The Matchmaker's Replacement by Rachel Van Dyken Pages: 304
Published by Skyscape on August 9, 2016
Series: Wingmen Inc. #2
Genres: New Adult, Romance, contemporary
Source: eARC from Publisher
Wingman rule number two: never reveal how much you want them.
Lex hates Gabi. Gabi hates Lex. But, hey, at least the hate is mutual, right? All Lex has to do is survive the next few weeks training Gabi in all the ways of Wingmen Inc. and then he can be done with her. But now that they have to work together, the sexual tension and fighting is off the charts. He isn’t sure if he wants to strangle her or throw her against the nearest sturdy table and have his way with her.
But Gabi has a secret, something she’s keeping from not just her best friend but her nemesis too. Lines are blurred as Lex becomes less the villain she’s always painted him to be…and starts turning into something more. Gabi has always hated the way she’s been just a little bit attracted to him—no computer-science major should have that nice of a body or look that good in glasses—but “Lex Luthor” is an evil womanizer. He’s dangerous. Gabi should stay far, far away.
Then again, she’s always wanted a little danger
Please Note: this is the second book in a series, that should be read in order.
If you are new to the Wingmen Inc. series, first check out my review of book one- The Matchmaker’s Playbook HERE
The Matchmaker’s Replacement is the second book in a new adult contemporary romance series, called Wingmen Inc., by Rachel Van Dyken. As the title and series name suggests, the series centers around two college friends that have a side business where they set up women with their crushes. I read, and enjoyed The Matchmaker’s Playbook, and while technically speaking the stories can be read as standalones, because the two friends are very integral in each others stories, and in their business, I feel like I got much more out of the story having read Ian’s story first. Ian is present throughout The Matchmaker’s Replacement and it was kind of cool to see how he is now with Blake, knowing how he was before. That will be even more interesting with Lex.
I used to think Ian was the main guy at Wingmen Inc., and maybe that did used to be true, but now that he is with Blake everything seems to be falling to Lex’s shoulders. So much so, even though he completely detests Gabi (longgg backstory on that one.) he is willing to reluctantly bring her on board to open their market to helping guys land their girls as well. Lex is brilliant, but can be a total jerk face. I mean in, I felt his callousness oozing off the pages. I know it was a front to keep his distance from Gabi, but oh my goodness was he ever convincing. Which for me, made it all the more satisfying when he started to check in on Gabi more and look out for her more. It was really cute. There is just something about Lex that makes you want to go Awh. Sure, he is a gruff guy that will insult you to your face. (and he doesn’t hold any punches- he goes right for what will hurt you the most.) However, seeing that soft marshmallow-y center gets me every time.
As you have probably already guessed The Matchmaker’s Replacement is Lex and Gabi’s story. Gabi has always been off limits to Lex because she grew up as Ian’s best friend. In an attempt to stay away from her, Lex has always been a grade A jerk towards her. I predicted after finishing book one that I might enjoy book 2 even more than the first, and I was totally right. I think I connected with Lex more than I did Ian. I really liked Ian and Blake, but I love Gabi and Lex. And I love all the nerdy goodness for Lex. He calls himself a villain, an anti-hero and he calls his bedroom the inner sanctum. Come on! How can you not love him?
Bottom line: If you are a fan of match making romantic comedies, and you liked the movie Hitch (though they do make fun of the movie hitch in this one)- The Matchmaker’s Revenge, and will be a big hit for you. The writing is really solid, the characters are great, and the plot is very entertaining. Not to mention the romance is top notch. Overall, it was a really good book. I liked this book even more than the first one!
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About Rachel Van Dyken
Rachel Van Dyken is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of regency and contemporary romances. When she’s not writing you can find her drinking coffee at Starbucks and plotting her next book while watching The Bachelor.
She keeps her home in Idaho with her Husband, adorable son, and two snoring boxers! She loves to hear from readers!
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Giselle
Great review, Michelle! This sounds like an interesting series, and very character driven! Glad you liked it! 🙂
Cynthia Powers
This sounds like an interesting series. I’d really like to read it!
william gossage
This book sounds like it be a great read
Anita Yancey
A great series! This book sounds amazing, and I love the cover. Thanks for this chance.
Cassie
I really enjoy Rachel’s writing and can’t wait to get my hands on this one!
Maria
I NEED THIS BOOK ASAP PLEASE… LEXXXXXX I NEED YOU
Edye
I like the cover.