Frenemies

Friend Zone #2

by Nicole Blanchard

Dashiel Hampton is her enemy.

Layla Tate reminds herself of that fact every morning she goes to class and sees his smug face smirking up at her. From grade school to grad school there hasn’t been a moment they weren’t pitted against each other and she refuses to back down. She hates him from his rock hard abs to his panty-dropping smile.

She thought she left him behind when she went off to grad school and the satisfaction would have been oh-so-sweet…if he hadn’t been standing at the front of her first class–as her TA.

Layla Tate is going down.

There is nothing that makes Dash Hampton as happy as the look on Layla’s face when she realizes he’s won. He lives to drive her crazy because if he can’t have her beneath him, then he’ll have her any other way he can.

He’ll get her to notice him, even if it means making her semester a living hell.

As they vie to see who will come out on top, they’ll have to keep their friends close and their frenemies closer.

Genres: Enemies To Lovers, Contemporary, Romance, New Adult, Contemporary Romance, Audiobook, College

280 pages, Paperback

First published April 30, 2019

About the author

Nicole Blanchard is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the TikTok-viral dark romance Toxic, a wildly addictive bestseller that has sold over 90,000 copies worldwide. Known for her morally gray antiheroes, off-the-charts heat, and jaw-dropping twists, Nicole’s stories drag readers deep into love’s darkest corners—where no one escapes unscarred.

When she’s not crafting twisted love stories that break your heart and then heal it, you can find her soaking up beach sun with a glass of sweet tea, getting inked, or running a farm full of lovable misfit animals.

You may learn more about Nicole and her work at www.authornicoleblanchard.com. Join her mailing list for updates at http://www.authornicoleblanchard.com/...

Reviews

[Arna Sharma]

°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ

જ⁀➴
𝓕𝓻𝓮𝓷𝓮𝓶𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝓫𝔂 𝓝𝓲𝓬𝓸𝓵𝓮 𝓑𝓵𝓪𝓷𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓭

DNF’d this one somewhere between “maybe it’s me” and “oh no, it’s definitely the book.” ૮(˶╥︿╥)ა
I don’t even know what chapter or percentage I stopped at—probably the point where the typos started staging a full-blown uprising. And listen, English isn’t even my first language, so if I’m out here mentally editing every other sentence? We’ve got a situation.

Dear author, I say this with a touch of love and a whole lot of sass: 𝓹𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓼𝓮 𝓱𝓲𝓻𝓮 𝓪𝓷 𝓮𝓭𝓲𝓽𝓸𝓻
(ᵕ—ᴗ—). Your story has potential, but it’s buried under enough grammar issues to give my inner 10th-grade overachiever a meltdown. I haven’t corrected this much English since I used to proofread my friends’ assignments for fun—and trust me, that phase was supposed to be over.

I won’t rate this, because I didn’t finish it and I’m not here to mess with anyone’s hard work. Maybe I’ll come back to it someday, when I’m in the mood to rage-edit and relive my high school proofreader era.
But right now? I’m just a little sad for myself… and for my papa, who unknowingly sponsored this Wattpad-level journey. (つ╥﹏╥)つ

So yeah. 𝓢𝔀𝓮𝓮𝓽 𝓭𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓶𝓼 𝓽𝓸 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓰𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓵𝓮 𝓹𝓻𝓪𝔂𝓮𝓻𝓼 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓲𝓽𝓼 𝓯𝓾𝓽𝓾𝓻𝓮 𝓮𝓭𝓲𝓽𝓸𝓻.


°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･°❀⋆.ೃ


𝑷𝒓𝒆-𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅 ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
𝑭𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒆𝒔 by 𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒆 𝑩𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅

・。.・゜✭・. ・。.・゜✭・. ・。.・゜✭・.

Got the paperback today. This book will be my long-term relationship now—because I need to study, and we’re taking things slow… like, one-page-a-month slow.
Also, I really hope there aren’t a lot of open-door scenes in here. Because if there are? I’m skipping. No way in hell I’m reading anything inappropriate—my innocent eyes are not built for that.

[rj]

DNF @ 26%

- spoilers below -

I was out as soon as I found out she was a virgin and he's been sleeping around even though he wanted her since they were kids. There also OW drama throughout the book, a bitchy grandma who needs to mind her own business, and rich kids with rich kid problems.

Sad cause the H did seem like a decent guy I would want to read about.

Authors... please I'm begging you.... stop writing virgin heroines!!! I'm sick and tired of reading them.

[The Book Junkie Reads . . . · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy Book-day to Nicole and FRENEMIES . . . I read this as a birthday special for me.

I really do like the concept of enemies-to-lovers or the combo of frenemies get me on the fence. I love that there are obstacle to get over, under, around, behind, between, and so many more. I find that Dash and Layla were on losing ends either way you looked at it. If he won she lost and vice versa. That would not lead to something good or would it. Their story took you on a high and low of ups and downs between them. There were so many things about this story that reminded me of a few other enemies-to-friends-to-lovers that I have loved. I was wanting something more from these two. The history behind these two was what made it work so well. This was not a new enemies. This was more a nemises-to-lovers. Once they got past a few things and cleared up some misunderstandings things for the two were well on its way.

