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The Friendship Contract
This contract is entered into by and between Allegra Malone and Damon Dawson. The term of this agreement shall begin immediately and continue through its termination date of never.
The terms are as follows:
1. Find the bright side when your best friend (the woman you’ve secretly been in love with for 10+ years) finds an engagement ring in her live-in boyfriend’s gym bag.
2. When she discovers the ring isn’t for her, and you volunteer to mop up her tears, don’t freak out if you accidentally share a world-shattering kiss.
3. Remember she’s your best friend and law firm partner…and a hopeless romantic. Being her rebound isn’t worth risking the only family you have.
4. Immediately—rationally—draw up a no-strings agreement, stipulating equal opportunity orgasms. Under no circumstances is PDA or catching (further) feelings allowed.
5. If while adding a wedding plus-one clause, the doorbell rings and it’s a moving company with all her belongings, and now you’re going to be roommates, shower. The colder, the better.
In consideration of the mutual promises set forth herein, both parties agree that if at anytime while forced to live and work together they find themselves falling in love, they will re-read the fine print.
Fine Print: Do not fall in love.
This contract shall be binding and may not be modified in any manner unless in writing and signed by both parties.
The terms are as follows:
1. Find the bright side when your best friend (the woman you’ve secretly been in love with for 10+ years) finds an engagement ring in her live-in boyfriend’s gym bag.
2. When she discovers the ring isn’t for her, and you volunteer to mop up her tears, don’t freak out if you accidentally share a world-shattering kiss.
3. Remember she’s your best friend and law firm partner…and a hopeless romantic. Being her rebound isn’t worth risking the only family you have.
4. Immediately—rationally—draw up a no-strings agreement, stipulating equal opportunity orgasms. Under no circumstances is PDA or catching (further) feelings allowed.
5. If while adding a wedding plus-one clause, the doorbell rings and it’s a moving company with all her belongings, and now you’re going to be roommates, shower. The colder, the better.
In consideration of the mutual promises set forth herein, both parties agree that if at anytime while forced to live and work together they find themselves falling in love, they will re-read the fine print.
Fine Print: Do not fall in love.
This contract shall be binding and may not be modified in any manner unless in writing and signed by both parties.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2022
190 people are currently reading
2877 people want to read
About the author
Mia Heintzelman
28 books376 followersThe Wedding Crush releases on June 11th everywhere books are sold!
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
May 4, 2024
An okay read. Everything felt super rushed
Story: 3 stars
Narration: 3.5 stars (Wesleigh Siobhan 👌🏾)
Story: 3 stars
Narration: 3.5 stars (Wesleigh Siobhan 👌🏾)
January 17, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 Star….the story was a tad bit dry…..Friends to lovers…..But, the narration was stellar with Wesleigh
May 18, 2023
3.5 ⭐️ Both Allegra and Damon had feelings for one other but suppressed them for years in order to preserve the dynamic of their relationship. Allegra is going through a breakup and would like a plus one for her brother's wedding but Damon shows up. Because I didn't feel it, the "buildup" of their love it felt hollow. It's as though they were eager to be with each other and hurried into a relationship, but they also had a lot of doubt and fear. Don't even get me started on this nonsense friendship contract; there wasn't one. I get what the author was attempting to achieve with it, but the execution fell short. I appreciated Damon's sensitivity and how the impacts of foster care may alter one's emotions. Damon's history complicated him a little. Allegra wasn't playing, she put pressure on and made the opening move and I loved how different that was.Was it the best novel ever written? No, but I enjoyed reading it.
December 19, 2023
Absolutely loved it! I wasn't ready for it to end. Happy reading!
May 1, 2022
The first word that comes to mind with this book is disappointing. The description of this book drew me in with a promise of the FWB trope which I love. There was sex, oh yes there definitely was but it wasn't in a FWB trope. The best rep I think of that trope is the Take a Hint, Dani Brown where they enter into a sex agreement where they're not supposed to fall in love. Like they outline this from the beginning. Instead in this book, the female MC says I love you during their second sexual encounter. There's also an almost fake dating storyline but the author doesn't fully lean into it. The adoption storyline was so underdeveloped. There was hella telling and not showing with a plotline that definitely could've been powerful. I really didn't like that they were 35-year-olds who were also lawyers and their third act conflict was miscommunication. It was giving pathetic. Sigh. The sex was aight. I liked the locations of the sex more than the sex itself. If the author writes about their friend Lea and that Asian lawyer who are definitely giving enemies to lovers then I might be seated. Otherwise, I'm in no rush to try another book in her catalog.
March 6, 2022
this was just kinda boring and felt super rushed :(
February 8, 2022
What a beautiful, heartwarming and absolutely hot friends to lovers read! Damon and Allegra were fun, sexy and so swoony!
Friends to lovers is one of my absolute favorite tropes, I love the intrigue and the intensity that the couple brings out when they're switching gears and realizing there's more into their relationship than they planned and I loved to see it in Damon and Allegra. I loved how strong their friendship was at the beginning, their connection was obvious from the start and enjoyed very much to see Damon decisiveness to take the risk and fight for the woman he'd always been in love with.
Allegra was such a joy, she was funny, caring and loving but also determined and such a badass. I rooted for her from chapter one, she really deserved the happy ending she was craving for and loved the fact that despite the contract she strictly wanted to keep, it didn't take too long for her to realize that Damon was the only one who deserved her love.
Both were so much fun together, their banter with Allegra's family and with Lea was such a delight to read. Especially because everyone knew they belonged together and were just waiting for them to take the step. Is it too early to ask if Lea will get her own book? if so, I want to read it!
They had the sweetest love for each other but had also the spiciest and hottest chemistry. Those steamy scenes were chef's kiss! They grounded each other and made one another feel like home and gave physically and emotionally what the other needed.
I loved the subplots of this story, they gave me the chance to see them in action as the badass lawyers they were and also got me super emotional for a bit while the both Damon and Allegra to face their demons, heal their wounds and grow to be better humans and build a much better relationship full of trust and the love they've always had for one another.
