Lizzie Stanley writes steamy romance with dark themes, and likes to collect the tears of her readers.
When not writing, this chaos goblin of a human tells her husband how much he reminds her of a goth Keanu Reeves, cuddles her disabled dog, and reads. Tons.
She's housetrained and friendly and loves to hear from people. Feel free to hit her up on Instagram or TikTok, or by emailing lizziestanley.author@gmail.com.
What We Want is the last book in the Wishbone Tattoo series. This one focuses on Leo and his secret love for his best friend Sadie. Leo is the extroverted, over the top, life of the party golden retriever out of their group of friends. Even though he’s the wild one, he’s also the one you call if you need help. In the last two books he was the one behind the scenes helping his family with their HEA’s, while secretly pining for the love he thought he’d never have with his best friend. Sadie has always been criticized by her family for not being “perfect”. She’s been in a terrible relationship with a guy that meets her father’s standards. But after she finds out he’s been cheating on her, she finally stands up for herself and ends their relationship. Finally being single, Leo decides to finally shoot his shot and come clean about his feeling for her. Now she has to decide if her best friend, the one who’s always been there for her, can possibly be the man she’s always meant to be with ❤️
Sadie is so guarded and has been hurt so much throughout her life, so she doesn’t want to mess up the only good relationship she’s had by making it a romantic one. I absolutely loved Leo and his patience with her. He just shows up like he always has, and now Sadie realizes he’s always shown his love for her in that way. With her uncertainties and confusion with her life now, Leo shows her that their friendship can be the loving relationship she’s always needed! I liked that Sadie had real concerns in this book, and even with the surprise pregnancy trope she realistically thought about how having a baby changes your life! And through all the changes, doubts, and uncertainties, Leo stood by her and let her blossom into the women she’s always meant to be while showing her unconditional love ❤️
The audiobook was duet narrated by Lucy Rivers and William Macleod. Lucy’s accent was delicate, but she also showed strength in her voice that fit Sadie’s personality. William’s deep easy going voice was perfect for Leo and his booming spirit, and his southern Louisianan accent was done so well for Eli and Dean. I stumbled across the first book in this series and decided to give it a listen, and I’m so glad I gave that book a chance! This series is so incredibly good and has become one of my favorites. I really love these characters and I’m so happy for all of their HEA’s. This series shows that even out of the worst situations, good things can eventually evolve to make life worth living again. I can’t recommend this series enough, and the narrators for these audiobooks were fantastic! I definitely recommend everyone to check these out ❤️
Narrated in Duet by Lucy Rivers and William Macleod
Tropes: Friends to Lovers He Falls First Badass FMC Hot tattooed FMC Found Family Surprise 🫢
My ratings:
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Performance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What We Want by Lizzie Stanley is a book that really checked off a lot of my favorite tropes. In this story, we have Leo, a tattoo artist who owns his shop and more. Leo is secretly in love with his best friend and fellow tattoo artist, Sadie. Sadie is a strong and independent woman who has gotten out of a long-term relationship recently. When Sadie drunkenly kisses Leo at a wedding, things change. But Sadie is worried the change will ruin her friendship with her best friend, Leo. Leo is ecstatic, but realizes Sadie may not reciprocate his feelings, but he can no longer pretend not to have feelings for her.
The yearning and tension in this story from Leo is absolutely delicious. I was rooting for him from the very beginning. Sadie is cautious because she doesn’t want to lose her best friend, and I immediately related to her in that situation. I really enjoyed how Sadie and Leo both had to come to terms with how they felt and how each of them respected the other’s feelings. The couple eventually goes through some really tough obstacles that could easily make or break a relationship, and again, it felt so relatable because relationships often go through obstacles, and oftentimes, it’s how each person in the relationship handles the obstacle that truly makes or breaks the relationship.
The narrators did a phenomenal job with this audio. Lucy Rivers, as I’ve stated before, has an amazing English accent that she has perfected. She really brought Sadie to life in this audiobook. William Macleod was such a fantastic Leo. The yearning was *Chef’s Kiss”. These two narrators together really were an amazing casting for What We Want. Definitely go and give this a listen! I’ll be getting the first two books in this series!
Lizzie, thank you sooooooo much for giving us Leo & Sadie. I’ve been sooooo patiently waiting for their love story and wahoooooo, it sooooo worth the wait! 🔥🥵💓🫶🏼
Leo is a love bug who is sweet and soooo kind and a darkish golden retriever! He is the owner of Wishbone Tattoo Parlor and has been in love with his best friend, Sadie forever! Leo has kept his feelings inside and despite Sadie having no idea he lovessss her, he keeps their friendship just that only, friends. But when he can’t take it anymore, he puts everything on the line, hoping Sadie will feel the same way and hoping this is not a one sided unrequited love.
Sadie has been through sooooo much not only in this book but in the past two books before this one. She feels like she is never good enough for anyone. Her boyfriend is the worsttttt! He constantly puts her down, doesn’t like her friends and he doesn’t deserve her, because Sadie is absolutely amazing.
💓He Falls First & Hard 🥰Found Family 🩵Best Friends to Lovers 🤰Surprise Pregnancy 💜Work Place Romance 💕Golden Retriever MMC 🖤Black Cat FMC
The found family in this book is some of the absolute BEST! The family that is friends and the friends that become family is beautiful. They route for each other and are constantly cheering each other on. It is absolutely beautiful!!! You get the entire gang from the previous books, Eli, Emily, Dean, and Liaden who it wouldn’t be the complete group without all of them.
