A review by _mery98_
Best Man by Lily Morton

4.0

4/5

The Best Man was the cure for COVID-19 and my quatantine and I’m eager for more of this new ‘Close Proximity’ series. As ever, it was hilarious and tender while the heat simmered hotter and hotter. If you’re not familiar with her books yet this is a lovely place to start!

Zeb and Jesse are easy to like! Zeb’s been invited to his ex’s wedding. Which isn’t a huge deal in itself. What’s problematic is he’s also been asked to be the best man. The most troubling part is feelings may still linger. Zeb doesn’t want complications but he doesn’t want to attend this event alone. Requesting that Jesse assist him with this situation seems logical. Okay, not really but I was glad for this impulsive moment! Jesse is wonderful at what he does and can seamlessly slip by his side and act as if he’s always belonged there. The slippery part is, he feels like he does belong there. Jesse makes him happy and to his utter surprise, Zeb does the same for Jesse. How has he missed what’s been right in front of his face for years? Jesse is beautiful, inside and out and Zeb suddenly realizes he’s about to lose him. But wait? How can you lose what you never even had? Best friends prove to be helpful or just call out bullshit for what it is. I was tickled to find connections within this new series to previous stories. Jesse’s best friend and former roommate is a special nurse we know and love and Zeb’s stepbrother has made an appearance before. More potential couples dangle before our eyes and I’m very much looking forward to keeping up with this new gang.

I’m a sucker for passionate opposites attract romance. I enjoy a well-suited age gap pairing. Fake boyfriends? Yes, please! Top it off with Morton’s signature wit and sass and you can clearly see there is a LOT to love here. I had a flash of déjà vu but didn’t mind the similarities too terribly much. Zeb is a man of structure. He’s tidy and particular. He’s always in control. Well, he likes to think so. Jesse makes him want to be reckless. He lights a fire in his heart and pushes his buttons. But these wishes are futile. First of all, he’s too young. Second, he’s his employee. Or maybe that should be first? Regardless, he’s not an option…off the menu…forbidden fruit. Which apparently just makes him all the more desirable. But here’s the thing, they are good together. And they are good for one another. Why fight it? That is indeed the question! If you want the answer, I’d suggest you follow your one-click fingers and go get this comical charming tale.

Beware of: Vile ex with wicked intentions is sure to tick you off. Chemistry and sexual tension build and build until…the sweet release takes your breath away. And the fond reminder that candles on a cake are meaningless when it comes to a foolproof match.