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Her Best Friend's Brother
Libby has been in love with Tony Marchetti since she was seven years old. The problem? Tony is her best friend's older brother. Lately Tony has started looking at her in a new way and he emails her all the time. Could it be possible that he is starting to see her as more than his kid sister's best friend? Tony knows Libby McKay is off limits. She's his sister's best friend for crying out loud! But she is also smart, funny, and seriously hot. Plus she's not afraid to get a little sweaty-- on the track that is. Tony can't seem to help himself, besides what's a few emails? The occasional phone call? He can keep things light and friendly-- Can't he?
256 pages, Paperback
First published September 22, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 478 reviews
December 15, 2011
The old adage "Don't judge a book by it's cover" is very spot on with this one. I really liked this one. It had just enough angst to keep me hooked until the end.
October 18, 2014
1.5 STARS
What a disappointment.
Best friend's brother/sister, friends to lovers...I love these type of stories. This sounded promising, a girl falls for her best friend's brother, pining away for him and always wondering if she ever stood a chance. Libbie had loved Tony forever, but he was 4 years older than her and probably unattainable. But Tony had begun to notice Libbie though always feared their friendship would suffer, plus she wasn't old enough in his opinion, but he had a plan. However, life had other plans, so through several wasted years and false starts, Tony and Libbie finally get their chance.
This failed on so many levels. The lack of communication, any semblance of a discussion even, was absent. There were also several situations blown out of proportion or misread, it made my head spin. I've never read a book where the H/h were so lost in translation. Had they once SAID something, spoke to one another, shared even, the time to be together would have been saved. And I'm talking obvious situations where something could have been easily mentioned! It was beyond frustrating and drawn out. This was 242 pages or so but felt longer.
I wish the miscommunication was realistic but it wasn't even that! And really, if you've been in love with your friend for so long there would be a level of angst present because of the turmoil in trying to hide those feelings. Watching them with other people would hurt beyond reason. Having to burden such intense emotion would eventually take a toll. But here, it was almost light comedy at times, making it highly unbelievable that these two individuals cared so much for each other for so long. Where was the intensity? The pain? The feeling of being distraught? NO WHERE.
I've read some beautiful friends to lovers: Just One of The Guys, by Kristan Higgins, Him, by Carey Heywood...just a couple of examples really, but very realistic in their portrayal of the anguish of being in love with someone so close yet so far. I know I'm ranting but this was so disappointing and so off base it annoyed me. The worst thing was it was all resolved within 2 pages...really??? The only reason for the half star instead of one was because Some parts, and I say that loosely, were alright. Anyways, this didn't work for me at all, but might work for you.
What a disappointment.
Best friend's brother/sister, friends to lovers...I love these type of stories. This sounded promising, a girl falls for her best friend's brother, pining away for him and always wondering if she ever stood a chance. Libbie had loved Tony forever, but he was 4 years older than her and probably unattainable. But Tony had begun to notice Libbie though always feared their friendship would suffer, plus she wasn't old enough in his opinion, but he had a plan. However, life had other plans, so through several wasted years and false starts, Tony and Libbie finally get their chance.
This failed on so many levels. The lack of communication, any semblance of a discussion even, was absent. There were also several situations blown out of proportion or misread, it made my head spin. I've never read a book where the H/h were so lost in translation. Had they once SAID something, spoke to one another, shared even, the time to be together would have been saved. And I'm talking obvious situations where something could have been easily mentioned! It was beyond frustrating and drawn out. This was 242 pages or so but felt longer.
I wish the miscommunication was realistic but it wasn't even that! And really, if you've been in love with your friend for so long there would be a level of angst present because of the turmoil in trying to hide those feelings. Watching them with other people would hurt beyond reason. Having to burden such intense emotion would eventually take a toll. But here, it was almost light comedy at times, making it highly unbelievable that these two individuals cared so much for each other for so long. Where was the intensity? The pain? The feeling of being distraught? NO WHERE.
I've read some beautiful friends to lovers: Just One of The Guys, by Kristan Higgins, Him, by Carey Heywood...just a couple of examples really, but very realistic in their portrayal of the anguish of being in love with someone so close yet so far. I know I'm ranting but this was so disappointing and so off base it annoyed me. The worst thing was it was all resolved within 2 pages...really??? The only reason for the half star instead of one was because Some parts, and I say that loosely, were alright. Anyways, this didn't work for me at all, but might work for you.
December 6, 2011
Ho hum, ho hum, what to give this book? More wavering before I, just now, dropped it from three stars to two. It's OK and I sort-of liked it, but it was also a bit frustrating for what should be a light, fluffy read.
The characters were fairly likable, but I did find Libby's other romantic interests to be slightly unrealistic, all things considered. Every other guy she leads on ends up being a perfect gentleman about her hang-ups regarding Tony and, as a person living in the real world, I know that finding one man that understanding is hard enough, what are the odds of finding two? "Oh, Libby, it's OK. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to get into your pants, but I think you're still in love with someone else. We can just be friends." What? We won't talk about her "best friend", Tony's sister, Mel. What a nosy, meddling little....
The only thing that keeps Libby and Tony apart for seven years is extreme stupidity. The whole book went like this:
Tony: "I like her so much. But she's just a kid!"
Libby: "I love Tony *swoon*"
Tony: "She's certainly grown up, but she needs to experience a little more life first."
Libby: "I love Tony *swoon*"
Tony: "She's legal now and wants me, but I'm convinced she likes someone else more. So no."
