What do you think?
Rate this book
The Virgin Playbook #4
Sparked
Seven years ago, Sam and I were best friends and the goofiest computer nerds in New Jersey and, possibly, the world.
We also made a pact to meet up and get busy if one or both of us were still virgins by our twenty-fourth birthdays.
I assumed that was a silly pinky swear we'd both forgotten about until Sam shows up at my twenty-fourth birthday party, ready and willing to make good on our bargain.
Boy is he ready...
Gone is the lanky kid with glasses who made me snort-laugh when we played video games. In his place is a sex god with massive biceps, designer clothes, and a smolder that transforms women to quivering puddles of lust.
I’m out of my league with this new Sam.
But I’m also every bit as drawn to him as I used to be.
So, when he dares me to give him a chance to prove he’s still the same trusted kindred spirit I remember, I agree.
What do I have to lose, aside from my V Card?
Oh, right. My heart…
We also made a pact to meet up and get busy if one or both of us were still virgins by our twenty-fourth birthdays.
I assumed that was a silly pinky swear we'd both forgotten about until Sam shows up at my twenty-fourth birthday party, ready and willing to make good on our bargain.
Boy is he ready...
Gone is the lanky kid with glasses who made me snort-laugh when we played video games. In his place is a sex god with massive biceps, designer clothes, and a smolder that transforms women to quivering puddles of lust.
I’m out of my league with this new Sam.
But I’m also every bit as drawn to him as I used to be.
So, when he dares me to give him a chance to prove he’s still the same trusted kindred spirit I remember, I agree.
What do I have to lose, aside from my V Card?
Oh, right. My heart…
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 30, 2022
157 people are currently reading
282 people want to read
About the author
Lili Valente
175 books4,066 followersVisit Lili at www.lilivalente.com
Author of over forty novels, USA Today Bestseller Lili Valente writes everything from steamy suspense to laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She can't resist a story where love wins big. Because love should always win. She lives in Vermont with her two big-hearted boy children and a dog named Pippa Jane.
*Lili rarely visits this site as it is a site intended for readers, not authors. If you have questions, the best way to reach Lili is through her website contact form. Happy reading!
Author of over forty novels, USA Today Bestseller Lili Valente writes everything from steamy suspense to laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She can't resist a story where love wins big. Because love should always win. She lives in Vermont with her two big-hearted boy children and a dog named Pippa Jane.
*Lili rarely visits this site as it is a site intended for readers, not authors. If you have questions, the best way to reach Lili is through her website contact form. Happy reading!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 31, 2022
The V Card diaries is the most charming, feel good, seductive romcom series by Lili Valente. Sparked, the latest book in this series had me swooning, laughing, heart clenching and smiling the whole time I was reading it. Jessica and Sam are incredible and I fell head over heels in love with their story. I love how they were both nerdy, game loving developers. Their chemistry was scorching. I enjoyed their journey rekindling their friendship and progressing to lovers all because of a pack they made when they were in high school. Sam was a total book boyfriend; he supported Jessica and wanted to make all her dreams come true. Jessica was such a great, relatable heroine. She had insecurities and felt like she lost her passion, just going through the motions and always scared to take the leap. She had a amazing group of friends and Sam who supported her and made her feel loved. I absolutely enjoyed this delightfully charming, sweet and steamy friends to lovers romcom.
August 15, 2022
Sparked by Lili Valente was a sweet, saucy, and seductive second chance virgin romance that made my heart super giddy! Jess and Sam were easy characters to fall in love with. Plus, who doesn't love a sexy nerd?! I love Jess' spunky, outgoing, yet guarded personality. Her journey to trust and fall in love with Sam made me empathize and swoon with her at the same time. Sam's evolution from nerd to hunk was exciting to read even though his secrecy to the tell the truth made me a little frustrated at times. When all the walls are torn down, and these two are finally honest with each other wow oh wow do the sparks fly!
Overall, I loved this book! If you are a fan of a second chance virgin romance with a billionaire computer CEO, a fierce sassy computer enthusiast, high school nerds, sex pacts, second chances, secrets, family time, loyal besties, childhood bedrooms, making plans, clearing up the pasts, steamy first times, and a HEA that will zap sparks in your heart, then you will love Jess and Sam's story. I've loved Lili's V card diaries series and always look forward to more.
Overall, I loved this book! If you are a fan of a second chance virgin romance with a billionaire computer CEO, a fierce sassy computer enthusiast, high school nerds, sex pacts, second chances, secrets, family time, loyal besties, childhood bedrooms, making plans, clearing up the pasts, steamy first times, and a HEA that will zap sparks in your heart, then you will love Jess and Sam's story. I've loved Lili's V card diaries series and always look forward to more.
August 15, 2022
**My thanks to the author for providing me with a free copy for an honest review**
This is the last book in the series and finally we get the story for Jessica Cho.
Our nerd computer programmer and developer has finally quit her job and her friends are always there to support her. On the night of her 24th birthday though a former friend comes back, hopefully to rekindle the flame he has for her along with offering her a job offer that she just cannot refuse.
We get Sam who stumbles along the way, as he hides things that would have been better if he told Jessica from the beginning, but ever hopeful, he finds a way to get Jessica to forgive him and for them to have the happy ever after they deserve.
I really enjoyed this series and look forward to the next books that this author brings out.
This is the last book in the series and finally we get the story for Jessica Cho.
Our nerd computer programmer and developer has finally quit her job and her friends are always there to support her. On the night of her 24th birthday though a former friend comes back, hopefully to rekindle the flame he has for her along with offering her a job offer that she just cannot refuse.
We get Sam who stumbles along the way, as he hides things that would have been better if he told Jessica from the beginning, but ever hopeful, he finds a way to get Jessica to forgive him and for them to have the happy ever after they deserve.
I really enjoyed this series and look forward to the next books that this author brings out.
September 7, 2022
“I’m still the same person I was when we were best friends. I’m just less afraid to go after what I want than I was back then. And what I want is you, Jess.”
💻
Review: Sparked by Lili Valente. A V-Card Diaries series, book 4.
🐈
After reading the the first 3 books in the V-Card Diaries series, I was super pumped to read Jess Cho’s story, this nerd girl delivered everything in her book. I could relate to her so much, I might even shed a tear or two in the beginning, when she had her doubts right after becoming unemployed and what to do with her life. I faced some of her fears and reading them brought me some closure, if that’s possible.
Anyway, dealing with all that, she was ready to change at least her v-card status in this summer, she just wanted someone a little decent. What she didn’t expected was that blast from the past in the form of her former best friend, Sam. That delicious piece of genius stole my heart and never returned. Seriously, I swoon hard over him, did he withhold info from her? Yes. But seeing how she was, I totally understood.
Here’s the thing, Jess really needed some therapy, due to her family upbringing, she was always waiting for the other shoe to drop, never giving herself fully to her feelings for Sam. At the other side, Sam gave it all, his heart, mind and I think he would give his company, money and his life for her. Listen ladies, find a guy like him, one who encourages your dreams, heal your heart and soul, and support your believes.
