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If I Told You
He's the sexiest man I've ever seen.
He strong, confident, and loyal.
He's everything to me,
And I'd rather die than lose him,
Which is why Flynn Buchanan is my best friend.
But lately, things have changed.
We changed.
I can feel the shift--the difference.
Stirrings.
Questions.
Yearnings.
I'm starting to wonder...
What if I told him that what I need,
What I want,
Is him?
She's the sexiest woman I've ever known.
She's fiery, smart, and has my back.
She's been there for me through it all.
I can't imagine a second of my life without her,
Which is why Brooklyn Ames is my best friend.
The only woman I want,
And the only one I can't have.
But lately…
I'm starting to wonder...
What if I told her that all I want,
All I desire,
Is her?
***If I Told You is a full length standalone. Intended for mature audiences.***
He strong, confident, and loyal.
He's everything to me,
And I'd rather die than lose him,
Which is why Flynn Buchanan is my best friend.
But lately, things have changed.
We changed.
I can feel the shift--the difference.
Stirrings.
Questions.
Yearnings.
I'm starting to wonder...
What if I told him that what I need,
What I want,
Is him?
She's the sexiest woman I've ever known.
She's fiery, smart, and has my back.
She's been there for me through it all.
I can't imagine a second of my life without her,
Which is why Brooklyn Ames is my best friend.
The only woman I want,
And the only one I can't have.
But lately…
I'm starting to wonder...
What if I told her that all I want,
All I desire,
Is her?
***If I Told You is a full length standalone. Intended for mature audiences.***
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 26, 2016
44 people are currently reading
228 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Domenico
28 books378 followersJennifer Domenico writes contemporary and erotic romances. She loves alpha males with a soft spot, flawed characters, and strong, sassy women. Her characters usually have a side of kink and aren't afraid to demand what they want. The author doesn't apologize for that. She's a sucker for a happy ending as long as it comes with a lot of heat.
She lives in Phoenix, Arizona but is a Bostonian at heart. The way to her heart can be reached with a foreign accent, a shot of Fireball, and an unlimited supply of cupcakes.
She is also known under her alter ego, Jaelyn LaStoria, author of time traveling romances, because why not. The first title is Lost Within.
She lives in Phoenix, Arizona but is a Bostonian at heart. The way to her heart can be reached with a foreign accent, a shot of Fireball, and an unlimited supply of cupcakes.
She is also known under her alter ego, Jaelyn LaStoria, author of time traveling romances, because why not. The first title is Lost Within.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 2, 2016
I disliked this book so much, it actually surprised myself.
Well, not the book itself, Jennifer Domenico is obviously talented, she has a good writing, the book was good. But the chracters ! My gosh, the characters were horible.
Brooklyn was the most entitled, arrogant and self centered, tease character I have seen in a book in a long long time she is gorgeous and uses that to be a bitch and use men like tissu paper.
Flynn was not perfect eather, but he was not as childish and entitled as her.
One quote said it all, I it Brooklyn talking about herself :
"You and I are the same, people fall for us, and we just walk away like it doesn't matter. How many broken heart have we caused ? I wonder.
"You make us sound like assholes."
"Aren't we ?"
She has sex like other have cofee in the morning. And it make is so un-special ! At least Flynn won't sleep with another women through the book, apart from blowjob.
I didn't even read the epilogue, that's how mush I couldn't stand that women. And I never ever skip the epilogue usually. But just didn't cared if they would have their hapilly ever after to be honest
Anyway. Big desapointment with this book. Everything I hate in a character was in this one.
Well, not the book itself, Jennifer Domenico is obviously talented, she has a good writing, the book was good. But the chracters ! My gosh, the characters were horible.
Brooklyn was the most entitled, arrogant and self centered, tease character I have seen in a book in a long long time she is gorgeous and uses that to be a bitch and use men like tissu paper.
Flynn was not perfect eather, but he was not as childish and entitled as her.
One quote said it all, I it Brooklyn talking about herself :
"You and I are the same, people fall for us, and we just walk away like it doesn't matter. How many broken heart have we caused ? I wonder.
"You make us sound like assholes."
"Aren't we ?"
She has sex like other have cofee in the morning. And it make is so un-special ! At least Flynn won't sleep with another women through the book, apart from blowjob.
I didn't even read the epilogue, that's how mush I couldn't stand that women. And I never ever skip the epilogue usually. But just didn't cared if they would have their hapilly ever after to be honest
Anyway. Big desapointment with this book. Everything I hate in a character was in this one.
June 28, 2016
I’m a huge fan of this author and even with my okay view of friends to more type books I was so reading this one. For me there are two main points in this category that have to win me over- I have to feel the friendship first and foremost, then, I have to have that tension and change, not just jumping into a relationship because of the long term friendship.
Flynn and Brooklyn had such a cute and vibrant friendship. They really pushed some boundaries on a normal boy/girl type of friendly relationship which added to their flirtatious friendliness. While we see Flynn battle his long term feelings for Brooklyn, their current relationship is the most important. They are each other’s person and neither want to risk giving that up. It’s her who takes some time to convince. She was feeling so much but didn’t want to jeopardize what she had with Flynn.
There was another character that I think was just the catapult for Flynn and Brooklyn and normally I am adamant about not having a 3rd party in a romance, but, I really enjoyed Rhys and his flirty mouth that seemed to open their eyes a little faster. He was essential without sorting this to a triangle read. But, boundaries were pushed!
