I Enjoyed Every Second of Their Journey
4.5 out of 5 stars
Have you ever had a book that made you grin like a lovesick fool from start to finish? I Dare You to Love Me by Lori G. Matthews, narrated by the wonderfully engaging Ellie Gossage, was that book for me.
From the very first chapter, I found myself swept up in Danielle Clark’s whirlwind of a life, complete with a stressful surgical residency, a picture-perfect (but slightly too perfect) fiancé, and a household teetering on the edge of chaos thanks to a mischievous rescue dog. And oh, the dog! The little troublemaker might just be my favorite catalyst for romance ever.
One of the most delightful elements of this story was how it managed to weave humor and heart into every scene. Danielle’s progression and growth were such a joy to witness. But in general, whenever I feel that “I’m more comfortable with me” type of personal growth, I usually enjoy the book.
The banter between Dani and Kara was absolutely electric. Their verbal sparring felt like the perfect appetizer to the fiery, breathless kiss that turns everything upside down. You can’t help but root for these two as fate (and some meddling friends) keeps nudging them closer together.
I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for some of the tropes in play here, and this book served them up in the best way possible. From the opposites-attract tension to the classic “pushy friends know best” moments, each trope felt like a comforting nod to everything I love about romance novels. And yet, the execution felt fresh and deeply personal.
Ellie Gossage’s narration added an extra layer of magic to the experience. Her nuanced performance brought every moment to life, from Dani’s exasperated sighs to Kara’s biting wit. She made the characters’ chemistry sizzle and their vulnerabilities shine, drawing me even deeper into their journey.
By the time the final chapter rolled around, I didn’t want to say goodbye to these characters or their furry companions. I Dare You to Love Me is the kind of book that warms your heart and reminds you that love—whether it’s for a person, a dog, or a tiny foster kitten—is always worth taking a chance on. Whether you’re a romance aficionado or just need a story to brighten your day, this one’s a must-listen. Go ahead, I dare you.
Book Description:
Danielle Clark’s life is going according to plan. She’s in the middle of her surgical residency and she and her fiance, Will, are the perfect match. At least that’s what everyone tells them. When Will brings home a rescue dog, it’s hard to tell who’s less enthused, Dani or her cat, Jinx. The dog wreaks havoc on the household and needs training, but who has time for that? Certainly not Dani.
In steps Kara Britton, owner of a successful kennel. When she picks up Dani’s dog for day care, sparks fly. The wrong kind of sparks. When a frazzled Dani forgets her own dog’s name, Kara is absolutely appalled.
The two women verbally spar at every opportunity, until a breathless, angry kiss rocks both their worlds. Surprised by their attraction, they make a conscious effort to keep their distance. But fickle fate and meddling friends seem to delight in throwing them together.
I Dare You To Love Me by Lori G. Matthews
Narrator: Ellie Gossage
Length: 8 hrs and 53 mins
Published by Tantor Audio on February 13th 2023
Genres: Enemies to Lovers, Slow Burn, LesFic/Sapphic Fiction
Also by this author: #CassiNova
I’ve loved reading since I was little when my dad would read me Dr. Suess books. Fast-forward a little and I noticed that he was always reading on his lunch breaks at work, and I wondered why.Then, I found a book that took me to another place and time, to another feeling,another sense of “being”.It was the first book that I ever fell in love with, and I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since.
