The Blind Date

by Layla Knight

Ten blind dates in four days. Number one was a raging alcoholic, number four still lived with his parents, number six was a gold digger, and number nine was a woman. Number ten, however, was Cedric Barlowe. It appears there’s more to Cedric than expensive suits and talks of promotions. The more time they spend together, the more she sees the real Cedric. After a hot, electric kiss, they both know they can’t deny their feelings for each other any longer. But how are they supposed to give this enemies-to-lovers relationship a fair shot with their parents eagerly watching their every move like it’s their favourite reality TV show? With her parents already in love with Cedric, Saffron knows it will have to be serious. The pressure for things to work out would be too much, and they feared it would destroy them before they even began. Agreeing to date in secret while keeping up the pretence of hating each other in the presence of others, they think they’ll stand a fair shot. It goes great at first, until it doesn’t, and then everything spirals out of control.

Genres: Romance, Rom Com

373 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2023

Reviews

[Terri Zumbrook · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought the premise for THE BLIND DATE was clever but really enjoyed the enemies to lovers match up between Cedric and Saffron. It’s always possible that battling banter between a couple can get annoying, but it just fit these two so well. Saffron was snarky and Cedric kept calling her out on it. They were so sure they couldn’t stand one another.

The story is a good one with family, friends and even co-workers all getting their nose into Cedric and Saffron’s business. There were a few slow spots in the book so I didn’t read it in one sitting. I did, however, really like this couple, their big personalities and the steamy romance they had going on.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[♡ Lilly ♡ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really tried to like this book but I really couldn't get into it. The banter was pretty good but I just wasn't feeling the overall book itself. The spice was decent but the dialog was just overly detailed. I may give it another read sometime in the future. Maybe I just wasn't in the mood for a speed dating book.

Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC!

[An · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

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One thing that always irked me about books labelled as enemies to lovers would be when the character's thoughts and actions do not match the theme. This book was not the case; our leads started as enemies after their unfortunate meetings. I enjoyed seeing their family, friends and colleagues work hard to think of all sorts of crazy ways to bind our leads together.

I loved that Saffron was not your "typical girl". While she was your typical late 20s single and lonely girl who refused to admit that they were lonely, we see her having a snarky streak that gets highlighted to a large degree whenever Cedric is around. This made her more relatable as a character to me and I loved seeing her snarky remarks. Her feisty side appears when she's together with Cedric, which further heightens their chemistry during their banters and more intimate moments. Cedric has a great personality as well for he could match Saffron's personality on equal footing. I also appreciated the fact that their arguments would be solved within a couple of pages and did not drag on as some books would do. This truly emphasised the fact that our two leads were well suited for one another.

However, there were some parts of the book where the story sounded a little awkward which I presumed would most likely be due to the phrasing of that particular part but these were only minor things in the book and didn't affect the main plot line.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I laughed at their banters.

[BookishAdventurer · Rating 3 out of 5]

"The Blind Date" by Layla Knight offers a rollercoaster through the modern dating scene, but it left me with some mixed emotions.

The idea of ten blind dates in just four days is fun, but the story rushes through them so fast that I didn't get to know the characters well. It felt like a whirlwind.

I was a bit puzzled by the main character's parents setting her up on dates, even though she's almost thirty. It didn't match her independence and maturity, which made it hard for me to connect with her journey.

The names of the characters seemed a bit odd to me, but that's a personal preference.

On a positive note, the chemistry between Saffron and Cedric was evident, and their enemies-to-lovers journey was exciting. However, their relationship progressed very quickly, leaving me wanting more gradual development.

The pressure from their parents added tension, but the story's shift from secrecy to chaos felt rushed, leaving some emotions unexplored.

Overall, "The Blind Date" has moments of charm and humor. While the fast pacing and rushed development held it back, the dynamic between the main characters and parental pressures were intriguing. With more attention to pacing and character growth, Layla Knight's future work could shine even brighter. I'm giving this book 3 stars.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Gabs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll be honest: the Blind Date started off a little rocky for me. I didn't like Cedric at first due to his childish behaviour, especially with how he would say rude things and then act like it was totally fine because he was hot.

However, I have to admit that as the book went on I found myself laughing out loud at his banter with Saff and their families' ridiculous antics. Saff was equally as childish as Cedric at times, and although it's obvious to see how perfect they are for each other, the author did a great job of making me see things from Saff's point of view at first and think 'No way."

It's impossible to deny their chemistry though and they ended up being super cute and funny and HOT to read about.

Aside from the romance, I enjoyed reading about Saff's initial blind date disasters- and I loved how her parents even set her up on a blind date with a woman just in case. The side characters felt naturally written into the storyline in a way that added lots of charm and humor to the book. Knight did a fantastic job of creating a humorous and romantic story with genuine characters that I loved reading about.

Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the ARC! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Meg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve got to say that this book was super cute. It was such a feel good enemies to lovers romance. The writing was addicting to read and I never wanted to put it down. Plus the banter between Cedric and Saffron had me laughing out loud most of the way through this book. If you’re a fan of Emily Henry or Tessa Bailey books, then this is right up your alley. I found it to be the perfect blend of romance and smut (although I will never say no to more smut lol). This book grabbed my attention from chapter one and I didn’t find it that hard to get into. The only issue I had with it was that it didn’t escape the accidental pregnancy trope and I’m sorry to say that I’m just not a fan of when that happens in books. But regardless, I found this book to be funny, witty, and lighthearted. I would highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a good laugh and a cute romance. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book will make so so so much more sense to you, if you know that the golf Saffron’s parents are playing is MINI GOLF. Not normal golf. MINI GOLF. I did not realize this until nearly the end of the book, and had been struggling with what I thought were inaccuracies… that all make sense in that context. Anyway. Saffron is 28 and single and so terribly lonely that she agrees to be set up by her parents on 10 blind dates a month. And she accomplishes those 10 days in a matter of pages, all in one chapter early on — but that 10th date, Cedric, is infuriating and also one she can’t seem to shake for the rest of the book. There is a thin line between enemies and lovers and though I can’t understand how rude condescension turns into a quality you admire about someone these two figure out a way to make it work. Despite all the arguing, this is a light, sexy read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Elizabeth Faulkner · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you!

I enjoyed reading this book. The enemies to lovers trope was fun with the fine line between love & hate. I enjoyed the snippets of life the main characters had without each other too.

Written from the main female character’s perspective, she is put on ten blind dates by her parents (per month) until she finds her ‘soulmate’. The final one, initially unsuccessful, led to a continuation of meetings & more.

I did not like the main characters & found I could not warm to them. Awesome for them they found each other, great sexual chemistry & scenes, but it definitely felt like there were a bunch of red flags.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time reading something by this author. I found it to be an entertaining enemies to more story. It's a modern dating theme, involving Saffron going on ten blind dates, at the insistence of her parents. Things don't start to click, however, until the tenth date with Cedric. As infuriating as Cedric is to her, Saffron still can't seem to shake him off. The chemistry between them was pretty strong and I enjoyed their fun and witty banter. There were also quite a few laughable moments, especially when Saffron's earlier blind dates were described. All in all, an entertaining and fun read.
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Ulli Zaiss · Rating 3 out of 5]

Saffron is 27 and single. Her parents fear that she might end up alone and set her up on a lot of blind dates. They think that their best friends' son Cedric will be Saffrons perfect match but those two seem to hate each other from the start…

This is a classic enemy to lovers tale. I found it entertaining but a bit over the top at times. The characters could be rather annoying and while I like a bit of steam in the bedroom scenes I found this book could have done with less.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Abbey Ziemba · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tons of funny moments throughout the book kept me reading. The banter between Cedric and Saff was playful at times, but there were moments when I really struggled to like or root for either of them. Thankfully, once Cillian was there to round things out if seemed more natural. Overall, I enjoyed their story and can’t imagine agreeing to 10 blind dates in any length of time!

Thanks to the author and publisher for an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shay · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sadly this is a DNF I got through about 80 pages and had to give up.

I couldn’t get into the dialogue. The overly used lip curl mentions had me rolling my eyes. I gave up when they were in the restaurant and he had stopped her to me if I saw someone in the hallway of the restroom him pulling her close it would be really odd and it seems as though they are there for a bit. I skipped to the end to see what happened my gosh Cedric still seems like a creep.

[EVANGELIA MARAGKOPOULOU · Rating 3 out of 5]

A young single woman who gets set up from her parents to go to 10 blind dates in a month . The first 9 were terrible but the tenth was Cedric a man who she couldn't stand but her parents loved and thought was her soulmate . Will they be able to see that they are perfect for each other ?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Katie F · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really do love enemies to lovers, and throwing in the blind date aspect was perfect! The quick wit and bickering between Saffron and Cedric had me laughing out loud and rooting for them all the way!

A great read, and I look forward to reading more of Layla Knights books!

10/10 would recommend
10/10 would read again

[Bree Shaw · Rating 1 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to read this book as an ARC and unfortunately had to DNF at 37%.

The writing style wasn't for me, it was far too casual and did not make for easy flow or an easy read. I love contemp romance but The Blind Date felt far too rushed, hastily put together and somewhat hard for me to read.

I don't really know what else to say for this book but good luck to the author!

[Madeline Crist · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Blind Date: An Enemies To Lovers Romance

Layla Knight is an amazing writer. The Blind Date is a awesome story. The fantastic development of the characters which you became such good friends with. Descriptive scenarios, the plot, the emotional journey. Each of her books are a joy to read.

[Karla Riendeau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful!

A totally sexy, fun filled read. I loved the characters! The plot was so creative, such a refreshing spin on the blind date trope. I’ve just discovered Layla Knight, and the three books I have read so far are so different from each other, and from other authors works that I find her work nothing less than awe inspiring!!!
💖💖💖💖💖

[Rach3l · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute story. The characters were entertaining but I can’t imagine going on that many blind dates so quickly. And now I’m interested in seeing more about Cillian (and maybe Penny).

Side note: I received a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review

[Kandiemarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. It's cute and funny and the characters are great. I definitely recommend reading this and look forward to reading more from the author myself.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[D. Rivera · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable read from the first page of this story. Liked it and their banter so much. Who doesn't love a enemies to lovers kind of story. Must read.

[A Look Inside: Reviews and Interviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Captivating Journey of Love and Laughter!

“The Blind Date” by Layla Knight takes readers on a delightful adventure into the world of Saffron, a woman at a crossroads in her love life. As she navigates her best friend’s wedding, Saff is confronted with the reality of her own solitude, prompting her parents to intervene with a unique proposition. What follows is a series of quirky blind date experiences that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.

Knight’s storytelling prowess shines through as she weaves a seamless love story with a twist of humor. From the very beginning, I found myself immersed in Saff’s world, feeling the weight of her desire for companionship and the humor that arises from her unusual circumstances. The author’s ability to balance laughter and heartfelt moments is commendable, as I often found myself both laughing out loud and holding my breath in anticipation.

One of the book’s strongest aspects is its ability to evoke genuine emotions, especially as the reader is led to focus on one blind date in particular, Cedric. Initially, we see Saff and Cedric in a tug of war before the storm settles. Knight’s writing effortlessly captures the highs and lows of love, leaving readers both laughing and crying as they become emotionally invested in Saff’s and Cedric's struggle to see where their chemistry leads them. The relatable nature of all of the characters and their experiences added an extra layer of depth to the narrative, making it easy to empathize with Saff’s journey.

“The Blind Date” successfully breaks away from clichés and offers a fresh perspective on romance fiction. Layla Knight’s unique approach to storytelling, infused with wit and charm, ensures that the book stands out among others in the genre. While there were a few moments that could have been further explored or developed, the overall reading experience was highly enjoyable.

All in all, “The Blind Date” is a captivating romance novel that entertains, amuses, and tugs at the heartstrings. Layla Knight has crafted a tale that effortlessly blends humor and emotion, leaving readers invested in Saff’s quest for love. With its seamless storytelling and relatable characters, this book is sure to delight fans of the genre.

Reviewed for BookSirens

[aneesa · Rating 3 out of 5]

– 2.5 stars 2.5🌶️

tropes:
➺ secret relationship
➺ forced proximity
➺ enemies to lovers/rivals to lovers (I'm not sure which describes it best)
➺ one pov (h)

I am very conflicted with this one… I genuinely don't know how to feel. I think the plot was very creative and cute, but the writing was not my taste. If I’m not mistaken (I sound so proper💀) the author started writing on Wattpad so that could be why. Don't get me wrong back in the day that was my thing but when I read published books I don't usually expect them to have the same tone. Also, I apologize for all the Cedric’s out there but the name didn't do it for me😭

Plot

Saffron (h) is about to be set up on ten blind dates per month (yes monthly) by her overbearing parents. The first nine were bizarre but the tenth happens to be with Cedric (H). It didn't go well. they essentially despise each other by the end of it and hope to never encounter each other again. Well, too bad for them because their parents keep pushing them together so they can see the light and fall in love. After like 120 pages they finally kiss and now they wanna 🤪 each other. Feeling that their parents' expectations would be too much they date in secret.


“Now, tell me, why are you suppressing your feelings for me, darling?”


✽ I have to admit I didn't really enjoy either character. There were some parts where I was like “omg she's so real for saying this” but others where I was confused as to how someone could be so dense/slow (no offense). Cedric on the other hand was just mean, repetitive, and overall, an insufferable man. I kept thinking, “you're saying this at your big age”. I think because they're both older (28 and 36) I held them to a higher standard. If the characters were in their mid-20s I wouldn't have been as vexed by their behaviour.

✽ I struggled to get into this book and it took me long to finish. A lot of the dialogue was overly detailed with no breaks in between. So, the writing wasn't what I had initially expected but once I got to their first kiss things definitely sped up.

✽ The banter… AHHHHH. Yes, absolutely yes! I think they had some really great moments and fed off of each other's energy which was cute.

✽ The spice was detailed😳 some of it was a little new to me as the mc’s are British but yeah expect detail.

✽ CILLIAN OMDS, oh my daysss!!!! I love this man (H’s younger brother). He's for sure my favourite and I would read 10 books about him☺️

✽ The parents were cuckoo and were seriously playing chess because the mc’s were always so oblivious. Very overbearing but I like the fact that they cared so much.


Conclusion

While I didn't like the mc’s themselves, the idea of it all was really well thought out and I would undoubtedly stick around for my main man Cilliian. If you never read Wattpad first of all, who are you, and second, you may not enjoy this so proceed with caution.

*ARC provided by the author Layla Knight in exchange for an honest review*

[Marni · Rating 2 out of 5]

I tried to read this, and just couldn't get into it. They kept getting pushed together despite the FMC having no interest. I love enemies to lovers, but I couldn't feel the tension building for the FMC. DNF