Once again, Lauren Blakely delivers with a touching and smart unexpected love story with The Real Deal! Her characters are full of charm and wit and the circumstances in which April and Theo are downright charming. He as her pretend boyfriend to convince her parents she is ready to settle down, when in actuality she isn't, made me laugh and often.  But as their feelings change from completely platonic to so much more, we are there front-row, center, to watch it all unfold.

Blakely's gift for grabbing the reader's attention with the most subtle of story-lines is never more apparent than with The Real Deal. She takes the boy meets girl scenario and gives it that special kind of touch to make it as swoonworthy as any other grand romance. She never lets me down and before I know it, I'm fully in love with both the main characters, their crazy crew and I don't want their story to end.

A must read and perfect for a lazy summer day, The Real Deal is simply wonderful from start to finish.

A solid 5 stars all the way!

Reviewing on behalf of Relentless Book Chics Ramblings and Reviews

A sweet and funny romance; I loved April and Theo.

I’m a huge fan of this author and when I read the blurb for the real deal, I couldn’t wait to read it.

April Hamilton loves her job as a body painter in New York but she doesn’t love her family interfering in her love life, or lack of one. As the annual family reunion gets closer, April decides to look on the internet and hire a man to act as her boyfriend to take with her, surely nothing could go wrong?

Theo Banks has had a tough life and in some ways is still trying to escape his past. He’s done many jobs and enjoys his current job as a bartender but he also acts as a boyfriend for hire as a sideline.  When he meets April he soon realises this job may be his toughest challenge yet because he’s so attracted to her but he vows to keep their relationship professional. 

As they spend more and more time together at her parents B and B, it soon becomes clear that the lines between faking it and reality have been crossed and the stakes of the game have been raised now their hearts are involved. What happens when Theo’s past and present collide and he realises April means more to him than just a job, will the deception prevent them from having a future?

I loved this story. April was a fun and sassy character who was instantly likeable and Theo was sexy and sweet; a perfect book boyfriend. This is a funny, light read that I would definitely recommend.

April Hamilton is heading home for a family reunion, but she refuses to go alone. Ever since her fall from grace when she dated a married man who said he wasn’t married, her well-intentioned relatives have all banded together to set her up with someone nice. Unfortunately, their version of ‘nice’ means someone back home, taking April away from the city and away from her career. As well meaning as they are, they don’t understand her or her passion for her work. So going on this trip alone is a no-go. So what’s a girl to do?

Boyfriend-For-Hire 

And that’s where Theo Banks comes in. Bartender by day, character actor by night (or day or afternoon, really any time you need him). His services come with a price and they are strictly platonic. A reformed grifter, he’s living his life on the straight and narrow. He’s got one debt left and he’s home free. And this gig with April is a win-win for both of them. He gives her the full fake boyfriend package, he gets paid. But what happens when the fake starts feeling more real than either of them have ever felt before?

I believe this was the cutest story I’ve ever read from Lauren Blakely. It was sweet and funny and heartwarming and romantic. These characters had instant chemistry and their banter and intimacy were both comfortable and natural. It was easy to like both of them and get on board with them finding their way to a real relationship. With a merry cast of side characters, this story was a delightful treat!

This is the best rom-com I have read in years!  The connection between April and Theo was so intense, clever, playful and sexy.  I was actually a bit sad when the book ended because these are characters that I just didn't want to let go.  This was such a fresh take on the fake relationship trope that I am afraid it might make it difficult for future books in this trope to measure up.  I really want to get invited to the next Hamilton and Moore Summer Lawn Olympics and Games!  I think this will be one of those books I re-read for years to come when I need a fun romance to cure a book hang-over or just as a distraction when I need a little more fun in my life.  

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.  

(But I am buying my own copy because this one is a keeper!)

Wow! I have never read a Lauren Blakely book I didn't enjoy immensely. Theo and April were such a well matched couple. April has a family reunion to go to and she is tired of her family always trying to set her up with a man as well as trying to get her to move back to her hometown. What's a woman to do? Well, seems Theo is able to offer his services as a boyfriend for hire. What starts out as a way for April not to have to deal with what appears to be her meddling family; soon turns into something more than just a boyfriend for hire when the two start falling for one another. In true Lauren Blakely style this a a wonderful rom com, with a bit of a cameo from a character mention from another of her fabulous books. You will have to read the book to find out who it is. I really enjoyed the way April and Theo bounced stories of their romance off one another when coming up with a background story for her family of how they met. I rally liked how those stories seemed to fuel the fire of the feelings they had for one another. Even though they knew that what they originally agreed upon neither could seem to help the bit of jealousy they felt at times. I found that so sweet. This is a really well written story and the ending was just perfect. wonderful HEA.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. Provided by Netgalley.

Wow I have to say it, this is pure pleasure to read. I loved this book, it was just full of all the right ingredients. A sexy swoony guy that I fell for, definitely my kind of man. A lively intelligent woman that doesn’t need a man, but fell in love with Theo because it was meant to be. They were so great together, and I just love " I remember when"
I loved the advert on Craigslist for a fake boyfriend, I would have hired him. Sometimes a book has all the right ingredients, but is not always a winner. When it’s a Lauren Blakely it usually is, and this is no exception. I loved every minute, and was glued to my kindle from start to finish. I can’t wait for the Audio edition because I will buy it and listen to Theo and April brought to life for me again. I want to hear Theo’s cartoon talking vibrator voice come to life. This was sexy, funny and great entertainment, and I couldn't stop smiling. This is definitely 5 stars from me.

Lauren Blakely does it again, in her usual style, with wit and banter in abundance this book had me giggling and smiling loads. I just love these kinds of books and the mood they seem to leave me in, is addicting. 

This is one of those true love stores that I really love to read, there are no tragedies that will leave you sobbing or anything to have you screaming for revenge. It's just 2 people who have had it tough and find what they aren't really looking for. 

April and Theo find themselves involved in a deal. A platonic working deal that is so funny to read, as they try to keep up with the rules they set for it in the beginning. Even when everything and everyone seems to be showing them what they really don't want to see.

I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend this book so so much.

What a fun book to read.  The characters were funny, romantic, and well thought out.  They were all likable.  Even when you wanted to be upset with them.

     A family is a hard boat to man.  So, for April Hamilton, an artist of body painting, to hire an actor for five days and six nights to fake being her boyfriend.  You know that she has some tough stuff to deal with in the matchmaking family of hers. 

     She has a mother, an aunt, a cousin, and a sister all sending her communications via calls, emails texts, etc.…. To let her know there was a nice fellow they all had to set up and ready for a date when she got home.  Yay!  Yeah, no pressure.

     So, when one of her best friends Xavier couldn’t player her fake boyfriend after all because she got a job doing a modeling job in London.  She was beside herself.  Yet, she should not have worried.  A bartender/actor friend of Xavier’s named Theo Banks was coming to the rescue for a fee of course.  But it would be so worth it. 

     It would cost her bank but to hire him you see since she hires himself out as a boyfriend for many different functions for the evenings.  Not as a gigolo though.  Yet, since he knows X-man as he calls him he would do the extra days for April.  She has no problem paying. 

     They agree to meet to exchange some info and get a feel for each other.  She agrees but lets him know she will be bringing a friend.  Although, when she arrives she has two friends with her.  He says that’s good to know she has people who care about her.

     All goes well they agree to each other’s terms.  Theo realizes the meeting didn’t go as planned.  Normally, he gets more info but he was so taken with her and their light bantering that he lost his head.  So, on the train, they exchange a lot but they also create these make-believe vignettes of how their relationship started over the last couple months.

     The vignettes are some of the best parts.  Their banter keeps this story alive and gives its romance and humor together.  You get to see the conflict of marriage, children, teen love, family meddling, and family joy.  This author shows how keeping secrets about your past only hurt you.  Be the first to tell your truths so no one can beat you to the punch.  The wrong story gets out otherwise and that can never be good.  Let them come to the source or if someone hears it in the wrong context you can correct them and let them know come to me if you have questions.

I give this: 5++++ stars.  Provided by netgalley.com.  Follow us at 

www.1rad-readerreviews.com

Theo needs money, and he needs it fast.  In order to make extra money, he not only works at a bar, but he is a date for hire.  He will play any role you need him to and he guarantees your satisfaction.  When his friend asks him to fill in for him, he can't say no.  Especially when the job is for a week and could get him squared away.
  April needs a boyfriend for her family's reunion, so they can all stop trying to set her up.  She believes she has it all figured out; her friend had agreed to act as her boyfriend, until he gets the opportunity of a lifetime.  She agrees to meet Theo, she really doesn't have a choice unless she wants her family to interfere.  What could go wrong?
  From the minute they meet and start discussing how they met, they both feel a connection and the stories almost feel real.  She goes that she is going to stay away and so does she.  Unfortunately, as he starts hitting it off with her family and they get to know each other better, the lines start to get blurred.  He decided to trek her the whole truth about his past, even though it scares him that she will end whatever they have.
  When she surprises him and then overhears part of a conversation will she let him explain,our will it be too late?  Does he truly have feelings for her, and if so, how can he get her to believe that his feelings are true?  Will April realize that people can make mistakes and give him a second chance, or are they over before they realize the relationship is The Real Deal?
  I received an ARC in exchange for an honest,voluntary review.

4.5 Sizzling Summer Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5

Lauren Blakely did it again! Another fabulous romantic comedy that doesn’t take its self too seriously... I know I can always count on Miss Blakely for some laughs and abs....

April is not going to her families summer reunion without a date! She is done with the family constantly trying to fix her up just to get her to come home... Theo is a bartender with a gig on the side.... he is a rent a boyfriend... i’m sure you can tell how this all starts out... April and Theo start out as a business arrangement completely platonic... but even from their very first meeting in the park you could feel the sparks between them...

April is a fabulous female MC... loved her she was strong, independent, sassy, kind, the kind of girl you would love to be friends with... Theo was a very typical Lauren Blakely mail MC... A little bad boy, a little arrogant, a lot gorgeous with a wonderful sense of humor... oh and we cannot forget about the ABS! Their relationship was a bit Insta, but it worked for me in this book, I felt it! Loved the banter between them and you could just tell they were both very caring people that deserve this....

A bonus in this book was the fabulous setting of the summer reunion... loved getting to know April‘s family better and I love the small town vibe... I wanted to jump in and join the fun and games at this reunion... twister... the hula hoop... a scavenger hunt.... this really is the perfect summer romantic comedy💕

Absolutely recommend if you are a fan of this author, the romantic comedy, or a fun summer read...

*** many thanks to St. Martin’s Press for my copy of this book ***

Fun, Entertaining and Hot! This is the first book that I have read by this author but it definitely won’t be my last. This was such a fun, entertaining, sexy, and heartwarming story. 
With lovable, and unique characters and a utterly, charming and entertaining, family reunion that keeps the funny times coming and coming as her family, falls, for her fake date, and their fake date, turns into the real deal. But when secrets come to light, will love save the day? 
It was LOL. hilarious, full of rapid, fire, wit and flirty banter as well as exquisitely playful and enticing moments that made me giddy and breathless. It was so easy getting lost in these characters and their wonderfully crafted conversations and their special connection and I didn’t want it to end. Loved and so will you. 
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

4.5 stars

April can’t face her family reunion single. The problem isn’t so much going home alone as it is the small town blind dates her family will set her up on if she does. She has avoided men of late, focusing instead on her big city career, a career no one in her family quite understands. She is finally almost where she wants to be, but the obligatory trip home could make going for her dream job difficult if her family guilts her for her singleness (as they are wont to do). 

Theo works as a bartender full time, but acts as a date for hire on the side. He’s got his own set of rules and it has never failed him. Though it isn’t what he loves, the side gig helps him be able to help his brother pay off a debt without cutting into either of their responsibilities. 

April needed help to get through her family reunion. Theo needed on more gig to help his brother. Neither expected anything more than the deal they had struck. 

I loved watching these two fake their relationship and suddenly find themselves stuck in feelings. It was a little on the insta-side of love, but with all the struggles they fought to avoid the feelings, I found myself thoroughly entertained by the whole premise. 

As a whole, this was a fun, sweet, easy read. The fake relationship added an “is-it-real” aspect to everything that Theo and April did during their time together, especially since they were so good at concocting the stories her family wanted to hear. Their fake romance was almost as good as their real one! 

I received a copy for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect the content of my review or my opinion of the book.

April and Theo aren't looking for love, but they find it while pretending to be a couple. She's a city girl trying to get her family to understand her. He's a former grifter trying to find financial comfort. Over the course of a four day family reunion they get to know each other and end up falling fast. I liked their banter and laughed along with them. They're both caring and loyal. The side characters are as appealing as the hero and heroine. The only thing that I would criticize is that the conflicts are too easily resolved during the climax. I think I expected there to be a little more conflict and drama, so it felt surprising when there wasn't. If you go into the book knowing it's a fun and light book, you'll enjoy it even more than I did. I give it 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5. I didn't enjoy it as much as Blakely's interconnected Big Rock books, but it's a great book and it's the perfect vacation read.

the real deal is basically my favorite romance trope catnip. i love a good fake relationship becomes real story, and that's what we get here. from the moment theo and april meet they click. maybe a little too well, if they intend to follow through with this plan to have theo play her good bad boy boyfriend at her family's annual family reunion/competition.

but theo doesn't just click with april. he clicks with her whole family. and keeping away from each other is probably going to make them crazy. so from everything fake, it becomes real. but theo has some baggage he's carrying around, and he's not open about it april. as much as they share, he can't stop himself from holding back.

and holding back will definitely get him in trouble. although if we're honest, and that is my job, the thing that upsets her is kind of trivial, and it's one of those things that i'm not entirely sure i understand why anyone would get so upset about. but i think that's maybe more of a me thing? anyway, these two are most certainly the real deal and everyone should read this book.

**the real deal will publish on july 10, 2018. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/st. martin's press (st. martin's griffin) in exchange for my honest review.

I adored this book! Lauren Blakely at her best! The Real Deal is smart and funny, full of sexual tension and playful banter, has awesome supporting characters like a meddling mother, and the sweetest of HEAs!

April answers a Craigslist ad for a boyfriend-for-hire to be her buffer during a family reunion. From the minute April meets Theo beforehand, sparks are flying and this conman is worried that he’s going to be in trouble with this client. And he is so right!! As they embark on the reunion weekend, lines become so blurred between their fake relationship and what they are really feeling for one another. 

I just wanted to give Theo a big hug! He was so torn up about wanting to come clean with April about his “acting” — what constitutes a lie and what is. Truth you haven’t shared yet? I get why he was so afraid to come clean with her once he started to fall for her. And I understand why she felt betrayed, but I am so glad she got over that quickly because I they were perfect together!

I received an advanced copy and voluntarily left a review.

The Real Deal was one of those dreams come true books. When I was reading it, I was thinking how cool it would be to have this happen. When you least expect it and it’s the farthest thing from what you thought you want and needed and bam, you find yourself hoping and wishing what you are pretending is “the real deal.” The Real Deal is hot, sexy, swoony, and sweet. It’s also filled with well meaning, over the top family that makes the story. I think I wanted it to be real even more than April and Theo!! This is a 5 star must read!

This is only the third book that I’ve read by Lauren Blakely, and I’m kicking myself for not finding her sooner. When she writes a story about Paris, I actually feel that I’m in Paris, as opposed to reading a book about being in Paris. The same is true for this story. I feel like going to Connecticut now and having a romantic interlude on a drawbridge or a treehouse.

The wealthy alpha male is a well-loved trope by romance writers and adored by its readers. But it takes a really good writer to write a story with an alpha male who isn’t rubbing himself with Franklins as he coasts down fifth avenue in a limo. A story like the one Blakely writes requires more depth and thought from the writer because the well-worn tropes do not apply. It requires fastidous application of literary and plot devices like Blakely’s delightful “remember when,” a phrase that grounds the plot and helps us understand her characters.

Not only are her books addicting, but her characters are interesting, idiosyncratic, and enthralling. April and Theo are at the top of my “couples I’d like to be cool enough to hang out with” list.

Hired boyfriend + meddlesome family + forced proximity = Lots of Romance & Fun

April hires a platonic boyfriend-for-hire to accompany her to her family reunion. Theo supplements his income as a bartender by hiring himself out as whatever kind of buffer a person needs for any event: office party, family gathering, etc. He thinks of it as an acting gig.

As happens in these sorts of stories, there's an instant spark between April and Theo. Their chemistry is delightful. Their flirty banter is unusual in that it frequently involves talking about made up "memories" of their faux relationship, which makes for very creative dirty talk.

April's family is a hoot. They were dimensional and charming. They're also hilarious. 

While frothy and easy-to-read, The Real Deal still gave me the right amount of tension and feels. It's the perfect patio read. Absolutely recommend it!

April and Theo are accidentally in HEA! April cannot believe she lost the one thing she needed to make her trip home bearable. Don’t get her wrong she loves her family, but if she doesn’t walk in the door with a man on her arm it will be open season on her. So instead she is ready to do the completely sane and rationally thing… get a boyfriend for hire. How hard can it be to fake her way through boyfriendy bliss for one week? Theo just needs this one last job and he will be finally be debt free. Taking a job as April’s boyfriend for the week should be easy money right. It just a jig and she’s quite the perk. But when lines blur and he’s wants to make his less fake and more forever what’s a fake boyfriend to do?

I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book

It has been a while since I have read this author but I will not make that mistake again. This book was filled with humor, passion, romance, lots of romance, and so much fun I wish I had a family who got together like this. April's family is trying desperately to set her up with someone from her hometown so she will move back home to live and they are using the family reunion as an excuse to throw men at her. Because of this, she plans to bring home her friend instead as her fake boyfriend but he gets a last minute job but he gives her Theo's Craigslist link for boyfriend-for-hire. It is a match made in the stars and the first time they meet there are sparks.  Theo has had it rough and had to do many things growing up to survive including running cons to make enough money to get through school and then every job you could think of including dog food tester to professional sleeper (which I would like to be signed up for some days) but he is now a boyfriend for hire and that comes with a satisfaction guarantee and totally platonic. With these two? Could that last when the lines are blurred right from the beginning. Oh, this was so much fun to watch!  I totally recommend this one for a fun read!!!!!

**Received this ARC for review from the publisher via NetGalley**