I laughed a lot with their story and Handsome, the one ear cat. It was also good so see the girls having Jess back and putting some sense in her mind, but I was super delighted to met Jack, Sam’s friend, the guy was super matter of fact and I loved him, which made me even happier that while this book is the end of the serie, Jack will start the spin-off! Bring it on!
💻
Review: Sparked by Lili Valente. A V-Card Diaries series, book 4.
🐈
After reading the the first 3 books in the V-Card Diaries series, I was super pumped to read Jess Cho’s story, this nerd girl delivered everything in her book. I could relate to her so much, I might even shed a tear or two in the beginning, when she had her doubts right after becoming unemployed and what to do with her life. I faced some of her fears and reading them brought me some closure, if that’s possible.
Anyway, dealing with all that, she was ready to change at least her v-card status in this summer, she just wanted someone a little decent. What she didn’t expected was that blast from the past in the form of her former best friend, Sam. That delicious piece of genius stole my heart and never returned. Seriously, I swoon hard over him, did he withhold info from her? Yes. But seeing how she was, I totally understood.
Here’s the thing, Jess really needed some therapy, due to her family upbringing, she was always waiting for the other shoe to drop, never giving herself fully to her feelings for Sam. At the other side, Sam gave it all, his heart, mind and I think he would give his company, money and his life for her. Listen ladies, find a guy like him, one who encourages your dreams, heal your heart and soul, and support your believes.
I laughed a lot with their story and Handsome, the one ear cat. It was also good so see the girls having Jess back and putting some sense in her mind, but I was super delighted to met Jack, Sam’s friend, the guy was super matter of fact and I loved him, which made me even happier that while this book is the end of the serie, Jack will start the spin-off! Bring it on!
August 24, 2022
Sparked - Lili saved the best for last! I could NOT put this down! Their chemistry is off the charts!
(If you haven't read the free prequel - The Best Friends (to lovers) Bargain - go get it!)
Jessica has NO idea what she wants or what to do, and she's an adorable little ball of stress, while Sam knows exactly what he wants, knows Jessica inside-and-out, and is trying to convince her that she wants what he does. And it's just amazing.
We get best friends, family, some drama that ISN'T couple-related, and amazing schmexy times.
Also, there are cats. I always love a book with cats. ;)
You 100% want to pick up this book. I was SO sad when it was over. This is one of those that I wish I could read again for the first time!!!
(If you haven't read the free prequel - The Best Friends (to lovers) Bargain - go get it!)
Jessica has NO idea what she wants or what to do, and she's an adorable little ball of stress, while Sam knows exactly what he wants, knows Jessica inside-and-out, and is trying to convince her that she wants what he does. And it's just amazing.
We get best friends, family, some drama that ISN'T couple-related, and amazing schmexy times.
Also, there are cats. I always love a book with cats. ;)
You 100% want to pick up this book. I was SO sad when it was over. This is one of those that I wish I could read again for the first time!!!
September 6, 2022
3.5 stars
Once upon a time there were four friends Evie, Harlowe, Cameron and Jessica growing up in New Jersey. After they graduated high school they all moved to The City to continue their educations and decided to get an apartment together. Somehow despite all of them being attractive, intelligent and both physically and emotionally healthy, they all made it into their early twenties still holding on to their V-cards. Thus this series The V-card Diaries was born. One by one first Evie, then Harlowe, then Cam each found “The One” fell in love and lost their virginities quickly learning to embrace the joys of sex with someone you love and who loves you back. Sparked is Jessica Allison Cho’s story and the final book in this series.
As you can tell from her name Jessica is an Asian-American (Korean). Her parents had high expectations for their only child. Especially her tiger mom. She was in many ways your stereo-typical nerd growing up, even attending nerd computer programming summer camp each summer with her BFF Sam Burgos. Jessica’s mother had plans for Jessica becoming a doctor. But Jessica had other plans. She’d always dreamed of becoming a computer game designer designing computer games for women gamers. Finally in her senior year of high school she found her courage and informed her parents she was going to college to earn a computer science degree, not to study pre-med. After four years of college Jessica graduated at the top of her class with her computer science degree and got a job working for her dream company Brain Chill Entertainment as a coder. Within a year she was promoted to project lead of a team. But sometimes reality doesn’t live up to our dreams. Jessica found herself working incredibly long hours not only coding but redoing work she’d already done which had been sabotaged by her team who resented having a young woman as their leader. Her managers were no help. After a year of working herself to exhaustion she handed in her resignation. As this story opens it’s Jess’s 24th birthday. She finds herself preparing for the rooftop birthday party her friends are throwing her, depressingly both unemployed and still a virgin. At this point with her good friends all now “blissfully banging” as she calls it, and engaged, the fact that she still has her V-card seems like a greater source of disappoint to her than her employment status. She feels like her friends are moving on with their lives while she is stuck.
Much to Jess’s surprise a handsome stranger crashes her party. But she quickly realizes he’s no stranger. He’s her old BFF Samuel Borges who ghosted her following high school graduation. Sam has added 30 lbs. of muscle to his lanky frame since she last saw him at his graduation party and has a dangerous edge to him. He’s now more than nerdy cute, he’s as Jess calls him, “a stud muffin.”. And Jess thinks he’s there to fulfill the pact they’d made as the only seventeen-year-old virgins at computer camp. They had agreed that if at 24 years old they were both still virgins they would get together and cash each other’s V-cards. But while Sam does want to take her V-card he’s also there to offer Jess her dream job working for Paradisius one of the top companies in the world looking to expand into the gaming world, where she can lead a team creating video games while working either from home or at their offices in London. He also offers her a ridiculous compensation package. He doesn’t tell Jess is that he is the mysterious billionaire owner of the company. He doesn’t tell Jess the reason he ghosted her and everyone else he knew after high school was so he could try to get her out of his system because he had been in love with her since he was eight years old and felt she’d never see him as more than a friend. He also doesn’t tell Jess is that he is still very much in love with her and seeing her again after six long years only solidifies those feelings for her. Jess wants to give her virginity to Sam but she tells him that if they do this (assuming he’s still a virgin which he’s not, something else he doesn’t tell Jess) they should never see each other again. And before she agrees to get naked with him even for a one-night hookup she wants to spend the next two weeks getting to re-know each other. Which if she’s just going to fuck him and run makes no sense to me. Still, I have to give the author credit for adding this contrivance to the plot to keep things interesting. I mean otherwise they’d just get reacquainted, have multiple orgasmic sex and live happily ever after. The end. Now we can pretend that there’s a question as to whether Jess will actually go through with her condition that they never see one another again after they have sex. We can also wonder if they’ll ever even have sex when Jess discovers that Sam as the owner of the company is ultimately her boss and a fabulously wealthy billionaire and lied to her about being a virgin. While we know that happily ever after is the destination these two are headed for it will certainly make their journey there interesting.
