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WAGs #1
Good Boy
Hosting her brother’s wedding for an MVP guest list is the challenge of Jess Canning’s life. Already the family screw-up, she can’t afford to fail. And nobody - absolutely nobody! - can learn of the colossal mistake she made with the best man during a weak moment last spring. It was wrong, and there will not be a repeat. Absolutely not. Even if he is the sexiest thing on two legs.
Blake Riley sees the wedding as fate’s gift to him. Jess is the maid of honor, and he’s the best man? Let the games begin. So what if he’s facing a little (fine, a lot) of resistance? He just needs to convince the stubborn blonde that he’s really a good boy with a bad rap. Luckily, every professional hockey player knows that you’ve got to make an effort if you want to score.
But Jess has more pressing issues to deal with than sexy-times with a giant man-child. Such as: Will the ceremony start on time, even though someone got grandma drunk? Does glitter ever belong at a wedding? And is it wrong to murder the best man?
Caution: May cause accidental aspiration of tea or coffee. Do not read in a public place where loud laughter is inappropriate. Contains hot but hilarious hockey players, puppy cuddling and a snarky pair of underwear.
Blake Riley sees the wedding as fate’s gift to him. Jess is the maid of honor, and he’s the best man? Let the games begin. So what if he’s facing a little (fine, a lot) of resistance? He just needs to convince the stubborn blonde that he’s really a good boy with a bad rap. Luckily, every professional hockey player knows that you’ve got to make an effort if you want to score.
But Jess has more pressing issues to deal with than sexy-times with a giant man-child. Such as: Will the ceremony start on time, even though someone got grandma drunk? Does glitter ever belong at a wedding? And is it wrong to murder the best man?
Caution: May cause accidental aspiration of tea or coffee. Do not read in a public place where loud laughter is inappropriate. Contains hot but hilarious hockey players, puppy cuddling and a snarky pair of underwear.
269 pages, ebook
First published January 31, 2017
About the author
Sarina Bowen
97 books16.4k followers
Sarina Bowen is the twenty-four-time USA Today bestselling and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of three dozen books, including: the True North series, and Brooklyn Hockey. She's the co-author of Him/Us and the WAGs series with Elle Kennedy. She's the author of The Ivy Years series, and more!
Are you looking for a friends-to-lovers story or maybe even a secret baby book? You can read a list of Sarina's books broken out by trope and style.
Need to know what's coming next ? Get all the latest news on Sarina's website, and sign up for her newsletter so you don't miss a book or a deal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,771 reviews
February 7, 2017
4.5 stars!!
I’ve read several books by Sarina Bowen and several books by Elle Kennedy. Both authors write fantastic stories and I’ve loved everything I’ve read by them. Good Boy is the first book I’ve read by them both. I know, I know… I must get to Him/Us. Trust me! After reading this, I am desperate to read Jamie and Wesley’s full story! This is one of those books that had me smiling the entire time. With a hero like Blake, it’s almost impossible not to keep a huge grin on your face. He has that effect on people.
The story starts with Jess Canning, wedding planner and maid of honor for her brother Jamie’s wedding. Jamie is marrying Wesley, and Wesley’s best man is none other than Blake Riley. NHL player and the guy Jess hooked up with but would rather forget. Jess and Blake’s relationship is hilarious from the very start. You know they both like each other, but Blake is such a goof and Jess is resistant to being with him again in any capacity.
These two end up doing the friends-with-benefits thing, but it’s so obvious there is so much more there… they both just need to figure it out. Blake is one of those characters that might annoy certain readers, but I thought he was fantastic. I love guys like him. He has great family values, a heart of gold, and seriously made me laugh out loud so many times. Jess started out just okay for me, but honestly her experience with nursing school made me like her so much more. I developed a deep respect for her. As a nurse, I know how challenging it can be and kudos to anyone who puts their heart and soul into it like she did.
Overall, this story was fun, sexy and very entertaining. I didn’t want to put the book down and I had such a great time reading it. It wasn’t all laughs, there was just enough emotion to make me a happy reader. I look forward to the next book in this series, and can’t wait to go back and read Wes and Jamie’s story!
I’ve read several books by Sarina Bowen and several books by Elle Kennedy. Both authors write fantastic stories and I’ve loved everything I’ve read by them. Good Boy is the first book I’ve read by them both. I know, I know… I must get to Him/Us. Trust me! After reading this, I am desperate to read Jamie and Wesley’s full story! This is one of those books that had me smiling the entire time. With a hero like Blake, it’s almost impossible not to keep a huge grin on your face. He has that effect on people.
The story starts with Jess Canning, wedding planner and maid of honor for her brother Jamie’s wedding. Jamie is marrying Wesley, and Wesley’s best man is none other than Blake Riley. NHL player and the guy Jess hooked up with but would rather forget. Jess and Blake’s relationship is hilarious from the very start. You know they both like each other, but Blake is such a goof and Jess is resistant to being with him again in any capacity.
To look at us, you’d almost think that Jess didn’t like me. But this is just how we are together. Fiery, baby.When Jess moves to Toronto to start nursing school, she knows she has to buckle down and get serious. She’s 26 and has had a long battle trying to decide what to do with her life. She’s finally decided this is it. This is her calling. She’s glad to have Jamie and Wes near by, but she can’t have distractions while she’s in school. But with Jamie and Wes comes Blake Riley. The biggest distraction known to man. Blake and Jess drive each other crazy, but their chemistry is off the charts. I love their banter and seeing them together kept a huge crazy grin on my face.
These two end up doing the friends-with-benefits thing, but it’s so obvious there is so much more there… they both just need to figure it out. Blake is one of those characters that might annoy certain readers, but I thought he was fantastic. I love guys like him. He has great family values, a heart of gold, and seriously made me laugh out loud so many times. Jess started out just okay for me, but honestly her experience with nursing school made me like her so much more. I developed a deep respect for her. As a nurse, I know how challenging it can be and kudos to anyone who puts their heart and soul into it like she did.
Overall, this story was fun, sexy and very entertaining. I didn’t want to put the book down and I had such a great time reading it. It wasn’t all laughs, there was just enough emotion to make me a happy reader. I look forward to the next book in this series, and can’t wait to go back and read Wes and Jamie’s story!
February 6, 2017
OH. MY. GOODNESS!!! First off, I am buzzing right now. Absolutely buzzing over how sweet this story was. **shivers in joy** Really, this left me feeling close to euphoric. It was so good. An absolute pleasure to read from start to stop. Every single thing I love in romance was inside the pages...
Lovable characters.
Funny dialogue.
Low angst.
Sex.
Warm feels.
Great writing.
The progression between the hero and heroine was organic, so authentic, and believable. I absolutely LOVED it. I felt like I was able to live Jess and Blake's romance like it was my own. It had so much SWOON to it. Really, guys, I am still SWOONING so hard right now. I don't even know what else to say. I sort of want to write this review with three words...
READ THIS BOOK.
READ. THIS. BOOK.
READDDDDDDDD. THISSSSSSSS. BOOKKKKKKKK!
**Hahahahaha!*
It was kick ass. When we first meet Jess and Blake they've already hooked up. Jess is in the thick of organizing her brothers wedding, and Blake wants more of Jessica. He's been thinking about their night together since they had it, and he's determined to get more. However, Jessica is not feeling it. Her life's a mess and she just wants to get this wedding done, and done well, and break some news to her parents that she's been dreading.
But Blake--sweet, sweet, Blake--is not a man who takes no. He is so charming. So darn charming. I mean, I feel like I could nosedive right into my kindle and live my life with him without ever looking back. Ha! This guy just sweeps you off your feet with a grin and a line of dialogue. That's literally all it took for Blake inspired butterflies to take flight. A good guy, funny and sweet, boisterous, but not obnoxious, Blake Riley is enchanting. I ADORED him, adored the way he cared for his family, his friends, and his teammates. He's tenacious. When Blake wants something, he wants it. And damnnnnn... the guy melts your panties off. I'm tingling just thinking about him. I'm telling you book boyfriend status here!
Jess, though, she's a bit of a mess. She's got a good heart and I loved her desire to make her family proud. She's not in a place where she's looking for anything long term, relationship wise, but with Blake she just can't keep her hands to herself, and I don't blame her.
The back and forth between our main characters is yummy. Lip lickingly yummy. Blake and Jess have a chemistry that's undeniable, it sparks off the pages, and their solid friendship warms you up from the inside out. The conversations, the wit and humor, the sex and overall pacing of this 'hookup, to friends, to lovers' story is pure perfection. I loved it. LOVED IT SO MUCH.
Also, I must say, I was already a HUGE fan of both Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen. They are fantastic writers, and I'll read anything they put out, but this, together, Goodness! Explosively awesome.
Overall, I'm a smitten mess over Good Boy. Completely enamored. I'm sure you get that from this super long, rambling review. But I'm saying, YOU NEED THIS. YOU NEED IT NOW. Trust me, you'll be melting all over the place. I'm absolutely recommending it! A sweet, heartfelt and hotttttttttt romance that will swept you off your feet. 5 stars.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
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Lovable characters.
Funny dialogue.
Low angst.
Sex.
Warm feels.
Great writing.
The progression between the hero and heroine was organic, so authentic, and believable. I absolutely LOVED it. I felt like I was able to live Jess and Blake's romance like it was my own. It had so much SWOON to it. Really, guys, I am still SWOONING so hard right now. I don't even know what else to say. I sort of want to write this review with three words...
READ THIS BOOK.
READ. THIS. BOOK.
READDDDDDDDD. THISSSSSSSS. BOOKKKKKKKK!
**Hahahahaha!*
It was kick ass. When we first meet Jess and Blake they've already hooked up. Jess is in the thick of organizing her brothers wedding, and Blake wants more of Jessica. He's been thinking about their night together since they had it, and he's determined to get more. However, Jessica is not feeling it. Her life's a mess and she just wants to get this wedding done, and done well, and break some news to her parents that she's been dreading.
But Blake--sweet, sweet, Blake--is not a man who takes no. He is so charming. So darn charming. I mean, I feel like I could nosedive right into my kindle and live my life with him without ever looking back. Ha! This guy just sweeps you off your feet with a grin and a line of dialogue. That's literally all it took for Blake inspired butterflies to take flight. A good guy, funny and sweet, boisterous, but not obnoxious, Blake Riley is enchanting. I ADORED him, adored the way he cared for his family, his friends, and his teammates. He's tenacious. When Blake wants something, he wants it. And damnnnnn... the guy melts your panties off. I'm tingling just thinking about him. I'm telling you book boyfriend status here!
Jess, though, she's a bit of a mess. She's got a good heart and I loved her desire to make her family proud. She's not in a place where she's looking for anything long term, relationship wise, but with Blake she just can't keep her hands to herself, and I don't blame her.
The back and forth between our main characters is yummy. Lip lickingly yummy. Blake and Jess have a chemistry that's undeniable, it sparks off the pages, and their solid friendship warms you up from the inside out. The conversations, the wit and humor, the sex and overall pacing of this 'hookup, to friends, to lovers' story is pure perfection. I loved it. LOVED IT SO MUCH.
Also, I must say, I was already a HUGE fan of both Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen. They are fantastic writers, and I'll read anything they put out, but this, together, Goodness! Explosively awesome.
Overall, I'm a smitten mess over Good Boy. Completely enamored. I'm sure you get that from this super long, rambling review. But I'm saying, YOU NEED THIS. YOU NEED IT NOW. Trust me, you'll be melting all over the place. I'm absolutely recommending it! A sweet, heartfelt and hotttttttttt romance that will swept you off your feet. 5 stars.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
FOLLOW ME ON: FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | BLOG
February 7, 2017
*****4.5 CHEEZUS STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Authors}
It’s been a long time since anything felt so fucking good. I’m drowning in this girl and I don’t want to be saved.
