What do you think?
Rate this book
Minnesota Ice #3
Birthday Girl
USA TODAY bestselling series
Good things come in extra-large, smoking hot birthday suits.
Things like Cohen James.
Bad boy Cohen James has screwed up yet again. Star forward of Minnesota’s pro hockey team, Cohen’s made a name for himself—and not in a good way. So, at the insistence of his agent, he’s stuck volunteering at the local YMCA teaching introductory adult swim lessons for ten weeks. Ten weeks of torture.
What he doesn’t expect is her.
Annie Plymouth, star pupil.
Her ruffled green bathing suit might be the most ridiculous thing he’s ever seen, but after a few heated breaststroke lessons and some intense mouth to mouth, Cohen’s ready to get her out of the water and into her birthday suit… except she has a different game plan.
Is the pair destined to sink… or can they swim?
** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** **
This is a full-length, standalone romantic comedy with an HEA. It is intended for audiences 18+ due to mature content including romance, language, and ridiculously fun times.
Good things come in extra-large, smoking hot birthday suits.
Things like Cohen James.
Bad boy Cohen James has screwed up yet again. Star forward of Minnesota’s pro hockey team, Cohen’s made a name for himself—and not in a good way. So, at the insistence of his agent, he’s stuck volunteering at the local YMCA teaching introductory adult swim lessons for ten weeks. Ten weeks of torture.
What he doesn’t expect is her.
Annie Plymouth, star pupil.
Her ruffled green bathing suit might be the most ridiculous thing he’s ever seen, but after a few heated breaststroke lessons and some intense mouth to mouth, Cohen’s ready to get her out of the water and into her birthday suit… except she has a different game plan.
Is the pair destined to sink… or can they swim?
** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** **
This is a full-length, standalone romantic comedy with an HEA. It is intended for audiences 18+ due to mature content including romance, language, and ridiculously fun times.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2017
234 people are currently reading
442 people want to read
About the author
Lily Kate
10 books488 followersLily Kate works a pretttttty boring day job and writes books filled with heat, heart, and humor by night. When she’s not writing books, you may find her watching Christmas movies before Thanksgiving, eating whipped cream from the can, or hanging out with her family.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
January 5, 2018
This story is a super slow burn which, for me, is enjoyable if the author keeps my interest. I have to be engaged in the story. I have to believe the chemistry and attraction and in this case, I did not. Unfortunately, I wasn’t all that impressed by Cohen and Annie. Their insecurities humanized them but were overwhelming their personalities, especially strongly with Annie. Cohen was a solid win at first but tapered off early. By the end, I was disappointed because I felt like I should like the characters who started out with high potential, but I really didn’t form an attachment to them.
The plot felt like an unmet expectation. However, I did like the humorous elements. The writing, pacing, and imagery were executed well. I enjoyed the author’s predecessor to this book and would consider giving her another try in the future.
The plot felt like an unmet expectation. However, I did like the humorous elements. The writing, pacing, and imagery were executed well. I enjoyed the author’s predecessor to this book and would consider giving her another try in the future.
September 27, 2017
Annie Plymouth has set out to face her fears. Or shall we say, was sent to face her fears. Despite being in her 20's with aspirations of becoming a lawyer, Annie has a fear of water. Her mother is determined that she learn how to swim by Annie's 23rd birthday and her mom's upcoming wedding, therefore she signed Annie up for swimming lessons. What they didn't expect was for the instructor to be NHL's hunk, Cohen James.
Annie is determined. Not only in getting out of the swim lesson (who doesn't like a good bribe?) but she's determined to dissuade Cohen from being interested in her. Annie's "normal". She's not meant to be a hockey player's girlfriend, besides, she's focused on her future.
I personally love a good chase, and Cohen isn't afraid of a challenge. Once he sets eyes on Annie, it's game over. He's after her and there's nothing that can stand in his way. Except Annie's exceptional wall that she's built up over the years from learning that men just don't stick around. Cohen has his work cut out for him.
I will admit that I have a weakness when it comes to side characters. One of the reasons that I fell in love with Lily's Delivery Girl was because of the side characters that she created with a big component of family. I missed this in Boss Girl, but I was happy to see that Lily brought that back around in Birthday Girl. I especially loved Gran. She's a spunky, vibrant Grandmother that isn't afraid of putting herself out there, and watching her and Annie's relationship is completely adorable.
I just was wanting a little more. I was happy to see that there was a little more focus on hockey in this one, but I had to wait a while to get to it. I wanted more personal experience from Cohen regarding hockey as well, especially with teammates. I love it when an author can draw me into the next book, tying the series together, and this one came up short just like Boss Girl. I know that Kate has the ability to be a good writer, because she is, but there are gaps in between. I just know that she has more in her and can't wait to see her grow as an author.
Overall, I was more than happy to continue with this cute series and can't wait to see want Kate has to offer with Hangry Girl.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Annie is determined. Not only in getting out of the swim lesson (who doesn't like a good bribe?) but she's determined to dissuade Cohen from being interested in her. Annie's "normal". She's not meant to be a hockey player's girlfriend, besides, she's focused on her future.
I personally love a good chase, and Cohen isn't afraid of a challenge. Once he sets eyes on Annie, it's game over. He's after her and there's nothing that can stand in his way. Except Annie's exceptional wall that she's built up over the years from learning that men just don't stick around. Cohen has his work cut out for him.
I will admit that I have a weakness when it comes to side characters. One of the reasons that I fell in love with Lily's Delivery Girl was because of the side characters that she created with a big component of family. I missed this in Boss Girl, but I was happy to see that Lily brought that back around in Birthday Girl. I especially loved Gran. She's a spunky, vibrant Grandmother that isn't afraid of putting herself out there, and watching her and Annie's relationship is completely adorable.
I just was wanting a little more. I was happy to see that there was a little more focus on hockey in this one, but I had to wait a while to get to it. I wanted more personal experience from Cohen regarding hockey as well, especially with teammates. I love it when an author can draw me into the next book, tying the series together, and this one came up short just like Boss Girl. I know that Kate has the ability to be a good writer, because she is, but there are gaps in between. I just know that she has more in her and can't wait to see her grow as an author.
Overall, I was more than happy to continue with this cute series and can't wait to see want Kate has to offer with Hangry Girl.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2017
*5 Stars*
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first Lily Kate book, but it won’t be my last. I really enjoyed this one. From the moment we had Annie and Cohens first interaction, I was hooked.
I really enjoyed the banter between the two, and knew that this would have me laughing at the antics of not only them, but Gran as well. It was fun getting to know both characters and see their bond grow.