I’m not certain why because I’ve read several books by this author including the second and third ones in this series, but I wasn’t really expecting much from this book beyond a lot of sex based mostly upon the series title. And there certainly is that but it comes late in the story. Bult Jess’s and Sam’s story exceeded my admittedly low expectations. Sam was a great male lead who of course as a man made a couple of really stupid decisions which threaten to sink their relationship before it really got going. Jess was a complex character as women are complex creatures. Growing up in a household where emotions were rarely if ever displayed she had learned to lock hers down tight and pretend she wasn’t experiencing them. When she did experience deep emotions she didn’t know how to deal with them. Also her hyper-critical mother made her both doubt herself hurting her self-esteem and fear making a mistake which might disappoint her parents and embarrass herself so she avoided taking risks.
Once upon a time there were four friends Evie, Harlowe, Cameron and Jessica growing up in New Jersey. After they graduated high school they all moved to The City to continue their educations and decided to get an apartment together. Somehow despite all of them being attractive, intelligent and both physically and emotionally healthy, they all made it into their early twenties still holding on to their V-cards. Thus this series The V-card Diaries was born. One by one first Evie, then Harlowe, then Cam each found “The One” fell in love and lost their virginities quickly learning to embrace the joys of sex with someone you love and who loves you back. Sparked is Jessica Allison Cho’s story and the final book in this series.
As you can tell from her name Jessica is an Asian-American (Korean). Her parents had high expectations for their only child. Especially her tiger mom. She was in many ways your stereo-typical nerd growing up, even attending nerd computer programming summer camp each summer with her BFF Sam Burgos. Jessica’s mother had plans for Jessica becoming a doctor. But Jessica had other plans. She’d always dreamed of becoming a computer game designer designing computer games for women gamers. Finally in her senior year of high school she found her courage and informed her parents she was going to college to earn a computer science degree, not to study pre-med. After four years of college Jessica graduated at the top of her class with her computer science degree and got a job working for her dream company Brain Chill Entertainment as a coder. Within a year she was promoted to project lead of a team. But sometimes reality doesn’t live up to our dreams. Jessica found herself working incredibly long hours not only coding but redoing work she’d already done which had been sabotaged by her team who resented having a young woman as their leader. Her managers were no help. After a year of working herself to exhaustion she handed in her resignation. As this story opens it’s Jess’s 24th birthday. She finds herself preparing for the rooftop birthday party her friends are throwing her, depressingly both unemployed and still a virgin. At this point with her good friends all now “blissfully banging” as she calls it, and engaged, the fact that she still has her V-card seems like a greater source of disappoint to her than her employment status. She feels like her friends are moving on with their lives while she is stuck.
Much to Jess’s surprise a handsome stranger crashes her party. But she quickly realizes he’s no stranger. He’s her old BFF Samuel Borges who ghosted her following high school graduation. Sam has added 30 lbs. of muscle to his lanky frame since she last saw him at his graduation party and has a dangerous edge to him. He’s now more than nerdy cute, he’s as Jess calls him, “a stud muffin.”. And Jess thinks he’s there to fulfill the pact they’d made as the only seventeen-year-old virgins at computer camp. They had agreed that if at 24 years old they were both still virgins they would get together and cash each other’s V-cards. But while Sam does want to take her V-card he’s also there to offer Jess her dream job working for Paradisius one of the top companies in the world looking to expand into the gaming world, where she can lead a team creating video games while working either from home or at their offices in London. He also offers her a ridiculous compensation package. He doesn’t tell Jess is that he is the mysterious billionaire owner of the company. He doesn’t tell Jess the reason he ghosted her and everyone else he knew after high school was so he could try to get her out of his system because he had been in love with her since he was eight years old and felt she’d never see him as more than a friend. He also doesn’t tell Jess is that he is still very much in love with her and seeing her again after six long years only solidifies those feelings for her. Jess wants to give her virginity to Sam but she tells him that if they do this (assuming he’s still a virgin which he’s not, something else he doesn’t tell Jess) they should never see each other again. And before she agrees to get naked with him even for a one-night hookup she wants to spend the next two weeks getting to re-know each other. Which if she’s just going to fuck him and run makes no sense to me. Still, I have to give the author credit for adding this contrivance to the plot to keep things interesting. I mean otherwise they’d just get reacquainted, have multiple orgasmic sex and live happily ever after. The end. Now we can pretend that there’s a question as to whether Jess will actually go through with her condition that they never see one another again after they have sex. We can also wonder if they’ll ever even have sex when Jess discovers that Sam as the owner of the company is ultimately her boss and a fabulously wealthy billionaire and lied to her about being a virgin. While we know that happily ever after is the destination these two are headed for it will certainly make their journey there interesting.
I’m not certain why because I’ve read several books by this author including the second and third ones in this series, but I wasn’t really expecting much from this book beyond a lot of sex based mostly upon the series title. And there certainly is that but it comes late in the story. Bult Jess’s and Sam’s story exceeded my admittedly low expectations. Sam was a great male lead who of course as a man made a couple of really stupid decisions which threaten to sink their relationship before it really got going. Jess was a complex character as women are complex creatures. Growing up in a household where emotions were rarely if ever displayed she had learned to lock hers down tight and pretend she wasn’t experiencing them. When she did experience deep emotions she didn’t know how to deal with them. Also her hyper-critical mother made her both doubt herself hurting her self-esteem and fear making a mistake which might disappoint her parents and embarrass herself so she avoided taking risks.
March 30, 2023
Sam was a really shitty hero. I just could not get over all the lying. I also didn’t buy that he loved our sweet nerdy heroine Jess. She deserved better.
August 21, 2022
“You try so hard to be strong and do the right thing, but sometimes the right thing is to soften and let your heart tell you what to do next.”
Sparked is the last book in the V-Card Diary series and it’s a lighthearted read full of emotion with adorably quirky characters. Sam and Jess are second chance perfection.
“There is no other Jess. She’s it for me. The second I laid eyes on her last night, it was like the six years we spent apart never happened. I’m still all-in when I’m with her, just like when I was eighteen.”
Since they were teens, Sam has been in love with Jess, but he didn’t think she would ever return his feelings so he ghosted her. Now six years later, he has reappeared and he’s determined to reclaim his friendship with Jess and maybe get her to fall in love with him, too.
“He feels like home and the most exciting adventure I’ve ever had.”
Jess was just charmingly awkward as she has been throughout this series. She’s a ball of insecurity and afraid of letting anyone, especially her family, down. She represses her needs and wants in order to make everyone else happy. Sam’s reappearance in her life brings up confusing feelings for her that’s she’s not sure how to handle and I loved watching her fumble her way through them.
“You’re my favorite, Cho. Always have been, always will be.”
Sam was a great guy and a little bit awkward himself. Even though he’s experienced a lot more life than Jess and grown from a geek into a drop-dead gorgeous guy, he still doesn’t know how to communicate his feelings. He’s so afraid of scaring Jess away that he makes a lot of mistakes and almost risks their second chance.