I am one for the longevity before everything is admitted and the HEA can take place. I like the turmoil, the confusion,
the misperception < ----- probably my favorite right there. The tension, the unknown, the tease. I am so all about stringing me along and that’s exactly what I got plus everything else!!!
Flynn and Brooklyn had such a cute and vibrant friendship. They really pushed some boundaries on a normal boy/girl type of friendly relationship which added to their flirtatious friendliness. While we see Flynn battle his long term feelings for Brooklyn, their current relationship is the most important. They are each other’s person and neither want to risk giving that up. It’s her who takes some time to convince. She was feeling so much but didn’t want to jeopardize what she had with Flynn.
There was another character that I think was just the catapult for Flynn and Brooklyn and normally I am adamant about not having a 3rd party in a romance, but, I really enjoyed Rhys and his flirty mouth that seemed to open their eyes a little faster. He was essential without sorting this to a triangle read. But, boundaries were pushed!
I am one for the longevity before everything is admitted and the HEA can take place. I like the turmoil, the confusion,
the misperception < ----- probably my favorite right there. The tension, the unknown, the tease. I am so all about stringing me along and that’s exactly what I got plus everything else!!!
June 14, 2016
“Don’t be afraid of your fears. They’re not there to scare you. They’re there to let you know that something is worth it. “
~C. Joybell C.
These few simple words by C. Joybell C define “If I Told You” simply. I could stop right here and this quote would be simply enough. Flynn and Brooklynn are two very empowered people who go after what they want with no questions in everything but their feelings. Their fears regarding their feelings is what has scared them for so long until the fears become so strong they have no choice but to face them head on and deal with them……….what they soon discover is extremely emotional and the FEELS….. “SIGH”…… WOWZA
Both Flynn and Brooklynn “Brooks” grew up in households where they were shown that relationships won’t work no matter what you do. That love is simply not for them and that they are bad people; that they don’t know how to love back.
“So what do we do? People like us?
How do we stop hurting people?”
“If I knew I’d do it. If I knew….”
His voice trails off.
“What, Flynn?”
“I’d teach you.”
“Flynn…”
“Then we’ll go back to our rooms and lie in bed thinking about how we ruined another chance. We’ll wonder if we should even both trying to date knowing we’re only capable of giving our bodies, but nothing else. Then the next pretty face will appear, and we’ll go all in again…..cuz that’s what we do.”
His words stun me into silence. Not because they’re so harsh, but because they’re so true. This is what we do.
Flynn and Brooks are both very guarded people when it comes to opening up. They are so scarred by what they have been through in their pasts with their parents that they don’t see relationships any other way than what they are doing. The camaraderie between these two is strong and like nothing else I have read. I loved their connection in how they shared EVERYTHING with each other no matter what it was… from their day at work to their sex lives and in detail… these two where quiet comical …very blunt no filter.
Flynn has always felt something for Brooks since they met in the beginning but because she didn’t show her feelings in the beginning, he guarded his and did what he could to not lose her completely… he befriended her and they became the best friends they are now ….that is until Rhys Camden comes into the picture.
Rhys is a professional food critic. Flynn has worked so hard in building his restaurant up from the ground up but he desires more and what he needs is a great review to put “Flynn’s” in the eye that will bring him business like nothing before. Rhys and Brooklynn start talking and it’s the desire in Rhys’ eyes that wakes Flynn up to own up to what he is feeling before it’s too late. These two have battled their feelings for so long because they are so afraid they will lose what they have and that’s their friendship. They, each, have been all the other has had through every trial that they have faced over the years. They have seen each other at their worse and they have seen each other at their best. Brooklynn tries to show Flynn what he has been missing even though she can’t understand why she is having these feelings now.
“Do you think about me? Do you think about what making love to me?”
“Yes, Brooklynn I’ve thought about making love to you. More than once. I’ve thought about kissing you many, many times. I’m thinking about it right now.”
I can’t describe the emotions that I had while reading this story. There are so many more powerful moments these two share with each that will have you crying, laughing, and ready to reach through the book and grab them and give them a good shake and say… “OMG WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU TWO!!” I love a good heart grabbing friends to lovers story and “If I Told You” is the best friends to lovers book I have read in awhile. It was like watching it right before my very own eyes. Like witnessing my two best friends. These two are shown that their fears have kept them from living a happy life and kept them in the “living in the moment.” It truly shows you that no matter how hard you may fight it true love wins everytime. Jennifer, the depth and quality of writing you have given in this book is exquisite. You bring so much to light with this book: passion, camaraderie, love, sexiness, empowerment, devotion, trust, fears .. the list could go on. This was a powerful story that had me starting and finishing in one day…as a matter of fact within just a couple hours . This was my first novel by Jennifer Domenico and I have now listed her as one of my most favorite Authors.
A 5 star read
I received this as an ARC in exchange for a personal review.
~C. Joybell C.
These few simple words by C. Joybell C define “If I Told You” simply. I could stop right here and this quote would be simply enough. Flynn and Brooklynn are two very empowered people who go after what they want with no questions in everything but their feelings. Their fears regarding their feelings is what has scared them for so long until the fears become so strong they have no choice but to face them head on and deal with them……….what they soon discover is extremely emotional and the FEELS….. “SIGH”…… WOWZA
Both Flynn and Brooklynn “Brooks” grew up in households where they were shown that relationships won’t work no matter what you do. That love is simply not for them and that they are bad people; that they don’t know how to love back.
“So what do we do? People like us?
How do we stop hurting people?”
“If I knew I’d do it. If I knew….”
His voice trails off.