Nicole writes stories that pull you in and have you wanting more of the characters she surround the primary couple with. This read was no different. Once you put it down you want more.

[CrowAndKraken · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNFed at Chpt. 10, I couldn't bare any more pages.

Grammar and spelling mistakes, repetitive phrases. I was almost out when I got to know the bitchy Grandma (who will be a bitchy, sabotaging old woman, believe me, I don't even have to read the rest), and I WAS out the moment it was clear the FMC was a virgin.

I am so sick and tired of this trope of virgin FMC who meet/fall in love with a MMC who basically f*cked half of the female population in his city. And I am especially sick and tired of it when this is only a device to stall the pace and make the FMC more coy, just to make her a ravenous nympho two pages later. WTF?

[Meredith James · Rating 2 out of 5]

As much as I enjoyed the story, I'm going to have to give this book 2 stars purely for the EXTREMELY POOR EDITING.

Never have I read a book that had so many grammar and spelling errors in it. It was a complete eyesore and I just barely got through it without throwing it aside altogether. There was an entire scene that was replicated and I almost just stopped reading it right there.

As a consumer who purchased this book, I expect at least a little effort put into editing. All I noticed were the mistakes that could have easily been caught by a simple read over. It completely took the enjoyment away from the story.

I understand a few slight errors here and there, but there were 1-4 errors PER PAGE. That is ridiculous, and would not happen with proper editing.

I had the same issues with Freind Zone, although not as severe as this book. As much as I'd like to read the next one, Friends With Benefits, I don't know if I can read through another book that was as terribly edited as Frenemies.

PLEASE, hire an EDITOR! It would do WONDERS for your writing and make it more readable, and less like a drunk person wrote it on their iPhone. . .

[BookishRaquel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Star Rating: 4/5 ⭐
Heat Rating: 3/5 🌶️
Audiobook: 4/5 🎧

What to Expect:
- Forbidden Romance
- Grad Student/TA
- Frenemies to Lovers
- Close Proximity
- Family Drama
- Childhood Crush
- Virgin FMC

Dash and Layla have been at odds since high school, always clashing and never seeing eye to eye. Fast forward to college - Layla unexpectedly finds herself face-to-face with Dash again—only this time, he’s the teaching assistant in one of her required graduate school classes. Although a relationship would be completely forbidden, they have undeniable chemistry and can’t stay away from each other. Their push-and-pull, enemies-to-lovers relationship is filled with fiery banter and lots of tension. I am a sucker for forbidden romance stories and loved Dash and Layla's journey. Dash was all in with Layla and I loved that he was able to slowly pull down the guard she had around her heart. They experience a lot of ups and downs, have to deal with disapproving family members, and navigate the secrecy of their relationship. Still, there are some really sweet and steamy moments. This fast-paced, fun story is packed with drama, humor, and romance. If you enjoy enemies-to-lovers stories with plenty of emotion and sizzling heat, Frenemies is a must-read.

Narration:
Ava Lucas and Ryan Stone delivered exceptional performances in this frenemies-to-lovers romance, bringing the characters and their emotions to life. Ava captured Layla's fiery determination, while Ryan perfectly portrayed Dash's charm and depth. Their voices complemented each other, making the story engaging and easy to follow. The audiobook elevated the story, making this an enjoyable listening experience.

Thanks to Nicole Blanchard and High Gravity Productions for the advanced copy. Opinions expressed are my own.

[Shanna Ferris · Rating 3 out of 5]

Story:⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
Audiobook: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narrated by Ava Lucas and Ryan Stone

• Student/Teacher
• Forbidden
• Enemies to lovers
• Virgin FMC
• Childhood history

This was a sweet forbidden student/teacher romance. Dash and Layla were childhood nemesis drawn together repeatedly throughout their lives. I loved the way he pined after her. And the way she was so independent.

This audiobook certainly helped when it came to my love for this book. Because these two did a fantastic job bringing these characters to life.

Trigger warnings:
• OW drama
• Family Manipulation

[Thuy Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dash and Layla had this ridiculous hate/love thing going on and I was all here for it. These two had it bad for each other, while Dash knowing his deep feelings for her, the only way to get her attention was to annoy the heck out of her, and Layla took it as, I'll destroy him every chance I get. These two had me giggling at their hate/love feelings with each other.

I love a good enemies to lovers book, but the best is when they have the history to back it up, especially dating back to their childhood years. Dash just prods and pokes her until she blows up at him, and he just comes back for more. Fast forward her senior year in college......She needs to take a class so she can graduate with double majors and guess whoooooooo is her T.A????!!!! Dash! LOL. These two. Did I say, how giddy I get when these dramatics happen???? :o)

The story goes further and they spend time together and she starts to see the real Dash. They fall so deep for each other, but he also comes from a big influential family, so he's expected to act or follow a certain way or certain steps. Their chemistry is off the charts! There is quite some drama that happens which is sorta shocking and I immensely enjoyed their story. I loved seeing them fall totally head over heels for each other. Great story and I am looking forward to the next book!

[Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Received From Author for Honest Review.

I Give this Book a 3/5 Star Rating.

HEA(?): Yes.
Drama: 5/5
Suspense: 3/5
Heat: 3/5
Romance: 3/5

This was a highly anticipated read for me because it was continuously highly recommended to read, but to me it wasn’t as big a deal as I would’ve liked. Lots of drama, I wished the book started with a ‘years ago’ backstory prologue, just to get a better feel for the characters in the beginning, for me the hardest part of the book was the beginning cause there was no breathing space and I had trouble imagining the world.
The characters were ‘ok’, Layla was a bit of a push over and Dash though seemed like at good guy throughout. I really enjoyed him.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Frenemies is an enemies to lovers, forbidden romance. When Layla enters one of her classes the last person she expected to see was Dash. Even though Layla doesn't need the class to graduate college, one semester with him as her T.A. shouldn't kill her. For Dash, he has always wanted Layla, but she didn't want him back. Now that she's his student, Dash can't cross the line with her.

Nicole Blanchard is a new to me author. I loved her storytelling style. The story jumps immediately into the main plot. Right away you could feel the tension between Dash and Layla as well as the strong connection between them. I thought the author did a great job of establishing the characters background stories. The plot had me curious to see how everything would play out especially with outside factors affecting Dash and Layla's relationship.

As for the audiobook, it's fantastic! Performed in dual narration by Ryan Stone and Ava Lucas. Ryan portrayed Dash with a deeper, gruff tone. He matched how I imagined Dash to sound like. Ava portrayed Layla with so much fire. She exuded Layla's animosity against Dash. Both narrators had great range in voices and their character transitions were seamless. The audiobook was easy to follow along. Overall, I enjoyed the audiobook!

Audiobook coming soon!

Thank you to High Gravity Productions for my ALC in exchange for an honest review.

[evieo17 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I completely fell in love with Dash and Layla. I’m so happy that they didn’t give into outside pressure and got their HEA. Can’t wait for Ember’s book.

[Ashley Yungbluth · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Frenemies" is book two in the "Friend Zone" series by Nicole Blanchard. Layla and Dash's story was very intense. These two knew each other for a while and had a lot of competition going on. Layla didn't know that Dash secretly had feelings for her. Dash also found out some things about Layla that he didn't know. I enjoyed how descriptive Nicole was with this story and the different scenarios that happened to and between the two main characters. My favorite scene was between Layla and her mother. I also like how her friends Charlie and Ember are always there for Layla. I moved on to the third book in this series when I finished this book.

[Em Dorsey ~ A Darlin’ Doll and Her Books ~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

“It was as though we were composed of two volatile chemicals that reacted to each other when we were in close proximity. Instead of a slow burn, it was an explosion.”

Frenemies is a cute read with a little forbidden and hate to love romance thrown in. Layla is a smart and lonely girl who is focused on one thing...graduating. Dash is a charming, intelligent and honestly a pretty good guy. Enemies since grade school these two can’t help but bump heads. Both have more in common then they think. I loved the banter between the characters and the ending was perfect.

“I saw in her eyes the girl I’d admired, hated, feared, and worshipped.”

~ Read on behalf of Two Darlin Dolls and a Book Review Blog

[kgagnon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Layla and Dash have been frenemies since they were young. Dash tried to impress Layla at a spelling bee but only ending up hurting her instead. That was their relationship their whole lives. When Dash became her teacher for a required course, Layla knew her last year of college was off to a rocky start. Layla could never do anything right according to her mother, so Layla fought hard to control all aspects of her life. She worked hard, and was determined to try and please everyone. Dash knew a thing about family pressure. His grandmother wanted Dash to follow in his father's political footsteps. But no matter how much he liked it, he hated being controlled. He and Layla had that in common, but Dash couldn't help pushing Layla's buttons. He loved seeing the fire in her eyes and the closely guarded control slip just a little. Their fiery competition and banter was their foreplay. But their explosive desires are forbidden and could destroy both their careers. I really enjoyed this emotional, sweet & sexy romance. I especially loved the library scenes and all the fun scenes with their friends. I liked seeing Liam and Charlie again and can't wait for Ember and Tripp's story next!

[Jody · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the first book in Ms. Blanchard’s Friend Zone series I was immediately charmed and wholeheartedly on board for the rest of this likable group of friends to find their HEAs. In this latest installment two people weighed down by familial demands struggle to find their place in the world while finding an unexpected romance between lifelong frenemies. From start to finish witty banter is balanced with erotically-charged interactions that put a smile on my face and a blush to my cheeks in a story that had me wanting to read it again once I turned the final page.

