MARRIAGE LESSONS is the third book in Katie Allen's "Off Guard" series. This is technically a romance that develops between a boss and his employee, but I think it's much more of a classic and exquisite friends-to-lovers story. Gallery manager Annabelle Shay has had a crush on her boss and friend, Louis Dumont, for a long time. Annabelle and Louis have the kind of friendship that is very fun and flirtatious, although neither of them has ever made a move to change the dynamic of it. When Annabelle suddenly needs to find a place to stay, Louis is only too happy to volunteer his couch. I loved this book! This is a must-read for fans of the friends-to-lovers trope.

Louis is an amazing hero: gallery owner, artist, military veteran, and an easygoing charmer. A lot of the time in romances with heroes who have had past traumas, they can be moody because of emotional baggage they haven't gone to therapy for. In Louis' case, he has a crippling shyness when it comes to being physically intimate with a woman because of his missing body parts. Annabelle is somebody he's attracted to and is comfortable enough to be himself around. It's obvious to most people, except Annabelle, that he has a crush on her just as she has one on him. His attraction isn't initially confirmed for the reader, because this story is told strictly from Annabelle's perspective. The sexual tension is delicious as Annabelle and Louis grow closer, both emotionally and physically. Katie Allen adds a little danger toward the end of the book, but it never eclipses the sensational, sexy, and immensely entertaining romance.

MARRIAGE LESSONS is a phenomenal blend of fun and sexy as a friendship turns red-hot. These main characters are so easy to like and root for that it makes this story ten times more enjoyable. I am now on a mission to hunt down the previous two books in this series. I eagerly await Katie Allen's next romance.