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Don't Kiss the Bride
Carian Cole delivers a sweet but sexy slow burn, age gap, marriage of convenience romance with major swoony feels!
I guess you could say I was a damsel in distress, and he was my knight in shining armor. But more accurately, I was a girl with a lot of bad luck, and he was a guy with a lot of muscles and tattoos.
Jude “Lucky” Lucketti wasn’t just a sexy, brooding construction worker. He was my own personal hero who seemed to be in all the right places at the right times. Like when my car broke down and I needed a ride home, and when I face planted on the sidewalk right in front of him and had to be taken to the emergency room.
Those weren’t exactly my best moments, but they were his.
We became friends, and it didn’t matter that he was sixteen years older than me. We had a lot in common—like our love of old rock music and vintage fast cars, and our painful pasts that made us leery of love and relationships.
When he approached me with a crazy idea to help me out with my many problems, I couldn’t say no. He offered me a lifeline.
The arrangement was supposed to be temporary. A marriage on paper and a safe place to live—nothing else.
It should’ve been easy, but it wasn’t. Because here I am, eighteen years old and married to a man I was never supposed to fall in love with. And now, I really don't want that divorce we agreed to.
We had just one rule—no kissing the bride. But we broke that rule, and it sealed our fate forever.
I guess you could say I was a damsel in distress, and he was my knight in shining armor. But more accurately, I was a girl with a lot of bad luck, and he was a guy with a lot of muscles and tattoos.
Jude “Lucky” Lucketti wasn’t just a sexy, brooding construction worker. He was my own personal hero who seemed to be in all the right places at the right times. Like when my car broke down and I needed a ride home, and when I face planted on the sidewalk right in front of him and had to be taken to the emergency room.
Those weren’t exactly my best moments, but they were his.
We became friends, and it didn’t matter that he was sixteen years older than me. We had a lot in common—like our love of old rock music and vintage fast cars, and our painful pasts that made us leery of love and relationships.
When he approached me with a crazy idea to help me out with my many problems, I couldn’t say no. He offered me a lifeline.
The arrangement was supposed to be temporary. A marriage on paper and a safe place to live—nothing else.
It should’ve been easy, but it wasn’t. Because here I am, eighteen years old and married to a man I was never supposed to fall in love with. And now, I really don't want that divorce we agreed to.
We had just one rule—no kissing the bride. But we broke that rule, and it sealed our fate forever.
514 pages, Hardcover
First published January 31, 2021
4271 people are currently reading
31766 people want to read
About the author
Carian Cole
16 books8,764 followersI have a passion for the bad boys, those covered in tattoos, sexy smirks, ripped jeans, fast cars, motorcycles and of course, the sweet girls that try to tame them and win their hearts.
Born and raised a Jersey girl, I now reside in beautiful New Hampshire with my husband and our multitude of furry pets and spend most of my time writing, reading, and vacuuming.
Born and raised a Jersey girl, I now reside in beautiful New Hampshire with my husband and our multitude of furry pets and spend most of my time writing, reading, and vacuuming.
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September 26, 2020New age gap romance coming soon! Older Hero, younger Heroine.
May 21, 2021
I don’t understand how a 500+ romance book barely gave me any depth?
I feel like the potential this book had was fucked with. It’s annoying when you can see the drama being created on purpose to create conflict and to move the story forward in a particular direction.
That shit is meant to flow, not for it to read so calculated. It reduces the story to something lacklustre.
The pacing was off. The writing was cheesy, and not the good kind. And it’s irritating to the core when you’re being told rather than shown what’s happening.
I love age-gap romances, but their relationship just didn’t feel believable. The only way an age-gap romance can work is if the younger hero or heroine is mature and Skylar did not feel mature. And that’s not to say immaturity can’t exist alongside it. We are human at the end of the day and idiots at that.
But her character arc was traumatic, yet that didn’t add anything to her overall personality/maturity.
And honestly, the hero in this case wasn’t any better.
The emotional depth of their relationship hinged off of their trauma. There was nothing outside of it. It was there, but underdeveloped. Again, because we were being told rather than shown.
And the unnecessary drama was there to just stir some more drama. It felt so high school and cliche, I’m cringing just thinking about it.
So how do I feel about this book? Meh.
It had potential. It had cute moments. But it read stupid.
I feel like the potential this book had was fucked with. It’s annoying when you can see the drama being created on purpose to create conflict and to move the story forward in a particular direction.
That shit is meant to flow, not for it to read so calculated. It reduces the story to something lacklustre.
The pacing was off. The writing was cheesy, and not the good kind. And it’s irritating to the core when you’re being told rather than shown what’s happening.
I love age-gap romances, but their relationship just didn’t feel believable. The only way an age-gap romance can work is if the younger hero or heroine is mature and Skylar did not feel mature. And that’s not to say immaturity can’t exist alongside it. We are human at the end of the day and idiots at that.
But her character arc was traumatic, yet that didn’t add anything to her overall personality/maturity.
And honestly, the hero in this case wasn’t any better.
The emotional depth of their relationship hinged off of their trauma. There was nothing outside of it. It was there, but underdeveloped. Again, because we were being told rather than shown.
And the unnecessary drama was there to just stir some more drama. It felt so high school and cliche, I’m cringing just thinking about it.
So how do I feel about this book? Meh.
It had potential. It had cute moments. But it read stupid.
February 11, 2021
4.25 Stars!
...Don't kiss the bride.
I haven't had an idea how Carian Cole completely messed up my dear heart, again. This is such an impactful read. Full of life, love, and meaning. This isn't my most loved love book by hers, but it was as great as what I expected.
Note: This is an arranged marriage, age gap romance.
Jude and Skylar's love-story is an one helluva ride. Back and forth, ups and downs. A complete emotional rollercoaster. Carian Cole can definitely write a story that could penetrate every romance reader souls.
Jude has a painful past. Skylar has a difficult present. They've been both forgotten by someone they loved. When Jude found out the situation of Skylar, as a friend, he never hesitated to help her. Jude wanted a chance to do something good for once. So, he asked her to temporarily marry him so she could use his insurance until she could stand on her own.
Jude was 34 when he first met 18 years old Skylar. They had this undeniable chemistry since the first time they laid eyes on each other. But Jude, as the responsible adult, couldn't let it be more than it and ruin their friendship. She was too young. She had to leave someday and he couldn't let her stop pursuing her dreams for him.
Honestly, I was a bit bored with the first half. I had to drag myself to continue the story. I have no problem with the writing, it's beautiful as always. I was just uninterested with some of the parts that I found insignificant. And the ending, I didn't much like it. The issues about Skylar's relationship with her father, Jude's problem with his sister, Skylar's eating disorder were left unnoticed. I truly loved that the ending was all about them, which I really needed because I barely saw them as "real" couple. But the issues I mentioned above, which seems important haven't been given at least a better conclusion.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. I loved that it convincingly and beautifully addressed the struggles of an age gap relationship. It was realistic. And a very good slow burn. An another book by Carian Cole that I surely won't forget!
I extremely recommend this to those who likes: Carian Cole, age gap, arranged marriage, slow burn, friends to lovers, fake dating, tattooed heroes, emotional read, and a happy ever after.
...
I haven't had an idea how Carian Cole completely messed up my dear heart, again. This is such an impactful read. Full of life, love, and meaning. This isn't my most loved love book by hers, but it was as great as what I expected.
Note: This is an arranged marriage, age gap romance.
Jude and Skylar's love-story is an one helluva ride. Back and forth, ups and downs. A complete emotional rollercoaster. Carian Cole can definitely write a story that could penetrate every romance reader souls.
“Both of us hanging here, afraid to make a move. Afraid to stay, afraid to go, afraid to talk. We’re just hurting each other, aren’t we?”
Jude has a painful past. Skylar has a difficult present. They've been both forgotten by someone they loved. When Jude found out the situation of Skylar, as a friend, he never hesitated to help her. Jude wanted a chance to do something good for once. So, he asked her to temporarily marry him so she could use his insurance until she could stand on her own.
Jude was 34 when he first met 18 years old Skylar. They had this undeniable chemistry since the first time they laid eyes on each other. But Jude, as the responsible adult, couldn't let it be more than it and ruin their friendship. She was too young. She had to leave someday and he couldn't let her stop pursuing her dreams for him.
"It wouldn’t matter if I were a hundred, or five, or any age in between—I would still love and care about this man with my whole heart and soul."
Honestly, I was a bit bored with the first half. I had to drag myself to continue the story. I have no problem with the writing, it's beautiful as always. I was just uninterested with some of the parts that I found insignificant. And the ending, I didn't much like it. The issues about Skylar's relationship with her father, Jude's problem with his sister, Skylar's eating disorder were left unnoticed. I truly loved that the ending was all about them, which I really needed because I barely saw them as "real" couple. But the issues I mentioned above, which seems important haven't been given at least a better conclusion.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. I loved that it convincingly and beautifully addressed the struggles of an age gap relationship. It was realistic. And a very good slow burn. An another book by Carian Cole that I surely won't forget!
I extremely recommend this to those who likes: Carian Cole, age gap, arranged marriage, slow burn, friends to lovers, fake dating, tattooed heroes, emotional read, and a happy ever after.
"... everything you’ve done for me… It’s changed my life.”
February 1, 2021
34-year-old Jude Lucketti (Lucky) is an amazing man with a painful past. All the people important to him disappeared and left him feeling worthless, abandoned and guilty. So, when he meets Skylar Timmons, an 18-year-old high school student who was dealt a shitty hand, he offers her the perfect solution - An arranged marriage, on paper only, so he can get her the help she needs - and in return, she can give him redemption. 🙏💕
A fake marriage to an older man she barely know causes Skyler to demand one rule in their agreement - no kissing the bride at the ceremony. But what will happen when they don't comply? 😱💋💍
📚 "𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐡𝐨𝐰, 𝐬𝐡𝐞’𝐬 𝐬𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐧, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐲 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡, 𝐈 𝐝𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐢𝐠 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐮𝐭." 📚
Gah... This book hit me in so many ways I'm lost without words, to say I loved it is an understatement! 😘😘😘
It's a 'friends to lovers' romance with an age gap and insanely frustrating slow burn (in the best way, of course!) that managed to captivate me from start to finish. 🔥
📚 “𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐢𝐧’𝐭 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐭𝐨 𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞, 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐥𝐞𝐬.”
𝐀 𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐲 𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐬. “𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐢𝐤𝐞, 𝐨𝐫 𝐲𝐨𝐮? ’𝐂𝐮𝐳 𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐡.” 📚
Skyler and Jude were perfect for each other like a bun and a burger! Thanks to the amazing writing, the characters were brought to life so vividly in my mind - it was like they were right in front of me. It was raw, realistic, angsty and full of friendship and love... I felt every emotion this author threw into this book. 💕
The only thing I was missing, was a little more of them at the end. I felt like the ending happened too fast and did not experience enough of their happy ending, as I wanted. 😬
This book was refreshing and unique - so just read it, trust me. 🙏
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📖 ᖴOᒪᒪOᗯ ᗰE Oᑎ IᑎᔕTᗩGᖇᗩᗰ: https://www.instagram.com/the_romanti...
📖 ᐯIᔕIT ᗰY ᗷᒪOG ᖴOᖇ ᗰOᖇE ᖇEᐯIEᗯᔕ: https://books-romance.com/
📖 GOOᗪᖇEᗩᗪᔕ: https://bit.ly/3acMRMP
💕 לקריאת הסקירה בעברית, כנסו לבלוג: https://books-romance.com/ 💕
August 17, 2022
sometimes i want to jump out of a plate glass window, but never more than when a book has great bones but the execution is all gristle.
age gap romance with a marriage of convenience and meaty back stories for both hero and heroine? sign me the hell up. but unfortunately this was just a long drawn out push and pull with some steamy sex scenes. total missed opportunity.
we only passively see the heroine working on herself and her trauma. the hero? immature to the very end. don't get me wrong, listening to the audiobook wasn't a total chore but if i'm going to pick up a book with a taboo storyline it's gotta be sweetly complex. and these 2 didn't really seem like puzzle pieces.
age gap romance with a marriage of convenience and meaty back stories for both hero and heroine? sign me the hell up. but unfortunately this was just a long drawn out push and pull with some steamy sex scenes. total missed opportunity.
we only passively see the heroine working on herself and her trauma. the hero? immature to the very end. don't get me wrong, listening to the audiobook wasn't a total chore but if i'm going to pick up a book with a taboo storyline it's gotta be sweetly complex. and these 2 didn't really seem like puzzle pieces.
September 18, 2023
Re-read/listen just because 9/12-9/17/23
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
🎧🎧🎧🎧
Re-read audio style:
Jesus Christ! How did I forget how heartbreaking this was?!?! I guess I just remembered the hand hugs and Jude continually mispronouncing the cat’s name. That I blocked out how much they hurt each other for no goddam reason. If they would only tell each other how they really feel!!! 🥺😭
Having said that I still loved every goddam minute of this!
Btw, fantastic audio, both Aiden Snow and Desiree Ketchum were wonderful narrators.
Original Review:
I feel like nothing I can say would give justice to how all encompassing, anxiety ridden and at times painful the story of Skylar and Jude is.
I’m not sure how to explain why this book makes me so blissfully happy. It gave me butterflies. Made me feel jittery with insecurities. It made me feel like I was on the best first date of my life.
I’ve been reading so many sexcapades, this is a nice little retreat with all its cuteness and hand hugs.
Oh lord, I adore that mouth on Skylar.
Fluffle-Up-A-Gus, best cat name ever. Also reminds me of my mom, Snuffleupagus was her favorite Sesame Street character.
Man, I guess I’m a sucker for a girl in need and this one doesn’t disappoint.
Everyone deserves a friend like Megan.
Every time he mispronounces the cat’s name I die of cuteness overload.
Ok I’m pretty sure a 34 year old knows what ‘Netflix and chill’ means. Jeez why are writers constantly trying to make the 30’s old, it’s gonna give me a damn complex.
I’m living for Jude’s aunt and uncle!
“And age doesn’t matter,” Aunt Suzy continues, oblivious to my worries. “In fact, I think it’s better. You deserve a man who knows what he wants and can take care of you after all you’ve been through.”
Holy hell, I’m so emotionally exhausted. There were points where I wanted to scream sense into them. I must be a glutton for punishment because I wouldn’t change a thing.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
🎧🎧🎧🎧
Re-read audio style:
Jesus Christ! How did I forget how heartbreaking this was?!?! I guess I just remembered the hand hugs and Jude continually mispronouncing the cat’s name. That I blocked out how much they hurt each other for no goddam reason. If they would only tell each other how they really feel!!! 🥺😭
Having said that I still loved every goddam minute of this!
Btw, fantastic audio, both Aiden Snow and Desiree Ketchum were wonderful narrators.
Original Review:
I feel like nothing I can say would give justice to how all encompassing, anxiety ridden and at times painful the story of Skylar and Jude is.
I’m not sure how to explain why this book makes me so blissfully happy. It gave me butterflies. Made me feel jittery with insecurities. It made me feel like I was on the best first date of my life.
I’ve been reading so many sexcapades, this is a nice little retreat with all its cuteness and hand hugs.
Oh lord, I adore that mouth on Skylar.
Fluffle-Up-A-Gus, best cat name ever. Also reminds me of my mom, Snuffleupagus was her favorite Sesame Street character.
Man, I guess I’m a sucker for a girl in need and this one doesn’t disappoint.
Everyone deserves a friend like Megan.
Every time he mispronounces the cat’s name I die of cuteness overload.
Ok I’m pretty sure a 34 year old knows what ‘Netflix and chill’ means. Jeez why are writers constantly trying to make the 30’s old, it’s gonna give me a damn complex.
I’m living for Jude’s aunt and uncle!
“And age doesn’t matter,” Aunt Suzy continues, oblivious to my worries. “In fact, I think it’s better. You deserve a man who knows what he wants and can take care of you after all you’ve been through.”
Holy hell, I’m so emotionally exhausted. There were points where I wanted to scream sense into them. I must be a glutton for punishment because I wouldn’t change a thing.
September 13, 2022
5 All that Sparkles Stars ⭐
What a beautiful, poignant read. Do yourself a favour and stay in the dark about how it all unfolds.This way you'll be able to experience the magic firsthand. Don't Kiss the Bride was unexpected and gorgeously romantic.
Skylar is an 18 year old vintage babe who elevates coolness simply by being herself. Still a school student, you couldn't anticipate the kind of life she is leading; one that is solitary and traumatic. Crossing paths with Jude Lucketti will be the blessing she never expected or believed she deserved.
Jude is your average blue collared hero. Once a wild child, he's now just one of the lads who works hard and lives a little after hours. When laying eyes on Skylar for the first time he was certainly intrigued. But his thoughts were never untowards. And then he offers her a helping hand...
"I guess I’m just a hot mess."
"You’re not. Don’t ever think that." The deep sincerity of his voice reaches way down into my soul and calms me like a warm blanket.
With a sizeable age gap it's coincidence that has these two crossing paths and discovering they have a lot in common. They form an unlikely friendship which escalates when Jude learns of Skylar's circumstances.
This new information has Jude doing the unthinkable. An unselfish act to help a person in need. He offers Skylar marriage to give her the head start she desperately needs.
"I do have one rule of my own," I say, smiling up at him. “No kissing the bride at the ceremony.”
He stands, too, and swaggers across the room to put my mug in the dishwasher. "That’s a given. I can promise you, Sparkles, I’ll never try to kiss you."
Their fake marriage isn't supposed to be complicated as each know the score. Its temporary. Two friends helping out. And this is exactly what it's meant to be. Yet gradually the lines blur. Two young people living under the same roof, sharing a life and genuinely adoring each other. The chemistry constantly simmers in the background. Who will break first?
I don’t even know what the hell this is. This breathless, aching, long-lost lover feeling.
But now that I’ve felt it, it’s too much like that all too familiar euphoria in my veins that the addict inside me remembers vividly. It’s the same kind of high, the kind I don’t want to come down from.
Can one be smitten over a fictional relationship, because I am? I seriously enjoyed the heck out of this. It felt real, romantic, sexy and beautifully heartwarming. I loved it. ❤️
What a beautiful, poignant read. Do yourself a favour and stay in the dark about how it all unfolds.This way you'll be able to experience the magic firsthand. Don't Kiss the Bride was unexpected and gorgeously romantic.
Skylar is an 18 year old vintage babe who elevates coolness simply by being herself. Still a school student, you couldn't anticipate the kind of life she is leading; one that is solitary and traumatic. Crossing paths with Jude Lucketti will be the blessing she never expected or believed she deserved.
Jude is your average blue collared hero. Once a wild child, he's now just one of the lads who works hard and lives a little after hours. When laying eyes on Skylar for the first time he was certainly intrigued. But his thoughts were never untowards. And then he offers her a helping hand...
"I guess I’m just a hot mess."
"You’re not. Don’t ever think that." The deep sincerity of his voice reaches way down into my soul and calms me like a warm blanket.
With a sizeable age gap it's coincidence that has these two crossing paths and discovering they have a lot in common. They form an unlikely friendship which escalates when Jude learns of Skylar's circumstances.
This new information has Jude doing the unthinkable. An unselfish act to help a person in need. He offers Skylar marriage to give her the head start she desperately needs.
"I do have one rule of my own," I say, smiling up at him. “No kissing the bride at the ceremony.”
He stands, too, and swaggers across the room to put my mug in the dishwasher. "That’s a given. I can promise you, Sparkles, I’ll never try to kiss you."
Their fake marriage isn't supposed to be complicated as each know the score. Its temporary. Two friends helping out. And this is exactly what it's meant to be. Yet gradually the lines blur. Two young people living under the same roof, sharing a life and genuinely adoring each other. The chemistry constantly simmers in the background. Who will break first?
I don’t even know what the hell this is. This breathless, aching, long-lost lover feeling.
But now that I’ve felt it, it’s too much like that all too familiar euphoria in my veins that the addict inside me remembers vividly. It’s the same kind of high, the kind I don’t want to come down from.
Can one be smitten over a fictional relationship, because I am? I seriously enjoyed the heck out of this. It felt real, romantic, sexy and beautifully heartwarming. I loved it. ❤️
January 30, 2021
MY REVIEW AND OTHERS: can also be found on my blog:
➽ KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
'DON'T KISS THE BRIDE' Is a full length stand-alone, age-gap romance novel by Carian Cole. Spoken in 'Dual Perspectives.'
This is one of the best age gap stories I’ve ever read, I loved these two characters equally, a slow burn which got its hooks into me effortlessly, I devoured this, couldn't put it down, whatever this author writes turns to gold, and I really need to make time to read her other books I've not yet read.
Sylar is an eighteen year old high school student whose been dealt a raw hand in life, she's down to earth and really mature for her age, her home life isn't the greatest. She drives an old 'vette which was handed down to her but which has seen better days. She also has a quirky dress sense, with a fire cracker personality to boot.
Jude aka Lucky is a thirty four tatted up construction worker, he looks all rough around the edges but has a heart of gold. When he sees a damsel in distress when her vette doesn't start he jumps in and helps no questions asked, even if he does turn into a driving Miss Daisy until her car is fixed.
As he spends more time with her and a budding friendship ensues he sees the effect her life is having on her, he decides to jump in and help her out by marrying her temporarily so that she can get up on her feet.
They both agreed on just one rule—no kissing the bride.
This book had me swooning all over the place, Jude, aka Lucky was just pure perfection, with a perfectly imperfect heroine, making these two perfect for each other!
This was so beautifully written, a no frills real to life raw romance book at its best without any over the top drama, the feels and the roller coaster of emotions were felt throughout. Such a beautiful heartfelt story.
February 19, 2021
2.75 Stars
Overall Opinion: I liked the uniqueness of their situation and I appreciated the author’s attempt at addressing such mental illnesses such as hoarding and eating disorders. I just felt like it dragged too long. It also was a lot of back and forth when it didn’t feel necessary and that got frustrating. I liked the characters and I liked their friendship. I also felt like they cared about one another, but I just didn’t feel any chemistry. I find arranged marriage stories fun because typically there’s a good bit of sexual tension that become explosive when they finally get together. I sadly didn’t feel that here at all. Overall, this was disappointing and a little less than just alright.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Skylar and Jude’s story. They meet when Jude keeps on saving Skylar from embarrassing situations. Jude likes the sassy teen and wants to help her because he has guilt about his younger sister that went missing when she was 16 and feels this is an opportunity to help someone out. When he realizes the mess she’s really in, he suggests an arranged marriage to get her on his health insurance and a safe place to live. After spending more time together stronger feelings develop and the arrangement turns into something more....and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Skylar and Jude’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Alright. This did get slow at times and I think it could’ve been edited down since it felt on the long side. I skimmed a little towards the end when it felt repetitive.
Instalove: No, they’re friends to lovers
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Jude. I liked him. I appreciated how he cared for others and was so protective and loyal.
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Skylar. I liked her. I appreciated her strength through all her troubles.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have mild tension, chemistry, and scenes, and not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Only physical, not technically separated
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had pretty good closure with what I would call a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
Overall Opinion: I liked the uniqueness of their situation and I appreciated the author’s attempt at addressing such mental illnesses such as hoarding and eating disorders. I just felt like it dragged too long. It also was a lot of back and forth when it didn’t feel necessary and that got frustrating. I liked the characters and I liked their friendship. I also felt like they cared about one another, but I just didn’t feel any chemistry. I find arranged marriage stories fun because typically there’s a good bit of sexual tension that become explosive when they finally get together. I sadly didn’t feel that here at all. Overall, this was disappointing and a little less than just alright.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Skylar and Jude’s story. They meet when Jude keeps on saving Skylar from embarrassing situations. Jude likes the sassy teen and wants to help her because he has guilt about his younger sister that went missing when she was 16 and feels this is an opportunity to help someone out. When he realizes the mess she’s really in, he suggests an arranged marriage to get her on his health insurance and a safe place to live. After spending more time together stronger feelings develop and the arrangement turns into something more....and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Skylar and Jude’s POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Alright. This did get slow at times and I think it could’ve been edited down since it felt on the long side. I skimmed a little towards the end when it felt repetitive.
Instalove: No, they’re friends to lovers
H (Hero) rating: 4 stars. Jude. I liked him. I appreciated how he cared for others and was so protective and loyal.
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Skylar. I liked her. I appreciated her strength through all her troubles.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have mild tension, chemistry, and scenes, and not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: No
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Only physical, not technically separated
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had pretty good closure with what I would call a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be either Safe or Safe with exception for most safety gang readers depending on personal preferences
August 29, 2021
TW for eating disorder
WOW. JUST WOW. I knew people loved this book, but I had no idea that I would love it this much. I read Carian's other book with the age gap similar to this book (18 and 34) and I wasn't a huge fan of that one, so I was worried with this one. But the romance was so slow burn and friends to lovers and I was just obsessed. I really felt for Skylar and the trauma she had experienced and is still dealing with. She is such a tough, strong character and wants to take care of herself, but she really can't because she doesn't have the money to get the care that she needs. I loved how she became friends with Jude and how Jude instantly felt protective of her. There was no attraction there yet because of their age gap, which is why I loved their friendship so much. It was so genuine and they just enjoyed each other's company. Jude was such a sweetheart and I really felt for him and what he was dealing with. The scenes with his family were adorable and I just adored everything about this book. While it was long, it went by so quickly and I am so in love! I would definitely recommend picking this up!
WOW. JUST WOW. I knew people loved this book, but I had no idea that I would love it this much. I read Carian's other book with the age gap similar to this book (18 and 34) and I wasn't a huge fan of that one, so I was worried with this one. But the romance was so slow burn and friends to lovers and I was just obsessed. I really felt for Skylar and the trauma she had experienced and is still dealing with. She is such a tough, strong character and wants to take care of herself, but she really can't because she doesn't have the money to get the care that she needs. I loved how she became friends with Jude and how Jude instantly felt protective of her. There was no attraction there yet because of their age gap, which is why I loved their friendship so much. It was so genuine and they just enjoyed each other's company. Jude was such a sweetheart and I really felt for him and what he was dealing with. The scenes with his family were adorable and I just adored everything about this book. While it was long, it went by so quickly and I am so in love! I would definitely recommend picking this up!
August 27, 2021
4.5 stars
Skylar has lived such a difficult life. She’s eighteen and a senior in high school and her home life is something I can’t even imagine. She meets Jude when her car breaks down and he gives her a ride home and helps her get her car towed. Jude is 34 and owns his own construction company.
Skylar is doing her best but life keeps kicking her down, and when she needs some medical care she can’t afford Jude comes up with a plan. He has a house with an extra room, good health insurance, and he can help her get out of her situation by getting married. The only rule, Don’t Kiss the Bride.
You would think this would be an easy rule for them to keep but with their friendship and attraction growing, it’s more difficult than either one of them imagine. I like age-gap romances specifically when the hero doesn’t feel creepy and the heroine is mature for her age. Jude is the furthest thing from creepy and due to Skylar’s upbringing she’s more mature than most her age, so this really worked for me!
I loved the connection these two had and watching them become friends and fall for one another was so fun and lovely. Lucky and Sparkles… sigh. I adored them both!
Carian Cole’s writing is beautiful and her stories have the best kind of emotions. I loved the little easter egg we got with one of her other characters, though this is definitely a stand alone. This was really close to being a 5 star read for me, but there were a few points that it felt a bit slow and a bit long. I really did love it so much aside from that though!
If you’re a fan of marriage of convince story lines, age-gaps, and slow burns, this is a book you won’t want to miss out on!
“You’re the only one I ever want to stay.”The more I read of Carian Cole, the more I want to read Carian Cole. This is the second book of hers I’ve read this month and I’ve loved them both! Don’t Kiss the Bride is a fantastic slow burn romance that I couldn’t get enough of.
Skylar has lived such a difficult life. She’s eighteen and a senior in high school and her home life is something I can’t even imagine. She meets Jude when her car breaks down and he gives her a ride home and helps her get her car towed. Jude is 34 and owns his own construction company.
Skylar is doing her best but life keeps kicking her down, and when she needs some medical care she can’t afford Jude comes up with a plan. He has a house with an extra room, good health insurance, and he can help her get out of her situation by getting married. The only rule, Don’t Kiss the Bride.
You would think this would be an easy rule for them to keep but with their friendship and attraction growing, it’s more difficult than either one of them imagine. I like age-gap romances specifically when the hero doesn’t feel creepy and the heroine is mature for her age. Jude is the furthest thing from creepy and due to Skylar’s upbringing she’s more mature than most her age, so this really worked for me!
I loved the connection these two had and watching them become friends and fall for one another was so fun and lovely. Lucky and Sparkles… sigh. I adored them both!
Carian Cole’s writing is beautiful and her stories have the best kind of emotions. I loved the little easter egg we got with one of her other characters, though this is definitely a stand alone. This was really close to being a 5 star read for me, but there were a few points that it felt a bit slow and a bit long. I really did love it so much aside from that though!
If you’re a fan of marriage of convince story lines, age-gaps, and slow burns, this is a book you won’t want to miss out on!
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 4.5 stars
Narrators: Desiree Ketchum & Aiden Snow
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 13h 28m
April 17, 2021
DNF @ 69%
—2.5 stars ⭐️(rating this bc i’ve read more than half of it so i deserve it zz)
this is my first CC book so yea i’m kinda bumped but still hopeful for her other age gap romances~
really good beginning but the angst wasn’t worth it and i didn’t care for the side plot 🥱
don’t get me started with the texts🥴
H reminds me of Jason Momoa (daddy #2)—looks scary from the outside but a soft plushie on the inside 🥺
—2.5 stars ⭐️(rating this bc i’ve read more than half of it so i deserve it zz)
this is my first CC book so yea i’m kinda bumped but still hopeful for her other age gap romances~
really good beginning but the angst wasn’t worth it and i didn’t care for the side plot 🥱
don’t get me started with the texts🥴
H reminds me of Jason Momoa (daddy #2)—looks scary from the outside but a soft plushie on the inside 🥺
February 1, 2022
4.5 stars. My second book by this author and she's truly the queen of slow burn, age gap romance. 🤤 Review to come, maybe.
Content warnings: Eating disorder, parental abandonment, bullying, discussions of substance abuse.
Content warnings: Eating disorder, parental abandonment, bullying, discussions of substance abuse.
May 26, 2022
This is going to be a tough review to write.
I had high expectations and I love Carian Cole's writing. I am a huge age gap fan and I thought I was going to love this. The idea behind this was great, the problem was the execution.
Before I come off as unsensitive and unfair, this book did deal with several disorders that are serious and I believe Carian approached them in a very delicate matter, and as much as I appreciate that, I believe there is such a thing as too many traumas in a single book.
Let's start with the fact that we are not presented with any trigger warnings, which I believe to be a mistake, this book should have some clear labels so people know it deals with: ptsd, depression, drug abuse, an eating disorder (AFRID - avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder), anxiety, compulsive hoarding and addiction.
All In a single book. I am all for books dealing with real issues, and adding clear warnings these issues are going to be dealt with and well represented, which they were, but she added SO MANY of them that I felt like I was reading a hypochondriacs' diary.
We had over 37 chapters of our main character developing and dealing with every medical issue out there, she even got her wisdom teeth removed (random) and I feel like Carian relied so heavily on the "he takes care of me when I am sick" narrative that it not longer sounded reasonable, it just sounded forced.
With all due respect to every person who has ever dealt with any of these issues, and I know they are all corelated and can bring everything else to the mix. I myself have someone in my family who was a hoarder and have recovered from a eating disorder as a teen, but this didn't bring me any comfort.
It was the most exaggerated trauma dump I have ever experienced in my life since I've picked up a Colleen Hoover book.
All of these items, as sensitive as Carian was with them, just made so their entire relationship was built on a pity foundation. They did not have any chemistry, no intimate development and zero tension.
The idea was so great: he helps a young girl in need, offers to marry her so she can use his insurance and get treated, and they fall for each other in the process, but holy sh!t how many times can you make a character go to the hospital for 300000 different reasons in a single book?
It was long, repetitive and so heavily manipulated that their entire relationship felt like it was built on a lie, on another toxic-needy-dependent level.
I understand where she wanted to go with it but I just don't see it... I don't feel it. Their connection just wasn't there. Honestly, she wasn't just delicate with these issues, she was too delicate.
I understand facing these issues in a dark romance story where you can actually show how heavy these disorders actually are, but mixing this with a contemporary teenage like romance made everything feel heavily unbalanced; their relationship, the disorders, everything was either downplayed or overplayed.
It just wasn't for me, sorry.
July 30, 2021
age gaps are fine but the female lead still being in high school and having a marriage of convenience with someone who’s her father’s age should have been my first red flag.
September 16, 2021
3.5
I’m so bummed, because I think if this book had been 150 pages less I’d be rating it 5 stars. Up until halfway in, I was sold on this age gap romance. The reasons they were forming a fake marriage made sense, our heroine seemed mature for her age, and both of their relationship experiences lined up. I have an age gap relationship myself, so I know there are circumstances that can lead it to be successful.
But unfortunately after the 50% mark, it spent a lot of time convincing me that this age gap didn’t make sense. Our female lead, Skylar, is vulnerable mentally and physically. She isn’t at all self sufficient. The way she views (and he views) relationships is very immature. It gets wildly toxic with how they treat each other when they’re not together. (And they’re not together for a large portion. They’re in the will they/won’t they phase up until 95 fucking percent in.)
I speed ran through the last 10% to get it over with, because I was no longer buying that these two made sense together. I’m so sad about it, there was a point where I was sure this would be 5 stars.
I’m so bummed, because I think if this book had been 150 pages less I’d be rating it 5 stars. Up until halfway in, I was sold on this age gap romance. The reasons they were forming a fake marriage made sense, our heroine seemed mature for her age, and both of their relationship experiences lined up. I have an age gap relationship myself, so I know there are circumstances that can lead it to be successful.
But unfortunately after the 50% mark, it spent a lot of time convincing me that this age gap didn’t make sense. Our female lead, Skylar, is vulnerable mentally and physically. She isn’t at all self sufficient. The way she views (and he views) relationships is very immature. It gets wildly toxic with how they treat each other when they’re not together. (And they’re not together for a large portion. They’re in the will they/won’t they phase up until 95 fucking percent in.)
I speed ran through the last 10% to get it over with, because I was no longer buying that these two made sense together. I’m so sad about it, there was a point where I was sure this would be 5 stars.
June 16, 2023
Worth the wait loved it.
I'm so glad I read this book.
I really love age gap romances, but I have to say this is one of my favorites.
The best thing I liked about this book was the background stories for Jude and Skyler. Jude for example had a shady pass, dealing drugs, and using. He did however overcame this part of his life, but not before his sister disappeared at sixteen without a word, to Jude or any other family member.
Then there is Skyler, who is bullied at school but always sticks up for herself, she has a fire and wit, which I absoulty loved, not to mention a terrible home life that she hides from everyone. I loved the way their story unfolded it was so good, you might want to clear your schedule for this book because I found it very hard to put down.
Warning :This book is absolutely addictive and may cause loss of sleep.
If this is your first book by Carian Cole you could end up binge reading the rest of her books and end up with a book hang over.
Happy Reading 😇📚📒📙📗📘📖🥰
I'm so glad I read this book.
I really love age gap romances, but I have to say this is one of my favorites.
The best thing I liked about this book was the background stories for Jude and Skyler. Jude for example had a shady pass, dealing drugs, and using. He did however overcame this part of his life, but not before his sister disappeared at sixteen without a word, to Jude or any other family member.
Then there is Skyler, who is bullied at school but always sticks up for herself, she has a fire and wit, which I absoulty loved, not to mention a terrible home life that she hides from everyone. I loved the way their story unfolded it was so good, you might want to clear your schedule for this book because I found it very hard to put down.
Warning :This book is absolutely addictive and may cause loss of sleep.
If this is your first book by Carian Cole you could end up binge reading the rest of her books and end up with a book hang over.
Happy Reading 😇📚📒📙📗📘📖🥰
October 19, 2021
Ahhh this was so good!!! I could not stop reading this one. It's a modern day marriage of convenience with a giant age gap but I really liked the unique setup of it. Skylar and Jude meet when her car breaks down and he stops by offering her help and a ride home. Skylar is 16 years younger than Jude – she's in her last year of high school and has an awful home life. Her mom is a hoarder and it's pretty much impossible to live in her house anymore, which Jude notices and feels compelled to do something about. Then when she needs help with her eating disorder, Jude goes even further and offers her a marriage in name only so she can be treated through his insurance. Jude is a total sweetheart and I loved how wonderful and strong Skylar is. They form a lovely friendship first, though of course there's plenty of attraction between them. I thought these two made a fantastic couple and I was just rooting for them the whole read!
February 1, 2021
4 ❤️❤️❇️🍀❤️❤️🌟🌟🌟🌟s❣️❣️❣️❣️
This slow burn romance read was out of my comfort zone. My age gap limit is 13-14 years, but Jude was 16 y.o. older than Skylar. In addition to that, Skylar was just 18 y.o.
I was anticipating for this story while at the same time I was dreading it...
Since I had fallen completely in love with ‘No Tomorrow’ by C. Cole, I decided I was going to read it, regardless of the outcome...
It was beautiful! Amazing! Emotional! Solid and pragmatic!
The author’s approach towards the variety of issues that were brought up was respectful, thoughtful, human and realistic.
There was never a matter of tawdriness or debauchery, or even of a ‘daddy replacement’.
A girl and a man decided to have a marriage of convenience, due to specific and very serious circumstances, and unintentionally fell in love.
But it was not that simple...
I felt all their insecurities, their fears, their struggles, their emotional turmoil and concerns.
C. Cole’s writing was captivating and outstanding! I liked both characters, however I would have preferred if they shared a few more scenes together as a couple who could communicate and face a little earlier the elephant in the room.
There were secondary characters I liked so much and was so excited to read about!! But there were others that I was appalled at their behaviour, Skylar’s nonexistent mother and selfish father, or Jude’s despicable sister.
Jude and Skylar’s journey was different and unique, and I was very happy when they managed to reach their hea with a sweet and beautiful epilogue.
Buddy read with Tzelina ❤️📖❤️
This slow burn romance read was out of my comfort zone. My age gap limit is 13-14 years, but Jude was 16 y.o. older than Skylar. In addition to that, Skylar was just 18 y.o.
I was anticipating for this story while at the same time I was dreading it...
Since I had fallen completely in love with ‘No Tomorrow’ by C. Cole, I decided I was going to read it, regardless of the outcome...
It was beautiful! Amazing! Emotional! Solid and pragmatic!
The author’s approach towards the variety of issues that were brought up was respectful, thoughtful, human and realistic.
There was never a matter of tawdriness or debauchery, or even of a ‘daddy replacement’.
A girl and a man decided to have a marriage of convenience, due to specific and very serious circumstances, and unintentionally fell in love.
But it was not that simple...
I felt all their insecurities, their fears, their struggles, their emotional turmoil and concerns.
C. Cole’s writing was captivating and outstanding! I liked both characters, however I would have preferred if they shared a few more scenes together as a couple who could communicate and face a little earlier the elephant in the room.
There were secondary characters I liked so much and was so excited to read about!! But there were others that I was appalled at their behaviour, Skylar’s nonexistent mother and selfish father, or Jude’s despicable sister.
Jude and Skylar’s journey was different and unique, and I was very happy when they managed to reach their hea with a sweet and beautiful epilogue.
Buddy read with Tzelina ❤️📖❤️
February 6, 2021
This book made me fall in love with forbidden romance all over again!! The slow burn, the agonizing want, the tension, the what ifs, and that sigh of relief when everything falls into place. Don't Kiss The Bride gave us all of those things and i’m glad I took a chance on this one.
Skylar has lived a rough life the past few years but if there’s one thing that this girl is, it’s determined. with a plan that seems a million miles away, Skyler does the only thing that she can do right now which is to take it one day at a time and pray everything will work out for the best in the end. But when she meets an older guy that goes out of his way to help her, life as she knows it is about to change completely.
Jude Lucketti is pretty content with his life right now. He has a good construction company business, his own house, and he keeps to himself most of the time. Coming to the rescue of an eighteen year old didn't seem like a big deal at the time, but that one encounter became the starting point of an unconventional friendship that would soon mean more to the both of them.
I’ve said it before and I’ll keep on saying it: I’m a sucker for age gap forbidden romance!! there is just something about these stories that I really can't get enough of. This story took you on the journey of a couple who had their own demons in the past and were brought together.
I really enjoyed seeing them in their space and trying to navigate their lives while slowly falling for each other. It wasn't always easy and i liked how the author portrayed their struggles and fears with everything because it was real and it was never glossed over. It’s been a while since i’ve read anything from this author and im so glad that this story was my reintroduction to her.
if you’re looking for a good age gap slow burn romance, then this one is for you.
February 7, 2021
4 STARS
Carian Cole is one of those authors for me that I don't even bother to read the blurbs of her books. There's no point because it's an auto read for me no matter what. She's the master of writing poignant, beautiful and emotional romance that sticks with me. As an avid romance readers, I can't say I remember every book I read, but somehow, each Carian Cole book I've read, does. And this one certainly won't be the exception.
Now if you love a good age gap romance, you won't want to miss this one. Age gap for me can be a tricky one, because when you have a pretty young heroine, there's a line where it can skate on the line of...well...meh. Ya know? And considering the heroine here is 18, I knew that I wouldn't have to worry about that because this author just manages to hit the mark every time.
Skylar is an 18 year old high school senior who hasn't exactly had it easy in life. Her home life is anything but happy and her living situation even more so. She makes the best out of the crappy hand she's been dealt, but luck has never really been on her side.
Jude is a thirty four year old, tatted up construction worker and high school drop out. His teenage years are riddled with plenty of regrets, but when he sees Skylar lose consciousness and learns of her situation, he knows he needs to help her. So he offers her a solution; marriage, but in the most nutritional sense. She gets his insurance and puts herself on her feet, and he gets to know that he helped her. Nothing more and nothing less. But the feelings between them and the chemistry is not easy to deny.
Now admittedly, I struggled a bit with the first half of this book. It was very slow paced and quite detailed in parts that I felt maybe shouldn't have been. I found myself skimming some chapters, waiting for things to pick up. It was most definitely a SLOW burn. But then when things pick up? I couldn't put it down. I loved the progression of Lucky and Skylar's relationship. I love how he struggles with his feelings for her and I love how Skylar fought for him. The age gap is significant, but I never felt Skylar's age. Outside of her being in high school (though fair to note she was held back a year so she's a touch older senior), her age never felt like 18. She's wise beyond her years because of the life she's lived. She was forced to grow up fast and I loved her strength. Lucky's past comes back to really haunt him here and my heart broke for him in so many ways.
This was such a beautiful, gripping story full of emotion and romance. I adored Lucky and Sparkles together. Theirs was one of the most satisfying slow burns I've read in a while and I can't recommend it enough. And there's a surprise cameo by a certain character that I absolutely LOVED but won't give away because it's the best surprise.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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Somehow, she’s squirmed her way under my skin, and surprisingly enough, I don’t want to dig her out.
Carian Cole is one of those authors for me that I don't even bother to read the blurbs of her books. There's no point because it's an auto read for me no matter what. She's the master of writing poignant, beautiful and emotional romance that sticks with me. As an avid romance readers, I can't say I remember every book I read, but somehow, each Carian Cole book I've read, does. And this one certainly won't be the exception.
Now if you love a good age gap romance, you won't want to miss this one. Age gap for me can be a tricky one, because when you have a pretty young heroine, there's a line where it can skate on the line of...well...meh. Ya know? And considering the heroine here is 18, I knew that I wouldn't have to worry about that because this author just manages to hit the mark every time.
Skylar is an 18 year old high school senior who hasn't exactly had it easy in life. Her home life is anything but happy and her living situation even more so. She makes the best out of the crappy hand she's been dealt, but luck has never really been on her side.
Jude is a thirty four year old, tatted up construction worker and high school drop out. His teenage years are riddled with plenty of regrets, but when he sees Skylar lose consciousness and learns of her situation, he knows he needs to help her. So he offers her a solution; marriage, but in the most nutritional sense. She gets his insurance and puts herself on her feet, and he gets to know that he helped her. Nothing more and nothing less. But the feelings between them and the chemistry is not easy to deny.
Now admittedly, I struggled a bit with the first half of this book. It was very slow paced and quite detailed in parts that I felt maybe shouldn't have been. I found myself skimming some chapters, waiting for things to pick up. It was most definitely a SLOW burn. But then when things pick up? I couldn't put it down. I loved the progression of Lucky and Skylar's relationship. I love how he struggles with his feelings for her and I love how Skylar fought for him. The age gap is significant, but I never felt Skylar's age. Outside of her being in high school (though fair to note she was held back a year so she's a touch older senior), her age never felt like 18. She's wise beyond her years because of the life she's lived. She was forced to grow up fast and I loved her strength. Lucky's past comes back to really haunt him here and my heart broke for him in so many ways.
This was such a beautiful, gripping story full of emotion and romance. I adored Lucky and Sparkles together. Theirs was one of the most satisfying slow burns I've read in a while and I can't recommend it enough. And there's a surprise cameo by a certain character that I absolutely LOVED but won't give away because it's the best surprise.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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February 2, 2021
Carian is a master of eliciting angsty tears out of her readers, her prose just squeezes your heart in a fist till it bleeds all over the pages. Her age gap romances are epitome of excellence in the genre. They're the books which others in the same trope bracket compare to and aspire to be.Who can ever forget Tor🥰
Once again she delves In a story that's firmly ensconced in her comfort zone, Drowning the readers in a sea of pain and tears in this book. It's an Abandoned love of Discarded souls which shall resonate in my heart for a long time to come.
“It’s limbo,” I say pointedly. “Both of us hanging here, afraid to make a move. Afraid to stay, afraid to go, afraid to talk. We’re just hurting each other, aren’t we?”
A sassy Damsel in distress- Skylar Timmins is stranded when her Vette-steed dies on her and in steps to save her is her Knight in Transportational Armour- Jude "Lucky"Lucketti. There couldn't be any more perfect a couple of carian who are serendipitiously thrown together. But that's where their Fate ends.they can't seem to be on the same page at the same time for most of the story.
The age gap becomes a gigantic monolith that squeezes between them. Compounded by their own promise to never kiss, it's a disaster waiting to happen
"Life just had to fuck with me by throwing the perfect girl in my life and then twisting the knife by making her only eighteen years old. Thanks for the ass fucking, karma."
The tussle between their desires and realities becomes gruesome and debilitating at times, only offset by the intense chemistry and witty banter. The roots of worthlessness & rejection run deep, marring and scarring their ability to love and trust anybody.
"I’ve never experienced this agony of looking in the eye of the person I love and seeing good-bye there. Suddenly all the sad love songs make so much sense."
To say the book makes you cry frustrating tears, would be an understatement. But my eyes welled up for the tender moments equally. Lucky was like a Gargoyle holding & protecting a heart tenderly, his compassion, his generosity, Skylar vulnerabilities, her excruciating illnesses just tore me apart
And my Handsome, favorite character makes an appearance, so I was jumping for joy at the end of it
Pick up this book for a wild ride in the Classic Corvette and into the sunset atop a hill
4.5 stars for A Magical Kiss to end the Vows
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Once again she delves In a story that's firmly ensconced in her comfort zone, Drowning the readers in a sea of pain and tears in this book. It's an Abandoned love of Discarded souls which shall resonate in my heart for a long time to come.
“It’s limbo,” I say pointedly. “Both of us hanging here, afraid to make a move. Afraid to stay, afraid to go, afraid to talk. We’re just hurting each other, aren’t we?”
A sassy Damsel in distress- Skylar Timmins is stranded when her Vette-steed dies on her and in steps to save her is her Knight in Transportational Armour- Jude "Lucky"Lucketti. There couldn't be any more perfect a couple of carian who are serendipitiously thrown together. But that's where their Fate ends.they can't seem to be on the same page at the same time for most of the story.
The age gap becomes a gigantic monolith that squeezes between them. Compounded by their own promise to never kiss, it's a disaster waiting to happen
"Life just had to fuck with me by throwing the perfect girl in my life and then twisting the knife by making her only eighteen years old. Thanks for the ass fucking, karma."
The tussle between their desires and realities becomes gruesome and debilitating at times, only offset by the intense chemistry and witty banter. The roots of worthlessness & rejection run deep, marring and scarring their ability to love and trust anybody.
"I’ve never experienced this agony of looking in the eye of the person I love and seeing good-bye there. Suddenly all the sad love songs make so much sense."
To say the book makes you cry frustrating tears, would be an understatement. But my eyes welled up for the tender moments equally. Lucky was like a Gargoyle holding & protecting a heart tenderly, his compassion, his generosity, Skylar vulnerabilities, her excruciating illnesses just tore me apart
And my Handsome, favorite character makes an appearance, so I was jumping for joy at the end of it
Pick up this book for a wild ride in the Classic Corvette and into the sunset atop a hill
4.5 stars for A Magical Kiss to end the Vows
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March 3, 2021
2.5 stars
While I’ve liked this author’s books before, I couldn’t get over the fact that the heroine was 18 and he was old enough to be her father. No bueno. Also the fact that this “amazing hero” was close to having sex with another woman, he thought about fucking the other woman while the heroine was in his house and while they weren’t “together, together” they were already married in name. So that makes him a cheater. Let’s not forget how he was a drug dealer when he was younger and exchanged drugs for bjs. (Spared me the “I only did it once” bullshit) once it’s enough for me.
I can hear the pitchforks coming for my ass .
Disclamer:
**Some GR members (you know who you are, not worth mentioning your profile names) think I hate all books. 😏🤣 i only hate books that have weak, doormat and pathetic heroines. They’ve said that I have no right to read books that I hate. 😏 please, like you pay for my books. News flash, I can read what I want, when I want, and rate them how I want. The day you pay for my books then maybe you’ll have a say, but in the meantime sit the fuck down, don’t be pathetic and kindly fuck off!** 😏
While I’ve liked this author’s books before, I couldn’t get over the fact that the heroine was 18 and he was old enough to be her father. No bueno. Also the fact that this “amazing hero” was close to having sex with another woman, he thought about fucking the other woman while the heroine was in his house and while they weren’t “together, together” they were already married in name. So that makes him a cheater. Let’s not forget how he was a drug dealer when he was younger and exchanged drugs for bjs. (Spared me the “I only did it once” bullshit) once it’s enough for me.
I can hear the pitchforks coming for my ass .
Disclamer:
**Some GR members (you know who you are, not worth mentioning your profile names) think I hate all books. 😏🤣 i only hate books that have weak, doormat and pathetic heroines. They’ve said that I have no right to read books that I hate. 😏 please, like you pay for my books. News flash, I can read what I want, when I want, and rate them how I want. The day you pay for my books then maybe you’ll have a say, but in the meantime sit the fuck down, don’t be pathetic and kindly fuck off!** 😏
February 15, 2021
Safe
Age gap: she is 18 and he is 34
Respectful hero
Please authors make nice caring heroes be the new trend, we can only take so much assholes and the limites has been exceed.
Thank you so much for this amazing hero Carian, respectful, caring, selfless and not a sexist asshole.
One thing that bothered me is the need to say she hasn’t dated anyone has been one year while for him has been a while, but no precise time. Why when the heroine is experienced she almost always has been celibate for a year or more? I don’t think it was necessary to make it that long because cmon she is only eighteen at high school, she has a lot of problems, she could have been having some fun.
Safety:
-no others after meeting each other, no past lovers showing up, not a manwhore although when he was younger he was one, but he is truly reformed
- after the wedding but before anything other than kissing during the wedding happened he went to a bar and almost picked a women up but stoped himself before anything happened, they didn’t kiss and he wasn’t lusting after her nor did he touched her. He turned her down and she tried again, he considered it but turned her down again. She pressed her lips to his cheek and leaves a mark the heroine sees and they talked about but no dramas
- he didn’t have condoms at his house I really like it he didn’t bring women back home. He is not a player anyone btw
- both experienced, she had two lovers whom she had sex with but kissed and fooled around with six guys (super match her age)
- he is a a addicted who has been clean for over 10 years but when he was a player when he was younger. He is not proud of it, he recognized his past was shady.
- he never dated anyone seriously, I like that because they were discovering it together
Their past:
“I’ve never taken a woman out to eat, or to the movies. I’ve never vacationed with someone. My version of dating has consisted of drive-through dinners, hanging out in bars, motels or at her place, having sex, and then making a quick exit.”
“There was once a time I spent so many nights at that motel I’m surprised my name’s not on one of the doors instead of a number. It’s been a while. My hand could use a rest.”
“I’ve been kissed before. By at least six guys. I made out with a few of them pretty hot and heavy at parties and at the movies, and even went all the way with two of them. On separate occasions, of course. It’s been a year since I’ve dated...”
What bothered me most and I know has been sixteen years but it sounded so fucking disgusting i could have go without it
The mean girl told her: “My older cousin went to school with your husband,” Paige whispers from her seat. “She said he was a stoner and a drug dealer. She said he had girls lining up giving him blowjobs at parties in exchange for joints and pills. She said she saw him having a threesome in a hot tub once, too.”
We don’t know if this is true but she asked about the blow job and it was so I suppose the threesome must be too. I was pissed
“Is it true that you traded blowjobs for drugs?” He chokes. “What?” “Apparently Paige’s cousin went to school with you. She said that’s what you did at parties.” “What the fuck?” he says, shoving a hand through his hair. “Skylar, I was six-fucking-teen.” “So, it’s true?” I ask, horrified, and hoping he’ll deny it immediately. His shoulders lift. “I think I did that once.” My mouth frowns in disgust and disappointment. “So gross, Lucky.” “C’mon, it was stupid kid shit.” “Okay.” It’s really none of my business, and I have no right to be feeling the jealousy boiling in my blood. “I’m not gonna lie about it, Skylar. I have a scuzzy past. I can’t change it.”
He took so long to act on his feelings I was a little impatient, I really like her I hate her father that abandoned her for twelve fucking years, married again and was a daddy to the wives son while his own daughter was suffering and alone
He is a decent guy, there isn’t any virgin talk, he doesn’t sexualize being her first or any of that shit, he has trouble dealing with their age gap and was actually relieved she was experienced otherwise he wouldn’t be with her
Age gap: she is 18 and he is 34
Respectful hero
Please authors make nice caring heroes be the new trend, we can only take so much assholes and the limites has been exceed.
Thank you so much for this amazing hero Carian, respectful, caring, selfless and not a sexist asshole.
One thing that bothered me is the need to say she hasn’t dated anyone has been one year while for him has been a while, but no precise time. Why when the heroine is experienced she almost always has been celibate for a year or more? I don’t think it was necessary to make it that long because cmon she is only eighteen at high school, she has a lot of problems, she could have been having some fun.
Safety:
-no others after meeting each other, no past lovers showing up, not a manwhore although when he was younger he was one, but he is truly reformed
- after the wedding but before anything other than kissing during the wedding happened he went to a bar and almost picked a women up but stoped himself before anything happened, they didn’t kiss and he wasn’t lusting after her nor did he touched her. He turned her down and she tried again, he considered it but turned her down again. She pressed her lips to his cheek and leaves a mark the heroine sees and they talked about but no dramas
- he didn’t have condoms at his house I really like it he didn’t bring women back home. He is not a player anyone btw
- both experienced, she had two lovers whom she had sex with but kissed and fooled around with six guys (super match her age)
- he is a a addicted who has been clean for over 10 years but when he was a player when he was younger. He is not proud of it, he recognized his past was shady.
- he never dated anyone seriously, I like that because they were discovering it together
Their past:
“I’ve never taken a woman out to eat, or to the movies. I’ve never vacationed with someone. My version of dating has consisted of drive-through dinners, hanging out in bars, motels or at her place, having sex, and then making a quick exit.”
“There was once a time I spent so many nights at that motel I’m surprised my name’s not on one of the doors instead of a number. It’s been a while. My hand could use a rest.”
“I’ve been kissed before. By at least six guys. I made out with a few of them pretty hot and heavy at parties and at the movies, and even went all the way with two of them. On separate occasions, of course. It’s been a year since I’ve dated...”
What bothered me most and I know has been sixteen years but it sounded so fucking disgusting i could have go without it
The mean girl told her: “My older cousin went to school with your husband,” Paige whispers from her seat. “She said he was a stoner and a drug dealer. She said he had girls lining up giving him blowjobs at parties in exchange for joints and pills. She said she saw him having a threesome in a hot tub once, too.”
We don’t know if this is true but she asked about the blow job and it was so I suppose the threesome must be too. I was pissed
“Is it true that you traded blowjobs for drugs?” He chokes. “What?” “Apparently Paige’s cousin went to school with you. She said that’s what you did at parties.” “What the fuck?” he says, shoving a hand through his hair. “Skylar, I was six-fucking-teen.” “So, it’s true?” I ask, horrified, and hoping he’ll deny it immediately. His shoulders lift. “I think I did that once.” My mouth frowns in disgust and disappointment. “So gross, Lucky.” “C’mon, it was stupid kid shit.” “Okay.” It’s really none of my business, and I have no right to be feeling the jealousy boiling in my blood. “I’m not gonna lie about it, Skylar. I have a scuzzy past. I can’t change it.”
He took so long to act on his feelings I was a little impatient, I really like her I hate her father that abandoned her for twelve fucking years, married again and was a daddy to the wives son while his own daughter was suffering and alone
He is a decent guy, there isn’t any virgin talk, he doesn’t sexualize being her first or any of that shit, he has trouble dealing with their age gap and was actually relieved she was experienced otherwise he wouldn’t be with her
November 24, 2021
romance readers are used to taboo shit. okay, don't even lie to me because i'm ready to throw fists.
I, myself have crossed boundaries I've never dreamt of crossing. I read Jessa Kane and Alexa Riley as soon as they release new books.
So I am not new to age gap romances with barely 18 girls, what I don't appreciate is it getting called ✨grooming✨ in my face and getting reminded of it every few pages. I felt like I was a predator, which makes me want to fuckinnnnn hurl.
But this book just kept on repeating this word over and over that I could not focus on the romance because I'm constantly made aware of how “it's not grooming because blah, blah, blah”. And since that's a constant replay in my mind during the duration of this book, my enjoyment? Non-existent.
I don't have a problem being the party popper so let me point out that Yah, it is grooming, you made that abundantly clear. Thank you very much.
Then the heroine says shit like this
I'm sorry but this is screaming ✨DENIAL✨
Overall, this is the only age gap book I've read so far that made me kinda sick and made my skin crawl. The author was trying so hard to justify this relationship, I'm just like.. bitch we get it, shut up about it already!
Also, this couple had to make so much unnecessary drama for their third act break up. I don't know if people have heard about this thing —communication— or not. Miscommunication as a plot device is old and tired, give it a rest.
There was no proper resolution regarding the heroine's parents and their sheer assholeness and complete disregard for the well-being of their daughter. As well as the hero's bestfriend and sister, why are these storylines not resolved? I'm itching overthinking about what's become of them!
I tried Torn by this author, dnf'd it @7%. We're just not meshing, Carian and I.
But she got me hooked on the show Hoarders so you know...
2.5 stars.
I, myself have crossed boundaries I've never dreamt of crossing. I read Jessa Kane and Alexa Riley as soon as they release new books.
So I am not new to age gap romances with barely 18 girls, what I don't appreciate is it getting called ✨grooming✨ in my face and getting reminded of it every few pages. I felt like I was a predator, which makes me want to fuckinnnnn hurl.
But this book just kept on repeating this word over and over that I could not focus on the romance because I'm constantly made aware of how “it's not grooming because blah, blah, blah”. And since that's a constant replay in my mind during the duration of this book, my enjoyment? Non-existent.
I don't have a problem being the party popper so let me point out that Yah, it is grooming, you made that abundantly clear. Thank you very much.
Then the heroine says shit like this
“I respect your opinions, but the bottom line is, you don’t know him. Or me. I’m working on figuring my life out, but I won’t listen to you bad mouth him. He’s been very good to me. None of us are perfect, we’ve all made mistakes, and we’re all doing our best,” I point out. “But I can assure you, he’s not some kind of predator.”
I'm sorry but this is screaming ✨DENIAL✨
Overall, this is the only age gap book I've read so far that made me kinda sick and made my skin crawl. The author was trying so hard to justify this relationship, I'm just like.. bitch we get it, shut up about it already!
Also, this couple had to make so much unnecessary drama for their third act break up. I don't know if people have heard about this thing —communication— or not. Miscommunication as a plot device is old and tired, give it a rest.
There was no proper resolution regarding the heroine's parents and their sheer assholeness and complete disregard for the well-being of their daughter. As well as the hero's bestfriend and sister, why are these storylines not resolved? I'm itching overthinking about what's become of them!
I tried Torn by this author, dnf'd it @7%. We're just not meshing, Carian and I.
But she got me hooked on the show Hoarders so you know...
2.5 stars.
July 1, 2023
After reading No Tomorrow, a book I LOVED..I am looking forward to reading DKTB
Update:
WOW. This book took me to a whole new place of bliss. I am a sucker for an age-gap, slow burn, ‘taboo’ romance and this book….this book is just euphoric.
Normally when I read a book, I’m all about the highlights, notes and bookmarking the pages but I got to tell you, with Don’t Kiss The Bride? I didn’t want to stop reading, I didn’t want the the distraction…I just wanted to continue on reading. Jude…wowza. This tatted up man is delectable. Jude and Skylar’s story is slow burn romance that doesn’t feel tedious or dull. It’s angsty..the chemistry is palpable you guys! Add to it the age-gap trope *Cloud nine* I have to tell you, I was excited to read this book even before the release and the entire time I was reading DKTB, I still felt that excitement. A definite page turner.
I am so relieved that DKTB turned out to be so fantastic cause I got to tell you, No Tomorrow is a tough act to follow.
Highly recommend it!
Update:
WOW. This book took me to a whole new place of bliss. I am a sucker for an age-gap, slow burn, ‘taboo’ romance and this book….this book is just euphoric.
Normally when I read a book, I’m all about the highlights, notes and bookmarking the pages but I got to tell you, with Don’t Kiss The Bride? I didn’t want to stop reading, I didn’t want the the distraction…I just wanted to continue on reading. Jude…wowza. This tatted up man is delectable. Jude and Skylar’s story is slow burn romance that doesn’t feel tedious or dull. It’s angsty..the chemistry is palpable you guys! Add to it the age-gap trope *Cloud nine* I have to tell you, I was excited to read this book even before the release and the entire time I was reading DKTB, I still felt that excitement. A definite page turner.
I am so relieved that DKTB turned out to be so fantastic cause I got to tell you, No Tomorrow is a tough act to follow.
Highly recommend it!
February 1, 2021
Don’t Kiss the Bride is a standalone, age gap Novel in dual POV with a slow burn. Carian Cole never disappoints me with her writing. Her writing just flows effortlessly from page to page, captivating the reader. It was a privilege to read Skylar and Jude's journey.
Skylar Aka Sparkles, 18 years of age, and Senior In Hugh school. She is an old soul, very mature for her age, and loves the 70s and 80s. I fell in love with her from page one with her sassy comebacks. Skylar's home life is less than desirable with no support system.
Jude Aka Lucky is a thirty-four construction worker with a heart of gold. When he sees Skylar's car is dead, he helps her, stays for the tow truck, and brings her home. From there they form a beautiful friendship. When she needs help with medical insurance because of some medical problems, Jude comes up with a marriage of convenience to go on his insurance, and takes her out of where she lives; the understanding this is temporary until Skylar gets on her feet, and the rule in place don't kiss the bride.
This book is beautifully written and Jude with swoon-worthy, with a little angst(you see the angst in the second half of the book) and no over the top drama. I felt every emotion. It squeezed my heart and left me not ready to say goodbye at the end. Such a beautiful story, I expect nothing less from the author.
Skylar Aka Sparkles, 18 years of age, and Senior In Hugh school. She is an old soul, very mature for her age, and loves the 70s and 80s. I fell in love with her from page one with her sassy comebacks. Skylar's home life is less than desirable with no support system.
Jude Aka Lucky is a thirty-four construction worker with a heart of gold. When he sees Skylar's car is dead, he helps her, stays for the tow truck, and brings her home. From there they form a beautiful friendship. When she needs help with medical insurance because of some medical problems, Jude comes up with a marriage of convenience to go on his insurance, and takes her out of where she lives; the understanding this is temporary until Skylar gets on her feet, and the rule in place don't kiss the bride.
This book is beautifully written and Jude with swoon-worthy, with a little angst(you see the angst in the second half of the book) and no over the top drama. I felt every emotion. It squeezed my heart and left me not ready to say goodbye at the end. Such a beautiful story, I expect nothing less from the author.
March 24, 2021
*Bc I keep going back and rereading parts of this I'm raising my rating from 4 to 4.5 stars* This one rly surprised me! I had very few expectations but was lowkey thinking it was gonna be a lil trashy, but I actually ended up having a really great time and being v pleased w the characters and the writing. It's my first book by this author and I'll def be back for more. Jude and Skylar's relationship was so easy it was almost weird. Or it was weird that it wasn't weird. Their personalities were just so well suited for each other and Jude being so patient w Skylar and her food things was so cute. For some reason tho when they described Jude's hair as shoulder length my mind conveniently offered up the image of Jonathon from Queer Eye
and like why is my brain like this 😩😂 Jonathon from Queer Eye's hair is so much longer than shoulder length but it didn't stop this pic from randomly flashing in my mind as Jude at super inconvenient times. Put a bit of a damper on things from time to time but that's a me problem. ANYWAY, really great read with hot af sex scenes but I think the book could've been a bit shorter. Some of the stuff before they hooked up could've been cut out and the back and forth for the last 30-ish% was really exhausting. I wish they would've just talked. Still, loved them a lot tho <3
and like why is my brain like this 😩😂 Jonathon from Queer Eye's hair is so much longer than shoulder length but it didn't stop this pic from randomly flashing in my mind as Jude at super inconvenient times. Put a bit of a damper on things from time to time but that's a me problem. ANYWAY, really great read with hot af sex scenes but I think the book could've been a bit shorter. Some of the stuff before they hooked up could've been cut out and the back and forth for the last 30-ish% was really exhausting. I wish they would've just talked. Still, loved them a lot tho <3
October 2, 2021
Umm what didn’t settle well with me was this scene that played out right here…
>>><<<
Smirking, I touch my lips quickly to hers. “I mean are you a virgin?”
If she says yes, I’m out. That’s a place I won’t go. She swallows and raises her chin a little. “No,” she says. “Is that a disappointment?”
I shake my head. “I want a woman, not a little girl.”
>>><<<
Um… I’m sorry, but since when did needing to have had sex with a man define you as a woman?
Yeah no thanks, sorry Carian. No for me on this one
>>><<<
Smirking, I touch my lips quickly to hers. “I mean are you a virgin?”
If she says yes, I’m out. That’s a place I won’t go. She swallows and raises her chin a little. “No,” she says. “Is that a disappointment?”
I shake my head. “I want a woman, not a little girl.”
>>><<<
Um… I’m sorry, but since when did needing to have had sex with a man define you as a woman?
Yeah no thanks, sorry Carian. No for me on this one
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