Member Reviews
Entertaining blend of Greek mythology with Young Adult Paranormal tropes. Highly recommended for fans of 'The Vampire Diaries', and Addison Moore's 'Celestra' series. A centuries-old, supernatural dating service run by incredibly high-tech cupids race to stop the original Cupid from charming and enchanting his match at a middle-of-nowhere, California high school. What happens when the master of love arrows has the chance to fall in love for himself? |
Reviewer 593074
Seventeen year old Lila Black keeps receiving notifications from Cupid's Matchmaking Service and she finally has had enough and goes to the office to ask them to stop bothering her. Yet, when she tells the receptionist who she is, the woman looks almost scared of her and Lila finds out she has been matched with Cupid himself, which is forbidden. Though she is determined to avoid Cupid, he is determined to find his mysterious match which causes Lila and everyone she knows to be put into danger. I loved how mythology was included in the plot. It was interesting to read about each myth and how they were incorporated into the story. However, the story of Lila and Cupid fell flat for me. I thought that Cupid's brother, Cal had more chemistry with Lila. He was just a better written character overall. I actually had a hard time caring for any of the other characters because they seemed to lack personalities and fit into cliche roles in a very cliche story line. It was too predictable. Had the rest of the characters been as well developed, it would have helped the book immensely. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. |
This book was provided as an e-arc by NetGalley. I loved the idea. It was unique at least for me.I liked the mythology and the way the author used it. The story itself was a mixed bag.I liked part 1 and 3 but didn't like part 2 or 4.I loved the first 30% cause it was just fun and we didn't reach the death drama part.Part 3 was the action part and I liked it.Part 2 was a little boring and the last part aka the ending was okay but I think it was lacking. I loveeed grumpy Cal "spoiler" (( but couldn't believe that he would betray them and I was glad that I was true )).I shipped Cal and Lila and I know it was hard to happen but that's me. I needed more of the family aspects and I loved the friendship of lila and I really want to see it more.. |
Right from the start, we get thrown into the story, and I highly appreciate that. I wasn't bored once reading Cupid's Match and it's one of those titles that can easily be read in one sitting if that's your thing. The writing flows nicely, something's always happening and you just don't have time to get bored with it. However, especially as we near the ending, I felt like things switched from fast-paced to rushed. Everything falls into place a little too easily, an important character (or at least what should have been one) dies off screen and suddenly it's all over. The story as a whole, even though I enjoyed it, was also just very predictable. Which saddens me, because the premise is interesting. I believe with some editing, more elaborate world building and incorporation of all the mythology that's really only brushed over as it stands, and some more character development for the side cast especially, this could be a favorite of mine. As it stands though, it's more so the concept of it that is. If there is gonna be a follow up novel, I am definitely interested in picking it up though, in hopes that it'll fill in some gaps and simply allow itself some more time to develop everything. I instantly liked and sympathized with Lila and would like to see more of her and Cupid and especially Cal. |
Cupids match was unique, mysterious, and had just enough action to keep things interesting. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an easy read. The writing flowed well, and the characters were written in a way that you understood their personalities. |
What happens when you are a love match for cupid himself? So this is a YA romance with a bit of fantasy/mythology, light fun and a good fast summer read. I say this all the time but I adore any kind of mythology and this was a fun twist on the greek God cupid. I received a free arc copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, my opinions are my own. |
