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Boyfriend Material #2
Sex and Other Shiny Objects
The second the test-the-sexy-scenes offer landed in my lap, I said yes.
After all, I've been damn curious about a few things I've read in romance novels. Do buttons truly go flying across the floor when you rip off a guy's shirt? Is staircase sex hella hot or does it leave you with a big old bruise mark on your back? And don’t even get me started on all that panty shredding, and whether it even works.
Time to find out as I embark on Project Sexy Scenes Research, at the request of my hotshot book editor bestie.
All I need is a willing scene partner. Enter Tristan, my best guy friend. The witty, tell-it-like-it-is, bearded hottie volunteers for the experiment.
He's also the guy who gave me the most devastating, toe-curling kiss of my life ten years ago. But nothing has happened since then.
And nothing will come between my panties and our friendship now since we have a plan to keep it PG.
But once the buttons start flying, all bets are off...
S-E-X AND OTHER SHINY OBJECTS is a standalone romance in the BOYFRIEND MATERIAL series. The other titles are ASKING FOR A FRIEND and ONE NIGHT STAND-IN.
After all, I've been damn curious about a few things I've read in romance novels. Do buttons truly go flying across the floor when you rip off a guy's shirt? Is staircase sex hella hot or does it leave you with a big old bruise mark on your back? And don’t even get me started on all that panty shredding, and whether it even works.
Time to find out as I embark on Project Sexy Scenes Research, at the request of my hotshot book editor bestie.
All I need is a willing scene partner. Enter Tristan, my best guy friend. The witty, tell-it-like-it-is, bearded hottie volunteers for the experiment.
He's also the guy who gave me the most devastating, toe-curling kiss of my life ten years ago. But nothing has happened since then.
And nothing will come between my panties and our friendship now since we have a plan to keep it PG.
But once the buttons start flying, all bets are off...
S-E-X AND OTHER SHINY OBJECTS is a standalone romance in the BOYFRIEND MATERIAL series. The other titles are ASKING FOR A FRIEND and ONE NIGHT STAND-IN.
300 pages, Unknown Binding
First published January 13, 2020
804 people are currently reading
3331 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Blakely
240books23.3kfollowersYou can find Lauren on TikTok at @laurenblakelybooks! A #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that’s sexy, feel-good and witty. Lauren likes dogs, cake and show tunes and she is the vegetarian at your dinner party.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 435 reviews
November 21, 2023
"Smart, sassy, sexy and swoony!"
✦Amazon �
✦A�
✦Nook �
✦Kobo �
✦Google �
✦Aܻ徱� Performed by Andi Arndt & Jason Clarke and special guest star Julia Whelan
With additional voices by Joe Arden and Erin Mallon
✦Amazon �
✦A�
✦Nook �
✦Kobo �
✦Google �
✦Aܻ徱� Performed by Andi Arndt & Jason Clarke and special guest star Julia Whelan
With additional voices by Joe Arden and Erin Mallon
January 19, 2020
All the right words...eventually
Another fantastic story by Lauren Blakely and this is quickly becoming one of my favourite series as well. Sex and Other Shiny Objects was funny, sweet and very sexy. The characters were loveable, a little quirky and very realistic in their vulnerability.
Payton and Tristan have been friends for years. In college, they shared one sizzling kiss that was supposed to be the start of something special. Timing wasn't on their side and support and friendship was a lot more important and needed. Now an opportunity has given them a chance to find out if their friendship can be something more.
I absolutely loved the relationship dynamics in this story. Not just between the main couple, but also familial ones too. Tristan is the sole carer for his younger brother who is finishing high school. Their closeness made my heart swell and I loved their easy friendship and sarcasm. Payton also has a wonderful relationship with her mother and I loved their weekly badminton games.
I love this series and highly recommend giving it a go. I can't wait to see what happens between Lola and Lucas.
Another fantastic story by Lauren Blakely and this is quickly becoming one of my favourite series as well. Sex and Other Shiny Objects was funny, sweet and very sexy. The characters were loveable, a little quirky and very realistic in their vulnerability.
Payton and Tristan have been friends for years. In college, they shared one sizzling kiss that was supposed to be the start of something special. Timing wasn't on their side and support and friendship was a lot more important and needed. Now an opportunity has given them a chance to find out if their friendship can be something more.
I absolutely loved the relationship dynamics in this story. Not just between the main couple, but also familial ones too. Tristan is the sole carer for his younger brother who is finishing high school. Their closeness made my heart swell and I loved their easy friendship and sarcasm. Payton also has a wonderful relationship with her mother and I loved their weekly badminton games.
I love this series and highly recommend giving it a go. I can't wait to see what happens between Lola and Lucas.
January 17, 2020
Edited 1/17/20
Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 4 stars
I don't think I will ever tire of Jason Clarke's voice. He pairs perfectly with Andi Arndt (and everyone else he's cast with). Every Lauren Blakely audiobook is a feast for the ears and it's always such a fun treat to hear other beloved narrators making small cameos. It makes the audiobook feel like a duet style narration and only adds to the listening experience. Teddy Hamilton, Joe Arden, Erin Mallon, and others all make appearances, but I was especially delighted to hear one of my favorite narrators, Julia Whelan, also contribute to this adorable friends to lovers, second chance romance.
Sometimes my heart just needs a sweet, low angst romcom. Sex and Other Shiny Objects was a great blend of friends to lovers, second chance romance, and even a little fake-ish relationship/forced proximity. I'm a sucker for the pining and longing of what could have been and when circumstances change to allow our hero and heroine to FINALLY have their chance. We met Tristan and Peyton in book 1 of this series, Asking for A Friend, but this can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone.
