What do you think?
Rate this book
One Weekend in Aspen
If you had the chance to have one fantasy fulfilled, what would it be?
Fresh out of a ten-year relationship, Emily Brookstone wants to let loose. But she’s not exactly the let-loose type. When she gets invited to spend a no-strings-attached weekend in Aspen with eight other women, the words “good for you” come to mind. Maybe a fling with a charming stranger is just what she needs.
Alex Murphy travels the world for her job. She has no trouble getting dates wherever she lands and life is full of short-term escapades and fantasy weekends. Yet finding someone to share life with feels impossible. Until she meets Emily.
What happens on one snowy weekend in Aspen could change everything. But is a gamble on love worth all the risk?
Genre: Romance
Editor: Heather Flournoy
Cover Designer: Kayla Mancuso
Fresh out of a ten-year relationship, Emily Brookstone wants to let loose. But she’s not exactly the let-loose type. When she gets invited to spend a no-strings-attached weekend in Aspen with eight other women, the words “good for you” come to mind. Maybe a fling with a charming stranger is just what she needs.
Alex Murphy travels the world for her job. She has no trouble getting dates wherever she lands and life is full of short-term escapades and fantasy weekends. Yet finding someone to share life with feels impossible. Until she meets Emily.
What happens on one snowy weekend in Aspen could change everything. But is a gamble on love worth all the risk?
Genre: Romance
Editor: Heather Flournoy
Cover Designer: Kayla Mancuso
Audible Audio
Published June 29, 2021
33 people are currently reading
745 people want to read
About the author
Jaime Clevenger
38 books328 followersJaime Clevenger lives with family in Colorado. Most days are spent working as a veterinarian. Writing is a side gig but also a true love. Hobbies include swimming, karate, dreaming about beach vacations, and convincing random strangers to share their life story. Bonus points are given if they include a good romance—whether or not there’s a happy ending.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
May 27, 2021
This was an enjoyable read. I’ve been a fan of Clevenger for a while. While I don’t always click with all of her books, some of her books have been big hits for me like, Three Reasons to Say Yes. I always look forward to reading her new books since I know she has the ability to write a story that I loved. While this new one is not in the ‘love’ territory, it easy made it into the ‘really like’ category instead.
As others have mentioned, I do think the blurb is a little too vague. You see the hints, but it doesn’t come right out and say that the characters are going to a sex party. I found that the book had a little bit of an identity crisis at first. It started very much in the romance lane, but then took a turn more into erotica. I got a little frustrated with that turn. There are certain rules I think work in a romance, that are thrown out the window in erotica. I’m reading this thinking romance, and I actually yelled “oh hell no!” because a character crossed that line that I’m not okay with in a romance. I honestly started worrying this book might not be for me. Luckily, I finally realized that this book really is between erotica and romance, and it is what I consider a steamy romance. Once I realized the right lane for this book, everything started to click.
I’ve had a rough few days at work so I only wanted to read a few quick chapters last night. I was so hooked into this book that I woke up early today just so I could get 30 minutes of reading time in before I had to leave for work. I don’t know how else to explain it beyond that when Clevenger is on a writing roll, her books flow so easily and you just can’t put them down.
I enjoyed a lot of the characters and even thought the character you are not supposed to like, was a good book fit. I could not help but have a character crush on Alex. She was just about perfect except for some of her “ex” baggage. Emily, was another good main although I wanted to knock some sense into her but the book needed some angst so I get it. The mains have a lot of chemistry together but it is much more sexual chemistry then emotional. I kept wishing that they would get a little deeper, but the type of book it is, I get why that might not have worked. I will agree with other reviewers that there is one sex scenes that was pretty steamy until there was too much conversation going on. I actually liked it at first, I felt like they were finally getting deeper emotionally, but it ended up being too much ex talk which doesn’t work well with sex scenes.
I don’t know if Clevenger would write a spin-off with some of the other characters but I would be interested in reading it. When the book was over I felt like I wanted more. I was disappointed that we didn’t get to see the conflict scenes with Emily and her boss. There was all this angst around what might happen, plus I wanted Emily to assert herself more as part of her character growth. It seemed like a pretty big miss not getting to see it.
This had two or three bumps that kept this from being 5 star territory, but I really enjoyed it. Clevenger once wrote an erotic ‘choose your own adventure book’ so I’m not surprised she was able to make this steamy romance work so well. This book is more romance than you would expect about a sex party story. If you want to try something a tad steamier, but don’t want to go really erotic, this might be the perfect middle book to read.
A copy was given to me for a review.
As others have mentioned, I do think the blurb is a little too vague. You see the hints, but it doesn’t come right out and say that the characters are going to a sex party. I found that the book had a little bit of an identity crisis at first. It started very much in the romance lane, but then took a turn more into erotica. I got a little frustrated with that turn. There are certain rules I think work in a romance, that are thrown out the window in erotica. I’m reading this thinking romance, and I actually yelled “oh hell no!” because a character crossed that line that I’m not okay with in a romance. I honestly started worrying this book might not be for me. Luckily, I finally realized that this book really is between erotica and romance, and it is what I consider a steamy romance. Once I realized the right lane for this book, everything started to click.
I’ve had a rough few days at work so I only wanted to read a few quick chapters last night. I was so hooked into this book that I woke up early today just so I could get 30 minutes of reading time in before I had to leave for work. I don’t know how else to explain it beyond that when Clevenger is on a writing roll, her books flow so easily and you just can’t put them down.
I enjoyed a lot of the characters and even thought the character you are not supposed to like, was a good book fit. I could not help but have a character crush on Alex. She was just about perfect except for some of her “ex” baggage. Emily, was another good main although I wanted to knock some sense into her but the book needed some angst so I get it. The mains have a lot of chemistry together but it is much more sexual chemistry then emotional. I kept wishing that they would get a little deeper, but the type of book it is, I get why that might not have worked. I will agree with other reviewers that there is one sex scenes that was pretty steamy until there was too much conversation going on. I actually liked it at first, I felt like they were finally getting deeper emotionally, but it ended up being too much ex talk which doesn’t work well with sex scenes.
I don’t know if Clevenger would write a spin-off with some of the other characters but I would be interested in reading it. When the book was over I felt like I wanted more. I was disappointed that we didn’t get to see the conflict scenes with Emily and her boss. There was all this angst around what might happen, plus I wanted Emily to assert herself more as part of her character growth. It seemed like a pretty big miss not getting to see it.
This had two or three bumps that kept this from being 5 star territory, but I really enjoyed it. Clevenger once wrote an erotic ‘choose your own adventure book’ so I’m not surprised she was able to make this steamy romance work so well. This book is more romance than you would expect about a sex party story. If you want to try something a tad steamier, but don’t want to go really erotic, this might be the perfect middle book to read.
A copy was given to me for a review.
May 7, 2021
Anyone wanna go to a sex party?
This book is hot, kinky hot and it is about this weekend sex party in Aspen involving nine gorgeous women. This includes one irresistible MC whom half the party wants to shag.
Most in the group are familiar with each other and they do this regularly. But this time, it is different for Alex. Alex is almost over casual sex and is eager to start a more sustainable relationship. She also can't get over the woman she met the day before on the inbound flight. Coincidentally, the same woman shows up to the party.
