i have to say, the books that i've read recently that have taken place in a setting like this: fake reality show, have really worked for me. take the lead and the theory of second best were both really fun reads. i like the tension the reality show enviroment creates. the weirdness of the relationships that develop, and the weird truth that somehow you can get to the heart of who someone is when you put them in a setting like that.

runaway groom hits all the right boxes for me. gage bennett is not your standard hollywood jerk. he made a bet, and he's facing the consequences by letting this jilted thing play out. he just doesn't expect to be so charmed by one of the contestants. especially since she keeps insisting that she just wants to go home.

ellie only came on the show because she wanted exposure for her t-shirt company. gage wasn't supposed to keep her. she wasn't supposed to find him charming. and real. she thought gage would be just the movie star. the guy who's always performing. she didn't expect him to be real.

early on it's clear that their connection is there in spite of the cameras, not because of them. but the fact that they have to let this show play out is kind of a relationship killer. ellie needs to figure out how to let herself trust gage. and gage just needs ellie to want him. not the movie star. the man he is. most of the time it seems like she likes him. but he's never been enough for anyone else. will he be enough for her?

**runaway groom published on january 30, 2018. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/random house publishing group (loveswept) in exchange for my honest review.

Gage Barrett is a movie star and used to being in the spotlight. However, when he loses a bet to a friend, he is even more under the microscope. He has signed a contract to be on a reality show to find his one true love.

The descriptions of the women trying out for the show had me cracking up. The lengths some of the women who made it on to show went to in order to gain Gage’s attention!

Ellie Wright’s best friend signed her up to be a contestant on the show. They have a t-shirt company they are trying to get free advertisement for by her wearing them on the show. Her friend is hoping Ellie finds love as well.

Gage and Ellie don’t hit it off right away. They eventually strike up a friendship that leads to some steamy scenes. The humor is snarky, sarcastic, sometimes situational and hilarious.

This book left me with many laughs and a big smile. This is a fun, entertaining read and I’m not a fan of reality TV. It’s a great pick me up, light read. I look forward to more from this author.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher

A bet that he won't ignore because he made it (and a bet is a bet) has Gage ready to star as the 'prize' in Jilted: a reality dating show where this runaway groom will narrow the field to two women - one of which he'll marry. An actor by trade, he's not looking forward to this fiasco and the intrusion into his actual life: cameras and charm aren't difficult - he is an actor after all. But it's those moments - the two failed (day of the wedding) engagements that have branded him as unstable and fickle, the tabloids follow his 'many' dates, and he's never even gotten close to the real thing - not since Her.

Ellie has a t-shirt company that she hopes to promote, an absent father, a best-friend and business partner who wants her to 'get out there', and a history with her mother that provided more of a revolving door model of 'love', pushing her to want stability and make her own way. She'd interviewed for the show with a push from her bestie, got ON the show and wants nothing more than to leave. Nothing is real here: not the manufactured time with Gage, the two-minute (she stretched hers to two and one half) introductory chat, the 4 to a room (bunkbeds - need I say more?) and the fact that one man is 'dating' multiple women. It's rife for drama and backstabbing (because yes - many of the women are either unstable or decidedly competitive and mean) as they are 'encouraged to make good television.

SO - I thought I would find this plot trying - seriously - WHO goes on these things? You've obviously got a few motives - notoriety being the primary one. But Ellie - so willing to judge Gage and his "intentions" but actually able to notice that some of her comments sting him. Gage's interest in Ellie - not the curviest, not the one vying for his attention but the one who asks to be the first to leave - but also shares some information about the stability (or lack thereof) of another contestant. Gage and Ellie are wonderful together - the chemistry sends shock waves through her and puts her in the bull's eye: this is a competition after all. The thing is, Ellie isn't competing - she's struggling with her own feelings for Gage, her own fears about relationships and some sparks of jealousy that she didn't expect at all. And, she likes the Gage she's met: the off-camera, stolen moments in the cleaner's closet, riding down the highway in a convertible, floating on surfboards as 'shark bait" in the ocean. Late night texts, a tricked out closet and the realization that he could break her heart, permanently, push her in so many directions and away from Gage. But, he's got other ideas - even as he takes her advice and befriends her best-friend in the house- taking her and the only other 'normal" (read this as not crazy with no ulterior motives) to the end...