“What, Flynn?”
“I’d teach you.”
“Flynn…”
“Then we’ll go back to our rooms and lie in bed thinking about how we ruined another chance. We’ll wonder if we should even both trying to date knowing we’re only capable of giving our bodies, but nothing else. Then the next pretty face will appear, and we’ll go all in again…..cuz that’s what we do.”
His words stun me into silence. Not because they’re so harsh, but because they’re so true. This is what we do.
Flynn and Brooks are both very guarded people when it comes to opening up. They are so scarred by what they have been through in their pasts with their parents that they don’t see relationships any other way than what they are doing. The camaraderie between these two is strong and like nothing else I have read. I loved their connection in how they shared EVERYTHING with each other no matter what it was… from their day at work to their sex lives and in detail… these two where quiet comical …very blunt no filter.
Flynn has always felt something for Brooks since they met in the beginning but because she didn’t show her feelings in the beginning, he guarded his and did what he could to not lose her completely… he befriended her and they became the best friends they are now ….that is until Rhys Camden comes into the picture.
Rhys is a professional food critic. Flynn has worked so hard in building his restaurant up from the ground up but he desires more and what he needs is a great review to put “Flynn’s” in the eye that will bring him business like nothing before. Rhys and Brooklynn start talking and it’s the desire in Rhys’ eyes that wakes Flynn up to own up to what he is feeling before it’s too late. These two have battled their feelings for so long because they are so afraid they will lose what they have and that’s their friendship. They, each, have been all the other has had through every trial that they have faced over the years. They have seen each other at their worse and they have seen each other at their best. Brooklynn tries to show Flynn what he has been missing even though she can’t understand why she is having these feelings now.
“Do you think about me? Do you think about what making love to me?”
“Yes, Brooklynn I’ve thought about making love to you. More than once. I’ve thought about kissing you many, many times. I’m thinking about it right now.”
I can’t describe the emotions that I had while reading this story. There are so many more powerful moments these two share with each that will have you crying, laughing, and ready to reach through the book and grab them and give them a good shake and say… “OMG WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU TWO!!” I love a good heart grabbing friends to lovers story and “If I Told You” is the best friends to lovers book I have read in awhile. It was like watching it right before my very own eyes. Like witnessing my two best friends. These two are shown that their fears have kept them from living a happy life and kept them in the “living in the moment.” It truly shows you that no matter how hard you may fight it true love wins everytime. Jennifer, the depth and quality of writing you have given in this book is exquisite. You bring so much to light with this book: passion, camaraderie, love, sexiness, empowerment, devotion, trust, fears .. the list could go on. This was a powerful story that had me starting and finishing in one day…as a matter of fact within just a couple hours . This was my first novel by Jennifer Domenico and I have now listed her as one of my most favorite Authors.
A 5 star read
I received this as an ARC in exchange for a personal review.
June 28, 2016
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: https://bookbriefs.net**
Jennifer Domenico never lets me down! This makes 2 out of 2 books of hers that I have read and ABSOLUTELY LOVED. I was just telling someone the other day that I was itching for a 5 star read, after having a lot of 3 and 3.5 star reads lately, and my wish has been granted. If I Told You is a new adult contemporary romance by Jennifer Domenico, and it is breathtakingly awesome.
It is told in dual narrative between Brooklyn and Flynn, which I loved. Jennifer's last book that I read, Chasing Desire (review here) was split in half, so the first half was from one characters point of view and the second half was from another'. I liked this way better because I get impatient when I want to switch over to the guys POV. This way I got to get into Flynn's head sooner.
I love a good friends to lovers storyline and the food critic just spiced things up even more. I was so interested to see which direction that Jennifer Domenico was going to take the story in, because with the way she set it up initial, there are so many different possibilities that it could have gone with. i loved that I didn't exactly know where the story was going from the start (though I did get a much better idea as it went on.) but all the way I was in love with the characters, their friendship and their tension between them. It is so obvious that they liked each other, but they loved their friendship so much. I really respected that about Brooklyn and Flynn. They are really great friends first.
I loved this romance so so much. It was the kind of book that you just want to shut the rest of the world out so you can keep reading. I didn't want to go to sleep, I didn't want to stop for dinner, I didn't want to stop to go to work the next morning. (I woke up and started reading.) There is just something about the way Jennifer Domenico writes characters and the way she creates chemistry between them. It is pure magic. I really really love If I Told You. You need to read this book.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
Jennifer Domenico never lets me down! This makes 2 out of 2 books of hers that I have read and ABSOLUTELY LOVED. I was just telling someone the other day that I was itching for a 5 star read, after having a lot of 3 and 3.5 star reads lately, and my wish has been granted. If I Told You is a new adult contemporary romance by Jennifer Domenico, and it is breathtakingly awesome.
It is told in dual narrative between Brooklyn and Flynn, which I loved. Jennifer's last book that I read, Chasing Desire (review here) was split in half, so the first half was from one characters point of view and the second half was from another'. I liked this way better because I get impatient when I want to switch over to the guys POV. This way I got to get into Flynn's head sooner.
I love a good friends to lovers storyline and the food critic just spiced things up even more. I was so interested to see which direction that Jennifer Domenico was going to take the story in, because with the way she set it up initial, there are so many different possibilities that it could have gone with. i loved that I didn't exactly know where the story was going from the start (though I did get a much better idea as it went on.) but all the way I was in love with the characters, their friendship and their tension between them. It is so obvious that they liked each other, but they loved their friendship so much. I really respected that about Brooklyn and Flynn. They are really great friends first.
