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425 Madison #5
Boyfriend Maintenance
Emmy
My bad reputation is coming back to haunt me. Now, I need a date for my brother’s wedding just to keep the vultures at bay. I’ve noticed Jake around the building and he’s the perfect man for the job.
The thing is, I don’t actually have what I promised in return for his help, but I don’t want this to end.
Jake
I’ve seen Emmy and she’s out of my league, but that doesn’t stop me from taking her up on her offer and upping the ante. I have rules, however, the more time we spend together the more the lines get blurred.
Her lie made her more like me than I ever thought possible. Too bad liars don’t do it for me.
A little boyfriend maintenance goes a long way…
After all, 425 Madison Ave is the perfect place to fall in love!
*Each story is completely standalone, but you’ll want to read them all.
My bad reputation is coming back to haunt me. Now, I need a date for my brother’s wedding just to keep the vultures at bay. I’ve noticed Jake around the building and he’s the perfect man for the job.
The thing is, I don’t actually have what I promised in return for his help, but I don’t want this to end.
Jake
I’ve seen Emmy and she’s out of my league, but that doesn’t stop me from taking her up on her offer and upping the ante. I have rules, however, the more time we spend together the more the lines get blurred.
Her lie made her more like me than I ever thought possible. Too bad liars don’t do it for me.
A little boyfriend maintenance goes a long way…
After all, 425 Madison Ave is the perfect place to fall in love!
*Each story is completely standalone, but you’ll want to read them all.
158 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2019
About the author
Lauren Helms
18 books466 followersLauren Helms is a romance author her nerdy and flirty contemporary words. Lauren has forever been an avid reader from the beginning. After starting a book review website, that catapulted her fully into the book world, she knew that something was missing. While working for a video game strategy guide publisher, she decided to mix what she knew best--video games and romance. She decided to take the plunge and write her first novel, Level Me Up. Several published novels later, Lauren, with her book bestie, also formed PR company, Forever Write PR, to help other authors promote their books.
Lauren lives in Indianapolis, Indiana sharing her love of books and video games with her own Gamer Boy husband and three little kid nerds who will hopefully grow up to share the love of things that united Lauren and her husband on their own happily ever after.
You can connect with Lauren in the following ways:
Read her Books on Amazon!
LIKE on Facebook!
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Lauren lives in Indianapolis, Indiana sharing her love of books and video games with her own Gamer Boy husband and three little kid nerds who will hopefully grow up to share the love of things that united Lauren and her husband on their own happily ever after.
You can connect with Lauren in the following ways:
Read her Books on Amazon!
LIKE on Facebook!
Subscribe to her Newsletter
Follow on Instagram
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
May 1, 2019
Boyfriend Maintenance is the 5th book in the 425 Madison Series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel. Told from dual points of view, Boyfriend Maintenance follows the story of Jake & Emmy. On the outside, Emmy appears to be the girl who has it all. She lives at the ideal address, dresses to impress and has the confidence to back it up. However, the reality couldn’t be more different. While Emmy appears to have it all, she isn’t quite the socialite everyone thinks she is. She walked away from it all and has worked hard for everything she has. Her family never approved of the path she decided to take, so with her brother’s upcoming wedding right around the corner, Emmy realizes she can’t face it alone. What she needs is a fake boyfriend. That’s where Jake comes into play. Even though Jake & Emmy come from two totally different worlds, he is exactly the man for the job. What started off as a lie, will quickly turn Emmy & Jake’s world upside down, leaving them both with more than they bargained for….
Boyfriend Maintenance was such a fun read. I am huge sucker for the fake relationship troupe and Lauren Helms does not disappoint. I loved the idea of this story. These two characters couldn’t be more different if they tried. But things aren’t always what they seem, and both Jake & Emmy will quickly realize that they are more alike than either one of them thought. The chemistry between Jake & Emmy was spot on. I loved watching them interact and find their way through their fake relationship. The lines quickly blurred between the two of them leading to some seriously steamy moments.
The road to happily ever after wasn’t an easy one for Jake & Emmy. Jake had some serious hangups that he needed to work through and move past. And while Emmy wasn’t perfect, she had her reasons for being the way that she was and for keeping certain aspects of her life a secret. Neither one of them saw the other coming and I just loved seeing the way their story played out. They kept me glued to the pages and I couldn’t help but just devour their story.
Overall, I thought this book was a terrific read. It was quick and easy; definitely a story that you can read in just a few short hours. I thought the story-line was a lot of fun and the characters were easy to relate to. Jake & Emmy easily steal your heart from the very beginning. And there are a few side characters that I would love to see get their own story.
If you’re looking for a book with family drama, genuine feelings, great friendships and some sexy good times, then look no further. Boyfriend Maintenance is a terrific read to spend your day getting lost in.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Boyfriend Maintenance was such a fun read. I am huge sucker for the fake relationship troupe and Lauren Helms does not disappoint. I loved the idea of this story. These two characters couldn’t be more different if they tried. But things aren’t always what they seem, and both Jake & Emmy will quickly realize that they are more alike than either one of them thought. The chemistry between Jake & Emmy was spot on. I loved watching them interact and find their way through their fake relationship. The lines quickly blurred between the two of them leading to some seriously steamy moments.
The road to happily ever after wasn’t an easy one for Jake & Emmy. Jake had some serious hangups that he needed to work through and move past. And while Emmy wasn’t perfect, she had her reasons for being the way that she was and for keeping certain aspects of her life a secret. Neither one of them saw the other coming and I just loved seeing the way their story played out. They kept me glued to the pages and I couldn’t help but just devour their story.
Overall, I thought this book was a terrific read. It was quick and easy; definitely a story that you can read in just a few short hours. I thought the story-line was a lot of fun and the characters were easy to relate to. Jake & Emmy easily steal your heart from the very beginning. And there are a few side characters that I would love to see get their own story.
If you’re looking for a book with family drama, genuine feelings, great friendships and some sexy good times, then look no further. Boyfriend Maintenance is a terrific read to spend your day getting lost in.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
May 2, 2019
I’m really enjoying this series of stories, all involving characters living or working at 425 Madison and this is a great addition to this series! Each book is written by a different author and can be read as a standalone but they do often involve characters or events from the other books.
This story concerns Emmy, a resident of 425 Madison Avenue, who is someone who grew up in a wealthy family but has rejected their money and manipulations – much to their chagrin! She can only afford to live there because of her friend’s generosity allowing her to be a flat mate. Now her brother is getting married and she really needs a date to go with her to help protect her from her stepmother’s manipulations. Is it really a great idea to ask Jake, the building’s maintenance man, to pretend to be her boyfriend? He’s handsome, attractive and would be so great . . . but maybe too great as she’s not sure she’ll be able to resist him! He’s sure she’s out of his league, but she’s asked for his help. He needs to make sure she understands the rules before he’ll agree . . . but he’s sure no one explained the rules to his heart! Can they convincingly fake their romance to her family?
This is a laugh out loud, humorous story with great characters and so many mistaken assumptions you’re never quite sure how it will all work out in the end! I particularly liked the relationship between Emmy and her brother, but disliked his bride-to-be. Jake’s family are fantastic! I really enjoyed reading this and can’t wait to read more in the series.
This is my honest review after reading a copy of the book which I had requested and been gifted.
This story concerns Emmy, a resident of 425 Madison Avenue, who is someone who grew up in a wealthy family but has rejected their money and manipulations – much to their chagrin! She can only afford to live there because of her friend’s generosity allowing her to be a flat mate. Now her brother is getting married and she really needs a date to go with her to help protect her from her stepmother’s manipulations. Is it really a great idea to ask Jake, the building’s maintenance man, to pretend to be her boyfriend? He’s handsome, attractive and would be so great . . . but maybe too great as she’s not sure she’ll be able to resist him! He’s sure she’s out of his league, but she’s asked for his help. He needs to make sure she understands the rules before he’ll agree . . . but he’s sure no one explained the rules to his heart! Can they convincingly fake their romance to her family?
This is a laugh out loud, humorous story with great characters and so many mistaken assumptions you’re never quite sure how it will all work out in the end! I particularly liked the relationship between Emmy and her brother, but disliked his bride-to-be. Jake’s family are fantastic! I really enjoyed reading this and can’t wait to read more in the series.
This is my honest review after reading a copy of the book which I had requested and been gifted.
March 25, 2019
A fun romcom with some seriousness thrown in.
Jake has had to work for everything he's ever had. He works hard, and has to deal with some come ons from high society women. He doesn't love it, but in a way it comes with the job he does.
Emmy comes from money, but walked away to make it all on her own. She works hard and doesn't want to be associated with those "high society" women.
When a family event requires a date (or one may be provided for her), destinies collide. Their navagation through this will have you alternating between giggling and awwwwing and gasping!
I don't want to give away much of the story, but it is a fun read, with some interesting side characters that I hope we see again!
Jake has had to work for everything he's ever had. He works hard, and has to deal with some come ons from high society women. He doesn't love it, but in a way it comes with the job he does.
Emmy comes from money, but walked away to make it all on her own. She works hard and doesn't want to be associated with those "high society" women.
When a family event requires a date (or one may be provided for her), destinies collide. Their navagation through this will have you alternating between giggling and awwwwing and gasping!
I don't want to give away much of the story, but it is a fun read, with some interesting side characters that I hope we see again!
March 24, 2023
Boyfriend Maintenance is the fifth book in the 425 Madison series, and Lauren Helms offers us another great addition to the series. In fact, it was another sweet story that had me devouring it in a single sitting.
I confess, at first, I was a wee bit tentative about this one. It was interesting, yes, but a part of me was distracted by the fake Pokémon GO games one of the characters was playing. As a respectable adult that still plays Pokémon GO, I found myself shaking my head at the fake version. I do this quite often with books, yet as the fake game was of one I play daily, I found myself shaking my head that wee bit harder. Of course, that was only one little thing, and once the story got going I found myself addicted.
I was sucked into the story that played out between the duo, addicted to the way things developed. As this is one of my favourite tropes, I powered through the story. It may not have had as much drama and angst as I’m accustomed to in these kinds of stories, things may have come together a bit too easily in the end, but it had more than enough to keep me entertained. In fact, I fell in love with many of the side characters and would be happy to read their stories.
Without a doubt, Boyfriend Maintenance was another great read in the series.
I confess, at first, I was a wee bit tentative about this one. It was interesting, yes, but a part of me was distracted by the fake Pokémon GO games one of the characters was playing. As a respectable adult that still plays Pokémon GO, I found myself shaking my head at the fake version. I do this quite often with books, yet as the fake game was of one I play daily, I found myself shaking my head that wee bit harder. Of course, that was only one little thing, and once the story got going I found myself addicted.
I was sucked into the story that played out between the duo, addicted to the way things developed. As this is one of my favourite tropes, I powered through the story. It may not have had as much drama and angst as I’m accustomed to in these kinds of stories, things may have come together a bit too easily in the end, but it had more than enough to keep me entertained. In fact, I fell in love with many of the side characters and would be happy to read their stories.
Without a doubt, Boyfriend Maintenance was another great read in the series.
April 25, 2019
This one was ok for me. It was hard to have Jakes past brought up a couple of times. He also ghosted Emmy twice. They do get their HEA and Jake had some moments when you felt Jake was being there for Emmy.
April 29, 2019
Have you ever really, really needed a date for something and would do anything to make it happen? This story is about Emmy who is facing her brother’s upcoming wedding festivities which include facing her ex that is still interested in her, as well as, her father and step-mother that are constantly and overly disappointed in Emmy from foregoing her huge trust fund to make her own career choices. Jake, the sexy maintenance guy at 425 Madison is tired of the residents throwing themselves at him, content to work and save up for a new home, although occasionally using an app to meet a girl. Suddenly, all his normal rules about work, women, and dating are thrown out the window one evening when a tenant makes him an offer that he can’t refuse.
Hats off to Lauren Helms for creating the wonderfully yummy Jake! I loved Emmy’s character also, but something about Jake just made me feel all warm and fuzzy! He was unique character and I loved the banter between him and Emmy. Especially once things were out in the open about Emmy’s mysterious and secret hobby that kept her geeking out with her phone all the time. There were times with Emmy that I just wanted to shake her and remind her that she was her own person and didn’t have to tolerate her creepy ex or evil step-mother, but besides that, I loved her character.
Boyfriend Maintenance isn’t my favorite from the 425 Madison series, but I did really enjoy this one. A prominent theme in this one is the importance of honesty, being open with one another, etc. Considering Jake’s incredible aversion to lying, I found his choice to “date” Emmy interesting. Then there were several times I wanted to jump into the book and yell at him, “pot, meet kettle.” Another huge theme was about accepting yourself and being proud of yourself. Jake had hang-ups about his life growing up and his middle-class lifestyle. Emmy had issues about breaking away from her family and their money. Their story certainly was a good reminder to love yourself and feel worthy of love from others despite upbringing, finances, career choices, and so on.
This was a cute addition to this series which I have loved! Lauren Helms’ writing is flawless and I love how she inserted such different characters into 425 Madison.
*Thanks to Forever Write and Lauren Helms for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Hats off to Lauren Helms for creating the wonderfully yummy Jake! I loved Emmy’s character also, but something about Jake just made me feel all warm and fuzzy! He was unique character and I loved the banter between him and Emmy. Especially once things were out in the open about Emmy’s mysterious and secret hobby that kept her geeking out with her phone all the time. There were times with Emmy that I just wanted to shake her and remind her that she was her own person and didn’t have to tolerate her creepy ex or evil step-mother, but besides that, I loved her character.
Boyfriend Maintenance isn’t my favorite from the 425 Madison series, but I did really enjoy this one. A prominent theme in this one is the importance of honesty, being open with one another, etc. Considering Jake’s incredible aversion to lying, I found his choice to “date” Emmy interesting. Then there were several times I wanted to jump into the book and yell at him, “pot, meet kettle.” Another huge theme was about accepting yourself and being proud of yourself. Jake had hang-ups about his life growing up and his middle-class lifestyle. Emmy had issues about breaking away from her family and their money. Their story certainly was a good reminder to love yourself and feel worthy of love from others despite upbringing, finances, career choices, and so on.
This was a cute addition to this series which I have loved! Lauren Helms’ writing is flawless and I love how she inserted such different characters into 425 Madison.
*Thanks to Forever Write and Lauren Helms for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 21, 2019
Emmy walked away from the wealth and privilege that her family used to control her life. She has made her own way. Too bad she can't ignore family functions like her brother's wedding. Her roommate has the crazy idea to hire the cute building handyman Jake to be her fake boyfriend. When faced with the prospect of being thrown into the arms of her ex, she makes Jake an offer. Jake doesn't date tenants, its too awkward and he needs his job. Emmy is cute but her offer angers and offends him. These socialite girls are all the same. But the money is too tempting and Emmy is an awesome chick. There's no way you can catch real feelings in a fake relationship, right?
I have really enjoyed the 425 Madison books and Boyfriend Maintenance was a good addition to the series. Jake has appeared in several of the previous books and I was interested in his character. He had some preconceived notions about Emmy and held onto them even after getting to know her. Emmy didn't share a lot of the deeper issues she had with her family, totally justified in my opinion. This is a bit of a disaster and in the process Emmy was really hurt by Jake. I do wish that Emmy had made him work for her forgiveness, I love a good grovel. That didn't happen, though it was in keeping with Emmy's personality. Lauren Helms is a new to me author and I loved her style. 4.5 stars for Boyfriend Maintenance.
I have really enjoyed the 425 Madison books and Boyfriend Maintenance was a good addition to the series. Jake has appeared in several of the previous books and I was interested in his character. He had some preconceived notions about Emmy and held onto them even after getting to know her. Emmy didn't share a lot of the deeper issues she had with her family, totally justified in my opinion. This is a bit of a disaster and in the process Emmy was really hurt by Jake. I do wish that Emmy had made him work for her forgiveness, I love a good grovel. That didn't happen, though it was in keeping with Emmy's personality. Lauren Helms is a new to me author and I loved her style. 4.5 stars for Boyfriend Maintenance.
April 16, 2019
Swoon worthy for sure BUT a moment of WTF! I love this series so much and everyone, so far, at 425 Madison!! Lauren always makes me laugh and I love that she added a gamer/nerdy flare to Emmy.
I quickly fell in love with Emmy and her amazing sass but also the nerdy woman shining bright. Emmy has had some issues with her family and even though mine aren’t the same I felt this connection with her. I laughed at her best friend Becca several times and I’m pretty sure I have some ideas going on about her. Jack on the other hand didn’t win me over majority of the time. He was a judgmental, jackass who deserved more bad things to come to him that dealing with crazy residents. The slap in the face he delivers to Emmy (not literally) pissed me off and even though I love happy endings I was hoping he would be junk punched.
Lauren, I freaking love your words!! You make me fan girl every time I read one of your books! The nerd in me wants to scream out and yell “Hell Yes” every time! You rocked the shit out of this book and I can’t wait to read what’s next from you!!! Congrats!!
I quickly fell in love with Emmy and her amazing sass but also the nerdy woman shining bright. Emmy has had some issues with her family and even though mine aren’t the same I felt this connection with her. I laughed at her best friend Becca several times and I’m pretty sure I have some ideas going on about her. Jack on the other hand didn’t win me over majority of the time. He was a judgmental, jackass who deserved more bad things to come to him that dealing with crazy residents. The slap in the face he delivers to Emmy (not literally) pissed me off and even though I love happy endings I was hoping he would be junk punched.
Lauren, I freaking love your words!! You make me fan girl every time I read one of your books! The nerd in me wants to scream out and yell “Hell Yes” every time! You rocked the shit out of this book and I can’t wait to read what’s next from you!!! Congrats!!
April 22, 2019
Very good romance, quite sweet
4.5
Very good romance with excellent characters. I really liked the two heroes and their commonality: their rejection of the money and the appearance that goes with it, even though Jake was born without money, and that Emmy chose to never touch her trust fund because it would mean that she accepts to obey to her father's rules.
They are both quite consistent and pass a false boyfriend agreement for money so that she can face her family, the time of the engagement and marriage of her brother. He hates the rich people of American high society, and in need of money, he has no remorse to be pay by her to fake their relation. But she lies to him by not telling him that she has no money.
From lie to omission to lies, there is only one step. If we add to this big deception, social prejudices, all relationships are skewed and determining the real from the fake is quite difficult for Jake and Emmy.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
4.5
Very good romance with excellent characters. I really liked the two heroes and their commonality: their rejection of the money and the appearance that goes with it, even though Jake was born without money, and that Emmy chose to never touch her trust fund because it would mean that she accepts to obey to her father's rules.
They are both quite consistent and pass a false boyfriend agreement for money so that she can face her family, the time of the engagement and marriage of her brother. He hates the rich people of American high society, and in need of money, he has no remorse to be pay by her to fake their relation. But she lies to him by not telling him that she has no money.
From lie to omission to lies, there is only one step. If we add to this big deception, social prejudices, all relationships are skewed and determining the real from the fake is quite difficult for Jake and Emmy.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
April 25, 2019
When a fake relationship turns into more, will it be over before it really even starts??
Emmy may have been born with a silver spoon in her mouth but decided to walk away from it and when she did she became the black sheep of the King family. Now she has a problem, she needs a boyfriend (fake or not) to attend her brothers wedding engagements.
Jake has been the maintenance man at 425 Madison for a few years now and has stuck to his own struck rules until he is asked for help. Thinking it’s a win, win for them both he agrees but once he gets to know Emmy better he realizes there is so much more to her and a secret she is hiding from him.
This is the 5th book in the 425 Madison Series. It can be read as a stand-alone but I highly suggest you read them all since characters from the other stories make appearances in them. I can’t wait to read Love Under Construction next 🖤🖤
Emmy may have been born with a silver spoon in her mouth but decided to walk away from it and when she did she became the black sheep of the King family. Now she has a problem, she needs a boyfriend (fake or not) to attend her brothers wedding engagements.
Jake has been the maintenance man at 425 Madison for a few years now and has stuck to his own struck rules until he is asked for help. Thinking it’s a win, win for them both he agrees but once he gets to know Emmy better he realizes there is so much more to her and a secret she is hiding from him.
This is the 5th book in the 425 Madison Series. It can be read as a stand-alone but I highly suggest you read them all since characters from the other stories make appearances in them. I can’t wait to read Love Under Construction next 🖤🖤
April 25, 2019
This is such a sweet story, where upperclass meets blue collar! I read this book in one sitting!
Emmy turned her back on her trust fund and family business, leaving her living with her best friend. Jake is one of the maintenance men in the apartment building and whilst fixing their waste disposal, Becca asks him to be Emmy’s fake boyfriend for 4 dates for her older brothers wedding!
Eventually Jake agrees, for a price, after all she lives at 425 Madison, so has plenty of money!!!!!
On the second date he overhears Emmy and her brother talking and the truth comes out, he is not happy she lied and in the early he walks out her apartment, and ghosts her!
What follows is heartache and regrets, can two unhappy people find their at back to each other, or is it too late?
Emmy turned her back on her trust fund and family business, leaving her living with her best friend. Jake is one of the maintenance men in the apartment building and whilst fixing their waste disposal, Becca asks him to be Emmy’s fake boyfriend for 4 dates for her older brothers wedding!
Eventually Jake agrees, for a price, after all she lives at 425 Madison, so has plenty of money!!!!!
On the second date he overhears Emmy and her brother talking and the truth comes out, he is not happy she lied and in the early he walks out her apartment, and ghosts her!
What follows is heartache and regrets, can two unhappy people find their at back to each other, or is it too late?
April 14, 2019
I have always loved the way Lauren writes and this book is no different. She shows her gamer side when Emmy plays an app on her phone, it’s funny the times she plays it always seems like perfect timing. Jake is the ultimate book boyfriend even though he let his ego show when it came to money. I loved how Emmy and Jake’s story evolves through the events they go to and the shock with Emmy’s brother. I love how the drama builds and unfolds at once.
April 18, 2019
This is a quick, fun read. I was needing a low drama insta love and this book fit the bill! I really liked Emmy and Jake and the whole fake relationship story line. They definitely had chemistry! This is the first book by Lauren Helms I have read and it won't be the last. I enjoyed her witty writing style and the sassy, gamer/nerdy heroine.
A review copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
A review copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 13, 2019
Loved this book! Another great book in this series!
I love how Jake and Emmy started off and how they continued to develop as the book went on.
Their chemistry was undeniable from the start.
Luckily there was no major drama which I always appreciate!
I am hoping some other
Characters get together but don’t want to spoil anything
Cannot wait for the next book
I love how Jake and Emmy started off and how they continued to develop as the book went on.
Their chemistry was undeniable from the start.
Luckily there was no major drama which I always appreciate!
I am hoping some other
Characters get together but don’t want to spoil anything
Cannot wait for the next book
July 24, 2021
What a cute fake relationship book! Really great back story. Nice, light fun read. Perfect for between those angsty AF books. I only wanted to smack Jake one time! And I'm beginning to wonder if Sara will ever get it together (a background character that has popped up in a few of these books)
Read
March 10, 2019Beta read
April 16, 2019
Absolutely ❤ this book.
This is one of those book that had me glued too every page. It was a page turner.
This is one of those book that had me glued too every page. It was a page turner.
April 26, 2019
Boyfriend Maintenance is the 5th book in the 425 Madison series and it's written by Lauren Helms. I didn't like two things about this book. The first one was Jake. Jake has issues that are not even aware of for most of the book. These issues made him act like a douche to Emmy and kept my dislike of him growing. For me, he fell into the category of the boyfriend that you have before you meet your soulmate. He is the main reason I didn't like the book. One of the things I don't like in a book (but don't hate) is when practically all the people from the opposite sex are attracted to one of the MCs. Jake had a couple of women throwing themselves at him and one even named little Jake without even seeing it. Emmy needed to have a guy like that because Jake needed to be jealous and realize how good Emmy actually is. He didn't deserve her.
The second thing that bugged me was the mention of a potential love interest for Emmy's roommate and another 425 Madison resident, but no actual proof that they will be or not a couple in the future. I have teasing like that. If I recall correctly another author did something similar in the series, so I hope that the series will expand to more than 9 books.
The last thing that didn't exactly made me dislike the book, but still seemed weird was having Emmy say that she is the forever/relationship kind of girl on the next sentence say that Jake was the one night stand kind of guy and then immediately proceed to tell us that she had casual sex in the past, but not in a way that was implying that it happened in the past and it's not true now. He didn't do commitment, she didn't seem to want to be in a relationship to fall onto a bed with a guy, so why even bother saying that she is not like Jake?
The second thing that bugged me was the mention of a potential love interest for Emmy's roommate and another 425 Madison resident, but no actual proof that they will be or not a couple in the future. I have teasing like that. If I recall correctly another author did something similar in the series, so I hope that the series will expand to more than 9 books.
The last thing that didn't exactly made me dislike the book, but still seemed weird was having Emmy say that she is the forever/relationship kind of girl on the next sentence say that Jake was the one night stand kind of guy and then immediately proceed to tell us that she had casual sex in the past, but not in a way that was implying that it happened in the past and it's not true now. He didn't do commitment, she didn't seem to want to be in a relationship to fall onto a bed with a guy, so why even bother saying that she is not like Jake?
May 26, 2019
Loved it
Loved this book. The characters and side characters were easy to live and believable. I just wish it had a bonus epilogue because I needed to see more of their story. Also I can’t help but wonder about Levi and Becca....is there a story there?
Loved this book. The characters and side characters were easy to live and believable. I just wish it had a bonus epilogue because I needed to see more of their story. Also I can’t help but wonder about Levi and Becca....is there a story there?
April 26, 2019
Cute
Fake relationships are a favorite of mine. This was a quick, fast paced novella that pleased me with all the elements I love in this trope!
Fake relationships are a favorite of mine. This was a quick, fast paced novella that pleased me with all the elements I love in this trope!
May 2, 2019
Emmy has given up her wealth and family name and privileged to try and find her own way in life. Which is usually really rewarding for her- except when it comes to obligatory family engagements like her older brother's wedding events. To make matters worse, her step- mother is trying to hook her up with her loathed ex, so she needs a stand-in boyfriend fast. Enter Jake, the very attractive maintenance man who needs extra money to make his dreams of buying a house a reality. The two make a shaky deal, never expecting real feelings might show up.
Boyfriend Maintenance made it onto two different favorite lists for me- favorite book in the 425 Madison series and favorite book by Lauren (make sure to check out her Gamer Boy Series- fun romances with just enough angst). I love the series concept, where each author writes a standalone story with their own characters, but set in the same world- in this case, an upscale hotel in New York that caterers to the wealthy. I have tried a few other books in the series, and they were hit or miss for me, but this one was a winner! I loved how quick a read this was since Lauren made the story engaging and the plot fast, making this the perfect book to read over a lazy weekend (or in a single evening like I did).
The story was dual narrated by Emmy and Jake, switching at chapters, and you know how I love a good multi-perspective romance where I never have to miss out on internalization. Emmy was fun and spunky, trying to distance herself from the expectations of her family since she never fit their mold. Jake was more the strong silent type, too busy with work and planning his future to be able to relax. I loved how there was humor thrown in the story, which will always win me over as it did in this case. Jake's hook-up attempt at the beginning of the book was hysterical and the random over the top antics of all the side characters (yes, I am looking at you Mrs. Jenkins!) made me look forward to whatever unexpected (potentially inappropriate) encounter would come next.
Boyfriend Maintenance was my kind of happily ever after, conveniently wrapped in a single fun book package. I would love to have another book by Lauren with potential love matches for Bex, Kevin or Levi to come (hint hint). I enjoyed this fast read and recommend it for fans of cute romance with a dash of heat and for fans of the 425 Madison series in general.
I reviewed a complimentary copy of this title.
Boyfriend Maintenance made it onto two different favorite lists for me- favorite book in the 425 Madison series and favorite book by Lauren (make sure to check out her Gamer Boy Series- fun romances with just enough angst). I love the series concept, where each author writes a standalone story with their own characters, but set in the same world- in this case, an upscale hotel in New York that caterers to the wealthy. I have tried a few other books in the series, and they were hit or miss for me, but this one was a winner! I loved how quick a read this was since Lauren made the story engaging and the plot fast, making this the perfect book to read over a lazy weekend (or in a single evening like I did).
The story was dual narrated by Emmy and Jake, switching at chapters, and you know how I love a good multi-perspective romance where I never have to miss out on internalization. Emmy was fun and spunky, trying to distance herself from the expectations of her family since she never fit their mold. Jake was more the strong silent type, too busy with work and planning his future to be able to relax. I loved how there was humor thrown in the story, which will always win me over as it did in this case. Jake's hook-up attempt at the beginning of the book was hysterical and the random over the top antics of all the side characters (yes, I am looking at you Mrs. Jenkins!) made me look forward to whatever unexpected (potentially inappropriate) encounter would come next.
Boyfriend Maintenance was my kind of happily ever after, conveniently wrapped in a single fun book package. I would love to have another book by Lauren with potential love matches for Bex, Kevin or Levi to come (hint hint). I enjoyed this fast read and recommend it for fans of cute romance with a dash of heat and for fans of the 425 Madison series in general.
I reviewed a complimentary copy of this title.
April 22, 2019
I liked Emmy and Jake's romance. The writing was good and the plot was fun. Although this is a book in the A 425 Madison Novel series it can be read easily as a standalone. I do recommend reading the other books though because they are wonderful reads. I liked Emmy for the most part but I will be honest and say that there were a couple things that bothered me about her. First, I know it worked to fit in with the series but I felt it was a huge cop out to be living in a luxury apartment when she had such strong opinions on being her own person, making it on her own and refusing her families money. I know she was paying the utilities but it did not mesh with what I felt was a realistic option for her. Second, I truly hated how she let Jake talk to and treat her. I didn't feel she owed Jake every detail of her life, especially because originally they had made a simple deal. Jake I had some big issues with. I was not a fan of his attitudes and judgements. His sanctimonious attitude about "The Rich" certainly went out the window when there was a nice check involved. Be sure to add some extra zeroes because you're rich and I'm greedy. Oh Yeah and do not forget a little bonus because you don't want me to spill your secret. He was a Grade A Jerk with an ego to match. Even if I could get past how he was in the book, my heart could not commit that in the end his prejudices and fears wouldn't put so much stress on their relationship that it would tank. I could not really feel an attachment to either character and their chemistry had no zing for me. In spite of this I thought that Emmy deserved so much better than Jake. That is only my opinion though. Still it was a good read with a few funny moments mixed in with some drama and emotions. This is my honest, voluntary review.
April 29, 2019
I've reviewed many of the books in this anthology, and this one tickled me. Jake has an effortless about him - he was probably my favorite character of all. Getting to know him was very interesting. The same with Emmy. While I did enjoy the story, I think my overall feeling was I wish I could have gotten more... More "what was up with the skeeball?", "what about Levi?", and "what about Becca??". I can only guess that if you were to read Lauren Helms, then you would get a lot of these answers. So from that angle, the author did a phenomenal job of giving teasers about the characters and making you want to read her other books. She's got me on the hook for Levi and Becca for sure.
Our protagonist, Emmy, had a lot going for her. We learn a lot about her backstory and you come to admire her for her need for independence and desire to make her mark on the world. There were times when I wish I could have gotten to know her a bit better, but I think the taste of her home life with her parents definitely suits the needs of the story. I love a woman who knows herself, and that is certainly Emmy.
A part of the fun of the story comes from how things evolve between Jake and Emmy. There are certainly moments when I would like to kick Jake in the man bit for his stupidity...because well, they are supreme moments of stupidity. However, he does have great redeeming qualities.
Overall, the only issue that I found with this story is how the ending felt rushed. Things were going well, the flow of the story made sense, and then the ending wrapped up too quickly. If the author could have slowed it down a bit, I probably would have given it 4.5 stars.I give this a thumbs up and dub it a fun read!
Our protagonist, Emmy, had a lot going for her. We learn a lot about her backstory and you come to admire her for her need for independence and desire to make her mark on the world. There were times when I wish I could have gotten to know her a bit better, but I think the taste of her home life with her parents definitely suits the needs of the story. I love a woman who knows herself, and that is certainly Emmy.
A part of the fun of the story comes from how things evolve between Jake and Emmy. There are certainly moments when I would like to kick Jake in the man bit for his stupidity...because well, they are supreme moments of stupidity. However, he does have great redeeming qualities.
Overall, the only issue that I found with this story is how the ending felt rushed. Things were going well, the flow of the story made sense, and then the ending wrapped up too quickly. If the author could have slowed it down a bit, I probably would have given it 4.5 stars.I give this a thumbs up and dub it a fun read!
April 22, 2019
Emmy is tired of being under her parents thumb, they always have an opinion or demand on how to live her life, and it's beyond frustrating. For once she would like to be able to do what she wants, with no unsolicited advice from her family to follow, but that is never going to happen as long as she is being supported by their money. So she decides it's time to cut the cord, and go at life on her own, which brings her to 425 Madison.
There she meets a handsome handyman that makes her heart skip a beat, but he seems to be resistant to her charm. That is until she needs a date for a family function, and offers him a deal he can't refuse... but this deal comes with a few unexpected surprises that neither of them were anticipating!
Boyfriend Maintenance is a charming little faux romance story that comes brimming with loads of emotion and steam. This unlikely pairing strike up a deal that leads them in an direction neither saw coming, and boy was it fun to watch them try and resist the sparks, and unexpected chemistry. They were both adamant this was just a business deal, but the more time they spent with one another the more they realized that there was something real there that was worth holding onto. I really enjoyed this newest addition to the 425 Madison series, from start to finish it's well crafted words and endearing characters kept me captivated and smiling throughout! Highly recommend you get your hands on this one, it's wonderfully crafted characters are bound to leave you smiling!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
There she meets a handsome handyman that makes her heart skip a beat, but he seems to be resistant to her charm. That is until she needs a date for a family function, and offers him a deal he can't refuse... but this deal comes with a few unexpected surprises that neither of them were anticipating!
Boyfriend Maintenance is a charming little faux romance story that comes brimming with loads of emotion and steam. This unlikely pairing strike up a deal that leads them in an direction neither saw coming, and boy was it fun to watch them try and resist the sparks, and unexpected chemistry. They were both adamant this was just a business deal, but the more time they spent with one another the more they realized that there was something real there that was worth holding onto. I really enjoyed this newest addition to the 425 Madison series, from start to finish it's well crafted words and endearing characters kept me captivated and smiling throughout! Highly recommend you get your hands on this one, it's wonderfully crafted characters are bound to leave you smiling!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest opinion.
April 16, 2019
Do you suffer from preconceived ideas? Are you willing to give up your independence for comfort’s sake? Are you content with what you do and are you where you want to be in life? Do you actually feel secure in yourself? These are issues we all face at one time or another. This is what makes this story so real and maybe for some people so familiar.
This story brings up class difference and preconceived ideas on every level. It’s a cute quick read that will have you smiling and thinking about all the things I wrote about above.
It’s a smart author who can make you smile and really think about real issues and how people judge ( all types of people) and impose their values, whatever they may be.
I don’t do spoilers because I don’t think it’s fair to the author. You should read the blurb. Better yet read the book. What I will say is this story will make you smile, think, swoon, and it brings some heat and some crazy.
Jake, is a real guy. What I mean you get to see his flaws and all. Of course he’s gorgeous but he could be a guy you know. He doesn’t apologize for his life but there are definitely things he needs to apologize for.
Emmy, is independent, beautiful inside and out. She knows what she wants but she has her insecurities like everyone else.
Then you have the others...some crazy, some ew, good friends,bad friends, family.
Like I already stated this is a good book you will truly enjoy. It’s Avery quick read I did it in one sitting. I look forward to reading more of this author’s work.
This story brings up class difference and preconceived ideas on every level. It’s a cute quick read that will have you smiling and thinking about all the things I wrote about above.
It’s a smart author who can make you smile and really think about real issues and how people judge ( all types of people) and impose their values, whatever they may be.
I don’t do spoilers because I don’t think it’s fair to the author. You should read the blurb. Better yet read the book. What I will say is this story will make you smile, think, swoon, and it brings some heat and some crazy.
Jake, is a real guy. What I mean you get to see his flaws and all. Of course he’s gorgeous but he could be a guy you know. He doesn’t apologize for his life but there are definitely things he needs to apologize for.
Emmy, is independent, beautiful inside and out. She knows what she wants but she has her insecurities like everyone else.
Then you have the others...some crazy, some ew, good friends,bad friends, family.
Like I already stated this is a good book you will truly enjoy. It’s Avery quick read I did it in one sitting. I look forward to reading more of this author’s work.
May 6, 2019
I can't believe we are 5 books in on this series. I absolutely love it. It seems that with each book, the series gets better.
Its a fake relationship story, with Emmy who needs a date for her brother's wedding or else and Jake who gets taken along for the ride. These two have great chemistry together and its easy to see that they aren't going to be fake for very long. I actually love that Jake is not wealthy one. Its a bit of role reversal in these stories for me.
Emmy's family is definitely enough to make anyone want to give up their money. Kitty definitely has wicked step mother potential. I wished we could have had more interaction with her dad though.
Then there's Jake. His blind date with another resident from 425 Madison is an absolute hoot. Yeah..if you read the other books, you might know who I'm speaking off. (I kinda hope she gets a story, cos I'd love to know what makes her the way she is). Oh and the older lady that likes to get handsy is a hoot as well.
The two of them have ups and downs getting it together, but their fake relationship was definitely worth it!
This book is so fun and funny that you won't be able to put it down. Its perfect light reading for a lazy afternoon!
Its a fake relationship story, with Emmy who needs a date for her brother's wedding or else and Jake who gets taken along for the ride. These two have great chemistry together and its easy to see that they aren't going to be fake for very long. I actually love that Jake is not wealthy one. Its a bit of role reversal in these stories for me.
Emmy's family is definitely enough to make anyone want to give up their money. Kitty definitely has wicked step mother potential. I wished we could have had more interaction with her dad though.
Then there's Jake. His blind date with another resident from 425 Madison is an absolute hoot. Yeah..if you read the other books, you might know who I'm speaking off. (I kinda hope she gets a story, cos I'd love to know what makes her the way she is). Oh and the older lady that likes to get handsy is a hoot as well.
The two of them have ups and downs getting it together, but their fake relationship was definitely worth it!
This book is so fun and funny that you won't be able to put it down. Its perfect light reading for a lazy afternoon!
May 4, 2019
This was a really good story. Although I totally got Jake's view on just being casual, totally seems like a guy thing to do, he didn't seem to be quite so into it when we saw him on his one date. I mean I guess she broke the rule of being someone who lived in the building where he worked, but still she was totally all about just casual sex. I loved the older woman who was such a cougar, scratch that, puma. Emmy was awesome, giving up her family money and such to do what she wanted. It seems you don't always see the girl in that role in stories. It was hard to get her brother, especially after he seemed to not care about what his fiancee did. This was such a page-turner that I didn't take a ton of notes about what what was going on to remark about in my review. I just have to say that I enjoyed it a lot, and while this is my first book by this author, I'm sure it won't be my last!
You can also read this review at Lisa Loves Literature.
You can also read this review at Lisa Loves Literature.
April 15, 2019
This was my first book by Lauren and I don't think it'll be my last.
I absolutely loved how the roles were reversed in this book. So often in books, especially romance, the hero is the one with the wealth while the heroine is the one struggling. Now while these roles weren't exact, I loved that the perception was there.
I really liked Emmy. She had a strong back-bone considering the situation she was in, and wasn't a brat. I did wish she made the people around her work for her time, especially after the way they treated her, but it is what it is.
Jake was great. For the most part. I got why he was the way he was, but when push came to shove with Emmy, he kind of let me down a bit. He definitely needed to grovel more because he was forgiven way to fast in my opinion haha!
All in all this was a really good story, I just wanted more ;)
I absolutely loved how the roles were reversed in this book. So often in books, especially romance, the hero is the one with the wealth while the heroine is the one struggling. Now while these roles weren't exact, I loved that the perception was there.
I really liked Emmy. She had a strong back-bone considering the situation she was in, and wasn't a brat. I did wish she made the people around her work for her time, especially after the way they treated her, but it is what it is.
Jake was great. For the most part. I got why he was the way he was, but when push came to shove with Emmy, he kind of let me down a bit. He definitely needed to grovel more because he was forgiven way to fast in my opinion haha!
All in all this was a really good story, I just wanted more ;)
April 16, 2019
I voluntarily review an ARC.
This is the fifth book of the 425 Madison series, the books are standalones.
I just love this series, each book is written by a different author. So this was the first book by Lauren Helms I've read, but probably not the last.
I like her writing style, the realistic characters and interesting side characters.
There are parts for swooning, heartache, tears and joy, moments of determination and forgiveness.
Both protagonists work hard to reach their goals in life. Sometimes you have to reconsider, if your rules lead to the things you really want...
I enjoyeded to read about real people who learn from their mistakes, but for my taste the remorse wasn't enough and the forgiving too fast.
I recommend this book and the whole series.
This is the fifth book of the 425 Madison series, the books are standalones.
I just love this series, each book is written by a different author. So this was the first book by Lauren Helms I've read, but probably not the last.
I like her writing style, the realistic characters and interesting side characters.
There are parts for swooning, heartache, tears and joy, moments of determination and forgiveness.
Both protagonists work hard to reach their goals in life. Sometimes you have to reconsider, if your rules lead to the things you really want...
I enjoyeded to read about real people who learn from their mistakes, but for my taste the remorse wasn't enough and the forgiving too fast.
I recommend this book and the whole series.
April 23, 2019
Once again this book of novels is fantastic - I loved this.
Emmy was her own person, much to her rich family's dismay - she walked away from her trust fund to live her life as she wanted. Jake, the handyman, didn't have money, never has, something he was a tad ashamed about. Emmy needs a fake boyfriend, Jake needs money - they join forces and he accompany's her to some family functions. To their horror they find they like each other, fall into bed and have sex, but this only complicates matters on Jake's side of the equation.
How will Emmy get him to open up and fix this situation, they REALLY like each other.
Another great chapter in a fantastic read of books.
Emmy was her own person, much to her rich family's dismay - she walked away from her trust fund to live her life as she wanted. Jake, the handyman, didn't have money, never has, something he was a tad ashamed about. Emmy needs a fake boyfriend, Jake needs money - they join forces and he accompany's her to some family functions. To their horror they find they like each other, fall into bed and have sex, but this only complicates matters on Jake's side of the equation.
How will Emmy get him to open up and fix this situation, they REALLY like each other.
Another great chapter in a fantastic read of books.
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