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We Met in a Bar
Wealthy nightclub owner Erica turns undercover bartender on a mission to catch a thief. The ridiculous idea seemed comical when her brother proposed it. After all, Erica has never worked a day in her life. But when her pushy mother plays matchmaker with yet another woman Erica isn’t interested in, she escapes on a train to London, to a club she hasn’t set foot in since inheriting it. There she meets no strings, no commitments Charlie, who couldn’t be further from Erica’s type. Erica has never met anyone who gets under her skin so much, and that’s surely a bad thing, right?
Charlie lives for the thrill of the chase. She loves women a little too much to imagine herself settling down. The very thought of a relationship is a terrifying prospect. It doesn’t matter anyway because she’s never met anyone who has held her interest for anything longer than a quick fling. All that changes when she meets the mysterious new bartender at her local club. Getting to know the obnoxious yet beautiful woman is a challenge she can’t resist. She just hadn’t bargained on her heart getting involved.
Charlie lives for the thrill of the chase. She loves women a little too much to imagine herself settling down. The very thought of a relationship is a terrifying prospect. It doesn’t matter anyway because she’s never met anyone who has held her interest for anything longer than a quick fling. All that changes when she meets the mysterious new bartender at her local club. Getting to know the obnoxious yet beautiful woman is a challenge she can’t resist. She just hadn’t bargained on her heart getting involved.
312 pages, Paperback
Published October 10, 2023
12 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
About the author
Claire Forsythe
3 books39 followersClaire Forsythe lives just outside Belfast in Northern Ireland with her partner, Mary, and their pets, Charlie the dog, Midnight the cat, and Jazz the goldfish. Claire owns a coffee shop, which keeps her both busy and well-topped-up on caffeine—flat whites, specifically.
Apart from her love of coffee, Claire enjoys cooking and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, sipping red wine, traveling and exploring new places, reading a variety of novels—from romance to crime, playing poker even though she's a terrible bluffer, and binge-watching box sets. She's a big football fan and loves cheering on her beloved Liverpool FC. She loves to spend as much time as she can with her family and friends, who mean the world to her. She and her partner get beaten by two of their best friends in doubles badminton weekly, though they turn up every week in the hope that their luck will change. It hasn’t yet…
Claire has loved words and books ever since she was little, and it has always been her ambition to write. After finding herself with some unexpected free time on her hands in lockdown during the pandemic, she decided to follow her dream and start writing. Now that she's started, she never wants to stop.
Apart from her love of coffee, Claire enjoys cooking and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, sipping red wine, traveling and exploring new places, reading a variety of novels—from romance to crime, playing poker even though she's a terrible bluffer, and binge-watching box sets. She's a big football fan and loves cheering on her beloved Liverpool FC. She loves to spend as much time as she can with her family and friends, who mean the world to her. She and her partner get beaten by two of their best friends in doubles badminton weekly, though they turn up every week in the hope that their luck will change. It hasn’t yet…
Claire has loved words and books ever since she was little, and it has always been her ambition to write. After finding herself with some unexpected free time on her hands in lockdown during the pandemic, she decided to follow her dream and start writing. Now that she's started, she never wants to stop.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
October 1, 2023
This is a story about Erica who is partners with her brother Zach, in owning several bars in London that they have inherited from their father. They grow up in a very upper class family with a controlling and snobbish mother. Erica has been doing charity work and fundraising for her mothers charities. Zach calls asking for help to solve a theft at one of the bars. Erica agrees to help him and get away from their mother.
One night in the bar Charlie is there with friends and makes eye contact with Erica. Charlie is a player and trying to make a move on another woman. Erica has an instant dislike of Charlie with her womanizing ways. I really liked the banter and humor in this book. Charlie and Erica were both likable characters and their friends were good supporting characters.
This did have the grey moment at the 80% mark and you knew it was coming from the start. The banter and the writing kept the story fresh and I’ll be reading more from this new author. Very enjoyable book IMO.
ARC received from Net Galley for an honest and voluntary review.
One night in the bar Charlie is there with friends and makes eye contact with Erica. Charlie is a player and trying to make a move on another woman. Erica has an instant dislike of Charlie with her womanizing ways. I really liked the banter and humor in this book. Charlie and Erica were both likable characters and their friends were good supporting characters.
This did have the grey moment at the 80% mark and you knew it was coming from the start. The banter and the writing kept the story fresh and I’ll be reading more from this new author. Very enjoyable book IMO.
ARC received from Net Galley for an honest and voluntary review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2024
High 4+ ⭐
A thoroughly entertaining read. Flirty serial dater Charlie meets high society Erica in a bar which Erica co-owns while working undercover to find a thief who has been stealing from the club. When they first laid eyes on each other, there was instant attraction but things took a turn for the worse when Erica saw just how cosy and flirty Charlie was with the ladies. From there on, things got frostier between them before it got better…all thanks to Hera the cat.
Just when it seems like everything is going well between Charlie and Erica, Mommy dearest shows up and throws a wrench in their relationship. There on, angst was all you get and one can't help but feel for Charlie who by then was all into Erica. And perhaps a tiny bit of anger with Erica for not standing up to Mommy and continuing to appease her.
A thoroughly entertaining read. Flirty serial dater Charlie meets high society Erica in a bar which Erica co-owns while working undercover to find a thief who has been stealing from the club. When they first laid eyes on each other, there was instant attraction but things took a turn for the worse when Erica saw just how cosy and flirty Charlie was with the ladies. From there on, things got frostier between them before it got better…all thanks to Hera the cat.
Just when it seems like everything is going well between Charlie and Erica, Mommy dearest shows up and throws a wrench in their relationship. There on, angst was all you get and one can't help but feel for Charlie who by then was all into Erica. And perhaps a tiny bit of anger with Erica for not standing up to Mommy and continuing to appease her.
