They’re sworn enemies. They also happen to be incredibly attracted to one another.
After bonding at a half-marathon, rival gym owners Cam and Kailani discover the person they thought could be their soulmate turns out to be the reason their respective businesses are failing. When a heat-of-the-moment kiss leads to the pair becoming viral sensations, they pretend to be a couple to keep up interest despite the hatred they feel toward each other.
But new clients are not the only thing drawn in by the star-crossed lovers’ fake relationship. They also grab the attention of a famous fitness mogul who tells them he wants to sponsor one of their gyms. The catch? One of them has to beat the other in a televised competition.
With undeniable attraction pulling the two together for real, Cam and Kailani agree to set their differences aside and enjoy the time they get to spend together while competing. Each new challenge becomes a chance for the two of them to get to know each other better, but their pasts keep getting in the way.
Unless they can learn to truly trust each other, not even a miracle can save a relationship that was doomed from the start.
Love on Display is a sweet, closed door romantic comedy that can be read as a standalone or as part of the series.
I loved it from start to finish - this was a sweet and swoony treat, featuring Rivals Gym owners Cam AKA HotBodyCam, and kailani...... I Loved this couple together, the story balances humor and heart, tackling heavier subjects such as social anxiety and abandonment issues, while also bringing plenty of laughs, romance, growth, and off-the-chart chemistry.
Cam's dream is to own a successful gym, she's the rival gym owner. And they don't realize it until they've already started really liking each other...There was definitely competitive tension, but it was never extreme or tiresome. This was such a fun, romantic story.... and the struggles which make the happily-ever-after a lot sweeter.
The story moved at a good pace and was an easy and satisfactory read. There is so much I could rave about regarding this book, but I'll say this: wonder boys, strong girl, fiery chemistry, great first kiss, social media hashtags, banter on point, lovable characters, and an all-around heartwarming story.
I could not put this book down! There were so many layers to these characters and the story. I seriously went into it knowing I would get a good story, but thinking that I knew most of what would happen.
I. Was. Wrong.
I adored Cam and his awkwardness. How can he be so confident and so awkward all at the same time? It's so funny and sweet!
I loved how strong Lani was and how determined she is throughout the book. Their attraction and chemistry are instant. Truth be told, instant attraction is not my favorite. However, Dana threw some surprises in there for the characters and made it absolute perfection!
As much as I loved Lani and Cam...I think my absolute favorite thing about this book was all of the Wonder Boys, specifically Cam & Oliver, and Lani and her family. I can't say anymore without spoiling it, but it's so good and real and raw.
Okay, I'm going to stop gushing now and just sit here anxiously waiting for book 4, Kit's story!!
Time for another Wonder Boy book! This group of friends are so much fun and I love watching how they support and help and care for each other. Some of them have had some real hard struggles in life and this friend group was there in their time of need.
This book features Cam. The athletic friend who has dreamed of opening his own gym for a long time. He finally gets his dream but guess what? Just around the corner another gym opens up at the exact same time. That gym owner is driving him crazy and they keep competing against each other trying to stay afloat but they're both drowning.
Cam and Lani meet at a race and it's pretty humorous what happens. Poor Cam. But hey, he doesn't let it knock him down for good (this thing that happened). And it helps him start a friendship with Lani, the girl he saw a month or so ago and thought she was pretty cute. And the feeling is mutual.
One problem...she's the rival gym owner. And they don't realize it until they've already started really like each other. Once they realize who the other is, some funny moments ensue. Namely, a televised competition between just the two of them and the winner gets a mega sponsorship deal.
With all that competition set up, I just thought these two were so cute together. They cared for their friendship and wanted to help each other get ahead. I loved the competitions they were facing each other in. I was laughing and cheering them both on throughout the book. And it was hard to not want them both to win because they both had such great causes they were trying to do in furthering their businesses. But in a competition there's only one winner. So who is it going to be??? Read it to find out!
This is a series but if you haven't read previous books, the author wrote this one in a way that you could read it by itself. I haven't read the first book but jumped in on book 2 and felt like I wasn't missing any information thanks to how the author wrote the story.