Dashiel Hampton has always been a success, from being at the top of his class when it comes to smarts to being labeled one of the sexiest bachelors. He’s always been the smart one, the reliable one, and the one his family line rests their dreams of the future on. Because of his sexy looks and family name he’s never known a moment of not getting what he wanted...except when it comes to the smart and sassy Layla. He and Layla have been adversaries since they were young and he always came out on top which angered her and has kept them at war ever since. Finding out she’s taking a class he’s teaching thrills him and tempts him like never before, and with each day he sees her he wants her all the more. Flirtations, snarky banter, and surprising moments of tenderness soon has them starting a forbidden romance that could lead to trouble for both of their futures. Despite the risk of discovery though they can’t help themselves as they forge a rocky path full of doubts and fears towards HEA. Through it all Dash is an utterly delicious hero! From the outside he’s a sexy beast full of charm, a man who comes from wealth and who has a bright future ahead of him. With plans set forth by his family he’ll take his place in the public eye as the perfect spokesman for the Hampton name. What Dash wants though is something very different. He’s tired of being wanted only for his looks and name and wants to be wanted for who he is behind the facade. Layla’s the one woman to never cave to his wants, the one woman to challenge him at every turn and who never expects more from him than being her adversary. Being with her lets him be himself and it made their interactions crackle. When he was around his family there was a weight on him, but being around Layla brought out a carefree and playful side that drove their romance and endeared him to me. To the world Dash seemed to have it all, but the pressures his family put on him broke my heart. While letting his younger brother have a life, they pushed him at every turn when it came to his career and his love life. It was their machinations that put doubts in Layla’s head early on about their future and it made me very protective of their pairing as they were wonderful together.

Layla Tate’s always come in second best to Dash and it’s fueled her anger for him from an early age. As she’s gotten older though that anger is now paired with attraction. With her future on the line she can’t afford to put her grade in jeopardy so each day of him teaching her class becomes even more torturous as he does all he can to push her buttons. In moments of introspection she can admit he’s sexy and charming-when he wants to be-and it’s becoming harder and harder to ignore the sensual vibe he constantly sends her way which is why it’s not long before they’re engaged in a forbidden romance that will change both of their futures irrevocably. Layla’s a wonderful heroine, smart and strong-willed. With Dash she gives as good as she gets and their banter felt more like foreplay. As adversaries their banter was funny and snarky and it led to a seamless transition to lovers as their interactions with each other sizzled from their very first meeting. Layla might not have much experience when it comes to the bedroom but with Dash she turned into a sex kitten. Their erotic encounters were empowering to a heroine always made to feel inferior by her own family and by those who saw her as just a studious librarian-type. Being with him made her more inclined to go after what she wanted and it had me rooting for her every step of the way. Helping her through all her ups and downs were her supportive and equally likable girlfriends, Charlie and Ember. This trio is easy to relate to and it’s easy to see them as one of your own friends as they’re ready with alcohol and chocolate when times get tough. There were many times when Layla needed their emotional support, especially after talking to her mother who cut her down at every turn while pushing her to live a life she wanted. Her mother’s words were hurtful and these familial pressures were another thing to bind her and Dash together as they both tried to find their own way under the weight of family expectations.

From start to finish I was completely captivated by this story and its delightful main couple! Through witty banter and scorching interactions I was captivated by this pairing and rooting for them to overcome the outside forces weighing on them as they tried to find their own place in the world. Together they were a formidable pair, while apart they were left with doubts because of familial pressures that had me hurting for them as family can be the most cutting when it comes to defining success. Along with a romance that weathered a few emotional ups and downs along the way, readers got a glimpse of the past pairing between Charlie and Liam (still going strong and blissfully happy) and the break-up of Ember and her long distance boyfriend that’s now opened the door for their mutual friend Tripp to step through. This is another romance I’ve been longing to see come to fruition and in the crafty hands of Ms. Blanchard it promises to be another winner.

[Ashley (A Stack Above The Rest Blogg) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I purchased a physical copy of this book from a local retailer. In the beginning, the story was great and the characters were interesting. But whoever edited this book was clearly not skilled. Besides a substantial amount of grammatical errors throughout the book, the biggest issue was in chapter 22 when the chapter actually repeated itself. As in the first section of the chapter was cut and pasted into the last part of the chapter. It was such a glowing red flag that Ever After Romance just hadn't put the work into editing.

I'd encourage them to review it. The book's underlying plot is great, but the errors will be a challenge for other readers to keep them engaged in the book.

[Shana Mueller · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was good but again continuity errors. Some points I was going back to see if I read wrong. Over all it was okay.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frenemies will snag your heart completely by surprise as it leaves you shocked, enthralled, and wanting so much more. This new series is becoming an absolute must read! The characters will rock your world in a completely unexpected way while you fall for them so hard and fast. Their stories mirror real-life struggles and their emotions will leave you shattered and stunned. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on this fantastic groups of friends who muddle through life until they finally figure out that nothing else matters except the most important things in life like unconditional love and relentless hope.