September 20, 2023
This story has been quite interesting, because the two protagonists are great separately and together they are outstanding. Although a priori Erica, the haughty and seemingly unapproachable bartender, would not have much in common with Charlie, the vet assistant with a certain cockiness. Perhaps that is why they are certainly taken aback from their usual behavior from the moment they meet. And it's certainly entertaining to follow this change in them, as they also realize the effect they have on each other.
The parallel plot of why Erica is bartending when she has obviously never served a single sparkling water is interesting, although it is not really relevant. Although it does help Erica and Charlie interact despite their reluctance.
Some secondary characters also play their part in it, particularly Hera, Erica's cat. And also Charlie's neighbor, Olly, who is also related to Erica. And in addition to the interesting plot and its characters, the book is good paced .
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for an honest review
The parallel plot of why Erica is bartending when she has obviously never served a single sparkling water is interesting, although it is not really relevant. Although it does help Erica and Charlie interact despite their reluctance.
Some secondary characters also play their part in it, particularly Hera, Erica's cat. And also Charlie's neighbor, Olly, who is also related to Erica. And in addition to the interesting plot and its characters, the book is good paced .
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for an honest review
November 13, 2023
Erica and Charlie live in opposite worlds. When they meet, there is this intense immediate attraction, but as soon as Erica realize Charlie is the player type, she becomes obnoxious to her. I love when relationships starts badly like that, and Forsythe delighted us with multiple random conflictual encounters. When their relationship shifts, it’s full of sweet scenes where Charlie and Erica get close and it’s like you are meet with two different characters, especially Charlie. Forsythe makes a good job showing there were some hidden doors that Charlie and Erica didn’t know even existed and only the other held the key. Of course as a good romcom, the bubble eventually burst, breaking your heart and then mending it. The thief chasing participates in holding the readers attention, even if the mystery is pretty easy to guess from the start.
There are some books that I can easy imagine as a romcom on Netflix, and with initial tension, chemistry and sweetness, this book is one of them. I had a really good time reading it.
There are some books that I can easy imagine as a romcom on Netflix, and with initial tension, chemistry and sweetness, this book is one of them. I had a really good time reading it.
October 6, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
💰🍸🐈🎳🏳️🌈
This book made my heart hurt. I loved everything about it until the mother ruined it all. My heart broke into a million little pieces.
Claire Forsythe writes a beautiful book about not "judging a book a book by its cover", with the way that our two leading ladies meet. Erica is a rich, socialite who happens to own part of several nightclubs, and one is getting money stolen from. She goes to the bar to go undercover to try and find the culprit, where she first meets vet nurse, and ladies' woman, Charlie. They are attracted to each other at first sight, but when Erica sees Charlie with another woman, seconds after making eyes with her, the impression is set, and Erica goes all ice queen (which is funny, considering her name is Erica Frost). Charlie, the sweetheart she is, does not believe in relationships, but she knows there's something about Erica, and then they keep running into each other. Then they realise that they're neighbours, and they're going to be seeing a lot more of each other.
This book is a slow burn, enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, rich/poor, and queer af. Lesbians everywhere, Erica has a twin brother who is gay, and his boyfriend, Olly, is Erica's landlord while she's at the bar in London. Charlie's boss Liz is married to the wonderful Nancy. There are several other sapphic side characters including Charlie's best friend and housemate, Val. There are two side Achillean characters
Like I said, I loved this book right up until near the end. The plot was great, and engaging, it had me intrigued on who was stealing the money; thought I had clocked it halfway through but ended up being wrong and pleasantly surprised.. I guess I finally found something I hated more than miscommunication, and that is third break up. It broke my heart and it literally hurt. But it ended up with a HEA, so it made up for it.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldstroke books for a copy of the ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
🌶️🌶️
💰🍸🐈🎳🏳️🌈
This book made my heart hurt. I loved everything about it until the mother ruined it all. My heart broke into a million little pieces.
Claire Forsythe writes a beautiful book about not "judging a book a book by its cover", with the way that our two leading ladies meet. Erica is a rich, socialite who happens to own part of several nightclubs, and one is getting money stolen from. She goes to the bar to go undercover to try and find the culprit, where she first meets vet nurse, and ladies' woman, Charlie. They are attracted to each other at first sight, but when Erica sees Charlie with another woman, seconds after making eyes with her, the impression is set, and Erica goes all ice queen (which is funny, considering her name is Erica Frost). Charlie, the sweetheart she is, does not believe in relationships, but she knows there's something about Erica, and then they keep running into each other. Then they realise that they're neighbours, and they're going to be seeing a lot more of each other.
This book is a slow burn, enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, rich/poor, and queer af. Lesbians everywhere, Erica has a twin brother who is gay, and his boyfriend, Olly, is Erica's landlord while she's at the bar in London. Charlie's boss Liz is married to the wonderful Nancy. There are several other sapphic side characters including Charlie's best friend and housemate, Val. There are two side Achillean characters
Like I said, I loved this book right up until near the end. The plot was great, and engaging, it had me intrigued on who was stealing the money; thought I had clocked it halfway through but ended up being wrong and pleasantly surprised.. I guess I finally found something I hated more than miscommunication, and that is third break up. It broke my heart and it literally hurt. But it ended up with a HEA, so it made up for it.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldstroke books for a copy of the ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
January 1, 2024
5 ★ | Gave me everything I didn’t know I needed. Enemies to lovers. It wasn’t plain sailing. It wasn’t instalove. It was PERFECT. Truly. I enjoyed the snark, the back and forth. The conflict. It felt raw, real and natural. A pleasure to read.
January 5, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
charlie and erica are from different worlds, but they are about to meet and rock each others worlds
charlie is a player, she a fun type of girl with no strings attached, life has treated hard but shes a survivor
erica comes from money and hangs round with the elite, on first meeting her she comes across as snobby and entitled, but if she lets you in people realise that she is totally different, she is also dominated by her mother and even though erica tries to please her mother its never enough, ericas mother has a say in everything that she does, even who she dates
in a rare display of independence erica goes to help her brother in london and its there that she first sees charlie... and shes not impressed....
a fun read that keeps you reading right to the end just to see if erica can get away from her mother,,, the story with charlie is the added bonus
charlie and erica are from different worlds, but they are about to meet and rock each others worlds
charlie is a player, she a fun type of girl with no strings attached, life has treated hard but shes a survivor
erica comes from money and hangs round with the elite, on first meeting her she comes across as snobby and entitled, but if she lets you in people realise that she is totally different, she is also dominated by her mother and even though erica tries to please her mother its never enough, ericas mother has a say in everything that she does, even who she dates
in a rare display of independence erica goes to help her brother in london and its there that she first sees charlie... and shes not impressed....
a fun read that keeps you reading right to the end just to see if erica can get away from her mother,,, the story with charlie is the added bonus
September 28, 2023
I’m on vacation and wanted a light and easy read that I could jump into whether on the subway, bus or lounging in my hotel. We Met in a Bar filled all my needs except I got so into the story I finished too quickly. This gentle opposite attracts romance has posh Erica who wants a real relationship. She is use to the high social life in Cornwall and her mother has many expectations. She temporarily moves to London to help out with a situation at one of the bars she inhereited that is run by her brother. While there she meets Charlie a popular womenizer. She’s never had an interest in a relationship or a second night.
Turns out Charlie is also a very skilled veterinary nurse and happens to live next door to the apartment where Erica is staying. Bonding over Hera, Erica’s beloved cat, neither woman can deny their attratction. I love that they take things relatively slow and actually having a few dates. But they both know Erica is only in London temporarily.
I thought the story was sweet and the characters flirty and fun. The pacing is good too. I’ve read the author’s previous book and here again I think she overly explains the thought process of her characters. It makes some scenes longer than necessary. Use dialogue to share their thoughts. Over all very enjoyable and easy to recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
Turns out Charlie is also a very skilled veterinary nurse and happens to live next door to the apartment where Erica is staying. Bonding over Hera, Erica’s beloved cat, neither woman can deny their attratction. I love that they take things relatively slow and actually having a few dates. But they both know Erica is only in London temporarily.
I thought the story was sweet and the characters flirty and fun. The pacing is good too. I’ve read the author’s previous book and here again I think she overly explains the thought process of her characters. It makes some scenes longer than necessary. Use dialogue to share their thoughts. Over all very enjoyable and easy to recommend.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
October 5, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Erica and her brother Zach inherited several bars in London that their father left to them. Erica does a bunch of charities and fundraisers for her charity when her mother who very snobbish continues to try set her up she decides to take up her brother offer to help him find a thief at one of their bars.
Charlie is amazing vet and avoid commitment well she hasn’t met anyone that wants her to commit until now when she meets Erica who takes a dislike to her because no one has gotten under her skin so quickly. Erica and Charlie are cute love the bantering between them and them bonding over Erica cat Hera.
Erica and her brother Zach inherited several bars in London that their father left to them. Erica does a bunch of charities and fundraisers for her charity when her mother who very snobbish continues to try set her up she decides to take up her brother offer to help him find a thief at one of their bars.
Charlie is amazing vet and avoid commitment well she hasn’t met anyone that wants her to commit until now when she meets Erica who takes a dislike to her because no one has gotten under her skin so quickly. Erica and Charlie are cute love the bantering between them and them bonding over Erica cat Hera.
September 12, 2023
I received a copy of this ARC from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I have very mixed feelings on this book. I wanted to love it. The set up sounds adorable! A wealthy woman having to work at a bar she owns to ferret out a thief while also falling in love with a woman who prefers serial one night stands? Sign me up! Unfortunately it did not meet all my expectations.
At its core, I think my issue is that there is a good story here that needed more polishing and lots more editing than it got. The scenes were unnecessarily long. The dialog was not engaging and at times made me cringe. The twin brother of the main character frequently referred to her as sis and older sister. I have never met siblings who have done this. Worse than that were pieces of conversation like "some rumpy-pumpy would do you good."
I was not the least bit invested in the characters until halfway through the book and I did not feel that there was any tension to the story until the 85% mark.
This was a 2.5 star book for me. Again, there was a good story there but it was hidden by lack of polish.
I have very mixed feelings on this book. I wanted to love it. The set up sounds adorable! A wealthy woman having to work at a bar she owns to ferret out a thief while also falling in love with a woman who prefers serial one night stands? Sign me up! Unfortunately it did not meet all my expectations.
At its core, I think my issue is that there is a good story here that needed more polishing and lots more editing than it got. The scenes were unnecessarily long. The dialog was not engaging and at times made me cringe. The twin brother of the main character frequently referred to her as sis and older sister. I have never met siblings who have done this. Worse than that were pieces of conversation like "some rumpy-pumpy would do you good."
I was not the least bit invested in the characters until halfway through the book and I did not feel that there was any tension to the story until the 85% mark.
This was a 2.5 star book for me. Again, there was a good story there but it was hidden by lack of polish.
October 19, 2023
We Met in a Bar was truly a breath of fresh air. It was so so fun to read and I fell in love with the characters and their intricate lives. I read this book in about 3 days, so the only complaint (if any) I have is that it was just too addictive and a true struggle to put down.
I have to admit, the length of the book was slightly intimidating, and I was scared it was going to be boring or slow, but as soon as I started reading my fears were put to rest. The dual POV was amazing, as they were both SUCH lovable characters and I loved getting to know them.
Erica started off being a not-so-likeable character, and was pretty snobbish towards the beginning. However, as we started to get to know her better, it became clear that it was all a facade, and she truly was such a sweet person. Especially as we got to know more about Erica and her family, she was such an interesting character to learn about.
Something Claire Forsythe did beautifully is make sure the main characters are multidimensional. Charlie was so complex as well with her history and the explanations for her actions. These characters were written so beautifully and their chemistry was unmatched.
Not to sound redundant, but I truly did enjoy the book, and the side characters made it so much better. Tess, Erica’s best friend, was so supportive and a great friend. Charlie’s friends Liz and Nancy were also the cutest ever, and you could tell how for both these characters, family extended beyond just blood and their friends mirrored their loving, selfless personalities. To make things even better, nearly everyone was gay, so that was definitely an added plus. I loved how the side characters weren’t just 1-dimensional and also were complex just like the main characters.
As per the plot, it was a combination of things I love: A mix of mystery and romance (with a little bit of enemies to lovers), and it truly did add up to a great book. Their love was so pure and strong, and I found myself going through the ups and downs with them.
“She would walk over hot coals sixteen times if it meant another date with Erica.”
That quote was just one of many examples of how cute and perfect this book was. I just loved how pure their love story was and how human they were. I think at it’s core, love is just finding someone who makes your heart stop in the best way possible and who you want to never leave again, and this book did a beautiful job of showcasing that. It highlighted queer love as the normal occurrence it is, and I just was so so happy to see such a beautiful representation of two girls in love.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This truly was one of the best books I’ve read in a while, and I look forward to reading more books by this author!
I have to admit, the length of the book was slightly intimidating, and I was scared it was going to be boring or slow, but as soon as I started reading my fears were put to rest. The dual POV was amazing, as they were both SUCH lovable characters and I loved getting to know them.
Erica started off being a not-so-likeable character, and was pretty snobbish towards the beginning. However, as we started to get to know her better, it became clear that it was all a facade, and she truly was such a sweet person. Especially as we got to know more about Erica and her family, she was such an interesting character to learn about.
Something Claire Forsythe did beautifully is make sure the main characters are multidimensional. Charlie was so complex as well with her history and the explanations for her actions. These characters were written so beautifully and their chemistry was unmatched.
Not to sound redundant, but I truly did enjoy the book, and the side characters made it so much better. Tess, Erica’s best friend, was so supportive and a great friend. Charlie’s friends Liz and Nancy were also the cutest ever, and you could tell how for both these characters, family extended beyond just blood and their friends mirrored their loving, selfless personalities. To make things even better, nearly everyone was gay, so that was definitely an added plus. I loved how the side characters weren’t just 1-dimensional and also were complex just like the main characters.
As per the plot, it was a combination of things I love: A mix of mystery and romance (with a little bit of enemies to lovers), and it truly did add up to a great book. Their love was so pure and strong, and I found myself going through the ups and downs with them.
“She would walk over hot coals sixteen times if it meant another date with Erica.”
That quote was just one of many examples of how cute and perfect this book was. I just loved how pure their love story was and how human they were. I think at it’s core, love is just finding someone who makes your heart stop in the best way possible and who you want to never leave again, and this book did a beautiful job of showcasing that. It highlighted queer love as the normal occurrence it is, and I just was so so happy to see such a beautiful representation of two girls in love.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This truly was one of the best books I’ve read in a while, and I look forward to reading more books by this author!
November 15, 2023
Loved it!
Erica is the only person her brother can rely on to take an undercover mission at the bar they co-own to find who is responsible for money going missing. Meeting Charlie, who is instantly smitten with Erica on first sight, Erica tries to avoid her as she finds her irritating. Avoiding Charlie isn’t as easy as she thinks, and with her mother back home still pushing for her to commit to another woman, Erica is just stuck.
This was such a fun story! From the moment it began, I just knew it was going to be one of those stories I’d end up loving and unable to put down. The instant tension radiating from Erica about her mother, the mission at the bar, and Charlie came so fast but perfectly set the scene that Erica was going to snap somewhere, the question was when and where. It kept me hooked and what I adored was Charlie’s persistence to get to know Erica, even when she’d been given the cold shoulder. That challenge set a theme throughout the book that could then be applied to the mission Erica was on too.
When Erica finally accepted she couldn’t avoid Charlie, and we really learned that a lot of the Charlie we’d met earlier in the story was a front, I adored how she was and knew Erica would be unable to resist. In the end it was good that she had Charlie because hiding her identity at work, and worrying about the pressures her mother was still applying from miles away, she really did need someone supportive and who knew the truth besides her brother. They had an amazing connection and after giving into it, I was just completely in love with them, and just how far Erica had come for a chance at love.
A great story that I can’t wait to read again!
Erica is the only person her brother can rely on to take an undercover mission at the bar they co-own to find who is responsible for money going missing. Meeting Charlie, who is instantly smitten with Erica on first sight, Erica tries to avoid her as she finds her irritating. Avoiding Charlie isn’t as easy as she thinks, and with her mother back home still pushing for her to commit to another woman, Erica is just stuck.
This was such a fun story! From the moment it began, I just knew it was going to be one of those stories I’d end up loving and unable to put down. The instant tension radiating from Erica about her mother, the mission at the bar, and Charlie came so fast but perfectly set the scene that Erica was going to snap somewhere, the question was when and where. It kept me hooked and what I adored was Charlie’s persistence to get to know Erica, even when she’d been given the cold shoulder. That challenge set a theme throughout the book that could then be applied to the mission Erica was on too.
When Erica finally accepted she couldn’t avoid Charlie, and we really learned that a lot of the Charlie we’d met earlier in the story was a front, I adored how she was and knew Erica would be unable to resist. In the end it was good that she had Charlie because hiding her identity at work, and worrying about the pressures her mother was still applying from miles away, she really did need someone supportive and who knew the truth besides her brother. They had an amazing connection and after giving into it, I was just completely in love with them, and just how far Erica had come for a chance at love.
A great story that I can’t wait to read again!
