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Never Say Never #1
Never Marry Your Brother's Best Friend
Opposites attract?
In theory, maybe.
In reality, doubtful.
When my brother’s best friend asks me to fake marry him to secure a business deal he desperately needs, I laugh in his face. Me help Carter Harrington? That’s split-your-pants, rip-roaring hilarious. I don’t even like him.
Besides, no one would believe I’m Carter’s wife. It’s ridiculous.
He’s tall, blond, and attention-grabbing gorgeous. I’m short, curvy, awkward… and usually invisible.
He’s never met someone he couldn’t charm. I can barely talk to friends, much less strangers.
He’s a workaholic that lives and breathes money and business. I prefer to lose myself in my art.
Believability factor of us as a couple? Zero.
But when he puts his hand on my thigh, pulls me to his side possessively, and whispers dirty things in my ear that make me go liquid, all the reasons why we shouldn’t be together start to fade away.
And when we’re forced to share a bed to keep up the charade, this fake marriage begins to feel real.
Dangerously real.
What's a girl to do when the man she can't stand starts to feel like her husband?
Never Marry Your Brother's Best Friend is a full-length romance with a Happily Ever After. It can be read as a standalone.
In theory, maybe.
In reality, doubtful.
When my brother’s best friend asks me to fake marry him to secure a business deal he desperately needs, I laugh in his face. Me help Carter Harrington? That’s split-your-pants, rip-roaring hilarious. I don’t even like him.
Besides, no one would believe I’m Carter’s wife. It’s ridiculous.
He’s tall, blond, and attention-grabbing gorgeous. I’m short, curvy, awkward… and usually invisible.
He’s never met someone he couldn’t charm. I can barely talk to friends, much less strangers.
He’s a workaholic that lives and breathes money and business. I prefer to lose myself in my art.
Believability factor of us as a couple? Zero.
But when he puts his hand on my thigh, pulls me to his side possessively, and whispers dirty things in my ear that make me go liquid, all the reasons why we shouldn’t be together start to fade away.
And when we’re forced to share a bed to keep up the charade, this fake marriage begins to feel real.
Dangerously real.
What's a girl to do when the man she can't stand starts to feel like her husband?
Never Marry Your Brother's Best Friend is a full-length romance with a Happily Ever After. It can be read as a standalone.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 15, 2023
10269 people are currently reading
14272 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Landish
172 books6,821 followersLauren Landish is a WALL STREET JOURNAL & USA TODAY bestselling author and her books have garnered a legion of praise from her readers.
When she’s not plotting about how she will introduce you to your next sexy as hell book boyfriend, you can find her deep, deep in her writing cave, furiously tapping away on her keyboard, writing scenes that would make even a hardened sailor blush.
Lauren, who lives in NC with her boyfriend and fur baby, warmly invites you to her worlds of rock hard abs, chiseled smiles, and men with deep, fat pockets…but beware! These stories are guaranteed to have you addicted and needing your next fix!
Visit Lauren's Website at: http://www.laurenlandish.com/
Join the Mailing list at: http://www.subscribepage.com/w1h8x6
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/lauren.landish
Follow me on twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenlandish
When she’s not plotting about how she will introduce you to your next sexy as hell book boyfriend, you can find her deep, deep in her writing cave, furiously tapping away on her keyboard, writing scenes that would make even a hardened sailor blush.
Lauren, who lives in NC with her boyfriend and fur baby, warmly invites you to her worlds of rock hard abs, chiseled smiles, and men with deep, fat pockets…but beware! These stories are guaranteed to have you addicted and needing your next fix!
Visit Lauren's Website at: http://www.laurenlandish.com/
Join the Mailing list at: http://www.subscribepage.com/w1h8x6
Connect with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/lauren.landish
Follow me on twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenlandish
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,161 reviews
January 18, 2023
DNF - 40%
This book description had everything I love in my books: brother’s best friend, fake dating/fake marriage but it was a “full-on Monet.”
While I’m a fan of this author’s other books, this one was just a trash bag stapled to a canvas trying to pass it off as million dollar art.
Things that did not work:
• The writing was so all over the place. Everything felt disjointed. It felt like the author went back and added spicy times to an already complete novel.
• The lack of chemistry between the main characters
• The MMC acted like an 18 year old frat boy instead of this 30-something year old millionaire business tycoon. He goes to a business dinner trying to woo this potential client, spends the night, at the client’s house, and is convinced that the potential client is listening and expecting him and his “wife” to have sexy times. They pretend to do the deed including headboard banging and mattress squeaky. You’re pretending to have sexy times with your pretend wife at the home of potential client and think that’s great for business.
• The FMC put the MMC in his place at the beginning of the book but then just let herself be manipulated and walked over later on. What happened to the feisty, strong willed woman we met at the beginning?
Spice: The FMC’s dream while she was pleasuring herself was hotter than the actual sexy time action. Turns out the FMC was a virgin but MMC just slid right in there and *shocker* no pain or discomfort.
Rating: Like some art, this book just wasn’t for me. 0⭐️
This book description had everything I love in my books: brother’s best friend, fake dating/fake marriage but it was a “full-on Monet.”
While I’m a fan of this author’s other books, this one was just a trash bag stapled to a canvas trying to pass it off as million dollar art.
Things that did not work:
• The writing was so all over the place. Everything felt disjointed. It felt like the author went back and added spicy times to an already complete novel.
• The lack of chemistry between the main characters
• The MMC acted like an 18 year old frat boy instead of this 30-something year old millionaire business tycoon. He goes to a business dinner trying to woo this potential client, spends the night, at the client’s house, and is convinced that the potential client is listening and expecting him and his “wife” to have sexy times. They pretend to do the deed including headboard banging and mattress squeaky. You’re pretending to have sexy times with your pretend wife at the home of potential client and think that’s great for business.
• The FMC put the MMC in his place at the beginning of the book but then just let herself be manipulated and walked over later on. What happened to the feisty, strong willed woman we met at the beginning?
Spice: The FMC’s dream while she was pleasuring herself was hotter than the actual sexy time action. Turns out the FMC was a virgin but MMC just slid right in there and *shocker* no pain or discomfort.
Rating: Like some art, this book just wasn’t for me. 0⭐️
January 15, 2023
Carter Harrington’s grandfather began the family business decades ago with a profit-sharing deal with a friend, and it’s grown exponentially since then.