I mean it when I say this is incredible! I cried (happy tears). I laughed. I cheered for Leo and Sadie over and over. I loved this book sooooo much!
What We Want was such a sweet, healing, swoony read. Lizzie Stanley gave Leo exactly the kind of story I had been hoping for since book one, and I loved every second of it.
Leo is absolutely the kind of MMC that just owns your heart. He is her best friend, hopelessly in love, endlessly patient, kind, steady, and such a proper gentleman. The way he loves Sadie through everything, especially when she does not fully see her own worth, made this story feel so tender and emotional. He is the kind of character who says exactly what your heart needs to hear, and as a reader I was just dying for Sadie to finally see everything standing right in front of her.
Sadie was such a joy in her own right. She is sassy, fun, and has this eclectic personality that makes her so easy to love. That only made it hurt more to see how badly she was being treated by people who should have loved her the way she deserved. There is something so deeply emotional about watching a character who has been made to feel like she should be less than who she is slowly be loved for exactly that.
This book has such a sweet and healing heart to it. The will-they-won’t-they tension worked so well because you want so badly for Sadie to choose the person who has been there, loving her so fully all along. Leo is honestly perfect. If he were real, I would marry him in a heartbeat.
I loved this book so much. If you want a story that feels soft, emotional, and deeply romantic, especially if you have ever needed the reminder that the right people will love you for exactly who you are, this one is absolutely worth reading.
Tropes: best friend’s romance, hopelessly in love MMC, friends to lovers, pining, will they won’t they, sweet romance, healing romance, found family vibes, supportive MMC, sassy FMC, accidental pregnancy, contemporary romance, he falls first, steamy romance
I really enjoyed the love story of Leo & Sadie even without reading any of the previous books in the series.
The beginning was slow a bit for me to get into (as someone who hasn’t read the 2 previous books and didn’t know any of the characters) but after the kiss at the wedding I was hooked and couldn’t stop listening to the audiobook.
🎧 I did immersive reading with the audiobook and ebook. The audiobook is performed in duet narration by Lucy Rivers and William Macleod. They did a great job bringing to life the characters but it did take me a minute to get used to their voices in this book (I think maybe because of the accent). After that, I was hooked and couldn’t stop listening to the story.
Leo is such a perfect golden retriever book boyfriend and he did and said all the right things throughout the book to show Sadie how much he loves her. Not only with his words but with his actions too! I love what he tells her when she is having doubts about her body toward the end of the book after the pregnancy plus I enjoyed his POV during the birth of his child.
Some honorable mentions include the group chats of their friends, the amazing found family aspect of the book and most importantly the hilarious foul mouthed parrot.
Tropes in this book: 💜 Best friends to lovers 💜 He falls first 💜 Surprise pregnancy 💜 Golden retriever MMC 💜 Black cat FMC 💜 It’s always been you 💜 Workplace romance 💜 Found family
Thank you Blue Nose Audio & the author Lizzie Stanley for the ALC in exchange for my honest opinion.
✨ ALC Review ✨ Narrated by Lucy Rivers & William Macleod
Firstly, I want to thank Blue Nose and the author for this ALC.
Timing is always something we have to allow to take its course. Not only that, but being best friends with someone you only want more with is always a struggle when the other doesn’t see the tale signs you see. This one was different compared to the first two in the series. Completely different vibe. Leo and Sadie had amazing chemistry, and without a doubt are great for one another. Leo is one of those golden retrievers you just want in your life, and never want to let go of. He loved Sadie from the moment he saw her, and it was a situation where Sadie never saw the signs. Leo would do anything and everything for her, and that he did. Their relationship is slow moving and grows tremendously from start to finish, in which there is a pleasant surprise I wasn’t expecting, but only made their love for one another grow even more. From bumpy roads, through chaos, Sadie has to make decisions she doesn’t see coming her way. This was tension filled, spicy, plot driven, and such a an amazing read. I love this found family so much, and highly recommend this entire series. The narration of this audible was impeccable and both narrators truly brought out the life of both Leo and Sadie. I felt all the emotions driven by the characters, which made this such an amazing audio to listen to. Narration was 5⭐️ without a doubt.
Leo and Sadie have known each other and worked together at Wishbone Tattoo for several years. He's been a wonderful friend to her while wishing he could be more, but the timing has never been right. Now that Sadie has had time to get over her ex and love is in the air, Leo finally gets his chance at their friends' wedding reception.
While Leo is thrilled with the kiss they share, Sadie is anything but – mostly confused and afraid to mess up things with her best friend. Life and fate seem to have a different idea, and Sadie soon finds herself tossed into the deep end. She has no choice but to decide if she's all in or she'll walk away.
This fictional world is one I’ve fallen for and I enjoyed returning to it. Although the narrative is somewhat verbose at times, I adore these flawed and layered characters and the found family atmosphere that makes this group of friends feel like home. Emotional, complex, and steamy, you’ll love the time you spend with these authentic, compelling characters and their fun, warm-hearted friends.
Last book in this series, and this is Leo and Sadie’s story.
Now I did enjoy it, but I felt like something was missing, compared to Eli and Dean’s book, I thought they would have been like some kinda trauma with Leo.
