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Happy Endings #3
Kismet
In this audio-first rom com by #1 New York Times best-selling author Lauren Blakely, a scorching one-night stand with a stranger turns into a deliciously forbidden romance...
My first evening in London feels like kismet when I bump into a charming, book-loving Englishman, and by the end of the night, he’s making me see stars. I’m floating when we make plans to meet again.
Then fate decides to pull a fast one on me.
Turns out, my smoldering new lover is my red-hot competition, and we’re vying for the same promotion at the elite auction house I crossed an ocean for.
If that’s not enough, the hottie and I are forced to work together on a brand new collection.
Every. Single. Tempting. Day.
What's an American woman in London to do?
Staying far, far away would be the safe choice, especially when I learn about his past and how it mirrors mine.
But I don’t always play it safe with my heart…
©2022 Lauren Blakely (P)2022 Audible Originals
My first evening in London feels like kismet when I bump into a charming, book-loving Englishman, and by the end of the night, he’s making me see stars. I’m floating when we make plans to meet again.
Then fate decides to pull a fast one on me.
Turns out, my smoldering new lover is my red-hot competition, and we’re vying for the same promotion at the elite auction house I crossed an ocean for.
If that’s not enough, the hottie and I are forced to work together on a brand new collection.
Every. Single. Tempting. Day.
What's an American woman in London to do?
Staying far, far away would be the safe choice, especially when I learn about his past and how it mirrors mine.
But I don’t always play it safe with my heart…
©2022 Lauren Blakely (P)2022 Audible Originals
7 pages, Audible Audio
First published February 3, 2022
383 people are currently reading
1345 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Blakely
256 books24.2k followersYou can find Lauren on TikTok at @laurenblakelybooks! A #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that’s sexy, feel-good and witty. Lauren likes dogs, cake and show tunes and she is the vegetarian at your dinner party.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 639 reviews
February 28, 2022
This says it's third in a series, but the others haven't been published yet. I have no idea what's up with that, but since it's on Audible Originals, I took a dive.
This story hinges on the embarrassing coincidence of the one-night-stand with a new colleague before learning about working together. I put it in the "give it the premise" category and that makes it work pretty well. Blakely is author enough that the rest falls into place.
This could have felt more insta-love in the hands of a lesser author. Their connection came through strong and clear and I liked that they both acknowledged it in advance of finding out they were going to be working together. And I liked, too, that they pulled back due to personal concerns over career intersection/complication. So it's personal boundaries keeping them apart rather than some non-existent (because potentially illegal) work policy. And I like even better that the potentially negative motivation* is presented as a positive goal because Jo is going after a promotion that will return her to her familiar stomping grounds in New York.
If there's a drawback, it's the rather weak secret the author keeps from the reader beyond the point of irritation regarding details of why Jo doesn't like London. Also, it was kind of lame once revealed—in an how-often/likely-is-this-anyway kind of way. Since it's at the heart of Jo's desire to flee London, and is thus important to her motivations, I felt that went on way too long.
I'm going to go with four stars on this one. It's good because Blakely is that talented. But it does rely on some tropey foundations and keeps its cards up its sleeve way too long.
A note about Steamy: There are several explicit sex scenes putting this in the upper range of the middle of my steam tolerance. They're key to the story because it shows the main characters' connection in physical ways that are then mirrored as they grow into them emotionally. This worked very well, I think.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
This story hinges on the embarrassing coincidence of the one-night-stand with a new colleague before learning about working together. I put it in the "give it the premise" category and that makes it work pretty well. Blakely is author enough that the rest falls into place.
This could have felt more insta-love in the hands of a lesser author. Their connection came through strong and clear and I liked that they both acknowledged it in advance of finding out they were going to be working together. And I liked, too, that they pulled back due to personal concerns over career intersection/complication. So it's personal boundaries keeping them apart rather than some non-existent (because potentially illegal) work policy. And I like even better that the potentially negative motivation* is presented as a positive goal because Jo is going after a promotion that will return her to her familiar stomping grounds in New York.
If there's a drawback, it's the rather weak secret the author keeps from the reader beyond the point of irritation regarding details of why Jo doesn't like London. Also, it was kind of lame once revealed—in an how-often/likely-is-this-anyway kind of way. Since it's at the heart of Jo's desire to flee London, and is thus important to her motivations, I felt that went on way too long.