Gran was hilarious as well. In a way, she kind of reminded me of Grandma Mazur from the Stephanie Plum series, for those who are familiar. Gran always had a smart alec comment, and was great entertainment.
I wouldn’t mind getting to know more about Leigh either, she was a pretty cool secondary character.
Cohen was pretty damned swoon worthy and had me amazed at the lengths he would go to, just to prove to Annie that he would always be there. Watching them fall for each other and learn to be together was really nice.
I’ll definitely be going back and reading the first two books in the series, and reading anything else that Lily Kate releases in the future as well.
Would recommend.
Review also on my blog - Birthday Girl - Lily Kate
Follow me on:
Facebook
Twitter
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first Lily Kate book, but it won’t be my last. I really enjoyed this one. From the moment we had Annie and Cohens first interaction, I was hooked.
I really enjoyed the banter between the two, and knew that this would have me laughing at the antics of not only them, but Gran as well. It was fun getting to know both characters and see their bond grow.
Gran was hilarious as well. In a way, she kind of reminded me of Grandma Mazur from the Stephanie Plum series, for those who are familiar. Gran always had a smart alec comment, and was great entertainment.
I wouldn’t mind getting to know more about Leigh either, she was a pretty cool secondary character.
Cohen was pretty damned swoon worthy and had me amazed at the lengths he would go to, just to prove to Annie that he would always be there. Watching them fall for each other and learn to be together was really nice.
I’ll definitely be going back and reading the first two books in the series, and reading anything else that Lily Kate releases in the future as well.
Would recommend.
Review also on my blog - Birthday Girl - Lily Kate
Follow me on:
September 1, 2023
Annie Plymouth is deathly afraid of water and when her mom signs her up for swim class so she can attend her mothers wedding on a ship, she is less then thrilled. Finding out her coach is Cohen James, hockey athlete and stunning man who flirts with her is less then ideal. Cohen though makes a mistake which has Annie freezing him out. With each lesson though Annie begins to feel something for Cohen and as they begin to explore what they feel for one another, can Annie open her heart up or is she destined to be alone?
This was a bit angstier that I thought it would be and I liked a lot of the story but at times wanted to throttle Annie. Overall entertaining read and I liked all the surrounding characters.
This was a bit angstier that I thought it would be and I liked a lot of the story but at times wanted to throttle Annie. Overall entertaining read and I liked all the surrounding characters.
September 22, 2017
Birthday Girl by Lily Kate is the third book in the Minnesota Ice Series. Birthday Girl can easily be read as a standalone.
Meet Cohen James. He has tattoos, scars and is a bad boy extraordinaire. After the last incident he was ordered to volunteer at the YMCA teaching swim lessons. And there he meets Annie Plymouth, she has water phobia. And has reasons to it. After he near drowned her she´s determined to keep him away from her. And he wants her, like WANTS her. She runs, he chases and in time she sees he´s a good guy.
I liked the pace of the book. The relationship takes time to grow and so do the characters.
I liked the writing, the story and the words.
I give 4,5 sweet stars and say thank you, Lily Kate.
Meet Cohen James. He has tattoos, scars and is a bad boy extraordinaire. After the last incident he was ordered to volunteer at the YMCA teaching swim lessons. And there he meets Annie Plymouth, she has water phobia. And has reasons to it. After he near drowned her she´s determined to keep him away from her. And he wants her, like WANTS her. She runs, he chases and in time she sees he´s a good guy.
I liked the pace of the book. The relationship takes time to grow and so do the characters.
I liked the writing, the story and the words.
I give 4,5 sweet stars and say thank you, Lily Kate.
September 30, 2017
This story was different than the others in this series but no less special.
Annie (which is a name I love for a girl, I don’t know why) is being forced to take swimming lessons by her overbearing mother and slightly crazy Gran. What Annie doesn’t expect is Cohen and their love-hate relationship.
Cohen is teaching swimming at the local YMCA as a volunteer. He got a little exuberant in some of his pranks and was convinced to do some community service. He’s not expecting to be attracted to one of his students, especially in the green monstrosity of a bathing suit.
A sweet, real story. Annie’s fears are totally real and as you’re reading, you want to hug her and comfort her.
Annie (which is a name I love for a girl, I don’t know why) is being forced to take swimming lessons by her overbearing mother and slightly crazy Gran. What Annie doesn’t expect is Cohen and their love-hate relationship.
Cohen is teaching swimming at the local YMCA as a volunteer. He got a little exuberant in some of his pranks and was convinced to do some community service. He’s not expecting to be attracted to one of his students, especially in the green monstrosity of a bathing suit.
A sweet, real story. Annie’s fears are totally real and as you’re reading, you want to hug her and comfort her.
April 22, 2018
Ugh! Oh ick. It bugged me throughout the whole book that it felt like chunks of the book was missing. There was no easy flow. One page they're in a pool the next page its 3 weeks later in a hockey match and so much seemed to happen between the couple that we didn't get to know/read about in the development of the relationship. And why does the guy turn into such mush once he gets the girl??? Why cant he stay the cool, hot guy? Nope you get a sappy loved up wet leaf.
September 29, 2017
This is the 3rd book in the series. The first one is still my favorite but this one is sweet. Annie and Cohen. It's a cute story...3.5 Stars I loved Gran and we see a bit of Andi and Ryan again from Delivery Girl - just a peek nothing exciting from them. I really loved the epilogue! ❤️
October 11, 2017
my first lily Kate book and it was so perfect. what starts out with a girl wanting to learn to swim ends with the sweetest of all endings. I appreciate this story and the time the author took. definitely recommend to everyone
November 3, 2024
4am read, slow burn, mhmm
October 7, 2017
Review to follow.
November 26, 2017
Recensione a cura di NoOne per Feel The Book
Mi sono divertita moltissimo nel leggere “Birthday Girl”, è la mia “prima volta” con Lily Kate come autrice e ho adorato questa storia così leggera, divertente e romantica.
La trama è semplice e la storia tra Cohen e Annie scorre via in modo molto fluido e veloce, senza inutili drammi, ed è caratterizzata da dialoghi e situazioni molto carine e divertenti quando i due si ritrovano a essere insieme.
Cohen James è un giocatore professionista di hockey, una vera star, ma non è famoso solo per il suo talento sul ghiaccio… diciamo che è anche abbastanza “esuberante” una volta uscito dallo spogliatoio, e le sue follie non passano inosservate all’occhio dei media e soprattutto non lo rendono il pupillo dell’allenatore, o il più amato all’interno dello spogliatoio. Per ripulire un po’ la sua reputazione accetta di offrirsi come volontario per fare l’istruttore di nuoto nei corsi per adulti e bambini in un centro di servizi per la comunità.
