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Confetti Hitched #3
Paper Roses
Jed Walker thinks he’s having a midlife crisis. The only trouble is that it feels too good to stop.
Widowed at a young age, he’s spent his life since then avoiding any relationships that might end up hurting him again. He has his successful wedding planning business, Confetti Hitched, and a series of uncomplicated hookups, and that’s all he needs in life.
The one person disrupting this controlled stoicism is his younger assistant, Artie. He’s sweet and kind and has a funny way of calming Jed’s mind. So, when Artie comes to him with a problem, Jed moves heaven and earth to help, which is how he finds himself entering a fake marriage with the younger man and catching feelings. Too bad it’s all pretend. Or is it?
From bestselling author Lily Morton comes a story about how love can completely derail the best-laid plans.
This is the third book in the Confetti Hitched series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Widowed at a young age, he’s spent his life since then avoiding any relationships that might end up hurting him again. He has his successful wedding planning business, Confetti Hitched, and a series of uncomplicated hookups, and that’s all he needs in life.
The one person disrupting this controlled stoicism is his younger assistant, Artie. He’s sweet and kind and has a funny way of calming Jed’s mind. So, when Artie comes to him with a problem, Jed moves heaven and earth to help, which is how he finds himself entering a fake marriage with the younger man and catching feelings. Too bad it’s all pretend. Or is it?
From bestselling author Lily Morton comes a story about how love can completely derail the best-laid plans.
This is the third book in the Confetti Hitched series, but it can be read as a standalone.
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published February 9, 2025
272 people are currently reading
385 people want to read
About the author
Lily Morton
78 books3,339 followersLily is a bestselling gay romance author.
She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Under Gorse and Stone, which is a magical Christmas story about a centuries-old dragon and his human mate.
https://getbook.at/UnderGorseAndStone
You can keep up with Lily's latest releases and read the exclusive short stories '3 Dates' and ‘Best Love’ by subscribing to her newsletter: https://bit.ly/LilyMorton-Newsletter
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/SnarkSquad
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10000...
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lilymortonauthor
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lilymortonauthor
Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/LilyAuthor
Bookbub: www.bookbub.com/profile/lily-morton
She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Under Gorse and Stone, which is a magical Christmas story about a centuries-old dragon and his human mate.
https://getbook.at/UnderGorseAndStone
You can keep up with Lily's latest releases and read the exclusive short stories '3 Dates' and ‘Best Love’ by subscribing to her newsletter: https://bit.ly/LilyMorton-Newsletter
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/SnarkSquad
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10000...
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lilymortonauthor
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lilymortonauthor
Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/LilyAuthor
Bookbub: www.bookbub.com/profile/lily-morton
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
February 15, 2025
Well, I didn't expect to enjoy this even less than book 2 which was a disappointing read for me.
Fake marriage and age gap are not my favourite tropes, but there's a lot of pining here on Artie's part, which is something I love in a romance, so the beginning seemed promising. Considering Jed's situation, I expected the story to be more angsty or serious, but it got silly pretty fast.
The relationship development didn't work for me at all. Ok, they agreed on fake marriage for whatever unbelievable reasons, but several things bothered me.
The author really pushed the forced proximity here, as the means to get those two together. Starting with fake marriage, then the hotel they lived in for a while, then the house, then one room in the house because the other couldn't be used - of course with only one bed, and Artie sleeping naked. Could it have been more convenient than that?
The first two times something happens between Jed and Artie, they are both drunk. The author did the same thing in Merry Measure. Why?
Since something already happened between them, they agree on fake-husbands-with-benefits for the time their fake marriage lasts, because Jed can't resist Artie, and Artie will take what he can get. Lots of sex scenes ensue, which I skimmed through, to be honest.
I liked Artie well enough, but I didn't like Jed's character here. His constant denial annoyed me and he really acted like a jerk sometimes. He has been supposedly grieving his husband for years, but then we learn things about his husband and their marriage and this whole idea stops making sense. The author did the same thing in The Player and I didn't like it there, either. On the side note, why does every character who avoids a serious relationship needs to sleep with half the male population in the city?
A few more things:
Yes, there's an ex showing up for no logical reason.
Artie's accident was so forced and unnecessary for the story.
Artie moves to Berlin for job, but Jed doesn't want to give up on him entirely, so he flies to Berlin once a week to spend an hour with Artie, as friends. In what world does it make sense?
I'm sorry, but I didn't find this romantic. Despite the paper flowers.
Fake marriage and age gap are not my favourite tropes, but there's a lot of pining here on Artie's part, which is something I love in a romance, so the beginning seemed promising. Considering Jed's situation, I expected the story to be more angsty or serious, but it got silly pretty fast.
The relationship development didn't work for me at all. Ok, they agreed on fake marriage for whatever unbelievable reasons, but several things bothered me.
The author really pushed the forced proximity here, as the means to get those two together. Starting with fake marriage, then the hotel they lived in for a while, then the house, then one room in the house because the other couldn't be used - of course with only one bed, and Artie sleeping naked. Could it have been more convenient than that?
The first two times something happens between Jed and Artie, they are both drunk. The author did the same thing in Merry Measure. Why?
Since something already happened between them, they agree on fake-husbands-with-benefits for the time their fake marriage lasts, because Jed can't resist Artie, and Artie will take what he can get. Lots of sex scenes ensue, which I skimmed through, to be honest.
I liked Artie well enough, but I didn't like Jed's character here. His constant denial annoyed me and he really acted like a jerk sometimes. He has been supposedly grieving his husband for years, but then we learn things about his husband and their marriage and this whole idea stops making sense. The author did the same thing in The Player and I didn't like it there, either. On the side note, why does every character who avoids a serious relationship needs to sleep with half the male population in the city?
A few more things:
Yes, there's an ex showing up for no logical reason.
Artie's accident was so forced and unnecessary for the story.
Artie moves to Berlin for job, but Jed doesn't want to give up on him entirely, so he flies to Berlin once a week to spend an hour with Artie, as friends. In what world does it make sense?
I'm sorry, but I didn't find this romantic. Despite the paper flowers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2025
I can believe six impossible things before breakfast, but by 17:30, my scepticism is waxing. And ‘Paper Roses’ is raising so many “you cannot be serious” hackles that even though I’m relaxing with a herbal tea and a Walkers Stem Ginger biscuit, I pick up my keyboard to register my extreme inability to suspend my disbelief. This book is another regrettable instance of authors treating their readers as if they'll swallow anything as long as the MCs are pretty and there's only one bed.
Mild spoilers follow (events in Chapters 1-5)
Artie’s stepmother Laura has died. She’s left him his family home as long as he’s married, and on condition that he and his spouse live in the house for six months.
We’ll jump lightly over—
Impossible Thing #1
Artie doesn’t consult a lawyer. Artie is a doofus.
—and move on to the hard core stuff.
Impossible Thing #2
Artie’s dad left a only life interest in the house to Laura, therefore the house will automatically pass to Artie on Laura’s death. Laura does not own the house and cannot impose conditions on Artie’s inheritance.
Impossible Thing #3
To be reluctantly fair, Morton’s wording round the “life interest” bit is slightly unclear. It is just possible that the father merely asked Laura to leave the house to his son. Let us remember, however, that the father stood by while Laura threw Artie out at the age of 16. How much misplaced faith does it take to think that your second wife will pay any attention at all to your undocumented wishes?
Impossible Thing #4
If Artie doesn’t comply with the conditions of the will, the house will pass to “Artie’s mother’s aunt”. Is this specified in Laura’s will? (Assuming she actually owns the house—see above.) Has she really decided that her dead husband's dead wife's aunt (who lives in Spain & whom she’s presumably never met) is the person she wants to benefit? Has she no family of her own? Like, say, her daughter Daisy? Or is the implication that because the house was once Artie’s dead mother’s then it will pass to the mother’s closest relative? Because that would be Artie. Not his great-aunt.
Impossible Thing #5
The second condition (that Artie & his spouse have to ‘live in the house as a married couple for six months’) is probably too vague to be monitored. Can they leave the house overnight? What does ‘as a married couple’ mean in practice? But actually, as soon as Morton starts salivating over how awful the house is—
Impossible Thing #6
Nobody talks about Inheritance Tax. OK the house is an a poor state, but a big house backing on to Wimbledon Common? And there was money that was left to Daisy. Sorry and all, but this is an estate well over the IHT limit. It may be fiction, Lily Morton dear, but HMRC would still like their cut.
Which leaves us with Impossible Thing #7 . Jed is a jerk.
And Impossible Thing #8 ? Me finishing this book.
Mild spoilers follow (events in Chapters 1-5)
Artie’s stepmother Laura has died. She’s left him his family home as long as he’s married, and on condition that he and his spouse live in the house for six months.
