I really wanted to love The Idea of You by Robinne Lee. The premise was intriguing, and I was eager to dive into a story that promised to beMixed Bag
I really wanted to love The Idea of You by Robinne Lee. The premise was intriguing, and I was eager to dive into a story that promised to be a whirlwind romance with a twist. However, after finishing both the book and watching the movie adaptation, I was left with mixed feelings and a sense that something was missing.
The story follows Solène, a 39-year-old divorced mother, who unexpectedly finds herself in a passionate affair with a much younger man—a world-famous boy band member named Hayes. The chemistry between Solène and Hayes is undeniable, and the author does a great job of capturing the excitement and intensity of their relationship. The writing is beautiful and descriptive, bringing the characters and their emotions to life.
However, despite the strong start, I found myself wanting more as the story progressed. While the romance was captivating, the book felt somewhat one-dimensional, focusing heavily on the physical attraction between the characters without delving deeply into the emotional complexities of their relationship. I also struggled with the pacing, which felt uneven at times, with certain parts dragging while others were rushed.
The ending, in particular, left me unsatisfied. It felt abrupt and didn’t provide the closure I was hoping for, which made the whole experience feel incomplete. The movie adaptation, unfortunately, didn’t fill in the gaps and left me with the same feeling of wanting more.
Overall, The Idea of You had the potential to be a great story, and there were moments where it truly shined. But in the end, it didn’t fully live up to my expectations. If you’re looking for a steamy, escapist romance, this book might be worth a read, but be prepared for a story that may leave you longing for a bit more depth and resolution....more
As part of a readathon, I chose a variety of books covering different themes, one of which was seasons. For my summer read, I landed on this gem. This As part of a readathon, I chose a variety of books covering different themes, one of which was seasons. For my summer read, I landed on this gem. This was my first experience with this author, and if their other works are anything like this one, I’m hooked. This book was a perfect remedy for my reading slump.
The protagonist, Sam, is a beautifully crafted character. An awkward, self-conscious teenager, she quietly falls in love with Wyatt over several summers at the beach. I usually find flashback scenes tedious, but the ones in this book were exceptionally well done. As we follow Sam into adulthood, reeling from a heartbreaking young adult relationship, the author vividly captures the feeling of being utterly lost and conflicted between one's desires and societal expectations. The reunion of Sam and Wyatt after nearly a decade apart was nothing short of perfect.
Each character in this story is imperfect yet deeply relatable. Even Jack, a character who could easily be disliked, is written with such depth and nuance that I found myself understanding his flaws. The author's skill in creating flawed but believable characters is impressive, making me invested in each of them. Although romance isn’t typically my go-to genre, I thoroughly enjoyed the concept and pacing of this story.
However, where this book lost a star for me was the ending. While I appreciated the conclusion, the last few chapters felt rushed, which in turn made the ending feel somewhat abrupt. Despite this, the book was a fantastic introduction to the author and explored themes of second-chance romance, small-town life, and an emotional beach setting.
If you’re intrigued by these themes, I highly recommend giving this book a chance. It’s a heartfelt summer read that beautifully captures the complexities of love and self-discovery. ...more
After reading Tangled Up in You, I found myself so captivated that I delved into the back covers of countless other books by Christina Lauren, eventuaAfter reading Tangled Up in You, I found myself so captivated that I delved into the back covers of countless other books by Christina Lauren, eventually landing on The Paradise Problem. From the very first page, I was hooked, and I ended up devouring the entire book in a single day. It's not just good; it's phenomenal. Every element of this story pulled me in and refused to let go.
This book has everything you could want in a contemporary romance: humor, sexiness, compelling characters, and lush, vibrant detail. It's one of those rare stories that can make you laugh out loud one moment and have you wiping away tears the next. The narrative is intricately woven with a commentary on family, wealth, and love, adding depth and substance to the romance. The emotions this book evoked in me ran the gamut—from laughter to tears, from nail-biting tension to triumphant cheers. In short, I loved every single part of it.
