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Love Unexpected #1
The Love Bet
Luz De Los Santos thought her job was easy.
Being the Sex and Relationship Director of Modern Magazine, no one knew the art of dating and hookups like she did. When the commitment-phobe beauty gets singled out by her editor to write a challenging column for the coveted, annual Valentine's issue, Luz is forced to confront her issues about relationships with her newly pitched project.
The Love Bet.
Is it possible to fall in love by the third screw? Maybe.
But she's not holding her breath once she recruits her blast from the past, Evan Cattaneo to help test her theory.
Evan regrets the way things ended between him and Luz.
The girl who charmed him all those years ago was now grown and sexy, making more than ready to aid Luz in her little experiment. Only his plans won't stop at just bedding her. Nope, he plans to make her fall in love again. It's only a matter of time before loving between the sheets turns into stealing kisses in the streets.
When emotions get wild and feelings grow deep, will the insecurities of Luz's past come back to haunt them?
Being the Sex and Relationship Director of Modern Magazine, no one knew the art of dating and hookups like she did. When the commitment-phobe beauty gets singled out by her editor to write a challenging column for the coveted, annual Valentine's issue, Luz is forced to confront her issues about relationships with her newly pitched project.
The Love Bet.
Is it possible to fall in love by the third screw? Maybe.
But she's not holding her breath once she recruits her blast from the past, Evan Cattaneo to help test her theory.
Evan regrets the way things ended between him and Luz.
The girl who charmed him all those years ago was now grown and sexy, making more than ready to aid Luz in her little experiment. Only his plans won't stop at just bedding her. Nope, he plans to make her fall in love again. It's only a matter of time before loving between the sheets turns into stealing kisses in the streets.
When emotions get wild and feelings grow deep, will the insecurities of Luz's past come back to haunt them?
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 31, 2020
260 people are currently reading
992 people want to read
About the author
G.L. Tomas
42 books543 followersG.L. Tomas is a USA Today bestselling twin writing duo and lover of all things blerdy, fearless and fun.
When they're not spending their time crafting swoon-worthy heroes, they're battling alien forces in other worlds but occasionally take days off in search of mom and pop spots that make amazing pasteles and tostones fried to perfection.
They host salsa lessons and book boyfriend auditions in their secret headquarters located in Connecticut..
For Romcoms and Contemporary Romance, sign up here---> smarturl.it/GLTomasRomanceNews
Sign up for exclusive content and a sneak peek of their latest updates by subscribing to their Young Adult newsletter here---> smarturl.it/YABYGLTOMAS
When they're not spending their time crafting swoon-worthy heroes, they're battling alien forces in other worlds but occasionally take days off in search of mom and pop spots that make amazing pasteles and tostones fried to perfection.
They host salsa lessons and book boyfriend auditions in their secret headquarters located in Connecticut..
For Romcoms and Contemporary Romance, sign up here---> smarturl.it/GLTomasRomanceNews
Sign up for exclusive content and a sneak peek of their latest updates by subscribing to their Young Adult newsletter here---> smarturl.it/YABYGLTOMAS
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
November 13, 2021
If you're going to write a cishet white hero with a queer, Black, Latinx heroine set in 2020, you absolutely cannot include a throwaway comment that he "leans conservative."
I HATE this finance bro, "nice guy" hero.
I HATE this finance bro, "nice guy" hero.
September 18, 2024
I don't even know where to begin with this one!
Well, first, I picked this up in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, and I wanted to make a conscious effort to read Afro-Latinx authors. However, I was completely overwhelmed and weighed down how many mentions there are of how Black, Latino, Latino and Black, Black and Latino, Afro Dominican by way of America, Luz was. I phrase it this way because the social commentary surrounding her identity was incredibly heavy-handed and drawn-out in a way that felt like the overemphasis did not exist for people who belong to either of those communities, but, rather, readers who look like Evan, who might require cushion and over explanations to empathize with Black or Latinx communities. I'm Black. One of my best friends is a Panamanian Afro-Latina. I have never heard her, whom I've known more years of my life than I haven't—or any Black Latino for that matter—harp on their identity that much as an adult. Like…we so get it, sis.
On the topic of identity, you cannot get me to like or even empathize with an "issue-swaying independent" Black woman who comes from immigrants, is queer, and Latino, who falls in love with a "traditionalist" conservative white dude. Their pairing read as, "He doesn't know where I come from, or know what my food tastes like, and he's upper middle class, and was a jock in high school who became a finance bro as as adult, and he's white, and he's conservative, and I'm not like the other girls, I'm also not like the other Black people, I'm a nerd and I blend into the background, but he understands me and at least he wants me <3" which was very…yucky.
This story took place in 2020 and vaguely mentions masking in the beginning then has the setting of the book take place entirely in a way that was functionally (and possibly legally) impossible due to lockdown restrictions. Which technically wouldn't have been an issue except…why even mention masking or Covid if it wasn't a time period you wanted your characters to exist in? Also, we get all the way through election season and we never get to learn if Evan voted for Trump, or what issues made Luz sway which way? No fun! Lastly, you mean to tell me Luz has lived in NYC for years and she doesn't know she likes Italian food until she eats Evan's family's cooking at the end? New York? The largest Italian-American population in North America and third largest Italian population outside of Italy? She avoided Italian food in New York?! I'm from New Jersey, and I couldn't have avoided Italian food (not that I'd ever want to) even if I'd tried.
There were a lot of characters in this book. What I mean by that is a lot of people are named, but they are not developed, and are simply set dressings with human names who sometimes have lines. Which is jarring, except Evan and Luz are also underdeveloped. Simultaneously, the Tomas twins have created one of the most selfish, self-absorbed, entitled, babyish, non-communicating-ass-heffa out of Luz, and I won't be reading book 2 where she seemingly continues her full-time gig of terrorizing Evan.
You know it's bad when the most empathetic human character is the (potentially insurrectionist) finance bro.
1 ⭐️ for Ms. Mary Mack only!
2.5 🌶️
Well, first, I picked this up in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, and I wanted to make a conscious effort to read Afro-Latinx authors. However, I was completely overwhelmed and weighed down how many mentions there are of how Black, Latino, Latino and Black, Black and Latino, Afro Dominican by way of America, Luz was. I phrase it this way because the social commentary surrounding her identity was incredibly heavy-handed and drawn-out in a way that felt like the overemphasis did not exist for people who belong to either of those communities, but, rather, readers who look like Evan, who might require cushion and over explanations to empathize with Black or Latinx communities. I'm Black. One of my best friends is a Panamanian Afro-Latina. I have never heard her, whom I've known more years of my life than I haven't—or any Black Latino for that matter—harp on their identity that much as an adult. Like…we so get it, sis.