We’ll jump lightly over—
Impossible Thing #1
Artie doesn’t consult a lawyer. Artie is a doofus.
—and move on to the hard core stuff.
Impossible Thing #2
Artie’s dad left a only life interest in the house to Laura, therefore the house will automatically pass to Artie on Laura’s death. Laura does not own the house and cannot impose conditions on Artie’s inheritance.
Impossible Thing #3
To be reluctantly fair, Morton’s wording round the “life interest” bit is slightly unclear. It is just possible that the father merely asked Laura to leave the house to his son. Let us remember, however, that the father stood by while Laura threw Artie out at the age of 16. How much misplaced faith does it take to think that your second wife will pay any attention at all to your undocumented wishes?
Impossible Thing #4
If Artie doesn’t comply with the conditions of the will, the house will pass to “Artie’s mother’s aunt”. Is this specified in Laura’s will? (Assuming she actually owns the house—see above.) Has she really decided that her dead husband's dead wife's aunt (who lives in Spain & whom she’s presumably never met) is the person she wants to benefit? Has she no family of her own? Like, say, her daughter Daisy? Or is the implication that because the house was once Artie’s dead mother’s then it will pass to the mother’s closest relative? Because that would be Artie. Not his great-aunt.
Impossible Thing #5
The second condition (that Artie & his spouse have to ‘live in the house as a married couple for six months’) is probably too vague to be monitored. Can they leave the house overnight? What does ‘as a married couple’ mean in practice? But actually, as soon as Morton starts salivating over how awful the house is—
The windows are boarded up, and the electricity has been switched off, so the only light comes from gaps between the boards. The previously beautiful old wooden staircase is broken in places, and someone has kicked the banister in. There are holes in the walls… Radiators have been ripped off the walls, leaving gaping holes in the wainscoting, light fittings dangle or in some cases have been removed completely. Tangles of wires hang from the ceiling like snakes. It’s cold and dark and feels damp.—it’s clear that all Artie would have to do is to place a call to a council environmental officer and the condition would be kicked into touch as impossible to comply with. Artie doesn’t do this. (See #1.)
Impossible Thing #6
Nobody talks about Inheritance Tax. OK the house is an a poor state, but a big house backing on to Wimbledon Common? And there was money that was left to Daisy. Sorry and all, but this is an estate well over the IHT limit. It may be fiction, Lily Morton dear, but HMRC would still like their cut.
Which leaves us with Impossible Thing #7 . Jed is a jerk.
And Impossible Thing #8 ? Me finishing this book.
February 11, 2025
✰ 2.5 stars ✰
The thing about reading a Lily Morton book is that you approach it with a slight apprehension of knowing that you're setting yourself up for the same formulaic predictable outline, but still cautiously optimistic that there will be some spark to it that will save it. 🥺🙋🏻♀️
Here are a few points that stood out for me.
Even though Jed akins Raff's exuberance to that of a nosy and incontinent when excited Labrador, Raff brightened up the pages. His fresh snark and exuberance is what brought the most cheer to my face. I still stand by my initial reaction that he and Jed had a lot more chemistry than their respective others. 🙂↕️🙂↕️
The surprise cameo from some familiar faces; not sure if it really added much to the story, but it was nice to see worlds collide. 🥰
“Is this really the start?”
He brushes my hair back. “It’s the start of the best part.”
As much as age gap romances are a difficult pill for me to swallow, it was a welcome touch that the significant age difference between twenty-five-year-old Artie and forty-four-year old Jed was never an issue between them. Never addressed, never raised an eyebrow - as natural as air, their love was breathed in and accepted. 🥹
I was so so hopeful that the dreaded ex would only be in spirit - in the form of that wretched cruel stepmother who gave the wicked stipulation that Artie would be able to claim his rightful inheritance, his rightful one - mind you - only if he was married... and live in said house that desperately needs renovation due to the total lack of care given to it - for six months... 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Alas, I broke out the celebratory cheer too soon, for when said ex made his most unwelcome appearance - not only for me, but for the two of them, all I could think was ---
The reaction I had! *cackles in dismay* It was not pretty. Ms. Morton I implore thee - let the ex go! 🤦🏻♀️😩😫🤦🏻♀️ I know it's almost a running gag by now from your readers that it is what we inevitably brace ourselves for, but it would be nice if just once - for them to be left in the past - where they belong! 😤
Although, I will give props for keeping their screen-time short-lived and with Artie growing a backbone to realize and admit that he's got a good thing going with Jed. 🙆🏻♀️ Regardless of the agreement they've settled on knowing that their attraction is mutual, why not make the most of this most opportune of marital bliss. So maybe it's a work in progress. 🙈
“The curve of these lips drives me mad when I’m alone in the dark.”
This definitely was one of her more risqué couples with a lot of heat and passion between the two, which, surprisingly was also written with a bit more gumption than the previous sex scenes she's been writing in her latest works that always had a bit of a technical and clinical feel to it. 🙈 She does turn it up a notch here; I inwardly chuckled when the finesse of a certain table was emphasized; subtle tells are my favorite. 😏 And yes, I'm glad the short story affirmed something that was very much gained love and attention from both of them in a rewarding fashion. 😌
However, these few positives still aren't enough for me to feel the elephant in the room - Mick, Jed's husband who passed away ten years ago. I was always under the impression that the two of them had had an evergreen ethereal romance, a strong reason for Artie's insecurities, reservations and guilt for compelling Jed into his forced marriage. Yet, as more layers were revealed, it was not as picture perfect as Jed had portrayed - nor that he wasn't as much of a saint as to which made his grief shadow his heart - a factor that evidently made it easier for the two of them to be more accepting and willing in their future. 😒 I know grief is handled differently by everyone, but it felt inconsistent to past notions (on my part, anyway) and the reveals only certified the fact that their matrimonial served as a blessing rather than a curse. 😔
“I think we were always real.”
And that really takes away any point of conflict, which also made it difficult for me to care enough for Jed and Artie's romance. Artie is a dear - no question. And Jed is totally head over heels, despite how afraid and hesitant he is to give his heart to another again. 💌 But, argh, I hate to make this comparison but much like the Paper Roses that Jed gifted Artie, due to his allergy to pollen, their romance lacked spark - no flair or oomph for it to be a compellingly rich one. 🥀🥀 I appreciate how LM managed to show the bright side of it, but maybe it was the comfortable ease their relationship already had - the sweet, tenderness that existed between them - that even when the flaws and conflict arose - they were too simple and easily resolved that I felt like I was just finishing off a series as a commitment rather than being drawn to their chemistry. 😥
I mean, yes, Artie deserved happiness - he's precious and perfect and he's so accommodating and forgiving and understanding, gorgeous, clever, and kind. It’s a lovely combination, Artie. In fact, the word lovely might have been invented for you.' Who wouldn't love him? And Jed is so forgiving and considerate and kind, and heck, where can I find a guy who would fly to another country to spend just an hour with me on a daily basis! 😅 Although, that does seem like a bit of stretch in the real world... But, it just didn't make my heart aflutter - there were no butterflies. 😢💔💔 Maybe because they already had such a good rapport before their necessary commitment, it just felt too convenient. And for all that Jed thought of Artie as a minx with his words, the banter was comme-ci, comme-ça - everything else not boring, but... bland... 😕
I call it a win when even despite the obvious flaws that a Lily Morton romance may have, I still walk away believing in love again. Yes, her words often times do have the power to strike fast and true with cupid's bow at the romantic in me. 💘 Here... I didn't get those same warm fuzzy feelings here.... 😞
On a side note, pink and purple is one of my favorite color combos, so Confetti Hitched covers have been a plus for me. 🩷💜 And I haven't read LM's entire backlog, but does Bernie have his own story? Is there a possibility of Adam's family to have their own stories down the road? Restless minds are forever inquisitive for the complete picture. ☺️
“Then you don’t know how important you are to me. I would walk miles barefoot just to see you smile.”
“Well, I’m pretty sure I’d be walking next to you, telling you to put your shoes on.”
The thing about reading a Lily Morton book is that you approach it with a slight apprehension of knowing that you're setting yourself up for the same formulaic predictable outline, but still cautiously optimistic that there will be some spark to it that will save it. 🥺🙋🏻♀️
Here are a few points that stood out for me.
Even though Jed akins Raff's exuberance to that of a nosy and incontinent when excited Labrador, Raff brightened up the pages. His fresh snark and exuberance is what brought the most cheer to my face. I still stand by my initial reaction that he and Jed had a lot more chemistry than their respective others. 🙂↕️🙂↕️
The surprise cameo from some familiar faces; not sure if it really added much to the story, but it was nice to see worlds collide. 🥰
“Is this really the start?”
He brushes my hair back. “It’s the start of the best part.”