Libby: "Tony rejected me, but I still love him. But I hate him. *Pout*"
Tony: "I shouldn't have hurt her, but I'm not going to tell her that. Oh, she's leaving the country for a year. Guess that's for the best."
Libby: "I'm going to go to Rome for a year and continue obsessing over how much I don't love Tony."
Tony: "She has an Italian chef boyfriend now, I'll show her I can make her happy. Even though she isn't here and I can't be bothered to tell her how I feel."
Libby: "I'm back in the states, but all Tony wants is sex. He keeps taking me out and being sweet, but I know all he wants is no-strings sex."
Tony: "Can't...have sex....with....Libby! Must.take.things.slow."
One Month Later
Tony: "Shit, I think I took things too slow! Her Italian boyfriend's coming for a visit! Guess I'd better act all moody again."
Libby: "He really is insufferable, acting like he's my big brother."
How many times did I want to just up and slap the hell out of Libby for not realizing Tony was fucking jealous? I mean, come on, this stuff isn't that hard to figure out.
It's frustrating to read a book that covers 15 years in so few pages and to have the lovebirds only come together at the end. Do you know why? Because the short span and long duration means there are many, many scenes where the two come unbelievably close to opening up to each other and finally getting together, only to have one or both of them come to some asinine internal conclusion that the timing's not right or they don't want the same things, or whatever-the-hell-else.
One particular point of frustration; Libby points out, way more than once, how easy it is to talk to Tony. Well, obviously not.
This is all personal preference, of course. Some readers may find the two main characters affably charming and they may genuinely enjoy the unnecessary silliness.
Regarding the technical aspect, this needs an editor. Badly. Barring that, T.J. Dell really needs a refresher course in grammar and composition. Most people use commas incorrectly and I'm usually not very picky about it because, grammar Nazi that I am, not even I know all the rules when it comes to commas. Ms. Dell's mistakes with commas, however, are so glaring they made my eye twitch every time I saw them. Which was nearly every page. She also seems not to understand how compound words work. 'Eyebrow' became 'Eye brow' (the actual text said "eye brown", but this was obviously just a typo, my point is the compound word was broken up into two separate words and she did this several times throughout the book).
I suck at wrapping these things up. Editing and more compelling obstacles would have made for a solid three-star read.
The characters were fairly likable, but I did find Libby's other romantic interests to be slightly unrealistic, all things considered. Every other guy she leads on ends up being a perfect gentleman about her hang-ups regarding Tony and, as a person living in the real world, I know that finding one man that understanding is hard enough, what are the odds of finding two? "Oh, Libby, it's OK. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to get into your pants, but I think you're still in love with someone else. We can just be friends." What? We won't talk about her "best friend", Tony's sister, Mel. What a nosy, meddling little....
The only thing that keeps Libby and Tony apart for seven years is extreme stupidity. The whole book went like this:
Tony: "I like her so much. But she's just a kid!"
Libby: "I love Tony *swoon*"
Tony: "She's certainly grown up, but she needs to experience a little more life first."
Libby: "I love Tony *swoon*"
Tony: "She's legal now and wants me, but I'm convinced she likes someone else more. So no."
Libby: "Tony rejected me, but I still love him. But I hate him. *Pout*"
Tony: "I shouldn't have hurt her, but I'm not going to tell her that. Oh, she's leaving the country for a year. Guess that's for the best."
Libby: "I'm going to go to Rome for a year and continue obsessing over how much I don't love Tony."
Tony: "She has an Italian chef boyfriend now, I'll show her I can make her happy. Even though she isn't here and I can't be bothered to tell her how I feel."
Libby: "I'm back in the states, but all Tony wants is sex. He keeps taking me out and being sweet, but I know all he wants is no-strings sex."
Tony: "Can't...have sex....with....Libby! Must.take.things.slow."
One Month Later
Tony: "Shit, I think I took things too slow! Her Italian boyfriend's coming for a visit! Guess I'd better act all moody again."
Libby: "He really is insufferable, acting like he's my big brother."
How many times did I want to just up and slap the hell out of Libby for not realizing Tony was fucking jealous? I mean, come on, this stuff isn't that hard to figure out.
It's frustrating to read a book that covers 15 years in so few pages and to have the lovebirds only come together at the end. Do you know why? Because the short span and long duration means there are many, many scenes where the two come unbelievably close to opening up to each other and finally getting together, only to have one or both of them come to some asinine internal conclusion that the timing's not right or they don't want the same things, or whatever-the-hell-else.
One particular point of frustration; Libby points out, way more than once, how easy it is to talk to Tony. Well, obviously not.
This is all personal preference, of course. Some readers may find the two main characters affably charming and they may genuinely enjoy the unnecessary silliness.
Regarding the technical aspect, this needs an editor. Badly. Barring that, T.J. Dell really needs a refresher course in grammar and composition. Most people use commas incorrectly and I'm usually not very picky about it because, grammar Nazi that I am, not even I know all the rules when it comes to commas. Ms. Dell's mistakes with commas, however, are so glaring they made my eye twitch every time I saw them. Which was nearly every page. She also seems not to understand how compound words work. 'Eyebrow' became 'Eye brow' (the actual text said "eye brown", but this was obviously just a typo, my point is the compound word was broken up into two separate words and she did this several times throughout the book).
I suck at wrapping these things up. Editing and more compelling obstacles would have made for a solid three-star read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2012
I love books with this theme, but this one failed in almost every area. Thank goodness I borrowed this one from the lending library!