Layla just wants to build and live her life in peace. When her family continually reminds her of just how much she doesn’t measure up, she just wants to walk away and never look back. Next, she is at a loss when one of her best friends moves out with her boyfriend shrinking her already small world of love and affection. Then, she finds that college has to throw its two cents into the game as well by making her repeat a business class. When her carefully constructed world begins to crumble, it does so in grand style. Just when things can’t possibly get any worse, she comes face to face with her childhood nemesis who has begun to infiltrate every part of her life. Dash is looking forward to finishing up his MBA. What he does after that is anyone’s guess. With his grandparents pushing him to work with his dad on his campaign, he is dead set on running in the opposite direction. He doesn’t want any more fake in his life. He wants something real, something raw, and something truly his own. What he longs for is a true, honest, and deep connection in his life. Where he will find that is beyond him. When he finds Layla thrust into his life, he is left dumfounded, intrigued, and hopeful. Will this dubbed beast be able to win over his beauty, or will they both discover the most well-kept secret of life that nothing is ever as it seems?

I have been chomping at the bit to read the story of Layla and Dash, and I was not disappointed in the least. In fact, it turned out so much better than I ever imagined! These two people couldn’t be more different or more similar. This strange dynamic created a tense and passionate story that broke two lonely and desperate hearts wide open. What you get is a whirlwind of emotion that gave me goose bumps at its intensity and made me smile like a fool at its charming sincerity. What a perfect story for this couple! It is truly a breathtaking masterpiece!

Nicole Blanchard has left me with a full heart and a burning desire to read the next book in this fabulous series. They just keep getting better and better. Nothing beats a wonderful story that rips your soul wide open to all of the possibilities of life and love. She delivered that and so much more. She is one author who never fails to make me feel everything no matter what is going on in my life around me. I come away refreshed and rejuvenated, and for that I can’t thank her enough! She is an extraordinary author who has touched my life in such a simple yet powerful way.

[Bette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous Story & Narration🎧Captivating & Heartfelt! 4.5 Stars🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Frenemies
Friend Zone, Book 2
By: Nicole Blanchard
Narrated by: Ava Lucas & Ryan Stone
Produced by: High Gravity Productions

Nicole Blanchard switches tropes for her second novel in her fabulous “Friend Zone” series with an enemies-to-lovers romance and it is just as wonderful as the first book, “Friend Zone”, which was a ‘friends to lovers’ romance. Dashiel “Dash” Hampton and Layla Tate are childhood nemesis and he was the last person she thought she’d see in her classroom, never mind him being the teacher’s assistant and one she will have to deal with the entire semester. The semester just got better for Dash, but Layla can not say the same. The back-an-forth dialogue between them was brilliant and there was an undeniable chemistry between them, one that was smoking hot and combustible, but one they can not give in to because she is a student and he is her TA. Giving into that chemistry was inevitable, but their forbidden relationship is not their only obstacle, they also have to deal with meddling and controlling family members, his and hers and a woman who wants Dash for who is family is. It was great watching their relationship morph into something more, and I was rooting for them even before they realized how they really felt about one another. It turned out all that banter was like foreplay for what was to come. There is never a dull moment in this book, a story that is cleverly plotted with non-stop drama, angst, heartfelt emotions, and steamy romance. Nicole Blanchard, thank you for another fabulous story and emotional rollercoaster ride.

🎧📚🎧  Ava Lucas and Ryan Stone were the perfect cast to bring these characters to life and did so with a complete understanding of who they were portraying, giving each a voice that was fitting and was believable in every role. Ava Lucas aced as Layla, showcasing every aspect of her personality, including her fire and fierceness and determination. Ryan Stone did the same as Dash and was just as fabulous. Both did a fantastic job portraying the secondary characters too. They set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and had you feeling them all. These two made a great team, with voices and talent that complement each other and a performance that elevates the story to another level. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. 

[Bari (justbookedup) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This audio was so good - I could not stop listening. I absolutely fell in love with these characters and this story. It has so much of what I enjoy: forbidden romance, family drama, enemies-to-lovers banter. I had not heard of Nicole Blanchard before this one and I am so happy she's now on my radar - I'm immediately going to listen to Book 1.