Qui incontra Annie, futuro avvocato, iscritta a forza dalla madre al corso di nuoto. Annie è terrorizzata dall’acqua, ma dovendo partecipare in veste di damigella d’onore alle seconde nozze della madre, su una nave, è costretta ad affrontare questa sua paura.
Conoscendo la sua reticenza, viene quasi scortata dalla madre e dalla nonna in piscina, per frequentare il corso. Come forma di protesta, indossa uno dei costumi più orribili nella storia del nuoto. Quando vede Cohen per la prima volta a bordo vasca, quasi dimentica per due secondi (ho detto quasi) tutte le sue paure. Da parte sua, Cohen non appena la vede in quel costume, al contrario di ogni uomo che respiri sulla terra, capisce che Annie è speciale e avrebbe un gran desiderio di mandare all’aria tutti i suoi buoni propositi e rapirla seduta stante.
Annie, però, non è proprio una delle sue classiche fan, che si buttano ai suoi piedi. Per anni ha sofferto a causa dell’indifferenza del padre, un uomo incapace di farla sentire amata, e ha costruito un muro intorno a se stessa per proteggersi.
Mi sono piaciuti un sacco insieme. Cohen ha dovuto lottare per conquistare un posticino nel cuore di Annie e devo dire che è stato perfetto in questo: ha saputo sempre fare la cosa giusta, a volte stuzzicandola e insistendo, mentre altre volte le ha dato spazio, capendo quando Annie ne aveva il bisogno. La chimica presente tra di loro è favolosa e mi è piaciuto poter leggere il libro attraverso il punto di vista di entrambi, questa cosa ha reso il racconto ancora più coinvolgente.
La storia tra Annie e Cohen è molto, molto romantica e le scese di sesso tra di loro, pur essendo sexy, sono scritte senza mai essere volgari o troppo esplicite.
Un altro punto di forza di questo libro è la famiglia di Annie, sua madre, ma soprattutto la nonna, che è davvero stravagante e divertente.
Questo è il terzo libro della serie Minnesota Ice, ma può essere letto come storia autoconclusiva, anche se devo dire che leggendo le trame dei due libri precedenti ed essendomi piaciuto così tanto il modo di scrivere di questa autrice, non vedo l’ora di poter leggere anche i Minnesota Ice #1 e #2.
Un’ultima cosa: devo assolutamente vedere i costumi di Annie… e voglio un Cohen anche per me!!!
Editing recensione a cura di Lilith per Feel The Book
Mi sono divertita moltissimo nel leggere “Birthday Girl”, è la mia “prima volta” con Lily Kate come autrice e ho adorato questa storia così leggera, divertente e romantica.
La trama è semplice e la storia tra Cohen e Annie scorre via in modo molto fluido e veloce, senza inutili drammi, ed è caratterizzata da dialoghi e situazioni molto carine e divertenti quando i due si ritrovano a essere insieme.
Cohen James è un giocatore professionista di hockey, una vera star, ma non è famoso solo per il suo talento sul ghiaccio… diciamo che è anche abbastanza “esuberante” una volta uscito dallo spogliatoio, e le sue follie non passano inosservate all’occhio dei media e soprattutto non lo rendono il pupillo dell’allenatore, o il più amato all’interno dello spogliatoio. Per ripulire un po’ la sua reputazione accetta di offrirsi come volontario per fare l’istruttore di nuoto nei corsi per adulti e bambini in un centro di servizi per la comunità.
Qui incontra Annie, futuro avvocato, iscritta a forza dalla madre al corso di nuoto. Annie è terrorizzata dall’acqua, ma dovendo partecipare in veste di damigella d’onore alle seconde nozze della madre, su una nave, è costretta ad affrontare questa sua paura.
Conoscendo la sua reticenza, viene quasi scortata dalla madre e dalla nonna in piscina, per frequentare il corso. Come forma di protesta, indossa uno dei costumi più orribili nella storia del nuoto. Quando vede Cohen per la prima volta a bordo vasca, quasi dimentica per due secondi (ho detto quasi) tutte le sue paure. Da parte sua, Cohen non appena la vede in quel costume, al contrario di ogni uomo che respiri sulla terra, capisce che Annie è speciale e avrebbe un gran desiderio di mandare all’aria tutti i suoi buoni propositi e rapirla seduta stante.
Annie, però, non è proprio una delle sue classiche fan, che si buttano ai suoi piedi. Per anni ha sofferto a causa dell’indifferenza del padre, un uomo incapace di farla sentire amata, e ha costruito un muro intorno a se stessa per proteggersi.
Mi sono piaciuti un sacco insieme. Cohen ha dovuto lottare per conquistare un posticino nel cuore di Annie e devo dire che è stato perfetto in questo: ha saputo sempre fare la cosa giusta, a volte stuzzicandola e insistendo, mentre altre volte le ha dato spazio, capendo quando Annie ne aveva il bisogno. La chimica presente tra di loro è favolosa e mi è piaciuto poter leggere il libro attraverso il punto di vista di entrambi, questa cosa ha reso il racconto ancora più coinvolgente.
La storia tra Annie e Cohen è molto, molto romantica e le scese di sesso tra di loro, pur essendo sexy, sono scritte senza mai essere volgari o troppo esplicite.
Un altro punto di forza di questo libro è la famiglia di Annie, sua madre, ma soprattutto la nonna, che è davvero stravagante e divertente.
Questo è il terzo libro della serie Minnesota Ice, ma può essere letto come storia autoconclusiva, anche se devo dire che leggendo le trame dei due libri precedenti ed essendomi piaciuto così tanto il modo di scrivere di questa autrice, non vedo l’ora di poter leggere anche i Minnesota Ice #1 e #2.
Un’ultima cosa: devo assolutamente vedere i costumi di Annie… e voglio un Cohen anche per me!!!
Editing recensione a cura di Lilith per Feel The Book
October 3, 2017
I really enjoyed reading "Birthday Girl", it was my "first time" with Lily Kate as author and I loved this story so lighthearted, funny and romantic.
The plot is simple and the story between Cohen and Annie runs smoothly and fast, without unnecessary dramas, and it's characterized by dialogues and situations very funny when they're together.