On the topic of identity, you cannot get me to like or even empathize with an "issue-swaying independent" Black woman who comes from immigrants, is queer, and Latino, who falls in love with a "traditionalist" conservative white dude. Their pairing read as, "He doesn't know where I come from, or know what my food tastes like, and he's upper middle class, and was a jock in high school who became a finance bro as as adult, and he's white, and he's conservative, and I'm not like the other girls, I'm also not like the other Black people, I'm a nerd and I blend into the background, but he understands me and at least he wants me <3" which was very…yucky.
This story took place in 2020 and vaguely mentions masking in the beginning then has the setting of the book take place entirely in a way that was functionally (and possibly legally) impossible due to lockdown restrictions. Which technically wouldn't have been an issue except…why even mention masking or Covid if it wasn't a time period you wanted your characters to exist in? Also, we get all the way through election season and we never get to learn if Evan voted for Trump, or what issues made Luz sway which way? No fun! Lastly, you mean to tell me Luz has lived in NYC for years and she doesn't know she likes Italian food until she eats Evan's family's cooking at the end? New York? The largest Italian-American population in North America and third largest Italian population outside of Italy? She avoided Italian food in New York?! I'm from New Jersey, and I couldn't have avoided Italian food (not that I'd ever want to) even if I'd tried.
There were a lot of characters in this book. What I mean by that is a lot of people are named, but they are not developed, and are simply set dressings with human names who sometimes have lines. Which is jarring, except Evan and Luz are also underdeveloped. Simultaneously, the Tomas twins have created one of the most selfish, self-absorbed, entitled, babyish, non-communicating-ass-heffa out of Luz, and I won't be reading book 2 where she seemingly continues her full-time gig of terrorizing Evan.
You know it's bad when the most empathetic human character is the (potentially insurrectionist) finance bro.
1 ⭐️ for Ms. Mary Mack only!
2.5 🌶️
November 11, 2021
What stopped this from being 5 stars were some hangups I had about the author's queer labeling, the sometimes selfish obtuseness of the heroine, and the couples's separation was a bit tedious & reasonably shallow.
BUT, I still had to go 4 stars, which is rare for me. I attribute this to the author's attention to details, the specific dates of the romance (2005-2020), and the subplot of Luz's struggle with colorism and other insecurities stemming from her upbringing. In all, these stood out greater than the romance, but the chemistry between Luz and Evan was not completely outshone, one example being that flashbacks to their high school love brought about some racy and taboo sexual topics. Evan was a pleaser (win!).
I wonder if reading it instead of listening to the audiobook would have altered my rating. In any case, the female narrator brought the right voice and "color" to the female lead.
The male narrator wasn't too shabby either.
Luz and Evan had a sweet high school sweethearts to millennial love type of romance. The author went into much detail about the heroine's Afro-Latina heritage a la Dominican Republic, though the hero's Italian heritage was not given as much depth. Being from the Northeast, I could pick up on many nuances and expressions that maybe some other readers may be in the dark about.
BUT, I still had to go 4 stars, which is rare for me. I attribute this to the author's attention to details, the specific dates of the romance (2005-2020), and the subplot of Luz's struggle with colorism and other insecurities stemming from her upbringing. In all, these stood out greater than the romance, but the chemistry between Luz and Evan was not completely outshone, one example being that flashbacks to their high school love brought about some racy and taboo sexual topics. Evan was a pleaser (win!).
I wonder if reading it instead of listening to the audiobook would have altered my rating. In any case, the female narrator brought the right voice and "color" to the female lead.
The male narrator wasn't too shabby either.
Luz and Evan had a sweet high school sweethearts to millennial love type of romance. The author went into much detail about the heroine's Afro-Latina heritage a la Dominican Republic, though the hero's Italian heritage was not given as much depth. Being from the Northeast, I could pick up on many nuances and expressions that maybe some other readers may be in the dark about.
February 6, 2021
Just finished this book about a sexy intersectional sex-columnist who reconnects with her hunky high school heartthrob. 😍
The Love Bet by GL Tomas was my first book by them and it was delightfully diverse, steamy, funny, and honest. First of all, nerdy bisexual Black Dominican-American woman??? Yes, please! And the romance between her (Luz) and her reformed-toxic-masculine HS boyfriend (Evan) is sweet and fun to read. There are times in the book when I wanted to shake the characters and say, "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" but that's because they're flawed human beings. I look forward to seeing how they continue to grow in the sequel.
The best thing about this book is the friendships and family dynamics. GL Tomas don’t shy away from discussing anti-Blackness and colorism, even within the MC’s own family. And the immigrant experience? The constant competition and comparison across cousins? It all spoke to me and my own experiences. AND there were a ton of fun pop culture references! This was a fast and funny read, and I look forward to more from this author duo!
The Love Bet by GL Tomas was my first book by them and it was delightfully diverse, steamy, funny, and honest. First of all, nerdy bisexual Black Dominican-American woman??? Yes, please! And the romance between her (Luz) and her reformed-toxic-masculine HS boyfriend (Evan) is sweet and fun to read. There are times in the book when I wanted to shake the characters and say, "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" but that's because they're flawed human beings. I look forward to seeing how they continue to grow in the sequel.
The best thing about this book is the friendships and family dynamics. GL Tomas don’t shy away from discussing anti-Blackness and colorism, even within the MC’s own family. And the immigrant experience? The constant competition and comparison across cousins? It all spoke to me and my own experiences. AND there were a ton of fun pop culture references! This was a fast and funny read, and I look forward to more from this author duo!
May 29, 2021
This one you will love reading from beginning to the very end! It was a page turner that will hold you and very different from my norm!~
April 28, 2025
Luz and Evan had a history. He was a white Italian-American guy and Luz was a black Dominican girl. They were each others first love but they had broken up on bad terms. But later when circumstances and fate brought them together. They learned that the reason of their breaking up was merely a misunderstanding, nothing else. Evan agreed to become Luz's test subject on the 'Love Bet' project. Well, more like he wanted to. They went on dates and made love with each other. Time passed by. They gat a little trouble in paradise but everything went back to normal at last.
My feelings -
I guess this is not the book for me. I get that author wanted to make something good and this could've been so much better though. Oh well, didn't work out for me.
My feelings -
I guess this is not the book for me. I get that author wanted to make something good and this could've been so much better though. Oh well, didn't work out for me.
January 5, 2023
Bogged down
I enjoyed getting a glimpse into Afro-Dominican-American culture and issues. There was even a glimpse into Italian-American culture. The story is written from 2 character povs and past/present. The author has each section clearly marked so it is easy to follow. The pacing was not stagnant but my reading flow was stilted throughout due to editing issues and the labels, which added nothing to the story, that bogged it down. I get the author wanted to address several issues through the story, but parts felt almost counter productive. I struggled to get through the first half of the book. Luz, while a strong character, comes off as petty, superficial, and contrary to what she demands of others. I just did not like her in parts of the story and her reasonings became droning. I liked Evan and his willingness to be open and reflective. The story has a plot and a purpose. Despite my struggle reading this book, once I got through the tedious "woke propaganda" the story is one I was able to relate. There is potential here, but an editor and beta readers would be beneficial.
I enjoyed getting a glimpse into Afro-Dominican-American culture and issues. There was even a glimpse into Italian-American culture. The story is written from 2 character povs and past/present. The author has each section clearly marked so it is easy to follow. The pacing was not stagnant but my reading flow was stilted throughout due to editing issues and the labels, which added nothing to the story, that bogged it down. I get the author wanted to address several issues through the story, but parts felt almost counter productive. I struggled to get through the first half of the book. Luz, while a strong character, comes off as petty, superficial, and contrary to what she demands of others. I just did not like her in parts of the story and her reasonings became droning. I liked Evan and his willingness to be open and reflective. The story has a plot and a purpose. Despite my struggle reading this book, once I got through the tedious "woke propaganda" the story is one I was able to relate. There is potential here, but an editor and beta readers would be beneficial.
January 5, 2021
3.5 Stars!
High school sweethearts reconnect for a do-over. This is a mostly enjoyable read, albeit a long one. I didn't connect with the heroine but I loved the hero. When a pivotal moment happened near the end of the book and the heroine failed to see the BIG picture--I was officially done. There is just no way the heroine could recover from her actions, and I needed a scene where she explained herself to them. Your opinion may differ. Still, lots to enjoy! I love the writing and storytelling style of Twinajs. Recommended: Read It!
High school sweethearts reconnect for a do-over. This is a mostly enjoyable read, albeit a long one. I didn't connect with the heroine but I loved the hero. When a pivotal moment happened near the end of the book and the heroine failed to see the BIG picture--I was officially done. There is just no way the heroine could recover from her actions, and I needed a scene where she explained herself to them. Your opinion may differ. Still, lots to enjoy! I love the writing and storytelling style of Twinajs. Recommended: Read It!
January 2, 2021
A second chance at love for Lux and Evan. They had a definite connection and the chemistry was there. Lux was a little hard to like at times as she was self absorbed and spoiled. The book didn't flow well at times and seemed disjointed. A lot of emphasis was put on her race which really shouldn't have made a difference. I received a free copy via Bad Boy Update and voluntarily chose to review it.
November 14, 2021
Its one of those books! Ever read a book where there was just something about it? I enjoyed the characters well enough although they were the most grown-up high school students to ever grace a page. Much too mature. Or maybe its just that I was so stupid in high school thinking that I was so grown up. Well this book had that something even if I can’t quite tell what it is and I liked it! This was my first experience with this “new to me” author but I will look for more from her. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Read
March 19, 20222020 dnf
did not care for the characters or the romance
did not care for the characters or the romance
January 16, 2021
3.5 stars (Review copy from Netgalley)
This is the first G.L. Tomas book I've read and I was really excited to pick it up and overall it was a very enjoyable contemporary romance.
Luz is the Sex and Relationships director of a contemporary women's magazine and she loves her job. At 32 years old, she's done and seen it all in the name of her work, and is happy to skip over love and enjoy sex, but the Valentine's issue of her magazine is a big deal and this year she's found herself taking on a challenge she doesn't believe can succeed: can she fall in love by the third screw? Enter Evan, a boyfriend from her past, who unintentionally crosses her path at a speed dating event, who's determined to prove her wrong and make her fall in love.
First up, I want to highlight how much I loved both Luz and Evan as characters. Luz is a strong, independent woman who's fought for her career and the right to be respected. She doesn't take anyone's crap and calls them out on it when it happens, which is how she ended up in a relationship with Evan to begin with. They met in high school when she was assigned to help him, then a basketball jock in need of raising some of his grades. Initially Evan is a product of toxic masculinity culture, but Luz constantly challenges his believes and comments as Evan learns from this, apologies and grows as a human being - and adult Evan has continued to grow and be aware of the way his words and actions affect others. They had a nasty break-up in high school and haven't seen each other for years until their paths cross. Evan's never fall out of love with Luz and he is determined to show her how good they are together. The biggest struggle they have continuously throughout the story is miscommunication (not uncommon in romance) but they both grow as they begin to learn how they affect each other.
There was also an awesome set of side-characters - Evan coaches basketball and the boys he trains appear in a handful of scenes and are delightful. Yes, they serve to show how Evan has grown as an adult and recognised the need to accept, and teach others how to accept, differences, but it was done in a really respectful way. I especially liked one scene when the boys meet Luz and are disrespectful and Evan uses it as a teachable moment and talks to them about respecting women. Similarly, there's a hilarious scene when teenage Evan is looking up porn online and has a totally unexpected conversation with his Italian mother that had me laughing out loud.
This book tackles a lot of heavy topics (see trigger warnings at the top of the page) but what does come up constantly is how Luz handles colourism and Anti-Blackism, both within the wider community, but also within her family. Luz is a Black Latina from the Dominican Republic and that comes with its own set of challenges just within the family group. Being so removed from that cultural group, there were plenty of times when I was looking up information while reading to build and support my own knowledge while reading.
This story was told in flashbacks to Luz and Evan's teenage years as well as in the present day when they meet as adults. Initially we start by alternating past-Luz, present-Luz, past-Evan, present-Evan and then it switches up a bit more as you get further into the story. While I found this interesting initially, as the past and present storylines parallel and give us insight into both characters, at times it felt like jumping back into the past actually slowed the story down. The pacing didn't always feel quite right.
I wished there had been a little bit more included about Luz's article that she was writing - the challenge of falling in love by the third time she had sex with someone. It's the catalyst for the story at the beginning, but it felt like it lost some momentum until you hit the epilogue and we get a brief overview of how the article turned out. For something that was the reason that Luz and Evan got back together for, it would have been nice to see the progress of the article. That said, we do see all the dates and there are plenty of fun and steamy scenes throughout.
I will at some point need to check out more work by G.L. Tomas.
This is the first G.L. Tomas book I've read and I was really excited to pick it up and overall it was a very enjoyable contemporary romance.
Luz is the Sex and Relationships director of a contemporary women's magazine and she loves her job. At 32 years old, she's done and seen it all in the name of her work, and is happy to skip over love and enjoy sex, but the Valentine's issue of her magazine is a big deal and this year she's found herself taking on a challenge she doesn't believe can succeed: can she fall in love by the third screw? Enter Evan, a boyfriend from her past, who unintentionally crosses her path at a speed dating event, who's determined to prove her wrong and make her fall in love.
First up, I want to highlight how much I loved both Luz and Evan as characters. Luz is a strong, independent woman who's fought for her career and the right to be respected. She doesn't take anyone's crap and calls them out on it when it happens, which is how she ended up in a relationship with Evan to begin with. They met in high school when she was assigned to help him, then a basketball jock in need of raising some of his grades. Initially Evan is a product of toxic masculinity culture, but Luz constantly challenges his believes and comments as Evan learns from this, apologies and grows as a human being - and adult Evan has continued to grow and be aware of the way his words and actions affect others. They had a nasty break-up in high school and haven't seen each other for years until their paths cross. Evan's never fall out of love with Luz and he is determined to show her how good they are together. The biggest struggle they have continuously throughout the story is miscommunication (not uncommon in romance) but they both grow as they begin to learn how they affect each other.
There was also an awesome set of side-characters - Evan coaches basketball and the boys he trains appear in a handful of scenes and are delightful. Yes, they serve to show how Evan has grown as an adult and recognised the need to accept, and teach others how to accept, differences, but it was done in a really respectful way. I especially liked one scene when the boys meet Luz and are disrespectful and Evan uses it as a teachable moment and talks to them about respecting women. Similarly, there's a hilarious scene when teenage Evan is looking up porn online and has a totally unexpected conversation with his Italian mother that had me laughing out loud.
This book tackles a lot of heavy topics (see trigger warnings at the top of the page) but what does come up constantly is how Luz handles colourism and Anti-Blackism, both within the wider community, but also within her family. Luz is a Black Latina from the Dominican Republic and that comes with its own set of challenges just within the family group. Being so removed from that cultural group, there were plenty of times when I was looking up information while reading to build and support my own knowledge while reading.
This story was told in flashbacks to Luz and Evan's teenage years as well as in the present day when they meet as adults. Initially we start by alternating past-Luz, present-Luz, past-Evan, present-Evan and then it switches up a bit more as you get further into the story. While I found this interesting initially, as the past and present storylines parallel and give us insight into both characters, at times it felt like jumping back into the past actually slowed the story down. The pacing didn't always feel quite right.
I wished there had been a little bit more included about Luz's article that she was writing - the challenge of falling in love by the third time she had sex with someone. It's the catalyst for the story at the beginning, but it felt like it lost some momentum until you hit the epilogue and we get a brief overview of how the article turned out. For something that was the reason that Luz and Evan got back together for, it would have been nice to see the progress of the article. That said, we do see all the dates and there are plenty of fun and steamy scenes throughout.
I will at some point need to check out more work by G.L. Tomas.
February 14, 2022
There was a lot about “The Love Bet” that I really enjoyed. The characters were really great, especially Evan. Evan will make you swoon as a teen as well as an adult. The premise of their story and reuniting was fun and unique. She is supposed to write a story about whether you can fall in love after three dates/hook ups. In an attempt to find a research subject, she attends a matchmaking speed date where she sees Evan for the first time in years. I loved the inclusion of ASL in the storyline. Evan coaches basketball for a group of at-risk teens and one of them is deaf. This was a unique addition that you don’t see much of in books. The steam between these characters was smoking hot. That was a definite positive about this book. Finally, even those this is a series, this book ended with a HFN that still made me happy. I’m looking forward to what comes next for these two characters.
There were a few things that I didn’t enjoy as much about the book, which is why I rated it 4 stars. These things aren’t deal breakers to recommending this as a read though. I still highly recommend reading this book. The first was the use of flashbacks. Most of the flashbacks were written really well and I enjoyed the look into their past. Really these flashbacks will make you swoon over Evan. His attempts to win Luz’s heart even as a teen were so incredibly sweet. The only down side of the flashbacks is that once or twice the placement of them broke up the flow of the story. One other element was the inclusion of hair types. It also broke up the flow for me just because I didn’t understand them. I think a inclusion of what the hair types are would be helpful. It’s not a large chunk of the book so those references could be skipped over.
Otherwise this book was excellent. I loved the second chance romance element. Luz and Evan were in love in high school. Even though they were from different parts of town and he was a jock while she was the weird outsider, they found a way to connect and fall in love. It’s sad when you find out why she broke up with him, what the truth was, and realize they lost tons of time together not to mention damage to their hearts, for really no reason. I loved the way that Evan developed as a character as a result of his love for Luz. He realized how easy he had it in life and that not everyone does. So he does what he can with his basketball team and tries to give them the life lessons he wished he had at their age. When given a second chance with Luz, he knows he doesn’t want to waste this chance and makes it his mission to keep her for longer than the three dates for her article. I adored this couple and I can’t wait to see what the next book brings. Please let it be an HEA!!!!
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There were a few things that I didn’t enjoy as much about the book, which is why I rated it 4 stars. These things aren’t deal breakers to recommending this as a read though. I still highly recommend reading this book. The first was the use of flashbacks. Most of the flashbacks were written really well and I enjoyed the look into their past. Really these flashbacks will make you swoon over Evan. His attempts to win Luz’s heart even as a teen were so incredibly sweet. The only down side of the flashbacks is that once or twice the placement of them broke up the flow of the story. One other element was the inclusion of hair types. It also broke up the flow for me just because I didn’t understand them. I think a inclusion of what the hair types are would be helpful. It’s not a large chunk of the book so those references could be skipped over.
Otherwise this book was excellent. I loved the second chance romance element. Luz and Evan were in love in high school. Even though they were from different parts of town and he was a jock while she was the weird outsider, they found a way to connect and fall in love. It’s sad when you find out why she broke up with him, what the truth was, and realize they lost tons of time together not to mention damage to their hearts, for really no reason. I loved the way that Evan developed as a character as a result of his love for Luz. He realized how easy he had it in life and that not everyone does. So he does what he can with his basketball team and tries to give them the life lessons he wished he had at their age. When given a second chance with Luz, he knows he doesn’t want to waste this chance and makes it his mission to keep her for longer than the three dates for her article. I adored this couple and I can’t wait to see what the next book brings. Please let it be an HEA!!!!
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 11, 2021
The Love Bet is a steamy OwnVoices romance about former high school sweethearts Luz and Evan. I loved that the novel’s main characters were (mostly) level headed and very mature. They clearly have baggage, both from their time together and their years apart. Reading their romance was like finishing the last helping of a delicious pie - satisfying and sweet.
Luz’s background is also heavily influenced by her experience as a Black Dominican woman. I like that the authors included all of the ways in which anti-Blackness and colorism affects her life both inside and outside her community, as well as her relationship with Evan. Evan was also so sweet and willing to learn Though I felt some parts of her family dynamic were told rather than shown, I thought it brought depth to the story and was very interesting to read as an African American woman. I appreciated that Luz was so aware of colorism within her community and worked hard to call it out when she saw it in her life, but also talked about the danger of internalizing that kind of rhetoric. Self-love for the win!
Additionally, this story is told in dual timelines: there’s the timeline when they were high school sweethearts and the present day. I was surprised to be equally invested in both timelines. Usually I find myself more interested in one timeline, but I think there’s a freshness to both. You can definitely see how these characters have changed over time and it bleeds into the writing. I thought it was really well done. However, I do think that structure-wise, I would have rather have the first half be Luz and Evan’s time in HS and then the second half is the present. Because most of what happens in their past is spoiled early into the book, when we finally get to that part it lacks emotional punch. Regardless, I did still like it and loved the sex positive bits (in both timelines!).
The Love Bet is steam when it needs to be, smart all the time, and delightfully engaging. A second chance romance I rooted for from the very beginning.
3.5/5
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Luz’s background is also heavily influenced by her experience as a Black Dominican woman. I like that the authors included all of the ways in which anti-Blackness and colorism affects her life both inside and outside her community, as well as her relationship with Evan. Evan was also so sweet and willing to learn Though I felt some parts of her family dynamic were told rather than shown, I thought it brought depth to the story and was very interesting to read as an African American woman. I appreciated that Luz was so aware of colorism within her community and worked hard to call it out when she saw it in her life, but also talked about the danger of internalizing that kind of rhetoric. Self-love for the win!
Additionally, this story is told in dual timelines: there’s the timeline when they were high school sweethearts and the present day. I was surprised to be equally invested in both timelines. Usually I find myself more interested in one timeline, but I think there’s a freshness to both. You can definitely see how these characters have changed over time and it bleeds into the writing. I thought it was really well done. However, I do think that structure-wise, I would have rather have the first half be Luz and Evan’s time in HS and then the second half is the present. Because most of what happens in their past is spoiled early into the book, when we finally get to that part it lacks emotional punch. Regardless, I did still like it and loved the sex positive bits (in both timelines!).
The Love Bet is steam when it needs to be, smart all the time, and delightfully engaging. A second chance romance I rooted for from the very beginning.
3.5/5
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 29, 2020
I love a good second chance romance and I think that this definitely falls into this category. Luz and Evan were high school sweethearts, but after a misunderstanding, they split up. Since then, they've not been lucky in love and at 33 are still looking for the one. In Luz's case, she doesn't think that love is worth it and sticks to short term hookups and no-strings fun. When they meet again by chance at a speed dating event, it's clear that there is unfinished business between them and that they may actually stand a chance of being together properly this time.
I enjoyed the growing, or should I say rediscovered relationship between Luz and Evan. It is clear that they both still have feelings for one another from the moment that they meet. Luz is a complicated character that has been hurt by her past, but Evan has the ability to wait and care for her until she is ready to give him more.
There were a couple of things that I wasn't totally on board with in this book. Firstly, Evan seemed a little bit too perfect at times, I think that I would have liked to see him with a few more flaws, just to make him seem a little more real. Luz on the other hand is a little bit too selfish at times. We hear that she's had other relationships that have made her like this, but that's as far as it goes. Perhaps she doesn't need to disclose everything to Evan, but I think she might have come across a little less like a spoilt princess. She does seem to need to grow up a bit from time to time, but maybe that's just me being old.
This was an enjoyable and entertaining read and I couldn't help but want Luz and Evan to work out their issues and end up together ultimately. I don't like to give away spoilers, but this is a romance and I don't mind letting you know that I was happy with the conclusion when I reached the end. A good, solid, second chance romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I enjoyed the growing, or should I say rediscovered relationship between Luz and Evan. It is clear that they both still have feelings for one another from the moment that they meet. Luz is a complicated character that has been hurt by her past, but Evan has the ability to wait and care for her until she is ready to give him more.
There were a couple of things that I wasn't totally on board with in this book. Firstly, Evan seemed a little bit too perfect at times, I think that I would have liked to see him with a few more flaws, just to make him seem a little more real. Luz on the other hand is a little bit too selfish at times. We hear that she's had other relationships that have made her like this, but that's as far as it goes. Perhaps she doesn't need to disclose everything to Evan, but I think she might have come across a little less like a spoilt princess. She does seem to need to grow up a bit from time to time, but maybe that's just me being old.
This was an enjoyable and entertaining read and I couldn't help but want Luz and Evan to work out their issues and end up together ultimately. I don't like to give away spoilers, but this is a romance and I don't mind letting you know that I was happy with the conclusion when I reached the end. A good, solid, second chance romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 3, 2021
I want to start by saying that I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have not previously read any books by G.L. Thomas. I was looking on BookSirens and was very interested in The Love Bet. It sounded like a sweet second chance romance.
I am rating this book with five starts because there is nothing wrong with the book. The writing is good, the characters are engaging (I loved Evan), and the storyline is well executed. It just isn’t for me.
I don’t know anything about G.L. Thomas, so what I didn’t like might be what draws others in as readers. I read to escape the realities of the world and I just felt like this book is heavy with sexism, feminism, colorism, etc. If I am reading a book with a main character that is trans, then I don’t need to be reminded every other page that they identify as x. Similarly, I didn’t need to be reminded throughout the book that the characters identified as cisgender. At times, I felt like the book was less romance and more social issues. I’m also not a huge fan of books that alternate between past & present, which does happen in this book.
Again, there is nothing wrong with the book. It simply did not align with the style of books that I prefer. The book is well written and I think that if you are looking for romance books with less fluff & more “life” then you will really enjoy this book. If it is available via Kindle Unlimited then I suggest you check it out and form your own opinion :)
I have not previously read any books by G.L. Thomas. I was looking on BookSirens and was very interested in The Love Bet. It sounded like a sweet second chance romance.
I am rating this book with five starts because there is nothing wrong with the book. The writing is good, the characters are engaging (I loved Evan), and the storyline is well executed. It just isn’t for me.
I don’t know anything about G.L. Thomas, so what I didn’t like might be what draws others in as readers. I read to escape the realities of the world and I just felt like this book is heavy with sexism, feminism, colorism, etc. If I am reading a book with a main character that is trans, then I don’t need to be reminded every other page that they identify as x. Similarly, I didn’t need to be reminded throughout the book that the characters identified as cisgender. At times, I felt like the book was less romance and more social issues. I’m also not a huge fan of books that alternate between past & present, which does happen in this book.
Again, there is nothing wrong with the book. It simply did not align with the style of books that I prefer. The book is well written and I think that if you are looking for romance books with less fluff & more “life” then you will really enjoy this book. If it is available via Kindle Unlimited then I suggest you check it out and form your own opinion :)
December 28, 2020
This is my first time reading this writing duo. In The Love Bet, you’ll find a very good, unexpectedly sexy second chance romance. I particularly enjoyed the romance but found other bits overdone and clunky.
I’m not Dominican. However, as a straight-up US-born black girl who has natural hair, who also has straight-up US-born black parents and siblings who are all-natural, some of this was too much even for me. It was almost like the writing was constantly trying to convince me of the heroine’s blackness. IMO, it was very heavy-handed at times, particularly things like the number/alphabet soup (i.e. 4C), which I assume has to do with hair color. Why not just say brownish-black? The addition of this jargon likely doesn’t add clarity for many readers and, for me, muddied the writing with no value-add speed bumps?
There were also a few other instances where it felt like this wasn’t written for a US audience. For instance, when giving a clothing size the heroine uses the EU measurement of twenty-six. The fact that the number was spelled out also seemed weird, since one doesn’t usually do that for clothing sizes, or any number that’s 10 or higher.
At 20%, when the authors stopped trying so hard to convince us of the heroine’s blackness, this became an interesting and engaging romance about a mixed-race and culturally diverse couple who find love a second time around.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I’m not Dominican. However, as a straight-up US-born black girl who has natural hair, who also has straight-up US-born black parents and siblings who are all-natural, some of this was too much even for me. It was almost like the writing was constantly trying to convince me of the heroine’s blackness. IMO, it was very heavy-handed at times, particularly things like the number/alphabet soup (i.e. 4C), which I assume has to do with hair color. Why not just say brownish-black? The addition of this jargon likely doesn’t add clarity for many readers and, for me, muddied the writing with no value-add speed bumps?
There were also a few other instances where it felt like this wasn’t written for a US audience. For instance, when giving a clothing size the heroine uses the EU measurement of twenty-six. The fact that the number was spelled out also seemed weird, since one doesn’t usually do that for clothing sizes, or any number that’s 10 or higher.
At 20%, when the authors stopped trying so hard to convince us of the heroine’s blackness, this became an interesting and engaging romance about a mixed-race and culturally diverse couple who find love a second time around.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 4, 2021
Complicated but enlightening romance. I learned a lot about Dominican-American culture from the heroine of this book, Luz. Her romance with Evan, an Italian high school basketball star, starts over again in their 30s, through a few well-timed coincidences.
Very nicely written, the story alternates between "then" and "now" and between their points of view. They each learn a lot about themselves, both "then" and "now." Luz, in the present, seems pretty selfish and afraid of vulnerability. Evan, in the past and present, works too hard for her in some ways. I would have liked to hear more about the relationships that happened between "then" and "now." It seemed that more than Luz's family had hurt and demeaned her, but there are no details. There was also not enough on how they navigated the inter-racial relationship and the family responses. How does it feel to be the only Black person in the Italian household? How does it feel to be the only white person in the Dominican household? It can't be easy, but it was glossed over.
There is a lot of sex and frank discussion, especially of women's needs and issues related to sex. All information was factual and frank.
There were not many problems with punctuation and so on, but some odd words were not accounted for by the Black dialect. For example, it is "blow a gasket," not a "casket.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Very nicely written, the story alternates between "then" and "now" and between their points of view. They each learn a lot about themselves, both "then" and "now." Luz, in the present, seems pretty selfish and afraid of vulnerability. Evan, in the past and present, works too hard for her in some ways. I would have liked to hear more about the relationships that happened between "then" and "now." It seemed that more than Luz's family had hurt and demeaned her, but there are no details. There was also not enough on how they navigated the inter-racial relationship and the family responses. How does it feel to be the only Black person in the Italian household? How does it feel to be the only white person in the Dominican household? It can't be easy, but it was glossed over.
There is a lot of sex and frank discussion, especially of women's needs and issues related to sex. All information was factual and frank.