“It was everything you said and did. Every word, every laugh, every brilliant thought and perfect smile and…everything, Jess. It was everything about you and it has always been you.”
I loved watching these two rediscover their connection. Their friendship was so much fun and you could feel the love lingering beneath the surface. The sparks flew between them and their banter and chemistry was electric. I loved how supportive Sam was of Jess and how he just wanted her to be happy in her life. He would do anything for her; he just had to make her realize that.
“As long as I’m with Jess, everything is good stuff.”
Full of so much emotion, love and lighthearted fun, Sparked is a delightful read. Jess and Sam are perfect for each other and you can see how they truly understand each other. This was a great conclusion to this series.
Sparked is the last book in the V-Card Diary series and it’s a lighthearted read full of emotion with adorably quirky characters. Sam and Jess are second chance perfection.
“There is no other Jess. She’s it for me. The second I laid eyes on her last night, it was like the six years we spent apart never happened. I’m still all-in when I’m with her, just like when I was eighteen.”
Since they were teens, Sam has been in love with Jess, but he didn’t think she would ever return his feelings so he ghosted her. Now six years later, he has reappeared and he’s determined to reclaim his friendship with Jess and maybe get her to fall in love with him, too.
“He feels like home and the most exciting adventure I’ve ever had.”
Jess was just charmingly awkward as she has been throughout this series. She’s a ball of insecurity and afraid of letting anyone, especially her family, down. She represses her needs and wants in order to make everyone else happy. Sam’s reappearance in her life brings up confusing feelings for her that’s she’s not sure how to handle and I loved watching her fumble her way through them.
“You’re my favorite, Cho. Always have been, always will be.”
Sam was a great guy and a little bit awkward himself. Even though he’s experienced a lot more life than Jess and grown from a geek into a drop-dead gorgeous guy, he still doesn’t know how to communicate his feelings. He’s so afraid of scaring Jess away that he makes a lot of mistakes and almost risks their second chance.
“It was everything you said and did. Every word, every laugh, every brilliant thought and perfect smile and…everything, Jess. It was everything about you and it has always been you.”
I loved watching these two rediscover their connection. Their friendship was so much fun and you could feel the love lingering beneath the surface. The sparks flew between them and their banter and chemistry was electric. I loved how supportive Sam was of Jess and how he just wanted her to be happy in her life. He would do anything for her; he just had to make her realize that.
“As long as I’m with Jess, everything is good stuff.”
Full of so much emotion, love and lighthearted fun, Sparked is a delightful read. Jess and Sam are perfect for each other and you can see how they truly understand each other. This was a great conclusion to this series.
September 3, 2022
“I don’t want to take it slow. I want to jump right back into the deep end because I love you too, you jerk.”
The Best Friends (to Lovers) Bargain: A V-Card Diaries novella by Lili Valente is the super adorable prequel to Sparked. Jessica Allison Cho, “a seventeen-year-old who already knows she’ll die a virgin, surrounded by a fleet of sentient robots and five obese cats,” and Sam Salvatore Burgos, “a seventeen-year-old who’s positive he’s already met the love of his life. And that she’s never going to notice him as anything but her best bud. Not unless he does something drastic,” are best friends. They are spending their last summer together at coding camp and decide to make a pact: if they are still virgins at 24 years old, then they would hook up and rid themselves of their V-cards. Will Sam and Jess both make it to their 24th birthdays with their V-cards still intact? Will Sam finally confess his love for his best friend? These questions are answered in Sparked.
Sparked: A V-Card Diaries novel by Lili Valente is a best friends-to-lovers, virgin, second chance romance. Jessica Cho is the last woman standing of her group friends that is a virgin, she just quit her job and is feeling like a failure at life. Little does she know, her best friend, Sam, that ghosted her 7 years ago, is about to come crashing back into her life and make good on the pact that they made when they were 17 years old at summer camp… Did they both make it to their 24th birthdays with their V-cards? Will Sam explain his disappearing act? Can Sam and Jess pick up where they left off, or will their friendship blossom into even more?
Sparked can be read as a stand-alone, but is the fourth book in the V- Card Diaries series. You do not have to read the other books first, but we highly encourage you to do so because this group of friends, their life-long friendships with one another and their love stories are funny, mostly light-hearted, sweet and charming with a bit of drama. Lili Valente has again entertained us with yet another great book!
“… and it is… lovely. As lovely as this unexpected treasure I’ve found with my best friend.”
The Best Friends (to Lovers) Bargain: A V-Card Diaries novella by Lili Valente is the super adorable prequel to Sparked. Jessica Allison Cho, “a seventeen-year-old who already knows she’ll die a virgin, surrounded by a fleet of sentient robots and five obese cats,” and Sam Salvatore Burgos, “a seventeen-year-old who’s positive he’s already met the love of his life. And that she’s never going to notice him as anything but her best bud. Not unless he does something drastic,” are best friends. They are spending their last summer together at coding camp and decide to make a pact: if they are still virgins at 24 years old, then they would hook up and rid themselves of their V-cards. Will Sam and Jess both make it to their 24th birthdays with their V-cards still intact? Will Sam finally confess his love for his best friend? These questions are answered in Sparked.
Sparked: A V-Card Diaries novel by Lili Valente is a best friends-to-lovers, virgin, second chance romance. Jessica Cho is the last woman standing of her group friends that is a virgin, she just quit her job and is feeling like a failure at life. Little does she know, her best friend, Sam, that ghosted her 7 years ago, is about to come crashing back into her life and make good on the pact that they made when they were 17 years old at summer camp… Did they both make it to their 24th birthdays with their V-cards? Will Sam explain his disappearing act? Can Sam and Jess pick up where they left off, or will their friendship blossom into even more?
Sparked can be read as a stand-alone, but is the fourth book in the V- Card Diaries series. You do not have to read the other books first, but we highly encourage you to do so because this group of friends, their life-long friendships with one another and their love stories are funny, mostly light-hearted, sweet and charming with a bit of drama. Lili Valente has again entertained us with yet another great book!
“… and it is… lovely. As lovely as this unexpected treasure I’ve found with my best friend.”
September 11, 2022
Author Lili Valente's romantic comedies never fail to make me happy. They are infused with just the right amount of sweet, sexy, and a touch of tension to keep things balanced, and I always reach the end having loved what she's put on the pages. Whimsical, original, sweet, and sexy, the books in her V-Card Diaries series are perfect examples of this, and SPARKED is an excellent addition to these stories.
I love Jess and Sam. Besties from way back, they understand each other in a way that only those that march to the beat of their own drummer can. And understanding each other is exactly what led to their teenaged pinkie promise to help each other out with the V-card situation should the need arise years down the line. Ah, youth...