I never read HIM and US because I do not read MM, but GOOD BOY is a spin-off of that series and I am happy to report that it is strictly MF. WESMIE are very much present in this story as secondary characters and I really liked them but the Hero and Heroine are Blake and Jess. Blake Riley is a highly successful NHL player for Toronto and Wes’ teammate. Jess Canning is Jamie’s older sister. The two met in the previous series and had one wild night of sex that neither can forget but Jess is very serious about changing her career path which involves enrolling in Nursing school, and that doesn’t allow her to have time for any romantic entanglements. Blake is completely infatuated with Jess and relentlessly pursues her.
I was having a little trouble getting into the story for about the first 30% but once Jess moves to Toronto for Nursing school and the two are spending more time together, I just couldn’t get enough! Jess is struggling with her courses and her snotty brainiac roommate only helps to lower her self-confidence even more. When she actually opens up to Blake after a little bit of coaxing on his part, I couldn’t help but fall madly in love with him. He always offered her encouragement and gave her ideas on how to make a connection with her roomie. On the surface, he comes off as being just a pretty face with the maturity level of a sixteen-year-old, but Blake is a highly intuitive and giving person who thinks of the people who he loves and cares for first before himself. And any man who loves dogs as much as he does definitely gets extra points in my book!
Jess and Blake end up having a sort of “friends with benefits” relationship at first, and it works for them in the beginning because neither are looking for anything serious. Jess is very dedicated to her studies and needs to keep a certain grade point average to hold on to her partial scholarship. Blake has only ever been in one serious relationship and his ex’s betrayal hurt him so badly that he’s afraid to let any woman get close to him like that again. As they spend more time together, the chemistry these two have is pretty hard to fight and eventually they realize that there’s more than just a physical connection between them.
Will Dani and Blake ever get their acts together or will they continue to be clueless to what has been developing between them?
Those of you who have a thing for romances with sexy and funny as hell Hockey players will definitely want to one click this one!! GOOD BOY releases on January 31st!!
AMAZON US: http://amzn.to/2klo92K
{ARC Generously Provided by Authors}
It’s been a long time since anything felt so fucking good. I’m drowning in this girl and I don’t want to be saved.
I never read HIM and US because I do not read MM, but GOOD BOY is a spin-off of that series and I am happy to report that it is strictly MF. WESMIE are very much present in this story as secondary characters and I really liked them but the Hero and Heroine are Blake and Jess. Blake Riley is a highly successful NHL player for Toronto and Wes’ teammate. Jess Canning is Jamie’s older sister. The two met in the previous series and had one wild night of sex that neither can forget but Jess is very serious about changing her career path which involves enrolling in Nursing school, and that doesn’t allow her to have time for any romantic entanglements. Blake is completely infatuated with Jess and relentlessly pursues her.
I was having a little trouble getting into the story for about the first 30% but once Jess moves to Toronto for Nursing school and the two are spending more time together, I just couldn’t get enough! Jess is struggling with her courses and her snotty brainiac roommate only helps to lower her self-confidence even more. When she actually opens up to Blake after a little bit of coaxing on his part, I couldn’t help but fall madly in love with him. He always offered her encouragement and gave her ideas on how to make a connection with her roomie. On the surface, he comes off as being just a pretty face with the maturity level of a sixteen-year-old, but Blake is a highly intuitive and giving person who thinks of the people who he loves and cares for first before himself. And any man who loves dogs as much as he does definitely gets extra points in my book!
Jess and Blake end up having a sort of “friends with benefits” relationship at first, and it works for them in the beginning because neither are looking for anything serious. Jess is very dedicated to her studies and needs to keep a certain grade point average to hold on to her partial scholarship. Blake has only ever been in one serious relationship and his ex’s betrayal hurt him so badly that he’s afraid to let any woman get close to him like that again. As they spend more time together, the chemistry these two have is pretty hard to fight and eventually they realize that there’s more than just a physical connection between them.
Will Dani and Blake ever get their acts together or will they continue to be clueless to what has been developing between them?
Those of you who have a thing for romances with sexy and funny as hell Hockey players will definitely want to one click this one!! GOOD BOY releases on January 31st!!
AMAZON US: http://amzn.to/2klo92K
April 14, 2017
It's LIVE!!! AMAZON
➦I don't know how these two authors do it! Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy just know how to write a good romance. A swoon worthy hero, a likable heroine, tons of fun banter and some angst thrown in to give you the feels -- it's all right here in this awesome first installment of the WAGs series.
➦If any of you have read the M/M romance Him by these two authors you have probably already met the heroine of Good Boy - Jamie's sister Jess. If you haven't, do not to worry! This book can totally be read as a standalone.
➦Blake, our hero, makes an appearance in Us, if the memory serves me right, and he's a bit of a goof ball. He comes off as a dumb jock from the first glance.
➦He plays professional hockey and is pretty awesome at it, uses awesome words like "cheezus", lacks a filter and is a constant flirt. I imagine you will either love him to bits or you will be annoyed with him. Either way, as you keep reading this book you will find that there's more to him that meets the eye.
➦Jess and Blake have crazy chemistry and whenever they do see each other, which is not often, then can't seem to help themselves and hook up. Jess keeps telling herself every time is going to be the last time. But Blake got super powers. or SOMETHING.
(DW, I just had to borrow this pic from your review of HIM. lol)
➦Anywhoooo, Blake knows how to use his hockey stick. You get it. ^.^ So then at one point he decides that enough is enough and now they are together as a couple.
➦Jess, however, does not approve. But no worries, Blake will wear her down. And not in an overpowering "I'm an asshole and you belong to me" kind of way. He'll take a different approach.
➦Definitely recommend this book to the lovers of romance with affectionate heroes. There are some sports elements to it since Blake is a hockey player but if you're not a fan of sports romances, do not worry - hockey certainly does not overpower the love in this novel.
➦I don't know how these two authors do it! Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy just know how to write a good romance. A swoon worthy hero, a likable heroine, tons of fun banter and some angst thrown in to give you the feels -- it's all right here in this awesome first installment of the WAGs series.
➦If any of you have read the M/M romance Him by these two authors you have probably already met the heroine of Good Boy - Jamie's sister Jess. If you haven't, do not to worry! This book can totally be read as a standalone.
➦Blake, our hero, makes an appearance in Us, if the memory serves me right, and he's a bit of a goof ball. He comes off as a dumb jock from the first glance.
➦He plays professional hockey and is pretty awesome at it, uses awesome words like "cheezus", lacks a filter and is a constant flirt. I imagine you will either love him to bits or you will be annoyed with him. Either way, as you keep reading this book you will find that there's more to him that meets the eye.
➦Jess and Blake have crazy chemistry and whenever they do see each other, which is not often, then can't seem to help themselves and hook up. Jess keeps telling herself every time is going to be the last time. But Blake got super powers. or SOMETHING.
(DW, I just had to borrow this pic from your review of HIM. lol)
➦Anywhoooo, Blake knows how to use his hockey stick. You get it. ^.^ So then at one point he decides that enough is enough and now they are together as a couple.
"We might've started out as fuck buddies, then took a trip into the friends-with-benefits zone, but she's mine now."
➦Jess, however, does not approve. But no worries, Blake will wear her down. And not in an overpowering "I'm an asshole and you belong to me" kind of way. He'll take a different approach.
➦Definitely recommend this book to the lovers of romance with affectionate heroes. There are some sports elements to it since Blake is a hockey player but if you're not a fan of sports romances, do not worry - hockey certainly does not overpower the love in this novel.
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February 2, 2021
Good Boy is book one in the WAGS series by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy. I just finished reading both Him and Us and my very good friend told me I needed to read this before I read Epic. I am so glad I listened to her. I smiled ALL THE WAY through this book. This is Blake and Jessie’s story who I already loved. And if you are huge fans of Wes and Jamie from the Him series like I am, then you don’t want to miss this either.
Blake Riley plays professional hockey in Toronto for the same team as Wes does from the Him series. He has adopted both Wes and Jamie as his best friends. Now they are getting married. Jamie’s sister Jess is both the wedding planner and the best woman for her brother. Blake and Jess first met when Jamie was sick a few months ago and he can’t wait to see her again. He has plans for Jess, even if she seems to be ignoring him. He’s a hockey player. He knows how to be persistent.
Jess Canning thought she wanted to be an event planner. But after planning her brother’s wedding, she knows this isn’t for her. This will be her one and only event. But she is determined to rock it. She has every detail planned down to the second. This will be the best wedding anyone’s ever seen. Blake seems determined to undermine her at every turn. He’s aggravating and loud and crazy and gorgeous and sexy and sweet. She is determined to keep her distance. That ship has sailed. There will be no more sexy times with Blake Riley. Famous last words, right?!
“I’m drowning in this girl and I don’t want to be saved.”
Blake is one of those characters that you can’t help but to love. He will do anything for anyone. He is hilarious and loud and full of life. But in this book, we learn more. Five years ago, he was badly hurt. It made him lose faith in love and relationships. He has a bad reputation for being a player but ever since he met Jess, he hasn’t been able to get her off his mind. Maybe they can just be friends with benefits because he definitely enjoyed her benefits. He doesn’t want a relationship. But the more time he spends with her, he finds himself wanting only her.
Jess is sure that she has now found what is her life’s calling, what she is truly supposed to do. There will be no time for anything else. But Blake keeps finding ways into her life and her resolve is weakening. Until one day she realizes that she has begun to care, more than she wants to. The more she gets to know him, the more she cares.
This book made me laugh so much. Blake is like a beam of sunshine. He’s amazing. But I also loved seeing that he has a serious side too. It’s just impossible not to love him. He and Jess really were amazing together. Then there is the fact that we get LOTS of Wes and Jamie in this book. And yes, there was a particular moment when my eyes once again watered, with joy and happiness. I am just so glad I went ahead and read this book. Now I am going back and reading Epic, from the Him series to conclude my Wes and Jamie experience.
“You make Blake Riley Smiley.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Blake Riley plays professional hockey in Toronto for the same team as Wes does from the Him series. He has adopted both Wes and Jamie as his best friends. Now they are getting married. Jamie’s sister Jess is both the wedding planner and the best woman for her brother. Blake and Jess first met when Jamie was sick a few months ago and he can’t wait to see her again. He has plans for Jess, even if she seems to be ignoring him. He’s a hockey player. He knows how to be persistent.
Jess Canning thought she wanted to be an event planner. But after planning her brother’s wedding, she knows this isn’t for her. This will be her one and only event. But she is determined to rock it. She has every detail planned down to the second. This will be the best wedding anyone’s ever seen. Blake seems determined to undermine her at every turn. He’s aggravating and loud and crazy and gorgeous and sexy and sweet. She is determined to keep her distance. That ship has sailed. There will be no more sexy times with Blake Riley. Famous last words, right?!
“I’m drowning in this girl and I don’t want to be saved.”
Blake is one of those characters that you can’t help but to love. He will do anything for anyone. He is hilarious and loud and full of life. But in this book, we learn more. Five years ago, he was badly hurt. It made him lose faith in love and relationships. He has a bad reputation for being a player but ever since he met Jess, he hasn’t been able to get her off his mind. Maybe they can just be friends with benefits because he definitely enjoyed her benefits. He doesn’t want a relationship. But the more time he spends with her, he finds himself wanting only her.
Jess is sure that she has now found what is her life’s calling, what she is truly supposed to do. There will be no time for anything else. But Blake keeps finding ways into her life and her resolve is weakening. Until one day she realizes that she has begun to care, more than she wants to. The more she gets to know him, the more she cares.
This book made me laugh so much. Blake is like a beam of sunshine. He’s amazing. But I also loved seeing that he has a serious side too. It’s just impossible not to love him. He and Jess really were amazing together. Then there is the fact that we get LOTS of Wes and Jamie in this book. And yes, there was a particular moment when my eyes once again watered, with joy and happiness. I am just so glad I went ahead and read this book. Now I am going back and reading Epic, from the Him series to conclude my Wes and Jamie experience.
“You make Blake Riley Smiley.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
October 19, 2020
5 Beyond Delicious Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
OMFG... This book...These characters...The Amazing Dialogue, Hysterical Fun, and out and out sexy rush of feels and thrills. This book had it all on Steroids! Thank you Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy for the best experience; a fast read, lovable characters who jump off the page and people you really wish you knew in Real life. If you'd seen me reading this in the one sitting I did...it would have been with a huge silly grin on my face between the laugh out loud moments.