I enjoyed this story very much, it was fast paced, swoony, romantic and gave me all the feelings I was looking for. I recommend 100%
Many thanks to Mia Heintzelman for gifting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Friends to lovers is one of my absolute favorite tropes, I love the intrigue and the intensity that the couple brings out when they're switching gears and realizing there's more into their relationship than they planned and I loved to see it in Damon and Allegra. I loved how strong their friendship was at the beginning, their connection was obvious from the start and enjoyed very much to see Damon decisiveness to take the risk and fight for the woman he'd always been in love with.
Allegra was such a joy, she was funny, caring and loving but also determined and such a badass. I rooted for her from chapter one, she really deserved the happy ending she was craving for and loved the fact that despite the contract she strictly wanted to keep, it didn't take too long for her to realize that Damon was the only one who deserved her love.
Both were so much fun together, their banter with Allegra's family and with Lea was such a delight to read. Especially because everyone knew they belonged together and were just waiting for them to take the step. Is it too early to ask if Lea will get her own book? if so, I want to read it!
They had the sweetest love for each other but had also the spiciest and hottest chemistry. Those steamy scenes were chef's kiss! They grounded each other and made one another feel like home and gave physically and emotionally what the other needed.
"You're a beautiful surprise in the middle of this chaos."
I loved the subplots of this story, they gave me the chance to see them in action as the badass lawyers they were and also got me super emotional for a bit while the both Damon and Allegra to face their demons, heal their wounds and grow to be better humans and build a much better relationship full of trust and the love they've always had for one another.
I enjoyed this story very much, it was fast paced, swoony, romantic and gave me all the feelings I was looking for. I recommend 100%
Many thanks to Mia Heintzelman for gifting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2022
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶🌶
Tropes: friends to lovers, forced proximity, mutual pinning, fake dating
TW/CW: cheating
Representation: black romance
Favorite quote: “I’ll never stop loving and wanting her. For the first time in my life, I know exactly where I belong.”
Thoughts: This story follows Allegra and Damon two best friends who have been in love with each other for 12 years but never acted on it. And when Allegra gets dumped Damon may have an opening to take his chance. I really liked this book and i went into it not knowing what to expect. I loved the friendship contract aspect, and i loved learning about their jobs as lawyers! This book is only a little over 200 pages so it moves rather quickly, but it keeps you hooked from the beginning! My only issue was the fake that the fake dating part of the book was glossed over way to fast and i wanted more of it! And i the book was longer because i wanted more of these two!! I loved seeing Damon work through his issues with his foster family! And the spice was minimal BUT THAT GARDEN SCENE!? *chef’s kiss* !!! I hope we get a book 2 and its about the other bestfriend Lea.
Tropes: friends to lovers, forced proximity, mutual pinning, fake dating
TW/CW: cheating
Representation: black romance
Favorite quote: “I’ll never stop loving and wanting her. For the first time in my life, I know exactly where I belong.”
Thoughts: This story follows Allegra and Damon two best friends who have been in love with each other for 12 years but never acted on it. And when Allegra gets dumped Damon may have an opening to take his chance. I really liked this book and i went into it not knowing what to expect. I loved the friendship contract aspect, and i loved learning about their jobs as lawyers! This book is only a little over 200 pages so it moves rather quickly, but it keeps you hooked from the beginning! My only issue was the fake that the fake dating part of the book was glossed over way to fast and i wanted more of it! And i the book was longer because i wanted more of these two!! I loved seeing Damon work through his issues with his foster family! And the spice was minimal BUT THAT GARDEN SCENE!? *chef’s kiss* !!! I hope we get a book 2 and its about the other bestfriend Lea.
January 31, 2022
The Friendship Contract is one of the books that got me out of a reading slump.
This book has a trope that I like friends-to-lovers. When I read the description of this book I was intrigued because Damon has loved Allegra for more than 10 years. I like it even more because Damon is a very sweet person. I like their friendship, how the characters in this book are very loveable.
I also like the story development and writing style, English is not my first language but I think this book is easy to understand and I really enjoy it.
OH! Shout out for those who made the cover. The cover is so prettyyy! 😍
If you are looking for a book with a good friends to lovers trope and loveable characters, I highly recommend reading The Friendship Contract.
I received this book in exchange for a honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
This book has a trope that I like friends-to-lovers. When I read the description of this book I was intrigued because Damon has loved Allegra for more than 10 years. I like it even more because Damon is a very sweet person. I like their friendship, how the characters in this book are very loveable.
I also like the story development and writing style, English is not my first language but I think this book is easy to understand and I really enjoy it.
OH! Shout out for those who made the cover. The cover is so prettyyy! 😍
If you are looking for a book with a good friends to lovers trope and loveable characters, I highly recommend reading The Friendship Contract.
I received this book in exchange for a honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.
February 16, 2022
This was such a cute, quick and fun read. Allegra and Damon have been best friends since college. Allegra thinks her current boyfriend is about to propose, but gets a shock she wasn't expecting: A break up. Allegra convinces Damon to be her plus one at a family member's destination wedding, but she also draws up a contract, not realizing Damon has been in love with her for years. Whether they're able to abide by the contract and not fall in love, you'll have to read the book to find out.
There was all kinds of drama (and I'm so here for it) in this book. I really enjoyed the story line, as well as the characters and how they related to each other as well as other characters in the book. I really enjoyed this friends to lovers, fake dating, forced proximity story, and I can't wait for the author's next book.
I received a copy of the book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
There was all kinds of drama (and I'm so here for it) in this book. I really enjoyed the story line, as well as the characters and how they related to each other as well as other characters in the book. I really enjoyed this friends to lovers, fake dating, forced proximity story, and I can't wait for the author's next book.
I received a copy of the book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 17, 2022
I am always looking for a quick, fun, spicy romance to read. And this one checked a lot, if not all, of the boxes. The main trope of the book is best friends to lover, but there's a few more sprinkled along the way! (Though, One of my fave tropes is best friends to lovers and this book delivered on that) Its a trope that I think heightens the intimacy of the spicy scenes, when they eventually happen for the characters. From the start, there is drama. Moments of laughter and moments where you want to yell at the characters. Overall, a great read.