Content: Clean. Some kisses.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
It's book three in the Wonder Boys Series by Dana LeCheminant! Hello, Cam. I think Cam's story might be my favorite so far. I loved the instant crackling chemistry, the first kiss early on and how everything just built from there. It was so good to learn more about Cam and Kailani who are both awesome characters. Even in competition, it was easy to root for them both because they deserved it. It's been so interesting to see how each of these Wonder Boys views themselves within the friend group. Some conceptions are true, some are very off but through it all they are becoming stronger, more unified. I'm all in for that.
I am just loving this series. Each book rings with personality. The spotlight shines on one couple each book but all the friends are still there, still involved. It creates a real feeling of family. Guess who is next?! Kit! The anchor of the group. I can't wait to see what's up for him!!
Content: kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I have been anxiously awaiting Cam's story after reading the first two books in the series and seeing all the teasers the author has dropped. Not only did I love it but it completely exceeded my expectations!
This is so much more than your average romcom. This insta-attraction turned enemies turned fake dating has so much depth and growth for Cam and Kailani - both together and individually - and what started as a cute flirtation turns into something so much more real and lasting.
What else did I love about the book? The meet-cute References to working out/fitness - definitely made me want to go to the gym! The awesome hashtags and social media posts Cam's honesty The cute nicknames Flirty, competitive banter Cam's hidden talents The competitions - I have a few faves but I don't want to spoil anything! Cam and Oliver (happy tears!!)
Seriously, I could probably keep going but you get the idea! So much to love about this cute fun and flirty romcom that comes with lots of emotional depth. This is a book about knowing it's okay that you're not perfect and being willing to trust other's with your imperfections.
Now, how soon can we convince the author to release the next book? Because Kit's story is going to be epic!!
I received a complimentary copy of the book but a positive review was not required.
I’ve been loving this whole series by Dana LeCheminant. Both Love on Camera and Love in Writing were amazing books. Make sure to read them!
This book features Cam. And it was really fun to get to know him better. I loved the kind of guy he is. He’s the kind of guy who wants to help others. To the point that he lives in an unfinished apartment above his brand new gym. I really loved the way he was with Kailani. The reader can tell that he cares about her, and wants her to get her dreams as well. And he wants her to see herself as he and others see her. That was such a great part of the story.
Kailani also wants to help others. It was funny how much alike Cam and Kailani were with their goals for their gyms and where they lived. Kailani feels as though she was a little lost in her family. The reader gets to see why later in the book. I loved the way she was able to change her focus and see her life through a little better life.
I love that the Wonder Boys are all here in this one. The reader gets to see a lot of Kit. And that was fun. But there was also the relationship with Oliver and Cam. And I love the way that was shown in this book.
This book was so great! I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
I was so excited to get Cam's story because what do you do with a character who literally cannot tell a lie? His meet cute with Kailani was hilarious and it was fun to remember scenes from a previous book to have the whole picture of Cam and his struggles with women lol.
There is SO much growth in both of the main characters throughout the book. The flirting was on point. I loved the competitions, the hashtags, the romance, the struggles, and if you're not having the best ugly cry of your life by the end of the book then you missed out on the complete awesomeness of this book! Most books make me crave comfort food and sweats...this one made me crave want to whip up some nutritious goodness and get a good workout in. (I might need to reread this one on repeat to keep this up! ha ha)
I loved this book. 5 stars, two thumbs...and now to await Kit's book. I have a soft spot for Kit and can't wait to see him get everything he deserves after taking care of the Wonder Boys!
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
The Wonder Boys are back in book three of this series and ohhh how I have missed them! I love this group of guys, who have been friends from their pre-teen years and got their name from Kit’s sister who is also an honorary member of their group. Seriously if you haven’t met these guys yet you really need to! Book three focuses on Cam and this one was so much fun!
Cam and Lani were absolutely adorable together. Their chemistry throughout this book was out of this world! Insta attraction! I loved their meet cute and the first kiss that we get early on in the book. Cam and Lani are both great characters who are such good, caring people. Both strong and confident. What stood out to me was that even though they seem so together on the outside they both had mindset issues from their childhood that they struggled with. They work through them together as their relationship grows. Cam’s struggle with anxiety was written well and his triggers are relatable. I love how Kit had his back and was able to talk him through his anxiety attacks to ground him.
The competitions between Cam and Lani were some of my favorite scenes. So much fun! I smiled and laughed the whole way through! I won’t mention my favorite because I don’t want to spoil anything. :) Even though they were competing they were united and always cared for each other. They both had such great reasons they wanted to win that you can’t help but root for both of them. The ending was sweet and had me in tears of joy.
