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The Deal Maker
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Expected 17 Mar 26Win a free kindle copy of this book!
5 days and 10:21:48
100 copies available
U.S. only
When the maid of honor and the best man fabricate a romance to keep the peace, the only thing they can’t fake are the sparks.
Lucy Jones is tired of being the “other sister.” Elizabeth is the golden child—beautiful, serene, and engaged to the perfect man. Lucy? She’s thirty, single, and still dodging her mother’s digs about how she never quite measures up. But when Elizabeth names Lucy as her maid of honor, she vows her sister’s wedding will be her grand rebrand. She’ll prove she’s polished, sophisticated, and totally in control.
Enter Hunter Bain. Best man. Business bro. Walking scowl emoji. Also the rudest, most aggravating man Lucy has ever met—and her new partner in planning the joint bachelor/bachelorette weekend. Fantastic. Because nothing says “reinvent yourself” like clashing with a man who thinks party planning is beneath him.
From drunken disasters to shenanigans on Martha’s Vineyard, Lucy and Hunter can’t stop butting heads. Until one impulsive lie forces them to pretend they’re dating. It’s supposed to be temporary. It’s supposed to be fake. But every lingering glance, every stolen kiss, every unexpected laugh makes it harder to remember what’s real and what’s not.
Full of sharp banter, slow-burn tension, and laugh-out-loud chaos, The Deal Maker is a swoony enemies-to-lovers rom-com about messy families, fake relationships, and finding love when you least expect it.
Lucy Jones is tired of being the “other sister.” Elizabeth is the golden child—beautiful, serene, and engaged to the perfect man. Lucy? She’s thirty, single, and still dodging her mother’s digs about how she never quite measures up. But when Elizabeth names Lucy as her maid of honor, she vows her sister’s wedding will be her grand rebrand. She’ll prove she’s polished, sophisticated, and totally in control.
Enter Hunter Bain. Best man. Business bro. Walking scowl emoji. Also the rudest, most aggravating man Lucy has ever met—and her new partner in planning the joint bachelor/bachelorette weekend. Fantastic. Because nothing says “reinvent yourself” like clashing with a man who thinks party planning is beneath him.
From drunken disasters to shenanigans on Martha’s Vineyard, Lucy and Hunter can’t stop butting heads. Until one impulsive lie forces them to pretend they’re dating. It’s supposed to be temporary. It’s supposed to be fake. But every lingering glance, every stolen kiss, every unexpected laugh makes it harder to remember what’s real and what’s not.
Full of sharp banter, slow-burn tension, and laugh-out-loud chaos, The Deal Maker is a swoony enemies-to-lovers rom-com about messy families, fake relationships, and finding love when you least expect it.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 17, 2026
13 people are currently reading
3182 people want to read
About the author
Louise Bay
82 books7,555 followersInternational, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author, Louise Bay writes contemporary romance novels that make you laugh - the kind she likes to read.
Ruined by the bonk-busters of the eighties, Louise was inspired by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, but wants to be Emily Henry when she grows up.
Louise loves the rain, RHOBH, London, days when she doesn't have to wear make-up, hanging out with her kid, elephants and champagne (not necessarily in that order).
She loves to hear from readers so get in touch!
Ruined by the bonk-busters of the eighties, Louise was inspired by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, but wants to be Emily Henry when she grows up.
Louise loves the rain, RHOBH, London, days when she doesn't have to wear make-up, hanging out with her kid, elephants and champagne (not necessarily in that order).
She loves to hear from readers so get in touch!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
February 5, 2026
This book took me out of my reading slump so fast! Louise bay just have a way with words. If you want something light,fast,and you can read in a day or two. Definitely try this out. Or any of Louise bay’s books. You can’t be disappointed.
March 7, 2026
3.5 stars. The Deal Maker actually had more depth than expected, dealing with familial expectations and let downs and how it shapes you. Lucy is the “other” daughter, trying her best to change her family’s view of her while making her sister’s wedding activities PERFECT. Hunter is the best man whose sole focus is work and making sure he’s never put in a position to be seen as failing. With a bit of fake dating, growth, and spice, it’s a little insta-lovey but a sweet romance.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.25 Stars✨
3 Spices🌶️
After the last page, this book left me contemplating for quite a while. All I can say, though, is that The Deal Maker sneaks up on you. This story will hit you hard if you understand the thorns it pokes at, just like a lot of other family drama stories I've read. The lengthy shadow created by controlling parents and manipulative upbringing, however, is easy to see even if you don't share these similar life scenarios. It's not via physical confrontations or yelling fights, but rather through the burdens we're left to bear.
The Deal Maker explores issues of self-worth, sacrifice for others, and insecurity in this heartwarming romantic novel.
The story revolves around Lucy Jones and Hunter Bain, who pretend to be engaged in a relationship while planning the wedding of Lucy's sister and Hunter's best friend, even though they dislike each other.
Hunter and Lucy are both complex characters. Despite his success as his company's co-CEO, Hunter is still cautious, afraid of failing, and generally cynical of everyone. And we know why.
Lucy struggles with self-doubt and constantly seeks approval and validation from her parents, particularly her mother, in an attempt to be just as perfect as her sister. Her bright personality and smiles are contagious from the outside. However, she finds it difficult emotionally to cope with her family's manipulation, mockery, and disdain. Simply said, I'm relieved that her sister is not one of them.
Their relationship was obviously an intricate dance of chaos and desire from the beginning. However, this couple's shared understanding, compassion, and vulnerability have allowed for self-discovery as they spend more time together. Undoubtedly, Lucy and Hunter are ideal for one another when you consider the intense chemistry they exude during their intimate times.
In addition to creating a book that is incredibly intimate, real, and sympathetic to its characters, Louise Bay also masterfully captured the intricacy of how life experiences—such as betrayal, humiliation, and manipulation—shape who we become as adults.
You become immersed in the story from the first page to the epilogue because of how naturally and effortlessly it develops, leaving you thinking and feeling both hopeful and worried for the characters.
At its core, The Deal Maker is essentially about believing in what makes us feel alive, dreaming big and working for these dreams, trial and error, and striving for our own happiness, in addition to being a story about trust, perseverance, and courage to live by our own rules.
It additionally functions as a reminder of how love may transform us into the best versions of ourselves for one another.
Receiving a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was an honour, and I'm presenting my candid opinion based on my own experience. I am eternally grateful to Louise Bay, Montlake, and Netgalley for entrusting me with reading this book beforehand.
3 Spices🌶️
After the last page, this book left me contemplating for quite a while. All I can say, though, is that The Deal Maker sneaks up on you. This story will hit you hard if you understand the thorns it pokes at, just like a lot of other family drama stories I've read. The lengthy shadow created by controlling parents and manipulative upbringing, however, is easy to see even if you don't share these similar life scenarios. It's not via physical confrontations or yelling fights, but rather through the burdens we're left to bear.
The Deal Maker explores issues of self-worth, sacrifice for others, and insecurity in this heartwarming romantic novel.
The story revolves around Lucy Jones and Hunter Bain, who pretend to be engaged in a relationship while planning the wedding of Lucy's sister and Hunter's best friend, even though they dislike each other.
Hunter and Lucy are both complex characters. Despite his success as his company's co-CEO, Hunter is still cautious, afraid of failing, and generally cynical of everyone. And we know why.
Lucy struggles with self-doubt and constantly seeks approval and validation from her parents, particularly her mother, in an attempt to be just as perfect as her sister. Her bright personality and smiles are contagious from the outside. However, she finds it difficult emotionally to cope with her family's manipulation, mockery, and disdain. Simply said, I'm relieved that her sister is not one of them.
Their relationship was obviously an intricate dance of chaos and desire from the beginning. However, this couple's shared understanding, compassion, and vulnerability have allowed for self-discovery as they spend more time together. Undoubtedly, Lucy and Hunter are ideal for one another when you consider the intense chemistry they exude during their intimate times.
In addition to creating a book that is incredibly intimate, real, and sympathetic to its characters, Louise Bay also masterfully captured the intricacy of how life experiences—such as betrayal, humiliation, and manipulation—shape who we become as adults.
You become immersed in the story from the first page to the epilogue because of how naturally and effortlessly it develops, leaving you thinking and feeling both hopeful and worried for the characters.