One of the things I’m starting to realize is how much I love the marriage of convenience trope, especially when it’s written as well as it is here. Christina Lauren nails it with Anna and Liam. The way these two characters exist in and around each other is nothing short of mesmerizing. Their relationship grows organically, both as individuals and as a couple, navigating tough situations and even some delightfully zany ones with grace and charm.
Anna and Liam are not just protagonists; they are the beating heart of this story. I found them to be incredibly compelling characters, each with their own struggles, strengths, and vulnerabilities. The connection between them is instantaneous, and I couldn’t get enough of the chemistry that sizzles between them. Every interaction, every exchange of dialogue, every stolen glance feels so real and loaded with meaning.
One of the standout aspects of this book is how it handles the wealth gap between Anna, who is struggling, and Liam, who is insanely rich. Rather than glossing over this disparity, Christina Lauren dives into it, offering insightful commentary on capitalism, power, and privilege. The book explores how wealth can be both a tool and a weapon, and how it affects relationships and personal identity. Importantly, this is done without falling into the traps of chauvinism or exploitation, making the narrative feel both modern and thoughtful.
And then there’s the spice. My god, the spice! The intimate scenes between Anna and Liam are not only steamy but also deeply emotional. The chemistry between them is electric, and their physical connection is enhanced by the bond they share—their love, their respect, their adoration for each other. These moments are not just about physical pleasure; they are about two people who are deeply in love, and that makes the heat all the more intense.
The Paradise Problem is a book that I cannot recommend highly enough. It’s a story that will make you feel every emotion under the sun, from the joy of new love to the tension of unresolved conflict. Christina Lauren has crafted a romance that is not only entertaining but also thoughtful, offering rich commentary on wealth, love, and power without ever losing sight of the characters at its heart. If you love contemporary romance with depth, humor, and a lot of heart, this book is a must-read.
Katherine Center surprised me with her captivating storytelling. Despite my initial doubts, this book left me in a delightful book hangoverGood Vibes
Katherine Center surprised me with her captivating storytelling. Despite my initial doubts, this book left me in a delightful book hangover—I’ve tried other reads, but nothing quite sticks. I can’t believe it took me this long to discover her! Her name has been all over BookTok, but I didn't think her books were my style. How wrong I was! I finished listening to her book this morning, and nothing else compares. The narrator masterfully holds your attention, and the story is an absolute joy. Years ago, a tragic accident on the Wheeler family vacation forever changed their lives—the mother lost her life, the father lost the use of his hand, and the daughters were never the same. Emma, the eldest, channeled her grief into becoming a stellar screenwriter, even winning a prestigious internship she had to forfeit to care for her father. Now, thanks to an old friend and agent, Emma gets a fleeting chance to pursue her dreams. She’s been hired to assist Charlie Yates, the award-winning screenwriter she’s admired for years. However, upon meeting Charlie, Emma realizes that some heroes are best admired from afar—a very long distance afar. This novel will take you on an emotional rollercoaster, making you laugh one moment and cry the next. Like all truly heartfelt stories, it evokes a wide range of emotions from the start, keeping you fully invested until the end. It’s almost like an emotional cleanse—you’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll come out feeling rejuvenated. The book is sweet, fun, funny, heartwarming, agonizing, surprising, and highly entertaining. Katherine Center proves herself a spectacular Rom-Com writer, with at least 50% of the novel being dialogue—something she masters brilliantly. I laughed out loud many times and adored her impactful one-word paragraphs. Center has a talent for crafting wonderful characters that readers can’t help but love and root for. Plus, there’s a fantastic twist that caught me by surprise—bonus points for that. How many Rom-Com authors can write truly surprising twists?
Unfortunately, it will probably be another year or two before Katherine Center finishes her next masterpiece. Luckily, I have plenty of her other books to dive into while I eagerly await her next release.
