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Boyfriend or Bust
When Carson Turner's ex-boyfriend unexpectedly invites him to his destination wedding and presumes he'll be there alone, Carson panics and invents a fake boyfriend to accompany him. That's what happens when your greatest flaw seems to be to talk first and think later. How can Sam Bixton say no to his little sister's request for him to go to Greece with her best friend, who he's only admired from afar? Who would turn down fun in the sun with the one guy that's always been off-limits? Carson and Sam have a lot to learn about each other, and very little time to do it. Will they succeed in convincing Carson's ex that they're devoted boyfriends, or is it all about to go bust?
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2018
34 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 1, 2021
The story was probably good… I think. But this author needs a new narrator for their audiobooks. There’s voice acting and then there’s what this dude did…
August 15, 2019
I wasn't sure if I was going to like this at first or not, just simply because there's been a lot of fake boyfriend themes out there. But I really enjoyed this. I think it's because they really did take the time to get to know each other, even if it was supposed to be for fake reasons. They didn't rush to get into bed. They took their time with things and it made the relationship better for me.
Carson's ex-asshole boyfriend is getting married. And to the creep he cheated on him with. Now he's got an invitation to the wedding in Greece of all places. When Hugo calls to rub in it more and see if Carson is coming and alone as he figures, Carson says he has a plus one. And now he has to find one. Thankfully his best friend has a brother who is willing to help. They spend time getting to know each other so they can pull off the best fake relationship ever, bit it's kind of backfired in their faces because what is supposed to be fake, is becoming very real. But since is supposed to be fake, will it be ok to fall in love or will it blow up in their faces?
After reading this, I'm glad Carson had Sam. Dude. Hugo the horrible and Ivan the terrible are unbelievable. The nerve they had. And Hugo was so awful to Carson when they were together anyway. So every jab they got in at that wedding, I just laughed even harder. They deserved it. But I'm glad for Carson and Sam period as well. They both are sweethearts and need someone good in their lives and they found not only chemistry but a strong friendship in each other. It's perfect.
This is another one of those books that just puts you in a romantic mood. Makes you happy and lovey and just makes everything brighter.
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August 13, 2018
Carson and Sam are the cutest! This is the best kinda Falling for the Best Friend’s Brother story.
Carson is totally me in male form right from the bookstore (that I’ve always wanted to own) to liking Notting Hill movie (saw it in theaters when first came out and loved it!) to taking a book with him everywhere (especially sporting or boring events like that.). He made my heart happy every moment I was sucked into the book.
Sam is not someone I liked at the beginning of the story but he slowly took hold of me just like Carson did. He is so different then he shows everyone else and I’m glad about that.
The setting is the best, I’ve read so many books over the years set in Seattle that I want to visit so bad, to walk where my favorite characters have walked and eaten and loved one another. What Sam does for Carson is amazing and falling in love is a big bonus. I hope everyone who picks this story up comes to love Carson and Sam as much as I have.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Carson is totally me in male form right from the bookstore (that I’ve always wanted to own) to liking Notting Hill movie (saw it in theaters when first came out and loved it!) to taking a book with him everywhere (especially sporting or boring events like that.). He made my heart happy every moment I was sucked into the book.
Sam is not someone I liked at the beginning of the story but he slowly took hold of me just like Carson did. He is so different then he shows everyone else and I’m glad about that.
The setting is the best, I’ve read so many books over the years set in Seattle that I want to visit so bad, to walk where my favorite characters have walked and eaten and loved one another. What Sam does for Carson is amazing and falling in love is a big bonus. I hope everyone who picks this story up comes to love Carson and Sam as much as I have.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
August 10, 2018
4 1/2 out of 5 stars
This is the first book for me by this author, but I’m eager to read more because this story was told so well. Carson gets a wedding invitation from his ex - an ex he doesn’t like, an ex that his family and friends never liked. In a crazy moment, he calls to tell him how rude it was to invite him at all and decline the invitation, but in the heat of the moment admits to having a boyfriend - that he doesn’t have - and accepting the invite.
Now enter Sam, his best friend’s big brother and the biggest crush of Carson’s life. He doesn’t expect anything to come of his agreement to the crazy plan, but goes along with it anyway.
I loved the back and forth in this one because it never really felt all that silly. They were playing roles and yet they were really in the moment. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and develop. I loved how they handled the ex right before the wedding. I loved the way the story was told - and of course, the way it all came out in the end.
This is a simple story that I would recommend if you’re just looking for a fun read that is all about loving what you have and being there for your friends.
*** I voluntarily read a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
This is the first book for me by this author, but I’m eager to read more because this story was told so well. Carson gets a wedding invitation from his ex - an ex he doesn’t like, an ex that his family and friends never liked. In a crazy moment, he calls to tell him how rude it was to invite him at all and decline the invitation, but in the heat of the moment admits to having a boyfriend - that he doesn’t have - and accepting the invite.
Now enter Sam, his best friend’s big brother and the biggest crush of Carson’s life. He doesn’t expect anything to come of his agreement to the crazy plan, but goes along with it anyway.
I loved the back and forth in this one because it never really felt all that silly. They were playing roles and yet they were really in the moment. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow and develop. I loved how they handled the ex right before the wedding. I loved the way the story was told - and of course, the way it all came out in the end.