I'm going to go with four stars on this one. It's good because Blakely is that talented. But it does rely on some tropey foundations and keeps its cards up its sleeve way too long.
A note about Steamy: There are several explicit sex scenes putting this in the upper range of the middle of my steam tolerance. They're key to the story because it shows the main characters' connection in physical ways that are then mirrored as they grow into them emotionally. This worked very well, I think.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
February 19, 2022
after I finish reading a book I check what my friends and other readers on GR thought of the book and while I read some of yours reviews I have to admit I didn't remember much about the story that you pointed out and I just listened to this the two days ago...so it is safe to say this was very forgettable
May 5, 2022
This was not fun. Just romance, not a romcom.
Things I liked:
🧡 The cover: It's so cute, the illustrated cover made me listened to it in the first place.
🧡 The premise: I thought I'll like, but then it kinda became The Hating Game in London...
Things I wasn't impressed with:
⚫ Too cheesy: I didn't like the romance between the couple.
There are better audible originals than this.
Things I liked:
🧡 The cover: It's so cute, the illustrated cover made me listened to it in the first place.
🧡 The premise: I thought I'll like, but then it kinda became The Hating Game in London...
Things I wasn't impressed with:
⚫ Too cheesy: I didn't like the romance between the couple.
There are better audible originals than this.
February 15, 2022
This started off a bit cheesey but I actually really got into it by the end. Jo is sent to London for work where she has a one night stand with a sexy older man who turns out to be her new co-worker as well as her main competition for a promotion. The chemistry between Jo and Heath was believable and oh so adorable. These two book-loving souls explore London together and fall in love. A charming, feel good romance with a few semi-steamy open door scenes. Great on audio with two narrators (one of whom is Julie Whelan!). Definitely an entertaining, quick read that I have no trouble recommending (free for audible members too!).
April 2, 2022
I listened the audiobook. 🙂
April 13, 2022
This book put the biggest smile on my face. It had the best sweet and spicy scenes. Also we love a good grumpy/sunshine and office romance trope.
As Taylor Swift once said but God, I love the English. You know I love a London boy.
“She is the great love of my life. Maybe it’s kismet or maybe it’s seizing the chance when kismet brings a woman like Jo into your world.” 💛
As Taylor Swift once said but God, I love the English. You know I love a London boy.
“She is the great love of my life. Maybe it’s kismet or maybe it’s seizing the chance when kismet brings a woman like Jo into your world.” 💛
April 5, 2022
Kismet is book three in the Happy Ending series by Lauren Blakely and features a very likeable couple who meet by chance, have insta-chemistry, and are two peas in a pod. What I liked best about this book is that it is set in Europe and includes all of the cultural references that keep me turning the pages and wanting more and more.
Josephine, 32, was introduced in the previous book, Shut Up and Kiss Me, which ended as she was being transferred from NYC to London to work for the new parent company of a prestigious art brokerage firm with the possibility of landing a promotion. This is a standalone as she was not the heroine in book two. There is no cliffhanger.
Heath is 40 and I personally loved that he was older and well established, and while some thought of him as a loveable grump, I didn’t think so at all. I felt he was just a bit reserved and did what he had to in order to move on from the grief of losing his wife. I felt he was charming, witty, and true to himself, and loved how he smitten he was with Jo.
Their chance meeting at the local bar was super suggestive and flirty, and there was no doubt in this reader’s mind regarding “will they or won’t they.” Flirty banter is Blakely’s strong suit as she easily laid the groundwork in the first chapter and lured us all in with their smoking hot chemistry and the reasons they were each searching for a physical connection. You feel for her characters and route for them the entire time.
Our hero and heroine grew closer and closer as each page progressed, and it wasn’t easy for them to not act on their attraction to one another now that they were co-workers vying for the same promotion. So even though Kismet started off with a bang, it became a slow burn as they got to know one other as they became friends.
