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Ride with Me
Returning home after years of living as far from her wealthy family as she can, Lucy wants her great American road trip before she settles down. The vintage VW bus her arrogant older brother Jordan is selling off seems like the perfect vehicle for it.
But the bus in question is fiercely beloved by its real owner, Emma, Jordan’s wife. She’s not ready to let the bus go, but she is ready to get out of her marriage—and isn’t above hijacking her own bus to make that happen.
When Lucy’s vacation to find herself becomes Emma’s chance to remember herself, they realize that everything they’re looking for might already be sitting right next to them—if they’re willing to reach for it.
But the bus in question is fiercely beloved by its real owner, Emma, Jordan’s wife. She’s not ready to let the bus go, but she is ready to get out of her marriage—and isn’t above hijacking her own bus to make that happen.
When Lucy’s vacation to find herself becomes Emma’s chance to remember herself, they realize that everything they’re looking for might already be sitting right next to them—if they’re willing to reach for it.
288 pages, Paperback
Published November 14, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
November 18, 2023
3.5⭐️
Unusual circumstances bring Lucy and Emma together for a road trip across America. Lucy, after many years of spending abroad, wants to find a place to settle down in her home country, but as far away as possible from her rich family. When Emma's husband Jordan, Lucy's brother, wants to sell her beloved van, Emma is completely fed up, seizes her chance to escape, and doesn't shy away from hijacking her van and her sister-in-law inside.
Lucy and Emma, who had hardly known each other before, start this journey under strange circumstances, but they quickly realize that the company of the other woman does them well. Although they grew up very differently - Lucy comes from a wealthy family and Emma practically grew up with her sister and father in their van - they realize that they have more in common than they thought. It was nice to see, how they slowly opened up to each other and a friendship began to blossom. And despite a few hiccups, they started to enjoy their road trip together including surviving a bar fight, having fun in Vegas, rescued after a breakdown in nowhereland.
Emma was slowly getting back to her old self and felt her courage and joy returning. After Lucy receives a job offer, she seriously considers settling down somewhere. When the friendly feelings turn into romantic ones, insecurities and a lack of courage almost prevent the happy ending. But with the help of Mick, Emma’s Sister, and Lucy’s best friend Annie, they dare to jump over their own shadows and stand by their feelings.
Overall an entertaining romance with not much drama Enjoy their ride.
ARC was provided by NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
Unusual circumstances bring Lucy and Emma together for a road trip across America. Lucy, after many years of spending abroad, wants to find a place to settle down in her home country, but as far away as possible from her rich family. When Emma's husband Jordan, Lucy's brother, wants to sell her beloved van, Emma is completely fed up, seizes her chance to escape, and doesn't shy away from hijacking her van and her sister-in-law inside.
Lucy and Emma, who had hardly known each other before, start this journey under strange circumstances, but they quickly realize that the company of the other woman does them well. Although they grew up very differently - Lucy comes from a wealthy family and Emma practically grew up with her sister and father in their van - they realize that they have more in common than they thought. It was nice to see, how they slowly opened up to each other and a friendship began to blossom. And despite a few hiccups, they started to enjoy their road trip together including surviving a bar fight, having fun in Vegas, rescued after a breakdown in nowhereland.
Emma was slowly getting back to her old self and felt her courage and joy returning. After Lucy receives a job offer, she seriously considers settling down somewhere. When the friendly feelings turn into romantic ones, insecurities and a lack of courage almost prevent the happy ending. But with the help of Mick, Emma’s Sister, and Lucy’s best friend Annie, they dare to jump over their own shadows and stand by their feelings.
Overall an entertaining romance with not much drama Enjoy their ride.
ARC was provided by NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2023
3 stars - Well written and edited, yet I wasn't as engaged as I wanted to be.
Emma is in an unhappy marriage to Jordan. The last straw is a physical altercation and an argument that ends in Jordan selling off her beloved VW "Westie" van.
Unaware of any of this, Jordan's sister Lucy is back in the States and arrives to buy the van for a cross-country trip. She is considering settling down and wants to see a bit of her home country, visit friends, and figure out where she wants to live—hopefully as far away from her family, and especially her brother, as she can get.
Lucy and Emma meet when Emma pops up from her hiding place in the van and hijacks Lucy's vacation. As they travel across the US, they get to know each other and start falling in love.
While the setup sounded fun, the story just didn't work for me. I wasn't drawn in at all. I was constantly checking how much of the book was left and watching way too much TikTok when I should have been reading. I didn't really click with either character, and I didn't feel the chemistry between them. I was just kind of bored. Because this was an ARC, I powered through it but confess I did a bit of skimming to get to the end.
The end and epilogue were very cute, and I enjoyed the way the story wrapped up with the HEA.
Thank you, NetGalley, and Bold Strokes Books for the opportunity to review this book.
Emma is in an unhappy marriage to Jordan. The last straw is a physical altercation and an argument that ends in Jordan selling off her beloved VW "Westie" van.
Unaware of any of this, Jordan's sister Lucy is back in the States and arrives to buy the van for a cross-country trip. She is considering settling down and wants to see a bit of her home country, visit friends, and figure out where she wants to live—hopefully as far away from her family, and especially her brother, as she can get.
Lucy and Emma meet when Emma pops up from her hiding place in the van and hijacks Lucy's vacation. As they travel across the US, they get to know each other and start falling in love.
While the setup sounded fun, the story just didn't work for me. I wasn't drawn in at all. I was constantly checking how much of the book was left and watching way too much TikTok when I should have been reading. I didn't really click with either character, and I didn't feel the chemistry between them. I was just kind of bored. Because this was an ARC, I powered through it but confess I did a bit of skimming to get to the end.
The end and epilogue were very cute, and I enjoyed the way the story wrapped up with the HEA.
Thank you, NetGalley, and Bold Strokes Books for the opportunity to review this book.
October 23, 2023
This story was a bit surreal, although it was still quite entertaining. Lucy is a woman from a well-off family but she is a bit rebellious and has always tried to confront her parents and siblings. She is a lawyer but is not willing to sell herself to the interests of her father, who wants her to follow in her footsteps. But she has chosen a career more on the side of non-profit organizations and that kind of thing. She intends to take a vacation and to do so she asks her brother for his van, which turns out to be not her brother's but her sister-in-law's. And from the moment she picks up the keys and sets off, the trouble begins. Because inside the van is her sister-in-law, Emma, who at gunpoint forces her to take her with her, a true kidnapping. Lucy hasn't had much of a relationship with either her brother or Emma, so she has no idea why she's running away from home or what she's up to. Only that she wants to get as far away from her husband as possible. All these premises lead to a development that is fun at times, sad at other times, but surprising. Lucy has her inconsistencies, since deep down she is a bourgeois by education and environment, no matter how much she wants to avoid it. And Emma has complexes and insecurities that she has not left behind with a comfortable marriage. So, in their complexity, they open up to each other and discover that they may have more in common than they initially thought. I really liked this story, I think it is highly recommended.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for an honest review
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for an honest review
October 27, 2023
Thelma and Louise the sapphic version and with a happy ending. Enjoy the ride!
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lucy has always been a wanderer. She spent years across the world using her human rights law degree to make things a little better. Now she is ready to return to her own country, the US. But she wants to do it her own way. When she learns her brother Jordan has a VW van for sale, she jumps at the chance. What she didn’t expect is a secret travel companion that apparently comes with the van.
Emma is very unhappy. Married to Jordan has never been easy and although she tried to make the best of it, she knows it’s time to get out. Struggling to remember who she actually is and the parts of herself she lost while playing the dutiful housewife in a Florida mansion, she does something crazy. When her husband sells her beloved VW van to get back at her for ruining a party, she sees an escape she just has to take.
There is something about two strangers driving miles and miles in close proximity that draws them together. It creates delicious chemistry. Although it takes a while for Emma to open up to Lucy, when she does you as a reader know they are going to make it. Even the fact that Lucy is technically her sister in law doesn’t deter Emma for long. When sparks fly, boy, they soar!
I’ve really enjoyed getting on the road with these two ladies. And what’s not to like about a romcom worthy ending? Get ready to swoon!
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lucy has always been a wanderer. She spent years across the world using her human rights law degree to make things a little better. Now she is ready to return to her own country, the US. But she wants to do it her own way. When she learns her brother Jordan has a VW van for sale, she jumps at the chance. What she didn’t expect is a secret travel companion that apparently comes with the van.
Emma is very unhappy. Married to Jordan has never been easy and although she tried to make the best of it, she knows it’s time to get out. Struggling to remember who she actually is and the parts of herself she lost while playing the dutiful housewife in a Florida mansion, she does something crazy. When her husband sells her beloved VW van to get back at her for ruining a party, she sees an escape she just has to take.
There is something about two strangers driving miles and miles in close proximity that draws them together. It creates delicious chemistry. Although it takes a while for Emma to open up to Lucy, when she does you as a reader know they are going to make it. Even the fact that Lucy is technically her sister in law doesn’t deter Emma for long. When sparks fly, boy, they soar!
I’ve really enjoyed getting on the road with these two ladies. And what’s not to like about a romcom worthy ending? Get ready to swoon!
October 27, 2023
Road trip romance has become one of my favorite tropes!
If you have read Jenna Jarvis's first book Digging for Heaven, you would understand how skillfully she has crafted her story and characters. I am particularly fond of how the book has been set up, and I thoroughly enjoyed the first half of it. I love how the ending came together, and I absolutely adore Emma! However, I admit that I find it difficult to continue reading through the middle of the book. The plot seems to be moving slowly, and waiting for it to move forward is frustrating. Overall, I do enjoy this book! And I can't wait to read Jenna Jarvis next works
Thank you Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
If you have read Jenna Jarvis's first book Digging for Heaven, you would understand how skillfully she has crafted her story and characters. I am particularly fond of how the book has been set up, and I thoroughly enjoyed the first half of it. I love how the ending came together, and I absolutely adore Emma! However, I admit that I find it difficult to continue reading through the middle of the book. The plot seems to be moving slowly, and waiting for it to move forward is frustrating. Overall, I do enjoy this book! And I can't wait to read Jenna Jarvis next works
Thank you Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
May 8, 2024
That trope is not usually my go-to. The complication of getting with a brother's wife gives me a headache just thinking about it. Jarvis did things pretty well with Lucy being almost estranged from her family, and Emma being in an abusive marriage with a controlling husband. The two of them meet at the perfect time in their lives when Emma needs to regain control of her life, while Lucy is willing to relish that control over hers. Emma had such a long way to go to get out of a toxic relationship, and seeing her grab her fearful self by the collar was satisfying. That road trip trope, making us feel in a bubble with the characters, is something I definitely like. But there were some things that didn't sit right with me.The first time they had sex came a bit out of nowhere and surprised me. To me, it was not a way to express their connection (which was not very palpable back then), but a way to pass time. Even if Lucy voices some regret later, I think it happened at the worst moment concerning Emma. It's clear to me that Lucy was attracted to Emma, but the writer didn't convince me Emma was there yet. I can't help but feel that in the end, Emma needed more time to figure herself out before jumping into another relationship. She could still have her HEA. The plot was what I hoped for, but not with the timing I hoped for.
Overall, I had a good time reading the book, but some things prevented me from fully rooting for the couple when I should have.
Overall, I had a good time reading the book, but some things prevented me from fully rooting for the couple when I should have.
October 24, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Lucy is returning home after distancing herself from her family who makes her feel she less even though she made a good life for herself. She decides she wants to do a road trip visiting friends before she settles down to make a home for herself. She buys a VW bus from her annoying older brother Jordan not realizing the VW bus belongs to her sister in law Emma who didn’t approve of selling it. Emma basically kidnapped Lucy she needs to buy time because she realizes she made a mistake marrying Lucy brother. Lucy and Emma decides to adventure together as they grow closer Emma starts to rediscover who she is and they both may realize what they want might be right in front of them if they can get over their baggage first. Good Read.
Lucy is returning home after distancing herself from her family who makes her feel she less even though she made a good life for herself. She decides she wants to do a road trip visiting friends before she settles down to make a home for herself. She buys a VW bus from her annoying older brother Jordan not realizing the VW bus belongs to her sister in law Emma who didn’t approve of selling it. Emma basically kidnapped Lucy she needs to buy time because she realizes she made a mistake marrying Lucy brother. Lucy and Emma decides to adventure together as they grow closer Emma starts to rediscover who she is and they both may realize what they want might be right in front of them if they can get over their baggage first. Good Read.
November 1, 2023
This was such a fun read! I literally have no notes for this and I read it in one day. What I loved about Ride With Me is its pacing, lightheartedness, humor, representation, and the characters.
