Review of Pushing Patrick: A Friends to Lovers Romance (The Gilroy Clan Book 1) by J. Saman
As someone who’s always been a sucker for the friends-to-lovers trope, Pushing Patrick immediately caught my eye. J. Saman masterfully crafts a narrative that tugged at my heartstrings while delivering a steamy escapade. I mean, who doesn’t love a little tension between best friends?
The story revolves around Cari and Patrick, two dynamics that bubbles with chemistry and intrigue. From their initial acquaintance—where Cari makes the audacious move to kiss Patrick, only to be met with a gentle but firm shutdown—it’s clear that their relationship is fraught with untapped feelings. I adore this kind of setup; it’s like watching a slow-burning flame waiting to ignite. Cari epitomizes the relatable "bad girl," grappling with her desires while desperately trying to navigate her friendship with the oh-so-dreamy Patrick.
What I particularly enjoyed was how Saman fleshes out the inner turmoil of both characters. Cari’s struggle with her “ungood-girl” persona verses her feelings for Patrick is treated with nuance and heart. And then there’s Patrick, who, while handsome and charming, carries his own set of insecurities that keep him from taking that leap. The duality of their struggles makes them feel real, like friends you might confide in over coffee.
The writing style is immersive and engaging, with a balance of humor and heat that kept me turning pages. Saman captures the awkwardness and excitement of friendship brilliantly, all while layering in moments that could heat up any chilly night. Quotably, I found myself smiling at how Patrick steals Cari’s coffee cup, leaning in close enough to make her breath hitch. Moments like this peppered throughout create a delicious tension that’s hard to resist.
The pacing felt well-structured, allowing the romance to build authentically while teasing readers with the inevitable explosion of emotions. And just when you think you have the plot figured out, Saman tosses in unexpected curves that keep you guessing—and wanting more.
This book isn’t just another romance; it explores themes of friendship, feelings of inadequacy, and the complexities of transition from platonic to romantic. It’s a celebration of those moments when we realize that love might just be the scariest leap we’ll ever take, especially with someone we care deeply about.
If you’re a fan of sizzling chemistry and heartfelt friendships that blossom into something more, Pushing Patrick is undoubtedly for you. It left me eagerly anticipating the next installment in the Gilroy Clan series, and I rooted for Cari and Patrick as if they were my own friends.
In sum, this book enchanted me with its blend of humor, emotion, and genuine connection. If you’re seeking a read that’ll make your heart flutter and keep you entertained, look no further—dive into the world of Cari and Patrick, and get ready for a delightful journey!
You can find Pushing Patrick: A Friends to Lovers Romance (The Gilroy Clan Book 1) here >>