As much as age gap romances are a difficult pill for me to swallow, it was a welcome touch that the significant age difference between twenty-five-year-old Artie and forty-four-year old Jed was never an issue between them. Never addressed, never raised an eyebrow - as natural as air, their love was breathed in and accepted. 🥹
I was so so hopeful that the dreaded ex would only be in spirit - in the form of that wretched cruel stepmother who gave the wicked stipulation that Artie would be able to claim his rightful inheritance, his rightful one - mind you - only if he was married... and live in said house that desperately needs renovation due to the total lack of care given to it - for six months... 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Alas, I broke out the celebratory cheer too soon, for when said ex made his most unwelcome appearance - not only for me, but for the two of them, all I could think was ---
The reaction I had! *cackles in dismay* It was not pretty. Ms. Morton I implore thee - let the ex go! 🤦🏻♀️😩😫🤦🏻♀️ I know it's almost a running gag by now from your readers that it is what we inevitably brace ourselves for, but it would be nice if just once - for them to be left in the past - where they belong! 😤
Although, I will give props for keeping their screen-time short-lived and with Artie growing a backbone to realize and admit that he's got a good thing going with Jed. 🙆🏻♀️ Regardless of the agreement they've settled on knowing that their attraction is mutual, why not make the most of this most opportune of marital bliss. So maybe it's a work in progress. 🙈
“The curve of these lips drives me mad when I’m alone in the dark.”
This definitely was one of her more risqué couples with a lot of heat and passion between the two, which, surprisingly was also written with a bit more gumption than the previous sex scenes she's been writing in her latest works that always had a bit of a technical and clinical feel to it. 🙈 She does turn it up a notch here; I inwardly chuckled when the finesse of a certain table was emphasized; subtle tells are my favorite. 😏 And yes, I'm glad the short story affirmed something that was very much gained love and attention from both of them in a rewarding fashion. 😌
However, these few positives still aren't enough for me to feel the elephant in the room - Mick, Jed's husband who passed away ten years ago. I was always under the impression that the two of them had had an evergreen ethereal romance, a strong reason for Artie's insecurities, reservations and guilt for compelling Jed into his forced marriage. Yet, as more layers were revealed, it was not as picture perfect as Jed had portrayed - nor that he wasn't as much of a saint as to which made his grief shadow his heart - a factor that evidently made it easier for the two of them to be more accepting and willing in their future. 😒 I know grief is handled differently by everyone, but it felt inconsistent to past notions (on my part, anyway) and the reveals only certified the fact that their matrimonial served as a blessing rather than a curse. 😔
“I think we were always real.”
And that really takes away any point of conflict, which also made it difficult for me to care enough for Jed and Artie's romance. Artie is a dear - no question. And Jed is totally head over heels, despite how afraid and hesitant he is to give his heart to another again. 💌 But, argh, I hate to make this comparison but much like the Paper Roses that Jed gifted Artie, due to his allergy to pollen, their romance lacked spark - no flair or oomph for it to be a compellingly rich one. 🥀🥀 I appreciate how LM managed to show the bright side of it, but maybe it was the comfortable ease their relationship already had - the sweet, tenderness that existed between them - that even when the flaws and conflict arose - they were too simple and easily resolved that I felt like I was just finishing off a series as a commitment rather than being drawn to their chemistry. 😥
I mean, yes, Artie deserved happiness - he's precious and perfect and he's so accommodating and forgiving and understanding, gorgeous, clever, and kind. It’s a lovely combination, Artie. In fact, the word lovely might have been invented for you.' Who wouldn't love him? And Jed is so forgiving and considerate and kind, and heck, where can I find a guy who would fly to another country to spend just an hour with me on a daily basis! 😅 Although, that does seem like a bit of stretch in the real world... But, it just didn't make my heart aflutter - there were no butterflies. 😢💔💔 Maybe because they already had such a good rapport before their necessary commitment, it just felt too convenient. And for all that Jed thought of Artie as a minx with his words, the banter was comme-ci, comme-ça - everything else not boring, but... bland... 😕
I call it a win when even despite the obvious flaws that a Lily Morton romance may have, I still walk away believing in love again. Yes, her words often times do have the power to strike fast and true with cupid's bow at the romantic in me. 💘 Here... I didn't get those same warm fuzzy feelings here.... 😞
On a side note, pink and purple is one of my favorite color combos, so Confetti Hitched covers have been a plus for me. 🩷💜 And I haven't read LM's entire backlog, but does Bernie have his own story? Is there a possibility of Adam's family to have their own stories down the road? Restless minds are forever inquisitive for the complete picture. ☺️
Read
March 31, 2025Alas. Can I not read LM anymore? Another book that opens with an MC in bed with a non-hero, then treating the hookup like garbage and kicking him out, right in front of...yes...the other MC. Yaaaawn and ewww. This just doesn't set up romance for me. Maybe I'll try again, but, all I can think about now is this MC has sooooo many hookups in his apartment above the business, and probably he and the other MC will end up in that same bed too, and again....eww. Just not my romantic fantasy.
I'll wait for the next Blue and Levi book I hear there might be one!
I'll wait for the next Blue and Levi book I hear there might be one!
January 28, 2025
I've been patiently waiting for Jed and Artie's story ever since Joe's book, and I was not disappointed!
I love the snark in Lily's books sooooo much! It makes me feel at home with all of her characters instantly because snark and sarcasm are definitely my love languages - I don't have many conversations without them 😂
Artie made my heart ache so many times throughout this book, I wanted to give him the biggest hug, but when he finds his feet and takes more control of his life I felt like cheering him on with pompoms!! His calming super powers were so funny, the way he wins people over was adorable, and I loved the whole fake marriage plot even if it was a bit unrealistic, especially for an English wedding. I would have loved to see them being interviewed by the registrar's to make sure they're marrying for legit purposes, and although it did mention the fact you have to have your banns read before you can get married, the timeline didn't match up, but it was still a funny plot and I loved the outcome. I actually don't think I'ver read a fake marriage story before that's set in England, probably because they make you jump through a circus load of hoops to actually get married here!
Jed is such a frustrating character because he makes you want to shake him so he finally opens his eyes to what everyone else can see 😂 He's such a caretaker but not in a condescending way which was really fun to see, even though he did put his enormous foot in his mouth on more than one occasion. His heart to hearts with his brother and mum, and the way he opens up to Artie, really endeared me to him. I also loved the paper flowers so much and seeing him realise the depth of his feelings definitely got me teary eyed.
I didn't particularly like some of the content about Mick because it did feel like it detracted a little from the fact that Jed has been in mourning for his late husband for a really long time. Some of the information made it hard to reconcile that long mourning period with the way he actually felt, so it was a bit confusing to me and there was so much Mick content that this just felt a bit weird and out of place? I don't think his relationship with Mick needed to be detracted from in order for him to move on with a new love.
The fact that Mal and Cadan make a few appearances was also brilliant because Mal will forever be one of my favourite Lily Morton characters (along with Dylan!). The wedding dramatics had me laughing out loud and I'm kinda sad to be leaving these guys behind, although I imagine they will pop up in future anytime another character in the story universe wants to get married!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
I love the snark in Lily's books sooooo much! It makes me feel at home with all of her characters instantly because snark and sarcasm are definitely my love languages - I don't have many conversations without them 😂
Artie made my heart ache so many times throughout this book, I wanted to give him the biggest hug, but when he finds his feet and takes more control of his life I felt like cheering him on with pompoms!! His calming super powers were so funny, the way he wins people over was adorable, and I loved the whole fake marriage plot even if it was a bit unrealistic, especially for an English wedding. I would have loved to see them being interviewed by the registrar's to make sure they're marrying for legit purposes, and although it did mention the fact you have to have your banns read before you can get married, the timeline didn't match up, but it was still a funny plot and I loved the outcome. I actually don't think I'ver read a fake marriage story before that's set in England, probably because they make you jump through a circus load of hoops to actually get married here!
Jed is such a frustrating character because he makes you want to shake him so he finally opens his eyes to what everyone else can see 😂 He's such a caretaker but not in a condescending way which was really fun to see, even though he did put his enormous foot in his mouth on more than one occasion. His heart to hearts with his brother and mum, and the way he opens up to Artie, really endeared me to him. I also loved the paper flowers so much and seeing him realise the depth of his feelings definitely got me teary eyed.
I didn't particularly like some of the content about Mick because it did feel like it detracted a little from the fact that Jed has been in mourning for his late husband for a really long time. Some of the information made it hard to reconcile that long mourning period with the way he actually felt, so it was a bit confusing to me and there was so much Mick content that this just felt a bit weird and out of place? I don't think his relationship with Mick needed to be detracted from in order for him to move on with a new love.