This is a simple story that I would recommend if you’re just looking for a fun read that is all about loving what you have and being there for your friends.
*** I voluntarily read a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ***
August 31, 2018
Sometimes an announcement from an ex has the power to shock and frazzle you. In Carson's case, his cheating ex sent him an invitation to his wedding; a lavish Greek extravaganza with the man he cheated with, to be exact. So what's Carson to do? Any sane and well-adjusted person knows the answer is to make up a fake relationship and accept the invitation to attend the destination wedding. With the help of his best friend's brother, Sam, who Carson has just so happened to have a little crush on for years, he finds more than just a willing wedding date, he just might have found his very own forever.
Both men are intelligent, attractive, and have secretly been interested in one another for a long time. In the two months prior to the wedding they get the chance to learn about all the things that make them tick. I think that it was a smart play for the author to have a slightly shared history between them through the best friend and sister, Sloan, so we could get right into what made both men unique and ideal partners.
Sam's slightly adolescent hesitation and methods for meeting up with Carson in the beginning was seriously cute. I was nervous about him when we first meet him because of his eyeing up someone else but it ended up making a good contrast for the next time he sees the guy. It was a simple yet very clear way to show how much he cared for Carson despite the short timeline.
And Carson's nerdy cuteness was endearing. To see him freaking out with Sloan could have been annoying but it made him much more relatable. I mean, who hasn't said or done something to put ourselves in an awkward or potentially disastrous situation for whatever reason and then have an internal or external freak-out for what we did?
The story's mundane activities and the inner musings while they figured one another out did have a tendency to drag on, though, which slowed the pace of the story and its progression quite a bit. Especially once they got to Greece. The day-to-day activities seemed like a week's worth of time when it was really only a couple days. And the wedding itself...so very over the top, in many ways. When Hugo made his proposal it felt contrived. While it might have finally proven to Carson that he can stand up for himself and to Sam that there's only Sam in Carson's heart, it just felt out of place and took the focus away from the point of the story. Other than that, the relationship's evolution was tender, steamy, and felt right for the characters themselves.
Both men are intelligent, attractive, and have secretly been interested in one another for a long time. In the two months prior to the wedding they get the chance to learn about all the things that make them tick. I think that it was a smart play for the author to have a slightly shared history between them through the best friend and sister, Sloan, so we could get right into what made both men unique and ideal partners.
Sam's slightly adolescent hesitation and methods for meeting up with Carson in the beginning was seriously cute. I was nervous about him when we first meet him because of his eyeing up someone else but it ended up making a good contrast for the next time he sees the guy. It was a simple yet very clear way to show how much he cared for Carson despite the short timeline.
And Carson's nerdy cuteness was endearing. To see him freaking out with Sloan could have been annoying but it made him much more relatable. I mean, who hasn't said or done something to put ourselves in an awkward or potentially disastrous situation for whatever reason and then have an internal or external freak-out for what we did?
The story's mundane activities and the inner musings while they figured one another out did have a tendency to drag on, though, which slowed the pace of the story and its progression quite a bit. Especially once they got to Greece. The day-to-day activities seemed like a week's worth of time when it was really only a couple days. And the wedding itself...so very over the top, in many ways. When Hugo made his proposal it felt contrived. While it might have finally proven to Carson that he can stand up for himself and to Sam that there's only Sam in Carson's heart, it just felt out of place and took the focus away from the point of the story. Other than that, the relationship's evolution was tender, steamy, and felt right for the characters themselves.
August 15, 2018
4 Stars!
After being invited to his ex-boyfriend's wedding and accidentally accepting, bookstore owner Carson needs to find himself a boyfriend named Sam to take to the wedding in Greece and fast. Fortunately, his BFF Sloan comes to the rescue and she suggests asking her older brother Sam, who agrees to help out. Of course, it doesn't hurt that Sam has been harboring a crush for Carson, which is reciprocated, or that, even if the two of them are pretty much opposites, they have enough things in common for their relationship to turn more real than they both expected.
Carson was adorably awkward and while I wasn't sure what to make of Sam at first, he had quite the turnaround once the chance to be with Carson came into play. They had amazing chemistry and it was great seeing them go from kinda frenemies to lovers, they just fit together so well that the progression felt very natural, so by the time they actually went to the dreaded ex's wedding, they weren't really fake boyfriends any longer.
Overall, Boyfriend or Bust was a great read, entertaining and fun and sexy, with some very light angst to balance things out. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
After being invited to his ex-boyfriend's wedding and accidentally accepting, bookstore owner Carson needs to find himself a boyfriend named Sam to take to the wedding in Greece and fast. Fortunately, his BFF Sloan comes to the rescue and she suggests asking her older brother Sam, who agrees to help out. Of course, it doesn't hurt that Sam has been harboring a crush for Carson, which is reciprocated, or that, even if the two of them are pretty much opposites, they have enough things in common for their relationship to turn more real than they both expected.
Carson was adorably awkward and while I wasn't sure what to make of Sam at first, he had quite the turnaround once the chance to be with Carson came into play. They had amazing chemistry and it was great seeing them go from kinda frenemies to lovers, they just fit together so well that the progression felt very natural, so by the time they actually went to the dreaded ex's wedding, they weren't really fake boyfriends any longer.
