Jess Webster is about to graduate high school when she gets THE news: her beloved older brother Chris got a volunteering job in Cambodia and can't make it to graduation, BUT he'll be home in July with his hot friend Andrew in tow. And they're staying in Jess and Chris' parents house for a month and a half. You know, the same house Jess lives in. She's crushed on Andrew for years, and this could finally be her opportunity to make him see her as more than just Chris' dorky little sister. Well, that is if she can stop herself from doing nothing but awkwardly gurgling every time Andrew so much as glances her way. Jess is, tragically (in her opinion) still a virgin, and has no idea how to act around a crush...especially when the boy she has her eye on is older and (she assumes) much more experienced than she is. At lunch on the last day of school, she's venting about her predicament to her bestie, Rayna, when Jess' frenemy, Ben Oliver, overhears everything. He sarcastically (Jess thinks) offers to give her "lessons." He'll teach her, for lack of better words, how to sex, so that she can use her newfound knowledge, and confidence, to seduce Andrew when he gets to town.

Jess is just desperate enough to take Ben up on his offer...mostly because she has eyes and can admit that even though they hate each other, Ben is smoking hot and she could definitely do worse--and she needs the help.

As you can guess, and as with any fake dating story, it gets messy fast. Feelings start getting involved, but are they real, or is it just the sizzling physical spark that is undeniable between Jess and Ben?

I enjoyed this book, but had a few issues with it as well. It was a very cute YA coming of age story, and also one that I feel is very important. Lydia Sharp, at the beginning of the book, leaves a note to her readers that talks about her curiosity, utter lack of knowledge about, and her embarrassment relating to sex when she was a teenager. She, like so many readers, didn't have a maternal figure that was comfortable talking about sex with her, and most of her friends were already having sex. She talks about how her options were clinical definitions of sex you'd find in reference books or on Google, or wildly fantastical romance novels--neither of which paints the most accurate picture of what the experience of sex is like. That was, until she found Forever by Judy Blume. It was a book written from a teenaged perspective, but that gave her clearer, more realistic idea of what she could expect from having sex. Writing this book, for Lydia, was a way to offer teenagers now what she needed then: an age-appropriate tale that shows the importance of both consent and safe sex, that there should be no shame in consensual sex, that it's okay and perfectly right to be in control of your own sex life, and that virginity is nothing to be ashamed of either. In that way, I thought this book was absolutely beautiful--it gives younger readers that feel like that don't have anywhere to turn for knowledge, a place to go. Something to read that gives them an example of how it should always be, even if your life isn't a YA novel.

I also really loved the dynamic between Jess and her mother, as it showcases that mother daughter relationships don't have to be perfect to be perfect.

[Please be aware, the following paragraph will have minor plot spoilers.]

I loved Jess and Ben's relationship, even when they hated each other. I don't like the "he's mean to you because he likes you" idea, because it teaches young people to accept poor behavior...and thankfully, this was NOT the case in Frenemies with Benefits. Jess and Ben, as you learn later in the book, just started off on the wrong foot and mutually disliked each other. And that's okay! Relationships evolve, and I thought that seeing that on the page was lovely. I did not, however, like how fickle Jess could be about things. Ben is the son of the town mayor, and apparently mega rich. At one point, he buys Jess a huge box of nail polish as it's an inside joke between them. Jess loses it, because he spent money on her knowing that her family is what she considers to be poor; she doesn't want to be beholden to Ben, or have people think they're "dating" only because she wants him to spend money on her. Then, within a few chapters, she's letting him take her on a lavish shopping spree for six pairs of designer shoes? It just...didn't make sense to me. On top of that, so many of the characters have more money than sense, and more money than I think would be reasonable. For example, there is a non-school dance formal event that the friend group consisting of eighteen year olds all need to attend, so they go to a luxury bridal shop to look for gowns. Jess, who again, is poor, balks at the price tag, but her best friend, Rayna, doesn't spare the price a second glance and tells Jess to relax, that Ben will pay for it. Y'all, the dress was SEVEN THOUSAND DOLLARS. Even if the family is rich, what family in their right mind is just not going to blink an eye at their teenaged son buying a girl a SEVEN THOUSAND DOLLAR dress she'll wear one time? I'm just saying if I were Ben's parents, I'd be yanking that AmEx back so fast he'd get whiplash. I also could. not. stand. Jess' best friend Rayna. She seemed so out of touch with reality, and while I get she was a teenager, I felt that throughout most of the book she was just a selfish gossip. She did redeem herself a bit towards the end though, but whew was it a bumpy ride!