Im excited to read more of her work. And I'm especially excited what/if anything comes out of the same universe of characters as Allegra and Damon.
This e-ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Im excited to read more of her work. And I'm especially excited what/if anything comes out of the same universe of characters as Allegra and Damon.
This e-ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2022
Damon, Allegra, and Lea are law school best friends who are now partners in their firm. Damon has had a crush on Allegra for more than ten years. He has, however, managed to keep it hidden from Allegra. However, Allegra's friendship with her live-in boyfriend is jeopardised when she discovers an engagement ring in his gym bag that is not for her. Allegra is going to need her friends for her upcoming trip to a family destination wedding. Damon offers to go with Allegra as her plus-one. Lea is always available for backup by phone at any time.
In a friends-to-lovers romance, I enjoy seeing a relationship that builds on the couple's years of friendship while going from friends to lovers. Such frequently in these romances, it's as if characters forget everything they know about each other and start over, but Heintzelman crafted it so that her characters could utilise it to their advantage. That was fantastic. While there is still a lot of uncertainty, anguish, and anxiety, there isn't as much fake drama. Heintzelman also delves into the emotional ramifications of being a foster child with complexity and sensitivity. She created a lovely, empowering friendship between three fascinating friends. I admire how Lea encourages and listens to Allegra and Damon when they need someone to talk to.
Talking things through and honesty is pivotal between the characters, which is different from many romances. Intriguingly well-plotted, The Friendship Contract has alot going on story-wise without impacting its fast pacing, character, or relationship development.
The only concern I had was how quickly their love developed. I would have preferred a little more buildup and complication. Don't get me wrong, we all enjoy a little instantaneous lust/love now and again, but it would have been nice to have a lot of their issues addressed right away. There's some tension, some angst, and a lot of fantastic interactions among friends to round out this novel. I'm extremely excited to see what else this author has in store!
In a friends-to-lovers romance, I enjoy seeing a relationship that builds on the couple's years of friendship while going from friends to lovers. Such frequently in these romances, it's as if characters forget everything they know about each other and start over, but Heintzelman crafted it so that her characters could utilise it to their advantage. That was fantastic. While there is still a lot of uncertainty, anguish, and anxiety, there isn't as much fake drama. Heintzelman also delves into the emotional ramifications of being a foster child with complexity and sensitivity. She created a lovely, empowering friendship between three fascinating friends. I admire how Lea encourages and listens to Allegra and Damon when they need someone to talk to.
Talking things through and honesty is pivotal between the characters, which is different from many romances. Intriguingly well-plotted, The Friendship Contract has alot going on story-wise without impacting its fast pacing, character, or relationship development.
The only concern I had was how quickly their love developed. I would have preferred a little more buildup and complication. Don't get me wrong, we all enjoy a little instantaneous lust/love now and again, but it would have been nice to have a lot of their issues addressed right away. There's some tension, some angst, and a lot of fantastic interactions among friends to round out this novel. I'm extremely excited to see what else this author has in store!
January 8, 2022
Somebody please make this a movie. I’m 35 & BIPOC which puts me squarely in the group of (now adult) women whose formative years were drenched in Love & Basketball and Lauryn Hill. This book immediately gave me a sense of nostalgia which didn’t really make sense because it definitely takes place in the present. It wasn’t until I was scrolling Twitter & saw that the movie Brown Sugar turns 20 this year that it clicked… The Friendship Contract has big Black Hollywood Golden Era™️ (yes, golden era. I said what I said.) vibes & I am here for ALL of it.
And speaking of ALL of it, did I mention this book has ALL the tropes? It’s giving:
BFFs to lovers
Roomies to lovers
Coworkers to lovers
Fake dating (kind of)
Contract/Rules that are made to be broken
One bed
Cinnamon roll hero
Hot mess heroine
Secret crushes (mutual!)
Soulmates
Vacation romance
#NerdGang
#BlackLove
#SquadGoals
It sounds like that might be a whole lot going on but… it worked. Allegra is ridiculous yet relatable in a way that will have you knowing she is nuts but still thinking, “I mean, who among us hasn’t (fill in the blank)?” Damon is *chef’s kiss*… It really was the low angst, feel good book I needed in this moment. For those reading this review in the future - the January 6 insurrection was a year ago this week, Omicron is poppin & the Supreme Court is deciding rather or not women get to have bodily autonomy, Black + brown people get to vote & if they were just kidding less than 2yrs ago when they affirmed that whole tribal sovereignty thing that the US is literally treaty-bound to respect so, yeah, I needed a heavy dose of escapism and Mia Heintzelman delivered. I’m hoping she plans to give us the tea on our girl, Lea & Mr. Bold on the Phone soon 👀
And speaking of ALL of it, did I mention this book has ALL the tropes? It’s giving:
BFFs to lovers
Roomies to lovers
Coworkers to lovers
Fake dating (kind of)
Contract/Rules that are made to be broken
One bed
Cinnamon roll hero
Hot mess heroine
Secret crushes (mutual!)
Soulmates
Vacation romance
#NerdGang
#BlackLove
#SquadGoals
It sounds like that might be a whole lot going on but… it worked. Allegra is ridiculous yet relatable in a way that will have you knowing she is nuts but still thinking, “I mean, who among us hasn’t (fill in the blank)?” Damon is *chef’s kiss*… It really was the low angst, feel good book I needed in this moment. For those reading this review in the future - the January 6 insurrection was a year ago this week, Omicron is poppin & the Supreme Court is deciding rather or not women get to have bodily autonomy, Black + brown people get to vote & if they were just kidding less than 2yrs ago when they affirmed that whole tribal sovereignty thing that the US is literally treaty-bound to respect so, yeah, I needed a heavy dose of escapism and Mia Heintzelman delivered. I’m hoping she plans to give us the tea on our girl, Lea & Mr. Bold on the Phone soon 👀
February 27, 2023
probs worst written book i’ve read. felt like the relationship moved way too fast and wasn’t enough details
October 2, 2022
times like this I wish I dnfed books
January 24, 2022
The Friendship Contract, Terms & Conditions #1, by Mia Heintzelman, is a steamy, sweet, funny, emotional, sexy, and thoroughly entertaining friends-to-lovers romance from start to finish. We all know I live for friends-to-lovers romances. So obviously, I couldn’t resist the chance to read a friends-to-lovers romance with pining best friends who are Black and lawyers too. As crazy as it sounds, this may be my first read of a friends-to-lovers romance with Black characters, and I was not at all disappointed. I found Heintzelman’s dialogue, character interactions, story development, and use of the friends-to-lover trope refreshing, along with her dynamic characters who were authentic, empathetic, messy, but so likable.
