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Who'd Have Thought
Top neurosurgeon Samantha Thomson needs to get married fast and is tightlipped as to why. And with over $200,000 on offer to tie the knot, no questions asked, cash-strapped ER nurse Hayden Pérez isn’t about to demand answers. The deal is only for a year of marriage, but Hayden’s going into it knowing it will be a nightmare. Sam is complicated, rude, kind of cold, and someone Hayden barely tolerates at work, let alone wants to marry. The hardest part is that Hayden has to convince everyone around them that they’re madly in love and that racing down the aisle together is all they’ve ever wanted. What could possibly go wrong?
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 4, 2017
191 people are currently reading
6769 people want to read
About the author
G. Benson
16 books949 followersBenson spent her childhood wrapped up in any book she could get her hands on and—as her mother likes to tell people at parties—even found a way to read in the shower. Moving on from writing bad poetry (thankfully) she started to write stories. About anything and everything. Tearing her from her laptop is a fairly difficult feat, though if you come bearing coffee you have a good chance.
When not writing or reading, she´s got her butt firmly on a train or plane to see the big wide world. Originally from Australia, she currently lives in Spain, speaking terrible Spanish and going on as many trips to new places as she can, budget permitting. This means she mostly walks around the city she lives in.
When not writing or reading, she´s got her butt firmly on a train or plane to see the big wide world. Originally from Australia, she currently lives in Spain, speaking terrible Spanish and going on as many trips to new places as she can, budget permitting. This means she mostly walks around the city she lives in.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 757 reviews
April 15, 2018
This was a real, feel good romance. I’m becoming a fan of Benson. All the Little Moments is still a favorite of mine, and I think she has another hit on her hands. This is the kind of book I think romance fans are going to really enjoy.
Hayden is a nurse, struggling to make ends meet. On a whim she answers an ad to be compensated for a relationship. One year of marriage for more than 200,000. This could finally be the break she really needs, but can she go through with this. When Hayden finds out the woman who placed the ad is Samantha, someone she can barely stand, how is this ever going to work out?
There are certain kinds of romance storylines I find myself almost always liking. One is a Hollywood star falling in love with the girl next door type. I’m realizing I also like the two characters in a fake relationship/marriage storyline. I was trying to understand why I like something that is a bit unrealistic so much, I think I finally figured it out. Many romances have instant attraction, or insta-love. In these pay to play books, those are not normally a factor. These characters don’t really know each other, might not even be attracted to each other, and sometimes don’t even like each other. To go from that to a potential HEA, the author has to do a lot of work to convince us it is real. Luckily for us, Benson does this really well.
Hayden and Sam could not be more different. Hayden is warm, great with her patients, and a bit of a klutz. Sam is a surgeon, who can come off cold and calculating. She is not good in social situations and has to really work at it. The term opposites attract could not be more apropos here. I found myself having no idea what to make of Sam at first. Hayden is instantly likeable, Sam is not. By the end of the book, I loved both characters and was hoping for a HEA. The secondary characters were also well done; I really enjoyed Hayden’s family storyline.
The romance was top notch for me. The slow build-up was just really well done. You could sense the chemistry and their feeling growing for each other, right in front of you. This book was not filled with Lesfic romance tropes, and it was the perfect definition of a feel good romance.
There are certain books you read and you just know other people are going to enjoy them. This is one of those books and I absolutely recommend it. Romance fans, don’t pass this up! This is a book I will not soon forget. I can’t wait to see what Benson puts out next.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
Hayden is a nurse, struggling to make ends meet. On a whim she answers an ad to be compensated for a relationship. One year of marriage for more than 200,000. This could finally be the break she really needs, but can she go through with this. When Hayden finds out the woman who placed the ad is Samantha, someone she can barely stand, how is this ever going to work out?
There are certain kinds of romance storylines I find myself almost always liking. One is a Hollywood star falling in love with the girl next door type. I’m realizing I also like the two characters in a fake relationship/marriage storyline. I was trying to understand why I like something that is a bit unrealistic so much, I think I finally figured it out. Many romances have instant attraction, or insta-love. In these pay to play books, those are not normally a factor. These characters don’t really know each other, might not even be attracted to each other, and sometimes don’t even like each other. To go from that to a potential HEA, the author has to do a lot of work to convince us it is real. Luckily for us, Benson does this really well.
Hayden and Sam could not be more different. Hayden is warm, great with her patients, and a bit of a klutz. Sam is a surgeon, who can come off cold and calculating. She is not good in social situations and has to really work at it. The term opposites attract could not be more apropos here. I found myself having no idea what to make of Sam at first. Hayden is instantly likeable, Sam is not. By the end of the book, I loved both characters and was hoping for a HEA. The secondary characters were also well done; I really enjoyed Hayden’s family storyline.
The romance was top notch for me. The slow build-up was just really well done. You could sense the chemistry and their feeling growing for each other, right in front of you. This book was not filled with Lesfic romance tropes, and it was the perfect definition of a feel good romance.
There are certain books you read and you just know other people are going to enjoy them. This is one of those books and I absolutely recommend it. Romance fans, don’t pass this up! This is a book I will not soon forget. I can’t wait to see what Benson puts out next.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
October 6, 2017
'Ylva-Publishing ARC provided in exchange for a fair and honest review'
3.5 stars! My first book by this author and it drew me in immediately and held me in enthralled intrigue from start to finish because of the synopsis,storyline and so much more. G.Benson covers a range of topics in this book including family drama(homophobic issues),wealth distinction,health issues(Alzheimer),diverse friendship,Same-sex marriage etc What i grasp about this author's writing is how uncomplicated she made both the main and supporting characters feel attractive/attach to us the readers. I thought the storyline was very artfully written,maybe not an original idea,I really enjoyed all the snarky sarcasm,taut interesting chemistry,witty & homophobic dialogue(vitriol),slow-paced and that unexpected yet satisfying twist at the end...recommend to everyone
3.5 stars! My first book by this author and it drew me in immediately and held me in enthralled intrigue from start to finish because of the synopsis,storyline and so much more. G.Benson covers a range of topics in this book including family drama(homophobic issues),wealth distinction,health issues(Alzheimer),diverse friendship,Same-sex marriage etc What i grasp about this author's writing is how uncomplicated she made both the main and supporting characters feel attractive/attach to us the readers. I thought the storyline was very artfully written,maybe not an original idea,I really enjoyed all the snarky sarcasm,taut interesting chemistry,witty & homophobic dialogue(vitriol),slow-paced and that unexpected yet satisfying twist at the end...recommend to everyone
October 16, 2018
Every once in a while you come across a book that grabs you and holds on. You know what I'm talking about. A book that you are halfway through and you want to close it and start it back over. A book where you stare into space a mull over the characters and what their next move might be. A story that grabs you and just won't let go. That book is Who'd Have Thought by G. Benson. This story is that good, this book is that amazing!
Hayden Pérez is our main character with the story told through her POV. She is an emergency room nurse that works tirelessly. Hayden loves her career and interacting with her patients in the fast-paced world of emergency medicine at a hospital in NYC. She does have a major problem she cannot seem to tackle. There is not enough money to keep her afloat. Every extra cent is sent home to Miami to help her family. On a whim, she answers an ad for a female looking to pay for someone to be her wife for one year's time. Hayden is just that desperate for cash and unpredictable enough to take the leap.
Neurosurgeon Samantha Thomson is that lady looking for a wife. Sam is an interesting character, to say the least. She is truly a complex three-dimensional person. 100% an ice queen, but she isn't going to just be thawed by love. No, this character sees the world a bit differently than most. She vacillates between serious, looking at problems more as the scientist trying to decipher what needs to be done and how to do it most efficiently. Which to the majority of people around her she comes off a cold and unfeeling. With Hayden though, she is sarcastic and witty, personality traits that are often hidden to everyone else. Once Hayden and Sam get on the same page as becoming a married couple their dynamic changes immensely in all the right ways.
