Thank you NetGalley for an Arc for early review. What can I say, this book left me in a pile of goo on the floor. I love the plot, the characters and well, just everything really.

Let’s first start of with Logan and Alexis. God the pair of cinnamon rolls who both need to open their eyes and realise how much they love each other. This book is definitely a slow burn and there were so many times I wanted to scream at them and throw my kindle on the floor because it was so obvious how much Logan wanted Alexis.

Alexis won’t let herself believe that someone could want her because of a previous relationship. And god how relatable this is for how many people. You see Alexis come into her own as a person and I loved this aspect of the book so much. She realises who she is, how confident and what she is capable of doing. It was so inspiring to see such a strong character in a book.

Throughout an entire campaign for Logan to become a Governor, he repeatedly shows Alexis how much he will do for her if that means incorporating her into his campaign and fighting for her policies alongside of his own. Lord why can’t real men be this supportive?

You see a pure and sweet love grow between the couple, with Logan going as far as knowing Alexis is dating someone else and doesn’t object because all he wants is for her to be happy. And when they finally admit their feelings for each other, I wanted to cry.

This book was a really enjoyable read and I can’t wait to see more of this authors work.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

I read this book in one day. One day! If that doesn't tell you how much I loved this book then I don't know what else I can say.

I almost didn't request The Boyfriend Candidate because the thought of a book set in a political world put me off a little bit because I'm sick to death of politics in the current climate we live in. But...I'm a sucker for a fake dating romance so I hit that "request" button.

The Boyfriend Candidate hooked me in from the beginning, mainly because it was eerie how similar Alexis was to myself. School Librarian? Check. Shy? Check. Always putting others before herself and keeping quiet about how she really feels? Check. I even described her to a colleague when I was reading this on my lunch break and she asked if the character was me! Honestly, weird! But I loved her...is that narcissistic to say? So often writers try to write characters like Alexis and they come off as whiny or pathetic but not in this case. You're rooting for Alexis from page one and it's so lovely to see her go on a journey of learning to like herself and speak up.

I also couldn't get enough of Logan. He was so much fun and I loved reading him unleash his thoughts on fellow politicians and reporters. His relationship with Alexis was lovely to read as it developed, although I did want to shake him so many times when he was clearly holding back to spare her.

I can't wait to see what Ashley Winstead writes next. If it's anything like The Boyfriend Candidate, it's going to be an insta-read for me.

Really liked this one! It's not a plot you read everyday, which is refreshing!

It starts really hot, but then it turns to a slow burn - but it's worth it! However, the miscommunication got a bit on my nerves, by the end, I have to be honest. But, at the same time, I can acknowledge that those were signs of immaturity from our MC's and they needed to happen in order for them to grow as people and as a couple.

I really liked the little nuggets of wisdom and some really resonated with me.

I willingly received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

Really enjoyed this book, the slow burn didn't feel like it was too long it was perfect! The only thing that confused me was the political speak which is why I rated it 4 stars instead of 5 because sometimes the jargon that was used made me not understand what was happening sometimes but that might just be a me problem

Thank you to Aria and Ares and NetGalley for sending me an ARC in return for an honest review.

4.5⭐️
Really enjoyed this one. Alexis is the younger sister of a powerhouse senator…due to this, she feels as if she is always second best. To change this, she decides to become someone bold, daring, and spontaneous and to do this, she decides to have a one-night-stand. Little does she know that the man she’s chosen is running for governor of Texas. In the wake of the press finding out about their liaison, Alexis is forced to fake date Logan for the campaign.

I love the relationship that Alexis has with almost everyone in the book. Although there is drama, I didn’t find that the drama overtook the plot or detract from it.

Logan and Alexis’ romance is lovely. To be fair, I love a fake dating trope. Just realise that it is a slow burn, but worth the wait!

All in all, I will be recommending this book to romance readers!