All in all, I thought this was a very cute, quick read that will make you both nostalgic for those late teen years, but also so so glad you don't have to relive them.

I DEVOURED this book, i loved this so so so much. The character development was to die for and i loved following Jessica and Benjamin their journeys and them finding out they were in love with each other all along. I also adored the use of different tropes in the same story, it really gave it a lot of depth.

Rating: 5/5
I received an eARC for my honest opinion


Jess is that cute girl that is shy, awkward and the last virgin in her friend group. However, she is okay with that until she finds out Chris (her brother) and Andrew (Chirs’s hot friend) are coming over for summer break and she is ready to get noticed by Andrew. However, after hearing her group of friends she is now thinking that she might not get his attention because she is so shy. Ben, her enemy, suggests that she needs practice with someone. She can figure out all the basics of having sex and get more confident being around the opposite sex that she likes. Does Jess find someone that she can trust and help her through this time in her life before the sexy Andrew comes and what will happen when the person she picks is not what she thought of him and maybe starts to like him?

I loved this book from the plot to the characters. I think the author did a wonderful job with understanding, knowing, and teaching young adults… (high school grads) about understanding their wants and their needs and just about sex, and handling their emotions.

I loved the plot, to have a friend and then add with benefits in the mix= building a connection that Jess was not ready for nor did she think it would ever happen with that guy. I loved how it wasn’t just about sex, but yes… There is sex in this book but from someone who was ready smut it was not bad at all, and I loved that this author did not shy away from talking about all the worries about sex and being confident. I thought this book did not shy away from the main point of the book and I could see the path forward.


I loved the characters, I thought they were cute, frenemies that blossomed into something more. The characters had me laughing, a few parts I was a little sad and I did choke up a little, and it had me remembering my high school days. Which brought a smile to my face. I thought Ben and Jess were the cutest fake couple in the world and I loved the ending with who fell for who first and the OH moment…

I cannot wait to read from this author.

I want to thank NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the opportunity to review this book.

First, this is a book for older YA readers. There is a lot of sex. I do think the topics it talked about should be discussed by young adults.

It was a very enjoyable read with sizzling romance and so much chemistry! I loved the relationship between Ben and Jess. The banter was on point.

If you're looking for a steamy pre-college romance I definitely recommend this one!

Thanks netgalley for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

Ah, the memories, all those conversations with friends, the wondering…

But there was no Benjamin. There were romance novels and movies and lots of unrealistic expectations and dating. No Benjamin.

Is this novel a YA novel of what things are supposed to be like? A fantasy? Because there is no Benjamin, the professional-level-lover, not at 18. Or is this a new adult novel of looking back and laughing in recollection?

There is realistic body image in the book- yay. Parents? Not too real. Scenes? Mixed bag. Banter? Fantastic. No fear of this arrangement blowing up all over social media - seriously? Ending- sweet, until I think about an 18-year-old hoping for HEA after a summer of dating. I’d so much rather have the two of them agree to be friends and go their separate ways, off to adventure and adult lives. THAT would have made a great summer of discovery.

Title: A Heartwarming Rom-Com Delight! 🌟📚
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

I had the absolute pleasure of diving into "Frenemies With Benefits" by Lydia Sharp, and I can't thank Entangled enough for providing me with this captivating ARC read on NetGalley! 📖💕

In a sea of intense romances, this book was a refreshing and cozy escape that I didn't know I needed. Settle in for a heartwarming ride as you follow the delightful journey of these characters. The story was beautifully written and kept me glued to the pages from start to finish.

Lydia Sharp's storytelling prowess shines through in this feel-good romantic comedy. After a string of darker romances, "Frenemies With Benefits" offered a much-needed change of pace. The characters' banter and chemistry were simply hilarious and amazing, making every minute of this book a joy to read.

As I eagerly await its official release on August 29th, I can't help but hope that this gem receives the attention it truly deserves. So if you're looking for a light, entertaining read to brighten your day, mark your calendars and be ready to grab this book when it hits the shelves!

In my bookish journey, "Frenemies With Benefits" easily earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars. 🌟 A big shoutout to Lydia Sharp for crafting such an amazing story, and to Entangled for bringing it to eager readers like me. 🙌✨

Frenemies With Benefits is cute, fun, and funny. Loved it!

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced digital copy.

A sweet and genuine YA romance with some pretty great banter thrown in for good measure. The misunderstandings and communication between the leads definitely felt very teen, but their overall chemistry was really fun to read. Finished it very quickly because it was so enjoyable!