Overall, Boyfriend or Bust was a great read, entertaining and fun and sexy, with some very light angst to balance things out. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
August 14, 2018
I just love books like this one. It is a fake boyfriend book that turns out to be so much more. Theee is something about these kind of books that just gets to me. It is how something that starts off fake turns into something real. I just love them. And Claire Castle did a really great job on this book.
Carson has been invited to a destination wedding by his ex. The only reason for the invite is to basically stick it to Carson. Though Carson intends to turn down his cheating ex’s invite, when he gets on the phone with him, he finds himself saying that he will be at the wedding and he will be there with his boyfriend Samuel, Sam.
Now Carson is in a tizzy trying to figure out what to do. He has no boyfriend and he cannot back out now without looking like a loser so he has to come up with someone to fill the roll for him. That is when his best friend steps in and gets her brother Sam to fill the roll of boyfriend. But what Sloan’s did not realize is both Carson and Sam have had crushes on the other for a long time now. Neither man knows this but if informational either.
When Carson and Sam start to spend more time together to prepare for the upcoming wedding, sparks start to fly and the two grow closer. Neither man expected this to happen. But rh question remains, can a fake boyfriend turn into a real one or will something or someone come between them in the end?
I really enjoyed his read. I believe this is the first book by Claire Castle that I have read. But nonetheless I will be reading more in the future. This is definitely a recommended read from me to you.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Carson has been invited to a destination wedding by his ex. The only reason for the invite is to basically stick it to Carson. Though Carson intends to turn down his cheating ex’s invite, when he gets on the phone with him, he finds himself saying that he will be at the wedding and he will be there with his boyfriend Samuel, Sam.
Now Carson is in a tizzy trying to figure out what to do. He has no boyfriend and he cannot back out now without looking like a loser so he has to come up with someone to fill the roll for him. That is when his best friend steps in and gets her brother Sam to fill the roll of boyfriend. But what Sloan’s did not realize is both Carson and Sam have had crushes on the other for a long time now. Neither man knows this but if informational either.
When Carson and Sam start to spend more time together to prepare for the upcoming wedding, sparks start to fly and the two grow closer. Neither man expected this to happen. But rh question remains, can a fake boyfriend turn into a real one or will something or someone come between them in the end?
I really enjoyed his read. I believe this is the first book by Claire Castle that I have read. But nonetheless I will be reading more in the future. This is definitely a recommended read from me to you.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
August 16, 2018
Boyfriend or Bust is an adorable, fun and enchanting fake boyfriend romance by Claire Castle.
Carson, in a huff, claims that he is bringing his boyfriend Sam to his ex's wedding. Problem is, he doesn't have a boyfriend at all, let alone one named Sam.
What follows is a sweet fake boyfriend story, as Caron's best friend Sloane hooks him up with her brother Sam for the wedding.
Carson and Sam are great together, from their instant attraction to their unfolding romance as they get to know each and strong feelings develop. I adore their banter, as it is snarky, yet sweet.
I enjoy the destination wedding, as the author takes us along for the ride, giving us a chance to experience Greece along with the couple.
Boyfriend or Bust is written in a light, funny style, keeping the reader engaged and entertained. I definitely recommend this Claire Castle book to anyone looking for a sweet and easy romance.
Carson, in a huff, claims that he is bringing his boyfriend Sam to his ex's wedding. Problem is, he doesn't have a boyfriend at all, let alone one named Sam.
What follows is a sweet fake boyfriend story, as Caron's best friend Sloane hooks him up with her brother Sam for the wedding.
Carson and Sam are great together, from their instant attraction to their unfolding romance as they get to know each and strong feelings develop. I adore their banter, as it is snarky, yet sweet.
I enjoy the destination wedding, as the author takes us along for the ride, giving us a chance to experience Greece along with the couple.
Boyfriend or Bust is written in a light, funny style, keeping the reader engaged and entertained. I definitely recommend this Claire Castle book to anyone looking for a sweet and easy romance.
June 17, 2020
I love a HEA!
Carson and Sam were so much fun to read about. Carson got an invite to his ex's wedding and instead of refusing, he agreed to go with his new boyfriend....that he didn't even have. Carson's best friend had the great idea of asking her brother to stand in as the fake boyfriend. Carson thought Sam was beautiful and it definitely would not be a hardship to appear attracted to Sam. They figured they could get to know each other before the wedding so things didn't seem too fake. As they get to know each other, lines become a little blurred. Could they possibly make this a real relationship? The chemistry between these two is incredibly hot!
Carson and Sam were so much fun to read about. Carson got an invite to his ex's wedding and instead of refusing, he agreed to go with his new boyfriend....that he didn't even have. Carson's best friend had the great idea of asking her brother to stand in as the fake boyfriend. Carson thought Sam was beautiful and it definitely would not be a hardship to appear attracted to Sam. They figured they could get to know each other before the wedding so things didn't seem too fake. As they get to know each other, lines become a little blurred. Could they possibly make this a real relationship? The chemistry between these two is incredibly hot!
August 16, 2018
What a fun read this was! If you like the fake boyfriend trope this is right up your alley.
