From the Publisher
"Lee’s devoted fans will enjoy." - Publishers Weekly on The Dating Dare
"The Dating Dare is a funny, well- written, character-driven romance that will leave the reader rooting for Tara and Seth’s happily-ever-after.” - Affaire de Coeur
"A playful, spicy rom-com." - Booklist on The Dating Dare
"Filled with lovable characters and sweet charm, this rom-com is equal parts humorous and heartfelt." - Woman's World on The Dating Dare
"Lee's lush romance is a delectable delight." - Booklist
"Lee’s (Temporary Wife Temptation) latest is perfect for anyone who enjoyed Amy E. Reichert’s The Coincidence of Coconut Cake. Readers will get lost in Aubrey’s sugary creations while rooting for the characters to find their happily ever after." - Library Journal
"A perfect balance of impeccable wit, laugh out loud hilarity, and off the charts chemistry. A Sweet Mess is a sinfully decadent romantic comedy!" —Helena Hunting, New York Times bestselling author
"A rich, vibrant romance that's a feast for all the senses!"- Lauren Blakely, #1 New York Times Bestselling Author
"A wonderful twist on a classic romance...this is a fun summer read that is best enjoyed poolside or at the beach." - Lit Up, Southern California News Group
Kirkus Reviews
2021-06-02
A photographer on the verge of an international move and an ambitious craft-brewery owner agree to a casual fling that quickly grows into something more.
Tara Park doesn't exactly hit it off with Seth Kim when she's the maid of honor and he's the best man at her best friend's wedding to his brother. She tells him to quit ogling her, and he claims he can't help it: "I'm a photographer. It's hard for me to ignore things of beauty." What a line! But with the chemistry sparking, the two of them head to Tara's craft brewery to continue the festivities—and a highly alcoholic game of truth or dare heats things up. When Seth dares Tara to go on four dates with him, her competitive nature makes her say yes, but they both know that time is fleeting. Seth is only in town to housesit while the newlyweds are on their honeymoon, and then he's relocating to Paris. The California setting is vibrant, and the details about the craft-beer industry and Tara's experience as a brewer are fascinating. It's in the relationships, both romantic and platonic, where things go wrong. This isn't a romance for the modern reader, as red flags from both characters are too easily explained away as the result of passion. Seth's initially unwanted attention is quickly forgotten as the drinks start flowing, and Tara routinely acts petty and downright rude at the mention of Seth's previous romantic partners even though she's had plenty of physical connections with men. Both characters ultimately lack maturity, especially Tara, who repeatedly insists love doesn't fit into her life. It's hard to care when the main characters border on unlikable.
A frustrating read.