I like Alex and I can visualise how hot she is and how great in bed she must be. And I do believe her when she says she wants a change and share the white picket fence life with somebody. Emily is a suitable choice considering how different she is from the people Alex mixes with. Her ten year marriage had been the opposite of Alex’s stream of orgies. The refreshing differences between them make it believable that they would be attached to each other quickly and I must admit that they have chemistry even if I'm not usually a fan of insta-love.
But I am not convinced that their relationship is built to last. I don’t trust Alex’s lack of self-control around party mastermind, Katherine. And honestly, it is hard to tell if Alex and Emily are compatible in just one weekend.
I think Clevenger writes sex scenes well although I don't find bringing up an ex constantly in bed to be sexy. (Talking about exes in bed ought to be criminalised with two spanks as punishment.) But I thought Clevenger could have been more adventurous in Emily's sexual exploration. And considering all the hype about Alex in bed, I was left a tad disappointed that sex between the MCs was more vanilla that I expected.
I think there will be a continuation to this story and I’m looking forward to it because despite everything, I still want to see more of Alex and Emily. Some of the other women are also really fascinating. I’m rounding this up to four stars for the entertainment value.
I received an ARC from Bella Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is hot, kinky hot and it is about this weekend sex party in Aspen involving nine gorgeous women. This includes one irresistible MC whom half the party wants to shag.
Most in the group are familiar with each other and they do this regularly. But this time, it is different for Alex. Alex is almost over casual sex and is eager to start a more sustainable relationship. She also can't get over the woman she met the day before on the inbound flight. Coincidentally, the same woman shows up to the party.
I like Alex and I can visualise how hot she is and how great in bed she must be. And I do believe her when she says she wants a change and share the white picket fence life with somebody. Emily is a suitable choice considering how different she is from the people Alex mixes with. Her ten year marriage had been the opposite of Alex’s stream of orgies. The refreshing differences between them make it believable that they would be attached to each other quickly and I must admit that they have chemistry even if I'm not usually a fan of insta-love.
But I am not convinced that their relationship is built to last. I don’t trust Alex’s lack of self-control around party mastermind, Katherine. And honestly, it is hard to tell if Alex and Emily are compatible in just one weekend.
I think Clevenger writes sex scenes well although I don't find bringing up an ex constantly in bed to be sexy. (Talking about exes in bed ought to be criminalised with two spanks as punishment.) But I thought Clevenger could have been more adventurous in Emily's sexual exploration. And considering all the hype about Alex in bed, I was left a tad disappointed that sex between the MCs was more vanilla that I expected.
I think there will be a continuation to this story and I’m looking forward to it because despite everything, I still want to see more of Alex and Emily. Some of the other women are also really fascinating. I’m rounding this up to four stars for the entertainment value.
I received an ARC from Bella Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2021
Hot and cozy, is that possible, yes, it is! While this entire book revolves around a sex party where fantasies come to life, it is at the same time really sweet and I was surprised by how much I liked the combination.
The main attraction is a sex party, it can only be attended by invite and it is lush and extravagant, as are all its attendants, except for Emily perhaps. She stands with both feet on the ground and is your (gorgeous) girl next door. She’s a personal chef and the organizer of the party, Katherine, is one of her clients. Emily’s marriage just ended and after some consideration Emily decides to accept the invite to the party.
Alex is a successful IT consultant, she has the ultimate player status and is a regular at the parties as she is intimately acquainted with Katherine. Before the party starts Emily and Alex meet on the flight in, there is flirting and attraction, but both are unaware of the others’ destination for the weekend. Surprise!
I liked that this novel does not follow the standard romance formula. First, well, they sort of meet at a sex party, which is not the most conventional way to start a romance. There is a lot of focus on sex and all kinds of kink. This might not be to everybody’s liking, but I liked how open and natural it is presented and it’s just smoking hot if you’re in to it!
While there is a lot of focus on sex, it does actually take a while before our two mains actually have sex and I found it surprisingly low key after all the talk (and not only talk) of fantasies. To me the much-anticipated scene was not perfect (yes, it’s has been mentioned by other reviewers, talk of exes in the bedroom should be banned, it’s just not sexy), but in general it was sweet.
Second, the sex party is a turning point in the lives of Emily and Alex, but their new goals are in fact not lining up at all. Emily just came out of a ten-year marriage and wants to build a new life, she wants to forget her ex and retrieve some confidence in her sex life. She’s not looking for a relationship, so a sex party seems like a good way to start. Alex on the other hand, only has had casual sex and very short-term relationships that do not go anywhere and this is going to be her last party, she desperately wants to find love and start a family. Obviously, it’s a romance, so you know where this is going, but I did not expect how it ended up there, it felt believable and I liked it.
Most of the party-goers are regulars, which inevitably ends in some soap opera drama. It’s supposed to be all just fun and casual sex, but when feelings come into play…. After meeting the women, you soon realize that there is so much more going on between them than just sex, it’s messy and very entertaining. The secondary characters were very enjoyable, although Katherine was a bit flat as a rich manipulative bitch.
In summary, an excellent book if you’re looking for some hot sexy times, but also a sweet romance. It was an addictive read and I’m already looking forward to Clevenger’s next release.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The main attraction is a sex party, it can only be attended by invite and it is lush and extravagant, as are all its attendants, except for Emily perhaps. She stands with both feet on the ground and is your (gorgeous) girl next door. She’s a personal chef and the organizer of the party, Katherine, is one of her clients. Emily’s marriage just ended and after some consideration Emily decides to accept the invite to the party.
Alex is a successful IT consultant, she has the ultimate player status and is a regular at the parties as she is intimately acquainted with Katherine. Before the party starts Emily and Alex meet on the flight in, there is flirting and attraction, but both are unaware of the others’ destination for the weekend. Surprise!
I liked that this novel does not follow the standard romance formula. First, well, they sort of meet at a sex party, which is not the most conventional way to start a romance. There is a lot of focus on sex and all kinds of kink. This might not be to everybody’s liking, but I liked how open and natural it is presented and it’s just smoking hot if you’re in to it!
While there is a lot of focus on sex, it does actually take a while before our two mains actually have sex and I found it surprisingly low key after all the talk (and not only talk) of fantasies. To me the much-anticipated scene was not perfect (yes, it’s has been mentioned by other reviewers, talk of exes in the bedroom should be banned, it’s just not sexy), but in general it was sweet.
Second, the sex party is a turning point in the lives of Emily and Alex, but their new goals are in fact not lining up at all. Emily just came out of a ten-year marriage and wants to build a new life, she wants to forget her ex and retrieve some confidence in her sex life. She’s not looking for a relationship, so a sex party seems like a good way to start. Alex on the other hand, only has had casual sex and very short-term relationships that do not go anywhere and this is going to be her last party, she desperately wants to find love and start a family. Obviously, it’s a romance, so you know where this is going, but I did not expect how it ended up there, it felt believable and I liked it.
Most of the party-goers are regulars, which inevitably ends in some soap opera drama. It’s supposed to be all just fun and casual sex, but when feelings come into play…. After meeting the women, you soon realize that there is so much more going on between them than just sex, it’s messy and very entertaining. The secondary characters were very enjoyable, although Katherine was a bit flat as a rich manipulative bitch.
In summary, an excellent book if you’re looking for some hot sexy times, but also a sweet romance. It was an addictive read and I’m already looking forward to Clevenger’s next release.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2021
Who’d have thought a book about a sex party would be full of suspense? I couldn’t put One Weekend in Aspen down, I had to know what would happen next. I would have read it in one sitting if life had let me, but as it is, I had to stop reading it for a whole day. Yet now that I have turned the last page, I’m sad it’s over. I really didn’t want it to end.