Carson panics when he gets a wedding invitation from his ex and agrees to go with his new boyfriend. problem is... there is no boyfriend.... His best friend steps in and offers her brother as a stand in.
both men harbor secret crushes on the other.... it was fun to watch their relationship grow into a friendship and then into lovers... will they decide to stay together after the trip to Greece for the wedding??? Enjoy the ride like I did.. :)
Carson panics when he gets a wedding invitation from his ex and agrees to go with his new boyfriend. problem is... there is no boyfriend.... His best friend steps in and offers her brother as a stand in.
both men harbor secret crushes on the other.... it was fun to watch their relationship grow into a friendship and then into lovers... will they decide to stay together after the trip to Greece for the wedding??? Enjoy the ride like I did.. :)
June 18, 2020
Sam and Carson
This was a slow burn love story. It was so sweet how Sam brought love back into Carson life. Of course there was drama from Carson ex boyfriend brought and he had some nerve and you just had to love to have him. Also you got two love stories out of this one with Sam best friend falling in love with Sam sister who just happened to be Carson best friend who started all this to bring Sam and Carson together.
This was a slow burn love story. It was so sweet how Sam brought love back into Carson life. Of course there was drama from Carson ex boyfriend brought and he had some nerve and you just had to love to have him. Also you got two love stories out of this one with Sam best friend falling in love with Sam sister who just happened to be Carson best friend who started all this to bring Sam and Carson together.
August 14, 2018
Sam & Car
Carson needs Sam to pretend to be his boyfriend at a destination wedding for his ex, but both of them need each other more than they realize. I loved this sweet story and now I really want to travel to Greece!
Carson needs Sam to pretend to be his boyfriend at a destination wedding for his ex, but both of them need each other more than they realize. I loved this sweet story and now I really want to travel to Greece!
August 19, 2018
I love Carston and Sam's stories. The dual view in both their lives gives you a lot of insight. It was lovely, very low angst and so sweet. They slowly fall in love, and it was great to be part of their journey. I really recommend if you need something nice and feel good.
February 29, 2020
Cute couple
I liked this book,the author did a good job writing this book,,I found it very cute,,but the part where the family friend was a asshole should have been set on his ass in this book
I liked this book,the author did a good job writing this book,,I found it very cute,,but the part where the family friend was a asshole should have been set on his ass in this book
June 26, 2020
Delightful
This is a well written story with a common theme treated in a slightly different manner than most. The book includes good character development and lacks some of the more obvious plot devices. Overall, an enjoyable story with a good HEA.
This is a well written story with a common theme treated in a slightly different manner than most. The book includes good character development and lacks some of the more obvious plot devices. Overall, an enjoyable story with a good HEA.
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June 19, 2020
A Wonferfully Sweet Read!
I fell in love with this story! Carson and Sam are my new favorite couple! This story was sweet and steamy, romantic and heartfelt!
I fell in love with this story! Carson and Sam are my new favorite couple! This story was sweet and steamy, romantic and heartfelt!
August 19, 2019
Loved it!
April 28, 2019
A Sexy Hoot All the Way
There are so many oops-that-is-just-too-convenient episodes in this delightfully sweet and ultra sexy book that it is difficult for a reviewer to point out any that are truly pertinent to the overall story.
Well, except for the wedding itself, which is the catalyst for the bringing Carson and cover man Samuel (Car and Sam) together in the first place, and which takes place close to the end of the book in a series of chapters that are cute and spicy and also a bit off-the-wall.
Look, read the blurb and get the book, which is the first I've read by this author--and won't be the last. In the end there isn't an "oops" moment in the book which plays wrongly by the time you get to the end. Sweet and worth every page.
There are so many oops-that-is-just-too-convenient episodes in this delightfully sweet and ultra sexy book that it is difficult for a reviewer to point out any that are truly pertinent to the overall story.
Well, except for the wedding itself, which is the catalyst for the bringing Carson and cover man Samuel (Car and Sam) together in the first place, and which takes place close to the end of the book in a series of chapters that are cute and spicy and also a bit off-the-wall.
Look, read the blurb and get the book, which is the first I've read by this author--and won't be the last. In the end there isn't an "oops" moment in the book which plays wrongly by the time you get to the end. Sweet and worth every page.
June 22, 2019
Fun Read
3 1/2 stars.
Not an original idea. I have read the "My ex invited me to his wedding so I made up a fake boyfriend to bring as my date" story line a number of times. This was a sweet one. The guys had met before. They were attracted to each other but there were reasons they never acted. I liked that they interacted before the destination wedding. There was a of the building of a relationship that is usually missing in this story line. I liked the ending. No hints.
3 1/2 stars.
Not an original idea. I have read the "My ex invited me to his wedding so I made up a fake boyfriend to bring as my date" story line a number of times. This was a sweet one. The guys had met before. They were attracted to each other but there were reasons they never acted. I liked that they interacted before the destination wedding. There was a of the building of a relationship that is usually missing in this story line. I liked the ending. No hints.
September 8, 2018
Fake to real
What to do when your ex invites you to his wedding? Go with your hot new one of course........except you don't have one!
This is a nice interpretation of the fake boyfriend trope, I especially liked the fun that these two have getting back at the ex, and getting ready for the wedding. This book is definitely worth reading.
