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Aspen Friends #2
Something So Grand
As a designer for the wealthy, Vivian Yeats doesn't have a lot of time for a relationship. Not the kind of relationships she's had in the past, anyway. She's always settled for compatibility or common interests or misplaced enthusiasm when it comes to partners. Despite being her favorite subject in books and on screen, romance constantly eludes her.
For Natalie Harper, romance has never been on her radar. She prefers working hard at her construction job and doing good work to guide her through her days. When she meets Vivian, she's knocked off that focused path. They become successful colleagues and good friends. Could romance become the thing they do best together?
For Natalie Harper, romance has never been on her radar. She prefers working hard at her construction job and doing good work to guide her through her days. When she meets Vivian, she's knocked off that focused path. They become successful colleagues and good friends. Could romance become the thing they do best together?
250 pages, Paperback
First published August 28, 2012
41 people are currently reading
268 people want to read
About the author
Lynn Galli
19 books267 followersLynn Galli calls the Pacific Northwest home even though she's never written any software code, built an airplane, worn socks with sandals, or slung coffee. For the most part, she enjoys her real job but absolutely lives for the time she gets to spend writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
October 20, 2025
5 stars
It's a stand-alone
No prior knowledge necessary. I didn't notice any bigger spoilers of the previous book either, it's just set in the same universe.
This was very nice, cute, fun, not much drama, likeable MC's...
And I really appreciated some of the small details, like for example Nat's funny socks with pictures. I have a collection of those myself and I am incredibly proud of it :)
Oh and there was a cute dog in the story too
Definitely one of the best "pure romance" stories I've read so far
Reread 2024: I still stand by everything I wrote previously
Reread October 2025: still the same rating
It's a stand-alone
No prior knowledge necessary. I didn't notice any bigger spoilers of the previous book either, it's just set in the same universe.
This was very nice, cute, fun, not much drama, likeable MC's...
And I really appreciated some of the small details, like for example Nat's funny socks with pictures. I have a collection of those myself and I am incredibly proud of it :)
Oh and there was a cute dog in the story too
Definitely one of the best "pure romance" stories I've read so far
Reread 2024: I still stand by everything I wrote previously
Reread October 2025: still the same rating
November 29, 2025
Solid
Yep, just as you expect from this author it is a well written, sweet romance that has excellent development with lovable characters.
Yep, just as you expect from this author it is a well written, sweet romance that has excellent development with lovable characters.
March 15, 2014
You meet someone. You realize you enjoy her company. You want to be around her all the time. You romance her by doing nice things...then you fall in love.
October 14, 2012
What can I say.... "Too sweet for this century" :o)
January 27, 2019
I really liked this, even though Mending Defects is still my favorite. But this one is close.
June 10, 2016
My eighth book by Galli. And, based on some of the more recent books I'd read by her, one I was oddly reluctant to read. There was mention of Vivian in the prior book in this 'series', and nothing present there made me think I should rush in to read this specific book here. Granted she was just mentioned in passing in Mending Defects.
So. A designer, Vivian Yeats (huh, I recall someone else being called Yeats recently, strange), and a contractor, Natalie Harper bump into each other, and over a longish period of time, develop a relationship together. In Aspen. Hence the title of the series, Aspen Friends.
I rather liked this one. The introduction, earlish in the book, of kids made me groan. But, fortunately, wasn't the bad kind of kid-adult interaction that I've run across before. And, happily, none of the point of views came from any of the children. No, just Natalie and Vivian. Actually, I just realized that. Somewhat unlike Galli, she had both of the women in the relationship have their own sections, their own point of views expressed. Most of the time Galli seems to keep it to one POV, with the other maybe showing up in an epilogue. Or, like in the previous book in this series, in diary form (though that's the only diary I recall). If I had time, I'd hunt down her other books to see if she actually has had full multiple point of views before (as in both parties in a relationship, not two POV's, one of which is an adults, and the other is a kids; full as in equal treatment of both POV's, instead of full POV from one, and a hidden and/or diary version for the other). I can't, of the top of my head, recall.
That was nice, actually. Seeing both point of views right off the bat. Unlike, say, in Mending Defects wherein you got two POV's, but one was only in diary, or Blessed Twice & it's sequel Forevermore wherein there are two POV's in each book, but the first has Briony's POV and then this secretive one that was behind a veil, though was obviously M's; and M's POV in the second book, with some kid's as the second POV in that book.