Cohen James is a professional hockey player, a real star, but he isn't only famous for his talent on the ice, we could say he is also exuberant once he leaves the locker room and his behaviour doesn't go unnoticed with media and doesn't make him the trainer's pupil or the most beloved guy within the team. In order to clean up his reputation, he agrees to volunteer as a swimming instructor for adults and children.
There he meets Annie, future lawyer, signed by her mother at the swimming course. Annie is terrified by water, but having to attend as bridesmaid to her mother's second wedding, on a boat, she is forced to face her fear.
Knowing her reticence in the matter, she is almost get escorted by mother and granny to the pool to attend, and for protest she wears one of the most horrible swimsuit in the history of swimming. When she sees Cohen for the first time near the water, she almost(I say almost) forgets for two seconds all her fears. At the same time when Cohen sees her, unlike any other man breathing on the earth, he realizes Annie is special and he'd like to forget all his good intentions and take her away.
Annie, however, isn't really like his usual fans, who throw themselves at his feet. For years she suffered because of her father's indifference, a man unable to make her feel loved and cherished, so she built a wall around her heart to protect herself.
I liked a lot them together. Cohen must struggle to win Annie's heart and I must say he was perfect with the task, knowing always the right thing to do, sometimes teasing her, sometimes leaving her room when she needed it. The chemistry between them is great and reading the story through both of their POV was even more engaging.
Everything about Annie and Cohen is very, very romantic and sex scenes between them are hot, but without being vulgar or too explicit.
Another strenght of this book is Annie's family, her mother and above all her gran, who is really extravagant and fun.
This is the third book in the Minnesota Ice series, but it can be read as standalone, although after reading the blurbs of the previous books and having loved so much the writing of this author, I must say, now I can't wait to read also Minnesota Ice #1 and #2!!!
Last thing: I really need to see Annie's swimsuits, I want a Cohen for myself :)
The plot is simple and the story between Cohen and Annie runs smoothly and fast, without unnecessary dramas, and it's characterized by dialogues and situations very funny when they're together.
Cohen James is a professional hockey player, a real star, but he isn't only famous for his talent on the ice, we could say he is also exuberant once he leaves the locker room and his behaviour doesn't go unnoticed with media and doesn't make him the trainer's pupil or the most beloved guy within the team. In order to clean up his reputation, he agrees to volunteer as a swimming instructor for adults and children.
There he meets Annie, future lawyer, signed by her mother at the swimming course. Annie is terrified by water, but having to attend as bridesmaid to her mother's second wedding, on a boat, she is forced to face her fear.
Knowing her reticence in the matter, she is almost get escorted by mother and granny to the pool to attend, and for protest she wears one of the most horrible swimsuit in the history of swimming. When she sees Cohen for the first time near the water, she almost(I say almost) forgets for two seconds all her fears. At the same time when Cohen sees her, unlike any other man breathing on the earth, he realizes Annie is special and he'd like to forget all his good intentions and take her away.
Annie, however, isn't really like his usual fans, who throw themselves at his feet. For years she suffered because of her father's indifference, a man unable to make her feel loved and cherished, so she built a wall around her heart to protect herself.
I liked a lot them together. Cohen must struggle to win Annie's heart and I must say he was perfect with the task, knowing always the right thing to do, sometimes teasing her, sometimes leaving her room when she needed it. The chemistry between them is great and reading the story through both of their POV was even more engaging.
Everything about Annie and Cohen is very, very romantic and sex scenes between them are hot, but without being vulgar or too explicit.
Another strenght of this book is Annie's family, her mother and above all her gran, who is really extravagant and fun.
This is the third book in the Minnesota Ice series, but it can be read as standalone, although after reading the blurbs of the previous books and having loved so much the writing of this author, I must say, now I can't wait to read also Minnesota Ice #1 and #2!!!
Last thing: I really need to see Annie's swimsuits, I want a Cohen for myself :)
October 2, 2017
What do you do when your mother is getting married on a cruise ship and wants you to finally learn how to swim?
If you're Annie Plymouth you suck it up and cave to her demands.
When you've gained a reputation as a "bad boy" and your publicist tells you it's time to clean up your act?
If you're Cohen James you suck it up and do what it takes.
Neither expected the local YMCA to be the place where their whole lives would change.
But when life doesn't go quite as planned, will they stop long enough to think their way out of their relationship? Or will the realize they love each other and want to spend the good and the bad times together?
Birthday Girl is a fun, sexy, romantic love story that will grip you from page one until the fabulous end.
I love how Cohen never give up to get that first date, and after that date he knew he wanted Annie in his life for as long as she'd let him. And despite the fact that Annie has trust issues, Cohen doesn't pressure her move the relationship faster then she's ready for.
Annie is scared, a that is understandable, but she still takes the risk to see where a relationship with Cohen can go. She's smart, witty, sassy, and loyal. She's someone that the reader can relate to and would love to have as a friend.
The more I read from Lily Kate, the more in love I become with her words. Birthday Girl is a brilliant read that I didn't want to put down and slightly cried because I didn't want it to end. I love the passion, the thoughtfulness, the kindness, and the love that was contained between the pages. Cohen James is definitely a hero you want to swoon over and maybe even want to pretend to be drowning so that he can rescue you and give you mouth to mouth.
So if you need a romantic comedy that will have you laughing, crying, and falling in love, then I highly recommend you pick up Birthday Girl.
If you're Annie Plymouth you suck it up and cave to her demands.
When you've gained a reputation as a "bad boy" and your publicist tells you it's time to clean up your act?
If you're Cohen James you suck it up and do what it takes.
Neither expected the local YMCA to be the place where their whole lives would change.
But when life doesn't go quite as planned, will they stop long enough to think their way out of their relationship? Or will the realize they love each other and want to spend the good and the bad times together?
Birthday Girl is a fun, sexy, romantic love story that will grip you from page one until the fabulous end.
I love how Cohen never give up to get that first date, and after that date he knew he wanted Annie in his life for as long as she'd let him. And despite the fact that Annie has trust issues, Cohen doesn't pressure her move the relationship faster then she's ready for.
Annie is scared, a that is understandable, but she still takes the risk to see where a relationship with Cohen can go. She's smart, witty, sassy, and loyal. She's someone that the reader can relate to and would love to have as a friend.
The more I read from Lily Kate, the more in love I become with her words. Birthday Girl is a brilliant read that I didn't want to put down and slightly cried because I didn't want it to end. I love the passion, the thoughtfulness, the kindness, and the love that was contained between the pages. Cohen James is definitely a hero you want to swoon over and maybe even want to pretend to be drowning so that he can rescue you and give you mouth to mouth.