At its core, The Deal Maker is essentially about believing in what makes us feel alive, dreaming big and working for these dreams, trial and error, and striving for our own happiness, in addition to being a story about trust, perseverance, and courage to live by our own rules.
It additionally functions as a reminder of how love may transform us into the best versions of ourselves for one another.
Receiving a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was an honour, and I'm presenting my candid opinion based on my own experience. I am eternally grateful to Louise Bay, Montlake, and Netgalley for entrusting me with reading this book beforehand.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
All that Lucy Jones wants is for her sister to have everything she wants. All Hunter Bain wants is to get through the wedding of his best friend and then get on with business as usual.
Lucy is the second daughter and thought of as the mess up in the eyes of her family. In reality she's a sweet, selfless, hardworking, mid-twenties woman who just wants to be "good" enough for everyone in her life.
Hunter wants to be seen as a successful business owner and he works hard to make sure the business he owns with Ed, doesn't fail like the company his father left to him was.
Both of these people are a little bit broken and in need of a little bit of a confidence boost. Lucy's mom is always the awful voice in her head (and out of it too) that keeps her back. Hunter doesn't trust himself, or anyone else and is terrified of failing.
I loved how when these two got together they saw each other clearly and then encouraged each other to have more confidence. Love didn't magically fix them, they were apart when they both learned to see clearly, and then they took steps to make themselves better. When they had done that, they came together and it was lovely.
I was so worried that this was going to be one of those books where the heroine's family is awful and that she wants to do anything to make her "perfect" sister's life amazing because that's what is expected of her. Lucy and Katherine's relationship was so cute. Lucy does want everything to be perfect for her, but that's just because Lucy loves her sister so much. I really think that it was mutual and they were united against their awful mom.
I was also worried that Ed would end up being a jackass but again I was pleasantly surprised that he too was just a good guy. He had a genuine friendship with Hunter. It was so refreshing to read that.
Aside from the awful family I really liked to the characters tried to communicate with each other. They admitted when they were wrong and no one was over dramatic.
I went in thinking this was a fake dating book, I'm happy to say that that part of the book is so small and it wasn't a quid pro quo arrangement. I've read a lot of those lately and am so burnt out on them.
I really think that it was a take on "Pride and Prejudice". Lucy's mother loves Jane Austen and tends to be a lot like Mrs. Bennett. Lucy and Hunter get off on the wrong foot but end up seeing how the behavior when they first met wasn't a true reflection of who they were. Once they saw each other clearly it was such a lovely love story. By the end they were full steam ahead, but it was still nice to see that they just decided to love each other and that they would work towards the ending they wanted to have.
I loved this one and gave it 5/5 stars.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lucy is the second daughter and thought of as the mess up in the eyes of her family. In reality she's a sweet, selfless, hardworking, mid-twenties woman who just wants to be "good" enough for everyone in her life.
Hunter wants to be seen as a successful business owner and he works hard to make sure the business he owns with Ed, doesn't fail like the company his father left to him was.
Both of these people are a little bit broken and in need of a little bit of a confidence boost. Lucy's mom is always the awful voice in her head (and out of it too) that keeps her back. Hunter doesn't trust himself, or anyone else and is terrified of failing.
I loved how when these two got together they saw each other clearly and then encouraged each other to have more confidence. Love didn't magically fix them, they were apart when they both learned to see clearly, and then they took steps to make themselves better. When they had done that, they came together and it was lovely.
I was so worried that this was going to be one of those books where the heroine's family is awful and that she wants to do anything to make her "perfect" sister's life amazing because that's what is expected of her. Lucy and Katherine's relationship was so cute. Lucy does want everything to be perfect for her, but that's just because Lucy loves her sister so much. I really think that it was mutual and they were united against their awful mom.
I was also worried that Ed would end up being a jackass but again I was pleasantly surprised that he too was just a good guy. He had a genuine friendship with Hunter. It was so refreshing to read that.
Aside from the awful family I really liked to the characters tried to communicate with each other. They admitted when they were wrong and no one was over dramatic.
I went in thinking this was a fake dating book, I'm happy to say that that part of the book is so small and it wasn't a quid pro quo arrangement. I've read a lot of those lately and am so burnt out on them.
I really think that it was a take on "Pride and Prejudice". Lucy's mother loves Jane Austen and tends to be a lot like Mrs. Bennett. Lucy and Hunter get off on the wrong foot but end up seeing how the behavior when they first met wasn't a true reflection of who they were. Once they saw each other clearly it was such a lovely love story. By the end they were full steam ahead, but it was still nice to see that they just decided to love each other and that they would work towards the ending they wanted to have.
I loved this one and gave it 5/5 stars.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Release Date: March 17 • Format: KU + Duet Audio
Source: Advanced Listener Copy via NetGalley
I received an Advanced Listener Copy from NetGalley and am reviewing voluntarily.
Louise Bay really surprised me with this one. I’ve read her before, but this felt like a fresh, more emotionally grounded version of her writing — in the best way. The story has heart, humor, and a level of character growth that pulled me in immediately.
Lucy is the little sister who’s spent her whole life being compared to her older sibling, even though her sister is actually her biggest supporter. It’s their mother who won’t let Lucy forget every childhood misstep, and those old narratives have followed her into adulthood. She’s a hardworking paralegal in New York, doing everything she can to make her sister’s wedding perfect while quietly doubting herself at every turn.
Then there’s Hunter , the fiancé’s best friend, business partner, and a man who is grumpy for reasons that actually make sense. He’s terrified of failing again after inheriting a sinking business from his father, and all that pressure spills into wedding‑planning season. He and Lucy clash immediately, and honestly, it’s delightful.
Their fake‑dating arc isn’t just a cute setup. It becomes a space where both of them confront the stories they’ve been carrying for years. He helps her see her worth. She helps him stop treating past failures like a prophecy. The spice is there, but the plot and emotional work are what make this story shine.
🎧 Audiobook Notes
Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor and Jason Clarke ... and let me be honest: if Jason Clarke is narrating, I’m already listening. Automatic yes. These two have voiced other books together and always make a great team, but this duet performance really elevates the story. The chemistry, the tension, the emotional nuance… it all lands exactly where it should.
⭐ Final Thoughts
This might be my favorite Louise Bay title yet. It’s heartfelt, grounded, and full of growth that feels real. Once I started listening, I didn’t want to stop. Readers are going to have such an immersive, satisfying experience with this one.
Source: Advanced Listener Copy via NetGalley
I received an Advanced Listener Copy from NetGalley and am reviewing voluntarily.
Louise Bay really surprised me with this one. I’ve read her before, but this felt like a fresh, more emotionally grounded version of her writing — in the best way. The story has heart, humor, and a level of character growth that pulled me in immediately.
Lucy is the little sister who’s spent her whole life being compared to her older sibling, even though her sister is actually her biggest supporter. It’s their mother who won’t let Lucy forget every childhood misstep, and those old narratives have followed her into adulthood. She’s a hardworking paralegal in New York, doing everything she can to make her sister’s wedding perfect while quietly doubting herself at every turn.
Then there’s Hunter , the fiancé’s best friend, business partner, and a man who is grumpy for reasons that actually make sense. He’s terrified of failing again after inheriting a sinking business from his father, and all that pressure spills into wedding‑planning season. He and Lucy clash immediately, and honestly, it’s delightful.
Their fake‑dating arc isn’t just a cute setup. It becomes a space where both of them confront the stories they’ve been carrying for years. He helps her see her worth. She helps him stop treating past failures like a prophecy. The spice is there, but the plot and emotional work are what make this story shine.
🎧 Audiobook Notes
Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor and Jason Clarke ... and let me be honest: if Jason Clarke is narrating, I’m already listening. Automatic yes. These two have voiced other books together and always make a great team, but this duet performance really elevates the story. The chemistry, the tension, the emotional nuance… it all lands exactly where it should.
⭐ Final Thoughts
This might be my favorite Louise Bay title yet. It’s heartfelt, grounded, and full of growth that feels real. Once I started listening, I didn’t want to stop. Readers are going to have such an immersive, satisfying experience with this one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Deal Maker by Louise Bay was full of swoony feels, enemies to lovers tension and complex characters you can easily relate to. It starts in a playful fashion, where Lucy and Hunter were challenging and teasing each other. Then the chemistry hit. But the most beautiful part came after that. When I got all the heartaching deep feels.