First Five Star Immerse yourself in the delightful fusion of one of my cherished authors and a captivating romcom, resulting in an exceptional literaFirst Five Star Immerse yourself in the delightful fusion of one of my cherished authors and a captivating romcom, resulting in an exceptional literary experience. My day unfolded with the enchanting narrative as the backdrop to my work, transforming a five-hour shift into a joyous escapade. Despite my initial reservations about romance, this book won me over completely. As a devoted enthusiast of Robert Bryndza's thrilling novels, adding this gem to my collection was a no-brainer.
Venturing into the realm of romantic comedy, originally published in 2016, I eagerly embraced the opportunity to explore whether Rob Bryndza could seamlessly transition from crime fiction to romcom. The answer, I discovered, was a resounding yes.
The audiobook, skillfully narrated by the incredibly talented Jan Cramer, proved to be a highlight. Cramer's mastery in effortlessly switching between diverse accents added an extra layer of enjoyment to the overall experience.
In typical romcom fashion, the storyline unfolded with lightheartedness and frivolity, featuring Natalie as the central character entangled in a love 'rectangle' with three men. While one contender bowed out early on, the suspense regarding the remaining two persisted until the satisfying conclusion, sprinkled with laughter throughout.
Beyond the narrative, what truly captivated me were the characters – an area where Bryndza consistently excels, even outside the crime fiction genre exemplified by his Erika Foster series. While romcoms often rely on stereotypes, Bryndza skillfully transformed them into comical caricatures. From Benjamin, the yoga guru, to Gran, the glamorous Hungarian immigrant with a colorful romantic history, each character brought a unique charm, leaving me both enamored and amused. Gran, in particular, remains a personal favorite, and while I entertain the hopeful notion of her receiving her own book, I acknowledge it might be wishful thinking.
This romcom adventure has solidified my admiration for Bryndza's versatility as an author who seamlessly navigates between crime/thrillers and romance. I eagerly anticipate any future forays into this genre and would undoubtedly become an avid supporter of such endeavors. Completing this book in a single sitting, I wholeheartedly recommend making time for it – the perpetual smile it imparts is well worth the investment. A resounding five-star read awaits you as you embark on a journey to meet the Love family. Click the link below and immerse yourself in the charm and humor that await....more
All the Good Vibes "Book Lovers" by Emily Henry is a celestial gift from the universe, delivering a resounding five-star experience that serves as a pAll the Good Vibes "Book Lovers" by Emily Henry is a celestial gift from the universe, delivering a resounding five-star experience that serves as a poignant reminder of the sheer joy and enchantment found within the world of books. As my recent reads leaned towards the three-star spectrum, this gem emerged to reignite my passion for literature and reaffirm books as one of my ultimate sources of happiness.
Emily Henry's introduction to my reading journey feels like making a new friend. Her storytelling prowess immediately captivated me, drawing me into a world where the magic of falling in love with books takes center stage. In this heartfelt narrative, Henry masterfully weaves a tale that resonates with bookworms on a profound level, making it an absolute must-read.
The characters, particularly the relatable protagonist January and her charming love interest Gus, are brought to life with such authenticity that their witty banter and undeniable chemistry create a delightful, swoon-worthy romance. Their journey becomes a page-turning adventure, leaving me eagerly anticipating each unfolding chapter.
Henry's love and profound understanding of literature shine through every word, turning each book reference and allusion into a delightful nod to the shared passion of bibliophiles. Reading "Book Lovers" felt like a personal conversation with the author, as if she intimately understood the heart of every book lover.
The vivid and picturesque settings painted by Henry elevate the reading experience. From quaint bookstores nestled in small towns to the breathtaking landscapes of a seaside cottage, the imagery is so vivid that it invokes the scent of old pages and the feel of ocean breeze. Henry's ability to transport readers to these magical places is nothing short of remarkable.
The novel's brilliance lies in its seamless blend of romance, self-discovery, and personal growth. Beyond celebrating the power of literature, "Book Lovers" explores themes of friendship, family, and the resilience of the human spirit. The heartwarming love story intertwines with moments of reflection and transformation, leaving readers inspired and hopeful.