A five-star rating would be inadequate for this book. It's better than that. It truly is. This is easily one of the, if not the very best books I have read this year. Everything was done to perfection. Characters, pacing, dialogue, plot, there is no flaw. This book is a true gem!
Hayden Pérez is our main character with the story told through her POV. She is an emergency room nurse that works tirelessly. Hayden loves her career and interacting with her patients in the fast-paced world of emergency medicine at a hospital in NYC. She does have a major problem she cannot seem to tackle. There is not enough money to keep her afloat. Every extra cent is sent home to Miami to help her family. On a whim, she answers an ad for a female looking to pay for someone to be her wife for one year's time. Hayden is just that desperate for cash and unpredictable enough to take the leap.
Neurosurgeon Samantha Thomson is that lady looking for a wife. Sam is an interesting character, to say the least. She is truly a complex three-dimensional person. 100% an ice queen, but she isn't going to just be thawed by love. No, this character sees the world a bit differently than most. She vacillates between serious, looking at problems more as the scientist trying to decipher what needs to be done and how to do it most efficiently. Which to the majority of people around her she comes off a cold and unfeeling. With Hayden though, she is sarcastic and witty, personality traits that are often hidden to everyone else. Once Hayden and Sam get on the same page as becoming a married couple their dynamic changes immensely in all the right ways.
A five-star rating would be inadequate for this book. It's better than that. It truly is. This is easily one of the, if not the very best books I have read this year. Everything was done to perfection. Characters, pacing, dialogue, plot, there is no flaw. This book is a true gem!
January 5, 2019
Edit for a re-read May 2018 - Ever hit a reading funk and none of the half- dozen (or more) books waiting to be read only NONE of them are appealing to you? So a possible cure - re-read a favorite. I’m so glad I decided on this book. Cures all what ails you. I think I liked it better the second time around. I’m sure it will become a annual read.
It’s still
5 SOLID GOLD STARS.
The plot of this story isn’t that unusual A marriage of convenance and not love but eventually turns into love - I’m sure a lot of arranged marriages in real life, Older movies such as 7 Brides 4 Seven Brothers and more recently The Proposal with Bullock & Reynolds.
In this case it is between Samantha Thompson, a brilliant, focused neurosurgeon but socially awkward and Hayden Perez, an ER nurse. Sam reminds me of Nora in Between the lines and Isles of Rizzoli & Isles. Sam needs to get married quickly and Hayden needs the money Sam is offering. Sam won’t reveal why and because she is desperate Hayden accepts the deal. The problem - Hayden really dislikes Sam so it proves to be difficult to convince their colleagues that they are in love & after one month of “dating” they marry. Especially Hayden’s BFF, Luce and Hayden’s family. It doesn’t help that Hayden is a terrible liar & Sam’s awkwardness. It is told via Hayden so we get to know Sam along with Hayden.
This is a very satisfying slow tolerance to friendship to romance. There are great side characters that are well developed. Such as Jon, Sam’s Brother and skeptical Luce.
I loved Sam’s family. From her pulls no punches, strong Grandmother and sister and her cute young nephew. Slight spoiler.
Don’t get me wrong this is not a downer of a book! There is humor - especially in the banter. There is Luce (great name!) usually giving Hayden a hard time - this cracked me up.
“You’re staring at your wife with moon eyes.” “You really, really were. Like, I expected a breeze to waft through and wave your hair gently around while violins started up.”
There is so much more that I liked but read it and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. I just might do a reread tomorrow!
It’s still
5 SOLID GOLD STARS.
The plot of this story isn’t that unusual A marriage of convenance and not love but eventually turns into love - I’m sure a lot of arranged marriages in real life, Older movies such as 7 Brides 4 Seven Brothers and more recently The Proposal with Bullock & Reynolds.
In this case it is between Samantha Thompson, a brilliant, focused neurosurgeon but socially awkward and Hayden Perez, an ER nurse. Sam reminds me of Nora in Between the lines and Isles of Rizzoli & Isles. Sam needs to get married quickly and Hayden needs the money Sam is offering. Sam won’t reveal why and because she is desperate Hayden accepts the deal. The problem - Hayden really dislikes Sam so it proves to be difficult to convince their colleagues that they are in love & after one month of “dating” they marry. Especially Hayden’s BFF, Luce and Hayden’s family. It doesn’t help that Hayden is a terrible liar & Sam’s awkwardness. It is told via Hayden so we get to know Sam along with Hayden.
This is a very satisfying slow tolerance to friendship to romance. There are great side characters that are well developed. Such as Jon, Sam’s Brother and skeptical Luce.
I loved Sam’s family. From her pulls no punches, strong Grandmother and sister and her cute young nephew. Slight spoiler.
Don’t get me wrong this is not a downer of a book! There is humor - especially in the banter. There is Luce (great name!) usually giving Hayden a hard time - this cracked me up.
“You’re staring at your wife with moon eyes.” “You really, really were. Like, I expected a breeze to waft through and wave your hair gently around while violins started up.”
There is so much more that I liked but read it and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. I just might do a reread tomorrow!
October 22, 2017
I loved this.
The best books are those that I'm not aware of reading and this one fits that bill. I felt like I was living in the skin of our lead Hayden and it was a great place to be because she's such a lovable and sympathetic character. In fact, all of the characters are great. An author's writing is especially good when they can make an ice-queen not be a caricature but a full fledged human being and that was done here.
Sometimes it's hard to pinpoint what makes something work vs doesn't but I'd say the strength of this book is in its authenticity. Everything about it felt real; the dialogue, the settings, the characters, their behavior, the emotions, the situations, locations, careers...all of it.
And, it also ticks off a lot of fun boxes: slow burn romance, ice queen, age gap, ethnic diversity, gender diversity, sexual orientation diversity, rich girl/poor girl, hate to love, and family-centric.
I'll definitely reread this one and it earns a spot on my favorites shelf.
Oh, and I loved the cat.
I also have to give a hat tip to this author for mentioning the genius of "Truth & Measure" by Telanu in an interview she did. It's because of her that I found and enjoyed that work.
The best books are those that I'm not aware of reading and this one fits that bill. I felt like I was living in the skin of our lead Hayden and it was a great place to be because she's such a lovable and sympathetic character. In fact, all of the characters are great. An author's writing is especially good when they can make an ice-queen not be a caricature but a full fledged human being and that was done here.
Sometimes it's hard to pinpoint what makes something work vs doesn't but I'd say the strength of this book is in its authenticity. Everything about it felt real; the dialogue, the settings, the characters, their behavior, the emotions, the situations, locations, careers...all of it.
And, it also ticks off a lot of fun boxes: slow burn romance, ice queen, age gap, ethnic diversity, gender diversity, sexual orientation diversity, rich girl/poor girl, hate to love, and family-centric.
I'll definitely reread this one and it earns a spot on my favorites shelf.
Oh, and I loved the cat.
I also have to give a hat tip to this author for mentioning the genius of "Truth & Measure" by Telanu in an interview she did. It's because of her that I found and enjoyed that work.
December 15, 2018
Who'd Have Thought is the second top-notch book full of diversity and published by Ylva in very quick succession (the first being Perfect Rhythm by Jae in September). It immediately went on my "favorites" shelf and will be read again. G Benson did an excellent job. Kudos to her!
5 stars
Oct 15, 2017
5 stars
Oct 15, 2017
January 3, 2018
I think most people have read this, not really but let's pretend, so I'll not work too hard on a review.