Qᴜɪᴄᴋ ᴏᴠᴇʀᴠɪᴇᴡ: ᴅᴀꜱʜᴀʟ (ᴅᴀꜱʜ) & ʟᴀʏʟᴀ ɢʀᴇᴡ ᴜᴘ ᴛᴏɢᴇᴛʜᴇʀ ᴀɴᴅ ʜᴀᴅ ᴀ ʀɪᴠᴀʟʀʏ ꜱɪɴᴄᴇ ɢʀᴀᴅᴇ ꜱᴄʜᴏᴏʟ. ᴅᴀꜱʜ ʟɪᴠᴇꜱ ᴛᴏ ᴏɴᴇ-ᴜᴘ ʟᴀʏʟᴀ. ꜰʟᴀꜱʜ ꜰᴏʀᴡᴀʀᴅ ᴛᴏ ᴘʀᴇꜱᴇɴᴛ ᴅᴀʏ ᴡʜᴇʀᴇ ᴅᴀꜱʜ ɪꜱ ɴᴏᴡ ʟᴀʏʟᴀ'ꜱ ᴛᴀ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰɪɴᴀʟ ᴄʟᴀꜱꜱ ꜱʜᴇ ɴᴇᴇᴅꜱ ᴛᴏ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟᴇᴛᴇ ʜᴇʀ ᴅᴇɢʀᴇᴇ. ꜱʜᴇ ᴄᴀɴ ᴅᴏ ʜᴀʀᴅ ᴛʜɪɴɢꜱ, ʟɪᴋᴇ ᴍᴀᴋᴇ ɪᴛ ᴛʜʀᴏᴜɢʜ ᴛʜɪꜱ ꜱᴇᴍᴇꜱᴛᴇʀ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴅᴀꜱʜ ᴀꜱ ʜᴇʀ ᴛᴇᴀᴄʜᴇʀ, ᴇᴠᴇɴ ɪꜰ ꜱʜᴇ ʜᴀꜱ ᴛᴏ ʟᴏᴏᴋ ᴀᴛ ʜɪꜱ ɢᴏᴏᴅ-ʟᴏᴏᴋɪɴɢ ꜱᴍɪʀᴋ & ʜᴇʀ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛꜱ ꜱʜɪꜰᴛ ꜰʀᴏᴍ ᴀɴɴᴏʏᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴛᴏ ꜱᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ ꜱɪᴍɪʟᴀʀ ᴛᴏ ʟᴜꜱᴛ...

🎧 Ava Lucas & Ryan Stone do a wonderful job in dual performances as Layla & Dash. They have this immediate chemistry and wonderful banter. Dash's childhood crush on Layla which has morphed into his joy of pushing her buttons is such a fun element. And I love Layla's transformation from hating Dash to loving him. They both have similar family dynamics that cause hurdles for them as a couple and also create their individual self-discovery arcs that are fun to watch. Dash's grandmother & Layla's mother bring that villain aspect to the story that I really enjoyed.

Dash is pretty swoony & sexy, toeing the line between respectful and losing control (especially with Layla being a virgin). I love their communication & when the spice hits, it's perfectly placed (hello student/teacher office hours!).

This was such a great listen and I am so excited to read this entire series.

❤️‍🔥 Enemies-to-Lovers
🏡 Close Proximity
➶ Forbidden
📚 Student x T.A.
🫶 Found Family
💋 Childhood Crush
❣️ Virgin FMC
💸 Wealthy Family Drama
✌🏻 Dual POV

4.25 ⭐️

[Misty (Reds Romance Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the moment they met, Dashiel Shepard started pushing Layla's buttons and working on her last nerve. Every chance that presented itself, he grabbed it with both hands and made her miserable. They met in grade school, and the teasing started that very first day and followed them to college... and now onto Grad school. When she left for grad school she was excited for the reprieve, from her family and him of course, hoping this was finally her chance for a little peace. But then she walks into her classroom and low and behold guess who she finds waiting for her... her sworn enemy!

The man may be drop dead gorgeous, but when someone is constantly getting on your nerves it makes them a little easier to overlook... or does it?

From the very first page Frenemies will lure you in and have you mesmerized with it's perfectly penned words, and enchanting characters. These two take the term enemy to a whole new level, constantly battling over one thing or another, and also fighting their attraction for one another at the same time..it's downright intense! Their little battles spawned lots of steamy, angsty moments that had me on the edge of my seat in anticipation. In addition to the battles happening between them they were also dealing with lots of family drama, the kind that is tough on the heart, this story really had it all. I really enjoyed this newest installment in the series, it had drama to keep me captivated, steamy bits to curl the toes, and loads of emotional stuff to tug on the heartstrings... a perfect read in my book! Highly recommend!

I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Layla Tate is constantly told by her mother what a utter disappointment she is, so she goes out of her way to try to make her mother happy, including taking more classes than she should so she can major in what she wants, and add business to the resume to try to get her mother to shut the hell up. (My words not hers.) So when she's told that she needs to add an extra business class to make sure she graduates on time, she's not happy, and to make matters worse, her mortal enemy since they were in elementary school, Dashiel Hampton, is teaching it as her TA. She refuses to back down, even when he does everything he can to antagonize her, even as far as to almost stalking her when he moves into her apartment building. Dash is determined to make her his, even if the only way to get her to notice him is to make her life a living hell, he's going to get her under him as they have explosive chemistry. And yes they do, so when he finally gets her where he wants her, outside forces conspire to keep them apart, so you know what that means, big twists that have my f-bombs dropping like mad! So they set the sheets on fire with heat, but then the colorful metaphors come out to play. I mean, can you think of any better kind of story because seriously, there is also angst with a big side of drama for all you drama queens added in, so it ticks off all the boxes for the perfect romance! Oh wait there's more! A cast of secondaries of hilarious friends so now what are waiting for?! One click this baby immediately! I certainly CANNOT WAIT for the next book in this series and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!

