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Smythe-Smith Quartet #1
Just Like Heaven
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Romance (2011)Once again, #1 New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn transports her readers to historical romance heaven! Quinn’s Just Like Heaven is the dazzling first installment of a delightful quartet of Regency Era-set tales featuring the romantic exploits of the well-meaning but less-than-accomplished Smythe-Smith musicians—in this case, a beautiful violinist in the pitiful group who has her sights set on marrying the last unwed Bridgerton…unless her handsome, love-struck guardian has anything to say about it. Bridgerton fans will cry, “Encore!”—as will every reader who adores England’s Regency period and great love stories that are smart, witty, and lighthearted.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2011
2005 people are currently reading
37039 people want to read
About the author
Julia Quinn
194 books46.1k followers#1 New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn loves to dispel the myth that smart women don't read (or write) romance, and and if you watch reruns of the game show The Weakest Link you might just catch her winning the $79,000 jackpot. She displayed a decided lack of knowledge about baseball, country music, and plush toys, but she is proud to say that she aced all things British and literary, answered all of her history and geography questions correctly, and knew that there was a Da Vinci long before there was a code.
A graduate of Harvard and Radcliffe Colleges, Ms. Quinn is one of only sixteen members of Romance Writers of America’s Hall of Fame. Her books have been translated into 32 languages, and she lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest.
The Bridgertons, her popular series of historical romance, is currently in production by Shondaland as a Netflix original series starring Julie Andrews, Phoebe Dynevor, and Rége-Jean Page.
A graduate of Harvard and Radcliffe Colleges, Ms. Quinn is one of only sixteen members of Romance Writers of America’s Hall of Fame. Her books have been translated into 32 languages, and she lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest.
The Bridgertons, her popular series of historical romance, is currently in production by Shondaland as a Netflix original series starring Julie Andrews, Phoebe Dynevor, and Rége-Jean Page.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,283 reviews
November 14, 2022
I actually didn't like Honoria.
And every friend group has its Honoria. It's like a requirement or something. She's the one that basically spoils all the fun and puts the kibosh on your plans of a day-drinking adventure, then guilts everyone into volunteering their Saturday to help her put together craft kits for her Vacation Bible School class. She's that bitch that you're suposed to like because she's so goddamn nice, but really you avoid being alone with her because getting stuck in a conversation with a goody-goody is like its own ring of hell.
Ok, so for those of you who have never read a Julia Quinn novel, the Smythe-Smith Quartet is a well-known group. This family has a long standing tradition of a musical made up of 4 unmarried Smythe-Smith girls. And it is always awful. A few of the girls are intelligent enough to realize that most of the people come out of pity, but most of the girls are completely unaware that their annual performance is a torture worse than death.
Now two of Honoria's cousins were completely mortified to have to play this year. Both were willing to do almost anything to get out of it, including faking illness and considering marriage to old men.
Honoria was proud to be in it because she felt like it was a family tradition and she was determined to smile like a lunatic and pretend to be thrilled to be there.
Because she's so nice.
Fine. But even after she was openly mocked and humiliated at one of the concerts, and even after seeing how much of a negative impact it had on her cousins, she was STILL happily planning to put her as-of-yet unborn daughter up on the stage when she gets to be the right age.
Are. You. Kidding. Me?!
However, Honoria and Marcus were a perfect couple. They'd known each other since they were children, had already formed a friendship, then they figured out they love-loved each other after she cleaned out the festering wound she inadvertently caused on his leg and nursed him back to health.
Very nice. I'm quite happy for them. Really.
The story itself was sweet and cute.
But we will never be friends, Honoria!
And every friend group has its Honoria. It's like a requirement or something. She's the one that basically spoils all the fun and puts the kibosh on your plans of a day-drinking adventure, then guilts everyone into volunteering their Saturday to help her put together craft kits for her Vacation Bible School class. She's that bitch that you're suposed to like because she's so goddamn nice, but really you avoid being alone with her because getting stuck in a conversation with a goody-goody is like its own ring of hell.
Ok, so for those of you who have never read a Julia Quinn novel, the Smythe-Smith Quartet is a well-known group. This family has a long standing tradition of a musical made up of 4 unmarried Smythe-Smith girls. And it is always awful. A few of the girls are intelligent enough to realize that most of the people come out of pity, but most of the girls are completely unaware that their annual performance is a torture worse than death.
Now two of Honoria's cousins were completely mortified to have to play this year. Both were willing to do almost anything to get out of it, including faking illness and considering marriage to old men.
Honoria was proud to be in it because she felt like it was a family tradition and she was determined to smile like a lunatic and pretend to be thrilled to be there.
Because she's so nice.
Fine. But even after she was openly mocked and humiliated at one of the concerts, and even after seeing how much of a negative impact it had on her cousins, she was STILL happily planning to put her as-of-yet unborn daughter up on the stage when she gets to be the right age.
Are. You. Kidding. Me?!
However, Honoria and Marcus were a perfect couple. They'd known each other since they were children, had already formed a friendship, then they figured out they love-loved each other after she cleaned out the festering wound she inadvertently caused on his leg and nursed him back to health.
Very nice. I'm quite happy for them. Really.
The story itself was sweet and cute.
But we will never be friends, Honoria!
January 23, 2023
good lord this was boring. i wanted to get on board with this story cause i like a good caretaking plot line. but this book lacked tension and after the longgggg caretaking bit, there was a whole lot of nothing in terms of romantic development.
June 11, 2011
5 stars – Historical/Regency Romance
Warning: May cause fits of giggles resulting in inquisitive stares if in public, an irrepressible smile to stay on your face, and cavities from too much sweetness.
This is such a cute, fun, charming, witty, feel-good read, and it was the perfect cure for my stressful, crummy week. It made me erupt with laughter several times, smile broadly throughout, and sigh in sheer delight at the romantic, sweet ending.
The Bridgertons hold a special place among my historical romance favorites, and the Smythe-Smiths promise to be another entertaining family with comical and romantic antics galore. Just Like Heaven is a heartwarming addition to my Julia Quinn keeper shelf. 5 sweet, heavenly stars!
Warning: May cause fits of giggles resulting in inquisitive stares if in public, an irrepressible smile to stay on your face, and cavities from too much sweetness.
This is such a cute, fun, charming, witty, feel-good read, and it was the perfect cure for my stressful, crummy week. It made me erupt with laughter several times, smile broadly throughout, and sigh in sheer delight at the romantic, sweet ending.
The Bridgertons hold a special place among my historical romance favorites, and the Smythe-Smiths promise to be another entertaining family with comical and romantic antics galore. Just Like Heaven is a heartwarming addition to my Julia Quinn keeper shelf. 5 sweet, heavenly stars!
July 12, 2020
A simple and light romance, which is sometimes just what you need
When I first started reading romances, Julia Quinn was one of my favorite authors and I fell absolutely in love with her Bridgerton series, as I know many other romance readers did as well. The past few years, her books have been uneven for me, so I was a little nervous about picking this one up. The Smythe-Smiths were famous (or infamous is probably more accurate) but would it be what you expect from a Quinn book - a fun and light romance - or would it be like the past few duds?
I was pleasantly surprised and somewhat relieved that I ended up enjoying it. I liked the simplicity of the book and the hero and heroine are very likable; one thing I love about Julia Quinn books is that her heroines are always women whom I think would be nice to have as friends. However the lack of any real spark made it not much of a keeper for me. When I really love a romance, I end the book with a ridiculously stupid grin on my face that doesn't go away for hours; here, that didn't happen.
Pros
It did have some strong aspects, while also missing those that we - or at least I - often bemoan in romance book:
-- There was no contrived subplot - mystery, mass-murdering or otherwise
-- There is not instant lust; they've known each other since childhood and have considered one another practical brother and sister
-- There are no love interests thrown in for the sole purpose of dragging the plot out and making you squirm in your seat - or couch or bed - and there were no hated Big Misunderstandings
-- The book was really focused on the two main characters, Honoria and Marcus
-- One really gets the sense that they would make a lovely couple and have a lot of what the other needs
So why the 3 stars? I was actually torn between 3 and 3.5, but either way I think this book may have suffered having been read a day after I finished two absolutely great HRs that I gave 4.5 and 5 stars. It was a perfect light, simple, fun romance read and sometimes that is what you need. Quinn delivers on the dialogue and back and forth repartee, just as she used to so wonderfully in the Bridgerton books.
I also thought Marcus was a wonderful hero. Most romance heroes are rakes or rogues of some sort, but Marcus is actually a quiet, shy, serious (but not stuffy) sort of man. We're told that people often consider him formidable and imposing, but we're not ever really shown this, since we mostly see the softer side that he shows to Honoria. I loved that what he longed for was a family and someone to love who would love him in return. One of the things that draws him most to Honoria is her loving, carefree manner and the value she places on others, on family, and on tradition. In this sense, the story was truly lovely and Marcus's wonder in the Epilogue at the family he has begun to form is touching and sweet.
