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Frisky Business #2

My Brother's Roommate

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There are a few things you should know about my brother’s roommate.

Wolfie Cox is . . . complicated. Terminally sexy, and more importantly, he has an impressive stick lodged so far up his ass, he’s about as emotionally available as a chinchilla. Actually, that might be an insult to the chinchilla community.

So, naturally, I want to ride him like a bicycle.

He thinks I hate him. Mostly because I’ve led him to believe this. It’s easier than admitting the alternative.

And while Wolfie is about as soft and cuddly as a fork, I’m the opposite. A good girl. Reliable. Conscientious. Oh, and completely panicked about an upcoming work conference.

Wolfie’s usually allergic to altruism, so when my brother volun-tells him to help me out by escorting me to said conference where everyone else will have a plus-one . . . I say thanks, but no thanks. Surprisingly, Wolfie is unflinching about this. And that’s the story about how I got stuck in a hotel with my brother’s hot (grouchy) roommate.

Thank you for coming to my TED talk.

In all seriousness, this isn’t a game to me, and hormones aside, I need to impress my boss this week so the promotion I’ve worked hard for doesn’t get handed to his spineless nephew. But with Wolfie and me sharing a hotel bed, things get confusing quickly.

300 pages

First published December 1, 2020

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About the author

Kendall Ryan

112 books17.7k followers
A New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of more than two dozen titles, Kendall Ryan has sold over 3 million books and her books have been translated into several languages in countries around the world. Her books have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists more than three dozen times. Ryan has been featured in such publications as USA Today, Newsweek, and InTouch Magazine. She lives in Texas with her husband and two sons.


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Displaying 1 - 30 of 317 reviews
Profile Image for Kendall Ryan.
Author 112 books17.7k followers
Want to read
December 5, 2020
OUT NOW!!

There are a few things you should know about my brother’s roommate.

Wolfie Cox is . . . complicated. And incredibly sexy. Unfortunately, he has an impressive stick lodged so far up his ass, he’s about as emotionally available as a chinchilla. Actually, that might be an insult to the chinchilla community.

So, naturally, I want to ride him like a bicycle.

He thinks I hate him. Mostly because I’ve led him to believe this. It’s easier than admitting the truth.

And while Wolfie is about as soft and cuddly as a fork, I’m the opposite. A good girl. Reliable. Conscientious. Oh, and completely panicked about an upcoming work conference.

Wolfie’s usually allergic to altruism, so when my brother convinces him to help me out by escorting me to said conference where everyone else will have a plus-one . . . I say thanks, but no thanks.

Surprisingly, Wolfie is unflinching about this. And that’s the story about how I got stuck in a hotel room with my brother’s hot (grouchy) roommate.

Thank you for coming to my TED talk.

In all seriousness, this isn’t a game to me, and hormones aside, I need to impress my boss this week so the promotion I’ve worked hard for doesn’t get handed to his worthless nephew. But with Wolfie and me sharing a hotel bed, things get confusing quickly.

This is book two in the Frisky Business series, but each book can be read as a complete standalone.  

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Profile Image for Christy.
4,101 reviews34.6k followers
December 15, 2020
4 stars
I’m quickly learning that when it comes to Wolfie, I should always expect the unexpected.

I'm such a sucker for a brother's best friend book and I was really looking forward to Wolfie's book after meeting him in the first book of this series.

Wolfie is roommates and best friends with Penelope's brother, Connor. When Wolfie gets volunteered to go to a work retreat with Penny he does it as a favor to Connor... but Penny kinda sorta accidently tells her coworkers Wolfie is her boyfriend. So he plays along.

Penelope has had a crush on Wolfie for a long while, and her feelings come to the surface and are stronger than ever. I loved Wolfie and Penelope together and I especially loved that Wolfie was different than Kendall's other heroes. He is one of my favorite she's written.

I enjoyed listening to this one so much. Kendall Ryan's books are amazing in audio and she always has the best narrators. Jacob Morgan and Andi Arndt did a fantastic job voicing Wolfie and Penny. If you're looking for a fun, sweet, and steamy romance- pick this one up! Also, I see Connor's book is next and it's a single dad/nanny book- I'm sooooo here for that!



