Cover Image: The Unhoneymooners

The Unhoneymooners

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Member Reviews

There are very few authors that can write chemistry between characters better than Christina Lauren! I think this book, The Unhoneymooners, is them at their absolute best! Olive and Ethan are such likable, yet flawed,  characters; I sincerely hope there’s a sequel coming for them! I need to know more!

The situations the duo ended up in we’re both laugh out loud funny and cringeworthy. I can’t magic be faking a honeymoon with my mortal enemy. The book takes a serious turn during the last 1/3, so this goes from romance to women’s fiction in a seamless transition. I felt so bad for Olive but felt she was vindicated in the end.

The witty back and forth exchanges between Olive and Ethan when they first arrive in Hawaii had me belly laughing. Oh, and word to the wise? Don’t eat while reading the first five chapters ;)

Many thanks to Gallery for my ARC. All thoughts are my own.
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Another wonderful book by Christina Lauren! This one just might be my favorite. The characters are so full and the romance and comedy are a perfect blend.
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Olive and Ethan are enemies, Olive thinks she only has to tolerate him for 24 hours during the wedding of her identical twin sister to his brother. But after food poisoning from the shellfish dinner at the wedding causes every single person to become sick, except Olive and Ethan, a non-refundable Hawaiian honeymoon is up for grabs. The only catch? Olive and Ethan have to pretend to be happily married newlyweds. ⁣
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Y’all, I LOVED this! This is exactly the type of rom-com I love reading. I devoured it in a couple of sittings and I was so sad when it was over! Christina Lauren really nailed this delightful enemies-to-lovers story. I’m new to learning all the romance tropes, but I think it also classified as forced proximity? The banter between Olive and Ethan while they put on a show of being married is great, and there’s definitely a few times it felt like an old screwball romantic comedy. But hands down my favorite part of the story was her giant close-knit Mexican family! I loved seeing each of the characters from her family pop up in the book. ⁣
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I will say the end felt like there were some things that should have been addressed more regarding the conflict that occurs. The more I think about the last few chapters (not including the epilogue), I feel a little iffy about how quickly Olive forgave some not great behavior. Because of that, this was a 4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 for me (rounded up to 5 for Netgalley and Goodreads). ⁣
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I still highly recommend The Unhoneymooners! I’m all about romantic comedies with witty banter and some steam🔥 this will definitely be going in my reread pile. The Unhoneymooners releases May 14th, 2019!
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Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review!
There's only a handful of authors who can consistently write multiple books and not disappoint me. Christina Lauren is at the top of the list. Not only have I loved every story they've written, I've devoured them. It takes a special kind of writing skill when you can pump out multiple books throughout the year, give the reader fresh takes on classic tropes, and make them wanting more.
This was a fantastic book! We have two of some of the best tropes in this book, fake marriage and enemies-t0-lovers. I don't think it could have been executed any better and I loved the premise. 

After Olive's sister Amy and Ethan's brother Dane come down with food poisoning at their own wedding, they're offered a trip to Hawaii. Not wanting to miss out, they agree to go together even though they have never gotten along. What happens on the trip is pretty much what one would expect but it's still so great every time. I loved the banter between Olive and Ethan, especially every time they called each other a different name. The build-up and transition from enemies to friends to more is so smooth and perfect. Of course, there's always a problem that prevents these characters from really settling down until the very end. It's quite a doozy in this one. I really only couldn't stand Dane (though the reader isn't supposed to like him) and the two MCs definitely have their faults. Thankfully, they work better with each other rather than against. The honeymoon vacation was also so nice! I could picture it so well! 
This is another A+ from Christina Lauren and I can't wait to read what comes out next!
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Without a doubt, Christina Lauren is one of those authors that once they come out with a book, I devour it and then sit impatiently, waiting  for their next book and filling my time with authors who I wish could be them.

The Unhoneymooners just reaffirmed my own love affair with this dynamic writing duo. 

Compared to her sister Ami, Olive considers herself to be the “unlucky” twin: always finding mishaps and misfortune at every turn. Her luck changes when a case of food poisoning hits newly married Ami and the entire wedding party, forcing Olive to take her reservation for a free honeymoon in paradise. The only catch? She’s accompanied by her arch nemesis, Ethan. A free Hawaiian vacation with a man you loathe but who looks hot in board shorts? Beach, please.