I loved this romance so so much. It was the kind of book that you just want to shut the rest of the world out so you can keep reading. I didn't want to go to sleep, I didn't want to stop for dinner, I didn't want to stop to go to work the next morning. (I woke up and started reading.) There is just something about the way Jennifer Domenico writes characters and the way she creates chemistry between them. It is pure magic. I really really love If I Told You. You need to read this book.
This review was originally posted on Book Briefs
August 16, 2016
If I Told You is the first book I've read by Jennifer Domenico. I don't consider it a bad book but it definitely is not my favorite, or was for me. I loved the idea of the book, and in fact, I bought the book because of the cover. It's intriguing. Overall, there were just too many people involved with the main characters besides the main characters to do it for me. I felt like I was reading a different book for a good 40% of it and by the time I got to the epilogue I was just done. (The very end of the epilogue was insanely cute, though.)
That being said, let me restate, I don't think this is a bad book. The writing is very good. You do understand the plot of two people being afraid to love. You actually feel that and it makes you understand their choices. Even if you don't agree with them or how they go about them.
I'd be curious to read other books by this author at some point.
That being said, let me restate, I don't think this is a bad book. The writing is very good. You do understand the plot of two people being afraid to love. You actually feel that and it makes you understand their choices. Even if you don't agree with them or how they go about them.
I'd be curious to read other books by this author at some point.
March 13, 2017
I read this book sometime last year and only just now realized I didn't do a review. I don't recall much more than how deeply disappointed by it I was. Friends-to-lovers romance is my FAVORITE but this story missed the mark for me in so many ways. The biggest let-down I recall was the hero and heroine carrying on sexual relationships with other people when they KNEW in their hearts that they were in love with one another. No, just NO. I don't want to read about my sexy hero using his sexual prowess on SOME OTHER WOMAN! EWWWW!!! This was my first book by J. Domenico and while I didn't like the story, I didn't hate her writing style enough to give up on her completely, I'll probably try something else by her since I've got a few of her titles (At First Glance, Londyn Falls, Break Me Down, When I Found You, and Exposed) in my ridiculously huge TBR pile.
June 14, 2016
This book is such a breath of fresh air perfect for a summer read. I love Jennifer's take on the friend to lovers storyline. The writing style was perfect and I loved the pace of the book. You get to really connect with the characters and see how their relationship blossoms. I got so consumed by the story I didn't realize I would finish it in one sitting. There is just the right amount of steaminess to the book and I found some parts very humorous. Overall there was a great balance to the book and I never felt bored or that parts dragged out. This was my first book by Jennifer and it blew me away I can't wait to read more.
November 1, 2016
I bought this book a while back and had started it right away. For some reason, it didn't capture my attention and I casted it aside. When the next book in the series came out, I picked it back up and I couldn't figure out why I had stopped before. I really enjoyed the relationship and friendship between Brooklyn and Flynn, although with how frequently it was brought up by their friends asking why they never hooked up before, I found it tough to believe that it really hadn't crossed Brooklyn's mind before. Flynn's side seemed more realistic to me. I did love them and their banter. But I really loved Rhys! I'm glad that he got his own book!
Glad I read and will read again!
Glad I read and will read again!
July 30, 2017
[1 star] cliche plot with shitty execution. the whole book is completely focused on sexual tension between flynn & brooklyn and everything & anything just fades to the background. if there is a book genre call "sexual tension", this book probably will be in that category. brooklyn is just a bitch when she keeps seducing & taunting flynn when she doesn't know what she wants from herself or him or what she wanna do. the whole book is just shit, contemplating whether i wanna read rhy's book or not.
July 14, 2016
Speechless....
This is the first book I've read by this author and it was amazing! I could not stop reading it. I was up all night! I love the characters, their chemistry, their love for each other and their devotion to each other. It was amazing and I recommend this book for anyone who wants an awesome meant-to-be love story! I will absolutely be reading more from this author
This is the first book I've read by this author and it was amazing! I could not stop reading it. I was up all night! I love the characters, their chemistry, their love for each other and their devotion to each other. It was amazing and I recommend this book for anyone who wants an awesome meant-to-be love story! I will absolutely be reading more from this author
August 28, 2016
Amazing!!!
My first time to read this authors book and I'm blown away!! Loved Brooks and Flynns story! Frustrating and funny! Great HEA!!
My first time to read this authors book and I'm blown away!! Loved Brooks and Flynns story! Frustrating and funny! Great HEA!!
February 18, 2019
Loved it!
Brooklyn and Flynn used their friendship as an excuse not to get involved, for fear of losing the friendship. Everyone on the outside could see their feelings for one another but they chose to ignore them. Only when they both tried to pursue other relationships did they realize the depth of their feelings. Excellent friends to lovers romance!
Brooklyn and Flynn used their friendship as an excuse not to get involved, for fear of losing the friendship. Everyone on the outside could see their feelings for one another but they chose to ignore them. Only when they both tried to pursue other relationships did they realize the depth of their feelings. Excellent friends to lovers romance!
February 25, 2019
3.5 stars. I really loved Flynn but had some struggles with Brooklyn. I loved the beginning and how they were with each other but the middle just felt like a lot of manipulation. I did enjoy the end when they finally came together
September 15, 2017
The characters were too narcissistic. I don't really enjoy, "I'm too beautiful," characters.
March 4, 2019
I really struggled with this one. I couldn't understand all the drama they put each other through. Just not my kind of book even though I love friends to lovers usually.
