This book was an absolute delight to read. I enjoyed every single moment from the first to the last page, and dearly hope that Connolly will continue This book was an absolute delight to read. I enjoyed every single moment from the first to the last page, and dearly hope that Connolly will continue with more mysteries in the future. While I wouldn’t say I am a connoisseur of the British Bake Off television show, I do really enjoy it. As soon as I learned of this book and its FMC’s participation in the fictional world’s Bake Off television program, I knew I had to read it. And I’m so glad I did! I could honestly go for another read, because it was just so refreshing and delightful. I really loved Claire. Her personality was so open and endearing, and I felt like all of her reactions to what was going around her were perfectly written. I loved her curiosity and humility, and how she decided to go for this dream of baking for this television program. She’s just adorable. I loved her. Oh! And I absolutely loved her food-related “swear words.� My sister actually does something similar and it cracked me up hearing the ones that Claire tried. Where Claire is sunshine, Jonathan is grumpy—except for where Claire is concerned. I’m always a sucker for a “he falls first� trope, and the way Jonathan fell for Claire was so cute. I loved that she brought out his protective, loyal nature, and how much he craved being around her. It was a perfectly written romance, where the two MC’s completed one another in essential ways. The murder mystery kept me on my toes for much of the time. I may have guessed at the perpetrator a few chapters before our sleuths did, but the motive kept me guessing for a good long while. There were others with a motive that I knew of and guessed them first. Add in a couple of red herrings, and it kept me wondering for quite awhile. I loved how the tension of the mystery bled over into the show and thought Connolly did a fantastic job showing the strain on the relationships between the characters. It’s really just a very delightful book and would encourage anyone who loves romance, baking, and murder mysteries to give it a try.
TW/CW: murder and attempted murder; mention of blood and murder weapons; death previous to book
**many thanks to the publisher for the book. This review was not required and is my express opinion.
HOW DO YOU KEEP DOING THIS? How do you keep writing my newest favorite book every. single. time? How?! Because this is my favorite now. It’sDear Emma,
HOW DO YOU KEEP DOING THIS? How do you keep writing my newest favorite book every. single. time? How?! Because this is my favorite now. It’s SO DANG GOOD! And I loved every single moment.
I’ll be honest, I always get a little nervous about the “player� hero, because it’s hard to strike the balance between who they want people to see and who they are. Sometimes it feels contrived, or fake, or like their reputation couldn’t have possibly gotten that out of hand. But I should never doubt you. Never. Because—LIKE ALWAYS—you delivered.
First of all, the way this started was the absolute BEST! I may not have been sure about Van in previous books, but he was solidly on my “I like that guy� list by page two. I absolutely loved how we could see pretty early on that Van was a complicated, layered guy. He wasn’t easy to figure out, and I liked that about him. I also loved how close he was to the other guys on the Appies team (and I love that team more and more, just so you know), and their group text threads are the absolute best. I just…I just love Van. I do. I love him.
And Amelia is so cute! I liked her ability to be vulnerable with Van (at least sometimes…iykyk), and how she pushed herself. Jury’s still out on her dad (okay, okay, I mostly like him…pretty sure), but I loved her. I liked her character, who she was as a person. She is a strong woman, and I loved that.
THE TENSION! Holy shoulder pads, the tension in this one was SO high, I almost couldn’t stand it. But I also could and I loved it and that doesn’t make sense, but it is what it is. I could not put this one down, and had it finished within 12 hours (and if you knew what a big deal that was for me, you’d be impressed).
I’ve been sold on your books for ages, and I know you’re my favorite, and I can’t get enough of your books. But every single time I read a new one, I’m amazed at how you pull things together, and I fall in love with your writing all over again. Every time. So thanks for the gift of your words in my world, because it feels life changing for me.
Love, Jessica
**many thanks to the author for this book and the joy that came with it. All thoughts are my own but the joy comes directly from your book....more
This book is absolutely adorable! I love Grey. I love Audrey. I love Hilary (the author; don’t get confused thinking this is another character). And IThis book is absolutely adorable! I love Grey. I love Audrey. I love Hilary (the author; don’t get confused thinking this is another character). And I love the road-trip, forced proximity we get with this one.
