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Darcy’s newest assignment is to play the role of boyfriend to a wealthy socialite, but never expected the intense attraction to his date’s brother. Falling for Adrian is dangerous and certainly not part of the plan.
Adrian has been as unlucky in love as his sister, but he doesn’t approve of hiring a boyfriend, whatever the reason. Until he meets Darcy. Then he comes to realize that love can happen in the most unexpected of ways.
One week. That is all the two men needed to fall in lust, but will they have a lifetime to fall in love?
156 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 10, 2018
198 people are currently reading
493 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Scott
307 books2,711 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
September 10, 2018
Well that was just a real treat of a read, humour and a bit of madcap comedy that wouldn't have been out of place in a 40s film starring Cary Grant.
Fake boyfriends is such a brilliant trope to work with and in the skilled hands of these two authors we get a real delight as family dynamics at a wealthy socialite wedding in The Hamptons prove somewhat challenging!
Darcy was a dream, Adrian the perfect partner once his sister had stopped needing the services of the other man.
The side plot with the bitchy cousin made much more sense by the end of the book and I could absolutely get with the program having that much-needed insight.
All in all just a really lovely low angst, funny romance with a great epilogue.
#ARC kindly provided by the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Fake boyfriends is such a brilliant trope to work with and in the skilled hands of these two authors we get a real delight as family dynamics at a wealthy socialite wedding in The Hamptons prove somewhat challenging!
Darcy was a dream, Adrian the perfect partner once his sister had stopped needing the services of the other man.
The side plot with the bitchy cousin made much more sense by the end of the book and I could absolutely get with the program having that much-needed insight.
All in all just a really lovely low angst, funny romance with a great epilogue.
#ARC kindly provided by the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.
April 21, 2025
Lindo, dulce, sencillo
Darcy trabaja como "novio falso" en una agencia. Siendo ex militar, es uno de los pocos trabajos en los que no tiene que manejar un arma y gana bastante bien. Su vida es tranquila, pero solitaria. Hasta un día en un "trabajo" conoce a Adrian, y siente la atracción enseguida. Pero, podra esperar a terminar el trabajo para iniciar algo con el? Adrian quería algo con el sabiendo en lo que trabaja? Podrán tener una verdadera relación?
Está es una lectura ligera, sencilla, dulce, con casi nada de drama que te deja con una sonrisa al terminar. Claro, no es una historia "inolvidable", pero si es reconfortante y te entretiene lo necesario. Seguro leeré otros libros de este autor adelante.
Darcy trabaja como "novio falso" en una agencia. Siendo ex militar, es uno de los pocos trabajos en los que no tiene que manejar un arma y gana bastante bien. Su vida es tranquila, pero solitaria. Hasta un día en un "trabajo" conoce a Adrian, y siente la atracción enseguida. Pero, podra esperar a terminar el trabajo para iniciar algo con el? Adrian quería algo con el sabiendo en lo que trabaja? Podrán tener una verdadera relación?
Está es una lectura ligera, sencilla, dulce, con casi nada de drama que te deja con una sonrisa al terminar. Claro, no es una historia "inolvidable", pero si es reconfortante y te entretiene lo necesario. Seguro leeré otros libros de este autor adelante.
September 15, 2018
2.5⭐
Short and cute, a nice reading for a lazy couple of hours.
But I needed more (more plot, more development, more characters' building....)
Short and cute, a nice reading for a lazy couple of hours.
But I needed more (more plot, more development, more characters' building....)
October 16, 2018
Technically proficient writing as would be expected but my goodness this was a boring book.
October 6, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and I enjoyed this one too much to be rounding down...full review to follow soonish!
This one’s a pretend boyfriend story with a twist…
Darcy Bridges works as a boyfriend for hire and no in this case it’s not code talk for sex-trade worker. His life plan had been the military but as is often the case life is what happens when we’re busy making other plans so when an injury ends that plan he goes to work with his childhood friend, Rowan at Bryant & Waites, Boyfriends for hire.
When Adrian’s sister, Abby needs a date to attend a family wedding with her. She turns to Rowan & Waites for assistance. While Darcy and Abby become fast friends…thankfully there’s Abby’s only interest in Darcy is platonic and business…as in he’s her pretend boyfriend and maybe Abby’s a total workaholic and just doesn’t have time for relationships. Adrian thinks his sister’s idea of hiring someone to pose as her boyfriend is bad but even worse is the fact that Darcy pushes all of Adrian’s boyfriend buttons.
‘Darcy’ turned out to be a sweet, pretend boyfriend story with the twist that Darcy was pretending to be Abby’s boyfriend and not her brother, Adrian’s, no spoiler here it’s in the blurb. I liked that there was no emotional conflict between Abby and Adrian where Darcy was concerned. for Abby, her relationship with Darcy was a business transaction, however, Darcy and Abby did become friends and all things considered that was nice.
There was some side drama that added to this one in regards to Abby and their cousin Charlotte and while it had the potential to be way more over the top than it was and even seemed a bit pointless in the beginning by the end of the story the how’s and why’s of this belonging to the whole pretend boyfriend situation made sense and I ended up liking this part of things because it did have a place in the overall story and wasn’t just an extra bit of drama.