❤️ enemies to lovers
❤️ forced proximity
❤️ alpha hero
❤️ opposites attract
❤️ contemporary romance
❤️ fake dating
Lucy has a major responsibility as her sister's maid of honor. That is to organize the most amazing Bachelorette party. But as per her sister's wish to have a joint party, she has to work with Hunter, her would be brother in law's best friend and best man. Hunter doesn't understand why Lucy is so hell bent on each and every details of the party. But he slowly gets to know the vulnerable heart behind the sassy and perfectionist Lucy. She never thought she can fall for someone so grumpy and brooding and c0cky like Hunter. Moreover, he has so much baggage. Pretending to date to make her sister happy is something else...
Lucy's parents made me just so angry! The absolutely heartless way of their parenting made me see red. It is a miracle that Lucy managed to grow up to be such an amazing human being. She still try to make them happy but slowly she is realising that she can do nothing to get their approval. She is talented and hard working and honest but the constant criticism of her mother had chipped away from her confidence. Hunter has a complicated family dynamics too. He is carrying the anger from his father's betrayal and the guilt of his failure that isn't his fault at all. And he let that taint his present. Till Lucy made him face his demons. On the surface, its a spicy and heartwarming story where the maid of honor and the best man fall for each other after the initial animosity and misunderstanding. But as the story progressed, it became full of complex emotions . There was amazing character growth. At the end, Lucy and Hunter fell in love with not just each other, but their own heart too
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
❤️ enemies to lovers
❤️ forced proximity
❤️ alpha hero
❤️ opposites attract
❤️ contemporary romance
❤️ fake dating
Lucy has a major responsibility as her sister's maid of honor. That is to organize the most amazing Bachelorette party. But as per her sister's wish to have a joint party, she has to work with Hunter, her would be brother in law's best friend and best man. Hunter doesn't understand why Lucy is so hell bent on each and every details of the party. But he slowly gets to know the vulnerable heart behind the sassy and perfectionist Lucy. She never thought she can fall for someone so grumpy and brooding and c0cky like Hunter. Moreover, he has so much baggage. Pretending to date to make her sister happy is something else...
Lucy's parents made me just so angry! The absolutely heartless way of their parenting made me see red. It is a miracle that Lucy managed to grow up to be such an amazing human being. She still try to make them happy but slowly she is realising that she can do nothing to get their approval. She is talented and hard working and honest but the constant criticism of her mother had chipped away from her confidence. Hunter has a complicated family dynamics too. He is carrying the anger from his father's betrayal and the guilt of his failure that isn't his fault at all. And he let that taint his present. Till Lucy made him face his demons. On the surface, its a spicy and heartwarming story where the maid of honor and the best man fall for each other after the initial animosity and misunderstanding. But as the story progressed, it became full of complex emotions . There was amazing character growth. At the end, Lucy and Hunter fell in love with not just each other, but their own heart too
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was super excited to get this ARC from NetGalley because I'm a fan of Louise Bay, so I hate that I did not really enjoy The Deal Maker. Indeed this book was pretty mediocre.
The first quarter of the book were a slog because Lucy Jones was truly unlikable. Lucy Jones is stressed! She's been tasked with planning the bachelorette/bachelor party for her "perfect" sister with the best man, Hunter. Lucy's mother has always compared her to her sister Katherine, which has given her a major inferiority complex. Lucy thinks that planning the perfect party will make her more than the bad sister.
I'm pretty sure I'm supposed to sympathize with Lucy, but I kept thinking that it's just a party, stop! When Lucy interrupts Hunter's business dinner, I was done with her. Hunter has his own issues (daddy and trust issues), but he still managed to act like an adult.
But of course, a shared bedroom changes everything. Suddenly, Hunter sees that Lucy is kind and generous and pretty perfect. I can understand the transition from enemies to attraction, but it moved to true love so quickly that I thought surely scenes were edited out. It was almost like a Hallmark movie.
The bad, the first love scene, from Hunter's POV, was cringey. The ending was too too much, all the declarations of love and purple dialogue were so over the top. I'm pretty sure if they were real people, I would hate both couples.
I did like that both Lucy and Hunter have personal growth and catharsis with their respective family situations. The Jane Austen quoting worked pretty well.
Finally, I'm not sure if this book connects to any other Louise Bay books. In a bonfire beach scene, there is a guest named Fisher who is British and plays guitar. Fisher was the mmc in Love Deep and was also in the New York City Billionaires.
The first quarter of the book were a slog because Lucy Jones was truly unlikable. Lucy Jones is stressed! She's been tasked with planning the bachelorette/bachelor party for her "perfect" sister with the best man, Hunter. Lucy's mother has always compared her to her sister Katherine, which has given her a major inferiority complex. Lucy thinks that planning the perfect party will make her more than the bad sister.
I'm pretty sure I'm supposed to sympathize with Lucy, but I kept thinking that it's just a party, stop! When Lucy interrupts Hunter's business dinner, I was done with her. Hunter has his own issues (daddy and trust issues), but he still managed to act like an adult.
But of course, a shared bedroom changes everything. Suddenly, Hunter sees that Lucy is kind and generous and pretty perfect. I can understand the transition from enemies to attraction, but it moved to true love so quickly that I thought surely scenes were edited out. It was almost like a Hallmark movie.
The bad, the first love scene, from Hunter's POV, was cringey. The ending was too too much, all the declarations of love and purple dialogue were so over the top. I'm pretty sure if they were real people, I would hate both couples.
I did like that both Lucy and Hunter have personal growth and catharsis with their respective family situations. The Jane Austen quoting worked pretty well.
Finally, I'm not sure if this book connects to any other Louise Bay books. In a bonfire beach scene, there is a guest named Fisher who is British and plays guitar. Fisher was the mmc in Love Deep and was also in the New York City Billionaires.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I adore a forced proximity romance between the best man and the maid of honor at a wedding. Add in an enemies to lovers story and Jane Austen references galore, and you have The Deal Maker. Louise Bay writes utterly delightful contemporary romances, and this one lived up to my expectations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Paralegal Lucy is so excited to be maid of honor in her sister’s wedding. But she still has to deal with her overbearing mother, along with all the comparisons to her “perfect” sister. She also has to work with finance bro Hunter, who’s the irritating best man. The two are pushed together by the bride and groom, and forced to plan a joint bachelor/bachelorette party. But as they spend more time together, their bickering just seems to highlight their mutual attraction.
Lucy and Hunter are entertaining as enemies to lovers, but once they team up and are forced to spend time together, their chemistry shines through. They each have complex parent relationships that have huge influences on their lives. The pair allows themselves to be vulnerable with each other, and that’s the spark for their changing relationship. And, I don’t always say this, but the third act breakup here makes perfect sense, and both characters need to work through it before they can truly find their HEA.
I listened to this audiobook, and if you are an audio fan, I highly recommend you do the same. The narrators are amazing! Samantha Brentmoor and Jason Clarke are perfectly cast as these characters, and they add humor and emotion to the entire story.
The Deal Maker is perfect for romance fans who adore a maid of honor/best man romance. Between the forced proximity, amazing chemistry, and tons of banter, Louise Bay’s characters shine through this entertaining story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance listening copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Paralegal Lucy is so excited to be maid of honor in her sister’s wedding. But she still has to deal with her overbearing mother, along with all the comparisons to her “perfect” sister. She also has to work with finance bro Hunter, who’s the irritating best man. The two are pushed together by the bride and groom, and forced to plan a joint bachelor/bachelorette party. But as they spend more time together, their bickering just seems to highlight their mutual attraction.
Lucy and Hunter are entertaining as enemies to lovers, but once they team up and are forced to spend time together, their chemistry shines through. They each have complex parent relationships that have huge influences on their lives. The pair allows themselves to be vulnerable with each other, and that’s the spark for their changing relationship. And, I don’t always say this, but the third act breakup here makes perfect sense, and both characters need to work through it before they can truly find their HEA.
I listened to this audiobook, and if you are an audio fan, I highly recommend you do the same. The narrators are amazing! Samantha Brentmoor and Jason Clarke are perfectly cast as these characters, and they add humor and emotion to the entire story.