Emily’s marriage of ten years just ended but the breakup had been years in the making. Even so, she doesn’t feel ready for a new relationship, yet probably wouldn’t say no to casual sex, an easy re-entry into the world of dating, without pressure. Would a sex party fit that definition? Probably not but Gianna, Emily’s best friend, won’t let Emily decline the invitation to one of Katherine’s famous women-only weekends. Who cares that Katherine is Emily’s client? There will be eight other women to choose from. On the plane to Aspen, Emily finds herself seated next to Alex, who turns out to be as charming as she’s gorgeous. Easy flirting entertains them on the flight, phone numbers are exchanged but Emily doesn’t think she’ll ever see Alex again.
With this book, Jaime Clevenger did something that I didn’t think was possible, not to that level: she wrote an incredibly hot story that will, at the same time, give you all the feels. Without even a puppy or a kitten (which for the sexy parts is actually a good thing, I don’t even know why my mind went there). The only other book that made me feel this way is Party Favors by Erin McLellan, but it’s a novella, whereas One Weekend in Aspen is a full-length novel.
What makes this book remarkable isn’t beautiful literary writing – it’s very well-written but I don’t think any sentence will make the reader pause in wonder. It’s an accumulation of little things. The very sex-positive stance is glorious. Sex is wonderful, and there’s no shame in enjoying it, in whichever – consensual – way it comes, contrary to what we, especially girls and women, are often thoughtlessly taught. That’s something Emily has forgotten over the course of her marriage. The pace is excellent, there’s humour and banter (flirtatious and not), tension and passion. All characters are complex and multilayered, and the two mains are enchanting. Quite a few of the secondary characters deserve their own story. Just saying.
ARC provided to Les Rêveur for an honest review.
Emily’s marriage of ten years just ended but the breakup had been years in the making. Even so, she doesn’t feel ready for a new relationship, yet probably wouldn’t say no to casual sex, an easy re-entry into the world of dating, without pressure. Would a sex party fit that definition? Probably not but Gianna, Emily’s best friend, won’t let Emily decline the invitation to one of Katherine’s famous women-only weekends. Who cares that Katherine is Emily’s client? There will be eight other women to choose from. On the plane to Aspen, Emily finds herself seated next to Alex, who turns out to be as charming as she’s gorgeous. Easy flirting entertains them on the flight, phone numbers are exchanged but Emily doesn’t think she’ll ever see Alex again.
With this book, Jaime Clevenger did something that I didn’t think was possible, not to that level: she wrote an incredibly hot story that will, at the same time, give you all the feels. Without even a puppy or a kitten (which for the sexy parts is actually a good thing, I don’t even know why my mind went there). The only other book that made me feel this way is Party Favors by Erin McLellan, but it’s a novella, whereas One Weekend in Aspen is a full-length novel.
What makes this book remarkable isn’t beautiful literary writing – it’s very well-written but I don’t think any sentence will make the reader pause in wonder. It’s an accumulation of little things. The very sex-positive stance is glorious. Sex is wonderful, and there’s no shame in enjoying it, in whichever – consensual – way it comes, contrary to what we, especially girls and women, are often thoughtlessly taught. That’s something Emily has forgotten over the course of her marriage. The pace is excellent, there’s humour and banter (flirtatious and not), tension and passion. All characters are complex and multilayered, and the two mains are enchanting. Quite a few of the secondary characters deserve their own story. Just saying.
ARC provided to Les Rêveur for an honest review.
May 15, 2021
3.5 Stars
“One Weekend in Aspen” is about Emily and Alex who spend one weekend in Aspen…
Hah, I’m funny right?
I’m not sure if this is considered an erotic romance as there really isn’t that much actual sex happening for a lot of the book. On the other hand, this weekend in Aspen is centered around a sex party with 9 gorgeous, queer people and there is a lot of sexual tension going around.
To be honest, had I known this was about a sex party I wouldn’t have read this book to begin with but I misread the blurb and already had the book when I saw another review mentioning the sex party weekend. I went in thinking I would hate it but it turns out the sex party theme didn’t turn me off too much. While I don’t understand it myself, I could appreciate the escapism from reality with this book.
Emily is a personal chef and recently separated from her wife of 10 years. One of her clients, Katherine, invites her to an invitation only party and she can’t resist going. On her flight to Aspen, she meets Alex and they hit it off instantly. They are surprised later to discover one another at Katherine’s party. Emily is hoping to finally have a no strings attached good time and Alex seemingly fits that description perfectly.
In the beginning, I wasn’t entirely sold on Emily being ready for another relationship as she’s not even divorced yet. Also, all the comparisons and mentions of Cass, her soon-to-be ex-wife, got old very quickly. I’m not sure if this was Clevenger’s way of showing how perfect Alex was for Emily but I didn’t need Emily pitting Cass and Alex against one another (even if only to herself) to sell it.
However, I really enjoyed Alex and Emily together. I think they complemented each other well and had great sexual chemistry. Sadly, I didn’t feel much of an emotional connection. Granted, a sex party isn’t really conducive to an emotional connection but it’s necessary for me in a romance. I did appreciate the small time jump in the end to let me see that even though I didn’t see in on the page, an emotional connection seems to be established.
I did enjoy this overall and think most others will too, I recommend this to readers looking for a steamy romance that doesn’t dig too deep emotionally.
*As a note to people like me (those who don’t like seeing our mains in sexual situations with others) there are no explicit scenes with other people with either of our mains.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
“One Weekend in Aspen” is about Emily and Alex who spend one weekend in Aspen…
Hah, I’m funny right?
I’m not sure if this is considered an erotic romance as there really isn’t that much actual sex happening for a lot of the book. On the other hand, this weekend in Aspen is centered around a sex party with 9 gorgeous, queer people and there is a lot of sexual tension going around.
To be honest, had I known this was about a sex party I wouldn’t have read this book to begin with but I misread the blurb and already had the book when I saw another review mentioning the sex party weekend. I went in thinking I would hate it but it turns out the sex party theme didn’t turn me off too much. While I don’t understand it myself, I could appreciate the escapism from reality with this book.
Emily is a personal chef and recently separated from her wife of 10 years. One of her clients, Katherine, invites her to an invitation only party and she can’t resist going. On her flight to Aspen, she meets Alex and they hit it off instantly. They are surprised later to discover one another at Katherine’s party. Emily is hoping to finally have a no strings attached good time and Alex seemingly fits that description perfectly.
In the beginning, I wasn’t entirely sold on Emily being ready for another relationship as she’s not even divorced yet. Also, all the comparisons and mentions of Cass, her soon-to-be ex-wife, got old very quickly. I’m not sure if this was Clevenger’s way of showing how perfect Alex was for Emily but I didn’t need Emily pitting Cass and Alex against one another (even if only to herself) to sell it.
However, I really enjoyed Alex and Emily together. I think they complemented each other well and had great sexual chemistry. Sadly, I didn’t feel much of an emotional connection. Granted, a sex party isn’t really conducive to an emotional connection but it’s necessary for me in a romance. I did appreciate the small time jump in the end to let me see that even though I didn’t see in on the page, an emotional connection seems to be established.