For anyone who has sought solace, companionship, or sheer delight within the pages of a book, "Book Lovers" is a must-read. It evokes laughter, tugs at heartstrings, and renews appreciation for the magic of storytelling. Emily Henry has crafted a masterpiece—a love letter to bookworms everywhere—that is an absolute pleasure to read.
In conclusion, "Book Lovers" deserves the highest recommendation. This five-star treasure is a celebration of heartfelt romance, captivating storytelling, and an unwavering love for the written word. It is a literary pilgrimage that readers should embark on immediately. Run, do not walk, to your favorite bookstore and immerse yourself in the magic of "Book Lovers." ...more
It's with a heavy heart that I bid farewell to this enchanting trilogy. These three books have brought me so much joy.
My recent audiobook experience wIt's with a heavy heart that I bid farewell to this enchanting trilogy. These three books have brought me so much joy.
My recent audiobook experience with "Seat Mate" was an absolute delight. The story of Sam and Gwen, who serendipitously meet on a bus and spend an entire day chatting and exploring, turned what could have been an ordinary bus ride into an unforgettable adventure.
Let me tell you, these audiobooks are not your typical listening experience. They transport you into the world of the story, almost like tuning into a captivating TV show. The narrators' voices breathe life into the characters, and the added background sounds, such as people bustling by on the street or cars honking, create an immersive atmosphere. It was a unique audiobook experience that I had never encountered before.
But what truly shines are the stories themselves—they're unbelievably adorable! From the tale of a marathon customer service call that leads to two individuals falling head over heels for each other before they even meet (in "Call Me Maybe") to the accidental late-night text that binds two insomniacs with a shared, hidden trauma, only to reveal their feelings for each other (as in "Sweet Talk"), and finally, the bus ride that takes two strangers on a whirlwind adventure to their destination, with love blossoming along the way (as brilliantly depicted in "Seat Mate"). I'm left with a bittersweet longing, wishing there were more stories to delve into. ...more
Confession time: I've developed quite a reading addiction lately. And it's not just any addiction; it's the kind that leaves you craving for a four-stConfession time: I've developed quite a reading addiction lately. And it's not just any addiction; it's the kind that leaves you craving for a four-star read but always falling short. With six books on my plate for review today, it's evident that I've been keeping myself busy in the world of literature. However, finding that literary spark, that heart-fluttering connection, has been elusive for quite some time. But then, serendipity struck, and I stumbled upon a series that sprinkled a touch of magic into my reading routine. It all began with a rom-com that started with the infamous wrong number. What ensued was pure dynamite – the kind of chemistry between the characters that sparks fireworks. The plot, oh, the plot! It had me hooked from the very first page, making it impossible to put the book down. In fact, I was so enamored that I couldn't resist downloading the audiobook as well, just to experience it all over again. Elliot and JD's relationship feels as natural as breathing, and that's what makes this series so special. It's a story that resonates with the authenticity of a real-life love story. Now, I must confess, I'm not typically a "romance girl," but this series has been a delightful departure from my usual diet of thrillers and horror novels. If you're in the mood for a series that will sweep you off your feet and provide a refreshing break from the norm, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this one a try. ...more
I loved listening to this one . Such a fun audiobook! It was quirky, hilarious, and entertaining. This audiobook provCaptivating Audiobook Performance
I loved listening to this one . Such a fun audiobook! It was quirky, hilarious, and entertaining. This audiobook provided a unique and immersive acting extravaganza that left me truly amazed. I found myself swept up in a captivating blend of audiobook narration and the ambient sounds around me. The distinction between the story and my surroundings became pleasantly blurred, and soon enough, I was engrossed in the world of this endearing, humorous, and enchanting tale.