Cons
My main criticisms that kept it from receiving a higher rating are the following:
(1) Marcus gets deathly ill and Honoria rushes with her mother to his bedside to nurse him. This part seemed to really drag on and the section of his illness *seems* to take up half the book. Other romances have this plot device and don't suffer from it, but here I think it dragged on too long and since Marcus is insensible for most of it, one doesn't feel that it develops their relationship much.
(2) While the part of his illness seemed dragged out, the rest seemed very, very rushed. What we enjoy is the process of them falling in love, them working their feelings out and acting them, and then the happy conclusion. This part of the story is not explored enough for me and besides for a brief little kiss when he gets better, the only other romance scene between them is at the end. Quinn's books have never been heavy on the steamy aspect, but I definitely expected more than this.
The Smythe-Smith Quartet
Book 1 - Just Like Heaven, Lady Honoria Smythe-Smith
Book 2 - ?
Book 3 - ?
Book 4 - ?
(My guess for the heroines are Iris, Sarah, and maybe ?Anne Wynter?)
Bottom Line
Just Like Heaven is perfect for a light, fun afternoon read and I would recommend getting it from the library, but don't read it when you're wanting a romance that packs a punch and affects you emotionally.
This review is of an advanced copy format of the book from the Amazon Vine Program.
When I first started reading romances, Julia Quinn was one of my favorite authors and I fell absolutely in love with her Bridgerton series, as I know many other romance readers did as well. The past few years, her books have been uneven for me, so I was a little nervous about picking this one up. The Smythe-Smiths were famous (or infamous is probably more accurate) but would it be what you expect from a Quinn book - a fun and light romance - or would it be like the past few duds?
I was pleasantly surprised and somewhat relieved that I ended up enjoying it. I liked the simplicity of the book and the hero and heroine are very likable; one thing I love about Julia Quinn books is that her heroines are always women whom I think would be nice to have as friends. However the lack of any real spark made it not much of a keeper for me. When I really love a romance, I end the book with a ridiculously stupid grin on my face that doesn't go away for hours; here, that didn't happen.
Pros
It did have some strong aspects, while also missing those that we - or at least I - often bemoan in romance book:
-- There was no contrived subplot - mystery, mass-murdering or otherwise
-- There is not instant lust; they've known each other since childhood and have considered one another practical brother and sister
-- There are no love interests thrown in for the sole purpose of dragging the plot out and making you squirm in your seat - or couch or bed - and there were no hated Big Misunderstandings
-- The book was really focused on the two main characters, Honoria and Marcus
-- One really gets the sense that they would make a lovely couple and have a lot of what the other needs
So why the 3 stars? I was actually torn between 3 and 3.5, but either way I think this book may have suffered having been read a day after I finished two absolutely great HRs that I gave 4.5 and 5 stars. It was a perfect light, simple, fun romance read and sometimes that is what you need. Quinn delivers on the dialogue and back and forth repartee, just as she used to so wonderfully in the Bridgerton books.
I also thought Marcus was a wonderful hero. Most romance heroes are rakes or rogues of some sort, but Marcus is actually a quiet, shy, serious (but not stuffy) sort of man. We're told that people often consider him formidable and imposing, but we're not ever really shown this, since we mostly see the softer side that he shows to Honoria. I loved that what he longed for was a family and someone to love who would love him in return. One of the things that draws him most to Honoria is her loving, carefree manner and the value she places on others, on family, and on tradition. In this sense, the story was truly lovely and Marcus's wonder in the Epilogue at the family he has begun to form is touching and sweet.
Cons
My main criticisms that kept it from receiving a higher rating are the following:
(1) Marcus gets deathly ill and Honoria rushes with her mother to his bedside to nurse him. This part seemed to really drag on and the section of his illness *seems* to take up half the book. Other romances have this plot device and don't suffer from it, but here I think it dragged on too long and since Marcus is insensible for most of it, one doesn't feel that it develops their relationship much.
(2) While the part of his illness seemed dragged out, the rest seemed very, very rushed. What we enjoy is the process of them falling in love, them working their feelings out and acting them, and then the happy conclusion. This part of the story is not explored enough for me and besides for a brief little kiss when he gets better, the only other romance scene between them is at the end. Quinn's books have never been heavy on the steamy aspect, but I definitely expected more than this.
The Smythe-Smith Quartet
Book 1 - Just Like Heaven, Lady Honoria Smythe-Smith
Book 2 - ?
Book 3 - ?
Book 4 - ?
(My guess for the heroines are Iris, Sarah, and maybe ?Anne Wynter?)
Bottom Line
Just Like Heaven is perfect for a light, fun afternoon read and I would recommend getting it from the library, but don't read it when you're wanting a romance that packs a punch and affects you emotionally.
This review is of an advanced copy format of the book from the Amazon Vine Program.
December 31, 2020
Lisa told me to read this, so of course I dropped everything and read this!
This is a spin-off of the Bridgerton series and I FREAKED when Gregory and Colin made appearances! The Smythe-Smith performances were hilarious in the Bridgerton books, so I was excited to meet that family. Honoria and Marcus have known each other since they were young because Marcus was best friends with her older brother. He was always kind to Honoria and now he's around a lot after Daniel, her brother, runs out of the country after participating in a duel. The premise of this book is that Marcus falls ill and Honoria nurses him back to health and they slowly fall for each other. I loved their friendship and their dancing around each other. The nursing-back-to-health trope was so fun and I loved how Honoria saw Marcus in an intimate environment that she normally wouldn't be able to. Marcus is such a sweetheart and it was so freaking cute when he confessed his feelings for her! I smiled so much throughout this book and already can't wait to pick up the next book!
This is a spin-off of the Bridgerton series and I FREAKED when Gregory and Colin made appearances! The Smythe-Smith performances were hilarious in the Bridgerton books, so I was excited to meet that family. Honoria and Marcus have known each other since they were young because Marcus was best friends with her older brother. He was always kind to Honoria and now he's around a lot after Daniel, her brother, runs out of the country after participating in a duel. The premise of this book is that Marcus falls ill and Honoria nurses him back to health and they slowly fall for each other. I loved their friendship and their dancing around each other. The nursing-back-to-health trope was so fun and I loved how Honoria saw Marcus in an intimate environment that she normally wouldn't be able to. Marcus is such a sweetheart and it was so freaking cute when he confessed his feelings for her! I smiled so much throughout this book and already can't wait to pick up the next book!
August 26, 2016
★★★★½ This book is a delight! Ms. Quinn has managed to take an amusing inside joke from her Bridgertons series, change it into a charming anecdote, then transform it into an enchanting love story, plus make it the start of a developing series. Wow!
stolen treacle tart
But, back to the 1820’s and stolen treacle tarts. I loved Marcus.
A good read. I can't wait for the next in the series.
After eighteen years, no one attended a Smythe-Smith musical without some inkling of the horrors that lay ahead.Sure, it is a light, fast, fun read. However, the illness Marcus Holroyd, Earl of Chatteris, contracts is no laughing matter. Honoria Smythe-Smith dithers a bit too much for me before she discovers his problem. Not fair? True. Due to my experience as an ICU nurse who has dealt with patients who don’t survive this, I knew what was developing and time is of the essence; for despite today’s technology, intravenous fluids resuscitation, and antibiotics, this is one of the hardest things to cure. (Did you notice JQ’s dedication to Paul – it is always Paul, BTW – where he told her, “He has to die.”) The following spoiler contains IMHO medical ramblings:
stolen treacle tart
But, back to the 1820’s and stolen treacle tarts. I loved Marcus.
He’d spent his life being a perfect gentleman. He’d never been a flirt. He’d never been a rogue. He hated being the center of attention, but by God, he wanted to be the center of her attention. He wanted to do the wrong thing, the bad thing. He wanted to pull her into his arms and carry her to her bed.And I loved Marcus and Honoria’s sweet love story of childhood friends turned to lovers. It is a book that just keeps getting better and better with each turn of the page. I found myself laughing over delicious dialogue, and sighing over the discovery of tender feelings.
A good read. I can't wait for the next in the series.
November 6, 2016
This book made me 
and 
, sometimes 
, sometimes 
, most of the time 
and overall 
The story - Honoria and Marcus have known each other since they were children. They were friends, well, as much as one can be a friend to your brothers BFF. Daniel (the brother) got himself into trouble, and he made Marcus promise to keep an eye on Honoria (in translation: scare off any suitor imaginable, and then some XD).
Honoria is on the other hand quite desperate to find a husband, so she and her cousins plan a party, invite some eligeable gentlemen and hope to snare one
Marcus interrupts Honoria in her devious plot (she dag a hole in the ground to feign a fall and ankle injury), end ends up hurt himself
that leads to an ankle injury and later infection, during which non other than Honoria tends to him
Marcus is not the typical Regency hero, he's not a rake or a rogue, he's an ordinary gentleman that doesn't understand women and somehow always tends to say the wrong thing
During his illness he realizes he's fallen in love with Honoria, but has absolutely no idea what to do with that, how to seduce her :) He was so adorable, I just loved him!