So if you need a romantic comedy that will have you laughing, crying, and falling in love, then I highly recommend you pick up Birthday Girl.
May 25, 2018
Read with Kindle Unlimited
This was another fun rom com by Lily Kate! So far I've read Delivery Girl, Boss Girl, Awkward. , and now Birthday Girl! I really love Ms. Kate's writing style. It's simple but not boring and everything flows.
I loved the progression of the relationship. Usually with romance novels, it's the man who resists and the woman has to spend the book convincing the hero that she's worth fighting for. This was the opposite. It is the heroine, Annie, that has doubts and resists Cohen. He has to work for her. I LOVED IT! All of her doubts and fears were completely valid too based on his past behavior and tabloid antics, as well as the issues she had with her ex-boyfriend's behavior and father's neglect. I really liked that Cohen never pressured her to tell him more or do more physical stuff until she was ready. Consent was 100% there. Cohen was respectful and thoughtful to everything about her. But he wasn't too perfect either. He had his flaws, but he was always willing to apologize for them and make it up to her.
There are a couple of tame sex scenes. It's very obvious what they are doing, but they aren't super descriptive. I would have liked a little more steam, her other books had a bit more detailed love scenes, but I didn't think it took away from the story. There was such a build up because Annie wanted to wait to have sex, I would have liked a bit more, but ultimately it was fine. There were only few uses of the F word and a couple other curse words, nothing too distracting.
If you love rom coms then you'll love this book!
This was another fun rom com by Lily Kate! So far I've read Delivery Girl, Boss Girl, Awkward. , and now Birthday Girl! I really love Ms. Kate's writing style. It's simple but not boring and everything flows.
I loved the progression of the relationship. Usually with romance novels, it's the man who resists and the woman has to spend the book convincing the hero that she's worth fighting for. This was the opposite. It is the heroine, Annie, that has doubts and resists Cohen. He has to work for her. I LOVED IT! All of her doubts and fears were completely valid too based on his past behavior and tabloid antics, as well as the issues she had with her ex-boyfriend's behavior and father's neglect. I really liked that Cohen never pressured her to tell him more or do more physical stuff until she was ready. Consent was 100% there. Cohen was respectful and thoughtful to everything about her. But he wasn't too perfect either. He had his flaws, but he was always willing to apologize for them and make it up to her.
There are a couple of tame sex scenes. It's very obvious what they are doing, but they aren't super descriptive. I would have liked a little more steam, her other books had a bit more detailed love scenes, but I didn't think it took away from the story. There was such a build up because Annie wanted to wait to have sex, I would have liked a bit more, but ultimately it was fine. There were only few uses of the F word and a couple other curse words, nothing too distracting.
If you love rom coms then you'll love this book!
October 6, 2017
Annie and Cohen are so sweet and sexy they melt hearts and singe fingertips. Annie’s mother has decided in her infinite wisdom to have her wedding on a cruise ship and if the maid of honor dress wasn't punishment enough not only is it only her birthday but she is forcing her to take swim lessons. Annie is like deathly afraid of large bodies of water and has made it this far in her life without it crippling her so she sees no reason to face this phobia now. But at her mother's incessant prodding she acquiesces and finds herself enrolled in an adult beginner's swim class. She figured she could just bride the instructor for her certificate, get her mother off her back, and carry on with her life. What she wasn't counting on was Cohen James… Hockey's handsome bad boy was not what she excepting as her instructor and she certainly wasn't expecting for him to pursue her. Cohen needs some good PR to help his rep, so that's how he finds himself teaching the lovely Ms Annie Plymouth how to swim. There is just something extraordinary about Annie and he is helplessly drawn to her especially when she is less than gung-ho about his charm or his intentions. For the first time ever he has found a woman that is worth every ounce of effort he has to put in. Annie has walls a mile high around her but Cohen is willing to be patient until he dismantles the wall brick by brick, but will Annie give the reformed troublemaker a shot?
October 3, 2017
4 Stars!
What a sweet story!
Birthday Girl is the sweet, sexy story of Annie and Cohen. Their meet cute was comical - Annie can't swim, is afraid of the water, so her mother signs her up for beginners swim classes. Her instructor? Cohen James, bad boy hockey star who is trying to rehab his image. Sparks fly from the moment they meet, but Annie isn't nearly as impressed with Cohen as he is with her. He eventually cracks through her ice (pun intended) and she slowly warms up to him as he proves to her she can trust him and he won't disappoint her.
I really enjoyed the book. This was my first Lily Kate book and it definitely won't be the last. I was mildly annoyed with Annie and her inability to give Cohen a chance at first, but I warmed up to her by mid-book. Save for that, the book was great. It wrapped quicker than I like, but that's okay, Annie's grandmother made up for any shortcomings I could find.
A sweet, sexy romance you are sure to love!
What a sweet story!
Birthday Girl is the sweet, sexy story of Annie and Cohen. Their meet cute was comical - Annie can't swim, is afraid of the water, so her mother signs her up for beginners swim classes. Her instructor? Cohen James, bad boy hockey star who is trying to rehab his image. Sparks fly from the moment they meet, but Annie isn't nearly as impressed with Cohen as he is with her. He eventually cracks through her ice (pun intended) and she slowly warms up to him as he proves to her she can trust him and he won't disappoint her.
I really enjoyed the book. This was my first Lily Kate book and it definitely won't be the last. I was mildly annoyed with Annie and her inability to give Cohen a chance at first, but I warmed up to her by mid-book. Save for that, the book was great. It wrapped quicker than I like, but that's okay, Annie's grandmother made up for any shortcomings I could find.
A sweet, sexy romance you are sure to love!
August 15, 2020
Cohen James is a hockey player for the Minnesota Stars and he's got a bit of an image problem. So, his PR person sets him up to volunteer to teach swim lessons at the local YMCA. That's where he meets Annie Plymouth, in a neon green swimsuit with more ruffles than he can count. She's in his beginner swim class and doesn't want to be there, since she's terrified of the water. Even though it's unprofessional, Cohen asks Annie out on a date. But Annie is surprisingly hard to get and really resistant to the idea of dating a bad-boy like Cohen. She's sure he just wants another notch on his bedpost or that he's not going to stick around to make it something long-term. But Cohen is absolutely determined that he wants a shot at what could be with Annie. And she'll need to take a leap into the deep end of the pool and risk her heart with him.