Vera, our protagonist, is a delightful embodiment of quirkiness. Initially, I wondered if her penchant for dramatic flair might become overwhelming, but to my relief, her quirks evolved into a charming and amusing aspect of her character. What struck me most about Vera is her self-awareness; she embraces her idiosyncrasies while acknowledging that not everyone may understand or embrace them. Even more heartwarming was the realization that Cal, the male lead, saw her uniqueness as an endearing quality that made her truly perfect.
My perception of Cal underwent a transformative shift, and I must admit my own narrow-mindedness. My initial impression portrayed him as an intelligent yet socially awkward man, particularly around women. However, as the layers of his character were unveiled (I won't divulge more to avoid spoilers), he emerged as a far more complex and appealing figure. It was an eye-opening experience for me to recognize how easily I could be swayed by preconceived notions, particularly in the face of his success.
In summary, this audiobook provided a captivating narrative that seamlessly blended with my surroundings, inviting me into a world of endearing characters and unexpected revelations. Vera's quirky charm and Cal's multi-faceted persona are a testament to the author's skillful storytelling. I am truly grateful for this eye-opening and thoroughly enjoyable experience. The narrative itself is an absolute gem! Although Cara Bastone is a new discovery for me, I am eagerly anticipating delving into her other literary works....more
What a breath of fresh air this charming romance novel turned out to be! I adored the unique and unexpected qualities of the characters—a pRefreshing
What a breath of fresh air this charming romance novel turned out to be! I adored the unique and unexpected qualities of the characters—a podcaster who happens to be a former tuba player, and a NASA employee—truly a pairing like no other!
Margo and Declan carried the baggage of being high school rivals, or so Margo believed. When their paths cross again at their best friends' wedding, they are given a golden opportunity to reconnect. However, Margo has always been wary of forming attachments, let alone rekindling old ones. With a two-week paid vacation in her hands, Margo embarks on a journey of self-discovery, with Declan's support, and quite possibly discovers much more than she anticipated.
I adored every single aspect of this book. Margo, Declan, and even Jo were wonderfully fleshed out characters that I truly enjoyed getting to know. And who can resist a well-crafted romance?
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to St. Martin's Griffin, Kristyn Miller, and NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy. This is undoubtedly a book I will treasure! In fact, I've already added Given Our History, slated for release in 2024, to my must-read list. It seems I have found a new go-to for my romance reads....more
I was on a mission to start my year of reading off with a bang but at the same time I wanted to read something out of my comfort zone. SAmerican Dream
I was on a mission to start my year of reading off with a bang but at the same time I wanted to read something out of my comfort zone. So, when I saw this on NetGalley it checked off a few of my reading requirements for 2022. I wasn’t sure initially if I was going to like Joan is Okay. The writing style very straight forward which is much like Joan out main character. She is a team player at a big hospital in NYC and her big interest and focus is to keep everything running like a well-oiled machine. As I continued reading and learned more about her parents, it was easy to understand what formed Joan into the person she is. There is an underlying dry humor in this book that makes it more relatable. What I loved about this book is that it shows the reader that it is okay to be unapologetically yourself. Without conforming to the want and need to fit into a mold that was set out for you.
Thank you to all parties involved in the decision for my receiving this arc in exchange for my honest review. Overall I enjoyed this book very much four stars from me. I will read more from this author moving forward. ...more
Cute Read I wasn’t prepared for how much I would enjoy Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey. Going into this book, I had never read any of Bailey’s work before, Cute Read I wasn’t prepared for how much I would enjoy Fix Her Up by Tessa Bailey. Going into this book, I had never read any of Bailey’s work before, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. The only reason I picked it up was because I needed a book with some kind of tool on the cover for the final day of a 10-day readathon. Thank goodness for Kindle Unlimited, which delivered this unexpected gem right when I needed it. This was my first Tessa Bailey book, but it definitely won’t be my last.
From the very beginning, I was drawn in by the vibrant characters and the charming small-town setting. Georgie and Travis felt like real people with real struggles, and I couldn’t help but root for them as their story unfolded. The chemistry between them was electric, and Bailey did an excellent job of building tension and anticipation without rushing the romance. The book is the first in a trilogy, and it’s safe to say I’m eagerly looking forward to diving into the next two installments.
The story centers around Georgie Castle, the youngest in her family and often overlooked or seen as just "the little sister." She’s had a crush on Travis Ford, her brother’s best friend, since they were teenagers. Travis, a former professional baseball player, is down on his luck after an injury ends his career, and he’s wallowing in self-pity when Georgie storms into his life, literally throwing takeout food at him to snap him out of it. What follows is a delightful fake dating trope, where both characters agree to pretend they’re in a relationship to solve their respective problems—Georgie wants to be seen as an adult, and Travis needs to clean up his playboy image to get his career back on track.
What I loved most about this book is how Bailey takes the time to develop the characters and their relationship. Georgie isn’t just a quirky, cute heroine; she’s a woman who is determined to be taken seriously and to pursue her dreams, even if it means stepping out of her comfort zone. Travis, on the other hand, is more than just a brooding, sexy athlete. He’s a man who’s lost his way and is trying to figure out who he is without the sport that once defined him. Their relationship starts off as a mutually beneficial arrangement, but it quickly becomes clear that they’re exactly what each other needs to heal and grow.
As they navigate their fake relationship, both Georgie and Travis undergo significant personal growth. Georgie learns to assert herself and embrace her own strength, while Travis realizes that there’s more to life than his baseball career and that love, true love, is worth the risk. The romance is steamy and heartfelt, filled with moments that made me smile, swoon, and even tear up a little.
Bailey’s writing style is engaging and witty, with just the right amount of humor to balance the emotional depth of the story. The small-town atmosphere adds an extra layer of coziness to the book, making it the perfect read when you’re in the mood for something warm and uplifting. And the side characters, including Georgie’s family and the members of the “Just Us League,” a group of women supporting each other through life’s ups and downs, are well-developed and add richness to the story.
Fix Her Up is more than just a romance; it’s a story about finding yourself, taking risks, and discovering that sometimes the things you need the most are the ones you never saw coming. If you’re a fan of the fake dating trope, small-town settings, or just love a good, steamy romance with heart, then this book is for you. I’m so glad I picked it up on a whim, and I can’t wait to see where Bailey takes the characters in the rest of the series. This book was a great start to a trilogy....more
I am on a roll this week it is the fourth of March and I have finished four books. This arc was given to me by Harper360 via NetGalley for my honest rI am on a roll this week it is the fourth of March and I have finished four books. This arc was given to me by Harper360 via NetGalley for my honest review. While I did enjoy this read It did teach me that an easy-breezy chit-lit read is no longer my cup of tea. I reflected and went through my Goodreads and realized that I prefer mysteries and horror above all else and that is the only reason this book is getting a three-star review. The book follows best friends Stella, Ana, and Dixie that are best friends who have seen each other through the good the bad, and in some parts of this book the ugly. Each woman is now at a crossroads in their own lives and trying to keep everything balanced while trying to keep their friendship intact.
Stella is the married woman of the group she is married to Jake who by the end of the book you will hate than love. They have two children. She had an awesome career which she traded in for housewife and mother duties and on top of it, all Jake is far from the perfect husband. She has gone from having a high-flying career to being a housewife, worrying about her not-so-close relationship with her husband, who has been keeping financial secrets from her. Ana is trying to find the perfect man on paper. She and Rex are trying to take the next step in their relationship and have a baby. Mind you that throughout the novel you get the sense that Ana is not sure that what she thought she wanted on paper is exactly what she is looking for. Dixie the fiery redhead is my favorite of the three. She meets a mystery man and goes on this adventure that every woman should experience once in life. I do not want to give away too much of this book so I will say if you are looking for a summer read book that you can finish in one day that this book would fit nicely on top of your beach read pile. Thank you to all parties involved in my approval of this arc it was an enjoyable read....more
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