Hello dear romance lovers! If you haven’t yet picked up “The Cheat Sheet” by Sarah Adams, let me fill you in on why this book should be your next read. It’s a delightful rom-com that effortlessly blends humor, friendship, and a slow-burn romance. This book has the best storyline, the best character, the best side character, the best humor and above all…. The best wedding. It’s a kind of book you can’t put down, with characters you instantly adore and a plot that keeps you guessing.
It’s a fairytale kind of love story. I’m marking it as one, I don’t care.
Best Friends to Lovers Trope
Bree, a struggling ballerina, and Nathan, a rising football star, has been best friends since forever. Their lives are intertwined, but their relationship has always been strictly platonic. Their bond is solid, built on trust, laughter, and a deep understanding. Even though they both have been hopelessly in love with each other for as long as they can remember, they don’t voice their feelings for the sake of their friendship.
Like, if you ask Bree, would she marry him and have his giant muscular babies? She would answer YES in a heartbeat. But on the other hand, she would be damned if she ruined their friendship after confessing her feelings. And if you ask Nathan, why is he secretly paying part of her studio’s rent for year? The answer would be simple- he can’t see the love of his life struggling.
(Yeah, the only problem with best friends to lovers trope is that they are so unsure about each other’s feelings and so scared of the ending as it would meant losing their friendship as well.)
A Drunken Confession and a Bold Plan
Navigating the treacherous waters of unrequited love while maintaining their friendship has been a delicate balancing act for Bree. Until a drunken confession to a reporter blows up in her face as the video in which she expresses her love for Nathan goes viral. To salvage Bree’s reputation, they decide to fake date. It’s a risky move but it could be the perfect opportunity to explore their feelings for each other. Nathan also took advantage of this opportunity as he called his friends for a whiteboard planning session for – NO MORE FRIEND ZONE.
Romance Cheat Sheet
Nathan usually wear a cheat sheet full of plays on his wrist during every game so he decides to use the same technique for his love life. With the help of his friend, he made a cheat sheet to create romantic moments with Bree and to show her that there could be something between them besides just friendship. This isn’t their first time using a board planning session even though they didn’t go so well both times, but third time is the charm, right?
A Recipe for Disaster (or Love?)
What follows is a whirlwind of fake dates, public appearances, and a whole lot of awkwardness. Bree and Nathan are thrown into a world of pretend, forced to play the part of the perfect couple. But as they navigate the complexities of their fake relationship, their undeniable chemistry starts to simmer beneath the surface. Adams does an excellent job of building tension between Bree and Nathan. Their banter is sharp and witty, but there’s an underlying current of longing that keeps readers invested. The slow burn between them is agonizingly delicious, and when they finally give in to their feelings, it’s a moment of pure triumph.
More Than Just a Rom-Com
While The Cheat Sheet is undeniably a fun and flirty read, it also explores deeper themes. Bree’s journey to self-confidence and her determination to pursue her dreams are inspiring. Nathan’s complex character, battling insecurities beneath his confident exterior, adds depth to the story.
A Book to Make You Smile
The Cheat Sheet is a book that will make you laugh, cry and swoon. It’s a perfect escape from reality, filled with charming characters, witty dialogue, and a love story that leave you feeling warm and fuzzy. If you’re in the mood for a book that’s got a little bit of everything- romance, humor, drama- “The Cheat Sheet” should definitely be on your radar. It’s one of those books that you’ll finish with a big smile on your face, maybe even a little teary-eyed, and it’ll definitely leave you thinking about the characters long after you turn the last page.
So grab a cozy blanket, a cup of your favorite drink, and get ready to fall in love with Bree and Nathan.
Have you read The Cheat Sheet? Who’s your favorite character, Bree or Nathan? Let’s discuss in the comments! Or on my Pinterest Board!
Happy reading, everyone!
P.S.- Here is The Romance Cheat Sheet, for anyone who wants their best friends to fall in love with them. Thank me later!
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