Audio book source: Audible (promo code from author)
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Jacob Morgan and Andi Arndt
Narration Rating: 5 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 5 hours and 42 minutes
Profile Image for MELISSA *Mel Reader*.
1,394 reviews1,461 followers
December 1, 2020
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)

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Penelope Blake is a single woman living in Chicago. She graduated from college and now works for a top management consulting firm in the city. Her job is extremely important to her and she’s up for a promotion, so she needs to impress her boss. This is one reason she’s panicked about an upcoming work retreat where she is in need of a plus one. When her brother Connor suggests his roommate/ best friend Wolfie escort her she can’t imagine spending a weekend at a luxury resort in one room with the enigma that is Wolfie Cox. He’s the broody, mysterious, serious type, but ridiculously hot. They’ve hung out in the same circle of friends for years, and she’s had a secret crush on him for as long as she can remember. He’s the star of all her fantasies, so she’s hoping she can manage to keep her hands to herself and not get too attached to this complex, quiet, grumpy beautiful man.

Wolfie Cox is a 29 yr. old bachelor who is private, detached and a bit broken. He has his quirks, and has let his past define him. He’s emotionally unavailable and doesn’t do feelings. Relationships aren’t his thing, but suddenly he’s playing the role and things turn complicated when he agrees to accompany his best friends little sister on a business trip. Penelope is kind, caring, personable, and beautiful inside and out, but she’s off limits. She’s everything he’s not, and makes him feel too many things all at once. He’s closed off, but she makes him want to let his guard down. As lines get blurred and the temptation is all too real will he venture into uncharted territory and fall in love?

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-Trying not to fall victim to those dark, hypnotic eyes is like trying to ice skate in the middle of summer. Take one step and you’re going under. Which is why I’ve been treading carefully for years.

-I’m quickly learning that when it comes to Wolfie, I should always expect the unexpected.

-Everything about Wolfie is unlike anyone I’ve ever met. He’s guarded and distant one moment, then warm and comforting the next. Hot and cold. Fire and ice. It’s jarring, but every time he freezes over, I find myself chasing the next flame.

CDC53B64_7E57_4510_8D3C_999716296610

My Brother’s Roommate (Frisky Business, #2) by Kendall Ryan is a fantastic brother’s best friend, friends to lovers romance that’s positively addictive. I’ve been intrigued by Wolfie from the start, and couldn’t wait for his story. It didn’t disappoint. I loved this beautiful, vulnerable, irresistible man, and learning his past. I wasn’t expecting how emotional this book would be and I couldn’t put it down. It captivated me throughout and I can’t wait for Connor’s story up next!

708800B6-901E-4A2B-8B1A-C8DCD774F259_zpsqkbfrd0n

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Profile Image for Meredith Wilson.
383 reviews39 followers
November 30, 2020
My Brother's Roommate is the second novel in the Frisky Business series by one of my favorite authors, Kendall Ryan. Told in dual perspectives, this is Wolfie and Penelope's story.

Penelope needs a plus one for the upcoming company retreat. When she's put on the spot at work, she accidentally lets it slip that she's bringing her boyfriend. Only Wolfie isn't her boyfriend. He is her brother's roommate, coworker and good friend. He agrees to go as a favor to her brother, but playing the part of her boyfriend wasn't quite what he had in mind.

Wolfie has always been attracted to Penelope, but he believes that she deserves someone better. That he's not worthy of her. Due to his past, he struggles with intimacy and relationships. But the more time these two spend together, the closer they become. They soon realize these feelings they have for one another aren't something that they can run from.

I absolutely loved this story! It was such a heartwarming read. The plot was perfectly executed. The characters were well developed, and the romance was next level good. A riveting page-turner of unputdownable proportions. Highly addicting and highly recommended. Five stars for Penelope, Wolfie and My Brother's Roommate!

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Profile Image for ABookLover73.
375 reviews218 followers
December 14, 2020
FIVE CUTE STARS for Penelope and Wolfie 💙🖤💙🖤!!!

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

One more Kendall's book that I couldn't put down because it won me over with its simplicity and beautiful love story full of funny moments.

"My Brother's Roommate" is a contemporary romance with a brother's best friend / best friend's sister trope.

Penelope and Wolfie are just adorable together and their relationship is filled with the chemistry that can be felt between them.

If you're looking for a contemporary romance that will make you laugh and you also love Kendall's writing style, then this is the book for you!!!

Highly recommended!!!
Profile Image for Leticia (jerseygirlsbookshelf).
432 reviews236 followers
December 2, 2020
"Sometimes life moves a little faster than we could have planned, and all you can do is throw your arms up and enjoy the ride."
After reading The Boyfriend Effect, I was so sure Wolfie was going to be my favorite character and that I would love his story. And I wasn't wrong.

"A storm is brewing in his eyes, more powerful and unforgiving than the one outside. But I don’t care if it’s dangerous. I want to walk right into it."
Wolfie is kind of hard to avoid falling for. He is brooding, he has a huge heart and he is hot as sin. But he also thinks he's no good and damaged goods, and that everyone is going to quit on him. So he keeps to himself and he doesn't talk much. Grumpy Wolfie. Dreamy Wolfie.