Damon, Allegra, and Lea are best friends who met in law school and are now partners in their law firm. Damon has been pining and crushing on Allegra for over 10 years. But he has managed to keep it from Allegra. However, their friendship status gets complicated when Allegra finds an engagement ring in her live-in boyfriend’s gym bag that is not for her. With her upcoming trip to a family destination wedding coming up, Allegra’s going to need her friends. Damon offers to go with Allegra as her plus-one. Lea is always available at a moment's notice for backup by phone.
Author Heintzelman takes her time laying the foundation to show her work. Damon’s and Allegra’s interactions read like two people who know each other well, their personalities, how each reacts/deals with situations, their communication styles, and all the dirt—good, bad, and ugly. We see them spend time together, making jokes, playing games, dissing on each other, watching movies, just being friends within the comfort level that's between friends. In close-quarters situations like traveling to a family wedding together, Damon being her plus-one, and sharing a room or staying over, the chemistry and attraction simmering beneath the surface are always present. Allegra's and Damon’s chemistry is intense, and attraction flares to the surface at any moment, given the fuel. Of course, being lawyers and liking to be in control, they draft THE FRIENDSHIP CONTRACT to keep them out of trouble and safeguard their friendship on the trip.
I love seeing a relationship in a friends-to-lovers romance that builds on the pairing’s years-long knowledge while transitioning from friends to lovers. So often in these romances, it’s like people forget everything they know about each other and start from scratch, but Heintzelman wrote so that her characters' used it as a strength. I loved that. While uncertainty, angst, and anxiety still spiral, there's not as much unnecessary faux drama. Heintzelman also explores emotional issues associated with being a foster child with nuance and care. She wrote a lovely, empowering friendship between a fascinating trio of friends. I love how Lea supports Allegra and Damon, encouraging them both and listening when they need an ear. Talking things through and honesty is pivotal between the characters, which is different from many romances. Intriguingly well-plotted, The Friendship Contract has lots going on story-wise without affecting its quick pacing, character, or relationship development.
If you love friends-to-lovers romances with wedding dates and resilient characters you can't help but root for, you should give The Friendship Contract a read. It’s so worth it!
Advance review copy provided by author for review.
Damon, Allegra, and Lea are best friends who met in law school and are now partners in their law firm. Damon has been pining and crushing on Allegra for over 10 years. But he has managed to keep it from Allegra. However, their friendship status gets complicated when Allegra finds an engagement ring in her live-in boyfriend’s gym bag that is not for her. With her upcoming trip to a family destination wedding coming up, Allegra’s going to need her friends. Damon offers to go with Allegra as her plus-one. Lea is always available at a moment's notice for backup by phone.
Author Heintzelman takes her time laying the foundation to show her work. Damon’s and Allegra’s interactions read like two people who know each other well, their personalities, how each reacts/deals with situations, their communication styles, and all the dirt—good, bad, and ugly. We see them spend time together, making jokes, playing games, dissing on each other, watching movies, just being friends within the comfort level that's between friends. In close-quarters situations like traveling to a family wedding together, Damon being her plus-one, and sharing a room or staying over, the chemistry and attraction simmering beneath the surface are always present. Allegra's and Damon’s chemistry is intense, and attraction flares to the surface at any moment, given the fuel. Of course, being lawyers and liking to be in control, they draft THE FRIENDSHIP CONTRACT to keep them out of trouble and safeguard their friendship on the trip.
I love seeing a relationship in a friends-to-lovers romance that builds on the pairing’s years-long knowledge while transitioning from friends to lovers. So often in these romances, it’s like people forget everything they know about each other and start from scratch, but Heintzelman wrote so that her characters' used it as a strength. I loved that. While uncertainty, angst, and anxiety still spiral, there's not as much unnecessary faux drama. Heintzelman also explores emotional issues associated with being a foster child with nuance and care. She wrote a lovely, empowering friendship between a fascinating trio of friends. I love how Lea supports Allegra and Damon, encouraging them both and listening when they need an ear. Talking things through and honesty is pivotal between the characters, which is different from many romances. Intriguingly well-plotted, The Friendship Contract has lots going on story-wise without affecting its quick pacing, character, or relationship development.
If you love friends-to-lovers romances with wedding dates and resilient characters you can't help but root for, you should give The Friendship Contract a read. It’s so worth it!
Advance review copy provided by author for review.
March 14, 2022
5 stars all the way! This book is a such a warm, feel-good hug. It has so many of my favorite tropes, and I love both Allegra and Damon, as well as their families. The fears of both main characters are so well-grounded and realistic in this book - love when motivations and conflict make sense, and aren't contrived for plot reasons. There's a lot of great communication and I completely identify with both characters and the need to have things written down to make sense of it all and work through their thoughts and feelings.
I loved that the characters are lawyers and the case was compelling. I love Damon's backstory and towards the end of the book the emotions made me cry!! I don't want to spoil it for any people who haven't read this yet.
I also really love Lea, and IDK if I'm just jonesing for an enemies-to-lovers tale on the heels of this friends-to-lovers one, but I think there were some vibes with Lea and Brandon, especially because his sister is a friend of hers, so I would love if these high-powered opposing counselors had their own book!
I loved that the characters are lawyers and the case was compelling. I love Damon's backstory and towards the end of the book the emotions made me cry!! I don't want to spoil it for any people who haven't read this yet.
I also really love Lea, and IDK if I'm just jonesing for an enemies-to-lovers tale on the heels of this friends-to-lovers one, but I think there were some vibes with Lea and Brandon, especially because his sister is a friend of hers, so I would love if these high-powered opposing counselors had their own book!
