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Weddings in Westchester #1
The Bouquet List
He's #5 on her Bouquet List. Tall, dark...and completely forbidden.
After a too-close call with death, Yasmin Katsalos is checking some things off her Bouquet List—things to do after you thought you were going to die. Fun fashion choices? Check. Purple hair and a cute diamond nose stud? Check, check. Now she's on to item #5: a flirty fling with a man who's tall, dark, rich...and totally out of her league.
And restaurateur Lane Griffiths definitely fits the bill.
Lane isn't just out of Yasmin's league. He's also her brother's best friend and therefore off-limits. Now that they're working together on renovations for her family's wedding hall, however, Yasmin has plenty of opportunities to bewitch, bother, and boldly seduce. He's reserved. She's relaxed. The only thing they share is a spark of attraction that's too strong to resist. But is Lane just another item on her bouquet list... or has Yasmin found something on her list that will last?
After a too-close call with death, Yasmin Katsalos is checking some things off her Bouquet List—things to do after you thought you were going to die. Fun fashion choices? Check. Purple hair and a cute diamond nose stud? Check, check. Now she's on to item #5: a flirty fling with a man who's tall, dark, rich...and totally out of her league.
And restaurateur Lane Griffiths definitely fits the bill.
Lane isn't just out of Yasmin's league. He's also her brother's best friend and therefore off-limits. Now that they're working together on renovations for her family's wedding hall, however, Yasmin has plenty of opportunities to bewitch, bother, and boldly seduce. He's reserved. She's relaxed. The only thing they share is a spark of attraction that's too strong to resist. But is Lane just another item on her bouquet list... or has Yasmin found something on her list that will last?
212 pages, ebook
First published September 12, 2014
2 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
About the author
Barbara DeLeo
17 books142 followersBarbara DeLeo’s first book, co-written with her best friend, was a story about beauty queens in space. She was eleven, and the sole, handwritten copy was lost years ago, much to everyone’s relief. It’s some small miracle that she kept the faith and is now living her dream of writing sparkling contemporary romance with unforgettable characters.
After completing degrees in Psychology and English then travelling the world, Barbara married her winemaker hero and had two sets of twins.
Barbara still loves telling stories about finding love in all the wrong places, with not a beauty queen or spaceship in sight.
Visit Barbara on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/BarbaraDeLeoA...
After completing degrees in Psychology and English then travelling the world, Barbara married her winemaker hero and had two sets of twins.
Barbara still loves telling stories about finding love in all the wrong places, with not a beauty queen or spaceship in sight.
Visit Barbara on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/BarbaraDeLeoA...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 29, 2016
3.5 stars.
The Bouquet List is a charming romance using the tried and tested formulas of friends-to-lovers and older brother's best-friend.
Yasmin Katsalos has a bouquet list: a list of things she plans on doing as she's not going to die. Returning home to help out with her family's restaurant renovation, she discovers her brother's best friend will be working with her. Lane Griffiths, the man who meets her criteria for #5 on her list.
"...a fling with a man who’s tall, dark, rich and totally out of her league."
Lane was a sweetheart; set in his ways and a little straight laced at first, the man stole my heart and I loved Yasmin's live-for-the-moment attitude and how she encouraged him to loosen up a little. They have a lovely chemistry and are perfect for one another, except he craves the stable family dynamic that Yasmin and her brothers grew up with and he never had, whilst she dreams of a family who follow her wanderlust. And bless him, he falls hard.
“You’re a hard woman to resist, Yasmin Katsalos, but a kiss or two between old friends never hurt anyone, did it?”
With fun, romance and frustration, Barbara Deleo has kicked of the Weddings in Westchester series nicely. I did think it was a wee bit slow burning at first, but if a sweet, touching romance that leaves you with a smile on your face is what you're after, then this is one to grab.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion
The Bouquet List is a charming romance using the tried and tested formulas of friends-to-lovers and older brother's best-friend.
Yasmin Katsalos has a bouquet list: a list of things she plans on doing as she's not going to die. Returning home to help out with her family's restaurant renovation, she discovers her brother's best friend will be working with her. Lane Griffiths, the man who meets her criteria for #5 on her list.
"...a fling with a man who’s tall, dark, rich and totally out of her league."
Lane was a sweetheart; set in his ways and a little straight laced at first, the man stole my heart and I loved Yasmin's live-for-the-moment attitude and how she encouraged him to loosen up a little. They have a lovely chemistry and are perfect for one another, except he craves the stable family dynamic that Yasmin and her brothers grew up with and he never had, whilst she dreams of a family who follow her wanderlust. And bless him, he falls hard.
“You’re a hard woman to resist, Yasmin Katsalos, but a kiss or two between old friends never hurt anyone, did it?”
With fun, romance and frustration, Barbara Deleo has kicked of the Weddings in Westchester series nicely. I did think it was a wee bit slow burning at first, but if a sweet, touching romance that leaves you with a smile on your face is what you're after, then this is one to grab.
Copy received courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion
September 16, 2014
The Bouquet List is the story of Yasmin Katsalos, a dutiful daughter from a traditional Greek family, who has experienced a life changing event. She creates a list of things that she must do, now that she knows that life can be too short.
Yasmin was such a breath of fresh air. She has returned home with the hopes of reconnecting with her family, but things are in a bit of upheaval. Yasmin is ready to help with the family a wedding hall, a business that desperately needs to be updated. She has to straddle that razor thin line between the traditional attitudes of her family and her own ideas for bringing the business into this millennium. She is a strong young woman who loves her family dearly, but wants to be seen less as a little girl and more as an adult.
Lane is an enigma. I loved his POV – where Yasmin viewed him as the quiet, staid best friend of Yasmin’s brother, we find that that those still waters run deep -- Very deep. He is tall, dark and gorgeous and kind of crushing on Yasmin, too. Also, Lane is Yasmin’s partner in the renovation of the Katsalos’ wedding hall. I loved Lane because as a character, he was in on this project because of love and loyalty to the Katsaloses.
I loved the Bouquet List because of the family element to the book. That both Yasmin and Lane are about doing what is best for the family and discover the power of their partnership – both in business and on a personal level. I loved their relationship and that the familiarity bred a level of respect between them.
This is such a sweet story. I hope to read more about these characters in this continuing series.
Yasmin was such a breath of fresh air. She has returned home with the hopes of reconnecting with her family, but things are in a bit of upheaval. Yasmin is ready to help with the family a wedding hall, a business that desperately needs to be updated. She has to straddle that razor thin line between the traditional attitudes of her family and her own ideas for bringing the business into this millennium. She is a strong young woman who loves her family dearly, but wants to be seen less as a little girl and more as an adult.
Lane is an enigma. I loved his POV – where Yasmin viewed him as the quiet, staid best friend of Yasmin’s brother, we find that that those still waters run deep -- Very deep. He is tall, dark and gorgeous and kind of crushing on Yasmin, too. Also, Lane is Yasmin’s partner in the renovation of the Katsalos’ wedding hall. I loved Lane because as a character, he was in on this project because of love and loyalty to the Katsaloses.
I loved the Bouquet List because of the family element to the book. That both Yasmin and Lane are about doing what is best for the family and discover the power of their partnership – both in business and on a personal level. I loved their relationship and that the familiarity bred a level of respect between them.
This is such a sweet story. I hope to read more about these characters in this continuing series.
April 11, 2016
Note: this book has been modified from its original version (reviewed below) and is no longer a Red Hot Bliss title. This means it now has closed door bedroom scenes. In no way should that deter a lover of good romances from picking this up, as the story and characters are worth reading!
