Irresistibly Yours (Oxford, #1)

by Lauren Layne

[Lynn]

I was just a bit apprehensive about starting Irresistibly Yours because I haven't read any of the books from the Sex, Love and Stilettos series, an oversight I plan to rectify. I needn't have worried because the characters quickly become like friends...approachable, supportive and just a little bit crazy!

Cole Sharpe is a self-assured freelance writer who's worked for Oxford for a long while. When the publication decides to expand its sports section, Cole is confident his name is written all over the job as Sports Editor, only he learns pretty quickly he has a rival for the job... and it is a woman!

After losing out on her dream job in Chicago, Penelope Pope relocates to NYC to try and further her career there. She has an interview at Oxford for the job as Sports Editor and she's determined to not loose out on her dream job, this time, around. Only best-laid plans go to pot on interview day and the man to rescue her is also a rival for the job!

I really love Cole and Penelope together. Cole is used to dating blonde, leggy Manhattanites yet Penelope is a Midwestern brunette, a sports fanatic who is vertically challenged. She radiates a generous and warm personality. She's unpretentious...a breath of fresh air but insecure.
“Penelope had no illusions about her place in the world of men: the friend zone.”
Yet, Cole struggled to make their relationship more as he's reminded that his responsibilities are his number one priority.

I had a grin like a Cheshire cat whilst reading this book, especially during the office gossip scenes between the Stiletto ladies and the Oxford guys. The banter is funny, with a witty retort that had me laughing out loud especially when their office “jungle wire” communication system spread news faster than the speed of light! If you've never read a Lauren Layne book before...why? The writing is superb, the protagonists are adorable and the dialogue is humorous and intelligent.