Side Bar- Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy both have the immense talent of being able to create books which have the timing down to a tee...Each brought their unique styles and meshed them into this rush of humor with pathos, too...And that is their superpowers... they do it every time... whether individually or as this writing team.
This is a new series is a spin-off from the first collaboration...Him. Those who have read it will know of Blake and Jess as secondary characters. You do not have to read the other books...You will get the feel of all the characters in this book...But because the others were so good...You might end up reading them after :D
How do I describe this without taking all the fun away from reading it blind...
Well, here is the premise...Take one woman who is part of a family of overachievers...All of her siblings have made their marks. She, on the other hand, has had a very hard time finding herself. She feels her family thinks of her as a bit lost... and with all the college they paid for, then the extra funds for different career paths...She thinks they see her as their Loser Daughter and she is determined to finally make it on her own.
We meet her working to the breaking point while she is arranging her brother's wedding to Ryan Wesley, a pro hockey player. She is making sure every moment of this rehearsal dinner and wedding is timed to the minute and is hating every second of it. Because she thought doing weddings and events was going to be her creative career...making her finally a success in her family's eyes. Unfortunately, she has realized what her calling is...and dreading having to tell them, once again she is quitting and starting something new.
A Special Note:
The couple getting married is Jamie and Wes...This is the best...we see their relationship, enjoy them, experience the friendships, sibling relationships, and the team dynamic, too. Every part was perfect.
With all of this on her mind, the last thing she needs is to deal with is the best man/best friend of her brother and Wes... Blake Riley. Gah....he is her body's Kryptonite, making her mind turn to mush the minute he is in her sight. Every time she thinks back to their fateful hookup...she knows she will have to be stronger and fight off her lustful feelings for him.
But here is the thing about these two...Blake is a force like no other. He has the rep of not always being the Good Guy...but really he is...and his charm, way of saying things, and huge heart is something that just takes your breath away. You are either cracking up because it all sounds so silly/dumb/cute/hot and sexy...or because you see his determination in wanting only the best for his friends and Jess ...and your heart expands larger than you ever thought possible.
He is the type of guy who is repeatedly underestimated ...he is smarter than your average bear... more concerned about others and throws everyone off course because of his goofy, a bit over the top way of just saying whatever is on his mind. He comes from a loving family who he is crazy about ...and would do anything for...and has...with the detriment to himself.
Blake has decided Jess is his girl... She just hasn't figured it out yet...and the way he works his magic...is unique only to him...He will make many fight for him to be their book boyfriend...
I have it on great authority he has already been claimed....haha
Jess is someone we can all relate to... We all have had ideas and projects we thought were going to put us on our path only to fizzle out and not be what we intended...And with today's world being what it is with economics tough, times are tough for families and for the people who are trying to manage new careers. With Jess's specific family dynamic of siblings who have all made their marks, it is easy to understand why she feels so strained about her life. What she needs to learn and accept is that her family loves her; they may communicate in a way which sounds a bit skeptical... but really are meaning no harm...
Sound familiar...many of us have had the same issues and that is the genius of these two authors; they write real-life with a flair that can make us laugh, swoon, and understand all is not lost...There is always a way to figure things out.
In case you weren't quite sure, I loved this book. It takes everything about real life...spins it, turns it, and twirls it into a fully formed romance/life lesson of delight.
Great News, More is coming from this Duo.
Good Boy (WAGs #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Stay (WAGs, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
What's a girl to do...
She has her hands full with the Royalty of Hockey attending her brother's wedding...
It certainly doesn't help the Best Man was her Best Hook up...
Mr. Best Man has decided to take advantage of this second chance...
He will pull out all the stops to convince her...
He's not the player with the bad rap...
Instead he's the real deal...he's the...
Good Boy - January 31st 2017
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * * * Spoiler Free
OMFG... This book...These characters...The Amazing Dialogue, Hysterical Fun, and out and out sexy rush of feels and thrills. This book had it all on Steroids! Thank you Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy for the best experience; a fast read, lovable characters who jump off the page and people you really wish you knew in Real life. If you'd seen me reading this in the one sitting I did...it would have been with a huge silly grin on my face between the laugh out loud moments.
Side Bar- Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy both have the immense talent of being able to create books which have the timing down to a tee...Each brought their unique styles and meshed them into this rush of humor with pathos, too...And that is their superpowers... they do it every time... whether individually or as this writing team.
This is a new series is a spin-off from the first collaboration...Him. Those who have read it will know of Blake and Jess as secondary characters. You do not have to read the other books...You will get the feel of all the characters in this book...But because the others were so good...You might end up reading them after :D
How do I describe this without taking all the fun away from reading it blind...
Well, here is the premise...Take one woman who is part of a family of overachievers...All of her siblings have made their marks. She, on the other hand, has had a very hard time finding herself. She feels her family thinks of her as a bit lost... and with all the college they paid for, then the extra funds for different career paths...She thinks they see her as their Loser Daughter and she is determined to finally make it on her own.
We meet her working to the breaking point while she is arranging her brother's wedding to Ryan Wesley, a pro hockey player. She is making sure every moment of this rehearsal dinner and wedding is timed to the minute and is hating every second of it. Because she thought doing weddings and events was going to be her creative career...making her finally a success in her family's eyes. Unfortunately, she has realized what her calling is...and dreading having to tell them, once again she is quitting and starting something new.
A Special Note:
The couple getting married is Jamie and Wes...This is the best...we see their relationship, enjoy them, experience the friendships, sibling relationships, and the team dynamic, too. Every part was perfect.
With all of this on her mind, the last thing she needs is to deal with is the best man/best friend of her brother and Wes... Blake Riley. Gah....he is her body's Kryptonite, making her mind turn to mush the minute he is in her sight. Every time she thinks back to their fateful hookup...she knows she will have to be stronger and fight off her lustful feelings for him.
But here is the thing about these two...Blake is a force like no other. He has the rep of not always being the Good Guy...but really he is...and his charm, way of saying things, and huge heart is something that just takes your breath away. You are either cracking up because it all sounds so silly/dumb/cute/hot and sexy...or because you see his determination in wanting only the best for his friends and Jess ...and your heart expands larger than you ever thought possible.
He is the type of guy who is repeatedly underestimated ...he is smarter than your average bear... more concerned about others and throws everyone off course because of his goofy, a bit over the top way of just saying whatever is on his mind. He comes from a loving family who he is crazy about ...and would do anything for...and has...with the detriment to himself.
Blake has decided Jess is his girl... She just hasn't figured it out yet...and the way he works his magic...is unique only to him...He will make many fight for him to be their book boyfriend...
I have it on great authority he has already been claimed....haha
Jess is someone we can all relate to... We all have had ideas and projects we thought were going to put us on our path only to fizzle out and not be what we intended...And with today's world being what it is with economics tough, times are tough for families and for the people who are trying to manage new careers. With Jess's specific family dynamic of siblings who have all made their marks, it is easy to understand why she feels so strained about her life. What she needs to learn and accept is that her family loves her; they may communicate in a way which sounds a bit skeptical... but really are meaning no harm...
Sound familiar...many of us have had the same issues and that is the genius of these two authors; they write real-life with a flair that can make us laugh, swoon, and understand all is not lost...There is always a way to figure things out.
In case you weren't quite sure, I loved this book. It takes everything about real life...spins it, turns it, and twirls it into a fully formed romance/life lesson of delight.
Great News, More is coming from this Duo.
Good Boy (WAGs #1)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Stay (WAGs, #2)https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
What's a girl to do...
She has her hands full with the Royalty of Hockey attending her brother's wedding...
It certainly doesn't help the Best Man was her Best Hook up...
Mr. Best Man has decided to take advantage of this second chance...
He will pull out all the stops to convince her...
He's not the player with the bad rap...
Instead he's the real deal...he's the...
Good Boy - January 31st 2017
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
February 4, 2017
4 Stars!
Oh, how I loved this book! I admit I was a bit lost in the first few parts because the book mentioned secondary characters who happened to be from Him and I didn't read Him! Shame! Anyways, this was such an enjoyable, sexy friends-with-benefits read.
I loved Blake Riley and Jessica "Jess" Canning's story. I simply can't get enough of their sizzling chemistry and their romantic development which was never hurried nor dragged. I loved how they started out as acquaintances then progressed to f*ck buddies, then friends-with-benefits, then lovers. I ship this couple like nobody's business!
Yes, it may sound stereotypical but I did enjoy it. It helps when the authors behind the story really know how to tickle the readers' hearts and Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy were able to do it for me.
Every scene was cute and the sexy times were scorching. Jess's character development was also well-done. She started off as someone who's unsure of herself and everything that she does but later on, she became the best version of herself.
If you love sexy and light sports romance books with friends-with-benefits tropes, this is the best choice. I think it's not necessary to read Him to enjoy this novel, but it's still recommended. :) Now I will certainly read the upcoming books in this series!
Oh, how I loved this book! I admit I was a bit lost in the first few parts because the book mentioned secondary characters who happened to be from Him and I didn't read Him! Shame! Anyways, this was such an enjoyable, sexy friends-with-benefits read.
I loved Blake Riley and Jessica "Jess" Canning's story. I simply can't get enough of their sizzling chemistry and their romantic development which was never hurried nor dragged. I loved how they started out as acquaintances then progressed to f*ck buddies, then friends-with-benefits, then lovers. I ship this couple like nobody's business!
Yes, it may sound stereotypical but I did enjoy it. It helps when the authors behind the story really know how to tickle the readers' hearts and Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy were able to do it for me.
Every scene was cute and the sexy times were scorching. Jess's character development was also well-done. She started off as someone who's unsure of herself and everything that she does but later on, she became the best version of herself.
If you love sexy and light sports romance books with friends-with-benefits tropes, this is the best choice. I think it's not necessary to read Him to enjoy this novel, but it's still recommended. :) Now I will certainly read the upcoming books in this series!
February 7, 2017
4.5 STARS
To say that I've been eagerly anticipating this release from two of my favorite authors may be a miiiild understatement. But as excited as I was, I was also just a teeny bit worried too. See, I remember Blake from Us, and I was scared that a full book of his...well...personality...may be a bit much for me. But Cheezus! This man totally managed to grab me by the ovaries and the heart. Yes, he's a little rabid at times. Like ADD tween sort of rabid. But at the same time, it totally worked for him. The authors managed to pull off what none have done for me in the past. They took a character like him and made him completely endearing. Think young Ryan Reynolds movies sort of endearing.
You may remember Jess, Jamie's older sister, from US. I have to admit, she got off on the wrong foot with me in that book, but she totally won me over here. This is a girl that's having a hard time finding herself. Forever viewed as the flaky one by her overachieving family, she wants to prove them wrong. That for once she can pick a career, and stick to it. That's how she finds herself in nursing school in Canada, and once again facing the man she's gone through great lengths to avoid.
Blake is just as determined to get in her pants as she is to make sure he keeps his on. Let's just say Blakey has a thing for dick pics.
I loved the banter and back and forth between these two. Add in a few secondary characters to spice things up, and it was laugh out loud gold.
Blake was a total marshmallow. I loved how hard he cares for his friends. He may put on a good act with his breezy jokes and easy smiles, but this is a man with a heart of gold. He'll do anything for those he cares about and when he loves, he loves hard. There's a hidden depth to him beyond the pervy jokes and tween talk.
The story is written with a wonderful mix of humor and feeling. And man, did I love the humor
I also loved that it didn't follow the formulaic romance novel with the crazy misunderstandings in the end. It was perfectly paced and unfolded naturally.
If Good Boy is anything to judge by, we have ourselves a new series to obsess over. I'm already salivating for the next book. If a sexy, humorous contemporary romance with a hot hockey player with a heart of gold and a sassy heroine that's as snarky as she is smart is your thing, then this is an absolute must read!
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
Blake doesn’t do anything half-assed. He laughs the way he lives his life—loud and fierce and without inhibition. He fucks that way, too.
To say that I've been eagerly anticipating this release from two of my favorite authors may be a miiiild understatement. But as excited as I was, I was also just a teeny bit worried too. See, I remember Blake from Us, and I was scared that a full book of his...well...personality...may be a bit much for me. But Cheezus! This man totally managed to grab me by the ovaries and the heart. Yes, he's a little rabid at times. Like ADD tween sort of rabid. But at the same time, it totally worked for him. The authors managed to pull off what none have done for me in the past. They took a character like him and made him completely endearing. Think young Ryan Reynolds movies sort of endearing.
You may remember Jess, Jamie's older sister, from US. I have to admit, she got off on the wrong foot with me in that book, but she totally won me over here. This is a girl that's having a hard time finding herself. Forever viewed as the flaky one by her overachieving family, she wants to prove them wrong. That for once she can pick a career, and stick to it. That's how she finds herself in nursing school in Canada, and once again facing the man she's gone through great lengths to avoid.
Blake is just as determined to get in her pants as she is to make sure he keeps his on. Let's just say Blakey has a thing for dick pics.
I loved the banter and back and forth between these two. Add in a few secondary characters to spice things up, and it was laugh out loud gold.
“Dyson Hart.”
“Dyson, like the vacuum?”
“That’s right.” He gives me a sidelong glance. “Want a demonstration?”
“Dyson,” Jess snaps. “What did we talk about?”
Blake was a total marshmallow. I loved how hard he cares for his friends. He may put on a good act with his breezy jokes and easy smiles, but this is a man with a heart of gold. He'll do anything for those he cares about and when he loves, he loves hard. There's a hidden depth to him beyond the pervy jokes and tween talk.
The story is written with a wonderful mix of humor and feeling. And man, did I love the humor
I also loved that it didn't follow the formulaic romance novel with the crazy misunderstandings in the end. It was perfectly paced and unfolded naturally.
If Good Boy is anything to judge by, we have ourselves a new series to obsess over. I'm already salivating for the next book. If a sexy, humorous contemporary romance with a hot hockey player with a heart of gold and a sassy heroine that's as snarky as she is smart is your thing, then this is an absolute must read!
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
March 26, 2017
5 Cheezus stars!!!!
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Before starting this book, I was a wee bit wary. Even though I knew Blake and Jess' story would be fun, I had been quite annoyed by Blake's attitude in Us, always intruding in Wesmie's moments, and was afraid that he'd turn out to be too over-the-top, boisterous, loud and in-your-face.
Guess what? Blake Riley is exactly that, but somehow he became my favorite character in the series. Shocker, I know. I can't find a single defect in his character. Also because all that brash attitude is also coupled with so much adorableness and sweetness, it checks all the boxes for me.
Blake is hilarious, cute like a labrador under steroids, always active, always up to something, and with a dirty mind. I think what surprised me the most about him was his commitment to Jess. Not for one moment he doubted that he wanted her. He was the chaser in the relationship. Also, the angst was definitely low thanks to his attitude towards the whole situation. Jess was a hard nut to crack, but he never gave up and he never saw her rejections or her unwillingness to admit they were together as anything other than a challenge. And this kept the whole book's atmosphere upbeat and light.
Jess was a nice surprise too. I wasn't sure I'd like her 100% because I tend not to relate to flighty characters, but in this book we see her both struggling with her indecisive nature and finally taking her life in her own hands and trying to do something with it.
The banter between the two of them is priceless and just top-notch fun. Plus, I loved how humbled she was when, after denying her feelings for him, she found out exactly what a wonderful man Blake is. Their feelings grew steadily and not without caution, especially on her side (as I said, Blake is positive about wanting her, and not just in a biblical way. Let's admit it, behind the joker's facade, he's the nicest of nice guys, the type of man you introduce to the family and who hits it off with everyone after two seconds of meeting them).
The plot was quite simple, definitely character driven, but it was just perfect for the couple.
It starts with Jess being supremely annoyed by Blake (and even more at herself for having slept with him and finding him attractive), and with Blake seeing her refusal to admit her desires as a chance to tease her and entice her. Soon their relationship grows, but I wouldn't call it a friends to lovers. More like a friends with benefits to lovers. And I know that lots of you are not fans of this progression, but I can assure you the whole situation reads very little like a friends-with-benefits' one, due to Blake's conviction that they're actually together. Now, I'm not gonna spoiler, but I can tell you that something in his past happened and the way he dealt with it, it truly made the difference between me liking him and me falling in love with him head over heels. It was a revelation that I would had never expected, totally not-cliché, and it showed a mature, selfless, and caring part of him that you need to look beyond the surface to notice.
When Jess found out about it, things definitely changed between them, in the best of ways.
Last, but not least, all supporting characters were terrific, from the WAGS, to Wesmie (<3), to Blake's family. Now I can't wait for the next instalment in this series to come out, knowing that the Bowen-Kennedy duo is now one of my favorites on the market.
So, if you liked Him and Us, make sure to read Good Boy. You won't regret it. I would specifically advise you read it when you're in need of a pick-up read, a good laugh, or that little heart-tugging caused by utter male cuteness. You'll be rolling with laughter and swooning non-stop. Also, you'll probably start saying cute-weird things like Cheezus and Samesies and Nilly-Willy.
P.S.: I loved how he would make up new words and just roll with it. Everything's a thinkg if you make it a thing" Blake is the kind of unapologetic person that doesn't give a dime about what other people think of him and just shines like the crazy diamond he is.
Where to find me:
ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Before starting this book, I was a wee bit wary. Even though I knew Blake and Jess' story would be fun, I had been quite annoyed by Blake's attitude in Us, always intruding in Wesmie's moments, and was afraid that he'd turn out to be too over-the-top, boisterous, loud and in-your-face.
Guess what? Blake Riley is exactly that, but somehow he became my favorite character in the series. Shocker, I know. I can't find a single defect in his character. Also because all that brash attitude is also coupled with so much adorableness and sweetness, it checks all the boxes for me.
Blake is hilarious, cute like a labrador under steroids, always active, always up to something, and with a dirty mind. I think what surprised me the most about him was his commitment to Jess. Not for one moment he doubted that he wanted her. He was the chaser in the relationship. Also, the angst was definitely low thanks to his attitude towards the whole situation. Jess was a hard nut to crack, but he never gave up and he never saw her rejections or her unwillingness to admit they were together as anything other than a challenge. And this kept the whole book's atmosphere upbeat and light.
Jess was a nice surprise too. I wasn't sure I'd like her 100% because I tend not to relate to flighty characters, but in this book we see her both struggling with her indecisive nature and finally taking her life in her own hands and trying to do something with it.
The banter between the two of them is priceless and just top-notch fun. Plus, I loved how humbled she was when, after denying her feelings for him, she found out exactly what a wonderful man Blake is. Their feelings grew steadily and not without caution, especially on her side (as I said, Blake is positive about wanting her, and not just in a biblical way. Let's admit it, behind the joker's facade, he's the nicest of nice guys, the type of man you introduce to the family and who hits it off with everyone after two seconds of meeting them).
“You know,” he continues, “when all the babes would throw themselves at me nilly-willy.”
“Willy-nilly,” I correct.
“Huh?”
“It’s willy-nilly. The willy comes first.”
He winks at me. “I’ll let you have this one, but only because you’re right—the willy always does come first.”
The plot was quite simple, definitely character driven, but it was just perfect for the couple.
It starts with Jess being supremely annoyed by Blake (and even more at herself for having slept with him and finding him attractive), and with Blake seeing her refusal to admit her desires as a chance to tease her and entice her. Soon their relationship grows, but I wouldn't call it a friends to lovers. More like a friends with benefits to lovers. And I know that lots of you are not fans of this progression, but I can assure you the whole situation reads very little like a friends-with-benefits' one, due to Blake's conviction that they're actually together. Now, I'm not gonna spoiler, but I can tell you that something in his past happened and the way he dealt with it, it truly made the difference between me liking him and me falling in love with him head over heels. It was a revelation that I would had never expected, totally not-cliché, and it showed a mature, selfless, and caring part of him that you need to look beyond the surface to notice.
When Jess found out about it, things definitely changed between them, in the best of ways.
Last, but not least, all supporting characters were terrific, from the WAGS, to Wesmie (<3), to Blake's family. Now I can't wait for the next instalment in this series to come out, knowing that the Bowen-Kennedy duo is now one of my favorites on the market.
So, if you liked Him and Us, make sure to read Good Boy. You won't regret it. I would specifically advise you read it when you're in need of a pick-up read, a good laugh, or that little heart-tugging caused by utter male cuteness. You'll be rolling with laughter and swooning non-stop. Also, you'll probably start saying cute-weird things like Cheezus and Samesies and Nilly-Willy.
P.S.: I loved how he would make up new words and just roll with it. Everything's a thinkg if you make it a thing" Blake is the kind of unapologetic person that doesn't give a dime about what other people think of him and just shines like the crazy diamond he is.
Where to find me:
October 18, 2017
5 stars!
Review at Of Pens and Pages.
Good Boy is a fun and sexy sports romance filled with chemistry, hilarious banter, and lovable characters. We have a charming and irresistible hero who LOVES DOGS and a strong, admirable, and relatable heroine.
Event planner and maid-of-honor Jess Canning has succeeded in planning the wedding of the year for her brother Jamie Canning and his partner Ryan Wesley (Him series). But now that she’s finally proven to her family she can actually do something and not mess it up, she realizes event planning is not for her. Now she has to think of a way to break the news to her family and avoid the flirtations of the best man, Blake Riley, a man she was intimately acquainted with a while ago, all the while making sure the wedding and reception go perfectly well.
NHL player Blake Riley loves riling up his J-babe. After their mindblowing night a few months back, he wants to do it again but she’s done. She wants nothing to do with him and pretends that night never happened. When Jess moves to Toronto to go to nursing school, he sees it as his chance to make her realize she wants him as much as he wants her. Unfortunately for Blake, Jess has no time for distractions and wants to focus on her studies. But everyone knows how determined of a man is Blake Riley.
I love the progress of their love story. From a one night stand, friends with benefits to friends to lovers. Their relationship is so adorable but so hot at the same time! Does that make sense??? Jess spent most of the time dismissing/avoiding Blake’s advances after their one night stand, but Blake is persistent. He backed off a little when she asked him, but it was then they became closer, the relationship gaining more substance. It wasn’t just physical anymore but so much more.
Oh man, I love Blake. He's a hilarious, hot af family man and a great athlete. He's like an overexcited puppy who just wants to lick and love you all the time. Heh. But seriously, I have a perma-grin on my face right now. He's persistent but not annoying. It's hard to get annoyed at him because he's so sweet, funny, caring and cuddly and sexy and ugh I love him.
He may seem like a shallow easy-going fellow, but this man has so much layers. A past experience with an ex made him prefer encounters with no strings attached. Despite that experience, he's still considerate of that person and everyone else's feelings instead of his. It showed how selfless he is, how kind of a person he really is and ugh feels.
Blake's not the only character I love. Jessica is a relatable woman, very realistic, and I love that while she's a confident woman most of the time, she's still so unsure of herself. I'm all for the confident woman who's figured it all out, but it's so nice to read about a character like Jess. I could relate to her situation with the family—the black sheep in a family of achievers. It took her a while to discover what she wants, and now that she's finally found it, she's questioning herself if she can really do it, if she's not really a f*ck up like she thinks everyone thinks.
I want to cry because they're so cute and I'm so lonely and oh god where's my stuffed toy.
If you're looking for a book with hilarious banter, some drama perfectly added in the story, and great chemistry between the romantic leads, then you might just enjoy Good Boy as much as I did.
Tropes: Friends to Lovers, One Night Stand, Friends with Benefits, Brother's teammate, Sports—Hockey
POV: First Person, Dual POV
Standalone: Yes
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Review at Of Pens and Pages.
Good Boy is a fun and sexy sports romance filled with chemistry, hilarious banter, and lovable characters. We have a charming and irresistible hero who LOVES DOGS and a strong, admirable, and relatable heroine.
Event planner and maid-of-honor Jess Canning has succeeded in planning the wedding of the year for her brother Jamie Canning and his partner Ryan Wesley (Him series). But now that she’s finally proven to her family she can actually do something and not mess it up, she realizes event planning is not for her. Now she has to think of a way to break the news to her family and avoid the flirtations of the best man, Blake Riley, a man she was intimately acquainted with a while ago, all the while making sure the wedding and reception go perfectly well.
NHL player Blake Riley loves riling up his J-babe. After their mindblowing night a few months back, he wants to do it again but she’s done. She wants nothing to do with him and pretends that night never happened. When Jess moves to Toronto to go to nursing school, he sees it as his chance to make her realize she wants him as much as he wants her. Unfortunately for Blake, Jess has no time for distractions and wants to focus on her studies. But everyone knows how determined of a man is Blake Riley.
I love the progress of their love story. From a one night stand, friends with benefits to friends to lovers. Their relationship is so adorable but so hot at the same time! Does that make sense??? Jess spent most of the time dismissing/avoiding Blake’s advances after their one night stand, but Blake is persistent. He backed off a little when she asked him, but it was then they became closer, the relationship gaining more substance. It wasn’t just physical anymore but so much more.
Oh man, I love Blake. He's a hilarious, hot af family man and a great athlete. He's like an overexcited puppy who just wants to lick and love you all the time. Heh. But seriously, I have a perma-grin on my face right now. He's persistent but not annoying. It's hard to get annoyed at him because he's so sweet, funny, caring and cuddly and sexy and ugh I love him.
He laughs the way he lives his life—loud and fierce and without inhibition."
He may seem like a shallow easy-going fellow, but this man has so much layers. A past experience with an ex made him prefer encounters with no strings attached. Despite that experience, he's still considerate of that person and everyone else's feelings instead of his. It showed how selfless he is, how kind of a person he really is and ugh feels.
Blake's not the only character I love. Jessica is a relatable woman, very realistic, and I love that while she's a confident woman most of the time, she's still so unsure of herself. I'm all for the confident woman who's figured it all out, but it's so nice to read about a character like Jess. I could relate to her situation with the family—the black sheep in a family of achievers. It took her a while to discover what she wants, and now that she's finally found it, she's questioning herself if she can really do it, if she's not really a f*ck up like she thinks everyone thinks.
I want to cry because they're so cute and I'm so lonely and oh god where's my stuffed toy.
If you're looking for a book with hilarious banter, some drama perfectly added in the story, and great chemistry between the romantic leads, then you might just enjoy Good Boy as much as I did.
Tropes: Friends to Lovers, One Night Stand, Friends with Benefits, Brother's teammate, Sports—Hockey
POV: First Person, Dual POV
Standalone: Yes
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
February 7, 2017
NOW LIVE!
*Amazon*Barnes & Noble*Kobo*
One of the best things about Elle Kenendy and Sarina Bowen writing together is that they always end up making their books fun. There's just a vibe that you get from their books that will make you smile while reading them, and I love it. In Good Boy we get to see more of Blake Riley while he uses he tries to charm Jess Canning back in his bed.
Jess is tired of being the family screw up, though, and she's not willing to make yet another mistake by sleeping with the best man at her brothers wedding. But when her life takes a change and she ends up living in the same area as Blake all bets are off and Blake is even more determined to get Jess to admit she has feelings for him.
Honestly, Blake took some time to get used to and he was a very loud person to read about. His sense of humor was a tad immature, and overall his character was just obnoxious. But after a few chapters I got used to his boisterous spirit and then I ended up liking him for his personality. Even though it wasn't something I was attracted to from the beginning after I got to learn more about Blake I started to think his craziness was actually adorable.
I enjoyed getting to see him pursue Jess with all the confidence in the world. I think that's why I eventually started to like his character, because he never apologized for being obnoxious. He had all the confidence in the world and you either take his loudness or you leave it. He was very different from Jess and I loved that their conflicts are what actually brought them together and it was fun to see these two very different characters actually work as a couple.
Bottom line, read this book if you want to start the year off with a kickass story. This series is a spin off from Him and Us but can easily be read without reading those first. But if you've already read them you will be happy to know that you get a good amount of Wesmie to catch up on in this book.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
*Amazon*Barnes & Noble*Kobo*
One of the best things about Elle Kenendy and Sarina Bowen writing together is that they always end up making their books fun. There's just a vibe that you get from their books that will make you smile while reading them, and I love it. In Good Boy we get to see more of Blake Riley while he uses he tries to charm Jess Canning back in his bed.
Jess is tired of being the family screw up, though, and she's not willing to make yet another mistake by sleeping with the best man at her brothers wedding. But when her life takes a change and she ends up living in the same area as Blake all bets are off and Blake is even more determined to get Jess to admit she has feelings for him.
Honestly, Blake took some time to get used to and he was a very loud person to read about. His sense of humor was a tad immature, and overall his character was just obnoxious. But after a few chapters I got used to his boisterous spirit and then I ended up liking him for his personality. Even though it wasn't something I was attracted to from the beginning after I got to learn more about Blake I started to think his craziness was actually adorable.
I enjoyed getting to see him pursue Jess with all the confidence in the world. I think that's why I eventually started to like his character, because he never apologized for being obnoxious. He had all the confidence in the world and you either take his loudness or you leave it. He was very different from Jess and I loved that their conflicts are what actually brought them together and it was fun to see these two very different characters actually work as a couple.
Bottom line, read this book if you want to start the year off with a kickass story. This series is a spin off from Him and Us but can easily be read without reading those first. But if you've already read them you will be happy to know that you get a good amount of Wesmie to catch up on in this book.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2017
*3.5 stars*
I'm a HUGE fan of Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen, so I waited in line at RT to get this signed by the fabulous Sarina Bowen herself.
Was it worth it? YES! But was it even close to my favorite from these authors? I'd have to say no.
The humor of the MC didn't *quite* land for me, but I was smiling the whole time I read it. It's a fun book, and I'm gaga for a hockey player, but I wasn't blown away, away. Worth the money and the wait for a signed paperback, for sure, but I'll still always think of my fave, Him, as the standard.
I'm a HUGE fan of Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen, so I waited in line at RT to get this signed by the fabulous Sarina Bowen herself.
Was it worth it? YES! But was it even close to my favorite from these authors? I'd have to say no.
The humor of the MC didn't *quite* land for me, but I was smiling the whole time I read it. It's a fun book, and I'm gaga for a hockey player, but I wasn't blown away, away. Worth the money and the wait for a signed paperback, for sure, but I'll still always think of my fave, Him, as the standard.
February 10, 2017
NOW LIVE!: http://amzn.to/2ko9V49
4.5 stars!!!
Receiving this arc was like getting a Christmas present! It came at the perfect time during stressful holiday season.
Good Boy is a spin off of the Him series, which is two MM books before this one, BUT this can be read as a standalone and is MF. Jess Canning is planning her brother's wedding to his boyfriend and it has to be perfect. Too many times she's let her parents and family down with her restless spirit. The only thing that can get in the way of that is Blake, friend of the groom's and a mistake Jess won't make again.
Blake is the guy no one takes seriously, always happy and a fun guy to be around. And the more time he spends with Jess, the more and more he likes her and wants to see her. And little by little Blake begins to grow on Jess.
First thing I want to say is BLAKE IS MINE! That's right ladies (and possibly gents), he is mine!!!! I called it!!! LOL
Ever since these characters were introduced I was excited to read their story so this book was a mother-frickin delight! I love that we got a back story of what happened when Jamie was sick, we got to see the wedding, and then a beautiful romance between two unlikely people.
One of my favorite parts about this book was the layers we saw behind both characters, this wasn't just another romance. We got character development (and for those of you who know me well, I drool over character development). There's more to Jess and Blake than meets the eye, and in the two of them discovering that about each other, we got a beautiful romance.
Full of laughter, feels and some seriously hot stuff, Good Boy is the book you need to escape reality and have a great time!
ARC provided by authors in exchange for an honest review
4.5 stars!!!
Receiving this arc was like getting a Christmas present! It came at the perfect time during stressful holiday season.
Good Boy is a spin off of the Him series, which is two MM books before this one, BUT this can be read as a standalone and is MF. Jess Canning is planning her brother's wedding to his boyfriend and it has to be perfect. Too many times she's let her parents and family down with her restless spirit. The only thing that can get in the way of that is Blake, friend of the groom's and a mistake Jess won't make again.
Blake is the guy no one takes seriously, always happy and a fun guy to be around. And the more time he spends with Jess, the more and more he likes her and wants to see her. And little by little Blake begins to grow on Jess.
First thing I want to say is BLAKE IS MINE! That's right ladies (and possibly gents), he is mine!!!! I called it!!! LOL
Ever since these characters were introduced I was excited to read their story so this book was a mother-frickin delight! I love that we got a back story of what happened when Jamie was sick, we got to see the wedding, and then a beautiful romance between two unlikely people.
One of my favorite parts about this book was the layers we saw behind both characters, this wasn't just another romance. We got character development (and for those of you who know me well, I drool over character development). There's more to Jess and Blake than meets the eye, and in the two of them discovering that about each other, we got a beautiful romance.
Full of laughter, feels and some seriously hot stuff, Good Boy is the book you need to escape reality and have a great time!
ARC provided by authors in exchange for an honest review
August 24, 2022
feed the kitty (referring to sex)
jay babe
baby cakes
everything looks terrif
no problemo
same diff
honey buns
hot stuff
chicks
shit balls
wee bit buzzed
jay bomb
bro
huge tits
hubby
we don't have to bone tonight, I just want another kiss.
no presh (instead of no pressure)
I just want to press my face between her tits and make motor boat noises.
She's giving him a bj. She says: I can't get much of it. He says: I know babe, nobody can.
Her boobs jiggle when she laughs.
Is my junk cool or what?
Your VA-JAY-JAY is mine.
The Blake Snake (is how he referred to his penis)
All of these are quoted from this book. I'ts pretty hard to enjoy this..
I just want to know what these authors do with the time they save from writing no presh instead of no pressure.
February 7, 2017
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 Cheezus Stars ���⭐⭐⭐
You know what I love more than a hot hockey player? A FUNNY hot hockey player. Blake will have you swooning one minute, then trying your best not to laugh out loud at his crazy antics at the next. Mix in a feisty heroine who their banter is one argument away from foreplay, and you’ve got yourself an entertaining read.
For those of you who read “Him, & Us”, then you’re familiar with Wes and Jamie’s relationship and know they’re getting married. Having not read those, I was introduced this magnetic couple who was preparing to spend the rest of their lives together. Being the older sister of one of grooms, Jess is about to make her brother’s dream come true by giving him an unforgettable wedding.
Making sure everything goes according to plan, Jess is determined to make her family proud of her for pulling off something they didn’t think she could’ve done. But when Blake Riley shows up, her thoughts on remaining calm goes through the window because her former one night stand, it’s hell bent on having a repeat. And Jess doesn’t do repeats. Or so she thinks.
Blake Riley is something else. There’s no other way to describe that man. Sure he’s hot, rich, and God’s gift to women in the sheets but his personality is one of a kind. Bordering on whether he needs permanent medicine and loving his humor, Blake is one of those guys that no matter how hard you try, you just can’t seem to forget. Whether it’s his sassy humor, his fierce loyalty, or knowing that at the end of a really hard day, you can just sit back and talk to him about anything, Blake is the guy you want. And you know what Blake wants? Another shot at being with Jess again. And ladies let me tell you, that man doesn’t give up.
“I’m glad we’re dating now. Cue her arguments in 3….2….1.
“We’re not dating”.
I grin at the ceiling. “Sure we are. We did it on my bed.”I shrug. “That means we’re dating”.
“That’s not how it works!”.
One thing I love in my heroines is knowing that they have a back bone and Jess certainly had one in this story. I will admit that I wasn’t so sure about her character in the beginning but as the story flowed, we saw her true colors and what she wanted out of her life. She stood up for herself and when something wasn’t working for her, she made the decision on her own to do something about it.
I loved the back and forth banter between these two. It was hilarious, sexy, with very little drama and it was just the type of read I was looking for. If you love a hot funny hockey player, then this one is for you.
August 22, 2021
I LOVED the audio...
I know I shouldn't, but I'm giving it another half star - 4.5 stars for the re-read.
I just read my previous review and I'm actually shocked that I didn't like the first half of Good Boy. This could have a wee bit to do with the fact that I know both Jess and Blake really well now. With a re-read, the little annoying stuff in the first half was understandable now that I know the issues they went through. My tolerance was a lot higher this time around.
I will definitely be revisiting this series again soon now that I've enjoyed the first WAGs audiobook.
**********
It’s amazing what you will do for your family
I am the first person to admit that families can be a pain in the butt. My Mum and Dad love me and think I’m the best thing since sliced bread but they are completely biased. I care about their opinions and thoughts though so I try my hardest to make them proud of me. Deep down, I know they will always love me but I do worry about letting them down. In Good Boy both Jess and Blake have their own family “issues”.
It took a little while for me to warm up to the heroine. Jess came across as a little bit flighty and silly. We meet Jess at a crossroads in her life where the career she THOUGHT she wanted…she hated. Jess dreads explaining to her family that the education they paid for ended up being a complete waste of money.
As a parent myself, I can see the problem from both sides. Money doesn’t grow on trees, so the fact that she decides AFTER she finished her degree and starts working would send me a little bonkers. BUT…I also want my kids to be happy. If I can help in any way, I will. In the end, Jess realises that her family loves her unconditionally and will help in any way they can.
Blake has kept a secret from his family for five years. This secret protected someone who in my opinion didn't deserve it. What this person did, destroyed Blake’s faith in relationships and had him shying away from trusting women. By not telling his family, Blake took away their opportunity to stand up for him and make an informed decision. He made his life harder unnecessarily. It’s a good thing Jess comes into his life and he finally gets his head straight.
To be honest, I struggled with the beginning of Good Boy. Jess was a little bit too snarky towards Blake and Blake was a little too ridiculous towards Jess. I honestly couldn’t see how this couple could fall in love. Neither of them seemed to take life seriously. There is obvious chemistry between them but it just seemed to be a physical attraction.
Then we get to see below the surface…
It’s amazing what can happen when you look past the smile, snark and goofy talk. Maybe the goofball has a serious side and the flighty one might just surprise herself with what she observes.
Seriously, once I got past the halfway mark it all just clicked into place for me. There was so much more to Blake than I expected. He's generous, sweet and thoughtful. Yes, he’s still a goofball but Blake has feelings too. He eventually realises it wasn’t just her hot looks that attracted him, Blake wants it all.
Jess really improved for me too once she realised that not everyone was judging her like she was a loser because of her lack of career. Hard work and determination help her get through her studies and keep focused. The more time Jess spends with Blake she realises she had judged him wrong. Blake treated her like she was special and important to him.
The first half of Good Boy was OK and the second half was great. Enjoyed catching up with Jamie and Wes and couldn’t help but smile at Blake’s Mama. I enjoyed the storyline, meeting new characters and seeing the chemistry between Jess and Blake change from physical satisfaction to emotional as well.
I think it would be cool to see more of these hockey guys get a HEA…but not Will O’Connor unless the authors can convert him from major douchewaffle to a superhero ;-)
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
I know I shouldn't, but I'm giving it another half star - 4.5 stars for the re-read.
I just read my previous review and I'm actually shocked that I didn't like the first half of Good Boy. This could have a wee bit to do with the fact that I know both Jess and Blake really well now. With a re-read, the little annoying stuff in the first half was understandable now that I know the issues they went through. My tolerance was a lot higher this time around.
I will definitely be revisiting this series again soon now that I've enjoyed the first WAGs audiobook.
**********
It’s amazing what you will do for your family
I am the first person to admit that families can be a pain in the butt. My Mum and Dad love me and think I’m the best thing since sliced bread but they are completely biased. I care about their opinions and thoughts though so I try my hardest to make them proud of me. Deep down, I know they will always love me but I do worry about letting them down. In Good Boy both Jess and Blake have their own family “issues”.
It took a little while for me to warm up to the heroine. Jess came across as a little bit flighty and silly. We meet Jess at a crossroads in her life where the career she THOUGHT she wanted…she hated. Jess dreads explaining to her family that the education they paid for ended up being a complete waste of money.
As a parent myself, I can see the problem from both sides. Money doesn’t grow on trees, so the fact that she decides AFTER she finished her degree and starts working would send me a little bonkers. BUT…I also want my kids to be happy. If I can help in any way, I will. In the end, Jess realises that her family loves her unconditionally and will help in any way they can.
Blake has kept a secret from his family for five years. This secret protected someone who in my opinion didn't deserve it. What this person did, destroyed Blake’s faith in relationships and had him shying away from trusting women. By not telling his family, Blake took away their opportunity to stand up for him and make an informed decision. He made his life harder unnecessarily. It’s a good thing Jess comes into his life and he finally gets his head straight.
To be honest, I struggled with the beginning of Good Boy. Jess was a little bit too snarky towards Blake and Blake was a little too ridiculous towards Jess. I honestly couldn’t see how this couple could fall in love. Neither of them seemed to take life seriously. There is obvious chemistry between them but it just seemed to be a physical attraction.
Then we get to see below the surface…
It’s amazing what can happen when you look past the smile, snark and goofy talk. Maybe the goofball has a serious side and the flighty one might just surprise herself with what she observes.
Seriously, once I got past the halfway mark it all just clicked into place for me. There was so much more to Blake than I expected. He's generous, sweet and thoughtful. Yes, he’s still a goofball but Blake has feelings too. He eventually realises it wasn’t just her hot looks that attracted him, Blake wants it all.
Jess really improved for me too once she realised that not everyone was judging her like she was a loser because of her lack of career. Hard work and determination help her get through her studies and keep focused. The more time Jess spends with Blake she realises she had judged him wrong. Blake treated her like she was special and important to him.
The first half of Good Boy was OK and the second half was great. Enjoyed catching up with Jamie and Wes and couldn’t help but smile at Blake’s Mama. I enjoyed the storyline, meeting new characters and seeing the chemistry between Jess and Blake change from physical satisfaction to emotional as well.
I think it would be cool to see more of these hockey guys get a HEA…but not Will O’Connor unless the authors can convert him from major douchewaffle to a superhero ;-)
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
January 20, 2017
5 GOOFBALL STARS
Review @ Vanilla & Spice Books
I take a step closer and touch my lips to hers "You make Blake Riley Smiley."
Do you remember Blake Riley? Wes' and Jamie's loud and annoying neighbor who is also Wes' teammate? If you have read the HIM series you also know that Blake had a one-night-stand with Jamie's sister Jess and Blake really won't say no to repeats. In fact, he tries to get her to agree to another couple of rounds, no matter how vehemently Jess denies that she wants it too. In fact, Blake gets giddy when the girl he has the hots for gets her panties in a twist for him.
Jess remembers the night with Blake well. She still gets all tingly when she thinks about it. Or even only sees the giant hunk. Secretly she thinks he is a beautiful specimen but she can't get distracted.
Why does such an annoying human have to be so freaking attractive? Bright green eyes look back at me, framed by thick lashes. They’re set into a ruggedly handsome face, which is riding atop a dreamboat body. For a split second, I can’t think of a single reason why I don’t like this man.
Jess feels like a screw-up for changing careers like her underwear but finally she has found the one thing she is convinced that is her calling. She wants to become a nurse and for that she has to go to Toronto. Life has a way of throwing a wrench into the works because temptation personified lives there too!
I can’t give them one more exhibit of my lack of judgment, not when I’m about to announce yet another career change. I’m already the flighty kid. The screw-up. And I absolutely put the screw in screw-up when I let Blake get me out of my clothes.
Let me start with Jess. I loved her in Jamie's and Wes' books - she is closest to Jamie and supports him whenever he needs it. It was a little harder to love her at the beginning of her books. She is so determined to not stray from her goal that she sometimes is abrasive. I totally understood her reasoning yet I was holding out on her. Fortunately she came around quickly and I loved how loyal, sweet, honest and protective she was, once she figured things out and let herself have a little bit fun.
Blake...OMG where to start. Is he still loud, brash, obnoxious in this book? Yes, yes and triple-yes. He is also oddly endearing, adorable, sweet and smart behind all the laughter and easygoing exterior. Blake surprised the hell out of me - leave it to this author duo to turn an annoying man-child into a lovable, amazing guy with actual depth. Being serious isn't in his nature. he rather enjoys every minute of his life but he can be so mature when the situation calls for it. I adored him from beginning to end.
“Hey. J-Babe?”
“Mmm?”
I keep busy so I don’t have to look at him. But he waits me out.
“Jess?” he says softly.
Giving in, I turn my chin.
“You’re the coolest girl I know.” His eyes light up when he smiles at me.
Ultimately I loved Jess and Blake together. I loved their connection and how Jess grew to love him and his quirks. How he wasn't offended whenever Jess gave him the cold shoulder, he let it roll off of him and just put even more effort into his courting. Those of you who love Wes and Jamie as much as I do be at ease. We get LOTS of appearances. Yay!
This was everything I expected and yet a surprise from this author duo. Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy individually are amazing authors and together they create magic. You can read in every word how well they click. There were multiple times I laughed out loud, I'll add some of my favorite quotes at the end of my review. Now the wait for "Stay" begins.
His expression brightens. “Are we role-playing? I love role-playing.”
Of course he does.
“Maybe another time. I need to brush up on my Elizabethan English first.”
He waves a hand. “Naah, they still use the same words for fucking. Like in Romeo and Juliet, when she’s all, a blowjob by any other name will still make you come.”
Shit. Once upon a time we were briefly friends with benefits. Now we’re just friends at a benefit.
February 6, 2017
Caution: May cause accidental aspiration of tea or coffee. Do not read in a public place where loud laughter is inappropriate. Contains hot but hilarious hockey players, puppy cuddling and a snarky pair of underwear.
GOOD BOY: Even though this is the first book within the series here’s some background information from where it all began. If you’ve read HIM & US you would’ve been encountered to these characters then, you’ll know the love story between Wes and Jamie.
Good Boy surrounds Jamie’s sister Jess and Wes’s hockey teammate Blake.
Blake is the team mate who always popped up at the most unexpected times, always outstayed his welcome and was annoying at times (this has not changed one iota) And Jess Canning is Jamie’s sister.Top all that off, you’ll have an insight into the history of Jess and Blake, where they hooked up whilst they were caring for Jamie when he was ill. It’s during this time where the idea that she should be a nurse came into it.
But also keep in mind that Good Boy is a complete standalone.
Twenty-six year old Jess Canning is in charge of hosting her brothers big day to Wes, the wedding of the century has fallen on her shoulders and she needs it to be perfect. Tired of being the family screw up and jumping from career choice to career choice, she’s worried how her family are going to take her new adventure when she comes clean that party planning isn't for her any more. But she knows deep down this is her fit. She just needs to convince her family of this.
As if the wedding weren't stressful enough, I have to cope with the loudest, brashest, most annoying man I've ever met in my life.
One night of unbridled passion with Blake who happens to be the best man has her not wanting to travel down that road again due to their geographical difference she’s kept him at arms length. But that all flies out the window when her new adventure places her right under his nose, same time zone, same town, Toronto.
He's not my type. If anything, he's the opposite of my type. He's big and brash and ... a jock. What do I need with a jock? I want someone who's deep and artsy and who I can have a serious conversation with, not someone who says things like 'Cheezus' and 'samesies' and all the other frat-boy nonsense that leaves Blake Riley's mouth
In the beginning it took me a while to gel with Blake's character, often obnoxious, his worded sentences that were out of this world and made up words that had me wondering what age this guy actually was, but then I started to thaw and grew to love this big giant of a guy, he had many layers that had to be peeled away until we got to see the real Blake.
I really didn't think these two would work, him being a famous hockey player and her being a first year struggling nurse, he's loud and obnoxious and she's sweet and quiet, but for some odd reason these two were made for each other.
With a groan, he claims my mouth, his tongue parting my lips immediately. I moan into his mouth as a big hand grabs my bottom, pulling me into him. And there is nothing sexier than the Great wall of Blake Riley. The front of me is flush against his hard body. The feel of him is addictive.
One made of up word I am sooooo pinching of Blake's is Cheezus!!
GOOD BOY: Has a witty entertaining storyline, hilarious dialogue, and two endearing characters with off the charts chemistry! So if you're after a short, sweet, sexy, witty read this is definitely the book for you.
February 7, 2017
Title: Good Boy
Series: WAGs (Wives and Girlfriends)#1
Author: Sarina Bowen & Elle Kennedy
Release date: January 31, 2017
Cliffhanger: No
HEA
So. I have a confession. I may be one of the last people in the book world to not have read the Him series. When I first saw that this was a spin-off with connected characters I hesitated, because I wasn't sure if reading the other two books would be helpful to enjoy this as I should. If you have that same thought, let me assure you, this is a complete standalone. You do not need to have been introduced to any of these characters before. But for those of you who have read Him/Us and aren't aware, this is book is about Jamie's sister Jess and Wes' teammate Blake.
The first thought that comes to mind about this story is that you need to be prepared to laugh. Blake is an in-your-face horndog. He's completely crazy, and stubborn as hell too. You will be hard pressed to get this man to take much in life seriously. Most of the time when he opens his mouth, out comes some insanely ridiculous statement...yet you find yourself unwillingly laughing. He has this charm about him that doesn't let you look away. I'm not going to lie, I rolled my eyes a few times because he is so...so....BLAKE. But there is no other guy like him, of that I can guarantee. And he's kind of like a big teddy bear who's protective of everyone around him. It's pretty hard to dislike him.
He laughs the way he lives his life— loud and fierce and without inhibition. He fucks that way, too.
Jess had a one-night stand with Blake that no one knows about. He's her
Blake is determined for some more lighthearted fun with his friend's sexy sister. Nothing serious, because he's been burned and wounded by his ex and he's all about casual now. What would a romp or two (or three) hurt? Her attempts to shoot him down only fan the flames of his attraction.
“I said go away,” she growls. I hide a smile. Now this is what gets me going— a woman who doesn’t give a shit that I’m Blake Riley the hockey player. A woman who’d rather shoo me away than impress me. It’s… refreshing.
This book was very low on the angst and high on the fun. There wasn't a whole lot of drama between them and I have to say I really enjoyed the lightness of this one. Jess struggled with getting involved with Blake while she was trying to prove herself to her family. And Blake had to work through the betrayal from his ex and learn to trust someone else again with his heart. But once he realized that his feelings ran deeper than some very satisfying sexy times, he wasn't going anywhere. He was in it for the long haul.
“I’m what?” I ask thickly. She squeezes my hand. “You’re the best.” Her praise makes my heart soar. Damn it. I���ve got it bad. I’m so fucking fucked.
This was an easy, fast paced read with plenty of laughs. I highly enjoyed meeting this group of characters and will be continuing the series without a doubt. Book two in the WAGs series, Stay is Eriksson's book and is scheduled for release in June.
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February 6, 2017
3.5 Stars
Loved Mama Riley :D
Loved Mama Riley :D
April 5, 2020
First things first, I just loved being in Wes and Jamie's world again. I loved all of their scenes, there were actually more than I expected. Their wedding was really sweet, I only wish I could read about it from their POV. A novella maybe. Just saying.
As for the rest of the story, I have to say that I really enjoyed it. It was super easy to get into as I already knew the main characters pretty well.
When I met Blake in Us, I thought he was fun but also a bit annoying. Especially when dropping by unannounced. I started liking him more after I re-read Us and even more when I read Epic. And now that I've read this book, I can safely say that I absolutely love him.
He is such a fun, positive and uplifting person. He is also really sweet, kind, endearingly clueless sometimes and an amazing friend. I so enjoyed reading his POV. Not only was it hilarious, but it was also emotional at times and it just made me love him more.
I liked Jess well enough, although she was so stressed most of the time that she was starting to stress me out. I enjoyed reading about her relationship with Blake. The banter between them was fantastic.
The writing style was great. No idea where the authors come up with those dialogues, but they definitely made me chuckle more than once. I'm glad I picked this up.
As for the rest of the story, I have to say that I really enjoyed it. It was super easy to get into as I already knew the main characters pretty well.
When I met Blake in Us, I thought he was fun but also a bit annoying. Especially when dropping by unannounced. I started liking him more after I re-read Us and even more when I read Epic. And now that I've read this book, I can safely say that I absolutely love him.
He is such a fun, positive and uplifting person. He is also really sweet, kind, endearingly clueless sometimes and an amazing friend. I so enjoyed reading his POV. Not only was it hilarious, but it was also emotional at times and it just made me love him more.
I liked Jess well enough, although she was so stressed most of the time that she was starting to stress me out. I enjoyed reading about her relationship with Blake. The banter between them was fantastic.
The writing style was great. No idea where the authors come up with those dialogues, but they definitely made me chuckle more than once. I'm glad I picked this up.
Read
February 10, 2017DNF @11%
Unfortunately, the humour in this book went right past me, I felt like it was a bit juvenile and I just didn't get it. I liked the idea of the storyline, and I know a lot of people will love the banter between the hero and heroine. Sadly, this wasn't for me.
I felt like if I pushed myself to read further, I wouldn't have just rated it low anyway, so I made the decision to move on.
Unfortunately, the humour in this book went right past me, I felt like it was a bit juvenile and I just didn't get it. I liked the idea of the storyline, and I know a lot of people will love the banter between the hero and heroine. Sadly, this wasn't for me.
I felt like if I pushed myself to read further, I wouldn't have just rated it low anyway, so I made the decision to move on.
Read
October 14, 2019On sale for .99 for the first time ever!
And the whispersync add-on is just $1.99, so this is the best deal in the world in audio right now.
And the whispersync add-on is just $1.99, so this is the best deal in the world in audio right now.
February 7, 2017
****4.5 Stars****
“I wonder what that feels like. Loving another person so much that they become a part of you. I thought I’d been in love before, but sometimes, when I watch my brother and Wes together… I question everything I’ve ever felt in the past.”
“Good Boy” is the most recent collaboration from Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen and I have to admit, this is the first book I have read with these two authors collaborating. I love their stories so I’m kind of embarrassed by that. “Good Boy” was such a fun, sexy and thrilling ride and I absolutely devoured every skilfully articulated word. If you are seeking your next fun-filled seductive read then you should absolutely give “Good Boy” a go, because I’m sure you will utterly inhale this story.
Jess Canning, who is always perceived as the family screw-up is determined to plan the perfect wedding for her brother Jamie and soon-to-be brother-in-law Wes. Many of you may remember Jamie and Wes from “Him” and “Us” (which I am yet to read and after finishing “Good Boy” it has sure moved up my TBR list.) Jess’s latest career is a party planner, so she seems to be the ideal candidate to plan a wedding consisting of MVP hockey players. Her main concern is to stay as far away from the best man as possible as she cannot afford to have a repeat of their previous steamy one night stand.
I absolutely loved Blake and I’m still a little shocked at that fact. I expected to not like him as much as I did. Yes, he’s an obnoxious, arrogant, douche but I also found him somewhat charming and a really lovable, sweet character. I recognised fairly early on that he was mostly excited about the wedding, because he knew who the maid of honour was and he was anticipating spending another hot raunchy night with Jess.
I loved the way the relationship developed between Jess and Blake. It was a quite slow burn mixed with hilarious witty banter. One of the things that appealed most about their budding relationship was how supportive, sincere and sweet Blake was to Jess. Jess is at a cross roads in her life, where she feels she is the family screw-up and unsure of what to do with her life; enter Blake who is the perfect person for Jess. They are somewhat different personalities as well, Jess is serious whereas Blake is the jokester and clown if you will, but he really does care for Jess and does a stellar job of building her confidence up and self-esteem which she is in dire need of.
I really enjoyed this story and I believe if you love an entertaining, fun and sexy story, you will too. “Good Boy” really spoke to me, because I’m sure we’ve all been like Jess at one time or another. Where we are so unsure where life is going to take us, but I’m sure very few of us are lucky enough to have a Blake enter our lives to build us up and reassure us that we are good enough. I absolutely recommend this story to anyone who loves a well written, dynamic story with lovable, hilarious, sexy and oh so sweet characters. If you haven’t read this one yet definitely bump it up on your TBR list as I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.
“I wonder what that feels like. Loving another person so much that they become a part of you. I thought I’d been in love before, but sometimes, when I watch my brother and Wes together… I question everything I’ve ever felt in the past.”
“Good Boy” is the most recent collaboration from Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen and I have to admit, this is the first book I have read with these two authors collaborating. I love their stories so I’m kind of embarrassed by that. “Good Boy” was such a fun, sexy and thrilling ride and I absolutely devoured every skilfully articulated word. If you are seeking your next fun-filled seductive read then you should absolutely give “Good Boy” a go, because I’m sure you will utterly inhale this story.
Jess Canning, who is always perceived as the family screw-up is determined to plan the perfect wedding for her brother Jamie and soon-to-be brother-in-law Wes. Many of you may remember Jamie and Wes from “Him” and “Us” (which I am yet to read and after finishing “Good Boy” it has sure moved up my TBR list.) Jess’s latest career is a party planner, so she seems to be the ideal candidate to plan a wedding consisting of MVP hockey players. Her main concern is to stay as far away from the best man as possible as she cannot afford to have a repeat of their previous steamy one night stand.
I absolutely loved Blake and I’m still a little shocked at that fact. I expected to not like him as much as I did. Yes, he’s an obnoxious, arrogant, douche but I also found him somewhat charming and a really lovable, sweet character. I recognised fairly early on that he was mostly excited about the wedding, because he knew who the maid of honour was and he was anticipating spending another hot raunchy night with Jess.
I loved the way the relationship developed between Jess and Blake. It was a quite slow burn mixed with hilarious witty banter. One of the things that appealed most about their budding relationship was how supportive, sincere and sweet Blake was to Jess. Jess is at a cross roads in her life, where she feels she is the family screw-up and unsure of what to do with her life; enter Blake who is the perfect person for Jess. They are somewhat different personalities as well, Jess is serious whereas Blake is the jokester and clown if you will, but he really does care for Jess and does a stellar job of building her confidence up and self-esteem which she is in dire need of.
I really enjoyed this story and I believe if you love an entertaining, fun and sexy story, you will too. “Good Boy” really spoke to me, because I’m sure we’ve all been like Jess at one time or another. Where we are so unsure where life is going to take us, but I’m sure very few of us are lucky enough to have a Blake enter our lives to build us up and reassure us that we are good enough. I absolutely recommend this story to anyone who loves a well written, dynamic story with lovable, hilarious, sexy and oh so sweet characters. If you haven’t read this one yet definitely bump it up on your TBR list as I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.
February 6, 2017
4.5 Stars.
This book picked me up and plonked me right down into my happy place. A spin off from the Him series, which I've just read back-to-back, Good Boy was the icing on the Bowen/Kennedy cake I've been stuffing my face with over the past few days.
Damn right, because who can resist a man who's daft, funny, cheeky, charming, and a great big softie. What you see is what you get with Blake and whilst he's loud and bold and excitable, he's also completely honest and puts others first and together all these traits make him downright adorable. He reduced me from swooning to sighing and snorting to howling with laughter, yet there were also moments which left me fighting the lump in my throat when he seemed that little bit lost and unsure.
"I’m drowning in this girl and I don’t want to be saved."
Jess grew on me as the story progressed, when we meet her she's about to change her direction in life for the umpteenth time, and despite her determination she does have a lower opinion of herself so she can come over a little thoughtless. But she's relatable and what I loved about this story was the pacing of the blossoming romance between herself and Blake, gathering momentum with every page.
With Blake being best friends with Jess' brother and his soon-to-be hubby (yes there's still plenty of Wesmie to be had!), their paths are constantly crossing and not only are we treated to Blake's wooing skills, persuading Jess to admit she really does want him despite her protests, but we have the emotional aspect from the deeper feelings they're developing; this is much more than a friends-to-lovers/friends-with-benefits story.
“I want you to be happy. I want to be the one making you happy.”
Together, Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy have created a winning formula; creating wonderful characters with exquisite chemistries and giving them memorable stories. I can't wait for more from this series, these characters and to discover what's in store for Ericksson when Stay is released. Whether you've read the Him series or not, Good Boy comes highly recommended by me.
Copy received in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
This book picked me up and plonked me right down into my happy place. A spin off from the Him series, which I've just read back-to-back, Good Boy was the icing on the Bowen/Kennedy cake I've been stuffing my face with over the past few days.
Damn right, because who can resist a man who's daft, funny, cheeky, charming, and a great big softie. What you see is what you get with Blake and whilst he's loud and bold and excitable, he's also completely honest and puts others first and together all these traits make him downright adorable. He reduced me from swooning to sighing and snorting to howling with laughter, yet there were also moments which left me fighting the lump in my throat when he seemed that little bit lost and unsure.
"I’m drowning in this girl and I don’t want to be saved."
Jess grew on me as the story progressed, when we meet her she's about to change her direction in life for the umpteenth time, and despite her determination she does have a lower opinion of herself so she can come over a little thoughtless. But she's relatable and what I loved about this story was the pacing of the blossoming romance between herself and Blake, gathering momentum with every page.
With Blake being best friends with Jess' brother and his soon-to-be hubby (yes there's still plenty of Wesmie to be had!), their paths are constantly crossing and not only are we treated to Blake's wooing skills, persuading Jess to admit she really does want him despite her protests, but we have the emotional aspect from the deeper feelings they're developing; this is much more than a friends-to-lovers/friends-with-benefits story.
“I want you to be happy. I want to be the one making you happy.”
Together, Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy have created a winning formula; creating wonderful characters with exquisite chemistries and giving them memorable stories. I can't wait for more from this series, these characters and to discover what's in store for Ericksson when Stay is released. Whether you've read the Him series or not, Good Boy comes highly recommended by me.
Copy received in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
January 27, 2019
😍😍😍
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June 11, 2017
4.5 'Cheezus' Stars!
Blake, Blake, Blake.. Your hilarious sexy self has stolen my heart! Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy are just an outstanding duo of authors and they definitely did not fail with this book! I feel in love with them while reading Him and Us and now with this spin-off I've fallen all over again. Good Boy is so funny, engaging and sexy!
So, as I mentioned, this series can be considered a spin-off of the Him series because the story is about Jess Canning (Jamie's sister) and Blake Riley (the sexy and annoying neighbor we met in Us). Jess is now planning the Wes and Jamie's wedding and she (kind of) is not ready to face Blake after their one-night-stand. However, Blake is not giving up! He wants her and he will have her.
“We’re way more than friends, Jessie.”
“Blake���” She sounds exasperated.
“But no worries,” I finish breezily. “I’ll just sit tight until you figure that out.”
I am in love with the characters these two authors create. I loved Jamie and Wes and now I, for sure, love Blake and Jess with the same passion! These two are just hilarious, adorable and smocking hot together. Good Boy is so well written and developed. The story flows perfectly and the builing of the MC's relationship is absolutely amazing. All that banter, all those sexy times and all those feels make Good Boy a magnificent read!
Silly Jessie. We are dating. She just doesn’t know it yet.
I love books that are able to make me laugh out loud! And make me swoon! And make me need a fan! lol These couple just clicked all the things that I enjoy in a good read and I just cannot wait to read the next book (and hopefully, more stories about the fantastic characters we met!). I do have to say I always miss not having an epilogue, but the ending of Good Boy was so funny and adorable!
Jess Canning is…my goddamn world. We might’ve started off as fuck buddies, then took a trip into the friends-with-bennies zone, but she’s mine now. And she’s everything to me.
Therefore, my rating for Good Boy is 4.5 STARS because Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy just did it again! They made me fall in love with these characters even more and they gave us another outstanding love story! If you haven't checked their books out, I highly recommend you do because you will not regret it!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
Blake, Blake, Blake.. Your hilarious sexy self has stolen my heart! Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy are just an outstanding duo of authors and they definitely did not fail with this book! I feel in love with them while reading Him and Us and now with this spin-off I've fallen all over again. Good Boy is so funny, engaging and sexy!
So, as I mentioned, this series can be considered a spin-off of the Him series because the story is about Jess Canning (Jamie's sister) and Blake Riley (the sexy and annoying neighbor we met in Us). Jess is now planning the Wes and Jamie's wedding and she (kind of) is not ready to face Blake after their one-night-stand. However, Blake is not giving up! He wants her and he will have her.
“We’re way more than friends, Jessie.”
“Blake���” She sounds exasperated.
“But no worries,” I finish breezily. “I’ll just sit tight until you figure that out.”
I am in love with the characters these two authors create. I loved Jamie and Wes and now I, for sure, love Blake and Jess with the same passion! These two are just hilarious, adorable and smocking hot together. Good Boy is so well written and developed. The story flows perfectly and the builing of the MC's relationship is absolutely amazing. All that banter, all those sexy times and all those feels make Good Boy a magnificent read!
Silly Jessie. We are dating. She just doesn’t know it yet.
I love books that are able to make me laugh out loud! And make me swoon! And make me need a fan! lol These couple just clicked all the things that I enjoy in a good read and I just cannot wait to read the next book (and hopefully, more stories about the fantastic characters we met!). I do have to say I always miss not having an epilogue, but the ending of Good Boy was so funny and adorable!
Jess Canning is…my goddamn world. We might’ve started off as fuck buddies, then took a trip into the friends-with-bennies zone, but she’s mine now. And she’s everything to me.
Therefore, my rating for Good Boy is 4.5 STARS because Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy just did it again! They made me fall in love with these characters even more and they gave us another outstanding love story! If you haven't checked their books out, I highly recommend you do because you will not regret it!
CHECK OUT MY BLOG HERE:
April 8, 2020
4 ⭐️
This was so much fun. Not in a laugh out loud kind of way, although there were some instances of that, but in a general sense of the word. It was definitely entertaining.
I absolutely adored Blake! He was such a lovable goofball. It’s rare that I read about his kind of hero and I’ve been missing out because he was so dreamy! If you asked me at any point if I would describe a guy that talks and acts like a frat boy as dreamy... I would straight up laugh, but I hadn’t read about Blake at that point so there goes that argument.
I just wanna give him a hug, start a back and forth of innuendoes (cause he’s got a whole cheesy arsenal of them) get drunk and laugh my ass off with the guy.. that’s the PG version 🙈
Jess grew on me over the course of the book and I really loved the interactions between the two of them.
This book was a breath of fresh air. Light and fun, just what I was looking for.
This was so much fun. Not in a laugh out loud kind of way, although there were some instances of that, but in a general sense of the word. It was definitely entertaining.
I absolutely adored Blake! He was such a lovable goofball. It’s rare that I read about his kind of hero and I’ve been missing out because he was so dreamy! If you asked me at any point if I would describe a guy that talks and acts like a frat boy as dreamy... I would straight up laugh, but I hadn’t read about Blake at that point so there goes that argument.
I just wanna give him a hug, start a back and forth of innuendoes (cause he’s got a whole cheesy arsenal of them) get drunk and laugh my ass off with the guy.. that’s the PG version 🙈
Jess grew on me over the course of the book and I really loved the interactions between the two of them.
This book was a breath of fresh air. Light and fun, just what I was looking for.
February 6, 2017
Cheezus that was good! First things first, I eat my words. I was one of the few who were not instantly enamoured with Blake in his appearance in US, and because of this I had some reservations going into Good Boy. Let’s just say, by the end of the first chapter I was eating out of his hand, and would have happily rolled over and have him rub my tummy.
Blake is a professional Hockey player who plays alongside Jess’ future brother-in-law. They have a history Jess would rather forget, but unfortunately for her, Blake is like a dog with a bone and is refusing to acknowledge her less than enthusiastic response to his presence. He’s more than happy to bide his time until Jess finally sees sense, and in the meantime he loves to spend his time in her company.
It’s said company which is Jess’ bone of contention. The more time she spends with him, he harder it is to fight her insane attraction to him. They embark in a few more “mistakes” until the lady doth protest too much and she’s resigned to acknowledging a new found appreciation for man’s best friend.
Like Jess, I was absolutely bowled over by Blake. How could I have ever of not loved him? He has such a huge heart and is emotionally far more intelligent than I ever gave him credit for. His boundless support of Jess and infectious personality make him a pedigree catch. I’d be more than happy for him to make me beg, or teach me a trick or two.
Good Boy wins “Best In Show” for its unadulterated fun factor. I’ll never tire of the Bowen/Kennedy duo, and am more than salivating for their return with (Eriksson’s story), Stay.
Blake is a professional Hockey player who plays alongside Jess’ future brother-in-law. They have a history Jess would rather forget, but unfortunately for her, Blake is like a dog with a bone and is refusing to acknowledge her less than enthusiastic response to his presence. He’s more than happy to bide his time until Jess finally sees sense, and in the meantime he loves to spend his time in her company.
It’s said company which is Jess’ bone of contention. The more time she spends with him, he harder it is to fight her insane attraction to him. They embark in a few more “mistakes” until the lady doth protest too much and she’s resigned to acknowledging a new found appreciation for man’s best friend.
Like Jess, I was absolutely bowled over by Blake. How could I have ever of not loved him? He has such a huge heart and is emotionally far more intelligent than I ever gave him credit for. His boundless support of Jess and infectious personality make him a pedigree catch. I’d be more than happy for him to make me beg, or teach me a trick or two.
Good Boy wins “Best In Show” for its unadulterated fun factor. I’ll never tire of the Bowen/Kennedy duo, and am more than salivating for their return with (Eriksson’s story), Stay.
January 9, 2017
This is the first book I have read by Elle and Sarina and all did was have me dying to read more. This book was laugh out loud funny and I absolutely fell in love with Jess and Blake.
Maid of Honor and Best Man you know this is a recipe for sexy times, at least that’s Blake’s plan. Jess wants none of this, despite their previous one night stand being the best sex of her life she isn’t looking for a repeat with the obnoxious hockey player. Jess isn’t looking for love or any distractions, she is just trying to get her life on track and prove to her parents she isn’t a screw up.
Blake’s life seems perfect, he is a star hockey player, sexy as sin and everyone loves him, including me. I loved how Blake was hilarious and outgoing and had such a love for life. After reading more and learning about this personality, I loved how he was selfless and protectative. The Blake you don't see is even better than the fun-loving guy we do see. Despite her reluctance, the more time she spends with Blake her walls begin to fall and she can't help but fall for him.
This book is pretty freaking perfect! I love when a book can make me laugh out loud, which Good Boy did multiple times. I love strong independent characters with strong personalties. I love how this book had plenty of feels and sexy times, but was never too heavy.
Biggest takeaway, read this book! I personally cannot wait to read the next WAGs book!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Maid of Honor and Best Man you know this is a recipe for sexy times, at least that’s Blake’s plan. Jess wants none of this, despite their previous one night stand being the best sex of her life she isn’t looking for a repeat with the obnoxious hockey player. Jess isn’t looking for love or any distractions, she is just trying to get her life on track and prove to her parents she isn’t a screw up.
Blake’s life seems perfect, he is a star hockey player, sexy as sin and everyone loves him, including me. I loved how Blake was hilarious and outgoing and had such a love for life. After reading more and learning about this personality, I loved how he was selfless and protectative. The Blake you don't see is even better than the fun-loving guy we do see. Despite her reluctance, the more time she spends with Blake her walls begin to fall and she can't help but fall for him.
This book is pretty freaking perfect! I love when a book can make me laugh out loud, which Good Boy did multiple times. I love strong independent characters with strong personalties. I love how this book had plenty of feels and sexy times, but was never too heavy.
Biggest takeaway, read this book! I personally cannot wait to read the next WAGs book!
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
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