He has loved of Sadie since day, but never acted out on it cause Sadie was with that douchebag, jerk, wet dog man called Peter. Everyone could see how Leo felt about Sadie, just that Sadie never picked on it 🤣🤣.
When I say that Leo would drop anything or anyone to help Sadie, he does. We get to finally see their relationship blossom, and not only that but Sadie can finally be who she wants to be without Peter putting her down.
Leo is defo that golden retriever boyfriend, there is a trope in this that is not my favourite and normally I rather that trope pop up at the end of the book 🤣🤣, but it was good to read it and see how they both adapted to the situation.
All in all was a good a book, and who wouldn’t love Leo, he is the perfect guy.
What We Want 🎧 by Lizzie Stanley Performed by: Lucy Rivers & William Macleod
This is a first time author for me. I will say, Ms Stanley did something I wasn’t ready for. She made me cry! Yes me. This is book 3 in the Wishbone Tattoos Trilogy. I did not know this going in and the book was great without having read the first two. Imagine it’s even better in order. Thank you to BlueNose Audio for the ALC and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This book makes you believe in love at first site and HEA’s and all the feels. 🫠 Every girl growing up hopes to have a man love them the way Leo loves Sadie. Cliche buts it’s the kind of love you read about. And in this instant, written about so wonderfully you can actually feel it. There’s a douche ex lover, a parrot that cusses like a sailor and a dad that never let himself know how wonderful his children truly are. There’s playful banter, found family, a man’s thoughts during his wife’s labor all wrapped in this beautiful story wonderfully performed by Lucy & William. Perfect black cat/golden retriever. Please don’t sleep on this series. Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Narration: 🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️
I'm beyond excited that this book is finally out! Lizzie certainly left the best for last in my opinion. Leo has been a joy from the first book, and he's a tangible character from that point on. He and Sadie are almost like real people in my life that I was rooting for to get together and their story was so sweet, and so beautiful. These people warm my heart and make me laugh but don't think for a moment that means Ms.Stanely skimps on the steam. Plenty of that to bring this story completely full circle. I'm so overjoyed and at the same time sad that I can't read all three of these books again for the first time. The Wishbone gang are my friends for life!
This best friends-to-lovers romance absolutely delivered! The chemistry between Leo and Sadie was there from the very beginning, and watching years of hidden feelings finally come to the surface made the story incredibly satisfying. Leo’s quiet, steady love for Sadie was swoon-worthy, and I loved how protective and patient he was while waiting for the right moment to take his shot. This was a heartfelt, engaging listen with great pacing and characters you can’t help but root for. If you enjoy best friends-to-lovers, slow-burn tension, and a satisfying emotional payoff, this one is definitely worth picking up!
Been waiting since book one for Leo to get his happily ever after. Such a great guy and to be in love with someone already in a relationship was brutal. Sweet, smiley Sadie was so miserable with her ex. Peter also did a number on her self esteem. So when Sadie is once a gain single and ready to date, Leo decides it's time to fess up to her about his feelings. So many things happen after this they barely have time to get their bearings. Love how hard Leo loves his Sadie and love how hard Sadie tries to do all the right things. So many emotions! Great read!
I dearly loved What We Want by Lizzie Stanley! Leo has loved Sadie for so long! Meanwhile, Sadie has no clue how Leo feels about her, until one magic moment when it all becomes clear.
Sadie has been so unlucky in love. Can she open herself up to the potential they could be IT for each other? Leo, being the great friend he is, takes such good care of Sadie when she needs to be cared for, even after she shows she's unsure of their future?
I don't want to say too much and give away the surprises, but watching Sadie and Leo build their relationship is so gratifying. It is a fantastic end to the Wishbone Tattoos series.
💔♡A Love Worth Fighting For… Even When It Hurts ♡🖤💉
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨5/5) – Emotional, relatable, and full of heart.
🎧Audiobook Review ALC🎧 What We Want by Lizzie Stanley! Book three in The Wishbone Tattoos Trilogy. Performed in duet by Lucy Rivers & William Macleod
This is Leo & Sadie Story
Leo: The owner of Wishbone Tattoo Studio and obsessed with all things Sadie.
I've loved her since the moment she came into my life.
I've loved her through her years of long car crash of a relationship with a pretentious asshat.
I've loved her through the aftermath.
I've got to take action.
Sadie: Oh my god.
WTF did I just do?!
She freaked out and ran after she did the unexpected with her buddy, her boss at their friend/family wedding. Now things are looking a bit uncertain as they scramble to fix their relationship but as Leo reaction threw her for a loop Sadie is left with so many indecision and doubts as to where she should be and with who.
🎧 Story & Vibes….. This is a romance that leans into emotional tension and self-discovery. The characters are forced to confront what they truly want—not just from each other, but from life itself. It’s layered with longing, mother of all miscommunication, and those moments where your heart aches because you know what should happen… but life gets in the way. Unexpectedly.
💞 The Characters?…. The leads are raw and relatable, each carrying their own emotional baggage. Their connection is undeniable, but it’s not easy—it’s tested, stretched, and pushed to its limits. Watching them grow individually while navigating their relationship adds so much depth to the story.
Thoughts 💭 But. Omg. I’ve been looking forward to listening to this story. Leo has been in love with Sadie since FOR.EVER.