There are so many things to love about this book! I loved how Grey pushed Audrey’s buttons in the best ways. He wasn’t pushy, but he got to know her really well, and he tried to encourage her to stop being afraid and to push herself. I also loved that he was fun loving, while also being able to be serious. He’s kind and thoughtful and his whole “wander� personal motto was perfect for Audrey.
Audrey’s character arc was fantastic! I loved the themes of fear and family and acceptance, and how she grew by confronting her fears and her past hurts. I really loved how her friends who actually knew her sometimes weren’t afraid to say the hard things. I also loved where the story ended up. The ending had me grinning like a total fool and I don’t care. It deserves alllll the smiles.
Other things I love: Coke vs Mountain Dew No shoes in the car Anxiety rep The places! I’ve been to all these places and I love them! Dot and Hank. I adore them and I adopt them as my own. One bed All the frilly pillows! Ha! The hobbies talk The entire road trip! The mountains The entire swimming scene! Movie night Pinky holding Lord of the Rings quotes Learning to trust Letting go of the past Yoga poses The beard! The flannel! Audrey’s friends The kisses! The last chapter The epilogue!
It’s an adorable book and I loved reading it! Hillary is a talented author and I cannot wait to see where she goes from here.
**Many thanks to the author for the copy. A positive review was not requested or required. All thoughts are my own....more
This series does not disappoint, y’all! It just keeps getting better! Kasey’s contribution, Beachy Keen, is fabulous and wonderful and I’m still swoonThis series does not disappoint, y’all! It just keeps getting better! Kasey’s contribution, Beachy Keen, is fabulous and wonderful and I’m still swooning over it. Cat is basically the sweetest and I love her. I love her family oriented priorities, I love her work ethic, I love her ability to accept apologies and to change her perspective. I just really love her!
And let’s be real, Noah is one heckuva swoony Moneybags. I absolutely love that he is humble enough to accept ideas, help, and suggestions from others, and that he learns to put himself out there for Cat. I loooove how much he cares about Cat (the whole “he falls first� trope might be one of my faves!) and the ways he tries to take care of her while still letting her be independent and know he isn’t trying to throw money at all her problems is just SO GOOD!
Y’all, I have been hesitant about billionaire romances in the past, because they don’t seem relatable and I don’t really want to read about spoiled rich kids. (Am I judging the genre unfairly? Possibly. But that’s where we’re at.) But Kasey has me converted. Seriously, if anyone could do if, it would be Kasey. I am all on board. Especially if the MCs can all be as amazing as Noah is.
Okay, here’s a list of things I love about this book:
He falls first (you knew that would be here!) Nicknames Anxiety rep Vulnerable MCs Honesty in communications Mature MCs Cat’s relationship with Otto Mateo The little beach cove scene Opinions about running Noah’s assistant wages—ha! Jam sessions (it’s not what you think) Blackberry picking The scene with the rug The ad campaign Cat’s advice to Bree Noah going soft with the dog The island friendships The family party Nursing back to health! Noah’s tender heart The beach kiss! The epilogue!
Seriously, I loved this book so much! Don’t sit on the fence with this one; just jump in with both feet. The water is fine, and the party is great! Okay, that’s a lame line. The book is much better than my lameness. Like a billion percent better. Just read it. ;)...more
This book was absolutely hilarious! But there was also a good dose of romance, angst, suspense, and depth. If you want a RomCom that has more going foThis book was absolutely hilarious! But there was also a good dose of romance, angst, suspense, and depth. If you want a RomCom that has more going for it than slapstick humor and cheesy plots (which I always completely enjoy, in the interest of full disclosure), this book will give it to you. I don’t know what we call this subset genre—Murder Mystery RomCom?—but I am here for it! Amelia is seriously hilarious! I do think I’m real life, she might make me slightly crazy. But some of her ramblings, and her inner dialogue especially, made me laugh out loud. She is reckless and kind and silly and loyal and, as Agent Harris has coined it, a menace. But she is very funny, and I really liked her. I mean, forget what I said about her making me crazy irl. I think I want to be her friend. I want to hear her ramblings and watch her live life to the fullest, including her Psych obsession. Her dogs were so dang funny and their names take the cake. (Also, I really want to watch Psych now.) Caleb is almost too tender to be an FBI agent. I liked how much Amelia got under his skin and his desire to keep her safe. His relationship with his mom was so sweet, and his friends were really good. I liked his protective nature and how much her felt, even if he thought he didn’t. The mystery of this one really had me going! There were so many little pieces, and sometimes I couldn’t figure out how to fit them all together. I did figure out a couple things, but mostly I just had some accuracies in the general vicinity of correct. Ha! Honestly, the last 20 percent really had me glued and the suspense was really notched up. It was some seriously good mystery and, I’ll say it again, I am here for it! I also feel like this has been left open just a tad for a story for Cruz. I can hope, right? I’d go for another Mystery RomCom any day (just a hint hint for you, Jenessa).
**many thanks to the author for the ebook; a positive review was not required; all thoughts are my own....more
Oh my holy moly guacamole, this book is so good! I’m smitten! Once I started, I could not put this book down. Holland and Phoenix are amazing, and theOh my holy moly guacamole, this book is so good! I’m smitten! Once I started, I could not put this book down. Holland and Phoenix are amazing, and the enemies to lovers vibe in this one is stellar! I loved all the pranks and how’d they’d check on each other, and then vehemently proclaim their hatred for one another in the next breath. Ha!
I could tell from the beginning that their relationship was deep and had a lot of history, and I loved the few flashbacks we got throughout.
Phoenix’s grandma really is a crazy lady. Holland is right. But do I love how his crazy grandma pushed Phoenix to bite the bullet and move on with his life? You bet your buttons I do. I am a complete goner on Phoenix. He’s a little brusque and stern, but he’s exactly perfect for Gemma. And he’s sooo real! Seriously, this dude could exist in the real world. And I would be okay with that. The world needs more Phoenixes.
Holland is the spitfire I need in my life. She delighted me and frustrated me and then delighted me all over again. The zingers she throws at Phoenix are amazing, and her nicknames for him are too good. Also, her relationship with her Nana Lu is adorable, and her sister is so sweet. I love that she’s really kind and thoughtful, but Phoenix brings out the fire in her. And then, by extension, his family gets her fire later. And some of those interactions may have been my favorite.
Other things I loved: The nicknames. I know I said it once, but woooo! I love them so much! The phone call The pranks The adoption fair Wyatt. I love him. (I’d also love a story for him someday…if a certain author needs ideas ;) ) All the one liners and zingers So. Much. Banter! Photo shoot! I want to actually see the pictures, because I’m sure they’re fire! The toast and grape preserves Phoenix’s generosity Those hate kisses! Holland stands her ground with Mavis The storm Therapy Grief � and healing Claiming and “that’s my wife� Allll the kisses. Gracie knows how to write a kissing scene! All the connections with other characters on the island and the island itself.
Basically, I’m in love. I want a reread. I love these two! This series has been a smash hit with every single book to come out and I am so excited for the final two!
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Narrated by Rylee Kuberra and John Rogers � I really like this narration duo. They do a great job making the characters come to life and getting the tone of the story right. I highly recommend both of them!
**Many thanks to the author for the copy. A positive review was not requested or required. All thoughts are my own....more
You guys! This series is winning. Every single book has been fantastic, and with Martha’s book, we’re officially at 4 for 4. The single POV, feuding fYou guys! This series is winning. Every single book has been fantastic, and with Martha’s book, we’re officially at 4 for 4. The single POV, feuding families, enemies to lovers atmosphere kept me so invested. I couldn’t put it down, because I was so anxious to know what Beau was thinking! And what would happen for Gemma.
I really loved Gemma’s character arc in this one. She really came full circle and I loved watching that journey.
Also Beau! Talk about good book boyfriend material! Someone pass the fan, because it’s hot in here! I am honestly not sure I’ve read many Law Enforcement romances (if you have any recs, let me know!), but if all LEOs are as hot as Beau, sign me up! I loved his supportive, patient nature, and how much he smiled and helped people. His personality is amazing.
Other things I loved: Cameos from people I know and love Sunset Harbor. I have always been squarely in mountains camp, but this book might be converting me! Grams� golf cart! The tight ponytail and heels vs the more casual outfits Victoria. She’s feisty and fierce and cracked me up! All of Grams� shenanigans Stories about the dock Attic memories Getting caught by Beau with camera on the video chat Throwing rocks at the window The ice cream parlor All the visits at the retirement home Xena Miss Miami (iYKYK) The nicknames. I just love nicknames in romances. That silly bird feeder The canal swim The wedding dance Allll the kisses! Allllllll the kisses!