July 12, 2024
Friends to lovers only works for me when I know who they are before she touching his 🍆 esp when she was expecting to get proposed to by her partner earlier that very evening. Doesn’t matter that it didn’t work out but is didn’t work for me tbh
May 13, 2022
Best Friends to Lovers. They both held their feelings a secret knowing how they felt about each other. The Contract thing was a little different for me. Allegra had a lot of fears when it came to going forward with dating her best friend and I can see why but she held on to it way too much. Damon was very patient but also dealt with a lot himeself. Overall great story.
February 1, 2022
The Friendship Contract
“I’ll always want to be your bright side” - queue all the tears for this beautifully written happily-ever-after.
I needed this sweet story. Allegra and Damon, two thirds of a trio, secretly love one another, as more than friends but of course need a little help recognizing it and speaking their truth.
I love, love and I think my favorite trope will always be friends to lovers, I don’t care what anyone says. There is something so special about realizing that the person that knows you the best and all your secrets, gets to love you too, as a friend but also as your person.
I can’t find one fault with the friendship contract and I enjoyed sitting down at night reading it. My heart was calmed and I got to swoon over another #BookBoyfriend cause we all need a Damon!
The friendship contract had all the pieces I look for in a romance: a trope, some conflict, good friends to see you through, a steamy scene or few 😉 and ultimately love!
I highly recommend.
** I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book as provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own. **
#BNJreads #BookishThoughts #Bookstagram #TheFriendshipContract #Bookstagram #DiverseSpines #BlackGirlsReadToo
“I’ll always want to be your bright side” - queue all the tears for this beautifully written happily-ever-after.
I needed this sweet story. Allegra and Damon, two thirds of a trio, secretly love one another, as more than friends but of course need a little help recognizing it and speaking their truth.
I love, love and I think my favorite trope will always be friends to lovers, I don’t care what anyone says. There is something so special about realizing that the person that knows you the best and all your secrets, gets to love you too, as a friend but also as your person.
I can’t find one fault with the friendship contract and I enjoyed sitting down at night reading it. My heart was calmed and I got to swoon over another #BookBoyfriend cause we all need a Damon!
The friendship contract had all the pieces I look for in a romance: a trope, some conflict, good friends to see you through, a steamy scene or few 😉 and ultimately love!
I highly recommend.
** I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book as provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own. **
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March 3, 2022
The story was friends and business partners to lovers experience. I thoroughly enjoyed this lovely tale. The backstory with the hero's family was heartbreaking. And the cheater should always get their due..
January 12, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️ | At the outset, this had all the tools to be great. But it fell flat for me.
SPOILERS BELOW🚨
One of the key aspects of the friends-to-lovers trope that makes it REALLY WORK is pacing. It has to be right. It has to make sense.
And the reason for that is this trope requires an underlying tentativeness (on the part of both characters). Both or at least one party is afraid to leap because they are either afraid to lose the other or they don’t want it to be too much too fast. Eventually, there is a buildup of shared intimacy, a shift from platonic to romantic thoughts - a pining, if you will, that forces someone to act.
Notice I used the word “buildup.”
And there felt like none of that here.
At the beginning of the book, Allegra is excited about getting engaged…and then suddenly, when that goes awry, and in the next breath: ”My best friend Damon has been right there this whole time.” And while it was clear that she loved him, I wish it could have been flushed out more to feel less reboundish.
It felt like Allegra and Damon “got together” way too early, which ultimately made the whole story feel rushed. Also, because they “got together” so early, but there was still this repeated reference to their natural tentativeness or fear about the transition in their relationship (that you would typically see with this trope), both characters were giving wishy-washy.
It almost made their relationship journey feel like it was starting and then stopping, starting, then stopping…THE WHOLE DAMN BOOK. At one point around 76% into the book, I was like, “ARE YOU BITCHES GONNA DO THIS OR NOT? STOP PLAYING WITH ME!”
Aside from the pacing, I didn’t really get the point of the friendship contract. *cue Cardi B's voice* What was the reason?
Like how the friendship contract was described in the book’s synopsis and how it came into play in the book felt significantly different. Was the contract just a way for them to put their friendship into a binding agreement so they wouldn’t lose sight of it? If so, weird, and also, why?
OR was it a way for them to remain friends per outlined terms even though they were going to Hawaii for Allegra’s brother's wedding and they were going to pretend to be a couple? It was unclear, y’all.
Last point: The smut was meh. I don't know why I’ve consistently seen the use of the words “steamy” and “sexy” when describing this book. It wasn’t either. OVERALL SENTIMENT: I didn’t hate it. And it wasn’t a terrible book. But the weird pacing, coupled with what felt like gaps in the plot, took away from what felt like a foolproof concept with foolproof tropes.
SPOILERS BELOW🚨
One of the key aspects of the friends-to-lovers trope that makes it REALLY WORK is pacing. It has to be right. It has to make sense.
And the reason for that is this trope requires an underlying tentativeness (on the part of both characters). Both or at least one party is afraid to leap because they are either afraid to lose the other or they don’t want it to be too much too fast. Eventually, there is a buildup of shared intimacy, a shift from platonic to romantic thoughts - a pining, if you will, that forces someone to act.
Notice I used the word “buildup.”
And there felt like none of that here.
At the beginning of the book, Allegra is excited about getting engaged…and then suddenly, when that goes awry, and in the next breath: ”My best friend Damon has been right there this whole time.” And while it was clear that she loved him, I wish it could have been flushed out more to feel less reboundish.
It felt like Allegra and Damon “got together” way too early, which ultimately made the whole story feel rushed. Also, because they “got together” so early, but there was still this repeated reference to their natural tentativeness or fear about the transition in their relationship (that you would typically see with this trope), both characters were giving wishy-washy.
It almost made their relationship journey feel like it was starting and then stopping, starting, then stopping…THE WHOLE DAMN BOOK. At one point around 76% into the book, I was like, “ARE YOU BITCHES GONNA DO THIS OR NOT? STOP PLAYING WITH ME!”
Aside from the pacing, I didn’t really get the point of the friendship contract. *cue Cardi B's voice* What was the reason?