Fans of Christina Lauren will fall in love with Olive and Ethan, especially their love-hate banter. Quite honestly, their jabs where just as exciting as their sweet talk. Although we don’t get those sex scenes that made us salivate for more Christina Lauren books, we are left with a couple that we cheer for and hope to read more about in the future.
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<p>Deciding on a rating for The Unhoneymooners was tough.  I really enjoyed the first 75% of the book.  It was a trope I love (forced proximity), the main characters were endearing and it was lighthearted fun.  That's pretty much everything I could ask for from a romantic comedy.  </p>
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<p> If you don't want spoilers you will want to skip what's left of this review.   What happened in the last 25% of this book you may ask?  Major gaslighting by the people closest to Olive, the heroine in this book.  You see, Olive found out that her new brother-in-law has been cheating on her sister for years from his brother who is the hero in this book.  He pressured her not to say anything to her sister and Olive intended to honor that request after convincing herself she might not know everything about their relationship.  Olive didn't one want to embarrass her sister or strain the relationships of those she cared the most about so regardless of all of her misgivings she was going to keep her mouth shut.  </p>
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<p>Here is where my entire opinion of this book changes.  We keep getting glimpses into how Dane (the brother-in-law) has been making comments to everyone about how negative Olive is.  He has convinced her twin sister and Ethan that she is always looking for problems even where there are none.  I am sure you can see where this is going, but it's worse than you imagine.  Dane is so confidence that nobody will believe Olive that he not only pretends there is no issue, but he propositions Olive.  At this point Olive realizes that she has to say something to her Ami (her sister).  She tells both Ethan and Ami everything and NEITHER OF THEM BELIEVE HER.  I wanted to launch my kindle at the wall.</p>
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<p>In the end of course, both Ethan and Ami discover that Dane was in fact a scumbag and apologize profusely but you know what?  I DON'T CARE!  When I look back on the last couple of years and all of the stories of gaslighting that were in the news I just don't want it in my romance unless it involves a character that you don't expect me to see as redeemed.  Obviously other readers could feel completely differently, but for me reality is hard enough right now.  I don't want to deal with all of it in the same place I am going to find a guaranteed HEA.</p>
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<p>The bottom line is, I wish The Unhoneymooners was a choose your own adventure book where I could pick an alternate ending.  If the resolution had been handled differently I think I would have loved it.</p>
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Wow! Christina Lauren has done it again! When I read the synopsis I knew right away I was going to love this book. I devoured this book and read it in one sitting I could not put it down! I immediately connected with the characters in this book. I felt all kinds of emotions while reading this novel and actually laughed out loud at times. The characters are so funny and quirky and you immediately fall in love with them. 

When Olive’s sister Ami gets married to Ethan’s brother Dane everyone’s comes down with food poisoning except for Olive and Ethan. Not wanting to let a honeymoon go to waste the couple gives the honeymoon to Olive and Ethan. There’s just one problem, they cant stand each other. Throughout the honeymoon they are required to put on a fake marriage facade and run into several mishaps along the way. This story takes you on a wild ride full of adventures and you will be feeling every emotion by the end of it! I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves a rom-com style of book!
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Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, for this free eARC.

Christina Lauren is one of my favorite authors. Their books are always a quick read for me, and I really enjoy them. Dare I say this is my favorite one, so far? I am glad I still have some of their older ones to read, until they put out a new one!  😉

Without giving too much away, seeing that this book does not come out until May, I really enjoyed this book and loved almost all of the characters. Because who is going to like Dane? Not I.

There were so many times I was laughing out loud while reading! Olive was the absolute best. I absolutely loved Olive and Ami's family, as they all stuck together when things got tough,  and they needed somebody. The ending tied everything up just perfectly. 

This will be one of those books that I have to pre-order, as it will have a permanent place on my shelf. Can't wait to see what they think of next!
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There are a handful of authors whose books I'll pick up as soon as they publish (or, hopefully, before!) Christina Lauren definitely make that list. These books are the kind of sweet escapism I truly crave and (not so) secretly adore. Everything about them scream fun and sweet and I devour them like candy.

The Unhoneymooners is no different. Adorable, slightly misguided Olive goes on her twin sister's honeymoon with the arch-nemisis (and the groom's brother!) Ethan after the entire wedding party comes down with terrible food poisoning. Over the course of 10 days in paradise, they unravel a few misunderstandings and fall in love. 