I did enjoy this overall and think most others will too, I recommend this to readers looking for a steamy romance that doesn’t dig too deep emotionally.
*As a note to people like me (those who don’t like seeing our mains in sexual situations with others) there are no explicit scenes with other people with either of our mains.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2021
My favorite part of this book is Alex. But also Alex. Then of course, there’s also Alex.
Emily is invited to her wealthy client’s home in Colorado for a high end sex party. She’s never dipped into that scene but a bad breakup spurs her into shaking up her routine. On the plane, she meets Alex, a delicious distraction, who charms her and who is the perfect salve for a sad heart. A snowstorm strikes and in true trope style, they’re stuck together while on the final leg of their trip.
More angst and couples’ drama than nitty gritty sex, the story focuses more on Emily who just found a bit of freedom and Alex who is finally ready to settle down, a case of wrong time, wrong place. They’ve got wonderful chemistry and when the steams does happen, it’s very good. I liked Emily but Alex has entered my room of Book Crushes.
Sexy, enjoyable read.
Emily is invited to her wealthy client’s home in Colorado for a high end sex party. She’s never dipped into that scene but a bad breakup spurs her into shaking up her routine. On the plane, she meets Alex, a delicious distraction, who charms her and who is the perfect salve for a sad heart. A snowstorm strikes and in true trope style, they’re stuck together while on the final leg of their trip.
More angst and couples’ drama than nitty gritty sex, the story focuses more on Emily who just found a bit of freedom and Alex who is finally ready to settle down, a case of wrong time, wrong place. They’ve got wonderful chemistry and when the steams does happen, it’s very good. I liked Emily but Alex has entered my room of Book Crushes.
Sexy, enjoyable read.
May 3, 2021
Jaime Clevenger is on my automatic list of authors to read so when I realised she had a new release, I already knew that I was going to read it. But when I read the blurb, it definitely caught my attention. I’m happy to say that I wasn’t disappointed.
Emily Brookstone has just ended a ten-year-old relationship when her most important client invites her to a no-strings-attached sex party weekend with a group of women. She cannot say no but she’s not the partying type either. Alex Murphy is exactly the woman who goes to sex party weekends but she’s tired of casual relationships and is ready to commit. Since meeting Emily on the plane, she feels a connection but being part of a sex party is not exactly conducive to a serious relationship. Or is it?
I knew that Ms. Clevenger can write awesome sex scenes since I’ve read her erotica book Party Favors followed by her Paradise Romance series. So, I wasn’t surprised to see that One Weekend in Aspen was seriously hot. No, scratch that, this book is smoking, sizzling hot. I wouldn’t put the erotica label on this one (and the publisher doesn’t do it either) because there are more things to this novel: romance, chemistry and lesbian drama, all in equal parts. Having said that, the amount of sex and the level of heat makes it very close to it. So, if you are looking for serious steam in your romance you should add this book to your list.
Apart from excelling at writing sex scenes, this author can write lesbian drama as well. I admit I’m not a fan of relationship drama but this story called for it and Ms. Clevenger delivered it in spades. The kind of drama that sounds plausible and keeps the reader turning pages. It never felt too much or unjustified. Coming from a drama-phobic like me, it’s a huge compliment.
This novel has a cast of secondary characters that play an important role in the story. Ms. Clevenger did a good job at making them all distinct in personalities and backgrounds which made them easy to recognise. However, the leads steal the show: both Alex and Emily are very well fleshed out and their chemistry is both sweet and sizzling so much so that it’s impossible not to root for them. So if you are looking for an equal part hot, romantic and drama-filled read, this one is for you. 5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Emily Brookstone has just ended a ten-year-old relationship when her most important client invites her to a no-strings-attached sex party weekend with a group of women. She cannot say no but she’s not the partying type either. Alex Murphy is exactly the woman who goes to sex party weekends but she’s tired of casual relationships and is ready to commit. Since meeting Emily on the plane, she feels a connection but being part of a sex party is not exactly conducive to a serious relationship. Or is it?
I knew that Ms. Clevenger can write awesome sex scenes since I’ve read her erotica book Party Favors followed by her Paradise Romance series. So, I wasn’t surprised to see that One Weekend in Aspen was seriously hot. No, scratch that, this book is smoking, sizzling hot. I wouldn’t put the erotica label on this one (and the publisher doesn’t do it either) because there are more things to this novel: romance, chemistry and lesbian drama, all in equal parts. Having said that, the amount of sex and the level of heat makes it very close to it. So, if you are looking for serious steam in your romance you should add this book to your list.
Apart from excelling at writing sex scenes, this author can write lesbian drama as well. I admit I’m not a fan of relationship drama but this story called for it and Ms. Clevenger delivered it in spades. The kind of drama that sounds plausible and keeps the reader turning pages. It never felt too much or unjustified. Coming from a drama-phobic like me, it’s a huge compliment.
This novel has a cast of secondary characters that play an important role in the story. Ms. Clevenger did a good job at making them all distinct in personalities and backgrounds which made them easy to recognise. However, the leads steal the show: both Alex and Emily are very well fleshed out and their chemistry is both sweet and sizzling so much so that it’s impossible not to root for them. So if you are looking for an equal part hot, romantic and drama-filled read, this one is for you. 5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2021
I feel like this is an objectively good and enjoyable book, but just not one for me. This is my first book by Clevenger and while I didn't love it, it definitely left a place in my mind and made me interested in her other books.
For starters I feel like I have to note I found it a little funny reading a book that takes place in a frosty climate and blizzard, when it is well into the triple digits where I live, nice little weather juxtaposition here.
This book follows Emily Brookstone and Alex Murphy. Emily is recently out of a 10 year marriage where the last seven were celibate, and Alex was pondering settling down from her fast paced work and personal life, when they meet on the way to a mutual friend's literal sex weekend in Aspen. And as soon as they start talking they are so drawn to each other, despite the weekend's shenanigans.
I love romance novels for emotional content, and strong interesting characters. Sex scenes are a bonus for me. And while this book does have interesting characters in spades, and it has emotional content, I personally felt like it was more sidelined for the sexual content. Even in scenes that weren't explicitly sexual I got a vibe that a lot of it was verbal forplay. And that isn't necessarily bad at all! It's just not what I'm really looking for in a book.
The connection between Emily and Alex also ventured a little close to instalove for me. I enjoyed the flirtation at the beginning but Alex's instant attachment and the closeness she and Emily get over the weekend just isn't my favorite.
I did really like a lot of this book though and especially its characters. They were so fun and even though a lot of the scenes were sexually charged, they were a fun cast with lots of personality. I also appreciate that the nonbinary member of the group was accepted into the group of lesbians without an issue. This book also did have a lot of tender moments, especially Emily's insecurities about her exwife and Alex's not knowing what she fully wants.
I was going to conclude by saying that this is a good book that just isn't a Jamie book, but then I remembered the author and I share a name (but not a spelling!) So I'll say that this is a book that I feel many people will like, but just that it had several different things that aren't my preferences, but I'm very interested in reading other works by Clevenger. 3.5/5
Thank you to Bella Books and NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
For starters I feel like I have to note I found it a little funny reading a book that takes place in a frosty climate and blizzard, when it is well into the triple digits where I live, nice little weather juxtaposition here.