Such a fun book with plenty of laughs, twists and plenty of tension at the end as the show airs on television and questions (she won't ask and he won't tell) about who he marries go on and on. Grab it - you'll love it. Just be sure to start reading before ten at night - Or you'll be sleepless and up too late!

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at <a href=” https://wp.me/p3OmRo-9Ao/”> <a> I am, Indeed </a>

I have been dying to read this book since I read Ready to Run and it did not disappoint. Gage is one of Hollywood's hottest actors who of course has a playboy reputation as the runaway groom. This makes him the perfect contestant for Jilted, the bachelor-esque show that ends not in a proposal but a wedding for the one who has left multiple women at the altar. Ellie goes on the show to promote her t-shirt company but of course the rules state no advertising is allowed. She intrigues Gage who is dealing with nineteen other women who are all over him trying to win his affection. It doesn't take long for Gage and Ellie to strike up a friendship but with all the craziness in the house and Ellie wanting nothing more than to go home, things don't look promising for these two.
 
Gage and Ellie may just be my favorite couple ever. They don't have to try hard to connect. They are naturally comfortable and the setting they are in is anything but. The other women are super catty other than maybe Paisley who I will say is my favorite supporting character. I literally couldn't put this book down and read it in a couple of hours. It was so good and I would recommend everyone read it. If you've never read Lauren Layne before, this is a good one to start with.

3.75 stars-- RUNAWAY GROOM is the second instalment in Lauren Layne’s contemporary, adult I DO, I DON’T romance series focusing on the ‘reality’ television show Jilted. This is Hollywood actor Gage Barrett, and small business owner Ellie Wright’s story line. RUNAWAY GROOM can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

Told from dual first person points of view (Gage and Ellie) RUNAWAY GROOM follows Hollywood leading man Gage Barrett as he struggles with his time on the television show Jilted, a Bachelor-esque style reality show that was never on his radar until he lost a Vegas bet to his best friend Wes Carver. The perpetual ‘runaway groom’ Gage has walked away from two previous attempts at walking down the aisle only to face twenty four potential brides who will do anything for their shot at fame and glory. Enter reluctant contestant Ellie Wright, co-owner of a small clothing business, and a woman equally opposed to appearing on TV, especially a show where the woman sell themselves for a few minutes of fame. What ensues is the building relationship between Ellie and Gage, and the potential fall out as Gage and Ellie make a promise to protect one another from the game show fall out, only to have Gage push away our story line heroine.

Ellie Wright never intended for things to go this far when her business partner signed her up as one of the potential brides on the reality show Jilted. Thinking the groom-to-be was nothing more than a Hollywood player, Ellie is surprised to find herself falling for the man who would eventually break her heart. Gage Barrett has no intention of all falling in love, least of all selecting a bride from the crazy bunch of females the show has to offer-been there, done that twice without any success. Meeting Ellie Wright, the only ‘sane’ woman in the crowd, finds Gage wanting a future but a future he has to put on hold until he rides out his time on reality TV.

The relationship between Gage and Ellie begins acrimoniously as Ellie refuses to play the game, regardless of the rules for appearing on TV. A reluctant contestant, Ellie finds herself falling for the man in question but a man who is willing to risk their time on the show for some personal R & R together. The $ex scenes are intimate and seduction without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text. The back and forth banter is fun, revealing, and real.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including twenty-four potential brides willing to do anything to get close to Gage Barrett.

RUNAWAY GROOM has moments of heartbreak and tear; humor and fun; romance and love. The premise is engaging; the characters are colorful and real; the romance is passionate and loving.

Copy supplied for review by Netgalley

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I remember when the Bachelor first came on. I loved the idea of lining someone up to play matchmaker which is probably why I love this series so much.

Ellie is trying to escape the island. She has no intention of staying on this reality tv for long. The idea is just to promote her business and then get back home to work. Her attraction to the groom is making is very difficult to stay with the plan. For some reason, he is keeping her around. The longer she stays, the harder it becomes to hide her feelings. She wants to be the girl at the end.

Gage never thought that he would take this serious. He lost a bet and he did everything to get out of it. However, the ink with his signature on a contract locked him in and he was going to play along with it. He knows that Ellie is different than all of the other ladies and that makes him want her more.

This story is so light and easy, I found myself flying through it. Gage is not who the world thinks he is. There is something more to him besides the hot womanizer actor. Ellie is bringing it out of him while trying to get herself kicked off the show. The banter and dialogue is some of Ms. Layne’s best. I had a permanent smile on my face while reading.

Ellie is the perfect heroine for Gage. I like how they first start to sneak off to meet. Of course, this leads to a lot of sexy times. The sexual chemistry is definitely hot. Even though the sex is hot, there is so much more to these characters. They build a friendship that coincides with their romantic feelings as they struggle to navigate their lives being on display for the whole world.

Runaway Groom is such a fun, witty and laugh-out loud kind of romance. I think readers will enjoy this addition to the series.

~ Samantha

​​​​​I started Runaway Groom last night and less than a day later, it became one of my favorite reads of all time. This is a fast-paced and well-written romantic comedy that takes place on the lush island of Maui. "The Bachelor" themed story grabbed my attention right from the start, while the characters made me laugh, smile, and pant from time to time. This is the second book from Lauren Layne's I Do, I Don't series, and it can be enjoyed as as standalone.

Ellie Wright is a spunky entrepreneur in need of an outlet to promote her white t-shirt company. Her married business partner's solution? Have Ellie become a contestant on the new reality series Jilted, and publicize the business. Ellie reluctantly agrees, figuring her time on the show won't amount to much. Surprisingly, she hits it of with the bachelor, movie star Gage Barrett. Gage has no desire to date 20 women at one time and then select one for his wedding day only a few weeks later. But he lost a bet and this acting gig is his penance.

I loved this book. The story effortlessly flowed from the very first chapter and I felt like I was a fly on the wall of the actual TV series. Ellie and Gage shared a flirtatious chemistry from the very beginning and their time together was replete with lust, humor and intimate rendezvous.

Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.

I absolutely loved this novel because it's a one hundred percent break from reality and an appreciated breath of fresh air.

I don't watch T.V. but I'm familiar with The Bachelor concept reality programme, so a novel based around this idea felt both familiar and original.

Gage Barrett is a Hollywood alpha male actor with a less than stellar reputation with the ladies. With two brides jilted at the altar already in his past, he's a perfect contestant for a new reality television programme called Jilted. He's not keen, but after losing a bet in Las Vegas, he dutifully signs an iron-clad contract. Does he want to get marry one of the contestants? No, but the time spent filming in Hawaii will be a welcome distraction from his brother's news from home.

Unbeknown to Ellie Wright, her best friend and business partner enters her as a potential contestant on a new reality TV show. The chosen woman will marry her beau, but for the business savvy pair, it's an opportunity to showcase their t-shirts to a wide audience for a week or two if she becomes a contestant. When Ellie's selected, she's not pleased, but the filming in Hawaii turns out to be far more rewarding than she ever dreamed.

Gage is definitely a hero who is a keeper. Beyond his cocky bravado persona is a caring, compassionate and honourable man with a misinformed past; a reality he's decided to keep to himself. therefore it's a surprise to the heroine when his actions speak beyond doing her a favour.

Ellie is a woman whose ambition has led her to still be single. She's adored by her friend and mother, but they always seem to coerce her into doing what they 'think' she should do, rather than what she wants to do deep down. It's heart-warming and heartbreaking when she meets someone who is willing to go along with her wishes when deep down she's unsure it's the right decision.

The feel of this novel is so appealing simply because it's different to anything I've read in a long time. It was a surprise, not because it's fun and entertaining but because it's unexpected. I've read many of Ms Layne's novels, and always adore her protagonists along with their witty, hilarious dialogue; so this is another shining example of what I enjoy about her writing style. The joy of Runaway Groom lies in its stand out, refreshing, 'different to what I've read recently vibe'.

Overall, I loved the format and all the quirky contestants. Usually, I struggle to keep up when many new names introduced into the narrative but this worked for me; I was never left scratching my head to remember who they all are-bravo! Runway Groom is definitely a new favourite from this author and I'm looking forward to reading many more soon.

5 stars

***arc generously received courtesy of Loveswept via NetGalley***

Lauren Layne puts a fresh spin on the story about a reluctant playboy actor and equally wary T-shirt entrepreneur. What Ms. Layne does is do a The Bachelor-esque take in the story. Connected to book one by way of the reality show Jilted, instead of our characters stumbling to cast the show, this time it's all set to film. The storyline is fantastic and the writing was phenomenal. Ellie and Famous Gage unwillingly end up as contestants on a Bachelor-style show. Gage has fallen for Ellie but she doesn’t trust him because she thinks he is faking and because of how famous he is. There is this instant attraction between these two, this chemistry which pushed the storyline far; plus there is the drama with the other contestants fueling the angst and drama in this romance read. Ellie and Gage make a perfect couple. I couldn’t put this romance read down. Ms. Layne has written a fantastic story with witty humor and sizzling chemistry. I look forward to seeing what she has next to come out.

My Rating: 4.5 stars *****
“I received an advanced copy of this book from the author at no cost to me."

I’m an unabashed Lauren Layne mega-fan, and Runaway Groom reminds me why. It’s flawless contemporary romance — witty, sexy, heartfelt and hugely entertaining.

Entrepreneur Ellie Wright and actor Gage Barrett are both on a reality dating show similar to The Bachelor, but neither wants to be there. Gage lost a bet and the forfeit is being on the show, and Ellie’s business partner and her mother signed her up, unbeknownst to her, to jump-start her love life and leverage the national platform to promote her T-shirt company. Both Ellie and Gage begin filming with low expectations, cynical attitudes and their guards up. Ellie is especially leery of any entanglement with Gage, believing he is a shallow, Hollywood playboy, and she makes no effort to impress him. She hurls saucy barbs at him left and right and is vocal about her desire to be sent home, and her honesty and uniqueness draw Gage to her like a moth to a flame.

Ellie and Gage begin as frenemies with a prickly, engaging rapport, but they quickly develop a sincere friendship as a fierce attraction blooms and simmers. They have fantastic chemistry, and their rapid-fire banter is hilarious and charged. Ellie’s dry sense of humor, sharp tongue and tender heart are the perfect complement to Gage’s effortless charm, casual sexiness and easygoing nature. They are sweetly bewildered when they realize that they might just find love in the chaotic environment of reality television, and their evolution as a couple is sigh-worthy and gratifying. Runaway Groom is romantic comedy at its finest, and readers will not want to put it down.

The story of a bachelor and a lady vying for his hand, both of whom don’t really want to be there. Gage is a Hollywood heartthrob who ended up on the show after a drunken bet. Ellie is on the show to promote her new tee shirt business, not get the attention of a shallow Hollywood guy. When she saves him from wacko contestants a few times, Gage discovers that he genuinely likes Ellie.
I loved the premise of this book and the supposedly behind the scenes look at reality TV. Gage and Ellie are so not into each other on the surface but the pull is there. The ways they manage to meet in secret are funny/ clever and their growing attraction gets harder to hide from the other contestants.
I enjoyed the book as I expected I would. Lauren Layne never disappoints.

Well why not have a realty show where 2 of the contestants don’t want anything to do with being on television. Well, why not just find yourself laughing outloud in the wrong places at the wrong times. This was so much fun. I enjoyed Ready to Run book one of the series. I found that I loved book two even more. This was just so much fun. It took you to a reality show that just did not have all participants eager and willing.

Fun, flirty, and very, very entertaining. Reality television on its own is just a big fat joke. Looking in to others lives for entertainment. This was just done better. I rather read the book than watch it all unfold on television where you can just flat out see things are scripted. Gage on a bet does the undesired activity of participating in a TV Reality show, in Hawaii. Ellie is there for a friend and business and she has high expectations that she will be heading home fairly quickly. Not realizing that she presents the biggest challenge yet to this man that will not allow a woman to best him.

Ellie and Gage back and forth provides the viewers and other contestants with much to watch. The banter and chemistry between the two was good. The sexy, flirty charm was just what got the ball rolling for the two.

As what I expect from one of LL’s books, this was fun filled, well written, great characters, banter and more that just pulled you in and invited you to stay for the whole show. This was just what I needed to top of a good week and enjoy the winter weather.

No complaints on this one, except it could have more to follow it.

It's absolutely no secret how much I love Lauren Layne's books. I honestly don't think she can write a bad book. I fall for her characters every single time and Runaway Groom is the latest in a long line of exactly that. If you're looking for your next favorite swoony and sexy romance, look no further. 

Confession time: I've never been one to get obsessed with reality matchmaking shows like The Bachelor. I can understand why folks enjoy them, but they're just not my cup of tea. In book form, however? Giiiiivvvvveee meeeeee. Especially when Lauren Layne is the one writing it. Now, the idea for Jilted is pretty farfetched being that it ends in an onscreen wedding, but it totally worked. Movie star status aside, I can see why the women on the show were falling all over themselves for Gage. He was so damn swoony. Some of the women were, as you might expect, totally over the top with their scheming on how to catch his attention. I got several laughs from that alone.

But, the best part of the book, hands down, was the budding relationship between Ellie and Gage. Ellie, a sassy, smart and successful woman who was on Jilted with the intention of getting publicity for her t-shirt company, was fairly adverse to the show's premise. Despite the chemistry she and Gage shared from the start, she didn't believe anything real could come out of the show. (She and I agree on that.) It's all too forced, too convenient. Ellie wanted real. You know how they say you find what you're looking for when you stop looking/least expect it? That. 

I was absolutely obsessed with Runaway Groom, reading it in one sitting. I literally couldn't put it down because I HAD TO KNOW how it would all shake out. (Don't get me wrong, I assumed happily ever after but I wanted to see how it would all come together.) This book was delightful. It delivered a wonderful romance with plenty of swoons, smiles and sexy times... and even a few feels. 

FAVORITE QUOTES
I've never been taken like this, never felt so female to someone else's male, never wanted someone else's pleasure even more than I want my own.

"I stopped thinking of him as Gage Barrett the movie star and started thinking of him as Gage Barrett the guy I was falling for."

**Review is scheduled on blog for my date on the blog tour - 1/29 at 6:30am PST**

Runaway Groom was hilarious, sigh worthy, crazy at times and so much fun! If you're a fan of the Bachelor, Bachlorette or Lauren Layne, then I have a feeling you're going to absolutely love this book! Back before I had kiddos, I'd get together with friends, make dinner and we'd eat, talk and laugh while watching those shows. So when I heard that this book was going to be about a Bachelor-esque reality tv show I was sold. I forgot how much I missed this type of drama in my life and I found myself laughing so hard I could barely breathe.

But once, just once, I want someone I care about to look at the crapshoot that is my life, to take in the Jilted contract and the Killboy movie shoots and the never-ending tabloid rumors and say, “Yeah, that stuff sucks, but Gage is worth it.”
I want to be worth it.
Just once.


Famous movie star and player extraordinaire, Gage Barrett, lost a drunken bet which landed him on the tv show Jilted. It's a lot like The Bachelor, except it's about a past runaway groom (him) being matched up with potential brides. And in the final episode, there's to be a wedding. While Gage stuck to his agreement to be on the show, he definitely wasn't happy to be there. And while he was grumpy about it, a tiny part of him couldn't help but wonder if maybe this was for the best. His heart was broken in the worst of ways and this could be the perfect distraction he needed. Ohhh I absolutely loved Gage and his wounded, playful, seductive, charming ways.

“Send me home, Gage. Please. It’ll be better for both of us.”
He studies me. “You really want that?”
“I’m a businesswoman, not a groupie.”
He’s silent for a moment. “True. You did compare my eyes to avocados.”
“Exactly. You usually get, what . . . moss?”
His lips twitch, although the smile doesn’t reach his mossy eyes. “Emeralds, mostly.”
I turn away with a snort, opening the door slowly, listening for voices. When I’m met with only silence, I stick my head out.


To start the show off, Gage met all of the possible brides. The shenanigans and drama started right from the get go, well until he met contestant Ellie Wright. You see, Ellie is kinda like Gage, because she was not happy to be there either. She never thought she'd make it as far as she did, and the only reason she was sticking it out was so her business could hopefully get some free publicity. From the first time Ellie and Gage met, they got off on the wrong foot. And it wasn't the only time that happened lol. The tension and emotions coming off of the both of them created a whole lot of banter that had me smiling, laughing and begging for more.