Also nice was how fluffy this one was. Without the heartache and angst that seems mandatory in lesbian romances. A nice fluffy sweet book. Worthy of 4.5 stars. Depending on how well this book sticks with me, will probably determine if I raise or lower that rating. As, I can't, at the moment, think why I didn't give the book a full 5 star rating. I'm highly unlikely I'll raise it, though, since I didn't immediately slap five stars on, but there's a chance I will. If it lingers in my mind. The right kind of lingering.
In terms of characters, this is probably the first book I've read with a designer, and the second character (I think) who worked in construction. At least in a lesbian romance. That other contractor/construction worker being one in J.A. Armstrong's design series. Actually, I just recalled another construction worker. In Learning Curve, I believe. So, my third lesbian construction worker, then.
So. A designer, Vivian Yeats (huh, I recall someone else being called Yeats recently, strange), and a contractor, Natalie Harper bump into each other, and over a longish period of time, develop a relationship together. In Aspen. Hence the title of the series, Aspen Friends.
I rather liked this one. The introduction, earlish in the book, of kids made me groan. But, fortunately, wasn't the bad kind of kid-adult interaction that I've run across before. And, happily, none of the point of views came from any of the children. No, just Natalie and Vivian. Actually, I just realized that. Somewhat unlike Galli, she had both of the women in the relationship have their own sections, their own point of views expressed. Most of the time Galli seems to keep it to one POV, with the other maybe showing up in an epilogue. Or, like in the previous book in this series, in diary form (though that's the only diary I recall). If I had time, I'd hunt down her other books to see if she actually has had full multiple point of views before (as in both parties in a relationship, not two POV's, one of which is an adults, and the other is a kids; full as in equal treatment of both POV's, instead of full POV from one, and a hidden and/or diary version for the other). I can't, of the top of my head, recall.
That was nice, actually. Seeing both point of views right off the bat. Unlike, say, in Mending Defects wherein you got two POV's, but one was only in diary, or Blessed Twice & it's sequel Forevermore wherein there are two POV's in each book, but the first has Briony's POV and then this secretive one that was behind a veil, though was obviously M's; and M's POV in the second book, with some kid's as the second POV in that book.
Also nice was how fluffy this one was. Without the heartache and angst that seems mandatory in lesbian romances. A nice fluffy sweet book. Worthy of 4.5 stars. Depending on how well this book sticks with me, will probably determine if I raise or lower that rating. As, I can't, at the moment, think why I didn't give the book a full 5 star rating. I'm highly unlikely I'll raise it, though, since I didn't immediately slap five stars on, but there's a chance I will. If it lingers in my mind. The right kind of lingering.
In terms of characters, this is probably the first book I've read with a designer, and the second character (I think) who worked in construction. At least in a lesbian romance. That other contractor/construction worker being one in J.A. Armstrong's design series. Actually, I just recalled another construction worker. In Learning Curve, I believe. So, my third lesbian construction worker, then.
December 24, 2016
Super sappy but sweet love story. Only minor angst in this one. It was rather refreshing that these women didn't have train wreck former relationships that kept them from loving each other.
July 20, 2019
3.5 star rating
This is the second in the series but it is fully stand alone so you won't need any actual information from its predecessor to enjoy the book.
This was a really slow get to know one another story and i enjoyed it for that and enjoyed the supporting character portrayals except that of Vivian's friends that hit on Natalie...I find their role totally unnecessary.
I said i enjoyed the slow romance but I also think the book was unnecessarily too long...there were many chapters endings i thought ought to have ended the story.
This is the second in the series but it is fully stand alone so you won't need any actual information from its predecessor to enjoy the book.
This was a really slow get to know one another story and i enjoyed it for that and enjoyed the supporting character portrayals except that of Vivian's friends that hit on Natalie...I find their role totally unnecessary.
I said i enjoyed the slow romance but I also think the book was unnecessarily too long...there were many chapters endings i thought ought to have ended the story.
November 26, 2021
Excellent series … looking forward to Book 3
Vivian and Natalie’s journey was loving from the beginning. Natalie’s temperament is kind, respectful, generous, and peaceful. An amazing soul seeking a like minded spirit. She found one in Vivian. The secondary characters were well developed and relatable and important to the story. A beautifully written book of love, trust, and commitment. I enthusiastically recommend this and the entire Aspen Friends series. I love the writing style of this author. Thank you Peace
Vivian and Natalie’s journey was loving from the beginning. Natalie’s temperament is kind, respectful, generous, and peaceful. An amazing soul seeking a like minded spirit. She found one in Vivian. The secondary characters were well developed and relatable and important to the story. A beautifully written book of love, trust, and commitment. I enthusiastically recommend this and the entire Aspen Friends series. I love the writing style of this author. Thank you Peace
October 8, 2012
Standard sweet romance, but I liked Mending Defects a lot more. It really just ends, leaving some threads unresolved. But, I'll likely reread it on a rainy day.