What to do when your ex invites you to his wedding? Go with your hot new one of course........except you don't have one!
This is a nice interpretation of the fake boyfriend trope, I especially liked the fun that these two have getting back at the ex, and getting ready for the wedding. This book is definitely worth reading.
April 14, 2019
2.5 stars. This was kind of a mixed bag. Lovely characters and a fairly compelling storyline but the writing was shoddy, with pacing issues and clunky dialogue. It came over as a first attempt at a novel, with much potential, but in need of some good polishing and editing.
April 16, 2020
I loved this cute, fun story. Sweet mc’s, both so freaking cute, and no big angst, just two lovely men on a slow adventure towards something special. Another new author for me, I really liked her style, sweet and gentle.
August 14, 2018
The fake boyfriend trope can be hit or miss for me, though most often I do enjoy the stories. The setup here in Boyfriend or Bust is what I expected, though the execution had me sitting on the fence for portions of the book.
Characters who own bookstores and have that kinda nerdy vibe to them are always a favorite of mine, so I was immediately paying attention to Carson. The fact that he let his ex get to him like he did was a roll-my-eyes moment, but without it the premise of the story would have been blown apart so I tolerated his insecurity (because that’s exactly what it was for him to react as he did to the wedding invitation).
Thanks to Carson’s pretty cool best friend, Carson’s moment of insanity is tempered with said best friend’s brother, Sam, who readily agrees to play his part. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that he’s crushed on Carson just a tiny bit in the past…but hey, Carson’s done the same with Sam so that works out just fine. Sam is the opposite of Carson in many ways, more of the jock type—though also with a head for business.
Considering they’re both already attracted to each other, things play out as you might expect while they’re getting to know each other before the wedding they’re going to attend. They do have great physical chemistry, and quickly become comfortable with each other. But one of the things that had me on the fence for this story was that the time before the wedding was drawn out for too long—which means my attention did start to wander. All that time did show how easily Carson and Sam fit into each other’s lives, but it really was too much time since their chemistry was already awesome from the start.
Once the wedding trip arrives, there’s more drawn out time together both before and after the actual event. There’s also a scene involving Carson’s ex that seemed just a bit over the top immediately preceding the ceremony that I found annoying. To be honest, there’s quite a bit that could have been removed from the book without affecting the core of the story at all, mainly thanks to Sam and Carson’s excellent chemistry.
Overall, Boyfriend or Bust was a 3.5 star read for me, and this book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Characters who own bookstores and have that kinda nerdy vibe to them are always a favorite of mine, so I was immediately paying attention to Carson. The fact that he let his ex get to him like he did was a roll-my-eyes moment, but without it the premise of the story would have been blown apart so I tolerated his insecurity (because that’s exactly what it was for him to react as he did to the wedding invitation).
Thanks to Carson’s pretty cool best friend, Carson’s moment of insanity is tempered with said best friend’s brother, Sam, who readily agrees to play his part. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that he’s crushed on Carson just a tiny bit in the past…but hey, Carson’s done the same with Sam so that works out just fine. Sam is the opposite of Carson in many ways, more of the jock type—though also with a head for business.
Considering they’re both already attracted to each other, things play out as you might expect while they’re getting to know each other before the wedding they’re going to attend. They do have great physical chemistry, and quickly become comfortable with each other. But one of the things that had me on the fence for this story was that the time before the wedding was drawn out for too long—which means my attention did start to wander. All that time did show how easily Carson and Sam fit into each other’s lives, but it really was too much time since their chemistry was already awesome from the start.
Once the wedding trip arrives, there’s more drawn out time together both before and after the actual event. There’s also a scene involving Carson’s ex that seemed just a bit over the top immediately preceding the ceremony that I found annoying. To be honest, there’s quite a bit that could have been removed from the book without affecting the core of the story at all, mainly thanks to Sam and Carson’s excellent chemistry.
Overall, Boyfriend or Bust was a 3.5 star read for me, and this book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
September 7, 2018
2.5
Fake boyfriend? A favorite trope of mine and I devour those stories like candy. There is nothing I like more than having two guys realize the pretense has led to something real. That is the basis behind Boyfriend or Bust. Told in alternating first person point of view, we have Carson, a nice guy with a nasty ex, who gets an invite to said ex’s wedding. A wedding to the boss who was banging Hugo while he was with Carson. Rude, right? Carson thinks so too and when he calls Hugo the Horrible to tell him off for the invite he instead makes up a boyfriend, conveniently seeing a bottle of Samuel & Sons hand soap and inventing Samuel who will accompany him as a plus-one. Hugo doesn’t believe it, but whatever.
When Nate’s best friend, Sloan, finds out about it she is all for shoving it in Hugo’s face. “Sloan hated him from the beginning, I knew that much.” So she brings up using her brother, auspiciously named Sam, a man that Nate has crushed on. Nate has “…admired her brother from afar for years” but was also caught referring to Sam as “…an airhead gym rat…”, as Sam is a personal trainer. Nate claims it was only a joke, but I didn’t understand how that would be funny at all. Sam has also crushed on Nate over the years as well. Sam agrees.
