Not the love story I was hoping for

This book had all the ingredients for a story that could’ve wrecked me—in the best way. A girl grieving her late boyfriend reconnects with his best friend? That kind of setup should have cracked my heart wide open. But instead, it was such a dud!

Lucy and Asher’s connection felt like it should have been full of tension and aching and all the beautiful mess that comes with second chances and complicated grief. But what I got was a story that moved in soft, slow circles—with barely any real conflict, very little spark, and a love interest who honestly gave me the ick.

There was a cheating fiancé, a few background squabbles, but nothing that made my heart race or break. The romance played out quietly, predictably—like background music instead of the loud, cinematic love story I was hoping for.

I wanted fireworks, or at least some slow-burn heartbreak. Instead, it felt like watching two people fall into a relationship that made sense on paper but never quite came alive on the page.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy. I’m leaving this review voluntarily, though part of me wishes I were writing a love letter instead.

Aimee Brown's books never ever disappoint. This is a great book to get me out of my book slump, finished super quick.

I enjoyed reading Lucy's journey to finding love in a slow burn way. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for letting me review this book.

Aimee Brown's 'Third Time Lucky' is a warm and truly hilarious romance that promises all the "feels." The narrative brings together Lucy Gray and Asher Wright, a relationship forged through the shared traumatic death of a loved one years earlier. Their first meeting isn't what one would call perfect, as Asher bears witness to the spectacular failure of Lucy's wedding. However, fate steps in, pitting Asher as the private chef for Lucy's feisty grandmother Mitzi.

What follows is a sweet slow-burn romance. The author is wonderful at creating realistic, imperfect characters you find yourself cheering for. The banter and organic build of Lucy and Asher's relationship, from uncomfortable run-ins to a smoldering attraction, are completely captivating. Although the journey toward them finally getting it together can be frustrating at moments, their way to trusting love once more is sweet and charming. With a touch of wit and plenty of heart, 'Third Time Lucky' is a delightful read ideal for enthusiasts of modern romance.

This was a delightful romance with just the right amount of drama, connections and a slow burn romance. Mitzi was hilarious and her best friend Madi is the sort of friend that everyone needs. Asher and Lucy were so sweet together and was delightful journey to see them bond over time. It was also a healing journey for Lucy following the heartbreak and humiliation. Asher was just what she needed. A lovely read.

Teenage friends sharing tragedy,
Meet again when she’s a bride to be.
When he sees things he shouldn’t see
Should he share or let things be?

Another unexpected encounter with a tasty treat
Makes this the third time for these two to meet.
Working through the memories from their shared past
Will this be the time for these two at last?

Add in her grandmother and her best friend
Along with his brother, with time to spend.
Will this chef find the recipe for romance
If these two dare take a chance?

A lovely read all the way through
I really enjoyed and highly recommend to you!
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.

It was fun, but a bit too self-explanatory. Left nothing to chance and over explained eveyything. But it was cute tho

This story had me laughing and crying. Lucy Gray and Asher are perfect for each other. They were friends as children, Lucy Gray dated Asher’s best friend, until tragedy struck. They lost contact after high school. They run into each other right before Asher’s 30th birthday while in Vegas, and Lucy is due to get married.
There is also a secondary romance in the mix, between Asher’s younger brother and Lucy’s best friends, which kept the story very interesting. It caused a few conflicts, that our main characters had to work through.
Favorite quote: “People don’t get over death, douchebag. It sticks with you, painfully forever.” Asher to his brother.
Thank you to NetGalley for the eArc.

The second I heard Joshua's vocals, I was done for; his narration, I loved it. I loved listening to his voice. And I just wanted to listen to his voice all day long; he brought Asher and Aaron to life. I was always laughing when Aaron was around, his mannerisms were great and just a loveable rogue, plus his voice! I just thought it was brilliant. He brought Asher to life, but then you have a prologue that just sucks you in. Asher hasn't seen Lucy since High School, when she was dating his best friend, and tragedy hit. I thought the fact that we learn what happened early on, instead of having it dragged out, was a great touch. Then he catches her fiancé cheating on her, and starts the story of Asher and Lucy.

I did enjoy this book, and I knew the happy ending was coming, and it was lovely; it was the journey I was here for. Although I think if I were Madi or Aaron, I would be upset when they were overshadowed at the end. I also felt that the angst in the final third wasn't needed. We had already had angst very, very lightly, I must say, with talking about Chris and their past together. I didn't feel that we needed what was given. It kind of spoiled Lucy's character with her behaviour. I thought that she was a great character, although holding on to an ex for so long overshadowed her life. But I did feel that she got involved where she didn't need to. Yes, she was protecting her best friend, but that relationship did not need to affect her and Asher. In my mind, I don't think Asher did anything wrong. He didn't need to interfere, and although he did, there was a happier ending.

Apart from that, I enjoyed it, I loved Mitzi, and I'd love to see a book about Tanner. I thought he was a great character. He definitely did make me chuckle. And Mitzi is just so lovable.