November 1, 2012
Vivian Yeats is a highly successful designer, in Aspen. Her clients are almost all rich and some are famous. She’s been hoping against hope that she will find someone to love for a long time. Her career takes up most of her time though. Is Vivian destined to be alone for ever?
Natalie Harper works hard and long hours in her construction job. She’s not in a relationship and hasn’t really been looking for one. That is, until she meets Vivian. Natalie is smitten by her. But she won’t do anything to jeopardize their working relationship. Vivian and Natalie become really good friends. Each harboring the desire for the other. What will it take to bring them both together romantically?
Quite simply put, I love Lynn Galli’s writing and I love this book.
As with the rest of Lynn’s books, I found the characters here multidimensional, lovable and so easy to get to know. The scenery is so well described, I could lose myself in the story completely.
It was lovely to see friends from Mending Defects, including Vivian. Although this book is a standalone, I would strongly advise reading Mending Defects first. It’s always nice to meet the characters from the beginning, but not essential.
This book is a bit on the short side, but there is a lot packed in to it. Family issues, relationships, business problems, all written in a seamless dialogue. Last but by no means least, there is a slow burning romance that radiates love from the pages.
If you want a nicely written page turning romance to curl up with on a cold winter night, or even a beach read, give this one a try. The only complaint I have with this book, is...... I wanted more, much, much more. But, I guess I’m going to have to wait and hope there will be a third book in the ‘Aspen’ series. Bring it on!
Natalie Harper works hard and long hours in her construction job. She’s not in a relationship and hasn’t really been looking for one. That is, until she meets Vivian. Natalie is smitten by her. But she won’t do anything to jeopardize their working relationship. Vivian and Natalie become really good friends. Each harboring the desire for the other. What will it take to bring them both together romantically?
Quite simply put, I love Lynn Galli’s writing and I love this book.
As with the rest of Lynn’s books, I found the characters here multidimensional, lovable and so easy to get to know. The scenery is so well described, I could lose myself in the story completely.
It was lovely to see friends from Mending Defects, including Vivian. Although this book is a standalone, I would strongly advise reading Mending Defects first. It’s always nice to meet the characters from the beginning, but not essential.
This book is a bit on the short side, but there is a lot packed in to it. Family issues, relationships, business problems, all written in a seamless dialogue. Last but by no means least, there is a slow burning romance that radiates love from the pages.
If you want a nicely written page turning romance to curl up with on a cold winter night, or even a beach read, give this one a try. The only complaint I have with this book, is...... I wanted more, much, much more. But, I guess I’m going to have to wait and hope there will be a third book in the ‘Aspen’ series. Bring it on!
January 3, 2013
I have enjoyed tremendously all the works I have read by Lynn Galli and Something So Grand is no different. Lynn Galli has a way of bringing classic romance to the reader and that is what I find especially true with the characters of Vivian and Natalie. Lynn Galli creates the perfect setting for a courtship to occur, drawing the reader closer to the characters. From a very honest first meeting the characters balance each other as their lives slowly start to overlap and a relationship is developed. I was especially drawn to the character of Natalie, as she faced every hardship and challenge with honesty and determination. Where she doesn't quite trust herself to be a lovabale woman, she shows everyone around them how important and loved they are. Balancing that with Vivian who was raised with a close family and lots of shallow friends, is what Lynn Galli does best. I am hoping that this is just the start of a new series for Lynn Galli as the supporting characters teased the reader with their pasts as well. Wonderful book to snuggle down with during a snowstorm outside, or anytime for that matter.
February 1, 2013
I thought it was very well-written and a great story. However, something was just "missing" to me. I do want to read Mending Defects as well...I love when characters are in multiple books that aren't necessarily a series.
July 30, 2025
I like Lynn Galli's books and enjoy the characters. at times I wish the story would not end
August 16, 2018
As has been said by others, this is the best of the series. It could honestly have been an okay read. I liked the two MCs well enough, and the romance developed well enough with no fake drama and angst after they get together so that they can get back together for some unrealistic HEA (however they also have no conflict whatsoever at any point in their relationship from their very first meeting). But this author doesn't seem to be able to write romance that is not overly sappy and tacky and, in consequence, completely unrealistic and shallow.
October 15, 2017
i enjoyed this book very much , the chemistry was beyond amazing . the side characters took the needed space nothing less nothing more . extending story of lena & glory made me quite happy . the "getting to know " & "developing feelings" part was the best part of the book but "getting into relationship " part wasn't , that felt like quite rushed to me . the writer has certainly made the level up with previous books I've read .
