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Lucky Harbor #7
It Had to be You
Available for a limited time, this special bonus edition of IT HAD TO BE YOU includes Blue Flame, a free, full-length novel also by Jill Shalvis.
Ali Winters is not having a good day. Her boyfriend left her, everyone in town thinks she's a thief, and now she's about to be kicked out of her home. Her only shot at keeping a roof over her head and clearing her name is to beg for help from a police detective who's as sexy as he is stern....
After a high-profile case goes wrong, Luke Hanover returns to his hometown for some peace and quiet. Instead he finds a bombshell brunette in a heap of trouble. As he helps Ali put her world back together, the pieces of Luke's own life finally seem to fall into place. Is this the start of a sizzling fling? Or are Luke and Ali on the brink of something big in a little town called Lucky Harbor?
Ali Winters is not having a good day. Her boyfriend left her, everyone in town thinks she's a thief, and now she's about to be kicked out of her home. Her only shot at keeping a roof over her head and clearing her name is to beg for help from a police detective who's as sexy as he is stern....
After a high-profile case goes wrong, Luke Hanover returns to his hometown for some peace and quiet. Instead he finds a bombshell brunette in a heap of trouble. As he helps Ali put her world back together, the pieces of Luke's own life finally seem to fall into place. Is this the start of a sizzling fling? Or are Luke and Ali on the brink of something big in a little town called Lucky Harbor?
327 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 28, 2013
261 people are currently reading
5404 people want to read
About the author
Jill Shalvis
386 books13.8k followersJill Shalvis is a NYT, USA Today, and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author of small-town romance and romcoms, known for big feels, found family, and plenty of shenanigans.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 896 reviews
May 1, 2013
It Had to Be You, the latest addition to my Lucky Harbor addiction, further solidifies Jill Shalvis’ place on my list of top contemporary romance authors. Like all the books in the series, It Had to Be You is romantic, funny, and sexy, with a story that pulls you in and characters who keep you coming back for more, first page to the last.
On the Cover:Whenever I pick up a Lucky Harbor book I’m guaranteed to get a feel good story with people I care about. They make me smile, make me laugh, make me sigh, and sometimes they even make me cry. Without a doubt, the time I spend reading is time well spent.
Ali Winters is not having a good day. Her boyfriend left her, everyone in town thinks she's a thief, and now she's about to be kicked out of her home. Her only shot at keeping a roof over her head and clearing her name is to beg for help from a police detective who's as sexy as he is stern....
After a high-profile case goes wrong, Luke Hanover returns to his hometown for some peace and quiet. Instead he finds a bombshell brunette in a heap of trouble. As he helps Ali put her world back together, the pieces of Luke's own life finally seem to fall into place. Is this the start of a sizzling fling? Or are Luke and Ali on the brink of something big in a little town called Lucky Harbor?
There are many things to love about It Had to Be You, but I think my favorite part of this story is how Luke and Ali, both people who are used to taking care of others and taking nothing for themselves, come together and give to each other exactly what they didn’t even know they were missing. I love their passion, their trials, their triumphs, but most importantly, I love their love!
The bottom line: If you haven’t yet read this series, stop whatever it is you’re doing, pick up the first book, Simply Irresistible, and find out for yourself what makes these stories so special. You don’t have to read them in order but so much of the pleasure that comes from these books is getting to know the people and places of Lucky Harbor, and then revisiting them all, time and time again. Trust me on this, you won’t be disappointed!
My thanks to Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy of this wonderful story in exchange for an honest review. As always, my visit to Lucky Harbor has been an absolute delight!
July 7, 2013
WWHHHAAATTT???? WE GET MORE?!?!?! OHHH YEAAAHHHHH BUDDY!
May 3, 2013
Review posted at: Swept Away By Romance
GENRE: Adult Contemporary Romance
HEAT LEVEL: Medium
ANGST LEVEL: Drama free! This is a feel-good book!!
NOTE: This is book #7 in the Lucky Harbor series. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I always suggest reading the whole series.
RELEASE DATE: May 28, 2013
4.5 Stars!
I think I've said it before, but brace yourselves because I'm about to say it again. Jill Shalvis books are my comfort food. When I'm feeling off, feeling blue, feeling scared or worried...I grab a Jill Shalvis book, and, for a little while, things are better. It Had to Be You did this for me in spades, and it's only one of the many reasons I love and admire this author and her books.
Poor Ali Winters. This girl would have no luck if it weren't for bad luck! Yet, she maintains a happy, positive attitude and does her best to handle whatever life throws at her. But, now...well, her boyfriend's been cheating on her. He moved out of their house...the same house which he neglected to tell her the lease is up on. And, well, even worse? A LOT of money has been stolen from the town's fund to build the new community center, and that money was last seen in the office of Ali's former boyfriend. An office that Ali visited on several occasions right around the time the money went missing. Seeing as how Ali is the 'scorned woman', there are quite a few people in town who think she just might be the thief...even if they do love her to pieces! Luke Hanover is cop from San Francisco who had a very high-profile case go bad on him. Returning to his hometown for some much-needed peace, Luke heads to the house his grandmother left him. A house that's supposed to be free of renters by this point. Ali is desperate, in more ways than one, and she and Luke reach a compromise allowing her to stay in the house for the time being. The last thing he wants or needs is to be pulled into the case of the missing money, but that's just what happens. He helps Ali put her world to rights, and Ali helps Luke find some peace and...maybe something else he never thought he could have. They may just find more together than they ever could have hoped for apart.
Seriously, Lucky Harbor is THE place to be! I need to find this town, ASAP!! I love this series. I really do. Even if it is getting just a bit predictable, I honestly don't care. Why? Because I'll read just about anything Jill Shalvis writes. So, am I unbiased in this review? Eh, probably not. But, I do tend to tell it like it is, either way. So, let's discuss.
Ali Winters was a fun, sympathetic character that could easily be your best friend. I liked her a lot! She kept her chin up even at the worst of times, and, when she did need a shoulder, well, it was well-earned. Her family were crazy and always in financial straits, but they loved each other and no one was ashamed of anyone else. That was refreshing. I felt for her every time life knocked her down, but, ultimately, she always got right back up. I can admire that.
Luke Hanover was sober, serious, brooding and HOT! He could never be my best friend 'cause I'd totally jump him. Probably constantly ;-) I loved his relationship with his grandparents, both living and dead. Anytime you give me a story with a grandparent and grandchild, I'm almost always guaranteed to love it. I can identify with the strength of feeling in that particular familial bond, and it always speaks to me when I read of it. He and Ali were very cute together. They aren't my favorite couple Jill Shalvis has ever written, but they were quite enjoyable nonetheless.
The one thing Jill Shalvis seems to always get right, at least for me, is how she writes the old-timers of Lucky Harbor! The group in It Had to Be You cracked me up and made me grin on more than one occasion. They are so lively, humorous, crude and real! I love, love, love when we get a book from Jill that features a character(s) of the older generation. No one writes them better!
I believe we get Jack and Leah's story next, and I'm SO looking forward to that!! Those two bantered so well in this story, and I hope that continues when we get their book, Always on My Mind. These two could provide a lot of laughs, as well as some great chemistry and tension!