Honoria is from a big family, the youngest daughter that everyone avoided. She was always somehow connected to Marcus, they knew each other for a long time, and were good friends. After the accident, when she takes care of him, she realizes she's in love
This was full of beautiful romance, great dialogue, it was witty and funny, we got to see some characters from JQ's other series, oh how I love Lady Danbury
That woman is just awesome!!
And the book “Miss Butterworth and the Mad Baron?”
"pecked to death by pidgeons" ahahahahaha oh boy if that book existed I'd read it just to have a few good laughs :)
Why 4 stars?
I actually adored this book, it was a 5 star read, up untill it came to the last 40 pages or so. I just think it should've been longer or something, that ending just seemed so rushed, the author tried to squeeze everything in it, the musicale, the sex, Daniel comming home, the happy ending and all...
But it was still great and I'd recommend it to all historical and JQ lovers :)
*for those of you who like a bit more erotic sex in their books, it's probably not for you as it is mostly a romantic novel with only one sex scene (and it isn't much, personally I could do without it, it would give this book a 5 star rating if it was out, but oh well)*
and 
, sometimes 
, sometimes 
, most of the time 
and overall 
The story - Honoria and Marcus have known each other since they were children. They were friends, well, as much as one can be a friend to your brothers BFF. Daniel (the brother) got himself into trouble, and he made Marcus promise to keep an eye on Honoria (in translation: scare off any suitor imaginable, and then some XD).
Honoria is on the other hand quite desperate to find a husband, so she and her cousins plan a party, invite some eligeable gentlemen and hope to snare one
Marcus interrupts Honoria in her devious plot (she dag a hole in the ground to feign a fall and ankle injury), end ends up hurt himself
that leads to an ankle injury and later infection, during which non other than Honoria tends to him
Marcus is not the typical Regency hero, he's not a rake or a rogue, he's an ordinary gentleman that doesn't understand women and somehow always tends to say the wrong thing
During his illness he realizes he's fallen in love with Honoria, but has absolutely no idea what to do with that, how to seduce her :) He was so adorable, I just loved him!
Honoria is from a big family, the youngest daughter that everyone avoided. She was always somehow connected to Marcus, they knew each other for a long time, and were good friends. After the accident, when she takes care of him, she realizes she's in love
This was full of beautiful romance, great dialogue, it was witty and funny, we got to see some characters from JQ's other series, oh how I love Lady Danbury
That woman is just awesome!! And the book “Miss Butterworth and the Mad Baron?”
"pecked to death by pidgeons" ahahahahaha oh boy if that book existed I'd read it just to have a few good laughs :) Why 4 stars?
I actually adored this book, it was a 5 star read, up untill it came to the last 40 pages or so. I just think it should've been longer or something, that ending just seemed so rushed, the author tried to squeeze everything in it, the musicale, the sex, Daniel comming home, the happy ending and all...
But it was still great and I'd recommend it to all historical and JQ lovers :)*for those of you who like a bit more erotic sex in their books, it's probably not for you as it is mostly a romantic novel with only one sex scene (and it isn't much, personally I could do without it, it would give this book a 5 star rating if it was out, but oh well)*
July 7, 2020
4.5 stars
May 24, 2022
I'm late to the Julia Quinn bandwagon.... this was my first time reading her and this book was just perfect and everything I wanted! I love brothers best friend trope and it had a lot of forced proximity. This was very sweet and heartwarming and I loved every moment from start to finish! This had me smiling and laughing while reading and I'm very excited to pick up more of this series and more of JQ!
January 23, 2018
I am a sucker for a good Regency romance and Julia Quinn definitely writes good ones. I am part way through her Bridgertons series and got side tracked onto this one which is the first in her Smythe-Smith Quartet series. It is related and a couple of the Bridgerton brothers had parts to play.
Quinn writes with a very light touch and her characters are always charming and entertaining. She is also very adept at humorous dialogue and it is easy to laugh out loud at certain moments. I was reading this one on a train and I got a few funny looks!
Books like this one are so good for giving your day a lift and lightening your load. Light, frothy and fun but still well written and totally enjoyable. Loved it:)
Quinn writes with a very light touch and her characters are always charming and entertaining. She is also very adept at humorous dialogue and it is easy to laugh out loud at certain moments. I was reading this one on a train and I got a few funny looks!
Books like this one are so good for giving your day a lift and lightening your load. Light, frothy and fun but still well written and totally enjoyable. Loved it:)
March 11, 2015
Historical Romances are my book candy and I love them for no sane reason. I can’t even begin to explain why if you put a woman in a corset and make her banter in an uptight and rigid social setting it becomes funnier than in a contemporary romance. Really I should hate books set in a time where a woman’s main goal is to be attractive, virtuous and marry well, but I don’t…I love them. I usually read them in one sitting and love every indulgent filled moment of it.
Just like heaven was my very first Julia Quinn novel. I’ve been hearing from quite a few people that she is the go to for Historical Romance. I enjoyed every decadent moment I spent in this novel but it was really middle-of-the-road for me. It started out really enjoyable but I wanted the romance to move along just a little faster, this is definitely a wait until almost the end for the big emotional reveal. I guess I was just a little impatient.
Honoria spent her childhood chasing around her brother and Marcus wanting to play and be part of the fun the boys were having. She had even been nicknamed ‘bug’ by them. She has known Marcus forever it seems and is probably the only person that realizes that under that frosty façade is a kind man who is just a bit shy. She has thought about him as a brother for much of her life until she realizes that those feelings might not be entirely brotherly affection after all.
Marcus grew up an only child and was really alone until meeting Daniel. They became best friends and Marcus loved spending time with his very messy and large family. So when Daniel was driven out of the country he agreed to look after Honoria and make sure she found a suitable husband. What he didn't know was that Honoria is desperate to find a husband this season as she now feels completely alone too with the loss of her brother and the emptiness of the house they all grew up in.
Everything starts to go wrong when a plan involving a shovel, a small hole and a damsel in distress goes awry. The beginning was so cute and I really loved it. The time they spent together as children up to Marcus catching Honoria putting her plan into place. However the middle dragged a bit for me and I really wanted some more romantic interludes to happen up to this point. But due to Marcus’s situation they were really subdued. It is a cute story and I really enjoyed the ending as well, especially the big reveal of emotions was a fantastic speech.
It is a fun story but maybe it wasn't the best place for me to start my foray into Julia Quinn. The writing is good and I can see why she is such a popular novelist. I have been told that the Bridgerton series is like crack so I will move on to that next.
Recommended for those who like friends to lover stories and don’t mind waiting until the 11th hour for a little boom-chicka-bow-wow in their Historical Romances.
Just like heaven was my very first Julia Quinn novel. I’ve been hearing from quite a few people that she is the go to for Historical Romance. I enjoyed every decadent moment I spent in this novel but it was really middle-of-the-road for me. It started out really enjoyable but I wanted the romance to move along just a little faster, this is definitely a wait until almost the end for the big emotional reveal. I guess I was just a little impatient.
Honoria spent her childhood chasing around her brother and Marcus wanting to play and be part of the fun the boys were having. She had even been nicknamed ‘bug’ by them. She has known Marcus forever it seems and is probably the only person that realizes that under that frosty façade is a kind man who is just a bit shy. She has thought about him as a brother for much of her life until she realizes that those feelings might not be entirely brotherly affection after all.
Marcus grew up an only child and was really alone until meeting Daniel. They became best friends and Marcus loved spending time with his very messy and large family. So when Daniel was driven out of the country he agreed to look after Honoria and make sure she found a suitable husband. What he didn't know was that Honoria is desperate to find a husband this season as she now feels completely alone too with the loss of her brother and the emptiness of the house they all grew up in.
Everything starts to go wrong when a plan involving a shovel, a small hole and a damsel in distress goes awry. The beginning was so cute and I really loved it. The time they spent together as children up to Marcus catching Honoria putting her plan into place. However the middle dragged a bit for me and I really wanted some more romantic interludes to happen up to this point. But due to Marcus’s situation they were really subdued. It is a cute story and I really enjoyed the ending as well, especially the big reveal of emotions was a fantastic speech.
It is a fun story but maybe it wasn't the best place for me to start my foray into Julia Quinn. The writing is good and I can see why she is such a popular novelist. I have been told that the Bridgerton series is like crack so I will move on to that next.
Recommended for those who like friends to lover stories and don’t mind waiting until the 11th hour for a little boom-chicka-bow-wow in their Historical Romances.
September 1, 2016
I love Rosalyn Landor, and she did her best, but this book was endlessly, incredibly boring. So boring that I DNFed the audiobook at 65% or so, which is over 6 hours of listening.
This was my second book by Julia Quinn, and I think I need to hard backtrack and go right to the Bridgertons series because everyone RAVES about those books. I'm hoping that those books are better, not only because I already bought three of them, but because I'll be so disappointed if Julia Quinn isn't for me.
