I wish I liked this more. I really do not like the trope of extreme grief bringing 2 people together because I often struggle to see it done well. This was one of those times.

I could go on a long tangent about what I disliked but really most of it lands on the male lead. I detested him and felt his character growth was not enough for me to wish him a HEA by the end of the book. He i.e. Rip lost his sister and brother in law, and so was forced to take care of their kids along with Colby (the FL who was Rip's sister's best friend). The thing here is Rip is unbelievably mean - not snarky, but MEAN to Colby so many times that I just couldn't root for them. Gosh the things he said! And some even before the accident that changed their lives. And then after the accident? They were both grieving, I can't buy being the "gruff" kind for some of his utterances. So yeah, no.

My best character was Banks and even his epilogue somewhat annoyed me. LOL.

I will still read more works from the author as some parts were funny but the book ultimately did not work for me.

A huge thanks to Forever and NetGalley for the ARC.

The Godparent Trap is an exquisite blend of emotions and witty banter that will have you crying from sadness on one page, only to end up with tears brought on by laughter on the next.

RVD delivered an emotional tale that many who have suffered a loss will be able to connect with. So many of the thoughts and emotions that Colby and Rip felt, albeit due to very different circumstances, are ones I have had when thinking of losing my parents. an undeniable talent as she so flawlessly allows you to see your own thoughts and fears playing out in a fictional world that offers you a chance to know you aren’t alone.

Colby was fun-loving and sassy, had more of a "just go with it" attitude, and although at times a bit of a mess, all of these things made her easy to connect with. I’ve been winging it since I hit adulthood, so I completely adored her. She was kind and loving, always seeming to know what the kids needed in order to feel safe as their world had just been turned upside down.

Rip was the opposite of Colby in every way, and while I could definitely relate to Colby, it was Rip that I had a much deeper connection with. I get that. Losing your parents, living in a world where your only person is your sister, I get that. I’ve been living that for the majority of my life. The obsessive need for control, never wanting to allow yourself to feel at peace, as though that very thing will trigger more loss. He was a bit of a jerk, but it was clear a lot of it stemmed from the underlying love he and Colby shared. He went from growly jerk to "ovary exploding swoon."

Rip and Colby’s chemistry was palpable from the start. It seemed as though everyone in their lives could see what the two of them had been unable to. The very things that made them complete opposites were also the very things that made them perfect for one another. The bickering between them fanned the flames of attraction between them; every sneer, every muttered curse, mixed with stolen glances and longing looks. All of this made for an enthralling enemies to lovers tension-filled slowburn.

I’m not even sure how to express the emotions this story and these characters evoked. It was an incredibly unique experience. I found that while I could relate to Colby and Rip, I found that these kids who suffered a heartbreaking loss, a loss that I too have suffered, made it so that every single character in this fictional world displayed the many sides of my own grief.

Don’t think that because of those things that The Godparent Trap is all heavy emotions and sadness. I can assure you that’s not the case. There was an equal amount of clever banter and laugh out loud escapades that balanced the light and heavy in a way that doesn’t allot for one sense to overwhelm the reader.

The Godparent Trap is an all-consuming combination of intoxicating chemistry, a swoony hero, and a perfectly imperfect heroine, teeming with emotion, clever banter, and steam. A quintessential opposites attract story with tons of heart.

I really enjoyed this book. I loved the banter back and forth between Colby and Rip. These two don’t really like each other and are thrown together to help raise Rip’s sister’s children. There was a tragic accident and now these two have to come together to raise the two small children. She is more carefree and he like things perfect. Together they have to figure it out for the children and make it work for the children. In the meantime they find themselves falling in love with each other. ARC was provided by Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.

I never have to worry about a new book by Rachel. They are all phenomenal! The Godparent Trap was as well. Be prepared to use some tissues. But also be prepared to laugh your butt off. There is such great banter in this book. The kids are super adorable. I instantly fell in love with them. Colby and Rip are total opposites. Where Colby is a mess, Rip is Mr. Clean cut. So when their worlds are turned upside down, they have to learn to put their opinions of one another to rest. But each also learns why each fault they may or may not have are beautiful things. I enjoyed this book and only put it down when I had to. A definite must read.

Okay, I absolutely flew through The Godparent Trap by Rachel Van Dyken. The chemistry and banter between Colby and Rip were on point.

It kinda reminded me of the movie Life As We Know It, because Colby and Rip are thrust together to care for Ben and Viera when their parents are killed in an accident. Rachel Van Dyken handled a family dealing with grief gracefully and I definitely had tears in my eyes. I also laughed out loud many, many times, especially when Colby was reacting to how Rip described her job as a stay at home mom.

When they finally see what everyone else sees between them, there is some steaminess, and like I said the chemistry between them is sizzling!

If you’re looking for a light, but slightly emotional romance, here’s your cue to pick up The Godparent Trap!

Thank you to Forever publishing for sending me an advanced digital copy via NetGalley in exchange for review!

The Godparent Trap is at times chaotic, sometimes sad, and most of all sweet. Colby is a travel blogger who lives a carefree life. Rip is her best friend’s brother who she’s been in love with for years. He’s an accountant, and is very structured in everything. Their worlds are turned upside down when Monica and Brooks (Rip’s sister & brother-in-law) are in a fatal accident that leaves Rip and Colby as the guardians of Viera and Ben. They have to navigate parenthood and careers while trying not to kill each other.

Colby and Rip are left to care for their god children after an accident takes away her best friend and his brother. Will these opposites attract. A great read, and I like how it is told from both points of view.

Unrequited crushes, disastrous date, grieving, uptight/messy, newly guardians, and so much good tension and spice!!!

These two have know each other since childhood, but they are now guardians of two little ones. Figuring out how to mesh their different personalities is hilarious, and heartwarming. I really got to be connected to these two, and felt for them when they had their troubles and were grieving. But don't worry, even though there is emotions, it is a rom com!

This is a complete stand alone. No secondary characters cross over or anything. So anyone can read this. And if you are new to this author, it will give you a good look at her writing style for rom coms and you will fall in love!

5 stars!

Well my friends... Rachel has done it again! She managed to have me laughing through my tears in another perfect book.
The Godparent Trap, is a book about coping, learning to take things as they come, family, and most importantly, love.
The book starts out as Rip and Colby find themselves thrust into parenthood. Thier best friends were married, and tragically a killed in an automobile accident. Rip and Colby are named guardians of the two most adorable holy terrors, in the will. Never mind that they are both single, and can't stand each other. But there is no question, they are going to raise those kids... together. While navigating the ins and outs of parenthood, and basically thrown in the deep end together, Rip and Colby find a new found respect for each other, and ultimately fall in love.
The way the book played out was perfection! It had the perfect balance of humor to break up some of the angst and sadness. Poor Colby is a hot mess express, and Rip is straight laced, someone would probably need to surgically remove the stick shoved up his butt. But with time, they begin to balance each other out. Rachel is a master of knowing just when to throw in some funny, so the reader isn't permanently stuck in the angsty sads.

Thank you Netgalley and Grand Central Publishing for this ARC.

This was a quick and cute read that I finished in one day. At the beginning this book reminded me a lot of the movie Life As We Know It. What happens to the parents is almost identical. But after the first couple chapters, even though the premise was the same, the events that occurred were different. As a stay at home mom, this book reminded me of how thankful I am that I get to spend my time with my kids all day. Even though it's chaotic, this time is precious. I didn't love the name Rip but the man behind the name was very endearing and I could relate a lot to his need for perfection. Colby was so sweet and I loved her chaos. I'd definitely recommend this book.

This book, oh this book! This book delivered on so much. I was immediately invested in the story of these characters as they are hit with the hard news and only more deeply pulled into the pages as the story kept going. I loved the personalities of the kids. This book brings to you opposites attract, a bit of enemies to lovers. Control versus chaos. The banter, oh the freaking banter! I love the text message threads. I swear Rachel Van Dyken is the queen of the text message threads.

5 Stars

I loved this story. I always enjoy this author's storytelling and this book is no exception. It has the feel of a Katherine Heigl movie from years ago. There are plenty of emotions, tear-jerking moments, and laugh-out-loud scenes that come together to bring one wonderful story.

I highly recommend this story and truly believe you need to one-click this one.
—————————————————
4.5 stars
Anything that Rachel Van Dyken writes, I will immediately read and not stop until I read the very last page. This book is right up there. It runs the full gamut of emotions from sad and heart breaking to wanting and love.

Colby and Rip get along for the sake of her best friend and his sister, Monica and her husband Brooks. They were able to plan and pull off a surprise anniversary party for them and then the plan is to watch their kids while they are away for a week. But a tragedy strikes and now they are left reeling, trying to pick up the pieces, try and grieve, keep the kids safe and loved, and not kill each other. Now they are co-parenting and cohabitating and something is eventually going to have to give. Colby is too free spirited for Rip’s up tight and always in control attitude. But maybe he needs the free spirit to push him.