Lili's way with words and characters made SPARKED such a fun read, and one that is both tender and steamy at the same time. Jess and Sam go together like Link and Zelda, like popcorn and M&M's, like yin and yang, like...well, you get the picture. They understand each other in ways that no one else can, and seeing them together and happy in their own little kingdom is a true pleasure. If you haven't checked out this awesome group of friends and their stories, now is the time. If you're looking for books to make you smile, these are the ones, and even better, there's more coming in this world. I for one can't wait to see what Lili's got up her sleeve for Jack Holt, the suave, sexy, straight-talking guy that she introduced in SPARKED, so get all caught up and get ready to dive in to SCOOPED, next in line in the V-Card series. ❤️
August 12, 2022
Finally getting what you always wanted
I loved this best friends to lovers story and I really related to Sam and Jessica. The feelings of inadequacy. Feeling like you’re stuck in the box people put you in and being seen differently is an almost impossible task. Sam and Jessica were best friends as kids bonding over their geekiness but after HS graduation Sam disappeared, completely ghosting Jess. Seven years has now passed. Jessica recently quit her job for a large video game developer due to the toxic work environment but she hasn’t told anyone else yet. On her 24 birthday Sam returned to offer Jess a job, but she thinks he’s there to make good on their virginity pack since she’s still a virgin. He’s hoping to have a romantic relationship with her and Jess is hoping for a one night stand. Thus their HEA journey restarts while their individual plans begin to wind, course correct and crash. The story included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline with a small amount of angst. I love all the big emotions in this story, the hard life stuff, and the relatable characters. And the feels - definitely expect them - you’ll swoon, grit your teeth, snort laugh, groan, cry, and cheer. I definitely spent time repeatedly yelling at Sam about honesty and the train wreck that was barreling toward him - get off the tracks Sam. Get off the tracks. It was this part of the story line that made the book impossible to put down for me. I am so happy there will be another book out of this universe for Jack. He was an intriguing side character. I willingly reviewed an early copy of this book.
I loved this best friends to lovers story and I really related to Sam and Jessica. The feelings of inadequacy. Feeling like you’re stuck in the box people put you in and being seen differently is an almost impossible task. Sam and Jessica were best friends as kids bonding over their geekiness but after HS graduation Sam disappeared, completely ghosting Jess. Seven years has now passed. Jessica recently quit her job for a large video game developer due to the toxic work environment but she hasn’t told anyone else yet. On her 24 birthday Sam returned to offer Jess a job, but she thinks he’s there to make good on their virginity pack since she’s still a virgin. He’s hoping to have a romantic relationship with her and Jess is hoping for a one night stand. Thus their HEA journey restarts while their individual plans begin to wind, course correct and crash. The story included witty dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and an engaging storyline with a small amount of angst. I love all the big emotions in this story, the hard life stuff, and the relatable characters. And the feels - definitely expect them - you’ll swoon, grit your teeth, snort laugh, groan, cry, and cheer. I definitely spent time repeatedly yelling at Sam about honesty and the train wreck that was barreling toward him - get off the tracks Sam. Get off the tracks. It was this part of the story line that made the book impossible to put down for me. I am so happy there will be another book out of this universe for Jack. He was an intriguing side character. I willingly reviewed an early copy of this book.
August 21, 2022
This series has been tons of fun, but Jess and Sam are definitely my favorites. I mean, a scrawny, geeky need turned alpha, bad boy, hunky, wildly successful nerd? Yes please!
Jess and Sam have been BFFs since their first coding summer camp years ago. After high school, Sam kind of disappeared and life went on. Until Sam shows up on Jess's 24th birthday, and of course Jess recalls their agreement of losing their V cards to each other of they're still holding them by then.
Jess is somewhat in limbo, having finally quit her job. We've been rooting for her for three books now to leave that toxic environment, and she did! But now Sam wants to offer her a job. And he wants a chance to prove to Jess that he's still the same Sam she used to know. Except Sam may have left out a couple critical details, and they’re about to turn around and bite him in the you-know-what.
Jess rooms with three childhood friends, her ride-or-dies. I adore their friendship and the way the give each other unconditional support. And Jess needs that in her life, with a mother who seemingly has unrealistic expectations. But her three berries are all coupled up, and life is changing fast for our girl Jess.
One of the things I love about Sam is how he really sees Jess for who she is and loves her just as she is. And Jess is this brainy, feisty gal with a hint of vulnerability that is so appealing. Watching them navigate their road to forever is hilarious, hot, and heartfelt and provides for a delightfully entertaining reading escape that you won’t want to miss!
Jess and Sam have been BFFs since their first coding summer camp years ago. After high school, Sam kind of disappeared and life went on. Until Sam shows up on Jess's 24th birthday, and of course Jess recalls their agreement of losing their V cards to each other of they're still holding them by then.
Jess is somewhat in limbo, having finally quit her job. We've been rooting for her for three books now to leave that toxic environment, and she did! But now Sam wants to offer her a job. And he wants a chance to prove to Jess that he's still the same Sam she used to know. Except Sam may have left out a couple critical details, and they’re about to turn around and bite him in the you-know-what.
Jess rooms with three childhood friends, her ride-or-dies. I adore their friendship and the way the give each other unconditional support. And Jess needs that in her life, with a mother who seemingly has unrealistic expectations. But her three berries are all coupled up, and life is changing fast for our girl Jess.
One of the things I love about Sam is how he really sees Jess for who she is and loves her just as she is. And Jess is this brainy, feisty gal with a hint of vulnerability that is so appealing. Watching them navigate their road to forever is hilarious, hot, and heartfelt and provides for a delightfully entertaining reading escape that you won’t want to miss!
August 30, 2022
Having read Scored, Screwed, and Seduced i couldn't wait for more! After reaching the end of the third installment i instantly started looking forward to this book right away! I picked it up as soon as i could and got right back into the V-Card Diaries world! I so enjoyed this fourth book!
I've been so excited for Jess's book!
Jess and Sam's journey pulled me in! These two friends made a pact years ago. When Sam comes back into Jess's life on her 24th birthday to make good on their promise, can she give into what her heart's telling her? I couldn't wait to see how things would play out for these two!
I didn't know what all to expect and that pulled me into their story even more. I really liked getting to see these two tackle things, especially when it came to their friendship and their feelings for one another. I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with both Jess and Sam! The chemistry between these two was great! They had me grinning and feeling so much throughout!
I was so happy being back in the V-Card Diaries world and getting to reunite with this crew!
With Sparked, Ms.Valente has created such a good and entertaining read that brought the feels! This is such an awesome series! I can't wait for more from this author! 💚
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
I've been so excited for Jess's book!
Jess and Sam's journey pulled me in! These two friends made a pact years ago. When Sam comes back into Jess's life on her 24th birthday to make good on their promise, can she give into what her heart's telling her? I couldn't wait to see how things would play out for these two!
I didn't know what all to expect and that pulled me into their story even more. I really liked getting to see these two tackle things, especially when it came to their friendship and their feelings for one another. I was so glad that i got to dig deeper with both Jess and Sam! The chemistry between these two was great! They had me grinning and feeling so much throughout!
I was so happy being back in the V-Card Diaries world and getting to reunite with this crew!
With Sparked, Ms.Valente has created such a good and entertaining read that brought the feels! This is such an awesome series! I can't wait for more from this author! 💚
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
August 31, 2022
Sparked is the fourth and final book in the V-Card Diaries series from Lili Valente. Jess Cho is the last among her quartet of best friends who's yet to ditch her V-card, so when Sam Burgos unexpectedly shows up at her 24th birthday, several thoughts run through her head. Why is the guy who was one of her closest friends growing suddenly back after ghosting her six years ago? Did it have something to do with the pact they made during summer camp wherein they would meet up and help each other out if one or both of them were still virgins by the time they were 24? One thing is clear though. This Sam is most definitely a hotter, more buff version of the one she considered her friend.
This was a fun read. It's got a friends-to-lovers feel to it. Jess and Sam certainly had that spark (see what I did there?) going on between them. Sam was keeping secrets from Jess, and it was obvious that once the truth came out, Jess wasn't going to be all that thrilled about it, regardless of Sam's motives. But these two were honest-to-goodness lovely people who deserved to finally have that shot at seeing if they could be more than friends, especially given the fact that Sam has had a crush on Jess for forever! Sparked was as sweet as it was funny, and it ends the V-Card Diaries series on a high note, although there looks to be a spin-off novel coming soon! This one gets 4.5 stars.
This was a fun read. It's got a friends-to-lovers feel to it. Jess and Sam certainly had that spark (see what I did there?) going on between them. Sam was keeping secrets from Jess, and it was obvious that once the truth came out, Jess wasn't going to be all that thrilled about it, regardless of Sam's motives. But these two were honest-to-goodness lovely people who deserved to finally have that shot at seeing if they could be more than friends, especially given the fact that Sam has had a crush on Jess for forever! Sparked was as sweet as it was funny, and it ends the V-Card Diaries series on a high note, although there looks to be a spin-off novel coming soon! This one gets 4.5 stars.
August 15, 2022
As long as I’m with Jess, everything is good stuff.”
I adore this series and part of me is so sad it’s over. BUT, what a way to end it! Sam might be the swooniest hero of the entire series. I’m a sucker for a story where the guy secretly loved her and Sam blows this trope out of the water. Jess is an awkward firecracker and I love her for it.
Sam and Jess were best friends from childhood through high school, then Sam left without another word to Jess or anyone else. On her 24th birthday and the anniversary of their pact to lose their virginity if they haven’t already, he’s back in her life. He’s their to offer her a job, but in reality it’s the spark to rekindle what he stepped away from in a panic when he was younger. But, Sam’s confidence is different and adult Sam gets what he wants. And what he wants is forever with his dream girl, Jess.
My favorite part about this book is the complexity of 1) their feelings and 2) their field and their roles within. Male dominated fields are extremely difficult for women to be in and this book takes a realistic and rewarding look at how someone with immense talent but navigate that.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I adore this series and part of me is so sad it’s over. BUT, what a way to end it! Sam might be the swooniest hero of the entire series. I’m a sucker for a story where the guy secretly loved her and Sam blows this trope out of the water. Jess is an awkward firecracker and I love her for it.
Sam and Jess were best friends from childhood through high school, then Sam left without another word to Jess or anyone else. On her 24th birthday and the anniversary of their pact to lose their virginity if they haven’t already, he’s back in her life. He’s their to offer her a job, but in reality it’s the spark to rekindle what he stepped away from in a panic when he was younger. But, Sam’s confidence is different and adult Sam gets what he wants. And what he wants is forever with his dream girl, Jess.
My favorite part about this book is the complexity of 1) their feelings and 2) their field and their roles within. Male dominated fields are extremely difficult for women to be in and this book takes a realistic and rewarding look at how someone with immense talent but navigate that.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2022
Sparked, the last of the V-Card Diaries books is out and I freaking loved it! I’m pretty sure it’s my favorite of the series. How could I not love a friends to lovers, second chance story about two nerds who make a lose-their-virginity pact?
Especially when Sam, who is a jerk for ghosting Jess all those years ago, but comes back on her birthday looking like the hot millionaire he is. Jess is rightly both upset/mad and turned on/happy. With her colorfully funky style and take no prisoners attitude, she’s still that unique spirit that Sam crushed on but didn’t tell.
They are adorable as they try to navigate their way towards not only rekindling that friendship but bringing it to the next level. Their chemistry and banter is outstanding, and Valente kicked that into even higher gear than she usually does…which I already love.
Jess’s perfectly weirdly perfect is a hoot, who I wanted to also yell at for the way they treat her. But Sam never falters in his support for her.
The only thing I missed was sprinkles of friend and former roomie, Cam. I would have loved to see more of the four friends together as Jess gets her HEA. Otherwise, I loved everything about these characters, this series and especially this couple.
Especially when Sam, who is a jerk for ghosting Jess all those years ago, but comes back on her birthday looking like the hot millionaire he is. Jess is rightly both upset/mad and turned on/happy. With her colorfully funky style and take no prisoners attitude, she’s still that unique spirit that Sam crushed on but didn’t tell.
They are adorable as they try to navigate their way towards not only rekindling that friendship but bringing it to the next level. Their chemistry and banter is outstanding, and Valente kicked that into even higher gear than she usually does…which I already love.
Jess’s perfectly weirdly perfect is a hoot, who I wanted to also yell at for the way they treat her. But Sam never falters in his support for her.
The only thing I missed was sprinkles of friend and former roomie, Cam. I would have loved to see more of the four friends together as Jess gets her HEA. Otherwise, I loved everything about these characters, this series and especially this couple.
August 30, 2022
I absolutely loved Sam and Jess' story. Both computer nerds, Sam decided to leave town because he couldn't have the girl he was in love with. When they were kids, Sam and Jess made a promise to see each other again on their 24th birthday. Being gone several years, Sam has had a lot of success in his career--he's a billionaire! Jess hasn't heard a peep from Sam, then one night she sees him standing at a party. Jess is shocked to see how well Sam has developed, but she's still upset that he left without saying goodbye or gotten in touch in many years. Sam is determined to make up for what he did, and to win Jess' heart.
This story might be my favorite in the series. Jess is the friend that isn't the daintiest of ladies. She goes days without showering because she's so wrapped up in her work. She and Sam were the best of friends, and I think the time away was good for them, helped them both to see their former best friend in a new light. They appreciated their friendship, but saw they could have so much more if they just got out of their own ways.
Like the others in this series, a wonderful love story.
This story might be my favorite in the series. Jess is the friend that isn't the daintiest of ladies. She goes days without showering because she's so wrapped up in her work. She and Sam were the best of friends, and I think the time away was good for them, helped them both to see their former best friend in a new light. They appreciated their friendship, but saw they could have so much more if they just got out of their own ways.
Like the others in this series, a wonderful love story.
September 4, 2022
Cute, entertaining read.
This was an entertaining ending to the V-Card Diaries series about four roommates who are looking to lose their virginity as adults.
Jessica is a bit neurotic, a lot awkward, and she's just quit her toxic job, and is celebrating her 24th birthday. It will help to read the freebie novella "Best Friends (to Lovers) Bargain" as I think you will be more sympathetic to Sam in this one. Sam is Jess' former BFF and has become a hottie nerd when he was just a cute nerd back in their childhood days. But he ghosted Jess after HS and she is shocked to see him show up at her birthday party and assumes he's there for the bargain they made seven years ago.
Sam is holding back some pretty big secrets that are bound to bite him on the arse! Seeing these two rekindle their friendship and their witty banter was highly entertaining. But they have to get through some major obstacles (see Sam lying by omission above) before they can get to the sexy times!!
This book has some steam, but overall - it is mainly a cute romp about friendship and love in all its forms.
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
This was an entertaining ending to the V-Card Diaries series about four roommates who are looking to lose their virginity as adults.
Jessica is a bit neurotic, a lot awkward, and she's just quit her toxic job, and is celebrating her 24th birthday. It will help to read the freebie novella "Best Friends (to Lovers) Bargain" as I think you will be more sympathetic to Sam in this one. Sam is Jess' former BFF and has become a hottie nerd when he was just a cute nerd back in their childhood days. But he ghosted Jess after HS and she is shocked to see him show up at her birthday party and assumes he's there for the bargain they made seven years ago.
Sam is holding back some pretty big secrets that are bound to bite him on the arse! Seeing these two rekindle their friendship and their witty banter was highly entertaining. But they have to get through some major obstacles (see Sam lying by omission above) before they can get to the sexy times!!
This book has some steam, but overall - it is mainly a cute romp about friendship and love in all its forms.
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
August 14, 2022
“Sparked” is the last book in the “V Card Diaries” series and I have been waiting for Jess’s story. “Sparked” is a fun and classic rom-com Lili Valente goodness.
It’s Jessica’s 24th birthday and while at the bar with her friends, her old best friend, Sam, comes walking through the door looking for her. The two had made a pact when they were younger that if they were both virgins on their 24th birthday, they would be each other’s first. Jess had thought Sam had long forgotten her especially when he all but disappeared. But the friendship they had all those years ago is still there and something sparks between them.
Jess was so much fun to read. I loved her quirkiness, her intelligence and love for her friends and family. Her ability to stress out over the littlest things was so relatable to me and made me laugh at how familiar it felt. Sam is a sweet and caring guy and I couldn’t help but fall for him too. Even if he might have gone rouge those few years, it was with good intention. I loved these two nerds together and so happy they got their happy ending.
It’s Jessica’s 24th birthday and while at the bar with her friends, her old best friend, Sam, comes walking through the door looking for her. The two had made a pact when they were younger that if they were both virgins on their 24th birthday, they would be each other’s first. Jess had thought Sam had long forgotten her especially when he all but disappeared. But the friendship they had all those years ago is still there and something sparks between them.
Jess was so much fun to read. I loved her quirkiness, her intelligence and love for her friends and family. Her ability to stress out over the littlest things was so relatable to me and made me laugh at how familiar it felt. Sam is a sweet and caring guy and I couldn’t help but fall for him too. Even if he might have gone rouge those few years, it was with good intention. I loved these two nerds together and so happy they got their happy ending.
August 26, 2022
Sparked is the fourth and final book in the V-Card Diaries by the fabulous Lili Valente. I'm loving this series and have been waiting for Jess's story! The brilliant game designer finally gets her second chance with her childhood best friend. Jess hasn't seen or heard from Sam since high school graduation and now he shows up at her twenty-fourth birthday party with a job offer and to collect on their pact to sleep with each other if they are both virgins when they are twenty-four. Sam never forgot about Jess. She's his person and it was time he finally came home for her. She's still as beautiful as he remembers, and sassy and spunky and smart. He just needs to convince her to take a job and spend time with him. Except he's keeping a few secrets. He's not about to go down without a fight. He just needs to convince Jess he's worth it. I love Jess and Sam! I love that he grew up to be extremely handsome, but he doesn't even realize it. And Jess is so funny and cute. Together they are a match made in heaven. I loved seeing Evie and Harlow again. I will miss these characters!
January 4, 2023
The road to love is full of all the laughter (and the secrets)…
This series has been all about girl/friend power and watching this close-knit group of friends find their true loves has been an entertaining journey of laughter and sweet emotion. My inner computer geek couldn’t wait for Sam and Jess’s friends to their walk from friends to lovers and it was all I had hoped for…
Secrets, roads taken (and perhaps regretted), and, thankfully, a second chance. Sam and Jess had a lot of history together and their long ago pact was suddenly upon them. Sam’s secrets were incredible and threatened everything! I wanted to jump in and help but, of course, I patiently (ha ha) watched/read from the sidelines as it all played out. And obviously laughed and cheered them on, hoping this twist was the one to break it all open…
Funny, sweet and delicious drama made this another great read in the series! ~Diane, 4 stars
This series has been all about girl/friend power and watching this close-knit group of friends find their true loves has been an entertaining journey of laughter and sweet emotion. My inner computer geek couldn’t wait for Sam and Jess’s friends to their walk from friends to lovers and it was all I had hoped for…
Secrets, roads taken (and perhaps regretted), and, thankfully, a second chance. Sam and Jess had a lot of history together and their long ago pact was suddenly upon them. Sam’s secrets were incredible and threatened everything! I wanted to jump in and help but, of course, I patiently (ha ha) watched/read from the sidelines as it all played out. And obviously laughed and cheered them on, hoping this twist was the one to break it all open…
Funny, sweet and delicious drama made this another great read in the series! ~Diane, 4 stars
December 27, 2023
Jess's story. YES!!
This is Jess's story, the last virgin of our group. It's her 24th birthday, she just quit her job. So she's unemployed, boyfriendless, and kind of miserable. When who should show up at her party, a blast from the past. Sam, her once best friend has surprised her at her party.
They had made a pact that if they were still birgins at 24, they would be each other's first.
Jess is very pissed at Sam because he ghosted her years before after graduation.
Sam tells her about a great job and how he wants to get to know her again.
It takes a bit, but Jess warms to the idea of Sam. But Sam has secrets.
What will happen if she finds out his secrets. Will she finally get everything she's wanted? Or will she end up miserable and doing what her mother wants, not herself. These questions are answered but you gotta read to find them.
This is Jess's story, the last virgin of our group. It's her 24th birthday, she just quit her job. So she's unemployed, boyfriendless, and kind of miserable. When who should show up at her party, a blast from the past. Sam, her once best friend has surprised her at her party.
They had made a pact that if they were still birgins at 24, they would be each other's first.
Jess is very pissed at Sam because he ghosted her years before after graduation.
Sam tells her about a great job and how he wants to get to know her again.
It takes a bit, but Jess warms to the idea of Sam. But Sam has secrets.
What will happen if she finds out his secrets. Will she finally get everything she's wanted? Or will she end up miserable and doing what her mother wants, not herself. These questions are answered but you gotta read to find them.
August 18, 2022
Sam and Jess were awesome! What a lighthearted fun read!
Jess is ready to NOT be a virgin as her 24th birthday comes around, and right on time a blast from her past shows up ready and willing to help her with that problem. They had a pact if they were still virgins at 24, they'd help each other dispense with the pesky v-card. It also happens to be on that auspicious day that Jess quits her job. Wouldn't you know it, Sam happens to know of a company thats hiring, the one he works at, how great would that be? Well, it would be great, if Sam didnt mess up and let her believe a lie, which led to another...
These two were great, slow burn but their chemistry sizzled, just a perfect way to spend an afternoon, Jess is hysterical and I loved every minute of it!
Jess is ready to NOT be a virgin as her 24th birthday comes around, and right on time a blast from her past shows up ready and willing to help her with that problem. They had a pact if they were still virgins at 24, they'd help each other dispense with the pesky v-card. It also happens to be on that auspicious day that Jess quits her job. Wouldn't you know it, Sam happens to know of a company thats hiring, the one he works at, how great would that be? Well, it would be great, if Sam didnt mess up and let her believe a lie, which led to another...
These two were great, slow burn but their chemistry sizzled, just a perfect way to spend an afternoon, Jess is hysterical and I loved every minute of it!
August 28, 2022
Ahh! Jess and Sam are nerdy, quirky, friends-to-lovers MAGIC!
This book made me smile and/or giggle from the prologue! But it's not just the humor that sucked me in, it was the heart. Sam has been in love with his best friend for a decade! He leaves the country after graduating and basically ghosted Jess, his best friend, for six years. I definitely didn't blame her when she was shocked to see him or when she called him out on it. I absolutely loved Jess' personality!
I love these two together! Sam sees the real Jess and let's her feel safe to show her feelings. Plus their banter was nerdy and amazing! Their story was fast paced and so enjoyable. It was everything I hoped it would be.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
This book made me smile and/or giggle from the prologue! But it's not just the humor that sucked me in, it was the heart. Sam has been in love with his best friend for a decade! He leaves the country after graduating and basically ghosted Jess, his best friend, for six years. I definitely didn't blame her when she was shocked to see him or when she called him out on it. I absolutely loved Jess' personality!
I love these two together! Sam sees the real Jess and let's her feel safe to show her feelings. Plus their banter was nerdy and amazing! Their story was fast paced and so enjoyable. It was everything I hoped it would be.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
September 1, 2022
Jess is the last one her group of friends to get her story. I've been intrigued by our coding, nerdy girl. This book had the perfect amount of humor. I laughed quite often. This is a friends to lovers second chance romance. Though Sam has let the friends part of the equation lapse years. He has some groveling and work to do to prove he is still that lovable nerdy guy inside though the outside turned into one hunk of a man. I still love when this group of friends get together because their discussions are hilarious and go off into such tangents. Jess and Sam's first meeting after all this time is quite memorable and funny. This book was worth the wait! I'm glad to know there is spinoff coming because I'm not completely ready to say goodbye to this world.
June 10, 2023
Jess and Sam
They were geeky childhood best friends. He leaves high school behind and her for 6 years and then shows up at her 24th birthday. He has always loved her but she never realized.
So… his lying was annoying and he didn’t do any billionaire things for her to sweep her off her feet - I like that in my billionaires 😜. It was also a weird time to admit his all time love for her at the hospital right after her mother had a heart problem- awkward.
Bunch of Zelda/Mario/LOTR token moments. He ends up calling her peach. He names his English estate after Zelda reference…
Not much sexy time until the end… lots of nice compliments for her from him though throughout until the end which is endearing.
They were geeky childhood best friends. He leaves high school behind and her for 6 years and then shows up at her 24th birthday. He has always loved her but she never realized.
So… his lying was annoying and he didn’t do any billionaire things for her to sweep her off her feet - I like that in my billionaires 😜. It was also a weird time to admit his all time love for her at the hospital right after her mother had a heart problem- awkward.
Bunch of Zelda/Mario/LOTR token moments. He ends up calling her peach. He names his English estate after Zelda reference…
Not much sexy time until the end… lots of nice compliments for her from him though throughout until the end which is endearing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2022
Sparked is finally here and so, so worth the wait. The chemistry between Sam and Jess is absolutely fantabulous. The connection they have shared since their youth quickly returns and ultimately takes their friendship to a level that leads their hearts on a magical journey of discovery and love. Their long time coming happily ever after melted my heart. I truly love their quick wits, and the bantering between Sam and Jess makes their connection so special and their love heartwarming. This story uncovers a deep passion between these two souls which have always belonged together. Sparked definitely ignites a flame for Sam and Jess.
August 27, 2022
Jess and Sam were best friends and total nerds when they were in school. They made a promise to each other that on their 24th birthday if they were virgins they would meet up and take care of the situation. Here we are on Jess's 24th birthday and Sam shows up, right on schedule. Jess wasn't expecting him to be so gorgeous! She's still a nerdy girl, who looks like a kid and dresses like one. But, hey, if he's still a virgin and looks like that.....game on!
Of course, there are twists, turns and omissions made on Sam's part. Will Jess forgive his reasons for ghosting her for years and other issues he failed to mention right away?
Great story, loved the characters!
Of course, there are twists, turns and omissions made on Sam's part. Will Jess forgive his reasons for ghosting her for years and other issues he failed to mention right away?
Great story, loved the characters!
September 7, 2022
I absolutely love how nerdy and cute Jess & Sam are!!
This friends to ghosted to lovers book has all the feel goods need for the cutest virginity book I’ve ever read.
Jess’s life is a mess, she a 24, a virgin, and jobless.
But Sam, Sam’s back after 7 years and he is here to save the day and give her what she needs but not without a few well kept secrets.
They rekindle their friendship with Jess intending for it to be nothing more, and Sam ready to prove that she owns his world. Will they work out or will their sweet universe explode!?
I really enjoyed sparked, great round out story of this friend group!!
This friends to ghosted to lovers book has all the feel goods need for the cutest virginity book I’ve ever read.
Jess’s life is a mess, she a 24, a virgin, and jobless.
But Sam, Sam’s back after 7 years and he is here to save the day and give her what she needs but not without a few well kept secrets.
They rekindle their friendship with Jess intending for it to be nothing more, and Sam ready to prove that she owns his world. Will they work out or will their sweet universe explode!?
I really enjoyed sparked, great round out story of this friend group!!
January 24, 2023
Jess is the final one of the besties/roommates who has not yet found her other half. She knows that they'll always have her back, but things seem to be changing for everyone but her. She finally quits the toxic job where she isn't appreciated but isn't sure how she'll move forward. On her 24th birthday Sam, her nerd best friend from high school, suddenly reappears in her life. He'd suddenly disappeared from her life after high school and ghosted her without any warning or explanation. His reappearance makes her recollect their past promise to lose their virginity together if they were both still virgins at age 24... I enjoyed this story. Jess and Sam were perfect for each other.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews