A Review of The Engagement Gift by Lauren Blakely

Lauren Blakely didn’t disappoint in this standalone novel about love, trust, and sexual fantasies. From the very beginning you can feel the heat flying off the pages between Lily Whiting, a sports reporter and Finn Nichols, a lawyer who’s healing from the death of his brother. They bond over sports and although their schedules are hectic, they find the time to get to know each other deeply.

Now that they are engaged, there’s just one ultimate fantasy (a threesome) that Lily wants to indulge in but doesn’t know how to bring it up with Finn. When Finn sees her browsing history, he wonders why she didn’t say anything to him. Anyway, being obsessed with her pleasure, he wants to fulfill her fantasy, but he needs to find the perfect person, someone trustworthy. So, he settles on his best friend, Jake. Of course, Jake is thrilled but wants reassurance this is really something Lily wants and that there are ground rules. What ensues afterwards is a night full of heat and passion between the three of them making Lily grin like a “wicked angel.” Totally fulfilling her fantasy…her engagement gift from Finn.

Overall, this was a quick, fun, and sexy read. I enjoyed the storyline, the pacing of the novel, and the sex scenes. The characters were likable and the dialogue was realistic. It was good to see partners who trust each other implicitly to invite a third party into their relationship even for just one night. This was a big ask and Jake was the perfect person who respected the love between Finn and Lily to make this happen. So, if you’re looking for a steamy read, then check out this novel. Two thumbs up!

Rating: 4 stars

Some of my favorite lines:

I grabbed her arm, whispering, “They’re best friends. Would that be weird? For them?” I had to get her take. She was so smart and sharp. She’d know this. She’d understand it.

Kate’s eyes glinted. “I don’t know. I guess that’s what you’d have to find out. But I don’t think it’d be awkward for them if it’s what Finn wants for you. And I bet it’s what he wants for you.”

I was a desperate woman now, focused on this brand-new option. “How can you be so certain?”

“Because Finn is obsessed with your pleasure.”

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