The book is seriously, amazingly good. So, so good! If you love kissing books and some good tension, pick this one up. It’s basically guaranteed to make you happy!
PS—don’t mind this silly ditty that keep me running through my head about this book. It’s silly, but I just have to put it here. Enjoy. :)
Beau and Gemma sitting in the tree. Fire, and smiles, and oooh wee! First comes hate; then like will start; then comes Grams in her crazy golf cart.
Haha! Okay, I’m done being silly. Just go read the book. It’s way better than my terrible rhymes.
**Many thanks to the author for the copy. A positive review was not requested or required. All thoughts are my own....more
This book is the third in the Falling for Summer series, and I am so over the moon in love, I can barely stand it! Capri and Tristan are absolutely adThis book is the third in the Falling for Summer series, and I am so over the moon in love, I can barely stand it! Capri and Tristan are absolutely adorable. This book is so dreamy and I loved it so much! I’ve been a big fan of Jess’s books for years and I adored her Christmas contemporary, so I was thrilled when she was announced as one of the authors for this series. And she did not disappoint! The banter was top notch. The chemistry was palpable. The setting was perfect. Tristan was perfect in an imperfect way. Capri was sweet and flawed in her own ways, and I loved how strong her crush was. The author protagonist may be one of my new favorite micro-tropes. Capri’s family is fantastic (I am so in love with Tala and Heath; I adore seeing healthy married relationships in books and this one was fabulous). DeeDee is still hilarious. It’s just genuinely so perfect. I loved how the conflict worked in this book. The ways Tristan supported Capri was the cutest thing ever. Seriously, heart meltingly good. Also, I’m a pretty big fan of dual POV, but the single POV in this story really amped up the tension and I was here for it! Other things I loved about this book: Tristan. No brainer. The notebooks Author protagonist How long that crush lasted The Incident Capri’s debut novel Hidden identity Losing the car keys The Sunset Harbor book club The pen name The outings! Every single minute of it! Tristan’s desired prize The manatees! *cue the crying* That spa day The dance Good. Ness. That fireworks show! The kisses. Soooo many good kisses! The last six chapters and the epilogue My book is heavily marked, because there are so many good one liners and scenes. I’m so in love with this book! Jess knocked it out of the park. I can honestly say that every book in this series is an absolute winner! If you haven’t started yet, then get going! Sunset Harbor is the best “place to vacation� this summer.
**Many thanks to the author for the copy of the book. A positive review was not requested or required. These thoughts and opinions belong only to me....more
Allow me to get my big feelings out of the way first: I LOVE JIM AND KATHERINE SO MUCH!!!
There. Now to more reasonable tones and less yelling.
I serioAllow me to get my big feelings out of the way first: I LOVE JIM AND KATHERINE SO MUCH!!!
There. Now to more reasonable tones and less yelling.
I seriously adore these two. If you’ve read any other books by Traci at all, you probably already love Jim and Katherine Whitmore. If you haven’t, that’s okay. This book is a great place to start.
Having read a chunk of Traci’s other books (my husband and I are obsessed with the Guardian series), we already know the Whitmores and are big fans. This book was like a special treat, getting their origin story and seeing how so many of their principles and values stemmed from their earliest years together.
The lineup of characters was perfect. From Katherine’s overprotective, though loving, and very politically motivated parents, to Jim’s entire big family, to Mel, Sandy, Ruth, Abigail, and everyone in between, there are a lot of good people to like in this one. They all balance each other out pretty well, and provided for a pretty great story. Except for Sandy. We still don’t like her.
I loved our bookish and studious heroine, Katherine. And though I enjoy baking, I don’t think I would like it at 4:00am, so kudos to her for being so amazing. She is disciplined, thoughtful, and good at helping people. Jim’s honest and hardworking nature would endear him to anyone, but throw in his political aspirations and his intrinsic goodness, and you have a winner. I really love him. I don’t even care what his political party is, I’d vote for him for president.
I kind of loved that this book has a different pace than other books I’ve read from Traci. It’s a bit slower paced, and romance is the main plot. I loved it! There is still some mystery involved, and every page I wondered when things would get crazy. Then I was still a little caught off-guard when it happened. So good!
Also, I’ve never read a book that made me crave something more. You’ve been warned. I’m pretty sure I need a permanent supply of cinnamon rolls now. Maybe I’ll have time to make some more tomorrow, because I need them! (Tip: if you need Katherine’s recipe for cinnamon rolls, you’ll find it in the Fiction Trio Cookbook.)
*many thanks to the publisher and author for the copy. All thoughts are my own....more
My favorite Becky Wade yet! Told in dual POV from Jude and Gemma (with a few side perspectives from Max, Jude’s half brother, and Fiona, Jude’s motherMy favorite Becky Wade yet! Told in dual POV from Jude and Gemma (with a few side perspectives from Max, Jude’s half brother, and Fiona, Jude’s mother), this book is full of romantic tension, mystery and suspense, family relationships, and beautiful settings. I seriously want to go to Maine and explore now. I’ve never been, and Becky brought the place to life with her words. The romantic tension in this one kept me so engaged from the very beginning. I was fully invested in Jude and Gemma. I liked each of them and was very intrigued by how they would get brought together. I loved the several side plots going on, with Gemma’s cousin and the illegal activity that brought FBI agent Jude to Gemma’s life in the first place; Jude’s mom, Fiona, and the scandal she incited many years previous and her efforts to reconcile with her sister; and the mystery surrounding Gemma’s grandma (who is such a sweetheart!). While there were several things going on, I didn’t feel like they detracted from the main story between Jude and Gemma and just added to the overall book. There are a number of Christian elements throughout this book, but I felt like they were balanced very well. I loved this one so much! And cannot wait for the next installment. ** AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Narrated by Reba Buhr and Ryan Hudson—I enjoyed this narration and liked that there were two different voices to narrate the respective male and female POV chapters. It’s a narration I would listen to again and would recommend for anyone who enjoys audiobooks. ** *many thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts are my own. I loved it so much!...more
THIS BOOK! I am absolutely smitten, totally in love, wholly wrapped up in this story. Happiness for Beginners has long been my favoriteDear Katherine,
THIS BOOK! I am absolutely smitten, totally in love, wholly wrapped up in this story. Happiness for Beginners has long been my favorite of your books, but this one gives it a run for its money. I adored Emma and Charlie. It wasn’t difficult to love Emma. I saw a lot of goodness in her, even if I also saw flaws. I think that’s something I love about your books—your characters are so raw and real, I feel like they could be my neighbors or my friends (at least the friends thing would always be my hope). I’ll be honest, I wasn’t so sure about Charlie at first. He grew on me quickly, however, and then I was smitten and rooting for them both to figure things out and just get together already! I love how the challenges you set up for your characters always throw not only them, but also me. I never see almost anything coming. They really add to the realness and humanity of your novels, and that is the case with this one as well. I adored Emma’s family, and how supportive they were of her. I loved how Emma was pushed and stretched and pulled, and Charlie was pushed and stretched and pulled, and how they grew, both as individuals and together. The banter and humor were spot on, and that was balanced so well with depth and rawness. I just loved it. I absolutely adored it. Forever yours, Jessica
AUDIOK REVIEW: I loved this audio! I felt like the narrator really brought Emma and her emotions and thoughts to life. The audio makes this read even better.
TW/CW: mentions death of parent (occurs previous to book); mention of cancer; health concerns with parent; mentions of divorce; multiple uses of the f-word; romance: kisses only
**Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and Macmillan for the copy. All thoughts are my own....more
Does anyone else every feel like every redemption arc is all about the male lead? I’m sure there are a number of female redemption stories, but I feelDoes anyone else every feel like every redemption arc is all about the male lead? I’m sure there are a number of female redemption stories, but I feel like there is a disparity with male characters getting the vast majority of them. I was so happy to learn this story had a female redemption, and Kasey handled it so well. First off, one cannot help but absolutely love with Tucker. Several years previous to this book’s timeline, June lived out her own worst-fear-doom-story by disappearing from Tucker’s life. But suddenly she’s back, and he has to come to terms with it. I absolutely loved how Kasey portrayed him as very real and human, but also willing, after some time and thought, to forgive June for what she did to him in the past. If you’ve followed my reviews for long, you know I really love a flawed character, and Tucker is obviously not perfect, but still good. And that is what actually makes a perfect character, as far as I’m concerned. June has clearly suffered from trauma that led to her making some pretty poor decisions. And I absolutely loved that the way back to her life wasn’t paved with rocks with ease and instant acceptance by everyone. Once again, the way Kasey wrote these characters was excellent. I’m kind of in love with Arcadia Creek. Spending more time there in this book made me very happy and I’m looking forward to more in the next book. I’m loving this series!
**I received an advanced copy of this book, but a positive review was not required. ...more
I loved being back in Oakley Island for this book so much! I could go back right now. It’s just the sweetest place! And Sadie and Ben were the dream tI loved being back in Oakley Island for this book so much! I could go back right now. It’s just the sweetest place! And Sadie and Ben were the dream team for this book. I was caught completely off guard with how this one went. I am notorious for going into books completely blind. I love the full-scale surprise that comes with reading a book without knowing anything. So I was already going to be surprised with this one, but I could not have predicted how this one would go down at all. And I was very pleasantly surprised. The forced proximity with Sadie and Ben was delicious! The relationship between these characters is complicated, but deep. They have a lot of richness and complexity that makes them so interesting and compelling. Other things I loved: Enemies to lovers Trying to save her The dancing Opening of the Inn Forced proximity Taking care of her The yacht The banter He falls first The suspenseful moments Flirting Number of cameos from Merritt, Eloise, Hunter, and Jake The yacht employees Steve the Pelican The first kiss All the kisses Alllll the epilogues � yes, I wrote that right This book has everything going for it. The development is super good, and it’s balanced perfectly with some humor and light moments. And the swoon is fantastic! I loved this series and I’m kind of sad to see it come to an end. Good thing I can reread, because Jenny and Emma really know how to put out a phenomenal book.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Narrated by Rock Engle and Stephanie Rose � I love this narration duo! They captured the characters and scenes so well and I loved this listen!
**Many thanks to the author and Podium for the ALC. A positive review was not requested or required. These thoughts and opinions belong only to me....more
Well. Color me in love because, once again, an Emma St. Clair book stole my heart! I laughed out loud multiple times, had my heartstrings tugged and mWell. Color me in love because, once again, an Emma St. Clair book stole my heart! I laughed out loud multiple times, had my heartstrings tugged and my feels turned up a notch, and grinned like a fool through most of this sweet little book. First of all, I do love a sweet Christmas story, but it was kind of fun to read a book specifically set in the week between Christmas and New Years. (Though could someone tell me about eating black eyed peas on New Years Day? Because I’m not familiar with that tradition.) I love Chelsea. Love her! I loved her in Falling for Your Best Friend (where she makes an important appearance, and which storyline crosses this book in the best possible way), and I love her even more now. She’s sweet and funny, and her clumsiness and awkwardness is just adorable. So yes, I love her. And holy hunka, Mason is sooo good! To say I was annoyed at John for his meddling would be putting it lightly, because as soon as Mason decided to go for it, his thoughtfulness pushed me over the edge (in the best possible way). He is deliciously swoony because he is decidedly observant and caring and shows that the small things really do mean the most. But John’s meddling really is over the top and I would very much like for him to get a story in which he learns a few lessons about stepping into people’s lives and choosing things for them. [insert evil laugh here] And that epilogue!! And the final Dr. Love letter?! Well sheesh. I’m always excited about what may be coming out of the pipe line from Emma, but now I’m positively jumping up and down with excitement! Did I gasp out loud? Yes, yes I did. Did I then squeal with my level of thrill? Also yes. You got me, Emma. I’m hooked. And now anxiously waiting. Other things I loved: Watson. I died. Crochet unitards Koi fish Skunk luck Dead pine needles Seven foot Christmas tree New Christmas ornaments The vacuuming! Washing the dishes! The hot chocolate!! Mean Girls (I think I’ve only seen that movie once but this book really made me want to rewatch) Crepes Leaning Corgi socks (did I order myself a pair of Corgi socks right after that scene? You bet your socks I did) Clove allergy! Sweet mom Otter man John being gone First confession of love Bubble bath Special cookies Second confession of love All the kissing! Absolutely fantastic book! It’s a short novel, and can easily be consumed in a couple of hours, so treat yourself to a New Year’s book, and read this one!
Quotes I loved:
“You don’t need to hide around me,� he says. “I know you, Chels. And I like you exactly as are.�...more
I am absolutely, wholly, completely in love. Your book has my heart. Like all of it. I keep thinking about this book, dreaming about it, Dear Deborah,
I am absolutely, wholly, completely in love. Your book has my heart. Like all of it. I keep thinking about this book, dreaming about it, loving it. I think I love it more the longer I think about it.