I do enjoy a book by Aimee. She always brings a smile to your face when you're with one of her characters. I definitely would like a follow-up. Be good to see what happens now, and maybe focus on other people. It would be good to see more of Aaron and Madi, because the way their characters are and the way they change throughout the book, it'd be good to see how life is for them as they're adjusting to their new norm.

Roll on the next one

This book for me was the perfect blend of humour, heart and deep topics.I have lost a few friends over the years and the guilt and poignancy of being the one who is still here can be a lot.I enjoyed the way Asher and Lucy talked about their lost friend and how he was included but not in a depressive gloom like it is often portrayed.I enjoy a second chance romance and this one had a slightly different slant to it and that was a lot of fun.

Third Time Lucky by Aimee Brown

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

Asher Wright has spent his career creating and concocting the perfect dishes and is about to open his very own restaurant. Life is good. His love life, however, is far from cooking! He hasn’t thought about Lucy Gray in years – not since they both graduated, reeling from the shocking loss of her then boyfriend and his best friend Kris, who tragically died at 18. So when he witnesses the breakdown of her wedding in all its humiliating glory - old wounds and long-buried emotions resurface.

As Lucy lands a right hook on her soon-to-be ex-fiancée in front of their entire wedding party, she has a moment of realization... Love is not on the menu for her! Fate, however, has other plans... A chance twist of events lands Asher as the private chef for Lucy’s spirited grandmother, Mitzi, and what begins as awkward encounters in Mitzi’s Portland mansion soon evolves into a simmering connection she never expected.

As Asher and Lucy work through their past they discover a bond that feels both familiar and excitingly new.

My Opinion

Aimee Brown has written a delightful novel with some charming characters. Whilst this was a slow-burn romance there was so much more going on. This was an easy book to read and I found it difficult to put down. Lucy deserves her happy ending, but will she get it?

Rating 4/5

Asher and Lucy meet again, and it is not the first time he has had to deliver heartbreaking news to her. When he appears back in her life again, will be it be third time lucky for this pair? A great read.

Off the bat I'm going to say this - if you, like me, are a big fan of second chance, slow burn, really lovely romances - fill your boots. This book has it all in spades and I absolutely loved it. A MMC with tattoos who can cook. Yes please. Aimee Brown is clearly a very skilled author. This is my first experience of something she has written but best believe I will be scouring her back catalogue and adding to my TBR. This book was both fun and satisfying. A perfect summer read. Grab yourself a copy.

Third Time Lucky by Aimee Brown is a heartwarming romantic comedy that explores love, second chances, and personal growth. The story follows the relatable protagonist as she navigates the challenges of reconnecting with an old flame while overcoming her past mistakes. Brown’s writing is witty and engaging, filled with charming characters and emotional depth. The pacing is smooth, keeping readers hooked from start to finish. It's a delightful, feel-good read perfect for fans of contemporary romance.

I am torn on how to honestly review this book. I always want to support authors and their work, because I understand how challenging writing and publishing can be. However, I want to be honest and forthcoming in my reviews, and I hope this review gives balance for both the things I liked and the things I didn’t.

There were things about this book that I liked: Asher is really a great guy. Aaron is a bit unhinged, but he is funny. I do like Lucy’s friendship with Madi, and her relationship with her grandmother Mitzi is awesome. I like how Asher and Lucy wrap up their past friendship and relationship with Kris; that part of the story was really well done. The story wraps up very well, and that brought a sense of satisfaction.

There were a few things about the book that I absolutely did not like at all. The event that led up to the breakup of Lucy’s almost-marriage was just horrible. The scene with Asher and his phone recording was awful. The language in the beginning of the book was really more than “spicy” would indicate–definitely rated R (to be honest, I almost quit reading at that point. When the reviews from the book tour started coming in as very complimentary, I kept reading). Lucy’s treatment of her former fiancé, while in some ways justified, was not in any way honorable. She said some pretty awful things to him in a later scene that, while the narration would lead us to believe it made Asher admire her, it would absolutely make me think twice about getting together with that person. She was vicious, and that did not seem to go along with the sweet person she had been up until that point.

Another issue I had was one that often happens with eARC book copies. There were many errors in the review copy I received, and more than a punctuation error or two. There were a few spots where the writing was unclear, or words were out of order. There were a few phrases that made me wonder if the UK editors had tried to rephrase things to make it more consistent with British phrasing rather than American, even though the author is American. I usually don’t let these occasional errors get into my reviews, but this book needed a bit more editing. Since this is not the first book I’ve read from this publisher, Boldwood Books, I’m sure their editing team did their due diligence for the final copy.

Overall, I am giving this book ⭐⭐⭐three stars. I would honestly recommend you read other book reviews on this book to get a more balanced view on the book itself.

Lucky number three for Asher and Lucy. Having met before on two heartbreaking occasions, the third time and the planets seem to align.
I love Mitzi the most, what an octogenarian she is.
The story is super sweet all the way through, I generally like my romances to have a bit of heat to them but this kind of sweet love always has a place.
It is a super quick read, I finished it in just under 24hours including sleep and work so its very easy to get through.
I really liked all the relationships, Madi, Aaron, Lucy and Asher all have really special friendships.
There were also interesting side characters, Tanner made me laugh and we met, very briefly, Asher and Aaron's older sister Alyssa. I think she would have a great story to tell should the author decide to revisit this setting.
I will definitely read more by this author as I really enjoyed this book.

Rating: 3.5/5
I highly advise having a snack or a full stomach while reading Third Times Lucky. Because if you don’t, you may find that you’re likely to stop several times throughout the story. Reading about handmade marshmallows for a s’mores cheesecake and Chicken Tikka Masala may do that.

Asher, a professional chef, is in Vegas at the same time as his childhood best friend, Lucy, whom he hasn’t seen for years. Lucy is getting married, though, and Asher interrupts the wedding with upsetting news about the groom, solidifying Lucy’s decision not to marry. Their paths cross again months later under different circumstances, and food and a meddling, hilarious grandmother are involved.

Asher is the sweetest, and Lucy is adorably awkward. They make such a great couple, and of course, Lucy’s grandmother, Mitzi, knows that. I loved how Mitzi was more of a friend to Lucy, not just a grandmother who meddles. And she had some profound things to say about life. The overall story is pretty light without spice. Adding Asher’s brother and Lucy’s friend Madi, with some side drama, made a good story. I did enjoy the ending. It was a surprise to me.

💛 Third Time Lucky by Aimee Brown ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I totally dove into this story and couldn’t put it down! This book is warm, funny, and such a quick, enjoyable read. You have to meet Asher! He’s seriously the sweetest, most understanding, and all-around perfect book boyfriend. The whole journey from past hurts to unexpected love is super charming and emotional. Plus, the second-chance romance and quirky family vibes make it even better. Also, the story being told from different POVs is a lovely touch, allowing us to experience the heartwarming moments without any doubt. If you love rom-coms and want to read an unforgettable love, this one’s a must-read before summer’s over!!! ☀️⛱️

If you enjoy romantic comedy, believing in second chances, like happy endings, fast and easy-to-read beach reads, love the style of Abby Jimenez and Emily Henry; then this one is definitely for you!

This is an ARC review. I appreciate receiving this copy from NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review.

I have enjoyed the other books by this author that I’ve read, and this one was just as good! It started with some really bits very similar to a couple rom-com movie favorites, such as the cheating aspect of The Wedding Singer. But there was a lot more to the story than just that. Asher and Lucy had a past. Not a romantic one, but one that was emotional. And they reconnect at another event that is Asher having to give her some horrible news. But that’s not the end of it.

Once Lucy is back at home, and has to move out from her cheating ex-fiance’s house, she ends up moving in with her grandmother Mitzi. Now I was unsure at first if I would like the grandmother, I mean she seemed to be all about the wedding. But she did stick on Lucy’s side when it all went downhill, so it was easy to soon fall in love with her grandmother. Neither Lucy or Mitzi were cooks, and since Mitzi was wealthy, she paid to hire a personal chef for them. And it turned out that Asher was the chef!

Asher’s brother Aaron was total playboy, love ’em-physically-and leave ’em. But he’s along for the ride and brings connections between the two not only through what he says to push them together, but also because he’s still hooking up now with Lucy’s friend Madi. So we get a little bit of a second couple through the story as well. For the most part though, Asher and Lucy’s path to get together is pretty smooth. There’s a lot of not being sure if the other one is feeling the same, or being shy, or wondering if it is okay based on their past to get together. While Asher is able to know how he feels and be sure first, Lucy’s most recent relationship gone wrong is keeping her from jumping wholeheartedly in. Especially when the big drama between Aaron and Madi happens and is kind of what causes a 3rd act space between Lucy and Asher. While I get Lucy’s point a little, I also don’t think it is fair of her to be upset with Asher as much as she is over that. But that’s me.

This is a pretty closed door romance, with alluding to what is happening with other people, such as the cheating groom, and Madi and Aaron at the drive-in movie.

I did have a little issue with some of the dialog. While I am normally someone who wants it to sound real and not stilted proper English, there were several times that the characters said “ya” instead of “you” that seemed a little out of place for me. The ending went on a bit long for me, but it was lots of happiness for our main couple and their friends, so it’s hard to complain about that!

I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of this book, for my Kindle, in return for my honest review.

This brand new book is billed as a laugh out loud, gorgeously funny, deeply romantic story and follows Asher and Lucy as she is moving on through the loss of a loved one.

I loved this story from start to finish and it pulled me in right from the very beginning. I read each chapter really quickly and each one very cleverly pushed me along to the next one until i very quickly came to the end and that all important happy-ever-after.

Third Time Lucky was beautifully written, heartwarming and had all the feels too, the descriptions of all the locations were wonderful and i could imagine myself being there. It is a second chance, slow burn, closed door romance, with the wonderful trope where he falls first, i do love that trope! I loved Asher and Lucy but most of all i fell in love with Grandma Mitzi, she was a hoot!!

I really enjoyed this book, it was such an easy read and i loved the slow build all the way through to the happy-ever-after…..