This book wasn't bad, but honestly NOTHING happens. The heroine is sheltered and sweety, sweet, sweet, with just no meat on her. I wanted her to have some sort of spunk, some sort of personality to push the plot along. I felt very little chemistry between the two MCs, and all of the side character-relatives became confusing and distracting for me.
I think I've been spoiled by Courtney Milan and Tessa Dare M/F historicals where the MCs are SO unique and memorable. In fact, I forgot the MCs names in this book, and I only just finished listening.
Not for me.
December 29, 2020
A reread from my earlier high school days. I cried so much. Marcus is my favourite Julia quinn hero.
August 26, 2022
O carte unde emoția și umorul fac legea. Se citește ușor, te relaxează și îți oferă o poveste mai mult decât uimitoare. Dragoste înflorește atunci când nu te aștepți, face ravagii, iar la final îți oferă extazul!
April 13, 2016
Review written April 13, 2016
4.2 Stars - Solid good traditional nice historical
Just Like Heaven is the first in a newer HR series by Julia Quinn, a very popular author I have no earliest experience of. (It will be more by her.) — Let's see, this sounded perfect and so it was. Funny, sweet, innocent (you must patiently wait for the kiss) and just as well done as a perfect Regency romance should be.
This is a funny lighthearted funny tale about a (..the world's worst) annual musical performance, your older brother's best buddy, a heroine without any skills in violin playing, a sprained poor ankle and a lot lot more. — Short and sweet is Just Like Heaven (the sincerely likeable and lovely) Honoria Smythe-Smith's and (the perfect future hubby material) Marcus Holroyd, Earl of Chatteris' romantic love story.
Recommended!
I listened to the 10 hrs audiobook narrated by the always splendid good Rosalyn Landor. That lady truly does it so very great every time. My huge love and admiration.
I LIKE - lovely, amusing fun HR on audio
4.2 Stars - Solid good traditional nice historical
Just Like Heaven is the first in a newer HR series by Julia Quinn, a very popular author I have no earliest experience of. (It will be more by her.) — Let's see, this sounded perfect and so it was. Funny, sweet, innocent (you must patiently wait for the kiss) and just as well done as a perfect Regency romance should be.
This is a funny lighthearted funny tale about a (..the world's worst) annual musical performance, your older brother's best buddy, a heroine without any skills in violin playing, a sprained poor ankle and a lot lot more. — Short and sweet is Just Like Heaven (the sincerely likeable and lovely) Honoria Smythe-Smith's and (the perfect future hubby material) Marcus Holroyd, Earl of Chatteris' romantic love story.
Recommended!
“No. Haven’t you been listening?”
Marcus would always remember that moment. It was to be the first time he would ever be faced with that most vexing of female quirks: the question that had nothing but wrong answers.’
I listened to the 10 hrs audiobook narrated by the always splendid good Rosalyn Landor. That lady truly does it so very great every time. My huge love and admiration.
I LIKE - lovely, amusing fun HR on audio
October 22, 2021
Pero qué historia tan tierna, por favor 💜. El título sin duda le viene como anillo al dedo, es absolutamente adorable.
Marcus es el mejor amigo del hermano de Honoria, que tuvo que huir del país y le encargó a su amigo velar porque su hermana no acabara con un marido indeseable. Aunque de niños la diferencia de edad creaba una brecha importante, ahora que ambos son adultos, su relación empieza a cambiar… De verdad que me ha parecido una historia muy bonita y he adorado a este par.
Como siempre, hace uso de los típicos clichés, como el de el mejor amigo del hermano y luego el de que uno de los dos se ponga enfermo y el otro se desviva por cuidarlo, que me encanta. Y aunque la historia puede ser predecible en esos términos, los diálogos ingeniosos y chispeantes y la ternura que le despiertan a una los personajes consiguen mantenerte enganchada al libro como si no hubiera un mañana.
La aparición estelar de Lady Danbury y un par de los hermanos Bridgerton también me ha encantado, y es que como fan adoro esos cruces entre las sagas de Julia. De hecho, mi primer contacto con la velada musical Smythe-Smith fue en los Bridgerton, y me ha encantado ver la perspectiva de una de esas chicas con nulo talento musical que se ve obligada a tocar en público año tras año. La lealtad y el amor que siente hacia su familia me han gustado muchísimo, como todo en el personaje de Honoria, la verdad.
Sin duda ha estado más que a la altura de lo que esperaba, y la prueba de ello es que esta segunda vez solo lo iba a leer "en diagonal" porque ya me lo leí a principios de año en la edición antigua, y al final no he podido evitar leérmelo de pe a pa, ¡hasta la última palabra!
Marcus es el mejor amigo del hermano de Honoria, que tuvo que huir del país y le encargó a su amigo velar porque su hermana no acabara con un marido indeseable. Aunque de niños la diferencia de edad creaba una brecha importante, ahora que ambos son adultos, su relación empieza a cambiar… De verdad que me ha parecido una historia muy bonita y he adorado a este par.
Como siempre, hace uso de los típicos clichés, como el de el mejor amigo del hermano y luego el de que uno de los dos se ponga enfermo y el otro se desviva por cuidarlo, que me encanta. Y aunque la historia puede ser predecible en esos términos, los diálogos ingeniosos y chispeantes y la ternura que le despiertan a una los personajes consiguen mantenerte enganchada al libro como si no hubiera un mañana.
La aparición estelar de Lady Danbury y un par de los hermanos Bridgerton también me ha encantado, y es que como fan adoro esos cruces entre las sagas de Julia. De hecho, mi primer contacto con la velada musical Smythe-Smith fue en los Bridgerton, y me ha encantado ver la perspectiva de una de esas chicas con nulo talento musical que se ve obligada a tocar en público año tras año. La lealtad y el amor que siente hacia su familia me han gustado muchísimo, como todo en el personaje de Honoria, la verdad.
Sin duda ha estado más que a la altura de lo que esperaba, y la prueba de ello es que esta segunda vez solo lo iba a leer "en diagonal" porque ya me lo leí a principios de año en la edición antigua, y al final no he podido evitar leérmelo de pe a pa, ¡hasta la última palabra!
October 7, 2021
Adorable es quedarse corto 😍
October 10, 2017
Lovely, lovely, lovely.
Pros
• Family Theme: There is such a huge emphasis on family and I love it. I have been wanting to learn more about the Smyth-Smith family ever since reading about their quirky, non-musically-gifted family in Julia Quinn’s other series. This book has some funny moments and some heartwarming moments. In particular, I adore seeing Honoria being friends with her cousins who are part of the music quartet with her. They are such a silly, adorable group of girls. In addition, the development between Honoria and her mom is touching.
• Romance: So sweet. Also, I am incredibly THANKFUL that this is not another one of those pining romances where a heroine has been in love with a boy since she was a kid and she ends up pining for the guy for yearssss. That kind of story is usually paired with the “I fell in love with my older brother’s best friend” trope. This book has the latter, but fortunately not the former. There is a prologue that shows Marcus’s childhood and integration into the Smythe-Smith household, and he meets Honoria there. They form not quite a friendship and definitely not a romance, but a connection of a sort at that young age. However, when they meet again (at the beginning of this book), we see old and new dynamics. I love seeing Honoria and Marcus develop feelings of first endearment, then friendship, and then love. They have known each other for a long time and know each other well, but this book shows a true development in their relationship and how their view on each other has gradually changed. Together. They both fall in love with each other at the same time, which is enjoyable and interesting to read in each of their perspective. It is a sweet, gradual romance, with touching moments and cute bantering. I honestly enjoyed reading this so much.
• Honoria: I honestly love her. She is cheerful and not afraid to voice her opinion or take charge. She is also immensely and happily family-oriented. She has loyalty to her family and appreciation for her family tradition of the annual musicals. I just love that. In addition, she is quite sensible and has her priorities straight. She is overall a great character with a fun perspective to read.
• Marcus: He is a serious and honorable guy. While it does take him a while to verbalize his feelings, he is still pretty straight-forward. Reading his perspective is easy because he is an honest and GOOD guy.
Cons
• Plot pacing: The plot is good, but it can be rather slow. I honestly would’ve liked the realization and confession part of this book to arrive earlier. I think there might have been too much time spent on the “sick” part, even though I really do appreciate the new dynamics and developments introduced from that.
Overall, 4 stars. It is a solid, romance read, with likable characters and a heartwarming family theme.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
What age level would be appropriate?
---------
SUPER excited for this. We have seen these girls in past series being forced to play music at concerts even though they suck and everyone makes fun of them. I expect some humor and explanation from this.
Pros
• Family Theme: There is such a huge emphasis on family and I love it. I have been wanting to learn more about the Smyth-Smith family ever since reading about their quirky, non-musically-gifted family in Julia Quinn’s other series. This book has some funny moments and some heartwarming moments. In particular, I adore seeing Honoria being friends with her cousins who are part of the music quartet with her. They are such a silly, adorable group of girls. In addition, the development between Honoria and her mom is touching.