The wedding in question is a ‘society event’ and takes place over the course of a week at a posh hotel bringing Darcy and Adrian into close contact on a daily basis and testing Darcy’s resolve to not pursue Adrian until ‘after the contract term is up’ on more than one occasion. Overall, I liked Darcy and Adrian were a good match and I liked them together and enjoyed seeing them get to know each other as both men also tired to ignore their attraction to each other on a more physical level.
This was a sweet, fun, low angst, slightly different pretend boyfriend story that I found to be fairly enjoyable with the biggest exception being the fact that I just didn’t understand Adrian’s whole feelings of being disloyal to his sister because of his interest in Darcy given that he knew Darcy was gay and his sister wasn’t interested in Darcy in ‘that way’. I got that he didn’t feel like he could pursue a relationship with Darcy while he was pretending to be Abby’s boyfriend but to me that felt more like it should be a ‘wait’ situation not a big ‘guilt’ situation…but maybe that’s just me…whatever, it was a niggle and definitely didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the story because in the end it all came together and I had a really pleasant reading experience that made me smile.
*************************
A copy of ‘Darcy’ was graciously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
This one’s a pretend boyfriend story with a twist…
Darcy Bridges works as a boyfriend for hire and no in this case it’s not code talk for sex-trade worker. His life plan had been the military but as is often the case life is what happens when we’re busy making other plans so when an injury ends that plan he goes to work with his childhood friend, Rowan at Bryant & Waites, Boyfriends for hire.
When Adrian’s sister, Abby needs a date to attend a family wedding with her. She turns to Rowan & Waites for assistance. While Darcy and Abby become fast friends…thankfully there’s Abby’s only interest in Darcy is platonic and business…as in he’s her pretend boyfriend and maybe Abby’s a total workaholic and just doesn’t have time for relationships. Adrian thinks his sister’s idea of hiring someone to pose as her boyfriend is bad but even worse is the fact that Darcy pushes all of Adrian’s boyfriend buttons.
‘Darcy’ turned out to be a sweet, pretend boyfriend story with the twist that Darcy was pretending to be Abby’s boyfriend and not her brother, Adrian’s, no spoiler here it’s in the blurb. I liked that there was no emotional conflict between Abby and Adrian where Darcy was concerned. for Abby, her relationship with Darcy was a business transaction, however, Darcy and Abby did become friends and all things considered that was nice.
There was some side drama that added to this one in regards to Abby and their cousin Charlotte and while it had the potential to be way more over the top than it was and even seemed a bit pointless in the beginning by the end of the story the how’s and why’s of this belonging to the whole pretend boyfriend situation made sense and I ended up liking this part of things because it did have a place in the overall story and wasn’t just an extra bit of drama.
The wedding in question is a ‘society event’ and takes place over the course of a week at a posh hotel bringing Darcy and Adrian into close contact on a daily basis and testing Darcy’s resolve to not pursue Adrian until ‘after the contract term is up’ on more than one occasion. Overall, I liked Darcy and Adrian were a good match and I liked them together and enjoyed seeing them get to know each other as both men also tired to ignore their attraction to each other on a more physical level.
This was a sweet, fun, low angst, slightly different pretend boyfriend story that I found to be fairly enjoyable with the biggest exception being the fact that I just didn’t understand Adrian’s whole feelings of being disloyal to his sister because of his interest in Darcy given that he knew Darcy was gay and his sister wasn’t interested in Darcy in ‘that way’. I got that he didn’t feel like he could pursue a relationship with Darcy while he was pretending to be Abby’s boyfriend but to me that felt more like it should be a ‘wait’ situation not a big ‘guilt’ situation…but maybe that’s just me…whatever, it was a niggle and definitely didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the story because in the end it all came together and I had a really pleasant reading experience that made me smile.
*************************
A copy of ‘Darcy’ was graciously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2018
Darcy is a short and cute read, but didn't really sizzle. From the beginning, Adrian knew about his sister hiring Darcy as her fake boyfriend to attend a family wedding, so there isn't the misunderstanding or angst about lusting after a forbidden fruit. Darcy and Adrian feel an attraction, but was restrain by the circumstances of Darcy being on a week long contract. The family drama that ensue was kinda funny and Adrian's sister was a strong supporting character, but I just wanna get to the bits where Darcy and Adrian did more than kissing. I feel the story lack a decent build up and when they finally get a chance to work things out the story came to an end. The part that I find really endearing is the epilogue.
Read
March 4, 2019DNF at 53% ... suppose it was that my expectations were higher while the story didn't deliver. The writing was good but I couldn't connect with any character not even the supportive ones and unfortunately the authors never could make me believe the plot.
July 10, 2021
A really sweet low angst story. Not a tremendous plot, but an especially enjoyable read. I loved both Darcy and Adrian.
September 23, 2018
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review
Darcy works for Boyfriends for Hire and his newest assignment is to play the role of boyfriend to a wealthy socialite who happens to be a scientist with no time for men. He never expected the intense attraction to his date’s brother, Adrian.
