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The Dating Games #3
The Good Guy Challenge
Fake real dating the one who got away? Sign me up…
There’s just something about bad boys. Tattoos and leather jackets, am I right?
Trouble is, my last boyfriend was a teensy bit too bad and now he’s in prison. Yikes.
When my friends challenge me to take a dip in the good guy side of the dating pool, I see their dating bet and I raise it, looking up the guy I crushed on growing up.
With a winning grin and heart of gold, Gabe Clements is now the star receiver for a pro football team.
Except, the supposed good guy turns out to be nothing like I imagined. He’s better. He’s growly, possessive, smoldering.
And he’s determined too. At the end of the night, he asks me to be his fake real girlfriend for the rest of the week.
Sounds like my kind of dating challenge since he’s a good guy by day, and a very dirty man after dark.
I’ll cure my bad boy blues in no time.
Well, as long as I don’t fall for Gabe’s big heart too.
There’s just something about bad boys. Tattoos and leather jackets, am I right?
Trouble is, my last boyfriend was a teensy bit too bad and now he’s in prison. Yikes.
When my friends challenge me to take a dip in the good guy side of the dating pool, I see their dating bet and I raise it, looking up the guy I crushed on growing up.
With a winning grin and heart of gold, Gabe Clements is now the star receiver for a pro football team.
Except, the supposed good guy turns out to be nothing like I imagined. He’s better. He’s growly, possessive, smoldering.
And he’s determined too. At the end of the night, he asks me to be his fake real girlfriend for the rest of the week.
Sounds like my kind of dating challenge since he’s a good guy by day, and a very dirty man after dark.
I’ll cure my bad boy blues in no time.
Well, as long as I don’t fall for Gabe’s big heart too.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 5, 2022
1654 people are currently reading
2502 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Blakely
256 books24.3k 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 318 reviews
November 29, 2022
Ooohhh LAWD. This was definitely the steamiest LB book I’ve ever read
I was NOT ready. Neither was my kindle. I don’t know how we both survived this. I’ve never had to look over my shoulder while reading an LB book as much as I did in this one. Seriously… 🔥🔥🔥
Also… grown up babysitter who’s hot AF and wants who he babysat? New k!nk unlocked 🥵.
Ellie (26) just moved to LA (Venice Beach) because of her new job- a dating show she wrote and is producing. She’s had some bad luck dating and even has an ex who tried conning her, which means she has experience when it comes to the dating life. She’s walking her dog when she *thinks* she sees her childhood crush- her babysitter- and NFL wide receiver Gabe.
Gabe (36) just got out of a relationship with a woman that not only accused him of cheating because women would flirt with him, but she also k!nk shamed him. He’s done dating and wants to focus on his last NFL season. And then he sees Ellie. Ellie, who he babysat, has grown up to be a very beautiful and hot woman.
They reconnect and then realize that there’s something there 👀. Perfect timing because Ellie's aunt's birthday is coming up, and they both need a date... guess they can go together. Let the "fake" dating begin...
What I loved:
—jeeezus, the 🔥. Look. I have read MANY LB books before. If I see her books go on sale or they’re free, I don’t even hesitate. I get them (she’s KU now luckily, but for many years they weren’t). But. Gawd. This book was sooo STEAMY, so DUUURTY, so HAWT, I had to reread scenes to make sure my eyes weren’t deceiving me (bahahaha that’s what she said 🙃). This is the steamiest LB book I’ve ever read (I mean, I’m REALLY behind on her books, but I’ve read enough to know her style) and I ain’t mad at it 💅. I couldn’t get enough 🥵😉.
—How JP he gets. Oh... em... gee... from the first moment they reconnect, Gabe basically starts marking his territory. This man even GROWLS when a man tries to hit on her💅. If Gabe was a dog, he would've been peeing all around Ellie as soon as she stepped into his peripheral vision. MINEMINEMINE 💁🏻♀️👀
—the role playing. This book had so many role-playing scenes. I 🔥was 🔥here 🔥 for 🔥 them 🔥. I ain’t gonna lie, it had some of the ones I’ve fantasized about myself 💅💁🏻♀️👀. Which means that
—the dirty talk is good too 👀 especially when they were playing their “roles”🥵💦
— the perfect level of drama/angst. This could’ve been angstier. But you know what? For me, it was JUST right. I actually got nervous when the third act stuff started happening, but luckily, my heart and stomach handled it just fine 😅. I would’ve been a mess if it had been more angsty lol
—the sweet moments. ERMAGOD!!! Gabe can be so swoooony. Sure, he might sp@nk Ellie’s a$$ like she’s the naughtiest XYZ (ahem. There were MANY roles she played), but the way he acts after melted my heart 🥹❤️. Come on! He walks her dog, buys her dog a bed, and even goes to pick her up so that Ellie could rest after a very *intense* scene 🥵😮💨. He’s SUCH a GOOD guy 🫠❤️
—the side characters. Oh yeah. I wanna read them all
—it’s relationship focus. We see how they’re doing the fake dating and how it morphs into something else. Sure. We get short chapters of their lives outside of the relationship, but I was happiest seeing them together
—the epilogues! Yes. More than one. They’re the BEST 🥰. I was melting with how much I was smiling 🫠🙃. I even sighed up for the bonus chapter in Gabe’s POV
What I wanted more of:
—for it to be longer 🤷🏻♀️. I didn’t want it to end. Maybe I was being spoiled with all the role playing scenes. I wanted to keep reading some off my check list 🤣🤣🤣
Overall, I loved it. Great palate cleanser
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd/omd
-hair pulling/biting/praise kink/spanking/role play/dirty talk/handcuffs
-D/s
-safe words
-condoms/he’s not a manwhore/no virgins
I was NOT ready. Neither was my kindle. I don’t know how we both survived this. I’ve never had to look over my shoulder while reading an LB book as much as I did in this one. Seriously… 🔥🔥🔥
Also… grown up babysitter who’s hot AF and wants who he babysat? New k!nk unlocked 🥵.