"She tastes like bourbon and bad decisions, and I’ve developed a taste for both."
Penelope is amazing. She's a hard worker, striving to get a promotion that is likely to go to someone else who is undeserving but who is also part of her boss' family. I love the way she is comfortable in her own skin and embraces her sexuality. She is not afraid or embarrassed of what (or who) she wants.

"I want a repeat. I need a repeat. If last night were a song, I’d let it play and play until I’d memorized every note."
He plays her fake boyfriend at a company retreat, and he rejects her. We're at a loss as to why, because it's kind of obvious they fancy each other. And when she pursues him because she wants to understand him, we get a glimpse at Wolfie's past. It's heartbreaking, and you suddenly understand everything and you can't help but feel for the guy.
At the same time, it's amazing to see their relationship evolving, and Penelope tearing Wolfie's walls down, slowly but surely. It's the sweetest thing.

"I never want to forget how he looks right now, all his clothes and walls stripped away."
This is as heartwarming and endearing as it gets. It took the love of a good woman who wouldn't run off on him to show Wolfie that yes, he may be broken and damaged, but the past doesn't define who he is. The present does, and the present is them. They are obviously made for each other.

My only criticism of this book? I wish it were longer. I really recommend it.
Profile Image for Kate.
848 reviews106 followers
December 18, 2020
Nope.

This just did not work for me, sorry (not sorry!).

I have to say, I wasn't overly emotionally invested in this series and these characters, but I still ended up disappointed somehow?

And angry. I rather do not have patience to live through this once again, so let me just sum this up real quick (some SPOILERS ahead + trigger warnings listed at the end):

plot all over the place - it was like Trope City but nothing got a proper development:

1) fake dating in front of co-workers - then nothing happens with this and the build-up on this trope is minimal

2) brother's best friend - same repetitive plot from book 1 all over again and to be honest, it MADE NO SENSE; like Penelope and Wolfie were actually good and then out of nowhere he's like OH WAIT YOUR BROTHER IS MY BEST BRO, WE CAN'T

But that didn't bother him for the first half of the book, at least not enough to stop himself *scratches head* - all I'm saying is that author pulled this internal conflict out of nowhere

3) snowed in together - this actually got them talking a bit, but still, the way they ended up together in that vacation house was kind of a stretch

4) Wolfie's past - thrown there for drama's sake and it makes me actually sick how glossed over this was

treatment of sexual abuse - in short? Abysmal.

I can and I do appreciate that the author decided to turn the spotlight to the fact that men can also be victims of sexual assault. But the way it was done? Two great pieces of advice right here:

- if you cannot be bothered to do any research, let's not write about it!
- if you're only going to use it to show how special and precious the heroine is, and then ignore it and gloss over it completely, how about...

Yes, yes! MAYBE DON'T WRITE ABOUT IT

Sorry, I'm just really angry about this. From the start, Wolfie refers to himself as "broken" (Penelope thinks of him that way a few times too), he thinks there's something wrong with him - then we find out that his father's girlfriend assaulted him when he was sixteen. Wolfie told his father but he didn't believe him. That experience affected how he treats sex and intimacy as an adult. He suffers from anxiety and he has issues with intimacy.

I can get that he was thinking of himself as "broken", especially since it was clear he never sought any professional help after the assault. But what I cannot get past is Penelope referring to him as such, as well as the author doing that repeatedly in her newsletter and here "He is by far my most broken hero" / "...you don't want to miss my most broken hero yet. " (!!!!!!!)

First of all, having mental health problems, whether connected to past trauma or not, does not make anyone "broken" or "weak". Statements like these are just ignorant, not to mention, they can be incredibly harmful. And being a survivor is not something for you to salivate over!

Truth be told, this book was way too short to give any satisfactory development to Wolfie's backstory. As a result, it reads like this: Wolfie has anxiety and intimacy issues - Penelope MIRACULOUSLY gets him off in a way that no one ever could - Wolfie's anxiety flares up bc THEY NEED DRAMA COME ON - Wolfie decides to get help aka he goes to EXACTLY ONE therapy session- HE CURED.

In conclusion - what could've been a worthy and interesting exploration of a topic that doesn't appear in contemporary romance often, was reduced to a bunch of harmful cliches.



I have nothing more to add, I'm just exhausted.

Trigger warning: anxiety, panic attacks, (mentions) of sexual abuse/sexual assault
Profile Image for Fanny.
2,306 reviews54 followers
March 26, 2021



A My Brother' s Roommate al igual que su predecesor le falta un desarrollo mas real, siento que los eventos en este libro suceden a una velocidad que no resulta creible, ademas, no me dejo convencida que ciertos temas de suma importancia fueran tratados de una manera tan superficial y un tanto erronea a mi modo de ver.

En segundo lugar, la pareja protagonista no fue nada del otro mundo, les falto mas presencia, y en muchos momentos sus escenas me parecieron forzadas y nada naturales, aunque tambien debo reconocer que ya desde el primer capitulo senti que su conexion fue bastante artificial, realmente no me conquistaron y mucho menos, me transmitieron su supuesto amor.

De las dos novelas de esta saga que llevo leidas, me quedo con el primer tomo, esta lejos de ser perfecto o inolvidable pero al menos no lo percibi tan falso como esta lectura.

En resumen, una historia floja, que no aporta nada al genero, pero que al menos se lee bien.
Leere el siguiente a ver que tal es, la sinopsis me parece interesante.

2.5 Estrellas!
Profile Image for CHAMPAGNE.
302 reviews182 followers
February 16, 2021
TW: SEXUAL ASSAULT (happens when the character was sixteen)

Oh god... This book was so uncomfortable it made my skin fucking crawl. The heroine— Penny, says she wants casual sex with out hero— Wolfie. Why him you might ask, well, because she's had the longest crush on him and wants to ride that.

She says she wants casual but everytime she sees our hero she forces herself on him, it irked me because something happened to him when he was sixteen. And Penelope, constantly forcing herself on him, feels a lot like assault. If a guy does what she does, he'd be charged. It just.. Ughhh. She drives to the cabin where he is, to "apologize", thirty minutes later she has her mouth on his D. She crawls in his bed to force herself on him, when he was sleeping. Touching him, when he said he wasn't comfortable. And pushing him to open up, when he wasn't ready to open up. This was just a disaster, and I hate the heroine.

Also, the word broken , can we not. When describing people who've gone through traumatic experiences, they're broken is how authors describe them. Whether the main character is talking about themselves or not. BROKEN. That's not a good word, so can we please not. Please?
Profile Image for Keri Loves Books.
1,243 reviews193 followers
November 20, 2020
Time to get Frisky with out favorite men who specialize in adult toys. The guys from Frisky Business are back and this time we get Wolfie. He's Connor's roommate and the quiet one of the bunch. Often broody with little to say, he's taking it all in. Especially Penelope. He looks but since he'd never be good enough for her, he stays away. Until she asks him to accompany her to a company weekend retreat.

Penelope is all about her career. She's hard-working and doing her best to get a promotion in her male dominated office. Fighting the nepotism that exists is an uphill battle. She has to attend a company event and she needs an ally. Connor volunteers Wolfie for the job.

Penelope has wanted to get closer to him for years. Now she has the perfect opportunity. But he's not an easy guy to get close to. Wolfie has some ghosts from his past that have been clouding his future. She's the perfect woman to help him overcome his past.

Wolfie and Penelope are great together. However, Wolfie is a runner whenever he starts to feel too much. He's battling not only his past, but his feelings of betrayal because he's falling for his best friend's sister. He's going to have to decide whether she's worth the risk.

This is a fun romance with some heavy topics. Penelope embraces her sexuality, while Wolfie is running from his. It was thought provoking because the stereotypical tables were turned. Once Wolfie unburdens himself, his healing begins. His strength and willingness to do what was necessary to take hold of his HEA with the woman he loves, was a heart stealer. He wanted to be the man he felt she deserved...SWOON!

I am enjoying this series and look forward to Connor's story.
Profile Image for Elisa ♡.
665 reviews1 follower
September 10, 2021
this book has all the tropes:
- fake relationship (is fast, but is still there)
- brother's best friend
- stuck together
- friends with benefits

Kendall's books are always good to read when you want to read something but you're too tired to focus on something that is too intense. basically she's good to get out of a reading slump.
Profile Image for Jessica Alcazar.
4,080 reviews571 followers
December 1, 2020
Confession: I was LMAO before I even began to read this story because, chinchilla. I mean … who doesn’t read a book with that kind of synopsis, amirite?! (I’m laughing right now just thinking back to the book!) But I digress …

This story, yes, was funny at times, but more than that, it was pure heart! (I think that sentence has too many commas, but who knows) There’s more than meets the eye to this story and Wolfie especially will grab your heart and not let go and damn, do I want to be Penelope when I grown up! What a special combination those two made. Kendall did an outstanding job in the choices for this story. They were just perfect, and it felt real and realistic to me. I had fun, like I normally do with a Kendall story, but the story wasn’t all fun and games. It was a good balance of life. Well done!