• Romance: So sweet. Also, I am incredibly THANKFUL that this is not another one of those pining romances where a heroine has been in love with a boy since she was a kid and she ends up pining for the guy for yearssss. That kind of story is usually paired with the “I fell in love with my older brother’s best friend” trope. This book has the latter, but fortunately not the former. There is a prologue that shows Marcus’s childhood and integration into the Smythe-Smith household, and he meets Honoria there. They form not quite a friendship and definitely not a romance, but a connection of a sort at that young age. However, when they meet again (at the beginning of this book), we see old and new dynamics. I love seeing Honoria and Marcus develop feelings of first endearment, then friendship, and then love. They have known each other for a long time and know each other well, but this book shows a true development in their relationship and how their view on each other has gradually changed. Together. They both fall in love with each other at the same time, which is enjoyable and interesting to read in each of their perspective. It is a sweet, gradual romance, with touching moments and cute bantering. I honestly enjoyed reading this so much.
• Honoria: I honestly love her. She is cheerful and not afraid to voice her opinion or take charge. She is also immensely and happily family-oriented. She has loyalty to her family and appreciation for her family tradition of the annual musicals. I just love that. In addition, she is quite sensible and has her priorities straight. She is overall a great character with a fun perspective to read.
• Marcus: He is a serious and honorable guy. While it does take him a while to verbalize his feelings, he is still pretty straight-forward. Reading his perspective is easy because he is an honest and GOOD guy.
Cons
• Plot pacing: The plot is good, but it can be rather slow. I honestly would’ve liked the realization and confession part of this book to arrive earlier. I think there might have been too much time spent on the “sick” part, even though I really do appreciate the new dynamics and developments introduced from that.
Overall, 4 stars. It is a solid, romance read, with likable characters and a heartwarming family theme.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
What age level would be appropriate?
---------
SUPER excited for this. We have seen these girls in past series being forced to play music at concerts even though they suck and everyone makes fun of them. I expect some humor and explanation from this.
April 13, 2022
Just Like Heaven is not exactly gold for me. I can not stand Anora. She is too dramatic on everything. She moans, complains, and acting a very annoying damsel in distress. I understand the content of the story is regency romance. But please... i need more strong back boned heroine.
While Marcus is a darling, the rest of the story is just plain. Even the humor from Miss Quinn, can not help much to give this book 4 stars.
3 stars
While Marcus is a darling, the rest of the story is just plain. Even the humor from Miss Quinn, can not help much to give this book 4 stars.
3 stars
November 16, 2021
That was adorable. Marcus, not one's usual "rakish" rake - he came across as a "nice" unassuming person ... not my preferred hero type (prefer them a bit more "dickish" (is there such a word?), but I adored him.
(the nitpicker in me wants to change "center" to "centre" but I will leave it be, as it was written by an American author, even if it is set in England!)
Marcus was an only child ... he had a lonely childhood but felt at home when he was with his good friend, Daniel Smythe-Smith and his family. Honoria had been like a sister to him, growing up, an annoying little sister! But things change, "little sisters" become beautiful older women.
Of course we met the Smythe-Smith's in the Bridgerton series - who could forget their musicale soirées?
Lovely to see Lady Danbury again ... and of course the handsome Colin Bridgerton.
I have to give a shout out to the narrator, Rosalyn Landor - excellent, as per usual.
I switched between reading and audible ... no, not going to mention my trusty SCRIBD again!
“He’d spent his life being a perfect gentleman. He’d never been a flirt. He’d never been a rogue. He hated being the center of attention, but by God, he wanted to be the center of her attention."
(the nitpicker in me wants to change "center" to "centre" but I will leave it be, as it was written by an American author, even if it is set in England!)
Marcus was an only child ... he had a lonely childhood but felt at home when he was with his good friend, Daniel Smythe-Smith and his family. Honoria had been like a sister to him, growing up, an annoying little sister! But things change, "little sisters" become beautiful older women.
“Love works in mysterious ways,”
“He was not quite sure how to phrase it, so he finally went with, haltingly, “I don’t enjoy being at the center of attention.”
Her head tilted to the side, she regarded him for a long moment before saying, “No. You don’t.” And then: “You were always a tree.”
“I beg your pardon?”
Her eyes grew sentimental. “When we performed our awful pantomimes as children. You were always a tree.”
“I never had to say anything.”
“And you always got to stand at the back.”
He felt himself smile, lopsided and true. “I rather liked being a tree.”
“You were a very good tree.” She smiled then, too—a radiant, wondrous thing.
“The world needs more trees.”
Of course we met the Smythe-Smith's in the Bridgerton series - who could forget their musicale soirées?
He thought he might like to find some of the grape hyacinths that reminded him of Honoria's eyes ...
Lovely to see Lady Danbury again ... and of course the handsome Colin Bridgerton.
He would never understand women.
The music lifted her, carried her, and for the first time in her life, she felt as if she understood what it meant to dance.
I have to give a shout out to the narrator, Rosalyn Landor - excellent, as per usual.
I switched between reading and audible ... no, not going to mention my trusty SCRIBD again!
March 3, 2016
This is really a comedy much more than a romance. The book is hilarious. However, if you are reading it for kissing, and romance, and sex, you are barking up the wrong tree. This is a fluffy, sweet, very funny story in which two people happen to fall in love.
Marcus Holroyd, Earl of Chatteris, grew up with no mother and a distant father. Luckily he was sent away to school when he was 12, where he met his best friend Daniel.
Daniel has a lot of sisters, most notably one 5 years younger than Marcus, little Honoria Smythe-Smith. Yes, Smythe-Smith. LOL Anyway, they grow up together, behaving much like brother and sister - teasing, crying, comforting, etc. So much so that even now when Marcus is no longer 'Marcus' but instead 'the Earl,' he and Honoria still share a close bond.
Daniel, Marcus's best friend and Honoria's older brother, has fled the country. Before leaving he charged Marcus with keeping an eye out for his little sister, and Marcus has been discreetly scaring off potential husbands ever since.
However, he didn't plan on falling for her himself...
...
I haven't laughed so hard while reading a book in years. I was expecting a romance novel, but instead I was presented with this delightful comedy.
Honoria is a bit daft. But you know what? So is Marcus. Their bumbling and harebrained schemes lead to some hilarious situations. I laughed out loud at least 10 times.
This book doesn't really focus on physical love that much. If you are looking for heated glances, delicious kisses, and mindblowing sex - look elsewhere. This is more about sweetness and overall comedy.
Another aspect that is important to address is that the whole thing could be seen as a little incestuous. I mean, Marcus and Honoria didn't grow up together, exactly - but they sure spent a lot of time together as kids. And she's five years younger than him. Wouldn't it rather be like dating your younger sister? Quinn does her best to avoid this, and she does a good job - it didn't feel too squicky for me, but the whole beginning of the book is strong with that annoying younger sister/protective older brother dynamic to the relationship. If that kind of thing really bothers you (I guess a lot of girls get crushes on their older brother's friends? Seems strange to me but I guess it's common) then I suggest avoiding this.
Overall, 3 REAL STARS because Quinn made me laugh my head off, but only 1 ROMANCE STAR because it wasn't very romance-y.
P.S. I can't help but notice that the Spanish version of this is called Un romance adorable, which I think sums up the whole thing nicely.
Marcus Holroyd, Earl of Chatteris, grew up with no mother and a distant father. Luckily he was sent away to school when he was 12, where he met his best friend Daniel.
Daniel has a lot of sisters, most notably one 5 years younger than Marcus, little Honoria Smythe-Smith. Yes, Smythe-Smith. LOL Anyway, they grow up together, behaving much like brother and sister - teasing, crying, comforting, etc. So much so that even now when Marcus is no longer 'Marcus' but instead 'the Earl,' he and Honoria still share a close bond.
Daniel, Marcus's best friend and Honoria's older brother, has fled the country. Before leaving he charged Marcus with keeping an eye out for his little sister, and Marcus has been discreetly scaring off potential husbands ever since.
However, he didn't plan on falling for her himself...
...
I haven't laughed so hard while reading a book in years. I was expecting a romance novel, but instead I was presented with this delightful comedy.
Honoria is a bit daft. But you know what? So is Marcus. Their bumbling and harebrained schemes lead to some hilarious situations. I laughed out loud at least 10 times.
This book doesn't really focus on physical love that much. If you are looking for heated glances, delicious kisses, and mindblowing sex - look elsewhere. This is more about sweetness and overall comedy.
Another aspect that is important to address is that the whole thing could be seen as a little incestuous. I mean, Marcus and Honoria didn't grow up together, exactly - but they sure spent a lot of time together as kids. And she's five years younger than him. Wouldn't it rather be like dating your younger sister? Quinn does her best to avoid this, and she does a good job - it didn't feel too squicky for me, but the whole beginning of the book is strong with that annoying younger sister/protective older brother dynamic to the relationship. If that kind of thing really bothers you (I guess a lot of girls get crushes on their older brother's friends? Seems strange to me but I guess it's common) then I suggest avoiding this.