So - characters: Sam (41 - I do not believe ever explicitly stated, but is 20 years older than brother, and 15 years older than Hayden (though I've a vague recollection of Hayden, at some point, noting that she was six years older than Jon, but that might be a faulty memory)) and Hayden (26 - for some reason I always think people are 26, let's pretend this is accurate since it corresponds to the age gap between Sam and Jon, and between Sam and Hayden); doctor and nurse; lily white (with red hair, emerald eyes, and pale skin with freckles) and mixed race (Latina and whatever pops was - there was an impression given that he was some form of non-Latino).
Side Characters of Note: On the friend side - Sam apparently has none, though everything is from Hayden's perspective so not sure; on Hayden's side we get Luce (an individual, as it is put in the book, born in the body of a female, but is in fact agender).
On family side we get: more distant that Luce & Sam; Sam brings in Jon (important to the story to note: gay man of around the age of 21), and in the distance barely seen, but felt heavily, are Sam's parents. Hayden brings in: Javi - 4 year old nephew, Sofia - slightly older sister (and mother of Javi), Abuela - 71 year old grandmother of Sofia and Hayden Alexandrja (hmm, spelling there probably off), and Paolo - Sofia and Hayden's mother - there's a much hated father, but never seen.
On work side: reoccurring characters of little actual substance (like Trisha and 'twitchy intern'), and those with slightly more than little actual substance - like Clemmie - 'coffee girl' and Luce's crush.
PLUS: Frank the cat (Hayden's fat cat)
POV: Solo from Hayden's perspective.
Plot: For reasons which are kept secretive throughout much of the book - Sam desires to find someone to marry, specifically a woman - an arranged fake relationship - but not for green card purposes (the only thing she'll admit up front). For this arranged relationship, 40,000 (20,000 when start month of dating; 20,000 when marriage occurs month after dating started) upfront, and $200,000 in a year or 'however long it takes' (pfft).
For reasons which become quickly realized, though still somewhat hidden until later in the book, Hayden has money issues. And sleep issues. And likes wandering the internet in the early morning hours - where she happened to see an advertisement for an arranged relationship with 'lots of compensation'. She, 'jokingly', replies to that ad. Whereupon it is revealed that the ad had been placed by someone from the same hospital she works at - and, even worse, someone she hates. Still --- the arrangement proceeds.
Reasons for my less than highest ratings: I liked what occurred in this book, found it funny, liked the romance, for the most part, liked the cat to an extent, but something was keeping me from rating this higher than I did. It finally hit me why - I did not really like Jon (who kept popping in and out of Sam's apartment without warning), the family dynamics on display (and here I'm more talking about Hayden's family not Sam's, weird I know), and, while it somewhat pains me to admit, I didn't really like the one friend Hayden seemed to have (having just one friend, by the way, seemed vaguely out of character for Hayden). *shrugs*
On the other hand, I thought in between rating and writing review, that there's a good chance I probably would rate this book higher after a reread. Possible, I suppose.
Rating: 4.5
January 3 2018
So - characters: Sam (41 - I do not believe ever explicitly stated, but is 20 years older than brother, and 15 years older than Hayden (though I've a vague recollection of Hayden, at some point, noting that she was six years older than Jon, but that might be a faulty memory)) and Hayden (26 - for some reason I always think people are 26, let's pretend this is accurate since it corresponds to the age gap between Sam and Jon, and between Sam and Hayden); doctor and nurse; lily white (with red hair, emerald eyes, and pale skin with freckles) and mixed race (Latina and whatever pops was - there was an impression given that he was some form of non-Latino).
Side Characters of Note: On the friend side - Sam apparently has none, though everything is from Hayden's perspective so not sure; on Hayden's side we get Luce (an individual, as it is put in the book, born in the body of a female, but is in fact agender).
On family side we get: more distant that Luce & Sam; Sam brings in Jon (important to the story to note: gay man of around the age of 21), and in the distance barely seen, but felt heavily, are Sam's parents. Hayden brings in: Javi - 4 year old nephew, Sofia - slightly older sister (and mother of Javi), Abuela - 71 year old grandmother of Sofia and Hayden Alexandrja (hmm, spelling there probably off), and Paolo - Sofia and Hayden's mother - there's a much hated father, but never seen.
On work side: reoccurring characters of little actual substance (like Trisha and 'twitchy intern'), and those with slightly more than little actual substance - like Clemmie - 'coffee girl' and Luce's crush.
PLUS: Frank the cat (Hayden's fat cat)
POV: Solo from Hayden's perspective.
Plot: For reasons which are kept secretive throughout much of the book - Sam desires to find someone to marry, specifically a woman - an arranged fake relationship - but not for green card purposes (the only thing she'll admit up front). For this arranged relationship, 40,000 (20,000 when start month of dating; 20,000 when marriage occurs month after dating started) upfront, and $200,000 in a year or 'however long it takes' (pfft).
For reasons which become quickly realized, though still somewhat hidden until later in the book, Hayden has money issues. And sleep issues. And likes wandering the internet in the early morning hours - where she happened to see an advertisement for an arranged relationship with 'lots of compensation'. She, 'jokingly', replies to that ad. Whereupon it is revealed that the ad had been placed by someone from the same hospital she works at - and, even worse, someone she hates. Still --- the arrangement proceeds.
Reasons for my less than highest ratings: I liked what occurred in this book, found it funny, liked the romance, for the most part, liked the cat to an extent, but something was keeping me from rating this higher than I did. It finally hit me why - I did not really like Jon (who kept popping in and out of Sam's apartment without warning), the family dynamics on display (and here I'm more talking about Hayden's family not Sam's, weird I know), and, while it somewhat pains me to admit, I didn't really like the one friend Hayden seemed to have (having just one friend, by the way, seemed vaguely out of character for Hayden). *shrugs*
On the other hand, I thought in between rating and writing review, that there's a good chance I probably would rate this book higher after a reread. Possible, I suppose.
Rating: 4.5
January 3 2018
January 4, 2025
It took me 5 hours to finish this book and I got no regrets. And I'm pretty sure I'm gonna read it again in the near future. such brilliant characterisation!!!! This was the first time I read about a non binary character in a book and boy was I surprised by my lack of knowledge. It's not everyday that a book is informative as well as a source of entertainment. infact if you drew a Venn diagram the common area is gonna be so narrow. nevertheless read this book not for the plot alone, but for some sexy characters and amazing storyline progression. Such plots aren't exactly new but the characters take this to a different level. My verdict? Read the book. The only drawback is you can't stop reading. it's that good😁
April 15, 2018
“Who’d Have Thought” was released in paperback and Kindle formats in October 2017, and I read so many glowing reviews I was very tempted to read the Kindle version. Happily, only five months later, the audiobook version was released! I wish more authors would bring their books to audio as quickly!
Well, however the printed version may be, I’m confident that the audio version is even better! Tanya Eby is absolutely fantastic, and author G. Benson gives her terrific material to work with.
Lots of books have been released recently featuring the “fake relationship” plot line. It’s a theme that I happen to adore, and this book is one of the best I’ve heard for this plot. MC Hayden is absolutely delightful, and I enjoyed MC Samantha (Sam)’s development from an all-business, relationship-avoiding ice queen to a tender, loving woman as, over time, Hayden realizes she’s really attracted to Sam.
Hayden identifies as pansexual, and her best friend Luce identifies as non-binary, having been assigned female at birth, and who develops a huge crush on the coffee cart girl at the hospital. It’s odd, at first, hearing non-gender pronouns and adjectives, i.e. “they” and “their” instead of “he”, “his” or “she” and “her”. Over time, it began to sound natural, and the character of Luce definitely made me appreciate how everyday language may sound natural, but isn’t always appropriate.