Like how the friendship contract was described in the book’s synopsis and how it came into play in the book felt significantly different. Was the contract just a way for them to put their friendship into a binding agreement so they wouldn’t lose sight of it? If so, weird, and also, why?
OR was it a way for them to remain friends per outlined terms even though they were going to Hawaii for Allegra’s brother's wedding and they were going to pretend to be a couple? It was unclear, y’all.
Last point: The smut was meh. I don't know why I’ve consistently seen the use of the words “steamy” and “sexy” when describing this book. It wasn’t either. OVERALL SENTIMENT: I didn’t hate it. And it wasn’t a terrible book. But the weird pacing, coupled with what felt like gaps in the plot, took away from what felt like a foolproof concept with foolproof tropes.
February 24, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
Reading this book was really delightful, it was exceptionally well-written and enjoyable. While I found myself engrossed in its pages and its quick pace, I couldn't help but feel that the romantic aspect was rushed. The foundation of this being Damon's lifelong love for her giving « legitimacy » to their relationship, yet I craved more depth and development in their journey from friends to lovers. This highlights the real challenge of the best friends to lovers trope. However I must admit that they were undeniably meant for each other and adorable together.
One aspect that irks me was the Friendship Contract…Its purpose remained difficult to understand to me. It seemed really superfluous and failed to embody the essence of friendship, more of a relationship.
Nevertheless, the book's « drama » was captivating and kept me engaged, it was truly elite.
Reading this book was really delightful, it was exceptionally well-written and enjoyable. While I found myself engrossed in its pages and its quick pace, I couldn't help but feel that the romantic aspect was rushed. The foundation of this being Damon's lifelong love for her giving « legitimacy » to their relationship, yet I craved more depth and development in their journey from friends to lovers. This highlights the real challenge of the best friends to lovers trope. However I must admit that they were undeniably meant for each other and adorable together.
One aspect that irks me was the Friendship Contract…Its purpose remained difficult to understand to me. It seemed really superfluous and failed to embody the essence of friendship, more of a relationship.
Nevertheless, the book's « drama » was captivating and kept me engaged, it was truly elite.
July 5, 2023
probably one of the worst books i’ve ever read if i’m being completely honest. i never thought i could read a book where a girl found an engagement ring from her bf for another girl at the beginning of the book and ended up engaged to someone else at the end of the book when the whole book was like the span of two weeks. the pacing was so bad, the plot was nonexistent, there was so much going on, the two main characters were so incredibly wishy washy i’m pretty sure i got whiplash. whole thing was so predictable and just like not in a good way. nothing was resolved or actually fleshed out it was so frustrating lmao. wouldn’t recommend !
March 16, 2022
This was a cute and fast paced story. Maybe a bit too fast paced.
I am really interested in Lea though. I wouldn’t mind a book on her and Brandon.
I am really interested in Lea though. I wouldn’t mind a book on her and Brandon.
February 6, 2022
The friendship Contract by Mia Heintzelman
Release Date : 2-8-2022
This book is absolutely one of the BEST BOOKS I HAVE READ In 2022.I felt laughter, anger, sad tears along with frustration but finally ended with happy tears.
It was such a feel good read and It had every one of the my favorite troupes.
Right from
Office Romance not just any office but Law firm Partners (Totally Hot)
Friends to Lovers
Found family with Trio
Boy is absolutely Cinnamon Role
One couch to wound up cozily
Mutual pining with Fake Dating
Vacation Romance with One Bed
Allegra Malone ,Damon Dawson and Leo Cook has been the Best Trio for 12 years. Right from finishing college to starting up their own Law Firm as partners they have
been together with everything. That being said Allegra and Damon have mutual feelings for each other for nearly 12 years yet they didn't act it because either timing is off or they don't want to because of their insecurities.
Allegra has a history of dating not so great guys and has her heart broken every time. Hence she is constantly afraid that if she get into relationship with Damon she would screw up the relationship which would lead to ruining of their friendship as well. Damon on the other hand had difficult childhood with moving from Family to family under foster care and nobody gave him complete unconditional love and that he couldn't Belong anywhere.
When Allegra's 2 years relationship with live-in boyfriend Kyle ends up in a really bad note with her stranded on the road fully drunk, Damon comes to the rescue and ends up opening his
cozy home for one night. In the drunken closed proximity Allegra ends up not only sharing her feelings regarding supposed proposal with Kyle (if it would have happened) but also ends up kissing Damon and wakes up to situation of being his roommate. What follows is that Damon doesn't want to be Allegra's rebound and Allegra wishes to have Damon as her boyfriend but is scared of screwing up the only good thing in her life. Hence to see if Allegra-Damon could be thing, Lea suggests Allegra to take Damon as her plus one to her brother's wedding which is happening in Hawaii...
On this vacation Allegra comes up with "The Friendship Contract" with fake dating to avoid the whole Kyle situation and awkwardness which would arise in sharing a room with one bed. Of course all the plan is thrown out of the window when there is jealousy involved. They jump right on the wagon finally acknowledging that they could no longer ignore the sexual tension and ends up confessing their feelings..
The way Allegra and Damon gets into a relationship was so hot and fast paced but it is completely justified considering they have known each other to every bits in their 12 years.
I totally loved the scenes where one moment Allegra and Damon would have a cute banter as friends but the next moment they would struggle to keep their hands off of each other as lovers.
The best part of book is Mia here showed not only the cute side of getting into a relationship after being best friends for long time but also discovered some serious issues like anxiety and insecurities one would develop after being in multiple failed relationship, trust issues that arises along with not being worth enough for love as a result of foster care through Allegra and Damon.
Everytime their relationship is knocked down with their insecurities they stood with each other as best friends first. Every moment when Damon suggests the bright side of messed up situation to Allegra totally made me swoon. It takes a lot of courage to confront your partner when they don't trust you to share their demons but Allegra was always staying there and listening to Damon. I totally admire Allegra for that..
Another highlight of the Book is the "Bad Ass Lea Cook" who is so cute and adorable when she pushes Damon to tell Allegra about his feelings. One moment Lea was gushing over Allegra-Damon relationship and the next moment she was kicking the ass of Brandon and Kyle. I definitely want a enemies to lovers troupe with Lea and Brandon Yu and I am putting all my hope that the author would give a book for them.