Overall, 3 REAL STARS because Quinn made me laugh my head off, but only 1 ROMANCE STAR because it wasn't very romance-y.
P.S. I can't help but notice that the Spanish version of this is called Un romance adorable, which I think sums up the whole thing nicely.
February 16, 2018
“Yum! Who would have thought that sweet tarts and chocolates can make love so heavenly!”
I have been reading so many historical romance novels that I must have read almost every one, mainly works from Lisa Kleypas, Teresa Medeiros and Jennifer Ashley. But, this is the first novel I have read from Julia Quinn and it is called “Just Like Heaven.” Actually, “Just Like Heaven” is Julia Quinn’s most recent book to date, so I had the pleasure of reading one of Julia Quinn’s books.
The story starts off with Honoria Smythe-Smith meeting up with her childhood friend Marcus Holroyd, who is the Earl of Chatteris and the two of them just claim that they are only friends. However, when a terrible tragedy strikes Marcus, when his leg is affected in an accident and he is struck by a terrible fever, both Marcus and Honoria will soon discover their true feelings for each other!
I have read many historical romance novels where the hero and the heroine had an attraction for each other throughout the book. However, this is the first romance novel I have read where the hero and heroine start off as good friends and slowly start to realize their feelings for each other, which was quite unusual for me. Julia Quinn has done a great job at writing this story as the story is extremely cute and playful. I loved the way that Julia Quinn set up the conversations between the characters, especially between Honoria and her cousins as the dialogue that goes on between them is hilarious and comforting, as you can feel the close relationship that these cousins share with each other. I also loved the dialogue that Julia Quinn sets up between Marcus and Honoria as they always have friendly and spirited conversations between them that always make me smile every time I read them! It was also really cute seeing Marcus Holroyd go head over heels for Honoria Smythe-Smith as he clearly cannot understand these “lovely” feelings he keep having and yet, he cannot stay away from Honoria. The story about Marcus’s life as a child was heartwarming and sad as he had a lonely life as a child since he did not have a loving family like the Smythe-Smiths did. However, when he became like a little brother to the Smythe-Smith family, my heart just filled with joy at seeing Marcus being happy with this family! I also liked Honoria Smythe-Smith as she is so kind hearted and understanding towards Marcus’s situation and the scene where Honoria was trying to help Marcus heal from his injury was probably the most emotional and wonderful scene in the entire book since it showed how much Honoria truly cares for Marcus.
Notice that I have not mention much of a romance blossoming between Marcus and Honoria because this novel spends too much time with Marcus and Honoria trying to sort out their feelings for each other. That is not to say that this is a bad thing because I really did enjoy the friendly conversations that Marcus and Honoria had with each other, but as a fan of romance novels, it felt like there was not enough romance, fire and passion between the two of them to make me really believe that their love for each other is real. Marcus and Honoria’s love for each other does not really show up until towards the end of the book and it felt like their relationship with each other was being forced towards the end instead of letting it naturally run along throughout the book. Also, there were many slow moments throughout this book that I was finding it hard to keep up with the story because there were scenes that dragged on for too long before they got to the exciting part of the story.
Overall, “Just Like Heaven” is a really cute story for romance fans who love stories where the hero and heroine start out as friends and then become lovers. Also, this novel is great for readers who are uncomfortable with sex scenes since this novel does not contain too many sex scenes. Now that I am interested in Julia Quinn’s books, I think I will check out her “Bridgerton” series!
Review is also on: Rabbit Ears Book Blog
I have been reading so many historical romance novels that I must have read almost every one, mainly works from Lisa Kleypas, Teresa Medeiros and Jennifer Ashley. But, this is the first novel I have read from Julia Quinn and it is called “Just Like Heaven.” Actually, “Just Like Heaven” is Julia Quinn’s most recent book to date, so I had the pleasure of reading one of Julia Quinn’s books.
The story starts off with Honoria Smythe-Smith meeting up with her childhood friend Marcus Holroyd, who is the Earl of Chatteris and the two of them just claim that they are only friends. However, when a terrible tragedy strikes Marcus, when his leg is affected in an accident and he is struck by a terrible fever, both Marcus and Honoria will soon discover their true feelings for each other!
I have read many historical romance novels where the hero and the heroine had an attraction for each other throughout the book. However, this is the first romance novel I have read where the hero and heroine start off as good friends and slowly start to realize their feelings for each other, which was quite unusual for me. Julia Quinn has done a great job at writing this story as the story is extremely cute and playful. I loved the way that Julia Quinn set up the conversations between the characters, especially between Honoria and her cousins as the dialogue that goes on between them is hilarious and comforting, as you can feel the close relationship that these cousins share with each other. I also loved the dialogue that Julia Quinn sets up between Marcus and Honoria as they always have friendly and spirited conversations between them that always make me smile every time I read them! It was also really cute seeing Marcus Holroyd go head over heels for Honoria Smythe-Smith as he clearly cannot understand these “lovely” feelings he keep having and yet, he cannot stay away from Honoria. The story about Marcus’s life as a child was heartwarming and sad as he had a lonely life as a child since he did not have a loving family like the Smythe-Smiths did. However, when he became like a little brother to the Smythe-Smith family, my heart just filled with joy at seeing Marcus being happy with this family! I also liked Honoria Smythe-Smith as she is so kind hearted and understanding towards Marcus’s situation and the scene where Honoria was trying to help Marcus heal from his injury was probably the most emotional and wonderful scene in the entire book since it showed how much Honoria truly cares for Marcus.
Notice that I have not mention much of a romance blossoming between Marcus and Honoria because this novel spends too much time with Marcus and Honoria trying to sort out their feelings for each other. That is not to say that this is a bad thing because I really did enjoy the friendly conversations that Marcus and Honoria had with each other, but as a fan of romance novels, it felt like there was not enough romance, fire and passion between the two of them to make me really believe that their love for each other is real. Marcus and Honoria’s love for each other does not really show up until towards the end of the book and it felt like their relationship with each other was being forced towards the end instead of letting it naturally run along throughout the book. Also, there were many slow moments throughout this book that I was finding it hard to keep up with the story because there were scenes that dragged on for too long before they got to the exciting part of the story.
Overall, “Just Like Heaven” is a really cute story for romance fans who love stories where the hero and heroine start out as friends and then become lovers. Also, this novel is great for readers who are uncomfortable with sex scenes since this novel does not contain too many sex scenes. Now that I am interested in Julia Quinn’s books, I think I will check out her “Bridgerton” series!
Review is also on: Rabbit Ears Book Blog
January 30, 2015
Every girl loves a brooding bad boy! Marcus, the hero in this book, is a little Mr. Darcyish with his standoffish behavior and withering stares. But, then our heroine realizes that he is just shy and socially awkward. (see? Mr. Darcy) Imagine Mr. Darcy with a sense of humor. I love the dry sarcastic wit in these books.
Aside from the romance is the extremely funny Smythe-Smith musicale jokes. From the Bridgerton series, these shows are already legendary, and it is super fun to read about them from the participants point of view. I love that Honoria knows that they suck, and yet finds it amusing, along with caring about the tradition. I would be among those mortified to be forced to play in them. Honoria is just a good sport about the whole thing!
It was also very nice to have some of the characters from the Bridgerton series show up. Colin is a favorite of mine, of course, and he has a small part in this book, along with Gregory.
The only thing that struck me odd was that there were a couple of sayings that are modern terms, such as "it is what it is" and "manse". They made me go, "huh?"
Aside from the romance is the extremely funny Smythe-Smith musicale jokes. From the Bridgerton series, these shows are already legendary, and it is super fun to read about them from the participants point of view. I love that Honoria knows that they suck, and yet finds it amusing, along with caring about the tradition. I would be among those mortified to be forced to play in them. Honoria is just a good sport about the whole thing!
It was also very nice to have some of the characters from the Bridgerton series show up. Colin is a favorite of mine, of course, and he has a small part in this book, along with Gregory.
The only thing that struck me odd was that there were a couple of sayings that are modern terms, such as "it is what it is" and "manse". They made me go, "huh?"
May 7, 2023
Update: Better than the first time I read it, probably because I'm not fresh out of a slump. It still felt a little empty but I didn't mind it.
I really liked the two main characters but then I got to the end and I realized just how empty this book felt. It just wasn't...dramatic enough. And then when it did get to the supposed dramatic scene it just made me feel pissed off. But I enjoyed it and it's the first book I've finished in about three weeks. I don't know if it got me completely out of my slump but it's a start.
I really liked the two main characters but then I got to the end and I realized just how empty this book felt. It just wasn't...dramatic enough. And then when it did get to the supposed dramatic scene it just made me feel pissed off. But I enjoyed it and it's the first book I've finished in about three weeks. I don't know if it got me completely out of my slump but it's a start.