This book follows Emily Brookstone and Alex Murphy. Emily is recently out of a 10 year marriage where the last seven were celibate, and Alex was pondering settling down from her fast paced work and personal life, when they meet on the way to a mutual friend's literal sex weekend in Aspen. And as soon as they start talking they are so drawn to each other, despite the weekend's shenanigans.
I love romance novels for emotional content, and strong interesting characters. Sex scenes are a bonus for me. And while this book does have interesting characters in spades, and it has emotional content, I personally felt like it was more sidelined for the sexual content. Even in scenes that weren't explicitly sexual I got a vibe that a lot of it was verbal forplay. And that isn't necessarily bad at all! It's just not what I'm really looking for in a book.
The connection between Emily and Alex also ventured a little close to instalove for me. I enjoyed the flirtation at the beginning but Alex's instant attachment and the closeness she and Emily get over the weekend just isn't my favorite.
I did really like a lot of this book though and especially its characters. They were so fun and even though a lot of the scenes were sexually charged, they were a fun cast with lots of personality. I also appreciate that the nonbinary member of the group was accepted into the group of lesbians without an issue. This book also did have a lot of tender moments, especially Emily's insecurities about her exwife and Alex's not knowing what she fully wants.
I was going to conclude by saying that this is a good book that just isn't a Jamie book, but then I remembered the author and I share a name (but not a spelling!) So I'll say that this is a book that I feel many people will like, but just that it had several different things that aren't my preferences, but I'm very interested in reading other works by Clevenger. 3.5/5
Thank you to Bella Books and NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
February 11, 2023
While I appreciate the ample spice, the whole sex party concept just doesn't tickle my pickle 😅
The characters were decently written with a bit of depth, but I found all the angst too needless. I'm all for angst, but I prefer it to be real, tangible obstacles rather than just miscommunications and character flaw. If we're taking the miscommunication and character flaw route, that's cool too, but please don't drag it out for so long 🤦
The sex was...well, kinky. There's some kinky sh*t, some BDSM, and a whole lot of sharing 😅😅😅 Wow...So, do with that what you will.
Overall, not a bad listen because Lori Prince is great. The story is decent, nothing that's likely to manage any level of sock removal (no knocking or blowing off here), but still worth a listen if you're in the mood for a bit of that spicier spice.
The characters were decently written with a bit of depth, but I found all the angst too needless. I'm all for angst, but I prefer it to be real, tangible obstacles rather than just miscommunications and character flaw. If we're taking the miscommunication and character flaw route, that's cool too, but please don't drag it out for so long 🤦
The sex was...well, kinky. There's some kinky sh*t, some BDSM, and a whole lot of sharing 😅😅😅 Wow...So, do with that what you will.
Overall, not a bad listen because Lori Prince is great. The story is decent, nothing that's likely to manage any level of sock removal (no knocking or blowing off here), but still worth a listen if you're in the mood for a bit of that spicier spice.
May 10, 2021
Was this book what I was expecting? No. Did I enjoy it? Sort of.
I was expecting more of a girls' weekend away with talks, and fun, maybe a bit of skiing. What I got was a sex party. It's clear from the beginning of the book that that is what your getting, but going by the blurb and definitely the cover as well, I wasn't expecting that. Honestly, if I would have known, I wouldn't have picked this up, this is not something I enjoy reading. I guess that's what you get for judging a book by its cover, something I do rather regularly and in lesfic you actually can't do that. Some lesfic books have awful covers, but turn out the be great reads. This one was a fine read, just the subject isn't for me.
Emily is a personal chef and one of her clients invites her to a weekend away in Aspen, she even pays for her first-class plane ticket. Emily needs a lot of convincing from her best friend to jump on the plane and let loose at this party. Fresh out of a 10-year marriage, without any real physical contact for 7 years (what???), she is rather unsure of what she wants and a little ashamed as well. On the plane Emily meets Alex, a hot shot IT consultant. The have some flirty banter and it is rather nice. That is until it all goes wrong, at least for me. When the story continues at the mansion in Aspen where the sex party is being held, it is all just too much for me. I skipped over a lot of things only to get to the flirty banter between our two mains. I actually like both characters, I think they fit pretty well together, but the romance I was expecting is one sided for too long. There is so much focus on the sex party that I feel like the romance takes a back seat, and I would have liked to see more of the romance. And the character who hosts these sex parties, Katherine, I dislike her from the beginning Such a manulipitive character with no redeeming qualities.
The other secondary characters seem fine enough, but for something qualified as a romance there is just way too much focus on sex for me. Very explicit sex, with BDSM and role playing.
I'm sure this storyline will work for some people, I'm just not one of those people. I feel like I've been misled by the cover and the blurb. The writing is good, mains are likeable enough, but the storysetting just isn't my cup of tea. 3 stars because the writing is good and I can see people will enjoy it, but it just isn't my thing.
* ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
I was expecting more of a girls' weekend away with talks, and fun, maybe a bit of skiing. What I got was a sex party. It's clear from the beginning of the book that that is what your getting, but going by the blurb and definitely the cover as well, I wasn't expecting that. Honestly, if I would have known, I wouldn't have picked this up, this is not something I enjoy reading. I guess that's what you get for judging a book by its cover, something I do rather regularly and in lesfic you actually can't do that. Some lesfic books have awful covers, but turn out the be great reads. This one was a fine read, just the subject isn't for me.
Emily is a personal chef and one of her clients invites her to a weekend away in Aspen, she even pays for her first-class plane ticket. Emily needs a lot of convincing from her best friend to jump on the plane and let loose at this party. Fresh out of a 10-year marriage, without any real physical contact for 7 years (what???), she is rather unsure of what she wants and a little ashamed as well. On the plane Emily meets Alex, a hot shot IT consultant. The have some flirty banter and it is rather nice. That is until it all goes wrong, at least for me. When the story continues at the mansion in Aspen where the sex party is being held, it is all just too much for me. I skipped over a lot of things only to get to the flirty banter between our two mains. I actually like both characters, I think they fit pretty well together, but the romance I was expecting is one sided for too long. There is so much focus on the sex party that I feel like the romance takes a back seat, and I would have liked to see more of the romance. And the character who hosts these sex parties, Katherine, I dislike her from the beginning Such a manulipitive character with no redeeming qualities.
The other secondary characters seem fine enough, but for something qualified as a romance there is just way too much focus on sex for me. Very explicit sex, with BDSM and role playing.
I'm sure this storyline will work for some people, I'm just not one of those people. I feel like I've been misled by the cover and the blurb. The writing is good, mains are likeable enough, but the storysetting just isn't my cup of tea. 3 stars because the writing is good and I can see people will enjoy it, but it just isn't my thing.
* ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
May 21, 2021
Jaime Clevenger is one of the authors that I always read when I get the chance. I will choose her books even before I read the blurb on the cover. I was really intrigued, however, when I read the blurb for One Weekend in Aspen. It’s not often you find a romance novel where the story revolves around a weekend sex party. That sounds like the beginning of an erotic novel, but this book is way more than that.
This is a tale about two women who meet when they’re both invited to a weekend in Aspen for a “no-strings-attached” consensual sex party. While this is a brand new experience for Emily Brookstone, it is definitely not Alex Murphy’s first party. The attraction between these two is immediate, but is a meeting like this a place to start a possible relationship?