So cute. I seem to be really into this author and will be looking for more. Honestly, you've got Cohen, who is a sweetheart. Yeah, he's got a bad boy image, but he's not trying to dick around with Annie - he's serious about wanting to date her (not just sleep with her). And once he does get Annie to agree to the date, he holds off on sex completely (not passion though, plenty of make out sessions) in order to prove to her that he wants more. He waits for Annie to sort through her issues before taking it further...and by then, he's madly in love. And this is more or less what Annie was waiting for. She had reservations and a bit of fear that Cohen might up and leave once he got what he wanted, but she was primarily waiting for love. She wanted some sort of reassurance that he wasn't temporary. I mean, she irritated me a bit with her complete lack of trust in him, but we don't always have complete control of these things. She did give him a chance. This is also interspersed with bits of humor that are right up my alley and they don't feel like they're trying to hard either (this is happening much more these days). So I thoroughly enjoyed this one and this author is now on my go-to reading list for a fun, fluffy, enjoyable romance.
So cute. I seem to be really into this author and will be looking for more. Honestly, you've got Cohen, who is a sweetheart. Yeah, he's got a bad boy image, but he's not trying to dick around with Annie - he's serious about wanting to date her (not just sleep with her). And once he does get Annie to agree to the date, he holds off on sex completely (not passion though, plenty of make out sessions) in order to prove to her that he wants more. He waits for Annie to sort through her issues before taking it further...and by then, he's madly in love. And this is more or less what Annie was waiting for. She had reservations and a bit of fear that Cohen might up and leave once he got what he wanted, but she was primarily waiting for love. She wanted some sort of reassurance that he wasn't temporary. I mean, she irritated me a bit with her complete lack of trust in him, but we don't always have complete control of these things. She did give him a chance. This is also interspersed with bits of humor that are right up my alley and they don't feel like they're trying to hard either (this is happening much more these days). So I thoroughly enjoyed this one and this author is now on my go-to reading list for a fun, fluffy, enjoyable romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2018
BIRTHDAY GIRL: Bathing Suits and Birthday Suits
http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
Okay – this one didn’t really take. In the first place, I found the plot contrived. Why would a hockey guy be qualified to be a beginning swim instructor? Also, I am sure thousands of people on cruises do not know how to swim, nor do I think knowing how would help you if you fell off one of those floating cities.
Then I was irritated because when they talk about her mother and her mom”s wedding being the reason she is at the swim class it seems ridiculous that she has to explain it again later. Also, when she learns about her friend’s divorce she is shaken even though it seems way too similar to her own parent’s story. We learn that experiences shape the way Annie feels. Even though they are a stretch in the plot sense, Annie’s experiences give a reasonable rationale for her aquaphobia and her fear of relationships.
The dynamic between Annie and her grandmother seems the most likely in the story — other than the relationship between Annie’s new friend, Leigh and her son. Any wacky grandmother is sure to merit comparison to Grandma Mazur in Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series. Annie’s granmother has more interest in activities like swimming than Steph’s pistol-packing, wake-loving grandmother. Even though Annie’s Gran pulls some crazy stunts she seems a little less crazy and a lot more grounded than the Evanovich version of a widowed grandmother living with her adult daughter.
I liked both narrators: Iggy gives just the right amount of macho bravado and Kasha gives the young and older women appropriate vocal representation.
This one really failed to do it for me. The male and female love interest, Cohen and Annie were interesting but I felt the plot was too contrived to make it work for me.
http://fangswandsandfairydust.com/201...
Okay – this one didn’t really take. In the first place, I found the plot contrived. Why would a hockey guy be qualified to be a beginning swim instructor? Also, I am sure thousands of people on cruises do not know how to swim, nor do I think knowing how would help you if you fell off one of those floating cities.
Then I was irritated because when they talk about her mother and her mom”s wedding being the reason she is at the swim class it seems ridiculous that she has to explain it again later. Also, when she learns about her friend’s divorce she is shaken even though it seems way too similar to her own parent’s story. We learn that experiences shape the way Annie feels. Even though they are a stretch in the plot sense, Annie’s experiences give a reasonable rationale for her aquaphobia and her fear of relationships.
The dynamic between Annie and her grandmother seems the most likely in the story — other than the relationship between Annie’s new friend, Leigh and her son. Any wacky grandmother is sure to merit comparison to Grandma Mazur in Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series. Annie’s granmother has more interest in activities like swimming than Steph’s pistol-packing, wake-loving grandmother. Even though Annie’s Gran pulls some crazy stunts she seems a little less crazy and a lot more grounded than the Evanovich version of a widowed grandmother living with her adult daughter.
I liked both narrators: Iggy gives just the right amount of macho bravado and Kasha gives the young and older women appropriate vocal representation.
This one really failed to do it for me. The male and female love interest, Cohen and Annie were interesting but I felt the plot was too contrived to make it work for me.
October 18, 2017
The story of Annie and Cohen was very sweet and romantic, maybe slightly too sweet for my tastes. I loved the premise of the story; Annie being scared of swimming, the hero being her coach.
I wished there was 'more' though.
Annie is not Cohen's typical type yet he falls for her instantly. I wished there was more gradual appreciation after getting to know her a bit more. I wanted more focus in Cohen getting Annie to overcome her fears. How did she even get in the pool the first time? Did he wade in gently with her holding her hand? Nope. How did she manage to put her face in the water? Was he there encouraging her to blow bubbles? Er no.
I just wanted a big more of a slow burn with the attraction. I wanted him to go from hot jerk to caring guy as he helped her with her fears. This is implied but is not the focus of the story. I get that. The story is more about how their relationship develops.
Whilst this was sweet and both had trust issues, it was a very smooth ride. Most blocks in their relationship were related to their feelings of insecurity which were countered with a progression of commitment. This was sweet but a bit saccharine for me. It lacked a certain heat level i look for.
I also wanted more side characters other than family. There is no sport really in this. I quite like the actual sports bits - weird I know. I also love team banter and camaraderie, but there was none.
In college romances, i love talk of dorms, roommates, campus' classes and parties. There was none of this. It's all about their relationship plus some funny family characters which were good, I just wanted, well, more!
But it was a sweet read.
I wished there was 'more' though.
Annie is not Cohen's typical type yet he falls for her instantly. I wished there was more gradual appreciation after getting to know her a bit more. I wanted more focus in Cohen getting Annie to overcome her fears. How did she even get in the pool the first time? Did he wade in gently with her holding her hand? Nope. How did she manage to put her face in the water? Was he there encouraging her to blow bubbles? Er no.
I just wanted a big more of a slow burn with the attraction. I wanted him to go from hot jerk to caring guy as he helped her with her fears. This is implied but is not the focus of the story. I get that. The story is more about how their relationship develops.