September 13, 2023
This was the first book I read by Claire Forsythe, and let me tell you… I will be devouring anything else she writes. I read this one on a trip with friends and I found myself so enthralled in the emotions between the two main characters that I couldn’t pry myself away from this book. I will also admit that the slow-burn nature of this book made it even more appealing. I wanted nothing more than these two main characters to fall in bed, but with every twist and every turn of the plot they were further away from it. I might have shed a tear or two, or many towards the end of this book. All in all, this book has everything you want; Cats, bars, intrigue, romance, an evil mother, a twin brother. Talk about the full package! The writing was also funny and witty, and Forsythe knew exactly what she needed to do to keep you engaged throughout every single page. I will recommend this book to anyone and everyone I meet, but one word of caution: You will fall in love with the main characters, and you will wish you could experience their love all over again when the book is done. Simply outstanding.
****Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an eARC so that I may give my honest feedback and review****
****Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an eARC so that I may give my honest feedback and review****
September 5, 2023
100% a 4 ⭐️ read.
I was looking for a rom-com, entertaining stand-alone that would get me hooked but still deliver substance… and I found it with this book. I actually devoured it, which I wasn’t totally expecting, but once I picked it up I basically read it in a day and loved it.
This book had great banter between the main and side characters, the reformed player trope was executed so well (go Charlie!), and the emotional/ personal growth from Erica made me so deliriously happy. Also, a cat named after a Greek goddess? Absolutely sign me up; a detail I couldn’t let go as those are two of my absolute favorite things in life.
Cannot wait to read more from this author, she even had me noting that the side characters were well-developed, a feat to accomplish without overshadowing the mains.
I received a copy of this fabulous work from NetGalley/ Bold Strokes Books.
I was looking for a rom-com, entertaining stand-alone that would get me hooked but still deliver substance… and I found it with this book. I actually devoured it, which I wasn’t totally expecting, but once I picked it up I basically read it in a day and loved it.
This book had great banter between the main and side characters, the reformed player trope was executed so well (go Charlie!), and the emotional/ personal growth from Erica made me so deliriously happy. Also, a cat named after a Greek goddess? Absolutely sign me up; a detail I couldn’t let go as those are two of my absolute favorite things in life.
Cannot wait to read more from this author, she even had me noting that the side characters were well-developed, a feat to accomplish without overshadowing the mains.
I received a copy of this fabulous work from NetGalley/ Bold Strokes Books.
December 17, 2023
I liked the concept, but I wish the romance was given more time to develop. It had potential to be more angsty and sad, but they resolved the conflict way too quickly. The characters were fun, and the gestures that Charlie did for Erica were sweet. The running shoes scene was a nice touch.
January 15, 2024
this was so cute and really well written, definitely enjoyed!
November 28, 2025
3,5/5
Okay I have mixed feelings. And the loudests one are very angry at Erika's character, I hated how she acted with Charlie at the beginning and towards the end.I was trying to understand sometimes and it felt physically impossible
Okay I have mixed feelings. And the loudests one are very angry at Erika's character, I hated how she acted with Charlie at the beginning and towards the end.I was trying to understand sometimes and it felt physically impossible
December 6, 2024
5/5 ★
The dash of mystery, the flirting, Erica and Charlie - as well as the side characters - and the storyline made this book absolutely enjoyable to read.
The author did an amazing job writing the two main characters and giving them great personalities as well as some backstory. I really enjoyed their flirtatious banter that started at the beginning and lasted till the very end. The undeniable chemistry between Charlie and Erica made the book even more enjoyable.
The moment I started reading this book, I knew it would be one of those books that I would think about for weeks after finishing it - and yep, I finished it, I absolutely loved it, and I won’t stop thinking about it for the next few weeks.
The dash of mystery, the flirting, Erica and Charlie - as well as the side characters - and the storyline made this book absolutely enjoyable to read.
The author did an amazing job writing the two main characters and giving them great personalities as well as some backstory. I really enjoyed their flirtatious banter that started at the beginning and lasted till the very end. The undeniable chemistry between Charlie and Erica made the book even more enjoyable.
The moment I started reading this book, I knew it would be one of those books that I would think about for weeks after finishing it - and yep, I finished it, I absolutely loved it, and I won’t stop thinking about it for the next few weeks.
September 13, 2023
"We Met In A Bar" took me on an emotional rollercoaster that I didn't expect. At first, I found myself not exactly on Team Erica, but as I delved deeper into the circumstances of her upbringing, it all clicked into place, and I became a staunch fan. The book skillfully portrays how a person's background shapes their choices and actions. Erica's journey from a pampered heiress to an undercover bartender with a mission was both relatable and riveting.
The banter between Erica and Charlie in the beginning of the story was almost catty. Both characters deserved genuine love, and their connection was undeniable. The book beautifully highlights how a parent's love, or lack thereof, can profoundly influence our lives. Erica's struggle with her mother's conditional love was both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking, reminding us of the lasting impact of family dynamics.
Erica's mother, with her obsession over societal status, played a significant role in shaping the story's conflict. Her actions had lasting repercussions on Erica's life, serving as a poignant reminder of how external pressures can shape our choices and happiness.
The chemistry between Erica and Charlie was electric, and their journey from resistance to love was skillfully crafted. Charlie's fear of commitment and Erica's initial reluctance added depth to their characters, making their eventual connection all the more satisfying.
In the end, "We Met In A Bar" delivered a heartwarming and triumphant love story that left me with a sense of fulfillment. It's a powerful exploration of the impact of upbringing, societal pressures, and the search for true love. I'm glad Erica and Charlie found their happy ending, and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a captivating romance with real emotional depth.
The banter between Erica and Charlie in the beginning of the story was almost catty. Both characters deserved genuine love, and their connection was undeniable. The book beautifully highlights how a parent's love, or lack thereof, can profoundly influence our lives. Erica's struggle with her mother's conditional love was both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking, reminding us of the lasting impact of family dynamics.
Erica's mother, with her obsession over societal status, played a significant role in shaping the story's conflict. Her actions had lasting repercussions on Erica's life, serving as a poignant reminder of how external pressures can shape our choices and happiness.
The chemistry between Erica and Charlie was electric, and their journey from resistance to love was skillfully crafted. Charlie's fear of commitment and Erica's initial reluctance added depth to their characters, making their eventual connection all the more satisfying.
In the end, "We Met In A Bar" delivered a heartwarming and triumphant love story that left me with a sense of fulfillment. It's a powerful exploration of the impact of upbringing, societal pressures, and the search for true love. I'm glad Erica and Charlie found their happy ending, and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a captivating romance with real emotional depth.
October 5, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley, publisher Bold Strokes Books, and author Claire Forsythe for providing an ARC.
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This one wasn't for me. I was intrigued by a Romeo-and-Juliet or Aladdin-and-Jasmine idea, where two starcrossed lovers found a way to bridge their differences in social status and tax brackets to be together. I love a slow-burn. I love an enemies to lovers! But I kept finding myself having to force myself to continue. Around 30%, I checked to see how many pages this book is, because it felt like 500. I was surprised to see it was a little over 300 pages. I couldn't believe I'd only read 100 pages and had another 200 or so to go. It felt like all I was reading was how Charlie was a player, Erica was a snob, and there was the mystery of who stole the money from the bar! It all felt very superficial.
At 50%, I had the mystery figured out. I read on for a bit, then skimmed the last 40% of the book, found out I was right, and then my favorite (sarcasm) trope kicked in:
I feel like it's important to say, though, there's a huge double standard in Erica's behavior at the end of the book. If Erica were a man,
2 Star rating because the mystery subplot kept me going when the going got tough.
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This one wasn't for me. I was intrigued by a Romeo-and-Juliet or Aladdin-and-Jasmine idea, where two starcrossed lovers found a way to bridge their differences in social status and tax brackets to be together. I love a slow-burn. I love an enemies to lovers! But I kept finding myself having to force myself to continue. Around 30%, I checked to see how many pages this book is, because it felt like 500. I was surprised to see it was a little over 300 pages. I couldn't believe I'd only read 100 pages and had another 200 or so to go. It felt like all I was reading was how Charlie was a player, Erica was a snob, and there was the mystery of who stole the money from the bar! It all felt very superficial.
At 50%, I had the mystery figured out. I read on for a bit, then skimmed the last 40% of the book, found out I was right, and then my favorite (sarcasm) trope kicked in:
I feel like it's important to say, though, there's a huge double standard in Erica's behavior at the end of the book. If Erica were a man,
2 Star rating because the mystery subplot kept me going when the going got tough.
April 4, 2024
I loved this novel! I was thoroughly entertained from start to (mostly) finish. The plot was simple but satisfying and very well constructed; there were a lot of good and organic reasons for the two MC’s to keep interacting that allowed them to see different sides of each other and develop a relationship. I loved the main characters. They were realistically complicated people who felt real, and I loved them together. The relationship development was so sweet and felt very natural. I also particularly loved the side characters; there was a whole host of side characters, and they added a lot to the novel. There was also the mystery component (which started the plot in the first place) which was interesting enough to add to the novel, without taking up too much time and distracting from the romance.
My only complaint would be
As a side note, the plotline about the stolen money could have easily been resolved with some basic security measures. Basic security measures that were in place in every place I have ever worked in the real world. This doesn’t really matter and I not holding this against the novel, but I think the author should have thought a bit more about their inciting plot device. (Security cameras and having management supervise/record cash drops would have solved everything overnight. Basic accounting practices.)
My only complaint would be
As a side note, the plotline about the stolen money could have easily been resolved with some basic security measures. Basic security measures that were in place in every place I have ever worked in the real world. This doesn’t really matter and I not holding this against the novel, but I think the author should have thought a bit more about their inciting plot device. (Security cameras and having management supervise/record cash drops would have solved everything overnight. Basic accounting practices.)
October 3, 2023
Is it me or is it hot in here???? Brilliant chemistry and filled with vibrant characters, great writing and a dynamic plot and romance. Ridiculously warm and fuzzy with lots of banter and humour as well.
This was a book I simply did not want to put down to go and do boring responsible things like working or household chores.. I absolutely loved the whole story, plot and detail, some of the writing is a little too run on but overall it’s decently written.
The dialogue and relationships between characters were very well written, natural and realistic with great emotion and warmth.
It was a little annoying that there’s no physical descriptions until a few chapters in, but you do get detailed yet subtle descriptions when they meet so it wasn’t too bad.
Charlie is very quickly loveable where Erica needs to warm up a little before you realise she too is a lovely person, despite her upbringing and initial frostiness.
Really good background characters that all feel equally three dimentionall and real. I loved the whole story and just couldn’t put it down, it felt wholesome and interesting although admittedly a little predictable and obvious. Still, perfectly enjoyable and highly recommend, I wasn’t expecting to love this quite so thoroughly!
Ps: CLEXA vibes!!!
This was a book I simply did not want to put down to go and do boring responsible things like working or household chores.. I absolutely loved the whole story, plot and detail, some of the writing is a little too run on but overall it’s decently written.
The dialogue and relationships between characters were very well written, natural and realistic with great emotion and warmth.
It was a little annoying that there’s no physical descriptions until a few chapters in, but you do get detailed yet subtle descriptions when they meet so it wasn’t too bad.
Charlie is very quickly loveable where Erica needs to warm up a little before you realise she too is a lovely person, despite her upbringing and initial frostiness.
Really good background characters that all feel equally three dimentionall and real. I loved the whole story and just couldn’t put it down, it felt wholesome and interesting although admittedly a little predictable and obvious. Still, perfectly enjoyable and highly recommend, I wasn’t expecting to love this quite so thoroughly!
Ps: CLEXA vibes!!!
September 19, 2023
A few days ago, I found myself looking for the perfect book to get me out of a reading slump. I wanted something cheesy and witty, something that would make me cover my face while giggling. And lucky for me, I found it with this book.
“We Met In A Bar” by Claire Forsythe tells the story of Charlie and Erica, two women who are complete opposites, that could not be more perfect for each other. It’s a rom-com full of intriguing twists, funny dialogue and a cast of characters great enough to make you love every single one of them. This book perfectly encapsulates how our background can shape who we become, and how, with the support of our loved ones, we can even dare to defy it.
Like I said before, I loved all the characters; be it Erica and Charlie or their friends, all of them got a development that made me smile from ear to ear. One of my favorite things about this book is how much it values friendship, and how it shows us that we, as people, need that kind of support in our lives.
I do think the pace could’ve been better, but maybe that’s because I thoroughly enjoy slow-burns. Aside from that, I think that if you are looking for something funny, cheesy, full of love and friendship, this book might be perfect for you.
Thank you NetGalley for the arc!
“We Met In A Bar” by Claire Forsythe tells the story of Charlie and Erica, two women who are complete opposites, that could not be more perfect for each other. It’s a rom-com full of intriguing twists, funny dialogue and a cast of characters great enough to make you love every single one of them. This book perfectly encapsulates how our background can shape who we become, and how, with the support of our loved ones, we can even dare to defy it.
Like I said before, I loved all the characters; be it Erica and Charlie or their friends, all of them got a development that made me smile from ear to ear. One of my favorite things about this book is how much it values friendship, and how it shows us that we, as people, need that kind of support in our lives.
I do think the pace could’ve been better, but maybe that’s because I thoroughly enjoy slow-burns. Aside from that, I think that if you are looking for something funny, cheesy, full of love and friendship, this book might be perfect for you.
Thank you NetGalley for the arc!
October 12, 2023
Posh Erica is living a life of expectations - of her mother's expectations as to what her live should be and whom she should date. After a dismal first date with Victoria and faced with a vacation with her mother, Victoria, and Victoria's mother, Erica jumps at the chance to help her brother catch a thief in their shared bar where she is immediately attracted to blonde, commitment averse Charlie -- who kisses another woman on the dance floor while making eyes at Erica. Can Erica find the thief or will her heart be stolen?
I loved the dual POV of both characters and the push and pull of their attraction to each other. For the majority of the book, it is a slow burn with lots of sexual tension and heavy kissing.
A third act break up is always one of my least favorite things in a book -- but it sort of works in this book. It makes sense and the characters don't immediately fall back together which was refreshing.
Hera the cat is adorable -- and I'm so glad that she liked Charlie. I would love a book or short story about Olly and Zachary.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC!!
I loved the dual POV of both characters and the push and pull of their attraction to each other. For the majority of the book, it is a slow burn with lots of sexual tension and heavy kissing.
A third act break up is always one of my least favorite things in a book -- but it sort of works in this book. It makes sense and the characters don't immediately fall back together which was refreshing.
Hera the cat is adorable -- and I'm so glad that she liked Charlie. I would love a book or short story about Olly and Zachary.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC!!
November 4, 2023
Charlie loves women, well not love them exactly, she spends her time seeing if she can bed them without making a commitment. She didn;t believe in ‘love’ and didn’t want to waste their time or her own because she didn’t do relationships. She works as an assistant to her good friend, veterinarian Liz, who very much wants Charlie to take the time to study and become a veterinarian herself. Charlie and her best friend Val share an apartment and Val is like Charlie, she doesn’t do relationships.
Erica along with her twin Zachery own a string of nightclubs left to them by their fathers. Erica’s mother was a snob. No one is good enough for her daughter but she keeps trying to settle down with Erica with a woman of her dreams. For some reason Erica still lives close to her mother but when Zachery asks Erica to go check one of their clubs, someone is stealing and Erica hopes to catch them. It also gives Erica a chance to get away from her mother.
Ms Forsythe has written a book that I had a hard time putting down. Great characters, both main and supporting, along with a nicely paced story. Very, very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/Bold Stroke Books
August 28, 2025
Had been absolutely swept away with this one.
This is a great read and an easy one too. The writing is what I enjoyed the most; it was really smooth and easy. Like slightly melted butter, that's how perfect I consider it. Pointing out that chapters are not about one person but it's more a third-person's tale, and you have to work to make it actually good and engaging. Felt i was flowing through the book, and that's a delight after a reading slump. I love it when you are reading a book and it's just perfect in all the right places. This was exactly that.
It's mainly plot-driven from their fateful encounters as they kept popping up in each other's lives after a rough start + character development is on point (with Erica being controlled by what is expected of her and Charlie's no-commitment relationships). There is a plot of mystery added regarding who stole the money, and I have to say it was balanced out pretty well, with enough of everything and never over the top. I think I'm in love with this writer now and want to read all of her books because I don't think this book holds a single flaw.
This is a great read and an easy one too. The writing is what I enjoyed the most; it was really smooth and easy. Like slightly melted butter, that's how perfect I consider it. Pointing out that chapters are not about one person but it's more a third-person's tale, and you have to work to make it actually good and engaging. Felt i was flowing through the book, and that's a delight after a reading slump. I love it when you are reading a book and it's just perfect in all the right places. This was exactly that.
It's mainly plot-driven from their fateful encounters as they kept popping up in each other's lives after a rough start + character development is on point (with Erica being controlled by what is expected of her and Charlie's no-commitment relationships). There is a plot of mystery added regarding who stole the money, and I have to say it was balanced out pretty well, with enough of everything and never over the top. I think I'm in love with this writer now and want to read all of her books because I don't think this book holds a single flaw.
October 5, 2023
This was an ARC read for me and I was pleasantly surprised by how much it kept me Hooked. Absolutely a recommended read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Read for me!
- Forced Proximity
- Frenemies to Lovers
- LGBQT
- Slow burn
- Spice (1/5🌶️)
Erica one of our FMCs is a high society heiress who's need to get away from the pressures of her mother left her agreeing to an "undercover operation" at the bar her brother and her own in London. Little did she know that escape would rattle the world as she knows it. Will she finally pick herself or will she let her mother control her?