The Deal Maker is perfect for romance fans who adore a maid of honor/best man romance. Between the forced proximity, amazing chemistry, and tons of banter, Louise Bay’s characters shine through this entertaining story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance listening copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC Review (releasing March 17, 2026):
The Deal Maker by Louise Bay
I couldn’t get enough of The Deal Maker by Louise Bay! I know not everyone feels this way, but sometimes I just really appreciate a classic hot model man cover! I kind of feel like it’s a sign that the book will be hot, entertaining, and full of delicious tension!
This is the story of Lucy and Hunter who fake a relationship while in the wedding planning phase of Lucy’s sister’s and Hunter’ best friend’s wedding. The bride and groom have hearts in their eyes as they imagine all the possible future double dates if Lucy and Hunter just get together, and Lucy, being a people pleaser/conflict avoider, decides to tell her sister that yes, she is in fact dating Hunter. However, as the bachelorette/bachelor festivities ramp up, Lucy and Hunter’s fake relationship starts to feel not so fake!
I loved this book and found it unputdownable! I loved Lucy and Hunter’s distain for one another in the beginning, and then their undeniable chemistry as they experienced some good ol’ fashioned forced proximity. I also loved Lucy’s growth arc throughout the book, setting boundaries with her terrible family (minus Katherine, her sister), and gaining confidence in herself and her career path in the big city. Also, having lived some of my formative years in Boston, the New England vibes during the bachelorette/bachelor parties were also nostalgic.
Read for:
💒 Dislike to lovers
💒 Maid of honor x Best man
💒 “Screwup” FMC
💒 People pleaser FMC who finds her voice
💒 Paralegal/future lawyer x businessman
💒 Grumpy MMC
💒 NYC workplace
💒 Martha’s Vineyard getaway
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for the advance copy to review!
The Deal Maker by Louise Bay
I couldn’t get enough of The Deal Maker by Louise Bay! I know not everyone feels this way, but sometimes I just really appreciate a classic hot model man cover! I kind of feel like it’s a sign that the book will be hot, entertaining, and full of delicious tension!
This is the story of Lucy and Hunter who fake a relationship while in the wedding planning phase of Lucy’s sister’s and Hunter’ best friend’s wedding. The bride and groom have hearts in their eyes as they imagine all the possible future double dates if Lucy and Hunter just get together, and Lucy, being a people pleaser/conflict avoider, decides to tell her sister that yes, she is in fact dating Hunter. However, as the bachelorette/bachelor festivities ramp up, Lucy and Hunter’s fake relationship starts to feel not so fake!
I loved this book and found it unputdownable! I loved Lucy and Hunter’s distain for one another in the beginning, and then their undeniable chemistry as they experienced some good ol’ fashioned forced proximity. I also loved Lucy’s growth arc throughout the book, setting boundaries with her terrible family (minus Katherine, her sister), and gaining confidence in herself and her career path in the big city. Also, having lived some of my formative years in Boston, the New England vibes during the bachelorette/bachelor parties were also nostalgic.
Read for:
💒 Dislike to lovers
💒 Maid of honor x Best man
💒 “Screwup” FMC
💒 People pleaser FMC who finds her voice
💒 Paralegal/future lawyer x businessman
💒 Grumpy MMC
💒 NYC workplace
💒 Martha’s Vineyard getaway
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for the advance copy to review!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Enemies to lovers where he ends up defending her… sign me up. “The Deal Maker” is a swoony, heartfelt and romantic fake dating romance that was a great standalone in the Louise Bay world.
Lucy’s sister, Katherine, is getting married and she couldn’t be happier for her. She adores her sister, they are truly best friends but she has always been in the shadow of her perfect sister in her parents eyes. Lucy wants everything to go right for the pre wedding activities and she has to work with the best man to get it done. Hunter is a workaholic who works nonstop in fear of his business failing like his fathers did. And he doesn’t have the time for all of Lucy’s demands. The two butt heads but when Hunter lies and says that they’re together, they agree to go along with it for the wedding. But as they keep up with the facade, the lines start to blur.
This story has so many realistic moments and they really hit home. Lucy is kind, genuine but has always struggled with how her parents, especially her mother, treated her. She unfairly compared her to her sister. Katherine was always the Golden child in her mother’s eyes and Lucy always fell short. Hunter is hard working but always living under the fear of his business failing because of how his father’s failed. He blamed himself even though he was handed something that could not be saved. Both had problems with their family and that was something they could relate to. Both had some things to overcome and I loved that they did it together. They might have started out as enemies but they were exactly what each other needed. The burn was slow but worth the wait as they got to know each other. I loved the Jane Austen vibes with the tension, longing and the added steamy scenes for a more modern approach.
Lucy’s sister, Katherine, is getting married and she couldn’t be happier for her. She adores her sister, they are truly best friends but she has always been in the shadow of her perfect sister in her parents eyes. Lucy wants everything to go right for the pre wedding activities and she has to work with the best man to get it done. Hunter is a workaholic who works nonstop in fear of his business failing like his fathers did. And he doesn’t have the time for all of Lucy’s demands. The two butt heads but when Hunter lies and says that they’re together, they agree to go along with it for the wedding. But as they keep up with the facade, the lines start to blur.
This story has so many realistic moments and they really hit home. Lucy is kind, genuine but has always struggled with how her parents, especially her mother, treated her. She unfairly compared her to her sister. Katherine was always the Golden child in her mother’s eyes and Lucy always fell short. Hunter is hard working but always living under the fear of his business failing because of how his father’s failed. He blamed himself even though he was handed something that could not be saved. Both had problems with their family and that was something they could relate to. Both had some things to overcome and I loved that they did it together. They might have started out as enemies but they were exactly what each other needed. The burn was slow but worth the wait as they got to know each other. I loved the Jane Austen vibes with the tension, longing and the added steamy scenes for a more modern approach.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
**ALC Review**
Thank you Louise Bay, Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this ALC!
"[I'm] her Elizabeth Bennett to Catherine's Jane Bennett."
The Deal Maker by Louise Bay is a contemporary romance that follows Lucy Jones - maid of honour and sister to the Bride - as she attempts to organise the most perfect bachelorette party for her perfect and beautiful sister. Enter the drunk and aloof Hunter - best man and best friend to the groom - throwing a spanner in the works of Lucy's perfectly curated plans for the bride and groom's joint bachelor/bachelorette plans. Cue fireworks!
As the tensions fly between Hunter and Lucy - they must pretend to be a couple in order to make sure the party weekend goes off without a hitch and keep the bridal couple happy.
Lucy has spent her life living in her sisters shadow and cowering to her Jane Austin obsessed mothers wishes. While Hunter can't understand why this crazy and infuriating woman is going to extenuating lengths to plan everything down to colour coordinated blankets and quoting Jane Austin novels.
This book had me having all the feels!!! From the Jane Austin references, to the laugh out loud humour, to the reality of not always living up to other people's expectations and making ourselves small to please everyone else. The tension between the FMC and MMC was off the charts and the banter between the two was electric. I absolutely devoured this book in a single day!
The performance by Samantha Brentmoor and Jason Clarke, as always was absolute perfection! This duo just knows how to bring a romance book to life! ❤️
"Oh great. I was worried the blow up dolls wouldn't be here on time - phew"
"I wasn't trying to be a dick"
"No need to try"
Rating: 5 stars 🌟
Spice: 3 🌶
Thank you Louise Bay, Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this ALC!
"[I'm] her Elizabeth Bennett to Catherine's Jane Bennett."
The Deal Maker by Louise Bay is a contemporary romance that follows Lucy Jones - maid of honour and sister to the Bride - as she attempts to organise the most perfect bachelorette party for her perfect and beautiful sister. Enter the drunk and aloof Hunter - best man and best friend to the groom - throwing a spanner in the works of Lucy's perfectly curated plans for the bride and groom's joint bachelor/bachelorette plans. Cue fireworks!
As the tensions fly between Hunter and Lucy - they must pretend to be a couple in order to make sure the party weekend goes off without a hitch and keep the bridal couple happy.
Lucy has spent her life living in her sisters shadow and cowering to her Jane Austin obsessed mothers wishes. While Hunter can't understand why this crazy and infuriating woman is going to extenuating lengths to plan everything down to colour coordinated blankets and quoting Jane Austin novels.
This book had me having all the feels!!! From the Jane Austin references, to the laugh out loud humour, to the reality of not always living up to other people's expectations and making ourselves small to please everyone else. The tension between the FMC and MMC was off the charts and the banter between the two was electric. I absolutely devoured this book in a single day!
