Book Review: Smooth Talking Stranger by Lisa Kleypas

Smooth Talking Stranger is the third book in the Travises series by Lisa Kleypas, and while all four books can be read as standalones, this one is definitely my favourite of the series so far.

I absolutely loved this book. There is something about the combination of romance, family, friendship and, of course, a cute little baby that just worked so well for me. It’s a contemporary romance, but it has that warm, emotional quality that makes you feel really connected to the characters.

Our FMC, Ella Varner, is a woman who does not believe in marriage. She runs a blog called Miss Independent and is very much about being independent and living life on her own terms. I really liked Ella because she knows what she wants, or at least she thinks she does, and watching her slowly question some of those beliefs was such a nice part of the story.

And then we have Jack Travis. Jack… the man you are. He is sweet, charming, protective, and yes, he gets jealous and protective, but somehow it all works with his character. He has that confident Travis charm, but there is also a softer side to him that I really loved.

I also really enjoyed how the relationship between Ella and Jack develops. There is definitely chemistry from the beginning, but what I loved most was watching their friendship blossom into something more. Their relationship doesn’t feel like it happens overnight. They get to know each other, spend time together and gradually become important to one another.

And then there is baby Luke, who plays a huge role in the story. Honestly, this little baby brings so much to the book. The way Ella becomes involved in his life and the way Jack and Ella navigate everything surrounding him adds another emotional layer to the romance. Luke is definitely more than just a cute addition to the story.

I also loved the family aspect of the book. The Travis family brings that larger-than-life family dynamic that makes the series so enjoyable, and it was lovely seeing those relationships alongside Ella and Jack’s story.

Overall, Smooth Talking Stranger was such a fun and heartwarming read for me. It has romance, chemistry, friendship, family, a little jealousy, and, of course, baby Luke stealing the show.

Out of the four Travis books, this one is definitely my favourite. Lisa Kleypas really got me with this one, and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it.

5 on 5 stars!

Get your copy of this book from here.

With love and lots of stories,
The Reading Lane

Liked this post? Come say hi on Instagram and Goodreads and YouTube— I share recs, rambles, and way too many romance reads.