I love a hero who is all in from the start, and Tristan was so incredibly swoony. He was considerate, kind hearted, and I loved the relationship he had with his brother. The cherry on top was the dirty side of him that came out to play when things started to heat up between him and Peyton. There is a little drama and back and forth as these two navigate these new waters, but I appreciated that they both resolve their conflicts and put themselves out there. There were some wonderful cameos from past characters and easter eggs sprinkled throughout and I always enjoy finding these in Lauren Blakely's books. This is such a fun series of interconnected standalones, and I'm looking forward to Lola's story next!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*
Audiobook Review
Overall 4 stars
Performance 5 stars
Story 4 stars
I don't think I will ever tire of Jason Clarke's voice. He pairs perfectly with Andi Arndt (and everyone else he's cast with). Every Lauren Blakely audiobook is a feast for the ears and it's always such a fun treat to hear other beloved narrators making small cameos. It makes the audiobook feel like a duet style narration and only adds to the listening experience. Teddy Hamilton, Joe Arden, Erin Mallon, and others all make appearances, but I was especially delighted to hear one of my favorite narrators, Julia Whelan, also contribute to this adorable friends to lovers, second chance romance.
Sometimes my heart just needs a sweet, low angst romcom. Sex and Other Shiny Objects was a great blend of friends to lovers, second chance romance, and even a little fake-ish relationship/forced proximity. I'm a sucker for the pining and longing of what could have been and when circumstances change to allow our hero and heroine to FINALLY have their chance. We met Tristan and Peyton in book 1 of this series, Asking for A Friend, but this can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone.
I love a hero who is all in from the start, and Tristan was so incredibly swoony. He was considerate, kind hearted, and I loved the relationship he had with his brother. The cherry on top was the dirty side of him that came out to play when things started to heat up between him and Peyton. There is a little drama and back and forth as these two navigate these new waters, but I appreciated that they both resolve their conflicts and put themselves out there. There were some wonderful cameos from past characters and easter eggs sprinkled throughout and I always enjoy finding these in Lauren Blakely's books. This is such a fun series of interconnected standalones, and I'm looking forward to Lola's story next!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*
January 12, 2020
***ARC Provided by the Author***
Fear is a powerful motivator. Fear of failing, of being vulnerable and even fear of getting what we want (because then we might lose it) are a lot of the reasons many of us do the things we do. It's also incredibly human and it allows you to really connect with the characters, as we've all been there. Maybe not while reenacting popular romance novel scenes, but we have all let fear keep us from saying what we want, or from acting as we want. Yes, fear keeps us from getting too close to the edge of a cliff, but it also keeps us from taking risks.
Tristan and Peyton had me tearing up, and cheering for them. I liked both of them, together and apart. And I felt for them and for the ways in which fear was holding them back...until it wasn't.
Sometimes chemistry in a book just works. This is one of those books. The insight in to Tristan's mind, what he was thinking, and how much he wanted Peyton made this into one of the hottest friends to lovers books I have ever read. It just worked.
The secondary characters are the kind you want to have their own books because you want to know them better. Yes, I know some of them will...but there's one in particular I want to keep tabs on, even knowing that he's a fictional character.
I didn't want this book to end, even though I wanted them to get to their happy ending they do totally deserve.
I loved and recommend this book.
***This and other reviews can be found on our blog ***
Fear is a powerful motivator. Fear of failing, of being vulnerable and even fear of getting what we want (because then we might lose it) are a lot of the reasons many of us do the things we do. It's also incredibly human and it allows you to really connect with the characters, as we've all been there. Maybe not while reenacting popular romance novel scenes, but we have all let fear keep us from saying what we want, or from acting as we want. Yes, fear keeps us from getting too close to the edge of a cliff, but it also keeps us from taking risks.
Tristan and Peyton had me tearing up, and cheering for them. I liked both of them, together and apart. And I felt for them and for the ways in which fear was holding them back...until it wasn't.
Sometimes chemistry in a book just works. This is one of those books. The insight in to Tristan's mind, what he was thinking, and how much he wanted Peyton made this into one of the hottest friends to lovers books I have ever read. It just worked.
The secondary characters are the kind you want to have their own books because you want to know them better. Yes, I know some of them will...but there's one in particular I want to keep tabs on, even knowing that he's a fictional character.
I didn't want this book to end, even though I wanted them to get to their happy ending they do totally deserve.
I loved and recommend this book.
***This and other reviews can be found on our blog ***
January 13, 2020
Another great book from Lauren Blakely. This is a friends to lovers� romance which is one of my favorite tropes. This book will have you laughing and swooning and falling in love with the characters from page one. Peyton and Tristan shared a kiss in the past but it didn’t go anywhere. Now, Peyton is asking Tristan for help on some research and the feelings and attraction that they had for each other hits them full force. I loved the interactions they had with each other and the other characters in the story. I highly recommend this story. You are never disappointed when you pick up one of her books. Her stories stay with you long after you are done. This story is definitely worth a re-read.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 20, 2020
4 Heart Experiment Stars
Two friendsengage in some light (on the surface), funnyand sexy experiment - so what could go wrong? Especially when one of them has some lingering feelings for the other.
This was another lovely, sweet, deliciously sexy book from Lauren Blakely. It just warms your heart, keeps you in a cute and cosy state of mind when you need to skip a few hours of your day (and escape to the world of beautiful and lacy lingerie). Tristan and Peyton definitely knew how to shred some undergarments in a sexy way. I also truly adored Trisnan's brother - such a cute side story.
Two friendsengage in some light (on the surface), funnyand sexy experiment - so what could go wrong? Especially when one of them has some lingering feelings for the other.
This was another lovely, sweet, deliciously sexy book from Lauren Blakely. It just warms your heart, keeps you in a cute and cosy state of mind when you need to skip a few hours of your day (and escape to the world of beautiful and lacy lingerie). Tristan and Peyton definitely knew how to shred some undergarments in a sexy way. I also truly adored Trisnan's brother - such a cute side story.
December 22, 2020
I could NOT get into Sex and Other Shiny Objects at all. It did get slightly better after the hero and the heroine slept together (around the 60% mark), but the combination of the present-tense prose, cringey dialogue, and insufferable characters made it such a struggle to even get to that point.
When Peyton’s lingerie boutique loses customers to a big box competitor, she comes up with the perfect plan to increase sales: revive her Lingerie Devotee blog and connect with her customers through the stories behind the pieces. When a book editor friend asks for a willing participant to test the sex scenes of a new romance novel, she immediately jumps at the opportunity to create new content for her blog. The perfect partner for her escapades? Her best friend, Tristan � someone’s she known for over a decade and someone she unequivocally trusts not to break her heart. As their re-enactments quickly turn from a PG experiment into the real deal, it becomes harder and harder to ignore the secret that she’s always known � that Tristan has always been the one. But with a failed engagement recently behind her, putting her heart on the line, again, feels almost impossible.
