Key Takeaways
Introduction
Have you ever misjudged a book by its first chapter? I certainly did with Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall. Initially, I found the main character self-absorbed and desperate to be adorable. But oh, how wrong I was! Months later, after giving it another chance, I’m here to tell you that this book is an absolute delight. Get ready for a heartwarming, squishy love story filled with laughter and surprises.
A Unique Fake-Dating Scheme
Our protagonist is Luc, the son of a famous rockstar who abandoned him as a child. Labeled as just another spoiled and misbehaving brat by the tabloids, Luc’s reputation goes downhill when his latest tabloid exposure threatens his job in fundraising. To repair his image, he enlists the help of Oliver, an uptight lawyer whom Luc once propositioned. Together, they devise the ultimate romantic trope—the fake-dating scheme. Luc needs Oliver’s “good gay” vibes to charm potential donors, while Oliver requires a companion for an upcoming family event filled with obligations and guilt.
An Unlikely Pair
Luc and Oliver are like water and oil at first, constantly clashing. However, as they spend more time together, they discover that they complement each other in surprising ways. Trust, friendship, support, and, of course, feelings, start to blossom. But if they want to turn their fake relationship into something real, they’ll need to silence their unproductive inner dialogues and let love guide them.
A Hilariously Entertaining Journey
Prepare for a rollercoaster ride of laughter and romance. Luc, with his messy yet endearing personality, will win your heart over with his snarky humor. Oliver, though initially stiff and serious, will surprise you with his hidden sweetness and protectiveness. As the plot unfolds, you’ll find yourself captivated by the adorably entertaining antics of this charming duo.
Clever and Silly Writing
The writing in Boyfriend Material is consistently funny, filled with clever and silly moments that will leave you grinning. The author’s ability to surprise readers with unexpected humor is a true gift. Here are just a few examples:
Peeping through my eyelashes like a small child braving an episode of Doctor Who from behind the sofa cushions, I checked my notifications.
We went on a couple of dates and I thought it was going really well, so I introduced him to Bridget, and she fucking stole him from me. Well, she didn’t steal him. He just liked her more. And I don’t resent it at all. I mean, I do. But I don’t. Except when I do.
“I’m sure we can negotiate matters as they arise. And you’re still welcome to stay. If you’d like. If you have no other engagements.”
Engagements? Oh, Oliver. “There was this tea dance I was meant to go to in 1953, but I can probably skip it.”
“You”—I gave a thwarted sigh—“are a terrible fake boyfriend.”
“I’m building fake anticipation.”
“You’d better be fake worth it.”
I stood at the sink and did that thing people do in movies where they brace themselves on the counter and stare meaningfully at their reflection. Turns out, it didn’t help. It was just a dick, looking at a dick, asking why he was always such a dick.
… Really, what do you have to lose?”
“Pride? Dignity? Self-respect?”
“Luc, you and I both know you have none of those things.”
A Book to Hug
Boyfriend Material is a book that will warm your heart. It delivers emotional moments and tackles the challenges of confronting past hurts and obstacles. But ultimately, it shines with its sweetness, uplifting spirit, and adorable romance. You won’t be able to resist hugging this endearing story close. And if you can’t get enough, a follow-up book is scheduled for release this August. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it.
To find a date just as entertaining as Luc and Oliver, check out Six Minute Dates.
