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Nothing But Friends
Not yet published
Expected 26 May 26My best friend Holly wants my baby.
Not a relationship, not romance.
Just a baby.
Apparently, I’m the best candidate before she moves back to the UK.
Reliable. Healthy. And, according to her, I have “good DNA.”
If I say no?
She’ll use an anonymous donor.
Which is absolutely not happening.
So I agree.
Then she suggests we do it the old-fashioned way.
We’ve been best friends since we were kids.
We’ve never kissed.
Never cuddled.
Hardly even hugged.
Now we can’t seem to stop.
We do and say things we never would have under normal circumstances.
I thought I could handle it.
I was wrong.
Because there is no universe where I let her leave.
Not a relationship, not romance.
Just a baby.
Apparently, I’m the best candidate before she moves back to the UK.
Reliable. Healthy. And, according to her, I have “good DNA.”
If I say no?
She’ll use an anonymous donor.
Which is absolutely not happening.
So I agree.
Then she suggests we do it the old-fashioned way.
We’ve been best friends since we were kids.
We’ve never kissed.
Never cuddled.
Hardly even hugged.
Now we can’t seem to stop.
We do and say things we never would have under normal circumstances.
I thought I could handle it.
I was wrong.
Because there is no universe where I let her leave.
- GenresRomance
397 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication May 26, 2026
About the author
Jolie Day
32 books905 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author
Jolie Day is a romance author with a knack for steam. She invites readers to abandon inhibitions and melt into the pages. Alpha men, boyish charms, rugged good looks – her books take you on a thrill ride of suspense and seduction.
Do you want to read about the knight in shining armor willing to do anything to protect his woman? Then her books are for you.
Sign up for updates and free books at:
https://www.subscribepage.com/jolie
Jolie Day is a romance author with a knack for steam. She invites readers to abandon inhibitions and melt into the pages. Alpha men, boyish charms, rugged good looks – her books take you on a thrill ride of suspense and seduction.
Do you want to read about the knight in shining armor willing to do anything to protect his woman? Then her books are for you.
Sign up for updates and free books at:
https://www.subscribepage.com/jolie
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 14, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶️🌶️
♥️Best Friends to Lovers
♥️Baby Contract
♥️He Falls First
♥️Protective MMC
♥️Strong FMC
♥️It’s Always Been You
-ARC received from Grey’s Promotions, all opinions are my own-
I loved this story! Dexter and Holly have been best friends since they were children. Now in their mid 30’s, Holly wants to be a mother. But after an awful marriage, Holly was a guarded heart and is not looking for love. I really enjoyed the character dynamics between these two. Holly is strong and successful all while still being a little bit of a hot mess 🤣 and Dexter just wants Holly to be safe and happy.
If you love a good friends to lovers story, with real feeling, well placed spice and grand gestures this is a great book to choose!
🌶️🌶️
♥️Best Friends to Lovers
♥️Baby Contract
♥️He Falls First
♥️Protective MMC
♥️Strong FMC
♥️It’s Always Been You
-ARC received from Grey’s Promotions, all opinions are my own-
I loved this story! Dexter and Holly have been best friends since they were children. Now in their mid 30’s, Holly wants to be a mother. But after an awful marriage, Holly was a guarded heart and is not looking for love. I really enjoyed the character dynamics between these two. Holly is strong and successful all while still being a little bit of a hot mess 🤣 and Dexter just wants Holly to be safe and happy.
If you love a good friends to lovers story, with real feeling, well placed spice and grand gestures this is a great book to choose!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Nothing But Friends
By: Jolie Day
I’ve never read anything by this author before, so I’m looking forward to reading her work. I always take notes, then my review follows.
1. The blurb caught my attention, but the characters name did too since I share a name with the female main character.
2. I like a book with a playlist. It helps set the mood somehow.
3. The dedication is really sweet and heartwarming.
4. It seems to go right into the “let’s have a baby” convo without giving me the impression of how close Holly and Dexter are. Besties that have never hugged? That’s odd to me.
5. Earlier in the book Holly is seventeen during the prom issue and she’s also seventeen in this memory. Maybe the latter should be a year older or something. “I met him at seventeen,…(pg. 62)
6. I’ve never heard of “limerence” before. After looking it up, I can definitely understand the true meaning. “Shelby didn’t, she said there’s a word for it, one that started with an L, too: limerence.” (pg. 62)
7. You mean Patrick Swayze? 🤔 “In case he goes full Ryan Gosling and pulls the Dirty Dancing lift,…” (pg. 92)
8. lol nope it will take at least three weeks. “…it could read positive after ten days.” (pg. 111)
9. Ooh I’m liking the dirty talk!
10. This would work if the fire is in a skillet. But it’s in the oven, curtains, and such. A lid couldn’t smother it. An extinguisher would make more sense. “…a pan lid, one of the few I actually own—and uses it to smother the fire,…” (pg. 148)