They bonded over their shared appreciation and knowledge of art and literature, as well as the memory of their super steamy night of passion. I loved exploring London through the author’s eyes and all of the places off the beaten path that Heath shared with Jo. This only made their bond grow stronger and I loved how they were honest with their thoughts and feelings and genuinely enjoyed being with each other. They lifted each other up, listened to one another, supported one another, and were truly one when they were together.
I loved all of the secondary characters and lit up when Griffin and Joy from Wanderlust had a brief appearance, and when Heath and Jo frequented the local coffee house. It’s like comfort food to me. Fans of Wanderlust and My Two Week Husband will especially love Kismet as it has the same vibe in my opinion. Readers are treated to the author’s expansive knowledge of art and history in both NYC and London, and I find myself keeping a list when I read one of her books of places I want to visit.
Kismet is hopeful, sweet, sexy, and full of passion. They are not only deeply passionate for each other, but for their jobs in the art world which is a true calling. I loved the ending and how they each made sacrifices to be with each other, and how wanting to make each other happy didn’t seem like a sacrifice at all. Health and Jo complimented each other beautifully and gave each other such joy and purpose. I loved their journey and highly recommend this romantic read!
Josephine, 32, was introduced in the previous book, Shut Up and Kiss Me, which ended as she was being transferred from NYC to London to work for the new parent company of a prestigious art brokerage firm with the possibility of landing a promotion. This is a standalone as she was not the heroine in book two. There is no cliffhanger.
Heath is 40 and I personally loved that he was older and well established, and while some thought of him as a loveable grump, I didn’t think so at all. I felt he was just a bit reserved and did what he had to in order to move on from the grief of losing his wife. I felt he was charming, witty, and true to himself, and loved how he smitten he was with Jo.
Their chance meeting at the local bar was super suggestive and flirty, and there was no doubt in this reader’s mind regarding “will they or won’t they.” Flirty banter is Blakely’s strong suit as she easily laid the groundwork in the first chapter and lured us all in with their smoking hot chemistry and the reasons they were each searching for a physical connection. You feel for her characters and route for them the entire time.
Our hero and heroine grew closer and closer as each page progressed, and it wasn’t easy for them to not act on their attraction to one another now that they were co-workers vying for the same promotion. So even though Kismet started off with a bang, it became a slow burn as they got to know one other as they became friends.
They bonded over their shared appreciation and knowledge of art and literature, as well as the memory of their super steamy night of passion. I loved exploring London through the author’s eyes and all of the places off the beaten path that Heath shared with Jo. This only made their bond grow stronger and I loved how they were honest with their thoughts and feelings and genuinely enjoyed being with each other. They lifted each other up, listened to one another, supported one another, and were truly one when they were together.
I loved all of the secondary characters and lit up when Griffin and Joy from Wanderlust had a brief appearance, and when Heath and Jo frequented the local coffee house. It’s like comfort food to me. Fans of Wanderlust and My Two Week Husband will especially love Kismet as it has the same vibe in my opinion. Readers are treated to the author’s expansive knowledge of art and history in both NYC and London, and I find myself keeping a list when I read one of her books of places I want to visit.
Kismet is hopeful, sweet, sexy, and full of passion. They are not only deeply passionate for each other, but for their jobs in the art world which is a true calling. I loved the ending and how they each made sacrifices to be with each other, and how wanting to make each other happy didn’t seem like a sacrifice at all. Health and Jo complimented each other beautifully and gave each other such joy and purpose. I loved their journey and highly recommend this romantic read!
April 9, 2022
"So as long as I don't catch feelings, this whole friendship with the smoldering Brit ripped straight from the pages of Jane Austen will work out fine."
I've read the Big Rock series by Lauren Blakely and I was quite impressed with the writing style so I decided to give this book a try. Though I can't understand the ode of the series, it was an enjoyable read but nothing extraordinary. I liked the connection, communication and chemistry between Jo & Heath but the plot was pretty forgettable. Both of them were very passionate and this is just their story about how they overcome all the obstacles in their relationship while vying for the same position at their work place. It was overall a very quick and engaging read and if you're looking forward to read a lighthearted, fast-paced office romance with a little mystery, you should pick this up.