But Sadie.. well this girl has been oblivious to this whole situation. I was so mad at her reaction while I couldn’t stop cheering, only for my heart to be cracked simultaneously along with Leo standing up for what he feels for this woman. Sighhh this Man.
But again what I loved was how Leo opened up to her and treated her the way she only dreamed of, there’s nothing this man wouldn’t do for this woman. Nothing.
So as usual there’s feelings and a lot to work out before they can get their HEA. Especially when an unexpected complication occurs and Leo dreams come crashing down.
❈𓅓❈
🎙️🎧Hey Listennnn, The Narration..? Just absolute perfection. Lucy Rivers & William Macleod bring an authentic emotional pull to the audiobook. You can hear the tension, the vulnerability, and the passion in their voices, making every scene hit harder. The dual perspectives (if you love that style like I do) really helps you to understand both sides of the characters POV.
Their performances together elevate the listening experience, especially during the banter, Angsty and more intimate moments. This is why Lucy Rivers & William Macleod are one of my favorites to have in my ears as they manage to bring tears to my eyes in the emotional scenes. Just Perfection.
𓅓 What We Want is the third and final book in the core Wishbone Tattoos trilogy, and features the following tropes to Love: * Best friends to lovers * Black cat/golden retriever * He fell first * It's always been her * Emotional/Angsty Romance * Self-Discovery Journey * Found Family * Fantastic Narration * HEA
✨ Final Thoughts: What We Want is the kind of audiobook that lingers with you. It’s not just about finding love—it’s about understanding yourself enough to be ready for it. If you love romances that are emotional, a little messy, and deeply human, this one is definitely worth the listen.
PS* Start reading the first installment and work your way to this one. Trust me you won’t be disappointed in immersing yourself into this series!
A shout out to BNA for this incredible opportunity And a thank you my besties for reading my review, Recs and rambling’s. Until next time One love 💕 one book at a time 〰️🦋𝒢ℯℴ𝓇ℊ𝒾ℴ𝓊𝓈🦋〰️☕︎✍︎
What We Want wraps up the Wishbone Tattoos trilogy with a romance that’s built on years of longing, deep friendship, and finally taking the risk when everything is on the line. As my first book by Lizzie Stanley, it took me a moment to fully settle into the story, but once it found its rhythm, it hooked me.
This is very much a character-driven romance where emotions, history, and found family take center stage.
The Story
He’s loved her for years.
Through bad relationships. Through heartbreak. Through every moment she didn’t see what was right in front of her.
And now? He’s done waiting.
Choosing their best friends’ wedding as the moment to finally take his shot sounds bold… maybe even romantic. But life, as expected, has other plans, and what follows is a series of unexpected twists that shake everything up.
Sadie is strong, independent, and still finding her footing after a relationship that left its mark. Letting someone in again, especially someone who’s always been there, isn’t as simple as it should be.
What makes this story work is the history between them. The quiet yearning. The “it’s always been you” energy that builds until something finally gives.
And when it does? It’s messy, emotional, and completely worth it.
🎧 Narration
Performed in duet by Lucy Rivers and William Macleod, and they bring exactly the emotional depth this story needs.
Lucy Rivers absolutely shines as Sadie. She captures her independence, vulnerability, and sass in a way that makes her feel incredibly real. You feel every hesitation and every emotional shift.
William Macleod delivers a heartfelt performance, perfectly portraying that quiet, steady devotion and long-standing love. His tone adds weight to the pining and makes those bigger moments hit harder.
Together, they create a performance that feels authentic and emotionally engaging from start to finish.
What I Liked
✔️ Best friends-to-lovers with real emotional history ✔️ Strong found-family dynamics (one of the highlights!) ✔️ That “he fell first and never stopped” energy ✔️ A good balance of humor and emotional depth ✔️ Gary the foul-mouthed parrot stealing scenes 🦜 ✔️ Character growth that feels natural and earned
Tropes & Vibes
✔️ Best Friends to Lovers ✔️ He Fell First ✔️ Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine ✔️ Workplace Romance ✔️ Tattoo Shop Setting ✔️ Accidental Pregnancy ✔️ Found Family ✔️ Yearning & Slow Burn ✔️ Dual POV (1st person)
Final Thoughts
What We Want is emotional, messy in the best way, and filled with the kind of longing that makes friends-to-lovers romances so satisfying. While the pacing takes a little time to fully settle in, once it does, the story delivers a strong mix of heart, humor, and payoff.
The real standout here is the found family. The support, loyalty, and love between this group adds so much warmth to the story and makes every moment feel bigger.
And honestly… Gary alone deserves a mention in the rating.
If you love friends-to-lovers with years of buildup, emotional depth, and a cast that feels like home, this is a solid and satisfying finale to the series.
What We Want is the third and final book in Lizzie Stanley’s fantastic Wishbone Tattoos trilogy. I have adored this entire series! I have to say book two really kind of broke me (in the best way), but this audiobook 100% put me back together. This is primarily a friends-to-lovers story but also features he fell first, always been her, and black cat/golden retriever tropes. It can definitely be listened to as a standalone, and I guarantee you’ll devour it! But if you get the chance to listen to the first two books in the series, I highly recommend it. All of these characters—from this book and the first two—are incredibly layered and intriguing characters who completely get under your skin… as do all of the stories.
This story focuses on Leo, Wishbone Tattoo’s owner, and Sadie, his best friend and employee who he’s pretty much been in love with since their first meeting four years ago. He had not pursued her because she’d been in a relationship, but now she’s single for the first time since they met. And after a tipsy Sadie impulsively kisses him at a wedding (before running away), he’s ready to finally admit his feelings to her. Although Sadie is definitely attracted to Leo—no matter what she tries to tell herself—she’s still recovering from a very bad breakup and is also worried about losing Leo’s friendship. She is definitely going to make Leo work for it, but he’s nothing if not determined. He’s loved her for four years, and he’s not afraid to prove it.
I absolutely adored this couple! I have been anxiously awaiting their story, and it was soooo worth the wait! Leo is just about the perfect guy—so sweet, sexy, caring, and generous. And oh my gosh! The longing is REAL! You can hear how much he’s been pining for this woman in his every word and thought. And Sadie is fantastically manic. Her inner monologues were ev-er-y-thing! And the best character of all just might be Gary, Sadie’s adorably foul-mouthed parrot. There was nothing about this story that I didn’t absolutely love!
The fabulous duet-style narration from Lucy Rivers and William Macleod brought this story to life in the most beautiful way! Both of their performances were simply outstanding! Lucy Rivers—in a perfect English accent—completely embodied the character of Sadie, perfectly capturing her independent and free-spirited nature as well as her tender but damaged heart. And William Macleod is just brilliant as Leo. His tender yet gruff voice perfectly matched my idea of Leo, and the at times almost desperate longing in his voice was a shot straight to the heart. Together, these two insanely-talented voice actors further elevated this already-incredible story, making it an absolute must for any lover of romance audio. And don’t forget to download a free bonus chapter available exclusively on the Blue Nose Audio app!
What We Want The Wishbone Tattoos Trilogy, Book 3 By: Lizzie Stanley Narrated by: Lucy Rivers, William Macleod
Lizzie Stanley’s “Wishbone Tattoos” series is one of my favorite series this year, and I must thank Blue Nose Audio for the introduction to her books, which are also some of my top listens — a phenomenal trilogy. The characters in this series are something special, “What We Want”, the third book in the series, is Leo and Sadie’s story, and after meeting them in the first two books, I was looking forward to seeing where the author was going to go with them. I had my wishes for them, even rooted for them, hoping they would find their way to each other, and their story went beyond my hopes for them, even with the hiccups and bumps along the way. Leo and Sadie work together at Wishbone, and Leo was attracted to her from the moment they met, but she was in a long-term relationship, which he respected, despite not liking it or even him. Leo yearned for her, and everyone at Wishbone knew it, except Sadie, and when her world fell apart, it was Leo who was there to comfort her and help her pick up the pieces. Then they have their moment, and it takes Sadie by surprise so she is not sure what to think about it, especially after Leo lays it all on the table, his feelings and what he wanted, not to push her away but to see what was always there right in front of her. Leo and Sadie’s story is a beautifully crafted, multi-layered story that has the perfect balance of drama, angst, profound and heartfelt emotions, and steamy romance. It was great to catch up with the rest of the Wishbone Tattoos crew, too. Like the first two books, the writing, plot, and world-building are fantastic, as are the complexity of the characters, their growth, and development. Lizzie Stanley, thank you for this incredible story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧📚🎧 And for the incredible audiobook listen and production, performed by the wonderfully talented Lucy Rivers and William Macleod, who did an amazing job voicing the characters, accents and all. Rivers was a natural in Sadie’s role, grasping every aspect of her personality, from her sass to her vulnerabilities and all in between. Macleod did the same as Leo and was just as wonderful at showcasing all attributes of his personality, including his kindheartedness. Both were just as fabulous performing the roles of the side and secondary characters too. They set the ideal tone for the story, conveyed all the characters’ emotions, making you feel them all. These two versatile voice artists are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to, and their enthralling performance keeps you hooked to the story.
This is the story we have ALL been waiting for...and it was more than I could have asked for,it was so much better. The longing for Leo to finally get his girl is so so real and if anyone deserves it..it is Leo and Sadie. I don't know how anyone could not Love Leo he is adorable,I would absolutely love to have someone like Leo in my life. He is generous,kind,loyal,funny,sweet and super duper sexy I LOve him so much. He is the owner of Wishbone Tattoo's and has been in love with his best friend and work mate Sadie from the first time he met her..but she doesn't have an inkling of the love he has for her. She had recently come out of a toxic relationship,we do not like Peter at all he was horrible and so wrong for Sadie,everyone could see it except for Sadie. Leo has had to sit on the sidelines for so long watching Sadie date and be unhappy...But now he has decided that is about to end...He is going to take his shot despite the consequences that may arise he can't live in the shadows of his love for her anymore. But it is Sadie who starts the ball rolling by Kissing him and Eli and Emily's wedding and it is the hottest,most sensual kiss they have both ever had. But Sadie freaks out and runs from the scene and from Leo...but that kiss has unearthed feelings for Leo she must have had for him but kept them supressed,because she starts to see him in a different light.She begins noticing things about him she never did before like how sexy he is,and she reassesses their friendship realising how much Leo did for her out of LOVE not just friendship.The sexual tension between them is electric I was on the edge of my seat with anticipation waiting for them to finally be together. Leo and Sadie's romance is not an easy road by any means,but it is worth the heartache just for the HEA. I LOve this world I LOve the Wishbone tattoo crew,the friendship they share, the camararderie,the support they give eachother,the love they have for one another it is something very special. Lizzie Stanley has written on of THE BEST series that I have ever read..I love and adore it so much I honestly do not want it to end. Lizzie's writing is just perfection I love and enjoy the way she writes her stories they are so full of emotion but also they are so funny and witty too...the perfect balance. What We Want is an excellent love story between Leo and Sadie,I was under their spell from the beginning to the end. A very captivating book that deserves more than 5 stars,because it is wirth so much more than that. I LOVED IT. Superb. 5 Stars.