The performance by Samantha Brentmoor and Jason Clarke, as always was absolute perfection! This duo just knows how to bring a romance book to life! ❤️
"Oh great. I was worried the blow up dolls wouldn't be here on time - phew"
"I wasn't trying to be a dick"
"No need to try"
Rating: 5 stars 🌟
Spice: 3 🌶
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC review
4⭐|2🌶|9%🌶frequency
Oh, definitely a classic. Best man and maid of honor, right? And of course they hate each other 🤣
But there is so much more.
Lucy is the black sheep of the family. Her sister the "golden child". I got a bit of Cinderella vibes, even though Lucy and Kathrine are real sisters, and their mother is their real mother. At least Kathrine is supportive of Lucy. They really love each other 🩷 But their mother 🤬 and the whole family... Poor Lucy 🥺
It's definitely funny when Lucy and Hunter decided to fake date, even though they hate each other 🤣 The whole planning of the bachelor/bachelorette party... The banter between these two 🤣 So funny, except for all the 💩 of Lucy's mother 🤬 I could constantly strangle her. She is such a b!tch!
OMG, did Hunter fall for Lucy 🥰 So hard that it scared him 🥺 And yes, I felt sorry for what happened to him because of his father, too. As much as I wanted to strangle Lucy's mom, I wanted to hug Hunter 🫂
One thing is for sure, I'm definitely like Hunter. I have ZERO knowledge about Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley, and whatever 🤣 And no, I'm not going to change that. It's not my thing and will never be.
Oh, and there are a few Easter eggs in this book. If you've read Louise's "Colorado Club Billionaires" series, you will find them. But this book is set before the series, so there are no spoilers if you haven't read the books.
Thanks to the author, Montlake, and NetGalley for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
4⭐|2🌶|9%🌶frequency
Oh, definitely a classic. Best man and maid of honor, right? And of course they hate each other 🤣
But there is so much more.
Lucy is the black sheep of the family. Her sister the "golden child". I got a bit of Cinderella vibes, even though Lucy and Kathrine are real sisters, and their mother is their real mother. At least Kathrine is supportive of Lucy. They really love each other 🩷 But their mother 🤬 and the whole family... Poor Lucy 🥺
It's definitely funny when Lucy and Hunter decided to fake date, even though they hate each other 🤣 The whole planning of the bachelor/bachelorette party... The banter between these two 🤣 So funny, except for all the 💩 of Lucy's mother 🤬 I could constantly strangle her. She is such a b!tch!
OMG, did Hunter fall for Lucy 🥰 So hard that it scared him 🥺 And yes, I felt sorry for what happened to him because of his father, too. As much as I wanted to strangle Lucy's mom, I wanted to hug Hunter 🫂
One thing is for sure, I'm definitely like Hunter. I have ZERO knowledge about Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice, Mr. Darcy, Mr. Bingley, and whatever 🤣 And no, I'm not going to change that. It's not my thing and will never be.
Oh, and there are a few Easter eggs in this book. If you've read Louise's "Colorado Club Billionaires" series, you will find them. But this book is set before the series, so there are no spoilers if you haven't read the books.
Thanks to the author, Montlake, and NetGalley for trusting me with an ARC 🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I've read numerous books by Louise Bay in the past, and I'm a big fan of her Colorado Club Billionaires series. I'm a huge fan of enemies to lovers, so when this one was announced, I couldn't wait to dive into it. While I did enjoy the story overall, I felt like I couldn't really connect to it like previous books I've read by Louise.
We first meet Lucy, who often feels like she lives in the shadow of her 'perfect' sister Katherine. She has been asked to be Katherine's maid of honor in her upcoming wedding to Ed. Hunter, Ed's best friend and business partner, has been asked to stand in as his best man. They have been tasked together to hold various wedding events, including a joint bachelorette/bachelor party. For whatever reason, Lucy automatically dislikes Hunter. Lucy can be a bit unhinged, and Hunter is very uncaring about anything that isn't work. Lucy is so desperate to prove to everyone that she's grown up and can handle throwing this party, but I often felt like she was doing too much.
Lucy and Hunter's relationship evolves rather quickly. I do wish we would have had more of a buildup prior to them getting together. They went from hating each other to being all in with each other practically overnight. I felt that there wasn't much of a transition between the two.
I did find the second half of this story much more enjoyable compared to the beginning. Both characters are more understanding once you dive into the story more and see interactions with their families and how it's shaped who they are today. While The Deal Maker didn't hit the mark for me, I'm looking forward to reading future books by Louise Bay.
We first meet Lucy, who often feels like she lives in the shadow of her 'perfect' sister Katherine. She has been asked to be Katherine's maid of honor in her upcoming wedding to Ed. Hunter, Ed's best friend and business partner, has been asked to stand in as his best man. They have been tasked together to hold various wedding events, including a joint bachelorette/bachelor party. For whatever reason, Lucy automatically dislikes Hunter. Lucy can be a bit unhinged, and Hunter is very uncaring about anything that isn't work. Lucy is so desperate to prove to everyone that she's grown up and can handle throwing this party, but I often felt like she was doing too much.
Lucy and Hunter's relationship evolves rather quickly. I do wish we would have had more of a buildup prior to them getting together. They went from hating each other to being all in with each other practically overnight. I felt that there wasn't much of a transition between the two.
I did find the second half of this story much more enjoyable compared to the beginning. Both characters are more understanding once you dive into the story more and see interactions with their families and how it's shaped who they are today. While The Deal Maker didn't hit the mark for me, I'm looking forward to reading future books by Louise Bay.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Deal Maker
by Louise Bay
Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor; Jason Clarke
I received an ARC of this audiobook through Netgalley.
This romance is about two responsibility junkies falling in love, almost in spite of themselves.
Hunter is a man determined to weigh himself down with responsibility to the detriment of himself. Responsibility that weighs a metric ton? Bring it on!
Lucy is determined to make herself so responsible that she entirely stops caring about her own happiness, and getting her to see it is nearly impossible.
Sometimes the expectations, judgements, and withheld affections of others create a perfect storm of self-destructive habits.
Sometimes the personal expectations, worries, and catastrophising puts oneself through a tornado of self-inflicted doom.
Luckily, fate, or friend, intervenes and puts these two responsibility junkies on a collision course - with each other.
Sometimes it’s the lies others tell us, sometimes it’s the lies we tell ourselves, and we are more desperate for a helping hand than anyone knows.
Lucy and Hunter hit it off like a dumpster fire, but they are given a chance to put out the flames and rise above the destruction.
The narrators Samantha Brentmoor and Jason Clarke did a brilliant job bringing these 2 characters & the rest of the characters too, to life. Their voices could not have been more perfect. Their talent was awesome.
I highly recommend this audiobook. I enjoyed it and I think you will too!
by Louise Bay
Narrated by Samantha Brentmoor; Jason Clarke
I received an ARC of this audiobook through Netgalley.
This romance is about two responsibility junkies falling in love, almost in spite of themselves.
Hunter is a man determined to weigh himself down with responsibility to the detriment of himself. Responsibility that weighs a metric ton? Bring it on!
Lucy is determined to make herself so responsible that she entirely stops caring about her own happiness, and getting her to see it is nearly impossible.
Sometimes the expectations, judgements, and withheld affections of others create a perfect storm of self-destructive habits.
Sometimes the personal expectations, worries, and catastrophising puts oneself through a tornado of self-inflicted doom.
Luckily, fate, or friend, intervenes and puts these two responsibility junkies on a collision course - with each other.
Sometimes it’s the lies others tell us, sometimes it’s the lies we tell ourselves, and we are more desperate for a helping hand than anyone knows.
Lucy and Hunter hit it off like a dumpster fire, but they are given a chance to put out the flames and rise above the destruction.
The narrators Samantha Brentmoor and Jason Clarke did a brilliant job bringing these 2 characters & the rest of the characters too, to life. Their voices could not have been more perfect. Their talent was awesome.
I highly recommend this audiobook. I enjoyed it and I think you will too!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Lucy Jones is the perennial "other sister" to her golden-child sibling, Elizabeth, who is currently busy being perfect and engaged to a man who is also perfect. In a desperate bid for a "grand rebrand," Lucy decides her sister’s wedding is the ideal stage to prove she is actually a polished, functioning adult and not the family disappointment her mother loves to highlight.