Ellie (26) just moved to LA (Venice Beach) because of her new job- a dating show she wrote and is producing. She’s had some bad luck dating and even has an ex who tried conning her, which means she has experience when it comes to the dating life. She’s walking her dog when she *thinks* she sees her childhood crush- her babysitter- and NFL wide receiver Gabe.
Gabe (36) just got out of a relationship with a woman that not only accused him of cheating because women would flirt with him, but she also k!nk shamed him. He’s done dating and wants to focus on his last NFL season. And then he sees Ellie. Ellie, who he babysat, has grown up to be a very beautiful and hot woman.
They reconnect and then realize that there’s something there 👀. Perfect timing because Ellie's aunt's birthday is coming up, and they both need a date... guess they can go together. Let the "fake" dating begin...
What I loved:
—jeeezus, the 🔥. Look. I have read MANY LB books before. If I see her books go on sale or they’re free, I don’t even hesitate. I get them (she’s KU now luckily, but for many years they weren’t). But. Gawd. This book was sooo STEAMY, so DUUURTY, so HAWT, I had to reread scenes to make sure my eyes weren’t deceiving me (bahahaha that’s what she said 🙃). This is the steamiest LB book I’ve ever read (I mean, I’m REALLY behind on her books, but I’ve read enough to know her style) and I ain’t mad at it 💅. I couldn’t get enough 🥵😉.
—How JP he gets. Oh... em... gee... from the first moment they reconnect, Gabe basically starts marking his territory. This man even GROWLS when a man tries to hit on her💅. If Gabe was a dog, he would've been peeing all around Ellie as soon as she stepped into his peripheral vision. MINEMINEMINE 💁🏻♀️👀
—the role playing. This book had so many role-playing scenes. I 🔥was 🔥here 🔥 for 🔥 them 🔥. I ain’t gonna lie, it had some of the ones I’ve fantasized about myself 💅💁🏻♀️👀. Which means that
—the dirty talk is good too 👀 especially when they were playing their “roles”🥵💦
— the perfect level of drama/angst. This could’ve been angstier. But you know what? For me, it was JUST right. I actually got nervous when the third act stuff started happening, but luckily, my heart and stomach handled it just fine 😅. I would’ve been a mess if it had been more angsty lol
—the sweet moments. ERMAGOD!!! Gabe can be so swoooony. Sure, he might sp@nk Ellie’s a$$ like she’s the naughtiest XYZ (ahem. There were MANY roles she played), but the way he acts after melted my heart 🥹❤️. Come on! He walks her dog, buys her dog a bed, and even goes to pick her up so that Ellie could rest after a very *intense* scene 🥵😮💨. He’s SUCH a GOOD guy 🫠❤️
—the side characters. Oh yeah. I wanna read them all
—it’s relationship focus. We see how they’re doing the fake dating and how it morphs into something else. Sure. We get short chapters of their lives outside of the relationship, but I was happiest seeing them together
—the epilogues! Yes. More than one. They’re the BEST 🥰. I was melting with how much I was smiling 🫠🙃. I even sighed up for the bonus chapter in Gabe’s POV
What I wanted more of:
—for it to be longer 🤷🏻♀️. I didn’t want it to end. Maybe I was being spoiled with all the role playing scenes. I wanted to keep reading some off my check list 🤣🤣🤣
Overall, I loved it. Great palate cleanser
⚠️safety squad⚠️
-no cheating/sharing/owd/omd
-hair pulling/biting/praise kink/spanking/role play/dirty talk/handcuffs
-D/s
-safe words
-condoms/he’s not a manwhore/no virgins
June 28, 2024
This was surprising really good AND hot. Like damn.
Was kinda cringe at some points but not so much that it was unreadable.
Was kinda cringe at some points but not so much that it was unreadable.
November 29, 2022
Not the main characters complaining about their respective previous vanilla partners then acting out their ultimate kinky fantasies in the most vanilla way there is. No substance, vanilla fluff. But yeah sure, there's a lot of smoking hot sex between Ellie and Gabe.
No diss but this must be third book by this author I've tried this year in which the small dog has more character development than the heroine.
