Review: Boyfriend Material
Boyfriend Material
Alexis Hall
Synopsis: After a string of bad publicity, Luc O’Donnell– son to a former rock legend– finds himself in need of a public image make over. What Luc needs is a stable, dependable relationship. Enter Oliver: Successful, kind, vegetarian, normal, and handsome! They agree to pretend to date to help Luc’s image. The only problem is, they have nothing in common, and they aren’t really sure they even LIKE each other. What could go wrong?
Rating: R- Language and some sexual content
Have you ever picked up a book and just had strong feeling it was going to be a good one? That’s how I felt about Boyfriend Material. And I was not wrong! Whatever you like in a romantic comedy, chances are good Boyfriend Material has it. Rivals to lovers? Check. Fake dating? Yup. Opposites attract? Got it!
While ultimately, I loved this story, it started out a little bit rough for me. I really wasn’t sure I liked Luc. He seemed abrasive, rude, and overly suspicious. I knew from the synopsis that he was supposed to be a bit of a wreck, but he didn’t come across at all likeable to me. Even after he and Oliver started their arrangement, Luc acts more like a spoiled child than someone trying to put their life together. There were a couple of times I truly didn’t understand why Oliver was putting up with Luc’s attitude. Thankfully, as the story progresses, Luc’s cold, childish exterior chips away, and he becomes much more likeable.
This wasn’t my favorite rom-com of the year, but I enjoyed it. It’s got a good amount of humor and heart to it, as well as a a fun group of side characters. In particular, I really enjoyed Luc’s mom. I honestly want a spin off novel just about her. There were a couple of times I felt slightly discombobulated trying to remember which characters were which, as both Oliver and Luc have large circles of friends introduced.
In the end, I found Boyfriend Material to be a little bit rough around the edges, but enjoyable and very much worth the read. I am very much looking forward to reading the sequel, Husband Material, soon!