📚 What We Want 🖋️ Lizzie Stanley ✨ Wishbone Tattoos #3 🎧 Audiobook performed in duet by Lucy Rivers and William Macleod 🏛️ Publisher: Blue Nose Publishing
🖤 One phrase: tattooed best friend yearning with happy tears and a heart explosion.
I have been waiting for Leo and Sadie and this sounds like it absolutely delivered.
A best friends to lovers finale where he has loved her forever, she has been through absolute hell, and he finally decides to shoot his shot at their best friends’ wedding?? That is already enough to sell me. What makes this one special is the emotional history. This is not random attraction. This is years of love, loyalty, patience, and wanting someone so deeply while being terrified to wreck the friendship that means everything. The official description frames it exactly that way, with Leo loving Sadie from the moment she entered his life and finally taking action once she is steady enough again.
My favorite part is easily Leo. A darkish golden retriever tattoo shop owner who has been gone for his girl forever is already my exact type of nonsense. And Sadie sounds like the kind of heroine you just want to wrap up and fight for at the same time. Add in the found family, the wedding setting, the he fell first energy, and the surprise pregnancy element, and yeah... I get why this one had people crying happy tears.
✨ Tropes & vibes 🖤 best friends to lovers ☀️ black cat x golden retriever 🔥 he fell first and hard 🫶 found family 💍 wedding chaos 🤰 surprise pregnancy 🎨 tattoo shop romance 💖 it’s always been her
📖 Read this if you like 🩷 soft but steamy friends to lovers 🖤 MMCs who have been silently in love forever ✨ found family that feels like home 💌 romances that make you laugh, cry, and cheer
Leo and Sadie sound like the kind of couple you wait multiple books for and then immediately want to reread once you finally get them.
What a journey it has been for Leo and Sadie's HEA! By chapter three I had cried twice, laughed some more, and had fallen head over heels for Leo. I have been so invested in his unrequited love for Sadie since book one and although the road was long it was so worth it. I liked how the book starts with a bang rather than it being slow burn as after two books of build up I was ready for one of them to make the leap!
Leo is an absolute golden retriever of a man who just wants everyone to be happy. His wedding present was perfect, how he just put his heart out there with Sadie from day one, and how he would give her the world even if it broke his heart. I did like when he stood up to Sadie as although I understand why she was insecure and how blind sided she was by his feelings, she needed that nudge. Sadie has a lot going on outwith her relationship with Leo and I was surprised that her family didn't make another appearance after the dinner party. I had my eye on Jacob but Tim also feels like he has a story to tell.
My favourite of the series was probably book two, but Leo's story is a close second. Hearing the teeniest bit of William Macleod's Scottish brogue peaking through in his performance as Leo had me swooning! Both narrators did a great job although if I am being brutally honest there was one accent which took me out a little but its a very small nitpick and didn't lessen my enjoyment.
I am so sad to say goodbye to the Wishbone Family; I'm going to miss their closeness, loyalty, top tier banter and amazing whatsapp conversations! (I loved Em's name change in the Whatsapp group).
My interpretation of the star system; 3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again 4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series 5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
4.25 ✨ When I tell you I ate this up and left no crumbs.
But most of all thank you to blue nose for the alc of this! The audio was an absolute 5 star masterpiece and Lucy rivers is one of my favorite female narrators. If you’re an audiobook girlie run now today get it on your tbr!
✨Found family is the best because it’s the family you get to choose, and we chose her.✨
If you love a romance book that will you have you howling laughing all the way through then this is for you! I think I nearly peed at one stage! The humor the nicknames and the parrot! 🦜 I swear I was laughing so hard.. The yearning and the chemistry was just Devine
I love a book that has banter and a fast witted fmc who takes no shit but loves hard and second guesses everything but deserves all the love in the world!
Sadie’s and Leo’s story is just the cutest, we have Leo who has loved Sadie as the moment he met her and the banter between them. Leo is such a love bug golden retriever who loves with his whole heart and will do anything to protect Sadie at all costs. Not only does Leo love Stacey. He also loves his friends and protects them and takes care of them too. Who does want an MMC like that? I’ll take 10 😂🥵
Sadie has been through alot growing up family drama and people think because she looks different she should be treated differently and she’s like FUCK NO NOT EVER SATAN!
But the found family in this is amazing the routing each other on and the banter and texts in the group chats 😂 brilliant it’s beautiful
⚜️Black cat FMC ⚜️Golden retriever MMC ⚜️Banter ⚜️Found Family ⚜️Suprise pregnancy ⚜️Best friends to lovers ⚜️Work place romance ⚜️SPICEY 🥵
I felt all the emotions from the narrators (Lucy Rivers and William Macleod) in the ALC fantastic performance 🎭🎧
✨📖🎧 What We Want – Book & Audiobook Review 🎧📖✨ Narrated by Lucy Rivers & William Macleod
This book was everything I wanted and more. 🥹
Leo being in love with Sadie for years! The quiet pining, the unwavering loyalty, the way he stood by her through everything—even when it hurt him—absolutely wrecked me. This is he fell first in its purest, most painful, and most beautiful form… and when he finally decides to take his shot I was rooting for him so hard. ❤️
Sadie is such a perfectly imperfect character—fiery, messy, healing, and real. Watching her come into her own after a toxic relationship and finally allow herself to want something more… it felt so earned. And that “oh my god, what did I just do” moment ICONIC.