Libby has been in love with her best friend Mel's older brother Tony since she was 7 years old. This book takes us on the LONG journey towards both Libby and Tony admitting and succumbing to the inevitable....a relationship between the two of them.
This book spans a number of years, and this technique is one that I usually enjoy. With this book...it felt tedious. The back and forth, the are they aren't they, the will they won't they, got very tiresome. By the time they finally got together near the end, I was so over them. This was one I barely made to the finish line.
I did enjoy the texting back and forth and the emails exchanged. This portion of the book gave it the 2 stars that I finally decided upon.
Libby has been in love with her best friend Mel's older brother Tony since she was 7 years old. This book takes us on the LONG journey towards both Libby and Tony admitting and succumbing to the inevitable....a relationship between the two of them.
This book spans a number of years, and this technique is one that I usually enjoy. With this book...it felt tedious. The back and forth, the are they aren't they, the will they won't they, got very tiresome. By the time they finally got together near the end, I was so over them. This was one I barely made to the finish line.
I did enjoy the texting back and forth and the emails exchanged. This portion of the book gave it the 2 stars that I finally decided upon.
September 30, 2012
LOVED LOVED LOVED lol it just proves how two people can be in love since they were little and that age is just a number. If u truely want to be with someone then go for it. Also communication is KEY I was pulling my hair out at some times where he thought something or she did and it was the opposite of what was really going on. I wish the epilogue was more I wanted to know how her business was going or See there wedding or even how Mel is doing lol. But in the end I loved the ending it was cute and I loved how he was like fuck it imma show u whos the better man ahh lol I wish there was more but it was quick fun read. I recommend it to anyone
July 29, 2012
Quick review:
Cover: Cute
Rating: NC-17
Thumbs Up: 3
Overall: It was an okay read
Characters: Good
Plot: Love thwarted at every turn
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? N/A
Recommend: Possibly
Book Boyfriend: Tony
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
The second to insta love as the worst thing for me in a novel is conflict based on misunderstanding and nothing else. And misunderstanding was all we had here in total abundance. I can understand a few occasions, but I cannot forgive every instance. It was too much for me.
To see my full review see my post below.
Full Review
I cannot really explain myself without spoilers.
Overall, I read this in one sitting. So it wasn’t all bad. I’d like to thank the author for gifting me a copy. I wish I had something different to say.
Again, a lot of people loved it. So don’t take my word for it. Check it out for yourself.
My book boyfriend Tony (NC-17)
Cover: Cute
Rating: NC-17
Thumbs Up: 3
Overall: It was an okay read
Characters: Good
Plot: Love thwarted at every turn
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? N/A
Recommend: Possibly
Book Boyfriend: Tony
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
The second to insta love as the worst thing for me in a novel is conflict based on misunderstanding and nothing else. And misunderstanding was all we had here in total abundance. I can understand a few occasions, but I cannot forgive every instance. It was too much for me.
To see my full review see my post below.
Full Review
I cannot really explain myself without spoilers.
Overall, I read this in one sitting. So it wasn’t all bad. I’d like to thank the author for gifting me a copy. I wish I had something different to say.
Again, a lot of people loved it. So don’t take my word for it. Check it out for yourself.
My book boyfriend Tony (NC-17)
April 14, 2012
Can I say that this book was one of the most frustrating books I have read in a long time. I don't know how or why it took these two people so long to get together. The first time that I thought they were gonna get it together and it didn't pan out, I was like "aww, too bad". The second time was "crap, not again", the third time I was like "you've GOT to be kidding me".
This brings me to a quote I heard once (okay, a few times) in the Kiera Knightley version on Pride & Prejudice where Charlotte states to Lizzy at the Netherfield ball that "we are all fools in love"..And I tell ya, these two (Libby and Tony) take it to a whole other level. This is a novel of miscommunications and assumptions. How they can be friends for so long and not know how to communicate with each, is beyond me. Especially when throughout the book she keeps saying how they can talk for hours about anything.
It was quite the conundrum for me because I was rooting for these two to get together, but at the same time I kept thinking why am I reading a story about these two idiots...Oh well..
This brings me to a quote I heard once (okay, a few times) in the Kiera Knightley version on Pride & Prejudice where Charlotte states to Lizzy at the Netherfield ball that "we are all fools in love"..And I tell ya, these two (Libby and Tony) take it to a whole other level. This is a novel of miscommunications and assumptions. How they can be friends for so long and not know how to communicate with each, is beyond me. Especially when throughout the book she keeps saying how they can talk for hours about anything.
It was quite the conundrum for me because I was rooting for these two to get together, but at the same time I kept thinking why am I reading a story about these two idiots...Oh well..
March 24, 2015
Well now, Her Best Friend's Brother was a little bundle of surprise. I read this book in just 3 hours and enjoyed it quite a lot. I love how simple this love story is and had enough going on to keep me interested and invested in the story and especially in the lives of Libby and Tony.