Read this now! I loved this book. Sassy, kind, funny and tender. A cute read with a good political tale as the background. I fell in love with all the characters, no matter how central they were to the plot. A real 3 dimensional cast with some lovely moments and an ending that you kind of see coming, but read ever more slowly to not finish the book and have to start over.

Alexis is NOT boring and meek like her ex accused her of being. And she is about to prove it by having a one night stand. But when everything goes wrong, she ends up in a fake dating situation that is far beyond anything she could have anticipated...

Honestly, I wasn't blown away by this book. The romance was flat and Alexis was pretty annoying, which meant getting through the book was a challenge. The ending was cute, and some parts were entertaining though, which saved it a little and stopped it becoming a total DNF!

I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I was not expecting to love this as much as I did! Really likeable main characters, incredibly touching moments when Alexis talks with her family about the loss of her father and their relationships with him. Great supporting characters.

I loved this book so much!! I was initially pulled in by its gorgeous cover but quickly became so engrossed in this story that I had a hard time putting the book down when I had to.

Alexis was such a great character and I related to her on so many levels. Seeing her grow more confident as she got more involved into politics and started fighting for more -not only professionally, but also personally - and following her dreams was so heartwarming. Same goes for Logan, a hardworking politician who truly fights for the people he represents and wants to actually make changes to make their lives better.

Although their relationship started as a cover up, the chemistry between them was undeniable and things quickly turned into so much more. I truly loved seeing it evolve and turn into something real, a healthy relationship that made them both happier and completed them. I especially loved the way Logan loved her and put her first when she thought she always came last to everyone around her but following her journey to learning that she was enough and deserved to happy was definitely my favourite part.

I also really appreciated how the author was able to reach such a good balance between the political side of this book and the romance and emotional connection between all the characters.

If you’re looking for an amazing fake dating romance with characters with amazing chemistry and great development throughout the book, check this one out! I’ve already started recommending it to my friends and I don’t see myself stopping anytime soon😍

★ 4.5/5 Stars ★

A huge thank you to Aria & Aries and Netgalley for sending me this amazing ARC in exchange for an honest review.

thank you to the publisher for this copy for review! i believe this is already out in the US. i read this immediately after re-reading red white & royal blue and if i had a nickel for every romance book involving texas as a swing state! i'd have two, which isn't loads but is still fun.

i really enjoyed this one! i am an absolute sucker for fake dating and i love politics and politics-adjacent books, so i knew this was going to be up my street. it was very cute, a little spicy and full of lots of laugh out loud moments to keep you invested in alexis and logan.

i really liked seeing their relationship develop, how logan gave alexis the room to grow - albeit under the guise of her getting involved in his campaign - and how they helped each other to be their true selves, not whoever they thought they needed to be for the people around them. as i said, i really love a fake dating plot and this one was no exception, though i do think the miscommunication was a liiiiiittle on the dramatic side!! i also love romance books where there is a meaty side plot and the politics gave me that in spades in this one - i really enjoyed reading about logan's platform, the intricacies of the debate and campaign once alexis got involved, and i liked that alexis got her own cause to be passionate about and wasn't just a "trophy wife" (though tbh there is nothing wrong with that, get your bag girlies)

i will end this by saying you should read this if you love men that go stupid over women because let me tell you: logan arthur, certified wife guy

"The Boyfriend Candidate" is an absolute gem of a rom-com that left me feeling giddy and utterly in love with the characters. The story revolves around Alexis, a school librarian who decides to step out of her comfort zone and embark on her first one-night stand at a bar. There, she meets Logan, who is the epitome of outspokenness, unapologetically himself, and, well, quite a profanity connoisseur 😂. Their chemistry is undeniable, but fate has other plans when a lightning storm forces them to flee outside, right into the paparazzi's spotlight. As the leaked pictures threaten Logan's gubernatorial campaign, they decide to enter a fake relationship to protect his chances of winning. But beneath the facade, could there be real feelings brewing?

Throughout the book, I couldn't help but giggle and swoon at the charming banter between Alexis and Logan. Alexis's journey of self-love was heartwarming and inspiring, witnessing her transformation from a people-pleaser to someone who unapologetically owned her desires. Her growth and newfound confidence were beautifully portrayed and made her a truly remarkable character.

Logan, on the other hand, was an absolute delight. His genuine care and prioritization of Alexis were evident in every gesture and word he spoke. It was heartwarming to witness how much he truly cared for her.

I was completely captivated by this fake relationship turning into something deeper and more meaningful. Ashley Winstead weaved a tale that made me laugh, swoon, and feel all the emotions right alongside the characters.

This book is an ode to self-discovery, love, and authenticity, and it left a lasting impression on me. I find myself constantly reminiscing about the charming romance and witty banter that made this story unforgettable. Ashley Winstead, you are an incredible storyteller, and "The Boyfriend Candidate" has firmly secured a place in my heart.

This was one of the most interesting books that I have ever read. I love the cover, and I love the characters in it. I can’t wait to read what’s next from this author and I know that usually read thrillers. I love a good romance book.

The Boyfriend Candidate - Ashley Winstead 👩🏻‍❤️‍💋‍👨🏻

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Alexis heads to the bar looking for a one night stand to get over her horrible ex boyfriend, she soon meets Logan and things get heated. Logan turns out to be a politician who is running for governor and has a playboy past. To ensure that Logan's reputation isn't tarnished again, Alexis is given the opportunity to fake date Logan to help him stay in the running and not be shunned by the public. On the run up to the election many different events unfold and Logan and his team are tasked with the clean up. Will Logan and Alexis actually pull this off and win Logan the election? 🔥

THIS BOOK OMG!!!

Absolutely adored this! When I first read the title and blurb of this book I thought I would enjoy it but it completely grabbed me by the throat and made me fall in love!!

I think this book is so unique, I don't think I've ever read a political themed book before but I'm so glad I read this one. There are so many important topics discussed and Ashley has ensured that she was well clued up and knew what she was talking about.

I also loved that there were little hints of Parks & Recreation as that is one of my fave shows.

Having issues such as unfair treatment of women, how the education system is failing and corrupt politicians really made this book stand out to me. These real issues helped the book feel real and made me want to read on to see what happened next.

Overall I gave this book 5 stars, I thoroughly enjoyed it and would highly recommend giving it a read.

The romance aspect goes along with the other issues so well, I will definitely be on the hunt for more of Ashley's books as this was a real hit for me! 💌

*Thank you to NetGalley for sending me this book in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own*

#TheBoyfriendCandidate #NetGalley

When shy, quiet, people pleaser Alexis Stone enters an Austin hotel, notorious for hook ups, by herself on a Saturday night she is there with one thing on her mind. To prove to herself, and her cheating ex boyfriend Chris, that she is anything but meek and boring in the bedroom by having her first ever one night stand. What she doesn’t expect is to cause a political scandal when photo evidence of her night is plastered all over the news. As it turns out the mystery stranger she cozied up to is none other than Logan Arthur, who is running for governor, and having him photographed with a random woman is not good for his image. Enter this campaign manager to try and save Logan’s election chances and also potentially Alexis’ job as a school librarian. Now the pair must pretend to have been in a loving relationship for the past six months, and to be madly in love and campaign together for the next two months until Election Day without letting anyone else realize the truth. What could possibly go wrong?

This was my first time reading a romance by Ashley and I was not disappointed. I’d been worried that, since her Thrillers are next level amazing (if you haven’t read them DO. IT.), she might not bring the same magic to her Romance novels. I needn’t have worried, as from the very beginning I was hooked. I loved the depth and integrity of the two lead characters, but also the quirks and eccentricities of the side characters. While this is definitely a Romantic Comedy it still had a lot of heart with a bit of spice to it, but not too much. It was very much a slow burn after the initial fire. It was well paced and if you, like me, are a fan of the fake dating trope then you will love this one.

Thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for my digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

being with you feels like a dream, and I want to stay inside it

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

After getting dumped for being lousy in bed Alexis took that as a wake-up call. She’s never had a one night stand but decided to give it a shot. Enter Logan, a very handsome stranger who unbeknownst to Alexis is a politician. After pictures of their late night rendezvous leaks his team comes up with a fake dating strategy to improve his image for the upcoming governor’s election. What could possibly go wrong?

This is the first book I’ve read by Winstead and I absolutely loved it! I was a bit hesitant because I’m not familiar or for that matter interested in American politics but that aspect of the book wasn’t an issue for me. It’s more about important topics and debates rather then the boring logistics, voting and numbers.

It’s not just Logan campaign, Alexis gets involved to. Bringing her own insights and an entirely new focal point to the campaign. I loved seeing her grow in her new role and eve though she’s not thrilled about the spotlight make the best of the situation. She’s such a good character. The entire book is told from her perspective which I think was a smart move by the author.

Things I loved:
•The fake dating trope
•Relatable characters
•The humor and fun banter
•Its spicyyyy

Alexis went out looking for a guy and found....more. She connects with Logan but when a fire breaks out at the hotel and he's photographed rescuing her, she discovers that they both kinda missed telling the truth about themselves. Turns out he's a candidate for Governor and now his campaign team wants the two of them to pose as a couple for the duration. Well, you know what's going to happen, don't you? This is, indeed a trope but here you've got some suspense- will Logan win? Know that there are some speeches and that Alexis' metamorphosis from "mouse" to campaigner is a stretch but that this is still entertaining. Thanks to the publisher for the ARC. Will make a good beach read.

Loved, loved, loved this story: it's original, highly entertaining and well written.
The characters are fleshed out, I rooted for them. I laughed and smiled.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine

‘The boyfriend candidate' is a romance that begins with a fake relationship during a political campaign. A fun and enjoyable read that is certainly enjoyable if you recognize a good cliché.
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Tell me I'm not the only one who sees the title of this book and just wants to read it. Because that's really what happened. And the truth is that I didn't need to know anything else, just with the cover and the title I read it, but if you read the synopsis you will also want to read the book. I am completely sure. But it is also a very addictive book with a very well developed story and that made me enjoy every page I read.

I don't know why, but lately I am reading a lot of romance books within the world of politics, is it a sign? I don't know, but what I do know for sure is that I enjoy them a lot. To me generally politics is a topic that interests me a lot, and especially the strategy part too, so in that sense I enjoyed this story a lot because I think the strategic part is very present and I greatly enjoy it.

Also, obviously, it is a fake dating story and as a cliché lover, I must enjoy it. And although it is a cliché that has been used a lot, I feel that here it has a different point. Well, it's that actually the characters that this book has are the ones that give the unique touch to the story that is necessary to be able to read a typical story but at the same time that makes you feel that you haven't read it yet.

I think that one of the things I enjoyed most about the book is the touch of humor it has, because it is not a humor of having funny scenes or comedy as such, but it is the touch to the narration that has that freshness and the dialogues have that point of humor that is very enjoyable.

“The Boyfriend Candidate” was an absolute delight to read. It was just the right amount of cliched making it familiar and comforting with the perfect touch of Alexis and Logan, which makes it so very refreshing.

Easy to read and surprisingly funny, Ashley Winstead’s novel is a fast read if you are looking for a light hearted romcom read for just about any season. Winstead weaves in heartfelt sub plots which leaves you wanting to turn the page. I think what especially made this book stand out for me was the political sub plot running parallel to the highly beloved fake dating trope. The book was filled with annoying reporters, witty comebacks, snarky confident fiery women, political games, rallies, publicly-embarrassing yourself – all in all it was hilarious and I absolutely loved it, would highly recommend this book.

This had such high hopes for me. Faking dating? Yes. The cover? Sensational. But it was lacking any real chemistry for me. I thought there was waay too much politics, which I know, the male character is running for governor, you expect some..but it definitely felt like pages of politics, where some actual character chemistry moments should have been. I just wanted more of them falling in love. Not awful, but not my favourite.