Winnie is kind of my favorite. I love her journey to figuring herself out, and coming to appreciate her differences from her family. I loved how she claimed things she knew were true about herself (I’m Winnie Freaking Knox!), and was (most of the time) mature enough to know when she didn’t know something and ask for help. Obviously no one is perfect (and she should have asked sooner), but I like her tenacity and desire to do well in the things she does. Her character arc was the best and I love her to pieces! I want to be her friend and go visit her in her grand English estate and watch her improved medieval festival. Pretty sure I need this in my life.
The enemies to lovers aspect of this one was perfect. Matthew’s hot and cold attitude was actually kind of funny. The fact that he was hopelessly attracted to Winnie, but endlessly bothered by her at the same time, made for some fantastic tension and I was here for it! Also, Matthew really is the best. Aside from his prickliness with Winnie, he’s basically perfect (in that imperfect way I love all my favorite heroes and which you write so beautifully). He can push my car out of the mud in his suit of armor anytime. Also, I want to see him joust.
The setting on this was absolute perfection. You had me right in England feeling the weather and moodiness of it, next to the sea, in a clearing, in a horse barn, in a medieval castle. I was completely immersed in the place and thought you did a fabulous job on that!
I loved the tension, and the problems they had, but that they also learned to work together and were humble enough to change. Oh! And I loved Matthew’s group of friends! I loved their friendship, and care for each other. I’ve always loved female friend groups in the books I read, but guy friend groups are sooo good too!
I just love this book. I’m obsessed. I need a reread. I cannot WAIT for book two! And I’m so happy you’re giving us some contemporaries in addition to historicals. You rock this genre!
Your friend, Jessica
**Many thanks to the author for the e-copy. A positive review was not required; all thoughts are my own....more
This book is absolutely adorable! It's friends to lovers done right and I could not put down. I just loved so many things about this book. First, I haThis book is absolutely adorable! It's friends to lovers done right and I could not put down. I just loved so many things about this book. First, I have to say that friends to lovers is my favorite trope. When it's done right, the depth to the relationship cannot be matched and I LOVE it! Unfortunately, sometimes the trope involves endless pining and refusal to communicate for approximately 90% of the book (which I do get but let's get more creative). And this book DID IT FOR ME! Kasey has done it again, just proving my assertion that she is one of the best authors around.
I loved how close Max and Rachael were, while still living their separate lives. I loved that Rachael had a legitimate reason for holding back and not talking about her feelings. And I LOVED that Max had no reservations once he started figuring himself out. Way to go, Max! The traditions between the two families in this one were so cute, and I just loved them. The Grinch theme throughout is kind of my favorite and now I want to decorate with Grinch decor. Would it be ridiculous to make January Grinch month? Because January needs something anyway. Maybe that will do.
I loved how Kasey brought in the little traditions, the family backstories, the feelings and dynamics so succinctly. She did a great job of making sure you knew everything you needed, while still keeping the book a little more on the short side, which is perfect for this time of year. Being confidantes for one another is something I loved about the relationship dynamic for Max and Rachael. And the way that they each started figuring out how to help one another, pushing each other to do the hard things, and grow in the process, is another check for depth to their relationship that makes friends the best kind of lovers. Rachael pushing Max to have the hard conversations he'd been avoiding for so long was fantastic. But I especially loved how Max was determined to help Rachael see all the good things about herself, and help her solve her struggles. But he wasn't pushy, just supportive. Very well done.
What else did I love? - Peppermint (or Pepper...cutest name ever) - Grinch kiss (IYKYK) - Grinch cookies - Bets and wagers with each other - Broken collar bones (rude I know, but it was kind of funny) - Brother's girlfriend keeping brother in line - Hot dog fire - Forced proximity - Both sets of parents - Passion for acting It's just so good! I loved the quick jolt of Christmas cheese in book form, and would absolutely read again. Another winner from Kasey!
Audiobook review: Narrated by Rylee Kuberra and John Rogers -- This narration is done so well! It's a duet narration, meaning when the chapter is from the female point of view, the male narrator still reads all the male voiced lines (and vice versa during the MMC POV chapters). I loved their inflections and emotion, their voices, and the overall way they read. I would absolutely read another book narrated by this duo. ...more
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