February 10, 2020
#retorita4 #RitaJulia
4 Estrellas. Es la primera vez que participo en el #retorita4 y me alegro de haberlo estrenado por todo lo alto con un libro de Julia Quinn. Le tenía un poco de miedo a la serie de las Smythe-Smith porque las críticas no eran muy buenas, pero en el caso de ésta primera novela me alegro de no haber esperado gran cosa porque me ha hecho disfrutar mucho de la misma.
Para quienes llevamos unos años leyendo a Julia Quinn, sabemos que las Smythe-Smith son unas damitas de la nobleza que todos los años durante la Temporada dan un recital de música, a la vez atroz y horroroso. No sé por qué, pensaba que eran todas hermanas, y aquí me encuentro con que no lo es necesariamente, si no que son una familia muy extensa en la que tocan en el cuarteto tanto hermanas como primas. La condición es que sean presentadas en sociedad y solteras, en el momento en que una Smythe-Smith se casa, otra debe suplirla en el cuarteto familiar; la pena es que por mucho que lo intenten, las pobres son horrorosas tocando y toda la alta sociedad lo sabe.
Una vez tenemos esto, vamos a la historia. Nuestro protagonista, Marcus Holroyd, conde de Chatteris, fue un niño solitario hasta que conoció a Daniel Smythe-Smith en el colegio y se hicieron los mejores amigos. Marcus pasó muchos veranos y vacaciones en casa de los Smythe-Smith, y allá donde iban los perseguía un petardo de niña, Honoria, la menor de la familia. Siendo sinceros, Marcus y Honoria siempre se trataron como hermanos, y éste era tan fastidioso con ella como su propio hermano, así que en ningún momento podrían plantearse enamorarse.
Pasados uno años, ocurrió algo que alejó a Daniel Smythe-Smith de Inglaterra, un infame duelo, por lo que éste tuvo que huir bajo pena de que lo colgaran, por todos es sabido que los duelos estaban prohibidos. Pero antes de su partida, Daniel le hizo prometer a Marcus que éste mantendría alejados a los posible pretendientes de Honoria que no considerase adecuados. Y sí ha sido durante los tres años en que Honoria ha estado en el mercado matrimonial.
Ahora Honoria tiene veintiún años y quiere casarse, no por el hecho de querer casarse, si no por varios motivos, hace varios años que fue presentada y aunque tuvo pretendientes, nunca se enamoró de ninguno, por un motivo u otro estos acababan huyendo. Por desgracia los años están pasando y teme quedarse para vestir santos, pero el principal motivo es para salir del cuarteto musical familiar, sus primas Sarah, Iris y Daisy son sus mejores amigas y las quiere de verdad, pero sabe, al igual que toda la alta sociedad, que son horrorosas tocando y por mucho que practiquen nunca serán buenas. Honoria está harta de hacer el ridículo tras varios años y ésta primavera sí o sí, necesita un pretendiente.
Todo comienza cuando las primas Smythe-Smith están pasando unos día en la casa de campo de otra de sus primas, Cecily, en Cambridgeshire. Casualidad es que Marcus, el amigo de su hermano es el vecino más próximo y están destinados a encontrarse más de lo que querrían. No es que Honoria y Marcus se odien, al revés, sí se consideran amigos, pero casi hermanos. Lo que hace que ambos se den cuenta de que se quieren más de lo tolerable es un accidente que tiene Marcus por culpa de Honoria, y ésta sin tener ni idea de cómo cuidar a un enfermo se erija en su enfermera.
Si soy sincera, el libro no es que haya sido gran cosa, cuando quiere Julia Quinn tiene auténticos pestiñazos. Lo que es cierto, es que la autora maneja como nadie un estilo tan fluido y divertido, contado con tanta gracia, que prácticamente es única. En éste libro he reído más de lo que pensaba y me ha hecho pasar unas buenas horas.
El romance no es lo de más, pero sí ha estado bonito. Me gustan mucho los romances donde ellos se conocen desde niños y cuando se hacen adultos se enamoran. Realmente no ha habido conflictos sobresalientes durante la novela, si no que ha sido más bien pausada.
En general he quedado muy satisfecha con éste inicio de serie, y aunque seré prudente acabaré leyendo las historias de las otras primas. En principio creo que me huelo que la siguiente historia será la de Daniel, quizás con la institutriz de las primas, pues no creo que Daniel, como un Smythe-Smith acabe con una de las primas, la guapa institutriz me llama mucho más, y aunque nadie la conoce, a todos les suena de algo ¿Quién será?
4 Estrellas. Es la primera vez que participo en el #retorita4 y me alegro de haberlo estrenado por todo lo alto con un libro de Julia Quinn. Le tenía un poco de miedo a la serie de las Smythe-Smith porque las críticas no eran muy buenas, pero en el caso de ésta primera novela me alegro de no haber esperado gran cosa porque me ha hecho disfrutar mucho de la misma.
Para quienes llevamos unos años leyendo a Julia Quinn, sabemos que las Smythe-Smith son unas damitas de la nobleza que todos los años durante la Temporada dan un recital de música, a la vez atroz y horroroso. No sé por qué, pensaba que eran todas hermanas, y aquí me encuentro con que no lo es necesariamente, si no que son una familia muy extensa en la que tocan en el cuarteto tanto hermanas como primas. La condición es que sean presentadas en sociedad y solteras, en el momento en que una Smythe-Smith se casa, otra debe suplirla en el cuarteto familiar; la pena es que por mucho que lo intenten, las pobres son horrorosas tocando y toda la alta sociedad lo sabe.
Una vez tenemos esto, vamos a la historia. Nuestro protagonista, Marcus Holroyd, conde de Chatteris, fue un niño solitario hasta que conoció a Daniel Smythe-Smith en el colegio y se hicieron los mejores amigos. Marcus pasó muchos veranos y vacaciones en casa de los Smythe-Smith, y allá donde iban los perseguía un petardo de niña, Honoria, la menor de la familia. Siendo sinceros, Marcus y Honoria siempre se trataron como hermanos, y éste era tan fastidioso con ella como su propio hermano, así que en ningún momento podrían plantearse enamorarse.
Pasados uno años, ocurrió algo que alejó a Daniel Smythe-Smith de Inglaterra, un infame duelo, por lo que éste tuvo que huir bajo pena de que lo colgaran, por todos es sabido que los duelos estaban prohibidos. Pero antes de su partida, Daniel le hizo prometer a Marcus que éste mantendría alejados a los posible pretendientes de Honoria que no considerase adecuados. Y sí ha sido durante los tres años en que Honoria ha estado en el mercado matrimonial.
Ahora Honoria tiene veintiún años y quiere casarse, no por el hecho de querer casarse, si no por varios motivos, hace varios años que fue presentada y aunque tuvo pretendientes, nunca se enamoró de ninguno, por un motivo u otro estos acababan huyendo. Por desgracia los años están pasando y teme quedarse para vestir santos, pero el principal motivo es para salir del cuarteto musical familiar, sus primas Sarah, Iris y Daisy son sus mejores amigas y las quiere de verdad, pero sabe, al igual que toda la alta sociedad, que son horrorosas tocando y por mucho que practiquen nunca serán buenas. Honoria está harta de hacer el ridículo tras varios años y ésta primavera sí o sí, necesita un pretendiente.
Todo comienza cuando las primas Smythe-Smith están pasando unos día en la casa de campo de otra de sus primas, Cecily, en Cambridgeshire. Casualidad es que Marcus, el amigo de su hermano es el vecino más próximo y están destinados a encontrarse más de lo que querrían. No es que Honoria y Marcus se odien, al revés, sí se consideran amigos, pero casi hermanos. Lo que hace que ambos se den cuenta de que se quieren más de lo tolerable es un accidente que tiene Marcus por culpa de Honoria, y ésta sin tener ni idea de cómo cuidar a un enfermo se erija en su enfermera.
Si soy sincera, el libro no es que haya sido gran cosa, cuando quiere Julia Quinn tiene auténticos pestiñazos. Lo que es cierto, es que la autora maneja como nadie un estilo tan fluido y divertido, contado con tanta gracia, que prácticamente es única. En éste libro he reído más de lo que pensaba y me ha hecho pasar unas buenas horas.
El romance no es lo de más, pero sí ha estado bonito. Me gustan mucho los romances donde ellos se conocen desde niños y cuando se hacen adultos se enamoran. Realmente no ha habido conflictos sobresalientes durante la novela, si no que ha sido más bien pausada.
En general he quedado muy satisfecha con éste inicio de serie, y aunque seré prudente acabaré leyendo las historias de las otras primas. En principio creo que me huelo que la siguiente historia será la de Daniel, quizás con la institutriz de las primas, pues no creo que Daniel, como un Smythe-Smith acabe con una de las primas, la guapa institutriz me llama mucho más, y aunque nadie la conoce, a todos les suena de algo ¿Quién será?
June 14, 2015
I have a bit of a soft spot for historical romance since I began reading the genre last year, but I'd never read one of the most loved authors within this genre. I have heard from many sources that Quinn is a wonderful writer and now having read a novel I couldn't agree more.
