Blurred Lines

Love Unexpectedly #1

by Lauren Layne

In a novel that’s perfect for fans of Alice Clayton and Emma Chase, Lauren Layne delivers a sexy take on the timeless question: Can a guy and a girl really be “just friends”?

When Parker Blanton meets Ben Olsen during her freshman year of college, the connection is immediate—and platonic. Six years later, they’re still best friends, sharing an apartment in Portland’s trendy Northwest District as they happily settle into adult life. But when Parker’s boyfriend dumps her out of the blue, she starts to wonder about Ben’s no-strings-attached approach to dating. The trouble is, even with Ben as her wingman, Parker can’t seem to get the hang of casual sex—until she tries it with him.

The arrangement works perfectly . . . at first. The sex is mind-blowing, and their friendship remains as solid as ever, without any of the usual messy romantic entanglements. But when Parker’s ex decides he wants her back, Ben is shocked by a fierce stab of possessiveness. And when Ben starts seeing a girl from work, Parker finds herself plagued by unfamiliar jealousy. With their friendship on the rocks for the first time, Parker and Ben face an alarming truth: Maybe they can’t go back. And maybe, deep down, they never want to.

Genres: Romance, Friends To Lovers, New Adult, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Adult, Audiobook

221 pages, ebook

First published August 25, 2015

About the author

Lauren Layne is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than two dozen novels, including Hot Asset, Hard Sell, and Huge Deal in her 21 Wall Street series, as well as her Central Park Pact series. Her books have sold more than a million copies in nine languages. Lauren’s work has been featured in Publishers Weekly, Glamour, the Wall Street Journal, and Inside Edition. She is based in New York City.

Reviews

[• Lisa • · Rating 5 out of 5]

FIVE TALK OR MUTE STARS.

The arrangement works perfectly ... At first.



Anyone who loves the 'friends to lovers' trope would be certifiably crazy not to fall in love with this sweet novel. Lauren Layne can quite honestly do no wrong in my eyes and this book just goes to show that I can not get enough of this authors style. Everything (and I mean everything) that this author releases is always a reading treat and I was giddy excited to see that this latest LL book was yet another 'friends to lovers' book to add to my long list of Lauren Layne five star stories. 'Blurred Lines' was everything I would hope it would be, starting with the gorgeous front cover, perfect synopsis and of course the darling friendship between the hero and his heroine, but the fun didn't stop there, nope. This story turned out to be just as gorgeous as I would have liked to predict. And now I'm happily sitting in book la la land excited that my favourite author has once again delivered a smashing novel that was just up my street.

What's it's all about?
Ben Olsen and Parker Blanton have been friends ever since they clapped eyes on each other freshman year of college. After a brief flash of attraction they soon settled into the grove of the friend zone and happily lived a life of being the number one in each other life's. Fast forward some years ahead and after a string of failed relationships they both realise that they only person they can both truly count on is each other. However, as much as they can't bear to be apart they have never even considered the possibility of something more between them until a suggestion of them being friends with benefits starts them down a road they never even dreamed of.



What did I love?
Firstly I have to admire and make note of just how much I absolutely adored the friendship between Ben and Parker. Lauren Layne has a superb ability to create loveable characters with honest to goodness relatable relationships and it's always the biggest selling point of all her story telling to date. This author always sets the foundations firmly for all of her novels; The characters, the plot, the emotion, not to mention the chemistry and how her books create the best kind of romantic atmosphere, (In other words I always have a gigantic case of the 'feels'). I always get the sense that this author is telling a story right from the heart, nothing ever feels forced or rehearsed but instead they feel light, easy and full of the squishy love stuff that makes for one happy reading session. I read this book in one entire sitting, not wanting to put it down or think about real life getting in the way. Not even for one tiny moment did I doubt my affection for this story, I loved it beginning to end and I'm in no doubt that other fans of this author will love it too.



Final thoughts ...
Anyone who loves a quick, fun and romantic escape with minimal angst (but just enough to keep things interesting), Will be pleased to know that this book will be ticking those boxes. I have no qualms with once again giving a reminder that Lauren Layne is my number one author. There is just something about her style that makes me sit up and take notice and it's not because anything is shockingly original or different but because her books always give me a first class ticket to escape, and that my fellow readers is priceless. Ben and Parker were equally as loveable, I loved their story and I'm sure it will be one that I'll love to return to in the future. Thank you once again to my favourite, Lauren Layne your books are to be treasured. Go grab it on release day readers. Enjoy ... Kisses.

*ARC generously provided by Random house publishing via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*

[chan ☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was surprisingly great! I really didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did, hell I almost didn't pick up this book because the cover and the synopsis of the book seemed cheesy.

But it wasn't actually. The story revolved about Parker and Ben and their friends-to-lovers relationship. Ben has a complicated relationship with women and Parker has a boyfriend, but of course they end up happily ever after.

So what made this enjoyable? It was well written. The characters were funny and obviously had a past that the author was able to convey really well. Their banter translated well into chemistry and their relationship didn't feel forced at all. And there wasn't any unnecessary drama! I think that's a huge mistake that contemporary authors make in an effort to set their books apart from others with similar plots. Thankfully Layne didn't fall victim to that. She let the relationship speak for itself.

If you're looking for something sweet, funny, and not drama ridden this is definitely something to add to your TBR.

[Patrycja · Rating 4 out of 5]

Title: Blurred Lines
Series: standalone
Author: Lauren Layne
Release Date: 25 August, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Cliffhanger:. No
HEA: Yes






‘Friends to lovers’ is one of my favorite tropes in romance. I desperately crave those stories, and to put it out there: they are my obsession. I want my lover to be my friend. So of course I needed to read Blurred Lines. I loved every other book Lauren Layne’s published so I knew this one would be a sweet treat. I was not disappointed.

Blurred Lines is sweet, adorable story – from the very simple yet entertaining plot to cute characters, Lauren Layne created nice, heart fluttering romance that will have every romantic panting for more. If you want butterflies in your belly kind of read, Ben and Parker’s story is a good choice.





The storyline as I mentioned is quite simple, as the title suggest, the lines between friendship and something more quickly blur when sex comes into equation. It happens all the time, but for some strange reason Ben and Parker thought they won’t be impacted by… feelings. They were friends and roommates for many years and they have never felt toward each other anything more, but of course it changes when they give into their desire and fall between the sheets…



The story may be predictable, but it just so sexy and light and relaxing I didn’t mind one bit. I loved how lighthearted it was, so easy to follow that you forget about real life problems for a while. I really needed that. The angst was enough to keep me on my toes, plot very engaging and with great flow.

FOLLOW SMOKIN HOT BOOK BLOG ON:

[Amy | Foxy Blogs · Rating 4 out of 5]

On Netgalley -> http://bit.ly/1KmA5YC
For more NG Finds -> http://bit.ly/1tiucb4
5/7/2015

YES, a book that has my alma mater in it! Who doesn’t want to read about where they went to college?! When Jeanne told me to check this book out because the University of Oregon is in it I was ecstatic. It’s rare I find a book that has the UO mentioned in it and the only other book I’ve read that has mentioned it is Captive in the Dark. I’m sure most people have read that book but I’ll refresh your memory… at 79% it mentions that Vledek attended college at the UO. As always I love being able to add a book to my Oregon bookshelf. GO DUCKS!