It took a long time for Sam to reveal to Hayden the reason for the fake marriage. I recognize that there was pain involved for Sam, but I felt that the book dragged out the big reveal too long. I actually guessed 90% of the reason very soon after John was introduced, and I’m sure many other readers/listeners did too.
Hayden’s cat Frank is a great character in his own right, and he helps us appreciate the growing warmth of Sam.
There’s lots of fun flirty banter in “Who’d Have Thought”, and there’s plenty of misassumptions and non-communication even as desire and passion grows and flares up.
One weird thing is that the audiobook has a completely different design than the paperback and kindle versions. This version looks just like the top half of Tracy Richardson’s “Heartsick”.
If you’re going to read “Who’d Have Thought”, I encourage you to try the audiobook instead – it’s terrific. 5*
Well, however the printed version may be, I’m confident that the audio version is even better! Tanya Eby is absolutely fantastic, and author G. Benson gives her terrific material to work with.
Lots of books have been released recently featuring the “fake relationship” plot line. It’s a theme that I happen to adore, and this book is one of the best I’ve heard for this plot. MC Hayden is absolutely delightful, and I enjoyed MC Samantha (Sam)’s development from an all-business, relationship-avoiding ice queen to a tender, loving woman as, over time, Hayden realizes she’s really attracted to Sam.
Hayden identifies as pansexual, and her best friend Luce identifies as non-binary, having been assigned female at birth, and who develops a huge crush on the coffee cart girl at the hospital. It’s odd, at first, hearing non-gender pronouns and adjectives, i.e. “they” and “their” instead of “he”, “his” or “she” and “her”. Over time, it began to sound natural, and the character of Luce definitely made me appreciate how everyday language may sound natural, but isn’t always appropriate.
It took a long time for Sam to reveal to Hayden the reason for the fake marriage. I recognize that there was pain involved for Sam, but I felt that the book dragged out the big reveal too long. I actually guessed 90% of the reason very soon after John was introduced, and I’m sure many other readers/listeners did too.
Hayden’s cat Frank is a great character in his own right, and he helps us appreciate the growing warmth of Sam.
There’s lots of fun flirty banter in “Who’d Have Thought”, and there’s plenty of misassumptions and non-communication even as desire and passion grows and flares up.
One weird thing is that the audiobook has a completely different design than the paperback and kindle versions. This version looks just like the top half of Tracy Richardson’s “Heartsick”.
If you’re going to read “Who’d Have Thought”, I encourage you to try the audiobook instead – it’s terrific. 5*
May 22, 2018
This is not the kind of book that immediately catches my attention. The cover would normally put me off. But it was on special offer at 99p and I could not be bothered to read any of the 200 books I already have waiting to be read.
The things that put me off: the cover. Fake relationships.
And that’s about the only negative thing I have to say. The rest is all good. I loved this book. It is so well written I couldn’t put it down, and now I am paying the price for spending all the time reading. Still, it was worth it. I liked the story unfolding from the perspective of one main character, it means much is hidden, but then the plot would become exposed too soon if told any other way. I liked it.
The fake relationship worked very well, not only the execution but the reasoning. I liked that. The characters were good too. The evolution of the characters, their relationship with each other, and how they grew and changed as individuals, worked well as the story unfolded. I liked them all. There is an age gap, but this to me, was not a large part of the story, it didn’t matter. Secondary characters are also interesting, including Haydn's non-binary friend, and Sam's brother. and the whole book fit together well.
If there was one thing that drew me in it would be the humour. I think this is what drew me in right at the start.
I have a feeling this is one book I shall re-read, and I am sure it will be as good the second time as it was the first.
I highly recommend it.
The things that put me off: the cover. Fake relationships.
And that’s about the only negative thing I have to say. The rest is all good. I loved this book. It is so well written I couldn’t put it down, and now I am paying the price for spending all the time reading. Still, it was worth it. I liked the story unfolding from the perspective of one main character, it means much is hidden, but then the plot would become exposed too soon if told any other way. I liked it.
The fake relationship worked very well, not only the execution but the reasoning. I liked that. The characters were good too. The evolution of the characters, their relationship with each other, and how they grew and changed as individuals, worked well as the story unfolded. I liked them all. There is an age gap, but this to me, was not a large part of the story, it didn’t matter. Secondary characters are also interesting, including Haydn's non-binary friend, and Sam's brother. and the whole book fit together well.
If there was one thing that drew me in it would be the humour. I think this is what drew me in right at the start.
I have a feeling this is one book I shall re-read, and I am sure it will be as good the second time as it was the first.
I highly recommend it.
January 7, 2019
5+ Stars for the Audiobook!
This is my third time reading this book - the first time as an audiobook. I had credits to spare and air and car traveling to do, so I picked up this audiobook. It wasn't a hard decision. This book is narrated by Tanya Eby (5 stars). At first I heard an inflection in her voice and I was worried it would be a problem. Now I can't remember what it was I heard. I thought Luce's voice was a little too deep, but it made it easy to distinguish who was talking. I looked Eby up on Audible to see what other books she has narrated - over 565 books! As far as I can tell, her first f/f book. I hope Ylva can use her again.
Cover Appreciation. I liked this cover much better than the paperback/ebook cover.
As I was listening to the book, I felt I was liking it more the third time around. I didn't think it was possible.
This is my third time reading this book - the first time as an audiobook. I had credits to spare and air and car traveling to do, so I picked up this audiobook. It wasn't a hard decision. This book is narrated by Tanya Eby (5 stars). At first I heard an inflection in her voice and I was worried it would be a problem. Now I can't remember what it was I heard. I thought Luce's voice was a little too deep, but it made it easy to distinguish who was talking. I looked Eby up on Audible to see what other books she has narrated - over 565 books! As far as I can tell, her first f/f book. I hope Ylva can use her again.
Cover Appreciation. I liked this cover much better than the paperback/ebook cover.
As I was listening to the book, I felt I was liking it more the third time around. I didn't think it was possible.
October 30, 2017
The highly unusual premise of this book alone sold me. And I wasn't disappointed. G Benson writes with a light yet sensitive touch. And while it was a bit of a wait for the big reveal, I was never bored with Hayden and Sam's slow burn romance. This would have been a solid five starrer in my book though, if there had been a more in-depth treatment of Sam, the emotionally challenged one. There were occasional flashes of understanding, but for the most part, the book centered around Hayden.
4.4 stars
ARC from YLVA
4.4 stars
ARC from YLVA
April 13, 2020
I love this book. I never completely remember how much I love it each time, then it makes me all happy again. It’s in the little things, which makes it difficult to explain.
This time, I listened to the audiobook version, and it was also wonderful. I really liked Tanya Eby’s narration and the different voices, including Hayden’s nephew (children are not easy). I usually like the fake-romance trope but it has to have a believable reason. If it needs me to suspend my disbelief, I might still enjoy it if the writing is good but it won’t be the same. I think this one has the best reason I have read. I won’t spoil but when the reader, along with Hayden, finds out why Sam needed that fake marriage, I loved Sam even more. But I’m getting ahead of myself here.
Hayden Pérez is a nurse in New York who, despite working as much as she can and being very careful with her expenses, is struggling financially. A lot of what she earns goes to her family in Miami. When she stumbles upon an ad on craigslist looking for a temporary bride, the idea seems ludicrous at first. Yet the promise of money pushes her to answer, only to discover that the author of the ad is Samantha Thomson, the most arrogant and rudest surgeon at the hospital.
I love Hayden, even more with Tanya Eby’s voice, which I thought was perfect. Hayden is hard-working, loving, responsible but she’s also a smartass and I love that aspect of her. She has a wonderful if complicated relationship with her family and it breaks my heart every time she feels guilty for not visiting enough, not sharing the burden, not doing more when the money she sends every month is already helping tremendously.
