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Meet Cute Book Club #1
The Wine Down
Brandi…
Fearless
Southern
Broken
I'm the heroine saving farms from financial ruin and racism.
Who will save me from my loneliness?
I’m Too Busy.
I’m Too Hurt.
But it’s homecoming weekend and I really want to WINE Down.
Except now, my family’s farm is on the chopping block.
My best friend Riddick vows to fix it.
Because...
I’m the object of his affection.
And money is no object.
He wants me. But I don't want anyone.
I’m too fractured to put the pieces back together again.
But it's fun to feel Riddick try…
Riddick.
Dominating
South African
Billionaire
I'm the wealthy Restauranteur all the ladies love…
But I'm in love with my best friend.
Brandi doesn’t want my love, but she does need my help.
She will get more than she asks for.
I'll destroy the past that’s haunting her.
I’ll own the present by pleasuring her.
I'll design our future; healing her.
She will be mine, and her heart will no longer hide…
Will Brandi Wine Down long enough to let love rule?
Can Riddick save Brandi's farm without killing their friendship?
Find out in this hot friends-to-lovers romance from Louise Lennox!
The Wine Down is a standalone, Friend to Lovers romance that is part of the multi-author series, Meet Cute Book Club series. Escape with this swoon-worthy collection of romances where meet-cutes don't only happen between the pages of romance novels and members find their own happily ever after.
Fearless
Southern
Broken
I'm the heroine saving farms from financial ruin and racism.
Who will save me from my loneliness?
I’m Too Busy.
I’m Too Hurt.
But it’s homecoming weekend and I really want to WINE Down.
Except now, my family’s farm is on the chopping block.
My best friend Riddick vows to fix it.
Because...
I’m the object of his affection.
And money is no object.
He wants me. But I don't want anyone.
I’m too fractured to put the pieces back together again.
But it's fun to feel Riddick try…
Riddick.
Dominating
South African
Billionaire
I'm the wealthy Restauranteur all the ladies love…
But I'm in love with my best friend.
Brandi doesn’t want my love, but she does need my help.
She will get more than she asks for.
I'll destroy the past that’s haunting her.
I’ll own the present by pleasuring her.
I'll design our future; healing her.
She will be mine, and her heart will no longer hide…
Will Brandi Wine Down long enough to let love rule?
Can Riddick save Brandi's farm without killing their friendship?
Find out in this hot friends-to-lovers romance from Louise Lennox!
The Wine Down is a standalone, Friend to Lovers romance that is part of the multi-author series, Meet Cute Book Club series. Escape with this swoon-worthy collection of romances where meet-cutes don't only happen between the pages of romance novels and members find their own happily ever after.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 16, 2022
164 people are currently reading
399 people want to read
About the author
Louise Lennox
21 books150 followersContemporary romance Author Louise Lennox is a hopeful romantic writing steamy romances full of heart and healing.
A Spelman College and Georgetown University graduate, Louise provides women with diverse and meaningful representation in romance novel pages. Not seeing enough women like herself headlining positive love stories, she launched #HappyBlackRomance; a community of readers and writers committed to the creation and sharing of positive romance stories featuring Black heroines.
Louise Lennox plots highlight the joys of Black relationships across the diaspora; pushing readers from all cultural backgrounds to admire them for their strength and downright sexiness. In her novels sparks always fly; the sex amazes; and the characters always leave the world better than they found it through their love.
When she’s not writing, Louise is enjoying her work as a school leader, wife, and mother of the two cutest dragons to ever walk the earth!
To learn more about #HappyBlackRomance and to score a free book or two, check out her website www.lovelouiselennox.com.
A Spelman College and Georgetown University graduate, Louise provides women with diverse and meaningful representation in romance novel pages. Not seeing enough women like herself headlining positive love stories, she launched #HappyBlackRomance; a community of readers and writers committed to the creation and sharing of positive romance stories featuring Black heroines.
Louise Lennox plots highlight the joys of Black relationships across the diaspora; pushing readers from all cultural backgrounds to admire them for their strength and downright sexiness. In her novels sparks always fly; the sex amazes; and the characters always leave the world better than they found it through their love.
When she’s not writing, Louise is enjoying her work as a school leader, wife, and mother of the two cutest dragons to ever walk the earth!
To learn more about #HappyBlackRomance and to score a free book or two, check out her website www.lovelouiselennox.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
June 23, 2022
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Trigger warnings: racism, financial exploitation mentioned, assault.
Where do I even begin?
This novel made my entire week, I mean that for real! Still smiling when I think about how Brandi and Riddick made my absolute days while I was reading about them.
For one thing Brandi is everything I wanna be - smart, beautiful and passionate about fighting causes regarding her african american roots such as plantation, land rights, exploitation of poor black farmers, etc. She so damn perfect if her jerk of an ex hadn't made her afraid of love, and her family wasn't such a mess. I literally could not stop cheering when black historical facts were mentioned, how often her fighting for causes was mentioned - like I wish more POC authors explored how one should be passionate for social causes. It would be so amazing and I would be on that high forever - literally.
In comes zooming in on his badass personality - RIDDDICK MY BOOOOYYY! I mean like seriously he is the next best thing after all my other book boyfriends - probably ranks #1 in my book boyfriends list. I mean..just...let me explain eh. He's so kind caring, charming, s**y, flirty, intelligent (even if not bookish smart), and passionate about not exploiting others financially (he owns a lotta real-estate land for his restaurant - hence the title heheh) and often helps out brandi in her causes. He made Brandi feel so special and me too...I mean Brandi so special. Ugh..I was ready to sacrifice my entire soul body mind and heart for this man. Yes..he made me lose my mind. But oh my god, was it great.
And despite the battles they both face (I wish I saw more of Riddick's family problems explored as well), they're both so well matched. The amount of drama was so low, my neighbours probably heard my sigh of relief that loud. And how they try and carefully solve their issues, while battling chemistry, and keeping their friendship afloat, and all those other sweet precious moments - oye my heart my heart my heart! - was so damn awesome and yes I basically felt like I had snuffed a lotta fairy dust for these moments.
THIS NOVEL WAS SO FRICKING AWESOME - HEAR ME SCREAM PEOPLE!
I only wish this book was longer - that's all I am saying. But I enjoyed every moment with it, I will not deny.
Until the next read,
TMR
Trigger warnings: racism, financial exploitation mentioned, assault.
Where do I even begin?
This novel made my entire week, I mean that for real! Still smiling when I think about how Brandi and Riddick made my absolute days while I was reading about them.
For one thing Brandi is everything I wanna be - smart, beautiful and passionate about fighting causes regarding her african american roots such as plantation, land rights, exploitation of poor black farmers, etc. She so damn perfect if her jerk of an ex hadn't made her afraid of love, and her family wasn't such a mess. I literally could not stop cheering when black historical facts were mentioned, how often her fighting for causes was mentioned - like I wish more POC authors explored how one should be passionate for social causes. It would be so amazing and I would be on that high forever - literally.
In comes zooming in on his badass personality - RIDDDICK MY BOOOOYYY! I mean like seriously he is the next best thing after all my other book boyfriends - probably ranks #1 in my book boyfriends list. I mean..just...let me explain eh. He's so kind caring, charming, s**y, flirty, intelligent (even if not bookish smart), and passionate about not exploiting others financially (he owns a lotta real-estate land for his restaurant - hence the title heheh) and often helps out brandi in her causes. He made Brandi feel so special and me too...I mean Brandi so special. Ugh..I was ready to sacrifice my entire soul body mind and heart for this man. Yes..he made me lose my mind. But oh my god, was it great.
And despite the battles they both face (I wish I saw more of Riddick's family problems explored as well), they're both so well matched. The amount of drama was so low, my neighbours probably heard my sigh of relief that loud. And how they try and carefully solve their issues, while battling chemistry, and keeping their friendship afloat, and all those other sweet precious moments - oye my heart my heart my heart! - was so damn awesome and yes I basically felt like I had snuffed a lotta fairy dust for these moments.
THIS NOVEL WAS SO FRICKING AWESOME - HEAR ME SCREAM PEOPLE!
I only wish this book was longer - that's all I am saying. But I enjoyed every moment with it, I will not deny.
Until the next read,
TMR
June 6, 2022
*ARC received from Indie Pen PR in exchange for my honest review.*
If you haven't read a Louise Lennox book yet The Wine Down was exactly the story I have grown to love from Louise.
Brandi had her heart broken nearly two decades ago and since then she has sworn off men. She is independent, strong and confident in the work that she does saving farms from financial ruin and racism. That is enough. Until it isn't. Her best friend Riddick has been her constant companion for those two decades. Tall, gorgeous and with an accent that could melt the panties off of a nun she never let her feelings show for him. Not only was her heart broken all those years ago, but so was she. Plus, he could never see her that way. He could have any woman he wanted why would he want her?
Riddick has no problems getting women to fall into his bed. Over the last year though something has shifted and the only woman he wants in his bed is Brandi. She has always been this constant in his life. Biding his time until she could come around to the idea of them but now time is up. When Riddick shows up to help Brandi save her family farm, he isn't leaving town without making her his. Can Riddick get Brandi to see that they are a force as friends but as partners they would be unstoppable?
A friends to lovers romance with a strong black heroine, a South African billionaire with a dominating streak and a family fighting past scars as well as each other. The Wine Down is just one of those stories instantly pulls you in. Its been several months since I have read a Louise Lennox book and now I need to devour everything in her entire catalog. I want all the strong women of color and the delicious men they fall for.
If you haven't read a Louise Lennox book yet The Wine Down was exactly the story I have grown to love from Louise.
Brandi had her heart broken nearly two decades ago and since then she has sworn off men. She is independent, strong and confident in the work that she does saving farms from financial ruin and racism. That is enough. Until it isn't. Her best friend Riddick has been her constant companion for those two decades. Tall, gorgeous and with an accent that could melt the panties off of a nun she never let her feelings show for him. Not only was her heart broken all those years ago, but so was she. Plus, he could never see her that way. He could have any woman he wanted why would he want her?
Riddick has no problems getting women to fall into his bed. Over the last year though something has shifted and the only woman he wants in his bed is Brandi. She has always been this constant in his life. Biding his time until she could come around to the idea of them but now time is up. When Riddick shows up to help Brandi save her family farm, he isn't leaving town without making her his. Can Riddick get Brandi to see that they are a force as friends but as partners they would be unstoppable?
A friends to lovers romance with a strong black heroine, a South African billionaire with a dominating streak and a family fighting past scars as well as each other. The Wine Down is just one of those stories instantly pulls you in. Its been several months since I have read a Louise Lennox book and now I need to devour everything in her entire catalog. I want all the strong women of color and the delicious men they fall for.
January 4, 2023
Not What I Expected
I was disappointed. I wanted a plot and a love story. Instead, I received the beginnings of a good plot that turned into his fingers or manhood seeming to fix life. I'm all for happy endings, but what happened to the plot. It just ends. I'm so disappointed.
I was disappointed. I wanted a plot and a love story. Instead, I received the beginnings of a good plot that turned into his fingers or manhood seeming to fix life. I'm all for happy endings, but what happened to the plot. It just ends. I'm so disappointed.
June 7, 2022
I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by Louise Lennox’s latest novel, The Wine Down (Book 1). Ms. Lennox’s writing style really took hold in capturing my attention, followed by the hot and explosive chemistry between the two main protagonists Riddick and Brandi, while climaxing in their evolution from best friends to lovers which was written with such beauty, tenderness, and skill it made me want to weep! If ever a writer was able to capture and describe the pure essence of unconditional love in all its forms (physical, spiritual, emotional, mental and ethereal), Ms. Lennox has done so in The Wine Down! I want a Riddick of my own! This book reminds me that love in its purest form is breathtaking! Her novel should be placed on a shelf that is handy to get to so it can be read and re-read often! Get this novel immediately!
July 10, 2022
Couldn’t finish it
The book is supposed to be a romance between two professional adults in their mid thirties, however it felt like I was reading about teenagers. Brandi should have seek professional help for her control issues and fear of intimacy and I don’t believe that Reddik was doing her any favors by being so accommodating. Reddik was supposed to be a dominant, however all he was doing was begging her for love and it left an icky feeling in my mouth. She insulted him about his offer which was far too generous by the way and he still came back to her without her actually apologizing. They are supposed to be best friends but she’s never been to his restaurant, 40 minutes away?
As for her family they were out of line. She specializes in farmers rights but they almost do a deal without telling her with the guy who betrayed her all these years ago? The misplaced ego was also grating. They are basically going to lose every but they are still talking about not wanting charity.
The book is supposed to be a romance between two professional adults in their mid thirties, however it felt like I was reading about teenagers. Brandi should have seek professional help for her control issues and fear of intimacy and I don’t believe that Reddik was doing her any favors by being so accommodating. Reddik was supposed to be a dominant, however all he was doing was begging her for love and it left an icky feeling in my mouth. She insulted him about his offer which was far too generous by the way and he still came back to her without her actually apologizing. They are supposed to be best friends but she’s never been to his restaurant, 40 minutes away?
As for her family they were out of line. She specializes in farmers rights but they almost do a deal without telling her with the guy who betrayed her all these years ago? The misplaced ego was also grating. They are basically going to lose every but they are still talking about not wanting charity.
June 20, 2022
Louise Lennox is a new to me author, and The Wine Down was definitely a fantastic introduction into her world. Brandi was burned badly in love & since that moment in time, she's not even tried to put herself out there again, instead focusing on her very important work (respect). Riddick is a South African man who is her best friend, but he's done staying in the friend zone so he's a sexy man on a mission to make her finally see they would be perfect together, and seeing that he's a billionaire, he's not afraid to put the work in. I don't always read friends to lovers books since they can be super frustrating as the push & pull can be too brutal for this impatient girl but this author did it beautifully, and I'm hooked on her. Of course there are bumps in the road as Brandi's heart was so hurt & I could totally relate to her since I'll never get into a relationship after a horrible marriage but Riddick was the perfect man. Hell, he's one man I would actually consider at the end of the day LOL! Anyway, this was a great read that everyone needs in their lives so now it's your turn since I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
June 23, 2022
Glass of wine and this book! 😍
The Wine Down is my introduction to Louise Lennox's work, and I must say, what an intro! I enjoyed reading this best friend - lovers romance so much. It is funny, a page-turner, the characters were interesting, and the plot was sweet. I am reading more of Louise Lennox's work.