Jill Shalvis writes with such a light touch. You can tell she's at ease with her ability. It sounds ridiculous, but, to me, when I read one of her books, it always feels like a sunny, blue-sky, beautiful day. I have no idea why. Other than, maybe, her genuinely comical nature and upbeat personality are infused into every single book she writes. Then again, maybe that's just her special gift and talent...to make people feel better, to lift their spirits. Her books work like that for me. I hope they do the same for you :-)
**ARC provided by Jill Shalvis and Grand Central Publishing**
GENRE: Adult Contemporary Romance
HEAT LEVEL: Medium
ANGST LEVEL: Drama free! This is a feel-good book!!
NOTE: This is book #7 in the Lucky Harbor series. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I always suggest reading the whole series.
RELEASE DATE: May 28, 2013
4.5 Stars!
I think I've said it before, but brace yourselves because I'm about to say it again. Jill Shalvis books are my comfort food. When I'm feeling off, feeling blue, feeling scared or worried...I grab a Jill Shalvis book, and, for a little while, things are better. It Had to Be You did this for me in spades, and it's only one of the many reasons I love and admire this author and her books.
Poor Ali Winters. This girl would have no luck if it weren't for bad luck! Yet, she maintains a happy, positive attitude and does her best to handle whatever life throws at her. But, now...well, her boyfriend's been cheating on her. He moved out of their house...the same house which he neglected to tell her the lease is up on. And, well, even worse? A LOT of money has been stolen from the town's fund to build the new community center, and that money was last seen in the office of Ali's former boyfriend. An office that Ali visited on several occasions right around the time the money went missing. Seeing as how Ali is the 'scorned woman', there are quite a few people in town who think she just might be the thief...even if they do love her to pieces! Luke Hanover is cop from San Francisco who had a very high-profile case go bad on him. Returning to his hometown for some much-needed peace, Luke heads to the house his grandmother left him. A house that's supposed to be free of renters by this point. Ali is desperate, in more ways than one, and she and Luke reach a compromise allowing her to stay in the house for the time being. The last thing he wants or needs is to be pulled into the case of the missing money, but that's just what happens. He helps Ali put her world to rights, and Ali helps Luke find some peace and...maybe something else he never thought he could have. They may just find more together than they ever could have hoped for apart.
Seriously, Lucky Harbor is THE place to be! I need to find this town, ASAP!! I love this series. I really do. Even if it is getting just a bit predictable, I honestly don't care. Why? Because I'll read just about anything Jill Shalvis writes. So, am I unbiased in this review? Eh, probably not. But, I do tend to tell it like it is, either way. So, let's discuss.
Ali Winters was a fun, sympathetic character that could easily be your best friend. I liked her a lot! She kept her chin up even at the worst of times, and, when she did need a shoulder, well, it was well-earned. Her family were crazy and always in financial straits, but they loved each other and no one was ashamed of anyone else. That was refreshing. I felt for her every time life knocked her down, but, ultimately, she always got right back up. I can admire that.
Luke Hanover was sober, serious, brooding and HOT! He could never be my best friend 'cause I'd totally jump him. Probably constantly ;-) I loved his relationship with his grandparents, both living and dead. Anytime you give me a story with a grandparent and grandchild, I'm almost always guaranteed to love it. I can identify with the strength of feeling in that particular familial bond, and it always speaks to me when I read of it. He and Ali were very cute together. They aren't my favorite couple Jill Shalvis has ever written, but they were quite enjoyable nonetheless.
The one thing Jill Shalvis seems to always get right, at least for me, is how she writes the old-timers of Lucky Harbor! The group in It Had to Be You cracked me up and made me grin on more than one occasion. They are so lively, humorous, crude and real! I love, love, love when we get a book from Jill that features a character(s) of the older generation. No one writes them better!
I believe we get Jack and Leah's story next, and I'm SO looking forward to that!! Those two bantered so well in this story, and I hope that continues when we get their book, Always on My Mind. These two could provide a lot of laughs, as well as some great chemistry and tension!
Jill Shalvis writes with such a light touch. You can tell she's at ease with her ability. It sounds ridiculous, but, to me, when I read one of her books, it always feels like a sunny, blue-sky, beautiful day. I have no idea why. Other than, maybe, her genuinely comical nature and upbeat personality are infused into every single book she writes. Then again, maybe that's just her special gift and talent...to make people feel better, to lift their spirits. Her books work like that for me. I hope they do the same for you :-)
**ARC provided by Jill Shalvis and Grand Central Publishing**
June 4, 2013
I'm a big fan of this series and have really liked every story...until this one. I LOVED it!
It's one of those rarities where you have equally strong feelings for both main characters. Ali Winter has had a tough life but through it all, she's held her head up high and believed life would get better, not in a sappy way but more resolute. You couldn't help admiring her spirit. The town loves her.
Luke Hanover is one of the good guys, the person you can count on to do the right thing but underneath that determination is a bag full of guilt about the three times in his life where he fell short (in his own eyes) and he's starting to collapse under it.
How they meet
Ali was living with her dog of a boyfriend, Teddy, the town darling. He was renting Luke's house in Lucky Harbor, decided he was ending the lease (and their relationship) but didn't tell her until after he'd moved out. Luke shows up and finds Ali in all her underwear glory with nowhere to go. They agree she can stay until she finds another place to live.
The issues
Before Ali can begin figuring out a new life plan, money in Teddy's office ($50,000) turns up missing and all fingers point at the scorned ex-girlfriend. Luke's a SF detective who just wanted to come home for three weeks to rest and recover from a really bad case and just doesn't want to get involved.
The romance
Despite what his head wants to do, Luke can no more abandon the delightful and beautiful soul of Ali and repeatedly gives in to his heart. Ali knows the last thing she needs is another man to leave her (in three weeks) but their attraction to each other is pretty powerful. They both see each others' true nature and their chemistry is HOT. I don't think they ever made it to a bed until the end of the story.
The bottom line
Everything about this story just rocks! I laughed, cried, got angry, got caught up in the steamy moments... and through it all I cheered for Ali and Luke individually and for their relationship. The dialogue is just perfect and the characters around these two make the story fun and exciting. Don't worry about this being the 7th book in the series...a new round of main characters begins after every three books so you can start here and then go back (I can't believe I'm saying this). You'll thank me for this. It is my favorite of the series and I've enjoyed all of them.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
It's one of those rarities where you have equally strong feelings for both main characters. Ali Winter has had a tough life but through it all, she's held her head up high and believed life would get better, not in a sappy way but more resolute. You couldn't help admiring her spirit. The town loves her.
Luke Hanover is one of the good guys, the person you can count on to do the right thing but underneath that determination is a bag full of guilt about the three times in his life where he fell short (in his own eyes) and he's starting to collapse under it.
How they meet
Ali was living with her dog of a boyfriend, Teddy, the town darling. He was renting Luke's house in Lucky Harbor, decided he was ending the lease (and their relationship) but didn't tell her until after he'd moved out. Luke shows up and finds Ali in all her underwear glory with nowhere to go. They agree she can stay until she finds another place to live.
The issues
Before Ali can begin figuring out a new life plan, money in Teddy's office ($50,000) turns up missing and all fingers point at the scorned ex-girlfriend. Luke's a SF detective who just wanted to come home for three weeks to rest and recover from a really bad case and just doesn't want to get involved.