Thank you Candi Kane PR for the ARC
I've read the Big Rock series by Lauren Blakely and I was quite impressed with the writing style so I decided to give this book a try. Though I can't understand the ode of the series, it was an enjoyable read but nothing extraordinary. I liked the connection, communication and chemistry between Jo & Heath but the plot was pretty forgettable. Both of them were very passionate and this is just their story about how they overcome all the obstacles in their relationship while vying for the same position at their work place. It was overall a very quick and engaging read and if you're looking forward to read a lighthearted, fast-paced office romance with a little mystery, you should pick this up.
Thank you Candi Kane PR for the ARC
February 8, 2022
This was free on audible. It was fine but the characters fell pretty flat for me.
April 15, 2022
4.5 stars!
I have enjoyed the previous two books in the Happy Endings series so I am not surprised I loved the third book. Kismet features Jo who was leaving NYC for London at the end of Shut Up and Kiss Me . She was hoping to land the VP role in the auction house she works for when she is transferred to London. She’s not thrilled about moving because London holds some hurtful memories and NYC is her home. To ease into the move, she decides a one night stand with a hot Brit is what she needs. She shares an unforgettable night with Heath but instead of walking away in the morning, they want to explore their connection and date.
Things are halted when she walks into her job and realizes Heath is not only her new coworker but also her competition for the promotion she is hoping to land. There’s nothing else to do but be friends because dating a coworker won’t end well when one of them will end up with the job.
Heath and Jo spend time together in the office and slowly get to know each other better. Every new side they get to see makes them like each other more. I loved watching their friendship bloom and I felt their feelings grow right along with it. The connection is real and you can feel the spark between them. The more time they spend together, the harder it is to keep their hands off of each other until finally they can’t hold back any longer and it’s electric.
These two give us an amazing amount of spice while still bringing in all the sweet you want. Heath is swoony and delectable and Jo is smart and confident and they complement each other so well. They are fantastic together but still grow individually as Jo faces past pain and Heath opens his heart to love again.
I listened to the audiobook and think it was well narrated. Julia Whelan and Shane East bring Heath and Jo to life and I felt like I was experiencing everything right along with them. And the ending is perfect. I loved it!
I have enjoyed the previous two books in the Happy Endings series so I am not surprised I loved the third book. Kismet features Jo who was leaving NYC for London at the end of Shut Up and Kiss Me . She was hoping to land the VP role in the auction house she works for when she is transferred to London. She’s not thrilled about moving because London holds some hurtful memories and NYC is her home. To ease into the move, she decides a one night stand with a hot Brit is what she needs. She shares an unforgettable night with Heath but instead of walking away in the morning, they want to explore their connection and date.
Things are halted when she walks into her job and realizes Heath is not only her new coworker but also her competition for the promotion she is hoping to land. There’s nothing else to do but be friends because dating a coworker won’t end well when one of them will end up with the job.
Heath and Jo spend time together in the office and slowly get to know each other better. Every new side they get to see makes them like each other more. I loved watching their friendship bloom and I felt their feelings grow right along with it. The connection is real and you can feel the spark between them. The more time they spend together, the harder it is to keep their hands off of each other until finally they can’t hold back any longer and it’s electric.
These two give us an amazing amount of spice while still bringing in all the sweet you want. Heath is swoony and delectable and Jo is smart and confident and they complement each other so well. They are fantastic together but still grow individually as Jo faces past pain and Heath opens his heart to love again.
I listened to the audiobook and think it was well narrated. Julia Whelan and Shane East bring Heath and Jo to life and I felt like I was experiencing everything right along with them. And the ending is perfect. I loved it!
April 10, 2022
Lauren Blakely is one of the most vibrant and prolific romance writers I’ve ever read, writing flirty, witty and heartfelt stories no matter the trope.
Josephine Brennan is passionate about art and would love to get a VP job at the auction house she works for in New York, but is soon informed that if she wants it, she needs to relocate to London to pursue it.
On the night she arrives in London, she meets an attractive, charismatic, book loving man who she would like to keep on seeing beyond their sizzling one-night stand. She soon finds out though, that Heath, her hot Englishman, is also her co-worker and competition for the job she wants. Can they find a way to work things out both personally and professionally?
I can always count on Lauren to provide a beautifully sweet, sexy and romantic story that will transport me to a happy place. I just love everything she writes and Kismet is no different.
The attraction between Jo and Heath blooms into out and out love as they spend time together in and out of work, and the two of them together are a joy to read and make Kismet and enrapturing read. From the lovely and sexy romance between Jo and Heath, to the great supporting characters (some old, some new), to the incredible London backdrop and clever banter, there was never a dull moment.
Kismet is book 3 in the Happy Endings series by author Lauren Blakely. It is told from both points of view with happy ending. Genre: Contemporary romance. Tropes: big city | workplace | grumpy-sunshine | British hero | standalone.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3uoBDl8
★ I was given an ARC version of this book courtesy of the author via Candi Kane PR. I am voluntarily reviewing this title.
★ Check out all my book edits over at my Bookstagram
Josephine Brennan is passionate about art and would love to get a VP job at the auction house she works for in New York, but is soon informed that if she wants it, she needs to relocate to London to pursue it.
On the night she arrives in London, she meets an attractive, charismatic, book loving man who she would like to keep on seeing beyond their sizzling one-night stand. She soon finds out though, that Heath, her hot Englishman, is also her co-worker and competition for the job she wants. Can they find a way to work things out both personally and professionally?
I can always count on Lauren to provide a beautifully sweet, sexy and romantic story that will transport me to a happy place. I just love everything she writes and Kismet is no different.
The attraction between Jo and Heath blooms into out and out love as they spend time together in and out of work, and the two of them together are a joy to read and make Kismet and enrapturing read. From the lovely and sexy romance between Jo and Heath, to the great supporting characters (some old, some new), to the incredible London backdrop and clever banter, there was never a dull moment.
Kismet is book 3 in the Happy Endings series by author Lauren Blakely. It is told from both points of view with happy ending. Genre: Contemporary romance. Tropes: big city | workplace | grumpy-sunshine | British hero | standalone.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/3uoBDl8
★ I was given an ARC version of this book courtesy of the author via Candi Kane PR. I am voluntarily reviewing this title.
★ Check out all my book edits over at my Bookstagram
April 22, 2022
3.7/5 stars! Super cute, I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would! Heath is a flipping sweetheart, and thank the heavens above for NO MISCOMMUNICATION TROPE! The way that could’ve easily been used here AND IT WASN’T! The fact that there ended up not really being any sort of conflict is actually why I’m knocking off a couple points in my rating. Where was the ANGST! The got-me-on-the-edge-of-my-seat couple of chapters that make me start to question if there’s going to be a happy ending. This really was just kind of one note throughout, but in a good way??? Like, the issues were resolved so maturely that it actually had me going “dang, so she’s not gonna get mad about him doing exactly what he should do?” No, these characters are very mature and actually make good choices y’all, it’s almost equally as frustrating than when characters just don’t communicate and it all goes to hell in a hand basket!
All this to say I enjoyed reading, and likely will read again, thank you 😂
All this to say I enjoyed reading, and likely will read again, thank you 😂
April 8, 2022
What an absolute #swoonfest this story turned out to be. It was poignant and humorous and everything in between! It was real and relatable and just plain fun! I laughed and I cried and I felt everything!
This story made me feel utterly content and joyous when I listened to it back in February and when I read it just a few days ago, my heart was even happier and I fell a little bit in love with Jo & Heath. There's not a whole lot of authors that I will dedicate time to with both a listen and a read, and Lauren is one of those authors. Most every time I dedicate the time, it pays off in spades.
If you're looking for a happy story with minimal angst and a whole lot of heart, this is one you want to read #trust :)
✦ Amazon ➜ http://blkly.pub/KindleKismet
✦ Apple ➜ http://blkly.pub/AppleKismet
✦ Nook ➜ http://blkly.pub/NookKismet
✦ Kobo ➜ http://blkly.pub/KoboKismet
✦ Google ➜ http://blkly.pub/GoogleKismet
✦ Audible ➜ http://blkly.pub/AudibleKismet
narrated by Julia Whelan and Shane East
This story made me feel utterly content and joyous when I listened to it back in February and when I read it just a few days ago, my heart was even happier and I fell a little bit in love with Jo & Heath. There's not a whole lot of authors that I will dedicate time to with both a listen and a read, and Lauren is one of those authors. Most every time I dedicate the time, it pays off in spades.
