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Party of Three
Three friends are in for a wild night at billionaire heiress Eleanor McGregor’s twenty-fifth birthday party. Love, lust, and doing the right thing, even when it hurts, turn the evening into one that will change their lives forever.
Sarah Donovan just wants to have fun. After a failed relationship and a string of bad first dates leave her moping into her cosmo, a hot and steamy one-night stand with a perfect stranger is just what she needs to feel desirable again.
Avery Anders can’t seem to forget the long-ago accidental kiss with the one woman she couldn’t have, her friend’s little sister. When they meet again, the flame is hotter than ever, and temptation may be too much to resist.
Kaitlyn Forrester was a hopeless romantic until the love of her life walked out on her. Can she learn to forgive when her high school sweetheart returns to town looking to mend her broken heart?
Sarah Donovan just wants to have fun. After a failed relationship and a string of bad first dates leave her moping into her cosmo, a hot and steamy one-night stand with a perfect stranger is just what she needs to feel desirable again.
Avery Anders can’t seem to forget the long-ago accidental kiss with the one woman she couldn’t have, her friend’s little sister. When they meet again, the flame is hotter than ever, and temptation may be too much to resist.
Kaitlyn Forrester was a hopeless romantic until the love of her life walked out on her. Can she learn to forgive when her high school sweetheart returns to town looking to mend her broken heart?
237 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2019
22 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Sandy Lowe
9 books40 followersSandy has a Master's degree in Publishing from the University of Sydney, Australia. In her capacity as Senior Editor, she reviews submissions and proposals, edits and develops content for publication, and oversees publication production.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 2, 2019
When I read the dedication, “To all the readers who buy romance novels for the ‘good parts’. This one is for you”, I was under no illusion that this would contain quite a few ‘good parts’. Three friends are due at an extravagant birthday party each with their own misgivings. Sarah is a pastry chef who doesn't really want to be at the party at all. Birthday girl, Eleanor was never very nice to her so hiding in the kitchen seems like an option.
Avery and Eleanor are friends but with a complicated past. Kaitlyn doesn't let herself get too attached because she learnt firsthand how love ends up.
Three erotic stories told in first person by each of the main characters. There's loads of discussion around sex and intimacy, some of it emotional, some sensual and lots of it erotic. There is also quite a bit of humor in the exchanges. The party background and the connection between the friends give their individual stories good substance.
I enjoyed Sarah's story most, followed by Avery's. I didn't really connect with Kaitlyn as a character.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Avery and Eleanor are friends but with a complicated past. Kaitlyn doesn't let herself get too attached because she learnt firsthand how love ends up.
Three erotic stories told in first person by each of the main characters. There's loads of discussion around sex and intimacy, some of it emotional, some sensual and lots of it erotic. There is also quite a bit of humor in the exchanges. The party background and the connection between the friends give their individual stories good substance.
I enjoyed Sarah's story most, followed by Avery's. I didn't really connect with Kaitlyn as a character.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
November 23, 2020
Because a story is technically well written/edited does that mean I should love it?
I have so many mixed feelings about this story, I don't even know where to start.
Although I'm sure it wasn't intentional, there are so many slurs that could be taken offensively, I seriously questioned the narrator's mindset.
Strip clubs were for middle-aged men who couldn't get it up for their wives. Judgy much.
The cheating slant of this story all but killed it for me, not because of the cheating, it happens, it's life. But the way the female he shagged was made out to be quote 'the skank, ugly, not worthy of being jealous of because she was dumb and ugly' (all judgments, because not one of character knew her). And, considering, the dude was cheating on their friend, shouldn't the name-calling be directed at him?
Oh, but wait, they did get him back in a childish, ridiculous way. Most men, especially cheaters, would've been all over that shit.
Wow, apparently this story hit a cord, I realise as I type.
I think the biggest issue for me (besides my gripe above) is that this cast comes across as a group of 18-year-old girls attending their first prom, rather than the mature 25-year-old women they are reported to be.
If you're looking for a steamy read, with declarations of love, and plenty of endearments, this story has it in spades.
5 stars for the story arc, editing, bringing what I thought were going to be loose threads together.
5 stars for having a virginal character. 2 stars for believability on that front.
-1 star for unintentional slurs toward asexuals, people with fetishes viewed as abnormal, etc, etc.
Overall rating 3, I wish I'd loved it more, stars.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGallay.
I have so many mixed feelings about this story, I don't even know where to start.
Although I'm sure it wasn't intentional, there are so many slurs that could be taken offensively, I seriously questioned the narrator's mindset.
Strip clubs were for middle-aged men who couldn't get it up for their wives. Judgy much.
The cheating slant of this story all but killed it for me, not because of the cheating, it happens, it's life. But the way the female he shagged was made out to be quote 'the skank, ugly, not worthy of being jealous of because she was dumb and ugly' (all judgments, because not one of character knew her). And, considering, the dude was cheating on their friend, shouldn't the name-calling be directed at him?
Oh, but wait, they did get him back in a childish, ridiculous way. Most men, especially cheaters, would've been all over that shit.
Wow, apparently this story hit a cord, I realise as I type.
I think the biggest issue for me (besides my gripe above) is that this cast comes across as a group of 18-year-old girls attending their first prom, rather than the mature 25-year-old women they are reported to be.
If you're looking for a steamy read, with declarations of love, and plenty of endearments, this story has it in spades.
5 stars for the story arc, editing, bringing what I thought were going to be loose threads together.
5 stars for having a virginal character. 2 stars for believability on that front.
-1 star for unintentional slurs toward asexuals, people with fetishes viewed as abnormal, etc, etc.
Overall rating 3, I wish I'd loved it more, stars.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGallay.
November 1, 2019
“Party of Three” intrigued me for a couple reasons. First, this is Lori Prince narrating lesfic erotica, not just romance. Yes, I know…that alone is reason to get this audiobook!
A second reason is that I was in the middle of the interesting lesfic Pine Cone Romance series of three books. The Pine Cone series presents the stories of three different couples as events occur simultaneously in their lives. Each of the stories (Take My Hand, Take a Chance & Take Your Time) focuses on a different couple, and interestingly, each book was written by a different author. Happily, the same narrator was used for all three books so the voices were the same throughout the series.
At this point you may be wondering if I’m going to review “Party of Three”. Yes, of course I am. But here’s the interesting difference between PoT (sorry, couldn’t resist) and Pine Cone. In Pot, we also have three different couples interacting as a group, but here we have the stories unfolding sequentially instead of revisiting the same events through different perspectives.
I hope that makes sense. It was definitely enjoyable experiencing the two different methods of storytelling.
With specific regards to “Party of Three” - wow! Lori Prince needs to narrate more lesfic erotica, and new (for me) author Sandy Lowe needs to write more!!
The first couple presents recently dumped MC Sara and hot butch chef Ryan. Both are very likable and they have terrific chemistry. The sex is HOT, and their discussion of sex is just as fun!
The next couple, Spencer and Avery, are also both very likable. Spencer is a virgin who is studying to be a sex therapist, and she basically takes control to seduce Avery, who has loved her since….oh…forever!
Caitlin and Beck are the last of the three stories. I found this couple the least believable. I just couldn’t feel Caitlin’s intense interest in a woman who had unceremoniously dumped her a decade ago. Second chance stories abound these days, and they’re rarely my favorite trope, so YMMV.
I evaluate the situations as a HFN for Sara and Ryan, HEA for Avery and Spencer, and HEA for Caitlin and Beck. Their mutual “friend” Elenor is the glue that brought them back together, and she has some rather new adventures awaiting her….I hope!
5* for “Party of Three”; what a fun story and terrific narration!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
My rating and my review was not in anyway affected by my having been provided a review copy.
A second reason is that I was in the middle of the interesting lesfic Pine Cone Romance series of three books. The Pine Cone series presents the stories of three different couples as events occur simultaneously in their lives. Each of the stories (Take My Hand, Take a Chance & Take Your Time) focuses on a different couple, and interestingly, each book was written by a different author. Happily, the same narrator was used for all three books so the voices were the same throughout the series.
At this point you may be wondering if I’m going to review “Party of Three”. Yes, of course I am. But here’s the interesting difference between PoT (sorry, couldn’t resist) and Pine Cone. In Pot, we also have three different couples interacting as a group, but here we have the stories unfolding sequentially instead of revisiting the same events through different perspectives.
I hope that makes sense. It was definitely enjoyable experiencing the two different methods of storytelling.
With specific regards to “Party of Three” - wow! Lori Prince needs to narrate more lesfic erotica, and new (for me) author Sandy Lowe needs to write more!!
The first couple presents recently dumped MC Sara and hot butch chef Ryan. Both are very likable and they have terrific chemistry. The sex is HOT, and their discussion of sex is just as fun!
The next couple, Spencer and Avery, are also both very likable. Spencer is a virgin who is studying to be a sex therapist, and she basically takes control to seduce Avery, who has loved her since….oh…forever!
Caitlin and Beck are the last of the three stories. I found this couple the least believable. I just couldn’t feel Caitlin’s intense interest in a woman who had unceremoniously dumped her a decade ago. Second chance stories abound these days, and they’re rarely my favorite trope, so YMMV.
I evaluate the situations as a HFN for Sara and Ryan, HEA for Avery and Spencer, and HEA for Caitlin and Beck. Their mutual “friend” Elenor is the glue that brought them back together, and she has some rather new adventures awaiting her….I hope!
5* for “Party of Three”; what a fun story and terrific narration!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
My rating and my review was not in anyway affected by my having been provided a review copy.
September 4, 2021
Review of Party of Three by Sandy Lowe, Audiobook narrated by Lori Prince
I’ve heard about Sandy Lowe a lot, mostly in her role of senior editor at Bold Strokes Books but, until now, I hadn’t read any of her novels. I don’t normally read the book blurbs because sometimes they have spoilers and judging by the cover and title (I know I shouldn’t…) I thought this was a polyamory story. So I wasn’t that eager to read it but the audiobook is narrated by Lori Prince so I said why not. Why not indeed… I’ve got a pleasant surprise with this one.
Three single friends attend a socialite 25th birthday party and end up finding a special someone to spend the night with and maybe find romance too.
Sarah Donovan wants to have fun and a one-night stand with a gorgeous chef might be the recipe for success.
Avery Anders has been pinning for her best friend’s little sister for years and their reunion will be a gratifying surprise.
Kaitlyn Forester got her heart broken by her high school sweetheart. Now she doesn’t believe in love anymore but her ex returns with the idea of winning her heart back.
This book is part erotica, part romance with a very well-planned plot that intertwines the stories of the three friends plus a secondary plot that unifies all of them. It’s divided in three parts, each written from the pov of one of the friends. The whole story takes place in a single day, a few hours before, during and after the birthday party. It is very well written which shouldn’t surprise anyone considering the author is a senior editor at one of the most important queer publishers.
Party of Three covers a variety of relationships: one-night stand, second chances and virginity. They are all very different from each other but they all have a common denominator in the level of heat. Ms. Lowe writes the sex scenes really well in an almost photographic way but also showing feelings and characters’ chemistry. It surprised me that romance isn’t an afterthought here, love has a preeminent role.
All the characters are well fleshed out in the universe the story is set. These are rich, mid-twenties socialites so don’t expect a lot of depth. It’s set in a birthday party after all. This book does what it says on the tin with well-written sex and heartwarming romance. And it brings it in spades.
Lori Prince did a very good job and I believe that her narration was crucial in my level of enjoyment. This isn’t an easy book to perform, not only for the amount and length of the sex scenes but also for the number of main female characters. Ms. Prince made them all sound different and recognisable throughout the story. Her narration pace and the lightness of the overall tone matched the story perfectly. Her fabulous narration raised my rating and I suggest that you listen to this one rather than read it. 4.5 stars.
I’ve heard about Sandy Lowe a lot, mostly in her role of senior editor at Bold Strokes Books but, until now, I hadn’t read any of her novels. I don’t normally read the book blurbs because sometimes they have spoilers and judging by the cover and title (I know I shouldn’t…) I thought this was a polyamory story. So I wasn’t that eager to read it but the audiobook is narrated by Lori Prince so I said why not. Why not indeed… I’ve got a pleasant surprise with this one.
