How to Kiss Your Best Friend: A Sweet Romantic Comedy (How to Kiss a Hawthorne Brother Book 1)

Kate and Brody are my favorite couple today. I really love stories where the guy is in love with his friend and she finally reciprocates.Kate had a lot of hang-ups. It goes to show how parents shouldn't lie to their kids about this divorce stuff. Finding out that the OTHER parent actually did the cheating or abandoned the family is always a disaster.And I know this is controversial, but even the keeping secrets by not 'placing blame' so the child supposedly can have a good relationship with both parents.As in this book, it wasn't a problem that Kate had a good relationship with her Dad. But it was a huge messed up problem that she had a bad relationship with her Mom. Knowing that her Dad cheated and that her Mom resented the travel because of how her husband left her, would have really made a difference in Kate's attitude toward family life. Telling lies is never the best option.I thought Brody was a bit of a coward not telling Kate how he felt until they were almost 30, but it was understandable.But Kate was a much bigger coward. Even when she realized how he felt, and how she felt, she ran away and left him without discussion or hope. And then didn't apologize in person for a week. I can't blame him for not answering her texts.I'm only glad they got together because I really liked Brody and I genuinely didn't think Kate had a clue.Overall, I did like the book, there was just enough in the hugs and kisses to be romantic. And the touches of humor were fun.

"Kate is my favorite bad habit. The impossible wish. The dream I can't shake.""This man and his tenderness are going to end my life this very moment.Here lies Kate Fletcher. Melted by tenderness.And amazing biceps."I am loving this series! The Hawthorne family, their dynamics, relationships, and romances are fabulous. This is the first, though I'd already read the second (How to Kiss Your Grumpy Boss - grump vs sunshine) and the prequel featured in another series (Love Off-Limits - "forbidden" romance). Obviously this one is friends-to-lovers, and it does it so well!I think Brody is my favorite MMC so far - his honesty, his tenderness and faithfulness....and of course the afformentioned biceps 🔥How could Kate not fall in love with him? I appreciated how the author gave her valid reasons for her hesitations and fears - there was some miscommunication and running but her background made it understandable. And when she was ready to face her fears and be honest, she was fully committed.I really appreciate that the drama in these books is valid and not just thrown in for no reason, and that the characters are willing to set healthy boundaries even when it's hard. The character growth is done so well and I can root for the characters all the way.And can I say - I love the Hawthorne brothers!! I love their relationships, their different dynamics, the way they challenge each other and yet have each other's backs 100%. These books will have you laughing and swooning constantly throughout. Can't wait to read the last two!

This is definitely a slow burn, but without a ton of burn. Kate carries emotional baggage and is afraid to settle down in one place, both physically and emotionally. Brody has been in love with Kate forever, but figures he can’t plan his future on someone who won’t stay. This premise is the conflict gift that keeps giving for a huge chunk of the book. Nearly 200 pages of the book feels very, “he loves me, he loves me not.” Even though Kate feels attraction toward Brody, she’s not sure he feels the same way. Combine that with the main conflict, and you’re left with two characters that are at a complete standstill.For me, there wasn’t much spark between the characters because all of their attraction exists in their heads as they spend their time with each other overthinking and trying not to upset the balance of their friendship. There also wasn’t really much flirtatious/fun banter either because both characters were trying to be careful with each other. The most we get is the occasional loaded glance between the two or butterflies they get from a lingering hug or touch. Even after their first kiss, more indecision follows. It’s pretty tedious.We get a glimpse 3/4 in as to the chemistry the characters have, but it’s short-lived as Kate briefly sabotages the situation with her indecision. I understand the premise, I really do. I get that Kate has baggage and she doesn’t want to hurt Brody and that she’s ultimately trying to do the right thing. It’s just hard to have the book be consumed with it. I actually found myself happy for Brody when his brothers convince him to get away for a minute. Poor guy spends the entire book pining for Kate and getting very little in return.As expected, there is ultimately a HEA, but it’s a very small amount of time to witness the connection.There is no cursing and no intimate scenes. There are some sweet moments. I’m sure pining and hopeless devotion by the male lead is something that will work well for some readers, it just wasn’t up my alley.

This is the first book I have read by Jenny Proctor and I really enjoyed it. It was sweet and interesting, can't wait to read more.

I was annoyed that I had to work today! Mainly because I wanted to read this book! Hook line and sinker, great story telling and depth of characters.

Such a great read. Friends to lovers is always a good trope, but Jenny writes the developing tension so beautifully.

Kate had commitment issues from her parents marriage breakup and fears failing and not being good enough. Little did she realise that her perception of the past as a young child was skewed. Brody has always loved her but when is enough enough and time to move on? Love - and good communication - is stronger than the past and stronger than fears. Looking forward to the next brother's story.

I will admit I am more of a high spice reader. I usually stay away from a closed door romance but Jenny Proctor does not disappoint. I am so deep in this world I absolutely adore Brody and Kate! Just all the stars. Highly recommend.