This is where I started to question the story. First off, the wedding is in Greece. Nate is paying for the two weeks there. That is a lot of money to spend just to show up an ex-boyfriend that you realize is a complete jerk. Second, while Sam claims to have agreed to this crazy idea because he loves his sister, “How could I say no to my little sister? I would do anything for her.” Yet later in the book he talks about how he and Sloan aren’t close. There was some family trauma and it tore everyone apart. “I love her as a sister, but it’ll never be the same, you know?” So it was surprising then that he would take two weeks from work to accompany Carson, someone he barely knows and heard smack-talking him, to be a fake boyfriend at an ex’s wedding. Especially when they are supposed to be getting to know each other in the two months before the wedding, yet when Sam tries, Nate blows him off. It was odd. It makes Sam really think, “We can hang out. I know you don’t like me much, but if you want me in this with you, I will help you show this jerkwad what he missed out on.”
They do, however, start to get to know each other better and realize that they might just be good for each other. It actually turns to insta-love fairly quickly, considering it’s two months from the time they first talk to the wedding trip itself. Here was another thing that got me. I was already thinking that the two-week trip to Greece was a going pretty far to tick off an ex, but once they are there Hugo is so over the top rude, condescending and nasty that I couldn’t for the life of me figure out why they would attend the wedding. Carson already got to let Hugo know he’s put the cheating man behind him, so why not just enjoy the vacation. Hugo’s reaction, “The fake tone of his voice was hard to miss. “what���s he paying you then? Do you work for 1-900-MEN-4HIRE? Even Sam asks, “On second thought, do we really have to attend the wedding?” Honestly, I felt like it was a manipulation to get some bad behavior (well, more bad behavior) on the part of Hugo into the story. Bad behavior that honestly didn’t make sense in the context it was placed. Holding up your wedding for that reason? “…he’s the type to use it against you, if you don’t show.” Does Hugo work with Carson? Otherwise, they don’t speak so who cares.
Carson and Sam do have a lot of sex over the course of the months. There is dialogue that was very off-putting during some of this. Sometimes too sappy, sometimes it was like they were mechanical. “When you are about to come inside me, pump once, and we’ll come together.” The writing overall was a little simplistic and sometimes awkward. Finally, Carson at one point says, “I want you to know, I never judged you for being a personal trainer.” Why on earth would you even think to judge someone for that? Sam’s response, “I know, Carson. That’s one of the things I love about you. You’ve always taken me as I am. You’re genuine and nonjudgmental.” What? Personal training is a stable, healthy career.
It is unfortunate that this book didn’t really work for me. There were too many things that made me question or roll my eyes. It had a lot of potential but I don’t think it lived up to it all. I would try this author again and see if maybe next time I’d like the story more.
The cover art, a handsome man set against a background of the sea, is pretty and fits in well with the theme of the book.
Fake boyfriend? A favorite trope of mine and I devour those stories like candy. There is nothing I like more than having two guys realize the pretense has led to something real. That is the basis behind Boyfriend or Bust. Told in alternating first person point of view, we have Carson, a nice guy with a nasty ex, who gets an invite to said ex’s wedding. A wedding to the boss who was banging Hugo while he was with Carson. Rude, right? Carson thinks so too and when he calls Hugo the Horrible to tell him off for the invite he instead makes up a boyfriend, conveniently seeing a bottle of Samuel & Sons hand soap and inventing Samuel who will accompany him as a plus-one. Hugo doesn’t believe it, but whatever.
When Nate’s best friend, Sloan, finds out about it she is all for shoving it in Hugo’s face. “Sloan hated him from the beginning, I knew that much.” So she brings up using her brother, auspiciously named Sam, a man that Nate has crushed on. Nate has “…admired her brother from afar for years” but was also caught referring to Sam as “…an airhead gym rat…”, as Sam is a personal trainer. Nate claims it was only a joke, but I didn’t understand how that would be funny at all. Sam has also crushed on Nate over the years as well. Sam agrees.
This is where I started to question the story. First off, the wedding is in Greece. Nate is paying for the two weeks there. That is a lot of money to spend just to show up an ex-boyfriend that you realize is a complete jerk. Second, while Sam claims to have agreed to this crazy idea because he loves his sister, “How could I say no to my little sister? I would do anything for her.” Yet later in the book he talks about how he and Sloan aren’t close. There was some family trauma and it tore everyone apart. “I love her as a sister, but it’ll never be the same, you know?” So it was surprising then that he would take two weeks from work to accompany Carson, someone he barely knows and heard smack-talking him, to be a fake boyfriend at an ex’s wedding. Especially when they are supposed to be getting to know each other in the two months before the wedding, yet when Sam tries, Nate blows him off. It was odd. It makes Sam really think, “We can hang out. I know you don’t like me much, but if you want me in this with you, I will help you show this jerkwad what he missed out on.”