Whilst this was sweet and both had trust issues, it was a very smooth ride. Most blocks in their relationship were related to their feelings of insecurity which were countered with a progression of commitment. This was sweet but a bit saccharine for me. It lacked a certain heat level i look for.
I also wanted more side characters other than family. There is no sport really in this. I quite like the actual sports bits - weird I know. I also love team banter and camaraderie, but there was none.
In college romances, i love talk of dorms, roommates, campus' classes and parties. There was none of this. It's all about their relationship plus some funny family characters which were good, I just wanted, well, more!
But it was a sweet read.
February 1, 2024
I really enjoyed listening to Birthday Girl by Lily Kate.
Kasha Kensington and Iggy Toma narrate this story and they were perfect telling the story of Annie and Cohen.
I loved their voices and their performances kept me enthralled throughout.
Cohen James has a bad reputation he is a the badboy of Hockey and getting into trouble constantly,he needs to clean up is act.
His people make him volunteer do charity work so Cohen decides to teach swimming lessons at the local pool.
Here he meets 22 year old Annie who has a fear of large expanses of water,because of childhood trauma.But her mother is getting married on a cruise ship and insists she takes swimming lessons,much to Annies dismay.
Annie certainly makes an interesting first impression on her first swimming lesson and they have a chemistry between them,that is difficult to ignore.
This starts a relationship of some sort between them not a sexual one but Cohen pursues Annie,but Annie is reluctant to fall for his charms.
I loved this story it was so sweet,funny,romantic and steamy..a slow burn romance were the characters take a journey to get to know one another..They may be different in many ways but they fit perfectly together in more unexpected ways.
I am relishing Lily Kate's words they have captivated me.
I adored this audiobook.
Excellent
5 Stars.
Kasha Kensington and Iggy Toma narrate this story and they were perfect telling the story of Annie and Cohen.
I loved their voices and their performances kept me enthralled throughout.
Cohen James has a bad reputation he is a the badboy of Hockey and getting into trouble constantly,he needs to clean up is act.
His people make him volunteer do charity work so Cohen decides to teach swimming lessons at the local pool.
Here he meets 22 year old Annie who has a fear of large expanses of water,because of childhood trauma.But her mother is getting married on a cruise ship and insists she takes swimming lessons,much to Annies dismay.
Annie certainly makes an interesting first impression on her first swimming lesson and they have a chemistry between them,that is difficult to ignore.
This starts a relationship of some sort between them not a sexual one but Cohen pursues Annie,but Annie is reluctant to fall for his charms.
I loved this story it was so sweet,funny,romantic and steamy..a slow burn romance were the characters take a journey to get to know one another..They may be different in many ways but they fit perfectly together in more unexpected ways.
I am relishing Lily Kate's words they have captivated me.
I adored this audiobook.
Excellent
5 Stars.
February 3, 2018
This was sweet, but not as good as the others. I think there were elements that were supposed to be funny, but which I found incredibly pathetic.
Annie is forced into swimming lessons by her overbearing mother who decides to get married on Annie's birthday on a cruise ship. Annie is deathly afraid of the water after falling through the lake ice when she was a young girl. Cohen is immediately smitten but doesn't realize that when he surprises her and takes her floatie away that she'll panic and almost drown.
There were many issues here that weren't dealt with appropriately. The "male figures" in her life, the psuedo absentee father, the mom's fiance, both treat her like crap. Dad can't remember to show up and fiance can't get her name right. What is with that? Instead of getting angry she just takes it. Is this a Minnesota nice thing? I would have like a scene where Cohen sticks up for her with her dad and/or with the fiance. You can't get your fiance's daugther's name right?
All of this doesn't even make up for a hint of drama.... which is where this falls flat. I could have done with fewer sexy times and more relationship development. I rolled my eyes at the epilogue where they're all on the cruise.
Annie is forced into swimming lessons by her overbearing mother who decides to get married on Annie's birthday on a cruise ship. Annie is deathly afraid of the water after falling through the lake ice when she was a young girl. Cohen is immediately smitten but doesn't realize that when he surprises her and takes her floatie away that she'll panic and almost drown.
There were many issues here that weren't dealt with appropriately. The "male figures" in her life, the psuedo absentee father, the mom's fiance, both treat her like crap. Dad can't remember to show up and fiance can't get her name right. What is with that? Instead of getting angry she just takes it. Is this a Minnesota nice thing? I would have like a scene where Cohen sticks up for her with her dad and/or with the fiance. You can't get your fiance's daugther's name right?
All of this doesn't even make up for a hint of drama.... which is where this falls flat. I could have done with fewer sexy times and more relationship development. I rolled my eyes at the epilogue where they're all on the cruise.
October 15, 2017
Cohen James was a great guy. The book tells you about his playboy ways but when the book begins, you only see a great guy. Annie is nice but her personality got on my nerves. The book starts off interesting and fun. I like the grandmother. I would have like my grandmother to be like hers.
I did not like all the what if's with her. We all go through them but the repetitive of them was grating.
Annie never confronted her father about not showing up and I wondered whether he even walked her down the aisle. To me, the author made an issue of this in the book and it was a big part of Annie's fears and this should have been addressed. When the father shows up at the end with the present and now is in her future, she is all happy. That is fine but I wanted her to find out what his problem was with not showing up and her to confront him.
Also, did Cohen's father come to the wedding or not? Is he in the future with them? It is okay if he isn't just that it left it open. Maybe Cohen's dad may have wanted to see his grandchildren. Maybe he passed from alcohol abuse.
To me there was too many open things and do many repetitive things.
I did not like all the what if's with her. We all go through them but the repetitive of them was grating.
Annie never confronted her father about not showing up and I wondered whether he even walked her down the aisle. To me, the author made an issue of this in the book and it was a big part of Annie's fears and this should have been addressed. When the father shows up at the end with the present and now is in her future, she is all happy. That is fine but I wanted her to find out what his problem was with not showing up and her to confront him.
Also, did Cohen's father come to the wedding or not? Is he in the future with them? It is okay if he isn't just that it left it open. Maybe Cohen's dad may have wanted to see his grandchildren. Maybe he passed from alcohol abuse.
To me there was too many open things and do many repetitive things.
March 15, 2018
I absolutely loved parts of this books there were so many funny parts, however, the only reason I did not give it more stars is because it was so slow on the romance between Annie and Choen she was way to guarded and I understand waiting but they did everything under the sun outside intercourse it was just too much, I found myself getting annoyed by Annie. I liked seeing the past book couples and would have liked more interaction between the team and Choen more hockey, in general, I understand they are romance books but it would not hurt to add more of the hockey into them. Cohen was a wonderful male lead and Annies family especially her grandmother was a joy to read about I hope I am that crazy at that age. This was a good book and I am going to read more by Lily because I do enjoy her books.