This was a no drama light read but I didn't connect with the humor or the many sex scenes—which is to say if the sex seems boring then the book isn't for me. I can totally see this one getting praise though, it has a rom-com feel and the "spice" readers are all about these days. Eroti-com?
Bonus point for the very thirsty cover and #RomancePancakes
Available on #KU!
No diss but this must be third book by this author I've tried this year in which the small dog has more character development than the heroine.
This was a no drama light read but I didn't connect with the humor or the many sex scenes—which is to say if the sex seems boring then the book isn't for me. I can totally see this one getting praise though, it has a rom-com feel and the "spice" readers are all about these days. Eroti-com?
Bonus point for the very thirsty cover and #RomancePancakes
Available on #KU!
November 3, 2022
The Good Guy Challenge is book 2 in The Dating Games series by Lauren Blakely. A stand-alone rom-come, told from both POV with a HEA
Tropes:
✔️ big city
✔️ friend to lovers
✔️ sports
✔️ age gap
Actress, TV writer-slash-producer Ellie Snow just moved to L.A. for work. It was also a fresh start after finding out about her swindling ex-boyfriend.
When she comes across Gabe Clements, the good neighbor who used to babysit her, the guy she crushed on when she was a teen, NFL pro-baller and now also new to L.A. she decides to heed her friends’ challenge to date a good guy.
It turns out he’s very good at being a deliciously growly, seductive alpha, but can they find time for a real relationship given their busy careers?
I have three words: H.O.T.
This story was fun, lighthearted and quick to read, or at least it felt that way since I read it in a single sitting. But mostly it was sizzling hot with just the right amount and naughty and nice. Sweet and spicy.
Ellie and Gabe are charismatic and loveable characters. She’s kind and considerate. He’s a good listener and thoughtful. Their banter is easy, dirty and flirty. They fit perfectly together.
I liked that even though they hadn’t realized it, they were looking for someone to trust which translated delectably to their kinky sexy times.
I also enjoyed how they leaned on their friends in the good and not so good times. I've always loved Lauren's books because they invariably put me in a great mood, and can’t wait to read more in this series.
★ I received an ARC of this title from the author via Candi Kane. The excerpts are from that copy.
★See all my book edits on Instagram
Tropes:
✔️ big city
✔️ friend to lovers
✔️ sports
✔️ age gap
Actress, TV writer-slash-producer Ellie Snow just moved to L.A. for work. It was also a fresh start after finding out about her swindling ex-boyfriend.
When she comes across Gabe Clements, the good neighbor who used to babysit her, the guy she crushed on when she was a teen, NFL pro-baller and now also new to L.A. she decides to heed her friends’ challenge to date a good guy.
It turns out he’s very good at being a deliciously growly, seductive alpha, but can they find time for a real relationship given their busy careers?
I have three words: H.O.T.
This story was fun, lighthearted and quick to read, or at least it felt that way since I read it in a single sitting. But mostly it was sizzling hot with just the right amount and naughty and nice. Sweet and spicy.
Ellie and Gabe are charismatic and loveable characters. She’s kind and considerate. He’s a good listener and thoughtful. Their banter is easy, dirty and flirty. They fit perfectly together.
I liked that even though they hadn’t realized it, they were looking for someone to trust which translated delectably to their kinky sexy times.
I also enjoyed how they leaned on their friends in the good and not so good times. I've always loved Lauren's books because they invariably put me in a great mood, and can’t wait to read more in this series.
★ I received an ARC of this title from the author via Candi Kane. The excerpts are from that copy.
★See all my book edits on Instagram
December 24, 2022
“Don’t want your neighbors to hear what’s mine. Be fucking quiet. Or I’ll spank you.”
“Oh! But I like spanking.”
💛
Review: The Good Guy Challenge by Lauren Blakely. The Dating Games series, book 3.
💛
Oh I had so much FUN with this book. Lauren wrote a great age gap, friends to lovers, with delicious kink steamy scenes. Ah I absolutely enjoyed! Ellie and Gabe have known each other for a long time, when he was a teenager and the good bout in the small town, he used to baby sit Ellie. And although in her teenager’s years, she had a crush on him, obviously nothing happens to it.
Years later, he is a famous football player in LA and she’s an equally famous actress-turned writer/producer, recently moving from NYC to LA to work on her new tv series. Both super busy with their careers, but when face to face many years later, their chemistry was explosive.
Mostly important, both of them had pretty bad past relationships, so none wanted a serious one now. He vowed to never date a good girl and she was challenge by her friends to date a good man. How mistaken both were. What they need was really a person in the same wavelength emotionally and a built in friendship, and in the sexy time, they couldn’t be more compatible, they both loved some kinks and it was hot.
Full of banter, love, laughs, respect and serious talks about their wants and dreams, this story was pure gold. I couldn’t get enough of Gabe and Ellie, they were both good people, with a delicious “bad” side. This is so so good, you need to read!
“Oh! But I like spanking.”
💛
Review: The Good Guy Challenge by Lauren Blakely. The Dating Games series, book 3.