I'll admit, Ethan wasn't my favorite male protagonist from a Christina Lauren book. He was a little milquetoast for my liking and the plot was a little light on the tension I've come to love in these books but either way, I'll read anything and everything these authors put in front of me.
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This was my first Christina Lauren read and I was so impressed. It was everything great romantic comedy should be! The characters all had distinctive personalities that felt real and not overdone. The dialogue made me actually laugh over and over. The storyline and pacing were superb. I will definitely be reading more by Christina Lauren! What a fun read. 

Thank you to Netgalley for a free advanced copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
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The Unhoneymooners shows that the duo that is Christina Lauren can do no wrong. Once again they have produced an amazing, funny, and heartwarming tale. But now  they have set their newest novel among the most beautiful beaches and landscape in the world, we're in Maui baby! Olive's sister wins everything. So when she wins a free wedding and a dream honeymoon, Olive isn't surprised. But then disaster strikes and her sister can no longer go on the dream honeymoon, Olive takes one for the team. But she didn't realize she would have to share her vacation in Maui with her arch enemy, her brother in law. Sparks fly, Lies are told, and things get crazy. 

If you love Christina Lauren this book will not disappoint you. 

ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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At this point, these romances are becoming a bit formulaic for me. While I find them to be fun entertainment normally, the last few, including this one, have become too predictable. The premise, characters, and situations were all just ok, so for someone who hasn't read all this authors previous titles, it would be great.
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The UnHoneymooners by Christina Lauren is the perfect romantic comedy. It’s hilarious, filled with intense chemistry, and my klutzy heart loved Olive’s character with her tendency for unlucky situations that end in disaster. 

Once I started this book I literally could not put it down until I finished. Christina Lauren’s dialogue between Olive and Ethan pulled me in immediately. While Olive’s life is a bit of a mess as the book begins she is smart, independent and cares more for her family than anything else. Ethan can drive her crazy with nothing more than a look and their barbs and enjoyment of driving one another crazy was hysterical and highly entertaining. This was a fun and easy read that makes you ask whether a person’s life it truly ruled by luck or choice. I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves romance, misunderstandings, snarky retorts and a good laugh.
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The Unhoneymooners just sky rocketed to my top favorite Christina Lauren romances of all time! Funny, sweet, amazing characters - how do they continue to write these stories that just grab you?

Olive is the twin that bad luck follows - but not this time!

When everyone at her twin's wedding reception gets food poisoning, Olive and Ethan are the only ones left standing due to allergies and an aversion to buffets. They have a long standing dislike of each other, but need to play nice as they pretend to be the new Mr. and Mrs. Thomas. 

The hilarious situations that their forced proximity creates are some of my favorite parts of the book!
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<i>The Unhoneymooners</i> was another fun Christina Lauren book.  I've read quite a few of their books recently, and they really are a great pick if you want a breezy chick lit/romance read. I've reviewed a few of their books, and my last criticism was that a lot of their books feel the same if you read them relatively close together. However, I felt like <i>The Unhoneymooners</i> was just different enough that it stood out. I also really like that they've started to feature a diverse cast of characters in their books.  If you're already a fan of Christina Lauren's books or looking to try one of them, this is a good one to go with.

Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
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AHHHHH Christina Lauren does it again! These two write chemistry like none other and this book is no exception. I think Olive and Ethan might be my favorite couple to date! Olive is a strong, independent, curvy, smart woman and Ethan is gorgeous but also deeply sensitive and caring. And together....BAM! Explosive.

I love the whole "wait you love me? I thought you hated me!" trope and these two pull it off beautifully . The love scenes were so sizzling hot and the dialogue. I even laughed out loud a couple of times. All of the supporting characters were completely endearing as well. 

I'm hoping for a sequel based on Ami...fingers crossed!
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"When I signed up for this honeymoon, I had no idea it would involve so much nudity."

Raise your glass to another winner from Christina Lauren! *clink* This writing duo features my go-to gals when it comes to romantic comedies. Seriously, I can't remember the last time an author consistently made me chortle so hard or forced me to sustain multiple gut busters in a row. Last time I checked, we could all use a few more good vibes all over the world, and if you're looking for another feel good time, this is your stop. Get off the TBR bus right now; hurry or you'll miss it!