11. Is it a kindergarten or daycare?
12. Guinness is a beer, so why not say three Guinness or three beers? ““Two ice-cold beers and a Guinness to our booth.”” (pg. 194)
13. Dexter?! Please don’t be what I think it is. He wouldn’t do that. Right? “”…I have news. Not great news.”” (pg. 231)
14. I knew it!! 🤦🏻♀️ “And just like that, the warmth in my chest is replaced by ice.” (pg. 243)
15. Oh yesss!! I loved being pregnant, all four times. Buuut those last few weeks smh 🤦🏻♀️ “”As much as I’ve loved being pregnant, I’m over it.”” (pg. 352)
16. Why is she sitting if she’s moh? She should be standing at the alter. “Shelby, already seated beside Holly’s mom after walking the aisle as maid of honor,…” (pg. 375)
🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
It’s always risky when best friends fall in love, but it’s so worth it in the end! My husband is my best friend so, I love a really good best friends fall in love kind of story. Jolie Day tells her best friends in love story so well. It flows like it’s a convo with a friend telling you what happened in her life. I like the casual, diary like verbiage of the book.
The characters are wonderful! Holly (love the name btw lol it’s also my name) is do down to earth and loving. Dexter is that strong willed, protective, providing type of male mc that I love! The side characters were also interesting. I’m definitely ready for Shelby’s (which also is the name of my bff/nephew’s mom lol) book!
I love that Dexter will do absolutely anything for Holly! How she doesn’t see that he loves her from the beginning is crazy! Any woman (or man) would be blessed to have someone as dedicated as Dexter.
I had never read anything by Jolie Day but I’m so glad that I did! I really enjoyed her writing, characters, and this book made me fall in love with these two. I truly hope there is a book two so their story may continue! It’s absolutely worth reading!
By: Jolie Day
I’ve never read anything by this author before, so I’m looking forward to reading her work. I always take notes, then my review follows.
1. The blurb caught my attention, but the characters name did too since I share a name with the female main character.
2. I like a book with a playlist. It helps set the mood somehow.
3. The dedication is really sweet and heartwarming.
4. It seems to go right into the “let’s have a baby” convo without giving me the impression of how close Holly and Dexter are. Besties that have never hugged? That’s odd to me.
5. Earlier in the book Holly is seventeen during the prom issue and she’s also seventeen in this memory. Maybe the latter should be a year older or something. “I met him at seventeen,…(pg. 62)
6. I’ve never heard of “limerence” before. After looking it up, I can definitely understand the true meaning. “Shelby didn’t, she said there’s a word for it, one that started with an L, too: limerence.” (pg. 62)
7. You mean Patrick Swayze? 🤔 “In case he goes full Ryan Gosling and pulls the Dirty Dancing lift,…” (pg. 92)
8. lol nope it will take at least three weeks. “…it could read positive after ten days.” (pg. 111)
9. Ooh I’m liking the dirty talk!
10. This would work if the fire is in a skillet. But it’s in the oven, curtains, and such. A lid couldn’t smother it. An extinguisher would make more sense. “…a pan lid, one of the few I actually own—and uses it to smother the fire,…” (pg. 148)
11. Is it a kindergarten or daycare?
12. Guinness is a beer, so why not say three Guinness or three beers? ““Two ice-cold beers and a Guinness to our booth.”” (pg. 194)
13. Dexter?! Please don’t be what I think it is. He wouldn’t do that. Right? “”…I have news. Not great news.”” (pg. 231)
14. I knew it!! 🤦🏻♀️ “And just like that, the warmth in my chest is replaced by ice.” (pg. 243)
15. Oh yesss!! I loved being pregnant, all four times. Buuut those last few weeks smh 🤦🏻♀️ “”As much as I’ve loved being pregnant, I’m over it.”” (pg. 352)
16. Why is she sitting if she’s moh? She should be standing at the alter. “Shelby, already seated beside Holly’s mom after walking the aisle as maid of honor,…” (pg. 375)
🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
It’s always risky when best friends fall in love, but it’s so worth it in the end! My husband is my best friend so, I love a really good best friends fall in love kind of story. Jolie Day tells her best friends in love story so well. It flows like it’s a convo with a friend telling you what happened in her life. I like the casual, diary like verbiage of the book.
The characters are wonderful! Holly (love the name btw lol it’s also my name) is do down to earth and loving. Dexter is that strong willed, protective, providing type of male mc that I love! The side characters were also interesting. I’m definitely ready for Shelby’s (which also is the name of my bff/nephew’s mom lol) book!
I love that Dexter will do absolutely anything for Holly! How she doesn’t see that he loves her from the beginning is crazy! Any woman (or man) would be blessed to have someone as dedicated as Dexter.
I had never read anything by Jolie Day but I’m so glad that I did! I really enjoyed her writing, characters, and this book made me fall in love with these two. I truly hope there is a book two so their story may continue! It’s absolutely worth reading!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 Stars
Trust is paramount in any relationship. When a woman without a romantic partner decides she wants to have a baby, who better to have one with than the man she trusts the most, her male best friend? That’s what Holly wants from Dexter. They’ve been best friends since childhood. She’s seen him through all his ups and downs, and he’s seen her through her disastrous marriage and beyond. The two live in apartments in the same building, on the same floor. They have open access to each other’s lives, but Holly is looking for a big change. She wants Dexter’s baby and to move to the UK to live with her newly divorced sister to help with her kids and open a kindergarten together. Dexter is an architect with a thriving firm, and relocating to another country isn’t exactly realistic for him. Holly sees it as the perfect plan. Dexter can visit, but Holly would be the primary parent with all the responsibilities that entails. One thing Dexter and Holly didn’t expect was the feelings that surfaced when they tried to make a baby the old fashioned way.
As the novel opens, I thought of Dexter as a guy who would never go for the arrangement Holly proposes. He never wanted children, he’s extremely happy with his career, and he loves having his best friend across the hall. I loved that Dexter agreed, but wanted to be a father to his child. He makes that clear before they even attempt to conceive. That right there got me. Dexter immediately earned a spot on my swoon-worthy book boyfriend list because he refuses to be a passive parent, even in an unconventional situation.
Holly is so incredibly strong. She’s had Dexter by her side for so many seasons of her life, but she wants to attempt motherhood on her own. I have children. I had difficult pregnancies. I could never attempt pregnancy or raising a child without my husband by my side. Every decision she makes, every burdening feeling, shows how resilient she is. All the steps she takes, she plans to do on her own. For that alone, I admire her.
This book could have been so predictable and still been a good novel. It’s one that feels so good while reading that you don’t even care if you can guess the ending. Jolie Day didn’t follow that script. When I thought I knew where she was leading the dynamic duo, she switched things up and surprised me. That happened more than once, and I love Day for that.
If you’re looking for an unexpected read with an unconventional road to the happily ever after, definitely give Nothing But Friends a try.
I received Nothing But Friends for free. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Trust is paramount in any relationship. When a woman without a romantic partner decides she wants to have a baby, who better to have one with than the man she trusts the most, her male best friend? That’s what Holly wants from Dexter. They’ve been best friends since childhood. She’s seen him through all his ups and downs, and he’s seen her through her disastrous marriage and beyond. The two live in apartments in the same building, on the same floor. They have open access to each other’s lives, but Holly is looking for a big change. She wants Dexter’s baby and to move to the UK to live with her newly divorced sister to help with her kids and open a kindergarten together. Dexter is an architect with a thriving firm, and relocating to another country isn’t exactly realistic for him. Holly sees it as the perfect plan. Dexter can visit, but Holly would be the primary parent with all the responsibilities that entails. One thing Dexter and Holly didn’t expect was the feelings that surfaced when they tried to make a baby the old fashioned way.
As the novel opens, I thought of Dexter as a guy who would never go for the arrangement Holly proposes. He never wanted children, he’s extremely happy with his career, and he loves having his best friend across the hall. I loved that Dexter agreed, but wanted to be a father to his child. He makes that clear before they even attempt to conceive. That right there got me. Dexter immediately earned a spot on my swoon-worthy book boyfriend list because he refuses to be a passive parent, even in an unconventional situation.
Holly is so incredibly strong. She’s had Dexter by her side for so many seasons of her life, but she wants to attempt motherhood on her own. I have children. I had difficult pregnancies. I could never attempt pregnancy or raising a child without my husband by my side. Every decision she makes, every burdening feeling, shows how resilient she is. All the steps she takes, she plans to do on her own. For that alone, I admire her.
This book could have been so predictable and still been a good novel. It’s one that feels so good while reading that you don’t even care if you can guess the ending. Jolie Day didn’t follow that script. When I thought I knew where she was leading the dynamic duo, she switched things up and surprised me. That happened more than once, and I love Day for that.
If you’re looking for an unexpected read with an unconventional road to the happily ever after, definitely give Nothing But Friends a try.
I received Nothing But Friends for free. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Review of advance copy
Nothing But Friends was such a cute read, and I ended up really enjoying Holly and Dexter’s story.
The friends-to-lovers dynamic worked so well for me here, especially because these two already cared so deeply about each other before anything romantic officially started happening. Honestly, there were multiple points where they were basically dating before they were actually dating, and I was completely eating it up. That emotional familiarity mixed with all the growing tension between them made their relationship feel really natural and believable.
Dexter was definitely a standout for me. I loved how much he cared for Holly, and the “she falls first but he falls harder” energy was absolutely there in the best way. So many of his actions and little moments throughout the story made it impossible not to root for him. Holly and Dexter balanced each other really well, and I genuinely enjoyed watching their relationship shift and deepen over the course of the book.
I also appreciated the dual POV because it added a lot to the emotional side of the story and made it easier to understand where both characters were coming from. The pregnancy pact premise could have easily felt over-the-top, but it actually blended surprisingly well with the emotional foundation of their friendship and added an extra layer of tension to everything unfolding between them.
This book had me making quite a few reader noises throughout, and I had a few predictions while reading that ended up being correct, which was really satisfying.
We barely saw Holly’s ex, but even with the limited page time, I was definitely not a fan.
And the ending? So cute. It wrapped up their story in a way that left me smiling.
Overall, Nothing But Friends is a sweet, emotional friends-to-lovers romance with great chemistry, heartfelt moments, and a couple that feels impossible not to root for. Huge thank you to Jolie Day for the ARC!
Spice: Ch. 14, 15, 21, 23, 28, 33, 35, 48
The friends-to-lovers dynamic worked so well for me here, especially because these two already cared so deeply about each other before anything romantic officially started happening. Honestly, there were multiple points where they were basically dating before they were actually dating, and I was completely eating it up. That emotional familiarity mixed with all the growing tension between them made their relationship feel really natural and believable.