When Lila won’t stop being pestered by Cupid’s Matchmaking Service she decides to take it upon herself to go directly to their office and let them know she does not want to receive emails and letters from them anymore. But when the receptionist takes a look at one of the letters she was sent, Lila finds herself being called down into one of the many offices to talk with someone higher up. Someone who is claiming to be a cupid and that Lila has been matched with the original, Cupid himself. Lila learns that a cupid is not allowed to be matched and her being the match for Cupid is very dangerous. Warned to stay away from Cupid, Lila is sure that it will be no problem. But the next day at school, there’s a new guy. And his name is Cupid. And Lila realizes that avoiding her match might be easier said than done. “Cupids cannot be matched. And we can’t watch over you forever.” Cupids Match was a pretty easy read for me. It was full of lots of Greek Mythology references which was entertaining to read. However, I did have some problems with it. All the relationships seemed a bit forced (ahem, whats up with the whole Cal thing??) and I found it hard to connect to some of the characters. I also wish that Cupid and Lila’s whole relationship hadn’t been dragged out for so long. This was a very fun, unique take on the myth of Cupid I just wish that some tediously dragged out scenes were cut a bit shorter. I enjoyed the humorous narration of this and even laughed out loud a few times. Hopefully book two answers the questions that book one left me with. I am giving this 3 out of 5 stars. |
I love a good Cupid Story and this didn't Disappoint. It was awesome from the get go. Not once did i feel bored while reading this, Can't wait to read Book 2. |
Lila Black is getting spammed by a matchmaking agency and she wants them to leave her alone. So, on summer break, right before school starts, she heads to LA to to the Cupid's Matchmaking Services and is immediately told 'we're not taking customers at this time." She shares the multiple letters she has received and is suddenly face to face with one of the people (er, cupids) who is a matchmaker. It turns out she has been matched with Cupid himself (the original) and there's a rule that cupids are not allowed to match or something horrible will happen. Plus, Lila already has a boyfriend and does not want to be matched. There is a lot of action in tis book- it doesn't surprise me that it's getting turned into a CW show. At one point I thought that it actually read like a screenplay (not that I have read any screenplays, but there is a lot of dialogue and action, and I felt like I Was watching what was going on versus being drawn into it). It's also firmly in the YA genre. I am not a YA, but typically enjoy the genre; this one wasn't for me. I found the writing to be a choppy and it was hard for me to relate to any of the characters. I wish they had been more fleshed out. It was also a very abrupt ending. I should also note there's a lot of references to mythology, but little alignment with actual myths. This might be an issue for some readers. I think it's going to be a series, but I would have like a little more wrap up before ending. I think this has and will find an audience, maybe even among the young writer population. Thanks to NetGalley and Wattpad Books in exchange for an honest review. |
I was going into "Cupid's Match" thinking that it's a romance novel with some mythological aspects (cupids). Yet it turned out to be more of an action and adventure story, which was a pleasant surprise. The mood was quite light in the beginning and everything seemed clear-cut. Lila is matched with Cupid - the first and most powerful of them all - but she already has a boyfriend and is definitely not interested. Which is good, because if Cupid and Lila were to get together, there would be some mysterious consequences that would ruin the world as we know it. Cupid is dangerous too, and he is searching for his match, so Lila has to be protected and hidden from him. Things escalate with Cupids appearance in Lila's hometown, but here the novel takes a turn. Everything is not as simple as it seems, and could it be possible that there are other forces at work? I liked these twists and suspense, they made "Cupid's Match" entertaining and easy to read. There were a few reveals that seemed quite obvious and didn't hit the mark for me, but it did not ruin the overall experience. I will be on the lookout for the sequels. |
3.5 Stars rounded to 4. Cupid’s Match by Lauren Palphreyman is a charming, humorous, and entertaining romance fantasy with a fun mythological twist. I found myself laughing a few times, swooning a bit here and there, and just having a really good time. Definitely a quick and amusing tale that enamored me until the end. The idea of actual cupids running a Matchmaking service hidden in the real world is really intriguing. I knew there’ll be plenty of silliness and humor in the story and I couldn’t wait. While I didn’t completely love this book, I do have to admit… it’s absolutely a unique, quirky and fun read. The pacing is fast and feels rushed from time to time, but it wasn’t bothersome. I thought the writing is easy to follow and engaging. The plot is a bit outrageous and a little predictable, but there’s a few surprises that made the story really enjoyable. I don’t fully understand how the magical system really works, but the world-building is quite fascinating and the mythology aspect is creative and interesting enough. The narrative does get a bit absurd once in a while, the dialogue is sometimes chessy and awkward, the characters are kind of a