Before I go on though, I would love to thank T.J. Dell for providing me with a e-copy of the book in exchange for my review, and I honestly was very excited to read it. I love a good old fashioned love story that spans years and has enough tension to frustrate the hell out of you. And let me tell you, I was completely and utterly frustrated at how much dancing around Libby and Tony did throughout the story. You see, from the age of seven, Libby McKay has been seriously mesmerised and in love with her best friends brother, Tony Marchetti. He consumed her life in every which way and it seemed to be the case with Tony too. But of course, they couldn't do anything about their feelings for one another, no matter how hard they tried and wanted to. Oh. My. God! I wanted to grab both of them and throw them into a room together and either rip each others clothes off and get on with it, or just freaking talk to each other and reveal their undying love for one another. The flirting, the fleeting moments, the romantic hand holding or the stolen and feverish kisses, it was enough to make me want to scream. It actually felt like the first time you dated someone, that feeling you have in the pit of your stomach and you know it won't go away until that first kiss. This book was that slow burn and I really, truly liked that about it. T.J. Dell really knows how to get your emotions all riled up. I was going from being happy to sad, to frustrated, to wanting to bang my head against a wall, to feeling heated, oh so very heated, when Libby and Tony would have their moments together, before one of them would ruin the moment and put a stop to it....arrrggghhhh so agonising, but I must admit I wouldn't want it any other way.
I know, I know, I get carried away but it's a sign of a good story when you can feel all that and more. So, with that I would encourage you all to take a chance and read this book, which will have you experiencing falling in love all over again. I know I did.
Before I go on though, I would love to thank T.J. Dell for providing me with a e-copy of the book in exchange for my review, and I honestly was very excited to read it. I love a good old fashioned love story that spans years and has enough tension to frustrate the hell out of you. And let me tell you, I was completely and utterly frustrated at how much dancing around Libby and Tony did throughout the story. You see, from the age of seven, Libby McKay has been seriously mesmerised and in love with her best friends brother, Tony Marchetti. He consumed her life in every which way and it seemed to be the case with Tony too. But of course, they couldn't do anything about their feelings for one another, no matter how hard they tried and wanted to. Oh. My. God! I wanted to grab both of them and throw them into a room together and either rip each others clothes off and get on with it, or just freaking talk to each other and reveal their undying love for one another. The flirting, the fleeting moments, the romantic hand holding or the stolen and feverish kisses, it was enough to make me want to scream. It actually felt like the first time you dated someone, that feeling you have in the pit of your stomach and you know it won't go away until that first kiss. This book was that slow burn and I really, truly liked that about it. T.J. Dell really knows how to get your emotions all riled up. I was going from being happy to sad, to frustrated, to wanting to bang my head against a wall, to feeling heated, oh so very heated, when Libby and Tony would have their moments together, before one of them would ruin the moment and put a stop to it....arrrggghhhh so agonising, but I must admit I wouldn't want it any other way.
I know, I know, I get carried away but it's a sign of a good story when you can feel all that and more. So, with that I would encourage you all to take a chance and read this book, which will have you experiencing falling in love all over again. I know I did.
December 8, 2012
I found this book on Amazon in the recommendations based on my reading and research. After downloading the first chapter on my Kindle, I was excited. The first few lines made me smile and I wanted a good story without complication. This book was cute, sure, but I did get very frustrated *sobs* with all of the misunderstandings that could of EASILY been avoided. It took these two way too long to finally get anywhere. (I'm talking some serious years here.) And as the years went on, I became a tad bit confused with the time line. After the Christmas themed wedding, I didn't know which month we were in unless Libby would email Tony about some school/family event. It vaguely goes from eating pizza from Libby's point of view to Tony becoming a sex-craved animal back to eating pizza and then playing Ski-ball. I believe that for a 254 page book they finally consummated their relationship around page 240.
It was a real ‘will they, wont they’ and I could see Tony’s angle over the age thing, but 4 years is pushing it (After she turned 18 - I could not see a reason to stay apart.) and Libby’s feeling for him were so strong at points that I felt so sorry for her when he kept mind fucking her with hot & cold signals. Things go horribly wrong on some parts of their story and you just want them to sit down and talk instead of walking away and ignoring one another – Tony in my opinion was the main culprit for this. For someone who kept making excuses he seemed to see green a hell of a lot. Why could he not just speak his mind for once instead of insinuating what Libby thought? Now this is when someone is going to be thinking: "But Libby is just as much to blame." No. Libby confessed her feelings to Tony and he turned her down (In a weird way.) - what else could she do?
In truth, other than Tony's gentlemanly (Or at least what HE thinks is gentlemanly.) tactics when it came to Libby, the only thing that really kept the two of them apart is Tony's sister, Mel, and I'm not always certain it wasn't on purpose in a few ways. Therefore, for me the only character I didn't like, mostly/only towards the end of the novel, was Mel and the way she swooped in like a hawk. Now as for my favorite character? Parker. I know, I know. He was the 'other' man. But he is the only one that seemed to have his head on straight and said it how it was.
I found myself yelling at Tony "KISS THE GIRL ALREADY! Tell her you love her. Damn men!" during their play of monopoly, to when he found her in the kitchen with Parker. Then turn around and shout at Libby "SHUT UP WOMAN! Quit rambling and let the man speak so he can tell you he loves you!" during Tony's lesson in baking cookies, to their ALMOST U-haul bonding experience. So you can never give less than three stars to a book you can yell at LOL.
It was a real ‘will they, wont they’ and I could see Tony’s angle over the age thing, but 4 years is pushing it (After she turned 18 - I could not see a reason to stay apart.) and Libby’s feeling for him were so strong at points that I felt so sorry for her when he kept mind fucking her with hot & cold signals. Things go horribly wrong on some parts of their story and you just want them to sit down and talk instead of walking away and ignoring one another – Tony in my opinion was the main culprit for this. For someone who kept making excuses he seemed to see green a hell of a lot. Why could he not just speak his mind for once instead of insinuating what Libby thought? Now this is when someone is going to be thinking: "But Libby is just as much to blame." No. Libby confessed her feelings to Tony and he turned her down (In a weird way.) - what else could she do?