Their dynamic is EVERYTHING: 💖 Best friends to lovers 💖 Black cat x golden retriever 💖 “It’s always been her” 💖 Years of tension finally snapping
The wedding setting added the perfect mix of chaos, emotion, and those life-changing moments that make everything shift. And the twists I genuinely didn’t see them coming—my jaw was on the floor.
🎧 Narration:
Lucy Rivers plays Sadie. She captured every ounce of her personality—the sass, the vulnerability, the emotional growth—so naturally that it felt like you were inside her head the entire time.
William Macleod as Leo I’m still recovering. 🫠 He brought this soft, steady, deeply emotional energy that made Leo’s love feel so real and so felt. The longing, the restraint, the devotion… it was all there, and it hit HARD.
Together, their chemistry elevated the story even more. The banter felt effortless, the tension was palpable, and those emotional scenes? Absolutely unforgettable in audio.
This was the perfect, swoony, emotional conclusion to the Wishbone Tattoos trilogy, and both the story and the narration delivered in every way.
I’ve been waiting to listen to this book since I listened to the first book, and Lizzie totally knocked Leo and Sadie’s book out of the park and into outer space!!!
I’m completely obsessed with Lizzie’s writing at this point and I’m in love with everything about this book. Lizzie hit me with the surprise pregnancy trope and seeing Leo not only completely onboard but become even more enamored with Sadie. Watching her grow their baby, and falling deeper in love with her. This man has held a candle for Sadie for so long and starting a family with her is everything he’s ever dreamed of. He’s doting, and so sweet, drops anything at the drop of a hat, he’s supportive.. and so attentive. DREAM BOAT BASICALLY. 😍😍
What I love so much about Sadie is how fiery she is. How fierce she can be when the time calls for it. She makes me wanna blast the song “Red Blooded Woman” by Kylie Minogue at the highest volume. She’s a whirlwind and keeps Leo on his toes. 😅
I’m incredibly sad that the trilogy is over, but this book was the perfect send off. I’m excited for the spin offs and hope to see these couples there, living their best lives, cause that’s what they all deserve and nothing less. 🥹
Lucy Rivers and William Macleod were the total dream package on the audiobook! They perfectly portrayed these characters and highlighted so many of theirs characters traits through their voice acting. Amazing audio!! The entire series has been incredible to listen to, and I seriously can’t recommend it enough! Especially if you love emotional, character driven romances that will take you on a journey, with hard won HEA’s. 🫶🏼🥰
I loved Leo in the previous books, he was the golden retriever with a heart as big as his personality and hopelessly in love with the FMC Sadie who had been in a relationship for years, he’d never do anything to hurt her and being in her life even as just a friend was better than not at all.
So when Sadie kisses him at a wedding, he finally thinks he has his shot, but Leo took as a sign she was finally seeing him, Sadie was just sad watching all the happy couples and her life blows up when she finally learns the truth about how her best friends sees her.
I enjoyed this book and I love Leo, Sadie is funny and I like her sass but she annoyed me a little in this book. I understood her fear of loosing her friendship if they became more, the fear from past relationships and how she had been treated but I felt like too many times she seemed to completely forget that not only was Leo her best friend, she knew him better than anyone.
I felt a little like the FMC didn’t give Leo the respect of who he was as a person at times to know he would never do anything to hurt her and even though I understood why she was scared at some points she came across as a little selfish in how she would react to him.
Don’t get me wrong this is still a really good book, it was a ‘finally’ book for a couple who everyone could see were meant to be together, it was just my favourite of the series. It also had a few grammatical errors and simple spelling mistakes that were annoying when in the flow of reading.
Still a really good book and I love Leo’s vibe, when he’s in, he’s all in and I wish I could find my own!!
Leo and Sadie are attending their friends’ wedding. She’s fresh off a breakup with her longtime boyfriend. Leo has had the role of friend and supported Sadie throughout her relationship with her condescending ex. Now he finally has a chance with the one he’s been pining for since the day they met. Leo finally proclaims his feelings, much to Sadie’s surprise. From here, their story is a ride filled with an accidental pregnancy, toxic family members, a parrot with the mouth of a sailor, angst, suspense and humor.
Narrated by Lucy Rivers and William Macleod. They were amazing. There are multiple accents and characters within the story and these two flowed seamlessly between them all. Lucy balanced Sadie’s firecracker spirit and her vulnerabilities perfectly along with her strength and humor. This was my first time listening to William and he was fantastic as Leo. He delivered on the charming, playboy personality, and you felt the gamut of emotions when Leo was done sitting on the sidelines and finally putting himself out there.
This was a fantastic finish to the series. Personally, I think these need to be read in order to truly appreciate them and get the full impact of finally seeing these two find their way to each other. The found family created within the characters at Wishbone Tattoos is one of my favorite things about this story. I enjoyed the story told through multiple POVs. It added to the character development and gave a fun, entertaining perspective to Leo and Sadie’s story. I look forward to more from this author.