Honestly, this novel blew me away. It has everything you need for a great romance. The premise is unique and definitely interesting. The setting is absolutely gorgeous. The people are what really makes this novel special though. Both main and secondary characters are so well-developed they seem real. They all have their own quirks, insecurities, and distinct personalities. Emily and Alex are easy to fall in love with…especially Alex. I really connected with her. Of course, with the premise of attending a sex party, there are bound to be some steamy sex scenes, but what happens between Emily and Alex goes far beyond mere physical release. The chemistry between these two is off the charts, and this shows with every touch and every kiss. This is what makes the story one of the most beautiful romances I’ve read this year.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
This is a tale about two women who meet when they’re both invited to a weekend in Aspen for a “no-strings-attached” consensual sex party. While this is a brand new experience for Emily Brookstone, it is definitely not Alex Murphy’s first party. The attraction between these two is immediate, but is a meeting like this a place to start a possible relationship?
Honestly, this novel blew me away. It has everything you need for a great romance. The premise is unique and definitely interesting. The setting is absolutely gorgeous. The people are what really makes this novel special though. Both main and secondary characters are so well-developed they seem real. They all have their own quirks, insecurities, and distinct personalities. Emily and Alex are easy to fall in love with…especially Alex. I really connected with her. Of course, with the premise of attending a sex party, there are bound to be some steamy sex scenes, but what happens between Emily and Alex goes far beyond mere physical release. The chemistry between these two is off the charts, and this shows with every touch and every kiss. This is what makes the story one of the most beautiful romances I’ve read this year.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
June 28, 2022
Strange story I didn’t think would work but I should know better with JC writing it. Being an orgy weekend sex was very much part of the tale but the romance was stronger and it felt real. Recommended.
September 3, 2021
Holy....what did I just read? This was fun.
I did not expect this! And this girl likes to be pleasantly surprised with her lesfic! From the cover alone, (which I think was terribly misrepresented: A fire itself would have been more appropriate considering the smoke shows happening), I thought this would be some cheesy feel-good light and airy content. While there was some of that, sure, two words: Sex party! Thank you! A whole long weekend of it! With lovely, beautiful, diverse women! And such a sex-positive vibe going on throughout with no judgment, consent, and open communication.
I like that it wasn't a conventional romance, but had erotica thrown in there with solid character building. And what a unique premise. MC Alex and MC Emily have a boatload of chemistry from their chance meeting on a plane, neither of which realizes they are going to the same place. Their second meeting was, um, shall we say, shockingly unexpected? :p There was less emotional depth than I'd like, but hey, I was totally ok with that because the story hooked me. I truly liked these two together, even if they tended to talk too much. A few spots could have been edited down, and like another reader mentioned, I really would have liked to see the "conversation" Emily was to have with the party host, aka her employer. It was a loose end that I needed tying up (ha....tying up....yeah.)
All in all, a cool 4/5, thanks for the fun ride Ms. Clevenger!
I did not expect this! And this girl likes to be pleasantly surprised with her lesfic! From the cover alone, (which I think was terribly misrepresented: A fire itself would have been more appropriate considering the smoke shows happening), I thought this would be some cheesy feel-good light and airy content. While there was some of that, sure, two words: Sex party! Thank you! A whole long weekend of it! With lovely, beautiful, diverse women! And such a sex-positive vibe going on throughout with no judgment, consent, and open communication.
I like that it wasn't a conventional romance, but had erotica thrown in there with solid character building. And what a unique premise. MC Alex and MC Emily have a boatload of chemistry from their chance meeting on a plane, neither of which realizes they are going to the same place. Their second meeting was, um, shall we say, shockingly unexpected? :p There was less emotional depth than I'd like, but hey, I was totally ok with that because the story hooked me. I truly liked these two together, even if they tended to talk too much. A few spots could have been edited down, and like another reader mentioned, I really would have liked to see the "conversation" Emily was to have with the party host, aka her employer. It was a loose end that I needed tying up (ha....tying up....yeah.)
All in all, a cool 4/5, thanks for the fun ride Ms. Clevenger!
January 15, 2024
Another fantastic book by Jaime, I absolutely loved it. I absolutely loved the storyline, Emily is 2 months single after her break up with her wife. She is invited to a s€x party by her employer. Meeting Alex on the plane to Aspen, they have an instant attraction and connection that is undeniable. However, neither know that they are heading to the same party. What could possibly happen there...
The story is steamy, it's hot, and it's captivating. The connection between Emily and Alex is undeniably palpable, I didn't want the story to end. I can't wait to read/listen to more from Jaime.
Lori brings the story alive with her narrating and keeps you engaged throughout. I thoroughly enjoyed the book it was entertaining and sexy as hell! I highly recommend this book and audiobooks. If you haven't read or listened to this yet, go and get yourself a copy now. You will not regret it!
Story rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Narrating Rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story is steamy, it's hot, and it's captivating. The connection between Emily and Alex is undeniably palpable, I didn't want the story to end. I can't wait to read/listen to more from Jaime.
Lori brings the story alive with her narrating and keeps you engaged throughout. I thoroughly enjoyed the book it was entertaining and sexy as hell! I highly recommend this book and audiobooks. If you haven't read or listened to this yet, go and get yourself a copy now. You will not regret it!
Story rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Narrating Rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 19, 2024
I was really excited for this book based on the synopsis, but unfortunately, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. The characters felt one-dimensional, often falling into predictable lesbian stereotypes, which was a bit of a letdown. The narrative kept circling back to the same tired misunderstandings and the 'we won’t make it in the real world' excuse in almost every chapter. On a positive note, the steamy scenes were very well-written, but beyond that, the rest of the story just didn’t click for me.
May 16, 2021
3.5 stars. Mixed feelings after this one. I liked the characters; I liked the story but some of the contrasts just didn't pan out for me personally. Spoilers ahead.
That said, most of the book I enjoyed quite a lot. It's technically well written, reads easily and was a good time overall.
That said, most of the book I enjoyed quite a lot. It's technically well written, reads easily and was a good time overall.
May 7, 2021
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Emily just ended her marriage of ten years although it was already breaking through the years. She decides she ready for fresh start although she doesn’t want to dive into another relationship she does mind having causal hook up to get into the groove.
Alex travel for work doesn’t have a problem getting anyone in her bed but she wants more then that and doesn’t think she will find it.
Emily gets invited to spend a vacation in Aspen from her client Katherine where she hopes she can rediscover herself while on the plane she meets Alex and there a bit of flirting going on they both surprise to learn their going to same weekend party.
This was a good read. I like that MCs chemistry was sizzling and love their bantering and the time it took to explore their relationship. I like the other guests we got to know.
Emily just ended her marriage of ten years although it was already breaking through the years. She decides she ready for fresh start although she doesn’t want to dive into another relationship she does mind having causal hook up to get into the groove.
Alex travel for work doesn’t have a problem getting anyone in her bed but she wants more then that and doesn’t think she will find it.
Emily gets invited to spend a vacation in Aspen from her client Katherine where she hopes she can rediscover herself while on the plane she meets Alex and there a bit of flirting going on they both surprise to learn their going to same weekend party.
This was a good read. I like that MCs chemistry was sizzling and love their bantering and the time it took to explore their relationship. I like the other guests we got to know.
February 7, 2024
Wow, this book was an emotional rollercoaster for me. At one point I was even teetering on 3 stars but the ending really made it for me. Sometimes having your own insecurities reflected back at you is a hard pill to swallow.