Three single friends attend a socialite 25th birthday party and end up finding a special someone to spend the night with and maybe find romance too.
Sarah Donovan wants to have fun and a one-night stand with a gorgeous chef might be the recipe for success.
Avery Anders has been pinning for her best friend’s little sister for years and their reunion will be a gratifying surprise.
Kaitlyn Forester got her heart broken by her high school sweetheart. Now she doesn’t believe in love anymore but her ex returns with the idea of winning her heart back.
This book is part erotica, part romance with a very well-planned plot that intertwines the stories of the three friends plus a secondary plot that unifies all of them. It’s divided in three parts, each written from the pov of one of the friends. The whole story takes place in a single day, a few hours before, during and after the birthday party. It is very well written which shouldn’t surprise anyone considering the author is a senior editor at one of the most important queer publishers.
Party of Three covers a variety of relationships: one-night stand, second chances and virginity. They are all very different from each other but they all have a common denominator in the level of heat. Ms. Lowe writes the sex scenes really well in an almost photographic way but also showing feelings and characters’ chemistry. It surprised me that romance isn’t an afterthought here, love has a preeminent role.
All the characters are well fleshed out in the universe the story is set. These are rich, mid-twenties socialites so don’t expect a lot of depth. It’s set in a birthday party after all. This book does what it says on the tin with well-written sex and heartwarming romance. And it brings it in spades.
Lori Prince did a very good job and I believe that her narration was crucial in my level of enjoyment. This isn’t an easy book to perform, not only for the amount and length of the sex scenes but also for the number of main female characters. Ms. Prince made them all sound different and recognisable throughout the story. Her narration pace and the lightness of the overall tone matched the story perfectly. Her fabulous narration raised my rating and I suggest that you listen to this one rather than read it. 4.5 stars.
August 17, 2019
This book is a bit of an odd duck. It's technically not an anthology even though there are three different stories within. It's not a contemporary romance because there's just not enough plot or character development but it's not pure erotica either. This strange mishmash had me hoping against hope that I would like the next story better. I didn't. By the end of the book, even though I was entertained, I was glad it was over.
My biggest issue was the childish and at times awful behavior of the women involved. For women supposedly in their mid to late 20's they act like a bunch of teenage Regina George rejects. How did no one who read this book prior to its release mention to the author that it's 2019 and slut shaming another woman because of a cheating man is no longer acceptable?
So forget about the plot and let's look at 'the good parts' of the book. I'm sorry to say I wasn't a fan of those either. Mind you this is strictly a personal preference. I like feisty women and I ended up getting damsel in distress from two of the stories. The other story involved a sex act that had me blurting out things like "hygiene", "protection" and "don't stick your.." you know what, it's not important what was stuck where.
This clearly wasn't my kind of book and ends in a 2,5* rating. Good thing I can always re-read Irresistible and Party Games.
My biggest issue was the childish and at times awful behavior of the women involved. For women supposedly in their mid to late 20's they act like a bunch of teenage Regina George rejects. How did no one who read this book prior to its release mention to the author that it's 2019 and slut shaming another woman because of a cheating man is no longer acceptable?
So forget about the plot and let's look at 'the good parts' of the book. I'm sorry to say I wasn't a fan of those either. Mind you this is strictly a personal preference. I like feisty women and I ended up getting damsel in distress from two of the stories. The other story involved a sex act that had me blurting out things like "hygiene", "protection" and "don't stick your.." you know what, it's not important what was stuck where.
This clearly wasn't my kind of book and ends in a 2,5* rating. Good thing I can always re-read Irresistible and Party Games.
October 14, 2019
[Edit October 14th after listening to the audiobook: Lori Prince narrating Sandy Lowe is a match made in heaven. I think I liked Party of Three even better as an audiobook than when I read it. Actually, I don’t think, I know I did, which is why I’m upgrading it from 4* to 5*. Prince has a gift for voicing ironic and self-deprecating inner thoughts and there are plenty of those in this story. She’s also excellent at sexy scenes, and there are plenty of those too. Another thing I love with Lori Prince is that you always know who’s talking, even when, like here, there are sometimes many characters, most of them women.
As I wrote in my first review, as steamy as they are, the stories told in Party of Three are also unexpectedly romantic. One evening, three friends, three love stories. And serious fun.]
As you might have guessed from the title (sometimes, titles are helpful like that), this book is about three friends and the night that changes their lives for the better, at their former schoolmate Eleanor’s twenty-fifth birthday party. At first I was a bit worried about it being written in three parts, as that sort of structure often feels artificial, but Lowe makes it work, and each part flows into the next naturally.
At the center of the first one is Sarah, whose ex really shattered her self-confidence, making her believe she’s not sexy and not worth of anyone’s attention beyond casual sex. Sexy and tender Ryan is the one who will help her build that confidence back. The second part is about Avery and her long-time crush on her Spencer, Eleanor’s younger sister, who’s studying to become a sex therapist. The last part centers around Kaitlyn and her high school sweetheart, the one who broke her heart.
I know some reviewers were a little offended by some of the words the author uses or certain situations but I didn’t really notice them while I was reading. Some things didn’t work for me but they didn’t bother me either.
If you’re looking for a fun and light read with a few sharp bits, this is it. Of course it’s steamy hot, but it’s also pretty romantic in its own way. Come for the sex, stay for the romance or come for the romance, stay for the sex, either way you win.
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
As I wrote in my first review, as steamy as they are, the stories told in Party of Three are also unexpectedly romantic. One evening, three friends, three love stories. And serious fun.]
As you might have guessed from the title (sometimes, titles are helpful like that), this book is about three friends and the night that changes their lives for the better, at their former schoolmate Eleanor’s twenty-fifth birthday party. At first I was a bit worried about it being written in three parts, as that sort of structure often feels artificial, but Lowe makes it work, and each part flows into the next naturally.
At the center of the first one is Sarah, whose ex really shattered her self-confidence, making her believe she’s not sexy and not worth of anyone’s attention beyond casual sex. Sexy and tender Ryan is the one who will help her build that confidence back. The second part is about Avery and her long-time crush on her Spencer, Eleanor’s younger sister, who’s studying to become a sex therapist. The last part centers around Kaitlyn and her high school sweetheart, the one who broke her heart.