Tristan and Peyton’s romance felt one note � it seemed to be based solely on sex, which in isolation, weren’t even anything spectacular. Much of the problem was that the pacing was so odd. The romantic development was so rushed (which is supposed to be the best part!), while the angsty, internal monologues and set-up of the plot were so drawn-out. The worst offender of the (limited) romance though, was the characters� inane, seemingly never-ending banter and narration. The onslaught of consecutive short sentences made them feel so stilted and the “humour� so put-on, that I just wanted Lauren Blakely to fucking get to the point of the scene already. It didn’t help that she peppered so many of those try-hard quips in the middle of the sex scenes, which soured any sexy mood that was created. It also didn’t help that all of the characters � even the supporting ones � had the same irritating, juvenile lilt. (Side note: It was so bizarre that Peyton’s brother got horny after reading her blog, and Peyton and their mom were celebrating it. WTF.)
Besides the romance, the characters were also one-note. Even though the book was written in alternating POVs, I didn’t feel like I really knew who Tristan was, outside of his identity as a parental figure to his teenage brother, Barrett. Lauren didn’t really show the other facets of his life, such as his career or his interactions with his friends. The only thing that was lamented over and over in his POV was his unrequited love for Peyton and his utter refusal to do anything about it. As exasperating as his cowardice was, the scene where Peyton expected him to read her mind (by dropping vague hints) drove me up the wall. While both parties ultimately realized that they needed to put themselves out there in the end, the actual moment was horrifying cringey. Upon running into her on the street, Tristan proclaimed, “I love you. I love you. Please love me too.�. For a moment that was a decade in the making, I wanted more substance (like maybe a list of why he had fallen in love with her) and more oomph. Instead, in what was supposed to be the novel’s climax, the moment was over far too quickly and the hero only came across as pathetic.
Despite Sex and Other Shiny Objects� relatively short length (it almost read like a novella), it took me a considerable amount of time and effort to finish. While I did love Barrett and his storyline (Tristan’s reaction to Barrett coming out made me tear up), that was pretty much the start and end of any pleasant feelings toward this novel.
When Peyton’s lingerie boutique loses customers to a big box competitor, she comes up with the perfect plan to increase sales: revive her Lingerie Devotee blog and connect with her customers through the stories behind the pieces. When a book editor friend asks for a willing participant to test the sex scenes of a new romance novel, she immediately jumps at the opportunity to create new content for her blog. The perfect partner for her escapades? Her best friend, Tristan � someone’s she known for over a decade and someone she unequivocally trusts not to break her heart. As their re-enactments quickly turn from a PG experiment into the real deal, it becomes harder and harder to ignore the secret that she’s always known � that Tristan has always been the one. But with a failed engagement recently behind her, putting her heart on the line, again, feels almost impossible.
Tristan and Peyton’s romance felt one note � it seemed to be based solely on sex, which in isolation, weren’t even anything spectacular. Much of the problem was that the pacing was so odd. The romantic development was so rushed (which is supposed to be the best part!), while the angsty, internal monologues and set-up of the plot were so drawn-out. The worst offender of the (limited) romance though, was the characters� inane, seemingly never-ending banter and narration. The onslaught of consecutive short sentences made them feel so stilted and the “humour� so put-on, that I just wanted Lauren Blakely to fucking get to the point of the scene already. It didn’t help that she peppered so many of those try-hard quips in the middle of the sex scenes, which soured any sexy mood that was created. It also didn’t help that all of the characters � even the supporting ones � had the same irritating, juvenile lilt. (Side note: It was so bizarre that Peyton’s brother got horny after reading her blog, and Peyton and their mom were celebrating it. WTF.)
Besides the romance, the characters were also one-note. Even though the book was written in alternating POVs, I didn’t feel like I really knew who Tristan was, outside of his identity as a parental figure to his teenage brother, Barrett. Lauren didn’t really show the other facets of his life, such as his career or his interactions with his friends. The only thing that was lamented over and over in his POV was his unrequited love for Peyton and his utter refusal to do anything about it. As exasperating as his cowardice was, the scene where Peyton expected him to read her mind (by dropping vague hints) drove me up the wall. While both parties ultimately realized that they needed to put themselves out there in the end, the actual moment was horrifying cringey. Upon running into her on the street, Tristan proclaimed, “I love you. I love you. Please love me too.�. For a moment that was a decade in the making, I wanted more substance (like maybe a list of why he had fallen in love with her) and more oomph. Instead, in what was supposed to be the novel’s climax, the moment was over far too quickly and the hero only came across as pathetic.
Despite Sex and Other Shiny Objects� relatively short length (it almost read like a novella), it took me a considerable amount of time and effort to finish. While I did love Barrett and his storyline (Tristan’s reaction to Barrett coming out made me tear up), that was pretty much the start and end of any pleasant feelings toward this novel.
January 15, 2020
I am a fan of friends to lovers, but I am not going to lie it took me a little bit to get into this book. But once I did I was hooked. These two characters are so very relatable. They are such great friends that fear of putting yourself out there to be rejected or even losing your friend well who doesn’t relate to that on some level.
The fact that they both fear the same thing is what hooked me. I like that Tristan is just as vulnerable. He feared the same things Payton does.
Oh but you can’t deny sparks or chemistry and sometimes it is everything to just put yourself out there and let the chips fall as they may.
Perfect name for this book, you will see when you listen but the narration was top notch. The mulit-cast was perfection, it added just that extra boost to keep you engaged and wanting more.
The fact that they both fear the same thing is what hooked me. I like that Tristan is just as vulnerable. He feared the same things Payton does.
Oh but you can’t deny sparks or chemistry and sometimes it is everything to just put yourself out there and let the chips fall as they may.
Perfect name for this book, you will see when you listen but the narration was top notch. The mulit-cast was perfection, it added just that extra boost to keep you engaged and wanting more.
January 14, 2020
2.5 stars: It was okay. It was pretty much interchangeable with every other Blakely book but I found the dialogue and subplot where she sells/ writes about lingerie with her "lingerie esp" inane.
February 19, 2024
When Lauren Blakely gets it right, she gets it sooooo right 😮💨👌�
February 24, 2020
the friends to lovers trope is always a pleasure to read about. tristan and peyton have known each other for a very long time, and both of them have had feelings for each other. their story is really cute. when she volunteered to quality check the sexy scenes in amy’s new book, she asked tristan to assist her. this research brought them together and they became more intimate because how do you even avoid it?
January 13, 2020
5 stars!
Friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite book tropes so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Sex and Other Shiny Objects, and it did not disappoint! It is a sweet, sexy, romantic comedy that brings on the laughs and fills you with love.
Tristan and Peyton have been best of friends since college. Other than one hot kiss from years ago, they have never crossed the line. However, that doesn’t mean they haven’t thought about it, timing has just always been off. Peyton and Tristan are now both single and Peyton needs help with a project � to test out validity of romance scenarios often included in books � and who better to work with than with her best friend who she trusts. As they find themselves spending more time together and in intimate positions, it’s no surprise things shift between them. What follows is a hilarious and hot hands-on exploration of positions and hidden feelings that will either break their hearts or make them whole.
I love Tristan and Peyton's story! They are fantastic characters who not only hold their own as individuals but are wonderful together as well. Tristan lost both of his parents and he supports himself and his younger brother, Barrett, by running a successful restaurant. He has a huge heart and wants what is best for his brother, including putting Barrett’s needs first. Peyton is adorable. I love her confidence and the fact that she knows her worth, and I love that she believes in herself. She is so much fun and her love of all things lace was awesome. Her store is fabulous and I found myself wanting to experience her enthusiasm when it comes with what she loves.
The whole setup to the story is entertaining and the execution is on point when it comes to Peyton and Tristan. They are such good friends and they don’t want to risk their friendship by acting on the feelings they’ve hidden away.
However, as the project brings them closer physically, they also grow closer emotionally. The way Peyton and Tristan attempted the scenarios was side-splitting. They are awesome together and just as the laughs started to die down, they crank up the heat. These two are on fire together with their amazing chemistry. It’s not just physical though, their friendship is everything and they encourage, trust, and support each other unconditionally. They have a believable and true connection, and I loved watching their relationship progress.
Even though it took them a little while to actually act on their feelings, it is worth the wait and the timing is finally perfect. The transition from friends to lovers was believable and well-paced, and the story was captivating from first page to last.
I have to add that I loved seeing Amy from again and more of their good friend, Lola. She is awesome and as Peyton says, “I can’t wait to hear what happens next with Lola and the one who got away.� Second-chance romances are another favorite trope of mine so bring on The One Night Stand-In. And I can’t forget Barrett! He is a hoot and his relationship with Tristan was so heartwarming and fun. I’d love to get a glimpse into his future!
Another awesome addition to ,Sex and Other Shiny Objects is a fun, feel good, sexy read that will put a permanent smile on your face. I loved it!
*ARC generously provided by the author and Candi Kane PR*
Friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite book tropes so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Sex and Other Shiny Objects, and it did not disappoint! It is a sweet, sexy, romantic comedy that brings on the laughs and fills you with love.
Tristan and Peyton have been best of friends since college. Other than one hot kiss from years ago, they have never crossed the line. However, that doesn’t mean they haven’t thought about it, timing has just always been off. Peyton and Tristan are now both single and Peyton needs help with a project � to test out validity of romance scenarios often included in books � and who better to work with than with her best friend who she trusts. As they find themselves spending more time together and in intimate positions, it’s no surprise things shift between them. What follows is a hilarious and hot hands-on exploration of positions and hidden feelings that will either break their hearts or make them whole.
I love Tristan and Peyton's story! They are fantastic characters who not only hold their own as individuals but are wonderful together as well. Tristan lost both of his parents and he supports himself and his younger brother, Barrett, by running a successful restaurant. He has a huge heart and wants what is best for his brother, including putting Barrett’s needs first. Peyton is adorable. I love her confidence and the fact that she knows her worth, and I love that she believes in herself. She is so much fun and her love of all things lace was awesome. Her store is fabulous and I found myself wanting to experience her enthusiasm when it comes with what she loves.
The whole setup to the story is entertaining and the execution is on point when it comes to Peyton and Tristan. They are such good friends and they don’t want to risk their friendship by acting on the feelings they’ve hidden away.
Long ago, we had our chance. Now, we have our friendship, and it’s back on solid ground again. He means too much to me. He matters too much. I won’t let anything topple us. Not even the shiver of desire that shoots down my spine.
However, as the project brings them closer physically, they also grow closer emotionally. The way Peyton and Tristan attempted the scenarios was side-splitting. They are awesome together and just as the laughs started to die down, they crank up the heat. These two are on fire together with their amazing chemistry. It’s not just physical though, their friendship is everything and they encourage, trust, and support each other unconditionally. They have a believable and true connection, and I loved watching their relationship progress.
Even though it took them a little while to actually act on their feelings, it is worth the wait and the timing is finally perfect. The transition from friends to lovers was believable and well-paced, and the story was captivating from first page to last.
I have to add that I loved seeing Amy from again and more of their good friend, Lola. She is awesome and as Peyton says, “I can’t wait to hear what happens next with Lola and the one who got away.� Second-chance romances are another favorite trope of mine so bring on The One Night Stand-In. And I can’t forget Barrett! He is a hoot and his relationship with Tristan was so heartwarming and fun. I’d love to get a glimpse into his future!
Another awesome addition to ,Sex and Other Shiny Objects is a fun, feel good, sexy read that will put a permanent smile on your face. I loved it!
*ARC generously provided by the author and Candi Kane PR*
January 13, 2020
4.5 stars
Peyton runs a lingerie shop and is trying to get back into dating. In an effort to boost publicity for her store, she decides to reinstate a blog she once used to drive sales in the store. At the same time, an offer to help her publisher friends drops into her lap. The only problem is she needs a partner to help her enact the steamy scenes from a book, a partner she trusts.
Tristan is her best guy friend. They have been friends since college, and even shared a kiss back then, but have never progressed further due to a variety of complications. He has always had a thing for her but his timing never worked out. When she asks for his help he jumps in with both feet, hoping he can keep himself in check.
As Tristan and Peyton play out the scenes, the underlying feelings they have been ignoring become too much to ignore any longer. The sparks fly between these two even when they can’t see them. They have been resisting what they felt for so long that even the more innocent of the tropes they are play-acting ratchet up the temperature to scorching levels.
As usual the side characters only add to the main characters� story arc. I loved the relationship between Tristan and his younger brother, Barrett. They don’t have a typical brotherly relationship, and as such they are both constantly challenging the other. I loved several of their interactions and one in particular had me falling for Tristan all over again.
This was a fun, flirty story with heat through the roof. This is friends-to-lovers perfection! Their friendship is so strongly developed both in this book and previously in Asking For a Friend that watching them maneuver through friends who trust each other implicitly to lovers was a treat.
Peyton runs a lingerie shop and is trying to get back into dating. In an effort to boost publicity for her store, she decides to reinstate a blog she once used to drive sales in the store. At the same time, an offer to help her publisher friends drops into her lap. The only problem is she needs a partner to help her enact the steamy scenes from a book, a partner she trusts.
Tristan is her best guy friend. They have been friends since college, and even shared a kiss back then, but have never progressed further due to a variety of complications. He has always had a thing for her but his timing never worked out. When she asks for his help he jumps in with both feet, hoping he can keep himself in check.
As Tristan and Peyton play out the scenes, the underlying feelings they have been ignoring become too much to ignore any longer. The sparks fly between these two even when they can’t see them. They have been resisting what they felt for so long that even the more innocent of the tropes they are play-acting ratchet up the temperature to scorching levels.
As usual the side characters only add to the main characters� story arc. I loved the relationship between Tristan and his younger brother, Barrett. They don’t have a typical brotherly relationship, and as such they are both constantly challenging the other. I loved several of their interactions and one in particular had me falling for Tristan all over again.
This was a fun, flirty story with heat through the roof. This is friends-to-lovers perfection! Their friendship is so strongly developed both in this book and previously in Asking For a Friend that watching them maneuver through friends who trust each other implicitly to lovers was a treat.
January 7, 2020
Book 2 in the Boyfriend Material series and we have best friends Tristan and Peyton refusing to accept their feelings for each other. When they decide to test out various scenes in romance novels for Peyton’s blog you just know they’re going to stray from the friend zone, and yes, if your favourite trope is friends to lovers (it’s definitely one of mine), you’ll know that things go way beyond friendship, and that, right there, spells disaster. Can they come back from their discretion? Neither one wants it to be a one time deal, but neither one will admit to having feelings. I wanted to bash their heads together. Wonderful characters (as they always are in Lauren’s books). A cute, funny and sexy story (again aren’t they always). I just love Lauren’s writing, and this is another fun, flirty read that had me addicted throughout. Each book is a stand-alone following different couples in a friendship circle. I received an advanced copy of this book. this is my honest review.
January 17, 2020
4 "Try this at home." Stars!
I enjoyed this! Very cute and sexy friends to lovers story. Both main characters were very likable. I'm so happy for them. Happy reading!
I enjoyed this! Very cute and sexy friends to lovers story. Both main characters were very likable. I'm so happy for them. Happy reading!
January 29, 2020
Well Ms Blakely never ceases to amaze me with how quickly she manages to get her stories out, does this woman never sleep?
The great thing about this is that there is always room for another LB story, the really great news is that they ar ealways fab, jam packed with brilliant content, and always a fantastic audio experience.
The great thing about this is that there is always room for another LB story, the really great news is that they ar ealways fab, jam packed with brilliant content, and always a fantastic audio experience.
January 8, 2020
Sex and Other Shiny Objects is the second book in Boyfriend Material series. We met both Tristan and Peyton in the first book. I was definitely intrigued by their relationship, but this story blew my expectations. It was fantastic! What’s not to love about fun characters, fresh storyline, and set at a perfect pace!
Peyton and Tristan have been friends for 10 years, but she’s been in a serious relationship for most of them. When Amy (from book one) has a romantic comedy to publish, she comes up with a great idea of having someone test the scenes out to see if things actually happen like that in reality. Peyton volunteers, ready to finally get back out there after a failed engagement. When her first guy falls through, she turns to her trusty friend, Tristan, and to her surprise, he says yes. He has it bad for Peyton and didn’t want anyone else to do this with her. As you can imagine, things quickly turn steamy between these two and you are rooting for them to just get together already! Both are great characters: easy to love, kind, loyal and trustworthy. The storyline was creative and different and everything went about at a perfect pace. This is my FAVORITE Lauren Blakely book to date, and I highly recommend this entire series!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Peyton and Tristan have been friends for 10 years, but she’s been in a serious relationship for most of them. When Amy (from book one) has a romantic comedy to publish, she comes up with a great idea of having someone test the scenes out to see if things actually happen like that in reality. Peyton volunteers, ready to finally get back out there after a failed engagement. When her first guy falls through, she turns to her trusty friend, Tristan, and to her surprise, he says yes. He has it bad for Peyton and didn’t want anyone else to do this with her. As you can imagine, things quickly turn steamy between these two and you are rooting for them to just get together already! Both are great characters: easy to love, kind, loyal and trustworthy. The storyline was creative and different and everything went about at a perfect pace. This is my FAVORITE Lauren Blakely book to date, and I highly recommend this entire series!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 16, 2020
Not bad, but it was nothing to get excited for.
January 16, 2020
***Review can also be found at . :)***
Have you ever wonder if the sexy scenes in romance books truly work in real life?
Lauren Blakely had managed to deliver an entertaining story full of swoon worthy moments as the characters embark on a search project that will change their lives forever.
Peyton Marie Valencia loves a good lingerie piece. Ever since her grandmother took her shopping for her first bra at 13, Peyton has always worn lace. But it became so much more meaningful when lace became her armor. It’s after her ex fiancé left her that lace helped her get over him as she loved how she felt and looked. As the owner of You Look Pretty Today, a lingerie boutique, it is her mission for women to love what they are wearing for them not just to be sexy for their men.
But things start to get tough when a new store decides to take away some of her business. When her friend tells her about a new idea that she has for a book that she is helping publish, ideas fly and Peyton suddenly finds herself accepting to embark on Project Sexy Scenes Research. She will have to test out sexy scenes from the book and write if it actually works in real life or not. The only issue is that she doesn’t know who to test them with until her best friend from college, Tristan, agrees to be part of the research experiment. It was supposed to be a fun project until things began to get steamy and she couldn’t keep her hands to herself. Now she has to figure out if pursuing a relationship with him is worth gambling their friendship if it doesn’t work out in the end.
Tristan has worked really hard to run a successful business, it’s with his skills that he has been able to create a good social media presence for his restaurant. But it has taken him a lot of ups and downs to get to where he is. After losing his parents, he has become his little brother’s guardian and it has changed him in a lot of ways. Yet, the one person who has always been there for him is his best friend from college, Peyton. She was there when he needed her the most and when she asks him to be part of her search experiment, he agrees to help her. Having kissed her once before, he promised himself that he wasn’t going to fall for her again, but things quickly change when the scenes start to get all too real. Risking losing her is not an option, even if it means keeping her as his friend.
I loved the story! Laurent Blakely knows how to deliver a great story full of romance and depth. The story was clever and the characters were relatable. I loved Peyton’s message, she truly wants women to feel beautiful and to not be afraid of asking for what they want in work, in love and in bed. Her friendship with Tristan was truly entertaining and later on swoon worthy! Tristan is sweet and kind. He is a good brother and friend. He cares about Peyton and it was nice seeing them work through their obstacles in order to be together. The ending will leave you wanting for more. I would highly recommend checking out this story, you will not be disappointed. :)
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
Have you ever wonder if the sexy scenes in romance books truly work in real life?
Lauren Blakely had managed to deliver an entertaining story full of swoon worthy moments as the characters embark on a search project that will change their lives forever.
Peyton Marie Valencia loves a good lingerie piece. Ever since her grandmother took her shopping for her first bra at 13, Peyton has always worn lace. But it became so much more meaningful when lace became her armor. It’s after her ex fiancé left her that lace helped her get over him as she loved how she felt and looked. As the owner of You Look Pretty Today, a lingerie boutique, it is her mission for women to love what they are wearing for them not just to be sexy for their men.
But things start to get tough when a new store decides to take away some of her business. When her friend tells her about a new idea that she has for a book that she is helping publish, ideas fly and Peyton suddenly finds herself accepting to embark on Project Sexy Scenes Research. She will have to test out sexy scenes from the book and write if it actually works in real life or not. The only issue is that she doesn’t know who to test them with until her best friend from college, Tristan, agrees to be part of the research experiment. It was supposed to be a fun project until things began to get steamy and she couldn’t keep her hands to herself. Now she has to figure out if pursuing a relationship with him is worth gambling their friendship if it doesn’t work out in the end.
Tristan has worked really hard to run a successful business, it’s with his skills that he has been able to create a good social media presence for his restaurant. But it has taken him a lot of ups and downs to get to where he is. After losing his parents, he has become his little brother’s guardian and it has changed him in a lot of ways. Yet, the one person who has always been there for him is his best friend from college, Peyton. She was there when he needed her the most and when she asks him to be part of her search experiment, he agrees to help her. Having kissed her once before, he promised himself that he wasn’t going to fall for her again, but things quickly change when the scenes start to get all too real. Risking losing her is not an option, even if it means keeping her as his friend.
I loved the story! Laurent Blakely knows how to deliver a great story full of romance and depth. The story was clever and the characters were relatable. I loved Peyton’s message, she truly wants women to feel beautiful and to not be afraid of asking for what they want in work, in love and in bed. Her friendship with Tristan was truly entertaining and later on swoon worthy! Tristan is sweet and kind. He is a good brother and friend. He cares about Peyton and it was nice seeing them work through their obstacles in order to be together. The ending will leave you wanting for more. I would highly recommend checking out this story, you will not be disappointed. :)
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**
January 12, 2020
'Sex and Other Shiny Objects,' if the title itself doesn't have you one clicking this baby, I'm going to tell you a few reasons as to why you should!
Let's dive into the premise of the story first and let me just say this is the biggest reason to dive into this baby!
Peyton and Tristan are two so lovable characters. We meet them in the first book in the Boyfriend Material series, but know that every book can be read as a standalone too.
Tristan, a bar owner, has always had feelings for Peyton but every chance he got since they became friends in school has left him deep in the friends zone. He's cool with it, like totally cool with it.
Peyton is a lingerie shop owner, has just gotten over her breakup with her ex-fiancé, whom she found cheating on her. So trust is a little hard for her to have with people but with life long friends like Tristan and her girlfriends she has people around her that she know care.
When her friend Amy asks for a little favour for a new book she's releasing, Peyton finds herself leaping to the chance to help out. I mean how hard can it be to find a partner to experiment if all things in romance books do really work?!
Tristan, as her most trust worthy guy friend and someone who's willing to help her with this experiment takes up to the challenge.
It can't be too hard to handle the mind blowing chemistry between the two when buttons start flying and panties start testing, right?! We'll nope!! They fail after a fair while of avoidance!
Now along with the intriguing plot line, you get Lauren Blakely's signature humour wrapped up in this bundle of a novel! There are so many sweet moments with siblings and friends, which pairs perfectly with the scandalous experiments taking place behind close doors!
What I loved most was how this book felt real. It didn't feel like fiction but as though I was just hanging around with good friends and having a laugh while watching two people who have been destined for one another finally fall in love!
A beautiful book that will have you craving more as Lauren Blakely tends to always do.
An ARC was provided by Candi Kane PR in exchange for an honest review.
Let's dive into the premise of the story first and let me just say this is the biggest reason to dive into this baby!
Peyton and Tristan are two so lovable characters. We meet them in the first book in the Boyfriend Material series, but know that every book can be read as a standalone too.
Tristan, a bar owner, has always had feelings for Peyton but every chance he got since they became friends in school has left him deep in the friends zone. He's cool with it, like totally cool with it.
Peyton is a lingerie shop owner, has just gotten over her breakup with her ex-fiancé, whom she found cheating on her. So trust is a little hard for her to have with people but with life long friends like Tristan and her girlfriends she has people around her that she know care.
When her friend Amy asks for a little favour for a new book she's releasing, Peyton finds herself leaping to the chance to help out. I mean how hard can it be to find a partner to experiment if all things in romance books do really work?!
Tristan, as her most trust worthy guy friend and someone who's willing to help her with this experiment takes up to the challenge.
It can't be too hard to handle the mind blowing chemistry between the two when buttons start flying and panties start testing, right?! We'll nope!! They fail after a fair while of avoidance!
Now along with the intriguing plot line, you get Lauren Blakely's signature humour wrapped up in this bundle of a novel! There are so many sweet moments with siblings and friends, which pairs perfectly with the scandalous experiments taking place behind close doors!
What I loved most was how this book felt real. It didn't feel like fiction but as though I was just hanging around with good friends and having a laugh while watching two people who have been destined for one another finally fall in love!
A beautiful book that will have you craving more as Lauren Blakely tends to always do.
An ARC was provided by Candi Kane PR in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2020
The second book in the Boyfriend Material series. Peyton is Amy from Asking for a Friend's bff.
She owns a lingerie boutique called You Look Pretty Today. She is the lingerie whisperer. Like Meg Ryan in You've Got Mail, her store is threatened by a big box store. So she asks her male bff, Tristan, for some advice on what she can do to increase sales. He suggests some options and she decides to re-introduce her blog for the store.
At the same time, Amy & their other friend Lola, ask her to help them with a project. Test out some scenarios from the book from their publishing house, Sex and Other Shiny Objects. Like ripping off his shirt and popping the buttons, ripping panties off with his teeth, you know, the hot ones. To see if they are possible or fantasy.
Peyton originally has a hot guy from yoga in mind until she discovers he's taken.
So while contemplating her options, she decides to ask Tristan. She trusts him. He's her friend. They can do this.
Little does she know that he's been pining for her since their one kiss in college and he has been nervous to do anything that will ruin their friendship. But a dare from his younger brother (who he is guardian to), forces him to think outside his comfort zone.
And the project she enlists his help on soon leads to much more than test scenes.
Sizzling, sweet, witty, and all sorts of nummy, I loved this friends to lovers romance!!
I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a review copy. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
She owns a lingerie boutique called You Look Pretty Today. She is the lingerie whisperer. Like Meg Ryan in You've Got Mail, her store is threatened by a big box store. So she asks her male bff, Tristan, for some advice on what she can do to increase sales. He suggests some options and she decides to re-introduce her blog for the store.
At the same time, Amy & their other friend Lola, ask her to help them with a project. Test out some scenarios from the book from their publishing house, Sex and Other Shiny Objects. Like ripping off his shirt and popping the buttons, ripping panties off with his teeth, you know, the hot ones. To see if they are possible or fantasy.
Peyton originally has a hot guy from yoga in mind until she discovers he's taken.
So while contemplating her options, she decides to ask Tristan. She trusts him. He's her friend. They can do this.
Little does she know that he's been pining for her since their one kiss in college and he has been nervous to do anything that will ruin their friendship. But a dare from his younger brother (who he is guardian to), forces him to think outside his comfort zone.
And the project she enlists his help on soon leads to much more than test scenes.
Sizzling, sweet, witty, and all sorts of nummy, I loved this friends to lovers romance!!
I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a review copy. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 15, 2020
I can always count on a Lauren Blakely romantic comedy to bring the laughs, the steam, and a cast of characters who provide hilarious fodder and witty remarks that keep me entertain from the first page to the last.
I love the plot line of Sex and Other Shiny Objects; it provides a unique set of circumstances for Peyton and Tristan to figure out how to go from being friends to lovers in a way that won’t feel awkward and will continue past their research project experiments.
I loved the chemistry and the banter between Peyton and Tristan; their underlying feelings for one another just needed a little push to be explored and while they looked to keep things PG, once they were given an opportunity to truly experience what they could be, they couldn’t help but go after what they’ve always wanted…each other.
One aspect of Blakely’s stories that I always look forward to is the friendships she constructs among the main and supporting characters. The girl tribe that Peyton is a part of sustains her in ways that no other relationship could, even one with the man who owns her heart. The camaraderie amongst the guys and the girls add to the humor and hijinks that can always be found in her books and those qualities as well as swoon worthy and heartwarming scenes make for great reading.
4 Poison Apples
I love the plot line of Sex and Other Shiny Objects; it provides a unique set of circumstances for Peyton and Tristan to figure out how to go from being friends to lovers in a way that won’t feel awkward and will continue past their research project experiments.
I loved the chemistry and the banter between Peyton and Tristan; their underlying feelings for one another just needed a little push to be explored and while they looked to keep things PG, once they were given an opportunity to truly experience what they could be, they couldn’t help but go after what they’ve always wanted…each other.
One aspect of Blakely’s stories that I always look forward to is the friendships she constructs among the main and supporting characters. The girl tribe that Peyton is a part of sustains her in ways that no other relationship could, even one with the man who owns her heart. The camaraderie amongst the guys and the girls add to the humor and hijinks that can always be found in her books and those qualities as well as swoon worthy and heartwarming scenes make for great reading.
4 Poison Apples
January 12, 2020
Sex and Other Shiny Objects by Lauren Blakely
Book two in the Boyfriend Material series is a best friends to lovers romance and is all about Peyton and Tristan. While Tristan has been on the the verge of in love with Peyton for many years, the opportunity never came up for him to confess all and get the girl. But now that Peyton needs some help in trying out sexy scenes from a book and testing their user-friendliness, she can’t ask anyone she trusts more than Tristan. They both want to preserve the friendship but while Tristan is determined not to lose his heart, Peyton is slowly becoming aware of deeper feelings.
Lauren Blakely delivers one of my favorite tropes wonderfully. The friendship and growth to more between Peyton and Tristan was engaging and delightful, their banter perfection. The respect they had for each other and the integrity of the friendship was clear and scene feasibility testing was hotttt! Tristan may very well be my new favorite LB hero and I would totally buy my lingerie from Peyton if I could. This series of standalones is one I’m really enjoying and I can’t wait for the next one to release!
*I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.
Book two in the Boyfriend Material series is a best friends to lovers romance and is all about Peyton and Tristan. While Tristan has been on the the verge of in love with Peyton for many years, the opportunity never came up for him to confess all and get the girl. But now that Peyton needs some help in trying out sexy scenes from a book and testing their user-friendliness, she can’t ask anyone she trusts more than Tristan. They both want to preserve the friendship but while Tristan is determined not to lose his heart, Peyton is slowly becoming aware of deeper feelings.
Lauren Blakely delivers one of my favorite tropes wonderfully. The friendship and growth to more between Peyton and Tristan was engaging and delightful, their banter perfection. The respect they had for each other and the integrity of the friendship was clear and scene feasibility testing was hotttt! Tristan may very well be my new favorite LB hero and I would totally buy my lingerie from Peyton if I could. This series of standalones is one I’m really enjoying and I can’t wait for the next one to release!
*I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
**Reviewed by Melinda for Joandisalovebooks Blog.
January 7, 2020
Lauren Blakely writes book boyfriends like no other, quite simply, they are what dreams are made of. And Tristan may just be the ultimate fantasy. Just reading about this enthusiastic and oh so competent man made my toes curl and my heart skip a beat or two. He definitely commands your attention!
Peyton is a firecracker no doubt. Confident and take charge. She has a passion for lace and satin and a good thing since it’s her livelihood. And when something threatens her passion, she wages a war. She goes to battle with her best guy friend by her side. And Tristan is everything she ever wanted...it seems in many ways. Tristan has no problem aiding his best friend. He’s become an expert at protecting those he loves. And Peyton ranks darn high on that list.
Peyton and Tristan devise a plan to play out intimate fantasies which involve sexy times on the stairs, button ripping, and panty shredding, and have mercy, it is game on. Their one kiss years ago has imprinted on them both. Can they resist temptation or each other?
This couple was an incredibly beautiful love story with heat and passion. It’s romance at it’s purest and finest.
Peyton is a firecracker no doubt. Confident and take charge. She has a passion for lace and satin and a good thing since it’s her livelihood. And when something threatens her passion, she wages a war. She goes to battle with her best guy friend by her side. And Tristan is everything she ever wanted...it seems in many ways. Tristan has no problem aiding his best friend. He’s become an expert at protecting those he loves. And Peyton ranks darn high on that list.
Peyton and Tristan devise a plan to play out intimate fantasies which involve sexy times on the stairs, button ripping, and panty shredding, and have mercy, it is game on. Their one kiss years ago has imprinted on them both. Can they resist temptation or each other?
This couple was an incredibly beautiful love story with heat and passion. It’s romance at it’s purest and finest.
January 15, 2020
� I received a review copy from author and voluntarily provided an honest review. This does not affect the opinion of the book or the content of the review.�
Peyton is given the opportunity to “test the sexy scenes� in romance novels. Bathtub sex, panty ripping, staircase sex etc. We’ve all read them and possibly thought about doing them in real life. For this task she enlist the help of her best friend, Tristan. The two of them have been kind of tap dancing around their feelings for one another for several years due to not wanting to lose the friendship which makes sense.
I really enjoyed this friends to lovers story. It had a refreshing premise. I really liked the whole reenactment of scenes from romance novels. Tristan and Peyton had good chemistry and I loved their banter and the story felt realistic. At times I wanted to shake sense into both of them for being stubborn and in denial but it was all worth it in the end. If you’re looking for a unique friends to lover romance, look no further!
Peyton is given the opportunity to “test the sexy scenes� in romance novels. Bathtub sex, panty ripping, staircase sex etc. We’ve all read them and possibly thought about doing them in real life. For this task she enlist the help of her best friend, Tristan. The two of them have been kind of tap dancing around their feelings for one another for several years due to not wanting to lose the friendship which makes sense.
I really enjoyed this friends to lovers story. It had a refreshing premise. I really liked the whole reenactment of scenes from romance novels. Tristan and Peyton had good chemistry and I loved their banter and the story felt realistic. At times I wanted to shake sense into both of them for being stubborn and in denial but it was all worth it in the end. If you’re looking for a unique friends to lover romance, look no further!
May 19, 2021
This was sweet and spicy. Just what I needed to clear my mind between end-of-year teacher stuff and finishing preparations for my son’s graduation this week! My boy is graduating. The baby of the family. So many tears! Ugh. I’m not sad, though. Really. My body is just processing all the beauty and wishes for his future and major life change, even though my brain and my heart haven’t had time to sit with it yet. All the romance novels in the land couldn’t stop these mama eyes from their constant leaking, but they help a little. As far as I’m concerned, Lauren Blakely is doing God’s work. Bless all the romance novelists. Amen.
January 18, 2020
First off, Lauren Blakely NEVER disappoints, ever!! I love everything I have read from her and also come back for more. I love her writing style and her ability to make you fall in love with her characters and always have you rooting for them. And of course always a page turner. I love both Peyton and Tristan but Tristan completely stole my heart from the get go. I was absolutely number one cheerleader for him. I love the comedy that comes along with the level of steaminess that will have you fanning yourself and blushing. I can't wait for the next book in this series or anything this author publishes really. Definitely one I will read again and again.
Review by Tabitha
Review by Tabitha
January 19, 2020
This one was very entertaining. Peyton was pure joy. Her silly antics brings the reader right into the story. And, Tristan so sweet and considerate. He lives with his younger brother, Barrett, and looks out for him and takes care of him responsibly and with care after the loss of their parents. Why not 5 stars? Well I’m not a gal that rewards a book a 5 when there’s so much back and forth. I did, however, enjoy Ms. Blakely’s newest release...
July 17, 2020
The story of two friends dancing around the feelings that they have harbored for each other for years, but have always been too afraid to act on them in order to preserve the friendship. Then a project for her lingerie blog stirs the pot and sets actions into motion that can't be undone. A delightfully funny rom com that is narrated excellently to entertain and excite for hours on end!
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