Reviewed by Lynn on
Reading the final book in the Oxford series is such a bitter-sweet feeling as Hunter and Brit come under the relationship spotlight in this friends to lovers romance.
Living and working in Manhattan's fast-paced environment is a long way from Hunter Cross' roots in Kansas. He enjoys his life in 'the city that never sleeps', but it isn't home. He has always viewed his time here as a temporary phase in his life. As a result, his only permanent relationship is his friendship with Brit; it simplifies his daily routine until the time is right to move back west. That's until she asks him for a favour resulting in emotional turmoil and the end of their relationship as they know it.
Brit Robbins has a problem. She wants what her friends have...whisked off her feet except she always ends up in the friends' zone. The men she dates only hang around for a short while until they may their excuse and leave. What is her problem? She decides to enlist her best friend and boss Hunter to resolve her dilemma and is grateful when he reluctantly agrees to help. Only, his assistance triggers feelings neither of them can ignore.
For me, this series is pure escapism. The employees at Oxford and Stiletto are polished and professional in their designer suits and shoes. They work hard and play equally hard but maintain friendships with their work colleagues. The banter is humorous and fun as they enjoy their glamorous lifestyles. I Think I Love You ticks all those boxes as Brit's plan takes an unexpected turn as she and Hunter get emotionally closer to each other. It's tricky uncharted water for them both as employee and boss. Yet, somehow, it works, until it doesn't and the consequences are life changing.
The end felt a little rushed as Hunter finally comes to his senses, and Brit meets him halfway by deciding to take matters into her own hands. It gets Hunter off the hook' but I would have liked him to grovel significantly more. However, I respect Lauren's decision for these two people who otherwise know each other so well. Both are sufficiently mature to realise there isn't any point making mountains out of molehills...even if I wanted slightly more drama. (wink)
I've loved every Oxford novel. Each couple featured compliment each other perfectly and it's been entertaining to keep track of them all throughout the series. The epilogue is a little sugary for my taste but I wholeheartedly appreciate the author's sincere sentiment as we say goodbye to characters we love.
***arc generously received courtesy of Loveswept via NetGalley***
Reading updates
- Started reading
- Finished reading
- 15 May, 2018: Reviewed