The fact that Mal and Cadan make a few appearances was also brilliant because Mal will forever be one of my favourite Lily Morton characters (along with Dylan!). The wedding dramatics had me laughing out loud and I'm kinda sad to be leaving these guys behind, although I imagine they will pop up in future anytime another character in the story universe wants to get married!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
February 9, 2025
Confetti Hitched Book Three
Jed is widowed, owns a wedding planning company -Confetti Hitched - and is secretly attracted to his assistant Artie.
Artie’s life is like a fairytale -and not the good kind. His mother died when he was young and his father remarried - enter the evil
Stepmother. At least his stepsister is like a loving real sister.
His stepmother owned everything that was rightfully his and when she passed away she put a stipulation in her will that for him to inherit everything he needs to be married.
Jed offers to marry him which is no hardship since Artie is in love with him.
“I want you to think about this before tomorrow,” he continues. “I’ve been married before, and it wasn’t like this.” I hide my wince, and he carries on, doggedly eviscerating my feelings in the kindest way possible. “You’ve never been married before, Artie. You probably hoped for more than this, and that’s completely natural, but this thing between us is an arrangement, and like all of those, it has a start and an expiry date.” Just what every young boy dreams about on his wedding eve.”
Artie and Jed get married but by the end Jed freaks out because it feels so wrong and a betrayal of his dead husband so he leaves Artie at a restaurant.
“He blurts, “I can’t be here with you like this. You’re not Mick and this feels so wrong.”
Everyone at their workplace thinks they got married for love, which is awkward. They keep up the pretence.
At the Will reading , there are more stipulations. Artie has to be married AND live in the house with his husband for 6 months. The house the evil step mother let fall into disrepair.
So far this book is Artie, Jed and the ghost of Jed’s husband . It’s angst , I feel so sad for them both. I don’t know how Jed is going to let Micks ghost go to let himself love Artie.
The house is being renovated and Artie and Jed are set to move in to two bedrooms while work is being done but only one bedroom is available- guess they are sharing a bedroom. Oh and only one bed.
These two are pretending to everyone they are in love -
co-workers, builders, Jed’s mother.
They admit their attraction to each other but Jed is adamant this can’t go further. Artie counters with they should casually have sex with each other while in this fake marriage. Artie win’s the argument much to Jed’s worry that he will hurt Artie. No feelings are allowed to happen but it’s too late for Artie.
Artie sees himself as dull and boring. Jed sees Artie as lovely. He gets jealous and possessive but also is sweet and thoughtful.
Jed idolises the memory of Mick but Mick definitely had some red flags.
Artie gets hurts and Jed builds up a wall. It’s been 6 months and the house is going to get signed to Artie.
Artie puts himself first, confesses his love to Jed and takes a job in Germany. For some reason Jed demands Artie wait to finalise the divorce and Jed also wants an hour of his time every week. So HE FLIES TO GERMANY WEEKLY???!!
Jed finally realises he’s in love with Artie.
“I’m so fucking in love with you,” he repeats, still loud but not as shouty. “I tried to ignore it and call it something else, but the truth is that you’re everything to me. You’re bright and bold, and you warm me all the way through to the cold bits no one has ever touched. And if I’ve lost you because I was stupid, then you can rest assured that it will be the biggest regret of my whole fucking life.” He sucks in air, his eyes panicked. “Shit, I’m so sorry.”
They get married again , well a vow renewal ceremony.
This book . Wow. Some angst, likeable characters, I adored Artie but god Jed was a bit frustrating. He had walls, he had fears but I still wanted them to work through it and end up together. Omg some of the things Jed said and did - like yes you’re being upfront but oof I really felt for Artie. Especially the scene where Jed is scrubbing his ring finger, desperate to get his new wedding band off his finger.
I felt like there was too much thrown into the plot for no reason . The mothers relative who was going to fight for the house and had a lawyer - that problem just disappeared . Why bring back Arties ex ? It felt so unnecessary. Everyone seemed to know each other. The neighbour knew Arties mother and had photos, Jed’s mother knew the evil stepmother , the contractors knew Jed and Mick etc
The dead ex husband stuff was confusing too, like they were the perfect couple but then they really weren’t. Red flags. Jed idolised him most of the book but then Mick was introducing other men into the bedroom and Jed was thinking of leaving him. Excuse me?? Why all the angst of being with Artie then??I think the book was too much about Mick to be honest.
Jed is widowed, owns a wedding planning company -Confetti Hitched - and is secretly attracted to his assistant Artie.
Artie’s life is like a fairytale -and not the good kind. His mother died when he was young and his father remarried - enter the evil
Stepmother. At least his stepsister is like a loving real sister.
His stepmother owned everything that was rightfully his and when she passed away she put a stipulation in her will that for him to inherit everything he needs to be married.
Jed offers to marry him which is no hardship since Artie is in love with him.
“I want you to think about this before tomorrow,” he continues. “I’ve been married before, and it wasn’t like this.” I hide my wince, and he carries on, doggedly eviscerating my feelings in the kindest way possible. “You’ve never been married before, Artie. You probably hoped for more than this, and that’s completely natural, but this thing between us is an arrangement, and like all of those, it has a start and an expiry date.” Just what every young boy dreams about on his wedding eve.”
Artie and Jed get married but by the end Jed freaks out because it feels so wrong and a betrayal of his dead husband so he leaves Artie at a restaurant.
“He blurts, “I can’t be here with you like this. You’re not Mick and this feels so wrong.”
Everyone at their workplace thinks they got married for love, which is awkward. They keep up the pretence.
At the Will reading , there are more stipulations. Artie has to be married AND live in the house with his husband for 6 months. The house the evil step mother let fall into disrepair.
So far this book is Artie, Jed and the ghost of Jed’s husband . It’s angst , I feel so sad for them both. I don’t know how Jed is going to let Micks ghost go to let himself love Artie.
The house is being renovated and Artie and Jed are set to move in to two bedrooms while work is being done but only one bedroom is available- guess they are sharing a bedroom. Oh and only one bed.
These two are pretending to everyone they are in love -
co-workers, builders, Jed’s mother.
They admit their attraction to each other but Jed is adamant this can’t go further. Artie counters with they should casually have sex with each other while in this fake marriage. Artie win’s the argument much to Jed’s worry that he will hurt Artie. No feelings are allowed to happen but it’s too late for Artie.
Artie sees himself as dull and boring. Jed sees Artie as lovely. He gets jealous and possessive but also is sweet and thoughtful.
Jed idolises the memory of Mick but Mick definitely had some red flags.
Artie gets hurts and Jed builds up a wall. It’s been 6 months and the house is going to get signed to Artie.
Artie puts himself first, confesses his love to Jed and takes a job in Germany. For some reason Jed demands Artie wait to finalise the divorce and Jed also wants an hour of his time every week. So HE FLIES TO GERMANY WEEKLY???!!
Jed finally realises he’s in love with Artie.
“I’m so fucking in love with you,” he repeats, still loud but not as shouty. “I tried to ignore it and call it something else, but the truth is that you’re everything to me. You’re bright and bold, and you warm me all the way through to the cold bits no one has ever touched. And if I’ve lost you because I was stupid, then you can rest assured that it will be the biggest regret of my whole fucking life.” He sucks in air, his eyes panicked. “Shit, I’m so sorry.”
They get married again , well a vow renewal ceremony.
This book . Wow. Some angst, likeable characters, I adored Artie but god Jed was a bit frustrating. He had walls, he had fears but I still wanted them to work through it and end up together. Omg some of the things Jed said and did - like yes you’re being upfront but oof I really felt for Artie. Especially the scene where Jed is scrubbing his ring finger, desperate to get his new wedding band off his finger.
I felt like there was too much thrown into the plot for no reason . The mothers relative who was going to fight for the house and had a lawyer - that problem just disappeared . Why bring back Arties ex ? It felt so unnecessary. Everyone seemed to know each other. The neighbour knew Arties mother and had photos, Jed’s mother knew the evil stepmother , the contractors knew Jed and Mick etc
The dead ex husband stuff was confusing too, like they were the perfect couple but then they really weren’t. Red flags. Jed idolised him most of the book but then Mick was introducing other men into the bedroom and Jed was thinking of leaving him. Excuse me?? Why all the angst of being with Artie then??I think the book was too much about Mick to be honest.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2025
Fake marriage, age gap, workplace romance - sign me up!
Lily Morton's writing just makes me happy. I know what I'm going to get each time I pick up one of her books and that's a good time spending a few hours with compelling characters that I root for every step of the way.
Even when they go through a phase of dumb arse like Jed does in this one 😁
The third book in this lovely series set within a wedding planner agency is absolutely delightful, with owner Jed, a former policeman who was widowed young and has avoided any kind of relationship ever since, realising that he's catching feelings for his much younger PA Artie.