Will they figure out a way to get through this? And will they see what’s right in front of each other that’s been there all along?
Definitely one-click this now. You will not be disappointed.
————————————————-
5 stars
This story really has all the feels. Beautifully written, this tells the story of Rip and Colby who are struggling in the wake of the death of their shared loved ones, all while dealing with their feelings about each other. This is compounded by their hilarious attempts at parenting the two children left behind.

Rip likes things neat and orderly. Colby is kind of a hot mess. She is well aware that the messy house, lousy dinners, and chaos bothers Rip. But they have to make it work somehow!

Grief is different for everyone, and you can feel the grief in these pages. It is tempered with a lot of comedy and sweet romance, not to mention a steamy scene or two.

Reading this book is something I highly recommend you do!

This book does centre around grief and loss but it is not a depressing read at all. It’s full of humour and witty, snappy dialogue between our main love interests. I really connected to Rip and Colby and felt everything along with them. For me, the ending felt a little rushed. I was all for their build up and loved their sexual chemistry but wanted more from them once they took the next step. It’s never a bad thing when you had hoped there was more story to come and just shows how much I liked this couple. All in all a great read!

Colby Summers and Rip Edison have never gotten along, but when the unthinkable happens to the people that they loved the most, their lives will be changed... forever...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Godparent Trap was an emotional and sweet, opposites attract romance. Colby and Rip have always driven each other absolutely crazy, but when they suddenly become co-guardians to two very special children, the feelings that they've been harboring for each other will become impossible to ignore...

With the death of her best friend, Colby is grieving heavily and doing everything she can to step into the role of taking care of her beloved godchildren. And while household domestication may not be her forte, Colby is all in with her new life.

Rip lost not only his sister, but also her husband, and his best friend. With his rigid personality and his inability to grieve, he and Colby's relationship is about to get much worse before it even stands a chance of getting better...

I loved the kiddos in this story! They were not only an adorable addition, but I really enjoyed seeing how Colby and Rip were immediately dedicated to doing whatever they could to help them through all of the upheaval in their lives. 

This book dealt with some incredibly heavy subject matter, but while there were quite a few sad moments, Colby and Rip's relationship antics worked their magic in brightening up even the most heartbreaking of scenes. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book for my honest and unbiased review.

A book about heartbreak, misunderstandings, and trying to move on after tragedy. Rip and Colby both agreed to be the godparents to his sister’s and her best friend’s kids if anything happened to her and her husband. When tragedy strikes, they are forced into a life they never expected- parenthood. Not only are they navigating raising children together, but they are struggling with each other.
As time goes on, he realizes he might be too hard on her (with the help of his friend) and she admits that she is trying her hardest but it never seems to be enough for him. When they swap jobs for the week they both realized things they didn’t acknowledge before and their relationship starts to change. Sleeping in the same bed as the guy you have had a crush on is hard, but it is the comfort the kids need.
Their interactions were heartbreaking at times, and hilarious at others. I experienced every emotion while reading this book. The chemistry between the two was great, but they fought it for a long time. Again, Rip’s friend helped them along the way. I really enjoyed this book and would love to read more.
I received an ARC and this is my honest, voluntary review.

“Godparent traps are forever, you know…legally binding and all that.”

“The Godparent Trap” by Rachel Van Dyken is a dual-pov contemporary romance with forced proximity and an enemies-to-lovers dynamic, following a best friend and brother who are trapped co-parenting two kids after the loss of their family.

"The Godparent Trap'' follows heroine Colby and hero Rip through the ups and downs of parenting after an unexpected crash takes the lives of their best friends and siblings. A travel blogger who is used to a lifestyle without settling down, a life with chaos that fulfills all her dreams, and an account who could not be more uptight and organized. This is the last thing they ever expected to happen. Resisting temptation is one thing; replacing that desire with hate is another, but with co-parenting in the mix, is it only the denial of what their hearts have always wanted? Are a wish and the push of the past for them to be together enough to push aside all the animosity to see what their family could be and need to heal?

The banter, the miscommunications, the “hate” flirting, and the side characters in this book were unbearably addicting. Colby and Rip have had sexual tension that’s been lingering for years. Her carefree demeanor versus his naturally organized uptight behavior is a match made in heaven. BANKS MADE THIS STORY. From comedic relief to jealousy, this man carried their relationship; it was obvious and incredibly entertaining to witness. From swear jars to ordering takeout, mistakes after mistakes of learning to be a family and growing together, this book was one for the heart.