February 16, 2020
Super hot.
This was a super steamy friend to lovers. A lot of drama and sex so it was super hot. Enjoyed it a lot.
This was a super steamy friend to lovers. A lot of drama and sex so it was super hot. Enjoyed it a lot.
March 5, 2017
This is the first book by this author I have read.
"If loving you is suicide I'd rather die in your arms then live in anyone else's" I loved this line.
I enjoyed the story for the most part. There were a few little things that I didn't care for, which is why I am giving it 4 stars. Its well written, I liked getting to know the characters. This is a friends to lovers book.
Brooklyn was a little bit to much for me, even though I could see why she is the way she is.
I loved Flynn, yes I think he could have been more honest about his feelings but then again I understand why he wasn't.
I need to go see if Rhys has his own story, because I want to know more about him.
"If loving you is suicide I'd rather die in your arms then live in anyone else's" I loved this line.
I enjoyed the story for the most part. There were a few little things that I didn't care for, which is why I am giving it 4 stars. Its well written, I liked getting to know the characters. This is a friends to lovers book.
Brooklyn was a little bit to much for me, even though I could see why she is the way she is.
I loved Flynn, yes I think he could have been more honest about his feelings but then again I understand why he wasn't.
I need to go see if Rhys has his own story, because I want to know more about him.
June 28, 2016
A mouthwatering serving of sweet and sexy!!
I have always had a weakness for best friends to lovers romances and omgeee!! IF I TOLD YOU by Jennifer Domenico Does. Not. Disappoint. There is such an endearing sweetness between Flynn and Brooklyn that my heart felt as if it would explode out of my chest! These two roomies are there for each other through thick and thin and are happy in the friend zone...until they are not. Then something shifts undeniably between them and what unfolds is a super sexy, utterly swoony summer read that got this reader all riled up! I just adored Flynn sooo much!! I mean, come on, what's not to love? The dude is six-foot-two, has sparkling blue eyes that left me all aquiver and is gorgeously tatted with all lean muscle and ripped abs!!! And those are just his PHYSICAL attributes. He is smart, charming, charismatic, the perfect roommate and a talented chef to boot. And catch this: He is Not. A. Jerk !!! His chemistry with his adorably sassy "bestie" was just so infectious and their slow burning romance hit all the right notes. There is nothing more delicious for me than to watch a romance unfold where the hero and heroine have a solid basis of a genuine friendship to build off of and eventually come to realize they are true and forever soulmates!
The only reason I am giving this book 4 stars instead of five is because I got a little squeamish with their candidness about their sexual exploits with other love interests. I am more of a traditionalist at heart and prefer romances where the characters only have eyes for each other! And while I really appreciate the author's breezy, fast paced style and quick witted banter, I would have liked a little more exposition to draw me more into the story and delve deeper into the characters' psyches. But those two quibbles aside, I loved this sweet and frothy friends to lovers confection something fierce! It is the type of romance that leaves you with that warm glow of satisfaction and a great big, goofy grin on on your face!!
I have always had a weakness for best friends to lovers romances and omgeee!! IF I TOLD YOU by Jennifer Domenico Does. Not. Disappoint. There is such an endearing sweetness between Flynn and Brooklyn that my heart felt as if it would explode out of my chest! These two roomies are there for each other through thick and thin and are happy in the friend zone...until they are not. Then something shifts undeniably between them and what unfolds is a super sexy, utterly swoony summer read that got this reader all riled up! I just adored Flynn sooo much!! I mean, come on, what's not to love? The dude is six-foot-two, has sparkling blue eyes that left me all aquiver and is gorgeously tatted with all lean muscle and ripped abs!!! And those are just his PHYSICAL attributes. He is smart, charming, charismatic, the perfect roommate and a talented chef to boot. And catch this: He is Not. A. Jerk !!! His chemistry with his adorably sassy "bestie" was just so infectious and their slow burning romance hit all the right notes. There is nothing more delicious for me than to watch a romance unfold where the hero and heroine have a solid basis of a genuine friendship to build off of and eventually come to realize they are true and forever soulmates!
The only reason I am giving this book 4 stars instead of five is because I got a little squeamish with their candidness about their sexual exploits with other love interests. I am more of a traditionalist at heart and prefer romances where the characters only have eyes for each other! And while I really appreciate the author's breezy, fast paced style and quick witted banter, I would have liked a little more exposition to draw me more into the story and delve deeper into the characters' psyches. But those two quibbles aside, I loved this sweet and frothy friends to lovers confection something fierce! It is the type of romance that leaves you with that warm glow of satisfaction and a great big, goofy grin on on your face!!
June 28, 2016
I was super excited to get to read an ARC of If I Told You. I read the synopsis and said count me in. It's rare that I get to read a book just for pleasure. Most of the time it's for review purposes. I'm so glad I had this one waiting for me. I ate it up. This friends-to-lovers story was just what I needed. Jennifer Domenico is a new (to me) author. Where the hell has she been all of this time?? I now want to binge read everything of hers.
If I told You follows Flynn and Brooklyn (Brooks). They've been friends for years. Having tried the dating thing, they realized they were better off as friends. They now live together and share every aspect of their lives with each other. The support they show each other is what most wish they had with their significant others. They don't do relationships that last very long. They both had upbringings that were less than stellar. So instead of taking the risk, they decide less is best. Things start to get foggy and lines are getting blurry, but Flynn won't let their relationship be ruined. When Brooks meets a guy that pushes the limits, she lets her strict rules loosen a little bit. Maybe he's worth it. His name is Rhys. He's a food critic. And although in the beginning I was skeptical of him, he turned out to be one of my favorite characters in the book. The support and true kindness he shows towards Brooks is one you don't quite often see.
The complexity and emotion of the characters throughout the book were more than I anticipated. They had the willpower of saints. There were even a few times that I became teary-eyed myself. I did not expect that. I couldn't have enjoyed this story anymore than I did. I devoured it. I will definitely be reading more of Ms. Domenico's work in the near future and looking out for more from her as well!
If I told You follows Flynn and Brooklyn (Brooks). They've been friends for years. Having tried the dating thing, they realized they were better off as friends. They now live together and share every aspect of their lives with each other. The support they show each other is what most wish they had with their significant others. They don't do relationships that last very long. They both had upbringings that were less than stellar. So instead of taking the risk, they decide less is best. Things start to get foggy and lines are getting blurry, but Flynn won't let their relationship be ruined. When Brooks meets a guy that pushes the limits, she lets her strict rules loosen a little bit. Maybe he's worth it. His name is Rhys. He's a food critic. And although in the beginning I was skeptical of him, he turned out to be one of my favorite characters in the book. The support and true kindness he shows towards Brooks is one you don't quite often see.
The complexity and emotion of the characters throughout the book were more than I anticipated. They had the willpower of saints. There were even a few times that I became teary-eyed myself. I did not expect that. I couldn't have enjoyed this story anymore than I did. I devoured it. I will definitely be reading more of Ms. Domenico's work in the near future and looking out for more from her as well!
June 27, 2016
Panty Scorching-4
Storyline-5
Angst- 4
Tissues-0
Value- 5
Overall Rating- 5
Kindle eARC
Reviewed by Jen
Reading the blurb had me super excited and I couldn’t wait for this book to appear on my kindle. As soon as it appeared I jumped in and loved every second of it. So If I told you is the story of Flynn and Brooklyn. Flynn and Brooklyn are best friends who live together and are there for one another through the good times and bad. They have seen each other their career advancements, bad hookups, dates, and life in general. To everyone on the outside their relationship made no sense-both super attractive but JUST friends?? Many people couldn’t believe it but Flynn and Brooklyn remained loyal to their best friend relationship. However lately things have been changing between them-innocent flirting, longing looks, and jealousy when they see one another with other people. Neither Flynn nor Brooklyn know how to deal with these feelings. Will either of them finally be able to open up and take the jump to be with one another or will their chance at love with one another bypass them?
I really enjoyed this book-there were times I wanted to shake both Flynn and Brooklyn and then times I wanted to hug them and tell them it will be okay. I love when an author is able to evoke such emotions from their readers by their stories. Brooklyn is such an awesome character. She is totally relatable and you can’t help but want her to get her happy every after. Flynn, oh Flynn, where do I even start? Every lady wants a Flynn BFF, and everyone deserves a Flynn. He is charismatic, loyal, smoking hot, and just dreamy! You can’t help but want to jump him and be with him. If you are looking for best friends to lovers story this one is of the best ones I have read in a long time.
Storyline-5
Angst- 4
Tissues-0
Value- 5
Overall Rating- 5
Kindle eARC
Reviewed by Jen
Reading the blurb had me super excited and I couldn’t wait for this book to appear on my kindle. As soon as it appeared I jumped in and loved every second of it. So If I told you is the story of Flynn and Brooklyn. Flynn and Brooklyn are best friends who live together and are there for one another through the good times and bad. They have seen each other their career advancements, bad hookups, dates, and life in general. To everyone on the outside their relationship made no sense-both super attractive but JUST friends?? Many people couldn’t believe it but Flynn and Brooklyn remained loyal to their best friend relationship. However lately things have been changing between them-innocent flirting, longing looks, and jealousy when they see one another with other people. Neither Flynn nor Brooklyn know how to deal with these feelings. Will either of them finally be able to open up and take the jump to be with one another or will their chance at love with one another bypass them?
I really enjoyed this book-there were times I wanted to shake both Flynn and Brooklyn and then times I wanted to hug them and tell them it will be okay. I love when an author is able to evoke such emotions from their readers by their stories. Brooklyn is such an awesome character. She is totally relatable and you can’t help but want her to get her happy every after. Flynn, oh Flynn, where do I even start? Every lady wants a Flynn BFF, and everyone deserves a Flynn. He is charismatic, loyal, smoking hot, and just dreamy! You can’t help but want to jump him and be with him. If you are looking for best friends to lovers story this one is of the best ones I have read in a long time.
June 28, 2016
So I had a hard time rating this book. If I did it on a personal level, then it would be lower. But, I was given an ARC to give a rating based on the book not my personal preference. My personal preference may not be the same as others, so it's not fair to give a low rating because I thought the storyline should be more insta-love fairytale, (which is my favorite!!)
That's why I choose four stars.
Personally I'm not a fan of the H and h discussing their sex lives with each other. Also, a slight **spoiler** the h sets up a date for basically the H to have a one night stand. I love to have the fairytale of you know it's happened but you don't hear about it. What can I say, I read a book to get away from the reality of life. I love a good happy love story.
Overall this book is a great read. Especially when the characters are finally actually together. I love early on how they start to notice each other a little bit more but still find reasons to fight. To me, it wasn't angsty (is that a word) but more nerve wracking and made me yell "come on" a few times. Like really guys get your act together.
Another part of the story is the friends background. They were friends before anything else. They know each other and get each other. To me, that helps a relationship sometimes.
My Favorite is the epilogue. I love a good epilogue that lets us see the future and what has happened to them. We see them mature and grow and build on their life.
That's why I choose four stars.
Personally I'm not a fan of the H and h discussing their sex lives with each other. Also, a slight **spoiler** the h sets up a date for basically the H to have a one night stand. I love to have the fairytale of you know it's happened but you don't hear about it. What can I say, I read a book to get away from the reality of life. I love a good happy love story.
Overall this book is a great read. Especially when the characters are finally actually together. I love early on how they start to notice each other a little bit more but still find reasons to fight. To me, it wasn't angsty (is that a word) but more nerve wracking and made me yell "come on" a few times. Like really guys get your act together.
Another part of the story is the friends background. They were friends before anything else. They know each other and get each other. To me, that helps a relationship sometimes.
My Favorite is the epilogue. I love a good epilogue that lets us see the future and what has happened to them. We see them mature and grow and build on their life.
June 19, 2016
5 stars!!
I was given the amazing opportunity to beta read for this best friends-to-lovers book :) Jennifer gives us swoony male leads that we wish we could call our own. Strong, independent female leads you can't help but want to be like.
We meet Flynn and Brooklyn who have been best friends for years and roommates for 2 years now. They both come from broken homes and feel that they aren't capable of having a relationship with anybody.
"We're not people that can love. We're not even people that can stay."
Their friendship means too much to them and they are not willing to risk losing it.
"A relationship between us would be a disaster. Flynn and I will never be anything but friends."
But as time goes by, things happen that makes them begin to question their feelings for each other. As they realize they have been in denial from the start, will they pretend like nothing is going? Or will they give in to their fears and realize that they are meant to be together?
There are many characters that play important parts to this story but I don't want to give anything away ;). Every secondary character is awesome and leaves you wanting to read more about their story. The sexual tension is so good! Loved the epilogue! <3 Basically, I loved this book and I absolutely recommend you one-click!
I was given the amazing opportunity to beta read for this best friends-to-lovers book :) Jennifer gives us swoony male leads that we wish we could call our own. Strong, independent female leads you can't help but want to be like.
We meet Flynn and Brooklyn who have been best friends for years and roommates for 2 years now. They both come from broken homes and feel that they aren't capable of having a relationship with anybody.
"We're not people that can love. We're not even people that can stay."
Their friendship means too much to them and they are not willing to risk losing it.
"A relationship between us would be a disaster. Flynn and I will never be anything but friends."
But as time goes by, things happen that makes them begin to question their feelings for each other. As they realize they have been in denial from the start, will they pretend like nothing is going? Or will they give in to their fears and realize that they are meant to be together?
There are many characters that play important parts to this story but I don't want to give anything away ;). Every secondary character is awesome and leaves you wanting to read more about their story. The sexual tension is so good! Loved the epilogue! <3 Basically, I loved this book and I absolutely recommend you one-click!
June 28, 2016
The classic premise of friends to lovers is one of my all time favourites to read, but unfortunately, IF I TOLD YOU, missed the mark for me. I really tried to get into this book and like the characters, but found that the chemistry between Flynn and Brooklyn was platonic and wasn't even there in the beginning. They seemed more like siblings than possible lovers. It just didn't work for me and I didn't find it believable. In fact, I was rooting more for Rhys and Brooklyn to get together! At least there was a palpable chemistry between them.
My other issue with this story was Flynn and Brooklyn seeking their sexual release with other people, and also discussing it openly, almost rubbing it into each other's faces with the other. I like my hero and heroine to be more "eyes only for each other" even if they are not together. And they didn't feel any regret or remorse when they were with other people, despite their apparent attraction/denial of feelings for each other. I really found this part of the book difficult to comprehend.
This is my first book by Jennifer Domenico and the blurb had great potential, but it just failed to keep me riveted and invested in Flynn and Brooklyn's story. 3.5 stars.
My other issue with this story was Flynn and Brooklyn seeking their sexual release with other people, and also discussing it openly, almost rubbing it into each other's faces with the other. I like my hero and heroine to be more "eyes only for each other" even if they are not together. And they didn't feel any regret or remorse when they were with other people, despite their apparent attraction/denial of feelings for each other. I really found this part of the book difficult to comprehend.
This is my first book by Jennifer Domenico and the blurb had great potential, but it just failed to keep me riveted and invested in Flynn and Brooklyn's story. 3.5 stars.
June 29, 2016
***ARC provided by author***
Brooklyn, fitness instructor, gorgeous, afraid to love.
Flynn, Manhattan chef, turns every women's head when he walks by, also afraid to love.
Brooklyn and Flynn have been friends for years and had almost the same background that led them to being both afraid of being committed to one person. Living together gave way to a lot of tension, specifically sexual tension between these two. No one wants to admit that they both have feelings for each other until their own friends pointed it out to them that they were both scared enough not to notice the obvious.
I do like the friends turn into lovers kind of story but this one I am on the mend. There's so much sexual tension and didn't abate until towards the very end of the story. Their reason for being not able to commit was told in the middle when one if them got involved with a different person. I would have liked to know that in the beginning to not keep on guessing why the characters are the way they are. I am not saying that it's bad, it was just overshadowed by all the tension un the story.
I give this a 3.5-4 stars.
Brooklyn, fitness instructor, gorgeous, afraid to love.
Flynn, Manhattan chef, turns every women's head when he walks by, also afraid to love.
Brooklyn and Flynn have been friends for years and had almost the same background that led them to being both afraid of being committed to one person. Living together gave way to a lot of tension, specifically sexual tension between these two. No one wants to admit that they both have feelings for each other until their own friends pointed it out to them that they were both scared enough not to notice the obvious.
I do like the friends turn into lovers kind of story but this one I am on the mend. There's so much sexual tension and didn't abate until towards the very end of the story. Their reason for being not able to commit was told in the middle when one if them got involved with a different person. I would have liked to know that in the beginning to not keep on guessing why the characters are the way they are. I am not saying that it's bad, it was just overshadowed by all the tension un the story.
I give this a 3.5-4 stars.
June 28, 2016
If I Told You is a first time read for me with this author. I'm a big fan of the friends-to-lovers trope so I started this as soon as it appeared on my Kindle.
Now that I've finished it I'm not sure what to make of it. It held my attention and kept my interest, but there were quite a few 'wtf?' moments where I questioned what I was reading.
If I Told You centres around Brooklyn and Flynn. They're best friends who live together, but are both denying their feelings for each other due to the fact they don't want to mess up their friendship. For the majority of the book they are in denial--about 60% actually. While the story held my interest there were times I wished they'd hurry up and admit their feelings. It seemed to be dragged out too much and it made them feel stupid after a certain length of time in my opinion. Also, I didn't quite get the situation with Rhys. He was a weird character I couldn't get my head around.
Anyway, overall it was still an enjoyable read. There are some strange moments and the pacing could have been a little better but it's still an okay romance.
Now that I've finished it I'm not sure what to make of it. It held my attention and kept my interest, but there were quite a few 'wtf?' moments where I questioned what I was reading.
If I Told You centres around Brooklyn and Flynn. They're best friends who live together, but are both denying their feelings for each other due to the fact they don't want to mess up their friendship. For the majority of the book they are in denial--about 60% actually. While the story held my interest there were times I wished they'd hurry up and admit their feelings. It seemed to be dragged out too much and it made them feel stupid after a certain length of time in my opinion. Also, I didn't quite get the situation with Rhys. He was a weird character I couldn't get my head around.
Anyway, overall it was still an enjoyable read. There are some strange moments and the pacing could have been a little better but it's still an okay romance.
June 28, 2016
This crazy hot...good!!
First, well done Jennifer for keeping me hooked throughout the entire book.
Another really fantastic and totally consuming read from Jennifer Domenico.
Her ability to create amazing single minded bad a... alpha and make us fall in love with him...were just fantastic!
This book was hot as hell and kept me on the edge of my seat.
The dream chapter almost gave me a heart attack. I said "oh no, she didn't go there"!
My face was so red almost all throughout the entire chapter. You are so sneaky Mrs. Dominico!!! Lol
This book:
It made me laugh, It made me sniffle, It made me angry, It made me smile, and It also made me cheer.
This is a must read and I totally recommend it!!
First, well done Jennifer for keeping me hooked throughout the entire book.
Another really fantastic and totally consuming read from Jennifer Domenico.
Her ability to create amazing single minded bad a... alpha and make us fall in love with him...were just fantastic!
This book was hot as hell and kept me on the edge of my seat.
The dream chapter almost gave me a heart attack. I said "oh no, she didn't go there"!
My face was so red almost all throughout the entire chapter. You are so sneaky Mrs. Dominico!!! Lol
This book:
It made me laugh, It made me sniffle, It made me angry, It made me smile, and It also made me cheer.
This is a must read and I totally recommend it!!
June 28, 2016
This story is really cute I loved the characters but I will admit I one point I wanted to scream just tell the truth. All their back and forth got annoying especially with the sexual tension between them. It was a great story though I loved the 2nd characters Jill and Rhys and I hope they get their own story. The main characters Flynn and Brooklyn are best friends that tell each other everything but the one thing they both are dying to hear from each other. Ok to be honest it wasn't really annoying I just wish they stopped playing games. The author's style of writing is beautiful and she explains every detail. I can't wait to read more from this author.
I received an advanced copy for a honest review but in no way did it influence my opinion.
I received an advanced copy for a honest review but in no way did it influence my opinion.
July 4, 2016
This was a good read. The lives of two best friends who support each other in more ways than most friendships. Both are very successful at what they do. They support one another through everything and act as if they are in a relationship but, neither one wants to realize that they do indeed love the other. They each have a past that has caused the hard shell to form around their hearts, not letting anyone but each other in, just as friends should do. Ultimately, they each realized that the only person that makes them truly happy is each other. It takes another man who's vying for Brooklyns heart for the two best friends to finally end up with one another, for life.
June 26, 2016
Love, love, loved it!! Flynn is so HOT, seriously a man that can cook, is good looking and has a caring personality!?! SCORE!! New book boyfriend. Brooklyn is a woman who knows what she wants and goes for it, but what these two don't realize is they have already been living the relationship and doing a darn good job at it. This book is great. The secondary characters are well written and support the main characters well. I have read all of Jennifer's books and she has yet to disappoint me.
July 10, 2016
I have read many friends to lovers stories in the past and I don't know what it is about this story, but I didn't enjoy it at all. First, when the heroine, Brooklyn, states in the story that she is so pretty she can get whatever guy she wants that immediately turned me off. Brooklyn and Flynn are roommates, so when there is a certain scene that she catches him doing something and she does something, I didn't like that either. I tried reading it but it didn't keep me involved in the plot like I normally do. Maybe this is a one-off for me and I just missed the point.
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