Blurred Lines is amply named. The lines between friendship and a relationship become blurred when sex is introduced. Ben and Parker meet their freshman year at the University of Oregon and quickly become best friends. Their relationship progresses from being JUST best friends into becoming roommates. When the story begins it's six years later and they’re still best friends/roommates living in Portland where they are pursuing their careers.

Ben is your typical player with his no serious relationship policy. Growing up his parents had a plan on how to achieve success and Ben went a different route. His accomplishments went unnoticed by his parents which caused him to develop an inferior complex. Ultimately leaving him wondering if he is long-term relationship material.

Parker is newly dumped by her long time boyfriend who wants to see what it’s like with other girls. Parker is left with an opportunity to cut loose. She decides it's her time to be the girl version of her best friend, Ben: being a “player” and having random hook-ups with no emotional attachments. Unfortunately her plan isn’t as great as she thought it would be.

A new plan is formed between Parker & Ben where they’ll be exclusive with each other BUT have no strings attached. They’re going to stay friends while enjoying the carnal pleasures of each other.



'Blurred Lines' is a sexy romance with a best friends to lovers romance.

RELEASE DATE: August 25, 2015
pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/1IEilcq

STANDALONE

**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**

[Sarah · Rating 1 out of 5]

Lol. This is the only first best-friends to lovers book where I found myself liking the two main characters' friendship much, much more than I like their "romantic" relationship.

They had awesome chemistry when they were actually best friends living together, and their banters were amusing, but then they became fuck-buddies and ruined it.

The sex wasn't good...

[Alienor ✘ French Frowner ✘ · Rating 2 out of 5]

Buddy Read with my favorite partners in crime, Chelsea (★★★★★) and Kat (★★) ♥ (click to read their reviews)

☠ Warning : It is not a nice review. Indeed while most Lauren Layne's books worked for me, this one infuriated me too much. Way. Too. Much. Just thought I'd warn you. If you think you'll be offended by my review, then I'd say just don't read it :)

Well, sigh, it's like all my biggest peeves were blinded together in a book, for crying out loud - without near enough redeeming qualities.

▒ Here we go for my peeves. ▒

✘ Slut shaming. For the mother of god, who do you think you are? To say that my relationship with Parker started badly would be an understatement. Girls toys? Walk of shame? FUCKING BITCH. For real, every one of the girls Ben hooks up or flirts with is either completely dumb or plain mean. Me not liking this at all. Me pissed.

✘ A stereotypical player male-lead. Indeed Ben didn't win me over quickly. What can I say? I just have a hard time with womanizers (most of the time). I'm not denying it. I don't find it sexy, and this trope is so overused in romance that I feel like they want us to think that all college men post-college men spend their time hooking up with random girls. That's not the case. Moreover, Ben takes the player stereotype to a whole new level his complains about having sex with one girl during 2 weeks were ridiculous. Like, guy, you're disgusting, for real. But he does evolve and in the end, he's the only redeeming character in this book to me, the one who prevented me from rating it one star.

✘ PARKER. Wow. Talk about an hypocrite.



Okay right : I HATE HER. JUST GROW THE FUCK UP ALREADY. She's selfish, she thinks she's better than the girls with Ben hooks up with, and then she dares to complain about his double standards? But hey, don't worry because she's perrrrrrrfect : she's got this amazing hair, this killer body and OMG she's so tight and wet and perfect (actually, that's in the book). Moreover, one of the things that maddened me the most is her hypocrisy toward Lori, her friend. The fact she lets Lori have a crush on Ben while she (Parker) is hooking up with him - does she tell her friend that? Noooooo, OF COURSE NOT. That's Parker's friendship for you : she can justify her actions as she wants, in the end, it sounded rather hypocrite to me. Finally, I'm not gonna lie, but I wanted to slap her during the last 30% of the book : why? WHY? Because the girl takes a decision that DOESN'T MAKE ANY SENSE to me, anyway. Hey, don't set aside the fact that maybe, I'm just that dumb and was inconsiderate, and stupid stupid stupid.

✘ Stupid decisions, you say? I have to admit that I found ridiculous that after spending PAGES telling us that their friendship is different and it's not as the others say and blablabla, can you give us a medal already? Parker comes suddenly to the conclusion that they should hook up. Right. Where does that even come from, for real?

FRENCH FROWN.

Olivier Giroud. Yum. Buuuut what was I saying?

Oh, yes. That's obvious from the beginning that it WON'T WORK. I have a thing : I don't like blind characters. The Oh-so-obvious except for them kind of problems tends to annoy me more often than not.

✘ The useless drama with her mum. Nope. I'm not okay with this. We can't throw a cancer parent as a tool and an excuse to make the story move.

▒ Why not giving it 1 star then? ▒

✔ Hot. Lauren Layne knows for sure how to write sex scenes, and their chemistry was off the charts, I must admit. Moreover there are some cute moments, especially on Ben's side. Indeed his loyalty and love for Parker often made me smile, despite the fact that, you know, I hated the girl. But come on, 2 WEEKS? Dude, you're ridiculous.

✔ As usual, Lauren Layne's writing worked for me : it flows smoothly and manages to make me laugh even when I hate a character - That's something, isn't it?

I know what you think... When it comes to New Adult, I said :


B-bu-but It's Lauren Layne! I HAVE to try this! I shouldn't have. Not before my official buffer advice, anyway. I won't make the same mistake again.

ARC provided by Random House Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

For more of my reviews, please visit:

[Catarina · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 “Talk or Mute” Star.

I will not say much about this book, because in the end of the day the storyline is pretty simple. (But not be put-out by it, it’s a great book.)
Ben and Parker are friends for ages, they are even housemates. Until it comes a time where both are single and decide, why not? Why not try the friends and benefits stuff and going back when they both find someone?
The worst part of it is that neither of them could go back, and now they have to learn how to move on without losing their friendship, or turning it into to something different.



Lauren Layne always writes the simplest and cliches storylines and yet, every time it feels like something new. I find amazing how she always write this sweet and romantic stories that grab me from the first page. It’s safe to say that Lauren is without a doubt one of mine go-to authors.
If you like a friends-to-lovers plot, well written, engaging, and heartwarming and with enough angst to keep you on your toes, give this book a try.




Rating: 4 Stars.
Characters Development: I really liked Parker and Ben separately, even when at some moments I felt pretty frustrated with both, but what I fell in love was their friendship. I loved how sweet they were at each other and how important their connection was. Even in those moments where I was feeling mad because I didn’t understand how in the hell they didn’t see what was right in front of them.
Steam: Some hot moments.
Sensible Subjects: No.
Love Triangle: Not really. But they do see other people after getting involved.
Cheating: No.
HEA: Yes.
*ARC kindly provided in exchange of honest review.*

[Jennifer Kyle · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Guys and girls can't be just friends. Or not best friends, anyway."



This is the typical best friends that venture into friends with benefits to more story line. The author does start it off very witty but for some reason I didn’t get any butterflies in my belly reading it and the more I read the more annoyed I got with the heroine.



Parker and Ben are roommates and the very best of friends. When Parker’s boyfriend of five years dumps her she feels the need to turn into a slut because she hasn’t had sex in like three months. Without even trying a one night stand she decides to ask Ben her man-whore best friend to fill the position.

”There’s no limit on how many times we can …hook up. No timeline. We stop when it stops being fun.”



Parker and Ben’s sexual relationship for me lacked sparks however not for them and poor Ben starts to fall and dumb Parker still can’t see him outside the man-whore box she placed him in so long ago. The parts that URKED me is Parker takes back Lance when he pleas that he made a mistake. She already realized that she didn’t miss him and that their relationship was lacking - but she accepts his moving in offer and says goodbye to poor Ben. Also Parker was a terrible friend to her gal pal.

”Being held by him feels right, and for the millionth time since I agreed to move in with Lance, I wonder if I’m doing the right thing.”



Overall, the story line was okay the heroine annoying and the ending very sweet. Even though this story wasn't much of a winner for me many friends really loved it.



*ARC generously provided by Random house publishing via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Brandi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Guys and girls really can be best friends.

Parker and Ben think they have it all figured out. They've been best friends for 6 years and roommates since college. They are the perfect example of a guy and girl being able to maintain a platonic relationship. That is until Parker's boyfriend of 5 years dumps her. While nursing her broken heart wounded pride, she decides to focus on her neglected lady bits, and makes a proposition.



But, as we all know, things get messy when friends start having sex.

Ben and my no strings attached relationship? Yeah. Turns out that there are suddenly strings after all. And I’m completely tangled in them.



This story is predictable - it had a few cute moments and the writing/flow was great. Honestly my main issue was with is Parker. She was just not a likable character IMO. She was a user, a sucky friend, and completely self-absorbed. I wish I could have connected more to the story, but unfortunately I was a bit underwhelmed. It wasn't bad, but I didn't love it. That said, a lot of others really enjoyed this one - and I've been in a bit of a book funk, so this could be a case of 'it's not you, it's me'.



*ARC generously provided by Random House Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*

[Wendy'sThoughts · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Too Blind to See Stars
One Day Only! $1.99 price exclusive to Kindle version on Amazon (US only)
* * * * Spoiler Free
I am a Lauren Layne fan. There I said it. Loved her series of Sex, Love & Stiletto big time. Read some of her other works before that and every time, finished with a silly grin on my face. Her writing hits a place where I connect fully and that is just okie dokie with me.

In this book, we have the universal question, " Can women and men just be friends"...and it is with this premise, our two main characters have defied the odds... not only are they friends... they are Best Friends. They went to college together, moved off campus and roomed together and years later...are still rooming together in Portland while venturing out into the "real world". She has a long term boyfriend and he is a serial player...a hit and done kind of guy.

We are there through both of their POV's and see the bond they have. They have gone through the explanations to all of their friends and family years ago of how they are Only Best friends... no benefits...and now after all these years...everyone who knows them, gets it. She is friends with his guys...her friends know the deal and all is right with the world.

Except...things can change...
A boyfriend may become distant, dumping her after being together for years.
A best friend can console and understand and be there like he always is...

And the idea of anonymous sex isn't what is needed for her... but fun, interesting sex... the type where you flirt, talk after the deed...that kind of sex is needed to get over the break up...

So, who better than your Best Friend... Your Male Best Friend...

Rules are made; The friendship must always come first....they will always return to best friends after their "benefit time" is done...an immediate ending word is set...and they walk through the sexual experience door...

This book was really delightful in the play, the banter and sincere friendship they both had for each other. There was a strength in their commitment to each other. They had a history which made all of this believable. Each character had back stories which gave the foundation to why they thought and acted the way they did.

She had a solid family life; loving, caring, involved parents. He had parents who loved him but did not see him for who he was. He did not fit the mold of his family, so to them, he never measured up...causing him to feel less than. But what was clearly evident, he was driven, smart and successful in his field of choice.

We are also given secondary characters to round out this group...all play important roles. I am particularly interested in Erin...I see potential in a possible story of some kind for her. We were given just enough to pique my curiosity of how that would play out.

One of the best insights to share is the one given by Ms. Layne herself. In the back of the book, she explained these two Best Friends came to her in a rush...taking her away from everything she had been working on...schedule be damned. The first four chapters birthed themselves and she sent them exactly to her agent as they are in this book. NOTHING CHANGED. I love that. I think that says it all...and I hope it happens again for us soon.

~~~ Before Reading ~~~
Wish List for a fun read....
Have it written by Lauren Layne...a given

Let's have two people think for reals... they really are just friends...

Then let the fun begin when that Friends to Lovers roller-coaster starts up

Oh, this ought to be great.... :DDD

A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[jay · Rating 1 out of 5]

doesn't even deserve a review

edit: had a nightmare that this book had multiple continuation that would just autoplay after the original audiobook ended and there was no way to stop them. lowering my rating from 0.5 to 0.25 stars for ruining my good night sleep

[Chelsea ✨Arielle’s Nebular Ally and Team Acrux✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Available now!! Click here


We begin walking, and the tension seems to fade, and I think we're back to normal. Back to where we should be.
But then...
Ben slowly reaches out a hand toward me, and I'm confused right up until the moment his fingers brush mine.
The gesture is tentative. Sweet. And maybe just a little desperate for something that neither of us want to name.
Ben-my best friend in the whole world-is holding my hand.


Sigh. I'm biased. So so sooo biased...except I'm not. Every time I go to pick up another Lauren Layne novel, I get extremely nervous. I've even gotten to the point where I don't even read them as soon as I get the ARC ('cuz you know I'm a stalker for that shit) because I am excruciatingly nervous that 'this book will be the LL book that doesn't do it for me.' Imagine that-My favorite author writing a book that doesn't make me swoon or giggle or cry. That would surely be the end of me. So, while this book sounded EXACTLY like what I needed, I didn't rush to read it right away when I received it. I'm weird like that. But, when my two great buddies asked me to read this with them, I literally couldn't say no. I mean, I can't say no to an LL book, right? They picked it up and were so excited....but lo and behold, guess who came out of this one with the largest smile on their face and no regrets?? That would be moi...naturally.

When I saw this was a story about friends with benefits, I knew that it would either go strongly one way or the other: I'd either love it or hate it. I've never been huge on friends-to-lovers romance-it's just not something I seek out. I don't dislike it, per se, but I mostly enjoy when the people don't know each other at first. But, from the moment I picked this up, I knew it was a winner. I was laughing, smiling, and had so many feels just from two chapters. The dialogue, AS ALWAYS, was so realistic and on point that I could barely contain my ridiculous urges to bust out laughing. The characters were people that I immediately became obsessed with, which isn't that easy to do-I'm so picky with my leads. And the story was just extremely...lighthearted and effortless. The most genius thing about Layne's novels isn't that her stories are as sweet as cotton candy-it's that within that fluff there are real emotions and tough situations that never fail to make my heart ache and my eyes to well up. The angst is never over done and there is just enough that you don't feel like you are reading a snooze-fest of a happy book (Because, come on, admit it-books with zero angst these days barely stand a chance-we lubbs the drama). And while my two cynical Sally wonderful wonderful friends found more that aggravated them with the characters and their decisions than joy, I thought it was perfection. But don't I always?



She's already moving up the stairs. "Suddenly that D you got in biology is making total sense. You apparently missed the entire section on how hormones work."
"It just so happens that biology is a specialty of mine," I call up the stairs.
"Earlier today, you didn't know what the uterus was," she calls back.
"I knew," I mutter.
Mostly.


And here's what's funny about that: It's not like I go in all balls to the wall and say, 'No matter what, I'm giving this a 5-I mean, it's Lauren Layne!' No. I actually am the opposite. I am a fair reviewer and I go in with an open mind for each and every story for each and every author. I don't play favorites-My mind is strong. But I can't help what the heart wants.





I feel like Lauren Layne takes thoughts directly from my mind and writes exactly like I would if I had even a little ability to do so. She inserts humor in the most wonderful places to soften harsh blows and....Sigh. Will there ever be a universe where I'm not obsessed with LL? I don't think that's possible. Which makes me wonder-I have no idea why 20,000 people don't jump on this woman's books immediately upon release. I don't get it. Certain authors, and I certainly won't say who, release a book and all of a sudden there isn't one person on my feed who isn't reading it-and the sad thing is, I think [some of] these authors don't have half the heart that Layne does. But that's just me.


I hold her. I pet her hair. I let her soak my T-shirt with her tears, and supply her with ample tissues to cry into. (She's not a dainty cryer, this one.)
Whatever the cause, the tears always rip at me a little bit, like there's this pressure on my chest that I don't know how to relieve. I mean, all girls' tears do that.
But Parker's especially. She's my girl.


Ben. Oh. Em. Gee. Ben. I didn't know how I'd feel about my boy at first...but from the minute he held Parker as she bawled uncontrollably, I was hooked. He was mine. I'd totally be his. Even with all of his man-whorish ways, he still always put Parker first-always. Call me a sucker, but Ben Olsen pushed all the right buttons. Best friends from college on, he never let a girl get between him and the person that made him happier than any guy friend could. To sum up?? Ben made my heart flutter and my soul soar...And he really didn't have to do anything but defend Parker. Man oh man I have problems.





And then there was Parker. A lot of people, from what I can tell, didn't like Parker and the way she handled many situations. I, on the other hand, felt connected to her. I felt like she was a super realistic character-And I know, I know we all like 'flawed' characters and we expect certain behavior, but I don't think readers really all mean it when they say that. Because, yes, Parker was flawed. She had some issues when it came to making decisions and not being a total hypocrite-she was-but here is the kicker: So am I. A lot of you people might not like me that much if you really knew me, considering I can't make a decision to save my life. And I am a total hypocrite. What's good for the goose is certainly not good for the gander, for me, sometimes. I am so bad about that. And I know I'm being a tad extreme comparing myself to this character, but I'm trying to prove a point. Layne's scenarios are completely realistic, at least to me, because not one of us is perfect. And I know in books we don't want to read about ourselves, but just look at it from every perspective, ya know?


"There is too a rule about shirts in the kitchen," I insist. "House rule number fourteen. Speaking of which, where are my house rules?"
"Hard to say," he says, opening the fridge and glancing at it's meager offerings before pouring a cup of coffee instead. "But I may have used them to mop up OJ the other day. Or maybe as a coaster for my beer." He snapped his fingers. "Oh wait, no, I remember. I just plain threw them away the old-fashioned way."


So...yeah. Another huge win for me. And it's so shocking to me this isn't more popular than it is, already, because this might be my absolute favorite by her. But, I say that a lot about her books. That says a lot about this author: No matter how many times I say nothing will ever top one of her books I just read, I always come out at the end of a new book gushing and proclaiming my love for it. So....as I was desperately hiding in the bathroom on my husband's birthday trying to finish this beautiful, fantastic book, I realized how far I would go to get more Lauren Layne-Making time where there is none (seeing as how I was supposed to be done a half hour prior). So, Lauren, can we please have lunch sometime? I know we'd be the BEST of friends. Seriously. Besties. Call me. :P


*ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**


**Quotes are subject to change upon release date**



Buddy read with my two wonderful girls, Kat and Anna (Click to read their *not at all the same opinion* reviews)


For more of my reviews, please visit:






********************************************


Aaaahhhh so it begins-A buddy read with my two favorite cynical NA Sally's...I shall defend the Lauren Layne name.






Blurred liiiiiines...



Why yes, yes I do :P

[Lana ❇✾DG Romance❇✾ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Stars

Ben and my no strings attached relationship?
Yeah. Turns out that there are suddenly strings after all.
And I'm completely tangled in them.

I adore all things Lauren Layne, so it was an absolute no brainer decision when I saw she was coming out with a book for one of my favorite tropes; friends to lovers, to dive right in. Lauren is my go-to author whenever I need a light and easy read filled with swoony romance and endearing characters. Blurred Lines certainly fit that and then some. It was the perfect afternoon read. I simply adored Parker and Ben together. I always seem to have a weakness for the manwhores, and Ben definitely hit the spot for that. Their friendship had a solid foundation, which I really appreciated. I loved their banter the most

I think we should hook up."
I would just like to state- for the record- that I should win a goddamned medal for not laughing, fainting, or straight up walking out of the room.

While the chemistry was definitely present between these two, they spent so much of the book denying and not seeing what was happening between them, that it became difficult even for me to see it. I struggled to see beyond their friendship to the romantic entanglements. Sure they burn up the sheets together, but I just didn't get that butterflies in the stomach kind of connection. Usually in a friends-to-lovers book, I always sense the undercurrent of romance and sexual chemistry between the couple even when they don't, but that wasn't the case here. I can understand given the many years of solid friendship they had how they may fail to see it, but it just lasted too long for my tastes. Perhaps if both of them began to noticed it at least in the middle of the book than towards the end of it? For whatever reason, I just didn't get that sense of crackling chemistry I usually get with a Lauren Layne novel.

Don't get me wrong, this was still a lovely romance and one I'd recommend for any lover of a good friends-to-lovers trope, it just wasn't my favorite by this author. Then again, considering I've absolutely loved all her other books, that's not exactly a rough criticism. Blurred Lines was an enjoyable and steamy romance that's easy on the angst, had great character development, but just fell a little flat on the all-encompassing romance for me.

ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

For more reviews visit

[✰ Liz ✰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Friends to Lovers Stars

"Guys and girls can't be just friends. Or not best friends, anyway"

Or can they?



Blurred Lines is a beautiful friends to lovers story. The witty dialogue and tender romance between an America’s Sweetheart named Parker and her wayward best friend (and roommate) Lance is off the charts fun!

Lance and Parker have been friends for years. They met in college and have been inseparable since. They proudly live by the belief that a boy and a girl can be best friends. Sex doesn’t always have to be a part of the mix.



Lance and Parker are akin to Harry and Hermionie, Oprah and Gail, Bert and Ernie and well, I think you get the picture. They hang out, they help each other, they carpool to work, and they are just happy being together.

"Two things that go together: you and me. Ben and Parker."

When Parker experiences a nasty break up, she begins to question her choice in men and her ability to shed the humdrum life she has been living.

"Nice is fine. But nice is not...Nice is not what I'm after. I want more. I just don't know what."-Parker

Lance is there to help pick her up and carry her to her happy place. He provides the ice cream and of course his warm embrace.

When Parker and Lance make a trip to visit her parents, she has a realization. Maybe she has been viewing her love life all wrong. Maybe she just needs some happy sex with no strings attached. She needs to have a connection. What a better candidate then her best friend and roommate Lance?



It doesn’t take Lance long to agree to a few rules and the two launch a very active and steamy sexual partnership. Because the two share such an intimate relationship, the sex is off the charts. I really appreciated the fact that their relationship was only improved by the physical connection. Of course, this makes it apparent that they are meant to be together. I guess we could say it is apparent to everyone but them.

"The only person I want to be kissing is right in front of me."- Lance

When Parker’s ex makes a return to her life, will she finally realize her true feelings for Lance or will she return to the humdrum life?

"I promised my best friend that if we slept together, that I wouldn't fall for him. I promised him that nothing would change. That we could go back to where we were."-Parker



Overall, Blurred Lines was a fantastic read. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute. In addition to the poignant relationship between the two main characters, there is a fantastic cast of supporting characters. The depth of warm feelings between Parker and her parents are a direct contrast to the bitter cold feelings that Lance experiences with his parents. I couldn't help but be inspired by the happy and functional relationship between Parker and her mom. Isn't it such a delight when the main character have loving and supportive parents? Parker and Lance are a perfect match.

Why the 4.5 star rating? Towards the end of the story, I felt like the characters took a little too long to realize the truth. Although I recognize that they needed time to reconcile their feelings, they both acted a bit immature and it didn't quite work with their actions and "persona" that had been set from the first 80% of the book. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I certainly will be on the lookout for more amazing works from Lauren Layne.



"ARC provided via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review."

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 “Talk or Mute?” Stars

I have to say that Lauren Layne has quickly become one of my go to authors for things to read. All of the books I’ve read by her have been winners for me including Blurred Lines. The writing style of this author always keeps me engaged and wanting for more. I’m also a huge fan of dual POVs and friends-to-lovers stories and this had both. I loved this book!



Parker and Ben have been BEST friends ever since their freshman year of college. After graduating they moved in together and became roommates too. Most people think that girls and guys can’t be just friends, but they’ve never crossed that line. In fact they’ve gone out of their way to convince others that guys and girls can be friends, best friends in fact without “benefits.”

Parker has been in a five year steady relationship with Lance, while Ben plays the field with any and every girl that he can. On occasion Ben has had to use Parker in some ridiculous excuse to help get rid of some of the more clingy girls. This breaks one of the many house rules that Parker has created for them to live by.

“House rule: No using Parker to blow off your girl toys.”

I loved the banter between these two. I think the times that they argued about silly things like this, they each secretly enjoyed it.

When Lance ends his relationship with Parker, Ben is there for her as always. She decides she wants to become more like Ben and have casual sex, but she’s a bit rusty when it comes to picking up men so Ben sets out to show her how it to pick up someone. But after a long talk with her mother (which was so funny), Parker realizes that she’s not just looking for sex. She wants to be able to talk with someone after having sex, but if you’ve only just met them how are you supposed to share things if this is supposed to be casual? So she begins thinking about whom she trusts and who she can talk to and then it hits her…Ben.



Now she just needs to convince him that they can be friends who have sex with no commitment. The ploy she uses to get Ben to kiss her was good. Pride is a powerful thing with the male species.

So they agree to pursue this new part of their relationship, but will stop when it stops being fun or if either of them wants to pursue someone else. I loved this part of their relationship. I thought Parker was going to be shy, but her inner goddess started to peak through and she was bolder than either of them expected. One of my favorite parts was when tried to pretend he was in charge for just a second after their first sexual encounter. Of course Parker put him in his place quite easily.

"Just because we are hooking up doesn't mean you can demand nonstop naked time-"
I let my own towel drop giving him an unobstructed view of my butt as I walk away.
"Okay maybe nonstop naked time is fine!" he calls

But the question is, how long can this last? Is Parker really over Lance? Can Ben handle only sleeping with one person? Will their friendship remain intact or will it all crumble? You HAVE to read this book to find out.



I loved Love Parker's relationship and the conversations she has with her mother. The conversation Ben has with Parker's mom on the family vacation just got me. I could feel his confusion about what she said and him trying to figure out his feelings. I started falling for him early on, but I fell in love with him then.

I know I've said if already, but I have to say it again...I truly loved this book! Lauren Layne did an amazing job taking a subject that isn't new, yet telling it in a way that was new and refreshing. It's one of those books that I wish I could read again for the first time and get all of those crazy feelings I had all over again. This book left me with a smile on my face. I can't wait to read it again and I definitely will.


ARC kindly provided by Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Dee Montoya · Rating 4 out of 5]

****4 ~Best Friends In Love~Stars****

(ARC Provided By Netgalley)

Very entertaining story about best friends turned lovers. Two best friends/roommates who after making a very sexy deal will find way more that they were bargaining for. They have a very close friendship and a deep love for one another, but what happens when the lines between friendship and love start to get blurred?



Ben and Parker have been best friends and roommates for the past six years. They pride themselves in being the exception to the common believe that a man and woman can't be friends. They are very close, always hanging out, they share countless memories of happy and sad moments and they know each other better than anyone else. Ben is a total player, always with a different woman and Parker has been in a serious relationship for a few years.

One day Parker gets blindsided by her boyfriend who she thought might be the one, when he suddenly dumps her. The relationship with him hadn't been going good there for a while, even if she didn't want to admit it to herself; proof of that is that they hadn't been having sex for months. Heart broken she decides that she needs to play the field just like Ben does. She wants to enjoy being single again, but without getting hurt. The problem is when she realizes that she can't have sex with a man unless she has feelings for the guy, she's just not a casual sex kind of girl.

Parker offers Ben the deal to have sex, no strings attach. To simply add sexy benefits to their already awesome friendship. Ben is hesitant at first because he's scared that sex might complicate things with his best friend and Parker is the most important girl in the world to him and he doesn't want to loose her. He is also very attracted to her so of course he ends up agreeing to the the terms, so long as they don't allow anything to come between them.

Their sexual chemistry only enhances their friendship and solidifies their already special bond but then things will start to shift, and Ben and Parker will find themselves in uncharted territory, then Parker's ex reappears to only complicate things more. Read this super sweet story and find out if Parker and Ben's friendship can survive sex and intimacy.



I really enjoyed this book, it was funny, sweet and also very romantic. I loved the friendship between Ben and Parker, their constant bickering was hilarious and it was lovely to read about a friendship so fierce that they were willing to fight anything and anybody, even themselves to protect it.

Parker was sassy and sweet and Ben was so sexy. They were both such wonderful characters and also their friends and family complemented the story beautifully.

Lauren Layne is a great author, she can create the most beautiful stories that leave you with a big smile on your face and never make you want to pull your hair out. This is a perfect read for fans of the friends to lovers theme books and it would make a great book to discuss over wine with my book club girls.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Please Don’t Say “Cello” Stars

Since it’s just you and me, you won’t have to worry if you’re at just the right angle that makes your stomach look flattest—and don’t lie, I know girls do that—and I don’t have to worry about what you’ll think of my size. Just kidding on the last one, I know it’s hugely impressive, and—“
I laugh, pushing him backward. “Okay, fine. You win. You promise not to notice my food baby, and I’ll promise not to laugh at your tiny thingy.”
His smile drops in mock seriousness. “You take that back.”


Well that idea seems simple enough! Ben and Parker met their freshman year at the University of Oregon (GO DUCKS!) and have been best friends ever since. Not the kind of best friends with unrequited feelings of lurve, mind you. Six years and a move to Portland later, Parker and Ben are finally at a place where their best friend status is no longer in question. Family and friends have learned to accept the fact that these two crazy kids are meant for the friend zone and nothing more. The best laid plans and all that jazz.

Ben and my no strings attached relationship? Yeah. Turns out that there are suddenly strings after all. And I’m completely tangled in them.

From the start of the friendly little bit of sexy times, both Ben and Parker start to fall and fall hard. The fact that either admits it to themselves is a fun kind of icing on the cake. Old boyfriends pop back into the picture, new gorgeous girls make their intentions known and the angst of the story comes down to Parker and Ben watching it all play out for the other.

I have to admit to loving the Oregon setting and loving it hard. I spent my college days in Eugene and a good portion of my twenties within walking distance in Portland of where this story takes place and while I know that’s something that won’t resonate with most readers, it warmed my heart just a little.

You mean walk on a pitch black beach next to the angry Pacific Ocean in forty degree weather in the rain?” I ask.
He grins. “Yes. Exactly.”
“I’m in.”

That’s really all I have to say about that. The reason this didn’t exceed the 3.5 mark for me was a lack of intensity I felt was missing from the story. Ben and Parker are no joke, no holds barred best friends and while I enjoyed the banter at times, it felt like the love connection was a little weak for me and I just wanted something a little more for these two. The Friends to Lovers trope is absolutely my favorite and I still felt like I ho hummed my way through a decent portion of the story.

The bottom line comes down to the fact I liked Blurred Lines and would recommend it to folks looking for a light on the character development, not too heavy Friends to Lovers tale of goodness.

ARC provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review

[~♡AB♡~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

★★★★★ 4.5 Stars ★★★★★

Now LIVE!
Amazon - http://amzn.to/1hsy0CC
Amazon UK - http://amzn.to/1KxMjN1



Gah, I loved this one! Friends to lovers + insecure manwhore = My kinda angsty story. Sometimes I like torture myself and this book delivered on all counts, I couldn't put the bloody book down.

Parker Blanton and Ben Olsen are roomies, and they have been best friends since they met in their first year of college. They are now 24 and never once have they considered taking their friendship to a different level. Parker is dating another man and Ben isn't looking for a serious commitment so their situation is perfect.

When Parker finds herself dumped and feeling fragile, she turns to the only man, other than her dad, that's always been there for her, Ben. That is where the lines are blurred and the consequences of which send their lives on a whole new path.
_ _ _ _

I don't know what it is about Lauren Layne, but she manages to make me smile and cry and everything in between, I had serious butterflies reading this book and to me that is the sign of a successful 5 Star read. The only reason I knocked off the half star was because of Parker and her dumb ass decisions, but I'll let that one slide because overall I thought she was a great heroine who really only wanted the best for Ben, as he did her.

This is not a unique story, but LL tells it well and I thoroughly enjoyed reading every word.

This is a standalone contemporary romance, told in dual POV.

ARC gratefully received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 'BFF' stars

This seems to be the book that had a lot of contradicting reviews among my friends, which made me wary prior reading it, but now that I'm done, I'll just gonna go with my opinion. For a romantic comedy genre, I love it!

The premise might sounds cliché (the whole best friends hooking up with each other and ended up complicating their friendship) and the backbone of the story is predictable. But is the minor details and the journey towards HEA that make this one incredibly lovely read with all the right feels. It makes me:

1. laugh out loud at their silly antics
2. jealous with their strong bond
3. ecstatic when they finally hooked up
4. sad when they ruined their friendship
5. mad when they unintentionally hurt each other
6. over the moon when the HEA comes along.

Their relationship is not picture perfect. It would be great that once they start sleeping with each other, they know they are THE ONE. But these two overthink too much and dealing with a whole bunch of insecurities about each other.

I'm totally not a big fan of Parker's decision at one point. It led to unnecessary heartache. But Ben's denial is another major problem, though he come from a good intention. If they both can stop being such chickenshit with their feelings for fear of ruining their friendship, they will get their HEA much more earlier.

Actually my favorite part of the book is when they are all awkward and no longer talking to each other. Call me a sadist, I just enjoy seeing two people who are obviously madly in love with each other are too blind to see it for themselves. I hate both unnecessary and necessary angst in my book. So I appreciate the way Lauren do it without making me pulling my hair.

Anyway, considering this book is only about 221 pages, the drama was not long drawn and I was quick to be treated with a satisfying ending for Parker and Ben. Blurred Lines is a quick easy read that has the comedic value and romance for those who are into friends to lovers trope.

[Didi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE friends to lovers! Especially when it's done so perfectly that you can't help but cry and laugh at the beauty of it all. I adore seeing two people who've always been platonic friends discover that there's more...more of everything and it's with the one person who they already trust, value and care about.
Ben and Parker were those people. Seeing Ben shed his womanizer ways and become vulnerable for the woman he loves was perfection. His feelings for Parker felt contained, like they were at a boiling point ready to explode.
Parker was also shook up by her reaction to Ben. She never expected to feel so strongly or get confused by her feelings. Sure, I got frustrated with them, upset at the obvious staring them in the face yet remaining unseen or denied. But I understood, I got it. And I LOVED it.

There was some heartbreaking angst, moments of anger and intensity but also some hilarious scenes and fantastic banter. Ben and Parker were best friends, yes, but so much more. I laughed, I cried, I pulled my hair out! But the ending left me smiling like a fool and feeling so happy. This is the second friends to lovers I've read this week and I've loved both. This trope may be a simple one tried and tested again and again, but it never stops luring me in. It's not always done well, but when it is, it's fantastic!

**Arc generously provided by Random House Publishing Group--Loveswept, via NetGalley for review **

[Allison ❤️Will Never Conquer Her TBR❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

LIVE on AMZ- http://amzn.to/1hDgpI8


3.75 "Talk or Mute" Stars!






Blurred Lines was a cute friends-to-lovers NA read. Parker and Ben have been best friends for years- dating back to freshman year in college. Now graduates tackling their careers, they've defied the odds- still best buddies, roommates, and car-pool pals. Everyone says a guy and girl can't keep it platonic but boy, they've proved them all wrong... Or have they?


When Parker's long-time boyfriend dumps her, she finds herself questioning the need for serious relationships. I mean, Ben hooks up with a different "no strings attached" girl every night and his heart stays peacefully intact. Maybe there's something to be said for that. Can she get the physical benefits (SEX) with a guy without the emotional attachment? She can sure try...


Ben watches Parker attempt to heal her broken heart by this new-found idea of casual hookups, he's surprisingly against it. She's his best friend- surely this is him being protective and not jealous.


Parker doesn't take long to figure out she needs to know a person to sleep with them. Yet every guy she meets, she's not connecting with on a personal level. No guy connects with her like Ben. Parker just needs sex pronto- maybe a friends-with-benefits situation is the solution. What can it hurt?







Blurred Lines is one of those easy-to-read, enjoyable plotlines. Guy and girl are besties, something happens to make them venture outside of friendship boundaries and everything soon becomes amuck.


Parker and Ben had a really cute relationship. As different as they are on a dating/commitment practices, their chummy roommate banter and house rules were endearingly cute. Just a guy and girl picking their battles on laundry, housecleaning, shower hogging...you name it. So comfortable in each other...

"Do I get to do that 'it's a rag' routine with your underwear next time you do laundry?" I ask. "Because I've seen some of your panties. You may as well stitch death to boner across the front."

Yet their growing emotional connection was also palpable. Not all physical but you felt their profound loyalty to one other above all others. When one person hurt, they BOTH hurt. Written in 1st person dual POV, I loved getting inside each of their minds. Ms Layne did a stellar job depicting the comfort and commitment to their friendship above all else.


I have to say, as I often do with the NA genre, there were times I wanted to throttle them. Communicate! So much could've been prevented in this book had the two of them stopped playing games and opened up to one another. But then we wouldn't have a full-length book, now would we? I didn't find their push and pull as angsty as some other friends-to-lovers tropes but it was enough to keep me turning the pages hoping for a happily-ever-after for these two. Both valued their friendship above all else and the chance of irreparably damaging it by admitting to anything beyond friendship wasn't happening. But can two people play that casual game forever- denying their true feelings? Or do they fess up and risk it all crumbling before them if the other person isn't feeling it?







Advanced readers copy received by Loveswept Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Jln · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

This book read a lot like a favorite romantic comedy,



Parker and Ben have been best friends and roommates since college. Parker has been in a committed relationship, and Ben is your typical player, picking up a different chick every week-end.

When Parker finds herself unexpectedly single, one thing leads to another...



Lauren Layne is one of my favorite authors for a reason. I love every thing about her writing style. She is just of those outstanding writers who can take a story line that has been done before and make it fresh again. I loved the banter in this book, and the relationship between Ben and Parker was believable.

It was also a bonus that the book took place in my hometown of Portland. I always like to find a new book for my Amy Foxy inspired Oregon shelf! :)) The description of the city was spot on. I loved all the hipster references, I'm not going to lie, it's all true. If you ever visit, be very careful not to run over a bicyclist!

I would have given the book a solid 4 stars, but the angst toward the end drove me crazy. Any of my friends who know me well are aware that my tolerance for frustration is pretty low. I felt like it was a little contrived and didn't make a lot of sense. On the other hand, it shows that L.L. did something right for me to care about the characters and their hea as much as I did.

Thanks for the br Ami and Ya! :))



*arc provided by Netgalley ~ thank you!

[[~Ami~]♥Sexy Dexy♥ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars

I did enjoy this book to begin with. I found the banter fun, the chemistry was there and LLs writing always hooks me. I really thought this would be at least a 4 star book.

Unfortunately, it was another one of those books that went downhill after a certain point and it was just disappointing the way things were played out. It was still an ok read though (once I forgot how pissed I was).

ARC provided by NetGalley

[Jx PinkLady Reviews ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Cute & Gorgeous Read & it's LIVE
* Amazon US * Amazon UK *



Blurred Lines is a sexy, hot, delicious friends to lovers romance told from the dual perspective of the main protagonists, Parker and Ben.

The first person narrative and the personality of the hero and heroine immediately captured my attention and drew me into their daily life of simply being together and all that it entails. There were times I felt a swell of emotion as their easy friendship eloquently touched my heart. Their comfortable connection showcased beautifully within a prose that comprehensively demonstrates their easy understanding of each other’s ways and foibles. They're PERFECT TOGETHER and as a reader I basked in the lead up to and the unfurling of their love affair.

There are elements that I found frustrating... the back and forth, for example.... but sometimes this element is needed to ensure the full exploration of the characters thoughts and the light and shade of our own feelings towards the story. I felt the growth of both characters as their self realisation came to fruition.

The road to our leading character's happiness is not plain sailing but I felt warm and light-hearted whilst reading and total satisfaction upon completion. I devoured this easy light reading friends to lovers romance and highly recommend to all lovers of sweet, lovely-to-read LOVE stories with characters who begin as very best of friends.


Advanced copy provided by the publishers, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review thoughts

[NiCoLeTa E. {Addicted To Books} · Rating 4 out of 5]

***4 Oblivious Stars from me***

Well, i liked that book very much!!!

It was a wonderfull and easy reading story, but in some point i nearly lost my mind and that's the reason that i couldn't stop reading until dawn!!! I needed to find out what will happen at the end!!!

That book had it all!!!!
It was funny, very emotional and yes, in a point for me was nerve-racking!!!

If you'll searching for an original story, that's not your book!!!!
The story is a little bit of chiché, but the way that is written was very good...

So, if you wanna read a really good book that will make you smile and have a good time, you should give it a try!!!!
The main two characters were absolutely amazing!!! They were having a unique chemistry between them and they were real and funny!!!

But let me explain you some things!!!

Ben and Parker are best friends since their freshman year in college... Now six years later, they are roomates and more tied than ever... They are best friends after all and they have prove to everyone around them that between a man and a woman CAN exist a friendship strong and natural!!!

They have manage to find the balance between them, even though their characters are really opposite...

Ben is a crazy, funny womanizer... He enjoys to have a good time!!! His only stability is Parker.
Parker is the opposite of Ben... First of all, she is in relation with Lance for 5years now, she liked the order and she enjoys to put house rules that Ben never follows... She is also funny, but she's overthinking every single thing!!!
Ben and Parker are really great separated, but when they are together are blow-minding!!!!


One day, Lance breaks up with Parker and she feels a little bit lost!!! So, she makes the decision that she has to be more like Ben and to start making one-night stands... No comittments, no breaking hearts!!!
But her plan isn't going so well... You see, she can't find with anyone a connection to proceed in this weird plan!!!
So, one day she has this crazy idea...
Since she only feels cozy and great with Ben, so why don't they starting to hook-up occasonally but with no strings attached???? Ben hesistated in the beginning, but after lots of provoking and laughable things, he give in...

Their only arrangement is that they can stop whenever they don't feel like they want to continue, and to keep their friendship untouchable...
Is that even possible, when something is starting to change inside of them???

Yeah, that was a really great story, but i didn't like that they were so oblivious to their feelings and that they were trying to hide themselves behind their finger... They were feeling something, but all the time they were trying to persuade themselves that there was nothing there between them!!!

And that denial brought them to disastrous results...
Even though when they finally embrace that "strange" feeling inside them, they didn't imagine that the other could have the same feelings, so... in some point i wanted to cry for my nerves and i wanted to shake them up to make them realize that this was their big chance for a lifetime!!!!

You see... After their connection, they became both so insecure and they were making faulse assumptions that near destroyed them!!!!


So as a conclusion i'll only say that ...I liked Ben and Parker's story!!!!
I couldn't resist in their charm!!! They were lovely!!!


Arc kindly provided in exchange of a honest review!!!
Thank you!!!

[Patty ~ Wrapped Up In Reading Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

*****4.5 STARS*****
{Netgalley ARC}


BLURRED LINES is an incredibly angsty ”friends-to-lovers” romance. I think this just might be my favorite book in the ”Love Unexpectedly” series. While Ben and Parker had amazing chemistry, they were two of the most clueless people ever, but that’s usually the case with this trope. These two have been platonic best-friends for nearly six years. They met in college, became roommates when they both were fed up with dorm life and remained roommates after graduation.



Ben is a player who has no desire to settle down and Parker has been with her boyfriend, Lance, almost as long as she and Ben have been BFFs. But after Lance breaks up with Parker, she decides she wants to live the life of a habitual player, like Ben. She wants to have tons of meaningless sex with some attractive and like-minded single men. Parker realizes quickly though, that she’s not the type of girl who can have sex with someone she doesn’t have any feelings for. Then she comes up with the brilliant idea of having a ”Friends-with-Benefits” affair with Ben.



Ben is hesitant, at first, to change the dynamics of their relationship because he fears it will ruin their friendship, but it only takes a little seducing by Parker to quickly change his mind. They promise to end their arrangement as soon as either of them feels that their friendship is in danger or if they meet someone who might be relationship material, but what they never expected was to fall in love.

Will they realize their true feelings and risk losing their friendship for the possibility of something greater?



Here are my overall ratings:

Hero: 5
Heroine: 4
Plot: 4.5
Angst: 4.5
Steam: 4.5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5



I devoured this book in less than a day! It was unputdownable and reaffirms my love for this author’s writing.


Amazon: https://amzn.to/2GJPwTV

[Geri Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 to 3 cello stars!

Loved the first half of the book. Then 75% came around and it all went to hell and didn't get better until 94% which was a little too late for me. :(

Full review to come...

ARC provided by Loveswept in exchange for an honest review.

[XxTainaxX Curvy and Nerdy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Best friends to lovers is one of my favorite tropes and this story is a reminder of why. I love the connection that Parker and Ben share. They know eachother on a deeper level and move beyond the awkward new love discomfort seamlessly. Their chemistry in the bedroom is matched by their chemistry outside of it. Great read!

[Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 "Not So Blurred" Stars

Can men and women be best of friends, live together and not have sex? That is the age old question....Blurred Lines ask the question and delivered it wonderfully.



This is a sweet and romantic tale of friends to lovers. Friends who have always had a desire for the other but kept it private, never wanting to forsake the true friendship they had cultivated. But isn't falling in love, being in love, usually with the one you call your best friend? Sometimes the timing isn't right and and there are obstacles in the way. Sometimes you just don't want to risk the friendship with love for fear that it might not work. But eventually......sex happens and if you truly are invested in one another, it works!!!

I loved the banter that Ben and Parker have with one another. They have been friends for a long time and they have each other's back. I felt their connection from the beginning. They made me laugh, they made me happy and sad and they made me want to knock their heads around. While they each knew that their deep feelings for one another were beginning to surface once they started to have sex, they kept those thoughts secret. And we all know that secrets have a way of backfiring. Instead of bringing you closer, it creates a divide. But once Parker really searched her heart, she knew that Ben was her home and she didn't want to keep her feelings secret anymore.

This is my second Lauren Layne book and certainly won't be my last. Blurred Lines is a romantic tale that makes you feel the sweetness of love. It is told in dual POVs, it is very easy to visualize and while I know there will be some angst along the way, in the end, I know I get a HEA. You can't go wrong with friends to lovers story and Lauren Layne definitely wrote a winner!!!

ARC generously provided by Random house publishing via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Jo ★The Book Sloth★ · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 For Once LL Did Not Deliver Stars



There is a little moment in every book that you can just sense whether you're gonna enjoy reading it or not. That moment came quite early for me in this book, like 2 chapters in, early. The book is written in two first-person POVs, one for Parker and one for Ben. I am usually a fun of double POVs in contemporary books(or any romance really) but I absolutely hate first-person, multiple POV writing. If I have more than one narrators then I want it to be a third omnipotent person. As is that wasn't enough of a let down, the book also had to be on Present tense, which rarely works for me and then only when it concerns one of my favorite UF series. LL is one of my favorite contemporary authors but this book just seemed like a more immature version of her generally awesome writing.



About the story... It was one the biggest clichés in contemporary romance. "Sensible, fun and hot girl wants to slut it up after a heart-break so she turns to her man-whorish best friend for lessons and a friends-with-benefits kind of deal, that unlike the stereotypes will work for them and not mess up their friendship, not." Now, quite honestly, originality isn't what I love in LL. SHe rarely, if ever, explores stories we haven;t already seen a dozen times. What usually keeps me hooked is her characters. They are dun and interesting and most of the time have you rooting for them from the first page. This wasn't the case this time though. I didn't hate either Parker or Ben by any means, but I just couldn't bring myself to care. They both seemed immature and completely oblivious. That could have been my dislike for the writing style speaking but...there you have it.



Despite its failures, the book did manage to keep my attention throughout the whole story and the fact that I wasn't tempted to drop it is actually the reason I'm giving it the second star. LL never fails to keep your attention in her books no matter how tired the story is.

Don't let this review keep you from trying one of her other books. I have read plenty of them and this is the first time I haven't been completely happy I started one.