Jess Webster is your typical just graduated teen. She can barely talk to a guy and has yet to explore anything sexual of that nature. But she decides to take the plunge and finally get Andrew, the guy she’s Lon time crushed on. But to do so she uses Benjamin Oliver as a stepping stone to help her get over all the awkwardness. Benjamin’s the hot jock quarterback but also a pain in Jess’s side.

Take enemies to somewhat friends and than add in the benefits and boom here’s a story. I love a good falling for the enemy, bad guy, and someone you didn’t see coming story. Jess wants Andrew but little did she know building a connection with Ben would help her open her world more.

This was a cute, down to earth, rom-com that had me laughing and wishing I could go back to my high school days and redo some of the awkwardness that comes with find yourself. Jess and Benjamin’s banter was perfect and I loved the characters. I could definitely relate with Jess with being someone who wasn’t quite there in experiences like everyone else.

All I all, I enjoyed this book and the realness it had. So if you’re looking for a funny rom-com that will leave you smiling and feeling lighthearted.. look no further!

Ahhh cute young love. This was such a really cute read. I enjoyed their banter during their deal aka fake relationship. Some of it brought me back to my high school days. I’m happy with the ending. I love that during this book you could tell that they were falling for each other. She was falling for him as much as he was falling more for her. This was a fun read and would recommend. So many feels.

Ben and Jess are a lot of fun. I think it's pretty obvious from the start that he is in love with her but I love a clueless heroine. I also love that she thought they weren't dating when they did literally everything that people dating do. I would love a bonus chapter from Ben's pov possibly from a future proposal?

I received an arc through netgalley.

I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.

Jess Webster is barely able to function around cure guys, so learning that her older brother will be bringing his hot friend Andrew home for the summer, she knows she needs to do something to be able to entice him. Before Andrew arrives, Jess needs someone to practice her seduction on, and to be intimate with, so that she isn't a complete novice. Who better to ask than complete pain in the ass, Benjamin Oliver. Jess and Ben have never gotten along, but it is undeniable that there's a chemistry between them to explore, and he has more than enough practice to help Jess. Becoming secret 'friends-with-benefits', Jess and Ben realise that they have more in common than just their attraction to each other, and what may have started out as simply a scheme to scratch the itch, soon becomes the most important relationship either has ever had.

I LOVED this book! Honestly, it's the book that teenagers need, and I'm a little gutted that it wasn't around when I was younger. Jess and Ben are so brutally real, and this book doesn't glamorise relationships to an unnatural extent, but shows sex and intimacy in all it's true glory. The banter between the pair kept me so hooked, and I really believed in their relationship. There are some heartfelt moments too, where family issues are discussed, and walls broken down. Ben fell so hard for Jess, and it was adorable to see him yearning for her, when Jess was completely oblivious. I guessed at some of the 'twists' which came, but that didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book. Honestly, this was fantastic, and I want to read more books like this in the future!

Let me start with what I loved, this book is cute, funny, and emotional, and is just a fun read, I found myself laughing so many times, on top of that have I mentioned how cute it is???

Jess is one of those girls that is practical, she knows what the world is and where she fits into it, she's not someone that believes life ends happily ever after but she does believe that with practice there's nothing she can't do.

Benjamin seems to be the typical sports king of their high school, he's the quarterback, the ladies man, and the Mayor's son, no pressure in any of that at all.

Jess and Ben keep getting thrown together because of their friend group of six they're the only singles, well when Ben isn't with someone that is, and the two of them are just plain explosive together.

When Jess finds out her brother is coming home for the summer and bringing his best friend Andrew home with him Jess nearly loses her mind. You see Jess has the biggest of the big crushes on Andrew and just knows that if she can spend some time with him he'll fall in love with her and she might just get a chance at being truly happy.

There's only one little catch to her plan, she's "inexperienced" and thinks her lack of experience will keep her dreams from coming true, so what does she do??? She makes a deal with Ben, of course, to finally go all the way and be ready to start dating the college man of her dreams.

Through crazy dates and realizing everything isn't always as it seems Jess realizes that she's perfect just the way she is and that Ben is so much more than he seems, can we say cello-playing prodigy?

Jess also realizes that no matter how scared it may make her she can be the one to stand up and say something, she can be the one to talk to people she doesn't know, and she can be the one that realizes when she's made a huge mistake and then fix it.

I will say the only (and I mean only) thing that kept me from giving this one five stars is that in my opinion, this isn't a young adult book, it's more new adult, there are a lot of topics/experiences that are touched on (no pun intended) that don't fall into the YA genre for me, let's be honest here, that cover is adorable, I can see someone picking this up for a 12/13-year-old based off the blurb and the cover and it's really detailed (I'll never look at ice cream cones the same way again) for the lower end of the y/a age range.