They do, however, start to get to know each other better and realize that they might just be good for each other. It actually turns to insta-love fairly quickly, considering it’s two months from the time they first talk to the wedding trip itself. Here was another thing that got me. I was already thinking that the two-week trip to Greece was a going pretty far to tick off an ex, but once they are there Hugo is so over the top rude, condescending and nasty that I couldn’t for the life of me figure out why they would attend the wedding. Carson already got to let Hugo know he’s put the cheating man behind him, so why not just enjoy the vacation. Hugo’s reaction, “The fake tone of his voice was hard to miss. “what���s he paying you then? Do you work for 1-900-MEN-4HIRE? Even Sam asks, “On second thought, do we really have to attend the wedding?” Honestly, I felt like it was a manipulation to get some bad behavior (well, more bad behavior) on the part of Hugo into the story. Bad behavior that honestly didn’t make sense in the context it was placed. Holding up your wedding for that reason? “…he’s the type to use it against you, if you don’t show.” Does Hugo work with Carson? Otherwise, they don’t speak so who cares.
Carson and Sam do have a lot of sex over the course of the months. There is dialogue that was very off-putting during some of this. Sometimes too sappy, sometimes it was like they were mechanical. “When you are about to come inside me, pump once, and we’ll come together.” The writing overall was a little simplistic and sometimes awkward. Finally, Carson at one point says, “I want you to know, I never judged you for being a personal trainer.” Why on earth would you even think to judge someone for that? Sam’s response, “I know, Carson. That’s one of the things I love about you. You’ve always taken me as I am. You’re genuine and nonjudgmental.” What? Personal training is a stable, healthy career.
It is unfortunate that this book didn’t really work for me. There were too many things that made me question or roll my eyes. It had a lot of potential but I don’t think it lived up to it all. I would try this author again and see if maybe next time I’d like the story more.
The cover art, a handsome man set against a background of the sea, is pretty and fits in well with the theme of the book.
November 24, 2019
A sweet, happy, feel-good romance.
THIS Claire Castle book I really liked. It's the first full length book of hers that I've read, and I think that has a lot to do with it. Her short ones I found lacking, with lots of unresolved loose ends.
The characters of Carson, Sam, Sloan, and even Francois, are very well written. (The only detriment is that there isn't a lot of physical description, so I had a bit of a problem visualizing them.) And she did a really good job working the whole premise of Carson needing to find a "fake" boyfriend, in order to show up a former horrible boyfriend, into a realistic romance! This premise has been used before in M/M romances, but rarely does the author give the 2 characters as much time to get to really know each other, likes, dislikes, etc. before they have the show up in a public venue to show up the former ex. I really think that contributed a great deal to the realism of this romance. And the ways Carson and Sam worked together to find these things out about each other quite often added to the humor in the book. And she also made it a “slow burn” romance, with both characters trying hard not to rush the other into a physical phase, i.e. sex, for fear of scaring the other off.
All in all an enjoyable book. And for those of you who are asking why not 5 stars?I'm NOT some friend of hers who's going to gush over her books due to friendship. I only give honest reviews, AND I DON'T hand out 5 stars like I hand out candy at Halloween! This book is really good compared to her other ones yes. BUT it ISN'T on a par with say Amy Lane, Tara Lain, Andrew Grey, Mary Calmes, or Charlie Cochet, etc! All 5 star authors who have EARNED 5 stars. Given time, encouragement, constructive criticism instead of platitudes, and some hard work she may yet attain such. I look forward to see how she matures as a writer. (I also intend to look through her books I haven't yet read to see if she's written Francois' story yet!)
THIS Claire Castle book I really liked. It's the first full length book of hers that I've read, and I think that has a lot to do with it. Her short ones I found lacking, with lots of unresolved loose ends.
The characters of Carson, Sam, Sloan, and even Francois, are very well written. (The only detriment is that there isn't a lot of physical description, so I had a bit of a problem visualizing them.) And she did a really good job working the whole premise of Carson needing to find a "fake" boyfriend, in order to show up a former horrible boyfriend, into a realistic romance! This premise has been used before in M/M romances, but rarely does the author give the 2 characters as much time to get to really know each other, likes, dislikes, etc. before they have the show up in a public venue to show up the former ex. I really think that contributed a great deal to the realism of this romance. And the ways Carson and Sam worked together to find these things out about each other quite often added to the humor in the book. And she also made it a “slow burn” romance, with both characters trying hard not to rush the other into a physical phase, i.e. sex, for fear of scaring the other off.
All in all an enjoyable book. And for those of you who are asking why not 5 stars?I'm NOT some friend of hers who's going to gush over her books due to friendship. I only give honest reviews, AND I DON'T hand out 5 stars like I hand out candy at Halloween! This book is really good compared to her other ones yes. BUT it ISN'T on a par with say Amy Lane, Tara Lain, Andrew Grey, Mary Calmes, or Charlie Cochet, etc! All 5 star authors who have EARNED 5 stars. Given time, encouragement, constructive criticism instead of platitudes, and some hard work she may yet attain such. I look forward to see how she matures as a writer. (I also intend to look through her books I haven't yet read to see if she's written Francois' story yet!)
August 20, 2018
This was a super sweet romance. It was low angst and a really, well, sweet story. It was absolutely perfect for a weekend "escape from reality" read. There wasn't any great mystery. There was some suspense waiting to see how the wedding would play out and there was a bit of drama because, well, there would be. If you were going to your crappy ex's wedding with a fake boyfriend, there better be a bit of drama or it probably wouldn't be much of a story. But the drama and the suspense was well written and not done to the point of "This is unbelievable".
Carson and Sam were delightful characters and well suited for each other. Their journey towards the wedding was playful and thoughtful with a simmering bit of sexual chemistry. This is a favorite trope of mine, so I was very happy to lose myself as they became less fake and more real to each other.
I was glad that there weren't any big surprises for these two to navigate and that they just sort of went with the flow and didn't try to second guess where the relationship should go. Of course there were moments where they questioned things but who wouldn't? Their relationship felt very natural.
And of course there was the fact that the story took us on a vacation to Greece for a destination wedding. We don't even have to pay air fare or have our passports ready. One of my favorite parts of the story was walking down the streets with Carson and Sam and seeing, hearing and enjoying the sights with them.
The actual wedding was a bit anti-climatic. It almost felt like an afterthought and I felt like the wedding scene was a bit forced. Nothing serious, it just didn't seem to have the same flow as the rest of the book.
Carson and Sam were delightful characters and well suited for each other. Their journey towards the wedding was playful and thoughtful with a simmering bit of sexual chemistry. This is a favorite trope of mine, so I was very happy to lose myself as they became less fake and more real to each other.
I was glad that there weren't any big surprises for these two to navigate and that they just sort of went with the flow and didn't try to second guess where the relationship should go. Of course there were moments where they questioned things but who wouldn't? Their relationship felt very natural.
And of course there was the fact that the story took us on a vacation to Greece for a destination wedding. We don't even have to pay air fare or have our passports ready. One of my favorite parts of the story was walking down the streets with Carson and Sam and seeing, hearing and enjoying the sights with them.
The actual wedding was a bit anti-climatic. It almost felt like an afterthought and I felt like the wedding scene was a bit forced. Nothing serious, it just didn't seem to have the same flow as the rest of the book.
April 5, 2021
This was a very enjoyable, easy read. Carson and Sam are great together and each appreciates who the other is. They don't understand their attraction at the outset, but they make a great couple.
I'm all for a low angst read, but a little bit would be good. Even just with the confrontation with the Ex (who was the reason the fake relationship started). There was just none. No real mis-communication between the characters regarding their relationship. It started out fake, but at no point was there a conversation about it not being that way anymore. They glossed over a few pretty big red-flag pieces of their past and not a lot about Sam and Sloane's relationship.
Overall it was good, but a little conflict is not a bad thing. Would definitely read more by Claire because her writing style was fabulous.
I'm all for a low angst read, but a little bit would be good. Even just with the confrontation with the Ex (who was the reason the fake relationship started). There was just none. No real mis-communication between the characters regarding their relationship. It started out fake, but at no point was there a conversation about it not being that way anymore. They glossed over a few pretty big red-flag pieces of their past and not a lot about Sam and Sloane's relationship.
Overall it was good, but a little conflict is not a bad thing. Would definitely read more by Claire because her writing style was fabulous.
September 4, 2018
A new author that shows promise.
This is the first book I've read by Claire Castle. I think she's a relatively new author so I suspect her work will continue to improve. I love fake relationship stories and this one was pretty good. The main reason I couldn't rate it higher is that parts of it just didn't seem to flow smoothly. I think this is something that will get better as this author continues to hone her craft.
The basics of the story were really good and I liked the characters. I would have to say that this story leaned a bit more on the erotic side as opposed to romance but the romance was definitely there. I'm not at all sorry I spent time reading this story and I will be trying more of this author's work in the future.
I borrowed this book through Kindle Unlimited.
This is the first book I've read by Claire Castle. I think she's a relatively new author so I suspect her work will continue to improve. I love fake relationship stories and this one was pretty good. The main reason I couldn't rate it higher is that parts of it just didn't seem to flow smoothly. I think this is something that will get better as this author continues to hone her craft.
The basics of the story were really good and I liked the characters. I would have to say that this story leaned a bit more on the erotic side as opposed to romance but the romance was definitely there. I'm not at all sorry I spent time reading this story and I will be trying more of this author's work in the future.
I borrowed this book through Kindle Unlimited.
August 1, 2021
Fake boyfriend or is he
Carson gets invited to his ex-boyfriend's wedding in Greece. Without thinking, he tells his ex that he had a plus one called Sam.
Sam, brother to Carson's best friend Sloane, and super hot and gay. Carson convinces Sam to be his fake boyfriend for the upcoming wedding.
But are they getting closer because of the wedding, or is there something between them and developing into an actual relationship?
Great characters and the story develops nicely, and we get a wonderful HEA. Jack Watson does a great job of narrating the book, although I sped up to 1.50 on audible as usual.
Boyfriend or Bust
By: Claire Castle
Narrated by: Jack Watson
Length: 8 hrs and 48 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.5 speed on Audible
Carson gets invited to his ex-boyfriend's wedding in Greece. Without thinking, he tells his ex that he had a plus one called Sam.
Sam, brother to Carson's best friend Sloane, and super hot and gay. Carson convinces Sam to be his fake boyfriend for the upcoming wedding.
But are they getting closer because of the wedding, or is there something between them and developing into an actual relationship?
Great characters and the story develops nicely, and we get a wonderful HEA. Jack Watson does a great job of narrating the book, although I sped up to 1.50 on audible as usual.
Boyfriend or Bust
By: Claire Castle
Narrated by: Jack Watson
Length: 8 hrs and 48 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.5 speed on Audible
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