This wonderful romance is the story of Yasmin and Lane. When Yasmin returns from Borneo after experiencing a brush with death from illness, she finds her family's wedding business suffering and is determined to help make it over into a thriving business again. When Lane, her brother's friend and restaurateur is partnered with her to help with the redesign she can't help but think he'd make a great number on her bouquet list, things she wants to accomplish with her new lease on life. But while seducing an out of her league man seems like a good challenge, her feelings for Lane and his for her become something more - is she willing to change her list for a chance at a future with Lane?
I really enjoyed this book! The greek heritage added wonderful details to the setting, with the food descriptions, language and overall family dynamics. Yasmin is a feisty and fun woman, having decided with her new lease on life that she's going to do all the things she's always wanted to do, with or without anyone's approval. Her character sparkles and is exactly the opposite of anything Lane ever thought he'd want - and yet he is enchanted by her. Lane is a handsome, determined, staid businessman - dedicated to his career and interested in helping out this family that has been there for him since he was a child. Seeing the new Yasmin he can't help but be attracted to her and her bold seduction of him wins him over quickly. The sexual chemistry between them is sizzling and the love scenes are well written and steamy! I enjoyed how different their characters were and how they both needed to learn to compromise in order to make their relationship work.
Overall I found this to be a very entertaining read, with engaging characters, an interesting plot, humorous and witty dialogue and a delightful romance. 4 stars!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
This wonderful romance is the story of Yasmin and Lane. When Yasmin returns from Borneo after experiencing a brush with death from illness, she finds her family's wedding business suffering and is determined to help make it over into a thriving business again. When Lane, her brother's friend and restaurateur is partnered with her to help with the redesign she can't help but think he'd make a great number on her bouquet list, things she wants to accomplish with her new lease on life. But while seducing an out of her league man seems like a good challenge, her feelings for Lane and his for her become something more - is she willing to change her list for a chance at a future with Lane?
I really enjoyed this book! The greek heritage added wonderful details to the setting, with the food descriptions, language and overall family dynamics. Yasmin is a feisty and fun woman, having decided with her new lease on life that she's going to do all the things she's always wanted to do, with or without anyone's approval. Her character sparkles and is exactly the opposite of anything Lane ever thought he'd want - and yet he is enchanted by her. Lane is a handsome, determined, staid businessman - dedicated to his career and interested in helping out this family that has been there for him since he was a child. Seeing the new Yasmin he can't help but be attracted to her and her bold seduction of him wins him over quickly. The sexual chemistry between them is sizzling and the love scenes are well written and steamy! I enjoyed how different their characters were and how they both needed to learn to compromise in order to make their relationship work.
Overall I found this to be a very entertaining read, with engaging characters, an interesting plot, humorous and witty dialogue and a delightful romance. 4 stars!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
April 30, 2016
I have had this one on my TBR pile for quite some time and with the second book in this series coming out in May I needed to get this one read I had heard lots of good things about it and they were all correct what a great fun story this one was I thoroughly enjoyed it from page one.
Yasmin Katsalos has returned home to her family after nearly dying with Dengue fever while studying for her PHD in Borneo, she decides to make a bouquet list and make sure she gets it done firstly dye her hair get a piercing and to do what she wants in life rather than what everyone else wants plus a few other things. Yasmin comes from a Greek family that runs a wedding reception venue and when she returns home there is a problem her mother has returned to Greece and her father is going after her mother and leaving the Aegean Palace in her hands with renovations to be done in steps her brother's best friend Lane Griffiths the guy Yasmin had always had a crush on could he be no 5 on her list?
Lane Griffiths didn't have much of a family life growing up passed from mother to father but what he had was his best friend Nick Katsalos's family a big Greek and oh so family orientated one. Lane has made a name for himself in the restaurant business and is in between jobs at the moment so when he is asked by Mr Katsalos to help oversee the renovations on the Aegean Place and restaurant he gladly agrees he has a spare month the do so. But when he meets up with Nick's sister Yasmin who is so different from what he remembers this is going to change so much in his life.
Really this book will have you laughing and turning the pages this is a fabulous story about families best friends and doing what you want in life. Seeing conservative Lane open up when Yasmin pushes a little and seeing Yasmin changing was very uplifting. I highly recommend this book there are lots of emotions and love and joy that come to life on the pages the characters are real and alive and fresh bring on book two.
Yasmin Katsalos has returned home to her family after nearly dying with Dengue fever while studying for her PHD in Borneo, she decides to make a bouquet list and make sure she gets it done firstly dye her hair get a piercing and to do what she wants in life rather than what everyone else wants plus a few other things. Yasmin comes from a Greek family that runs a wedding reception venue and when she returns home there is a problem her mother has returned to Greece and her father is going after her mother and leaving the Aegean Palace in her hands with renovations to be done in steps her brother's best friend Lane Griffiths the guy Yasmin had always had a crush on could he be no 5 on her list?
Lane Griffiths didn't have much of a family life growing up passed from mother to father but what he had was his best friend Nick Katsalos's family a big Greek and oh so family orientated one. Lane has made a name for himself in the restaurant business and is in between jobs at the moment so when he is asked by Mr Katsalos to help oversee the renovations on the Aegean Place and restaurant he gladly agrees he has a spare month the do so. But when he meets up with Nick's sister Yasmin who is so different from what he remembers this is going to change so much in his life.
Really this book will have you laughing and turning the pages this is a fabulous story about families best friends and doing what you want in life. Seeing conservative Lane open up when Yasmin pushes a little and seeing Yasmin changing was very uplifting. I highly recommend this book there are lots of emotions and love and joy that come to life on the pages the characters are real and alive and fresh bring on book two.
August 24, 2014
Lane he's just so hot and sometimes I don't think Yasmin knows what to do with that, "hey," Lane drew close and she breathed his freshly showered scent deep. "You look very nice...and very...studious." He sometimes has to be the level minded one in the relationship as much as it kills him, "this time he nuzzled her shoulder, then laid a kiss on the warm skin exposed. "We've slept the morning away and it's nine fifteen. As much as I don't want you going anywhere, you said you need to speak to your mom." This was a cute read and I loved Lane.
August 30, 2014
*I received an eARC in exchange for my honest review* :)
I have to say I definitely enjoyed this between Yasmin and Lane. I'm a big fan of friends to lovers stories, even more so when it's a friend of a sibling, in this case Yasmin's older brother Nick is Lane's best friend. My biggest thing with these tropes is how they handle the change from being "forbidden" to succumbing to their passions and I'd have to say Barbara DeLeo made it a delightful journey!
Lane starts out as very rigid, very set in being proper while Yasmin is a free spirit, especially after a close call with death due to contracting Dengue fever while studying abroad. I really enjoyed how we got to see Lane's progression to being more relaxed the more time he spent with Yasmin and how he was able to let loose as he fell more in love. On the flip side, Lane was excellent at grounding Yasmin and not allowing her visions in restoring her family's wedding venue get too far out there. They were perfect foils for each other.
If there was one part that I didn't like about the story is how their relationship fell apart for their big obstacle. Because of Yasmin's brush with death, she created her Bouquet List of things she wanted to do now that she's still alive. She's never made any bones about the list, especially in explaining it to Lane but it came across that everything became Yas' fault, that she wronged everyone - from Lane to how the Palace got a bad review from the press because her ideas were implemented. I was actually starting to feel really down about the books because it felt so wrong that even Yas was blaming herself for everything going wrong but here's where I'm happy to say the ending more than made up for it. So beautifully written, it encompassed all that Lane and Yasmin went through and gave a great compromise to show that both our hero and heroine deserve and should get their HEA.
