Reviews

10 Blind Dates by Ashley Elston

katrinaeames's review against another edition

Go to review page

funny lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Loveable characters? Yes

3.5

em14randa's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

This book isn’t bad at all, it was just predictable and hard to get into at first. I also didn’t like how long the chapters were. I did like the characters, though, and if you like contemporary romance, you would definitely like this book. I’m not much of a romance reader.

sparksofember's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

This one had a lot of really funny moments and was narrated well. I died laughing when Sophie was at the drive-in gift shop and the lady was all, "It was the ‘Evil Joes’!" Most of the dates felt unrealistic, especially for not taking place in a big city,
SpoilerI promise you - no one is driving all the way to Dallas for a concert
though I did enjoy the Louisiana location. And I really appreciated the story line with her sister having preeclampsia. The big crazy family was well done. There was a lot of semi-racy content which was surprising but not too much. The romance was okay - I would have liked a lot more moments between the OTP -
Spoilerit felt like Wes finally got up the nerve to make a move very suddenly. Like he was dragging his feet and then did a sudden 180 right at the end.

robofrog's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

3.5*

Might be a bit spoiler-y?

TL/DR: 10 Blind Dates was a fun, heartwarming holiday read that I would recommend. It was a breeze to read and helped boost my excitement for the holidays! It didn't amaze me and the endgame relationship didn't do anything new, but the blind dates were all very unique and I loved them. Be sure to pick it up!


This book was good. It was an easy read, I loved the variety of the dates, and I loved most of the cast. However, the minute a certain boy was introduced, my heart dropped because I knew he was endgame.

I was hoping the book would surprise me and take a fresh turn, but nope. Now, it's not the books fault per se, but I'm just really jaded and tired of the trope used. I didn't connect with the main interest at all, and I understand that would be hard because of all the characters in the book from family to blind dates, but still. He had little to no personality aside from being attractive and athletic, and I was disappointed that she chose him when some of the blind date contenders had so much more personality. To put it simply, the love interest was boring, and I didn't fall in love with him myself, which is what marks a good romance for me. However, even if I greatly disliked the endgame relationship, the book did really great in other aspects.

I loved how the book handled Sophie's breakup and feelings afterward. It brought some nice commentary I haven't really seen before especially with guilt-tripping. I also liked the history Sophie had with her cousins (the "drifting") and how it was handled because, unfortunately, I could relate.

All in all, I think my excitement for the book was brutally murdered when the main interest was introduced, and it dampened my enjoyment. However, I'm sure others will love it. It's a fun, festive read and really, really heartwarming. I'd recommend it as a light, holiday read perfect for cozying up to. <3

evoe's review against another edition

Go to review page

funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

indigoivee's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

The sweetest Christmas, holiday, feel-good read.

This was the perfect blend of heartwarming romance, family dynamics, and holiday cheer. From start to finish, this book is a festive treat that captures the spirit of the season while delivering an engaging and enjoyable story.

Following Sophie, whose Christmas plans take an unexpected turn when her boyfriend drops a bombshell. Enter her boisterous and well-meaning family with a quirky idea: ten blind dates over the Christmas break. What ensues is a series of amusing and sometimes awkward encounters that keep readers hooked and entertained.

Sophie is a relatable protagonist, navigating the challenges of both family expectations and her own romantic uncertainties. Her friends and tight-knit group of cousins are so adorable and quirky, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. The family dynamics are portrayed with humor and warmth, making it easy for readers to connect with the characters.

The romance in "10 Blind Dates" is both sweet and genuine. Instead of relying on clichéd insta-love, the relationships evolve naturally, allowing readers to invest in the characters' emotional journeys. The unique array of blind dates adds an element of surprise to the story, and each encounter brings something unique to the table.

Elston's writing style is engaging and accessible. The narrative flows smoothly, making it a quick and enjoyable read. The humor is well-executed, providing moments of laughter without overshadowing the emotional depth of the story.

The book combines every trope in every Hallmark movie, yet continues to be enjoyable. It manages to take familiar elements and infuse them with freshness and heart. The holiday setting adds an extra layer of magic, making it a perfect read for the festive season.

It is a heartwarming and entertaining novel that captures the essence of the holidays. With its lovable characters, genuine romance, and festive atmosphere, Ashley Elston has crafted a feel-good story that will leave readers with a warm and fuzzy glow.

mary00's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

This was a cute YA book with a clever premise.

yellauraya's review against another edition

Go to review page

5.0

5 of 5 stars

-----

Edited 3/23/20: Changed my rating from 4.5 to 5 stars because I can't get it out of my head even after finishing this a week ago and it was bothering me that I hadn't given this a 5-star rating.
-----

I am very picky when it comes to reading a YA contemporary romance. I am looking for very specific things that should be in the book in order for me to like it. And I guess I found it in here. This book is super fun, super sweet, super cute, cheesy but in a right amount, light and a very quick read. I am quite unconvinced with insta-love in a book. Unless it is perfectly written or done right, which is usually not the case, I am not into it. That is why one of my most favorite tropes is the friends to lovers trope. It is more believable, deeper and sweeter for me. And I loved this so much for having that trope. I loved the good vibes it delivers and my most favorite thing is that there are no toxic elements in this. This is so pure and innocent and so fluffy. The family and friendship are so on point and I kind of wish I was Sophie for the most part of this, even if it means I have to go into 10 different blind dates every day. The chaotic and fun family dynamic? Oh, I'm so into it! I loved the close bond between the whole extended family, between Sophie and her sister and the friendship between the Fab Four. I just loved how this book made my cheeks hurt from smiling too much. I wish there are still books out there who can make me feel what I feel in this book.

I recommend this book for everyone who wants to have some fun. And the audiobook? Oh, definitely go for it!

enderthem's review against another edition

Go to review page

The writing wasn't for me

taylorlechat's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

This was sweet! I rarely read strict romance, but I love the author and Christmas so I thought I’d give it a shot. I loved the big family that’s in everyone’s business. You could see the ending from a mile away, but that’s kinda what romances are about, aren’t they?