Overall I loved this book though, it's fun and funny, thought-provoking, and way spicier than I thought it was going to be while showing that even when things aren't perfect life isn't hopeless when you have good friends, a strong support system, and belief in yourself. .

Thank you to Entangled and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this ebook, I have voluntarily read and reviewed it and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

📖 ARC REVIEW 📖

Thank you @entangledteen for an early copy of Frenemies with Benefits by @lydiadawnsharp. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍

Check out the blurb here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62039335-frenemies-with-benefits?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=QhTkvYppJZ&rank=1

🛑Read on with caution; review may contain spoilers🛑

Frenemies with Benefits is such a cute and steamy, coming-of-age novel with a relatable FMC Jess, who’s incredibly shy and feels like she’s the odd woman out in her friend group, but is still quite confident with how she is, what she wears, and what she does. She can’t stand Benjamin, who’s best friends with her best friend’s boyfriend, which makes them stuck together in the same friend group.

With Andrew, Jess’ crush and her brother’s friend coming over for the summer, she asks Ben to show her the ropes of having a physical relationship to help her ease her nervousness around Andrew when he comes over, and it all goes uphill from there as they sneak behind everyone’s backs as Ben gives her the experience of a lifetime.

Though they spar verbally every chance they get, their chemistry is just so cute and funny. I enjoyed their banter and how they tease each other during their deal/fake relationship – it just feels so natural, and nothing makes me swoon knowing that Benjamin fell for Jess as hard as she did for him. I honestly didn’t feel Jess liked Andrew at all as she had a lot more chemistry and strong feelings for Ben. As the story progressed, Ben just became more and more sweet towards Jess and showed her how real their relationship was for him, but as these tropes go on, they fail to truly communicate with words about their feelings until the last minute.

This is a perfect read for a chill, steamy weekend. Rating Frenemies with Benefits ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5. Releases August 29th, 2023!

First of all, thank you to Entangled and NetGalley for this e-ARC.
Now onto my thoughts…

Ugh, this book was so cute.
I absolutely could not get enough of Jessie and Ben. They were the prime example of, “I hate you so much that I love you” and I love me a good enemies to lovers trope.
This book was a good representation of high school relationships (as well as situationships) without the shame that usually comes with the discussion of such occurrences, when they are very very real and prevalent. There were points when I felt reminiscent of my time in high school while I read this book and was able to relate so well to the characters, even though I’ve been out of high school almost 15 years.
The characters are relatable, dynamic, and three dimensional. Jessie and Ben are two characters who grow tremendously throughout this book, Jessie especially, and show the reader that you don’t have to have it all figured out in life. Sometimes you just need to let life happen and embrace the uncertainty.
I cannot recommend this book enough. Frenemies with Benefits has my heart through and through. I will absolutely be getting a physical copy for my bookshelf when it comes out on August 29th.

Jessica and Ben! I love their chemistry and their bickering. Their relationship started as fake and for a favor but I love everything about it. It doesn't seem forced because it wasn't really forced in the first place! I love them both!

ARC REVIEW
I loved this! The smile i had barely left my face while reading this. I love the fake dating and how oblivious the characters were to their own feelings at the beginning. Definitely recommend 👌. Also, new book boyfriend alert!!

Frenemies with Benefits is a story that is not so far from the reality that teenagers live in these times! I love how Ben is and the way he treats Jess.
If I had to describe this story, I would say that it is funny and refreshing. It has the perfect balance. Everyone is going to love the witch and the scarecrow!!

This book should have existed when I was in high school! This is a great coming of age RomCom for sure! Also, now that I am a parent all of the information you get about her mom and the true reasons their relationship has changed so much toward the end of the book hits really different for me! Some of the book seemed very immature for me personally but that I'm sure is because of the stage I am in in my own life. The relationships were relatable, seemed real and I was absolutely invested in not only Jessie and Ben's relationship and future but also their entire friend group. I will absolutely be recommending this to my young adult nieces and some of my former students. ♥️ Yay for a Body Positive, Female Empowering, Romantic story that I truly enjoyed reading!

If I were asked what book did you previously read but still decided to go to the bookshop just to buy a physical copy so you could re-read it? I would most definitely say this book.
"Frenemies with Benefits" is a fun, nostalgic read. This book is one you would pick up, sit in your nearest coffee shop, order your favorite drink and just flip through the pages, the progressing figures of everyone else blurry behind the pages.
It's a book that will have you smiling hysterically throughout. It's playful, it's hot, it's cute, it's funny and it's a most read for lovers of contemporary rom-com.