On the surface, Sam is the opposite. She’s older, always in control. She doesn’t talk about her family, she has no friends. She’s cold. Once Hayden gets to know her, however, she finds that she’s really kind-hearted and more socially awkward than rude. I more than once wondered whether she could be on the autism spectrum, especially when she explains that she takes her cues from others, or if her attitude stems from her upbringing.
With small delicate touches that never feel fragile, Benson tackles issues such as Alzheimer’s or homophobia with both plausibility and finesse. Bonus points for making Hayden pansexual and her best friend Luce non-binary with just the right amount of explanation and without making a big deal of either. That’s just the way things are, and Luce is only one of excellent secondary characters, who bring angst, tension and comic relief to what is overall an awesome novel.
This time, I listened to the audiobook version, and it was also wonderful. I really liked Tanya Eby’s narration and the different voices, including Hayden’s nephew (children are not easy). I usually like the fake-romance trope but it has to have a believable reason. If it needs me to suspend my disbelief, I might still enjoy it if the writing is good but it won’t be the same. I think this one has the best reason I have read. I won’t spoil but when the reader, along with Hayden, finds out why Sam needed that fake marriage, I loved Sam even more. But I’m getting ahead of myself here.
Hayden Pérez is a nurse in New York who, despite working as much as she can and being very careful with her expenses, is struggling financially. A lot of what she earns goes to her family in Miami. When she stumbles upon an ad on craigslist looking for a temporary bride, the idea seems ludicrous at first. Yet the promise of money pushes her to answer, only to discover that the author of the ad is Samantha Thomson, the most arrogant and rudest surgeon at the hospital.
I love Hayden, even more with Tanya Eby’s voice, which I thought was perfect. Hayden is hard-working, loving, responsible but she’s also a smartass and I love that aspect of her. She has a wonderful if complicated relationship with her family and it breaks my heart every time she feels guilty for not visiting enough, not sharing the burden, not doing more when the money she sends every month is already helping tremendously.
On the surface, Sam is the opposite. She’s older, always in control. She doesn’t talk about her family, she has no friends. She’s cold. Once Hayden gets to know her, however, she finds that she’s really kind-hearted and more socially awkward than rude. I more than once wondered whether she could be on the autism spectrum, especially when she explains that she takes her cues from others, or if her attitude stems from her upbringing.
With small delicate touches that never feel fragile, Benson tackles issues such as Alzheimer’s or homophobia with both plausibility and finesse. Bonus points for making Hayden pansexual and her best friend Luce non-binary with just the right amount of explanation and without making a big deal of either. That’s just the way things are, and Luce is only one of excellent secondary characters, who bring angst, tension and comic relief to what is overall an awesome novel.
November 25, 2017
This is one of the best romances I have read all year and I have read some fantastic books.
The love of the romance genre is alive and well on these pages and the book sings with the pleasure of a marriage of con and a private and uptight heroine vs a much more emotionial and blunt heroine.
It is grand. We get all that forced proximity joy. They know very little about each other and we get to learn about each of them as they learn each other.
It is a sexy as hell dance. Both are wonderful at their jobs in this amazing character driven love story.
The cast is great, the slow burn is great, the writing is spot on.
A 5 Star Romance to read again and again.
The love of the romance genre is alive and well on these pages and the book sings with the pleasure of a marriage of con and a private and uptight heroine vs a much more emotionial and blunt heroine.
It is grand. We get all that forced proximity joy. They know very little about each other and we get to learn about each of them as they learn each other.
It is a sexy as hell dance. Both are wonderful at their jobs in this amazing character driven love story.
The cast is great, the slow burn is great, the writing is spot on.
A 5 Star Romance to read again and again.
October 24, 2020
This came off as kind of self-consciously "woke" to me. Like, it's not good enough to have a gay best friend because hello, lesbian romance! So bestie Luce is non-binary with preferred pronouns "they/them". Hayden is appropriately and immediately responsive any time there's a chance to scorn someone who mis-pronouns them. And Hayden is fairly quick to self-identify as pansexual in case anyone is in any doubt, ever, like it'd be an unjust misrepresentation should someone assume she's a lesbian (or straight. Or bisexual even). I remember thinking a couple of times how exhausting that would be for her because she's constantly thinking about the perceptions of others and her desire to correct or inform felt like a duty she didn't dare shirk even for a moment. I could just be reading into that feeling; I just know that if I felt like I had to correct every assumption that I'm heterosexual I'd feel exhausted. I'm hardly in the closet, heaven knows, but more often than not it's just not a germane or necessary detail needing correction.
Anyway, this is a marriage of convenience romance so it's one you kind of have to give its premise. Benson keeps coy about why Samantha needs to pay someone to marry her for way longer than I think it merited—coy-enough that I was expecting the eventual payoff to be suitably shocking or shameful. It really wasn't. This is a real shame because my strongest engagement with the story is Sam. The text never says so, but it'd be easy to assume that she's on the Asperger's spectrum and her behaviors fit amazingly well. I could be over-interpreting because she's very like my good friend and college roommate who recently found that he's on the blending side of that spectrum. She's extremely analytical, and very literal and has come to rely on outside sources for interpretation of social cues she can't interpret herself. I spent half my freshman and sophomore years of college answering just those kinds of questions so she felt immediately familiar to me. In a good way.
The romance almost works, but I found I had to fill in a lot of blanks on my own. For most of the story, it seemed that Hayden's only real attraction to Sam was physical. Yeah, familiarity made her much more tolerant of Sam's quirks and idiosyncrasies, but I never got the sense that she was attracted on an emotional or intimate level. Even in the end, it felt like it was mainly that she found she could trust Sam more than that there was a deeper sense of connection.
And it's really unfortunate that the central impetus for the plot was so weak. Spoilers for this bit because it involves Sam's secret that shouldn't have been a secret. Seriously, it's not much of a spoiler because it turns out to be really lame, but I'm tagging it anyway to be polite and let you choose.
As clumsy as Sam's background is, I found Hayden's background deeply affecting. It's the strongest part of the story, I think. Benson plays a little coy with Hayden's motivations, but I think the payoff for it was much stronger. My heart tore for her struggle and Benson handled that whole aspect of the story with empathy and real depth. I particularly liked how it drew out their relationship by throwing Sam's core compassion into highlight and giving her an opportunity to display the best aspects of her ability to train her response to the needs of the moment once she comprehends them. I wish it could serve as a contrast between Hayden's family and Sam's but Benson so fumbled Sam's family's characterizations that it didn't work on that level for me.
I'm going to go with three stars on this, though that's maybe a bit generous. I wish I bought the eventual relationship, but I really didn't. This was underscored in the end because Hayden's . So very cliché.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple of explicit sex scenes putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. I thought this was going to be another really weak aspect of the story as the first one was pretty lame. But it got better, though not so much that it made me believe in their intimacy as being more than physical even so.
Anyway, this is a marriage of convenience romance so it's one you kind of have to give its premise. Benson keeps coy about why Samantha needs to pay someone to marry her for way longer than I think it merited—coy-enough that I was expecting the eventual payoff to be suitably shocking or shameful. It really wasn't. This is a real shame because my strongest engagement with the story is Sam. The text never says so, but it'd be easy to assume that she's on the Asperger's spectrum and her behaviors fit amazingly well. I could be over-interpreting because she's very like my good friend and college roommate who recently found that he's on the blending side of that spectrum. She's extremely analytical, and very literal and has come to rely on outside sources for interpretation of social cues she can't interpret herself. I spent half my freshman and sophomore years of college answering just those kinds of questions so she felt immediately familiar to me. In a good way.