If you're looking for a happy story with minimal angst and a whole lot of heart, this is one you want to read #trust :)
✦ Amazon ➜ http://blkly.pub/KindleKismet
✦ Apple ➜ http://blkly.pub/AppleKismet
✦ Nook ➜ http://blkly.pub/NookKismet
✦ Kobo ➜ http://blkly.pub/KoboKismet
✦ Google ➜ http://blkly.pub/GoogleKismet
✦ Audible ➜ http://blkly.pub/AudibleKismet
narrated by Julia Whelan and Shane East
February 17, 2022
Notes:
Currently on Audible Plus
The story was cute. Sane adults that follow their own choices, acknowledge their feelings and make more choices to see what's possible. It's a very sane and shiny kind of deal that people wish would happen more often in life. lol
I'd say the exuberance in the sex scenes didn't quite always match the story being told, but sex should be a mix of tender, wild and always desired.
Currently on Audible Plus
The story was cute. Sane adults that follow their own choices, acknowledge their feelings and make more choices to see what's possible. It's a very sane and shiny kind of deal that people wish would happen more often in life. lol
I'd say the exuberance in the sex scenes didn't quite always match the story being told, but sex should be a mix of tender, wild and always desired.
April 5, 2022
Jo has recently moved to London, vying for a much coveted dream. Her friends challenged her to indulge in everything London has to offer so she arrives with a list in hand to begin her new life there.
First on the list is to have a one night stand, which is completely out of character for her. This is how she ends up meeting a very handsome and dashing man called Heath. It turns out they have a shared love of literature, among other interests.
They share a very schmexy night together and make plans to see each other again. This gets thrown into disarray when sees him earlier than she thought when she starts her new job and finds out they will be competing against each other for the job she desperately wants.
This was my weekend audio listen, a light hearted romance story about a one night stand that turns into something a bit more complicated. No angst and plenty of laughs :)
First on the list is to have a one night stand, which is completely out of character for her. This is how she ends up meeting a very handsome and dashing man called Heath. It turns out they have a shared love of literature, among other interests.
They share a very schmexy night together and make plans to see each other again. This gets thrown into disarray when sees him earlier than she thought when she starts her new job and finds out they will be competing against each other for the job she desperately wants.
This was my weekend audio listen, a light hearted romance story about a one night stand that turns into something a bit more complicated. No angst and plenty of laughs :)
September 12, 2022
Cute but predictable. Listened to on audible.
February 16, 2022
Maybe I am an eternal optimist? Who knows! But, I decided to give a Lauren Blakely book another try having been reeled in by this Audible Plus offering.
Sadly (again), I did not realize it was part of a series or that it would reference a shit-ton of characters from her other books (which I have no intention of reading).
The narration is excellent and I loved the idea of this book. I was even pleasantly caught off-guard by the twist to Jo's "betrayal" story. Honestly did not see that coming. However, much like an anti-climactic roller coaster, the end of this book flops.
Sadly (again), I did not realize it was part of a series or that it would reference a shit-ton of characters from her other books (which I have no intention of reading).
The narration is excellent and I loved the idea of this book. I was even pleasantly caught off-guard by the twist to Jo's "betrayal" story. Honestly did not see that coming. However, much like an anti-climactic roller coaster, the end of this book flops.
October 4, 2022
לסקירה מפורטת בעברית קישור לבלוג שלי -
https://sivi-the-avid-reader.com/kism...
https://sivi-the-avid-reader.com/kism...
December 29, 2022
3.5 stars! really sweet and wholesome!
i liked the chemistry between the two main leads and it was a nice pace from the usual “finding out you’re rivals and becoming cruel to one another but there’s still sexual tension” it was more “finding out you’re rivals but still pining” and it was just sweeter that way (sorry i’m a friends to lovers apologist!!!). there was still tension and they still liked each other so much! it was just sweet and teasing and kind.
i really liked the lay of the land with this one. plot was working and both characters were sweet individuals. my one ick was just the main leads best friend getting together with her dad. the circumstances it was written under… i just hated that bit.
anyway! may just read the other in the series. its v cute!
i liked the chemistry between the two main leads and it was a nice pace from the usual “finding out you’re rivals and becoming cruel to one another but there’s still sexual tension” it was more “finding out you’re rivals but still pining” and it was just sweeter that way (sorry i’m a friends to lovers apologist!!!). there was still tension and they still liked each other so much! it was just sweet and teasing and kind.
i really liked the lay of the land with this one. plot was working and both characters were sweet individuals. my one ick was just the main leads best friend getting together with her dad. the circumstances it was written under… i just hated that bit.
anyway! may just read the other in the series. its v cute!
March 2, 2023
Super cute. Loved the literary references. Listened while it was free in Audible. Side note: Audible has a different cute romcom cover... Goodreads has Magic Mike cover lol.
April 9, 2022
5 SMOOCHES!
I listened to the audiobook of Kismet by Lauren Blakely, narrated by Julia Whelan and Shane East. I just want to get this out there, but I love Shane East and his deliciously crisp British accent, and he did a fantastic job bringing Heath to life. Paired with Julia Whelan, who was effervescent in the role of Jo, Kismet was pure romance listening pleasure. The third book in the Happy Endings series, Kismet can be read as a standalone.
Kismet means fate, destiny, something that’s meant to be, and Blakely’s rendition of that vibe certainly delivered all those feels. The plot features a 40-year-old, widowed British hero and a 32-year-old quintessential New York heroine taking on a major life change via a job opportunity in London, a city that hasn’t been kind to her. Following an unforgettable hook-up that could easily have led to something much more, the two find out the next day that not only are they co-workers, but they’re pitted against each other for a promotion that they both covet. The chemistry between them was powerful, right out the gate, and given Heath’s painful history, the fact that he was so enthralled by and open to Jo was pretty moving. All the commonalities they shared between their love of art and books and how they enjoyed touring Heath’s London together added another layer to that meant-to-be vibe Blakely threaded through their whole romance.
Kismet was an incredibly romantic love story full of this wonderful right-person-at-the-right-time energy. I adore mature love stories, and Heath and Jo’s sultry yet complex romance was completely addictive one. Five smooches from me for Kismet by Lauren Blakely!
~Danielle Palumbo
I listened to the audiobook of Kismet by Lauren Blakely, narrated by Julia Whelan and Shane East. I just want to get this out there, but I love Shane East and his deliciously crisp British accent, and he did a fantastic job bringing Heath to life. Paired with Julia Whelan, who was effervescent in the role of Jo, Kismet was pure romance listening pleasure. The third book in the Happy Endings series, Kismet can be read as a standalone.
Kismet means fate, destiny, something that’s meant to be, and Blakely’s rendition of that vibe certainly delivered all those feels. The plot features a 40-year-old, widowed British hero and a 32-year-old quintessential New York heroine taking on a major life change via a job opportunity in London, a city that hasn’t been kind to her. Following an unforgettable hook-up that could easily have led to something much more, the two find out the next day that not only are they co-workers, but they’re pitted against each other for a promotion that they both covet. The chemistry between them was powerful, right out the gate, and given Heath’s painful history, the fact that he was so enthralled by and open to Jo was pretty moving. All the commonalities they shared between their love of art and books and how they enjoyed touring Heath’s London together added another layer to that meant-to-be vibe Blakely threaded through their whole romance.
Kismet was an incredibly romantic love story full of this wonderful right-person-at-the-right-time energy. I adore mature love stories, and Heath and Jo’s sultry yet complex romance was completely addictive one. Five smooches from me for Kismet by Lauren Blakely!
~Danielle Palumbo
March 16, 2022
This is a sweetheart sweet-treat. It was a freebie on Audible, so I gave it a go. You must be in the mood to be charmed; if not, you’ll probably want to slap their kind faces alongside their polite and considerate interactions. I was in the mood for it, so I sighed with as much sap as a Maine Maple tree in spring. Sticky taps all around.
I love the trend this book includes: the romantic interest gives the protagonist room to make choices that are important to her career without his manipulations (or “well-meaning” peer pressure). What?! Mature adults showing restraint and patience and good will? This might be the most sane pair of love birds I’ve encountered in decades. 😅
File Under: English Majors + Art Majors = Formula 4 Life
I love the trend this book includes: the romantic interest gives the protagonist room to make choices that are important to her career without his manipulations (or “well-meaning” peer pressure). What?! Mature adults showing restraint and patience and good will? This might be the most sane pair of love birds I’ve encountered in decades. 😅
File Under: English Majors + Art Majors = Formula 4 Life
April 19, 2022
Wow, what a wonderful, romantic treat. I got the audio. I love Lauren Blakely's audios, but this would be great reading the book as well.
So well written, the meet cute. The meet again. Their romance. Ahh, I love these two: Jo and Heath.
Julia Whelan is one of my favorite narrators. She does the male British voice so well. (I agree with you, Cyndi Marie).
Shane East is perfect as Heath.
Jo and Heath are trying to start over and have a 2nd chance at love. When then least expected it !
There were a lot of secondary characters in the beginning, but I loved it when it was just focused on these two.
Well done ! 4.5 stars
So well written, the meet cute. The meet again. Their romance. Ahh, I love these two: Jo and Heath.
Julia Whelan is one of my favorite narrators. She does the male British voice so well. (I agree with you, Cyndi Marie).
Shane East is perfect as Heath.
Jo and Heath are trying to start over and have a 2nd chance at love. When then least expected it !
There were a lot of secondary characters in the beginning, but I loved it when it was just focused on these two.
Well done ! 4.5 stars
March 11, 2022
Soft and quiet, this hits the mark during this time of extreme stress. The narration is great with appropriate accents. The story is light and not too angsty. A wonderful sense of place for New York and London. I love that both Jo and Heath are book lovers. I also love the friendships they both have with other people. And I absolutely adore that they’re mature characters (32 & 48) thinking and acting in appropriately adult manner. My only complaint is the lengthy set-up at the start.
April 2, 2023
this was such a good audiobook!! i loved the will they won’t they aspect of it even though the entire time i was internally screaming at them to be together! 😅
such a sweet book (but also had some spice 🤪) also we love a good british mmc 😍
such a sweet book (but also had some spice 🤪) also we love a good british mmc 😍
April 7, 2022
Candy for a brain. I adore them.
November 23, 2023
Nice & somewhat bland romance - It didn’t hold my attention as much as others have done, but can’t beat Shane East as a narrator!! He could narrate grocery lists and I would listen, haha
July 25, 2025
1.5 stars ✨
This wasn’t awful, it was just really boring.
Jo and Heath are going after the same promotion, but there’s none of the angst that you would expect from that kind of competition, so much so that even I, who am terrible at predicting things, could see the resolution instantly. This also means that there were no stakes to their relationship. There was no reason for them to avoid getting together, a stage that didn’t even last long enough for either of them to feel any yearning. In addition to this, the ending felt like a last-minute attempt to add some drama, except it just seemed rushed and unnecessary.
Overall, the characters, plot, and romance were all fairly average. I didn’t hate this, but I didn’t care for it either.
Audiobook side note: I wasn’t a fan of this, but kept listening because I love Julia Whelan’s narrations. Shane East is not my favorite narrator. I also noticed that he tends to mumble a lot.
This wasn’t awful, it was just really boring.
Jo and Heath are going after the same promotion, but there’s none of the angst that you would expect from that kind of competition, so much so that even I, who am terrible at predicting things, could see the resolution instantly. This also means that there were no stakes to their relationship. There was no reason for them to avoid getting together, a stage that didn’t even last long enough for either of them to feel any yearning. In addition to this, the ending felt like a last-minute attempt to add some drama, except it just seemed rushed and unnecessary.
Overall, the characters, plot, and romance were all fairly average. I didn’t hate this, but I didn’t care for it either.
Audiobook side note: I wasn’t a fan of this, but kept listening because I love Julia Whelan’s narrations. Shane East is not my favorite narrator. I also noticed that he tends to mumble a lot.
April 21, 2022
3.75 ⭐️
August 9, 2023
If this is what the cover would have looked like on audible I definitely wouldn’t have read this. Respectfully to the author and her fans, this is not my cup of tea and the audible cover feels like false advertising. It’s like I got catfished. This also is not the third in a series…
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