November 22, 2022
THIS is one of my favourite books in the Aspen Friends series...The characters of Vivian Yeats and Natalie Harper are beautifully written, wonderfully human and quirky (even nerdy at times) and the interplay between the characters is melt-into-a-happy-puddle wonderful; I adore the gentleness and slow-burn of their story...A big YES to the inclusion of pups all throughout this series and the inclusion of Glory and Lena in the book.
April 28, 2019
Wow!
Great story! I've read this, and her novella, both slow burns with minimal angst, where the characters get to know each other before establishing a couple relationship. I don't know if it's how she regularly writes, or if this was a coincidence, but I like it. (Books where they kiss and fall in bed together soon are fine, too, but I enjoy this more.)
Great story! I've read this, and her novella, both slow burns with minimal angst, where the characters get to know each other before establishing a couple relationship. I don't know if it's how she regularly writes, or if this was a coincidence, but I like it. (Books where they kiss and fall in bed together soon are fine, too, but I enjoy this more.)
December 23, 2018
Brilliant book
I loved this book, the telling of the story from 2 viewpoints is really well done, the characters believable and the story is great, I’ve loved getting to know the Aspen group. Just read it!
I loved this book, the telling of the story from 2 viewpoints is really well done, the characters believable and the story is great, I’ve loved getting to know the Aspen group. Just read it!
April 24, 2019
Good read
I really enjoyed reading this book...I'm not sure it the next installment will be related to this one, but I'm hoping it is😍
I really enjoyed reading this book...I'm not sure it the next installment will be related to this one, but I'm hoping it is😍
May 25, 2018
There are so many good lines in this book. I surprisingly enjoyed the perspective as told by both main characters. It gives greater depth of the characters, giving more insight into the many layers of their personalities. I like that the characters Vivian and Natalie become colleagues and friends first, and the romance between them builds more gradually. Galli has a talent for weaving humor into the life of the story. A nicely orchestrated story, with characters you would love to get to know.
October 20, 2012
This is a classic Lynn Galli love story between Vivian and Natalie. Lynn allows you to get to know the characters and brings back the Aspen clan from Mending Defects. I absolutely love how her characters cross over to other stories. In this book you have Vivian the hopeless romantic who has never been in love and never been romanced. Living in Aspen is quite difficult to find these things when there's only a handful of lesbians and tourist who pop in and out. Upon a chance meeting in a store Vivian and Natalie literally bump into to each other and Vivian is determined to find this woman as she can't be too far away in this small town. The entry of Vivian in Natalie's life brings a lot of life changes. It's the classic saying good things come to those who wait. Will the two wait too long for a love they both deserve? Find out in Something so Grand.
March 7, 2015
I enjoyed this story for the most part. It was nice to visit some characters we'd met previously (although a lot of the beginning of the book is set around a project involving Lena and Glory which we don't see a payoff scene for). I did enjoy the way Vivian and Natalie got to know each other, and I enjoy slow build romances so it hit those notes, but the whole storyline is just a bit too perfect. Everything that needs to happen for Natalie happens perfectly, apparently all she needed was to meet Vivian to set her life on track, and all Vivian needed was to meet Natalie so that she could be surrounded by 'sweetness'. Honest to god I was sick of the word 'sweet' by the end. It's worth a read but it's not my favourite Galli novel.
December 10, 2013
This is my second Lynn Galli book. I'm noticing a lovely pattern. The characters are well developed and lovable. The subplot is enjoyable as well. There isn't a lot of angst. The romance is developed slowly over the course of the book, but not in as much detail as I would like. And then the ending seems so abrupt. I just want more! I loved these characters and hope they show up in the third book.
November 6, 2012
Solid romance. Likeable characters. No drama, which was a bit of a relief and different from her other stories where there often was a forced conflict for the sake of conflict.
I hope she doen't milk every lesbian character in her Aspen series for a separate story.
I hope she doen't milk every lesbian character in her Aspen series for a separate story.
May 27, 2014
Enjoyed this book, I like when the characters finally get together nearer the end of a book so I don't have to keep reading on and on with a boring story line but this finished at a perfect time. I really adored Natalie.
October 9, 2012
This author's writing style is incredibly annoying and pretentious. I'm not a fan of 1st person narration and usually I can ignore it but her style is just too grating.
November 28, 2012
It's a sweet, fluffy romance. While the ending was abrupt, the story felt pretty done. I'd recommend it to my standard romance loving friends, definitely.
January 1, 2013
light, easy read. no real conflict which goes against the lynn galli method of writing lesbian romances. I enjoyed the half day spent in bed reading it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews