So, Birthday Girl was good. Actually, really good in the way that makes you want to keep reading even when you're side eyeing the characters’ choices. It’s got the spice, the tension, the slow burn angst, but let’s be real: this “forbidden” relationship wasn’t all that forbidden. The only people making it taboo were Pike and Jordan themselves. Like… you live in the same house, have insane chemistry, no one really cares or is actively stopping you, so just go for it already!

That said, I love a messy, age gap romance, and Pike Lawson checks every box for the hot, grumpy, morally torn older man trope. I totally get why Jordan was drawn to him. He’s dependable, protective, broody in the best way and honestly, way more likable than Cole (who, let’s be honest, overstayed his welcome by several chapters).

The tension was top tier. The stolen glances, the accidental touches, the build up to those spicy moments? Perfection. Penelope Douglas knows how to write heat, and this book definitely brings it. 🔥

Jordan was a bit of a mixed bag for me at times. She was young but not immature, self-aware but still stuck in a messy situation she could’ve stepped out of earlier. But hey, it made the payoff between her and Pike feel earned.

I just wish the “forbidden” label had actually meant more in terms of stakes or tension beyond their internal guilt. If you’re going to make it taboo, make it taboo, you know?

Still, I devoured this and had a great time. It’s spicy, angsty, and addictive and is the kind of book you read with one eyebrow raised but a smirk on your face the entire time. Definitely worth picking up if you’re into age gap romance with a side of moral struggle.