In truth, other than Tony's gentlemanly (Or at least what HE thinks is gentlemanly.) tactics when it came to Libby, the only thing that really kept the two of them apart is Tony's sister, Mel, and I'm not always certain it wasn't on purpose in a few ways. Therefore, for me the only character I didn't like, mostly/only towards the end of the novel, was Mel and the way she swooped in like a hawk. Now as for my favorite character? Parker. I know, I know. He was the 'other' man. But he is the only one that seemed to have his head on straight and said it how it was.
I found myself yelling at Tony "KISS THE GIRL ALREADY! Tell her you love her. Damn men!" during their play of monopoly, to when he found her in the kitchen with Parker. Then turn around and shout at Libby "SHUT UP WOMAN! Quit rambling and let the man speak so he can tell you he loves you!" during Tony's lesson in baking cookies, to their ALMOST U-haul bonding experience. So you can never give less than three stars to a book you can yell at LOL.
October 16, 2022
Libby ist Tony verliebt, seit sie sieben war. Aber Tony ist der Bruder ihrer besten Freundin und vier Jahre älter als sie – also unerreichbar. Aber er schreibt ihr auch regelmäßig und wenn sie sich sehen, sieht er sie anders an als früher.
Tony weiß, dass Libby tabu ist. Aber er hat einen Plan…
Das Ganze hat sich für mich wirklich vielversprechend angehört. Ich hatte aber nicht so viel hin und her erwartet.
Immer und immer wieder entstehen Missverständnisse weil die beiden einfach nicht miteinander reden. Und es sind so viele Situation in denen das leider auch nicht wirklich authentisch ist. Die großen Gefühle die beide haben, sind zwar immer wieder beschrieben aber man spürt es einfach nicht.
Am Anfang war es noch sehr süß und unterhaltsam. Und es ist ein kurzes Buch, eigentlich schnell gelesen aber es zieht sich. – Bis es dann zum Happy End kommt, weil die beiden endlich miteinander reden. Aber als es dann endlich so weit war, war es mir eigentlich schon egal.
Tony weiß, dass Libby tabu ist. Aber er hat einen Plan…
Das Ganze hat sich für mich wirklich vielversprechend angehört. Ich hatte aber nicht so viel hin und her erwartet.
Immer und immer wieder entstehen Missverständnisse weil die beiden einfach nicht miteinander reden. Und es sind so viele Situation in denen das leider auch nicht wirklich authentisch ist. Die großen Gefühle die beide haben, sind zwar immer wieder beschrieben aber man spürt es einfach nicht.
Am Anfang war es noch sehr süß und unterhaltsam. Und es ist ein kurzes Buch, eigentlich schnell gelesen aber es zieht sich. – Bis es dann zum Happy End kommt, weil die beiden endlich miteinander reden. Aber als es dann endlich so weit war, war es mir eigentlich schon egal.
January 29, 2025
I read this book originally back in 2013. I can’t lie, I’ve re-read it several times since, tonight being one of them. I love this book. I love how absolutely adorable they are and how they finally end up together (the “how” is truly the best). That is ~his~ Libby damnit.
I have to give a disclaimer: is this the best piece of literature? No. Are there typos? Yeah. Is it weirdly split where there’s no indication of a POV change? Yeah. Did I still rate it 5 stars? Yeah because I love it anyway. You’ve been warned.
I have to give a disclaimer: is this the best piece of literature? No. Are there typos? Yeah. Is it weirdly split where there’s no indication of a POV change? Yeah. Did I still rate it 5 stars? Yeah because I love it anyway. You’ve been warned.
August 13, 2012
I don't write reviews. I always said if I did, they would never be negative....but this book got under my skin (not in a good way)
I liked this book...in the beginning. I LOVED this story in the beginning. It was cute, sweet and the heroine, Libby had a naiveté about her that had me rooting for her dreams---her dream: Tony. So cute :)
BUT
This book was THE most frustrating...thing I've ever read! Tony's hesitancy about the age gap was understandable but he lost me when Libby hits Tallahassee then it turns into the twilight zone of completely understanding boyfriends and/or grown men who can't step up to the plate! The gist is: Tony can't man up and Libby has too much pride to lay everything on the line (verbally b/c he's not getting it by her kissing him...at all...and telling him she doesn't want to stop...seriously!!).
When Tony decides to declare himself to Libby and chickens out (after the second time), the author scripts it in a manner that neither inventive nor humorous. While reading, wishing and hoping the plot would bring back the sweet feeling I had in the beginning of the book, I was asking myself if I wanted then together because it is clear they both need significant others with more backbone and common sense. I was teased until the plot turned ridiculous which includes the main characters (despite have a "3 1/2 year" age gap) both revert to age sixteen! As long as there is a pay off I am up for suspense and a things happening to keep star crossed lovers apart but does it and they have to be so boring? I'm giving this book two stars only because the first half of the book held such promise.
December 13, 2011
4.5 STARS
After reading and liking Saving Face, I decided to give this book a try, and Dell sure did not disappoint. I think it was very sweet that Libby a huge crush on her best friend's older brother, and it turned out to be something more. It was a bit frustrating that Libby and Tony had so much miscommunication, but it was more of frustration FOR them and not frustration about the book.
I was surprised that the book was only 100 pages or so on my ereader, because for such a short book, it felt like Dell covered a lot of drama. I'm not saying that the book felt long. I'm saying how impressed I am that Dell was able to get her story across in 100-pages, whereas some authors will drag the story on and on.
The only thing I felt keeping the book from the four stars was the awkwardness of Libby's other relationships. I can't really put my finger on how I feel, but it's something off about the guys so easily accepting that they're not going to be the one for her. I'm glad she stayed friends with them, but it seems weird that she's still a you-know-what at the end - I mean, we're talking about a college guy and then a 30-something-year-old. Somehow I don't see those types of guys being so easy-going after they've found out they've been led on, in a way. Doesn't seem, I don't know, realistic, I guess.
Either way, it was still a cute, delightful read, and I look forward to reading Dell's other works.
After reading and liking Saving Face, I decided to give this book a try, and Dell sure did not disappoint. I think it was very sweet that Libby a huge crush on her best friend's older brother, and it turned out to be something more. It was a bit frustrating that Libby and Tony had so much miscommunication, but it was more of frustration FOR them and not frustration about the book.
I was surprised that the book was only 100 pages or so on my ereader, because for such a short book, it felt like Dell covered a lot of drama. I'm not saying that the book felt long. I'm saying how impressed I am that Dell was able to get her story across in 100-pages, whereas some authors will drag the story on and on.
The only thing I felt keeping the book from the four stars was the awkwardness of Libby's other relationships. I can't really put my finger on how I feel, but it's something off about the guys so easily accepting that they're not going to be the one for her. I'm glad she stayed friends with them, but it seems weird that she's still a you-know-what at the end - I mean, we're talking about a college guy and then a 30-something-year-old. Somehow I don't see those types of guys being so easy-going after they've found out they've been led on, in a way. Doesn't seem, I don't know, realistic, I guess.
Either way, it was still a cute, delightful read, and I look forward to reading Dell's other works.
February 9, 2012
This is a story of continuous missed opportunities. And although it got frustrating at times, the author did a fantastic job about being cohesive and logical about their misses. It’s about being in love for what it seems like forever to that person who’s infinitely close to you but seemingly so far out of reach. It’s about that constant self-doubting that causes a person’s unhappiness. Sometimes, you just have to say, damn the consequences and go for broke. I love the chemistry between the characters and their selflessness. They’re both willing to let go if only they’ll both be happy – together, alone or with somebody else. I was a little disappointed, however, that there wasn’t much stories of Tony’s other relationships. It was mostly about Libby’s, which of course all turned out to be non-consequential and futile. It was almost as if these two were conveniently waiting for each other. I don’t think they even tried to make anything work with anybody else. Regardless, I still think this was a fantastic read. For those who have been deceived by what you think was an unreciprocated love or longing, I think this book is one worth your time.
January 23, 2012
I really enjoyed this book.
It followed Tony and Libby from the time they first met .
My biggest issue was the misunderstandings that kept happening between Tony and Libby. Both suffered a lot of frustration because they didn't talk to each other and just assumed things. Even that wasn't too bad though, and the characters were aware of their problem.
I loved the friendship that developed between them and the way the friendship developed into a relationship.
This was an enjoyable book and a nice break from frustrating reads. I would read it again.
It followed Tony and Libby from the time they first met .
My biggest issue was the misunderstandings that kept happening between Tony and Libby. Both suffered a lot of frustration because they didn't talk to each other and just assumed things. Even that wasn't too bad though, and the characters were aware of their problem.
I loved the friendship that developed between them and the way the friendship developed into a relationship.
This was an enjoyable book and a nice break from frustrating reads. I would read it again.
January 22, 2012
I think it was so cute that Libby had liked Tony since forever and that Tony had like Libby for ages to but it was so annoying that the would not admit to each other. I wish I could have sat them and down and been like 'look you both love each other!'
I really liked the way the book gave you a look into each persons head, that way we could understand why each character did what they did and how they feel for each other.
A character which annoyed me a tad was Mel because she knew they loved each other but stopped them from seeing each other it pushing Libby in other lads arms, but i suppose that was because she wanted to protect Lib so I'll let her off!
This book was a good read, it didnt take my long to finish, few hours max so if you want a quick romantic read this is for you.
I really liked the way the book gave you a look into each persons head, that way we could understand why each character did what they did and how they feel for each other.
A character which annoyed me a tad was Mel because she knew they loved each other but stopped them from seeing each other it pushing Libby in other lads arms, but i suppose that was because she wanted to protect Lib so I'll let her off!
This book was a good read, it didnt take my long to finish, few hours max so if you want a quick romantic read this is for you.
December 19, 2014
I loved the start of this book and I loved the emails. BUT what I hate is when the author waits
This book could not drag any more than it did. Tony and "his plan". After awhile I wanted the heroine with someone else. I was rooting for Gio. Tony is a jerk in my opinion. I do not like heroes like him. They are selfish and if it does not fit with their "plan" and schedule then forget about it. The heroine deserved better.
It could have been so good.
This book could not drag any more than it did. Tony and "his plan". After awhile I wanted the heroine with someone else. I was rooting for Gio. Tony is a jerk in my opinion. I do not like heroes like him. They are selfish and if it does not fit with their "plan" and schedule then forget about it. The heroine deserved better.
It could have been so good.
January 29, 2012
This was so cute!! I thought I would just read a few chapters and then go to sleep, but I couldn't put it down. I read it all night.