💛
Oh I had so much FUN with this book. Lauren wrote a great age gap, friends to lovers, with delicious kink steamy scenes. Ah I absolutely enjoyed! Ellie and Gabe have known each other for a long time, when he was a teenager and the good bout in the small town, he used to baby sit Ellie. And although in her teenager’s years, she had a crush on him, obviously nothing happens to it.
Years later, he is a famous football player in LA and she’s an equally famous actress-turned writer/producer, recently moving from NYC to LA to work on her new tv series. Both super busy with their careers, but when face to face many years later, their chemistry was explosive.
Mostly important, both of them had pretty bad past relationships, so none wanted a serious one now. He vowed to never date a good girl and she was challenge by her friends to date a good man. How mistaken both were. What they need was really a person in the same wavelength emotionally and a built in friendship, and in the sexy time, they couldn’t be more compatible, they both loved some kinks and it was hot.
Full of banter, love, laughs, respect and serious talks about their wants and dreams, this story was pure gold. I couldn’t get enough of Gabe and Ellie, they were both good people, with a delicious “bad” side. This is so so good, you need to read!
Read
November 9, 2022dnf at 30%
I loved the synopsis. However, didn't care for the execution. There is an over abundance of the word vanilla to the point where I want to toss it entirely out of my vocabulary. The idea of the "good guy" slowly unraveling and showing his inner shmink was a hot concept, the way it plays out in the book however is that he is anything but. We go from 0-60 and none of it makes sense. I get zero golden retriever vibes from this dude. The chick is also entirely lack luster.
Excellent for anyone just in the mood for spicy time and doesn't care how we get there. Great for anyone just in the mood for two absolute noobs thinking tugging on hair or spanking a few times is shminky. I didn't get to read much of the spice cause I was just not invested in the characters but I heard there is a role playing scene that's enjoyable too... so I'm willing to bet there will be lots to enjoy for others.
Also, final thing that really had me not wanting anything to do with this story...the guy knew her and babysat her when she was 15. He was 25. Then 5 years later sees her at a party and wants to make out with her cause she looks sweet and innocent.
No thanks. Ill take my age gaps without the dude knowing her as a literal child. Or without the legal age requirement being the thing that sparks his interest. There are other ways to accomplish taboo age gap situations that are hella hot. This wasn't it for me.
I loved the synopsis. However, didn't care for the execution. There is an over abundance of the word vanilla to the point where I want to toss it entirely out of my vocabulary. The idea of the "good guy" slowly unraveling and showing his inner shmink was a hot concept, the way it plays out in the book however is that he is anything but. We go from 0-60 and none of it makes sense. I get zero golden retriever vibes from this dude. The chick is also entirely lack luster.
Excellent for anyone just in the mood for spicy time and doesn't care how we get there. Great for anyone just in the mood for two absolute noobs thinking tugging on hair or spanking a few times is shminky. I didn't get to read much of the spice cause I was just not invested in the characters but I heard there is a role playing scene that's enjoyable too... so I'm willing to bet there will be lots to enjoy for others.
Also, final thing that really had me not wanting anything to do with this story...the guy knew her and babysat her when she was 15. He was 25. Then 5 years later sees her at a party and wants to make out with her cause she looks sweet and innocent.
No thanks. Ill take my age gaps without the dude knowing her as a literal child. Or without the legal age requirement being the thing that sparks his interest. There are other ways to accomplish taboo age gap situations that are hella hot. This wasn't it for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2022
Literally 0⭐️s.. So bad. Plot?? No. Smut?? Absolutely not. It’s funny bc the characters were like “MEH I DONT LIKE VANILLA SEX” but their role plays were the most vanilla I’ve ever read. I’m losing hope in booktok recs.
November 23, 2022
Did I read a different book because I’m not understanding all the high ratings.
There was basically no story but 2 people reconnecting and exploring their kinks.
Lots of sex scenes and that’s about it.
There was basically no story but 2 people reconnecting and exploring their kinks.
Lots of sex scenes and that’s about it.
November 8, 2022
There is no slow burn in Book 2 of the Dating Game series by Lauren Blakely. In the Good Guy Challenge, which is a total standalone, you will get lots of heat between two very likeable characters. Gabe Clements, our hero is a pro-football player and runs into Ellie, a girl who he use to babysit from his hometown, who is now a writer and TV producer.
Both are new to the area due to job changes and can’t help but admire the very grown-up versions of each other. It’s fun that the families know each other and he’s about a decade older, and they are immediately smitten. Blakely always writes such wonderful, endearing characters that I’d love to be friends with in real life. They are driven and relatable, and always make me laugh.
Our hero and heroine are open from the get-go about their desires, and take full advantage of the week before their work commitments take over. Blakely is the one of steamiest romance writers I have ever read, so prepare to feel the heat. She doesn’t sugarcoat the dirty details, and you will soon learn that Gabe and Ellie like to role-play, and they like it a little rough and kinky. Love their flirty banter and all the sexual tension too.
Most importantly, the two really enjoy each other’s company and I loved their every interaction and conversation. Loved her dog and their friends, and especially how perfect of a man he was. We’d all be lucky to have a Gabe adore us, and the way he treats Ellie is just swoony perfection. He’s sweet, attentive, and alpha all rolled into one sexy man.