Naturally, this involves co-planning a bachelor/bachelorette weekend with Hunter Bain—a "business bro" who is essentially a walking scowl emoji with a bank account. After an impulsive lie traps them in a fake relationship on Martha’s Vineyard, Lucy has to figure out if she’s actually rebranding herself or just failing upward into a romance she didn't see coming.
😊 YAY for
• Lucy’s eventual spine-growing moment where she finally bins her mother’s toxic expectations
• A polished, easy-to-digest writing style that makes for a very quick read
• The Martha's Vineyard setting which provided a nostalgic, atmospheric backdrop for the wedding festivities
🤔 NAY for
• The instant lust from the MMC (he was "instantly intrigued" in a way that felt like a shortcut through the tension I actually enjoy)
• A protagonist who is genuinely difficult to like or even tolerate during the first half of the book
• The jarring "vibes" shift at the halfway mark; the transition from intense dislike to "all in" felt less like growth and more like a narrative shortcut
🌟 Petra’s Comments & Notes for the Author
There is a solid foundation here regarding messy family dynamics, and the "rebrand" trope carries real narrative potential within a high-stakes social setting. However, the execution felt like a tale of two entirely different books. I struggled with the first third—where the characters felt more abrasive than "feisty"—and I found the sudden pivot at the halfway point to be quite jarring.
Rather than a steady emotional escalation, the "vibes" shift felt like a wave of a magic wand, leaving the romance feeling unearned. While I appreciated Lucy finally finding her voice against her infuriating mother, the relationship lacked the necessary friction to make the payoff feel like an "ache." It’s a pleasant, low-stakes read for those who enjoy a cozy HEA, but it lacked the complex, slow-burn development I look for in an enemies-to-lovers arc.
Thank you to NetGalley, Louise Bay, and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
_____
N'artro insta!lust dove lui fella first... Che palle, ho imboccato na sfilza. Poso e migro su altro per ora, potrei essere ignobilmente caustica.
Naturally, this involves co-planning a bachelor/bachelorette weekend with Hunter Bain—a "business bro" who is essentially a walking scowl emoji with a bank account. After an impulsive lie traps them in a fake relationship on Martha’s Vineyard, Lucy has to figure out if she’s actually rebranding herself or just failing upward into a romance she didn't see coming.
😊 YAY for
• Lucy’s eventual spine-growing moment where she finally bins her mother’s toxic expectations
• A polished, easy-to-digest writing style that makes for a very quick read
• The Martha's Vineyard setting which provided a nostalgic, atmospheric backdrop for the wedding festivities
🤔 NAY for
• The instant lust from the MMC (he was "instantly intrigued" in a way that felt like a shortcut through the tension I actually enjoy)
• A protagonist who is genuinely difficult to like or even tolerate during the first half of the book
• The jarring "vibes" shift at the halfway mark; the transition from intense dislike to "all in" felt less like growth and more like a narrative shortcut
🌟 Petra’s Comments & Notes for the Author
There is a solid foundation here regarding messy family dynamics, and the "rebrand" trope carries real narrative potential within a high-stakes social setting. However, the execution felt like a tale of two entirely different books. I struggled with the first third—where the characters felt more abrasive than "feisty"—and I found the sudden pivot at the halfway point to be quite jarring.
Rather than a steady emotional escalation, the "vibes" shift felt like a wave of a magic wand, leaving the romance feeling unearned. While I appreciated Lucy finally finding her voice against her infuriating mother, the relationship lacked the necessary friction to make the payoff feel like an "ache." It’s a pleasant, low-stakes read for those who enjoy a cozy HEA, but it lacked the complex, slow-burn development I look for in an enemies-to-lovers arc.
Thank you to NetGalley, Louise Bay, and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
_____
N'artro insta!lust dove lui fella first... Che palle, ho imboccato na sfilza. Poso e migro su altro per ora, potrei essere ignobilmente caustica.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you, Net Galley, for the ARC.
I did not know this book was in my library and I started reading the book and I had a hard time getting into Hunter and Lucy story. The enemy to lover trope was more like hate each other and the story started rough and I did not see them growing to love each other. I liked how the book ended, but the turn from hate to love or respect was not gradual Usually there is a buildup from hate to fondness to love and this was not story was not the case. The bachelor/bachelorette party was when Hunter started to realize the hell Lucy lived with in her life with her parents and her need to make everyone happy, even though she was the butt of jokes in her family.
I could not understand why Hunter was drunk at the engagement party and was mean to Lucy when he was recruited to arrange the bachelor party and really did not want to be involved. Not sure why he did not voice his opinion from the start and how did Ed and Katherine do not understand that how uninterested Hunter is in helping, in addition, trying to throw them together as a couple from the start is not favorable. I did not see them together at all.
I did like the ending and how Hunter realized he was not over Lucy, and he engaged his dad and Lucy realized her parents are selfish, especially her mom, and she was not over Hunter. They came together and found love, but the title does not give that impression.
I did not know this book was in my library and I started reading the book and I had a hard time getting into Hunter and Lucy story. The enemy to lover trope was more like hate each other and the story started rough and I did not see them growing to love each other. I liked how the book ended, but the turn from hate to love or respect was not gradual Usually there is a buildup from hate to fondness to love and this was not story was not the case. The bachelor/bachelorette party was when Hunter started to realize the hell Lucy lived with in her life with her parents and her need to make everyone happy, even though she was the butt of jokes in her family.
I could not understand why Hunter was drunk at the engagement party and was mean to Lucy when he was recruited to arrange the bachelor party and really did not want to be involved. Not sure why he did not voice his opinion from the start and how did Ed and Katherine do not understand that how uninterested Hunter is in helping, in addition, trying to throw them together as a couple from the start is not favorable. I did not see them together at all.
I did like the ending and how Hunter realized he was not over Lucy, and he engaged his dad and Lucy realized her parents are selfish, especially her mom, and she was not over Hunter. They came together and found love, but the title does not give that impression.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Forced to work together, a battle begins that is as tense as it is entertaining. It had me laughing out loud from the beginning! Their snarky banter and sizzling chemistry light up every page. A truce is called when they are suddenly fake dating, and with it comes a shift—sparks fly, walls begin to crumble, and unexpected sides of each character emerge. As their relationship evolves—from animosity to reluctant respect, to fake dating, to friendship, and finally to a love that feels earned and enduring. They deliver all the heart, heat, and emotional depth I crave in a romance, and I felt every beat of their journey. Lucy is fierce, capable, and a people pleaser, shaped by a life of constant criticism. Vulnerability has never been safe for Lucy, but with Hunter, something changes and she she finds herself opening up. And Hunter listens. He doesn’t weaponize her pain—he honors it. He sees her, supports her, and becomes the safe space she never knew she needed. Hunter, also dealing with emotional wounds—is defensive and guarded. He becomes one of the swooniest characters I’ve read in a long time—gentle, protective, and quietly powerful. Lucy brings out a joy in him that’s been buried for years, and watching him rediscover it is pure magic. If you love enemies to lovers AND fake dating…YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Absolutely give me a book where the maid of honor and the best man are forced to plan the bachelor/bachelorette party and they can't stand each other. The angst, the snippy comments, and oh, the chemistry. Lucy and Hunter were on a collision course toward happily ever after before they even met at the hands of the bride and groom, and I was here for it.
I absolutely ached for Lucy. She was so strong and smart, and her entire family (minus her sister, the bride) did nothing but belittle her. Hunter stepped up immediately and defended her and helped her get the confidence back she needed to succeed and grow as a person, even when they weren't on friendly terms. It was so endearing when he realized that Lucy was so type A because of how scared she was of disappointing her family and being known as the screw up sister.
These two absolutely brought out the best versions of one another. This book gave me all the feels. Lucy and Hunter had a great romance that started with a small lie about them being a couple, but watching them both grow as people and grow together made this a great book. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑫𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒓 was another fabulous read by Louise Bay!
🌶️🌶️
ⓉⓇⓄⓅⒺⓈ:
🩵Enemies to Lovers
🩵Best Man/Maid of Honor
🩵RomCom
🩵Slow Burn
🩵Fake Dating
Thank you to Netgalley, Montlake, and to the author for the opportunity to ARC read this book in exchange for my honest review.
I absolutely ached for Lucy. She was so strong and smart, and her entire family (minus her sister, the bride) did nothing but belittle her. Hunter stepped up immediately and defended her and helped her get the confidence back she needed to succeed and grow as a person, even when they weren't on friendly terms. It was so endearing when he realized that Lucy was so type A because of how scared she was of disappointing her family and being known as the screw up sister.
These two absolutely brought out the best versions of one another. This book gave me all the feels. Lucy and Hunter had a great romance that started with a small lie about them being a couple, but watching them both grow as people and grow together made this a great book. 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑫𝒆𝒂𝒍 𝑴𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒓 was another fabulous read by Louise Bay!
🌶️🌶️
ⓉⓇⓄⓅⒺⓈ:
🩵Enemies to Lovers
🩵Best Man/Maid of Honor
🩵RomCom
🩵Slow Burn
🩵Fake Dating
Thank you to Netgalley, Montlake, and to the author for the opportunity to ARC read this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 12, 2025
The Deal Maker
This is a read that at times is extremely emotional and upsetting but with its wonderful humorous dialogue, great characters and an uplifting finale it is a wonderful story.
Lucy has never known anything but constant criticism and put downs from her mother whereas elder sister Elizabeth is the golden child who can do no wrong. Fortunately Elizabeth and Lucy have a close loving relationship. When Elizabeth becomes engaged to Ed as Maid of Honour Lucy is tasked with organising the bachelorette party with Hunter Ed’s friend and business partner.
Hunter is grumpy and uninterested more worried that their business will fail as Ed is spending too much time away from work organising the wedding so Lucy’s first impression of Hunter is not great thinking him incapable of helping her.
As they start working together both start changing their opinion of the other and having to fake a relationship to keep Lucy and Ed happy they start to have feelings that lead to some passionate moments.
This book was extremely well written and entertaining and having been in the same situation as Lucy with her family it struck a cord with me and I felt the emotions and how Lucy dealt with it just perfect.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly.
This is a read that at times is extremely emotional and upsetting but with its wonderful humorous dialogue, great characters and an uplifting finale it is a wonderful story.
Lucy has never known anything but constant criticism and put downs from her mother whereas elder sister Elizabeth is the golden child who can do no wrong. Fortunately Elizabeth and Lucy have a close loving relationship. When Elizabeth becomes engaged to Ed as Maid of Honour Lucy is tasked with organising the bachelorette party with Hunter Ed’s friend and business partner.
Hunter is grumpy and uninterested more worried that their business will fail as Ed is spending too much time away from work organising the wedding so Lucy’s first impression of Hunter is not great thinking him incapable of helping her.
As they start working together both start changing their opinion of the other and having to fake a relationship to keep Lucy and Ed happy they start to have feelings that lead to some passionate moments.
This book was extremely well written and entertaining and having been in the same situation as Lucy with her family it struck a cord with me and I felt the emotions and how Lucy dealt with it just perfect.
My thanks to net galley and publisher for the opportunity to review this book honestly.
February 1, 2026
Lucy and Hunted meet at Lucy’s sisters engagement party. They become instant enemies. They have to organize the bachelor and bachelorette party together and all of a sudden they are fake dating to hide the fact that they hate each other for her sister and his best friend.
While getting to know each other, something shifts.
Lucy was raised by a very demanding, mean and selfish mother, always in the shadow of her big sister.
Will she be able to leave her mothers influence in the past?
Hunter is running a business with Ed, the groom. When Ed focuses on the wedding, honeymoon and live as a ‘we’, Hunter thinks he has to carry the world on his shoulders because of events in his past.
Will they be able to stand up for themselves?
First it thought this book was going to be one of the same. (Maid of honor and Best Man) But the story is really nice, the characters are very lovable and they both have their demons and battles. There is a third act break up (not a fan of those) but this one was understandable and nicely written.
If you love fake dating enemies to lovers you should definitely read this book!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Deal Maker was such a fun book with so many heartwarming moments! I loved Lucy so much and I felt so bad for her!! Her whole life, she has done her best get her parents love and acceptance but since she did not do everything their way, they (especially her mom) use every moment to tear her down with words and looks. I literally wanted to cry for her sometimes. I loved that Lucy found herself and stopped her people pleasing ways to speak for herself and go after what she wanted and believe in herself!
Ok, now Hunter, he did not make a great first impression on Lucy, it was pretty hilarious but he was truly a sweetheart and I totally understood his fear of failing and why it was hard for him to open up and loosen the reigns at work.
I loved how Hunter cheered Lucy on and believed in her. and how Lucy tried to help Hunter and while she was sad he took a step back, she understood and gave him the space he needed.
Their interactions were sometimes hilarious and I loved Lucy's relationship with her sister Katherine ❤️
Such a fun and beautiful book!
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review
Ok, now Hunter, he did not make a great first impression on Lucy, it was pretty hilarious but he was truly a sweetheart and I totally understood his fear of failing and why it was hard for him to open up and loosen the reigns at work.
I loved how Hunter cheered Lucy on and believed in her. and how Lucy tried to help Hunter and while she was sad he took a step back, she understood and gave him the space he needed.
Their interactions were sometimes hilarious and I loved Lucy's relationship with her sister Katherine ❤️
Such a fun and beautiful book!
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4 🌟
Spice: open door
Format: ALC
Thank you to Netgalley and Brilliance Audio for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Two of my favorite narrators made the decision to grab this one an easy choice. I was not Hunter's biggest fan at first. His grumpy demeanor was coming off kinda assholeish and I was worried how this would play out. The way he softened for Lucy was perfectly written though. Her mother is so awful, the way the family worships her sister and pulls Lucy down was hard to listen tonat times. How could a mother treat one daughter better over the other. It was truly disgusting and I am sad for Lucy having to deal with it. Hunter made sure to always lift Lucy up though, she learned to value herself more.
The way he pushed her away to focus on the business, while annoying, made sense with his past. I'm glad he finally told his dad how much it bothered him and decided to take a step back.
The spice was delicious. They honestly had such great chemistry and the build up made the tension explosive. This may have been my first book from thjs author, but they are definitely on my radar to read more now.
Spice: open door
Format: ALC
Thank you to Netgalley and Brilliance Audio for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
Two of my favorite narrators made the decision to grab this one an easy choice. I was not Hunter's biggest fan at first. His grumpy demeanor was coming off kinda assholeish and I was worried how this would play out. The way he softened for Lucy was perfectly written though. Her mother is so awful, the way the family worships her sister and pulls Lucy down was hard to listen tonat times. How could a mother treat one daughter better over the other. It was truly disgusting and I am sad for Lucy having to deal with it. Hunter made sure to always lift Lucy up though, she learned to value herself more.
The way he pushed her away to focus on the business, while annoying, made sense with his past. I'm glad he finally told his dad how much it bothered him and decided to take a step back.
The spice was delicious. They honestly had such great chemistry and the build up made the tension explosive. This may have been my first book from thjs author, but they are definitely on my radar to read more now.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love Lucy! Not the sitcom from the 50s, but Lucy Jones, as in Lucy and Hunter, as in perfectly imperfect but perfect for Hunter, Lucy. And yes, I love Hunter too, handsome, a bachelor too focused on work and emotionally unavailable, but I love Lucy more. She's a people pleaser, drilled into her from her toxic mother and despite being constantly compared to her perfect sister, Katherine is ALWAYS in Lucy's corner. Together, they are the best of friends, so when comes to helping to prep for Katherines wedding, Lucy knows exactly what she needs to do - Work with the best man (Hunter) who is very non plus about it all and a little irritated by Lucy. What starts of as Enemies, they quickly turn into fake lovers and then some - wooo the steam! Low drama because Lucy doesn't play games, low angst because we're all adults here - even the third act break up doesn't feel like a breakup! So I repeat - I Love Lucy!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5/ 5⭐️
🌶️🌶️
This is my first book by Louise Bay and I’ve already started adding her backlist to my TBR! A funny, sweet story about two people who get off on the wrong foot - a classic grumpy x sunshine - and end up fake dating to appease the FMC’s sister throughout her wedding festivities.
Lucy and Hunter meet as they are maid of honor and best man for Lucy’s sister’s wedding. It’s a less than ideal first impression between the two but they need to work together to plan various parts of the wedding: especially the combined bachelor / bachelorette party! We dip our toes into a little enemies-to-lovers at first and it turns into a fake dating situation to make everyone around them happy.
The banter between the MCs was funny and entertaining, and Hunter was the first person to really see Lucy and help her stand up to her family. Lucy was a riot and I loved her! As the two of them got closer it felt organic and flowed nicely. A swoony, pretty playful take on the fake dating, enemies to lovers tropes story!
🌶️🌶️
This is my first book by Louise Bay and I’ve already started adding her backlist to my TBR! A funny, sweet story about two people who get off on the wrong foot - a classic grumpy x sunshine - and end up fake dating to appease the FMC’s sister throughout her wedding festivities.
Lucy and Hunter meet as they are maid of honor and best man for Lucy’s sister’s wedding. It’s a less than ideal first impression between the two but they need to work together to plan various parts of the wedding: especially the combined bachelor / bachelorette party! We dip our toes into a little enemies-to-lovers at first and it turns into a fake dating situation to make everyone around them happy.
The banter between the MCs was funny and entertaining, and Hunter was the first person to really see Lucy and help her stand up to her family. Lucy was a riot and I loved her! As the two of them got closer it felt organic and flowed nicely. A swoony, pretty playful take on the fake dating, enemies to lovers tropes story!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I am a huge fan of Louise Bay and every book of hers is automatically on my TBR. I love her storytelling and her writing style. This book is losely based on Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" and tells the story of Lucy Jones who is the younger sister to perfect Katherine and has always lived in her shadow. Her mother has always put her down and Lucy is still desperately trying to show her family that she is not a screw-up despite having a sucessful career in N.Y.C. Organizing the joint bachelor/bacherlorette weekend she has to cooperate with the best man Hunter and while those two start of not liking each other things turn around after a while, especially when they have to share a bedroom with only one bed.
I enjoyed reading this book, the story is fast-paced and entertaining. However it was not a five-star read for me because the FMC Lucy is really annoying at first and it took me a lot of time to warm up to her. Also I thought the whole Austen reference was a bit too in-your-face. I did like Hunter from the start and most of the story was really entertaining.
I enjoyed reading this book, the story is fast-paced and entertaining. However it was not a five-star read for me because the FMC Lucy is really annoying at first and it took me a lot of time to warm up to her. Also I thought the whole Austen reference was a bit too in-your-face. I did like Hunter from the start and most of the story was really entertaining.
December 20, 2025
I want to preface this review with I have been a fan of Louise Bay's books for years. She writes romance novels that are not only funny, sweet, but also touch on the difficulties of life in such a balanced way that make her books difficult to put down. This book was no different and I found the characters to be very relatable as they struggled with their relationships with their parents. Lucy, always feeling like the runt of the litter while dodging constant criticism from her family, is tasked to plan the best bachelorette/bachelor party for her "perfect" sister with the help of the best man, Hunter who is more concerned with keeping his business afloat. The tension between the two in the beginning could be cut with a knife, but the banter was hilarious. Over the course of the story, both Hunter and Lucy confront their parents with their grievances which was satisfying to read. Overall, I really enjoyed the book and would recommend to anyone interested in romcoms.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received this book as an ARC from Net Galley. I liked the FMC and the MMC. They both had their share of traumas and they figured out a way to work through their trauma. The FMC mother is annoying, aggravating and I just wanted the FMC to stand up against her and not let her push her around. The FMC is a huge people pleaser and wants everything to be happy even if she puts that happiness before herself. Her sister is on the FMC side but she is more on the mentality of being a wife and her career not being the center of her life. The FMC in the other hand had to put live long dream of becoming an attorney on hold because her mom told her she wouldn't be able to be a lawyer. The MMC was patient and saw through the layers of the FMC that she tried to hide her insecurities. Towards the end they story become a bit of the same and it got boring. Overall, I enjoyed the banter and the slow burn to becoming a couple.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"You don't need to give up yourself to make everyone happy.❤️
"The Deal Maker" was a fun time. It was a Maid of Honor/Best Man, Fake Dating situation. This book kind of gave me "Cinderella vibes" and I enjoyed it.
Lucy Jones is maid of honor at her sister, Katherine's wedding. Katherine was always the perfect sister in their mother's eyes. Poor Lucy was the black cat of the family. I felt so bad for her and how her mother treated her. Hunter Bain is the best man. He has a lot to over come within himself. He works hard and doesn't trust easily due to reasons with his father.
Lucy and Hunter hated each other at first. They had to work together to combine Bachelor/Bachelorette parties and end up fake dating.🤣
I loved the character development in this story. Both Lucy and Hunter learn and grow and face their demons so to speak. So good and refreshing.
Read if you Love:
-Enemies to Lovers
-Fake Dating
-Grumpy X Sunshine
"The Deal Maker" was a fun time. It was a Maid of Honor/Best Man, Fake Dating situation. This book kind of gave me "Cinderella vibes" and I enjoyed it.
Lucy Jones is maid of honor at her sister, Katherine's wedding. Katherine was always the perfect sister in their mother's eyes. Poor Lucy was the black cat of the family. I felt so bad for her and how her mother treated her. Hunter Bain is the best man. He has a lot to over come within himself. He works hard and doesn't trust easily due to reasons with his father.
Lucy and Hunter hated each other at first. They had to work together to combine Bachelor/Bachelorette parties and end up fake dating.🤣
I loved the character development in this story. Both Lucy and Hunter learn and grow and face their demons so to speak. So good and refreshing.
Read if you Love:
-Enemies to Lovers
-Fake Dating
-Grumpy X Sunshine
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was an easy read, and I didn’t hate it but I didn’t love it either. I didn’t feel bored enough to DNF, but I also didn’t feel invested. Overall, the story didn’t really move me emotionally. While the MCs had some romantic moments, the relationship development felt a bit rushed toward the end of the book. But that’s just a personal preference, as I like slow burn.
The highlight for me was Lucy’s growth and her finally freeing herself from her mother’s expectations, her awful behavior and constantly comparing Lucy to her sister Katherine. It was infuriating to see her being treated that way, so I was glad to see her grow and choose herself. Also sweet to see Hunter supporting her and helping her believe in herself.
I think readers who enjoy quieter, low-angst romances may enjoy this book more than I did.
Thank you to NetGalley, Louise Bay, and the publisher Montlake for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The highlight for me was Lucy’s growth and her finally freeing herself from her mother’s expectations, her awful behavior and constantly comparing Lucy to her sister Katherine. It was infuriating to see her being treated that way, so I was glad to see her grow and choose herself. Also sweet to see Hunter supporting her and helping her believe in herself.
I think readers who enjoy quieter, low-angst romances may enjoy this book more than I did.
Thank you to NetGalley, Louise Bay, and the publisher Montlake for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I ended up DNF-ing.
It wasn't even that I particularly hated it or anything, I just simply didn't care? I couldn't bring myself to like either MCs, the FMC's mother was just awful (and yes, I know, she's supposed to be awful, so kudos to the author for that), and Ed and Katherine just felt selfish. I felt like the plot was going literally nowhere. The MMC was... he existed. He was ok, I guess. But the FMC was just downright annoying. I can't even quite describe why the plot wasn't working for me? Basically, it was just boring. I ended up picking this book up and putting it down like, 20 times. And each time, I only made it ~5 pages before I couldn't do it again anymore.
It's not a 1 star solely because I didn't mind the writing. I don't want to rate something 1 star unless I hated everything about it literally, or it has some sort of moral issues (which this book was fine in that regard, too).
It wasn't even that I particularly hated it or anything, I just simply didn't care? I couldn't bring myself to like either MCs, the FMC's mother was just awful (and yes, I know, she's supposed to be awful, so kudos to the author for that), and Ed and Katherine just felt selfish. I felt like the plot was going literally nowhere. The MMC was... he existed. He was ok, I guess. But the FMC was just downright annoying. I can't even quite describe why the plot wasn't working for me? Basically, it was just boring. I ended up picking this book up and putting it down like, 20 times. And each time, I only made it ~5 pages before I couldn't do it again anymore.
It's not a 1 star solely because I didn't mind the writing. I don't want to rate something 1 star unless I hated everything about it literally, or it has some sort of moral issues (which this book was fine in that regard, too).
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