They had the worst communication skills ever, but instead of annoying me, like that usually does, I liked it. Probably because they grew so much throughout the story. The book took place over an 8 year span. They both loved each other, but the timing just never seemed to be right. They both needed to grow up, and they did. They were both more mature by the end of the book. I loved how the author used e-mails and text messages to transition through the years. I was very pleasantly surprised, by this book. I loved it.
They had the worst communication skills ever, but instead of annoying me, like that usually does, I liked it. Probably because they grew so much throughout the story. The book took place over an 8 year span. They both loved each other, but the timing just never seemed to be right. They both needed to grow up, and they did. They were both more mature by the end of the book. I loved how the author used e-mails and text messages to transition through the years. I was very pleasantly surprised, by this book. I loved it.
March 5, 2012
This book had a promising story line. Two friends, a brother, and a crush. This book was ok and maybe bordering on I didn't like it. I keep going back and forth. My issue with this book was how the "conflict" was created. It was done through non-stop miscommunication and assumptions by the main characters. Even when the characters recognized this, it still happened. What is sad is that in this book, there is a good story that could have been written, developed, and had characters that were developed. Instead, they never seem to leave that insecure age of 14 when you second guess and make assumptions about everything that is happening around them.
September 16, 2014
4.5 stars for this adorable and sweet friends to lovers story. Libby has been in love with her best friends older brother Tony since she met him. Over the years, they develop a friendship but Libby has always wanted more. I loved the sexual tension between these characters. I could do without some of the miscommunication and jumping to conclusions but overall I really loved this story.
July 4, 2022
Sweet, but not that catchy.
Did not care for the characters.
Did not care for the characters.
September 12, 2017
Liked it but The book was stretched a bit too much
January 10, 2013
There are spoilers in my review. :)
Okay here it is: Within reading the first few pages, I already liked the book. I can't stop reading it! I really liked the story. I loved how Libby liked him after all those years. I really loved how they loved each other all along, and they just didn't know how to tell one another exactly. Since they were close friends, (and in love with each other) it's really cute how he asked her to marry him. It was really casual and all, and I just loved everything! I loved how they just can't be together, and suddenly they're getting married since they suck at dating!
I really, really loved this book.
I would rate the story five stars, but I just can't since there are moments that it's shifting from one another's point of view with no indications whatsoever. And the fast pacing, I kind of liked but, but like I said, I wish there were indications how long the time has passed exactly.
Overall, I really loved the book! <3
Random Fact: I used the word "loved" in my review 7 times. Haha. :D
Okay here it is: Within reading the first few pages, I already liked the book. I can't stop reading it! I really liked the story. I loved how Libby liked him after all those years. I really loved how they loved each other all along, and they just didn't know how to tell one another exactly. Since they were close friends, (and in love with each other) it's really cute how he asked her to marry him. It was really casual and all, and I just loved everything! I loved how they just can't be together, and suddenly they're getting married since they suck at dating!
I really, really loved this book.
I would rate the story five stars, but I just can't since there are moments that it's shifting from one another's point of view with no indications whatsoever. And the fast pacing, I kind of liked but, but like I said, I wish there were indications how long the time has passed exactly.
Overall, I really loved the book! <3
Random Fact: I used the word "loved" in my review 7 times. Haha. :D
February 20, 2012
sweet. as. pie cookies.
Dell wrote a book that captures the readers attention and keeps it through the unraveling of a story of love, friendship, relationships and misunderstandings.
Libby and Tony love each other so much but their relationship was a rocky one at best and took years for them to be where they are at the end of the book.
Lots of wrong time wrong place kind of situations and misunderstandings and lack of communication in fear of revealing their real feelings take place. Some would think it annoying but I find it quite endearing. Cause real couples do have lots of misunderstandings and heartaches due to their lack of communication.
But despite all their ups and downs they uphold their solid friendship through it all anyway because they know that they'd rather be just friends with the other than not have them in their lives at all. But you know that they'll end up with each other in the end and you'll be rooting for them all the way.
This is a light read that's quaint and cute as well as humorous.
Dell wrote a book that captures the readers attention and keeps it through the unraveling of a story of love, friendship, relationships and misunderstandings.
Libby and Tony love each other so much but their relationship was a rocky one at best and took years for them to be where they are at the end of the book.
Lots of wrong time wrong place kind of situations and misunderstandings and lack of communication in fear of revealing their real feelings take place. Some would think it annoying but I find it quite endearing. Cause real couples do have lots of misunderstandings and heartaches due to their lack of communication.
But despite all their ups and downs they uphold their solid friendship through it all anyway because they know that they'd rather be just friends with the other than not have them in their lives at all. But you know that they'll end up with each other in the end and you'll be rooting for them all the way.
This is a light read that's quaint and cute as well as humorous.
February 15, 2012
"Her Best Friend's Brother" is an annoying story, yet I kind of like it. There is nothing much to tell in this review except one or two things that you'd known before decide to read it.
1. The storyline is literally boring and plain. Libby and Tony were deeply in love with each other. Once Libby (or in some case Tony) was about to confess their love; then something happened; after that they misunderstood each other and then back to square one ... confession. The truth is I think that this book'd end in the first two chapters.
2. I don't know is it hard to speak those words and get it over with. I know Tony was a gentleman (but that gentleman part didn't include his imaginations); Libby is such a lady (when she wasn't with Tony anyway). However, when you said I love you, nobody died because of that. The good thing of this type of plot is I do like the jealous part.
So I give "Her Best Friend's Brother" 2.5 stars but I'll give T.J. Dell another chance.