🩷Best Friends to Lovers 🩷He Fell First 🩷Surprise Pregnancy 🩷Boss/ Work place romance 🩷Tattoo shop 🩷reverse grumpy sunshine
Ahhhhhhhhhhh!! Now that we got that out of the way… the hold Leo and Sadie had on me was insane. I have been anxiously waiting for Leo’s book since I read book one, and have been obsessed with them ever since. First off… Lizzie had no business hiding that this was a surprise pregnancy…. Because help?!?!? One of my favorite tropes! Throw in friends to lovers and He’s always wanted her and I’m gone! Like this book was made for me or something.
Leo is the sunshine to our grumpy. Sadie has past insecurities and trauma that she has to get past to fully let Leo in. Yes they have been best friends… but the thought of losing eachother isn’t even fathomable for them. Leo is so sweet with Sadie always her rock, but never extinguishing her flame. He loves her as is, and is completely obsessed.
Another thing I absolutely loved was that a lot of times we don’t always get to see how the hero is with the pregnancy and afterwards.. but I did feel like we got to see them as parents and how they are starting to navigate that. I also love that this isn’t your typical work place romance… they work at a tattoo shop and he is technically her boss… but honestly with Leo’s heart Sadie’s running the show. .
What We Want is book three in the Wishbone Tattoos Series.
Sadie has had a lot of negativity present in her life. She was put down by her ex and this has caused her to have a lack of confidence in herself. When shown that someone could love her for who she truly is, she kind of fears this and puts up a very big fight. But Leo was determined to break down her walls and show her how great she truly was. By being together, Sadie really became a more dominant force when it came to standing up for herself to her ex and her family. I was proud of her in these moments.
Leo is what every girl wants in her life. He was super understanding and devoted to Sadie. He was there for all of her hardships as well as her successes. I really felt bad for his unrequited love, but was it always unrequited. Maybe it was just unacknowledged and hidden in the subconscious. Leo was absolutely perfect with Sadie. I just found him to be such a remarkable character. He was quite loveable. I was happy he was finally able to get his own HEA.
These two had a lot of chemistry together and I'm honestly surprised it took them so long to finally get together. How Sadie was able to resist the amazing Leo, I'll never know. This was a great addition to the series!
I've been waiting for this book for actual years. Dreaming about it, then waking to realise I had to wait just a little bit longer for Leo and Sadie's story. That's how much I love this series and this author. I honestly feel like I've been in love with Leo for longer than my husband forever.
So when I finally got my hands on a copy of What We Want, I told my family to fend for themselves and took myself off for a hot and heavy weekend of passion with Leo, the ultimate book boyfriend.
Okay, I have to admit I love Sadie just as much. And the two of them together are a chef's kiss, be-still-my-beating-heart, panty-melting DELIGHT!
This book can be read as a standalone but PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD/ YOUR ULTIMATE READING PLEASURE start at the beginning of the series. Yes, What We Want is a story of Leo and Sadie finally getting together, but the other characters in the Wishbone world are so important and so much part of the story, that you'll get so much more out of EVERY book by reading them in order.
These books are just fabulous, and What we Want took me on a journey that was even better than I imagined it ever could be. I cannot WAIT to see what Lizzie Stanley writes next!
Lizzie got me so invested in these characters like they’re my real life friends. I cried soooo many times will reading this book. I laughed, I smiled, I almost threw my kindle lol. Definitely one that makes you feel alllll the feels which seems to be a Lizzie Stanley staple.
Sadie is an amazing human and she’s finally getting to flourish and not have her light dimmed by sad excuses for men because they can’t handle that she shines brighter than they do. She is fierce, she loves hard, and she’s an amazing friend. She’s so much more than the “crazy” friend or the one who will pop off.
Leo is so fucking sweet! He’s much more than the jokester people think he is. He’s sweet, thoughtful, loves his blood family and found family, rich, tattooed, has a sexy af accent, BDE, and the D to back it up! He’s literally the perfect man!!! If he were real I would 100% leave my husband for him! 😂
I don’t want this to be the end of Wishbone Tattoos. I want like 75 million more books lol.
Leo & Sadie are here 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻 What We Want by @lizziestanleyauthor is here and it is amazing!!!! We might have seen our edits and reviews of us talking about the Wishbone tattoos series and how much we love it and book 3 was no different!!! Lizzie has been edging us with Leo & Sadie and awww it was so worth it !!! Leo our sweet sexy caring tatted man is so damn in love with Sadie it will make you jealous 🤣 this man is the definition of if he wanted to he would 🙌🏻🙌🏻the fact our girl didn’t see it sooner is crazyyyyy.. because this man is EVERYTHING! The way we squealed when that first kiss happened 👏👏 from that moment on Leo was there to help show Sadie she is a badass and has so much worth 🙌🏻 our girl is a force and so witty ! We so wanna be friends 🤣 It was so nice to see her walls come down and get her happiness 🖤 and to get so much more of all the wishbone family was so great !! We love this group so much 🖤 if you want a book that will give you all the feels, make you swoon, some hot as hell chemistry, heart felt and an amazing love story that develops so perfectly you have to read this 🖤🖤 #wishbonetattooseries #lizziestanley #whatwewant #mustread