The romance almost works, but I found I had to fill in a lot of blanks on my own. For most of the story, it seemed that Hayden's only real attraction to Sam was physical. Yeah, familiarity made her much more tolerant of Sam's quirks and idiosyncrasies, but I never got the sense that she was attracted on an emotional or intimate level. Even in the end, it felt like it was mainly that she found she could trust Sam more than that there was a deeper sense of connection.
And it's really unfortunate that the central impetus for the plot was so weak. Spoilers for this bit because it involves Sam's secret that shouldn't have been a secret. Seriously, it's not much of a spoiler because it turns out to be really lame, but I'm tagging it anyway to be polite and let you choose.
As clumsy as Sam's background is, I found Hayden's background deeply affecting. It's the strongest part of the story, I think. Benson plays a little coy with Hayden's motivations, but I think the payoff for it was much stronger. My heart tore for her struggle and Benson handled that whole aspect of the story with empathy and real depth. I particularly liked how it drew out their relationship by throwing Sam's core compassion into highlight and giving her an opportunity to display the best aspects of her ability to train her response to the needs of the moment once she comprehends them. I wish it could serve as a contrast between Hayden's family and Sam's but Benson so fumbled Sam's family's characterizations that it didn't work on that level for me.
I'm going to go with three stars on this, though that's maybe a bit generous. I wish I bought the eventual relationship, but I really didn't. This was underscored in the end because Hayden's . So very cliché.
A note about Steamy: There are a couple of explicit sex scenes putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. I thought this was going to be another really weak aspect of the story as the first one was pretty lame. But it got better, though not so much that it made me believe in their intimacy as being more than physical even so.
September 5, 2019
Neurosurgeon Samantha Thomson needs to get married fast for unknown issues so she offers cash-strapped ER nurse Hayden Pérez 200.000 dollars to tie the knot. Sam comes across as cold, distant and sometimes downright rude, so living together and trying to convince everyone else that they love each other is a tall order. But as they get to know each other, feelings start to go deeper and suddenly faking isn’t as hard as it seemed. What could go wrong?
I’ve read this book when it was released and put it on my list of best lesfic books of 2017 so when I saw the audiobook available for free on Audible Escape, getting it was a no-brainer. The theme of sham marriage is not new in lesfic but Benson presents it here so skillfully that makes up for the lack of originality. Both main characters are crafted with special detail in their personalities and little quirks. Ms. Benson’s descriptions are quite cinematographic, the reader can actually feel their chemistry growing slowly until it sizzles out of the pages. The plot keeps the reader guessing the reasons for the sham marriage and even manages a nice twist at the end.
The book is written in third person from the exclusive point of view of Hayden’s which brings an air of mystery surrounding ice queen Samantha. The secondary characters play a fantastic supporting role, adding realism and sometimes humour to the plot. Frank the cat is hilarious as Hayden’s judgemental alter ego, a magnificent performance without (obviously) uttering a word. Also worth to mention is the introduction of the concept of non-binary sexuality via Hayden’s friend Luce, who challenged some of my prejudices about gender fluidity. I love it when an author makes me think without sounding preachy. That was the cherry on the top for this fabulous read.
The narration of this lesbian fake marriage audiobook by Tanya Eby was very good with an overall light tone that fit the plot. She conveyed Hayden’s self-deprecation and humour very well and she was satisfactory for the more emotional moments. The story has a cast of very diverse characters and her interpretation for most of them was spot on. As a bonus, her Spanish pronunciation was quite decent for a non-native speaker.
A very easy 5+ stars for the story, 4.5 stars for the narration. Overall, 5 stars.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
I’ve read this book when it was released and put it on my list of best lesfic books of 2017 so when I saw the audiobook available for free on Audible Escape, getting it was a no-brainer. The theme of sham marriage is not new in lesfic but Benson presents it here so skillfully that makes up for the lack of originality. Both main characters are crafted with special detail in their personalities and little quirks. Ms. Benson’s descriptions are quite cinematographic, the reader can actually feel their chemistry growing slowly until it sizzles out of the pages. The plot keeps the reader guessing the reasons for the sham marriage and even manages a nice twist at the end.
The book is written in third person from the exclusive point of view of Hayden’s which brings an air of mystery surrounding ice queen Samantha. The secondary characters play a fantastic supporting role, adding realism and sometimes humour to the plot. Frank the cat is hilarious as Hayden’s judgemental alter ego, a magnificent performance without (obviously) uttering a word. Also worth to mention is the introduction of the concept of non-binary sexuality via Hayden’s friend Luce, who challenged some of my prejudices about gender fluidity. I love it when an author makes me think without sounding preachy. That was the cherry on the top for this fabulous read.
The narration of this lesbian fake marriage audiobook by Tanya Eby was very good with an overall light tone that fit the plot. She conveyed Hayden’s self-deprecation and humour very well and she was satisfactory for the more emotional moments. The story has a cast of very diverse characters and her interpretation for most of them was spot on. As a bonus, her Spanish pronunciation was quite decent for a non-native speaker.
A very easy 5+ stars for the story, 4.5 stars for the narration. Overall, 5 stars.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
March 21, 2019
Solid 5 ⭐️ An excellent read!
Loved the romance between Sam and Hayden
Loved the romance between Sam and Hayden
December 24, 2021
Edit Oct 2021: I don’t often reread books, but this is one of those few that I’ve read several times. I listened to the audiobook this time and it is still an amazing book!
September 12, 2021
G. Benson is an author you know you can turn to when you need a good feel-good romance. Who’d Have Thought grabs your attentions and has you smiling throughout.
I always enjoy a medical romance and while both main characters work in a hospital we don’t get a lot of medical stuff. I didn’t even mind, it was the perfect amount for this story. I think I found my new favourite trope in lesfic: medical fauxmance with a hint of ice queen.
Hayden is such an impulsive character, but with lots of baggage that she carries alone. Sam is this arrogant no nonsense neurosurgeon no one seems to like, but deep down is just a softie. When they set out on their fauxmance you think it’s just doomed. Not knowing the reason for the fauxmance adds this layer of fun to it as well. Weirdly enough they do seem to work it out and they are just so cute, really.
I’d recommend this to all romance lovers out their, especially if you are into fauxmance. Side note: there is homophobia in this book, but it’s slapped down pretty good.
I always enjoy a medical romance and while both main characters work in a hospital we don’t get a lot of medical stuff. I didn’t even mind, it was the perfect amount for this story. I think I found my new favourite trope in lesfic: medical fauxmance with a hint of ice queen.
Hayden is such an impulsive character, but with lots of baggage that she carries alone. Sam is this arrogant no nonsense neurosurgeon no one seems to like, but deep down is just a softie. When they set out on their fauxmance you think it’s just doomed. Not knowing the reason for the fauxmance adds this layer of fun to it as well. Weirdly enough they do seem to work it out and they are just so cute, really.
I’d recommend this to all romance lovers out their, especially if you are into fauxmance. Side note: there is homophobia in this book, but it’s slapped down pretty good.
July 19, 2022
➥ 2.5 Stars *:･ﾟ✧
Buddy read with Kelly! I really enjoyed chatting with you about it :). Ultimately, my thoughts about this book are bad writing, mediocre characters, lame (fade-to-black) sex scenes, but the girls being so fucking domestic and cute in the last third won me over to the point where I finished it with a smile on my face. Last impressions are pretty important ig!
please go read Kelly's amazing review, i couldn't have said it better myself: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Hayden pushed the pillow away and sat up on her knees, putting her hand on Sam's shoulder and pushing backward until she gave in and lay down. Hayden straddled her thighs, her hands on either side of her shoulders and her hair falling down around them. Slowly, she bent down, running her nose over Sam's grazing it over her cheek until she finally kissed her once, slowly. Hayden bit her lip. "I kind of like you."