1. The storyline is literally boring and plain. Libby and Tony were deeply in love with each other. Once Libby (or in some case Tony) was about to confess their love; then something happened; after that they misunderstood each other and then back to square one ... confession. The truth is I think that this book'd end in the first two chapters.
2. I don't know is it hard to speak those words and get it over with. I know Tony was a gentleman (but that gentleman part didn't include his imaginations); Libby is such a lady (when she wasn't with Tony anyway). However, when you said I love you, nobody died because of that. The good thing of this type of plot is I do like the jealous part.
So I give "Her Best Friend's Brother" 2.5 stars but I'll give T.J. Dell another chance.
March 7, 2012
Okay I must say I loved the overall story soooo much! This book felt to me like when you are watching a movie and two people are looking for each other and past each other without knowing. It is frustrating but it made the ending that much better.However if this book were any longer I would have been highly irritated so it was the perfect length for this story.
Libby and Tony we made to be together to me. I just loved them from when I started reading. Tony had to put a lot of issues aside and I wish he would have sooner. But I am glad he eventually did.
Little unrealistic that the 2 guys she dated while being into Tony backed off and were okay with her leading them on. But maybe that is how things are in the small town she is from and in Rome and NY where the guys were from :)
All in all great book and loved the last few chapters. But Mel the best friend got on my nerves!!! I mean I get it but come on!!!!! <3
Libby and Tony we made to be together to me. I just loved them from when I started reading. Tony had to put a lot of issues aside and I wish he would have sooner. But I am glad he eventually did.
Little unrealistic that the 2 guys she dated while being into Tony backed off and were okay with her leading them on. But maybe that is how things are in the small town she is from and in Rome and NY where the guys were from :)
All in all great book and loved the last few chapters. But Mel the best friend got on my nerves!!! I mean I get it but come on!!!!! <3
December 6, 2011
Libby and Tony's story of childhood crush turned friendship then eventual love was a cute read. The two main characters were very likable and it was easy to cheer for their HEA because they suited each other so well. I enjoyed reading their back and forth emails and late night IM sessions.
My problem was the pacing of the story. It just felt a little off to me. I grew frustrated when yet another misunderstanding would send one of them running in the opposite direction. It just seemed there were too many of these small misunderstandings and it had me thinking "not again" to myself and seemed to stall the story making it feel like it was dragging out the inevitable.
But I enjoy T.J. Dell's storytelling and the two other books I've read by her were really good, so I def recommend checking all of them out.
My problem was the pacing of the story. It just felt a little off to me. I grew frustrated when yet another misunderstanding would send one of them running in the opposite direction. It just seemed there were too many of these small misunderstandings and it had me thinking "not again" to myself and seemed to stall the story making it feel like it was dragging out the inevitable.
But I enjoy T.J. Dell's storytelling and the two other books I've read by her were really good, so I def recommend checking all of them out.
April 24, 2012
Honestly...based on the reviews i expected to despise this book, but i found it sweet. The "Almost with each other" story usually wins me over, and its so refreshing from the books i usually read. Your average love triangle. I get so tired of love triangles i could kill myself. I found it to be a great story. My only regret is the ending. but *shrug. Their relationship and hit it and miss it attempt at finally being with one another kind of reminds me of the relationship between two best friends in the book "The Body Finder" By Kimberly Derting. Sweet and special because of how long they've loved one another.
WELL DONE T.J. DELL!
I LOVED TONY'S CHARACTER.
WELL DONE T.J. DELL!
I LOVED TONY'S CHARACTER.
September 12, 2016
This was 1 of the 1st books I wanted to read when I received my Fire & begin to browse Amazon. I finally got around to reading it & I am disappointed. The plot is exciting, the premise - desired, but what a let down. Too many misunderstandings, too many almost-s & what ifs. I felt it drug out too long. I understand the concept, but I'd like to think, if one loved the other as much as they thought they did, they wouldn't be ABLE to wait as long as they did. The whole thing became too predictable, I knew that if Tony was getting ready to make his move (finally) then Libby would say something, or look at him a certain way, and he wouldn't do it.. and then months or YEARS would go by. Nope. My belly never flip-flopped, my gut never crashed, not enough emotion for me. Surprise, surprise. Flounced at 67%
May 16, 2012
I LOVED this book. It kept me hooked, I couldn't stop reading. The last few moments were so incredibly frustrating, along with some other moments thanks to Mel, who kept insisting in screwing it up.
I reaaaaally liked it. The whole confussion, the timeline, the situations, the kisses, the dialogue, everything fell together so perfectly that I was amazed. It doesn't feels like the years were passing, it's just so natural and well written, with a lovely in-love Libby who had to go through a lot of comunication problems to get her man. I just loved it, I feel like it deserves the 5 stars I gave it. The other thing I really liked was the third person narration, because I loved to be able to read everyone's feelings, not just Libby's.
I wasn't sure at first, because of the cover, the title, it just screaaamed cliché. But it worked, and it was great. Lovely, lovely book.
I reaaaaally liked it. The whole confussion, the timeline, the situations, the kisses, the dialogue, everything fell together so perfectly that I was amazed. It doesn't feels like the years were passing, it's just so natural and well written, with a lovely in-love Libby who had to go through a lot of comunication problems to get her man. I just loved it, I feel like it deserves the 5 stars I gave it. The other thing I really liked was the third person narration, because I loved to be able to read everyone's feelings, not just Libby's.
I wasn't sure at first, because of the cover, the title, it just screaaamed cliché. But it worked, and it was great. Lovely, lovely book.
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