Carter’s family has well-manicured fingers in business deals around the globe, in everything from real estate to stock markets to small start-ups to portfolio management.
But when Carter’s older brother (Cameron is the golden child) signs a new huge chef/restaurant Contract, it Send Carter spiraling into something he isn’t sure that he can get himself out of , or even sure that he wants to
Luna Star hates Carter, He’s her brother’s best friend, richer than God, handsome and knows it, bossy because he assumes he knows best, and an all-around annoyance.
Luna swallows her pride when Carter asks her to be his fake bride for the day, so Carter can seal the deal of a lifetime with Elena Cartwright…… only thing is it wasn’t just a onetime deal…….. Luna might just have to question herself how bad she truly needs the money
Lauren Landish Can draw you in just by the title of the book. Then she’ll keep you there with her storyline………..if you enjoy books with a slow burn, where you can easily get lost in between pages and you can find plenty of laugh of loud moments….. I believe you have found yourself in the right place……
July 11, 2023
4.75 fake marriage, jp and diiiirty talking goodness stars
Oh LAWD. Lauren Landish didn’t come to play with this one… the amount of 🔥 had me questioning who wrote this book 👀 because, holy moooly… it’s 🥵.
Carter (32) works with his family and is in need of proving himself to them, and his best friend Zack has an idea. There’s a 75-year old widower (Elena) that needs her sizable estate to be managed. The widower’s husband was an artist, and Zack’s sister Luna is ALSO an artist 👀. She’d be PERFECT to tutor Carter in all he needs to know so he can make a connection with Elena.
Luna’s (23) always been a little different, a little awkward, but one thing she’s always been proud of is her talent as an artist. She agrees to tutor Carter by using flash cards (🤣) and giving him a tour at her job. When he asks her to show him her favorite painting, she has no idea that he has an ulterior motive.
He proposes to her while her brother records it all. And because she feels awkward and put on the spot, she doesn’t say anything, and Carter takes the opportunity to kiss her while strangers celebrate their “engagement” 😬.
What’s the plan? Pretend Carter and Luna are married so that the widower feels inclined to hire Carter since they have the commonality of being married to artists…
And Luna’s not exactly happy about lying 😅.
Luckily, Carter’s gonna use anything he can to convince Luna to play along 😅.
What I loved: POSSIBLE SPOILERS ahead
—the 🔥. Oh LAWD. Carter is a diiiiirty boi… and Luna doesn’t hold back either. The “fake smeeex” scene was 🥵 and nothing even happened. The fakeness felt real AF 😅. And then, the fact that Carter uses their attraction (and lots of touching/kissing) to convince Luna only made this all hotter 😅. They go all the way around 52% and it continues until 99% 💦. If you think it, they did it 😉🔥. I love that he loooves her curves too 👀
—the diiiirty talk 🥵. Oh gawd. GAWD! The mouth… the filth… the words that come out of Carter 🥵💦 and, annnnnd… Luna talks back 😮💨 (obviously, I loved when Carter did it more, because, well, ya know 🤷🏻♀️😅). And then, the hand necklaces and other dirtiness just made it all 😮💨👏🏻. Chef’s kiss 🔥
—PRAISE K!!!! Sorry, but I’m alllll about this 😅. Give me all the praise please 😉🔥 and followed with some spaaaaanking and hand necklaces and I about *expired* 🫠 jeeeezus 🥵
—the jp scenes 👀. The possessiveness and jealousy Carter displayed added to my enjoyment 💅😈. He sees all males as competition 👏🏻 including his brothers 👀. NGL- it made me smile 😉
—the amount of times Carter was on his knees 👀. I love me a man who begs for forgiveness 😉 (even if it’s benefiting him the most 🤣)
—the manipulative way Carter convinces Luna 😅. Ummm… Carter… if Luna doesn’t say yes every time you kiss her, then I volunteer please 🙋🏻♀️.
—Carter showing up at her door when they’re fighting and kissing her senseless was 🥵. I mean 🤰🏻. Yuuuuup. Because, well, it didn’t stop there 👀💦. He doesn’t take no for an answer 😉
—the sweet and swoony stuff. It’s not all just 🔥 I swear 🤣. There was sweetness and swooniness going on too ❤️. Carter wants Luna in any shape and form, no matter how awkward or curvy she is 🥹 which include her glasses (IYKYK). Plus. Carter is extremely supportive of Luna 🥰
—how he calms her down when she panics 🥹
—the side characters. I loooved Zack and Samantha (her best friend). Also Elena and even Grace (Carter’s niece). Oh… I forgot to mention Kayla, Carter’s sisters who told Luna to blind twice 👀. I can’t wait to continue this series
—the few 🤣 moments. Not too many, but I did giggle and smile a few times 😅
—how easy it was to read this. This has so much potential to be very angsty, but it didn’t go there, and it was JUST what I needed
—surprise v!!! 😱😱😱 I know… I could’ve believe it either 😅🫣😱
—the extended epilogue ❤️. We get to see them in the future (not sure how many years) and we get some more 🔥 too 👀
What I wanted more of:
—pregnancy? Look, I get it... not all authors like to address STDs or pregnancies... but, considering how much 🔥 this has, it's hard to ignore. It's implied that Carter's clean when he looks at her before f'ing her without a condom, but what's never addressed is that she COULD get pregnant. She never mentions being on birth control, and they never talk about their future in terms of kids... so, yeah, I needed just a quick mention of something when it comes to this
—a longer epilogue 😭. I guess I’ve been spoiled with babies and many years into the future, so I was disappointed with the one we got ETA. There’s an extended epilogue, but I’m unsure how many years into the future it is
—more groveling? Maybe? 🤣When the third act fight happens, I needed Luna to make Carter grovel more… buuut, then again, he grovels by 🔥 her, so I can’t complain 🤣😉
Overall, I loved this ❤️
⚠️safety squad⚠️ SPOILERS
-no cheating/sharing/owd/omd
-the H gets jealous of any man around the h (including his brothers)
-the widower’s niece tries to cause problems with the MCs, but it leads nowhere 🤷🏻♀️
-dirty talk/praise kink/daddy kink/mild degradation/hand necklace/spanking/biting/anal play
-surprise virgin h (she’s done stuff but never sex)/experienced (not manwhore) H
-condoms/then none
-HEA/epilogue
Oh LAWD. Lauren Landish didn’t come to play with this one… the amount of 🔥 had me questioning who wrote this book 👀 because, holy moooly… it’s 🥵.