March 9, 2020
Birthday Girl was the third and final book of Lily Kate’s Minnesota Ice Series. It can be read as a stand-alone but I recommend reading the others as well! It was funny, sexy, and swoon worthy!! I loved the sly humor throughout the book!
Cohen wasn’t a saint and the last bit of trouble he got into landed him a gig at the local YMCA. Teaching adults to swim was the last place he thought he would meet someone. But when he saw Annie he knew something was different about her.
What he didn’t realize was how hard it would be to get Annie to give him the time of day. When she finally gave in, could Cohen be enough for her or would their relationship go down the drain?
Cohen was such a great guy. He had a heart of gold and would do anything for Annie! They were really sweet together, it was fun to watch them take it slow. She definitely made him work for it 😃
Cohen wasn’t a saint and the last bit of trouble he got into landed him a gig at the local YMCA. Teaching adults to swim was the last place he thought he would meet someone. But when he saw Annie he knew something was different about her.
What he didn’t realize was how hard it would be to get Annie to give him the time of day. When she finally gave in, could Cohen be enough for her or would their relationship go down the drain?
Cohen was such a great guy. He had a heart of gold and would do anything for Annie! They were really sweet together, it was fun to watch them take it slow. She definitely made him work for it 😃
May 8, 2019
A true Romcom
The love story of Annie and Cohen is not your typical one.
Annie is being forced by her mother to take swimming lessons, since her Mom will be getting married on a cruise ship. Annie has avoided learning to swim all her life, since almost drowning as a child. So to please her mother, she relents.
Cohen is the bad boy hockey star. Due to his latest antics, he is being reprimanded by teaching an adult swimming class at the YMCA for ten weeks.
When Annie walks towards the pool in a hideous lime green swim suit with ruffles, Cohen can’t help but notice her. Annie is terrified of the water and it’s his job to have her overcome her fears. Along with the fact that he is really attracted to her.
I really enjoyed reading this very funny and romantic book.
The love story of Annie and Cohen is not your typical one.
Annie is being forced by her mother to take swimming lessons, since her Mom will be getting married on a cruise ship. Annie has avoided learning to swim all her life, since almost drowning as a child. So to please her mother, she relents.
Cohen is the bad boy hockey star. Due to his latest antics, he is being reprimanded by teaching an adult swimming class at the YMCA for ten weeks.
When Annie walks towards the pool in a hideous lime green swim suit with ruffles, Cohen can’t help but notice her. Annie is terrified of the water and it’s his job to have her overcome her fears. Along with the fact that he is really attracted to her.
I really enjoyed reading this very funny and romantic book.
September 25, 2017
Birthday Girl is exactly what I have come to love and expect from Lily Kate. This humor was just as funny and silly as the others and I swooned so hard for Cohen James and his naked serenading self. He just might be my favorite man from the Minnesota Ice series!
I loved Cohen so freaking much. He was patient yet knew when to push Annie. He was the team bad boy, but was really just misunderstood and gah! I just want to squeeze him so hard.
Annie was a little aggravating at times because she kept putting up walls and pushing Cohen away when all I wanted them to do was freaking kiss! But, when the finally did it was magical and totally worth the wait!
"I surrender to him, body, mind, heart because it's more than a kiss. It's almost as if he's marking me, taking me as his own in front of all these people."
Birthday Girl is a fun sexy read that you won't want to put down!
I loved Cohen so freaking much. He was patient yet knew when to push Annie. He was the team bad boy, but was really just misunderstood and gah! I just want to squeeze him so hard.
Annie was a little aggravating at times because she kept putting up walls and pushing Cohen away when all I wanted them to do was freaking kiss! But, when the finally did it was magical and totally worth the wait!
"I surrender to him, body, mind, heart because it's more than a kiss. It's almost as if he's marking me, taking me as his own in front of all these people."
Birthday Girl is a fun sexy read that you won't want to put down!
January 28, 2024
2⭐️
this has been in my audible account just waiting for me to listen for awhile, and i needed something quick that i didn’t have to think much about. this wasn’t doing it for me. i felt the MMC was pressuring the FMC too much even though afterward he would say “it’s okay”. all he could think of was spicy time. it was supposed to be a “bad boy” MMC but it was an insta-love with no character development. i finished because i hate when i DNF things, and it wasn’t that bad for me to stop it. i also wasn’t in the mood to make a decision on what to listen to next. terrible excuse to finish a book but here we are. 😅
this has been in my audible account just waiting for me to listen for awhile, and i needed something quick that i didn’t have to think much about. this wasn’t doing it for me. i felt the MMC was pressuring the FMC too much even though afterward he would say “it’s okay”. all he could think of was spicy time. it was supposed to be a “bad boy” MMC but it was an insta-love with no character development. i finished because i hate when i DNF things, and it wasn’t that bad for me to stop it. i also wasn’t in the mood to make a decision on what to listen to next. terrible excuse to finish a book but here we are. 😅
February 20, 2018
Cute read
Cute story. Annie has a severe phobia about water due to a childhood trauma. Her mother signs her up for swimming lessons. Cohen is a hockey player, who is rehabbing his image by teaching swimming lessons at the Y. They have chemistry, but Annie keeps pushing him away due to her fear of rejection caused by a neglectful father. Cohen slowly woos her and the rest is history. The story was okay, but not great. This is billed as a romantic comedy, but was was just mildly amusing.
Cute story. Annie has a severe phobia about water due to a childhood trauma. Her mother signs her up for swimming lessons. Cohen is a hockey player, who is rehabbing his image by teaching swimming lessons at the Y. They have chemistry, but Annie keeps pushing him away due to her fear of rejection caused by a neglectful father. Cohen slowly woos her and the rest is history. The story was okay, but not great. This is billed as a romantic comedy, but was was just mildly amusing.
April 4, 2022
Had potential for more stars. I just felt very disconnected to certain recurring bits, i.e. the ugly swimsuits. I couldn't picture them and when my imagination got close, I couldn't picture anything that ugly. And why would they exist. And why would she wear it, and another ugly one. She said yes to the lessons and yes to wearing an ugly suit, I just didn't understand this and felt it effected the storyline. She also doesn't speak up about hideous bridesmaid/wedding outfits? I couldn't grasp a lot of those actions and parts of the book...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews