Book Review: Birthday Girl By Penelope Douglas

Birthday Girl By Penelope Douglas

Tropes: Small Town Romance, Ex Boyfriends Dad, Age Gap, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn, Forbidden Romance

Summary:

Birthday Girl follows the complex relationship between Jordan and Pike. After finding refuge in Pike’s home, Jordan discovers a man who truly listens, protects, and sees her, igniting feelings she knows she shouldn't have. Despite their undeniable chemistry and the thrill of his gaze at her across the breakfast table, she grapples with the reality of her situation: she's nineteen, and he's thirty-eight, not to mention her boyfriend's father. Pike, too, struggles with his growing attraction, torn between the desire to protect her and the boundaries they must respect. As they navigate this intricate web of emotions and circumstances, both must confront the challenges that come with their undeniable connection.

💚 LD

I loved this book so very much. Daddy Pike is my man. This was my very first ex-boyfriend's dad trope, and while I felt it was a little awkward at the time I was reading it, now that I’ve read some others, I feel it was done so well. Penelope Douglas has a way of pushing boundaries in a way that makes you rethink your reading preferences. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Jordan at times; I felt she was immature and a little bratty, which could be frustrating. However, her character development throughout the story added a layer of realism to the plot. Although I can’t say it’s the best chemistry I’ve ever read in a book, it still had such a fun and engaging storyline that I couldn’t put it down. The tension and forbidden nature of their relationship kept me hooked until the very end.

“You look at each other like…” “Like?” He swallows, an unusually troubled pinch to his brow. “Like the two of you have your own language.”

🤍 AD -⁠

I heard so many good things about this book and was excited to dive in! While I found some parts predictable, the overall story was enjoyable and kept me engaged. Jordan's youthful energy and spirited nature added an interesting dynamic to the story. Pike, on the other hand, was a standout character for me. His maturity and depth brought a great balance to the book. The fast-paced narrative and Penelope Douglas's ability to write steamy, intense scenes definitely did not disappoint. While it wasn’t my absolute favourite, it was a solid read that showcased Penny D's talent for crafting compelling romances.

“A ship at harbor is safe, but that’s not what ships are for.”

💙 AG - ⁠

I initially struggled to get into this book due to the ex-boyfriend's dad trope, but I found myself pleasantly surprised as the story progressed. The dynamic between Jordan and Pike, though unconventional, brought a fresh perspective to the romance genre. Some scenes were a bit cringy, but they added to the uniqueness of the book. Pike's character was a highlight for me; he was well-crafted and likable, providing a strong anchor for the story. Even though I anticipated some of the plot points, the journey was enjoyable, and the character interactions kept me interested. It turned out to be an intriguing read that showcased Penelope Douglas's ability to push boundaries and create memorable characters.

“We don't need food to survive this life as much as we need our hearts broken at least once. But the best part is, the first break is always the worst. It'll never feel this bad.”