Dexter was definitely a standout for me. I loved how much he cared for Holly, and the “she falls first but he falls harder” energy was absolutely there in the best way. So many of his actions and little moments throughout the story made it impossible not to root for him. Holly and Dexter balanced each other really well, and I genuinely enjoyed watching their relationship shift and deepen over the course of the book.
I also appreciated the dual POV because it added a lot to the emotional side of the story and made it easier to understand where both characters were coming from. The pregnancy pact premise could have easily felt over-the-top, but it actually blended surprisingly well with the emotional foundation of their friendship and added an extra layer of tension to everything unfolding between them.
This book had me making quite a few reader noises throughout, and I had a few predictions while reading that ended up being correct, which was really satisfying.
We barely saw Holly’s ex, but even with the limited page time, I was definitely not a fan.
And the ending? So cute. It wrapped up their story in a way that left me smiling.
Overall, Nothing But Friends is a sweet, emotional friends-to-lovers romance with great chemistry, heartfelt moments, and a couple that feels impossible not to root for. Huge thank you to Jolie Day for the ARC!
Spice: Ch. 14, 15, 21, 23, 28, 33, 35, 48
Review of advance copy
Rating: 3.5/5
- best friends to lovers
- neighbors
- platonic pregnancy trope 😂
- 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
- dual pov
- multi-cast, duet narration audiobook
Nothing But Friends is a spicy friends-to-lovers romance starring Holly and Dexter that I binge-listened to in just over a day.
Holly and Dexter have been best friends since childhood, and now, in their mid-30s, recently divorced Holly asks him to help her become a mother. But trying to make a baby the traditional way? Unsurprisingly, that comes with a whole lot of feelings.
There’s plenty of baby-making involved since Holly doesn’t get pregnant straight away 🤭. If you love an alpha, dirty-talking, overprotective hero, Dexter is for you. He definitely pushes boundaries at times, but everything he does comes from a place of love and wanting to take care of Holly.
Speaking of, Holly is rebuilding herself after an emotionally abusive marriage, and Dexter understands her in a way nobody else does. He's exactly the safe space she needs, which makes their transition from friendship to something more feel both effortless and rewarding.
The supporting cast adds so much to the story. Between Dexter’s work colleagues and Holly’s sister, I definitely see some future couples 👀. I also love the settings, with the story moving between London and New York City.
Now, the audiobook! The incomparable Anthony Palmini and Vanessa Edwin lead the narration, with Sean Masters mastering his Irish accent, alongside Zara Hampton-Brown (Holly's British sister) and James Cassidy. The multi-cast format makes it such an immersive listen, and I highly recommend the audio for this one.
Thank you to Must Love Audio for the early copy.
- best friends to lovers
- neighbors
- platonic pregnancy trope 😂
- 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
- dual pov
- multi-cast, duet narration audiobook
Nothing But Friends is a spicy friends-to-lovers romance starring Holly and Dexter that I binge-listened to in just over a day.
Holly and Dexter have been best friends since childhood, and now, in their mid-30s, recently divorced Holly asks him to help her become a mother. But trying to make a baby the traditional way? Unsurprisingly, that comes with a whole lot of feelings.
There’s plenty of baby-making involved since Holly doesn’t get pregnant straight away 🤭. If you love an alpha, dirty-talking, overprotective hero, Dexter is for you. He definitely pushes boundaries at times, but everything he does comes from a place of love and wanting to take care of Holly.
Speaking of, Holly is rebuilding herself after an emotionally abusive marriage, and Dexter understands her in a way nobody else does. He's exactly the safe space she needs, which makes their transition from friendship to something more feel both effortless and rewarding.
The supporting cast adds so much to the story. Between Dexter’s work colleagues and Holly’s sister, I definitely see some future couples 👀. I also love the settings, with the story moving between London and New York City.
Now, the audiobook! The incomparable Anthony Palmini and Vanessa Edwin lead the narration, with Sean Masters mastering his Irish accent, alongside Zara Hampton-Brown (Holly's British sister) and James Cassidy. The multi-cast format makes it such an immersive listen, and I highly recommend the audio for this one.
Thank you to Must Love Audio for the early copy.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
📚💘 REVIEW: Nothing But Friends by Jolie Day 💘📚
“They said ‘never say never’ a LOT in this book… and we all know what that means. 😉🔥”
This friends-to-lovers romance absolutely gave me ALL the feels. Between the emotional tension, the swoony moments, and the chemistry that practically jumped off the page, I was hooked from start to finish. ❤️
✨ Best Friends to Lovers
✨ Pregnancy Pact
✨ “No feelings allowed” vibes
✨ He falls HARD
✨ Dual POV
✨ British + American romance dynamic
I loved the mix of the American and British personalities — it made the banter, tension, and connection even more fun to read. And let’s talk about the spice… 🥵 The spicy scenes were SO well written and felt realistic enough that you could picture every moment unfolding.