Hayden was breathless, and she traced her fingertip over Sam's cheek. Sam huffed through her nose as if she wanted to say Hayden was ridiculous, but her smile betrayed her. By now, Hayden knew Sam's eyes, and the way they'd softened as Hayden said it spoke volumes. She felt giddy with everything exploding within her at that moment. Against her lips, Sam murmured. "Me too." And Hayden let herself swallow those words, in the hopes they'd nestle deep within her.
━━━━━━━━━━━ ♡ ━━━━━━━━━━━
Buddy read with Kelly! I really enjoyed chatting with you about it :). Ultimately, my thoughts about this book are bad writing, mediocre characters, lame (fade-to-black) sex scenes, but the girls being so fucking domestic and cute in the last third won me over to the point where I finished it with a smile on my face. Last impressions are pretty important ig!
➥ Sam (h) was pretty okay. Again, she was so fucking cute and sweet with Hayden in the last half, but for a character that was called an "ice-queen", she didn't have that tough, cold and sexy atmosphere that most do. I'm also a little sad that we didn't get her perspective, but I understand why; for the first half of the book the fmc doesn't know why Sam wants a fake marriage. I love how she cooked for Hayden, leaving food for her while they had their opposite shifts, and the pictures hung up were so cute :(. But, as a character, she wasn't very fleshed out and is pretty much like any other plain female main character I've read about. Also, we are told she has a ginger pixie cut...? Not in my house lol.
➥ Hayden (h) was pretty fucking annoying. She has this complex where she thinks she's quirky for being too sarcastic and her inner monologue, in general, was incredibly unpleasant to read. She had some okay moment were I was like "okay, now we're getting somewhere", because she would do a little teasing, but since we're in her prespective, we don't really get to appreciate it much? I'd prefer the love interest to do that hot-talking, yk? Also, I think it was mentioned that she's from Honduras and she has this whole thing about her knowing spanish and being latina but uh. Maybe it's just ME but her spanish was so spain-ish. I didn't hear ANY latin expressions, there were few food references, and her family was kind of stereotypical to me? I don't mean that it's not possible for latin families to live together and stuff, but the typical grandmother, the single-mother sister, and the sick mom...idk, I didn't love the aspect and it was clearly just inserted to add some umph and grit, maybe to set up some hurt/comfort situations but meh. Didn't love it.
please go read Kelly's amazing review, i couldn't have said it better myself: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
November 12, 2018
I think this might be my new favourite plot in Lesbian Fiction. Hayden is having some money issues and working as a nurse in the local hospital isn't really bringing the bank in. She needs to find a way to make extra money and on a whim answers an add on Craigslist but she never truely believes she'll get a answer.
Neurosurgeon Sam is in a predicament and needs to find a wife soon and can compensate her new wife handsomely for just a year of her time. When they meet Hayden is shocked to find Dr Sam Thomson from the hospital where she works... and the woman she loathes.
But Hayden desperately needs the money and Sam really needs to get married. So it's time to suck it up and make nice. It's only a year, right? What could go wrong?
I absolutely adored this book. I actually want to start it all over again. I loved the premise of the book, mostly because Hayden and Sam have to spend a lot of time together to convince people the commitment was real, which meant heaps of page time of their love evolving. In the beginning it's not all sunshine and roses but that's what I loved about this book they had to work at it to become friends and once the friendship was established, the rest just flourished.
I don't want to give any spoilers but both women have a bucket load of baggage they are dealing with. It was incredibly endearing when they both supported each other through issues with family and through the tenderness, began to be more affectionate. It was in those moments It becomes obvious where things where headed.
The book is written in first person narrative, from Hayden's point of view and was extremely well penned. I think the reason the writing style worked so well was Sam's forthrightness. You didn't have to often guess what she was thinking, so letting Hayden take centre stage worked.
I also want to congratulate another author for involving more genders and sexualities from the LGBTQIA community spectrum in their novels. It really warmed my heart that not only was Hayden Pansexual but her best friend Luce was Non Binary. And G Benson kept all the correct pronouns for Luce right through the novel. I really hope that the all LGBTQIA inclusive books I have read recently are paving the way for the future.
I hope G Benson makes this wonderful story into a sequel or even a series because I'd love to follow this couple into the next stage of their relationship. I really felt the story of both Hayden and Sam's family could go in so many directions following on from this story and also there are many new ways to write what happens next for Hayden and Sam. The thought excites me exponentially.
Unequivocally 5 stars.
Neurosurgeon Sam is in a predicament and needs to find a wife soon and can compensate her new wife handsomely for just a year of her time. When they meet Hayden is shocked to find Dr Sam Thomson from the hospital where she works... and the woman she loathes.
But Hayden desperately needs the money and Sam really needs to get married. So it's time to suck it up and make nice. It's only a year, right? What could go wrong?
I absolutely adored this book. I actually want to start it all over again. I loved the premise of the book, mostly because Hayden and Sam have to spend a lot of time together to convince people the commitment was real, which meant heaps of page time of their love evolving. In the beginning it's not all sunshine and roses but that's what I loved about this book they had to work at it to become friends and once the friendship was established, the rest just flourished.
I don't want to give any spoilers but both women have a bucket load of baggage they are dealing with. It was incredibly endearing when they both supported each other through issues with family and through the tenderness, began to be more affectionate. It was in those moments It becomes obvious where things where headed.
The book is written in first person narrative, from Hayden's point of view and was extremely well penned. I think the reason the writing style worked so well was Sam's forthrightness. You didn't have to often guess what she was thinking, so letting Hayden take centre stage worked.
I also want to congratulate another author for involving more genders and sexualities from the LGBTQIA community spectrum in their novels. It really warmed my heart that not only was Hayden Pansexual but her best friend Luce was Non Binary. And G Benson kept all the correct pronouns for Luce right through the novel. I really hope that the all LGBTQIA inclusive books I have read recently are paving the way for the future.
I hope G Benson makes this wonderful story into a sequel or even a series because I'd love to follow this couple into the next stage of their relationship. I really felt the story of both Hayden and Sam's family could go in so many directions following on from this story and also there are many new ways to write what happens next for Hayden and Sam. The thought excites me exponentially.
Unequivocally 5 stars.
January 11, 2018
I received this file from the publisher in exchange for a fair review
This story begins with a common trope in "romance", the fake girlfriend, but does much with it. The story is engaging without dips and valleys of interest and the drama mark, when it comes, is more believable because of the unique situation both women are in - it's a contract for a fake marriage after all.
This was my first story with a binary character which gave my mind a gentle workout becoming accustomed to the pronouns. I live in such a Republican village I can't imagine someone not being endlessly hassled by it.
The writing was well done and I was engaged with the story and did not have my interest fade. Interesting minor characters certainly helped add variety - there is a bit of everything. The romance was slow burn, which I always find more interesting. So, well done G. Benson.
This story begins with a common trope in "romance", the fake girlfriend, but does much with it. The story is engaging without dips and valleys of interest and the drama mark, when it comes, is more believable because of the unique situation both women are in - it's a contract for a fake marriage after all.
This was my first story with a binary character which gave my mind a gentle workout becoming accustomed to the pronouns. I live in such a Republican village I can't imagine someone not being endlessly hassled by it.
The writing was well done and I was engaged with the story and did not have my interest fade. Interesting minor characters certainly helped add variety - there is a bit of everything. The romance was slow burn, which I always find more interesting. So, well done G. Benson.
February 23, 2019
Re-read: Feb 2019
Would probably drop down to 4.5 but still really loved this book on the re-read
Deals with health issues without being preachy
And some fav tropes done really well.
Should definitely check it out if you haven’t already!
Original review: October 2017
Detailed score: 4.75
So so good.