It has definitely been a minute since I have read a new book that has made me cry, and I mean that in the best possible way. This book was not what I expected, but it was beautiful in many ways, especially in how people process their grief differently and the impact that can have on themselves and others.

Content Warnings: Death/Grief, ICU Hospitalization, and Bullying.

Thank you to Valentine PR, Forever Grand Central Publishing, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

This book made me tear up, bust up laughing and feeling every other emotion in between. Rachel Van Dyken does an amazing job of bringing the chaos of raising young children in a very accurate that has you sympathizing in scenes like when there are legos on the floor. The grief they all experience is portrayed in a realistic way that isn’t overwhelming. Along with how Colby and Rip learn how to parent Ben and Viera who are Colby’s best friend’s and Rip’s sister and best friend’s children.


Ben and Viera will steal your heart while slowing driving their godparents a little crazy while everyone is trying to find a new normal for the makeshift family from the tragedy they all were forced to endure. Colby and Rip were complete opposites but sometimes calm and chaos compliment each other the best. They are quite the definition of opposites attracting once all the defenses come down.

I loved the humor that was infused into tense or emotions scenes of the book in that way Rachel Van Dyken always is able to do to add levity to a situation. And the texting banter I always get excited for when it’s added to her books.

Colby loves her fast paced life: traveling, eating fantastic food, and then blogging about her experiences is everything she wants for now. She doesn’t keep roots except for her best friend, Monica, and her kids. Monica’s family is important to her, except for Monica’s brother, who is Colby’s polar opposite. One failed date and the two can’t even be in the same room without throwing barbs at the other.

Rip lives a tightly ordered life. He likes plans and preparations and his accounting firm fits neatly within those requirements. When an accident claims the lives of both his best friend and his sister, Rip finds himself responsible for his nephew and niece, and forced to partner with his sister’s flighty best friend.

In her eyes, Rip is rigid and a stick-in-the-mud. In his eyes, Colby is irresponsible and unreliable, in addition to just generally being a mess. Monica always thought they’d be great together but the one time they went on a date ended in disaster.Their absolute opposite characteristics had each thinking the other’s style was going to ruin the children (or was something they could never see themselves matched with). The forced proximity makes them put their thoughts about the other on hold as they figured out how to be parents together. It also helped them see the strengths of the other (even as they questioned their own weaknesses).

This was full of very emotional moments as well as some great comic relief from the kids and Banks. It was definitely an emotional punch when their loss happened (even though it was clearly coming), and those early scenes where everyone was hurting were so well written I was in those scenes with the characters. The chaos and calamity of trying to raise young children was obvious and highlighted their differences. I loved the development of their co-parenting relationship, but felt like the romantic piece was not as natural. I struggled a little bit with the speed at which it seemed Rip and Colby went from furious adversaries to romantically involved, but also knowing they were not strangers made it work a little better.

The side characters added a lot of fun to this story. Banks is a hoot and I would not mind one bit if he got his own story someday. The kids added a fun chaos to the plot as Rip and Colby navigated their own grief while learning how to be parents.

Readers, consider yourself warned: this one is a tear jerker.

I don’t know why I was surprised - the premise is heart wrenching. Colby and Rip barely tolerate each other, but when tragedy strikes their best friends, they step in as guardians for two young children. They have dramatically different viewpoints on life = Colby makes her living as a travel and food blogger who lives off of Door Dash in between trips, while Rip is an accountant who thrives on order and control. Their mismatched personalities lead to some truly funny moments as they navigate the logistics of maintaining a home and caring for two children, but the book really shines in the emotional moments. They’re both processing their grief in their own ways, and they also have to help the kids handle the loss of their parents. Slowly, they find themselves compromising and learning to appreciate the other, and the romance takes it from there.

While I really enjoyed the comic relief from Rip’s best friend, who nudges the romance forward by convincing Colby to fake-date him, I could have done without the storyline about Rip’s secretary harboring a secret crush on him. The too-neat epilogue definitely didn’t sit well with me; it felt like it didn’t belong with the rest of the story. I would have preferred to just see Colby and Rip enjoying their happily ever after. It’s a relatively minor thing, but it definitely stuck with me.

This was a quick read about two people becoming guardians of 2 children after their best friends die in a car accident. Colby and Rip have never gotten along and now they have to raise 2 kids together. Rip wasn’t the kindest to Colby in the beginning and it was almost hard to read. Fortunately he did get better as the story went on- about halfway through was when I began to enjoy this one a bit more once.