There were not many problems with punctuation and so on, but some odd words were not accounted for by the Black dialect. For example, it is "blow a gasket," not a "casket.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 24, 2020
This book is the first story I have read by this writing team. I really appreciated the nuanced layers to this story. The way the book was constructed with the past and present contrasting and sometimes dovetailing made for effective storytelling. I enjoyed the two main characters....Evan, more so, because he was easier to understand and perhaps easier to like. Luz has so much baggage that it was difficult to see the things Evan loved about her. She seemed to have a scorched earth approach to relationships. Her complex family dynamics “colored” her self concept. Being African-American, I am aware of colorism as it relates to the concept of slaves with lighter complexions being relegated to less menial tasks. G. L. Tomas educated me on how this concept plays out in other African descended cultures. I absolutely recommend this book and will check other stories by these authors, including the upcoming sequel to Evan and Luz’s story. Two things of note but did not take away from the story: I am not sure if the BET was valid since they had a prior relationship and one could argue that they never got over each other....the other thing was all the talk about hair color 4 C....2 B....this is the only part of the book I kind of skipped
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 24, 2020
The Love Bet by G. L. Tomas is your classic second chance trope. Luz and Evan were high school sweethearts that ended with a misunderstanding. Now years later, after an assignment Luz receives they end up at the same singles meeting and make the love bet. I had many ups and downs with this story. With Luz being such a strong feminist and having no qualms about telling you what she wants, I initially was all about the girl power, get it girl, Queen vibes! As the story progressed I became more annoyed that she was so self-absorbed and didn’t see what was right in front of her. I’m glad the author completely addressed this but it also caused me to have a hard time connecting with her again. I did appreciate the way the author addresses certain issues as well that will hopefully open up many people’s eyes. However, with this story based in 2020, they wouldn’t have gone to a concert and definitely wouldn’t have gone against so many mandates for the get togethers that are mentioned, so for continuity, that bugged me. Overall though, I did enjoy this book and am grateful the publisher provided me an ARC through NetGalley. I am definitely looking forward to the next book in the series!
June 17, 2025
I really had high hopes for this book, I was so looking forward to reading it but when I got around to it, it just fell flat. I give it a generous 2.8 stars, but if I'm being honest with myself, it was really a 1.8 star read for me (after I sat on this review for a while I decided to downgrade my rating, this review was copied and pasted from my bookstagram @chey.reads.sometimes). There was so much potential for this story and it fell flat. It felt like they were just trying to check boxes to make the book as inclusive as possible. Instead of showing us the story was inclusive we are told how inclusive it is. I don't mind a "woke" read if that's what you want to call it, if it is done right then it will be great but the way this was done really impacted this book in a bad way. And the FMC is so stubborn and not willing to see her flaws in her character while expecting everyone around her to be better themselves... I was determined to finish this book but if I'm being honest I would have DNF'd it. I will not be finishing this series.
The opinions that I have on this book are solely mine, if you have a better time with this one that I love that for you 🫶🏻
The opinions that I have on this book are solely mine, if you have a better time with this one that I love that for you 🫶🏻
January 1, 2021
"That’s what being a good boyfriend was all about. Compromise."
I have a feeling, in one way or another, that ALL romances, have a bit of a second chance romance element among them. Who hasn't broken up, even for second, at sometime throughout their romance? Luz and Evan broke up for REAL, in their high school years, and the stayed that way, for nearly fifteen years. The result? Luz doesn't DO relationships, anymore. That is, until a chance meeting puts these two, who CLEARLY have unresolved issues, back into that uncomfortable position, known as "face-to-face." It's just a test! Uh-huh. Just testing a theory. Sure. We believe you, Luz. While Luz lies to herself, we see that Evan admits the truth to himself - that he has absolutely no intention of EVER, letting her go, AGAIN. Will there be some issues? We'd be disappointed if there weren't. Insecurities? DUH! Misunderstandings? Humorous moments? Sexy encounters? Romance? Inevitably... unavoidably... hopefully... *SIGH*. I received this book as an ARC from Bad Boy Update, and I volunteered this review.
I have a feeling, in one way or another, that ALL romances, have a bit of a second chance romance element among them. Who hasn't broken up, even for second, at sometime throughout their romance? Luz and Evan broke up for REAL, in their high school years, and the stayed that way, for nearly fifteen years. The result? Luz doesn't DO relationships, anymore. That is, until a chance meeting puts these two, who CLEARLY have unresolved issues, back into that uncomfortable position, known as "face-to-face." It's just a test! Uh-huh. Just testing a theory. Sure. We believe you, Luz. While Luz lies to herself, we see that Evan admits the truth to himself - that he has absolutely no intention of EVER, letting her go, AGAIN. Will there be some issues? We'd be disappointed if there weren't. Insecurities? DUH! Misunderstandings? Humorous moments? Sexy encounters? Romance? Inevitably... unavoidably... hopefully... *SIGH*. I received this book as an ARC from Bad Boy Update, and I volunteered this review.
March 15, 2021
What a wonderful story, keeping me engaged and entertained from start to finish. Told from dual points of view, the readers are immersed into the lives of Luz and Evan, whose voices provide insight into who they are as individuals. The story flows seamlessly switching between the earlier days of their youthful friendship and romance into present day. More than a decade has passed since their relationship ended in heartbreak. Consciously or unconsciously their youthful union has had a profound effect on the people they have become.
Many aspects of the plot appealed to me. The authors addressing issues that are relatable not just in the Dominican community but throughout the Caribbean and the diaspora. Social issues are woven into the fabric with a deft touch.
The story concludes with a very satisfactory HFN ending. I can't wait to read the sequel and see what the authors have in store for Luz and Evan's romantic journey. I loved every moment of the couple's story as it resonated with chemistry, heat, healing and emotion.
Many aspects of the plot appealed to me. The authors addressing issues that are relatable not just in the Dominican community but throughout the Caribbean and the diaspora. Social issues are woven into the fabric with a deft touch.
The story concludes with a very satisfactory HFN ending. I can't wait to read the sequel and see what the authors have in store for Luz and Evan's romantic journey. I loved every moment of the couple's story as it resonated with chemistry, heat, healing and emotion.
January 4, 2021
I love a good second chance romance but at times this one left a lot to be desired. Luz and Evan were high school sweethearts and as these things usually go it didn’t end well and they went their separate ways.
The book held my attention in the first few chapters but then it was as if I was reading two different books. Perhaps the fact that GL Thomas who is actually two authors may have played a part here.
I thought too much time was spent on the different shades of blackness and hair type in her family. As a black woman I know all about the varying skin tones and curl patterns in our people, however I felt it was a bit overkill in this instance and really didn’t enhance the story.
Evan was okay but a bit too flawless in my opinion whilst Luz and her insecurities were rather glaring. Still you couldn’t help but see that they were clearly meant to be together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The book held my attention in the first few chapters but then it was as if I was reading two different books. Perhaps the fact that GL Thomas who is actually two authors may have played a part here.