The romance
Despite what his head wants to do, Luke can no more abandon the delightful and beautiful soul of Ali and repeatedly gives in to his heart. Ali knows the last thing she needs is another man to leave her (in three weeks) but their attraction to each other is pretty powerful. They both see each others' true nature and their chemistry is HOT. I don't think they ever made it to a bed until the end of the story.
The bottom line
Everything about this story just rocks! I laughed, cried, got angry, got caught up in the steamy moments... and through it all I cheered for Ali and Luke individually and for their relationship. The dialogue is just perfect and the characters around these two make the story fun and exciting. Don't worry about this being the 7th book in the series...a new round of main characters begins after every three books so you can start here and then go back (I can't believe I'm saying this). You'll thank me for this. It is my favorite of the series and I've enjoyed all of them.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
June 13, 2014
A cute, sweet, lighthearted read from Jill Shalvis. I feel like I always say the same things about her books. She's a good contemporary romance author but never my favorite. I don't feel the emotional punch that I get from authors like Kristan Higgins or Susan Elizabeth Phillips. I think that's just a random personal preference, as I know a lot of die hard fans of hers. I like a little more depth to the protagonists and more time spent with them in their pasts, possibly just more headspace explored. I feel like Shalvis stays surface level only and while I do enjoy reading her books, I never become fully invested in them.
I enjoyed the somewhat unique heroine in that she is the girl from the wrong side of the tracks but her mom is a wonderful, loving...if somewhat flighty and airheadedly optimistic...mother. No tormented heroine here. Ali is just pretty settled into the life of a poor, somewhat trashy girl who is determined to be better.
Luke is a cop who's feeling the burnout, and upon coming to his childhood home in Lucky Harbor, becomes embroiled with a woman who is anything but relaxing. But I felt like Ali gave Luke something else to focus on other than his mistakes in the San Francisco PD. They were good for each other.
Maybe my memory is faulty but I think Shalvis gets a little bit sexier with each book. This wasn't horribly explicit by any means, but it was super yummy :D
I listened to the audiobook...the narrator did a great job, sounded young, and put some real feeling into the role, even added a few silly sound effects and her inflection sounded spot on. I'd like to continue the series in audiobook after listening to this one.
I enjoyed the somewhat unique heroine in that she is the girl from the wrong side of the tracks but her mom is a wonderful, loving...if somewhat flighty and airheadedly optimistic...mother. No tormented heroine here. Ali is just pretty settled into the life of a poor, somewhat trashy girl who is determined to be better.
Luke is a cop who's feeling the burnout, and upon coming to his childhood home in Lucky Harbor, becomes embroiled with a woman who is anything but relaxing. But I felt like Ali gave Luke something else to focus on other than his mistakes in the San Francisco PD. They were good for each other.
Maybe my memory is faulty but I think Shalvis gets a little bit sexier with each book. This wasn't horribly explicit by any means, but it was super yummy :D
I listened to the audiobook...the narrator did a great job, sounded young, and put some real feeling into the role, even added a few silly sound effects and her inflection sounded spot on. I'd like to continue the series in audiobook after listening to this one.
June 8, 2013
3.5 Stars
It Had To Be You brings us the story of Ali Winters and Detective Luke Hanover. Ali is warm and caring, always ready to offer a helping hand. She’s very optimistic but the latest events have her stressed and fraught with worry. Not only did her douchebag of a boyfriend dump her, but most of the town now believe she’s a thief. How could they not when all evidence points to her guilt.
Detective Luke Hanover is in need of a little R&R after a high profile case goes bad. After years of being away, he returns home to Lucky Harbor hoping for a few weeks of peace and quiet. He’s shocked to find a lovely stranger living in his house, and even though there’s chemistry, he’s adamant not to become involved.
Jill Shalvis’ Lucky Harbor series is one of my favorites. While this may not be my top pick, it was still a fun read. I always enjoy a visit to this picturesque seaside village with all its charming citizens and can always count on a few laughs along with a sweet romance and a toe curling, sexy hero.
It Had To Be You brings us the story of Ali Winters and Detective Luke Hanover. Ali is warm and caring, always ready to offer a helping hand. She’s very optimistic but the latest events have her stressed and fraught with worry. Not only did her douchebag of a boyfriend dump her, but most of the town now believe she’s a thief. How could they not when all evidence points to her guilt.
Detective Luke Hanover is in need of a little R&R after a high profile case goes bad. After years of being away, he returns home to Lucky Harbor hoping for a few weeks of peace and quiet. He’s shocked to find a lovely stranger living in his house, and even though there’s chemistry, he’s adamant not to become involved.
Jill Shalvis’ Lucky Harbor series is one of my favorites. While this may not be my top pick, it was still a fun read. I always enjoy a visit to this picturesque seaside village with all its charming citizens and can always count on a few laughs along with a sweet romance and a toe curling, sexy hero.
October 26, 2015
In case you weren’t aware ��� Jill Shalvis is one of my all-time favorite contemporary authors. She knows how to write sexy alpha heroes that make you weak in the knees. She excels at writing funny, lighthearted, exciting, and steamy romantic contemporaries that make me excited for her next book every time. And I can always count on Miz Shalvis to put a cheesy smile on my face, make me laugh out loud, and make me happily sigh as I fall in love with her characters.
Ali Winters has been completely screwed over by her boyfriend, who not only cheats on her, but he breaks up with her via text, moves out, and fails to tell her the lease on their house has ended. Yep. He’s a jerk. Ali has finally reached her limit with the jerk. Ali is angry and yelling at the jerk’s voicemail, giving him a piece of her mind, when the owner comes home and finds her in his kitchen wearing only a bra and panties. Ali’s surprised to find someone in her kitchen.
Come to find out, the intruder is Detective Luke Hanover. He took a three week leave from the San Francisco PD, after a high-profile case went terribly wrong, with the hope to find his sanity. He doesn’t really know what to make of the panty-clad, pretty B&E perp in his kitchen who is armed with pottery and then proceeds to throw it at him. Luke finally settles Ali down and explains to her the house is his. Luke hasn’t been to the house in years, not since his grandmother passed away, but now he’s come back in desperate need of some peace and quiet. Although having Ali in the house might make that impossible. Her life is a falling apart. And Luke is too chivalrous to leave a lady in distress. Finding out Ali doesn’t have anywhere to live, he lets her stay the night, which then turns into her living with him until she finds a place to stay permanently.
Poor Ali can’t catch a break. Poor Luke just wanted to be left alone. Things become even more complicated when the police show up at the Luke’s house. Ali is now being accused of stealing a lot of money from the town’s fundraiser funds that were supposed to be in her former boyfriend’s office. The same office Ali visited after the breakup. Ali now looks like a scorned ex-girlfriend getting even with the jerk. Luke, ever the hero, knows Ali didn’t take the money and decides to help her out by investigating around town to find the true thief. But, in the meantime, as they continue to live together they both grow closer and the sexual tension rises. These two unlikely people, who have nothing in common, are perfect for one another.
Luke is so darn sexy and caring. He would take on the world if he could. He can’t stop blaming himself for his sister’s bad decisions and his grandmother’s death. Being back in Lucky Harbor where he grew up with friends and family, the memories from his past come rushing back to him. When he meets Ali, he’s drawn to her positive energy and strength to make the best of everything. Ali is like a breath of fresh air compared to the world he lives in as a detective. He likes that she wants to protect him when he’s always been the protector. And the more time he spends with her, the harder he falls. But Luke is still fighting the demons from his past and doesn’t feel he can give anything to Ali, so he’s left feeling torn between leaving to go back to his job and staying in Lucky Harbor where he feels happy with Ali.