Carter (32) works with his family and is in need of proving himself to them, and his best friend Zack has an idea. There’s a 75-year old widower (Elena) that needs her sizable estate to be managed. The widower’s husband was an artist, and Zack’s sister Luna is ALSO an artist 👀. She’d be PERFECT to tutor Carter in all he needs to know so he can make a connection with Elena.
Luna’s (23) always been a little different, a little awkward, but one thing she’s always been proud of is her talent as an artist. She agrees to tutor Carter by using flash cards (🤣) and giving him a tour at her job. When he asks her to show him her favorite painting, she has no idea that he has an ulterior motive.
He proposes to her while her brother records it all. And because she feels awkward and put on the spot, she doesn’t say anything, and Carter takes the opportunity to kiss her while strangers celebrate their “engagement” 😬.
What’s the plan? Pretend Carter and Luna are married so that the widower feels inclined to hire Carter since they have the commonality of being married to artists…
And Luna’s not exactly happy about lying 😅.
Luckily, Carter’s gonna use anything he can to convince Luna to play along 😅.
What I loved: POSSIBLE SPOILERS ahead
—the 🔥. Oh LAWD. Carter is a diiiiirty boi… and Luna doesn’t hold back either. The “fake smeeex” scene was 🥵 and nothing even happened. The fakeness felt real AF 😅. And then, the fact that Carter uses their attraction (and lots of touching/kissing) to convince Luna only made this all hotter 😅. They go all the way around 52% and it continues until 99% 💦. If you think it, they did it 😉🔥. I love that he loooves her curves too 👀
—the diiiirty talk 🥵. Oh gawd. GAWD! The mouth… the filth… the words that come out of Carter 🥵💦 and, annnnnd… Luna talks back 😮💨 (obviously, I loved when Carter did it more, because, well, ya know 🤷🏻♀️😅). And then, the hand necklaces and other dirtiness just made it all 😮💨👏🏻. Chef’s kiss 🔥
—PRAISE K!!!! Sorry, but I’m alllll about this 😅. Give me all the praise please 😉🔥 and followed with some spaaaaanking and hand necklaces and I about *expired* 🫠 jeeeezus 🥵
—the jp scenes 👀. The possessiveness and jealousy Carter displayed added to my enjoyment 💅😈. He sees all males as competition 👏🏻 including his brothers 👀. NGL- it made me smile 😉
—the amount of times Carter was on his knees 👀. I love me a man who begs for forgiveness 😉 (even if it’s benefiting him the most 🤣)
—the manipulative way Carter convinces Luna 😅. Ummm… Carter… if Luna doesn’t say yes every time you kiss her, then I volunteer please 🙋🏻♀️.
—Carter showing up at her door when they’re fighting and kissing her senseless was 🥵. I mean 🤰🏻. Yuuuuup. Because, well, it didn’t stop there 👀💦. He doesn’t take no for an answer 😉
—the sweet and swoony stuff. It’s not all just 🔥 I swear 🤣. There was sweetness and swooniness going on too ❤️. Carter wants Luna in any shape and form, no matter how awkward or curvy she is 🥹 which include her glasses (IYKYK). Plus. Carter is extremely supportive of Luna 🥰
—how he calms her down when she panics 🥹
—the side characters. I loooved Zack and Samantha (her best friend). Also Elena and even Grace (Carter’s niece). Oh… I forgot to mention Kayla, Carter’s sisters who told Luna to blind twice 👀. I can’t wait to continue this series
—the few 🤣 moments. Not too many, but I did giggle and smile a few times 😅
—how easy it was to read this. This has so much potential to be very angsty, but it didn’t go there, and it was JUST what I needed
—surprise v!!! 😱😱😱 I know… I could’ve believe it either 😅🫣😱
—the extended epilogue ❤️. We get to see them in the future (not sure how many years) and we get some more 🔥 too 👀
What I wanted more of:
—pregnancy? Look, I get it... not all authors like to address STDs or pregnancies... but, considering how much 🔥 this has, it's hard to ignore. It's implied that Carter's clean when he looks at her before f'ing her without a condom, but what's never addressed is that she COULD get pregnant. She never mentions being on birth control, and they never talk about their future in terms of kids... so, yeah, I needed just a quick mention of something when it comes to this
—a longer epilogue 😭. I guess I’ve been spoiled with babies and many years into the future, so I was disappointed with the one we got ETA. There’s an extended epilogue, but I’m unsure how many years into the future it is
—more groveling? Maybe? 🤣When the third act fight happens, I needed Luna to make Carter grovel more… buuut, then again, he grovels by 🔥 her, so I can’t complain 🤣😉
Overall, I loved this ❤️
⚠️safety squad⚠️ SPOILERS
-no cheating/sharing/owd/omd
-the H gets jealous of any man around the h (including his brothers)
-the widower’s niece tries to cause problems with the MCs, but it leads nowhere 🤷🏻♀️
-dirty talk/praise kink/daddy kink/mild degradation/hand necklace/spanking/biting/anal play
-surprise virgin h (she’s done stuff but never sex)/experienced (not manwhore) H
-condoms/then none
-HEA/epilogue
February 6, 2023
I wanted to love it. But it just wasn’t meant to be.
There are so many wrong things with this book, I don’t even know where to start.
Absolutely nothing made sense.
I was really excited to read this book, because fake dating/marriage of convenience is one my favorite tropes. But it simply did not work here. It felt like the trope was forced into the story, just because it’s a popular one I guess. It was completely unnecessary for Carter (the MMC) to lie about being married to Luna (the FMC). It could’ve easily just stay in the ‘fake dating’ trope. Carter lies about being married to Luna, just to get a business deal, because he needs someone with art knowledge. When he could’ve just said “yeah.. Luna, my girlfriend, is extremely passionate about art”. And then that would’ve been it. Nowhere is it pointed that the client is traditional and marriage is a must (I’ve read that before in books).
Hated the ‘she’s not like other girls’ vibes. Also Luna kept pointing out how she’s not beautiful, to the point where it became annoying.