Love how they could be honest with each other and made each other a priority and the level of trust they shared to be able to share their secret fantasies. So hot!
What started out as a challenge from her friends to find a “good guy” vs. the jerks she had been dating, wound up being the best thing that every happened to her. A gentleman in the streets and a freak in the sheets! Ellie was smart, talented and business savvy, and I loved her sunny disposition and how she was confident and strong but also vulnerable.
This rom-com has it all: age gap, friends-to-lovers, fake dating, sports, family and friends, an adorable chihuahua named Gigi, and a HEA that will leave you smiling.
Both are new to the area due to job changes and can’t help but admire the very grown-up versions of each other. It’s fun that the families know each other and he’s about a decade older, and they are immediately smitten. Blakely always writes such wonderful, endearing characters that I’d love to be friends with in real life. They are driven and relatable, and always make me laugh.
Our hero and heroine are open from the get-go about their desires, and take full advantage of the week before their work commitments take over. Blakely is the one of steamiest romance writers I have ever read, so prepare to feel the heat. She doesn’t sugarcoat the dirty details, and you will soon learn that Gabe and Ellie like to role-play, and they like it a little rough and kinky. Love their flirty banter and all the sexual tension too.
Most importantly, the two really enjoy each other’s company and I loved their every interaction and conversation. Loved her dog and their friends, and especially how perfect of a man he was. We’d all be lucky to have a Gabe adore us, and the way he treats Ellie is just swoony perfection. He’s sweet, attentive, and alpha all rolled into one sexy man.
Love how they could be honest with each other and made each other a priority and the level of trust they shared to be able to share their secret fantasies. So hot!
What started out as a challenge from her friends to find a “good guy” vs. the jerks she had been dating, wound up being the best thing that every happened to her. A gentleman in the streets and a freak in the sheets! Ellie was smart, talented and business savvy, and I loved her sunny disposition and how she was confident and strong but also vulnerable.
This rom-com has it all: age gap, friends-to-lovers, fake dating, sports, family and friends, an adorable chihuahua named Gigi, and a HEA that will leave you smiling.
November 9, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I read this in just one sitting. Ellie and Gabe's story and their relationship just seem so easy therefore it's easy to read. I loved both of their characters. They're fun, sweet and hot at the same time. Especially Gabe and I loved him for it.
November 16, 2022
4.25 stars. SUPER spicy, fun read! I listened to the audio version and it was so great!!
November 9, 2022
Give me all that spice and anything but nice! The Good Guy Challenge by Lauren Blakey was a deliciously dirty fake to forever age gap romance that brought all the HEAT and the SWOON. Seriously, Ellie and Gabe’s instant, fiery hot chemistry never made “bad” feel so “good!” This is book 2 in Lauren’s The Girlfriend Playbook series, and she definitely came to play!
Stella Hunter and Jason Clarke narrate this audiobook, and whew…did these two bring on quite a few blushes with their blazing performances. Stella’s performance of Ellie was fantastically flirty, fun, and alluring. Plus, Stella is spot-on showcasing Ellie’s confidence in the bedroom and in life! Jason brings his signature growly tone to Gabe’s dominant, charismatic, and possessive persona which proves the good guy next door is filled with filthy good intentions. (Yes, please!) I always love when Jason and Stella are paired together because they never fail to bring so much passion to their performances which in turn makes you love the characters even more.
Overall, I LOVED this book. If you are a fan of an age-gap romance with a hot hunky wide receiver, a successful actress turned writer, former teenage crushes, family friends, reconnecting at Gin Joint, Venice Beach, Adirondack chair spice, a cute little dog named Gigi, poker games with the guys, smokin HOT role play steamy scenes (hey there sexy priest), fake dating, lawn croquet, egg nog parties, and a HEA that challenges your heart in all the best ways, then you will love Ellie and Gabe’s fake to forever story. I always look forward to more from Lauren Blakely!
Stella Hunter and Jason Clarke narrate this audiobook, and whew…did these two bring on quite a few blushes with their blazing performances. Stella’s performance of Ellie was fantastically flirty, fun, and alluring. Plus, Stella is spot-on showcasing Ellie’s confidence in the bedroom and in life! Jason brings his signature growly tone to Gabe’s dominant, charismatic, and possessive persona which proves the good guy next door is filled with filthy good intentions. (Yes, please!) I always love when Jason and Stella are paired together because they never fail to bring so much passion to their performances which in turn makes you love the characters even more.
Overall, I LOVED this book. If you are a fan of an age-gap romance with a hot hunky wide receiver, a successful actress turned writer, former teenage crushes, family friends, reconnecting at Gin Joint, Venice Beach, Adirondack chair spice, a cute little dog named Gigi, poker games with the guys, smokin HOT role play steamy scenes (hey there sexy priest), fake dating, lawn croquet, egg nog parties, and a HEA that challenges your heart in all the best ways, then you will love Ellie and Gabe’s fake to forever story. I always look forward to more from Lauren Blakely!
November 15, 2022
When looking for the perfect little respite from what ails you, look no further than The Good Guy Challenge. Lauren Blakely gives us her signature sharp wit along with a red-hot kind of love affair that will undoubtedly make you swoon. Both Gabe Clements and Ellie Snow try hard not to fall for the other while deciding to do casual, but since they are oh so perfect together in and out of the bedroom, all bets are off whether or not they can simply stay friends with benefits or become much more than this Ellie driven good guy challenge.
Once again, what I love most about Blakely's couples is that both Ellie and Gabe are good people, combined with a need to succeed in every aspect of their lives. They have fun, are loyal to the lucky ones they deem best buds, and don't easily give up on themselves or their dreams.
In addition, there is a whole other level of naughty that turns their easygoing relationship into the most intense one they've ever had. I loved every steamy and brazen moment as they realize being together for one week could never be enough.
This story is a quick read and is the kind of story to lift you out of a book funk. It's adorable, wickedly steamy, and full of the heart only Blakely can deliver. Not to mention features the requisite four-legged highlight which provides a bit of cuteness overload when needed. I enjoyed every word and happily give The Good Guy Challenge a big 4 stars!🌟🌟🌟🌟
Once again, what I love most about Blakely's couples is that both Ellie and Gabe are good people, combined with a need to succeed in every aspect of their lives. They have fun, are loyal to the lucky ones they deem best buds, and don't easily give up on themselves or their dreams.
In addition, there is a whole other level of naughty that turns their easygoing relationship into the most intense one they've ever had. I loved every steamy and brazen moment as they realize being together for one week could never be enough.
This story is a quick read and is the kind of story to lift you out of a book funk. It's adorable, wickedly steamy, and full of the heart only Blakely can deliver. Not to mention features the requisite four-legged highlight which provides a bit of cuteness overload when needed. I enjoyed every word and happily give The Good Guy Challenge a big 4 stars!🌟🌟🌟🌟
November 8, 2022
Ellie hasn’t made the best choices when it comes to the men she has allowed in her life so when she moves to LA she decides it is time for a fresh start and that means finding a good guy rather than the bad boys she seems to be drawn to. When she was younger, she used to have a crush on Gabe so when fate brings them together they agree to one week to explore the chemistry between them.
Gabe is professional football player whose relationship has recently due to his adventurous side when it comes to the bedroom. When he reunites with Ellie the sparks fly but even though they agree to one week they soon realize that maybe it is meant to be a beginning and not the end.
The banter between them is witty and the chemistry is hot as Ellie and Gabe realize they make perfect partners both in and out of the bedroom.
Gabe is professional football player whose relationship has recently due to his adventurous side when it comes to the bedroom. When he reunites with Ellie the sparks fly but even though they agree to one week they soon realize that maybe it is meant to be a beginning and not the end.
The banter between them is witty and the chemistry is hot as Ellie and Gabe realize they make perfect partners both in and out of the bedroom.
October 29, 2022
5/5 ⭐️ 4/5 🌶
I love Lauren’s books so much and this story did not disappoint.
We meet Ellie and Gabe. They have known each other since childhood, but recently ran in to each other in LA. Gabe just broke up with his girlfriend because she thought his se*ua[ desires were too much and he was starting to feel like he’d never find someone that was into what he was into. Ellie is sick of dating bad guys and decides to do a good guy challenge. So when Gabe her childhood crush and good guy neighbor asks her out she accepts the challenge.
Once Gabe goes out on a date with Ellie she sees that he isn’t always a good guy. At night he’s a bad guy 😉😌
I loved this book, their banter and the way they just understood each other. The bonus bonus epilogues made my soul happy too 😚😊
I love Lauren’s books so much and this story did not disappoint.
We meet Ellie and Gabe. They have known each other since childhood, but recently ran in to each other in LA. Gabe just broke up with his girlfriend because she thought his se*ua[ desires were too much and he was starting to feel like he’d never find someone that was into what he was into. Ellie is sick of dating bad guys and decides to do a good guy challenge. So when Gabe her childhood crush and good guy neighbor asks her out she accepts the challenge.
Once Gabe goes out on a date with Ellie she sees that he isn’t always a good guy. At night he’s a bad guy 😉😌
I loved this book, their banter and the way they just understood each other. The bonus bonus epilogues made my soul happy too 😚😊
November 1, 2022
The premise for this book was awesome!
Being challenged to date someone other than who you're normally used to is kind of a great concept.
Do not let what I just say fool you. This book is SPICY in all the best ways. We have some very spicy and dirty talking scenes and we have some kink which hello YES PLEASE, MORE PLEASE.
What I liked was there was no dramalama if you know me. I am not a fan of breakups and makeups just for the sake of the story. Some stories don’t need it, and this was one of those, it was perfect.
Both the narrators were fantastic in this book, they had just the right voices and tones. Jason’s sexy talk was delicious and Vanessa’s sexy voice hits just right.
Being challenged to date someone other than who you're normally used to is kind of a great concept.
Do not let what I just say fool you. This book is SPICY in all the best ways. We have some very spicy and dirty talking scenes and we have some kink which hello YES PLEASE, MORE PLEASE.
What I liked was there was no dramalama if you know me. I am not a fan of breakups and makeups just for the sake of the story. Some stories don’t need it, and this was one of those, it was perfect.
Both the narrators were fantastic in this book, they had just the right voices and tones. Jason’s sexy talk was delicious and Vanessa’s sexy voice hits just right.
October 31, 2022
I loved everything about this book. The age gap, the fact that they already knew each other, their immediate connection and explosive spark made for a fun and sexy book. I enjoyed them exploring their role play and respective interests without feeling like they would cause the other to run away. Especially like Gabe's ex- girlfriend. I listened to this twice because I loved it so much!
Stella Hunter and Jason Clarke are absolutely superb together!
Also the bonus content was a welcome surprise because that was going through my mind as I listened to them in the original scene. Omg.
Stella Hunter and Jason Clarke are absolutely superb together!
Also the bonus content was a welcome surprise because that was going through my mind as I listened to them in the original scene. Omg.
November 20, 2022
I loved Gabe and Ellie’s friends to lovers story.
This book made laugh and swoon at the same time. Friends from a young age and reconnected as adults and the attraction these two had right from the start hot, hot, hot. I was so happy that they could come together and deal with their careers to make them work.
I loved how loved Gabe and Ellis’s ended, they got their HEA.
I love all of Lauren’s books because they do make you laugh but there is always a good story behind the laughter.
Loved the narrators!
This book made laugh and swoon at the same time. Friends from a young age and reconnected as adults and the attraction these two had right from the start hot, hot, hot. I was so happy that they could come together and deal with their careers to make them work.
I loved how loved Gabe and Ellis’s ended, they got their HEA.
I love all of Lauren’s books because they do make you laugh but there is always a good story behind the laughter.
Loved the narrators!
November 9, 2022
Lauren Blakey writes a sweet romance like no other, but damn did she take The Good Guy Challege to a whole new level! Hot and oh so spicy! Just the way I like!
You’ll fall in love with Gabe and Ellie right from the start! Both claim they want no strings, but the chemistry between is almost to much to ignore. If only love was that easy.
The Good Guy Challenge was just what I needed to get me out of a book funk. Absolutely loved kt!
You’ll fall in love with Gabe and Ellie right from the start! Both claim they want no strings, but the chemistry between is almost to much to ignore. If only love was that easy.
The Good Guy Challenge was just what I needed to get me out of a book funk. Absolutely loved kt!
February 20, 2023
Still debating final rating but leaving as 4 for now. On the surface this has some creepy vibes to unpack, yet it struck me as meant to be, beginning where it does. This is a perfect example of needing half stars. 7/10.
Edited: downgrading to 3-stars.
2/19/23 - rereading quickly for series context. Since I read this one first (third in the serious) then 'met' the side characters later, I wanted to review how they all fit together before I can read Axel and Hazel's book.
Edited: downgrading to 3-stars.
2/19/23 - rereading quickly for series context. Since I read this one first (third in the serious) then 'met' the side characters later, I wanted to review how they all fit together before I can read Axel and Hazel's book.
November 3, 2022
The Good Guy Challenge was an absolute joy to read/listen too. Yes, I did both. Gabe and Ellie’s story may have started as babysitter/good guy next door, but years later this “good guy” is just the man to fill the role of “good guy” to break her “bad guy” dating streak. Only Ellie will find out his oh so good is oh so bad in the most delicious ways.
November 9, 2022
I adored Ellie and Gabe’s story!! Ellie has a tendency to fall for the bad boy that we all wish we can change but fall flat realized it’s not going to happen so when she dared and sees her old crush who she knows is a good guy she figured why not only to find out he’s not a good one but a great one with the perfect side of bad. Loved there banter, super cute story
October 29, 2022
I loved Ellie and Gabe’s story!! This book has a lot of what I love…great relationships and friendships, with lots of laughs, snark, romance and heat. Add our furry little friend Gigi and this book is high on my list or recommendations
February 25, 2023
Overall it was good, there was slight miscommunication but it didn't get dragged out so I didn't mind it. I feel like the ending was very rushed and we didn't need to see so far into their future. Also, this was a very fast-paced and short book which I enjoyed.
November 30, 2022
Better than any regular steamy novella.
Simple story, simple plot, entertaining, short and hot. 🌶️🌶️🌶️
March 28, 2023
3.5 stars. Good spice, likable characters, and great audio narrators. Not a fan of the miscommunication trope but, thankfully, it didn’t last long.
November 7, 2022
"Book 2 in The Dating Games series is equally as good as the first one. Once again I felt like I was laughing from start to finish, which is not unusual with a Lauren Blakely novel, but I have to say Lauren took the spiciness level up a notch or two with this book.
Gabe & Ellie have known each other for most of their lives, but as there is a ten year age gap they were always at different points in life.
I liked how these two reconnect and the “deal” they agree to - what could possibly go wrong?? Plenty can of course, there are some bumps towards the end but truthfully it was all very adult in how things were resolved which was refreshing to read.
Loved the epilogues which completed the book wonderfully for me and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book" ~Sharon
Gabe and Ellie's story was good, super good. The storyline is something I haven't read much of and I enjoyed that. These two have the best banter. Gabe just broke up with his gf and Ellie is tired of the same ol' bad boys. Gabe asks her out and the rest is history. Gabe may be a good guy, but at night things change. Oh boy do they. This book is super spicy in the best ways. I cannot recommend enough!! ~Andrea
Gabe & Ellie have known each other for most of their lives, but as there is a ten year age gap they were always at different points in life.
I liked how these two reconnect and the “deal” they agree to - what could possibly go wrong?? Plenty can of course, there are some bumps towards the end but truthfully it was all very adult in how things were resolved which was refreshing to read.
Loved the epilogues which completed the book wonderfully for me and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book" ~Sharon
Gabe and Ellie's story was good, super good. The storyline is something I haven't read much of and I enjoyed that. These two have the best banter. Gabe just broke up with his gf and Ellie is tired of the same ol' bad boys. Gabe asks her out and the rest is history. Gabe may be a good guy, but at night things change. Oh boy do they. This book is super spicy in the best ways. I cannot recommend enough!! ~Andrea
November 8, 2022
Ellie Snow has just moved out to California to start a career as a producer and leave behind both her acting career and her penchant for bad boys. One might be easy to leave in the past than the other, but turning a new leaf in a new town will help do the trick, or so she hopes.
Gabe Clements is an overall nice guy and is fresh out of a bad breakup that has left him more self-conscious than he should feel. While he’s out with his friends, he gets a glimpse of a sexy woman in jean shorts walking a dog that brings a blast from the past in the form of backyard games and flirts under mistletoe, but it can’t be her…
This book is different than most from the author while still adhering to her tried and true formula of fun, flirty and very sexy romance. It felt to me like a cross between the traditional rom-com and her After Dark books and it’s quite an enjoyable read nonetheless. Trust Ms. Blakely to deliver a good read despite the route she follows and TGGC is set to be another hit.
4 stars
*ARC review*
Gabe Clements is an overall nice guy and is fresh out of a bad breakup that has left him more self-conscious than he should feel. While he’s out with his friends, he gets a glimpse of a sexy woman in jean shorts walking a dog that brings a blast from the past in the form of backyard games and flirts under mistletoe, but it can’t be her…
This book is different than most from the author while still adhering to her tried and true formula of fun, flirty and very sexy romance. It felt to me like a cross between the traditional rom-com and her After Dark books and it’s quite an enjoyable read nonetheless. Trust Ms. Blakely to deliver a good read despite the route she follows and TGGC is set to be another hit.
4 stars
*ARC review*
November 8, 2022
16/20 - https://www.leslecturesdemylene.com/2...
En bref, j'ai adoré les personnages même si l'intrigue ne présente rien de nouveau sous le soleil de la romance. Ils sont touchants et attachants, leur histoire se lit très vite et ils nous donnent à la fois chaud et le sourire. Gabe et Ellie sont vraiment chouette tous les deux, chacun à sa manière et ils nous font vibrer avec leur histoire. Il n'y a pas de drame, ce qui est clairement un plus et le final est très intense quand ils finissent par reconnaitre leurs sentiments. Une romance qui se lit rapidement et qui nous transporte avec les protagonistes aisément !
En bref, j'ai adoré les personnages même si l'intrigue ne présente rien de nouveau sous le soleil de la romance. Ils sont touchants et attachants, leur histoire se lit très vite et ils nous donnent à la fois chaud et le sourire. Gabe et Ellie sont vraiment chouette tous les deux, chacun à sa manière et ils nous font vibrer avec leur histoire. Il n'y a pas de drame, ce qui est clairement un plus et le final est très intense quand ils finissent par reconnaitre leurs sentiments. Une romance qui se lit rapidement et qui nous transporte avec les protagonistes aisément !
April 2, 2023
...he needs a good cuddle...
3.5
I will say Lauren Blakely always has some of the most delicious looking men on her covers. *chef's kiss*
This was fun and cute! A very easy read! I enjoyed the chemistry between Ellie and Gabe. It was realistic to me the way they interacted with each other in and out of the bedroom. There was a lot of communication from the start that allowed them to develop a fun, easy, spicy relationship. While there was some miscommunication, it was easily resolved and the couple moved on to happier times.
Blakely has been a hit or miss author for me more recently, so it was nice to read a novel of hers that I really enjoyed this time around.
Reading Challenge 2023
Month: April Letters: G/H
3.5
I will say Lauren Blakely always has some of the most delicious looking men on her covers. *chef's kiss*
This was fun and cute! A very easy read! I enjoyed the chemistry between Ellie and Gabe. It was realistic to me the way they interacted with each other in and out of the bedroom. There was a lot of communication from the start that allowed them to develop a fun, easy, spicy relationship. While there was some miscommunication, it was easily resolved and the couple moved on to happier times.
Blakely has been a hit or miss author for me more recently, so it was nice to read a novel of hers that I really enjoyed this time around.
Reading Challenge 2023
Month: April Letters: G/H
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