Amazon US ➜ https://amzn.to/332nCKM
Amazon Intl. ➜ https://geni.us/BrothersRoommate
Apple ➜ https://apple.co/2FcxjhE
Nook ➜ https://bit.ly/3lVAfQy
Kobo ➜ https://bit.ly/2ZkTI3D
Google Play ➜ https://bit.ly/3nqD243
Audible ➜  https://adbl.co/2Uk0rro
Profile Image for Kim Whitehead.
2,519 reviews
November 15, 2020
Oh my! Kendall Ryan gives us a different perspective on traumatic events! Intriguing! My Brothers Roommate was not what I expected. Heartwarming and understanding! Definitely thought provoking!! A sweet read with a glimpse of what’s to come!
Profile Image for Nancy Metsch.
1,369 reviews3 followers
November 18, 2020
I loved Wolfie and Penelope's book.
They are so perfect together. I truly loved hw they made everything work for themseleves
Profile Image for Books I Flove.
681 reviews37 followers
December 1, 2020
Oh my lord!! Wolfie! And Penelope! What a great match these two are...

Wolfie’s story is so much more than a simple one. We get to find out why he’s always so grumpy and not showing his emotions. Penelope is perfect for him, because she understands him, and she’s the complete opposite of him. And the saying is opposites attract right?! She’s outgoing, verbal about her feelings... love it!

Loved this second installment of the Frisky business series and can’t wait for book 3. And we already got a great tease of the book already!!!

I kindly received an arc from the author and voluntarily left a review
Profile Image for Jill M.
1,310 reviews93 followers
November 28, 2020
I am so in love with Penelope and Wolfie's story. I'm not sure what it is about the story but this is one of my favorite Kendall Ryan stories. There's just something that captivated me with Wolfie and the way Penelope soothed his soul. I was surprised by Wolfie’s past but Ms. Ryan wrote it with ease and beautifully.

This was a beautiful love story that was filled with sweetness galore and just the right amount of sexiness.
Profile Image for Rochelle.
1,599 reviews
December 7, 2020
Book 2 in the Frisky Business series and features Wolfie and Penelope. Loved them together. The attraction and chemistry between them was so hot. Wolfie pretended to be her boyfriend since she messed up and saying that she was bringing her boyfriend to a work event. He was always attracted to her but felt that he didn’t deserve her. The more they spent together, the closer they became, and their feelings grew even more. Their romance was a joy to watch develop into something so pure. Loved this story and can’t wait to read the next in this series.
Profile Image for Booksreaderandcoffee  .
790 reviews28 followers
December 1, 2020
Penelope needs a date her company's retreat, everyone will bring a date and she doesn't want to be the only one alone. Her brother suggests his roommate to accompany her, and how could she refuse when said roommate is the person she has some feelings for. 

Wolfie, avoids being alone with Penelope, he isn't good at relationships or intimacy and starting something with her is out of the question. Being her date for the weekend doesn't seem difficult, just as long as nothing happens.

Faking dating for one weekend away from everyone brings them closer and soon their hidden feelings surface until they realise that it's not something thet can run from. 

Wolfie is very serious, but also sensitive and sweet which is a side he keeps hidden from the world. I like how Penelope with her open personality and non judgmental heart was the one who Wolfie could confined in and see through her eyes a different perspective. 

The story presents a very sensitive topic very respectfully and with a lot of care. This is a truly heartwarming read, the romance is top notch, as is the plot and character development for both of the heroes. Additionally, I enjoyed that we saw a bit about Penelope's brother, Connor, whose story is coming up next.

* I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Wendy'sThoughts.
2,667 reviews3,275 followers
Want to read
September 22, 2020
September 22, 2020
I Don't Know How All This Happened...
Well, That's Not Exactly True...

It Started with My A$$Hat Boss...
His Idiot Nephew Gunning For My Promotion...
And An Out Of Town Work Conference
That Is Panick Inducing...

All Of The Above Caused
My Brother Getting All Protective...
Doing His "Voluntelling Thing"...
Yes, It's A Thing...
And That Ask/Inform Happened...

Causing Me To Repeat...
I Don't Know How This All Happened...

Wolfie Cox, My Brother's Roommate...
Is Now My Roommate In This Hotel...
Sharing The Only Bed...

And The Joke Is So On Me...
Because Terminally Sexy...
Majorly Emotionally Unavailable Wolfie...
Had No Problem Saying...
Yup, Yes, I'll Go...

He Thinks I Have Always Hated him...
Truth..Serious Crush...
So Here I Am...
For A Week In Close Quarters With...


My Brother's Roommate (Frisky Business, #2)-December 1, 2020

The Boyfriend Effect (Frisky Business, Book 1) by Kendall Ryan The Boyfriend Effect (Frisky Business #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
My Brother's Roommate (Frisky Business, #2) by Kendall Ryan My Brother's Roommate (Frisky Business #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Stud Next Door (Frisky Business, #3) by Kendall Ryan The Stud Next Door (Frisky Business, #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...


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Profile Image for Amy Dickinson.
1,390 reviews39 followers
November 30, 2020
Overall Grade: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

After Kendall Ryan’s The Boyfriend Effect, I was ready for My Brother’s Roommate because the most compelling person in that former book was Maren’s brother, Wolfie. As a reader of romance, my favorite iteration of hero is the grumpy one, the one who is sullen and changes moods on a dime. There is always something complex in their characterization whether they are an enemy to their heroines or the complexity is personally-motivated. In Ryan’s book, Wolfie’s story is an important one. There is a reason that Wolfie acts as he does, and it makes for a story that is compelling for its readers.

Add into My Brother’s Roommate a heroine whose strength lies in asking for what she wants, for having the tenacity to express her interests. Penelope is intelligent, talented, and insightful. As you read this book, the traditional roles of hero and heroine have been switched, and Ryan’s genderbending heroic archetypes invest you in her story.

This book makes for a perfect afternoon read. Ryan’s style is easy and draws you through Wolfie and Penelope’s tortured journey. Yet, even the angst of their story is minimized by the moments when everything is going well for them. The ending of My Brother’s Roommate is sweet, bringing rewards for Ryan’s Wolfie and Penelope as well as her reader.

However, this book isn’t without criticism. There are some actions Ryan might have undertaken to elevate this story. As I was anticipatory for Wolfie’s narrative, I was underwhelmed by it, which discouraged me. Here are some reasons why this isn’t a 5-star read for me.

*I won’t reveal Wolfie’s plotline, but Ryan has endeavored to challenge her readers through her characterization of him. As such, he requires more development than he is given. There are past familial relationship issues, namely with his father, and for the reader to truly feel the gravity of that, I would have developed flashbacks to underscore their fraught relationship. While she provides one specific moment, in my mind, it isn’t enough. Even more, the treatment of Wolfie’s issue is underwhelming, with Ryan glossing over it quickly. I think more care could have been taken to truly do his issue justice.
*Hayes and Maren are hardly in Wolfie’s story, which seems odd. Maren is his sister, and he has spent much of his life protecting her. I thought we should see more of them in this book. Even more, as Hayes is his best friend, it seems inconsistent that Wolfie wouldn’t have divulged his issue.
*Wolfie struggles with his relationship with Penelope under the guise of his friendship with her brother, Connor. Yet, he readily accepts the same situation in The Boyfriend Effect. This also seems inconsistent with the first book of the Frisky Business series and makes this plot point unbelievable.
*Wolfie’s insecurity about dating Penelope also is confusing. He is resolute that she could never be with someone who is “not good enough” for her, but it isn’t clear if that insecurity exists from his past or if this is grounded in some other reason. It is confusing within the context of the story building.

With all of that, though, Ryan takes care to show the importance of consent in a relationship. Even more, she illustrates workplace issues such as nepotism and gender bias in ways that mean to expose these problems. As romance writers such as Kendall Ryan incorporate these truths, she allows us to consider our own biases about these topics. My Brother’s Roommate is everything you love about Ryan’s books. If you read The Boyfriend Effect or have thought about reading it, then you will definitely find Wolfie and Penelope a treat and should read their story too.
December 1, 2020
Yall I was not prepared for Wolfie! I thought I was because I love me some broody broken men. Lawl I was not prepared for the level of hurt, I was reading and my nurse brain said man that is giving me vibes like he has some childhood trauma and BAM.

I don't feel like it is enough or graphic at all that a trigger warning is needed but he is going to break your heart with how the event changed him. This isn't a light story, Wolfie was heavy in my heart until we got him that HEA.

I loved Penelope and how driven and compassionate she was and how she listened to him and made consent a priority. That was huge for me that she did that and did not make him feel like there was something wrong with him. And she didn't share those secrets with anyone. Penelope is definitely my girl after that. You will just be cheery full blast for them to end up together and happy.


I also really loved seeing Connor and getting a little bit of what's going to be happening in his book. SO excited. I did miss Hayes and Maren and hope we get to see them some more in this series.
Profile Image for Irene.
1,876 reviews129 followers
December 1, 2020
4.5 stars

I really enjoyed My Brother's Roommate by Kendall Ryan.