I thought too much time was spent on the different shades of blackness and hair type in her family. As a black woman I know all about the varying skin tones and curl patterns in our people, however I felt it was a bit overkill in this instance and really didn’t enhance the story.
Evan was okay but a bit too flawless in my opinion whilst Luz and her insecurities were rather glaring. Still you couldn’t help but see that they were clearly meant to be together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 4, 2021
Deep and Meaningful
This book took a deep dive into 2 cultures and explored topics that some people still do not want to deal with. Then there was the love story. Evan and Luz's story was amazing to watch unfold, to see the damage that others can do to a union when insecurities are present and when people do not fit into the mold of cultural norms. I found myself rooting for Evan from the beginning and loved his willingness to learn how to be the man his girl needed, and still be true to the man he was becoming. It took me a while to root for Luz, and at one point I honestly thought her aunt took her phone and was pretending to be her while texting Evan, just to be someone else creating a rift between the two of them. I was super surprised that it was actually her destructive self. I am very glad that she experienced growth and admitted to love. I am greatly anticipating the continuation of there story and pre-ordered the book. December though!!!!! Sad face emoji.
This book took a deep dive into 2 cultures and explored topics that some people still do not want to deal with. Then there was the love story. Evan and Luz's story was amazing to watch unfold, to see the damage that others can do to a union when insecurities are present and when people do not fit into the mold of cultural norms. I found myself rooting for Evan from the beginning and loved his willingness to learn how to be the man his girl needed, and still be true to the man he was becoming. It took me a while to root for Luz, and at one point I honestly thought her aunt took her phone and was pretending to be her while texting Evan, just to be someone else creating a rift between the two of them. I was super surprised that it was actually her destructive self. I am very glad that she experienced growth and admitted to love. I am greatly anticipating the continuation of there story and pre-ordered the book. December though!!!!! Sad face emoji.
October 23, 2021
Loved it
I'm so glad I took the time out to read this book. I knew it was going to be a deep read but totally worth it because G.L. Tomas books always are. Luv was dealing with a lot of unresolved issues and handled them the best way she knew how without being confrontational ( like her mom). As we all know, things happen for a reason and her breakup and separation from Evan allowed her to grow up and live her own life. Luv still had issues she needed to deal with and her 2nd chance with Evan opened her eyes to all the work she needed to do with herself. Evan was the best boyfriend when the were young and an even better boyfriend as an adult. Evan has always loved Luv and knew she was the one for him. Evan was such a sweetheart that I'm glad Luv woke up and fixed things so she could be with him. I would have gladly taken Evan for myself😍. This a love bet that turned into a finally HEA. Definitely will be reading again.
I'm so glad I took the time out to read this book. I knew it was going to be a deep read but totally worth it because G.L. Tomas books always are. Luv was dealing with a lot of unresolved issues and handled them the best way she knew how without being confrontational ( like her mom). As we all know, things happen for a reason and her breakup and separation from Evan allowed her to grow up and live her own life. Luv still had issues she needed to deal with and her 2nd chance with Evan opened her eyes to all the work she needed to do with herself. Evan was the best boyfriend when the were young and an even better boyfriend as an adult. Evan has always loved Luv and knew she was the one for him. Evan was such a sweetheart that I'm glad Luv woke up and fixed things so she could be with him. I would have gladly taken Evan for myself😍. This a love bet that turned into a finally HEA. Definitely will be reading again.
January 6, 2021
This was such a relatable book. Most of us 30 somethings can relate to the young broken heart, the generational curses, the journey to self awareness and acceptance, and learning to share our flaws with others. I saw soo much of myself in Luz. Every brown skin girl has dealt with colorism, antiquated family views, and judgement. These are topics so rarely discussed but they affect is soo deeply. Just like how many of us want that final closure with our first love. This book gives us single girls hope....although you almost lost me with the one on one game at the end lol. Too much love and basketball meets Trainwrecked but you brought me back with Luz's explanation. You know it's real love when a girl will try to play basketball with no skills in front of teenage kids lol.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2021
Loved it!
Evan is a very sweet man - he listens and learns like no other. I really loved the communication between Evan and Luz. - this type of honest communication is hard to see in romance books and real life.
Luz was also super great at communication - she does have some underline issues but who doesn't
I have to say I was not up on the lingo within this story. I was lost a bit on the terms. The level of woke-ness went over my head a little but I appreciate keeping up with the times.
The sex scene was HOT! HOT! HOT! Amazing!
The one thing I didn't understand is the mention of Covid19 - the rest of the story didn't stay in line with quarantine, masks, sanitizing, or work from home changes so I didn't see the point of randomly one time mentioning it
Loved this novel overall
Evan is a very sweet man - he listens and learns like no other. I really loved the communication between Evan and Luz. - this type of honest communication is hard to see in romance books and real life.
Luz was also super great at communication - she does have some underline issues but who doesn't
I have to say I was not up on the lingo within this story. I was lost a bit on the terms. The level of woke-ness went over my head a little but I appreciate keeping up with the times.
The sex scene was HOT! HOT! HOT! Amazing!
The one thing I didn't understand is the mention of Covid19 - the rest of the story didn't stay in line with quarantine, masks, sanitizing, or work from home changes so I didn't see the point of randomly one time mentioning it
Loved this novel overall
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2021
I received a free ARC from Hidden Gems for the promise of an honest review.
It was good. Luz and Evan are from different worlds. Evan is an Italian rich jock. Luz is a nerdy Black Dominican. They met in high school and Luz was Evan's tutor. They forged a friendship that became romantic. A misunderstanding leads to the going their separate ways. Now 15 years later, they run into each other at a speed dating event. Luz has an article to write about whether or not a person could fl in love after 3 intimate dates. Evan agrees to be her test subject. The sparks fly and they discover they are still wildly attracted to each other.
I liked both Evan and Luz. Although Luz is her own worst enemy.
It was good. Luz and Evan are from different worlds. Evan is an Italian rich jock. Luz is a nerdy Black Dominican. They met in high school and Luz was Evan's tutor. They forged a friendship that became romantic. A misunderstanding leads to the going their separate ways. Now 15 years later, they run into each other at a speed dating event. Luz has an article to write about whether or not a person could fl in love after 3 intimate dates. Evan agrees to be her test subject. The sparks fly and they discover they are still wildly attracted to each other.
I liked both Evan and Luz. Although Luz is her own worst enemy.
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