From the very first chapters I knew this book was going to be one of those I wanted to ready slowly (because you can only read a book for the first time once) but also so unputdownable I wanted to rush to the end.
Plot is not new but rarely done this well.
Characters are well rounded. Pacing is excellent.
A rare 5 stars from me. Do yourselves a favour lesrom fans.
Would probably drop down to 4.5 but still really loved this book on the re-read
Deals with health issues without being preachy
And some fav tropes done really well.
Should definitely check it out if you haven’t already!
Original review: October 2017
Detailed score: 4.75
So so good.
From the very first chapters I knew this book was going to be one of those I wanted to ready slowly (because you can only read a book for the first time once) but also so unputdownable I wanted to rush to the end.
Plot is not new but rarely done this well.
Characters are well rounded. Pacing is excellent.
A rare 5 stars from me. Do yourselves a favour lesrom fans.
October 14, 2017
Wonderful book! Two people are in a desperate situation because of different reasons, and they set up a marriage of convenience. This is the book's premise and from here the story builds. The author creates a variety of characters who are representative of different sexualities, she also creates a strong and believable story, although it can be very predictable. The book could be a love story but it's not only that. There are different subthemes: Alzheimers, homophobia, friendship, etc. that enrich the book and create a story that you won't want to be over.
October 17, 2017
I wasn’t sure about Who’d Have Thought initially as the romance I was hoping for was slow to develop. The many scenes shared by Hayden and her bestie, Luce gave us a clear picture of how unlikely the chances were that Hayden would be able to successfully enter into her agreement with Sam. I found it a lot of work getting used to the necessary pronouns needed to address a non-binary person but I appreciated the authors efforts to educate. It seemed awkward and confusing at first, but thanks to those many scenes involving Luce I became more comfortable with the they and their references. In the end these scenes helped me better understand Hayden, her strength of character and her loyalty to those she holds dear.
Patience by the reader is rewarded with a sweet slow burn relationship rich with memorable secondary characters and endearing mains. I enjoyed watching Hayden’s attitude towards Sam change as the story progressed. I loved the way the author doled out little bits of Sam’s humanity forcing Hayden to go from detached indifference bordering on dislike to understanding, appreciation and acceptance. I loved the scenes involving the couples visit to Hayden’s Abuela and her sister. They packed an emotional punch for this reader.
I fell in love with this book as I turned the pages. I am an impatient reader by nature. Who’d Have Thought rewards those willing to patiently explore the hearts of the characters involved.
Well done.
Patience by the reader is rewarded with a sweet slow burn relationship rich with memorable secondary characters and endearing mains. I enjoyed watching Hayden’s attitude towards Sam change as the story progressed. I loved the way the author doled out little bits of Sam’s humanity forcing Hayden to go from detached indifference bordering on dislike to understanding, appreciation and acceptance. I loved the scenes involving the couples visit to Hayden’s Abuela and her sister. They packed an emotional punch for this reader.
I fell in love with this book as I turned the pages. I am an impatient reader by nature. Who’d Have Thought rewards those willing to patiently explore the hearts of the characters involved.
Well done.
February 6, 2021
Two books in and I’m already convinced that G. Benson can do no wrong!! Now I need to devour everything she’s ever written...and then cry because she only has five books out so far.
Seriously this is SUCH a delight. I’m truly in love with this book. There’s an instant marriage with the slowest of slow burns...and it’s damn wonderful. I spent the entire book grinning and/or laughing. Hayden is so adorkable, relatable, and selfless; and Sam is the alluring kind of ice queen character I can’t help but gush over.
(I did notice a few pronoun slip-ups and some instances of incorrect Spanish adjective-noun agreement; whether or not these issues are only in the audiobook version, I cannot say.)
Seriously this is SUCH a delight. I’m truly in love with this book. There’s an instant marriage with the slowest of slow burns...and it’s damn wonderful. I spent the entire book grinning and/or laughing. Hayden is so adorkable, relatable, and selfless; and Sam is the alluring kind of ice queen character I can’t help but gush over.
(I did notice a few pronoun slip-ups and some instances of incorrect Spanish adjective-noun agreement; whether or not these issues are only in the audiobook version, I cannot say.)
January 26, 2018
For some weird reason I haven’t read any G. Benson until now, but I know reading reviews from my fellow Good Reads chums that Book Club Buddie D. and I were in for a treat.
And it was a treat. Who'd Have Thought had so many good things going for it: it’s length, a hospital setting, the rich girl-poor girl trope, the marriage of convenience trope, a slooooooow burn romance, a memorable pet, an age-gap, an ice-queen reputation, going from I dislike you to I love you, family that you love and family that you hate, solid friends, great dialogue and good themes.
So my Good Read chums’ reputation of having good taste in books is confirmed once again, G. Benson is a keeper, D. and I had a marvelous time reading this.
f/f explicit
Themes: Frank the cat is the star of the story, Alzheimer is a bitch, the author handled the subject with great love and care, no insta-love… yay!, my brain still stumbles over the gender pronouns, Abuela rules!
5 stars
And it was a treat. Who'd Have Thought had so many good things going for it: it’s length, a hospital setting, the rich girl-poor girl trope, the marriage of convenience trope, a slooooooow burn romance, a memorable pet, an age-gap, an ice-queen reputation, going from I dislike you to I love you, family that you love and family that you hate, solid friends, great dialogue and good themes.
So my Good Read chums’ reputation of having good taste in books is confirmed once again, G. Benson is a keeper, D. and I had a marvelous time reading this.
f/f explicit
Themes: Frank the cat is the star of the story, Alzheimer is a bitch, the author handled the subject with great love and care, no insta-love… yay!, my brain still stumbles over the gender pronouns, Abuela rules!
5 stars
October 11, 2017
Loved it. Kinda hoped Hayden would have found her voice earlier, but it is what it is. The end though? I'm like noooooooo then I was all yeaaaaaaaa! LOL. For reals, that went through my head. I've 4 or 5'ved two of her other books so this one isn't much of a surprise. I knew I'd probably dig it. Maybe I'll work through the last few of her books and make it a clean sweep.
June 30, 2023
G Benson gives us a master class on how to write lesbian - romance - fiction - it is superb and how ever many times I read it, it still reduces me to a quivering wreck. Fantastic
October 20, 2017
So far I have not read a bad Benson book. And, so it continues. This book is about a marriage of convenience which ends up being a marriage of love. Now there are a lot of ups and downs a long the way. Some are funny, some are serious and some are just because. You have two very different people who come together through an internet advert asking for a wife for a year for money. They just had to make everyone believe it.
I will admit I found the binary part of the book a little confusing at first. I will also admit at first I thought it was an editing error. I know you are laughing at this moment but what is it with societies need to label everything. Are we actually born with the need to label or do we submit to societies pressures or the need of the individual to put a name to it. Well Benson definitely got me thinking and I had to look some stuff up. Too much to remember. But I found the book not only fun to read but also educational.
Benson is an extremely extraordinary story teller. She captivates you from the start and you find your self saying one more page then I'll go to bed. Good luck with that. Her writing style is easy to read. Enjoy!
*ARC provided by publisher via Ylva Publishing*
I will admit I found the binary part of the book a little confusing at first. I will also admit at first I thought it was an editing error. I know you are laughing at this moment but what is it with societies need to label everything. Are we actually born with the need to label or do we submit to societies pressures or the need of the individual to put a name to it. Well Benson definitely got me thinking and I had to look some stuff up. Too much to remember. But I found the book not only fun to read but also educational.
Benson is an extremely extraordinary story teller. She captivates you from the start and you find your self saying one more page then I'll go to bed. Good luck with that. Her writing style is easy to read. Enjoy!
*ARC provided by publisher via Ylva Publishing*
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