I immediately connected with Olive and her plight to fight the system that forces prejudice against the curvy girl. Seriously, a female lead who not only inhales cheese curds at the fair and makes no apologies for it, but also holds anyone accountable who tries to fat shame her? This girl is my hero. Olive and Ethan are the "unlikeliest couple" ever, which means of course they have to get together, because this is my all time favorite trope. Let's give a standing ovation for the enemies-to-lovers plot! Ethan is a seemingly OCD/stuffy know-it-all, who honestly came off as a standard dick in the beginning. But Chelsea, isn't there some underlying reason why he's coming across as such a shallow turd muncher you ask? Obviously, but we'll get there in due time. This pair contains the only two people at Olive's sister's wedding who didn't come down with an unfortunate, fancy case of food poisoning. Sister Amy insists that Olive take the non-refundable, all inclusive honeymoon to Hawaii, while brother Dane insists that Ethan takes it. Even though Olive and Ethan despise each other, they are both stubborn as an ox and refuse to let the other have all the fun, so they agree to commit fraud and enjoy a free vacation while spending as little time as possible around each other. 

We all know how this story goes, and I think one of the reasons I pick up these books is for the familiarity and predictability they provide. Even if everything in my life is going haywire, I can count on these two people going through the motions to hit me right in the feels where I need it most. I'm sure you can guess how 99% of this book will turn out, but what I can't emphasize enough is just how laugh-out-loud hilarious it was journeying alongside of Ethan and Olive. The shower changing scene, anyone? While the plot seemed a little less zany and more believable than Josh and Hazel's Guide to Not Dating, I felt the snappy dialogue and witty humor was most on point with that previous story than some of their others. *side note, you can say it's unbelievable that twins would end up dating or marrying brothers, but I had a ballet teacher who married her identical twin's brother in law. Hope your marriage is still going strong Miss Jamie, and if not, I apologize for bringing it up here.*

The reason I went with a 4 star instead of a 5 star rating is a bit complex, and I'll try to unpack it below, complete with spoiler tags. While I understand that this is fiction, I felt conflicted about how the book ended. Once Olive and Ethan return from the "honeymoon" and insert themselves into real life mode, they have some issues that they have to deal with involving family members on both sides. On the one hand, I love how we see Olive grow as a person, taking ownership for her shortcomings and choices in life, and becoming ok with who she is and finding who she wants to be in her professional career. This portion felt deeper than in previous "fluffy" novels, which perhaps raised my expectations on how the ending would handle her and Ethan's "disagreement". After everything Olive goes through in trying to start a discussion involving Dane's unacceptable behavior, I was really disappointed that, after Ethan was such an ass LITERALLY until the last possible second, how quickly Olive took him back and how little everyone seemed to think the way he acted was ok. For me, his behavior was the last in a major list of red flags, and I think an ending on par with CoHo's "It Ends With Us" where each character finds themselves without getting back together would have been more effective. Obviously, this is just personal preference, and a small blot in an otherwise delicious, steamy, feel good romp. Highly recommended for anyone who needs a good laugh and a story you can fly through in record time.
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Another 5 star read by the Christina Lauren duo! 

When I saw this book coming out I knew I had to get my hands on it right away! Thank you netgalley and Gallery books for giving me this copy in exchange for my honest review. 

This book was such a quick and fun read. It wasn’t just a wonderful romance story, but a story of family as well. Identical twins Ami and Olive only look alike but everything else about them is different. 

Ami wins a trip to Hawaii for her honeymoon but after a buffet-gone- wrong wedding, only Olive and Ethan (her nemesis and the grooms brother) are the people who don’t get sick. Because the trip is free and cannot be canceled the sick bride and groom encourage Olive and Ethan to take their place. 

If you’re like me, you don’t need any more information to want to read this book. I enjoyed every page and I’m sad that I’ve finished the book because now I will have to wait for another CL book to come out (I’ve read them all). 

READ THIS BOOK!
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Oh man, this was so freaking cute. I want to gush about this ridiculous romcom all day long, but I can't because no one else has read it yet and I don't want to spoil anything for anyone. Suffice it to say, I really enjoyed this and I will absolutely reread it when the final copy comes out in May. It may be my favorite CL book!
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The Unhoneymooners is the newest fun romantic comedy from Christina Lauren. Olive and Ethan have been enemies ever since they first met...when her twin sister, Ami, and his younger brother, Dane, started dating. When everyone (except for Olive and Ethan) gets sick at Ami and Dane's wedding, Ami begs Olive to go on her honeymoon trip (it's nonrefundable and nontransferable)- as Ami. If you've watched romantic comedies, you know that hi-jinks are about to ensue- pretending they're married, running into people they know, etc. I really, really enjoyed this book and devoured it in two days. It's exactly what I expect from Christina Lauren and I was not disappointed. This may be my new favorite by them.
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