Ali is super sweet, optimistic, creative, protective, and happy. I really want to give this girl a hug for being so awesome. Ali comes from a rough neighborhood and has learned to make the best of everything, even when life keeps throwing her rotten tomatoes. She chooses not to wallow in self-pity and smile instead. And this is the time when most people would wallow the most. Nope, not Ali, she continues to remain positive and determined to make things better in her life. So, with her life being a wreck at the moment, the last thing she needed was to fall in love with the super sexy detective whose is still planning to leave when his vacation is up. But denying the combustible chemistry they have together is impossible.
“I love that too,” she whispered.
He kissed the frantically beating pulse at the base of her neck. “What?”
“The feel of you.” She arched against him wordlessly, demanding more.
“Your mouth on me.”
He made his way along her jaw to just beneath her ear. “What else?”
With a shiver, she tightened her grip on his hair. He didn’t care if she made him bald, as long as she didn’t let go. “That you know my sweet spots.”
“You’re one big, sweet spot.”
Luke and Ali are so much fun and super sexy together. They are both highly attracted to one another but they both think it's a bad idea to become involved with the other. Yet they think if they scratch that itch, they will be able to get the intense sexual attraction out of their system. So they scratch it. But instead of getting each other out of their systems, they created even more lust and desire now that they've had a taste. It was a hoot to watch them banter flirtatiously and try to deny their strong attraction. The heat and steam between these two is smoking hot. Shalvis does sexual tension quite well. I’m really happy with the way Shalvis built up the romance. She didn’t overly do the angst and issues they both have.
It Had to be You is the ninth book in the Lucky Harbor series and the first in the next trilogy. It’s another fabulous installment to this addictive series. Luke and Ali have many sweet, tender, funny, and sexy moments. I thoroughly enjoyed reading as this relationship takes a slightly bumpy road to happiness. We get to visit with old friends like Lucille and Sawyer, and then are introduced to new friends. Jack, Luke’s best friend, and Leah, Ali’s good friend, are the next couple. I can’t wait to see these long-time friends fall for one another. And ladies… Jack is a deliciously hot fireman. Oh yes. Along with the fun and romantic storyline, there is a little bit of mystery entwined within the plot. I loved trying to guess ‘who done it’ as I was reading.
If you haven’t read any of the Lucky Harbor books, you can start with this one, but I highly recommend staring from the beginning with Simply Irresistible. You will want to meet all of the sexy heroes introduced in each book, especially Ford and Josh - my two favorite book boyfriends (so far!) from this series.
Rating: B+
Heat: Hot
-- A Romantic Book Affairs Review
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September 10, 2020
More of the same from Jill Shalvis.
October 7, 2019
Numai tu este o combinație interesantă de emoții și acțiune, suspans și energie. Cred ca este preferata mea de până acum.
Ali este o tânără încrezătoare în propriile puteri, în oamenii din jurul ei și în fericirea proprie. Chiar dacă viața i-a oferit de-a lungul timpului suficiente motive să nu mai creadă, fata continuă să o facă. Și astfel ajunge în belele...
Luke, un polițist aflat în concediu, proprietarul casei în care Ali locuia cu fostul iubit, se dovedește a fi mult mai mult decât și-ar fi putut imagina Ali.
Cei doi pornesc în aventura vieții lor atunci când Ali este acuzată de fostul iubit că i-ar fi furat o sumă importantă de bani.
Alertă, amuzantă, emoționantă, cartea aceasta merge direct la suflet și te umple de încredere în privința iubirii adevărate.
Ali este o tânără încrezătoare în propriile puteri, în oamenii din jurul ei și în fericirea proprie. Chiar dacă viața i-a oferit de-a lungul timpului suficiente motive să nu mai creadă, fata continuă să o facă. Și astfel ajunge în belele...
Luke, un polițist aflat în concediu, proprietarul casei în care Ali locuia cu fostul iubit, se dovedește a fi mult mai mult decât și-ar fi putut imagina Ali.
Cei doi pornesc în aventura vieții lor atunci când Ali este acuzată de fostul iubit că i-ar fi furat o sumă importantă de bani.
Alertă, amuzantă, emoționantă, cartea aceasta merge direct la suflet și te umple de încredere în privința iubirii adevărate.
August 11, 2014
Jill Shalvis' seventh addition to her Lucky Harbor series. Ali Winters works at the florist shop in Lucky Harbor and lives with boyfriend, Teddy Marshall. Well, she did until he texted her and told her they were through and the lease was expired on the rental house. And she discovers he was cheating on her. Then she discovers the owner of the rented house, Luke Hanover, has come home for some needed rest. Then the police want to arrest her for stealing 50K. And through it all Ali keeps her optimistic attitude.
I really loved the characters in this book. Ali was simply a delight and Luke really needed her, I think. The seniors were a hoot, too. Just a wonderfully fun read and highly recommended to Contemporary Romance lovers!
I really loved the characters in this book. Ali was simply a delight and Luke really needed her, I think. The seniors were a hoot, too. Just a wonderfully fun read and highly recommended to Contemporary Romance lovers!
May 31, 2013
In theory, Shalvis' Lucky Harbor series should be an all-time favorite of mine. There's the requisite cozy and quirky small town setting, a liberal dose of humor in lieu of overwrought angst, adorable pets, and heroes who are strong and protective without being the scarily angry, controlling headcases who pass for "alphas" in many other series. So I keep trying to fall in love with these books, but am always left mysteriously underwhelmed. I think it primarily comes down to my just not connecting with the author's writing style, which feels kind of clunky and amateurish to me. Neither the humor nor the drama is as effective as it should be, and I just don't find the dialogue sharp, clever or even especially natural. The friendships among her female characters always feel forced, flat and indistinct to me.
I generally like WHAT she writes---her basic storylines and what she does or at least tries to do with her characters---but somehow I'm just never enchanted with HOW she writes. I'm always hoping for more charm, more sparkle, more flow, more genuine wit, and more little insights into life and love. This is clearly more an issue of personal preference than objective criticism, but since I'm endlessly fascinated by which books do and don't resonate with fellow readers and why, I figured I'd offer my unpopular point of view!
I generally like WHAT she writes---her basic storylines and what she does or at least tries to do with her characters---but somehow I'm just never enchanted with HOW she writes. I'm always hoping for more charm, more sparkle, more flow, more genuine wit, and more little insights into life and love. This is clearly more an issue of personal preference than objective criticism, but since I'm endlessly fascinated by which books do and don't resonate with fellow readers and why, I figured I'd offer my unpopular point of view!
December 10, 2018
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I know I'm giving this series a lot of —okay, only— 5 stars, but it really works for me. It is maybe not the most original, it certainly do not compete for novelty, but the recipe is SOLID. If you are looking for romance, sexy times and humor, look no further, Jill Shalvis' Lucky Harbor series is what you need!
I'm enjoying myself book after book, wishing Lucky Harbor existed, wishing to stay there, wishing for the smile it puts on my face would never falter.
All the secondary characters are like a second family now, I'm laughing out loud at Lucille antics on the internet. The geriatric gang is one NICE addition!
I know I'm giving this series a lot of —okay, only— 5 stars, but it really works for me. It is maybe not the most original, it certainly do not compete for novelty, but the recipe is SOLID. If you are looking for romance, sexy times and humor, look no further, Jill Shalvis' Lucky Harbor series is what you need!
I'm enjoying myself book after book, wishing Lucky Harbor existed, wishing to stay there, wishing for the smile it puts on my face would never falter.
All the secondary characters are like a second family now, I'm laughing out loud at Lucille antics on the internet. The geriatric gang is one NICE addition!
June 27, 2018
I read this one awhile ago, but after recently completing Once in a Lifetime, I was thinking about how much I enjoyed reading Ali's story as well. Ali is a terrific heroine: spirited, lively and determinedly optimistic yet not at all obnoxiously 'perky' or a Mary Sue.
I appreciated the minor element of mystery around who stole the community center's money, because even though it wasn't particularly well plotted nor even a very large part of the overall story, it did give the book a focus and structure beyond just the usual 'will they, won't they, we all already KNOW they will!' romance plot that we've all read so many times before from Shalvis and other contemporary authors. I also really liked Ali's relationship with her loving but kooky mom and Luke's relationship with his grandfather. And the book had its usual share of clever, funny and/or heartwarming lines that kept my Kindle's highlight button busy!
The only things that kept this from being a five-star read for me:
This was one of the Shalvis books where the characters felt a little more in lust than in love to me. They really didn't know each other very long or very well, and as often happens in Shalvis novels and contemporary romances in general, there was so much emphasis on the couple's physical attraction that I found myself wanting to see a little more development of their emotional connection. And Luke was such a typical Shalvis hero in every way that he just didn't stand out as memorable and distinct to me. I liked him well enough, but he was one of those heroes I forgot about the second I closed the book.
Overall, though, this is one of my top four or so favorite Lucky Harbor books, and I'd strongly recommend it to anyone looking for a genuinely engaging book filled with Jill Shalvis's trademark blend of warmth, hope, moderately steamy love scenes and humor!
I appreciated the minor element of mystery around who stole the community center's money, because even though it wasn't particularly well plotted nor even a very large part of the overall story, it did give the book a focus and structure beyond just the usual 'will they, won't they, we all already KNOW they will!' romance plot that we've all read so many times before from Shalvis and other contemporary authors. I also really liked Ali's relationship with her loving but kooky mom and Luke's relationship with his grandfather. And the book had its usual share of clever, funny and/or heartwarming lines that kept my Kindle's highlight button busy!
The only things that kept this from being a five-star read for me:
This was one of the Shalvis books where the characters felt a little more in lust than in love to me. They really didn't know each other very long or very well, and as often happens in Shalvis novels and contemporary romances in general, there was so much emphasis on the couple's physical attraction that I found myself wanting to see a little more development of their emotional connection. And Luke was such a typical Shalvis hero in every way that he just didn't stand out as memorable and distinct to me. I liked him well enough, but he was one of those heroes I forgot about the second I closed the book.
Overall, though, this is one of my top four or so favorite Lucky Harbor books, and I'd strongly recommend it to anyone looking for a genuinely engaging book filled with Jill Shalvis's trademark blend of warmth, hope, moderately steamy love scenes and humor!
October 21, 2014
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Contemporary Romance
Series : - 7th in the series (1st in the "3rd" trilogy of the Lucky Harbour series)
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author? - Yes
Rating - 5
★Review★
It has been awhile since I visited Lucky Harbour, and again an excellent addition to the series.
I again loved both main characters, and love how there is not too much "angst" and relationship drama. Just two people, trying to overcome their own issues and hang ups, in a real way. Luke and Ali both find something neither even knew they were looking for.
This entire series is such a comfort read for me, and I know I am going to get a sweet heart-warming story, of two extremely likeable characters.
This series is set up as a bunch of "trilogies" and once out of that set of 3, you do not see much of those characters in the other "trilogies" other than the odd mention here and there. And for me, I do wish that we could get more of a little catch up with previous main characters, but that is just a personal preference.
And I wish Ali's ex had had some sort of "punishment" for being such an idiot and all round general selfish knob,but hopefully that will come in another book in this set of 3.
I cannot wait Jack's book.
Genre : - Contemporary Romance
Series : - 7th in the series (1st in the "3rd" trilogy of the Lucky Harbour series)
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author? - Yes
Rating - 5
★Review★
It has been awhile since I visited Lucky Harbour, and again an excellent addition to the series.
I again loved both main characters, and love how there is not too much "angst" and relationship drama. Just two people, trying to overcome their own issues and hang ups, in a real way. Luke and Ali both find something neither even knew they were looking for.
This entire series is such a comfort read for me, and I know I am going to get a sweet heart-warming story, of two extremely likeable characters.
This series is set up as a bunch of "trilogies" and once out of that set of 3, you do not see much of those characters in the other "trilogies" other than the odd mention here and there. And for me, I do wish that we could get more of a little catch up with previous main characters, but that is just a personal preference.
And I wish Ali's ex had had some sort of "punishment" for being such an idiot and all round general selfish knob,but hopefully that will come in another book in this set of 3.
I cannot wait Jack's book.
October 8, 2019
Kitap güzeldi ama yine seri ile çeviri uyumsuzluğu sorunu yaşattı. İlk kitapta Türkçeleştirilen barın ismi 3.kitaptan bu kitaba kadar orijinal haliyle duruyordu ama şimdi ilk kitapta Aşk Kulübesi olan mekan şimdi Aşk Barakası olmuştu. Seri devamı bakımından böyle değişiklikleri sevmiyorum açıkçası...
Kasabanın çiçekçisinde çalışan Ali Anne Louisa-al işte nefret ettiğim isimlere bir yenisi daha eklendi- evsiz kalınca yanına taşındığı belediyede çalışan sicil memuru ile sevgili olduğunu düşünürken kasabanın huzurevi için yapılan bağış gecesi bir mesajla terk edilmesinin yanında evin kontratının bittiği ve evi boşaltması da istenir. O gece sinirle adamın ofisine girip ona hediye olarak verdiği kalemliği geri alır. Sabah hala sinirliyken bir kez daha gidip mesaj bırakır. Eve geri döndüğünde ise ev sahibi olan Dedektif Luke davasında yaşadığı başarısızlığın ardından kendini toparlamak için çocukluğunun geçtiği büyükannesinin evine dönmüştür. Burda tek başına kafayı dinlemeyi düşünürken davetsiz misafiri Ali yüzünden kendini bir hırsızlık davasının içinde bulur. Çünkü bağış gecesi sicil memurunun ofisindeki 50 bin dolar kayıptır ve en olası şüpheli de Ali'dir.
Her ne kadar Ali'yi Eli diye okumaya çalıştıysam da gördüğümle çevirmeye çalıştığım hali birbirine bir türlü olmadı sinirimi bozdu. Hayır bildiğim halde bu Ali ismi yüzünden gay bir çifti okuyor gibi hissedip durdum.
Kasabanın çiçekçisinde çalışan Ali Anne Louisa-al işte nefret ettiğim isimlere bir yenisi daha eklendi- evsiz kalınca yanına taşındığı belediyede çalışan sicil memuru ile sevgili olduğunu düşünürken kasabanın huzurevi için yapılan bağış gecesi bir mesajla terk edilmesinin yanında evin kontratının bittiği ve evi boşaltması da istenir. O gece sinirle adamın ofisine girip ona hediye olarak verdiği kalemliği geri alır. Sabah hala sinirliyken bir kez daha gidip mesaj bırakır. Eve geri döndüğünde ise ev sahibi olan Dedektif Luke davasında yaşadığı başarısızlığın ardından kendini toparlamak için çocukluğunun geçtiği büyükannesinin evine dönmüştür. Burda tek başına kafayı dinlemeyi düşünürken davetsiz misafiri Ali yüzünden kendini bir hırsızlık davasının içinde bulur. Çünkü bağış gecesi sicil memurunun ofisindeki 50 bin dolar kayıptır ve en olası şüpheli de Ali'dir.
Her ne kadar Ali'yi Eli diye okumaya çalıştıysam da gördüğümle çevirmeye çalıştığım hali birbirine bir türlü olmadı sinirimi bozdu. Hayır bildiğim halde bu Ali ismi yüzünden gay bir çifti okuyor gibi hissedip durdum.
November 24, 2025
Really loving re-reading this series. Hoping to hear more from Ms. Shalvis about a possible Book 13.
Second reading: So here's the thing: Jill Shalvis and her 12 funny, sexy, steamy Lucky Harbor series has kept me sane in an insane time. As we "shelter in place" during this worldwide pandemic, it's been so nice to escape to a place with lots of hunky men, snarky conversation, and a wealth of HEAs! Thank you, Jill Shalvis!!!!
Totally trashy, way more steamy than I usually read, fun brain candy. I’m on a kind of challenging business trip and these silly, sexy, totally unrealistic love stories are keeping me happy and sane.
Lots of graphic sex and some profanity.
Second reading: So here's the thing: Jill Shalvis and her 12 funny, sexy, steamy Lucky Harbor series has kept me sane in an insane time. As we "shelter in place" during this worldwide pandemic, it's been so nice to escape to a place with lots of hunky men, snarky conversation, and a wealth of HEAs! Thank you, Jill Shalvis!!!!
Totally trashy, way more steamy than I usually read, fun brain candy. I’m on a kind of challenging business trip and these silly, sexy, totally unrealistic love stories are keeping me happy and sane.
Lots of graphic sex and some profanity.
June 3, 2013
Another fun-to-read addition to the Lucky Harbor series from Jill Shalvis. Though not my favorite of the lot, it's always an easy and delightful visit with a town full of great characters. Luke and Ali clicked and the dynamics between them worked well. With each visit, I'm always eager to see what the seniors have up their sleeves. Luke's granddad made me laugh, cheer and even tear up a bit. One thing for sure, Jill never fails to provide a great story that ends in happily-ever-after.
February 28, 2018
Funny, quirky, sexy and just down right fun to read....I love Jill Shalvis!
March 8, 2014
2 ½ stars. It was ok, but I wanted it to be over. That’s not a good sign.
The author had some good ideas and interesting characters. But when it came to filling in 300 pages, it just wasn’t special enough. At the end a small thing bothered me because it was predictable.
Ali was searching for the stolen money. If she was successful in finding it, the police might think she knew where it was all along and think she was guilty - again. She was kind of stupid in the things she was doing. Sometimes light stupidity is funny, but it wasn’t working for me.
I wish the author went into more plot development. Some good ideas were started but not continued. Why did the senator kill himself if he was getting away with other murders? Somehow this was Luke’s big guilt problem and I didn’t understand. I also wanted more about the reporters and his commander.
The relationship between Luke and Ali was kind of blah. It’s mostly doing good things to help each other out with their problems.
There are many books in the series. This is book 7. And even though I did not give this a high rating, I liked reading about this community. It was enjoyable. I felt like I’m living in a small town on the ocean.
One cute event made me chuckle. Luke and Ali were driving to a bar to talk to someone. Luke said “When we get there, let me lead.” He parked in the parking lot, catching her before she could jump out of the truck. “Wait.” He said. His phone was ringing. Holding onto her purse, clearly a man who knew how to slow down a woman, he punched speaker on his phone.
AUDIOBOOK NARRATOR:
The narrator Annie Greene was very good as a performer/narrator, but she says contractions in a way that jars me. Instead of couldn’t, hadn’t, etc., she says couldet and hadet. If speaking slowly she says couldunt, hadant, woulden. Every time she did this my mind went “what’s she doing?” I’m sorry for complaining, but I really prefer generic TV anchor speak.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Unabridged audiobook length: 8 hrs and 54 mins. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words but rarely used. Sexual language: mild plus the f-word once. Number of sex scenes: 4. Setting: current day Lucky Harbor, Washington. Book copyright: 2013. Genre: contemporary romantic mystery.
The author had some good ideas and interesting characters. But when it came to filling in 300 pages, it just wasn’t special enough. At the end a small thing bothered me because it was predictable.
Ali was searching for the stolen money. If she was successful in finding it, the police might think she knew where it was all along and think she was guilty - again. She was kind of stupid in the things she was doing. Sometimes light stupidity is funny, but it wasn’t working for me.
I wish the author went into more plot development. Some good ideas were started but not continued. Why did the senator kill himself if he was getting away with other murders? Somehow this was Luke’s big guilt problem and I didn’t understand. I also wanted more about the reporters and his commander.
The relationship between Luke and Ali was kind of blah. It’s mostly doing good things to help each other out with their problems.
There are many books in the series. This is book 7. And even though I did not give this a high rating, I liked reading about this community. It was enjoyable. I felt like I’m living in a small town on the ocean.
One cute event made me chuckle. Luke and Ali were driving to a bar to talk to someone. Luke said “When we get there, let me lead.” He parked in the parking lot, catching her before she could jump out of the truck. “Wait.” He said. His phone was ringing. Holding onto her purse, clearly a man who knew how to slow down a woman, he punched speaker on his phone.
AUDIOBOOK NARRATOR:
The narrator Annie Greene was very good as a performer/narrator, but she says contractions in a way that jars me. Instead of couldn’t, hadn’t, etc., she says couldet and hadet. If speaking slowly she says couldunt, hadant, woulden. Every time she did this my mind went “what’s she doing?” I’m sorry for complaining, but I really prefer generic TV anchor speak.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Unabridged audiobook length: 8 hrs and 54 mins. Swearing language: strong including religious swear words but rarely used. Sexual language: mild plus the f-word once. Number of sex scenes: 4. Setting: current day Lucky Harbor, Washington. Book copyright: 2013. Genre: contemporary romantic mystery.
June 2, 2023
4.5 stars
I was starting to worry a little, Jill. The last book I read by you was a clear miss for me. Add in the fact that I've been getting tired of your tried and true plot formula and I thought perhaps our time together had run its course.
And then you gave me Luke.
And then I was happy.
Love, me
Above all else, I really truly loved both characters in this one. And not just the two main characters, but the secondary characters as well. One thing Jill does well is making those bromances real and funny and real. The guys talk like guys (or what I imagine guys talk like when they're together).
One thing I loved the most about Luke was his unwavering honesty. Sometimes you get these alpha heroes who feel the need to be all macho and *beats chest* argh! caveman! But in It Had to Be You, Luke is honest and forthright from the beginning with Ali, and I loved that about him.
And Ali--she was a great heroine. Not a spec of irritation to be found, which, I'm sure you know, is hard for me to come by.
The other thing I liked about this one was that it seemed to veer slightly from Jill's usual repertoire. I'm looking forward to (I hope) Jack's book next, and hoping Jill can keep up the momentum and give me another one I'll enjoy.
I was starting to worry a little, Jill. The last book I read by you was a clear miss for me. Add in the fact that I've been getting tired of your tried and true plot formula and I thought perhaps our time together had run its course.
And then you gave me Luke.
And then I was happy.
Love, me
Above all else, I really truly loved both characters in this one. And not just the two main characters, but the secondary characters as well. One thing Jill does well is making those bromances real and funny and real. The guys talk like guys (or what I imagine guys talk like when they're together).
One thing I loved the most about Luke was his unwavering honesty. Sometimes you get these alpha heroes who feel the need to be all macho and *beats chest* argh! caveman! But in It Had to Be You, Luke is honest and forthright from the beginning with Ali, and I loved that about him.
And Ali--she was a great heroine. Not a spec of irritation to be found, which, I'm sure you know, is hard for me to come by.
The other thing I liked about this one was that it seemed to veer slightly from Jill's usual repertoire. I'm looking forward to (I hope) Jack's book next, and hoping Jill can keep up the momentum and give me another one I'll enjoy.
June 2, 2013
This was an awesome book - loved it!
August 27, 2018
Whenever I read a book from the Lucky Harbor series it's like I'm visiting friends. The 7th book in the series is about Ali Winters, the coolest female MC I've read in a long time. She was all kinds of awesome with her kind ways, sense of humor and just common decency. I liked her a lot and she was the perfect match for the grumpy city detective Luke Hanover. Luke returns to Lucky Harbor in a much needed vacation. He doesn't want to get involved in anything, let alone a cute, adorable squatter Ali.
Ali is having the crappiest day and then week of her life. Recently dumped via text, almost homeless and falsely accused of stealing a large sum of money, Ali finds herself struggling to keep her head above water. Thrown in close quarters with the sexy detective, who gets involved despite his desire not to, leads to funny moments from the geriatric squad, family and friends giving support and sexy times.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It left me feeling all warm and fuzzy. I look forward to Jack and Leah's story next.
Ali is having the crappiest day and then week of her life. Recently dumped via text, almost homeless and falsely accused of stealing a large sum of money, Ali finds herself struggling to keep her head above water. Thrown in close quarters with the sexy detective, who gets involved despite his desire not to, leads to funny moments from the geriatric squad, family and friends giving support and sexy times.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It left me feeling all warm and fuzzy. I look forward to Jack and Leah's story next.
January 6, 2021
ok, I liked this one though I am currently a little torn. I thought it would be such a good idea to binge through this series and hopefully have it completed before I return back to school, but the more that I read them in rapid succession, the more the stories really start to feel the same.
though a different story, It Had To Be You felt very samey with the previous six books I've read. Heroine comes to Lucky Harbor from somewhere else. There is alot of emphasis and attention paid to whatever her familial situation is because that specific thing plays a huge factor in the woman she has become and how she navigates the streets of Lucky Harbor. As the story progresses each books has a 'suspense' twist. Nothing too crazy but enough of an element of suspense to keep the story intriguing. The romance was cool. There is something comforting in returning to a small town series but I hope the next books feels different and not so much like this one. While I liked this one, I definitely noticed these things.
though a different story, It Had To Be You felt very samey with the previous six books I've read. Heroine comes to Lucky Harbor from somewhere else. There is alot of emphasis and attention paid to whatever her familial situation is because that specific thing plays a huge factor in the woman she has become and how she navigates the streets of Lucky Harbor. As the story progresses each books has a 'suspense' twist. Nothing too crazy but enough of an element of suspense to keep the story intriguing. The romance was cool. There is something comforting in returning to a small town series but I hope the next books feels different and not so much like this one. While I liked this one, I definitely noticed these things.
May 29, 2013
In the highly anticipated seventh book of the Lucky Harbor series, IT HAD TO BE YOU, Jill Shalvis brings readers a sweet, determined and independent heroine in Ali Winters. Life hasn’t been too kind to Ali in recent months. Her boyfriend is a first-class jerk, she is low on cash, and she becomes the prime suspect of a robbery case. Add to that the fact that she is nearly homeless and if she can’t find a new place soon, she will be in big trouble.
But trouble finds her instead in the form of a hot bodied, gun-toting, brooding and protective detective named Luke Hanover. Who just happens to be her landlord as well. Searching for an escape, Luke returns to Lucky Harbor to escape the prying eyes and questions of the media after a case has gone wrong. Though Ali and Luke don’t start off on the right foot, their chemistry is potent and will light a bonfire that readers can snuggle up to and enjoy.
Shalvis takes a different approach to this book. Using Luke’s profession as a way to create an interesting plot, Shalvis creates a mystery that slowly unfolds itself in the book. I loved the idea, but felt that it was resolved a little too quickly in the end. I don’t think it will diminish reader’s enjoyment of the book though because there is plenty of antics to keep you entertained – quirky characters and hot sex are there in spades!
I am DYING for more of Jack. He stomped right into this book and made a huge impression on me. With his protective ways and his little crush on Leah, I’m interested to see what Shalvis has up her sleeve. That being said, Ben also sounds like an interesting one. Shalvis is keeping him in the dark and if she continues her pattern, Ben’s book might just be the one readers have been waiting for!
Jill Shalvis has easily become my favorite author of this genre. With her unique ability to breathe life into her characters, she has single handedly rejuvenated the genre and has become a force to be reckoned with!
I forgot one last thing…. I CLAIM LUKE FOR MY HAREM!!! Hands off, hussies! *crazy eyes*
*ARC provided by publisher
May 22, 2013
As if the LUCKY HARBOR Series could GET any better....Well....Jill ya did it! I LOVED IT HAD TO BE YOU!! Luke and Ali....well....they stole my heart from their first meeting and took me on quite the Wild Ride!! OMG!!
Ali and Luke are definitely making TOP FIVE COUPLES of 2013 at A Tasty Read!! Ali....favorite Shalvis heroine....close competition...but she kinda ROCKS!!
Full Review
Jill Shalvis does Romance like Betty Crocker does Cake: Sweet, Satisfying and Can be devoured in One Sitting!
I thought after the Chocoholics Trilogy, that the Lucky Harbor Series couldn't get any better and BOY WAS I WRONG! Luke and Ali have secured a spot on the Tasty Favorite Couples of 2013...I loved them...loved them...loved them!
Ali is probably one of my favorite heroines of all time, and that is saying A LOT! She was sweet, kind, slightly quirky with a HUGE heart. I felt for her, I wanted her to find that HEA, especially with Luke, and Luke....Whoa Momma...Talk about Sex on a Stick...No really...he is THAT SEXY...especially in his board shorts, and when he is being soft towards Ali, even if getting involved with her is the last thing he wants...Mega SWOON...
Um...yeah...he does A LOT of "nice" stuff like that and I will warn you now...Luke Hanover will be your NEW BOOK BOYFRIEND the second he walks into the kitchen, be ready to FALL IN LOVE!! And the one liners....he's funny too!
Luke and Ali will grab onto your heartstrings and Wham Bham...it's over and you will want to read it ALL OVER AGAIN!!
IT HAD TO BE YOU was funny, sweet, heartbreaking, and utterly amazing...One of Top Favorites of 2013. The secondary characters are just as much fun as the hero and heroine, and I am DYIN to read the next in the series, Jack and Leah's romance...they got some sizzlin chemistry and I can't wait to see it combust!
Ali and Luke are definitely making TOP FIVE COUPLES of 2013 at A Tasty Read!! Ali....favorite Shalvis heroine....close competition...but she kinda ROCKS!!
Full Review
Jill Shalvis does Romance like Betty Crocker does Cake: Sweet, Satisfying and Can be devoured in One Sitting!
I thought after the Chocoholics Trilogy, that the Lucky Harbor Series couldn't get any better and BOY WAS I WRONG! Luke and Ali have secured a spot on the Tasty Favorite Couples of 2013...I loved them...loved them...loved them!
Ali is probably one of my favorite heroines of all time, and that is saying A LOT! She was sweet, kind, slightly quirky with a HUGE heart. I felt for her, I wanted her to find that HEA, especially with Luke, and Luke....Whoa Momma...Talk about Sex on a Stick...No really...he is THAT SEXY...especially in his board shorts, and when he is being soft towards Ali, even if getting involved with her is the last thing he wants...Mega SWOON...
"Don't, " she said.
"Don't what?"
"Don't be nice to me right now. I'll lose it."
With surprising gentleness, he pushed the hair from her face, then clicked open her seatbelt. It was all the invitation she was going to get, and all the invitation she needed. Turning to him, she burrowed in as steady, strong arms closed around her.
Um...yeah...he does A LOT of "nice" stuff like that and I will warn you now...Luke Hanover will be your NEW BOOK BOYFRIEND the second he walks into the kitchen, be ready to FALL IN LOVE!! And the one liners....he's funny too!
Luke and Ali will grab onto your heartstrings and Wham Bham...it's over and you will want to read it ALL OVER AGAIN!!
IT HAD TO BE YOU was funny, sweet, heartbreaking, and utterly amazing...One of Top Favorites of 2013. The secondary characters are just as much fun as the hero and heroine, and I am DYIN to read the next in the series, Jack and Leah's romance...they got some sizzlin chemistry and I can't wait to see it combust!
October 7, 2018
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2pDm2ff
Ahhh Lucky Harbor. Best. Place. Ever. I had a fantastic time with It Had to Be You.
The Gist: Life sucks. Ali and Luke are both dealing with their own personal brands of 'oh, fuck me, come on!'. All Luke wants is an escape from his life as a cop after a case goes bad. So he heads to Lucky Harbor and the house his aunt left him. A couple weeks of peace and quiet are just what he needs. Instead he finds a wild woman standing half nekkid in his kitchen and ranting about a ratfink bastard who dumped her via text.
Ali and Luke were great. Luke's a police detective, stoic, stubborn and rock solid (in more ways than one!). Keeps emotions close to the chest. Ali can match him for stubborn but she's more of an artistic soul. Strong, resilient, full of life and always offering up her help to others.
They were so good for each other. Protective and caring. Had that whole need-to-jump-you-right-now thing happening. Drove each other a little crazy but there for each other when things hit the fan--Ali was accused of stealing 50K from town funds to get back at her ex. A little whodunit and a little protect the girl. It was a fun added element.
All in all...a good time was had. I've missed Lucky Harbor. The quirky town, the sexy dependable heroes and the strong sassy heroines. Lucky Harbor is so my happy place.
May 14, 2019
Ali, a woman down on her luck ends up temporarily staying with Luke, the gruff detective owner of her house who's hiding from reporters after his last case took a wrong turn.
Neither of them is particularly happy about staying together, and things get more complicated, when Ali is accused of theft. She is innocent and determined to clear her name, and Luke gets involved, despite his misgivings.
The more time they spend together and the more they learn about each other, the more intrigued they both are and soon they inevitably fall in love.
The series continues with Always on My Mind next.
Previous book reviews:
✦ Under the Mistletoe (Lucky Harbor, #6.5)
✦ Forever and a Day (Lucky Harbor, #6)
✦ At Last (Lucky Harbor, #5)
✦ Lucky in Love (Lucky Harbor #4)
✦ Head Over Heels (Lucky Harbor #3)
✦ Kissing Santa Claus (Lucky Harbor #2.5)
✦ The Sweetest Thing (Lucky Harbor #2)
✦ Simply Irresistible (Lucky Harbor #1)
Neither of them is particularly happy about staying together, and things get more complicated, when Ali is accused of theft. She is innocent and determined to clear her name, and Luke gets involved, despite his misgivings.
The more time they spend together and the more they learn about each other, the more intrigued they both are and soon they inevitably fall in love.
The series continues with Always on My Mind next.
Previous book reviews:
✦ Under the Mistletoe (Lucky Harbor, #6.5)
✦ Forever and a Day (Lucky Harbor, #6)
✦ At Last (Lucky Harbor, #5)
✦ Lucky in Love (Lucky Harbor #4)
✦ Head Over Heels (Lucky Harbor #3)
✦ Kissing Santa Claus (Lucky Harbor #2.5)
✦ The Sweetest Thing (Lucky Harbor #2)
✦ Simply Irresistible (Lucky Harbor #1)
November 25, 2013
This book is in line with the previous in the series. It does not have anything very new, special, striking or deep-moving. I can't reach the 5 star for this book, or the other in the series, as it misses some heart-wrenching moments to make it unforgettable. However it just flows and reads very easily and very pleasantly from the first page to the last.
Though part of the Lucky Harbor series, this book is part of a sub-trilogy with 3 friends, Luke, Jack and Ben. I was slightly put off to realize I could not yet finish this trilogy as the 3rd will be published in February. And yes the three are independent, however the characters mingle all the time and it's frustrating for me to have to wait another few months for the closure. I would recommend to wait until then to be able to read the 3 in one go.
Though part of the Lucky Harbor series, this book is part of a sub-trilogy with 3 friends, Luke, Jack and Ben. I was slightly put off to realize I could not yet finish this trilogy as the 3rd will be published in February. And yes the three are independent, however the characters mingle all the time and it's frustrating for me to have to wait another few months for the closure. I would recommend to wait until then to be able to read the 3 in one go.
February 16, 2016
It Had to Be You
The Characters:
Ali Winters
Luke Hanover
The Story:
Super cute, super fun, super hot. Luke and Ali had chemistry from page one (or whatever page they met on). A wonderful villain, a delightful mystery and the beginning of a beautiful relationship, what’s not to like.
The Random Thoughts:
4 Stars
The Characters:
Ali Winters
Luke Hanover
The Story:
Super cute, super fun, super hot. Luke and Ali had chemistry from page one (or whatever page they met on). A wonderful villain, a delightful mystery and the beginning of a beautiful relationship, what’s not to like.
The Random Thoughts:
4 Stars
June 17, 2013
After being unceremoniously dumped by her boyfriend, Ali convinces a cleaner to let her into his office so she can retrieve an earthenware pen holder she made for him. When $50,000 dollars is stolen from his office she immediately becomes suspect number 1.
It Had to Be You is cute and fluffy contemporary romance, it's predictable but entertaining. It's very much Jill Shalvis painting by the numbers. Not bad but a long way from her best.
It Had to Be You is cute and fluffy contemporary romance, it's predictable but entertaining. It's very much Jill Shalvis painting by the numbers. Not bad but a long way from her best.
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