In the end though it felt really good to be reassured by Jaime Clevenger's masterful way of finishing the book. Things aren't tied up in a neat little bow and, while that's really how I prefer my endings, it just felt right for Alex and Emily. They love each other and that's all that matters. Not having all the answers laid out clearly before me is something I am getting used to being okay with.
In the end though it felt really good to be reassured by Jaime Clevenger's masterful way of finishing the book. Things aren't tied up in a neat little bow and, while that's really how I prefer my endings, it just felt right for Alex and Emily. They love each other and that's all that matters. Not having all the answers laid out clearly before me is something I am getting used to being okay with.
May 15, 2021
I'd give it around 3,5 stars.
Well, when I read the description, the words "no-strings-attached weekend in Aspen" didn't automatically translate in my mind as "a weekend-long sex party", more like "hiking and skiing with a bunch of single lesbians", so I was a bit surprised. The cover didn't help with the confusion.
I'm not sure if it was the book for me. Probably not. The idea of a sex party didn't bother me (not my style, but I liked the emphasis on consent throughout the book), both Alex and Emily were very nice MC's with good chemistry, the story itself was well written... But there was still something that felt wrong to me. Most of it had to do with Katherine. She gave me the creeps and I'm not exactly sure why (I mean, she was kinda emotionally abusive and manipulative, but there was also something else I can't quite put my finger on).
So yeah, for a sex-party story it was surprisingly cute, but still not my style.
Well, when I read the description, the words "no-strings-attached weekend in Aspen" didn't automatically translate in my mind as "a weekend-long sex party", more like "hiking and skiing with a bunch of single lesbians", so I was a bit surprised. The cover didn't help with the confusion.
I'm not sure if it was the book for me. Probably not. The idea of a sex party didn't bother me (not my style, but I liked the emphasis on consent throughout the book), both Alex and Emily were very nice MC's with good chemistry, the story itself was well written... But there was still something that felt wrong to me. Most of it had to do with Katherine. She gave me the creeps and I'm not exactly sure why (I mean, she was kinda emotionally abusive and manipulative, but there was also something else I can't quite put my finger on).
So yeah, for a sex-party story it was surprisingly cute, but still not my style.
December 24, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this novel and to be honest, cannot fault it. Although the storyline is centred around a weekend of sexual escapades between a group of 8 women, this book also features a great love story between Emily and Alex. There was the perfect amount of drama, not only from these two mains but the large array of secondary characters as well that kept me engaged in this book from start to finish. I really liked both main characters and thought the author did a great job of humanising them both so they felt realistic.
One Weekend in Aspen is my first read from Jaime Clevenger and I am now on a mission to read all of her other works. A great novel that I've already decided to buy in audio format, as I think it'll be a great book to listen to as well.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
*re-read via audiobook in Dec 2024. Still great and def recommend the audio version!*
One Weekend in Aspen is my first read from Jaime Clevenger and I am now on a mission to read all of her other works. A great novel that I've already decided to buy in audio format, as I think it'll be a great book to listen to as well.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
*re-read via audiobook in Dec 2024. Still great and def recommend the audio version!*
May 24, 2021
Yes it’s been a few years since she had a relationship but is this the way she wants to reintroduce herself in the dating world again. When she received the invite from her client, Katherine, she wasn’t sure she’d go but how can she refuse. I mean a whole weekend to indulge your sexual fantasy with a group of women she’d never met. With the encouragement of her best friend, Gianna she finds herself sitting on a plane going to Aspen.
Alex Murphy has been invited for a number of years and while she’s tired of this journey she accepts the invite anyways. Single, working all over the world she’s never had or was willing to make time for a relationship. She feels it’s time to say goodbye to the sex parties and hopefully meet a woman who wants a real relationship. But just her luck she meets that very woman or she hopes will be that woman on her flight to Aspen.
Ms Clevenger tells this story with some very likeable MC’s. And if you enjoy reading one sexual encounter after another this is the book for you.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
Alex Murphy has been invited for a number of years and while she’s tired of this journey she accepts the invite anyways. Single, working all over the world she’s never had or was willing to make time for a relationship. She feels it’s time to say goodbye to the sex parties and hopefully meet a woman who wants a real relationship. But just her luck she meets that very woman or she hopes will be that woman on her flight to Aspen.
Ms Clevenger tells this story with some very likeable MC’s. And if you enjoy reading one sexual encounter after another this is the book for you.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books
May 5, 2024
“You make me want to earn taking you all the way.
Maybe more of a 3.75 than a full 4 stars, but this was so so so good. I had my ups and downs with this, but I ended up really liking the book so much. Even though it included some tropes I really do not like, and had some really annoying things in the third act, it still managed to bring me back from that edge with a romance that I really believed in, that I was really rooting for. It's a sort of one-night-to-forever butch/femme romance, between two women who meet at a weekend sex party hosted by a mutual acquaintance.
It's not quite insta-love, but the majority of the story takes place over the weekend. So you know this book had to do something special for my slow burn loving ass to have eaten it up. As I always say, I CAN like insta-love, but it all depends on how it's written. And in this, Alex and Emily's meet cute had me captivated from the very beginning, from the moment Alex lifted her luggage for her. It's a very typical meet cute, meeting on a plane as seat mates, but there was so much simple, sweet chemistry between them, and I just devoured it. They don't find out until later that they're both in Aspen for the same reason, and their banter during those first moments together was so fun, really natural, and just really got me to believe in that lightning bolt connection. In fact, their stopover at the diner was enough to get me to believe in love at first sight, or love in a few hours. Both characters were so appealing in different ways. I loved seeing Emily nervously and then confidently asking for what she wanted, after so many years in a relationship where she felt belittled for it. I LOVED that Alex wore her heart on her sleeve, and the moments where she got flustered were so cute. But she's also dominant in the best way. Also, she's upfront about the fact that she doesn't just want sex, and she's eventually looking for a real connection. And even though it was a little frustrating, it was understandable why Emily bucked against that. Jumping into a new relationship is scary. I also loved that this book was about sex, and they talked about sex a lot, and in general it was extremely sexy, but it wasn't erotica. I still felt like there was true romance at the core of this, a genuine connection between the women. It reached that pitch perfect level of intensity and sensuality and intimacy, while getting a little dirty, and still delivering the swoon. I was kicking my feet fr.
Where it almost lost me was, of course, during the third act conflict. The miscommunication and misunderstandings and ESPECIALLY the other woman drama were very annoying to read about. Katherine especially turned into a caricature, a moustache twirling villain, and while I was glad about the storyline where Alex and Emily both had to eventually distance themselves from her, the way it was done was just... not for me. On the flip side, I ended up really liking the way things turned out with Lara. It wasn't exactly what I was expecting, and there were some much needed conversations that really warmed my heart. I actually really liked most of the side characters. I'd love to read a romance about TJ and Nicola. Just the way TJ was described made my ears perk up like a puppy.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Lori Prince, and I really really liked it. This is one of my favourites from her, I think. I especially loved her voices for Emily and TJ. This was just such a fun read. Not every author can pull off this kind of plot to my satisfaction, but Clevenger did it so well. With a romantic arc like this, it would be easy to lose me in like, the last 10%, but everything pulled together really wonderfully, and really believably. It was easy to fall in love with these characters and with their love. Huge kudos.
And she wanted nothing more than to be good enough to be kept all day under Alex’s lock and key.