I want her lips against mine, her body under mine. I want her to sigh my name. I want to make her gasp. I want her to want me back, to fight for me.
But she won’t. I see it in the stubborn set of her chin, the confusion in her eyes, as though she can’t figure out why the hell I’ve singled her out.


But the story isn't just about the two of them. They're in the middle of a reality show, and there's also the producer, crew and all of the other woman. And it was a crazy mesh with lots of drama behind the scenes. The other women ranged from the sweet girl next door, to gorgeous supermodels to bat shit crazy. Although there was wayyyyyyyy more contestants in that last category ha. So we watched, along with Ellie, as these women would go to great lengths to get Gage's attention or even spend a second of alone time with him. The stuff that they would do was so insanely over the top, yet so perfect for reality tv, that I found myself laughing so hard that I just couldn't stop the tears pouring down my face. And it kept happening again and again. If you adore hilarious drama, you're definitely going to get your fill in this book. I absolutely loved it!

For the second time today, my eyes sting with the threat of tears—for myself, yes, but also because I’ve been so damn worried about not letting him hurt me that I haven’t really realized . . . what if I hurt him ?
And why does that bother me so much?


Shockingly in the middle of it all, Ellie and Gage found moments where they were alone with each other. Where they were away from Jilted, the cameras and the other contestants. And they started to see a different side to one anther. Yet it's all so complicated because Gage has a part to play in front of the camera and Ellie is stuck in her horrible assumption of who Gage is as a person. And of course her thoughts are verified when he's in front of the camera. It was inevitable that feelings got hurt and I found my heart aching for the both of them. But underneath it all, it created a whole lot of emotions and I loved when they were arguing. They were intense and the tension between the two of them was electrifying. It was so addicting and I couldn't wait to see how it all played out! So yes, I definitely recommend this book. Runaway Groom was sexy, hilarious and oh so addicting. I absolutely loved it and I hope that if you give it a try, you'll love it just as much as I did!

PS This book is a stand alone. It's characters aren't found in the first book in this series, Ready to Run.

*ARC kindly provided by Random House Publishing - Loveswept via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

I may not watch reality dating shows, but I'll read anything by Lauren Layne. She actually makes the idea of watching a season of The Bachelor or Batchelorette enticing. With Runaway Groom she gives us the dynamic duo of Gage and Ellie.Two characters who end up a part of reality TV Show "Jilted". Neither are their by their own volition, but especially not Ellie. So the first challenge we get to see is of Ellie as she tries to negotiate herself "off the island" so to speak. I so love their banter and the way they just seem to understand each other.

Movie star Gage find himself weeding through a group of contestants who have various motivations for contending for the position of Mrs. Barrett. While Ellie is anxious to make her stay on the show a short one, her candor gives life to her time in the role and she becomes somewhat indispensable to Gage. But Gage comes with some romantic baggage that would make anyone shy of a real relationship - not that they have one, cause that would be against the rules.

Runaway Groom is captures all the silliness of a Reality data show. The potential brides are into high drama; catty, shallow and crazy. It's a fun and all to fast read with perfectly placed "invitation" chapters that provide for great sequeways forward. If you are a fan of any of the romance, bride and groom reality shows, I urge you not to miss out on reading Layne's "behind " the scenes look.

Another Scrumptious Romance by Lauren Layne! I cannot get enough of this series. This was a delightful mix of sexy banter, bubbling with humor and hints of sensuality that is the perfect escape for romance readers. A romance not to be missed. A winner!
Mr. Hollywood, Gage Barnett finds himself on Jilted a reality national TV show, after losing a bet with his best friend. Worst of all he is expected to slip a ring on some contestants’ finger at the end of 4 weeks and marry one of them. What had he got himself into?
Ellis Wright can’t believe she let her best friend talk her into going on Jilted, to promote her company, High Tee. But expecting a balding loser and getting a diva movie star is not what she signed up for.
But these two have much more in common than they ever expected. And when Ellie gets caught in a closet talking on her hidden phone complaining about the Hot and Hollow actor by none other than Gage himself the challenge to change her opinion is foremost on his mind. Soon secret rendezvous to help him get the inside track on the other contestants, lead to toe curling kisses and more time together. But with Ellie’ only request of Gage is to be sent home. Who will he end up with at the end? You will have to read to find out. Eagerly waiting for the next in this series!!!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Just finished Ellie and Gage's story and I totally loved it! Runaway Groom is the 2nd book in Lauren Layne's new I do, I Don't series. The book takes a spin on the Bachelor/Bachelorette reality series...and adds a twist...these aren't just bachelors...they are "Runaway grooms who have jilted not one, but two women at the alter". In Book 2, Gage Barrett is a Hollywood movie star, who finds himself the designated Jilted Bachelor, completely against his will and battling his own personal demons. Ellie Wright...("Mr. Wright"...haha) tries out at the urging of her business partner to help promote their company. I'm not a fan of the bachelor at all, so I wasn't sure if I would be able to get into this story...but as usual, I put my trust in the fantastic writing of LL. The characters were great...funny, charming, down-to-earth, and of course, there was lots of sexy sparks flying everywhere! I found the story pretty engrossing...I just needed to know what was going to happen next! I read this book in one sitting because I just couldn't put it down. Another 5-star story from the fabulous LL! I can't wait to read what she writes next!

Have you ever watched The Bachelor and wondered if the contestants are really as nutty as they appear? Or wondered why on earth an attractive, seemingly stable individual would go on a reality TV show to find a husband? Lauren Layne gives you a few possible reasons in this fun, steamy romance. 

You will love Ellie, our plucky heroine who is as reluctant a contestant on a Bachelor-esque show as you will find. She's the kind of person who would appear on Jilted, knowing that she might have to marry the "groom" at the end, just to promote her tee shirt business. She shows up the first night in one of those tees and a pair of jeans, while all the women around her are plucked and spray-tanned within a sequin's breadth. It made me wish that a woman or two on The Bachelor would do the same. 

Then there's Gage. He is YUMMALICIOUS. I loved that he comes from a "normal" background (his mother is a pastry chef) and truly does enjoy the craft of acting. He's the kind of guy who gets drunk and loses a bet that winds him up as the resident prize a bunch of women tries to win. He's the kind of guy who observes of this process that "a bunch of women sitting on their couch with chardonnay and reduced-fat Oreos get input on my future wife."

I loved Gage.

Lauren Layne takes a fairly unpredictable path in this book, making Ellie the reluctant party to the romance, and Layne helps you understand why her heroine wants to keep Gage at arm's length. Layne also shows you why having Gage much closer is far more fun. 

I am a huge fan of how Layne tells stories. She writes romances that make you care and feel and laugh.

Favorite Quotes:

I was one of the few noncrazies in the early stages. One woman carried her pet turtle strapped to her chest. Another woman was stressing about whether the producers would want to count her dual personalities as one contestant or two.

Twenty-one. My life has come to this— being known as a number. I’m surprised they don’t tag my ear.

They’ve told me to pace myself, but that started to get hard when contestant number six told me (and the rest of America) that her hobbies include Brazilian waxes and flossing, and so help me God, I don’t even know if she was talking about her teeth.

But once, just once, I want someone I care about to look at the crapshoot that is my life, to take in the Jilted contract and the Killboy movie shoots and the never-ending tabloid rumors and say, “Yeah, that stuff sucks, but Gage is worth it.” I want to be worth it. Just once.

My Review:

What fun! Runaway Groom is destined to be a runaway hit. Packed with smart snarky humor, witty banter, poignant insights, and steamy love scenes, this rom-com is one of Ms. Layne’s best. The story was highly amusing, unfailingly entertaining, and well written with a dual POV. I may require Botox if I continue to follow this author as my face seems to maintain a near constant smirk while reading her clever arrangements of words.

Fun, flirty and so incredibly good! Love blooms when Gage Barrett and Ellie Wright find themselves on the reality dating show Jilted. He's there after he loses a drunken bet. She's there because she couldn't say no to her business partner. He's stuck for the long haul. She's certain she'll be one of the first to go home. Neither expect the feelings that begin developing after they start partnering up and getting rid of one woman after another. Gage is determined to get Ellie to believe in happily ever after but that is going to be one hard task.

I am such a huge Lauren Layne fan and this book is an example of exactly why. Low on the angst, high on the witty sarcasm, and always leaving me smiling. I highly recommend this book to everyone.