Then what brother does that to his sister?? Tricks her into a fake public proposal, even takes a video of it, like sure dude.. let’s ambush my sister and you can kiss the hell out of her without consent. But when you eventually “hurt her feelings”, I’ll come punch you, and then you can go for lunch, because it’s my duty as a brother to come punch you, and we can continue being besties once I do my duty.
Carter and Luna never actually communicate their issues, they just have sex and then all is forgotten.
The third act breakup was another forced thing. It felt like the author got to the point in book where it just needed to happen, and she made it happen, out of the blue, because who cares if it actually makes sense. The thing that got Luna to spill the beans, was basically being called ugly. Girl.. you should be upset about being called ugly, not start feeling guilty about lying. But hey, the truth had to come out, so who cares about reasons.
Also.. what’s with all the musical references?? All of the sudden they start singing. And the last ‘Greatest showman’ lyric at the end, just nailed the coffin shut.
Luna has no backbone, Carter is a manipulative prick, brother acts like a brother only when convenient, and then every other character is just unrealistic. Author tried too hard to make them quirky.
So I have no interest in reading the other books is this standalone series.
There are so many wrong things with this book, I don’t even know where to start.
Absolutely nothing made sense.
I was really excited to read this book, because fake dating/marriage of convenience is one my favorite tropes. But it simply did not work here. It felt like the trope was forced into the story, just because it’s a popular one I guess. It was completely unnecessary for Carter (the MMC) to lie about being married to Luna (the FMC). It could’ve easily just stay in the ‘fake dating’ trope. Carter lies about being married to Luna, just to get a business deal, because he needs someone with art knowledge. When he could’ve just said “yeah.. Luna, my girlfriend, is extremely passionate about art”. And then that would’ve been it. Nowhere is it pointed that the client is traditional and marriage is a must (I’ve read that before in books).
Hated the ‘she’s not like other girls’ vibes. Also Luna kept pointing out how she’s not beautiful, to the point where it became annoying.
Then what brother does that to his sister?? Tricks her into a fake public proposal, even takes a video of it, like sure dude.. let’s ambush my sister and you can kiss the hell out of her without consent. But when you eventually “hurt her feelings”, I’ll come punch you, and then you can go for lunch, because it’s my duty as a brother to come punch you, and we can continue being besties once I do my duty.
Carter and Luna never actually communicate their issues, they just have sex and then all is forgotten.
The third act breakup was another forced thing. It felt like the author got to the point in book where it just needed to happen, and she made it happen, out of the blue, because who cares if it actually makes sense. The thing that got Luna to spill the beans, was basically being called ugly. Girl.. you should be upset about being called ugly, not start feeling guilty about lying. But hey, the truth had to come out, so who cares about reasons.
Also.. what’s with all the musical references?? All of the sudden they start singing. And the last ‘Greatest showman’ lyric at the end, just nailed the coffin shut.
Luna has no backbone, Carter is a manipulative prick, brother acts like a brother only when convenient, and then every other character is just unrealistic. Author tried too hard to make them quirky.
So I have no interest in reading the other books is this standalone series.
April 7, 2023
never marry your brother’s bestfriend ❌ never think of picking this book ✅
the first page looked like it’s a very fun book which is why i started it but it started going downhill much sooner than i expected
first of all the brother, he’s not even brothering properly like oh “i’ll beat you up if you hurt her feelings” but the same brother sets up the stupid fake public proposal he doesn’t even bother getting her consent for such shit cause oh he is helping his best friend
and the fmc uh what was her name umm anyways she was so childish no wait she was quirky 🤪🤪 🙄 if in any alternate universe she comes in front of me i’m punching the shit out of her
the mc another immature manipulator i thought i would end up loving this guy please stay a thousand terameters away from me ✋🏻
i’ve not read any other books from this author i might try one of their other book in the far future but i’m not gonna continue this series
on a good note: i haven’t dnfed a book since 2022 god pls see im one of your strongest soldiers
the first page looked like it’s a very fun book which is why i started it but it started going downhill much sooner than i expected
first of all the brother, he’s not even brothering properly like oh “i’ll beat you up if you hurt her feelings” but the same brother sets up the stupid fake public proposal he doesn’t even bother getting her consent for such shit cause oh he is helping his best friend
and the fmc uh what was her name umm anyways she was so childish no wait she was quirky 🤪🤪 🙄 if in any alternate universe she comes in front of me i’m punching the shit out of her
the mc another immature manipulator i thought i would end up loving this guy please stay a thousand terameters away from me ✋🏻
i’ve not read any other books from this author i might try one of their other book in the far future but i’m not gonna continue this series
on a good note: i haven’t dnfed a book since 2022 god pls see im one of your strongest soldiers
February 18, 2023
Age Gap
Fake Dating
Marriage of Convenience
Brother´s best friend
En una de mis reseñas anteriores comenté que los matrimonios arreglados o por conveniencia es el trope que traigo de moda y pues ni modo aquí les traigo otro.
Al principio no me estaba gustando y me estaba decepcionando, pero avanzó la historia y me empezó a gustar mucho. Es una historia divertida.
Ella empieza odiándolo y juzgándolo mal, pero por una buena razón y a pesar de ser una chica tímida con él no tiene filtros y todo lo que piensa se lo dice.
Y tiene bastantes escenas con fueguito I mean… HOT
Al final estuvo muy bonito y me dejó con una sonrisa en la boca
Fake Dating
Marriage of Convenience
Brother´s best friend
En una de mis reseñas anteriores comenté que los matrimonios arreglados o por conveniencia es el trope que traigo de moda y pues ni modo aquí les traigo otro.
Al principio no me estaba gustando y me estaba decepcionando, pero avanzó la historia y me empezó a gustar mucho. Es una historia divertida.
Ella empieza odiándolo y juzgándolo mal, pero por una buena razón y a pesar de ser una chica tímida con él no tiene filtros y todo lo que piensa se lo dice.
Y tiene bastantes escenas con fueguito I mean… HOT
Al final estuvo muy bonito y me dejó con una sonrisa en la boca
January 23, 2023
I would’ve liked it more if they didn’t break out into song every once in a while? this isn’t a musical what are you doing 😭😭
and the fmc got so ~upset~ at the third act breakup over NOTHING
and the fmc got so ~upset~ at the third act breakup over NOTHING
May 19, 2023
never thought i would ever give a fake marriage diary anything below a three stars but i am currently CURSED 🤕 but this actually just didn’t hit babes like the buzz had a lil spark and then immediately fizzled.
the three highlights i had in my ebook rlly sum this up [clears throat] “HE’S JOKING BC WHAT?”, “????”, and “yall movin way to fast like what is happeningngn”. it was kinda fun in the beginning though when they were at elena’s house for the first time
the progression of their romance was just weird overall. like it was just all very impulsive and absent of build up. somewhere around 50% i just did care for them ending up together anymore
luna kinda had no backbone too and every huge decision carter made for them was without her consent idk rubbed me wrong esp with the (fake to real) marriage idea like he was just pulling all the strings and she would be like „absolutely not! but okay sure„. they just had sex on the brains like can yall be serious for three seconds ? idk if i saw this man walking on the street, i would purposely cross the street before we make eye contact sorry ….. i also still dont know his age but for someone nine years older than her (not doing that math for free huns) he has the emotional intelligence of a 14 year old ?
her big, fat, fake series is just gonna have to be her #only books for me bc all the others have been misses and this aint even a it’s me not you type break-up I TRIED
the three highlights i had in my ebook rlly sum this up [clears throat] “HE’S JOKING BC WHAT?”, “????”, and “yall movin way to fast like what is happeningngn”. it was kinda fun in the beginning though when they were at elena’s house for the first time
the progression of their romance was just weird overall. like it was just all very impulsive and absent of build up. somewhere around 50% i just did care for them ending up together anymore
luna kinda had no backbone too and every huge decision carter made for them was without her consent idk rubbed me wrong esp with the (fake to real) marriage idea like he was just pulling all the strings and she would be like „absolutely not! but okay sure„. they just had sex on the brains like can yall be serious for three seconds ? idk if i saw this man walking on the street, i would purposely cross the street before we make eye contact sorry ….. i also still dont know his age but for someone nine years older than her (not doing that math for free huns) he has the emotional intelligence of a 14 year old ?
her big, fat, fake series is just gonna have to be her #only books for me bc all the others have been misses and this aint even a it’s me not you type break-up I TRIED
February 7, 2023
This was a great and hot read! 🔥🔥 Carter and Luna are the perfect pair when it comes to opposites attract!!
March 27, 2023
I saw the tropes and almost frothed at the mouth
Age gap
Brother's bestfriend/coworker
Fake married/ marriage of convenience
A good grumpy hero and a quirky heroine
But....
Tsk tsk
“That’s not what I meant and you know it. Don’t put words in my mouth,” I snap back.
“I’m gonna put my foot in your mouth,” she replies, equally snippy.
“Some people happen to like that.”
I grab her foot from beneath her leg, pulling it into the air, and Luna falls back to the arm of the couch. “Wha—”
I shut her up by sucking her big toe into my mouth. I’ve never done this before, but I have to admit . . . it’s sexy as fuck.
Not to be kink shaming
But lawd.
Sam holds up a finger to stop me and asks tightly, “He denied you pleasure?”
My eyes drop to where I’m fidgeting with the hem of my dress. “No, definitely not. It was . . . to show I was a good girl.”
She was WAY too quirky I'm afraid.
She tilts her head back and pleads, “Hand necklace.”
“Goddamn it, Luna,” I grunt. But I wrap a hand around her neck gently. “This what you want?”
Hand necklace 😭😭😭😭😭😭
The only good smut scene was the last one but that couldn't be balanced by the rest of the book.
It was cute i know but no
Felt way too animated and Wattpad to me.
The plot we've read so much before and it just ... didn't work it out like how it was supposed to
Age gap
Brother's bestfriend/coworker
Fake married/ marriage of convenience
A good grumpy hero and a quirky heroine
But....
Tsk tsk
“That’s not what I meant and you know it. Don’t put words in my mouth,” I snap back.
“I’m gonna put my foot in your mouth,” she replies, equally snippy.
“Some people happen to like that.”
I grab her foot from beneath her leg, pulling it into the air, and Luna falls back to the arm of the couch. “Wha—”
I shut her up by sucking her big toe into my mouth. I’ve never done this before, but I have to admit . . . it’s sexy as fuck.
Not to be kink shaming
But lawd.
Sam holds up a finger to stop me and asks tightly, “He denied you pleasure?”
My eyes drop to where I’m fidgeting with the hem of my dress. “No, definitely not. It was . . . to show I was a good girl.”
She was WAY too quirky I'm afraid.
She tilts her head back and pleads, “Hand necklace.”
“Goddamn it, Luna,” I grunt. But I wrap a hand around her neck gently. “This what you want?”
Hand necklace 😭😭😭😭😭😭
The only good smut scene was the last one but that couldn't be balanced by the rest of the book.
It was cute i know but no
Felt way too animated and Wattpad to me.
The plot we've read so much before and it just ... didn't work it out like how it was supposed to
February 4, 2023
I DNF At 68% and went straight to the epilogue.
But what the actual ****?
He literally manipulated her with sex to get her to marry her
She was super immature
And why exactly was everyone so okay with them getting married?
Carter shouldn’t be doing business if he’s being such an immature manipulative ass
Seriously wtf?
Also, they never actually talked about Alphena. So how did he magically know about her existence?
Also the brother was kind of useless here.
But what the actual ****?
He literally manipulated her with sex to get her to marry her
She was super immature
And why exactly was everyone so okay with them getting married?
Carter shouldn’t be doing business if he’s being such an immature manipulative ass
Seriously wtf?
Also, they never actually talked about Alphena. So how did he magically know about her existence?
Also the brother was kind of useless here.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2025
In the first couple of chapters I thought this was going to be a 5 star read. The writing style, the characters made me chuckle, the plot was working... and then most of that changed.
The fake marriage into the marriage of convenience plot ended into an unbelievable sham. When they were at first just fake, it was plausible. But when the lie of the marriage was almost shown, they decided to get married for real, and it just didn't make sense for either of the characters to do that.
And the sex scenes were so so awkward. The fake sex scene (yup... you read that correctly, fake) made me cringe in second-hand embarrassment, and I'm 99% sure the author thought she was writing something sexy. Why would anyone who's trying to get a nice old lady to do business with them to have loud fake kinky sex in a room to trying to make a fake marriage look real?? I mean, how much more unprofessional can one look? And just how awkward and immature and juvenile can one get? It was embarrassing.
All of the real sex scenes were so abrupt. No build-up, just BAM!! Sex! Towards the end, I was skimming them because it wasn't sexy and it didn't fit the voice or style of the test of the book.
Not to mention the villain... why did they make this character (who could have easily been a 3 dimensional character who wasn't just plain evil) into a boring evil person?
So all in all, I really like the writing style (not including the sex scenes... which is odd since anyone who follows my reviews knows I like my sexy scenes) and was thinking this could be an author that I could read 3 books in a row of!! (Rare, I hate reading books of the same author in a row)... but now I'm not even sure if I want to read another book by her. But the little old lady, Elena, was awesome. I adored her.
Should I give this author another shot??
The fake marriage into the marriage of convenience plot ended into an unbelievable sham. When they were at first just fake, it was plausible. But when the lie of the marriage was almost shown, they decided to get married for real, and it just didn't make sense for either of the characters to do that.
And the sex scenes were so so awkward. The fake sex scene (yup... you read that correctly, fake) made me cringe in second-hand embarrassment, and I'm 99% sure the author thought she was writing something sexy. Why would anyone who's trying to get a nice old lady to do business with them to have loud fake kinky sex in a room to trying to make a fake marriage look real?? I mean, how much more unprofessional can one look? And just how awkward and immature and juvenile can one get? It was embarrassing.
All of the real sex scenes were so abrupt. No build-up, just BAM!! Sex! Towards the end, I was skimming them because it wasn't sexy and it didn't fit the voice or style of the test of the book.
Not to mention the villain... why did they make this character (who could have easily been a 3 dimensional character who wasn't just plain evil) into a boring evil person?
So all in all, I really like the writing style (not including the sex scenes... which is odd since anyone who follows my reviews knows I like my sexy scenes) and was thinking this could be an author that I could read 3 books in a row of!! (Rare, I hate reading books of the same author in a row)... but now I'm not even sure if I want to read another book by her. But the little old lady, Elena, was awesome. I adored her.
Should I give this author another shot??
January 8, 2023
I received this ebook ARC, from the author, on the condition that I write an honest review.
Lauren Landish has written a beautiful, heartfelt story of a couple learning that unconditional love does exist. This couple were polar opposites,but they made their relationship work.
Carter is a business man working for his family company, but feels like he is always competing with his brother. His best friend Zack informs him of a wealthy woman whose money manager is due to retire. Carter is determined to become her money manager, and is willing to do anything to win the position. Zack suggests that his sister help Carter to learn about art.
Luna is Zack’s sister, and gets dragged into this devious plan. Luna is an artist, and prefers her peaceful, secluded, private life. Carter wants her to pretend to be his wife by convincing her that she will get to see the artwork of the Elena’s late husband. A close friendship develops between Elena and the couple.
Problems occur when Elena’s niece gets involved, and attempts to gain control of Elena’s funds. Elena sets her foot down and refuses to allow her niece to succeed.
Carter and Luna develop a relationship, that eventually becomes true love for both of them. The involvement of Carter’s family causes more problems, but Carter is determined to succeed, with Luna at his side. Elena decides to let Carter manage her money, and Carter and Luna have an official marriage. Eventually the couple obtain their HEA.
Lauren Landish has written a beautiful, heartfelt story of a couple learning that unconditional love does exist. This couple were polar opposites,but they made their relationship work.
Carter is a business man working for his family company, but feels like he is always competing with his brother. His best friend Zack informs him of a wealthy woman whose money manager is due to retire. Carter is determined to become her money manager, and is willing to do anything to win the position. Zack suggests that his sister help Carter to learn about art.
Luna is Zack’s sister, and gets dragged into this devious plan. Luna is an artist, and prefers her peaceful, secluded, private life. Carter wants her to pretend to be his wife by convincing her that she will get to see the artwork of the Elena’s late husband. A close friendship develops between Elena and the couple.
Problems occur when Elena’s niece gets involved, and attempts to gain control of Elena’s funds. Elena sets her foot down and refuses to allow her niece to succeed.
Carter and Luna develop a relationship, that eventually becomes true love for both of them. The involvement of Carter’s family causes more problems, but Carter is determined to succeed, with Luna at his side. Elena decides to let Carter manage her money, and Carter and Luna have an official marriage. Eventually the couple obtain their HEA.
December 18, 2023
Nuh-uh, I did not like this. And the male MC was so manipulative, it rubbed me the wrong way.
January 11, 2023
Carter and his best friend Zack own a private real estate company. They have a chance at landing a new, well respected client, if Carter is able to measure up to the recently widowed Elena Cartwright's standards. Carter needs to be able to converse with her on her level. Mrs. Cartwright is well versed in the art world and the only person who could possibly help him is Luna, Zack's little sister. Being an artist herself and currently working in an art museum, Luna's knowledge of art is impeccable. The problem is, Luna doesn't care too much for Carter. In all the years she's known him, she's never taken an interest in anything Carter. Sure he's handsome and rich and gorgeous... and hard to ignore, no matter how much she tries. When it becomes clear that Carter isn't absorbing the info a reluctant Luna has been teaching him, he takes matters into his own hands and takes a more drastic approach.
FANTASTIC STORY! A funny, sexy storyline with a feel good vibe. Loved the characters and all the frenzy their fake relationship causes. Anxiously awaiting the next in the series!!!
FANTASTIC STORY! A funny, sexy storyline with a feel good vibe. Loved the characters and all the frenzy their fake relationship causes. Anxiously awaiting the next in the series!!!
Read
January 17, 2023It was a quick DNF for me, the dynamic just really rubbed me the wrong way. Definitely light and super spicy, but not a favorite from the author.
January 8, 2023
I received this book as an ARC to review from the Author. I have read quite a few Lauren Landish books in the last year and once again it was a great read.
Carter works for his families companies that deals in managing portfolios for the wealthy. He has been in a slump lately which has become more apparent due to his brother signing a new chef/restaurant. When he hears from his best friend that Elena Cartwright is looking for a new person to manage her portfolio he is ready to do whatever it takes to snag her.
Luna hates Carter. He is her brothers best friend and he is about 10 years older than her. He's obnoxious, a thirst trap, and always gets what he wants. When he needs help getting the Cartwright portfolio and needs Luna to teach him about art- she swallows his pride because she needs the money. Luna works at the local art museum giving tours and works on her graphic novel in her spare time, but she needs to money to help get the novel off the ground. The least she can do is tutor Carter.
Everything become chaos when Carter proposes to her in front of her favorite painting in the gallery- I mean she hates him. Right?
-Thoughts-
Lauren Landish always has a fun storyline with some feelings twisted in along the way. Her characters always develop for the better and learn to love themselves. I like that she has FMC's with curves. Her spice is always good- and the dirty talk in this book was fantastic. We always love a "good girl". I like the development of the relationship between Carter and Luna. Elena's character was sweet and fun to read. Overall another easy, quick read from this author. Can't wait for the next one in the series.
Carter works for his families companies that deals in managing portfolios for the wealthy. He has been in a slump lately which has become more apparent due to his brother signing a new chef/restaurant. When he hears from his best friend that Elena Cartwright is looking for a new person to manage her portfolio he is ready to do whatever it takes to snag her.
Luna hates Carter. He is her brothers best friend and he is about 10 years older than her. He's obnoxious, a thirst trap, and always gets what he wants. When he needs help getting the Cartwright portfolio and needs Luna to teach him about art- she swallows his pride because she needs the money. Luna works at the local art museum giving tours and works on her graphic novel in her spare time, but she needs to money to help get the novel off the ground. The least she can do is tutor Carter.
Everything become chaos when Carter proposes to her in front of her favorite painting in the gallery- I mean she hates him. Right?
-Thoughts-
Lauren Landish always has a fun storyline with some feelings twisted in along the way. Her characters always develop for the better and learn to love themselves. I like that she has FMC's with curves. Her spice is always good- and the dirty talk in this book was fantastic. We always love a "good girl". I like the development of the relationship between Carter and Luna. Elena's character was sweet and fun to read. Overall another easy, quick read from this author. Can't wait for the next one in the series.
January 16, 2023
So great!!!
This book was amazing! Normally you get one with a normal woman, and the confident man. This one you get the shy, artsy, and silly woman, and the man pushing to get out of his brother's shadow. Throw in a spunky 8 yr old neice, a super cute dog, and an overbearing family and you have this story. I loved the direction Lauren took with these characters and the lessons they had to face and learn from. I adored Elena, she is a true goal right there! I was surprised with who Luna's best friend was though, those two couldn't be more different if they tried. You will laugh, you might tear up...I did, you will definitely love it!
I received this as an ARC for an honest review.
This book was amazing! Normally you get one with a normal woman, and the confident man. This one you get the shy, artsy, and silly woman, and the man pushing to get out of his brother's shadow. Throw in a spunky 8 yr old neice, a super cute dog, and an overbearing family and you have this story. I loved the direction Lauren took with these characters and the lessons they had to face and learn from. I adored Elena, she is a true goal right there! I was surprised with who Luna's best friend was though, those two couldn't be more different if they tried. You will laugh, you might tear up...I did, you will definitely love it!
I received this as an ARC for an honest review.
April 27, 2023
4 Stars / 3.5 Steam Fans
For the most part, I enjoyed Carter and Luna's relationship. There were times when the writing felt off. Overall, I will continue with the series.
Video review available in Week 17: Apr 23 – Apr 29, 2023, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
For the most part, I enjoyed Carter and Luna's relationship. There were times when the writing felt off. Overall, I will continue with the series.
Video review available in Week 17: Apr 23 – Apr 29, 2023, weekly book reviews on Steph's Romance Book Talk (https://www.youtube.com/@stephsromanc...)
January 14, 2023
Arc review for honest review. When carter Harrington need help getting the Cartwright account for blue lake asset group that his family owns he calls on luna star is best friend sister to pretend to be his wife. These who are so cute together that you fall in love with them too. Beautiful fantastic story
January 17, 2023
This had great banter mainly cause Luna and Carter (mainly Luna) can’t stand being around each other until Carter gives her an offer she wishes she can say no to but she knows she’s not. Super cute and amusing
January 14, 2023
Laced with humor, brimming with heart and ironically sassy. Luna and Carter turn convenient into an inconvenient temptation. From frustrating to captivating, Landish plays emotions as only she can. With absolute clarity that proves entertaining, endearing and unforgettable. Never Marry Your Brother's Best Friend turns unpredictable into irresistible.
October 1, 2025
REVIEW
Rating: 3.5/5
POV: 1st; dual
Tropes: Brothers BFF/BFF's Sister; Fake Dating/Fake Marriage; Enemies to Lovers; Age Gap (around 10 years); Opposites Attract; Virgin FMC; Artist FMC
Heat Level: 4.5/5
Kinks: Good Girl; Praise; Breeding
Likes:
* Once the MC's started to connect and get past that "enemies" part I started to really enjoy their dynamic and banter
* Elena and Gracie were fabulous side characters that really helped hold the plot together
* MMC was all about putting the FMC first and he was very romantic
Dislikes:
* Rough start - the FMC in the beginning comes off as just very angry and annoyed at everything. Eventually this part of her disappears and she does become an enjoyable character.
Conclusion:
Cute contemporary romance that borders a bit on being a rom-com with some really 🌶️🌶️ scenes.
The MMC, Carter, is trying to get Elena to be his new client. She's an extremely wealthy old widower and he wants to manage her financial portfolio. This would show his father that he knows what he's doing and really deserves his spot in the family business.
Elena's deceased husband was an artist and a huge art collector so that's how the FMC, Luna, comes in. Carter needs her to be able to impress Elena. It starts out as art lessons and turns into a fake marriage so that it would make sense as to why she joins him on his dinner with Elena at her home. Elena offers to show off her art that she possess and her deceased husbands work so that's why Luna is willing to go along with his crazy plan. Then in typical fashion things spiral out of control and Carter and Luna fall in love.
The book had a bit of rough start and I almost DNF'd but I am glad I stuck it out. Once Luna stops being annoyed at literally everything then the story really gets a lot better. I also felt that the ending was a bit much. It could've had a bit less drama between Carter and Elena's family.
I enjoyed the writing, plot, and 🌶️ enough that I'll definitely continue the series and read more by this author.
3.5/5
Rating: 3.5/5
POV: 1st; dual
Tropes: Brothers BFF/BFF's Sister; Fake Dating/Fake Marriage; Enemies to Lovers; Age Gap (around 10 years); Opposites Attract; Virgin FMC; Artist FMC
Heat Level: 4.5/5
Kinks: Good Girl; Praise; Breeding
Likes:
* Once the MC's started to connect and get past that "enemies" part I started to really enjoy their dynamic and banter
* Elena and Gracie were fabulous side characters that really helped hold the plot together
* MMC was all about putting the FMC first and he was very romantic
Dislikes:
* Rough start - the FMC in the beginning comes off as just very angry and annoyed at everything. Eventually this part of her disappears and she does become an enjoyable character.
Conclusion:
Cute contemporary romance that borders a bit on being a rom-com with some really 🌶️🌶️ scenes.
The MMC, Carter, is trying to get Elena to be his new client. She's an extremely wealthy old widower and he wants to manage her financial portfolio. This would show his father that he knows what he's doing and really deserves his spot in the family business.
Elena's deceased husband was an artist and a huge art collector so that's how the FMC, Luna, comes in. Carter needs her to be able to impress Elena. It starts out as art lessons and turns into a fake marriage so that it would make sense as to why she joins him on his dinner with Elena at her home. Elena offers to show off her art that she possess and her deceased husbands work so that's why Luna is willing to go along with his crazy plan. Then in typical fashion things spiral out of control and Carter and Luna fall in love.
The book had a bit of rough start and I almost DNF'd but I am glad I stuck it out. Once Luna stops being annoyed at literally everything then the story really gets a lot better. I also felt that the ending was a bit much. It could've had a bit less drama between Carter and Elena's family.
I enjoyed the writing, plot, and 🌶️ enough that I'll definitely continue the series and read more by this author.
3.5/5
February 20, 2023
i saw the title and wanted to give it a try bc im a hoe for brother’s best friend trope but definitely had a feeling it would be a flop and that feeling was correct. it was just like fine ?? but not in a good way fine like it honestly was bad but i feel bad
January 31, 2023
This might be the worst book I have ever read. 0/5
March 19, 2023
3 1/2 stars
I might've skipped forward a few times...
I might've skipped forward a few times...
Read
May 18, 2023I’m probably one of few that didn’t enjoy this. Both MCs did nothing for me.
January 8, 2023
This was another great story with some entertaining tropes that really hit the spot. There was as the title suggests, a romance that involved a fake marriage, falling for your best friends sister, an age gap and don't forget the adorable side characters of Peanut butter and Grace. Amongst all his siblings, Carter Harrington feels like he is always competing with his older brother at his father's wealth management company Blue Lake Assets. In order to prove himself, he takes the opportunity to branch out by trying to poach Elena Cartwright, a wealthy widow who is in need of portfolio management for her estate. Her deceased husband Thomas Cartwright was an artist and this is where our leading lady Luna comes in. She is Carter's best friend Zach's younger sister and an artist in her own right, working in a museum by day giving art tours and working on her graphic novel at night.
She is Carter's complete opposite and yet to seal the deal, Carter decides that the best way to get to Elena is by pretending to be married to Luna. Let the fun and games begin! From here, it all goes downhill before we get to the HEA, there was some very entertaining family dinners, absolutely lovable side characters and some very dirty talking bedroom action that had sparks absolutely flying. Another fantastic story.
She is Carter's complete opposite and yet to seal the deal, Carter decides that the best way to get to Elena is by pretending to be married to Luna. Let the fun and games begin! From here, it all goes downhill before we get to the HEA, there was some very entertaining family dinners, absolutely lovable side characters and some very dirty talking bedroom action that had sparks absolutely flying. Another fantastic story.
January 22, 2023
4,5/5 ✨
It was really fun and I loved it so much!
I related deeply with Luna. She lacks self confidence, is a bit un-at-ease with her body, however has great banter and knows how to answer back. I really enjoyed all of her views on the patriarchal society and her ideas. She was also super passionate about her job and her art which was amazing. I loved reading about art and paintings, how it made her feel…
Carter was so much fun too. He had a great depth of character, whether it was about learning about art or learning about his mistakes.
They worked really well together. I totally fell for them, their chemistry, their banter and their cute moments 🤍
I can’t wait to read the next one 🙈
It was really fun and I loved it so much!
I related deeply with Luna. She lacks self confidence, is a bit un-at-ease with her body, however has great banter and knows how to answer back. I really enjoyed all of her views on the patriarchal society and her ideas. She was also super passionate about her job and her art which was amazing. I loved reading about art and paintings, how it made her feel…
Carter was so much fun too. He had a great depth of character, whether it was about learning about art or learning about his mistakes.
They worked really well together. I totally fell for them, their chemistry, their banter and their cute moments 🤍
I can’t wait to read the next one 🙈
January 11, 2023
Never Marry your Brother’s Best Friend is the first installment in the Never Say Never book series by Lauren Landish. As with all her books, it didn’t disappoint.
Luna is a young 20 something year old quirky artist that works as a tour guide in an art museum. However, in her heart of hearts, she hopes that her one day her “Alphena” Novel that she has been working on becomes a major graphic novel or even an anime show.
Life was quiet for Luna, until
one day when her brother’s hot, rich best friend whom she loathes, asks her for help and makes her an offer she can’t refuse. She will fake being married to him but in turn gets to see a private showing of art that nobody has seen. If she only knew what kind of storm this deal would create. It’s messy, steamy and down right crazy but will true feelings be realized? 🤷🏼♀️
Luna is a young 20 something year old quirky artist that works as a tour guide in an art museum. However, in her heart of hearts, she hopes that her one day her “Alphena” Novel that she has been working on becomes a major graphic novel or even an anime show.
Life was quiet for Luna, until
one day when her brother’s hot, rich best friend whom she loathes, asks her for help and makes her an offer she can’t refuse. She will fake being married to him but in turn gets to see a private showing of art that nobody has seen. If she only knew what kind of storm this deal would create. It’s messy, steamy and down right crazy but will true feelings be realized? 🤷🏼♀️
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