June 3, 2021
I feel like it could have been better. Some parts are not finished for me at the end of the story. And to be honest I expected more sex scenes seeing where they all met and what was the purpose of the weekend. The sex scenes it had, were great and hot🔥🔥, but yeah...a bit disappointed at the end of the book. There was to much talking about it and to little action 😉. So 4,5 stars.
May 24, 2021
Not my cup of tea, I prefer my readings to be more romantic, but with just a touch of sex.
July 23, 2021
Absolutely adored it.
I could have done with more bondage from Alex, they just teased it and then gave us nothing, shame on you Ms. Clevenger.
I could have done with more bondage from Alex, they just teased it and then gave us nothing, shame on you Ms. Clevenger.
December 2, 2023
This was a fabulous read. Very well written. Lots of sweet angst, I couldn’t go to sleep at one point because my heart was pounding so much! The connection between Emily and Alex was incredible and scorching. The communication was perfectly done to keep the angst, move the plot and culminate in, well you need to read to find out! The sexy times were so hot and beautifully written. The teaser at the end makes me desire for a little something extra with these two…
May 12, 2021
This book is not what I was expecting but that’s a good thing!
I’m not sure how realistic the plot is seeing as how I’m not up to date on the sex party scene :) In my opinion, Clevenger made it work though.
I enjoyed both of the main characters and the chemistry between them was evident. The MCs feelings about the situation were not what I thought they would be, they were flip flopped. That was a nice surprise.
I can’t say that I loved all of the secondary characters or even loved to hate them. I think some were a little over the top but that didn’t really detract from the overall story.
This is a solid, enjoyable story that’s worth a read.
(I was given a copy from the publisher through NetGalley)
I’m not sure how realistic the plot is seeing as how I’m not up to date on the sex party scene :) In my opinion, Clevenger made it work though.
I enjoyed both of the main characters and the chemistry between them was evident. The MCs feelings about the situation were not what I thought they would be, they were flip flopped. That was a nice surprise.
I can’t say that I loved all of the secondary characters or even loved to hate them. I think some were a little over the top but that didn’t really detract from the overall story.
This is a solid, enjoyable story that’s worth a read.
(I was given a copy from the publisher through NetGalley)
January 4, 2022
Had I known this was a book about a sex party, I probably wouldn’t have read it. It’s there, I guess, in the blurb, but I thought I was going to be reading about a weekend with friends—new and old—where casual sex may be at play. A full sex party with 9 women was a suprise. Damn that incredibly cute cover that made me want to read this book! But consenting adults can do whatever they want. And consent was definitley stressed in this novel.
So anyway, Emily, a chef who’s recently separated from her wife and currently squatting on her best friend’s couch, has been invited to an all-expenses paid, weekend sex party in Aspen one her clients in throwing. This is defintely not something Emily has ever done before, and it’s not something she knows if she can do, especially since she hasn’t had sex in years. Not to mention the fact that all her client's friends are socially and economically out of her league. But her best friend convinces her a weekend of no-strings-attached sex is exactly what she needs to move forward with her life.
On her flight to Aspen, Emily is seated next to Alex, a gorgeous butch woman who is exactly Emily’s type. Alex is charming and sexy but she’s also a giant dork and Emily can’t help but be a little smitten, which is why she accepts Alex’s number, even if she has no intention of ever using it. But when their flight is diverted to Denver due to a snow storm, Emily accepts Alex’s offer to drive a rental up the mountain so they can both get to Aspen. And they both fall a little more, even though they both know they’ll never see each other again. Until they do, of course. Because Alex, it turns out, is also a guest at the Aspen sex party, a fact Emily discovers in an incredibly awkward and shocking way.
So things aren’t exactly as they seem. And things are definitely not going the way Alex would like them to. But the fact remains that they’re both at this sex party, so maybe it’s not all bad? Things happen (they are at a sex party, after all) and feelings happen and life continues to happen. Look, Emily and Alex are cute and both deserve good things and healthy relationships, but I was a little meh on them, to be honest. There were a lot of feelings at play for two people who really weren’t in a place for those feelings to manifest in the way they do. I don’t know. Even with a brief time-jump in the end, it still felt incredbily fast. In the end, it just didn’t work for me. I wasn’t emotionally connected to their love story, and that’s what I’m ultimately here for.
A note about the discussions on Emily’s ex: Obviously the relationship wasn’t serving Emily and she’s dealing with a lot of hurt and trauma from the experience and I get that. She was right to get out of that relationship. But at no point does Clevenger consider the fact that Cass may be asexual and there seemed a lot of judgment about her lack of sex drive that felt really uncomfortable to me. And while I don’t expect Emily to be able to think kindly of Cass two months after leaving her wife (especially with how it went down), I did expect more from Clevenger here. I’m not suggesting Emily and Cass belonged together or that Cass is a good person, but the complete annihilation of Cass’s character based on the fact that she wasn’t particularly sexual felt kind of gross. This would have been a 3-star read for me, but I'm docking an entire star because this part just did not sit well with me.
So anyway, Emily, a chef who’s recently separated from her wife and currently squatting on her best friend’s couch, has been invited to an all-expenses paid, weekend sex party in Aspen one her clients in throwing. This is defintely not something Emily has ever done before, and it’s not something she knows if she can do, especially since she hasn’t had sex in years. Not to mention the fact that all her client's friends are socially and economically out of her league. But her best friend convinces her a weekend of no-strings-attached sex is exactly what she needs to move forward with her life.
On her flight to Aspen, Emily is seated next to Alex, a gorgeous butch woman who is exactly Emily’s type. Alex is charming and sexy but she’s also a giant dork and Emily can’t help but be a little smitten, which is why she accepts Alex’s number, even if she has no intention of ever using it. But when their flight is diverted to Denver due to a snow storm, Emily accepts Alex’s offer to drive a rental up the mountain so they can both get to Aspen. And they both fall a little more, even though they both know they’ll never see each other again. Until they do, of course. Because Alex, it turns out, is also a guest at the Aspen sex party, a fact Emily discovers in an incredibly awkward and shocking way.
So things aren’t exactly as they seem. And things are definitely not going the way Alex would like them to. But the fact remains that they’re both at this sex party, so maybe it’s not all bad? Things happen (they are at a sex party, after all) and feelings happen and life continues to happen. Look, Emily and Alex are cute and both deserve good things and healthy relationships, but I was a little meh on them, to be honest. There were a lot of feelings at play for two people who really weren’t in a place for those feelings to manifest in the way they do. I don’t know. Even with a brief time-jump in the end, it still felt incredbily fast. In the end, it just didn’t work for me. I wasn’t emotionally connected to their love story, and that’s what I’m ultimately here for.
A note about the discussions on Emily’s ex: Obviously the relationship wasn’t serving Emily and she’s dealing with a lot of hurt and trauma from the experience and I get that. She was right to get out of that relationship. But at no point does Clevenger consider the fact that Cass may be asexual and there seemed a lot of judgment about her lack of sex drive that felt really uncomfortable to me. And while I don’t expect Emily to be able to think kindly of Cass two months after leaving her wife (especially with how it went down), I did expect more from Clevenger here. I’m not suggesting Emily and Cass belonged together or that Cass is a good person, but the complete annihilation of Cass’s character based on the fact that she wasn’t particularly sexual felt kind of gross. This would have been a 3-star read for me, but I'm docking an entire star because this part just did not sit well with me.
December 31, 2021
I NEED A GIRLFRIEND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews