Lauren Milson's Crushing On Dad's Best Friend is a contemporary romance novel that delves into the complexities of forbidden love, age-gap relationships, and the allure of the unattainable. The book is a quintessential example of the "forbidden romance" trope, a theme that has captivated readers for generations. With its promise of a "light, hot, fun little read," Milson delivers a story that is both engaging and emotionally charged, offering readers a satisfying escape into a world of passion and desire.

At the heart of the novel is the protagonist, a young woman who finds herself irresistibly drawn to her father's best friend. This character is relatable in her innocence and naivety, having left for college with little to no romantic experience. Her journey from an inexperienced young woman to someone who is ready to explore her desires is a central theme of the book. The author does a commendable job of capturing the protagonist's internal conflict as she grapples with her feelings for a man she has known all her life.

The male lead, her father's best friend, is portrayed as the epitome of the "older, wiser man" archetype. He is handsome, kind, and exudes a magnetic charm that is hard to resist. His protective nature and the way he takes charge of the situation are characteristics that are often romanticized in this genre. Milson skillfully crafts his character to be both alluring and complex, making him a perfect match for the protagonist's youthful exuberance.

The chemistry between the two main characters is palpable from the moment they meet at the wedding venue. The author uses vivid descriptions to convey the intensity of their attraction, making it easy for readers to become invested in their budding romance. The setting of a wedding—a celebration of love and commitment—serves as a fitting backdrop for their story, adding an extra layer of emotional depth to their interactions.

One of the strengths of Crushing On Dad's Best Friend is its exploration of the taboo nature of their relationship. The protagonist's internal struggle with her feelings for someone who is not only significantly older but also a close family friend adds tension and drama to the narrative. This forbidden aspect of their romance is what makes the story so compelling, as it taps into the universal theme of wanting what one cannot have.

Milson's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to get lost in the story. Her use of first-person narration allows for an intimate glimpse into the protagonist's thoughts and emotions, creating a strong connection between the character and the reader. The dialogue is natural and flows smoothly, adding to the overall realism of the story.

In terms of character development, both the protagonist and her love interest undergo significant growth throughout the novel. The protagonist evolves from a shy, inexperienced young woman into someone who is confident in her desires and willing to take risks for love. Her journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment, making her a relatable and inspiring character. Similarly, the male lead is portrayed as someone who is initially hesitant to pursue a relationship due to the potential consequences but ultimately decides to follow his heart.

While the book is primarily focused on the romance between the two main characters, it also touches on themes of family dynamics and societal expectations. The protagonist's relationship with her family, particularly her father, adds another layer of complexity to the story. The author explores the potential fallout of their relationship being discovered, adding tension and suspense to the narrative.

Comparatively, Crushing On Dad's Best Friend shares similarities with other works in the forbidden romance genre, such as Penelope Ward's Stepbrother Dearest and Vi Keeland's Bossman. Like these novels, Milson's book features a strong, independent female lead and a charismatic, older male love interest. However, what sets Milson's work apart is her ability to balance the light-hearted, fun aspects of the story with the deeper, more emotional themes of love and desire.

Overall, Crushing On Dad's Best Friend is a captivating read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance and forbidden love stories. Its engaging characters, steamy romance, and exploration of complex themes make it a standout in the genre. For readers looking for a book that offers both escapism and emotional depth, Lauren Milson's novel is a must-read.

In conclusion, Milson has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of love and desire. With its promise of a "happily ever after," Crushing On Dad's Best Friend is sure to leave readers with a smile on their faces and a warmth in their hearts.