The storyline is well written, entertaining, it held my attention from start to end and I enjoyed watching Wolfie and Penelope's relationship unfold.
They're both likable, relatable characters that I easily connected with and kept me turning the pages with their love story.
These two were perfect for each other 😍

My Brother's Roommate is a sweet and heartfelt read and an excellent addition to the Frisky Business series.

Now Live!

Amazon: https://amzn.to/332nCKM

Apple: https://apple.co/2FcxjhE

Nook: https://bit.ly/3lVAfQy

Kobo: https://bit.ly/2ZkTI3D

Google Play: https://bit.ly/3nqD243

*I received an advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.*

1,766 reviews12 followers
November 22, 2020
Wolfie was a hard character to understand at first. Little snippets here and there had me intrigued as to what “his deal” was.
When it finally is revealed my heart literally broke for him, and then I proceeded to mentally congratulate Kendall Ryan for not only including this in her story but that it was Wolfie that endured it.
And with all this happening I couldn’t think of a character better than Penelope written for him. Their roles at times seemed totally reversed to what I guess most people deem as normal (whatever that is!!) and not only was it refreshing it was also beautiful to read.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
Profile Image for Melissa  ❤️ bookaddict_fanatic .
994 reviews90 followers
November 28, 2020
Are you ready to head back to the Frisky Business world??? This second book in the series follows the budding relationship between Wolfie and Penelope and let me just say I absolutely fell in love with these two!!

Wolfie is the quiet, broody bestfriend/roommate to Connor and the one Connor insists that can help his sister Penelope on a weekend retreat for work. Penelope is the career driven sister to Connor and the one who decides to playoff Wolfie as her boyfriend on a weekend work retreat.

These two had Wolfie's past to overcome which wasn't easy but Penelope was determined to show Wolfie that with the right person she could soothe his mind and all the bad that came with it.

This was one book that was nothing short of a beautiful love story that will warm your heart!
Profile Image for Camryn O'Conner.
377 reviews16 followers
April 5, 2024
I have said it about seven times… I’ll say it again. THEY WILL NEVER MAKE ME HATE TOU KENDALL RYAN! Always delivers on the spice and cuteness this one however had a little bit more character development which I Loved! Yum yum yum on to the next.
Profile Image for Kimberly’s Book Briefs.
73 reviews4 followers
December 1, 2020
1-star reviews are not my jam but sadly someone needs to be honest here (obviously not the team from KR who didn’t help a girl out on this book :/ #sorrynotsorry)

Book 1 in the Frisky Business was a 1-star rating from me too and now Book 2 has happily jumped in the same boat in my opinion.

Like I stated in book 1’s review; if your writing about your hero owning a sex toy company, INCLUDE TOY PLAY!!! That’s what I’ve been waiting for in the last two books. Yes, their was a minor scene in the first book but it was over in a second. We hear all about these high-end vegan toys but are never given any action with them.

But isn’t that what the baseline for the plot is about? A group of friends owning & operating a sex toy company?

I feel like we’re being cheated with this series...

Character wise, Wolfie didn’t live up to his wild animal namesake. He was busy in the back room doing spreadsheets while weighing back and forth about “if her brother finds out I touched his sister I’m toast”. Que the wash, rinse, repeat, of Book 1.

I enjoyed Penelope. Straight forward heroines are my favorite. She knew what she wanted and went for it. Sissy-ass hero’s are not my thing in which Wolfie is holding the top spot currently.

This book should have been a novella because it could have easily ended right around the 10th or 12th chapter. The story dragged on for no reasoning but back and forth melodrama and a dumb ending.

I was thrilled to have been picked to receive this book via the author as truth-be-told I’m a HUGE fan of this author but I feel her team is letting her down on this series. It has high potential but it’s being showcased in the wrong light.

I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Jody.
2,075 reviews55 followers
December 1, 2020
When it comes to fun and flirty reads, with surprising depth, I can always count on Ms. Ryan to give me exactly what I need. This latest dive back into the world of the Frisky Business series was yet another winner and it's all because of Wolfie...friend, roommate, business partner to Connor, whose sister soon becomes a delightful distraction in his life. When a work retreat for Penelope requires a plus one it's Wolfie who gets volunteered for the job of fake boyfriend, but as the two spend more time together readers learn about what makes Wolfie tick while watching the heat get turned up between this burgeoning couple.