Charlie the other FMC is a Vet Nurse and "player" with all the charm and no intentions of settling down. Every thing changes when she spots the new bartender at one of her frequent night clubs. She never thought she could feel like this. It has
her wondering if she could actually have her happy ever after?
The ups and downs and the banter kept the wanting more. I love seeing them both grow and prosper. The "dual" plot kept it interesting at every turn. I couldn't wait to find out who the culprit was.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Read for me!
- Forced Proximity
- Frenemies to Lovers
- LGBQT
- Slow burn
- Spice (1/5🌶️)
Erica one of our FMCs is a high society heiress who's need to get away from the pressures of her mother left her agreeing to an "undercover operation" at the bar her brother and her own in London. Little did she know that escape would rattle the world as she knows it. Will she finally pick herself or will she let her mother control her?
Charlie the other FMC is a Vet Nurse and "player" with all the charm and no intentions of settling down. Every thing changes when she spots the new bartender at one of her frequent night clubs. She never thought she could feel like this. It has
her wondering if she could actually have her happy ever after?
The ups and downs and the banter kept the wanting more. I love seeing them both grow and prosper. The "dual" plot kept it interesting at every turn. I couldn't wait to find out who the culprit was.
Read
November 14, 2023I received a copy of this story from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
DNF: 17%
I was pulled in by the summary and the fact that it's set in a bar/club. I'm forever on the hunt for a well done, bar-centric story so I was optimistic.
Here's how the first four chapters went:
* Chapter 1 -- ugh, Erica is boring and snooty and not fun to read
* Chapter 2 -- Charlie's a bit better, maybe there's hope for this yet
* Chapter 3 -- eh, seeing Erica interact with more people has not improved things
* Chapter 4 -- oof, Charlie's going downhill now, too!
I had to quit. I didn't care about the characters. Their internal monologues were KILLING me. So much information was repeated (sometimes within just a few pages) and it dragged the pacing way down.
Everything felt clunky. It almost felt like it wanted to be written dual PoV in first person, but making Erica and Charlie sound distinct enough was too much of a challenge so they settled for third person.
Once again, my hopes were dashed!
DNF: 17%
I was pulled in by the summary and the fact that it's set in a bar/club. I'm forever on the hunt for a well done, bar-centric story so I was optimistic.
Here's how the first four chapters went:
* Chapter 1 -- ugh, Erica is boring and snooty and not fun to read
* Chapter 2 -- Charlie's a bit better, maybe there's hope for this yet
* Chapter 3 -- eh, seeing Erica interact with more people has not improved things
* Chapter 4 -- oof, Charlie's going downhill now, too!
I had to quit. I didn't care about the characters. Their internal monologues were KILLING me. So much information was repeated (sometimes within just a few pages) and it dragged the pacing way down.
Everything felt clunky. It almost felt like it wanted to be written dual PoV in first person, but making Erica and Charlie sound distinct enough was too much of a challenge so they settled for third person.
Once again, my hopes were dashed!
August 16, 2024
A great love story that presents inner conflict on both sides but only delivers on one.
Both MCs have an inner conflict. One overcomes her fear of defying her mom and the other ends up forgiving her for the BS she pulled in front of that same mom.
However, we only see the first resolution, watching the MC get her courage and inspiration and decide to grow a backbone. The other MC is very hesitant and quite determined never to go back to being with her and after a few days - lo and behold- she shows up. We don't see what caused the change of heart and it's not even discussed... deus ex machina doesn't look good in such situations. It kinda ruined the resolution for me :(
However, there is wonderful banter and great dialogues throughout the book, a great supporting cast and the conflicts themselves are rather great since they work very well with the MCs' dispositions and settings.
I enjoyed the humor and liveliness.
T&T:
Tropes: cute pet, worlds apart, twins
Triggers: open-door sex scenes, overbearing mother
Rating: 4 stars
Both MCs have an inner conflict. One overcomes her fear of defying her mom and the other ends up forgiving her for the BS she pulled in front of that same mom.
However, we only see the first resolution, watching the MC get her courage and inspiration and decide to grow a backbone. The other MC is very hesitant and quite determined never to go back to being with her and after a few days - lo and behold- she shows up. We don't see what caused the change of heart and it's not even discussed... deus ex machina doesn't look good in such situations. It kinda ruined the resolution for me :(
However, there is wonderful banter and great dialogues throughout the book, a great supporting cast and the conflicts themselves are rather great since they work very well with the MCs' dispositions and settings.
I enjoyed the humor and liveliness.
T&T:
Tropes: cute pet, worlds apart, twins
Triggers: open-door sex scenes, overbearing mother
Rating: 4 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2023
This story has it all and more. An intriguing thief, an overbearing mother, twins, love/hate, excellent sidekicks and a cat!
Erica and her brother Zachary inherited a few bars from their late father which Zachary manages. Turns out there is a thief among the staff in one of the bars so to help her brother out and maybe escape her overbearing mother she goes to London to help him find the culprit.
When Erica meets Charlie it throws her through a loop because the attraction is instant but Charlie is everything she shouldn't and doesn't want.
I enjoyed how they got through their differences and how Charlie managed to find it in herself to realize that she had to do things differently with Erica because everything was differently with her.
It wasn't a huge surprise as who was doing the stealing but I did enjoy this extra bit of mystery in the book.
An ARC was provided to me via Netgalley in return of an honest review.
Erica and her brother Zachary inherited a few bars from their late father which Zachary manages. Turns out there is a thief among the staff in one of the bars so to help her brother out and maybe escape her overbearing mother she goes to London to help him find the culprit.
When Erica meets Charlie it throws her through a loop because the attraction is instant but Charlie is everything she shouldn't and doesn't want.
I enjoyed how they got through their differences and how Charlie managed to find it in herself to realize that she had to do things differently with Erica because everything was differently with her.
It wasn't a huge surprise as who was doing the stealing but I did enjoy this extra bit of mystery in the book.
An ARC was provided to me via Netgalley in return of an honest review.
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