It's Artie's side of the story which provides the main plotline - the fake marriage element - because his stepmonster. has written a clause into her will giving Artie his childhood home, which should have been left to him by his father in the first place, that says he has to be married and live in the house for six months to inherit.
Now, while this probably could be challenged in a court of law, Artie's stepsister Daisy's come up with the fake marriage idea instead and when Jed finds out what's going on, he unexpectedly volunteers himself.
A quick trip to the registry office later and the stage is set for a fake marriage in a few weeks (29 days notice is all you need for a civil ceremony, unlike me who had to go pay £125 at Westminster Abbey for the privilege of getting an Archbishop's Special License so I could get married in my home town parish church, because I no longer lived there!)
Of course, nothing's smooth going, because Jed's still feeling residual loyalty to his late husband Mick who, while he gets mentioned, never takes over the new relationship element but more acts as part of the explanation for why Jed is the way he is.
This also ties in with Jed's family history, and his mother, brother and sister-in-law are all absolutely fantastic people who take Artie and give him the love he never got from his own father and said stepmother.
No spoilers here, but what we then get is a fabulously snarky, seriously steamy and wonderfully romantic relationship development as Artie's unfailingly kind nature chips away at the mile high walls around Jed's heart.
With guest appearances from my favourite two people in Lily's world supermodel Malachi Booth and his gorgeous rare breeds farmer husband Caden Landry (slightly biased as she wrote Spring Strings for me 😁😘) it made Paper Roses a real joy to read.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours, I am voluntarily leaving a review
Lily Morton's writing just makes me happy. I know what I'm going to get each time I pick up one of her books and that's a good time spending a few hours with compelling characters that I root for every step of the way.
Even when they go through a phase of dumb arse like Jed does in this one 😁
The third book in this lovely series set within a wedding planner agency is absolutely delightful, with owner Jed, a former policeman who was widowed young and has avoided any kind of relationship ever since, realising that he's catching feelings for his much younger PA Artie.
It's Artie's side of the story which provides the main plotline - the fake marriage element - because his stepmonster. has written a clause into her will giving Artie his childhood home, which should have been left to him by his father in the first place, that says he has to be married and live in the house for six months to inherit.
Now, while this probably could be challenged in a court of law, Artie's stepsister Daisy's come up with the fake marriage idea instead and when Jed finds out what's going on, he unexpectedly volunteers himself.
A quick trip to the registry office later and the stage is set for a fake marriage in a few weeks (29 days notice is all you need for a civil ceremony, unlike me who had to go pay £125 at Westminster Abbey for the privilege of getting an Archbishop's Special License so I could get married in my home town parish church, because I no longer lived there!)
Of course, nothing's smooth going, because Jed's still feeling residual loyalty to his late husband Mick who, while he gets mentioned, never takes over the new relationship element but more acts as part of the explanation for why Jed is the way he is.
This also ties in with Jed's family history, and his mother, brother and sister-in-law are all absolutely fantastic people who take Artie and give him the love he never got from his own father and said stepmother.
No spoilers here, but what we then get is a fabulously snarky, seriously steamy and wonderfully romantic relationship development as Artie's unfailingly kind nature chips away at the mile high walls around Jed's heart.
With guest appearances from my favourite two people in Lily's world supermodel Malachi Booth and his gorgeous rare breeds farmer husband Caden Landry (slightly biased as she wrote Spring Strings for me 😁😘) it made Paper Roses a real joy to read.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours, I am voluntarily leaving a review
February 9, 2025
This was such a lovely book! I adored Artie, he was such a caring and kind character who deserved all the happiness. I liked Jed too and I knew he was perfect for Artie. His family was so funny and supportive.
I don’t normally like the fake marriage trope but this was very different. I was hoping it would be.
I think there were a few things that irked me but they weren’t big problems and luckily didn’t overwhelm the book. This ended much differently than other books by Morton and I was hoping it would. Sometimes I feel the endings to be quite the same.
One issue I had was Jed’s dead husband and him not being such a wonderful man. He still loved Jed and this wasn’t included as an excuse for Jed to love Artie so that made this ok for me. I don’t like when the dead partner was an abhorrent person, Mick wasn’t, he just wasn’t as perfect as everyone seemed to believe.
ARC received for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
I don’t normally like the fake marriage trope but this was very different. I was hoping it would be.
I think there were a few things that irked me but they weren’t big problems and luckily didn’t overwhelm the book. This ended much differently than other books by Morton and I was hoping it would. Sometimes I feel the endings to be quite the same.
One issue I had was Jed’s dead husband and him not being such a wonderful man. He still loved Jed and this wasn’t included as an excuse for Jed to love Artie so that made this ok for me. I don’t like when the dead partner was an abhorrent person, Mick wasn’t, he just wasn’t as perfect as everyone seemed to believe.
ARC received for review
All thoughts and opinions are my own
February 17, 2025
1.50 ⭐️⭐️
This book was a hot mess. Unfortunately Lily’s Confetti Hitched series has been nothing but misses for me, and I’m sad to say this book was no different.
The story follows 25 yr old Artie, assistant to Jed, who has to get married in order receive ownership of his biological mother’s house because his stepmother was a huge twat who put this ridiculous clause in her will (🙄). 44 yr old widower Jed, and Artie’s boss, volunteers to marry Artie because he wants to make Artie happy, and Artie will be happy getting his mothers house. Artie of course is in love with Jed, and Jed needs a therapist.
This story was just sad. Nothing about it felt romantic or hopeful, and I loathe stories where one person is a complete pushover for the other because they are so in love they take whatever they can get. Don’t get me wrong, this works as a great angsty subplot when there is yearning on both sides but Jed didn’t yearn until the last like 2 chapters. I wasn’t particularly fond of either Artie or Jed because they both frustrated me for different reasons. Artie because he thought so little of himself he begged for whatever Jed was willing to give, and Jed because he was so riddled with issues and guilt over his deceased husband who was sort of a twat too??
The way they came together was sad and felt empty. The endless sex got boring, as did the generic tropes used. The final culmination of their relationship was anticlimactic after they’d already separated (sort of). This book will be for somebody, but that somebody isn’t me 🫤
The 1.5 ⭐️s are for the side characters and writing structure.
This book was a hot mess. Unfortunately Lily’s Confetti Hitched series has been nothing but misses for me, and I’m sad to say this book was no different.
The story follows 25 yr old Artie, assistant to Jed, who has to get married in order receive ownership of his biological mother’s house because his stepmother was a huge twat who put this ridiculous clause in her will (🙄). 44 yr old widower Jed, and Artie’s boss, volunteers to marry Artie because he wants to make Artie happy, and Artie will be happy getting his mothers house. Artie of course is in love with Jed, and Jed needs a therapist.
This story was just sad. Nothing about it felt romantic or hopeful, and I loathe stories where one person is a complete pushover for the other because they are so in love they take whatever they can get. Don’t get me wrong, this works as a great angsty subplot when there is yearning on both sides but Jed didn’t yearn until the last like 2 chapters. I wasn’t particularly fond of either Artie or Jed because they both frustrated me for different reasons. Artie because he thought so little of himself he begged for whatever Jed was willing to give, and Jed because he was so riddled with issues and guilt over his deceased husband who was sort of a twat too??
The way they came together was sad and felt empty. The endless sex got boring, as did the generic tropes used. The final culmination of their relationship was anticlimactic after they’d already separated (sort of). This book will be for somebody, but that somebody isn’t me 🫤
The 1.5 ⭐️s are for the side characters and writing structure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2025
While I'm not a fan of Jed and he's continuation of pinning after his late husband, Artie is wonderful. A little bit too wonderful for someone who hadn't seen him more than a pretty assistant.
I enjoyed the book, especially the last part when Jed tried to redeem himself.
Slightly better than other books in this series. But not Lily's best.
I enjoyed the book, especially the last part when Jed tried to redeem himself.
Slightly better than other books in this series. But not Lily's best.
August 24, 2025
At first this didn't reach me at all and I was super surprised because this is Lily Morton!!! I usually love.love.love her writing.
The main problem is the dead partner trope. I hate it if there is a competition with a former (dead) lover (there is no chance of winning) and if it seems the first partner was the BEST and now everyone else is just second choice 💔
Still glad I stuck with it, because suddenly the first husband wasn't too perfect and I felt better for husband #2
The main problem is the dead partner trope. I hate it if there is a competition with a former (dead) lover (there is no chance of winning) and if it seems the first partner was the BEST and now everyone else is just second choice 💔
Still glad I stuck with it, because suddenly the first husband wasn't too perfect and I felt better for husband #2
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2025
Just ok. Had its cute moments but more ridiculous than others. Very formulaic to Morton. I’m just looking for something a little different and grittier from her.
April 27, 2025
3⭐️ Lily Morton’s characters and Joel Leslie’s narration are as charming as ever.
The problem with the fake marriage trope is that if you’ve read a few, you’ve read them all. Because they’re all the same. One MC always needs to get married and stay married for some length of time in order to receive some sort of inheritance, which in reality is a super unrealistic and flimsy plot line. But we all sort of go along with it for funsies. This one unfortunately didn’t bring anything new to the table and just felt extra contrived with the ridiculous setup. But it was a cute listen with moderate angst and good spice.
The problem with the fake marriage trope is that if you’ve read a few, you’ve read them all. Because they’re all the same. One MC always needs to get married and stay married for some length of time in order to receive some sort of inheritance, which in reality is a super unrealistic and flimsy plot line. But we all sort of go along with it for funsies. This one unfortunately didn’t bring anything new to the table and just felt extra contrived with the ridiculous setup. But it was a cute listen with moderate angst and good spice.
February 16, 2025
The ghost of Mick and their perfect love story consumed so much of the story it was frustrating. I wanted to shake Jed and wanted to tell Artie to get a grip.
Artie does eventually grow a slight backbone and put himself first, then there's the typical miscommunication but the ending was okay.
There were good moments, as with all Lily's books there was a lot of banter and some funny moments. I haven't read the previous books in this series and to be honest I'm not sure that I will.
Artie does eventually grow a slight backbone and put himself first, then there's the typical miscommunication but the ending was okay.
There were good moments, as with all Lily's books there was a lot of banter and some funny moments. I haven't read the previous books in this series and to be honest I'm not sure that I will.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2025
This was kinda fun, but so chaotic.
- Rich older boss, young sweet PA
- fake marriage
- only one bed
- evil step mother
- very present dead husband
- accident almost killing one MC and freaking out the other
- random ex showing up
- long separation for no reason whatsoever
- side characters from other books and other series
There was just too much going on.
- Rich older boss, young sweet PA
- fake marriage
- only one bed
- evil step mother
- very present dead husband
- accident almost killing one MC and freaking out the other
- random ex showing up
- long separation for no reason whatsoever
- side characters from other books and other series
There was just too much going on.
February 12, 2025
3.75 stars
Age Gap
Fake marriage
Mr. Sunshine
Widower
Jed and Artie have known each other for years. Jed is a widower who has never let anyone close. One night stands is his go to. However his assistant Artie has been stirring up some emotions in him. When Artie is in need of help Jed is the first to volunteer his services. It seems like a fake marriage is necessary for Artie to get his family home. However, when emotions get mixed in things start to crumble.
I enjoyed this book very much. Artie was a lovable character that is hard not to like. The shared moments between him and Jed were sweet and spicy. They had chemistry and Jed's reluctance to move pass his dead husband almost had me steaming. So happy he figured his head and heart out. Now I feel the need to read the first two books 😆
Age Gap
Fake marriage
Mr. Sunshine
Widower
Jed and Artie have known each other for years. Jed is a widower who has never let anyone close. One night stands is his go to. However his assistant Artie has been stirring up some emotions in him. When Artie is in need of help Jed is the first to volunteer his services. It seems like a fake marriage is necessary for Artie to get his family home. However, when emotions get mixed in things start to crumble.
I enjoyed this book very much. Artie was a lovable character that is hard not to like. The shared moments between him and Jed were sweet and spicy. They had chemistry and Jed's reluctance to move pass his dead husband almost had me steaming. So happy he figured his head and heart out. Now I feel the need to read the first two books 😆
January 30, 2025
“Mick would definitely be a hard act to follow.” is a 10/10 devastating thing to hear about the dead husband of your current husband (that you're madly in love with) lol I wish people would shut up more.
I loved this! In spite of the fact that I heard Joel Leslie in my head the WHOLE time even though I very specifically didn't wait for the audiobook.
You can't help but love Artie, he's so adorable. And surprisingly had a spine. I thought his innocence would end up with him declaring himself too early and we'd get the stereotypical plot line of him heartbroken while Jed got his head out of his ass. I'm glad this didn't go that way.
Speaking of Jed(whose name reminds me of biblical Jebediah, for some reason)
“I don’t want it on me all the time. It weighs me down.”—the love of your life, about the wedding ring you gave him💀
At the start, there, I almost hated him. He offered something he had no business offering and was wildly unequipped for, and he kept carelessly hurting Artie.
But reading about these two.... AND I have to say I loved how their romance was multifaceted. It wasn't just about Jed getting over his grief. It was also about Artie coming into his own, and the home renovation, and Jed finally letting the reader know what was wrong with the dead guy(because let's face it....it was too good to be true) and them just being so FUCKING COMPATIBLE I'm surprised they needed the will to get together.
Plus a third act breakup I could root for? Helloooooo?!
Requesting a divorce because you're in love with your husband is a top tier reason. Bring on all the angst!!!!
Because, what?!
'Maybe I should get a dog. I reach for my phone and then pull back. I can’t get a dog. Artie is allergic.' —He's separated from this man, mind you.
Such a healthy breakup, too. You rarely get that! I thought I'd be frustrated by one MC, but honestly I wasn't and that was a delightful surprise.
That said....
My unbridled joy at jealousy-fuelled accusations of infidelity knows no bounds.
That, and anger-fuelled declarations of love.
One con.
I hated all the wedding organizing scenes. Like I know this is y'alls job but I don't CARE just give me content of you two falling in love.
Who cares if whatshername wants a cow at her wedding?
I got an ARC via GRR.
I loved this! In spite of the fact that I heard Joel Leslie in my head the WHOLE time even though I very specifically didn't wait for the audiobook.
You can't help but love Artie, he's so adorable. And surprisingly had a spine. I thought his innocence would end up with him declaring himself too early and we'd get the stereotypical plot line of him heartbroken while Jed got his head out of his ass. I'm glad this didn't go that way.
Speaking of Jed(whose name reminds me of biblical Jebediah, for some reason)
“I don’t want it on me all the time. It weighs me down.”—the love of your life, about the wedding ring you gave him💀
At the start, there, I almost hated him. He offered something he had no business offering and was wildly unequipped for, and he kept carelessly hurting Artie.
But reading about these two.... AND I have to say I loved how their romance was multifaceted. It wasn't just about Jed getting over his grief. It was also about Artie coming into his own, and the home renovation, and Jed finally letting the reader know what was wrong with the dead guy(because let's face it....it was too good to be true) and them just being so FUCKING COMPATIBLE I'm surprised they needed the will to get together.
Plus a third act breakup I could root for? Helloooooo?!
Requesting a divorce because you're in love with your husband is a top tier reason. Bring on all the angst!!!!
Because, what?!
'Maybe I should get a dog. I reach for my phone and then pull back. I can’t get a dog. Artie is allergic.' —He's separated from this man, mind you.
Such a healthy breakup, too. You rarely get that! I thought I'd be frustrated by one MC, but honestly I wasn't and that was a delightful surprise.
That said....
My unbridled joy at jealousy-fuelled accusations of infidelity knows no bounds.
That, and anger-fuelled declarations of love.
One con.
I hated all the wedding organizing scenes. Like I know this is y'alls job but I don't CARE just give me content of you two falling in love.
Who cares if whatshername wants a cow at her wedding?
I got an ARC via GRR.
February 9, 2025
after so many fails in the romance book department it felt so good to finally get a win 🙂↕️
the pining, the miscommunication, the angst, the yearning !!!!
the pining, the miscommunication, the angst, the yearning !!!!
February 4, 2025
Hehehehe, the snark this starts off with is absolutely sublime. Lily Morton truly is the queen of banter but what makes if even more special is the punch of emotion she’ll sprinkle it with, which is how you get hooked right at the start of the book when we discover the sentimental reverie of a spouse lost as Jed reflects how utterly devastating that is, causing him to have a sense of ennui where his life is going as he is drifting. Though even those moments his thoughts do involuntarily turn to his assistant, Artie.
Now Artie, calm, responsible, collected (and irresistible to Jed) as he is, is in a bit of a predicament 😁. I think as soon as I saw the words “need to get married” I was jumping up and down.. I love a good fake marriage romance 🥰 specially when these two have been sparking the flames of attraction for a few months now.
While Artie knows he loves Jed, Jed is in full force denial about his pull towards Artie, those first kisses were sublime.. I love it when it’s supposed to be performative but they just get swept up completely, everything going white! These two have insane chemistry and a ton of emotion towards each other to bind them not to mention all that one bed forced proximity 😏. I also loved the cheeky banter and hilarious moments sprinkled through out the book.. that scene in the barn had me rolling 🤣
Jed with his big kind loyal heart represents safety to Artie and he can’t help but want that. But it’s when Jed starts feeling deep things for for his assistant/fake husband who he cannot keep his eyes of and feels possessive of is when things get really swoony. Though grief and fear of loss is not an easy thing these two do have to fight for their HEA. I absolutely adored this book and really recommend checking it out.
Also, I have to say I love Daisy she is phenomenal, I actually loved all the side characters tbh.
Expect:
* Fake marriage
* Opposites attract
* Size difference
* Forced proximity
* Age gap
* Boss employee
* Only one bed
* Grief and healing
* Banter
* HEA
* Swoony
* The best kisses
* Pining
* Slow burn
* Hilarious
* Stray c0cks
* Arresting home renovations
* Possessive “you’re mine” vibes
Now Artie, calm, responsible, collected (and irresistible to Jed) as he is, is in a bit of a predicament 😁. I think as soon as I saw the words “need to get married” I was jumping up and down.. I love a good fake marriage romance 🥰 specially when these two have been sparking the flames of attraction for a few months now.
While Artie knows he loves Jed, Jed is in full force denial about his pull towards Artie, those first kisses were sublime.. I love it when it’s supposed to be performative but they just get swept up completely, everything going white! These two have insane chemistry and a ton of emotion towards each other to bind them not to mention all that one bed forced proximity 😏. I also loved the cheeky banter and hilarious moments sprinkled through out the book.. that scene in the barn had me rolling 🤣
Jed with his big kind loyal heart represents safety to Artie and he can’t help but want that. But it’s when Jed starts feeling deep things for for his assistant/fake husband who he cannot keep his eyes of and feels possessive of is when things get really swoony. Though grief and fear of loss is not an easy thing these two do have to fight for their HEA. I absolutely adored this book and really recommend checking it out.
Also, I have to say I love Daisy she is phenomenal, I actually loved all the side characters tbh.
Expect:
* Fake marriage
* Opposites attract
* Size difference
* Forced proximity
* Age gap
* Boss employee
* Only one bed
* Grief and healing
* Banter
* HEA
* Swoony
* The best kisses
* Pining
* Slow burn
* Hilarious
* Stray c0cks
* Arresting home renovations
* Possessive “you’re mine” vibes
September 21, 2025
Snarky and Romantic.
Another story from Lily Morton, which is full of snark and shenanigans. Even though it took Jed a while to come to his senses, he and Artie, the MCs, eventually proved perfect together. Jed has been married before, his husband has passed away, and I did feel that Mick had too much page time. Sometimes I just wanted to shake Jed, it seemed to take him an age to realise that even if he entered into a new relationship, he's not betraying his past husband, who was not by any means perfect, believe you me! Also, the number of times he hurt Artie, even unknowingly, made me want to smack him, talk about frustrating! Still, the ending was beautiful, I do enjoy Lily's epilogues. She has once again produced another snarky PA/boss, cosy romance. The bonus in my eyes is that the marvellous Raff (my fave character in the series), popped up now and again, and the wonderfully sarcastic Malachi and his husband, Caden, from Spring Strings played a part in the MC's story 😊
Another story from Lily Morton, which is full of snark and shenanigans. Even though it took Jed a while to come to his senses, he and Artie, the MCs, eventually proved perfect together. Jed has been married before, his husband has passed away, and I did feel that Mick had too much page time. Sometimes I just wanted to shake Jed, it seemed to take him an age to realise that even if he entered into a new relationship, he's not betraying his past husband, who was not by any means perfect, believe you me! Also, the number of times he hurt Artie, even unknowingly, made me want to smack him, talk about frustrating! Still, the ending was beautiful, I do enjoy Lily's epilogues. She has once again produced another snarky PA/boss, cosy romance. The bonus in my eyes is that the marvellous Raff (my fave character in the series), popped up now and again, and the wonderfully sarcastic Malachi and his husband, Caden, from Spring Strings played a part in the MC's story 😊
February 19, 2025
Not a favorite from Lily but it had the humor, the sweet and the heat.
I don't know, there is just something off sometimes with the fake marriage setup and it has to be done just right for me to love it. If not, like here, I struggle a little. Throw in a dead husband and it's bound to not work for me.
I did enjoy it, but it sort of missed the mark a bit.
I don't know, there is just something off sometimes with the fake marriage setup and it has to be done just right for me to love it. If not, like here, I struggle a little. Throw in a dead husband and it's bound to not work for me.
I did enjoy it, but it sort of missed the mark a bit.
March 5, 2025
It's ridiculous
how the exact same story
always sucks me in.
how the exact same story
always sucks me in.
February 23, 2025
I have to give up on Lily Morton's book universe. I've read about 75% of her catalogue. The first one or two reads were pretty enjoyable. But the more I read the more I find actually finishing each book is a slog and instead of swooning I'm ranting at the plot, the characters, and how paradoxically unromatic her romance books come across.
I'm done with hot men who are hot in the exact same carbon copy way.
I'm done with the weird money dynamics that aside from glorifying ridiculous wealth also set up some really toxic dynamics between MCs. More often than not in her books there's a deep financial imbalance and we're supposed to read the wealthier MC throwing money at the less wealthy one as sweet but it's actually uncomfortable making. Even in this book, though there's not as much financial love bombing, there's a throw away line about Jed, who has more money AND employs Artie, paying the contractor who is working to renovate Artie's inherited house...BEHIND ARTIE'S BACK.
I'm done with the exes, hook-ups, romantic rivals being cartoon level awful. Any other man the MCs are even a little romantically connected with are the literary equivalent of gnats and are only there to telegraph some combination of petulant, manipulative, lecherous, or selfish. It actually fully undercuts any tension that a rival love interest might present. In Paper Roses, this even extends to Jed's dead husband! At first it sounds like Mick, his late husband, was an amazing man and the love of Jed's life. But slowly over the book it turns out Mick often hurt Jed's feelings, didn't fully care what Jed wanted, made big career decisions for him, and even opened up their marriage in a fairly manipulative way despite Jed not being comfortable with that. And while it might have been interesting to have an MC walk the difficult line of grieving while being honest about how the person they loved wasn't perfect, this felt more like we're tearing Mick down in order to raise Artie up. It's as if Lily Morton doesn't trust her characters or readers enough to be able to write someone who's found the love of their life twice. Jed could have been a character who, had Mick not died, would have kept on loving him and working on that relationship. He could have been someone who was changed by loss and grief; someone who learns that it's not a betrayal of their late husband's memory to find love again. Instead he literally thinks at some point 'oh it was bad when Mick died but if Artie were to die it would be so much worse.' Like, you can have had healthy, well rounded, loving relationships in the past with people who you are still on good terms or think well of, without that detracting from the OTP. Sometimes an awful ex or romantic rival can be fun. To keep writing that into every single book starts to highlight a real hollow philosophy of love and just reads as immature.
I'm done with the lack of diversity. Sometimes there's blink and you'll miss them side-side character who maybe maybe are non-white. But with the MCs and their close circle the most diversity you seem to get with Morton is 'he's Irish' or 'he's Italian'. So I guess European is as diverse as we can reach for. Given she's set this universe in the young, professional London of today, with the amount of men she's written that starts to seem like a real choice.
I'm done with the forced snark that relies much too much on pop culture references.
I'm done with the secondary characters that read like NPCs who have no real plot or development. They're either there to be super supportive/give bland advice/do some forced banter, or to be caricature level ridiculous/awful.
I'm done with the repetitive and predictable sex dynamics where the person who is older/has more money/is physically more masculine usually is in charge in the bedroom and tops. Cause you know, sex is all about mirroring weird hetnorm cultural assumptions not about people being vulnerable and maybe exploring outside those hetnorm assumptions.
I'm just done and this review is more of a reminder for future me if I'm intrigued by a synopsis for one of her books and am about to spend that sweet sweet audiobook credit on it. I love Joel Leslie as a narrator, but it's not worth it. Confetti Hearts was actually the first of her books that I read, and now that the series is finished I can be too.
For anyone thinking of reading this or any of Lily Morton's other books, I recommend leaving big gaps between each book in order to cushion the repetitiveness of the writing.
I'm done with hot men who are hot in the exact same carbon copy way.
I'm done with the weird money dynamics that aside from glorifying ridiculous wealth also set up some really toxic dynamics between MCs. More often than not in her books there's a deep financial imbalance and we're supposed to read the wealthier MC throwing money at the less wealthy one as sweet but it's actually uncomfortable making. Even in this book, though there's not as much financial love bombing, there's a throw away line about Jed, who has more money AND employs Artie, paying the contractor who is working to renovate Artie's inherited house...BEHIND ARTIE'S BACK.
I'm done with the exes, hook-ups, romantic rivals being cartoon level awful. Any other man the MCs are even a little romantically connected with are the literary equivalent of gnats and are only there to telegraph some combination of petulant, manipulative, lecherous, or selfish. It actually fully undercuts any tension that a rival love interest might present. In Paper Roses, this even extends to Jed's dead husband! At first it sounds like Mick, his late husband, was an amazing man and the love of Jed's life. But slowly over the book it turns out Mick often hurt Jed's feelings, didn't fully care what Jed wanted, made big career decisions for him, and even opened up their marriage in a fairly manipulative way despite Jed not being comfortable with that. And while it might have been interesting to have an MC walk the difficult line of grieving while being honest about how the person they loved wasn't perfect, this felt more like we're tearing Mick down in order to raise Artie up. It's as if Lily Morton doesn't trust her characters or readers enough to be able to write someone who's found the love of their life twice. Jed could have been a character who, had Mick not died, would have kept on loving him and working on that relationship. He could have been someone who was changed by loss and grief; someone who learns that it's not a betrayal of their late husband's memory to find love again. Instead he literally thinks at some point 'oh it was bad when Mick died but if Artie were to die it would be so much worse.' Like, you can have had healthy, well rounded, loving relationships in the past with people who you are still on good terms or think well of, without that detracting from the OTP. Sometimes an awful ex or romantic rival can be fun. To keep writing that into every single book starts to highlight a real hollow philosophy of love and just reads as immature.
I'm done with the lack of diversity. Sometimes there's blink and you'll miss them side-side character who maybe maybe are non-white. But with the MCs and their close circle the most diversity you seem to get with Morton is 'he's Irish' or 'he's Italian'. So I guess European is as diverse as we can reach for. Given she's set this universe in the young, professional London of today, with the amount of men she's written that starts to seem like a real choice.
I'm done with the forced snark that relies much too much on pop culture references.
I'm done with the secondary characters that read like NPCs who have no real plot or development. They're either there to be super supportive/give bland advice/do some forced banter, or to be caricature level ridiculous/awful.
I'm done with the repetitive and predictable sex dynamics where the person who is older/has more money/is physically more masculine usually is in charge in the bedroom and tops. Cause you know, sex is all about mirroring weird hetnorm cultural assumptions not about people being vulnerable and maybe exploring outside those hetnorm assumptions.
I'm just done and this review is more of a reminder for future me if I'm intrigued by a synopsis for one of her books and am about to spend that sweet sweet audiobook credit on it. I love Joel Leslie as a narrator, but it's not worth it. Confetti Hearts was actually the first of her books that I read, and now that the series is finished I can be too.
For anyone thinking of reading this or any of Lily Morton's other books, I recommend leaving big gaps between each book in order to cushion the repetitiveness of the writing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2025
LOVED LOVED LOVED LOVED LOVED!
I want all the paper roses. I knew Jed and Artie would be as sweet and lovely as a chocolate button. They are couple goals.
Jed Walker is the boss of Confetti Hitched and just the fact that he has to put up with the antics of Joe and Rafferty means he deserves happiness. Putting up with the demands of the bridezillas means he deserves all the good sex too. Jed is wonderful, if a bit grumpy, and still in love with his long dead husband, Mick.
But little sweetie Artie. I just want to hug him and pet him and keep him in my pocket.
I’m not a massive fan of the fake marriage trope, but I’m a massive fan of this book. It’s Artie. I want to be his mum. I would be the best mum. I’d love him so much. I’d spoil him so much. I’d buy him Greggs sausage rolls and Colin the Caterpillar cakes just for fun; not even just for his birthday.
He’s my new favourite Lily character.
The book has all the good dick. It’s even got David Bowie references - my husband loves him (me not so much as I never forgave Let’s Dance knocking Is There Something I Should Know by Duran Duran off number one).
All the sighs and giggles and ahhhhhs at the ending.
I want all the paper roses. I knew Jed and Artie would be as sweet and lovely as a chocolate button. They are couple goals.
Jed Walker is the boss of Confetti Hitched and just the fact that he has to put up with the antics of Joe and Rafferty means he deserves happiness. Putting up with the demands of the bridezillas means he deserves all the good sex too. Jed is wonderful, if a bit grumpy, and still in love with his long dead husband, Mick.
But little sweetie Artie. I just want to hug him and pet him and keep him in my pocket.
I’m not a massive fan of the fake marriage trope, but I’m a massive fan of this book. It’s Artie. I want to be his mum. I would be the best mum. I’d love him so much. I’d spoil him so much. I’d buy him Greggs sausage rolls and Colin the Caterpillar cakes just for fun; not even just for his birthday.
He’s my new favourite Lily character.
The book has all the good dick. It’s even got David Bowie references - my husband loves him (me not so much as I never forgave Let’s Dance knocking Is There Something I Should Know by Duran Duran off number one).
All the sighs and giggles and ahhhhhs at the ending.
February 10, 2025
I always love Lily Morton's books. I was looking forward to Artie and Jed's book since the first Confetti Hitched book. I loved Artie's character and I love a good boss/assistant grumpy/sunshine dynamic. This was a great balance of the different tropes as well as some emotional moments related to grief/loss and family dynamics.
Artie is so precious and deserves the whole world. I'm not convinced that the relationship with Jed is quite on equal footing, but I did enjoy seeing Artie come out of his shell and into his own.
I wish we had seen more of Daisy! She could have been such a great side character but instead she just flitted in and out of the book a couple of times. I would have loved to see more of Artie's "people".
Artie is so precious and deserves the whole world. I'm not convinced that the relationship with Jed is quite on equal footing, but I did enjoy seeing Artie come out of his shell and into his own.
I wish we had seen more of Daisy! She could have been such a great side character but instead she just flitted in and out of the book a couple of times. I would have loved to see more of Artie's "people".
February 26, 2025
Artie and Jed had to marry…
Artie and Jed had to get married immediately, so Artie could inherit his family home.
Jed was previously married, but wanted to help his friend. Artie is very inexperienced and maybe as they learn more about each other, he can gain that experience, he hopes.
The house needs renovating and they begin to accomplish that big task.
Love is growing as they move forward, and when the 6 months are up, what will happen? Meanwhile we learn about crazy weddings.
We get super intense sexy hot lovin’ and deep passion, and you may need a fan to cool you off.
We get a fabulous epilogue.
ENJOY!
=====
Artie and Jed had to get married immediately, so Artie could inherit his family home.
Jed was previously married, but wanted to help his friend. Artie is very inexperienced and maybe as they learn more about each other, he can gain that experience, he hopes.
The house needs renovating and they begin to accomplish that big task.
Love is growing as they move forward, and when the 6 months are up, what will happen? Meanwhile we learn about crazy weddings.
We get super intense sexy hot lovin’ and deep passion, and you may need a fan to cool you off.
We get a fabulous epilogue.
ENJOY!
=====
February 12, 2025
This series has been a miss for me, as have most of this author's recent books. This storyline in particular was nonsensical, but I can't really explain without spoilers. Stop here if you don't want that.
The premise of this book is that one of the MCs has been essentially prostrate with grief for the past ten years, after the death of his husband. He can't form a connection with a new person and blah blah blah because he loved his dead husband so much. Then we find out that MC wasn't really open with his feelings with his dead husband. Then we find out that dead husband wanted an open relationship and MC didn't. Then we find out that MC was thinking about leaving dead husband just before dead husband's accident. But he was so so so in love with dead husband that he couldn't move on?
Like I said: nonsensical.
The premise of this book is that one of the MCs has been essentially prostrate with grief for the past ten years, after the death of his husband. He can't form a connection with a new person and blah blah blah because he loved his dead husband so much. Then we find out that MC wasn't really open with his feelings with his dead husband. Then we find out that dead husband wanted an open relationship and MC didn't. Then we find out that MC was thinking about leaving dead husband just before dead husband's accident. But he was so so so in love with dead husband that he couldn't move on?
Like I said: nonsensical.
February 26, 2025
Jed and Artie ❤️
✅ Age Gap
✅ Fake Marriage
This book was everything that we always get from a Lily Morton read. Romantic, steamy and so much fun! Great characters, swoon worthy story and a freaking perfect HEA! I would 100% recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
✅ Age Gap
✅ Fake Marriage
This book was everything that we always get from a Lily Morton read. Romantic, steamy and so much fun! Great characters, swoon worthy story and a freaking perfect HEA! I would 100% recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
March 21, 2025
Super cute story about the founder of Confetti, Jed, and his assistant, Artie.
It starts out as an age gap, marriage of necessity, and turns into a wonderful romance.
After some ups and downs, they get their HEA, and there's a great epilogue.
It starts out as an age gap, marriage of necessity, and turns into a wonderful romance.
After some ups and downs, they get their HEA, and there's a great epilogue.
February 21, 2025
I thought it was cute. The forced proximity is pushed to its extreme
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