Adrian has been as unlucky in love as his sister, but he doesn’t approve of hiring a boyfriend, whatever the reason. Until he meets Darcy. Then he comes to realize that love can happen in the most unexpected of ways.
This story had a nice premise and I really liked Darcy’s character. He was everything a mother would want in a boyfriend for her daughter or son. Honest, a veteran, polite, handsome, and well-spoken with a calm demeanor. Unfortunately, though he’s hired to be Abby’s boyfriend, his heart is grabbed by her brother, Adrian.
To be honest, this story progressed as you’d expect this trope to go. It was very light and fluffy. The guys were honest enough to hold off until the boyfriend contract ended before they hit the sack, and they ended with a HEA and everyone happy, including Abby and the guy she really wanted and her parents who now see that both their children are settled.
If you are looking for light reading, this should satisfy your sweet tooth.
Darcy works for Boyfriends for Hire and his newest assignment is to play the role of boyfriend to a wealthy socialite who happens to be a scientist with no time for men. He never expected the intense attraction to his date’s brother, Adrian.
Adrian has been as unlucky in love as his sister, but he doesn’t approve of hiring a boyfriend, whatever the reason. Until he meets Darcy. Then he comes to realize that love can happen in the most unexpected of ways.
This story had a nice premise and I really liked Darcy’s character. He was everything a mother would want in a boyfriend for her daughter or son. Honest, a veteran, polite, handsome, and well-spoken with a calm demeanor. Unfortunately, though he’s hired to be Abby’s boyfriend, his heart is grabbed by her brother, Adrian.
To be honest, this story progressed as you’d expect this trope to go. It was very light and fluffy. The guys were honest enough to hold off until the boyfriend contract ended before they hit the sack, and they ended with a HEA and everyone happy, including Abby and the guy she really wanted and her parents who now see that both their children are settled.
If you are looking for light reading, this should satisfy your sweet tooth.
September 27, 2018
Darcy is a contemporary fake boyfriends story with a difference. The fake boyfriend, Darcy, is employed by Abby to attend a family wedding, but from the first moment he meets Abby's brother, Adrian, there are sparks.
This is a quick read (took me about two hours). There is little to no angst because Adrian knows about Darcy being the fake boyfriend, so there is no need for misunderstandings about forbidden attraction. This is more about biding your time until the situation is right, and fighting your insecurities.
The family dynamic in this story is really strong. Abby and Adrian are close and loving siblings that embrace each others differences. The extended family and details of the big society wedding are entertaining and add an extra layer to this story.
There's a lovely epilogue with this one too.
If you're looking for a light and fluffy read this one hits the spot.
This is a quick read (took me about two hours). There is little to no angst because Adrian knows about Darcy being the fake boyfriend, so there is no need for misunderstandings about forbidden attraction. This is more about biding your time until the situation is right, and fighting your insecurities.
The family dynamic in this story is really strong. Abby and Adrian are close and loving siblings that embrace each others differences. The extended family and details of the big society wedding are entertaining and add an extra layer to this story.
There's a lovely epilogue with this one too.
If you're looking for a light and fluffy read this one hits the spot.
September 10, 2018
I received a copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I liked the premise of the story however it just didn't hit the mark for me. Most of the book was about Abby and Darcy, but this is a M/M book and I don't want to wait until the book is almost over for Darcy and Adrian to get together. There were some funny larts and banter. The family issues reminded me of a real life family, especially when I wanted to smack a few people. I just found myself wanting more Darcy and Adrian and less Abby and the wedding crap. I am sure others will enjoy this read but for me it was just ok.
I liked the premise of the story however it just didn't hit the mark for me. Most of the book was about Abby and Darcy, but this is a M/M book and I don't want to wait until the book is almost over for Darcy and Adrian to get together. There were some funny larts and banter. The family issues reminded me of a real life family, especially when I wanted to smack a few people. I just found myself wanting more Darcy and Adrian and less Abby and the wedding crap. I am sure others will enjoy this read but for me it was just ok.
September 15, 2018
Bland and confusing MM romance
2 stars!
This book was terrible! The flow was all wrong. We spent most (50%) with the MC Darcy fake dating someone else. Also when they finally got together it was really light on details. The MCs don't communicate enough AND Adrian is all insecure. Dislike!
I say this one is a hard pass and I won't be reading anymore of this series!
2 stars!
This book was terrible! The flow was all wrong. We spent most (50%) with the MC Darcy fake dating someone else. Also when they finally got together it was really light on details. The MCs don't communicate enough AND Adrian is all insecure. Dislike!
I say this one is a hard pass and I won't be reading anymore of this series!
December 23, 2020
I would consider this on par with everything else RJ Scott writes.
Zzzz
Zzzz
September 13, 2018
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is such a fun read. The addition of a few modern twists to classic romance novel tropes creates a story that is warm, charming and often very funny. This is a light read that kept me smiling from start to finish.
The story an escort who falls for his date’s brother is a twist on a romance classic but the quirky characters keep the book feeling fresh and I fell hard for both Darcy and Adrian. As a retired army Lieutenant, Darcy isn’t your average male escort and he’s a perfect match for Adrian, a reluctant member of an important New York family. Adrian’s scientist sister Abby is also wonderful - I love it when m/m romance includes interesting and nuanced female characters.
This is an entertaining romantic comedy. It’s a low heat story with lots of charm and very little angst. I enjoyed the gentle observations of Adrian and Abby’s family and I love that all the characters are more than they first seem. I thoroughly enjoyed this easy, charming read. While this story is quite different to most of the recent books I’ve read by these authors, it was a pleasant surprise and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
This is such a fun read. The addition of a few modern twists to classic romance novel tropes creates a story that is warm, charming and often very funny. This is a light read that kept me smiling from start to finish.
The story an escort who falls for his date’s brother is a twist on a romance classic but the quirky characters keep the book feeling fresh and I fell hard for both Darcy and Adrian. As a retired army Lieutenant, Darcy isn’t your average male escort and he’s a perfect match for Adrian, a reluctant member of an important New York family. Adrian’s scientist sister Abby is also wonderful - I love it when m/m romance includes interesting and nuanced female characters.
This is an entertaining romantic comedy. It’s a low heat story with lots of charm and very little angst. I enjoyed the gentle observations of Adrian and Abby’s family and I love that all the characters are more than they first seem. I thoroughly enjoyed this easy, charming read. While this story is quite different to most of the recent books I’ve read by these authors, it was a pleasant surprise and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
November 16, 2025
This is an excellently written, witty Rom-Com, full of feels, genuine laughter, and general lightness, despite the very real potential pitfalls in the story-arc.
The highs and lows of adding in a (usually very well-behaved) boyfriend-for-hire to help the dedicated scientist, single and currently married to her job, navigate a week-long wedding party, without suffering from the slings and arrows of outragious, albeit wealthy relatives, is not helped by said hired boyfriend falling for her brother, almost before the stunt even begins...
I found this all too-short novel to be a joy to read, with plenty of laugh-out-loud situations, for example, the attempt to explain to the brother and sister's parents how her boyfriend from the wedding is now in love with their son, and their daughter having found love with her long-term research partner!!
The highs and lows of adding in a (usually very well-behaved) boyfriend-for-hire to help the dedicated scientist, single and currently married to her job, navigate a week-long wedding party, without suffering from the slings and arrows of outragious, albeit wealthy relatives, is not helped by said hired boyfriend falling for her brother, almost before the stunt even begins...
I found this all too-short novel to be a joy to read, with plenty of laugh-out-loud situations, for example, the attempt to explain to the brother and sister's parents how her boyfriend from the wedding is now in love with their son, and their daughter having found love with her long-term research partner!!
September 7, 2018
Awww .... this is such a cute fake boyfriend story to savor. When Adrian let his sister Abby 'rent' a boyfriend for a family function, he didn't anticipate that he'll be attracted to Abby's boyfriend, Darcy :)
So Mr.Darcy seems to be a perfect boyfriend image for Abby, but Darcy's real intention is Adrian.
There's some family drama, some adorable time between Darcy and Adrian, also Darcy and Abby (don't worry, Abby knew Darcy wanted his brother, so Mr. Darcy is off limit for Abby).
I enjoyed my time with Adrian and Darcy, it was fun. My only complain is that the ending seemed rush and there's not enough time for Darcy and Adrian's sexy time together.
Overall, this one is a nice, light, low angst romance that you'll probably need!
June 5, 2023
Competent but dull, this novella takes the fake dating trope, removes most of the inherent drama, and gives an oddly plodding plot structure. I liked the characters but wasn't sure why I was reading about them.
October 6, 2018
The entire story is ridiculous. The whole reasoning for Abby hiring Darcy in the first place is so outlandish that it tarnishes everything else (not that the rest is particularly good). The characters' motivations for their actions are beyond stupid (which tends to especially annoy me when said characters are described to be very intelligent, but all the evidence points to the opposite being true!)...
And don't even get me started on Charlotte. This character is supposed to create all the drama and tension surrounding the need to hire a boyfriend, but (and she actually is described as not too bright) mainly manages to make me think the authors were too lazy to think of plausible reasons for Abby having to attend the wedding with a date. The idiocy of the whole "plot" is astounding.
While the plot for "The Wedding Date" has been done numerous times, it still would have made for a better story to just go with the tried and true reasons for not wanting to attend someone's wedding (alone), than coming up with something as brainless as this:
For me, most of the book focused on the wrong thing. There should have been a simpler reason behind hiring a pretend boyfriend and thus much less time focusing on Abby and her "drama" instead of Darcy und Adrian--who the whole story was supposed to be about. The way everything played out was just very unsatisfying and I didn't feel that any actual issues were resolved. Basically, Darcy and Adrian's entire relationship was glossed over in a huge time leap and I'm sad to say that what I did read didn't actually make it seem like a happy relationship destined for a HEA to me (even though that's what the authors wanted to sell).
And don't even get me started on Charlotte. This character is supposed to create all the drama and tension surrounding the need to hire a boyfriend, but (and she actually is described as not too bright) mainly manages to make me think the authors were too lazy to think of plausible reasons for Abby having to attend the wedding with a date. The idiocy of the whole "plot" is astounding.
While the plot for "The Wedding Date" has been done numerous times, it still would have made for a better story to just go with the tried and true reasons for not wanting to attend someone's wedding (alone), than coming up with something as brainless as this:
For me, most of the book focused on the wrong thing. There should have been a simpler reason behind hiring a pretend boyfriend and thus much less time focusing on Abby and her "drama" instead of Darcy und Adrian--who the whole story was supposed to be about. The way everything played out was just very unsatisfying and I didn't feel that any actual issues were resolved. Basically, Darcy and Adrian's entire relationship was glossed over in a huge time leap and I'm sad to say that what I did read didn't actually make it seem like a happy relationship destined for a HEA to me (even though that's what the authors wanted to sell).
September 24, 2018
The majority of the fake boyfriend trope stories I’ve read, it’s been the two main characters who are pretending to be together. Here in Darcy, the authors put a slight twist on that where it’s one of the main characters (Darcy) and the other main’s sister (Abby). While I’ve seen this combination done before, here the authors keep things fresh with the reason behind Abby needing Darcy’s help and the personalities of the characters as well as the situations in which they find themselves.
Darcy easily played whatever part was needed of him, and he was able to remain in control and able to react under pressure thanks to his military past…at least most of the time. Adrian, Abby’s brother, was a weakness for him—and vice versa. The two of them did fit well together, though I wish there had been more time spent on their relationship development. There was a lot more time devoted to the wedding to which Abby needed Darcy to accompany her and the events that happen there than to Adrian and Darcy’s time together then I would have expected; this resulted in readers being told about much of their relationship progression rather than being shown it.
As for the supporting characters, I really liked Abby—since I’m a science nerd, I could easily identify with her character (including her attitude when it comes to clothes). Abby and Adrian’s cousin Charlotte though…she came off as quite annoying and the portion of the story to which she contributes seems drawn out.
Overall, Darcy was a 3.5-star read for me. Though I could have done with more depth to the story, and more on-page development of Adrian and Darcy’s relationship, this was still an enjoyable, quick read with low angst and a relatively low heat factor. I’m looking forward to more in the series since at the very least I’d like to find out Rowan’s story (Darcy’s best friend and co-worker). This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Darcy easily played whatever part was needed of him, and he was able to remain in control and able to react under pressure thanks to his military past…at least most of the time. Adrian, Abby’s brother, was a weakness for him—and vice versa. The two of them did fit well together, though I wish there had been more time spent on their relationship development. There was a lot more time devoted to the wedding to which Abby needed Darcy to accompany her and the events that happen there than to Adrian and Darcy’s time together then I would have expected; this resulted in readers being told about much of their relationship progression rather than being shown it.
As for the supporting characters, I really liked Abby—since I’m a science nerd, I could easily identify with her character (including her attitude when it comes to clothes). Abby and Adrian’s cousin Charlotte though…she came off as quite annoying and the portion of the story to which she contributes seems drawn out.
Overall, Darcy was a 3.5-star read for me. Though I could have done with more depth to the story, and more on-page development of Adrian and Darcy’s relationship, this was still an enjoyable, quick read with low angst and a relatively low heat factor. I’m looking forward to more in the series since at the very least I’d like to find out Rowan’s story (Darcy’s best friend and co-worker). This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
September 12, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
The first bit of good news is that this is the first in a new series - and given how much fun the twist is in this book, I am really looking forward to future installments.
Darcy finds himself almost by chance in a career as a boyfriend for hire, and whether it is a male or female hirer, his wit and charm will see them through their moment of need. I really like how clear the set up is, and the rather wonderful standards the service sets.
In this particular instance, accompanying medical researcher Abby to a family wedding results in him meeting her brother Adrian and falling quickly for the man. As we watch the wedding "week" progress, the clear interest between them along Abby's desire to hide away and work, means that they spend time getting to know each other as well as suppressing the chemistry. Thanks to that and some other family drama, they get the time to think a little harder about what this would really mean in the longer term -which I liked.
For a quick, yet slow burn, with some lovely, lovely humour, this was a highly enjoyable read.
The first bit of good news is that this is the first in a new series - and given how much fun the twist is in this book, I am really looking forward to future installments.
Darcy finds himself almost by chance in a career as a boyfriend for hire, and whether it is a male or female hirer, his wit and charm will see them through their moment of need. I really like how clear the set up is, and the rather wonderful standards the service sets.
In this particular instance, accompanying medical researcher Abby to a family wedding results in him meeting her brother Adrian and falling quickly for the man. As we watch the wedding "week" progress, the clear interest between them along Abby's desire to hide away and work, means that they spend time getting to know each other as well as suppressing the chemistry. Thanks to that and some other family drama, they get the time to think a little harder about what this would really mean in the longer term -which I liked.
For a quick, yet slow burn, with some lovely, lovely humour, this was a highly enjoyable read.
September 30, 2018
This is a different boyfriend for hire scenario where Darcy is hired by Abby, a scientist who needs to go to a family wedding so she can convince her cousin's husband to continue funding her research. She's dedicated to her research and doesn't have time for one, so Darcy fits the bill nicely. When her brother, Adrian, catches wind of her plan, he argues against it, but when he meets Darcy (and feels an attraction to the man) he agrees to Abby's plan.
I enjoyed getting to know Abby, but since the book is about Darcy and Adrian, I wanted more of the story centered on them. You get a hint that Adrian has been unlucky when it comes to successful relationships, but there isn't really a backstory for him.
The story was very angst-free and while Adrian and Darcy have to keep their attraction under wraps during the week-long wedding festivities, I wanted more relationship development between the two.
I enjoyed getting to know Abby, but since the book is about Darcy and Adrian, I wanted more of the story centered on them. You get a hint that Adrian has been unlucky when it comes to successful relationships, but there isn't really a backstory for him.
The story was very angst-free and while Adrian and Darcy have to keep their attraction under wraps during the week-long wedding festivities, I wanted more relationship development between the two.
July 28, 2019
Darcy works as a boyfriend for hire and loves his job. But this new contract is a bit different. Abby has hired him for a week for a wedding party, but there's more to it than what's expected.
Abby is a workaholic and needs her benefactor to see that she can be serious and settle with someone so that he doesn't pull her funding. So, while she's busy schmoozing the deal, her little brother, Adrian, is getting to know Darcy, and things start heating up.
I really enjoyed the story and how open and honest everyone was. There were no misunderstandings and both Darcy and Adrian agreed to wait until after the contract was up before getting together.
I was hoping for a bit more of the romance, to be honest. It felt like there was more about Darcy and Abby than Darcy and Adrian. I loved the end, and I loved Adrian and Abby's parents.
Overall, it was definitely worth the read.
Abby is a workaholic and needs her benefactor to see that she can be serious and settle with someone so that he doesn't pull her funding. So, while she's busy schmoozing the deal, her little brother, Adrian, is getting to know Darcy, and things start heating up.
I really enjoyed the story and how open and honest everyone was. There were no misunderstandings and both Darcy and Adrian agreed to wait until after the contract was up before getting together.
I was hoping for a bit more of the romance, to be honest. It felt like there was more about Darcy and Abby than Darcy and Adrian. I loved the end, and I loved Adrian and Abby's parents.
Overall, it was definitely worth the read.
August 31, 2018
Family! Some you love and others you just want to smack. I absolutely love Abby and her brother Adrian . Their relationship is both entertaining and full of love for each other. Then we add to the mix Darcy ....now Darcy is a fine specimen of man. Just ask Adrian, he'll tell you and Darcy will say the same of Adrian . I so enjoyed watching their "dance". I enjoy a slow seduction...Adrian and Darcy having to wait just added to it. They are both serious and funny during the intimate times and I loved that.
Great story, loved it . Bonus: I wanted to smack a few people real hard while reading it and I so enjoy that in a story.
I was given an Advanced Copy for my honest review.
Great story, loved it . Bonus: I wanted to smack a few people real hard while reading it and I so enjoy that in a story.
I was given an Advanced Copy for my honest review.
July 29, 2019
I loved this sweet romance, its a short read and I read it in one sitting, not wanting to put it down until I got to the hoped for HEA. A fake boyfriend romance with a difference, I really liked all three of the main characters, Darcy, Abby and her brother Adrian. I enjoyed the build up and attraction between Darcy who has been hired to be Abby's boyfriend and Adrian who he's no allowed to start anything with whilst under contract. I liked that they all had doubts and second guessed things, just like we all do. It was a fun and heart-warming read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 30, 2018
Darcy and Adrian, but Darcy isn’t Adrian’s fake boyfriend, he’s Ade’s sister Abby’s! Adrian and Abby are very well written and believable as brother and sister. Their love for each other is lovely, but like true siblings, they aren’t above tossing zingers at each other. Darcy and Adrian’s relationship is fun and heart-warming. There is no angst or drama for drama’s sake. There is a bit of family drama, but nothing over-the-top and some is quite funny. Over all this is another warm, feel-good story from RJ Scott and Meredith Russell. I’m looking forward to the next story!
February 28, 2019
悪いことは起こらない、まったりした甘いロマンスで、性反応も穏当。この前に読んだ話がずっと目の前に相手がいたらすぐにメンバーが緊急事態になるようなものばかりだったので、アドリアンがダーシーに背負われる時、これは？と一瞬期待したけどアドリアンよメンバーは良い子のままで、このシークエンスは何のために…？と悩んでしまいました。職業軍人を目指していて負傷して名誉除隊、その後エスコートサービスで働いているダーシーが男前天然誑しでガツガツしておらず、お金持ちではないけれど、"スパダリ"でした。
September 26, 2018
When Abby walks in looking to hire a boyfriend for a week, she didn't expect someone quite like Darcy. When Darcy arrives to help Abby keep her family off her back for the week, he certainly didn't expect to meet Adrian. When Adrian learned his sister was hiring a boyfriend for a family wedding, he never expected someone like Darcy to walk through the door. Will the three of them be able to pull it off and will Darcy and Adrian find more than lust once the week is up?
Darcy, both the character and the book as a whole is just brilliantly fun. As October nears and my reading tends to veer towards the macabre, Darcy is a wonderful way to "close down" my "non-spookified" list😉😉. There is just the right amount of drama that keeps this from being a full-on rom-com but only just. If the authors had added a couple of pratfalls and slapstick scenes I could easily picture Cary Grant as Darcy, Irene Dunne as Abby, and Randolph Scott as Adrian(for those unfamiliar with classic films they are the three lead actors in My Favorite Wife from 1940, rom-com at its finest). Darcy may not be all laughs and giggles but it left me with more smiles than frowns.
The chemistry between Darcy, Abby, and Adrian is automatic and natural. What I found to make the story standout was Adrian being in the know from the getgo, it really helped the connection be so much more believable as well as fun. I should probably mention for those who find insta-love a major turn-off then this might be one you want to hold off on but for me, when done well, insta-love is exceptional and in Darcy its definitely done well. I just want to point out that if you don't believe insta-love can last well I'm living proof it can. My grandfather was discharged from the Army on New Year's Eve 1945, met my grandmother in January 1946 when he dropped his sister off at work, by Valentine's Day they were a definite item, by July they were wed, and still devoted to each other when he died in 1994. So I love a well written tale of falling fast and by "well written" I mean believable which is what Darcy is: believable, not something you may see happen everyday but still doable.
I don't usually make a point to mention the epilogue but this one is just so lovely I had to give credit to the authors for adding it. I won't say anything about what's in it but it fit perfectly, having read it I can't imagine the story without it. I can't wait to see what RJ Scott & Meredith Russell bring us next in their new Boyfriends for Hire series. Whether future installments will be as fun as Darcy or more angsty won't matter, even if its only half as well told it'll still be amazing, that's just how good I found this series opener to be. Simply put, Darcy is satisfyingly fun entertainment from cover to cover that put a smile on my face and I couldn't ask for more than that.
Darcy, both the character and the book as a whole is just brilliantly fun. As October nears and my reading tends to veer towards the macabre, Darcy is a wonderful way to "close down" my "non-spookified" list😉😉. There is just the right amount of drama that keeps this from being a full-on rom-com but only just. If the authors had added a couple of pratfalls and slapstick scenes I could easily picture Cary Grant as Darcy, Irene Dunne as Abby, and Randolph Scott as Adrian(for those unfamiliar with classic films they are the three lead actors in My Favorite Wife from 1940, rom-com at its finest). Darcy may not be all laughs and giggles but it left me with more smiles than frowns.
The chemistry between Darcy, Abby, and Adrian is automatic and natural. What I found to make the story standout was Adrian being in the know from the getgo, it really helped the connection be so much more believable as well as fun. I should probably mention for those who find insta-love a major turn-off then this might be one you want to hold off on but for me, when done well, insta-love is exceptional and in Darcy its definitely done well. I just want to point out that if you don't believe insta-love can last well I'm living proof it can. My grandfather was discharged from the Army on New Year's Eve 1945, met my grandmother in January 1946 when he dropped his sister off at work, by Valentine's Day they were a definite item, by July they were wed, and still devoted to each other when he died in 1994. So I love a well written tale of falling fast and by "well written" I mean believable which is what Darcy is: believable, not something you may see happen everyday but still doable.
I don't usually make a point to mention the epilogue but this one is just so lovely I had to give credit to the authors for adding it. I won't say anything about what's in it but it fit perfectly, having read it I can't imagine the story without it. I can't wait to see what RJ Scott & Meredith Russell bring us next in their new Boyfriends for Hire series. Whether future installments will be as fun as Darcy or more angsty won't matter, even if its only half as well told it'll still be amazing, that's just how good I found this series opener to be. Simply put, Darcy is satisfyingly fun entertainment from cover to cover that put a smile on my face and I couldn't ask for more than that.
July 7, 2021
Adrian’s breath hitched as Darcy kissed him. The kiss was gentle, brief, unexpected.
Wanted. — Adrian Fitzgerald
Darcy feels like a fantastic premise poorly executed. It's a fake boyfriend but not, the traditional falling in love with the fake boyfriend is in book 2 of the series, Kaden. "There’s also the time I let the little brother of a date lead me astray.” The idea of falling in love with a clients brother is not a new one but in this mix, cute brother, workaholic client, family drama and high-end week-long wedding it should be effective. But it doesn't work. The pacing and plot are all over the place. The wedding which could have been so impressive for tension, flirtation and tease was basically skipped. The whole arc with cousin Charlie was a bit, what? Same with Justin. Also, the smut was meh at best. Felt off for the rest of them and everything we know of their characters but props for safe sex and consent.