mess, and the ending seems too convenient. So yes, the execution isn’t always perfect and there are some parts of the storyline that are confusing, but if you allow yourself to just relax, not overanalyze everything, and really enjoy the story for what it is, then you’ll have an awesome time just like I did. I didn’t feel a deep connection with any of the characters, but I thought they’re all quite adorable and such a fun group. Lila is not always likeable, but she’s interesting and I enjoyed her personality. Cupid is the typical “bad boy” love interest and he definitely charmed me. I don’t think I’m head over heels in love with him, but he’s funny, magnetic, and swoony. Cal is serious, strict, and stony for the most part, but there’s something alluring about him. I was actually more drawn to him than Cupid and I wanted to knock down his walls in order to get to know the real Cal who I think is really sweet, caring, and fun. I like the secondary characters and I thought it was cool how all the cupids have names that begins with the letter “C.” The other mythological creatures are nicely introduced and I’m excited to learn more about them in the other books. I do like the romance. It is a bit cringy at times and there’s definitely an insta-love/soulmate thing going on between Lila and Cupid, but I enjoyed their chemistry. They made me swoon here and there and I do think they’re cute together. I’m not so sure about the love triangle though and I’m kind of confused as to why it’s even there. I just don’t really like love triangles cause I have to choose one love interest to root for and sometimes, I really do like both while other times I’m in love with the one that doesn’t get the girl/boy. Hilarious, charming, and surprisingly delightful, Cupid’s Match by Lauren Palphreyman is a wonderfully fun fantasy romance that I'm sure will keep readers amused. While this didn't hit me in the heart with all the feels, I definitely enjoyed the action, the drama, the bantering, the mystery, the intriguing characters, and the over-the-top, but sweet romance. Overall, this is a satisfyingly entertaining book that left me smiling in the end. If you're looking for some silly fun, a few good laughs, and a story that will lighten your mood, then this book might just be for you. I received an advance reader copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. |
Lila Black goes to the Cupids Matchmaking Service in order to get them to stop contacting her, after all she never signed up for a dating service and she is currently in a relationship. She never expected to discover that the agency is run by actual cupids and that she has been potentially matched to Cupid, the God of Love. Lila is informed the match must never happen or else the consequences would be...well horrific. Lila finds herself thrown into a conflict between old and new as Cupid will stop at nothing to meet his "match"...and to complicate matters even more he starts at her high school on Monday. Cupids Match is a cute YA paranormal romance series that offers readers more than just romance. This novel includes several other mythical creatures that get tangled up in Lila and Cupids predicament along the way. There are also cupid assassins, known as the Arrows, who will stop at nothing to keep the match from happening including murder. This novel offers a lot of potential as the series continues. Although I liked the plot and the characters; one of main issues I had was pacing. The first 80% of the book kind of stagnated on why the match couldn't happen...a secret they try to keep from Lila until near the end of the novel. At the last 20% of the book we discover the big secret, end that ARC, start a whole new ARC including more characters, and end on a to be continued... The novel ends with a promise of more romantic troubles. I realize it was trying to set up the next book in the series however, it felt really rushed. The romance is kept very PG but there was a darker element (attempted murder/death, implied stalking, attempted suicide) which may not appeal to all readers. Overall this is a fun new series to check out if you like a little action with your romance. |
Kathy M, Reviewer
This book was a fun & interesting look at love. I especially love the characters that played the Cupid. It was rather hilarious how much the Arrows were stickers for the rules. I would 100% recommend reading this book. I love the twist at the end because Lila develops feelings for someone else as well. SPOILER ALERT her father develops feelings for someone again. Which was icing on the cake for the ending! I have to point out some errors out that I found on my Kindle digital copy. Page 452; He flicks his gaze up to mine, his silvery eyes deep and sad. “A l one.” I think you mean "Alone". Page 881; Once we’re inside the new room, the loud throbbing music from outside ceases, replaced by a woman singing a cappella. I believe you meant acapella. Page 1105; But I want to get it moving again. I want to tr y.” I think you meant try at the end of the sentence. Page 1193-1194 “Your grades dropped, you withdrew, and there were even a few accounts of antisocial behavior— apparently we’ve both tan gled with your school quarterback, Jason. I am pretty sure you meant tangled instead of tan gled. Page 1389 “It started to come back to me—being hit by an arrow at the par ty.” I assume you meant party there. Page 1935 On Wednesday, Cal demands that we all meet him the library at lunch, whereupon he dumps a stack of books and papers in the center of the table. I think you need a in after meet him in, it makes more sense. Page 2679 I try to cling to the hope that, while Cal might have betrayed us, Crystal could still be on side; maybe she will help me make my escape. After still be on you need a my or our before the word side. That was all of the mistakes I found. Hopefully, someone can go back & fix them. Otherwise, great book. If there hadn't been so many mistakes I would have given you all the stars. |
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review. I wasn't sure what to expect going into this book, and to be fair in the beginning I did find myself roll my eyes lol. But very quickly it became very clear that this book was going g to be a brilliantly different take on a book. I can easily see this being a TV series. It reminded me slightly of charmed but with cupids. I know that might sound confusing, but that is what I thought it reminded me of. Solid 3.5 I am a hard rater if that helps anyone. A 3 from me is still a solid recommendation. I give very very few 5. |
"What is a fairy tale without a monster to defeat?" This was definitely a quick guilty pleasure read for me! From the very beginning, the story got me hooked and intrigued. There were moments in the story that made me laugh out loud. However, it certainly needs some more editing and what’s up with Cupid “grinning” every single sentence…? At one point I was just rolling my eyes when I read the word “grin” for him, like does the boy have other expressions than grinning? Also, I appreciate the slow burn at the beginning of the relationship which added some elements of angst but then, I felt the relationship developed so suddenly as well. The length of the story could have been a bit shorter because near the end, it was just dragging and got a bit boring. In overall, if you’re looking for a quick fun read, I definitely recommend you picking Cupid’s Match up! I received an eARC copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This has no impact on my review/thoughts. |
This is a great book for a preteen. It flows well and is childlike that they would enjoy it. For an adult it is so hard to read. It starts with a girl meeting one brother, and then finding out she is match to the other brother. The whole time a awkward love triangle. The biggest complaint I have is none of the characters have personalities. I cannot say, " Lila would totally say this", "oh Lila that was hilarious." They do not have personalities.....at all .. it was a hard read because of that because I didn't care what happened to almost anyone. The side characters had a little bit of a personality; not by much though. I understand this is a teen book. So at its face value of being a teen book it was okay. I hope the author keeps it up though, she is a good writer, just needs characters that come to life. |
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this book. As a YA fantasy, it is everything it claims to be. It's full of action, mystery and mythological concepts. Drama concerning friendships and relationships also come into play, but luckily aren't at the forefront of the story. I can see why it had a large following online, and how the author can turn this into a series using the other characters that were introduced at the end. A lot of fun, and easy to read. |
Sheryl M, Reviewer
Quick fun read. Love the mythology aspect. Swoonworthy characters, so much more than just a high school love story. So cute. |
Thank you for the ARC. Unfortunately I never really connected to the main character (probably because there was so little description of her, especially in the last 2/3rds of the book... I don’t know if the author still has time to add some descriptions but it would really flesh out Lila). Also, I never really believed in the love story between her and Cupid (too insta and yes I know he was her match, but even when they fell in Love it felt forced and not natural). This is a personal opinion though. I’m certain many readers will ship them together. What made my rating gain a star was the ending, which was REALLY good! The pacing was great and the action fantastic. |
This was a bit too cliched for me. I was expecting a little more originality. But, if you want a fluffy book that will take your mind off things, and if you like teen dramas, it's an option. Thanks a lot to the publisher and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review. |