Besides all the awesomeness with Cam and Lani we also got some great insight into the Wonder Boys friendship. Loved that we got to see more of Kit in this book. He is the glue that holds this group together. I cannot wait for his story in the next book! He is such a great friend to Cam. Oh and then there was Oliver and Cam! I was on the edge of my seat reading. This group is a real family to each other and these scenes are such a treat!
There is so much more I could say but I really think you need to read it for yourself. This book can be read as a standalone but you will want to read them all for sure! Dana is an amazing writer with a skill for developing characters with real feelings and struggles. You will laugh and cry and love the happy ending! Until next time Wonder Boys!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Another amazing story in the Wonder Boys series! If you enjoy romcoms with real depth and heart, I highly recommend this book and the whole series! It’s a clean, character driven romance that turns rivalry into love.
From the first, Cam intrigued me. He’s pretty much perfect. He’s the proverbial strongman with a heart of gold. But underneath all that muscle, is a sensitive guy who suffers from anxiety and can’t tell a lie without immediately feeling nauseous. Did I also mention he’s an amazing cook? While he may appear cocky, it’s only his nerves, especially when he’s around beautiful women. His dream of owning a successful gym is threatened by a neighboring gym. What happens when the gorgeous woman he sees again at a marathon and almost kisses, turns out to be the rival gym owner?
Lani can’t believe the guy she can barely keep her eyes off of happens to be her nemesis. When a passionate kiss they share goes viral, it lands them the attention of a wealthy, successful fitness guru. He offers them the chance of a lifetime to compete against each other on his tv show with the winner having their dreams of owning a gym and serving their community fully funded. But what happens to Lani & Cam’s sizzling attraction and growing relationship when only one person can walk away the winner?
Loved this book! From the get go, there’s this amazing chemistry between Cam and Lani. Both have trust issues because of their pasts. Cam is afraid of being left behind and Lani doesn’t feel loved by her family. As the two compete, they learn more about each other and begin to really open up. From mud volleyball to rock climbing to pizza making, I loved each challenge they participate in. As each of their fears is confronted, they become stronger together.
The Wonder Boys and Madi are there of course to support Cam and we get an intro into Lani’s family as well. I loved that issues between Oliver and Cam are finally brought out in the open. We also get a better glimpse into Kit’s character and now I can’t wait for his book.
There’s so much heart in this book and I found myself crying at the end. Cam & Lani are both such lovable characters and you can’t help but cheer for them both. Definite must read for clean romance and romcom fans! Though it’s the third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the previous books first to really enjoy it. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
I'm so excited for another Wonder Boy book!! If you haven't read the first two don't worry, you can still read this one but you're going to want to go back and read Love on Camera and Love in Writing because the Wonder Boys are awesome.
Cam and Lani have the best meet-cute at a race that neither wants to be a part of. They're instantly attracted to each other which makes it hard when they discover they're rival gym owners. When a kiss goes viral (#camlanilove) on social media they decide to fake date to help their respective gyms. One thing leads to another and they suddenly find themselves on a televised competition--the winner of the competition gets a sponsorship for their gym. May the best man or woman win!
Cam is the best!! He may look like a hulking bear of a man but inside he's all soft and gooey. Not only is he good looking, he's unselfish, he can cook and the man literally cannot tell a lie!! Lani is a great character too. She loves her family but thinks they don't care about her--until Cam helps her see what he sees. Sometimes love looks different than what we expect so we don't see it even when it's right in front of us.
I loved the competitions, especially the cooking one! That's all I'm going to say about that, you'll have to read the book. Even though they were rivals Cam and Lani worked well together and I loved all the banter. Witty banter is one of my favorite things. And of course I loved getting to see the other Wonder Boys and their significant others. This is a great group of friends who are always there to offer advice and support to each other and I love learning how these guys became friends. Next up is Kit's story and I. Can. Not. Wait.
This is the third book in an interconnected series of companion books following a group of four guy best friends and each of their relationships. This one can be read on its own but I loved and highly recommend reading them all in order to understand more of the character’s background.
This book gave me all the warm and fuzzy feelings! Cam has been the character I was most interested in learning more about since the very beginning. And I absolutely loved his story! Lani was such a sweet and strong FMC. I really enjoyed learning about her and her family. I loved her sister! Cam is honestly just the biggest cinnamon roll with her and it’s the best thing ever!
Love on Display starts off with Lani and Cam running into each other by chance at a race and they hit it off (mostly). After a not-so-great first encounter before this, and Cam’s nervousness around her, we had a few rocky moments. But their tension was there and strong from the first page. I was so rooting for them because they were so cute! Until they realize that they’re rivals and everything seemed to unravel because of course this wouldn’t work out. But someone spots them together, posts a picture that goes viral, and now Cam and Lani have to fake date to keep up the facade and grow their businesses.
Tropes and Things:
🏐 Fake dating 🏐 Rivals to lovers 🏐 Characters into fitness 🏐 Competition 🏅 🏐 Banter 🏐 A super endearing meet cute 🏐 Amazing friend group 🏐 FMC who doesn’t need saving 🏐 Cute nicknames 🏐 Chaotic large family 🏐 A MMC who can cook 🧑🏽🍳 🏐 A MMC who can’t lie 🤐 🏐 No third act breakup!!!
This story was adorable! I love Cam and Lani so much. They both deserved to find happiness and I’m glad they found it with each other. This series has been so much fun and I’m equally excited and sad for the last book (Kit’s story) to come out next!
Thank you to the author for an e-arc copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
And the Wonder Boys are back! (I am going to be so sad when this series is over. 😭❤️)
From the first two books, it’s been established that Cam is a total sweetheart despite his intimidating size, but getting his story definitely proves it! Seeing him and Lani together is pretty sweet, and I loved how well matched they are!
There’s more faking dating, enemies-to-lovers (sort of), and a bit of a modern spin on Romeo and Juliet (without the tragedy, haha).
I loved how well Dana handled Cam’s anxiety and found it, along with Lani’s struggle to find acceptance, to be so relatable.
While full of fun and laughter, there was also so much heart in this story! My very favourite moment was the Wonder Gang meeting at the last competition event. It was just… AGH! So many secrets and hurts tumbling out, so many big emotions, so much love and care. My heart!
All right, and Kit. I seriously need the guy’s story, like now! 😂
Content: physical attraction (including ogling of muscles and form which I wasn’t crazy about); mild innuendo; falling asleep on the couch at Cam’s apartment overnight but nothing happens; 1x h*ll . . . . “‘You have to remember there are more important things than flawlessness, and your worth is more than what others think of you.’”
Cam and Kailani's story is quite different from the previous two novels but still follows the theme of fake dating. However, Cam and Kailani's fakeness evaporates pretty quickly. These two had me giggling, blushing, and even tearing up throughout this novel. They have some seriously funny and flirtatious banter that had me blushing until my cheeks hurt. Needless to say this was one that I could never read in public. I promise this book is 100% clean but some of the things that come out of their mouths had me DYING!
This book is amazing! If you like the previous two Wonder Boys’ books, you’re going to love Cam’s story. We’ve met Lani in Love in Writing! 👀 I love both MCs and how they rise above their struggles and inspire people. This book is light hearted and funny in moments, but is balanced out by deeper topics. It’s very well paced. The final chapters are amazing.
Thank you to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Dana LeCheminant is a very talented writer. She’s great at revealing the feelings and struggles of her characters. The growth arc was amazing.
Cam is such a sweet and tender guy, confident but vulnerable. So glad we got to see him get his happily ever after.
The Wonder Boys are the ideal friend group. I liked the way they always have each other’s back.
Though this is is a series, each could be read as a standalone. However, if you read them all in order you will have a better understanding of backgrounds of each character.
Another fantastic installment in The Wonder Boys series! If you are a fan of rom com then get some Wonder Boys in your life! They will have you laughing and crying. The meet cute at the half marathon was so great, it made for a fantastic beginning to the story. The rivalry between the gyms, Cam and Kailani, and their dynamic and emotional relationship kept me page turning. Having a reality show competition was something I didn’t see coming and I loved how their relationship grew and changed all while competing on reality TV. The Wonder Boys made for the best support system and the addition of Isla was great! She is a firecracker and I hope she makes an appearance in the next book. I cannot get enough of the Wonder Boys and I will be so sad when this series ends! Fans of rom com and feel good stories will enjoy Love on Display and any of the Winder Boy books! I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This is my favorite Wonder Boys book so far!!!! No lie! (I mean, do you see me throwing up? 😉🤣)
I’ve loved Cam since book 1! He’s such a big muscly hunk of sweetness! He’s adorable!
Seriously, Cam and Kailani are one of the sweetest book couples ever. They are completely perfect for each other. So evenly matched in every way! I loved that even they knew they were perfect for each other. There was just a couple of obstacles in the way. But, I LOVE how they approached those obstacles! They didn’t let them pull them apart, they decided to face them together and learn to trust each other. And the chemistry? On fire! 😘
I also loved the growth in this book. Growth in Cam’s character, in the Wonder Boy’s relationships (namely Oliver and Cam), Kailani and her family, and in the love story between Cam and Kailani! I was here for all of it and the pay off was fantastic and satisfying.
I really appreciated the anxiety rep too! I’ve dealt with panic attacks most of my life and so reading that was tough but also good. ☺️ Seeing the support and understanding Can receive was so great.
The exercise/fitness element in the book was really inspiring. Made me want to run out and get personal training of my own… but I had to finish my book, so… 😂😂😂
After reading this, I am ECSTATIC for Kit’s book! That boy is hiding so much under his button ups and glasses! I can’t wait! 😁
Extra Things I Loved: Cam fainting 🤭 Cam’s lying problem… 🤢😂 #kisscam 😏 The meeting at O’Reilly’s with the WBs Green Smoothie delivery! 🔥 Isla 😂 Cam’s post 🥰 Cam breaking the table 🤣 Muddy Volleyball 🏐 Making Pizza 🍕 scene Rock Climbing 🧗♂️ Shirtless Breakfast 🍳 ALL the texting throughout the book! That ending! 🥹
*Thank you so much, Dana, for my ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own and genuine!*
Cam’s book is here! The next in the Wonder Boys romances, Love on Display features rival gym owners Cam and Kailani who after bonding at a half-marathon, find out that the other person is the reason their respective businesses are failing. A heat-of-the-moment kiss pushes them into going viral and they decide to pretend to be a couple to keep the interest up. The attention brings not only new clients, but a famous fitness mogul who wants to sponsor one of their gyms, after one of them beats the other in a televised competition. With their undeniable attraction and the connection they feel, Cam and Kailani agree to set aside their differences and enjoy the time they have together. Each challenge brings them closer, but their pasts seem to get in the way. Will they be able to trust each other, so they can have a future? I flew through this book! It was even better than I hoped! Cam was such a sweetheart and I really empathized with him from the first chapter. He had such a big heart and a lot to grow in, but he was so cute with Kailani. I loved how they supported and opened up with one another. I also enjoyed watching Cam’s friendships with the Wonder Boys. I feel like every book I get to know them better, seeing their group through different sets of eyes. Cam’s sensitivity was something that I do not see a lot in romcoms, especially in these confident and athletic types. He had his own issues to work through and relied on his friends, especially Kit (who I already love and whose book I am so excited for!), for counsel and support. Kailani was also such an inspirational character! Strong, capable, running her own business! She was trying so hard to be a good sister and daughter, but had so much hurt bottled up. I adored seeing how Cam helped her open up and see her family in a new light. Her sister was so fun and I really hope we get to see more of her going forward! The story was really cute and I loved how the challenges brought them together. It was a relatively low-stress book in terms of plot, the real heart-tugging came from the characters. I already felt for Cam and Lani from the previous books, but this one definitely made me fall in love with them. I would 100% recommend it and I think reading the previous books make it so much more meaningful. This is a clean rom-com with amazing characters and a swoony love story!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Read it for the: - fake dating -enemies to lovers vibes - men’s mental health representation - cast diversity - friendship dynamics and conflicts
TW: Panic attacks
I loved this one. I was instantly drawn to the plot in the first chapter. And by the last chapter, I was crumbling like a nature valley granola bar in the best way possible.
While I loved the romance aspect of this book- two rival gym owners competing (or flirting) on live TV n order to save their respective gyms- was fun and a fresh twist on the fake dating trope. We asked and the chemistry was delivered. Cam and Lani were the PDA couple and I was here for it.
But I have to give it up to Dana LeCheminant, she develops her characters and depicts their lives and thoughts like no other I have read. Relatable, real, and heartbreaking at times, Cam and Lani really go to show you just because a person looks amazing on the outside, insecurities and mental health struggles can affect everyone.
In previous books, Cam was proven to be a confident and self-assured character. As a gym owner, he was also described as having an ideal body and healthy lifestyle. Here, we learn more about his mental state and I never wished to give a fictional character a hug so much before. LeCheminant did a wonderful job of describing anxiety and panic attacks all the while developing a beautiful message. Lani’s journey was just sweet.
My favorite part though had to be the development between the Wonder boys. The conflicts-internal and physical- between Cam and some of the other Wonder boys felt so real. Friendships have their ups and downs, and misjudgments. The highest praise for this dynamic.
Can we take a moment to talk about the diversity of characters in this book? I saw different cultures, races, disabilities, body types, and lifestyles to name a few. Hats off to LeChemiant once again for adding these!
All the stars, all the recs, can’t wait for more.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
These Wonder Boys just keep getting better and better. I loved Cam's story and the fun twist that was the rivalry and competition with Lani. Their connection was strong and I liked how they both had some vulnerabilities they helped each other with. The communication was nice between them too which was refreshing. I really enjoyed how Cam and Oliver grew in this book. Oliver was a side character, but this book really solidified the friendships and I am super excited for Kit's story next. If you're looking for an entertaining contemporary romance with a cast of characters that will feel just like friends, make sure you read this book! While I received an advance reader copy of this novel, I did purchase a paperback copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Love on Display is book number 3 of the Wonder Boys series. I like how these books are fun, but they also address deep struggles. I read romcoms when I need a light pick me up, but I enjoy how this series also teaches me something. I felt so invested in these characters and couldn’t wait to see how things ended, given that they were doomed to fail.
Their meet cute was adorable. The way they were careful with each other emotionally was admirable. The way they valued fitness was inspiring. Their imperfections made them lovable. If you want a pick me up, that also has some depth, check this one out.
While I think it’s helpful to read the previous books, I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s required.
If you’ve read any of the Wonder Boys you’ve met Cam, and he’s one I was not sure I wanted to met, because he seemed too perfect. I mean, he can’t lie. Really? But all the vomiting and throwing up did prove to be a nuisance🤮 (I didn’t put that into the reel btw, you’re welcome). But I loved this American ninja warrior / dating competition thing they had going on throughout the entire book. It made for some fun, shirtless, awkward scenes. (Can was shirtless A LOT!). 🚫👕
But the issues both held deep were their biggest barriers - abandonment, being ignored, single child/adoptive families, orphaned - all culminating in both asking the same essential question “Am I lovable?”
Wow! Dana, you know how to hit us to our core! (And there might have been a punch or two thrown as well).
Basically, another out of the park book! It could be read as a stand-alone but you’ll get more dynamic of the friend group of you read it in order. Also, it makes me SUPER excited for Kit’s story. And sad that it’s coming to an end.
I’m thinking this is the best Wonder Boy book to date! I loved Kailani and Cam so much! I relate to their struggle of feeling like they’re being left behind. I loved their banter, the slight enemies to lovers aspect, and both their determination to do what’s best for the other. They were adorable! • Five out five I cannot WAIT for Kit’s story! 😍
I really loved this one! Loved all the growth and insecurities the characters had and had to work through. Loved the cheesy happy ending. Loved the wonder boys and some things that finally happened. Overall such a good one! Love this series!
– this is part of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone
– this is told from Kailani & Cam’s points of view
– a character lost their leg to cancer as a child and wears a prosthetic
– a few characters deal with really bad anxiety
– both Kailani & Cam remove their shirts while working out/competing (Kailani still has on a sports bra); Cam also removes his shirt a few other times (this does not occur before/after/while they are kissing whatsoever)
Review:
Another great Wonder Boys story right here folks! Seriously, I loved Cam before, but getting to see inside his head is a whole ‘nother level of awesomeness! I loved that we got to see deeper into who Cam is/was and what he hopes and dreams for in life. I love that he was bumbling around Kailani and just couldn’t say the right thing (or text it for that matter XD). I loved that Kailani thought Cam’s bumbling was cute and understood that what he said wasn’t to be rude, it was just an accident due to his need for the truth and saying what came into his head, even if it sounded like he was saying something else at times. I loved that we got even more of Kit in this book and how he took it upon himself to make sure Cam actually went on the show he signed up for. I also really liked that both Kit and Kailani knew how to calm Cam down when he was panicking. Some of my favorite scenes/moments from this story included: Cam’s outbursts, breaking the table, volley ball, cuddling on the couch, making breakfast, giving each other nicknames, Kailani meeting the Wonder Boys, Kailani with her siblings (and Cam too), and them ‘pretending’ to be interested in one another.
Summary:
Kailani wants to do something she loves, but that means that her business needs to do well. With a rival gym just around the corner, that makes things difficult, especially since the owner always seems to be one step ahead of her. Luckily, Kailani has Cam to distract her from everything going wrong. At least her love life appears to be going right…
Cam is thrilled that Kailani gave him a chance despite his bumbling when they first met. She is gorgeous, fit, and intimidating, which Cam finds to be very attractive. When they set up a date, he is excited to get to know more about her and maybe get her input on what he could do to make more money for his gym.
What neither of them expected was that they were each other’s rivals and the reason their gyms were doing horribly.
In the heat of the moment, Kailani and Cam kiss and a picture of that kiss goes viral, much to both of their dismay. Neither one wants to have a hashtag nor a picture of their private moment out on display, but they also can’t deny the good it’s done for both of their gyms. So they come to a compromise to fake date one another and make sure they are seen together to keep the interest in their relationship alive and kicking so more people will stick around their gyms.
When a famous fitness mogul hears about them, he is quick to offer them spots on his show with the winner receiving sponsorship for their gym. All they have to do is compete against one another in a few competitions. With their futures and the futures of their gyms on the line, Kailani and Cam choose to put aside their differences in order to enjoy their time together. As they get to know each other better through the competition, both Kailani and Cam hope that they can salvage their relationship when the competition comes to an end. But will they be able to if the past keeps them stuck where they’ve always been?
Cam is this big loveable grizzly bear, but you know, handsome...and not a grizzly bear. I knew from the synopsis of this book that I was going to love every piece of Cam's love story and that proved to ring true. The glimpses we get of him in the first two Wonder Boys books are so much fun and seeing the hole of him, the real deal, here in Love on Display was an absolute reading delight.
The plot itself is a happening one with more and more of the Wonder Boys together, gym ownership struggles, personal life struggles, competition for television and the romance itself. You won't want to put this book down, Dana LeCheminant packed it full of all the things we love in a Wonder Boys story and more.
The character development in this book is so strong, as it is in the other two. That is one aspect that I love about LeCheminant's writing. Watching Cam's character grow, as well as Lani, is so satisfying and real. These two love birds, and enemies, are genuine and raw in every aspect about them. As you can probably tell, I love Cam as a character. Lani, it took me a minute to get on board with her, but you know she is the enemy, and I already loved Cam so...I do come to really like her in the end though. How she compliments Cam, and how they help each other with the emotions of life just makes my heart happy. And the chemistry is strong in this one. Strong and swoony. LeCheminant knows how to write a swoony and sweet romance to leave all readers satisfied.
Not only do we get the romance, but we get real issues, circumstances that we face every day, whoever we are. The other books highlight such things as well, but I feel like Cam's story took it to another level and it went so well with the character development. We see body image, panic attacks, friendship struggles, family dynamics, and lack thereof, cultures, disabilities, health and more that make this a beautiful and all-encompassing story.
There is so much to love about Cam and Lani's story, and I think many will enjoy this one and the other Wonder Boys books. Definitely read this series, it is my favorite series of the year and one of my favorite series to date and I cannot wait to read Kit's story. The love for Kit is strong as all Wonder Boys fans know. Thank you Dana LeCheminant for writing such a beautiful book and wonderful series!
*I received a complimentary copy from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. A review was not required, and all opinions are my own.
"Why did she have to be both his enemy & the most alluring, determined, fierce woman he had ever met?"
I love everything about this book. EVERYTHING. Dana does it again w/ the Wonder Boys. I love them😍 It was amazing to see them again.
Cam is such a big teddy bear🧸. I love how honest & sweet he was w/ Kailani. The simplicity of these two being connected to each other was a treat itself.
I love Cam's honesty! He's so refreshing. I love their rivalry & obliviousness to it at first. Also, that first kiss🔥😍 unexpected & sweet.
I love how Cam knows what he's doing & doesn't feel the need to overpower Lani. Don't even get me started on how smart Lani is! Strong, confident & fearless
Okay... Kit. What a precious human being. He's such an amazing friend.
Cam was just perfect. He didn't shy away from telling her how much he wanted to be with her or his attraction to her. Their kisses🔥😍 all of them were perfect.
Lol both of them being the distraction for each other was so fun😂 shirtless Cam & Lani in sports bra made the trick.
I love their communication! Lani's need of more time to trust Cam was realistic. It was amazing how their relationship got tested & it came out stronger. I loved how honest they were w/each other. It felt so refreshing.
Cam was so wonderful. He had gone through so much 🥺 my heart hurt for him. Lani was so sweet w/him & his panic attacks. Also, the Wonder Boys, all of them have their issues but the support they have for one another💙👌🏻. I loved Kit, he's the best. Ben was the cutest & Ollie , what a champ. Also, Brad's an MVP!
Dana had me sobbing so hard. What a book! The ending was everything. What a treat. I loved the epilogue 😍. This series is amazing. A definite favorite. I'm so excited for Kit's book.
Scenes I loved: 🥤Smoothies 🏋🏽♂️ The Gyms 🏆 The Competition 📱Buddy talks 🍕 Pizza 🪨 Rock climbing 🕺🏽Dancing
💙: Anxiety (panic attacks) ⚠️TW: loss of a family member.
🍁 * I was kindly gifted an ARC from the author. This doesn't influence in any form my review/opinion of the book*
This book has earned a spot on my shelf of favorites!
"Your worth is more than what others think of you. Sometimes it's good to embrace your flaws and accept that your rough edges are what make you easier to hold onto."
* Rivals to Romance * Fake Dating * Part of a series, but can be read as a stand alone (they are so much better read together!) * Closed Door Romance * Dual POV * Fabulous Chemistry * Character Driven
This is my favorite book in the Wonder Boys series...so far (I'm waiting for you Kit!). Cam is genuine, strong, humble, kind, competitive and willing to be vulnerable. Kailani is strong, feisty, generous with her time and her talents and somewhat lost within her family. On some levels these two are eerily similar They are both strong individuals that are dealing with insecurities from their past. They both want more than anything to help others to be the best version of themselves.
Favorites: * Cam's inability to lie * The nicknames * Making Pizza * The Race * The First Kiss (and every subsequent one!) * Kailani's strength and how much Cam appreciates it * Witty banter * Awkward conversations/texts * Breaking the table * Shirtless Breakfast (It's clean, I promise!) * Cam & Oliver
I loved so many things about this book. Dana has a way of writing beautiful character driven stories full of wonderfully flawed people. I love the message that strength and vulnerability are not mutually exclusive. I really appreciated how she tackled the issues of social anxiety and abandonment. The romance was so well written, it developed naturally throughout the book (beyond the instant attraction). I love this series more with each new addition. I can not wait to see what she has in store for us with Kit's book!
*I was given an arc of this book, however, all thoughts and opinions are my own. I actually loved this book so much that I purchased a copy as soon as it was available!
Oh my! Just when you think the Wonder Boys couldn’t get any better! Each story is such a delight and it’s wonderful to get to know each one individually.
Cam’s story was such a surprise for me! I confess, he was probably my least favorite of the guys but after reading this he’s definitely become a favorite! Kind, incapable of lying, adorably awkward. As Kailani often describes him, a breath of fresh air.
Speaking of which, I loved how refreshing this whole book was! No over the top conflicts, no crazy miscommunication, it was so nice to read! Everyone was up front and real about their feelings. I loved that Cam and Lani had instant chemistry right from the start. And even if they fake dated for a bit, this was quickly remedied because they both knew it was real and they wanted to treat it as such. This book was so enjoyable to read!
Lani and Cam both had some deep emotional scars and apprehensions but together they were able to help each other cope and to see the good that they had all around them. One of my favorite moments is when Lani finally realizes how much her family truly cares about her. I loved getting to know them and seeing them interact with her. Another was the reconciliation between Oliver and Cam! I think I was just as invested in their relationship as I was Cam and Lani’s 😂. (Ok, probably even more so 🤣.) We’ve seen the building tension between them for the past couple of books and it certainly came to a head in this one! I loved how it all played out and the end result. You can’t crush this group of Wonder Boys!
There were so many great moments in this book and I enjoyed every minute of it 😁. I feel like a broken record on this subject, but if you haven’t read this series yet, you absolutely must give it a try! It’s well worth it!
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.