Definitely recommend this for anyone who loves a happy romp of a romance!
I have to say I definitely enjoyed this between Yasmin and Lane. I'm a big fan of friends to lovers stories, even more so when it's a friend of a sibling, in this case Yasmin's older brother Nick is Lane's best friend. My biggest thing with these tropes is how they handle the change from being "forbidden" to succumbing to their passions and I'd have to say Barbara DeLeo made it a delightful journey!
Lane starts out as very rigid, very set in being proper while Yasmin is a free spirit, especially after a close call with death due to contracting Dengue fever while studying abroad. I really enjoyed how we got to see Lane's progression to being more relaxed the more time he spent with Yasmin and how he was able to let loose as he fell more in love. On the flip side, Lane was excellent at grounding Yasmin and not allowing her visions in restoring her family's wedding venue get too far out there. They were perfect foils for each other.
If there was one part that I didn't like about the story is how their relationship fell apart for their big obstacle. Because of Yasmin's brush with death, she created her Bouquet List of things she wanted to do now that she's still alive. She's never made any bones about the list, especially in explaining it to Lane but it came across that everything became Yas' fault, that she wronged everyone - from Lane to how the Palace got a bad review from the press because her ideas were implemented. I was actually starting to feel really down about the books because it felt so wrong that even Yas was blaming herself for everything going wrong but here's where I'm happy to say the ending more than made up for it. So beautifully written, it encompassed all that Lane and Yasmin went through and gave a great compromise to show that both our hero and heroine deserve and should get their HEA.
Definitely recommend this for anyone who loves a happy romp of a romance!
September 12, 2014
Barbara DeLeo puts a refreshing spin on the traditional bucket list with this book. What you do if you survived a brush with death? If you're the heroine of this book you create a bouquet list. It's things she wants to do to now she knows she's not going to die. Personally I think it's a brilliant idea.
When Yasmin our heroine created her bouquet list, she was recovering from dengue fever and put things on her list that would take her out of her good Greek daughter role and make her happy. Things like put a streak of colour in her hair, get a nose ring, have a one night stand with a man that's out of her league. Easy things to accomplish right ?
For Lane our hero, his plan is to help out the Katsalos's who have been more like family than his own family while he waits for this own restaurant to be ready to open. He would do anything to help the Katsalos family. Even work with Yasmin. Who makes his blood heat and it hard to concentrate when she's around.
But as they work closely together, Lane and Yasmin become closer than either expected. When Yasmin's blurts out he's on her list things get complicated. He's trying to do the right thing, but she is temptation wrapped up in a colourful package,
Soon after they give in to the attraction, they realise they may want different things from their futures. But can they overcome the obstacles of different planned life paths to find the kind of love they both want or will they let what they have found with each other crumble in ruins?
This is a perfect addition to the Bliss imprint. The story will give you highs, lows and some fun in between and will leave you with a satisfied sigh when you turn the last page.
This book was supplied by the publisher for an honest review
When Yasmin our heroine created her bouquet list, she was recovering from dengue fever and put things on her list that would take her out of her good Greek daughter role and make her happy. Things like put a streak of colour in her hair, get a nose ring, have a one night stand with a man that's out of her league. Easy things to accomplish right ?
For Lane our hero, his plan is to help out the Katsalos's who have been more like family than his own family while he waits for this own restaurant to be ready to open. He would do anything to help the Katsalos family. Even work with Yasmin. Who makes his blood heat and it hard to concentrate when she's around.
But as they work closely together, Lane and Yasmin become closer than either expected. When Yasmin's blurts out he's on her list things get complicated. He's trying to do the right thing, but she is temptation wrapped up in a colourful package,
Soon after they give in to the attraction, they realise they may want different things from their futures. But can they overcome the obstacles of different planned life paths to find the kind of love they both want or will they let what they have found with each other crumble in ruins?
This is a perfect addition to the Bliss imprint. The story will give you highs, lows and some fun in between and will leave you with a satisfied sigh when you turn the last page.
This book was supplied by the publisher for an honest review
April 11, 2016
This was a fun read. It is full of surprises and one delicious guy that we all our list - Tall, dark, rich, and totally out of our league. Except there's one problem. He is her brother's best friend and a complete opposite of everything that she wants.
The author created a light-hearted read. We follow these characters on their road to self discovery along with a little bit anxiety mixed in. I honestly didn't know what it would take to get these two together. But the opposites attract action is in full force!
She's all for it. After all he is on her bouquet list. He is doesn't want to mess up anything with her family but when he fell, he fell hard! He is just so sweet!
Full of sweet chemistry and ending that leave you on the edge just a little bit, the story is delightful and leaves you wanting to check out the next in the series "Weddings in Westchester". I can't wait!
The author created a light-hearted read. We follow these characters on their road to self discovery along with a little bit anxiety mixed in. I honestly didn't know what it would take to get these two together. But the opposites attract action is in full force!
She's all for it. After all he is on her bouquet list. He is doesn't want to mess up anything with her family but when he fell, he fell hard! He is just so sweet!
Full of sweet chemistry and ending that leave you on the edge just a little bit, the story is delightful and leaves you wanting to check out the next in the series "Weddings in Westchester". I can't wait!
September 23, 2014
I am now a HUGE fan of Barbara DeLeo! This was a wonderful story about two friends who become lovers with a HEA!! The hero and heroine were perfect for each other! Lane was the grounded, sturdy one and Yasmine was the fly by the seat of your pants one. They equalized each other. It was perfect! The story itself kept you interested because there were quite a few pitfalls but I couldn't stop reading. I just HAD to see them HEA! It was really compelling! I highly recommend it to anyone!
ARC copy provided via NetGalley by Entangled Publishing, LLC for an honest review!
ARC copy provided via NetGalley by Entangled Publishing, LLC for an honest review!
September 8, 2014
After surviving a life threatening illness Yasmin returns home to live her life on her terms. She has come up with her own version of a bucket list and is determined to complete it.
This is a great fun read that gives us a little glimpse into the the Greek culture. While the story takes place in the US the references to the heroines Greek heritage are fun and an integral part of the story. The book has great pace, interesting characters, and a fun story. I recommend it.
This is a great fun read that gives us a little glimpse into the the Greek culture. While the story takes place in the US the references to the heroines Greek heritage are fun and an integral part of the story. The book has great pace, interesting characters, and a fun story. I recommend it.
April 19, 2016
Hmmm... the door didn't close. Not sure what to think at this point. I just saw an older cover that had this branded as a Red Hot Bliss title. I typically avoid those because I prefer my books with less content. This did have a good story-line.
Content: mild language, short sex scene
Source: Netgalley
Content: mild language, short sex scene
Source: Netgalley
May 21, 2017
I'm not sure where to start with this book. I felt as if I was a part of the story from the very beginning. Yasmin's "bouquet list" was definitely a twist on the typical bucket list.
I felt the importance of family throughout this book, and I'm hoping Genie, Nick and Ari all get their own HEAs too.
I felt the importance of family throughout this book, and I'm hoping Genie, Nick and Ari all get their own HEAs too.
September 15, 2014
The Bouquet List is my absolute favorite kind of read!! I love friends to lovers romances so much! And I loved the idea of a "bouquet list"! This was a fun read and I really enjoyed getting to know Yasmine and Lane!
March 28, 2015
This was a terrific read. She nailed the conflict, the black moment, and the happy ending.
February 13, 2015
Review from
Mischievous Reads
***ARC courtesy of Entangled Publishing in exchange for honest review
3.5 Star Rating!
Yasmin Katsalos is the good girl gone wild. She's got a Bouquet list, kind of like a bucket list, and Lane Griffiths definitely fits her target number 5:
Seduce a man who's out of your league. Tall, dark and mysterious. No chickening out! (Well, I doubt that ever crossed her mind)
When I first read the blurb to this book, I thought it sounded quite promising. Especially with the good girl gone wild heroine theme with a sexy brooding guy to match.
The Bouquet list is kind of like a bucket list, but slightly different concept. Bucket lists are for the things you want to do before you die. Meanwhile, the bouquet list is for things you want to do after almost having met your death.
A medical student, Yasmin almost died in Borneo due to dengue fever, and now she's learned that second chances are best not to take for granted. Leaving behind the goody two shoes girl she once had been, she dyes her hair purple, gets a nose stud, changes her style to punk hipster and goes back home to New York only to find out her family business is going down and in chaos, her parents going crazy. Oh, and she's also got that list.
Lane Griffiths, bestfriend to Yasmin's older brother and practically the Katsalos' adopted son, is asked in a favor by Papa Katsalos to work on the renovations of The Palace, their family business being a wedding venue. He's a restaurateur, and a well known one, for that matter. When Yasmin arrives and Papa Katsalos leaves to follow his wife to Greece, it seems he's stuck with not only the renovations, but with babysitting as well. Yasmin thinks this is the perfect opportunity, some alone time with him, to seduce him and get that fifth number on her list ticked.
I'm a sucker for unrequited love stories, with Lane and Yasmin fooling around behind the whole family. Not to mention, all that self-control Lane had to go through at the very beginning, with Yasmin being off limits and vice versa. Yet, of course, they still succumb to that passion they've been trying to hide. I love how they're definitely two different people. Polar opposites to be exact. North and South. Yasmin is the happy-go-lucky sweetheart, meanwhile, Lane comes off as rigid and stoic.
Upon reading, I liked Yasmin, especially for her sudden change on her outlook in life, to do what truly makes her happy to the point that she actually went to the point of changing her appearance and style. Of course, no one expected good girl Yasmin, and a medical student for that matter to actually get a purple dye and even a piercing. But despite being the sweet, happy girl, she also had a persistent side to her, and usually gets what she wants, even with Lane and the venue renovations. Meanwhile, Lane, often times, he's quite aloof and a little secluded with his personal life, especially having come from a crappy childhood. I love how the author wrote Lane as a guy with lots of insecurities, especially in terms of belonging.
The Bouquet List is a truly sweet and charming read of unrequited romance and restoring a family. This is my first Barbara DeLeo read, and hopefully, won't be my last.
***ARC courtesy of Entangled Publishing in exchange for honest review
3.5 Star Rating!
Yasmin Katsalos is the good girl gone wild. She's got a Bouquet list, kind of like a bucket list, and Lane Griffiths definitely fits her target number 5:
Seduce a man who's out of your league. Tall, dark and mysterious. No chickening out! (Well, I doubt that ever crossed her mind)
When I first read the blurb to this book, I thought it sounded quite promising. Especially with the good girl gone wild heroine theme with a sexy brooding guy to match.
The Bouquet list is kind of like a bucket list, but slightly different concept. Bucket lists are for the things you want to do before you die. Meanwhile, the bouquet list is for things you want to do after almost having met your death.
A medical student, Yasmin almost died in Borneo due to dengue fever, and now she's learned that second chances are best not to take for granted. Leaving behind the goody two shoes girl she once had been, she dyes her hair purple, gets a nose stud, changes her style to punk hipster and goes back home to New York only to find out her family business is going down and in chaos, her parents going crazy. Oh, and she's also got that list.
Lane Griffiths, bestfriend to Yasmin's older brother and practically the Katsalos' adopted son, is asked in a favor by Papa Katsalos to work on the renovations of The Palace, their family business being a wedding venue. He's a restaurateur, and a well known one, for that matter. When Yasmin arrives and Papa Katsalos leaves to follow his wife to Greece, it seems he's stuck with not only the renovations, but with babysitting as well. Yasmin thinks this is the perfect opportunity, some alone time with him, to seduce him and get that fifth number on her list ticked.
I'm a sucker for unrequited love stories, with Lane and Yasmin fooling around behind the whole family. Not to mention, all that self-control Lane had to go through at the very beginning, with Yasmin being off limits and vice versa. Yet, of course, they still succumb to that passion they've been trying to hide. I love how they're definitely two different people. Polar opposites to be exact. North and South. Yasmin is the happy-go-lucky sweetheart, meanwhile, Lane comes off as rigid and stoic.
Upon reading, I liked Yasmin, especially for her sudden change on her outlook in life, to do what truly makes her happy to the point that she actually went to the point of changing her appearance and style. Of course, no one expected good girl Yasmin, and a medical student for that matter to actually get a purple dye and even a piercing. But despite being the sweet, happy girl, she also had a persistent side to her, and usually gets what she wants, even with Lane and the venue renovations. Meanwhile, Lane, often times, he's quite aloof and a little secluded with his personal life, especially having come from a crappy childhood. I love how the author wrote Lane as a guy with lots of insecurities, especially in terms of belonging.
The Bouquet List is a truly sweet and charming read of unrequited romance and restoring a family. This is my first Barbara DeLeo read, and hopefully, won't be my last.
July 11, 2016
A light, fun romance! Reading about all the Greek food made me hungry
"Bouquet list. You've heard of the Jack Nicholson movie, right? The Bucket List? Two old guys who make a list of everything they want to do before they die. Well, when I was starting to recover, I wrote a list of the things I want to do now that I know I'm not going to die - my bouquet list."
THE BOUQUET LIST by Barbara DeLeo was a delightful romance about a young woman who creates a bouquet list as opposed to a bucket list after having a close brush with death. The story is set against a renovation of her family's Greek wedding chapel which had fallen on rough times. While the old chapel held many favorite memories, it was past time for a fresh look and innovative upgrades that would make it competitive in the cut-throat wedding venue market. Our heroine is determined to return it to prosperity while she recovers her health and re-discovers her happy place.
This was the story of Yasmin Katsalos and Lane Griffiths. After almost dying from a bout with dengue fever, Yasmin creates a bouquet list to make her feel alive again. She'd already completed the first and second items on her list by getting a nose piercing and adding purple highlights to her black hair. Number five on that list was to seduce a tall, dark, mysterious man who was totally out of her league.
Enter Lane, her brother's best friend, who meets all three of the required attributes. It just so happens that he's also helping Yasmin save her parents' restaurant/banquet facility while he waits on his own to open. First of all, is a flirty fling with him even a possibility? Yasmin's brother will certainly not be happy about it. Lane undoubtedly has trouble concentrating when she is around, but will he end up solely being a check-mark off her list? She is feisty and fun and not at all what he envisioned as his wife. He tries to do the right thing...
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from this fun read:
He tore his focus from her mouth, wondering how he could endure thirty days of this torture. Maybe he could make sure he wasn't around when she ate. Whipped cream especially.
---
He lifted her chin so she was looking directly in his eyes. "I have every faith that whatever you take on in your life, you'll do it with passion and determination, and I know you'll succeed."
And then before she could make any sort of reply, he dipped his chin and placed his lips on hers.
---
"I thought you said you didn't want this to happen," she whispered, still dizzy from his kiss. "That there was too much at stake."
"You're a hard woman to resist, Yasmin Katsalos..."
I enjoyed this fresh spin on the traditional bucket list. Reading about all the Greek food made me hungry and all the included snippets about Greek culture and heritage were fascinating. With well-written, sizzling love scenes, engaging characters and plenty of humor, I would recommend THE BOUQUET LIST to anyone who enjoys light, fun romances.
My full review is published at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
3 1/2 out of 5 Wine Glasses!
"Bouquet list. You've heard of the Jack Nicholson movie, right? The Bucket List? Two old guys who make a list of everything they want to do before they die. Well, when I was starting to recover, I wrote a list of the things I want to do now that I know I'm not going to die - my bouquet list."
THE BOUQUET LIST by Barbara DeLeo was a delightful romance about a young woman who creates a bouquet list as opposed to a bucket list after having a close brush with death. The story is set against a renovation of her family's Greek wedding chapel which had fallen on rough times. While the old chapel held many favorite memories, it was past time for a fresh look and innovative upgrades that would make it competitive in the cut-throat wedding venue market. Our heroine is determined to return it to prosperity while she recovers her health and re-discovers her happy place.
This was the story of Yasmin Katsalos and Lane Griffiths. After almost dying from a bout with dengue fever, Yasmin creates a bouquet list to make her feel alive again. She'd already completed the first and second items on her list by getting a nose piercing and adding purple highlights to her black hair. Number five on that list was to seduce a tall, dark, mysterious man who was totally out of her league.
Enter Lane, her brother's best friend, who meets all three of the required attributes. It just so happens that he's also helping Yasmin save her parents' restaurant/banquet facility while he waits on his own to open. First of all, is a flirty fling with him even a possibility? Yasmin's brother will certainly not be happy about it. Lane undoubtedly has trouble concentrating when she is around, but will he end up solely being a check-mark off her list? She is feisty and fun and not at all what he envisioned as his wife. He tries to do the right thing...
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from this fun read:
He tore his focus from her mouth, wondering how he could endure thirty days of this torture. Maybe he could make sure he wasn't around when she ate. Whipped cream especially.
---
He lifted her chin so she was looking directly in his eyes. "I have every faith that whatever you take on in your life, you'll do it with passion and determination, and I know you'll succeed."
And then before she could make any sort of reply, he dipped his chin and placed his lips on hers.
---
"I thought you said you didn't want this to happen," she whispered, still dizzy from his kiss. "That there was too much at stake."
"You're a hard woman to resist, Yasmin Katsalos..."
I enjoyed this fresh spin on the traditional bucket list. Reading about all the Greek food made me hungry and all the included snippets about Greek culture and heritage were fascinating. With well-written, sizzling love scenes, engaging characters and plenty of humor, I would recommend THE BOUQUET LIST to anyone who enjoys light, fun romances.
My full review is published at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
3 1/2 out of 5 Wine Glasses!
April 7, 2016
This is a great romance where life threatening illness and taking a chance on love with your older brother's best friend both play significant parts in the story!
After recovering from the debilitating Dengue Fever, Yasmin Katsalos creates her Bouquet List of things she wants to do having survived. She has nine items on the list and has started crossing them off as she completes them - but hasn't decided what number ten should be just yet.
Purple hair and a diamond nose stud were easy but number five is proving something of a temptation she'll find difficult to resist. She's wanting a fling with a tall, dark, handsome man who is out of her league and when she reencounters her brother's best friend, Lane Griffiths, she think he fits the ideal brilliantly! He, however, values his relationship with her family and brother and is reluctant to have a fling with her, however tempting she might be. Working closely together to rejuvenate the family's ailing wedding hall and restaurant means that they're together making decisions and temptations will only grow. He's serious, reserved and restrained - she isn't! There are also some humorous moments as the two strive to select materials for the family restaurant and have very differing ideas! Can she seduce him? The attraction is certainly mutual but their life goals so disparate, like chalk and cheese, do they stand any chance of achieving a happy ever after together?
The characters are well developed and appear to be the antithesis of each other in so many ways, yet together they bring out the best in the other. The contrasting family backgrounds, the current drama, the pressure to succeed, all impact on their developing relationship, making this an intriguing read. At about 80% I thought there was no way this could be resolved happily - but keep on going to find out how they reach their HEA!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
After recovering from the debilitating Dengue Fever, Yasmin Katsalos creates her Bouquet List of things she wants to do having survived. She has nine items on the list and has started crossing them off as she completes them - but hasn't decided what number ten should be just yet.
Purple hair and a diamond nose stud were easy but number five is proving something of a temptation she'll find difficult to resist. She's wanting a fling with a tall, dark, handsome man who is out of her league and when she reencounters her brother's best friend, Lane Griffiths, she think he fits the ideal brilliantly! He, however, values his relationship with her family and brother and is reluctant to have a fling with her, however tempting she might be. Working closely together to rejuvenate the family's ailing wedding hall and restaurant means that they're together making decisions and temptations will only grow. He's serious, reserved and restrained - she isn't! There are also some humorous moments as the two strive to select materials for the family restaurant and have very differing ideas! Can she seduce him? The attraction is certainly mutual but their life goals so disparate, like chalk and cheese, do they stand any chance of achieving a happy ever after together?
The characters are well developed and appear to be the antithesis of each other in so many ways, yet together they bring out the best in the other. The contrasting family backgrounds, the current drama, the pressure to succeed, all impact on their developing relationship, making this an intriguing read. At about 80% I thought there was no way this could be resolved happily - but keep on going to find out how they reach their HEA!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
September 15, 2014
The Bouquet List is a quick, fun read about a contemporary couple renovating a restaurant... and themselves.
This book takes the friend of a sibling trope to a new level - in this case, Lane didn't really have eyes for Yasmin at all when they were younger, while she had a crush on him. Now, Lane's modeled his ideal life on the closeness of Yasmin's family, and he doesn't want to risk his bond with them over a fling with Yasmin.
What I loved about The Bouquet List is that Lane and Yasmin are rarely on the same page. Yasmin's looking to live life to the fullest, free of other people's expectations. She wants to explore her own desires rather than cave to everyone else. Lane, on the other hand, is a planner. He likes to know where he's going and he's got a clear vision of his future.
While they dance around each other and their attraction, Yasmin and Lane also learn how to find the balance between what they *think* will make them happy and what actually does.
Excellent life lesson: being more in tune with yourself in the moment means shedding your own expectations for yourself and allowing yourself to recognize what actually makes you happy or unhappy instead of what you think will make you happy or unhappy.
There's not much meat to this story beyond the romance - the renovation and some drama with Yasmin's family provides the backdrop. I suspect we'll see more of Yasmin's family in the future - her two brothers seem primed for romantic possibilities, as do the children of a rival wedding venue.
Bottom line:
Sweet and easy to read, The Bouquet List not only presents a fantastic idea - things that you want to do to celebrate life (versus a bucket list - things to do before you die) - but it's also a cute, contemporary romance.
See this and other reviews at To Each Their Own Reviews
Received via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book takes the friend of a sibling trope to a new level - in this case, Lane didn't really have eyes for Yasmin at all when they were younger, while she had a crush on him. Now, Lane's modeled his ideal life on the closeness of Yasmin's family, and he doesn't want to risk his bond with them over a fling with Yasmin.
What I loved about The Bouquet List is that Lane and Yasmin are rarely on the same page. Yasmin's looking to live life to the fullest, free of other people's expectations. She wants to explore her own desires rather than cave to everyone else. Lane, on the other hand, is a planner. He likes to know where he's going and he's got a clear vision of his future.
While they dance around each other and their attraction, Yasmin and Lane also learn how to find the balance between what they *think* will make them happy and what actually does.
Excellent life lesson: being more in tune with yourself in the moment means shedding your own expectations for yourself and allowing yourself to recognize what actually makes you happy or unhappy instead of what you think will make you happy or unhappy.
There's not much meat to this story beyond the romance - the renovation and some drama with Yasmin's family provides the backdrop. I suspect we'll see more of Yasmin's family in the future - her two brothers seem primed for romantic possibilities, as do the children of a rival wedding venue.
Bottom line:
Sweet and easy to read, The Bouquet List not only presents a fantastic idea - things that you want to do to celebrate life (versus a bucket list - things to do before you die) - but it's also a cute, contemporary romance.
See this and other reviews at To Each Their Own Reviews
Received via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2014
What a fun spin on what everyone knows as the “bucket list!” Yasmin Katsalos has just returned home after living in a foreign country and surviving a deadly disease. With a second chance at life, Yasmin decides to start checking items off her “bouquet list.” Yes, you read that right. A bouquet list. This would be things you’re going to do after you thought you were going to die.
After surviving dengue fever, Yasmin creates a list of things she wishes to do that takes her out of her comfort zone and away from her usually safe and good Greek daughter role she’s lived for so long. Learn to speak Italian….get a nose ring……put colored streaks in your hair……and…seduce a tall, dark, out of your league man, are just a few things you’d find on Yasmin’s bouquet list.
Of course, when adding the tall, dark, out of your league man to her bouquet list, Yasmin had no idea that man would be her brother’s best friend, Lane Griffiths.
Lane has been asked to help the Katsalos family, who has been more like a family of his own, with their family business. Of course he won’t say no to the family that took him in when his own parents were too busy competing over who the better parent was. He just didn’t realize that the new Yasmin Katsalos would make his blood boil…..in a good way.
As the two begin to work closely together, their attraction for one another becomes too much for either to handle. So when they give into their attraction, things get more complicated, and not just with the different directions their lives are taking them.
Are they able to overcome their different life goals and live a life together or let their new found love for one another disintegrate and pretend it was nothing?
You’ll have to read to find out. :)
After surviving dengue fever, Yasmin creates a list of things she wishes to do that takes her out of her comfort zone and away from her usually safe and good Greek daughter role she’s lived for so long. Learn to speak Italian….get a nose ring……put colored streaks in your hair……and…seduce a tall, dark, out of your league man, are just a few things you’d find on Yasmin’s bouquet list.
Of course, when adding the tall, dark, out of your league man to her bouquet list, Yasmin had no idea that man would be her brother’s best friend, Lane Griffiths.
Lane has been asked to help the Katsalos family, who has been more like a family of his own, with their family business. Of course he won’t say no to the family that took him in when his own parents were too busy competing over who the better parent was. He just didn’t realize that the new Yasmin Katsalos would make his blood boil…..in a good way.
As the two begin to work closely together, their attraction for one another becomes too much for either to handle. So when they give into their attraction, things get more complicated, and not just with the different directions their lives are taking them.
Are they able to overcome their different life goals and live a life together or let their new found love for one another disintegrate and pretend it was nothing?
You’ll have to read to find out. :)
April 8, 2016
This was a fun read with a Greek family! Barbara DeLeo definitely knows how to put a fun twist on a bucket list story.
Yasmin is a young lady that has recently had a life changing event happen to her and she has decided to spend more time with her family because of this enlightenment. Yasmin is part of a fun loving Greek family that runs a wedding hall. When the family decides that it is time to make changes to their wedding hall, they put Yasmin on tasks with her brothers best friend, Lane. Yasmin is immediately drawn to Lane's good looks, which happens to be #5 on her bouquet list. To have a fling with a tall, dark, handsome man. The only problem with Lane is that he is her brothers best friend and has been off limits forever.
Lane is a very successful man that has always had a thing for Yasmin, his best friends sister, but has never let anyone know about his crush. When Lane and Yasmin are pushed together in their project at the Katsalo's wedding hall, things begin to heat up between the two of them and they find it hard to not give into their feelings.
While the wedding hall renovation progresses, so does Yasmin and Lane's relationship. The two of them show a great love for the Katsalo family by how much passion they put into their work and I loved that about these two. You could definitely tell that love ran deep in that family, even for Lane. This was such a great read and the story line flowed really well. I could not wait to find out what was going to happen between Yasmin and Lane! Great read!
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion by Netgalley and Entangled Publishing. Thank you!
Yasmin is a young lady that has recently had a life changing event happen to her and she has decided to spend more time with her family because of this enlightenment. Yasmin is part of a fun loving Greek family that runs a wedding hall. When the family decides that it is time to make changes to their wedding hall, they put Yasmin on tasks with her brothers best friend, Lane. Yasmin is immediately drawn to Lane's good looks, which happens to be #5 on her bouquet list. To have a fling with a tall, dark, handsome man. The only problem with Lane is that he is her brothers best friend and has been off limits forever.
Lane is a very successful man that has always had a thing for Yasmin, his best friends sister, but has never let anyone know about his crush. When Lane and Yasmin are pushed together in their project at the Katsalo's wedding hall, things begin to heat up between the two of them and they find it hard to not give into their feelings.
While the wedding hall renovation progresses, so does Yasmin and Lane's relationship. The two of them show a great love for the Katsalo family by how much passion they put into their work and I loved that about these two. You could definitely tell that love ran deep in that family, even for Lane. This was such a great read and the story line flowed really well. I could not wait to find out what was going to happen between Yasmin and Lane! Great read!
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion by Netgalley and Entangled Publishing. Thank you!
September 15, 2014
Yasmin Katsolas has a lot to live for, and almost dying of dengue fever in Borneo drove that point home for her like nothing else could.
When she returns home with a pierced nose and purple streaks adorning her dark locks, her traditional Greek family doesn't know quite how to deal with this new and vibrant version of her.
Upheavals in the family wedding hall leave little time for her family to bemoan her changes however.
With a rival wedding hall stealing clients left and right, Yasmin and her family must act fast to save the family business.
Enter Lane Griffiths...
Polished, poised, a restaurateur on the rise, Lane has promised to see to the relaunch of her family's business.
As the tall, dark, and handsome man that she wishes to seduce. A.k.a #5 on her list, Lane has no idea how working with the girl that he was so used to thinking of as "his best friend's sister" is going to change his life.
The Bouquet List is a sweet and passionate tale of love, family, and self discovery. The thing that sets this story apart is the fact that both Lane and Yasmin learn to trust themselves, live, and love freely.
Their love making is a sweet interlude in an even sweeter romance. It only serves to cement their fledgeling love bond in the hearts and minds of both the couple and their readers.
This is a wonderful light read; full of wit, banter, charm, and love.
When she returns home with a pierced nose and purple streaks adorning her dark locks, her traditional Greek family doesn't know quite how to deal with this new and vibrant version of her.
Upheavals in the family wedding hall leave little time for her family to bemoan her changes however.
With a rival wedding hall stealing clients left and right, Yasmin and her family must act fast to save the family business.
Enter Lane Griffiths...
Polished, poised, a restaurateur on the rise, Lane has promised to see to the relaunch of her family's business.
As the tall, dark, and handsome man that she wishes to seduce. A.k.a #5 on her list, Lane has no idea how working with the girl that he was so used to thinking of as "his best friend's sister" is going to change his life.
The Bouquet List is a sweet and passionate tale of love, family, and self discovery. The thing that sets this story apart is the fact that both Lane and Yasmin learn to trust themselves, live, and love freely.
Their love making is a sweet interlude in an even sweeter romance. It only serves to cement their fledgeling love bond in the hearts and minds of both the couple and their readers.
This is a wonderful light read; full of wit, banter, charm, and love.
March 16, 2016
A sweet, funny and romantic read by Barbara DeLeo, The Boquet List is a must read.
Having an elder brother, with a hot best friend can be to damaging on a girl's hormones - especially if the best friend is off-limits and the girl's crush!
This is the story of Yasmin and Lane, where Yasmin thinks Lane is out of her league as is sexy and Lane though likes her, tries to stay away as she is his best friend's lil sister. What happens when they're thrown together to work closely for a few weeks? Lane is her crush, but will he reciprocate her feelings? If he does, will they flush each other out of their systems or will it become something more?
I understand Yasmin's Bouquet list (as she fondly calls her bucket list) and also loved how Lane changed himself around her, from the uptight person he was to his sweet and charming self! Flirting with a sexy guy who's out of her league is part of her Bouquet List, so will she be able to convince Lane to be that one? Both Lane and Yasmin fell for each other, connected with each other and their chemistry rocked.
If you want a sweet, sexy and romantic story with less drama, The Bouquet List is a great read from Entangled Publishing. A story where friends turn lovers and opposites attract, but where will head to? Read the book to find out if they clinch their HEA!
**I was kindly provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review by Entangled Publishing through Net Galley.
Having an elder brother, with a hot best friend can be to damaging on a girl's hormones - especially if the best friend is off-limits and the girl's crush!
This is the story of Yasmin and Lane, where Yasmin thinks Lane is out of her league as is sexy and Lane though likes her, tries to stay away as she is his best friend's lil sister. What happens when they're thrown together to work closely for a few weeks? Lane is her crush, but will he reciprocate her feelings? If he does, will they flush each other out of their systems or will it become something more?
I understand Yasmin's Bouquet list (as she fondly calls her bucket list) and also loved how Lane changed himself around her, from the uptight person he was to his sweet and charming self! Flirting with a sexy guy who's out of her league is part of her Bouquet List, so will she be able to convince Lane to be that one? Both Lane and Yasmin fell for each other, connected with each other and their chemistry rocked.
If you want a sweet, sexy and romantic story with less drama, The Bouquet List is a great read from Entangled Publishing. A story where friends turn lovers and opposites attract, but where will head to? Read the book to find out if they clinch their HEA!
**I was kindly provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review by Entangled Publishing through Net Galley.
September 16, 2014
**A gifted copy was provided by the publisher for an honest review**
After a close call with Death, Yasmin Katsalos starts to check things off her bouquet list, instead of it being a bucket list for men; it’s a bouquet list for women. She got the purple hair and the nose ring- now on to have a fling with a handsome, sexy older man—and who fits that bill but her older brother’s best friend. Lane.
Lane is super serious but Yasmin helps to get him to unwind; Yasmin seems to be all over the place but Lane helps Yasmin to calm down and focus. They seem to bring each other’s best points out. Not to say there isn’t some drama when Lane finds out why Yasmin chose him to sleep/start a relationship with.
Yasmin really had feelings for Lane but was afraid that she would loose Lane and she just wanted to live in the moment , to cram everything in so that if she was to die tomorrow, then she knew she did everything she needed to do and could die knowing she did it all. The ending of the book brought tears to my eyes. It was truly a sweet moment.
I highly recommend this book to read because Lane and Yasmin are a great couple and their rocky road to happily ever after is what you need to read after a rough day at the office.
My Rating: 4 stars ****
After a close call with Death, Yasmin Katsalos starts to check things off her bouquet list, instead of it being a bucket list for men; it’s a bouquet list for women. She got the purple hair and the nose ring- now on to have a fling with a handsome, sexy older man—and who fits that bill but her older brother’s best friend. Lane.
Lane is super serious but Yasmin helps to get him to unwind; Yasmin seems to be all over the place but Lane helps Yasmin to calm down and focus. They seem to bring each other’s best points out. Not to say there isn’t some drama when Lane finds out why Yasmin chose him to sleep/start a relationship with.
Yasmin really had feelings for Lane but was afraid that she would loose Lane and she just wanted to live in the moment , to cram everything in so that if she was to die tomorrow, then she knew she did everything she needed to do and could die knowing she did it all. The ending of the book brought tears to my eyes. It was truly a sweet moment.
I highly recommend this book to read because Lane and Yasmin are a great couple and their rocky road to happily ever after is what you need to read after a rough day at the office.
My Rating: 4 stars ****
August 2, 2016
This was a fun, quick read.
After nearly losing her life to dengue fever, Yasmin makes a "bouquet list", the things she would like to do now that she has been given a second chance. Up until her illness, Yasmin followed her traditional Greek family's expectations. All of the things on her list are things that take her out of her comfort zone. Number five is seduce someone tall, dark, handsome, and out of her league. Enter Lane... Yasmin's brother's best friend.
Lane is a restauranteur who has a break between projects and agrees to help Yasmin's family remodel their wedding venue. He knows that Yasmin is off-limits and doesn't want to jeopardize his friendship or his relationship with Yasmin's family. However, the pull and chemistry between the two is strong.
I loved the dual POV since you get to see the perspective of both main characters. The connection with the characters was strong throughout the book and once I started, I wasn't able to stop. The family dynamics were so interesting, not just between Yasmin and her family members but also Lane and Yasmin's family. I loved the writing style and I am hoping there are more books in this series!
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
After nearly losing her life to dengue fever, Yasmin makes a "bouquet list", the things she would like to do now that she has been given a second chance. Up until her illness, Yasmin followed her traditional Greek family's expectations. All of the things on her list are things that take her out of her comfort zone. Number five is seduce someone tall, dark, handsome, and out of her league. Enter Lane... Yasmin's brother's best friend.
Lane is a restauranteur who has a break between projects and agrees to help Yasmin's family remodel their wedding venue. He knows that Yasmin is off-limits and doesn't want to jeopardize his friendship or his relationship with Yasmin's family. However, the pull and chemistry between the two is strong.
I loved the dual POV since you get to see the perspective of both main characters. The connection with the characters was strong throughout the book and once I started, I wasn't able to stop. The family dynamics were so interesting, not just between Yasmin and her family members but also Lane and Yasmin's family. I loved the writing style and I am hoping there are more books in this series!
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
September 25, 2014
I liked the premise of this book and I truly enjoyed Lane and Yasim romantic journey. It was sweet, at times steamy, humorous, and definitely an enjoyable read. Yasim had a near death experience and decided to grab life by the balls and make her own version of a bucket list. Things she will do so that she lives life to the fullest. That included seducing tall, handsome, sexy, sweet…my description of Lance here. Yasim was this carefree, snazzy smart girl and I really liked that. She appealed to me as a heroine, even when she presented with her doubts. She felt real to me and I enjoy believing strengths and vulnerabilities as they are shown.
Lane initially came off as this straitlaced kind of guy, and it was quiet entertaining watching how he unraveled for Yasmin. I didn't fall in love with his characters, but I didn't dislike him either. He was more “ok”. Normally for me to absolutely love a book…the hero has to make me hum in excitement and pleasure. LOL. Lane was sweet and nice, but didn't really fire me up.
Overall it was a sweet endearing read, and I would read more from this author. 3.5 stars.
Lane initially came off as this straitlaced kind of guy, and it was quiet entertaining watching how he unraveled for Yasmin. I didn't fall in love with his characters, but I didn't dislike him either. He was more “ok”. Normally for me to absolutely love a book…the hero has to make me hum in excitement and pleasure. LOL. Lane was sweet and nice, but didn't really fire me up.
Overall it was a sweet endearing read, and I would read more from this author. 3.5 stars.
February 23, 2016
Charmingly sweet!
I truly enjoyed this book and it's own adaptation of a bucket list! An adorable story of how opposites attract!
After having a death scare in another country, Yasmin returns home to help renovate her parents Wedding Hall in hopes to bring more business. She has many ideas for it but she has to work alongside Lane Griffiths, her brothers' best friend. They don't exactly see eye to eye but one thing she can't deny is the way she's attracted to him, which brings her to #5 on her "bouquet list" - seduce a tall, dark, and handsome man that's out of her league!
Lane Griffiths is a successful restauranteur who is utterly gorgeous and very sensible. When he first sees Yasmin, he is shocked to see what a beautiful woman she has turned into and the attraction he feels for her, however he's determined to stick to the friends route. Her family means more to him than his own and he doesn't want to mess that up but..... he can only withstand so much temptation! When the sparks fly and feelings get involved, Lane and Yasmin are in for a whirlwind having to make hard decisions of what they each really want out of life.
I truly enjoyed this book and it's own adaptation of a bucket list! An adorable story of how opposites attract!
After having a death scare in another country, Yasmin returns home to help renovate her parents Wedding Hall in hopes to bring more business. She has many ideas for it but she has to work alongside Lane Griffiths, her brothers' best friend. They don't exactly see eye to eye but one thing she can't deny is the way she's attracted to him, which brings her to #5 on her "bouquet list" - seduce a tall, dark, and handsome man that's out of her league!
Lane Griffiths is a successful restauranteur who is utterly gorgeous and very sensible. When he first sees Yasmin, he is shocked to see what a beautiful woman she has turned into and the attraction he feels for her, however he's determined to stick to the friends route. Her family means more to him than his own and he doesn't want to mess that up but..... he can only withstand so much temptation! When the sparks fly and feelings get involved, Lane and Yasmin are in for a whirlwind having to make hard decisions of what they each really want out of life.
April 17, 2016
The Bouquet List was a great premise, I loved the refreshed take on a bucket list and I loved the things on Yasmin's bouquet list. Most of the items were about living in the moment and taking advantage of opportunities as they come along. I also loved the Greek culture that the book is full of. The idea of big interconnected families, the food, the community, I think it really added flavor to this story.
I liked Lane and how his character evolved from being closed off and focused only on what he thought he wanted to following his heart and really putting himself out there for other people. Yasmin on the other hand, loved at first for being true to herself, but by mid story I really didn't like her and her disregard for the people around her, she became so focused on herself and I really wanted to smack her. She had to work hard to redeem herself if my opinion.
I would have like a little more resolution about what was going to happen next with the Palace, but as this is the start of a series, I assume that we'll see some resolution in the next story, which I'm thinking will probably feature Nick. I'm looking forward to seeing what's in store for the family.
I liked Lane and how his character evolved from being closed off and focused only on what he thought he wanted to following his heart and really putting himself out there for other people. Yasmin on the other hand, loved at first for being true to herself, but by mid story I really didn't like her and her disregard for the people around her, she became so focused on herself and I really wanted to smack her. She had to work hard to redeem herself if my opinion.
I would have like a little more resolution about what was going to happen next with the Palace, but as this is the start of a series, I assume that we'll see some resolution in the next story, which I'm thinking will probably feature Nick. I'm looking forward to seeing what's in store for the family.
April 13, 2016
Lane and Yasmin, a total opposite of characters, were just the type of storyline that I love. He is her brother's best friend and she has had a crush on him forever. I truly love when the crush first realizes that they are attracted to their best friend's sibling and have that "Yowza" moment. Lane is as straight-laced as they come, very serious, very successful, very by the book. And Yasmin is now a free spirit type living in the moment. Although they are opposites and not what the other wants, they cannot help themselves falling for each other. But I enjoyed their balancing each other out and helping the other live fuller.
There were several really cute parts in this book that made me grin, like their first meeting after a long separation, Paulo's first appearance, their first alone business meal. Lane and Yasmin were a very cute couple who learned to work together as a team and were successful at it.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
There were several really cute parts in this book that made me grin, like their first meeting after a long separation, Paulo's first appearance, their first alone business meal. Lane and Yasmin were a very cute couple who learned to work together as a team and were successful at it.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the publisher through Netgalley.
June 21, 2016
4 stars.
This review also appears on Pretty Sassy Cool.
This book was really cute. I wasn't crazy about the fact that Yasmin's #5 was a fling with a tall, dark man instead of specifically with Lane. Still Lane and Yasmin had chemistry in spades and I loved the way her family dynamics worked, including with Lane. I really liked him and loved how this was a fun twist, with the girl being more flirty and trying to get the guy to be a little bad. I really loved that there was dual POV here, and I wanted them to be together.
A word of caution--Bliss titles pretty much fade to black, and this one is a "Red Hot" Bliss title. But that doesn't mean you get a whole lot more than a regular Bliss book. It ain't Brazen, for sure.
The Bouquet List had lots of things I love--sizzling hot chemistry, a fun storyline with little angst, and a great cast of supporting characters. Fans of My Big Fat Greek Wedding will love this one.
This review also appears on Pretty Sassy Cool.
This book was really cute. I wasn't crazy about the fact that Yasmin's #5 was a fling with a tall, dark man instead of specifically with Lane. Still Lane and Yasmin had chemistry in spades and I loved the way her family dynamics worked, including with Lane. I really liked him and loved how this was a fun twist, with the girl being more flirty and trying to get the guy to be a little bad. I really loved that there was dual POV here, and I wanted them to be together.
A word of caution--Bliss titles pretty much fade to black, and this one is a "Red Hot" Bliss title. But that doesn't mean you get a whole lot more than a regular Bliss book. It ain't Brazen, for sure.
The Bouquet List had lots of things I love--sizzling hot chemistry, a fun storyline with little angst, and a great cast of supporting characters. Fans of My Big Fat Greek Wedding will love this one.
October 12, 2016
*** This ARC was received from Entangled Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review***
This was a cute story about becoming what you want to be instead of what others expect you to be.
Yasmin almost died and decided to do what she wanted to do instead of what her family expects her to be. She puts her degree on hold to come back home and fulfill the items on her list. She wants to be wild and free for once instead of studious and quiet.
Lane is career driven and stoic. He does everything a specific way and always the same way. He doesn't really understand why Yas is doing what she is doing. He doesn't want to ruin the relationship he has with her brother just to take the chance of a relationship with her, no matter how tempting she is.
They bring out something new in each other. He grounds her, reminding her of reasons things wouldn't work and she brings out the fun for him, encouraging him to laugh more. They come to realize that they want different things than they did in the beginning and eventually realize that they want it together.
This was a cute story about becoming what you want to be instead of what others expect you to be.
Yasmin almost died and decided to do what she wanted to do instead of what her family expects her to be. She puts her degree on hold to come back home and fulfill the items on her list. She wants to be wild and free for once instead of studious and quiet.
Lane is career driven and stoic. He does everything a specific way and always the same way. He doesn't really understand why Yas is doing what she is doing. He doesn't want to ruin the relationship he has with her brother just to take the chance of a relationship with her, no matter how tempting she is.
They bring out something new in each other. He grounds her, reminding her of reasons things wouldn't work and she brings out the fun for him, encouraging him to laugh more. They come to realize that they want different things than they did in the beginning and eventually realize that they want it together.
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