[LeMiliere · Rating 5 out of 5]

Layla and Dash
I read this book two years ago and loved it so when it became available in audio format I knew I just had to listen to it. The narration is wonderfully well done by Ava Lucas and Ryan Stone who brought every aspect of Layla and Dash's story to life.

This is the second book in this series, it's an enjoyable enemies-to-lovers story full of great chemistry and sass. Layla and Dash have known each other since they were very young but were always at odds. Dash is handsome and his family is wealthy and getting the girl is never a problem for him, they always seem to fall for him, except for Layla and because of this he's always enjoyed tormenting her.

Layla's a hard-working student who tries to please everyone, especially her mother, to get her Business Degree she takes an extra course, and imagine her surprise when she discovers that her teacher is Dash. But it's not only her who is surprised, when Dash learns that Layla's in his class he decides to do whatever it takes to make her his but knows he must keep their student and teacher relationship professional. That said his feelings for her are undeniable, their chemistry is palpable and steamy and things start to take a turn for the better but there's just one problem his family, especially his grandmother.

They are a lot more alike than they think when it comes to their families something they realize as their journey progresses. The story flows well and the author did a very good job when it came to character growth especially Layla's. If you enjoy enemies to lovers you can't help but enjoy this one.

[Lynn Reynolds · Rating 4 out of 5]

Layla Tate is just trying to get through the school year. She can be someone you can connect to – she doesn’t want to be like her mother. Dashiel “Dash” Hampton also wants to get through the school year. He gives you a peek at what the boy that pulls the pigtails grows up to be.

I liked having this story told from the character’s point of view. It was a great way to get Dash’s perspective on their past interactions. Layla’s point of view is all about their current connection. He also shows the reader that not always having more than most makes you happy. For Layla, I felt that at times she put her happiness on the backburner in order to get approval from her mother. Dash seems to like poking at something that he probably shouldn’t. Where Layla would prefer not to rock the boat if possible.

One thing this author does very well is building anticipation – for both her characters and her readers. Will they? Won’t they? Is there something that’s going to come between? She also shows that you can have a book with plenty of heat without doing “it”. All the ups and downs led to a very romantic ending. Since I missed reading the first book, I was glad to see that you could read this as a standalone. Our author did make me curious about Layla’s friends, Ember and Charlie. For Charlie, that’s where the first book in the series comes in. I look forward to catching up because Ember’s story is next.

I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

[Gin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sexy, snappy and swoon worthy! Outstanding enemies to lovers romance with divine characters and fantastic writing. Dash is a dream of a hero with his good looks, pedigree and smarts. He loves to set Layla on fire either with his barbs or his sexiness and watch as she reacts. She's a spitfire that gives as good as she takes and she wants to take him down. Their rivalry started in childhood with Dash "pulling her pigtails" and Layla going for payback that continues into adulthood. These highly competitive, beautiful people dish it back and forth with a fierceness that looks like hate but is really attraction. When Layla needs some help Dash is there for her and she sees a different side of him that she likes. Dash is ready to romance the lovely and sassy Layla but he has to convince her that they can be more than frenemies or at the least dislike and lust can co-exist. These two have terrific chemistry that's sizzles and can't be denied whether they're fighting or lusting. There are a few twists that cause friction in their budding relationship including their current teacher/student situation. And then there's the drama and heartache both have to deal with from their respective family's expectations and issues. Love the friendship between the gals and their wonderful support. This author has given us a panty-melting couple along with a storyline that has loads of depth and emotion. A real page turner to find out how Layla and Dash get to their ending. Loved it! I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.

[Ariel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read the first book in this series, I learnt all about the tension and rivalry between Layla and Dash.
While Layla feels that Dash tries to torment and annoy her for no reason, everyone else can see Dash is hot for Layla and does anything to just get a reaction from her.

There’s so much more tension in this story other than Dash and Layla’s feelings for each other.
Layla’s mother continues to try and control what she does in life including her career choice, regardless if Layla’s passion lies elsewhere.
Dash’s grandmother has decided he is going to follow his father’s political career and that he is going to be with the woman of her choosing, even though Dash has made it clear he is not interested because he knows the only person he wants to be with is Layla. But his Grandmother will not give up easily.
And to add more complications, Dash is now Layla’s TA for her business class so any relationship beyond teacher and student is forbidden.

This booked 100% lived up to the hype!!!
I love how they both are with each other, from their intense chemistry to the tension when challenging each other.
With dual POV throughout the story I got a real sense of their thoughts and feelings. Especially as Layla worked through her change of feelings towards Dash from always being defensive to being unable to resist her attraction to him.
Dash always had this sexy, confident and dominant side to him but then he showed a more gentle and patient side as he did everything he could to earn Layla’s trust and show her how much he truely cared about her.

[kgagnon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Layla and Dash have been frenemies since they were young. Dash tried to impress Layla at a spelling bee but only ending up hurting her instead. That was their relationship their whole lives. When Dash became her teacher for a required course, Layla knew her last year of college was off to a rocky start. Layla could never do anything right according to her mother, so Layla fought hard to control all aspects of her life. She worked hard, and was determined to try and please everyone. Dash knew a thing about family pressure. His grandmother wanted Dash to follow in his father's political footsteps. But no matter how much he liked it, he hated being controlled. He and Layla had that in common, but Dash couldn't help pushing Layla's buttons. He loved seeing the fire in her eyes and the closely guarded control slip just a little. Their fiery competition and banter was their foreplay. But their explosive desires are forbidden and could destroy both their careers. I really enjoyed this emotional, sweet & sexy romance. I especially loved the library scenes and all the fun scenes with their friends. I liked seeing Liam and Charlie again and can't wait for Ember and Tripp's story next!
The narration by Ava Lucas and Ryan Stone was fantastic. They completely captured these complex characters and I loved the emotion, and passion they brought to their performances. I always enjoy listening to the very talented Lucas, but this is my first listen to Stone and he was a joy to listen to, I will definitely look for more of his work.

[Jenny (jennyluvslitbooks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Frenemies lives up to its name with this newest second installment from another new to me author. Dash and Layla have a history of being mortal enemies’ way back from high school. Dash was already attracted to her but after failing to impress her by beating her on a quiz bee; it was war from then on. It doesn’t help that they couldn’t stop their selves from constant bickering. I guess it became their game; a cover, a mask than to face what was really the heart of the matter: they are attracted to each other and maybe in danger of falling in love.

Who doesn’t love enemies to lovers’ story? I’m a huge sucker for it and from this title alone; I just had to read it. I wasn’t disappointed. This was a sure fire hit to me. Those heated back and forth, intense push and pull; all lead to a very hot and steamy moment that I had to fan myself numerous times. Whew!

But that’s not all; the story has a taboo romance factor in it (student-teacher). Now we have, enemies-to-lovers, student-teacher romance? What’s not to love? Who could possibly resist this? Definitely not this girl. I’ve loved and enjoyed every single moment of this story; their own family problems while they try to work out their budding relationship are something you will be able to relate to in real life. After reading this book, I’m excited to read the next in this series, Tripp and Ember’s story because that title surely is interesting.

[Vikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Frenemies" is a charming story that masterfully captures the tension and chemistry between Layla and Dash. Their banter is sharp and witty, providing plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments. Blanchard's writing style is engaging and relatable, making it easy to lose yourself in the characters' world.

Layla's stubborn determination and Dash's internal struggle create a dynamic that keeps the reader eagerly turning pages. The progression of their relationship from enemies to something more is handled with a deft touch, making their journey both believable and compelling.

One of the standout aspects of this book is its humor. Blanchard has a knack for writing funny, realistic dialogue that adds a layer of warmth to the story. The interactions between Layla and Dash are laced with sarcasm and playful jabs, making their eventual romance all the more satisfying.

Nicole Blanchard has crafted a fantastic rom-com with "Frenemies." It's a must-read for fans of the genre and for anyone looking for a lighthearted, feel-good story. Layla and Dash's journey from enemies to lovers is a rollercoaster of emotions, laughs, and tender moments that will leave you with a smile on your face.

I highly recommend checking out Blanchard's other works as well. Her ability to create memorable characters and engaging stories is truly impressive.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frenemies
Friend Zone, Book 2
By: Nicole Blanchard
Narrated by: Ava Lucas & Ryan Stone
Produced by: High Gravity Productions

Nicole Blanchard always reaches my heart. This book is a little taboo. Dash and Layla have known each other for years. Always taunting her, the two were at odds all through school, so when Layla entered the class she needs to graduate, and hears his voice, she is shocked. To her dismay, it begins just like it was in high school, but this time he was her teacher. Their back and forth banter is adding to their combustible chemistry. So when it explodes, it's hot! But he's her teacher. Add in meddling family members who try to push their expectations on both of them, and the chance of getting caught, this book is exciting and fun. Dash is a charmer when Layla cuts through the surface. Layla is smart and creative. Together, they are magic, and it's just a matter of time for these two. I loved listening to their story and can't wait for Friends With Benefits!

Ava Lucas is a favorite, and she breaks out the best new adult voice for Layla. Her emotional tugging with Layla's personality created a realistic girl trying her best and breaking into her own. Ryan Stone is new to me, and I loved his voice. His ability to go from the teaser to the charmer is spot on and made Dash lovable. These two are great together and I loved the listen!