From the moment I saw Wolfie I was in love! He's a serious young man, broody, with a guarded nature fueled by a difficult childhood that is slowly revealed throughout his weekend with Penelope. It's a past with an alcoholic parent, as well as an absent one, which led to him raising his sister and souring on love and commitment from a young age. As an adult he doesn't do relationships, isn't willing to make himself vulnerable, which makes him the safest choice Connor can find to help his sister. A weekend spent with Penelope takes an unexpected turn though when a long-hidden attraction between them combusts and leads to scorching encounters and heartfelt talks. It's an unexpected complication that weighs on them as they work through these new feelings in a pairing that was very entertaining. Wolfie's talks with Penelope gives readers some truly funny banter as each gives as good as they get. There's tons of sexual tension surrounding them too as their chemistry was off the charts once they finally admitted their feelings. Their heartfelt talks were my favorite moments though as it showed a different side to Wolfie, one that I found very endearing and one that had me wanting to hug him. His past explained so much about why he is the way he is now and I applaud Ms. Ryan for addressing it in the respectful and realistic manner she did with things never getting overly dark but not sugar-coating them either.

Penelope's a likable heroine but unfortunately she didn't leave as strong of an impact on me. She's smart, focused, and career-driven which left little time for anything else in her world. Being the lone female in a male-dominated job meant never showing weakness, never being anything but the best, so she needed the work retreat to go well. Up until their weekend together Penelope always appeared aloof when around Wolfie, hiding an attraction to the man who might distract her from her work. Being in close quarters though meant not being able to keep secrets anymore, not hiding behind the walls both of them erected. Penelope pushed Wolfie into seeing all of his wonderful qualities after years of him not feeling worthy enough. She gave him unconditional love and support and both of them showed real growth as the story progressed, both of them becoming more self-assured as each balanced the other out.

On a whole this was a sweet and steamy read with witty banter full of heart and soul. Wolfie was a drool-worthy hero, a complicated man who finally found the healing power of love, one with a past that will have readers cheering him on to HEA. Penelope is a good match for him as she's a strong-willed heroine more than capable of helping him deal with the demons of his past while fighting her own fights. Together they're a formidable pairing! Alongside this appealing main couple were lots of moments spent with Connor, brother to Penelope and friend/coworker to Wolfie, as he has to deal with some big changes himself. The latter half of the book spent much time on him...which I would've loved to have spent with Wolfie and Penelope instead. But with him taking center stage in the next book in this series I was definitely left intrigued by the groundwork laid here and am now breathlessly counting down the days until we learn even more about the changes to Connor's life. Readers looking for a quick yet satisfying read can do no wrong when picking up a Kendall Ryan book...so don't wait any longer!

4.5 STARS!
Profile Image for Jackie (Jackie's Book World) .
877 reviews60 followers
December 3, 2020
***Review can also be found at Jackie's Book World.***

Kendall Ryan is back with a new book in her Frisky Business Series, My Brother’s Roommate, a best friend’s little sister romance that’s filled with sweet and swoon worthy moments to keep you reading until the very end.

For Penelope Blake, her job is at the top of her priorities and that has left her without any time or desire to date. But it’s when the company that she works for is organizing a weekend retreat that she wishes she could have a date to take with her. Not only will it increase her chances at being seen more serious by her boss, but it will also increase her chances at getting the promotion that she has been eying for some time. When her brother suggests for his roommate and friend, Wolfie to go with her, Penelope is afraid he is going to decline. Yet, he quickly accepts and she couldn’t be happier. It’s the next day at work that she blurts out that she is going to be brining her boyfriend that changes things with her and Wolfie. There is no denying that she has always felt attracted towards Wolfie, but she knows that things can’t get serious between them. It would take a turn of events to brings them closer and as she gets to learn about his past, the more she is risk of losing her heart in the process.

Wolfie Cox co-owns a successful business with his friends and that has kept him busy that he is not interested in having a serious relationship at all. When he agreed to accompany Penelope to the retreat he did it for his roommate, at least that’s what he keeps telling himself. No matter how attracted he is to her, he knows that he won’t be enough for someone like Penelope. But when his attempts at pushing her away keep failing, he is determined to make her see the real him and hope that she accepts him and what he has to offer.

I loved reading this story, it felt different in terms of the characters and storyline. Both of the characters have different reasons for not wanting to be in a relationship and they explore that as they get to know each other more. Wolfie’s past was heartbreaking and we can understand why he feels a certain way about relationships and trust. Penelope is there to help him and be his partner no matter what. Until things change and they’re left with whether or not they can have a future together. I loved their interaction with secondary characters, their friends and her brother. I cannot wait to read more of Penelope’s brother, Connor, in the next book in the series. I loved the ending, it was perfect for them and I would highly recommend reading My Brother’s Roommate if you’re looking for a sweet romance with a twist. :)

**I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.**
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