On the characters. Adrian is usually referred to as Ade, his self-talk is adorable and feels right. I quite like that there is a difference in the writing style between him and Darcy. Darcy is a veteran and a charmer perfect for his role. But his veteran status makes him slightly unusual too, this is an unusual move for a former soldier but it makes use of his good looks and loyalty. Honestly to me, Darcy feels like a feminist, it's so rare to read a male character that is written as a feminist. The only lapse in that is when he speaks out against Charlotte, but that is also a logical choice to defend Abby his client girlfriend and maybe friend. Abby is sweet. I like her choice to hire Darcy, her sacrifice for want of a better phrase for her work. While clearly a story between Adrian and Darcy I would have appreciated a better resolution of Abby's story. She is not a minor part of this story.
I know this is a short book and I'm likely asking too much I'm being ruthless with this one. Both Scott and Russell have published better, my opinion is that they don't gel well together.
Darcy bristled and died inside. This wasn’t the first time he’d heard these words from a family he had to fool, but this was Abby they were talking about. She was married to her work, and why shouldn’t she be? She’d probably change the world, and that had a hell of a lot more value than being some man’s arm candy. — Darcy Bridges
A representative gif:
October 30, 2021
Disappointing!
This appears to be a modern view of a rather tired trope.
I enjoyed the introspection of family members amusing.
Unfortunately, I find the premise quite negative. A "boyfriend for hire?" As stated, not an escort service, but with additional extras if the job allows.
The two protagonists:
"Darcy" is very well rounded character, you get to know a bit of his background and what type of person he is. He is very social and enjoys meeting different people. His personality is confident, an ability to think on his feet (in other words "lie") as the occasion arises.
He adamantly informs Adrian that he would not give up being a "boyfriend/escort" and if Adrian doesn't like it then he (Adrian) can leave. Obviously, Darcy wants to keep being a "boyfriend for Hire" with it's "...what happens on a job, stays on the job." His heart may belong to Adrian but his mind doesn't.
eg. Darcy "forgets" to tell Adrian important information about the holiday. He would have put a job with the "Boyfriends For Hire" service above his and Adrian's first official holiday.
That Darcy walks around with the ring for over "a week," yet, at no point could he bring himself to propose to the "love of his life", that it's only due to the situation of him being forced to propose. This makes the proposal come across as fake, and their relationship more about lust than love.
"Adrian" is another well rounded protagonist, he has a sense of family and social gatherings, especially his sister and parents. He has a fiery personality, this shows with him being very protective of his sister. Yet, after the family wedding, he goes to Darcy's and stays there, not even when he needs clean clothes. He even remains there when Darcy is on his next job. Sadly, the authors keep changing his personality to suit the storyline, making him very submissive. Like, when he understands that Darcy is lying to him, Adrian is portrayed as a weak and forgiving.
Overall, this is a fantastically written story, excellent flow and cadence. I did expected high standards, especially, from two of my favourite authors.
Unfortunately, this opening book of the series is lacking in the love and romance. Relies heavily on negative gay tropes. It is meant to have a "Happy Ever After" ending, but is more of a "Lust For Now" ending.
Astonishingly, I have read stories about "glory holes" that are more romantic and loving than this introduction to the"Boyfriends For Hire" series.
This appears to be a modern view of a rather tired trope.
I enjoyed the introspection of family members amusing.
Unfortunately, I find the premise quite negative. A "boyfriend for hire?" As stated, not an escort service, but with additional extras if the job allows.
The two protagonists:
"Darcy" is very well rounded character, you get to know a bit of his background and what type of person he is. He is very social and enjoys meeting different people. His personality is confident, an ability to think on his feet (in other words "lie") as the occasion arises.
He adamantly informs Adrian that he would not give up being a "boyfriend/escort" and if Adrian doesn't like it then he (Adrian) can leave. Obviously, Darcy wants to keep being a "boyfriend for Hire" with it's "...what happens on a job, stays on the job." His heart may belong to Adrian but his mind doesn't.
eg. Darcy "forgets" to tell Adrian important information about the holiday. He would have put a job with the "Boyfriends For Hire" service above his and Adrian's first official holiday.
That Darcy walks around with the ring for over "a week," yet, at no point could he bring himself to propose to the "love of his life", that it's only due to the situation of him being forced to propose. This makes the proposal come across as fake, and their relationship more about lust than love.
"Adrian" is another well rounded protagonist, he has a sense of family and social gatherings, especially his sister and parents. He has a fiery personality, this shows with him being very protective of his sister. Yet, after the family wedding, he goes to Darcy's and stays there, not even when he needs clean clothes. He even remains there when Darcy is on his next job. Sadly, the authors keep changing his personality to suit the storyline, making him very submissive. Like, when he understands that Darcy is lying to him, Adrian is portrayed as a weak and forgiving.
Overall, this is a fantastically written story, excellent flow and cadence. I did expected high standards, especially, from two of my favourite authors.
Unfortunately, this opening book of the series is lacking in the love and romance. Relies heavily on negative gay tropes. It is meant to have a "Happy Ever After" ending, but is more of a "Lust For Now" ending.
Astonishingly, I have read stories about "glory holes" that are more romantic and loving than this introduction to the"Boyfriends For Hire" series.
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