REVIEW: Irresistibly Yours by Lauren Layne

Irresistibly Yours by Lauren Layne: Competing for the same job as editor of Oxford’s new and improved sports section, Cole really wants to hate Penelope. But Penelope doesn’t have a mean bone in her, and instead takes the route of friendship with Cole as she’s new to town.

Immediately attracted to Penelope, first due to the competition Cole stays away, and then as they work together he knows he can’t touch. But as they get closer and closer, Cole wants to stay away less and less from this tomboyish, sports enthusiast.

Penelope knows she’s not the kind of girl for a player like Cole, so she’ll give him friendship but zero romantic commitment. But soon, she falls for the perfect guy. Except, Cole’s been the shallow player for so long, with only his dedication to his brother with Down syndrome as his one connection. When trouble happens, Cole might just not grab hold.

…What are you after?”
“Isn’t it obvious? I’m out to be an expert on Penelope Pope. Because, despite your efforts to prove otherwise, I don’t believe for one second that you don’t want me.”

Irresistibly Yours ended up being a lot different than I expected, and a lot better. Penelope, although tomboyish, isn’t the usual tough, ferociously independent, and cold-shouldered woman I usually see. She’s sweet as hell, and although hurt from a love gone bad, always upbeat and open.

Cole has inner depths you don’t see at first, but he was a whole lot of what I love. His passion for Penelope is what I love to see, and as shown by his love and care for his brother, who is an absolute doll, he’s a whole lot more than the carefree playboy he set his image up as.

Although the friends with benefits relationship they start with isn’t my favorite, I love them together no matter which way. And the community of Oxford and Stiletto is one of my favorites, and I can’t wait to read Layne’s others to get more of this world. I definitely recommend Irresistibly Yours for any sports fan wanting a perfect match.

Book Info:

Publication: October 6, 2015 | Loveswept | Oxford #1

Meet the men of Oxford magazine! In the first captivating spin-off of Lauren Layne’s Sex, Love & Stiletto series, a not-so-friendly battle of the sexes turns into a scorching office romance.

Hotshot sports editor Cole Sharpe has been freelancing for Oxford for years, so when he hears about a staff position opening up, he figures he’s got the inside track. Then his boss drops a bombshell: Cole has competition. Female competition, in the form of a fresh-faced tomboy who can hang with the dudes—and write circles around them, too. Cole usually likes his women flirty and curvy, but he takes a special interest in his skinny, sassy rival, if only to keep an eye on her. And soon, he can’t take his eyes off her.

Penelope Pope knows all too well that she comes off as just one of the guys. Since she’s learned that wanting more usually leads to disappointment, Penelope’s resigned to sitting on the sidelines when it comes to love. So why does Cole make her want to get back in the game? The man is as arrogant as he is handsome. He probably sees her as nothing more than a barrier to his dream job. But when an unexpected kiss turns into a night of irresistible passion, Penelope has to figure out whether they’re just fooling around—or starting something real.