On the whole this book is a definite rec for anyone who is looking for funny, sexy, best friends to lovers troupe.
I thank the author Mia Heintzelman for providing me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Release Date : 2-8-2022
This book is absolutely one of the BEST BOOKS I HAVE READ In 2022.I felt laughter, anger, sad tears along with frustration but finally ended with happy tears.
It was such a feel good read and It had every one of the my favorite troupes.
Right from
Office Romance not just any office but Law firm Partners (Totally Hot)
Friends to Lovers
Found family with Trio
Boy is absolutely Cinnamon Role
One couch to wound up cozily
Mutual pining with Fake Dating
Vacation Romance with One Bed
Allegra Malone ,Damon Dawson and Leo Cook has been the Best Trio for 12 years. Right from finishing college to starting up their own Law Firm as partners they have
been together with everything. That being said Allegra and Damon have mutual feelings for each other for nearly 12 years yet they didn't act it because either timing is off or they don't want to because of their insecurities.
Allegra has a history of dating not so great guys and has her heart broken every time. Hence she is constantly afraid that if she get into relationship with Damon she would screw up the relationship which would lead to ruining of their friendship as well. Damon on the other hand had difficult childhood with moving from Family to family under foster care and nobody gave him complete unconditional love and that he couldn't Belong anywhere.
When Allegra's 2 years relationship with live-in boyfriend Kyle ends up in a really bad note with her stranded on the road fully drunk, Damon comes to the rescue and ends up opening his
cozy home for one night. In the drunken closed proximity Allegra ends up not only sharing her feelings regarding supposed proposal with Kyle (if it would have happened) but also ends up kissing Damon and wakes up to situation of being his roommate. What follows is that Damon doesn't want to be Allegra's rebound and Allegra wishes to have Damon as her boyfriend but is scared of screwing up the only good thing in her life. Hence to see if Allegra-Damon could be thing, Lea suggests Allegra to take Damon as her plus one to her brother's wedding which is happening in Hawaii...
On this vacation Allegra comes up with "The Friendship Contract" with fake dating to avoid the whole Kyle situation and awkwardness which would arise in sharing a room with one bed. Of course all the plan is thrown out of the window when there is jealousy involved. They jump right on the wagon finally acknowledging that they could no longer ignore the sexual tension and ends up confessing their feelings..
The way Allegra and Damon gets into a relationship was so hot and fast paced but it is completely justified considering they have known each other to every bits in their 12 years.
I totally loved the scenes where one moment Allegra and Damon would have a cute banter as friends but the next moment they would struggle to keep their hands off of each other as lovers.
The best part of book is Mia here showed not only the cute side of getting into a relationship after being best friends for long time but also discovered some serious issues like anxiety and insecurities one would develop after being in multiple failed relationship, trust issues that arises along with not being worth enough for love as a result of foster care through Allegra and Damon.
Everytime their relationship is knocked down with their insecurities they stood with each other as best friends first. Every moment when Damon suggests the bright side of messed up situation to Allegra totally made me swoon. It takes a lot of courage to confront your partner when they don't trust you to share their demons but Allegra was always staying there and listening to Damon. I totally admire Allegra for that..
Another highlight of the Book is the "Bad Ass Lea Cook" who is so cute and adorable when she pushes Damon to tell Allegra about his feelings. One moment Lea was gushing over Allegra-Damon relationship and the next moment she was kicking the ass of Brandon and Kyle. I definitely want a enemies to lovers troupe with Lea and Brandon Yu and I am putting all my hope that the author would give a book for them.
On the whole this book is a definite rec for anyone who is looking for funny, sexy, best friends to lovers troupe.
I thank the author Mia Heintzelman for providing me an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2022
First of all, I love friends to lovers...that's the review.
Yes, this is book is friends to lovers but it's also found family. The Trio makes up Allegra, Damon, and Lea law partners and friends.
Allegra has questionable judgment when it comes to dating that was explored interestingly. She's in her mid-30s and hyperfocused on being married. I think it's a nod to the message we often see in romance, that success equals a career and marriage. What occurs early on is Allegra taking off the rose colored glasses that if you are so focused on the outcome do you miss the red flags. The answer is yes. As the reader you'll have to be ok with when and how she moves on. I don't mind instalove bc literally I'm rooting for friends to finally figure it out.
Damon is the quiet stable friend in the group. He's carrying around his sense of belonging growing up in foster care system. He was written as always in his head battling how vulnerable can he be. My heart ached for him. I'm a Damon stan.
Lea is the blunt no nonsense friend. She probably did all of the work in group projects because she took care of the firm while Allegra and Damon were figuring out their lives. *I hope she gets a book with Brandon Yu, maybe enemies to lovers*
In the end, this book was sweet there was an actual relationship contract that was amended often. Loved that. I also thought it was interesting that Damon's sense of belonging was the tension and Allegra's anxiety of messing up the relationship was used for the semi third act breakup. It was more about we need to communicate don't shut me out rather than a true break up.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The front half was a bit slow and it felt like Allegra had a breakup then rebounded with Damon and then same day started a life together. But literally they've been pining for each other for 12 years so why wait 🤭. Everything wrapped up really neatly which you know I didn't think was necessary but probably intentional for a solid HEA.
CN: foster care (DCF removing a child), parental death (cancer), temporary homelessness, microagressions, cheating, proprietary theft
Thank to Mia Heintzelman for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Yes, this is book is friends to lovers but it's also found family. The Trio makes up Allegra, Damon, and Lea law partners and friends.
Allegra has questionable judgment when it comes to dating that was explored interestingly. She's in her mid-30s and hyperfocused on being married. I think it's a nod to the message we often see in romance, that success equals a career and marriage. What occurs early on is Allegra taking off the rose colored glasses that if you are so focused on the outcome do you miss the red flags. The answer is yes. As the reader you'll have to be ok with when and how she moves on. I don't mind instalove bc literally I'm rooting for friends to finally figure it out.
Damon is the quiet stable friend in the group. He's carrying around his sense of belonging growing up in foster care system. He was written as always in his head battling how vulnerable can he be. My heart ached for him. I'm a Damon stan.
Lea is the blunt no nonsense friend. She probably did all of the work in group projects because she took care of the firm while Allegra and Damon were figuring out their lives. *I hope she gets a book with Brandon Yu, maybe enemies to lovers*
In the end, this book was sweet there was an actual relationship contract that was amended often. Loved that. I also thought it was interesting that Damon's sense of belonging was the tension and Allegra's anxiety of messing up the relationship was used for the semi third act breakup. It was more about we need to communicate don't shut me out rather than a true break up.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The front half was a bit slow and it felt like Allegra had a breakup then rebounded with Damon and then same day started a life together. But literally they've been pining for each other for 12 years so why wait 🤭. Everything wrapped up really neatly which you know I didn't think was necessary but probably intentional for a solid HEA.
CN: foster care (DCF removing a child), parental death (cancer), temporary homelessness, microagressions, cheating, proprietary theft
Thank to Mia Heintzelman for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2022
WOW I can't wait to read more by Mia Heintzelman! This book was a perfect blend of fun and sexy and features one of my favorite tropes, friends to lovers. Overall, I recommend this book to those wanting a quick read that will leave your heart smiling and your hope in love and friendship restored.
Our main characters Allegra and Damon have been friends for 12 years, both wanting each other and yet neither letting their feelings be known. When Allegra's boyfriend breaks up with her instead of proposing, the door is finally open for Damon and Allegra to be the couple they (and everyone around them) want them to be. While the book is fast paced, nothing feels rushed as we watch Allegra and Damon work out what it would mean for them to be friends, lovers, and co-workers.
I loved that we get to see all the aspects of their lives together. How they met, their jobs, their family dynamics, etc. We also meet Lea, the third friend in "The Trio", as they call themselves. I love that each friend has their own distinct personality and roles that they play in their friendship. She has some scene stealing moments that I ADORED. Here's hoping we see more of her?? *maybe a whole story for our girl Lea? HINT HINT* lol
One unexpected kiss and suddenly the once hidden feelings between the two bubble up and threaten to upend everything they are used to. Throw in a trip to Hawaii, the "one bed" trope, and a long weekend vacation with Allegra's family celebrating a wedding and the attraction is just to hard to resist any longer. The relationship did seem to come together a bit quicker than I am used to but not too fast that it bothered me. There's a bit of angst, some well built tension, and a lot of love, friendship, and growth to go around.
Thanks to Mia Heintzelman for providing me with an ARC. This honest review is my own opinion and given voluntarily.
Our main characters Allegra and Damon have been friends for 12 years, both wanting each other and yet neither letting their feelings be known. When Allegra's boyfriend breaks up with her instead of proposing, the door is finally open for Damon and Allegra to be the couple they (and everyone around them) want them to be. While the book is fast paced, nothing feels rushed as we watch Allegra and Damon work out what it would mean for them to be friends, lovers, and co-workers.
I loved that we get to see all the aspects of their lives together. How they met, their jobs, their family dynamics, etc. We also meet Lea, the third friend in "The Trio", as they call themselves. I love that each friend has their own distinct personality and roles that they play in their friendship. She has some scene stealing moments that I ADORED. Here's hoping we see more of her?? *maybe a whole story for our girl Lea? HINT HINT* lol
One unexpected kiss and suddenly the once hidden feelings between the two bubble up and threaten to upend everything they are used to. Throw in a trip to Hawaii, the "one bed" trope, and a long weekend vacation with Allegra's family celebrating a wedding and the attraction is just to hard to resist any longer. The relationship did seem to come together a bit quicker than I am used to but not too fast that it bothered me. There's a bit of angst, some well built tension, and a lot of love, friendship, and growth to go around.
Thanks to Mia Heintzelman for providing me with an ARC. This honest review is my own opinion and given voluntarily.
February 10, 2022
The Friendship Contract
Out Now
4.5/5
Fans of friends to lovers, the guy falls first, and close proximity will want to pick this one up.
I loved this! This was wholesome and the relationships in this book are. Friendships, family and of course the romantic one too! I was not expecting to be so emotional while reading it but there’s moments that just tug at your heartstrings! It also surprised me because I was not expecting the actions of the characters and that is always a nice surprise!
Allegra was a likable and realistic character. I liked how her job and her past really played a role in her action. It never seemed calculating although it could have and that’s very much in part of how wonderful the writing here is!
Damon is so lovable I can’t even! He’s wonderful and swoony! I loved reading Damon’s chapters it helped see how rooted his internal conflict was and it was heartbreaking. I loved his interaction with Allegra and the Trio.
The friendship in this book was so wonderful to see. I loved Lea and I don’t know but now I’m hoping for an enemies to lovers with Brandon… Maybe…
I took off half a star because I felt like the conflict’s resolution was a little rushed, but it still managed to hit me in the feels and it doesn’t take away from the beautiful moment.
Overall, this was such a lovely read! It was my first book by Mia Heintzelman and I can’t wait to read more!
Out Now
4.5/5
Fans of friends to lovers, the guy falls first, and close proximity will want to pick this one up.
I loved this! This was wholesome and the relationships in this book are. Friendships, family and of course the romantic one too! I was not expecting to be so emotional while reading it but there’s moments that just tug at your heartstrings! It also surprised me because I was not expecting the actions of the characters and that is always a nice surprise!
Allegra was a likable and realistic character. I liked how her job and her past really played a role in her action. It never seemed calculating although it could have and that’s very much in part of how wonderful the writing here is!
Damon is so lovable I can’t even! He’s wonderful and swoony! I loved reading Damon’s chapters it helped see how rooted his internal conflict was and it was heartbreaking. I loved his interaction with Allegra and the Trio.
The friendship in this book was so wonderful to see. I loved Lea and I don’t know but now I’m hoping for an enemies to lovers with Brandon… Maybe…
I took off half a star because I felt like the conflict’s resolution was a little rushed, but it still managed to hit me in the feels and it doesn’t take away from the beautiful moment.
Overall, this was such a lovely read! It was my first book by Mia Heintzelman and I can’t wait to read more!
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