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Fong Brothers #1
Pregnant by the Playboy
I’ve got a pretty great life, if I do say so myself. I made a fortune when I sold my tech start-up, and I’ve spent the years since partying, drinking, and inviting a parade of women into my bed.
I should be happy, but I feel an annoying lack of fulfillment, and there’s no way I’m going back to the work I did before.
At a friend’s party, I meet Marissa. We have hot sex against the door and agree to spend the weekend together. Just one weekend. I never expect to see her again.
Except now she’s pregnant with my baby…and I think this is the solution to all my problems. This is what will bring meaning to my life. I’m going to be a devoted father and husband.
Marissa—whose last name I still don’t know—wants me to be involved, though she rejects my marriage proposal. But before the baby arrives, I’m going to prove to her that I can be something other than a playboy.
And the rare times I set my mind to something, I don’t fail…
I should be happy, but I feel an annoying lack of fulfillment, and there’s no way I’m going back to the work I did before.
At a friend’s party, I meet Marissa. We have hot sex against the door and agree to spend the weekend together. Just one weekend. I never expect to see her again.
Except now she’s pregnant with my baby…and I think this is the solution to all my problems. This is what will bring meaning to my life. I’m going to be a devoted father and husband.
Marissa—whose last name I still don’t know—wants me to be involved, though she rejects my marriage proposal. But before the baby arrives, I’m going to prove to her that I can be something other than a playboy.
And the rare times I set my mind to something, I don’t fail…
232 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2020
28 people are currently reading
426 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Lau
39 books876 followersJackie Lau decided she wanted to be a writer when she was in grade two, sometime between writing “The Heart That Got Lost” and “The Land of Shapes.” She later studied engineering and worked as a geophysicist before turning to writing romance novels.
Jackie lives in Toronto with her husband, and despite living in Canada her whole life, she hates winter. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking, hiking, eating too much gelato, and reading on the balcony when it’s raining.
Jackie lives in Toronto with her husband, and despite living in Canada her whole life, she hates winter. When she’s not writing, she enjoys cooking, hiking, eating too much gelato, and reading on the balcony when it’s raining.
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October 8, 2020Supertastically low conflict romance. I know what you expect from a book called Pregnant by the Playboy but forget it: Vince couldn't be a more enthusiastic or supportive dad-to-be and what very little conflict there is comes from the heroine. Who, let it be noted, previously had an abortion which she doesn't regret at all. Amazing that's still something worth noting in a romance. Just a profoundly warm, caring book about lovely people finding their way to each other via pregnancy and cheesecake (also bonking and high life sex parties).
May 19, 2020
I appreciate when romance novels give you the pregnancy plot right in the title and description. I don't tend to read many of these but I adore Jackie Lau and will read whatever she sends my way.
This novel starts with a bang, including a delicious and voyeuristic meet HOT hookup at a party where everyone is getting it on in the open and ending with a wild weekend of sex resulting in the the unintended pregnancy (it is stated the characters are using condoms).
Marissa has had an abortion in the past but is now in her late 30s and wants to have a baby. She's also the only child of a single mother and has no extended family and she knows Vince Fong, rich, smart, and from a huge family, would make a great father. She's not interested in having him as anything more than a parenting partner, but Vince has decided he wants to be all in and is determined to show Marissa he is so much more than the party play boy she thinks he is.
Seeing Vince as the one trying to court Marissa, bringing her food, tending to her needs, and bringing her family and comfort, was super sweet.
If you enjoy this trope I think you'll love this story!
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
This novel starts with a bang, including a delicious and voyeuristic meet HOT hookup at a party where everyone is getting it on in the open and ending with a wild weekend of sex resulting in the the unintended pregnancy (it is stated the characters are using condoms).
Marissa has had an abortion in the past but is now in her late 30s and wants to have a baby. She's also the only child of a single mother and has no extended family and she knows Vince Fong, rich, smart, and from a huge family, would make a great father. She's not interested in having him as anything more than a parenting partner, but Vince has decided he wants to be all in and is determined to show Marissa he is so much more than the party play boy she thinks he is.
Seeing Vince as the one trying to court Marissa, bringing her food, tending to her needs, and bringing her family and comfort, was super sweet.
If you enjoy this trope I think you'll love this story!
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
June 14, 2021
Content Notes:
This is excellent. I'm not the biggest fan of accidental baby, but the execution really worked for me here. Loved the abortion discussion and backstory (+ lack of stigma) and how both MCs wanted to be parents from the beginning. The hero and his baby niece were very cute. Lau works better for me in a longer format (I didn't love the shorter holiday novellas. They were fine but not as good as this).
Disclaimer: I received a free e-ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is excellent. I'm not the biggest fan of accidental baby, but the execution really worked for me here. Loved the abortion discussion and backstory (+ lack of stigma) and how both MCs wanted to be parents from the beginning. The hero and his baby niece were very cute. Lau works better for me in a longer format (I didn't love the shorter holiday novellas. They were fine but not as good as this).
Disclaimer: I received a free e-ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2025
The unexpected pregnancy trope is one of my least favorites but it’s a testament to Jackie Lau’s amazing writing and characterization that I loved this book.
May 4, 2020
Pregnant by the Playboy is such a fun book. Jackie Lau never disappoints me when I want a cute, fun and low in angst book. The first in the Fong Brothers series, this time around is Vince Fong's turn. You met his brother in Mr. Hotshot CEO and you see more of Julian and Courtney here as well if you want to know what's happening with them currently! But Vince and Marissa's love story is also amazing and it's starts with an accidental pregnancy that soon turns into a romance for the ages.
If you love heroes acting adorable with babies, kids, any children, Vince Fong is going to make you fall in love with him in seconds. That first chapter is so cute and Vince interacting with his niece, Evie, gave my heart a squeeze. Vince Fong is perfect with babies; he wants to make them laugh and happy 24/7. Though he knows there will be things like not being able to put a baby to sleep at night, not sleeping, and lots of other things, he knows these things will happen and he's like "please come and I will do all of them while my wife is sleeping and I will keep this baby from any danger and make them the happiest person ever." That's Vince Fong.
At the start of the novel, Marissa is invited to this party. Well, she's accompaning her friend Carrie. And there she meets Vince when he is kissing another girl. Though this doesn't take away how much Marissa wants him to kiss her. And so when the other girl leaves, she walks to him and kisses him right there. Their first encounter is wild and intense but it's epic. I love every second of their relationship and see it grow because when she finds out she's pregnant, they do not know anything about each other. They're complete strangers. But Vince is all in and he's ready for anything. I love how committed he was and you knew right there he was going to be one amazing romance hero.
I'm excited to see more of the Fong brothers!
If you love heroes acting adorable with babies, kids, any children, Vince Fong is going to make you fall in love with him in seconds. That first chapter is so cute and Vince interacting with his niece, Evie, gave my heart a squeeze. Vince Fong is perfect with babies; he wants to make them laugh and happy 24/7. Though he knows there will be things like not being able to put a baby to sleep at night, not sleeping, and lots of other things, he knows these things will happen and he's like "please come and I will do all of them while my wife is sleeping and I will keep this baby from any danger and make them the happiest person ever." That's Vince Fong.
At the start of the novel, Marissa is invited to this party. Well, she's accompaning her friend Carrie. And there she meets Vince when he is kissing another girl. Though this doesn't take away how much Marissa wants him to kiss her. And so when the other girl leaves, she walks to him and kisses him right there. Their first encounter is wild and intense but it's epic. I love every second of their relationship and see it grow because when she finds out she's pregnant, they do not know anything about each other. They're complete strangers. But Vince is all in and he's ready for anything. I love how committed he was and you knew right there he was going to be one amazing romance hero.
I'm excited to see more of the Fong brothers!
January 27, 2023
did the title and the cover have to be so embarrassing....it was actually cute.
July 14, 2021
I was in a reading mood where I wanted a book that would just be a solid read and to my delight, this was a freebie and it was exactly what I wanted. I appreciate Jackie Lau so much for being able to give that to me.
May 19, 2020
Jackie Lau has become my comfort author since I started reading her a year ago. I’m on her list for advance reader copies. When I get an email that a new arc is available, I do a happy dance. I am giving an honest review. If Lau ever writes a book I hate or find problematic, I’ll let you know. I honestly really enjoyed it, but I can’t say I’m objective.
There’s a story about my bff trying to tell me she was pregnant after agreeing with her husband not to tell anyone until she was in her second trimester, and probably something about telling their families first. I’m not sure her husband understands how bff’s work. Anyway, we had met for a fancy brunch at an Indian restaurant. We had been talking about trying the exciting alcoholic cocktails and then she says, when we are ordering, very pointedly, “I’ll have a mango lassi.” I’m not sure what I thought she was trying to communicate, but I ordered a mango lassi too, while being disappointed that I wasn’t getting the mango martini. Weeeeeeks later, she called and said, “I’m pregnant! How could you not have guessed when I got the lassie instead of the cocktail?” In my defense, she really does like mango lassi and I am super oblivious to pregnancy.
Jackie Lau may or may not have stated this explicitly somewhere, but it’s clear to me that she is making her mark on tropes that have often been the provenance of white writers and characters and or otherwise problematic (basically most of the romance genre). Vince Fong is the youngest of the Toronto Fongs, a prominent Chinese Canadian family. Vince started a tech company in Silicon Valley, burnt himself out working long hours, sold it for a lot of money and has lived a playboy lifestyle since. The getting surprise pregnant after a meaningless fling with a rich man has traditionally had all kinds of problematic issues. In Pregnant by the Playboy Lau turns a problematic trope into a platform for thinking about reproductive choices and consciously building a family. Marissa is not a naive young woman. She has a good, secure job and is comfortable enough to raise her child alone if Vince doesn’t want to be a father. But, she would like her child to have an active and present father and a larger extended family. Vince can bring wealth to the arrangement, but she is more interested in his non-financial assets. I couldn’t help but think about how aspects of Marissa’s decision making would have been much more difficult in the United States where health care is more expensive and maternity leave is bare bones at best.
Marissa steps out of her usual routine, has a weekend fling with Vince Fong, and finds herself pregnant. At this point, Marissa is at a point in her life where she feels ready to take on motherhood. Marissa’s father died when she was young, so she would like Vince to have a presence as a father. Vince is delighted! He has been drifting and the only things he really enjoys are the time he spends with his brother’s baby daughter, irritating his brother and spending time with his best friend, Brian. Finding out he is going to become a father reinvigorates Vince and he focuses all that energy on being a supportive partner for Marissa. Vince’s enthusiasm is both endearing and a little too much for Marissa. Marissa is dealing with more complicated emotions – she is happy she’s having a baby, but she is less certain about how much room she wants to give Vince in her heart. Reading about them making adjustments in their life to the unexpected pregnancy, and to each other was lovely.
One of the things I can usually count on after reading a Jackie Lau book is an intense desire to eat my way through Toronto. I think a lot about how much I wish I lived in Toronto instead of Texas. One of these days I’ll break down and make myself a double fromage cheesecake. Bless the internet and all it’s recipes and how to videos.
There’s a story about my bff trying to tell me she was pregnant after agreeing with her husband not to tell anyone until she was in her second trimester, and probably something about telling their families first. I’m not sure her husband understands how bff’s work. Anyway, we had met for a fancy brunch at an Indian restaurant. We had been talking about trying the exciting alcoholic cocktails and then she says, when we are ordering, very pointedly, “I’ll have a mango lassi.” I’m not sure what I thought she was trying to communicate, but I ordered a mango lassi too, while being disappointed that I wasn’t getting the mango martini. Weeeeeeks later, she called and said, “I’m pregnant! How could you not have guessed when I got the lassie instead of the cocktail?” In my defense, she really does like mango lassi and I am super oblivious to pregnancy.
Jackie Lau may or may not have stated this explicitly somewhere, but it’s clear to me that she is making her mark on tropes that have often been the provenance of white writers and characters and or otherwise problematic (basically most of the romance genre). Vince Fong is the youngest of the Toronto Fongs, a prominent Chinese Canadian family. Vince started a tech company in Silicon Valley, burnt himself out working long hours, sold it for a lot of money and has lived a playboy lifestyle since. The getting surprise pregnant after a meaningless fling with a rich man has traditionally had all kinds of problematic issues. In Pregnant by the Playboy Lau turns a problematic trope into a platform for thinking about reproductive choices and consciously building a family. Marissa is not a naive young woman. She has a good, secure job and is comfortable enough to raise her child alone if Vince doesn’t want to be a father. But, she would like her child to have an active and present father and a larger extended family. Vince can bring wealth to the arrangement, but she is more interested in his non-financial assets. I couldn’t help but think about how aspects of Marissa’s decision making would have been much more difficult in the United States where health care is more expensive and maternity leave is bare bones at best.
Marissa steps out of her usual routine, has a weekend fling with Vince Fong, and finds herself pregnant. At this point, Marissa is at a point in her life where she feels ready to take on motherhood. Marissa’s father died when she was young, so she would like Vince to have a presence as a father. Vince is delighted! He has been drifting and the only things he really enjoys are the time he spends with his brother’s baby daughter, irritating his brother and spending time with his best friend, Brian. Finding out he is going to become a father reinvigorates Vince and he focuses all that energy on being a supportive partner for Marissa. Vince’s enthusiasm is both endearing and a little too much for Marissa. Marissa is dealing with more complicated emotions – she is happy she’s having a baby, but she is less certain about how much room she wants to give Vince in her heart. Reading about them making adjustments in their life to the unexpected pregnancy, and to each other was lovely.
One of the things I can usually count on after reading a Jackie Lau book is an intense desire to eat my way through Toronto. I think a lot about how much I wish I lived in Toronto instead of Texas. One of these days I’ll break down and make myself a double fromage cheesecake. Bless the internet and all it’s recipes and how to videos.
May 26, 2020
rep: Chinese-Canadian mc, sapphics side character, bi/pan side characters, Chinese-American side characters. Depression
tw/cw: dead parents (the mc and one of her friend, grief is explored a lot), mention of depression + burn out, mention of past abortion, drugs, mention of a parent having a tumor (benign)
Look, Jackie Lau will publish something and I will read it no matter what, even if I didn't know what to think of the title because the pregnancy trope can make me uncomfortable depending on how it's done. But here's the thing, I know that I will always like how Jackie Lau go in depth to represent different family dynamic, friendships and mental health . And that's exactly what happened in this book (it reminded me of her first books and i loved that).It wasn't really about sex but the importance of communicating and healing
During the first half of the book, we get to meet Marissa and Vince, the two main characters. I loved how their family life was explored: Vince has a big family and they are all pretty close. They're rich and they are really famous in the Chinese community in Toronto, while Marissa feels like she can only rely on her mom since her dad passed away when she was little. Since then she hasn't heard of her Chinese family.
I liked that their family are not perfect but they try to be supportive and understanding. For example I love Vince's relationship with his brothers and his sister-in-law Courtney, they both talk a lot about mental health and the importance of finding good balance in their life.
Which leads me to my second point: mental health
Vince struggles with depression since he had a burn out a few years ago. He doesn't know how to find balance in his life because for him life meant either work or party. I think Jackie Lau dealt with this topic with a lot of care and empathy, and even when they were discussing Vince behaviour, or calling him out, the characters did this well. Because when Vince learns that Marissa is pregnant with his child, not only is he happy, but he also feels like this is his chance to find meaning. He struggles with the idea of being shallow and unlovable and he feels like caring for a child will be good for him, which can happen.
The communication is so present in the book, which is always important for me. In the first half, they learn to know each other (mostly thanks to food and honestly I love the way food is described in those books), and it was domestic. But they are also honest and try to really think about what they are doing: Marissa had an abortion in the past, she knows there are other options if she wants to have a child, but she doesn't want to raise one on her own even if she is financially stable.
In the second half, Marissa and Vince start dating, but they are still trying to figure out what they want and this is when she tells him he has to find balance in his life. I liked that it wasn't a taboo, and they could openly discuss this. Vince agreed with what she told him and knew that it was in his personality to be impulsive and even if it's not a bad thing, he had to figure things out.
Other than that, all the characters were loveable, yes Vince and Brian can be dumbass sometimes but I loved them because they were flawed in a good way. Marissa too.
Also I loved that 80% of the time, when they talked about their future baby they use they/them, it felt good to see those pronouns normalized.
tw/cw: dead parents (the mc and one of her friend, grief is explored a lot), mention of depression + burn out, mention of past abortion, drugs, mention of a parent having a tumor (benign)
Look, Jackie Lau will publish something and I will read it no matter what, even if I didn't know what to think of the title because the pregnancy trope can make me uncomfortable depending on how it's done. But here's the thing, I know that I will always like how Jackie Lau go in depth to represent different family dynamic, friendships and mental health . And that's exactly what happened in this book (it reminded me of her first books and i loved that).It wasn't really about sex but the importance of communicating and healing
During the first half of the book, we get to meet Marissa and Vince, the two main characters. I loved how their family life was explored: Vince has a big family and they are all pretty close. They're rich and they are really famous in the Chinese community in Toronto, while Marissa feels like she can only rely on her mom since her dad passed away when she was little. Since then she hasn't heard of her Chinese family.
I liked that their family are not perfect but they try to be supportive and understanding. For example I love Vince's relationship with his brothers and his sister-in-law Courtney, they both talk a lot about mental health and the importance of finding good balance in their life.
Now I know that having a big family doesn’t mean you’ll have good relationships with them, doesn’t mean they’re people you can count on.
“How was meeting my family?” he asks. “Before...you know.”
“It was good. The family I never had.”
“You can have them, too.”
Which leads me to my second point: mental health
I refuse to let everything go to shit. I remember burning out and how badly I coped with it. Now, I’m going to create a balanced life that will not destroy my mental health.
Vince struggles with depression since he had a burn out a few years ago. He doesn't know how to find balance in his life because for him life meant either work or party. I think Jackie Lau dealt with this topic with a lot of care and empathy, and even when they were discussing Vince behaviour, or calling him out, the characters did this well. Because when Vince learns that Marissa is pregnant with his child, not only is he happy, but he also feels like this is his chance to find meaning. He struggles with the idea of being shallow and unlovable and he feels like caring for a child will be good for him, which can happen.
“I believe you love me, but I still feel like you’re desperate for me to save you. For me to give you this idyllic family life that you think will complete you. But it’s not going to be idyllic.”
The communication is so present in the book, which is always important for me. In the first half, they learn to know each other (mostly thanks to food and honestly I love the way food is described in those books), and it was domestic. But they are also honest and try to really think about what they are doing: Marissa had an abortion in the past, she knows there are other options if she wants to have a child, but she doesn't want to raise one on her own even if she is financially stable.
In the second half, Marissa and Vince start dating, but they are still trying to figure out what they want and this is when she tells him he has to find balance in his life. I liked that it wasn't a taboo, and they could openly discuss this. Vince agreed with what she told him and knew that it was in his personality to be impulsive and even if it's not a bad thing, he had to figure things out.
Other than that, all the characters were loveable, yes Vince and Brian can be dumbass sometimes but I loved them because they were flawed in a good way. Marissa too.
Also I loved that 80% of the time, when they talked about their future baby they use they/them, it felt good to see those pronouns normalized.
September 21, 2021
4 stars.
If one thing is true, it’s this: you will be hungry after reading a Jackie Lau book. THE FOOD. My god. It’s enough to make your mouth water and your stomach growl.
This checked all the boxes I can usually count on with Lau — straightforward writing, delicious food, Asian-Canadian families, low angst, sweetheart characters, a tad bit of emotional damage, an easily resolved third act crisis.
Her books don’t catapult themselves to five star favorites for me, but I can count on them to be solid 3.5-4 star reads. Like a warm cup of tea on a cold day.
Contains: accidental pregnancy, food porn, millionaire, one night (weekend) stand, over 30 (heroine 36, hero 33), strong family bonds
CW: past abortion, death of parent (off screen, past, car crash), benign tumor
Steam: 3/5🔥
If one thing is true, it’s this: you will be hungry after reading a Jackie Lau book. THE FOOD. My god. It’s enough to make your mouth water and your stomach growl.
This checked all the boxes I can usually count on with Lau — straightforward writing, delicious food, Asian-Canadian families, low angst, sweetheart characters, a tad bit of emotional damage, an easily resolved third act crisis.
Her books don’t catapult themselves to five star favorites for me, but I can count on them to be solid 3.5-4 star reads. Like a warm cup of tea on a cold day.
Contains: accidental pregnancy, food porn, millionaire, one night (weekend) stand, over 30 (heroine 36, hero 33), strong family bonds
CW: past abortion, death of parent (off screen, past, car crash), benign tumor
Steam: 3/5🔥
February 5, 2021
J'ai vu une recommandation sur les réseaux à propos de cette romance qui, sans être exceptionnelle, m'a fait passer un bon moment de détente.
J'ai bien aimé le pitch de départ plutôt original. En revanche, l'histoire aurait méritée d'être plus fouillée (ça manque de descriptions, d'un peu plus de contexte concernant les personnages qui gravitent autour du couple).
Le principal point positif est le fait que les héros appartiennent tous les deux à la communauté asiatique de Toronto, ce qui offre de la diversité et de l'originalité à cette romance.
J'ai bien aimé le pitch de départ plutôt original. En revanche, l'histoire aurait méritée d'être plus fouillée (ça manque de descriptions, d'un peu plus de contexte concernant les personnages qui gravitent autour du couple).
Le principal point positif est le fait que les héros appartiennent tous les deux à la communauté asiatique de Toronto, ce qui offre de la diversité et de l'originalité à cette romance.
May 27, 2020
Vince Fong might be a playboy, but he's also a real sweetheart! He might be one of my favorite male characters in a Jackie Lau book - he knows he's good looking and he's great at sex, but he's also thoughtful and sincere and has no qualms about stepping up when he finds out that the woman he slept with at a party, Marissa, is pregnant.
Marissa is understandably hesitant about how Vince will react to the news of her pregnancy. She certainly doesn't expect him to propose! Of course she turns him down, she doesn't really know him but she is happy that he wants to be involved with the baby, and his efforts to woo her don't go unnoticed.
As in all of Jackie Lau's novels, food is like another main character. In this case it's a range of delicious ethnic dishes that Vince and Marissa share as she goes through certain pregnancy cravings, and on some of their dates. Food definitely is the way to Marissa's heart here too, with her love of matcha cheesecake and Vince's all out efforts to get her some. Gradually Marissa opens her heart to Vince (not just for the cheesecake) and they get a very satisfying happy ending.
All the secondary characters are delightful with special mention for Vince's Po-Po (grandmother) and his baby niece Evie. It's a sexy, fun, mostly lighthearted book, with some old grief from the loss of Marissa's father at an early age making bittersweet appearances. All of Jackie Lau's books have been worthwhile reads and this one is another favorite to add to my list!
Marissa is understandably hesitant about how Vince will react to the news of her pregnancy. She certainly doesn't expect him to propose! Of course she turns him down, she doesn't really know him but she is happy that he wants to be involved with the baby, and his efforts to woo her don't go unnoticed.
As in all of Jackie Lau's novels, food is like another main character. In this case it's a range of delicious ethnic dishes that Vince and Marissa share as she goes through certain pregnancy cravings, and on some of their dates. Food definitely is the way to Marissa's heart here too, with her love of matcha cheesecake and Vince's all out efforts to get her some. Gradually Marissa opens her heart to Vince (not just for the cheesecake) and they get a very satisfying happy ending.
All the secondary characters are delightful with special mention for Vince's Po-Po (grandmother) and his baby niece Evie. It's a sexy, fun, mostly lighthearted book, with some old grief from the loss of Marissa's father at an early age making bittersweet appearances. All of Jackie Lau's books have been worthwhile reads and this one is another favorite to add to my list!
September 13, 2020
I’ve heard great things about this authors books, but unfortunately this one didn’t quite work for me.
The initial chemistry between Marissa and Vince was honestly fire, but afterwards I felt there was just too much fluff. I found myself bored with the constant repetition of the cravings/food plot points. I wanted more of the realistic conflicts of an accidental one night stand pregnancy to be explored and I wasn’t really satisfied in that regard.
While I found Vince’s dedication to be a family man endearing, I didn’t “feel” the emotional conflict the author portrayed through Marissa. At one point I was just as confused as Vince was to be honest lol.
The characters were both likeable and I liked the family atmosphere the author has created, I’d be willing to return to this author later on.
The initial chemistry between Marissa and Vince was honestly fire, but afterwards I felt there was just too much fluff. I found myself bored with the constant repetition of the cravings/food plot points. I wanted more of the realistic conflicts of an accidental one night stand pregnancy to be explored and I wasn’t really satisfied in that regard.
While I found Vince’s dedication to be a family man endearing, I didn’t “feel” the emotional conflict the author portrayed through Marissa. At one point I was just as confused as Vince was to be honest lol.
The characters were both likeable and I liked the family atmosphere the author has created, I’d be willing to return to this author later on.
November 22, 2020
This was a perfect blend of sexy and sweet!
Literally sweet with all the deserts mentioned lol. I really enjoy JL romances. There’s usually low angst and the characters really get to know each other. This is not a friends to lovers, but the way Jackie writes you can feel the relationship progress from friendship to romantic love. After a sexy hookup of course.
The hero, Vince, went from shallow and partying playboy to devoted dad and husband to be. Vince doting on Marissa was adorable. We should all be so lucky to get that when pregnant.
I really enjoyed this one and look forward to more from Jackie.
Literally sweet with all the deserts mentioned lol. I really enjoy JL romances. There’s usually low angst and the characters really get to know each other. This is not a friends to lovers, but the way Jackie writes you can feel the relationship progress from friendship to romantic love. After a sexy hookup of course.
The hero, Vince, went from shallow and partying playboy to devoted dad and husband to be. Vince doting on Marissa was adorable. We should all be so lucky to get that when pregnant.
I really enjoyed this one and look forward to more from Jackie.
November 23, 2020
Very sweet book. Could have used some more detail and expanding on some scenes but otherwise it was adorable.
August 13, 2021
Sweet but hot
Jackie Lau’s stories are always a warm, satisfying read, and the descriptions of the food scene on Toronto are a subplot in themselves and make me want to try everything described!
Jackie Lau’s stories are always a warm, satisfying read, and the descriptions of the food scene on Toronto are a subplot in themselves and make me want to try everything described!
August 19, 2021
Pregnant by the Playboy is a book about Vince, an Asian-Canadian man who earned his money by creating and eventually selling a tech start-up company after experiencing burnout; and Marissa is an engineer that goes to a party with her friend to celebrate finding out her mother's tumor was benign after spending so much time worrying.
What I love about Jackie Lau’s books is that they’re usually low-conflict, they have amazing descriptions of food that I want to try so badly, and the sex scenes are top-notch. Like the rest of her books, both Vince and Marissa are written to have flaws and could be real-life people. Marissa is older than Vince by 3 years and I also love the depiction of someone experiencing a "geriatric pregnancy" because those don't happen a lot in many books I read.
The "conflict" of this book comes from both of the main characters having different expectations of each other and what they expect their relationship to be like as they raise a child together. I loved how Vince pursued Marissa and spoiled her, showing her a side of him that she didn't predict. They obviously lusted at first sight for each other, and I appreciated that they didn't come to love each other until near the end of the book after spending time together.
Overall, I would recommend this book to other people that are interested in surprise pregnancy plots and glorious descriptions of food. While this book does mention the couple from one of her other novels (Mr. Hotshot CEO), you do not have to read it before this one to enjoy this story.
I received an ARC by the author in exchange for a honest review.
What I love about Jackie Lau’s books is that they’re usually low-conflict, they have amazing descriptions of food that I want to try so badly, and the sex scenes are top-notch. Like the rest of her books, both Vince and Marissa are written to have flaws and could be real-life people. Marissa is older than Vince by 3 years and I also love the depiction of someone experiencing a "geriatric pregnancy" because those don't happen a lot in many books I read.
The "conflict" of this book comes from both of the main characters having different expectations of each other and what they expect their relationship to be like as they raise a child together. I loved how Vince pursued Marissa and spoiled her, showing her a side of him that she didn't predict. They obviously lusted at first sight for each other, and I appreciated that they didn't come to love each other until near the end of the book after spending time together.
Overall, I would recommend this book to other people that are interested in surprise pregnancy plots and glorious descriptions of food. While this book does mention the couple from one of her other novels (Mr. Hotshot CEO), you do not have to read it before this one to enjoy this story.
I received an ARC by the author in exchange for a honest review.
September 11, 2020
First, the good things: Great description of Toronto and food, exploration about the different ways of living the immigrant experience, I like that the idea that someone can't be the center of your life's meaning was called out and the emotional and family issues were well chosen and deeply relatable (fear of not being someone other person can love/fear of losing someone one loves).
The problem is these issues were mostly said, but not developed and the "solutions" were achieved in cheap ways (poor Brian) or by sudden realisations that were hard to believe. Also, the author has problems with pace, almost 90% of it was fluff with almost no mention of genuine concerns that would have arisen in this scenario and then a huge, genuine fight and a "solution" in one minute. That leaves only frustation, not the satisfaction of a genunine development. Also, what's the point of making the women have a career if it's not going to be a part of their character at all. The voice of Vince isn't particulary believable as a male voice. Some of this issues were also present in Mr. Hotshot CEO but, in that novel, they were much better executed.
So, I will give a third try to the author. It's clear she has talent, so it's very frustating to see her take the easy and lazy route.
The problem is these issues were mostly said, but not developed and the "solutions" were achieved in cheap ways (poor Brian) or by sudden realisations that were hard to believe. Also, the author has problems with pace, almost 90% of it was fluff with almost no mention of genuine concerns that would have arisen in this scenario and then a huge, genuine fight and a "solution" in one minute. That leaves only frustation, not the satisfaction of a genunine development. Also, what's the point of making the women have a career if it's not going to be a part of their character at all. The voice of Vince isn't particulary believable as a male voice. Some of this issues were also present in Mr. Hotshot CEO but, in that novel, they were much better executed.
So, I will give a third try to the author. It's clear she has talent, so it's very frustating to see her take the easy and lazy route.
August 2, 2021
3.5 stars, rounded up. One of the things I find most refreshing about Jackie Lau's books is how to the point they are, almost blunt at times. I don't know that I'm really conveying the quality I enjoy, but maybe . . . there's very little faffing about.
This book in particular has a very straightforward set up. One night stand turns into a one weekend stand and during the marathon sex session (sexathon?), a condom fails. The heroine is 36, decides to keep the baby and let the father know she'd like him to be involved, but no pressure. He . . . proposes on the spot?
And the rest of the book is him slowly convincing her to reconsider his rash proposal. She softens to him and they do begin a relationship in earnest, but she resists saying yes until she has a somewhat obvious epiphany during a stressful situation, but I still thought it was just super cute!
This book in particular has a very straightforward set up. One night stand turns into a one weekend stand and during the marathon sex session (sexathon?), a condom fails. The heroine is 36, decides to keep the baby and let the father know she'd like him to be involved, but no pressure. He . . . proposes on the spot?
And the rest of the book is him slowly convincing her to reconsider his rash proposal. She softens to him and they do begin a relationship in earnest, but she resists saying yes until she has a somewhat obvious epiphany during a stressful situation, but I still thought it was just super cute!
May 25, 2020
Content warnings:
Ever since reading Mr. Hotshot CEO, I’ve wanted a book about Vince, the guy who refused to return his workaholic brother’s cellphone unless he attended an orgy with him. Accidental pregnancy books are usually not my thing, but Jackie Lau has a knack for exploring tropes, and I thought this navigated the issues I usually have with them quite well. While I reread Mr. Hotshot CEO before reading this book, this would work fine as a standalone.
Even though Vince and Marissa hooked up at a friend’s party and had a steamy hot weekend, they never expect to meet up again – that is, until Marissa discovers she’s pregnant. She figures Vince won’t want much to do with the kid anyway, but for Vince, the baby seems like the answer to his question of what to do with his life. But Marissa’s not so sold on the whole idea – a baby does not a relationship make. Can Vince convince her that he’d make the perfect partner and husband before the baby arrives?
Sure, Vince cultivates the whole playboy persona, but that’s not all he is. After five years building up his Silicon Valley tech company, he burned out bad and has spent the time since selling it trying to recover and find a new purpose in life. Sure, there’s lots of parties, but he also loves spending time with his family, especially his baby niece Evie. If I had to pick one word to describe Vince, it would be impulsive. Once he finds out Marissa’s pregnant, he’s elated – and immediately wants to marry her, despite not even knowing her last name.
Marissa is (obviously!) surprised and reluctant to marry just because they’re having a kid together. She wants a relationship built on love like her parents had before her dad died. Plus, while his single-minded devotion to fulfilling her pregnancy cravings (including multiple matcha double fromage cheesecakes) is sweet and romantic, she’s uncomfortable with her and the baby being his sole source of meaning in life. I thought this was an interesting role reversal, that Marissa is balanced and logical while Vince is flighty, plus in romance it’s usually women who are the ones who think marriage and family are their keys to happiness and fulfillment. Vince worries that beneath all the flash, he’s not lovable – that people only like him because he’s fun to have around, not because of who he is as a person. It’s not that Marissa doesn’t think she could ever fall in love with him, it’s that she doesn’t really know him, and on paper, he’s the exact opposite of what she’s looking for in a partner. Luckily there’s plenty of food runs, dates and family get-togethers for them to get to know each other.
One of my favorite things about Jackie Lau’s writing (besides the food) is the way she writes families. The Fongs continue to be hilarious, especially Po Po, and it was nice to see Courtney and Julian again and meet baby Evie. That family warmth is special to Marissa, too, especially since she grew up the only child of a single parent. While she doesn’t regret her childhood, she wants something different for her kid, and she also has to come to terms with the death of her father while she’s negotiating her relationship with the father of her child. The balance between serious issues and light humor is well done, as always.
There’s a combination to Jackie Lau’s books that really appeals to me – the delicious food, the emotional authenticity of the characters, the humor – and this is another wonderful addition. I can’t wait to see what happens with the remaining Fong brother!
I received an advance review copy of this book from the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Ever since reading Mr. Hotshot CEO, I’ve wanted a book about Vince, the guy who refused to return his workaholic brother’s cellphone unless he attended an orgy with him. Accidental pregnancy books are usually not my thing, but Jackie Lau has a knack for exploring tropes, and I thought this navigated the issues I usually have with them quite well. While I reread Mr. Hotshot CEO before reading this book, this would work fine as a standalone.
“You need something to do in life other than spoil my daughter,” Julian says.
“Ah, that reminds me. I should head out—I have an orgy to attend.”
Even though Vince and Marissa hooked up at a friend’s party and had a steamy hot weekend, they never expect to meet up again – that is, until Marissa discovers she’s pregnant. She figures Vince won’t want much to do with the kid anyway, but for Vince, the baby seems like the answer to his question of what to do with his life. But Marissa’s not so sold on the whole idea – a baby does not a relationship make. Can Vince convince her that he’d make the perfect partner and husband before the baby arrives?
Sure, Vince cultivates the whole playboy persona, but that’s not all he is. After five years building up his Silicon Valley tech company, he burned out bad and has spent the time since selling it trying to recover and find a new purpose in life. Sure, there’s lots of parties, but he also loves spending time with his family, especially his baby niece Evie. If I had to pick one word to describe Vince, it would be impulsive. Once he finds out Marissa’s pregnant, he’s elated – and immediately wants to marry her, despite not even knowing her last name.
“I thought life was supposed to get more straightforward as you got older. Instead, I feel more confused.
The one thing that’s straightforward, however, is that my body always responds to his.”
Marissa is (obviously!) surprised and reluctant to marry just because they’re having a kid together. She wants a relationship built on love like her parents had before her dad died. Plus, while his single-minded devotion to fulfilling her pregnancy cravings (including multiple matcha double fromage cheesecakes) is sweet and romantic, she’s uncomfortable with her and the baby being his sole source of meaning in life. I thought this was an interesting role reversal, that Marissa is balanced and logical while Vince is flighty, plus in romance it’s usually women who are the ones who think marriage and family are their keys to happiness and fulfillment. Vince worries that beneath all the flash, he’s not lovable – that people only like him because he’s fun to have around, not because of who he is as a person. It’s not that Marissa doesn’t think she could ever fall in love with him, it’s that she doesn’t really know him, and on paper, he’s the exact opposite of what she’s looking for in a partner. Luckily there’s plenty of food runs, dates and family get-togethers for them to get to know each other.
One of my favorite things about Jackie Lau’s writing (besides the food) is the way she writes families. The Fongs continue to be hilarious, especially Po Po, and it was nice to see Courtney and Julian again and meet baby Evie. That family warmth is special to Marissa, too, especially since she grew up the only child of a single parent. While she doesn’t regret her childhood, she wants something different for her kid, and she also has to come to terms with the death of her father while she’s negotiating her relationship with the father of her child. The balance between serious issues and light humor is well done, as always.
There’s a combination to Jackie Lau’s books that really appeals to me – the delicious food, the emotional authenticity of the characters, the humor – and this is another wonderful addition. I can’t wait to see what happens with the remaining Fong brother!
I received an advance review copy of this book from the author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
June 2, 2020
Reviewed on my blog, Becky on Books, on 6/2/2020.
This was delightful from start to finish!
Even though the title made me giggle, and in spite of the OMG premise (they spent a no-strings weekend that started with him fingering her in public, moving on to sex against a door, and ended with Vince still only knowing her first name...I mean, this is a Jackie Lau book??? Yes. Yes, it is... :) ) I honestly couldn't put this one down. It made me giggle--a lot--and even laugh out loud more than once. I wasted no time Googling what in the world "matcha" is (yep, I'll totally eat a double matcha cheesecake, especially if Vince wants to bring me one. Or twenty. In his three piece suit or no, I'm not picky here) and spent a good chunk of time wondering what book was Julian's ( Mr. Hotshot CEO , WHICH I ALREADY OWN, GOSHDARNIT. What is wrong with me? Must read ASAP) just because there were so many references to his and Courtney's past that I decided I *must* know the story there!
In spite of all of those pleasant book-related distractions, I had a hard time putting this book down until I was done. I had to keep reading, to find out what Vince could possibly do to get Marissa to finally say yes (the second proposal was particularly painful), how many different "cravings" Marissa could realistically claim to have and get fulfilled, and just how gosh darn adorable Vince's niece Evie could be (the answer to that one? Pretty gosh darn indeed). At times, their HEA seemed a distant hope, despite everything that drew the two of them together, and I nearly despaired.
But of course, it is a Jackie Lau book, so despair not! Their HEA is achieved, their baby turns out just as (more? Vince thinks more, but he's slightly biased) adorable as his cousin, and there's another Fong brother in the family to give us another book. In other words, I've read Pregnant by the Playboy, and all is once again well in the world! ;)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
This was delightful from start to finish!
Even though the title made me giggle, and in spite of the OMG premise (they spent a no-strings weekend that started with him fingering her in public, moving on to sex against a door, and ended with Vince still only knowing her first name...I mean, this is a Jackie Lau book??? Yes. Yes, it is... :) ) I honestly couldn't put this one down. It made me giggle--a lot--and even laugh out loud more than once. I wasted no time Googling what in the world "matcha" is (yep, I'll totally eat a double matcha cheesecake, especially if Vince wants to bring me one. Or twenty. In his three piece suit or no, I'm not picky here) and spent a good chunk of time wondering what book was Julian's ( Mr. Hotshot CEO , WHICH I ALREADY OWN, GOSHDARNIT. What is wrong with me? Must read ASAP) just because there were so many references to his and Courtney's past that I decided I *must* know the story there!
In spite of all of those pleasant book-related distractions, I had a hard time putting this book down until I was done. I had to keep reading, to find out what Vince could possibly do to get Marissa to finally say yes (the second proposal was particularly painful), how many different "cravings" Marissa could realistically claim to have and get fulfilled, and just how gosh darn adorable Vince's niece Evie could be (the answer to that one? Pretty gosh darn indeed). At times, their HEA seemed a distant hope, despite everything that drew the two of them together, and I nearly despaired.
But of course, it is a Jackie Lau book, so despair not! Their HEA is achieved, their baby turns out just as (more? Vince thinks more, but he's slightly biased) adorable as his cousin, and there's another Fong brother in the family to give us another book. In other words, I've read Pregnant by the Playboy, and all is once again well in the world! ;)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
December 31, 2022
Vince Fong is a self-made tech genius who burned out a few years ago and is living an empty life. He is the younger brother of Julian (Mr. Hotshot CEO). Vince is tired of his party-filled life style and wants to find meaning and fulfillment.
Marissa is ready for a night out after going through a health scare with her mother. She attends one of Brian’s parties with a friend, looking for a night of fun and action. After spending an amazing weekend with Vince, she doesn’t plan to see him again, until she learns she’s pregnant with his baby.
Pregnant by the Playboy works because both characters are in a place where they are comfortable with the idea of settling down and having a baby. Vince is already in an unsettled/unhappy place, knowing he is missing something in his life. After seeing his brother get married and have a kid, he recognizes this is what he wants for himself - he just needs to convince Marissa of this truth. Marissa has always wanted kids, but only if the father was part of the picture. She’s content having the baby with Julian as part time help. She never had her dad growing up, and this influences her in so many ways. She wants Vince in the baby’s life, but also she sees things as mom-and-baby-against-the-world, which blinds her to what Vince could be for them both.
Although Vince has done “lots of stuff,” he’s not a wild, untrustworthy man. I like that he respects Marissa’s space and choices, yet still makes his desires for her known. Over time, Marissa begins to see that he’s really a good guy and maybe she can have a relationship, and I appreciate that she doesn’t want to muck it up with sex (yet). I love that the author continues to creates non-traditional characters and romances. I love that Marissa struggles with her emotions and feelings for Vince, not ready to jump into “I love yous” and must take her time.
Narration: The story is shared via the alternating first person POV’s of Vince and Marissa, with David Lee Huynh reading Vince’s POVs and Vivienne Moon Yi performing Marissa’s POVs. I continue to struggle with the first person narrative, which just doesn’t sit well with me. It’s like I’m being told the story rather than participating. However, this is the third book I’ve listened to in the series, and over time I’ve grown accustomed to the pairing and performances. DLH uses a neutral male voice, free of any significant accent for Vince. VMY is bubbly and upbeat for mom-to-be Marissa. Both successfully alter dialogue for gender and age. Both infuse their first person narrative with emotion. Once in a while, I struggled to distinguish when a character was speaking to themselves or out loud. Their performances are solid and overall a good fit.
In the end, I continue to enjoy Ms. Lau’s Toronto-based romances. I like that each features a character or relationship that is a little bit different from the norm. Vince and Marissa are a good match, and I enjoyed seeing their one-night stand blossom into love and a family.
My Ratings:
Story: B
Narration: B
Review copy provided by publisher
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Marissa is ready for a night out after going through a health scare with her mother. She attends one of Brian’s parties with a friend, looking for a night of fun and action. After spending an amazing weekend with Vince, she doesn’t plan to see him again, until she learns she’s pregnant with his baby.
Pregnant by the Playboy works because both characters are in a place where they are comfortable with the idea of settling down and having a baby. Vince is already in an unsettled/unhappy place, knowing he is missing something in his life. After seeing his brother get married and have a kid, he recognizes this is what he wants for himself - he just needs to convince Marissa of this truth. Marissa has always wanted kids, but only if the father was part of the picture. She’s content having the baby with Julian as part time help. She never had her dad growing up, and this influences her in so many ways. She wants Vince in the baby’s life, but also she sees things as mom-and-baby-against-the-world, which blinds her to what Vince could be for them both.
Although Vince has done “lots of stuff,” he’s not a wild, untrustworthy man. I like that he respects Marissa’s space and choices, yet still makes his desires for her known. Over time, Marissa begins to see that he’s really a good guy and maybe she can have a relationship, and I appreciate that she doesn’t want to muck it up with sex (yet). I love that the author continues to creates non-traditional characters and romances. I love that Marissa struggles with her emotions and feelings for Vince, not ready to jump into “I love yous” and must take her time.
Narration: The story is shared via the alternating first person POV’s of Vince and Marissa, with David Lee Huynh reading Vince’s POVs and Vivienne Moon Yi performing Marissa’s POVs. I continue to struggle with the first person narrative, which just doesn’t sit well with me. It’s like I’m being told the story rather than participating. However, this is the third book I’ve listened to in the series, and over time I’ve grown accustomed to the pairing and performances. DLH uses a neutral male voice, free of any significant accent for Vince. VMY is bubbly and upbeat for mom-to-be Marissa. Both successfully alter dialogue for gender and age. Both infuse their first person narrative with emotion. Once in a while, I struggled to distinguish when a character was speaking to themselves or out loud. Their performances are solid and overall a good fit.
In the end, I continue to enjoy Ms. Lau’s Toronto-based romances. I like that each features a character or relationship that is a little bit different from the norm. Vince and Marissa are a good match, and I enjoyed seeing their one-night stand blossom into love and a family.
My Ratings:
Story: B
Narration: B
Review copy provided by publisher
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
May 7, 2020
CW: mention of abortion, mention of death of parent, mention of parent with tumor scare
I really enjoyed this one! Vince was such a delight. He was so over the top when we met him in Julian's book but we get to delve into his character here. I must say this first couple chapters were whew!! Steamy! Vince and Marissa's meet cute was so fun and unexpected.
I really liked Vince alot. We get to see his softer side as he interacts with his niece, Evie. It was pretty cute. We also see hat Vince is longing for something other than the playboy persona he's created. So when Marissa get's pregnant after their two-night stand he feels like he's found what he's looking for.
Marissa and Vince together were sweet. Their banter is on point and she's surprised at this whole other side to him. What she knows of him is from his public persona and we see them getting to know each other over the course of the book and the pregnancy.
I will say though, that Vince did frustrate me for a bit there because while he caters to Marissa's needs where the baby is concerned, her cravings, he really jumped the gun at his proposals. When Marissa stated that she wasn't ready for that. He was sort of making it about what he was ready for and not her. I am glad that he realized he was doing the most with that and apologized!!
As with all Jackie's books the character's families are so funny and I love seeing the characters interact with them. I am curious about Vince's brother and who his potential LI will be. There were some hints so I'm hoping I'm right.
Looking forward to his book.
I really enjoyed this one! Vince was such a delight. He was so over the top when we met him in Julian's book but we get to delve into his character here. I must say this first couple chapters were whew!! Steamy! Vince and Marissa's meet cute was so fun and unexpected.
I really liked Vince alot. We get to see his softer side as he interacts with his niece, Evie. It was pretty cute. We also see hat Vince is longing for something other than the playboy persona he's created. So when Marissa get's pregnant after their two-night stand he feels like he's found what he's looking for.
Marissa and Vince together were sweet. Their banter is on point and she's surprised at this whole other side to him. What she knows of him is from his public persona and we see them getting to know each other over the course of the book and the pregnancy.
I will say though, that Vince did frustrate me for a bit there because while he caters to Marissa's needs where the baby is concerned, her cravings, he really jumped the gun at his proposals. When Marissa stated that she wasn't ready for that. He was sort of making it about what he was ready for and not her. I am glad that he realized he was doing the most with that and apologized!!
As with all Jackie's books the character's families are so funny and I love seeing the characters interact with them. I am curious about Vince's brother and who his potential LI will be. There were some hints so I'm hoping I'm right.
Looking forward to his book.
May 10, 2020
Raw and gut-wrenching romance!
Wow! What a dirty start! This is by far the kinkiest book I've read by this author, and I absolutely loved it! Marissa and Vince meet at a party and they instantly ignite in fiery hot passion!
After spending an exquisite weekend together, life goes back to normal. Until several weeks later, when Marissa gets the life-changing news and knows that regardless of Vince's reaction, she's going to embrace her impending motherhood.
Vince is a consummate playboy, on the outside at least. Inside, he's still struggling to find his purpose in life after becoming independently wealthy by selling his start-up company. Marissa's news lights him all the way up inside and he believes that taking care of her and their baby is his new lease on life.
Their relationship slowly builds as each wants more from the other, but not more of the same thing. The writing is so honest, so heartrending, you really sympathize with each of them as they struggle to deal with their own self-realizations as well as try to figure out what their hearts want with the other. There are no easy answers here, just refreshingly brutal authenticity and surprising emotional depth.
I have mad respect for the author's nonchalant approach to diversity and inclusion, sprinkling it far more liberally than I've seen in any other book. I loved the extended family characters, and loved getting caught up with Julian and Courtney. As much as I've loved all of this author's previous books, this one is hands down the best. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Wow! What a dirty start! This is by far the kinkiest book I've read by this author, and I absolutely loved it! Marissa and Vince meet at a party and they instantly ignite in fiery hot passion!
After spending an exquisite weekend together, life goes back to normal. Until several weeks later, when Marissa gets the life-changing news and knows that regardless of Vince's reaction, she's going to embrace her impending motherhood.
Vince is a consummate playboy, on the outside at least. Inside, he's still struggling to find his purpose in life after becoming independently wealthy by selling his start-up company. Marissa's news lights him all the way up inside and he believes that taking care of her and their baby is his new lease on life.
Their relationship slowly builds as each wants more from the other, but not more of the same thing. The writing is so honest, so heartrending, you really sympathize with each of them as they struggle to deal with their own self-realizations as well as try to figure out what their hearts want with the other. There are no easy answers here, just refreshingly brutal authenticity and surprising emotional depth.
I have mad respect for the author's nonchalant approach to diversity and inclusion, sprinkling it far more liberally than I've seen in any other book. I loved the extended family characters, and loved getting caught up with Julian and Courtney. As much as I've loved all of this author's previous books, this one is hands down the best. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
September 11, 2021
Jackie Lau is one of the most underrated contemporary romance writers out there. Her romances are cozy and have a “small town” feel, but are set in Toronto. The characters are a little more mature, have great friendships and families. And the couples are still very steamy. Oh and the food! The food descriptions are out of this world. You will be hungry.
And this book is no exception. The leads are in their thirties and have a very hot meet-sexy at a party. When the heroine finds out she’s pregnant, there’s this wonderful exploration of her decision to keep the baby, and the casual disclosure that she had an abortion in her 20s when she wasn’t ready to have a child. I loved the simple, clear way this was included. Not all abortions are agonising choices, and certainly not filled with regret. Anyway the heroine is now in a place in her life when she’s ready.
When she tells the hero it was such a cute moment. He was a unique version of the rich playboy stereotype: he built his company, burned himself out, sold the company, and has been having fun ever since. Now his ennui has kicked in and a baby is the perfect antidote.
The building of their relationship after the announcement is slow and sensual. The food that her brings her for her cravings!
The third act conflict was frustrating but necessary, and it didn’t drag out.
Seriously if you haven’t picked up Jackie Lau’s books yet, do it now ❤️
And this book is no exception. The leads are in their thirties and have a very hot meet-sexy at a party. When the heroine finds out she’s pregnant, there’s this wonderful exploration of her decision to keep the baby, and the casual disclosure that she had an abortion in her 20s when she wasn’t ready to have a child. I loved the simple, clear way this was included. Not all abortions are agonising choices, and certainly not filled with regret. Anyway the heroine is now in a place in her life when she’s ready.
When she tells the hero it was such a cute moment. He was a unique version of the rich playboy stereotype: he built his company, burned himself out, sold the company, and has been having fun ever since. Now his ennui has kicked in and a baby is the perfect antidote.
The building of their relationship after the announcement is slow and sensual. The food that her brings her for her cravings!
The third act conflict was frustrating but necessary, and it didn’t drag out.
Seriously if you haven’t picked up Jackie Lau’s books yet, do it now ❤️
April 17, 2022
I've really been enjoying Jackie Lau's romances, but I was a little skeptical about this one. "Playboy" can be code for "douchebag," and I don't have the patience for douchebag heroes these days.
I was delighted to be wrong. Vince has been committed to leisure and pleasure since burning out hard and selling his company a couple of years ago. (He has a very all-or-nothing personality.) To me, “playboy” suggests a certain callousness, but that wasn’t Vince at all. Yeah, he wanted to have a good time (although the shine is starting to wear off the party lifestyle for him), but he wants his partner(s) to have a good time, too. Consent was central, but felt natural and unforced. And while he’s a party boy, he also has a close and loving relationship with his family, including a weekly playdate with his baby niece. The final push that made me fall head over heels for Vince was when his family teased him about his favorite childhood stuffed animal, General Bloopy the Bloopisauraus. How can anyone resist a hero with a bloopisauraus?
Marissa was the practical one in this relationship. Her father died when she was very young, and her mother struggled to support them as a single mother with no family around. That childhood really affected her attitude about her unexpected pregnancy. She has a good job and is financially stable. So while she fully expects Vince to pay child support, she isn’t too worried about that part of the equation. What she really wants from him is his family. She wants her child to have grandparents, a great grandmother, an aunt, and uncles, and a cousin. All the support she didn’t have as a child, and the one thing she can’t provide for her child on her own.
Marissa’s father’s death understandably had a big impact on her life, and the pregnancy brought a lot of that up again. He went on a quick run to the store, was in an accident, and never came back. There were a couple moments where I was afraid that the author was going to repeat the pattern, with Vince having some sort of accident. (But not dying, obviously.) There was a callback to her father’s accident, which was her dark moment and made her realize that she loved Vince, she’d just been afraid to admit it because she was afraid to lose someone else she loved. But no fictional characters were harmed in the making of this epiphany.
In the end, I think these two really love each other and the relationship will last. But I think Vince’s impulsiveness and all-or-nothing personality will make things rocky from time to time.
I was delighted to be wrong. Vince has been committed to leisure and pleasure since burning out hard and selling his company a couple of years ago. (He has a very all-or-nothing personality.) To me, “playboy” suggests a certain callousness, but that wasn’t Vince at all. Yeah, he wanted to have a good time (although the shine is starting to wear off the party lifestyle for him), but he wants his partner(s) to have a good time, too. Consent was central, but felt natural and unforced. And while he’s a party boy, he also has a close and loving relationship with his family, including a weekly playdate with his baby niece. The final push that made me fall head over heels for Vince was when his family teased him about his favorite childhood stuffed animal, General Bloopy the Bloopisauraus. How can anyone resist a hero with a bloopisauraus?
Marissa was the practical one in this relationship. Her father died when she was very young, and her mother struggled to support them as a single mother with no family around. That childhood really affected her attitude about her unexpected pregnancy. She has a good job and is financially stable. So while she fully expects Vince to pay child support, she isn’t too worried about that part of the equation. What she really wants from him is his family. She wants her child to have grandparents, a great grandmother, an aunt, and uncles, and a cousin. All the support she didn’t have as a child, and the one thing she can’t provide for her child on her own.
Marissa’s father’s death understandably had a big impact on her life, and the pregnancy brought a lot of that up again. He went on a quick run to the store, was in an accident, and never came back. There were a couple moments where I was afraid that the author was going to repeat the pattern, with Vince having some sort of accident. (But not dying, obviously.) There was a callback to her father’s accident, which was her dark moment and made her realize that she loved Vince, she’d just been afraid to admit it because she was afraid to lose someone else she loved. But no fictional characters were harmed in the making of this epiphany.
In the end, I think these two really love each other and the relationship will last. But I think Vince’s impulsiveness and all-or-nothing personality will make things rocky from time to time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 11, 2020
Jackie Lau has fast become one of my favorite romance authors. Her characters are funny and genuine and unapologetic about what they want; their kinks and their desires - it's refreshingly honest and incredibly steamy. I loved watching the relationship between Marissa and Vince play out, from that very first explosive meeting at the party. It is unconventional sure, but you can really feel their connection. There is something there beyond that one weekend.
Pregnant by the Playboy touches on several heavy topics such as the loss of a parent but Lau handles it with absolute finesse. She is frank and doesn't shy away from the emotion of the situation but she is sensitive and considerate. It is not gratuitous and adds depth to the characters and story line.
I love the extended family members especially Po Po and tiny Evie. They both bring out a different side of Vince and it was perfect. And Carrie, who sent gifts for the mom and not just the baby which seems like such a simple thing but really resonated with me.
I would be remiss if I did not mention that I was delighted that both bakeapples and my home province of Newfoundland got a positive mention in the book. It was a nice little surprise and I really enjoyed seeing it!
Pregnant by the Playboy touches on several heavy topics such as the loss of a parent but Lau handles it with absolute finesse. She is frank and doesn't shy away from the emotion of the situation but she is sensitive and considerate. It is not gratuitous and adds depth to the characters and story line.
I love the extended family members especially Po Po and tiny Evie. They both bring out a different side of Vince and it was perfect. And Carrie, who sent gifts for the mom and not just the baby which seems like such a simple thing but really resonated with me.
I would be remiss if I did not mention that I was delighted that both bakeapples and my home province of Newfoundland got a positive mention in the book. It was a nice little surprise and I really enjoyed seeing it!
August 10, 2021
Everything’s backwards in this story...
First she kisses him, then tells him her name.
Then he bangs her against the door, then they undress.
After this, they eat pizza.
Then she finds out she’s pregnant after their two night stand, & his solution is to ask her to marry him (admirable, maybe, but no... !).
Two weeks after this, he asks her what her last name is...
<3 Vince... He’s really more of a playboy recently, but he’s quite loving & funny. I love the way he acts with his niece Evie (at one point, he sees that she cries during a song he sings, so he tells his brother that she loves this song just so he can tell his brother that he’s terrible with kids).
The lullaby moment with Julian, oh my... <3
I continue to love the Fong family - especially Po Po, who I originally met in the book “Mr. Hotshot CEO.” I liked seeing how Courtney is doing now, as well.
Vince is really great... Although Marissa completes him very well, he still needs to see what he needs, what he wants for himself, in order to be fulfilled.
<3 this story, worth reading.
First she kisses him, then tells him her name.
Then he bangs her against the door, then they undress.
After this, they eat pizza.
Then she finds out she’s pregnant after their two night stand, & his solution is to ask her to marry him (admirable, maybe, but no... !).
Two weeks after this, he asks her what her last name is...
<3 Vince... He’s really more of a playboy recently, but he’s quite loving & funny. I love the way he acts with his niece Evie (at one point, he sees that she cries during a song he sings, so he tells his brother that she loves this song just so he can tell his brother that he’s terrible with kids).
The lullaby moment with Julian, oh my... <3
I continue to love the Fong family - especially Po Po, who I originally met in the book “Mr. Hotshot CEO.” I liked seeing how Courtney is doing now, as well.
Vince is really great... Although Marissa completes him very well, he still needs to see what he needs, what he wants for himself, in order to be fulfilled.
<3 this story, worth reading.
July 3, 2020
Finally got around to reading this! I feel like if I say I love Jackie Lau’s books because they’re lighthearted and fun, that will give people the wrong impression—but they are, and I do, and this is no exception. It’s not that they’re surface level books; she delves into difficult topics in almost all of her novels at one point or another, but that’s never the main focus, and I think that’s what I love most. It’s not that they’re low drama, necessarily, because they aren’t, always, but that the drama isn’t the point.
It’s that the point is the characters, more than the plot, and escaping into a fictional Canada where two characters learn to love each other and themselves is just... it’s lovely. And also this book had a lot of food I want to eat now and a hot man loving on his baby niece. So. Look, I’m easy to please, but Jackie Lau does a great job every time and her books always bring me joy.
It’s that the point is the characters, more than the plot, and escaping into a fictional Canada where two characters learn to love each other and themselves is just... it’s lovely. And also this book had a lot of food I want to eat now and a hot man loving on his baby niece. So. Look, I’m easy to please, but Jackie Lau does a great job every time and her books always bring me joy.
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April 28, 2023This mini-review is part of a list about characters who are the most extra that can be read in full at The Smut Report
Vince does nothing by half measures. He’s been living the playboy lifestyle, complete with orgies on his yacht, but when Marissa gets pregnant after a one night stand, he is all in…maybe a little too all in. The great thing about this book is that Vince’s actions are not all that different from the standard alpha hero in an accidental pregnancy book, just less domineering—but Lau makes it clear what emotional hole he’s trying to fill by acting this way.
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Vince does nothing by half measures. He’s been living the playboy lifestyle, complete with orgies on his yacht, but when Marissa gets pregnant after a one night stand, he is all in…maybe a little too all in. The great thing about this book is that Vince’s actions are not all that different from the standard alpha hero in an accidental pregnancy book, just less domineering—but Lau makes it clear what emotional hole he’s trying to fill by acting this way.
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