This story really grabs at your heart while still giving you those butterflies and swoony moments romance readers live for. Watching feelings slowly take over when neither of them wanted to admit it? PERFECTION. 😍
And the epilogues?! YES PLEASE. I loved getting all those extra glimpses into their future. It wrapped everything up in the sweetest, most emotional way. 💕
If you love emotional friends-to-lovers romances with tension, spice, and a man who falls first and falls HARD… definitely add this one to your TBR. 📖✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#NothingButFriends #JolieDay #BookReview #RomanceBooks #FriendsToLovers #Bookstagram #RomanceReader #SpicyBooks #PregnancyPact #DualPOV #BookBoyfriend #ContemporaryRomance #RomanceBookReview #HEA #SwoonWorthyReads
“They said ‘never say never’ a LOT in this book… and we all know what that means. 😉🔥”
This friends-to-lovers romance absolutely gave me ALL the feels. Between the emotional tension, the swoony moments, and the chemistry that practically jumped off the page, I was hooked from start to finish. ❤️
✨ Best Friends to Lovers
✨ Pregnancy Pact
✨ “No feelings allowed” vibes
✨ He falls HARD
✨ Dual POV
✨ British + American romance dynamic
I loved the mix of the American and British personalities — it made the banter, tension, and connection even more fun to read. And let’s talk about the spice… 🥵 The spicy scenes were SO well written and felt realistic enough that you could picture every moment unfolding.
This story really grabs at your heart while still giving you those butterflies and swoony moments romance readers live for. Watching feelings slowly take over when neither of them wanted to admit it? PERFECTION. 😍
And the epilogues?! YES PLEASE. I loved getting all those extra glimpses into their future. It wrapped everything up in the sweetest, most emotional way. 💕
If you love emotional friends-to-lovers romances with tension, spice, and a man who falls first and falls HARD… definitely add this one to your TBR. 📖✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#NothingButFriends #JolieDay #BookReview #RomanceBooks #FriendsToLovers #Bookstagram #RomanceReader #SpicyBooks #PregnancyPact #DualPOV #BookBoyfriend #ContemporaryRomance #RomanceBookReview #HEA #SwoonWorthyReads
Review of advance copy received from Author
Can friends ever really stay friends when they cross that line?
Holly wants a baby, and knowing that she's planning on leaving for the UK to live with her sister, niece and nephews, she asks her best friend, Dexter, to be the father. Thinking it will be a one-and-done, it shouldn't affect their relationship at all. Only, it doesn't take, and then all bets are off. Things heat up quickly, and it seems like things are going well for the two of them, so much so that Holly almost decides to stay. That is, until Holly learns what Dexter's pulled behind the scenes and ruins all her trust.
Dexter and Holly get their happy ending in this standalone book.
I loved their friendship and how long it's lasted without either of them acting on anything. I loved the looks into the past where they could have acted on feelings, but never did, but the tension was there. I do wonder if the two of them had more children, or if they were happy with the two they had. I do love how both of them still got to live their best lives and keep their dreams while still hopping between the two continents. It would be interesting to know if Dexter promoted someone at his New York office to help as he had at his London office, or if he was still the head there.
I received an advance review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Holly wants a baby, and knowing that she's planning on leaving for the UK to live with her sister, niece and nephews, she asks her best friend, Dexter, to be the father. Thinking it will be a one-and-done, it shouldn't affect their relationship at all. Only, it doesn't take, and then all bets are off. Things heat up quickly, and it seems like things are going well for the two of them, so much so that Holly almost decides to stay. That is, until Holly learns what Dexter's pulled behind the scenes and ruins all her trust.
Dexter and Holly get their happy ending in this standalone book.
I loved their friendship and how long it's lasted without either of them acting on anything. I loved the looks into the past where they could have acted on feelings, but never did, but the tension was there. I do wonder if the two of them had more children, or if they were happy with the two they had. I do love how both of them still got to live their best lives and keep their dreams while still hopping between the two continents. It would be interesting to know if Dexter promoted someone at his New York office to help as he had at his London office, or if he was still the head there.
I received an advance review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
best friends since childhood. mid-30s. and holly finally asking dexter for the one thing she never thought she’d need from him 🥺
holly survived a bad marriage, rebuilt herself, and decided love could stay gone — but a baby? that she still wanted. so she did the most logical, most chaotic, most holly thing possible and turned to the only man she’s ever truly trusted 😮💨
i loved everything about these two — the history, the longing looks, the flashbacks to every almost-moment they let pass. the tension that lived quietly between them for decades. dexter the driven, devoted architect. holly the successful, slightly chaotic, absolutely iconic disaster girl 🤣 two adults who’ve been dancing around each other their whole lives and i was fully, completely invested.
vanessa edwin, anthony palmini, sean masters, zara hampton-brown & james cassidy in a full multicast duet — they gave this story every bit of its heartbeat and then some ✨😮💨
Things to know
Duet narration, dual pov, friends to lovers, protective hero, no kissing rule, strong fmc, it’s always been you, baby pact, she falls first, he falls harder, mcs in late 30s
holly survived a bad marriage, rebuilt herself, and decided love could stay gone — but a baby? that she still wanted. so she did the most logical, most chaotic, most holly thing possible and turned to the only man she’s ever truly trusted 😮💨
i loved everything about these two — the history, the longing looks, the flashbacks to every almost-moment they let pass. the tension that lived quietly between them for decades. dexter the driven, devoted architect. holly the successful, slightly chaotic, absolutely iconic disaster girl 🤣 two adults who’ve been dancing around each other their whole lives and i was fully, completely invested.
vanessa edwin, anthony palmini, sean masters, zara hampton-brown & james cassidy in a full multicast duet — they gave this story every bit of its heartbeat and then some ✨😮💨
Things to know
Duet narration, dual pov, friends to lovers, protective hero, no kissing rule, strong fmc, it’s always been you, baby pact, she falls first, he falls harder, mcs in late 30s
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to greys promotions for this chance to be a arc reader.
This is book is not something id normally go for but i am so glad I signed up to read it because I really enjoyed it. I struggled to get in to it at first but then I was hooked.
Holly has always wanted to be mum but shes also sworn off love after a horrible marriage. She propersitions her best friend to be her baby dad.
Dexter hes always been single married to the job and secretly been in love with his best friend for years not that hed admit it. When Holly comes to him and asks him to help her get pregnant he agrees.
You get to see the journey these two take from being friends to lovers and trying to figure out there feelings for one another but also scared to act on them outside of trying for baby.
When Holly plans to move to the uk to be with her sister and kids dexter trys to find a way to keep Holly in the us and get shelby over to the us but when Holly finds out they have a massive argument because Holly's feels like dexter has broken her trust.
Id rate the spice in this book 🌶🌶🌶 out of 5 you get to see them start to fall for each other you also get to read about them trying for a baby with some really good scenes 😉
I cant wait to see who gets the next book.
This is book is not something id normally go for but i am so glad I signed up to read it because I really enjoyed it. I struggled to get in to it at first but then I was hooked.
Holly has always wanted to be mum but shes also sworn off love after a horrible marriage. She propersitions her best friend to be her baby dad.
Dexter hes always been single married to the job and secretly been in love with his best friend for years not that hed admit it. When Holly comes to him and asks him to help her get pregnant he agrees.
You get to see the journey these two take from being friends to lovers and trying to figure out there feelings for one another but also scared to act on them outside of trying for baby.
When Holly plans to move to the uk to be with her sister and kids dexter trys to find a way to keep Holly in the us and get shelby over to the us but when Holly finds out they have a massive argument because Holly's feels like dexter has broken her trust.
Id rate the spice in this book 🌶🌶🌶 out of 5 you get to see them start to fall for each other you also get to read about them trying for a baby with some really good scenes 😉
I cant wait to see who gets the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another strong story from Jolie Day. Dexter and Holly are BFFs and neighbors. Dexter is a driven workaholic architect and Holly is the friend who keeps him on his toes. They are both grown adults, and Holly is divorced from her awful husband. He taught her not to trust men enough to get into another relationship. But Holly is 36, and wants a baby. Her mom was a single mother, and she figures she can do that too. After all, her sister is managing her own three kids after her husband left. So Holly turns to the only man she trusts, and asks Dexter to father her baby.
Dexter seems to have been quietly waiting for Holly to get that their relationship is special. He agrees to help Holly, and it’s the beginning of his campaign to win Holly out of the friend zone. There are speed bumps on the way, but you are rooting for these two the whole time. It’s steamy, emotional, and I really enjoyed it. At the end, we see some potential follow up stories for Dexter’s friends, and I am looking forward to reading those when they come out!
Dexter seems to have been quietly waiting for Holly to get that their relationship is special. He agrees to help Holly, and it’s the beginning of his campaign to win Holly out of the friend zone. There are speed bumps on the way, but you are rooting for these two the whole time. It’s steamy, emotional, and I really enjoyed it. At the end, we see some potential follow up stories for Dexter’s friends, and I am looking forward to reading those when they come out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
thanks to the author and grey's promotion for the arc <3
I had such a good time reading this 🥹✨ Dexter and Holly’s relationship felt so genuine and comforting, especially because they’ve known each other forever. There’s something so special about childhood best friends slowly realizing they mean so much more to each other, and this book captured that perfectly.
Holly was such a fun character to follow, successful, independent, but also carrying a lot of hurt from her past relationship. And Dexter? Absolutely adored him 😭💘 He cared about Holly so deeply and just wanted to see her happy, safe, and loved. Their chemistry felt natural, emotional, and full of years of history.
This was the perfect mix of sweet friendship, romantic tension, emotional moments, and just the right amount of spice. If you love friends-to-lovers romances with lovable characters and heartfelt moments, I’d definitely recommend this one ✨
I had such a good time reading this 🥹✨ Dexter and Holly’s relationship felt so genuine and comforting, especially because they’ve known each other forever. There’s something so special about childhood best friends slowly realizing they mean so much more to each other, and this book captured that perfectly.
Holly was such a fun character to follow, successful, independent, but also carrying a lot of hurt from her past relationship. And Dexter? Absolutely adored him 😭💘 He cared about Holly so deeply and just wanted to see her happy, safe, and loved. Their chemistry felt natural, emotional, and full of years of history.
This was the perfect mix of sweet friendship, romantic tension, emotional moments, and just the right amount of spice. If you love friends-to-lovers romances with lovable characters and heartfelt moments, I’d definitely recommend this one ✨
May 16, 2026
4.5 stars.
I adored Nothing But Friends. It was my first Jolie Day book but it will not be my last. The plot, main and secondary characters were written so well and I just adored everything about it. Dexter and Holly were both amazing characters, their chemistry was pure fire and their genuine connection was breathtaking. The trust these two had in each other and the things they’d been through together, how they’d supported one another through everything in their lives just showed they were meant for each other. I adored the secondary characters too, they all bought something different to the book and kept you intrigued. I hope to see more of them in the future. The way this book was written kept you engaged and absolutely rooting for every single character even when mistakes were made. Amazing read!
I adored Nothing But Friends. It was my first Jolie Day book but it will not be my last. The plot, main and secondary characters were written so well and I just adored everything about it. Dexter and Holly were both amazing characters, their chemistry was pure fire and their genuine connection was breathtaking. The trust these two had in each other and the things they’d been through together, how they’d supported one another through everything in their lives just showed they were meant for each other. I adored the secondary characters too, they all bought something different to the book and kept you intrigued. I hope to see more of them in the future. The way this book was written kept you engaged and absolutely rooting for every single character even when mistakes were made. Amazing read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an amazing friends to lovers book! It is an epic romance that you, as the reader see all the signs of an incredible friendship that is blossoming into the greatest love ever before they are willing to admit out loud.
The writing is exceptional. The give and take dialogue perfect. I could feel every emotion Dexter and Holly felt, excitement, anticipation, desire and heartbreak from racing heart to tears. This is the kind of story that you want to know how it ends quickly, but you revel in the slow burn and all of the romantic feels these two characters navigate throughout their relationship.
This is an absolute must read book and Jolie Day hits it out of the park with this one. I'm a big fan and this book crushed me in all the right ways.
The writing is exceptional. The give and take dialogue perfect. I could feel every emotion Dexter and Holly felt, excitement, anticipation, desire and heartbreak from racing heart to tears. This is the kind of story that you want to know how it ends quickly, but you revel in the slow burn and all of the romantic feels these two characters navigate throughout their relationship.
This is an absolute must read book and Jolie Day hits it out of the park with this one. I'm a big fan and this book crushed me in all the right ways.
Review of advance copy
Absolutely loved this book. I love a great written American British read. When they say he falls first boy does he. Best friends for years finally find the love they ignored. She wants a baby. He is her best friend. I mean what could go wrong. They decided the best way to make the baby the old fashioned way. They never banked on falling for each other though.
This book was filled with angst of two people who finally admit who they are to one another. He becomes the man of her dreams she is definitely the woman he wants. He falls so hard it was amazing to read.
I also love the cross over of the American to British with keeping true to both cultures. And I am not sure if this author is British but her writing was of NY was done well and authentic. Which means a lot to me
This book was filled with angst of two people who finally admit who they are to one another. He becomes the man of her dreams she is definitely the woman he wants. He falls so hard it was amazing to read.
I also love the cross over of the American to British with keeping true to both cultures. And I am not sure if this author is British but her writing was of NY was done well and authentic. Which means a lot to me
Review of advance copy
Loved it, loved it, loved it.
Lifelong childhood friends to lovers with a planned pregnancy is my jam and this did not disappoint.
The unwavering devotion between the MCs ( Dexter and Holly) was something to behold (from the MMC especially).
The MMC ( Dexter) yearns, he makes sacrifices, stays true to who he is ( Type A) , and is unwavering in his love for his lifelong friend. The premise of friendship, coming together for a common goal, was beautiful, and I couldn't put it down and ate it up in a day.
I even enjoyed the differences between the MCs and how they each showed their love for each other.
Lifelong childhood friends to lovers with a planned pregnancy is my jam and this did not disappoint.
The unwavering devotion between the MCs ( Dexter and Holly) was something to behold (from the MMC especially).
The MMC ( Dexter) yearns, he makes sacrifices, stays true to who he is ( Type A) , and is unwavering in his love for his lifelong friend. The premise of friendship, coming together for a common goal, was beautiful, and I couldn't put it down and ate it up in a day.
I even enjoyed the differences between the MCs and how they each showed their love for each other.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Great friends to lovers book! Holly and Dexter had been best friends for years. He was always there for her and there was no one she trusted more, except for her sister but her sister lived in London. When Holly wanted a baby even though she was single, she asked her best friend. Holly didn't believe in love, because she believed men always lied and broke their promises. She trusted Dexter to stick to their agreement and not ask for more. It seemed simple to Holly, but was it really that easy? I loved the connection between Holly and Dexter, and their steamy chemistry. I look forward to reading more books by Jolie Day.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dexter and Holly were so hard to put down!
I have never read a book where the friends are intentionally trying to get pregnant so that one of them can fulfill a dream - but I had the best time with it! Holly wants to have a baby and instead of turning to a donor, she asks her best friend. He agrees without hesitancy. And listening to them go from ‘we won’t catch feelings’ to ‘oh S%*^ we caught feelings’ was so fun.
When pregnancies in books are unplanned, I often struggle to believe the connection between the characters if the pregnancy wasn’t happening, but when these two best of friends intentionally try to get pregnant the love and care they have for each other just SHINES through.
Anthony Palmini and Vanessa Edwin bring Dex and Holly to life. Anthony is a new to me narrator and his deep, gravely voice brings the serious CEO Dexter to life, while Vanessa’s light and airy voice brings life to the absolute sunshine that Holly is.
Tropes:
🖤Friends to Lovers
🤰🏼Not so accidental pregnancy
📥CEO MMC
🧳FMC is moving across the ocean
🌶️”just this once” to “let’s just keep practicing”
Thanks to the author for the ALC in exchange for the honest review!
I have never read a book where the friends are intentionally trying to get pregnant so that one of them can fulfill a dream - but I had the best time with it! Holly wants to have a baby and instead of turning to a donor, she asks her best friend. He agrees without hesitancy. And listening to them go from ‘we won’t catch feelings’ to ‘oh S%*^ we caught feelings’ was so fun.
When pregnancies in books are unplanned, I often struggle to believe the connection between the characters if the pregnancy wasn’t happening, but when these two best of friends intentionally try to get pregnant the love and care they have for each other just SHINES through.
Anthony Palmini and Vanessa Edwin bring Dex and Holly to life. Anthony is a new to me narrator and his deep, gravely voice brings the serious CEO Dexter to life, while Vanessa’s light and airy voice brings life to the absolute sunshine that Holly is.
Tropes:
🖤Friends to Lovers
🤰🏼Not so accidental pregnancy
📥CEO MMC
🧳FMC is moving across the ocean
🌶️”just this once” to “let’s just keep practicing”
Thanks to the author for the ALC in exchange for the honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC. This is my first time reading Jolie Day and she did not disappoint.
I love the dynamic between Holly and Dexter. I especially love how Dexter knew what he wanted and was determined to prove it to Holly. And I love Holly's determination in following her dreams.
I do wish there were more s÷x scenes as it was hot. Every woman deserves to be worshipped the way Holly is.
If you like a good friends to lovers book, then read this! You will not be disappointed!
I love the dynamic between Holly and Dexter. I especially love how Dexter knew what he wanted and was determined to prove it to Holly. And I love Holly's determination in following her dreams.
I do wish there were more s÷x scenes as it was hot. Every woman deserves to be worshipped the way Holly is.
If you like a good friends to lovers book, then read this! You will not be disappointed!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I like Holly and Dexter story!
Their true friendship turning upside-down by her request worth reading.
Was both hilarious and sad.
Becouse this new dinamic between them push them to acknowledge their feelings.
And this whole journey was wonderful to witness.
Now I wonder if we’ll get to read Reed and Murphy’s stories.
Becouse I like both Shelby and Murphy, and their relationships with Reed will be hilarious to read.
Can’t wait!
I received an ARC copy and left my honest voluntary review
Their true friendship turning upside-down by her request worth reading.
Was both hilarious and sad.
Becouse this new dinamic between them push them to acknowledge their feelings.
And this whole journey was wonderful to witness.
Now I wonder if we’ll get to read Reed and Murphy’s stories.
Becouse I like both Shelby and Murphy, and their relationships with Reed will be hilarious to read.
Can’t wait!
I received an ARC copy and left my honest voluntary review
Review of advance copy received from Author
These characters are wonderful. Holly is so down to earth and loving. Dexter is that strong willed, protective, providing type of MMC that I love! I love that Dexter will do absolutely anything for Holly! How she doesn’t see that he loves her from the beginning is crazy. Any woman (or man) would be blessed to have someone as dedicated as Dexter. The side characters were also interesting. I’m definitely ready for Shelby’s book.
Review of advance copy
I love a good friends to lovers story and this one didn’t disappoint! I loved how sure Dexter was and how he showed in his actions that he really loves her! I could have done without the 3rd act “break up” but we got the HEA anyway! Enjoyed this one a lot!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Always friends, never more. Then seeing things you weren't meant to see. Not being able to forget about what you saw. Changing your thoughts non the friendship. Hot, steamy, dirty talking book you won't put down.
May 16, 2026
Enjoyed the characters and the story. It was cute and lighthearted and kept you cheering for them even with some deeper parts. Love how Dexter was the one to choose and sacrifice so she could live her dreams and it all worked out
May 20, 2026
Wow I just finished this book and it was amazing. I’m not always a huge fan of friends to lovers but this one changed that. The tension, the yearning, the never giving up on her. 🤌🏻 10/10 I loved thid book!
Review of advance copy
Hollie and Dexter, yes please!.Their chemistry flowed so easily and naturally which is so very like the friends to lovers trope. One of my best reads/listens of 2026, and I’ve already read/listened to 75+ books this year. Very ready for whatever else is in the horizon 😉
Review of advance copy
I was pulled into this book the second I started reading it. I knew that this story was going to be a great one. The chemistry between the characters was so strong I could feel it thru my Kindle. The title of the book was my first clue that this would be a page turner.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.75 star, this childhood BFF to lovers was sweet like candy & spicy as chill medium level! I wished I requested ALC though.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is an amazing story with a hot and swoon worthy hunk named Dexter. The storyline is new and refreshing. Jolie Day at her best. An absolute must read!
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Oh my gosh, I loved this book!!! I loved holly and dexters friendship to relationship ugh it was the cutest and sweetest. Glad they both got the ending they wanted
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