Frenemies with Benefits by Lydia Sharp

*** Review ***

In the realm of contemporary rom-coms, Frenemies with Benefits by Lydia Sharp stands out as a playful and sexy addition, perfect for those who relish the vibes of The Kissing Booth and Tweet Cute. With its engaging synopsis and captivating characters, the novel takes readers on a journey filled with laughter, warmth, and a touch of spice.

From the very start, the story centers around Jess Webster, a young woman who seems to have earned an honorary degree in Awkwardness Around Cute Boys. Her inability to communicate with guys on a basic level is endearing and relatable, setting the stage for her transformation as she dons her metaphorical big girl pants in pursuit of romance. As she sets her sights on her long-time crush Andrew, fate brings Benjamin Oliver into the picture—a charismatic blend of jock and nerd, who becomes both her greatest irritant and her unexpected savior.

Lydia Sharp masterfully crafts Jess and Ben’s interactions, turning their prickly dynamic into a delightful source of entertainment. The progression from adversaries to allies, and ultimately to something more, feels organic and heartwarming. The spark between them crackles off the pages, fueling the narrative’s humor and charm.

The reviewer, in a personal reflection on the book, finds immense enjoyment in the enemies-to-lovers, fake dating trope. The chemistry between Jess and Ben is pronounced, with their witty banter adding a layer of depth to their burgeoning connection. As they evolve from mere frenemies to friends-with-benefits and eventually find themselves tumbling into love, the journey is both funny and heartwarming, leaving readers with a sense of satisfaction.

The reviewer, who felt engaged and entertained throughout, highlights the strong character development as a key strength of the novel. Both Jess and Ben are multi-faceted, allowing readers to relate to their personal struggles and growth. Jess’s journey resonates with the reviewer’s own past, underlining the pressure many young people feel to meet societal expectations in terms of romantic experiences. The book’s underlying message about self-worth and the importance of pacing oneself in matters of intimacy strikes a chord, delivering a powerful takeaway for readers of all ages.

The book’s magnetic pull, the reviewer affirms, is undeniable. The well-crafted tension between the characters resonates on a surprisingly deep level, even as the novel carries a mature tone within the YA realm. The reviewer notes that the steamy undertones of the story, while occasionally glossed over, mark a departure from traditional YA themes, verging on the territory of New Adult literature.

The review also celebrates the author’s ability to seamlessly incorporate life lessons into the narrative. Beyond its romantic plot, Frenemies with Benefits addresses essential topics like consent, communication, and personal boundaries within the context of a budding relationship. This aspect of the novel, the reviewer believes, renders it not only an entertaining read but also a valuable tool for parents looking to initiate open conversations about sex and relationships with their teenage children.

In conclusion, Frenemies with Benefits emerges as a delightful rom-com that successfully balances humor, heart, and a dash of steaminess. Lydia Sharp’s characters come to life in a relatable and endearing way, their journey from antagonists to lovers leaving readers enchanted. With its lessons in self-discovery and the importance of honest communication, the novel transcends its genre, offering readers a thoughtful and entertaining experience. Whether you’re a fan of enemies-turned-lovers tales or you’re seeking a charming escape, this book is sure to leave you smiling and eagerly awaiting more from Lydia Sharp.