offering his apartment free of rent in exchange for a few household jobs being done. What could go wrong? He’s already slept with her during a one night stand. Surely he can resist her while she sleeps meters from his bedroom.
I absolutely adored this book, I was privileged to read the first book in this series (you can read this as a standalone). I love the banter between Jack and Elise. I would have loved a little more chemistry however it does not take away from the story!
Once I started reading I did not want to put it down!
Chuck ‘roommate wars’ on your TBR! You won’t be disappointed.
I give ‘Roommate wars’ 4.5 stars out of 5
Rounded up to 5 stars on goodreads
“Having a one-night stand with my sister’s billionaire friend was a mistake…”
My Review:
Firstly I would like to start off by saying thank you to Jules for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
‘Roommate Wars’ is a feel good Rom-com with billionaires and fake dating.
You are taken on a journey through the different perspectives of Jack and Elise.
Elise has a dump of an apartment, black mold everywhere. Jack is forced to intervene by offering his apartment free of rent in exchange for a few household jobs being done. What could go wrong? He’s already slept with her during a one night stand. Surely he can resist her while she sleeps meters from his bedroom.
I absolutely adored this book, I was privileged to read the first book in this series (you can read this as a standalone). I love the banter between Jack and Elise. I would have loved a little more chemistry however it does not take away from the story!
Once I started reading I did not want to put it down!
Chuck ‘roommate wars’ on your TBR! You won’t be disappointed.
I give ‘Roommate wars’ 4.5 stars out of 5
Rounded up to 5 stars on goodreads
October 28, 2023
This book hits all the tropes I would read and the story was not so bad. This book follows two people who have a one-night stand and the heroine moves in with the billionaire. I have to say that the plot wasn’t too bad but just went all over the place. Too much was going for a billionaire romance book and things were not adding up. I still had a fun time with the book as it was adventurous but when you finish the book, it makes you question yourself what you just read. The characters were great and I really enjoyed Jack and Elise. They were interesting and I loved the bantering between them. They had good character development but not the best. There were quite a few side characters but none that appealed to me. The romance was good which is a night stand, forced proximity, roommates to lovers, billionaires, and more. The ending wasn’t the best but it wasn’t bad either. It went a little flat in my opinion and could have been better. Overall it wasn’t a bad story.
*this e-arc was sent to me by the publicity team to give an honest review in return*
*this e-arc was sent to me by the publicity team to give an honest review in return*
November 9, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶.5
Elise prides herself on being as independent as she can so when she moves into the crappiest apartment San Francisco has to offer, she is content to ride out its crappiness until she can afford something better. When her sister’s ex roommate, Jack, whom she had a one-night stand with months ago, sees where she is living, he insists she move in with him and even sweetens the deal with free rent. In exchange, she’ll do things around the house. They both aren’t the serious relationship types so when Jack tells Elise he's not interested, she is indifferent. When Jack ropes Elise into a fake relationship, the confusion starts and lines get blurred and neither of them know what they want anymore.
🏠 Roommates to Lovers
💰 Billionaire
💋 Fake Dating
💕 Forced Proximity
I enjoyed this book! There was funny banter, a spitfire heroine, and a reluctant billionaire. Elise was determined to be independent and wanted to prove to her family that she could be. I commend her for trying to live in a dump of an apartment to prove a point, but she really needed to get out of there, and Jack swooped in just in the nick of time. Jack and Elise had opposite personalities, yet they actually enjoyed each other’s company (don’t tell anyone…haha). This book was laugh out loud funny at times. Elise tries to convince herself that she doesn’t like Jack, so she goes on numerous dates to get him out of her head. They both realize that what they’ve been looking for is right in front of them.
🌶.5
Elise prides herself on being as independent as she can so when she moves into the crappiest apartment San Francisco has to offer, she is content to ride out its crappiness until she can afford something better. When her sister’s ex roommate, Jack, whom she had a one-night stand with months ago, sees where she is living, he insists she move in with him and even sweetens the deal with free rent. In exchange, she’ll do things around the house. They both aren’t the serious relationship types so when Jack tells Elise he's not interested, she is indifferent. When Jack ropes Elise into a fake relationship, the confusion starts and lines get blurred and neither of them know what they want anymore.
🏠 Roommates to Lovers
💰 Billionaire
💋 Fake Dating
💕 Forced Proximity
I enjoyed this book! There was funny banter, a spitfire heroine, and a reluctant billionaire. Elise was determined to be independent and wanted to prove to her family that she could be. I commend her for trying to live in a dump of an apartment to prove a point, but she really needed to get out of there, and Jack swooped in just in the nick of time. Jack and Elise had opposite personalities, yet they actually enjoyed each other’s company (don’t tell anyone…haha). This book was laugh out loud funny at times. Elise tries to convince herself that she doesn’t like Jack, so she goes on numerous dates to get him out of her head. They both realize that what they’ve been looking for is right in front of them.
November 9, 2023
𝚁𝚘𝚘𝚖𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚎 𝚆𝚊𝚛𝚜 𝚋𝚢 @julesbarnardauthor
🇦🇷🇨 🇷🇪🇻🇮🇪🇼
ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘- 3.75/5 ⭐️
↓↓
This was a cute read.
Elise and Jack first met when Elise sister moved in with him. They had a one night encounter and both tried to hide their feelings.
Things go from roommates to fake relationship to real relationship.
I don’t know how to feel about this book honestly, it was super cute, had great banter and kept my interest buuuuutttt it felt flat a lot of the time and I felt no real connection between the characters.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
Cinnamon roll MMC
Slow burn
Fake relationship
Forced proximity
Roommate with benefits
Secret billionaire
He falls first
Grumpy x Sunshine
🏷️
#roommatewars #julesbarnardauthor #billionaireromance #roommateromance #steamybook #contemporaryromance #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #romcom #cityromance #bookrecommendations #bookrecs #enemiestolovers #onenightstand #readersofinstagram #readersofig #smutlovers #spicybookstagram #smutbooks #arcreaders #spicyromance #igreads #romancebooks #spicyromancebooks #ReadNow #momswhoread
🇦🇷🇨 🇷🇪🇻🇮🇪🇼
ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘- 3.75/5 ⭐️
↓↓
This was a cute read.
Elise and Jack first met when Elise sister moved in with him. They had a one night encounter and both tried to hide their feelings.
Things go from roommates to fake relationship to real relationship.
I don’t know how to feel about this book honestly, it was super cute, had great banter and kept my interest buuuuutttt it felt flat a lot of the time and I felt no real connection between the characters.
𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
Cinnamon roll MMC
Slow burn
Fake relationship
Forced proximity
Roommate with benefits
Secret billionaire
He falls first
Grumpy x Sunshine
🏷️
#roommatewars #julesbarnardauthor #billionaireromance #roommateromance #steamybook #contemporaryromance #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #romcom #cityromance #bookrecommendations #bookrecs #enemiestolovers #onenightstand #readersofinstagram #readersofig #smutlovers #spicybookstagram #smutbooks #arcreaders #spicyromance #igreads #romancebooks #spicyromancebooks #ReadNow #momswhoread
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