I know some reviewers were a little offended by some of the words the author uses or certain situations but I didn’t really notice them while I was reading. Some things didn’t work for me but they didn’t bother me either.
If you’re looking for a fun and light read with a few sharp bits, this is it. Of course it’s steamy hot, but it’s also pretty romantic in its own way. Come for the sex, stay for the romance or come for the romance, stay for the sex, either way you win.
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 15, 2020
This was an ambitious project. Three novellas taking us through a single day and night, where three friends fall in lust and/or love, each of them getting a happily ever after or happy for now ending. I was curious about how well it would work, and was happy to have such an interesting and fun experience, going from one friend’s perspective to the next for each of the phases of the night.
Full review: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/part...
Full review: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/part...
October 1, 2019
Oh dear, I finished this ARC a few weeks ago but forgot to write down my thoughts right away (not the brightest move, I know). And now the ARC file has destroyed itself and I can't access it anymore to refresh my mind.
Ah well... I think I will take a little break from ARC's and work through the pile I still haven't read yet.
Okay, so what do I remember... there were three single women going to this rich friend's party. They all hook up over the course of the evening. The first couple didn't know each other, the other two were doing the naughty with people they knew. There was a lot of sex and not so much plot (but that was the set-up of the whole book). There are some slapstick moments, oh... and there is an evil two-timing fiancé as well.
Sandy Lowe really can write erotica. I loved her short story Party Games and I hoped she would write more in the same spirit. I was not disappointed.
f/f explicit
Themes: uncomplicated read, plenty of sexy times, fun.
4 stars
Ah well... I think I will take a little break from ARC's and work through the pile I still haven't read yet.
Okay, so what do I remember... there were three single women going to this rich friend's party. They all hook up over the course of the evening. The first couple didn't know each other, the other two were doing the naughty with people they knew. There was a lot of sex and not so much plot (but that was the set-up of the whole book). There are some slapstick moments, oh... and there is an evil two-timing fiancé as well.
Sandy Lowe really can write erotica. I loved her short story Party Games and I hoped she would write more in the same spirit. I was not disappointed.
f/f explicit
Themes: uncomplicated read, plenty of sexy times, fun.
4 stars
December 26, 2019
Short Christmas review.
I really liked this, I mean three girls, one night, lots of kink-ish shenanigans... what's not to like.
Eleanor, Sarah and Avery are all great characters and the only complaint I have is that I won't get to follow them further. Usually in my experience, books that are mainly erotic in nature are a disappointment when making their characters relatable and interesting on a personal level because we're there to read some hot kinky stuff but here I really cared about the girls and I command Sandy Lowe for doing that in such a short space of time.
The sex was stupid hot, especially Sarah's and Avery's kinky nature, related wayyyy too much to that... took me a while to get through the book.
I'm giving it five stars simply because it did exactly what I wanted it to do when I picked my copy up and more.
I really liked this, I mean three girls, one night, lots of kink-ish shenanigans... what's not to like.
Eleanor, Sarah and Avery are all great characters and the only complaint I have is that I won't get to follow them further. Usually in my experience, books that are mainly erotic in nature are a disappointment when making their characters relatable and interesting on a personal level because we're there to read some hot kinky stuff but here I really cared about the girls and I command Sandy Lowe for doing that in such a short space of time.
The sex was stupid hot, especially Sarah's and Avery's kinky nature, related wayyyy too much to that... took me a while to get through the book.
I'm giving it five stars simply because it did exactly what I wanted it to do when I picked my copy up and more.
December 28, 2019
An enjoyable read. Three friends, three voices, three ways to love, and three ways to have sex. So, three reasons to love this book.
July 24, 2019
What was the book about?:
The book is centred around three friends going to a very elite party. Each friend gets a small, semi-erotic novella of sorts and tells the story of them meeting someone special.
Featured Tropes:
Friends to lover, unrequited love, andro-femme, second-chance romance
Book Strengths:
I enjoyed the variety of tropes in this book. I found the sex to be very sexy and definitely felt excited each time I got to the next person's story. The three ladies were all unique in their own way, by their personalities but also by what their backstory was and who they found attractive, which I liked because it didn't feel like it was the same story over and over again. The best part was the round-up at the end in the form of an excellent epilogue. The quality of writing was top-notch, and the way the author tied the friends all together was great.
Book weaknesses:
So there were a few things that I struggled within this book. Firstly I felt the three ladies were younger than their stated 25 years. Secondly, I felt one of the characters went from not being interested then to changing her mind too quickly and having all inhibitions jump out the window. That storyline didn't work as well for me. In saying that, the epilogue really made up for it, and it didn't bother me as much by the end.
Character Chemistry:
Great Chemistry. My favourite characters were Sarah and Ryan. I would love a stand-alone story from them and Elle. Elle was a secondary character that intrigued me from her back story and the small part she played throughout the other stories.
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
If this is a taste of what's to come, I am excited to see what's next from Sandy Lowe.
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The book is centred around three friends going to a very elite party. Each friend gets a small, semi-erotic novella of sorts and tells the story of them meeting someone special.
Featured Tropes:
Friends to lover, unrequited love, andro-femme, second-chance romance
Book Strengths:
I enjoyed the variety of tropes in this book. I found the sex to be very sexy and definitely felt excited each time I got to the next person's story. The three ladies were all unique in their own way, by their personalities but also by what their backstory was and who they found attractive, which I liked because it didn't feel like it was the same story over and over again. The best part was the round-up at the end in the form of an excellent epilogue. The quality of writing was top-notch, and the way the author tied the friends all together was great.
Book weaknesses:
So there were a few things that I struggled within this book. Firstly I felt the three ladies were younger than their stated 25 years. Secondly, I felt one of the characters went from not being interested then to changing her mind too quickly and having all inhibitions jump out the window. That storyline didn't work as well for me. In saying that, the epilogue really made up for it, and it didn't bother me as much by the end.
Character Chemistry:
Great Chemistry. My favourite characters were Sarah and Ryan. I would love a stand-alone story from them and Elle. Elle was a secondary character that intrigued me from her back story and the small part she played throughout the other stories.
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
If this is a taste of what's to come, I am excited to see what's next from Sandy Lowe.
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
July 9, 2019
From what I could see Party of Three is Sandy Lowe's first full length novel and oh is it steamy. This "romance" (though I would say this is borderline erotica) is about 3 High School friends now in their mid 20's who attend the 25th birthday party of former classmate and friend. It is told in 3 parts - Sarah, Avery and Kaitlyn - with Sarah starting the story. Sarah's portion begins on the day of the party.
Overall, I thought this one was well written and it was oh so steamy. In many ways, I felt depth was missing even though all of the characters seems to be smart (was it because this was told in 3 parts?) I had a hard time connecting to the characters because their ages are so much younger than me and some wisdom that comes with age was apparent. Even though some elements of romance was there, this was mostly about sex. Normally, I am not one to complain about sex in a romance, I just wish there was more romance to go with the sex. Speaking of Sex - Lowe does a good job with the sex scenes.
With all that said I think this was a good read if you are looking for something more on the side of erotica. I will rate is 3.5 stars.
This ARC was provided for an honest review.
Overall, I thought this one was well written and it was oh so steamy. In many ways, I felt depth was missing even though all of the characters seems to be smart (was it because this was told in 3 parts?) I had a hard time connecting to the characters because their ages are so much younger than me and some wisdom that comes with age was apparent. Even though some elements of romance was there, this was mostly about sex. Normally, I am not one to complain about sex in a romance, I just wish there was more romance to go with the sex. Speaking of Sex - Lowe does a good job with the sex scenes.
With all that said I think this was a good read if you are looking for something more on the side of erotica. I will rate is 3.5 stars.
This ARC was provided for an honest review.
April 17, 2020
This book was not an easy start for me so I decided to switch to the audio version and I don't regret my choice cause the narrator did a wonderful job.
I liked that the story was divided between the three characters but we still got them interacting with each other. Each character was unique in their own way and I liked all three of them even Eleanor by the end lol
Sarah was the funniest in my opinion, Avery was probably the softest who appeared at first like a stone cold hearted person and I liked how the author changed that and Kaitlin well she's hard to describe she provokes deep emotions and is guarded but still she's probably the one with a heart broken too many times but who's still trying.
I don't know how I would have rated this book if not for the audio I'd like to think at a four but the audio was addictive.
I'll have to check other books from this author
I liked that the story was divided between the three characters but we still got them interacting with each other. Each character was unique in their own way and I liked all three of them even Eleanor by the end lol
Sarah was the funniest in my opinion, Avery was probably the softest who appeared at first like a stone cold hearted person and I liked how the author changed that and Kaitlin well she's hard to describe she provokes deep emotions and is guarded but still she's probably the one with a heart broken too many times but who's still trying.
I don't know how I would have rated this book if not for the audio I'd like to think at a four but the audio was addictive.
I'll have to check other books from this author
August 27, 2019
Three lady friends looking for love but not admitting it out loud. The read is presented in three parts, one for each of the ladies. I enjoyed each of the stories and how different they were from each other. One common denominator was the humor and misunderstandings.
Sarah Donovan and the stranger. Avery Roberts and her friend's sister. Kaitlyn Forrester and her high school love. Steamy, hot sex as stated and promised in the dedication, did not disappoint. Perfect read for whenever you are in the mood for a steamy hot sex read.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley with thanks.
Sarah Donovan and the stranger. Avery Roberts and her friend's sister. Kaitlyn Forrester and her high school love. Steamy, hot sex as stated and promised in the dedication, did not disappoint. Perfect read for whenever you are in the mood for a steamy hot sex read.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley with thanks.
August 24, 2019
Mmmmm... this was a very interesting story. There were three friends here attending a party, and each friend got her very sexy party.
October 28, 2019
Three best friends all looking for love, one recovering from a cheating gf, one suffering from unrequited love for somebody out of bounds and the last unable to get over the lost love of her life. Send them to a birthday party and let the romantic and very erotic fun begin.
Interesting concept; three interwoven stories, all on one night at one party. The plotline is unusual but works really well, makes for a believable story arc (in the realms of erotic romance) while giving the reader three strong individual mini erotic romances. The main characters are all drawn with commendable depth given their airtime, the backstories are quickly and competently sketched in without being overly described, and the couples highlight three different ways to fall in love as well as three nicely different sex scenes. Their friendship felt solid and believable which gives a strong foundation for the lightning romance/erotic storylines which follow.
Highly enjoyable, hard to put down. Excellent erotica, extremely hot and steamy without ever feeling gratuitous. Loved it.
Interesting concept; three interwoven stories, all on one night at one party. The plotline is unusual but works really well, makes for a believable story arc (in the realms of erotic romance) while giving the reader three strong individual mini erotic romances. The main characters are all drawn with commendable depth given their airtime, the backstories are quickly and competently sketched in without being overly described, and the couples highlight three different ways to fall in love as well as three nicely different sex scenes. Their friendship felt solid and believable which gives a strong foundation for the lightning romance/erotic storylines which follow.
Highly enjoyable, hard to put down. Excellent erotica, extremely hot and steamy without ever feeling gratuitous. Loved it.
September 5, 2019
This is a debut novel? Holy shiz! Loved everything about this, the witty banter, the characters chemistry, the 3 person format, the comedy and obviously the *hot hot hot* sex scenes!
Just became a fan for life, now I'll have to read everything shes ever written.
Just became a fan for life, now I'll have to read everything shes ever written.
March 11, 2020
One hell of a party!!!
Eleanor is having a party to celebrate her 25th birthday, and her three ‘friends’, Sarah, Avery and Kaitlyn all end up having very different experiences and it is a night none of them will forget in a hurry, and everything changes. A night of revelations, exes, new experiences, the past and new friendships means that all four of them end up with a night they will never forget.
The story is split into three sections, giving insight into the antics of the night from Sarah’s, Avery’s and Kaitlyn’s point of view, following their actions and how their night unfolded. These are then all very cleverly linked together under the premises of the main story being the fun and frolics of Eleanor’s birthday party. It was very cleverly put together and a lot of fun to read. I got so much more than I had expected from this book, and one or more surprises along the way that just added to the thrill of the read.
It was erotic, sensual, sexy and fun, and quite the experience. A lot was learnt about each of the characters whilst their night played out and many feelings and emotions were evoked between them. There were amazing scenes in this book, very hot, very passionate and all the characters had fantastic interactions. There was some drama along the way, just to add to the fun, and the story was built up in such a way that I think there will hopefully be more to come from these ladies in future.
A great read if you want fun, flirty, and a little erotica in an easy story that allows you to really experience the fun being had and the feelings of the characters. You will be able to connect with them on some level, as the things they have been through, or are going through are relatable. Addictive, and a lot of fun so I struggled to put the book down. I really felt like I could have been there at the party and was one of the ladies. Highly recommend this book for a fun read.
Eleanor is having a party to celebrate her 25th birthday, and her three ‘friends’, Sarah, Avery and Kaitlyn all end up having very different experiences and it is a night none of them will forget in a hurry, and everything changes. A night of revelations, exes, new experiences, the past and new friendships means that all four of them end up with a night they will never forget.
The story is split into three sections, giving insight into the antics of the night from Sarah’s, Avery’s and Kaitlyn’s point of view, following their actions and how their night unfolded. These are then all very cleverly linked together under the premises of the main story being the fun and frolics of Eleanor’s birthday party. It was very cleverly put together and a lot of fun to read. I got so much more than I had expected from this book, and one or more surprises along the way that just added to the thrill of the read.
It was erotic, sensual, sexy and fun, and quite the experience. A lot was learnt about each of the characters whilst their night played out and many feelings and emotions were evoked between them. There were amazing scenes in this book, very hot, very passionate and all the characters had fantastic interactions. There was some drama along the way, just to add to the fun, and the story was built up in such a way that I think there will hopefully be more to come from these ladies in future.
A great read if you want fun, flirty, and a little erotica in an easy story that allows you to really experience the fun being had and the feelings of the characters. You will be able to connect with them on some level, as the things they have been through, or are going through are relatable. Addictive, and a lot of fun so I struggled to put the book down. I really felt like I could have been there at the party and was one of the ladies. Highly recommend this book for a fun read.
August 29, 2019
4.25 Stars / 5 Steam Fans
This was purely a cover request from NetGalley!! I was very intrigued by the three ladies on the cover to find that this story is about three lesbians. Sarah, Avery, and Kaitlyn are friends attending the birthday party of a rich girl from their childhood. Eleanor's birthday party turns into the setting of these three ladies finding, understanding, and reconnecting with lovers. The book is broken down by each lady's journey and each part gave all the emotions, sweetness, and smoking hot sexiness! I really enjoyed this book from the author and will be looking into reading more from this author.
This specific video review will be included in the August 2019 wrap-up.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
This was purely a cover request from NetGalley!! I was very intrigued by the three ladies on the cover to find that this story is about three lesbians. Sarah, Avery, and Kaitlyn are friends attending the birthday party of a rich girl from their childhood. Eleanor's birthday party turns into the setting of these three ladies finding, understanding, and reconnecting with lovers. The book is broken down by each lady's journey and each part gave all the emotions, sweetness, and smoking hot sexiness! I really enjoyed this book from the author and will be looking into reading more from this author.
This specific video review will be included in the August 2019 wrap-up.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
August 3, 2019
This book for me was completely satisfying in so many ways. I feel like it represented many different types of love in a positive way and that it was interesting and compelled me to remain hooked from the start to the very finish. The characters were real. The story was real. It was heartbreaking, exciting, romantic and everything in between. The sensuality that this book created was something out of a sexy fairytale. I will be reading more from this author. I enjoyed every minute of it. 5/5 Stars for an amazing piece of diverse literature.
July 3, 2019
First off the cover and title make this book sound like this is going to be an FFF polyam romance. It is none of those things. Even with it not being that thing the first 25% that I read of Sarah stories was grossly acephobic and also she pretty much forced herself on her ex while drunk when her ex didnt want to have sex. No one owes you sex ever I dont care if they turn out to be a cheater. The treatment of asexuality as a prop was disgusting, as was the wooo I'm safe Ryan isnt actually a dude so I dont have to worry about not being a lesbian was incredibly gross and biphobic as well as potentially transphobic.
Sarah is also incredibly entitled especially about her business and the investor thinking he shouldnt have an opinion. Well guess what honey he doesnt want to loose money on a bakery in times square.
Also the weird plot point about Ryan and the kissing booth and the other girl probably liking kissing the entire town for her boyfriend is incredibly gross and regressive
I didnt bother with the other two stories but the only mention of bisexuality I did see was a bi girl conning one of the other girls into a threesome which hey is also incredibly biphobic.
This was not an enjoyable read with its treatment of mental health and other sexualities
Sarah is also incredibly entitled especially about her business and the investor thinking he shouldnt have an opinion. Well guess what honey he doesnt want to loose money on a bakery in times square.
Also the weird plot point about Ryan and the kissing booth and the other girl probably liking kissing the entire town for her boyfriend is incredibly gross and regressive
I didnt bother with the other two stories but the only mention of bisexuality I did see was a bi girl conning one of the other girls into a threesome which hey is also incredibly biphobic.
This was not an enjoyable read with its treatment of mental health and other sexualities
August 28, 2019
This was definitely not what i expected when I decided to give it a go but with that being said I really enjoyed this book, I think the author did a great job with the heat level in this book. I like the way that there were three different stories in one book and each told in the first person really worked as each one was tastefully done.
I really liked Sarah and Ryan story the best because who doesn’t love a woman in a uniform even a chefs uniform, talk about hot I had to fan myself at times.
Who would of thought that three stories all intertwined into one book could turn out so well written I think it takes a lot of talent to pull this off and Lowe did such an amazing job.
I have to admit I listen to this on Audible and let me tell you it was narrated by Lori Prince and she did a amazing job Prince put the heat in all the right places and she will forever be one of my top five narrators
So I say if your looking for a fun read with a lot of steaminess and all the romance then pull up a seat an get comfortable your in for a wild ride.
I really liked Sarah and Ryan story the best because who doesn’t love a woman in a uniform even a chefs uniform, talk about hot I had to fan myself at times.
Who would of thought that three stories all intertwined into one book could turn out so well written I think it takes a lot of talent to pull this off and Lowe did such an amazing job.
I have to admit I listen to this on Audible and let me tell you it was narrated by Lori Prince and she did a amazing job Prince put the heat in all the right places and she will forever be one of my top five narrators
So I say if your looking for a fun read with a lot of steaminess and all the romance then pull up a seat an get comfortable your in for a wild ride.
July 9, 2019
At its core, this book is very much sex with plot. While I did find each sex scene just a little bit unrealistic I don't think they were bad. I just have a hard time believing so much sex would happen on the spot like that. That is just me and my personal opinion though.
I did keep in mind the point of the book while reading it though and honestly, I do find that it delivered what it intended. I was surprised at the level of emotion portrayed with each of the three main characters and their third of the book. I actually enjoyed each of them and felt they were likable and unique compared to each other. They each had their own personality and while yea one was more or less focused on sex, each had a slightly different solution to their own plot relevant issues.
Overall, not the most intellectual of reads, but it is exactly what it says it's going to be and I enjoyed it.
I did keep in mind the point of the book while reading it though and honestly, I do find that it delivered what it intended. I was surprised at the level of emotion portrayed with each of the three main characters and their third of the book. I actually enjoyed each of them and felt they were likable and unique compared to each other. They each had their own personality and while yea one was more or less focused on sex, each had a slightly different solution to their own plot relevant issues.
Overall, not the most intellectual of reads, but it is exactly what it says it's going to be and I enjoyed it.
July 2, 2019
Received from NetGalley.
I had a hard time deciding what to rate this, I wavered between a 3 and a 4. Since I read the book in one day, I felt it was captivating enough to warrant a 4, though a 3.5 would be the ideal rating.
Party of Three is about three lesbian women who go to a party, who all have their own issues going on. At the party, all three find what they weren't expecting, which at the core was sex, but nothing wrong with a little sex.
The book was written in 3 parts, following each woman and here is where my wavering on ratings came in to play because I liked each section with varying degrees.
Sarah - Sarah had my favorite story, I liked her the most of the 3 ladies. I felt like we got to learn the most about her. I felt for her and could understand her and I liked that she found herself again and found some happiness. I'd rate Sarah's section a 4.
Avery - Avery's story was my second favorite. It felt a bit rushed, with the other things going on during the section. I felt like I didn't get to know Avery as much and didn't relate to her all that much. The story was cute though the role playing felt a little silly, but that's probably just me. I'd rate Avery's section a 3.
Kaitlyn - I didn't like Kaitlyn. I didn't like her story, her encounter, her personality... nothing. I couldn't relate to her at all. I found myself wanting to skip through her section and I had to keep going back and making myself read it. Kaitlyn was a bit of a bitch, hot then cold, dominant then submissive. She was all over the place and I just couldn't get behind her as a character. I'd rather Kaitlyn's section a 2.5.
Beyond the three stories, the under lining story was funny and I like what they pulled off. That was great. My only beef with the story was the use of "endearments". Not everyone uses a term of endearment, so seeing it so much and in EACH section was a bit much. It sat the wrong way with me. And they were all different too: honey, baby & love - one section each. One was the main character saying it, the other two were said to the main character. Just was overkill / too much.
But the book was super engaging, I didn't put it down much and read in one sitting. It was enjoyable and the sex was a bit tame but pretty hot. It was fun, well worth the read, I'm just picky.
I had a hard time deciding what to rate this, I wavered between a 3 and a 4. Since I read the book in one day, I felt it was captivating enough to warrant a 4, though a 3.5 would be the ideal rating.
Party of Three is about three lesbian women who go to a party, who all have their own issues going on. At the party, all three find what they weren't expecting, which at the core was sex, but nothing wrong with a little sex.
The book was written in 3 parts, following each woman and here is where my wavering on ratings came in to play because I liked each section with varying degrees.
Sarah - Sarah had my favorite story, I liked her the most of the 3 ladies. I felt like we got to learn the most about her. I felt for her and could understand her and I liked that she found herself again and found some happiness. I'd rate Sarah's section a 4.
Avery - Avery's story was my second favorite. It felt a bit rushed, with the other things going on during the section. I felt like I didn't get to know Avery as much and didn't relate to her all that much. The story was cute though the role playing felt a little silly, but that's probably just me. I'd rate Avery's section a 3.
Kaitlyn - I didn't like Kaitlyn. I didn't like her story, her encounter, her personality... nothing. I couldn't relate to her at all. I found myself wanting to skip through her section and I had to keep going back and making myself read it. Kaitlyn was a bit of a bitch, hot then cold, dominant then submissive. She was all over the place and I just couldn't get behind her as a character. I'd rather Kaitlyn's section a 2.5.
Beyond the three stories, the under lining story was funny and I like what they pulled off. That was great. My only beef with the story was the use of "endearments". Not everyone uses a term of endearment, so seeing it so much and in EACH section was a bit much. It sat the wrong way with me. And they were all different too: honey, baby & love - one section each. One was the main character saying it, the other two were said to the main character. Just was overkill / too much.
But the book was super engaging, I didn't put it down much and read in one sitting. It was enjoyable and the sex was a bit tame but pretty hot. It was fun, well worth the read, I'm just picky.
September 11, 2019
The premise is that three friends go to a big 25th birthday bash for a billionaire heiress and have three separate erotic encounters. Each are basically their own separate story. I didn't read the book first so experienced this only via audio. I found one of the encounters somewhat titillating but the others were just so-so for me. I was trying to determine if that was because of the narration or the words themselves. Lori Prince is a favorite narrator of many and this was my first listen to one of her works. There are six different characters she needed to voice and that's certainly not easy. I think I may have gotten more out of it if I'd just read the book instead. Going to try a physical book by this author next time. I think we all have certain voice types that appeal to us and have found that narrators with low registered voices appeal to me most. I started and stopped this audiobook three times because the narrator provided free audio codes and I wanted to give it a fair listen. I can't say it was my cup of tea - though I do enjoy erotica - but I've seen reviews by others who enjoyed it a lot. Probably just a personal preference.
July 31, 2019
Awesome! The camaraderie between friends, the banter and the knowing each other well enough to tease continuously make this book a really fun read. Plus there’s lots of the promised ‘good bits’ (read the dedication) as in hot sex in hot scenarios. Given the public nature of most of these encounters the sex scenes could easily have been read as contrived, but they are so well written that they really work. Partly it’s the dialogue, but mainly it’s the quality of the writing that’s warm, sexy and surprisingly, given the encounters, sweet. Hot sex in all three parts of the book, manage to be raunchy but also full of love. It’s an odd juxtaposition that manages to make this book so romantic. Tying together the three parts so seamlessly was impressive as well. You can tell that whilst it might be her first book, this author has lesbian novels running through her blood stream. Write more Ms Lowe; you’re talented.
July 24, 2019
Now this is a party I would've enjoyed back in the day. Three friends, each looking for love. seem to find what they're looking for at a frenemy's birthday party. These girls didn't act 25, but more like college freshmen. But who cares? This is a fun, frothy, perfect hot summer read that's a nice way to spend 4 hours. Each of the three stories make use of different tropes to keep the variety, and the epilogue ties it all up.
January 25, 2022
(Fans self) Um…this book is very, very, hot. Do not read it at work. I made the mistake of listening to the audiobook at my desk and had to shut it off. 🤦🏻🤣 This book is basically 3 different stories in one book. It focuses on 3 friends and a 4th who is kind of a pain in the butt. There’s love, sex and romance abound. If you’re looking for a fun, sexy read this is it. Plus Lori Prince did the narration and wowza, she should read this genre more often.
August 2, 2019
This is the story of three friends who met while still in high school. One comes from old money, another has a rich father who gives his daughter anything she might want and then there is the third friend who doesn’t come from money or a rich daddy and has had to work for everything she wanted. The three have been able to hold their friendship together despite everything. They just do and always did get each other.
Sarah Donovan always loved to bake and studied hard, dreaming of someday having her own bakery. With the help of a fellow students father she was able to start her own business ‘Cake Walk’. But while everything was going great with her career she still couldn’t seem to get out from under all the baggage that was left after her last GF. She tries dating but nothing ever works out. But that didn’t mean she didn’t want to have sex again, she just wasn’t sure she could over come her fears.
Avery Anders also wants to find love but she still can’t get over the fact that she did the unthinkable. She kissed a friend's younger sister. Of all the kisses she had experienced in her short life, that kiss was what she dreamed about. When the young woman returns from a year abroad, Avery finds the idea of having a relationship with her as not such a bad idea, after all. Now all she has to do is make it happen.
Kaitlyn Forrester is a hopeless romantic who while still in high school had found the love of her life but as happens with young love, when her GF breaks up with her, Kaitlyn can’t get over the loss. She does date but none of them make her forget her first love. Now her GF’s back, looking to make amends but they are both older, hopefully wiser so just picking up the pieces might not be that easy. Or will it.
This whole story revolves around the birthday party for yet another friend. Sarah doesn’t feel very friendly with the BD girl but when it's the father of the BD girl and who is also the person who helped financed her business asks her to attend she really has no choice.
Can’t say I really enjoyed this story but I must have because I kept picking it up just to find out what happens next. First book I’ve read by Ms Lowe and I can see myself reading her next. Enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
Sarah Donovan always loved to bake and studied hard, dreaming of someday having her own bakery. With the help of a fellow students father she was able to start her own business ‘Cake Walk’. But while everything was going great with her career she still couldn’t seem to get out from under all the baggage that was left after her last GF. She tries dating but nothing ever works out. But that didn’t mean she didn’t want to have sex again, she just wasn’t sure she could over come her fears.
Avery Anders also wants to find love but she still can’t get over the fact that she did the unthinkable. She kissed a friend's younger sister. Of all the kisses she had experienced in her short life, that kiss was what she dreamed about. When the young woman returns from a year abroad, Avery finds the idea of having a relationship with her as not such a bad idea, after all. Now all she has to do is make it happen.
Kaitlyn Forrester is a hopeless romantic who while still in high school had found the love of her life but as happens with young love, when her GF breaks up with her, Kaitlyn can’t get over the loss. She does date but none of them make her forget her first love. Now her GF’s back, looking to make amends but they are both older, hopefully wiser so just picking up the pieces might not be that easy. Or will it.
This whole story revolves around the birthday party for yet another friend. Sarah doesn’t feel very friendly with the BD girl but when it's the father of the BD girl and who is also the person who helped financed her business asks her to attend she really has no choice.
Can’t say I really enjoyed this story but I must have because I kept picking it up just to find out what happens next. First book I’ve read by Ms Lowe and I can see myself reading her next. Enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
October 12, 2019
This book is so hot, that it sizzles. Three friends think they are in for a wild night at a birthday party, what they don’t know is that each of them are about to crash into someone that could change their lives forever. Sarah has taken a beating mentally from her ex Melinda. Because of how she was treated, and what was said, she doesn’t see how anyone could find her sexy or desirable. Ryan the chief of the party is about to to prove how wrong her ex was, and set her body on fire. Avery has been in love with her friends sister since she was a teenager. Always believing Spencer was to young and wouldn’t be able
to reciprocate her feelings. All that is about to change tonight. Spencer is a grown woman with thoughts and feelings that she wants to share with Avery. Kaitlyn heart was utterly broken when the girl who owned her heart left her after graduation. She lost her mother at a young age and wanted nothing but to marry Beck and start a family with her, but Beck felt the need to leave to prove her self to no one other than herself. Now she is back years later. She knows she made a mistake, knows that Kait is the love of her life, and knows that she wants nothing but to make those young dreams of love and family come true. Absolutely wonderful book. I’m not so patiently waiting for another.
to reciprocate her feelings. All that is about to change tonight. Spencer is a grown woman with thoughts and feelings that she wants to share with Avery. Kaitlyn heart was utterly broken when the girl who owned her heart left her after graduation. She lost her mother at a young age and wanted nothing but to marry Beck and start a family with her, but Beck felt the need to leave to prove her self to no one other than herself. Now she is back years later. She knows she made a mistake, knows that Kait is the love of her life, and knows that she wants nothing but to make those young dreams of love and family come true. Absolutely wonderful book. I’m not so patiently waiting for another.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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