Brandi and Riddick became best friends in college. However, Brandi still hurts from her first relationship after it went sour. Since then, she has built walls that make it extremely difficult for anyone thinking of pursuing a relationship with her.
Riddick always had a thing for Brandi, but since she was not on the market for a relationship, he decided the next best thing would be to become her best friend. But can he convince Brandi that they can be more than friends, and it still works?
Adding to the story is the supporting cast - a cousin Brandi can't seem to get along with, a cantankerous grandad she loves to death and a shady ex. This story is a beautiful read.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Entertaining, Funny, Happily Ever After, Page-turner, Steamy, Wonderful characters
The Wine Down is my introduction to Louise Lennox's work, and I must say, what an intro! I enjoyed reading this best friend - lovers romance so much. It is funny, a page-turner, the characters were interesting, and the plot was sweet. I am reading more of Louise Lennox's work.
Brandi and Riddick became best friends in college. However, Brandi still hurts from her first relationship after it went sour. Since then, she has built walls that make it extremely difficult for anyone thinking of pursuing a relationship with her.
Riddick always had a thing for Brandi, but since she was not on the market for a relationship, he decided the next best thing would be to become her best friend. But can he convince Brandi that they can be more than friends, and it still works?
Adding to the story is the supporting cast - a cousin Brandi can't seem to get along with, a cantankerous grandad she loves to death and a shady ex. This story is a beautiful read.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Entertaining, Funny, Happily Ever After, Page-turner, Steamy, Wonderful characters
June 15, 2022
This is my second Louise Lennox book, and I liked it as much as the first. I love how she allows her characters to be themselves, even if that is not entirely consistent. Brandi and Riddick are best friends first, making their eventual romance even hotter. Louise Lennox World is great in the best way: there are integrated sororities and fraternities at the college; some white allies like Riddick genuinely understand the issues of living in the U.S. while Black; interracial relationships are not a big issue, it seems. At the same time, she creates the Black world with language and behavior that is real. It takes Brandi some time, but she is all in once she realizes that Riddick has not become someone else by expressing his romantic love for her. He is the lover/friend everyone needs!
I received an ARC from the author/publisher and left this review voluntarily.
I received an ARC from the author/publisher and left this review voluntarily.
June 29, 2022
Louise Lennox Does It Again!!!
This is an easy read that I finished on a cross country plane ride. The book began with a lonely pursuit of what Brandi wanted and ended with her discovering what she needed, and what she needed ended up being what she always wanted…Riddick. Louise Lennox craftily and steadily moved along the stories of two best friends that wanted the same thing in life - love in each other. It took 17 years for Riddick and Brandi to figure out they belonged together and when they got together it was nothing less than steamy and explosive. The character development was methodical and intentionally draws you in. I believed I was in Abbott Ridge, NC living right beside the characters. Although a stand alone book, I long for this to be a series. What a way to kick off this multi-author Meet the Cute Book Club series.
This is an easy read that I finished on a cross country plane ride. The book began with a lonely pursuit of what Brandi wanted and ended with her discovering what she needed, and what she needed ended up being what she always wanted…Riddick. Louise Lennox craftily and steadily moved along the stories of two best friends that wanted the same thing in life - love in each other. It took 17 years for Riddick and Brandi to figure out they belonged together and when they got together it was nothing less than steamy and explosive. The character development was methodical and intentionally draws you in. I believed I was in Abbott Ridge, NC living right beside the characters. Although a stand alone book, I long for this to be a series. What a way to kick off this multi-author Meet the Cute Book Club series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2022
Brandi has been burned by love in the past and it is not an experience that she wants to repeat. She is cautious about who she lets close but Riddick has always proven himself to be there when she needs someone the most, but will she be willing to open her heart to the possibility of expanding their friendship to a romantic love?
Through the years Riddick has been understanding supportive when it comes to Brandi but friends is no longer enough. He is willing to show her by word and deed that she comes first in his life and there isn’t anything he wouldn’t do to ensure her happiness.
Riddick is exactly what Brandi needs in her life as he shows her that there is much more to life than the way she has been living it as they take us on an entertaining journey.
Through the years Riddick has been understanding supportive when it comes to Brandi but friends is no longer enough. He is willing to show her by word and deed that she comes first in his life and there isn’t anything he wouldn’t do to ensure her happiness.
Riddick is exactly what Brandi needs in her life as he shows her that there is much more to life than the way she has been living it as they take us on an entertaining journey.
June 21, 2022
4 Star Review of The Wine Down (Meet Cute Book Club #1) by Louise Lennox
Louise Lennox is a relatively new author to me but what I have read I have enjoyed. The Wine Down is Brandi and Riddick’s friends to lovers story. Riddick has feelings for Brandi and he is determined to do everything in his power to help and save Brandi, even if she doesn’t want it.
Brandi had her heart broken many years ago and she is determined never to become involved again. However, Riddick is just as determined to show her that love is worth taking a chance.
Can Riddick convince Brandi to take a chance on love? Or will she refuse him once and for all. The characters were engaging and the story line had me cheering them on. The writing was strong and I found myself invested in the story.
Louise Lennox is a relatively new author to me but what I have read I have enjoyed. The Wine Down is Brandi and Riddick’s friends to lovers story. Riddick has feelings for Brandi and he is determined to do everything in his power to help and save Brandi, even if she doesn’t want it.
Brandi had her heart broken many years ago and she is determined never to become involved again. However, Riddick is just as determined to show her that love is worth taking a chance.
Can Riddick convince Brandi to take a chance on love? Or will she refuse him once and for all. The characters were engaging and the story line had me cheering them on. The writing was strong and I found myself invested in the story.
June 20, 2022
Riddick and Brandi are absolutely amazing ,one of my favorite couples. I love how much they loved each other as friends and that friendship just go deeper as they became more. Absolutely one of my top 10 favorite fictional relationships!
My favorite part is Louise Lennox chose to make herself a meta verse by plugging her other book and if you had never read any of them you would absolutely want to go back and read every one of them that she mentioned! I'm always ready for more and this was no exception I wish I lived in this town. As always I love learning more about West Africa and also the Geechee culture and language. This book has been on the best of all those worlds. Looking forward to more in the future . Read this if you ever thought of being more with your best friend and if you want to read one of the best friends to lovers books of the Year pick this book up!
My favorite part is Louise Lennox chose to make herself a meta verse by plugging her other book and if you had never read any of them you would absolutely want to go back and read every one of them that she mentioned! I'm always ready for more and this was no exception I wish I lived in this town. As always I love learning more about West Africa and also the Geechee culture and language. This book has been on the best of all those worlds. Looking forward to more in the future . Read this if you ever thought of being more with your best friend and if you want to read one of the best friends to lovers books of the Year pick this book up!
June 7, 2022
I make no secret that I'm a big fan of the friends to lovers romance and I have to say that I thought that this was a really great one. Brandi and Riddick's story is lush with feels, emotions, sparks, fears, doubts, drama, attraction, cuteness, steam, sweetness and heart that dazzles, delights and honestly leaves you swooning. Riddick was completely swoon worthy and Brandi had my heart aching for her, even as I cheered over her fierceness. Together they were pure magic and the case of feels they gave me was major! This is my freely posted, frank review.
June 24, 2022
Louise Lennox is a new to me author. I enjoyed this book! The characters are well defined and the plot is so good! I loved the friends to lovers aspect. The sex scenes are HOT! I would definitely recommend this book!
June 29, 2022
Omg this book was absolutely fantastic and I was absolutely hooked from the beginning until the end and the storyline flowed throughout the book. It's fun friends to lovers and hot steamy sex scenes and you will definitely fall in love with Reddick and Brandi. You will definitely fall in love with this book and it's a must read!!!!
July 1, 2022
Absolutely awesome
This is my first book by Louise Lennox. This story was absolutely amazing. Brandi and Riddick have been best friends for almost twenty years. All this time he has loved her but knew that she was not ready. When her family farm is threatened by her former fiancé, Riddick knows that he needs to act and oh, my goodness…did he pull out all the stops! So good!
This is my first book by Louise Lennox. This story was absolutely amazing. Brandi and Riddick have been best friends for almost twenty years. All this time he has loved her but knew that she was not ready. When her family farm is threatened by her former fiancé, Riddick knows that he needs to act and oh, my goodness…did he pull out all the stops! So good!
June 25, 2022
An awesome read
March 21, 2023
wow wow, very cute and sensual. i love this book sm,💘💘🥰 friends to lovers + he falls first, yesss i really like that!!
June 23, 2022
My first Louise Lennox book but certainly not my last! Well written exceptionally paced. Roddick and Brandi are swoon worthy characters with a love for each other- first as friends, then as lovers- any Disney princess would envy.
July 12, 2022
grown & sexy
I love it when grown folk act like grown folk. Riddick was deliberate in his pursuit of Brandi, and the chemistry was 🔥 Great start to this series.
I love it when grown folk act like grown folk. Riddick was deliberate in his pursuit of Brandi, and the chemistry was 🔥 Great start to this series.
June 21, 2022
This book was cute and steamy! It moved at a really good pace compared to the books I read right before it, so I liked that right away. The characters were great, even if I did get a bit annoyed with both of them for certain little things they did, that I won’t mention because I know those are typical things that happen in romance books to create the drama.
As I said, I did really think the characters, particularly our hero and heroine, were really well written. They had different issues and background stories that were unique and definitely made their actions make sense. Strangely, to me, Riddick didn’t like bathrooms attached to a bedroom, his reasoning, kinda made sense, but also didn’t. But I liked that he had such a unique quirk/opinion.
Brandi was a little bit of a feisty, hot-tempered woman. Quick to want to fight her cousin, or others who might have deserved it. However at times she maybe went a little overboard and that is why she had some of the issues that contributed to moving the story along. But she also loved hard, had standards, and for the most part was pretty confident about herself. Yeah, her ex had done a number on her and caused some insecurities, but Riddick was able to help her figure out how wrong that ex had been.
The bedroom scenes, well not all were in the bedroom, but all were steamy! There were several of them, so be prepared for that to be a big part of the story. Not that I’m complaining! lol
One other thing I thought was weird and that bugged me was how Riddick called the other guys in his fraternity frats. And she called the women in her sorority sorors. Now, I was in a sorority in college, and hung out with people in fraternities. And we called our fellow members sisters and brothers respectively. However, since the Greek organizations in this book were more black students, I wonder if that is the difference? Also, I know it was an advanced copy, but hopefully there was a bit of editing because there were tons of commas in weird awkward places. And finally, I feel like maybe I’d like to have had a little bit more wine in the story than it seemed to be, it was almost like it was thrown in at certain points, normal meals, parties, etc., but not made a major part of the story as the title would imply.
I am looking forward though to getting to know the members of the Meet Cute Book Club better throughout the rest of the books in the series though! This is also my first book by this author, but I would definitely be interested in reading more by her in the future!
Review first published on Lisa Loves Literature.
As I said, I did really think the characters, particularly our hero and heroine, were really well written. They had different issues and background stories that were unique and definitely made their actions make sense. Strangely, to me, Riddick didn’t like bathrooms attached to a bedroom, his reasoning, kinda made sense, but also didn’t. But I liked that he had such a unique quirk/opinion.
Brandi was a little bit of a feisty, hot-tempered woman. Quick to want to fight her cousin, or others who might have deserved it. However at times she maybe went a little overboard and that is why she had some of the issues that contributed to moving the story along. But she also loved hard, had standards, and for the most part was pretty confident about herself. Yeah, her ex had done a number on her and caused some insecurities, but Riddick was able to help her figure out how wrong that ex had been.
The bedroom scenes, well not all were in the bedroom, but all were steamy! There were several of them, so be prepared for that to be a big part of the story. Not that I’m complaining! lol
One other thing I thought was weird and that bugged me was how Riddick called the other guys in his fraternity frats. And she called the women in her sorority sorors. Now, I was in a sorority in college, and hung out with people in fraternities. And we called our fellow members sisters and brothers respectively. However, since the Greek organizations in this book were more black students, I wonder if that is the difference? Also, I know it was an advanced copy, but hopefully there was a bit of editing because there were tons of commas in weird awkward places. And finally, I feel like maybe I’d like to have had a little bit more wine in the story than it seemed to be, it was almost like it was thrown in at certain points, normal meals, parties, etc., but not made a major part of the story as the title would imply.
I am looking forward though to getting to know the members of the Meet Cute Book Club better throughout the rest of the books in the series though! This is also my first book by this author, but I would definitely be interested in reading more by her in the future!
Review first published on Lisa Loves Literature.
November 29, 2022
Sooo many typos
It was incredibly distracting. I also had issues with the repetition. Sometimes plot points seemed to contradict information shared earlier. Side note, I don't mind reference to other characters an author creates or even books from other authors. However, when you refer to a book you wrote and yourself as the author in the third person it's weird.
It was incredibly distracting. I also had issues with the repetition. Sometimes plot points seemed to contradict information shared earlier. Side note, I don't mind reference to other characters an author creates or even books from other authors. However, when you refer to a book you wrote and yourself as the author in the third person it's weird.
June 18, 2024
Meh
Had to scroll through this. It's all about the sexy hookups and not much plot. And the "South African" proverbs? Never heard of them.
Had to scroll through this. It's all about the sexy hookups and not much plot. And the "South African" proverbs? Never heard of them.
October 31, 2022
Just Couldn't Finish It
I got about 15 pages in and had to stop. I liked the part about saving and protecting the legacy of black farms and farmers, but I didn't like the crude language or the nonchalant attitude about sex. I really don't like stories where everything seems to be about sex, especially when the main character is a black woman. It's too stereotypical. Black women deserve genuine love, kindness, and tenderness. Black women deserve more than just being the object of some man's lust. Black women should be respected, treasured, and adored. Maybe this aspect comes out in the novel at some point but the crude, vulgar language is too off putting for me so I'll never know.
I got about 15 pages in and had to stop. I liked the part about saving and protecting the legacy of black farms and farmers, but I didn't like the crude language or the nonchalant attitude about sex. I really don't like stories where everything seems to be about sex, especially when the main character is a black woman. It's too stereotypical. Black women deserve genuine love, kindness, and tenderness. Black women deserve more than just being the object of some man's lust. Black women should be respected, treasured, and adored. Maybe this aspect comes out in the novel at some point but the crude, vulgar language is too off putting for me so I'll never know.
September 21, 2022
DNF @ 73%
The book was pretty well written with only a handful of grammatical mistakes, and it would’ve been nice to have a little more buildup. However, clearly the therapy and inner work Brandi experienced was not enough, and Riddick needed a backbone. I was so disappointed because friends to lovers is my absolute favorite, and it’s so hard to find ones with black woman leads.
The book was pretty well written with only a handful of grammatical mistakes, and it would’ve been nice to have a little more buildup. However, clearly the therapy and inner work Brandi experienced was not enough, and Riddick needed a backbone. I was so disappointed because friends to lovers is my absolute favorite, and it’s so hard to find ones with black woman leads.
January 29, 2023
Its a no
This wasn't for me. I wasn't a fan or cared about any of the
characters. The main male lead was too perfect, and that came off very cringed to me as a reader. I gave one star for highlighting Black farmers
This wasn't for me. I wasn't a fan or cared about any of the
characters. The main male lead was too perfect, and that came off very cringed to me as a reader. I gave one star for highlighting Black farmers
September 5, 2022
It was giving cringe wattpad story. A lot of the plot just didn’t make sense
January 24, 2023
not a good friends to lovers. not a good book at all actually.
February 28, 2023
Letting Go of the Past for a Brighter Future
(FYI, I write my reviews in real-time as I am reading the book. I have found this to be a better strategy for me to ensure that I actually leave a review, while remembering the salient points of the book that I would like to review. Because I do this in real-time, this review may also include some spoilers. Reader beware.)
1. This is my first read by this author and I'm loving the banter with and between the characters thus far.
2. I see what you did there, Louise. 😉 (Inserting one of your other novels into this book.)
3. He doesn't want me, anyway...
I love how Chapter #2 immediately addressed that untruth. 🤣😂🤫😏
4. As a Black Student Affairs Professional, I was touched by the inclusion of RA/Residence Life (and with an accurate depiction, thus far).
5. I recognize that romance fiction is supposed to take us out of the realities of the real world but I feel like that is where interracial romance loses some of its luster, by not addressing the realities of the real world. As an Black woman who enjoys reading interracial stories, I notice that many authors of interracial romance forget to address the realities of said relationships, and the elephant in the room which is that when you have a partner who is BIPOC and a partner who is white, there are distinct cultural differences and social awareness that needs to be in place. It is very clear to me that Riddick is not only invested in understanding his privilege but that Brandi has no problem holding him accountable for and to said privilege.
6. "Don’t worry Kitten, Tomorrow, it will all make sense." Major grin Here. Instantaneous. May we all be so lucky to have our own Riddicks.
7. Grandpa Ellis. ❤️
8. I think that fiction books provide some of the best lessons about life. One of the persistent themes that I saw was about letting go of the past.
9. I have now finished the book. This is my first book by this author, Louise Lennox, and I love Louise's Style. I love that when there was conflict there wasn't this major delay or months-long drag out of secret feelings. I appreciate the maturity and the vulnerability in which the characters dove head on to deal with their issues in real time. I love that Brandi got the happily ever after that she deserved with Riddick, but more importantly I love that he encouraged her to let go of her past and make amends so that they can have the future that they deserve and that Riddick so wanted to provide to her. I also greatly appreciate Riddick's stance on being a warm demander and understanding that while Brandi may not be submissive in traditional ways, when you provide her with safety and love, there is a way for her to relent into her passion. Only your person can do that for you; Riddick is Brandi's person and was able to do that for her.
(FYI, I write my reviews in real-time as I am reading the book. I have found this to be a better strategy for me to ensure that I actually leave a review, while remembering the salient points of the book that I would like to review. Because I do this in real-time, this review may also include some spoilers. Reader beware.)
1. This is my first read by this author and I'm loving the banter with and between the characters thus far.
2. I see what you did there, Louise. 😉 (Inserting one of your other novels into this book.)
3. He doesn't want me, anyway...
I love how Chapter #2 immediately addressed that untruth. 🤣😂🤫😏
4. As a Black Student Affairs Professional, I was touched by the inclusion of RA/Residence Life (and with an accurate depiction, thus far).
5. I recognize that romance fiction is supposed to take us out of the realities of the real world but I feel like that is where interracial romance loses some of its luster, by not addressing the realities of the real world. As an Black woman who enjoys reading interracial stories, I notice that many authors of interracial romance forget to address the realities of said relationships, and the elephant in the room which is that when you have a partner who is BIPOC and a partner who is white, there are distinct cultural differences and social awareness that needs to be in place. It is very clear to me that Riddick is not only invested in understanding his privilege but that Brandi has no problem holding him accountable for and to said privilege.
6. "Don’t worry Kitten, Tomorrow, it will all make sense." Major grin Here. Instantaneous. May we all be so lucky to have our own Riddicks.
7. Grandpa Ellis. ❤️
8. I think that fiction books provide some of the best lessons about life. One of the persistent themes that I saw was about letting go of the past.
9. I have now finished the book. This is my first book by this author, Louise Lennox, and I love Louise's Style. I love that when there was conflict there wasn't this major delay or months-long drag out of secret feelings. I appreciate the maturity and the vulnerability in which the characters dove head on to deal with their issues in real time. I love that Brandi got the happily ever after that she deserved with Riddick, but more importantly I love that he encouraged her to let go of her past and make amends so that they can have the future that they deserve and that Riddick so wanted to provide to her. I also greatly appreciate Riddick's stance on being a warm demander and understanding that while Brandi may not be submissive in traditional ways, when you provide her with safety and love, there is a way for her to relent into her passion. Only your person can do that for you; Riddick is Brandi's person and was able to do that for her.
June 19, 2022
I fell in love with this story from the first page. Young love can feel so real and when it blows up it can be devastating. For Brandi, it changed the way she felt about dating and love in general.
Brandi grew from that experience, becoming a powerful attorney working to save black farm owners from being pushed off their property. Her inspiration to do this work comes from her grandparents struggle through so many difficult times. Her best friend Riddick has been her support from the moment they met in college.
Riddick has been Brandi's best friend since college, their meet cute involves kittens. They've done a lot of things together and have their own traditions. One of those is New Year's Eve, this past one Riddick didn't kiss her, he wants more. He promises the next time he kisses her it will be the start of something.
Brandi has been fighting her own attraction to Riddick, she doesn't want to lose her best friend if things go further. This becomes even more apparent as she's preparing for the Meet Cute Book Club's annual retreat that occurs during Homecoming at Abbott Ridge College, her Alma Mater. Seems everyone sees them together as a couple, well everyone but her.
Riddick on the other hand is having a meeting with his frat brother Byron at which he learns two things that throw him for a loop. First is that Byron was the man Brandi was getting over when they met and the second, is Brandi's grandfather's farm is in danger of falling to the man's schemes.
The conversation he has with Brandi about his meeting with Byron, is what changes his mind about coming to homecoming.
From the moment Riddick sees Brandi in person their relationship is on track to more and heats up quickly.
I loved the way all of these things get twisted and tangled in half-truths and misunderstandings and then slowly work out.
Brandi grew from that experience, becoming a powerful attorney working to save black farm owners from being pushed off their property. Her inspiration to do this work comes from her grandparents struggle through so many difficult times. Her best friend Riddick has been her support from the moment they met in college.
Riddick has been Brandi's best friend since college, their meet cute involves kittens. They've done a lot of things together and have their own traditions. One of those is New Year's Eve, this past one Riddick didn't kiss her, he wants more. He promises the next time he kisses her it will be the start of something.
Brandi has been fighting her own attraction to Riddick, she doesn't want to lose her best friend if things go further. This becomes even more apparent as she's preparing for the Meet Cute Book Club's annual retreat that occurs during Homecoming at Abbott Ridge College, her Alma Mater. Seems everyone sees them together as a couple, well everyone but her.
Riddick on the other hand is having a meeting with his frat brother Byron at which he learns two things that throw him for a loop. First is that Byron was the man Brandi was getting over when they met and the second, is Brandi's grandfather's farm is in danger of falling to the man's schemes.
The conversation he has with Brandi about his meeting with Byron, is what changes his mind about coming to homecoming.
From the moment Riddick sees Brandi in person their relationship is on track to more and heats up quickly.
I loved the way all of these things get twisted and tangled in half-truths and misunderstandings and then slowly work out.
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