"Just Like Heaven" is brilliantly written and just so witty. It's sparkly, lively and funny. The writing is smooth and the dialogue realistic, so much so I didn't realise how many pages I had read before I realised I had nearly finished the book. I literally couldn't put it down.
The characters are endearing and lovable, with substance and heart. Honoria is a sweet character, she's caring and trusting. Marcus is a complete gentleman who pretends to be brooding when in fact he has a charming sense of humour and is totally adorable. In fact there isn't really one character in the entire novel who is disagreeable.
Honoria and Marcus have known each other since they were children, when Marcus became best friends with her brother Daniel. The prologue sets the scene of when they were children and then chapter one moves forward to the current day.
Daniel has fled the country due to a duel gone wrong, Honoria is searching for a husband and Marcus is now Lord Chatteris with a large estate and healthy bank balance.
Before Daniel leaves he makes Marcus promise to look after Honoria, which he does, by chasing away all potential suitors. On one particular occasion there is an accident (which I won't go into as it's hilarious and don't want to spoil it for you), and Marcus hurts his ankle. Of course things go from bad to worse when Honoria has to leave him to go and fetch help. It starts pouring with rain, Marcus's ankle swells to such an extent his boot has to be cut off, where upon his butler cuts his leg while doing so, and Marcus catches the flu.
While taking care of Marcus, Honoira realises she loves him and, when not in the throws of fever, Marcus realises he's in love with her, but neither let on to the other about their feelings.
The supporting cast of characters are just as well written and I loved each of them. The quartet consists of Iris, Daisy, Sarah and of course Honoria. They play as a quartet and are utterly dreadful and know this themselves, which is why they are dreading the traditional Musicale that they put on each year. I really enjoyed the light-hearted bickering between these characters and it was a great distraction from the romance. It balanced the book well.
The only aspect I didn't like as much as the rest of the book were the last couple of chapters. It was rather rushed. Honoria and Marcus have a sensual moment, Daniel returns from abroad, Daniel and Marcus fight, Marcus threatens to punch a man who's not been nice to Honoria, and then he pops the question! All in the span of a few pages - phew!
However, the true ending is sweet and satisfying and just what you would expect from an historical romance, so if you love HEA then you'll love this.
VERDICT:
"Just Like Heaven" is a wonderfully light and witty historical romance full of delightful characters. A real treat.
"Just Like Heaven" is brilliantly written and just so witty. It's sparkly, lively and funny. The writing is smooth and the dialogue realistic, so much so I didn't realise how many pages I had read before I realised I had nearly finished the book. I literally couldn't put it down.
The characters are endearing and lovable, with substance and heart. Honoria is a sweet character, she's caring and trusting. Marcus is a complete gentleman who pretends to be brooding when in fact he has a charming sense of humour and is totally adorable. In fact there isn't really one character in the entire novel who is disagreeable.
Honoria and Marcus have known each other since they were children, when Marcus became best friends with her brother Daniel. The prologue sets the scene of when they were children and then chapter one moves forward to the current day.
Daniel has fled the country due to a duel gone wrong, Honoria is searching for a husband and Marcus is now Lord Chatteris with a large estate and healthy bank balance.
Before Daniel leaves he makes Marcus promise to look after Honoria, which he does, by chasing away all potential suitors. On one particular occasion there is an accident (which I won't go into as it's hilarious and don't want to spoil it for you), and Marcus hurts his ankle. Of course things go from bad to worse when Honoria has to leave him to go and fetch help. It starts pouring with rain, Marcus's ankle swells to such an extent his boot has to be cut off, where upon his butler cuts his leg while doing so, and Marcus catches the flu.
While taking care of Marcus, Honoira realises she loves him and, when not in the throws of fever, Marcus realises he's in love with her, but neither let on to the other about their feelings.
The supporting cast of characters are just as well written and I loved each of them. The quartet consists of Iris, Daisy, Sarah and of course Honoria. They play as a quartet and are utterly dreadful and know this themselves, which is why they are dreading the traditional Musicale that they put on each year. I really enjoyed the light-hearted bickering between these characters and it was a great distraction from the romance. It balanced the book well.
The only aspect I didn't like as much as the rest of the book were the last couple of chapters. It was rather rushed. Honoria and Marcus have a sensual moment, Daniel returns from abroad, Daniel and Marcus fight, Marcus threatens to punch a man who's not been nice to Honoria, and then he pops the question! All in the span of a few pages - phew!
However, the true ending is sweet and satisfying and just what you would expect from an historical romance, so if you love HEA then you'll love this.
VERDICT:
"Just Like Heaven" is a wonderfully light and witty historical romance full of delightful characters. A real treat.
January 2, 2022
—No. ¿No estabas escuchando?
Marcus recordaría siempre ese momento. Era la primera vez que se enfrentaba a la más fastidiosa de las rarezas femeninas: la pregunta a la que jamás se puede responder bien.
Es un romance bastante adorable como dice su título.
Es bastante adictivo y fácil de leer, que sin ningún problema te lo puedes leer en una tarde. Yo me tardé más leyéndolo, pero porque no tuve tiempo de leer. Pero en resumen, es adictivo y bonito.
La historia de Honaria y Marcus es un friends to lovers, y él es el mejor amigo de su hermano mayor en un romance de época. Todos esos clichés me gustan, y cuando son en una misma historia mejor.
julia tiene algo que sus romances son super tranquilos, cuando no sabes que leer, o no encuentras motivación para empezar con algún otro libro, sus libros suelen ser perfectos, porque son muy domingueros.
Esta nueva saga de libros de la autora, se entrelazan con su otra saga los The Duke and I
Marcus recordaría siempre ese momento. Era la primera vez que se enfrentaba a la más fastidiosa de las rarezas femeninas: la pregunta a la que jamás se puede responder bien.
Es un romance bastante adorable como dice su título.
Es bastante adictivo y fácil de leer, que sin ningún problema te lo puedes leer en una tarde. Yo me tardé más leyéndolo, pero porque no tuve tiempo de leer. Pero en resumen, es adictivo y bonito.
La historia de Honaria y Marcus es un friends to lovers, y él es el mejor amigo de su hermano mayor en un romance de época. Todos esos clichés me gustan, y cuando son en una misma historia mejor.
julia tiene algo que sus romances son super tranquilos, cuando no sabes que leer, o no encuentras motivación para empezar con algún otro libro, sus libros suelen ser perfectos, porque son muy domingueros.
Esta nueva saga de libros de la autora, se entrelazan con su otra saga los The Duke and I
May 24, 2024
“He’d spent his life being a perfect gentleman. He’d never been a flirt. He’d never been a rogue. He hated being the center of attention, but by God, he wanted to be the center of her attention.”
Friends to lovers at it’s finest! This book was so cute, and despite some of the darker moments, it was a relatively fun and light read!
After so many books in this literary world, you’d think that the protagonists would start to become repetitive, but Honoria was a completely unique and intriguing character! I loved her devotion to her family, and seeing the Smythe-Smith musicians from an inner perspective from the first time was both hilarious and interesting.
I also loved Marcus so much! I didn’t expect to like his character quite so much, but he was just so sweet and unlike all of the other male protagonists in this world I’ve read about that I couldn’t help but love him!
“He gave her his best smile. His best I-almost-died-so-how-can-you-deny-me smile. Or at least that’s how he hoped it appeared. The truth was, he wasn’t a very accomplished flirt, and it might very well have come across as an I-am-mildly-deranged-so-it’s-in-all-of-our-best-interests-if-you-pretend-to-agree-with-me smile.”
And as I said, Marcus and Honoria played into the friends to lovers trope amazingly! Their relationship was adorable and I honestly wish this book was longer so that we could see more of them!
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November 11, 2021
4.5 STARS
This was delightful. I really can't think of anything bad to say about it. I adored both of these characters. And it was just so sweetly romantic. I have read better books by JQ, so I did leave off half a star. It was not a tumultuous or terribly emotional story, but it definitely had all the romantic elements that warm the heart. Looking forward to the rest of the series
Loved the little cameos by Colin B, and Lady D. ;)
She smiled as the warmth of his words slid through her like a kiss. “I was just thinking that this is just like heaven.”
He was silent for a moment, and then, so softly she wasn’t sure she heard him correctly, he whispered,
“Heaven couldn’t possibly compare.”
This was delightful. I really can't think of anything bad to say about it. I adored both of these characters. And it was just so sweetly romantic. I have read better books by JQ, so I did leave off half a star. It was not a tumultuous or terribly emotional story, but it definitely had all the romantic elements that warm the heart. Looking forward to the rest of the series
Loved the little cameos by Colin B, and Lady D. ;)
February 3, 2021
4.5/⭐
• Ότι πιο γλυκό, τρυφερό και αστείο έχω διαβάσει τον τελευταίο καιρό! •
• Ότι πιο γλυκό, τρυφερό και αστείο έχω διαβάσει τον τελευταίο καιρό! •
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