I have read lots of books where I can't help but think, "this should've been (amount) pages shorter" or "this chapter/s should've been removed" but in this book, everything was perfectly added. Nothing needs to be removed or shortened. It also never bored me, and it would always pain me to put my Kindle down to do quick chores because I'm simply hooked to the story! For the humor, it doesn't feel forced at all, which I honestly appreciate.
For the characters, I loved how they're flawed but likeable and relatable. Lots of books have characters that are flawless I always think that it makes a lot of sense to cast extremely attractive actors for the main roles if the book gets adapted but in this book, the characters feel human and real, like if you look at a crowd, any female can be Emma and Lucy.
Jenna Jarvis wrote this book seamlessly everything just flowed nicely. She introduced the story, the characters, and included representations so smoothly nothing felt forced it seriously didn't feel like I was reading a book. It felt like I was seeing real people with their real people problems and real people emotions have their real people love story.
I'm really really hoping this book and Jenna get the recognition they truly deserve. Amazing work!
I have read lots of books where I can't help but think, "this should've been (amount) pages shorter" or "this chapter/s should've been removed" but in this book, everything was perfectly added. Nothing needs to be removed or shortened. It also never bored me, and it would always pain me to put my Kindle down to do quick chores because I'm simply hooked to the story! For the humor, it doesn't feel forced at all, which I honestly appreciate.
For the characters, I loved how they're flawed but likeable and relatable. Lots of books have characters that are flawless I always think that it makes a lot of sense to cast extremely attractive actors for the main roles if the book gets adapted but in this book, the characters feel human and real, like if you look at a crowd, any female can be Emma and Lucy.
Jenna Jarvis wrote this book seamlessly everything just flowed nicely. She introduced the story, the characters, and included representations so smoothly nothing felt forced it seriously didn't feel like I was reading a book. It felt like I was seeing real people with their real people problems and real people emotions have their real people love story.
I'm really really hoping this book and Jenna get the recognition they truly deserve. Amazing work!
November 29, 2023
Fun and very emotional!
Emma ends up kidnapping her estranged sister-in-law Lucy, when her husband Jordan sells her van to Lucy for her road trip. Desperate to get out of her marriage, Emma takes this opportunity rediscover who she was and wants to be, but it’s not the only thing she learns about herself on the way.
This was so much fun! From the first moment to the very last, Emma and Lucy shared a complicated adventure that was more than just a road trip. Everything was explored, from emotions, to connections, to music, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of their trip. Jenna very cleverly embedded a level of humour that was present at all times, even when things got a little more serious to keep the mood light and remind me that this was a journey, not just for Emma and Lucy. It was free-spirited and in so many ways empowering. Both Emma and Lucy were rooting for their own freedom, taking opportunities and chances, and eventually discovered they shared more than just a need for self-discovery.
Emma, naturally was stressed and a bit more agitated throughout the story, whereas Lucy was calm and chilled, creating a nice balance. Right from the start she understood Emma, and you could just tell that they were going to end up falling for one another because of the situation they found themselves in. For both of them it was a bit more of a surprise, but their connection just felt natural at all times and I loved how they supported one another. I expected Lucy to find things more difficult once she developed feelings for Emma because of the dynamic and family relationship they shared through marriage but she really didn’t. When things seemed tough, she was still making clear decisions and knew what she really wanted.
I was smiling so much while reading this, unable to put it down for the thrill of all the fun and excitement of their adventure. And when things got more serious, I felt so emotionally connected to them both, I just really hoped they’d make it work because after everything they both really deserved it.
Emma ends up kidnapping her estranged sister-in-law Lucy, when her husband Jordan sells her van to Lucy for her road trip. Desperate to get out of her marriage, Emma takes this opportunity rediscover who she was and wants to be, but it’s not the only thing she learns about herself on the way.
This was so much fun! From the first moment to the very last, Emma and Lucy shared a complicated adventure that was more than just a road trip. Everything was explored, from emotions, to connections, to music, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of their trip. Jenna very cleverly embedded a level of humour that was present at all times, even when things got a little more serious to keep the mood light and remind me that this was a journey, not just for Emma and Lucy. It was free-spirited and in so many ways empowering. Both Emma and Lucy were rooting for their own freedom, taking opportunities and chances, and eventually discovered they shared more than just a need for self-discovery.
Emma, naturally was stressed and a bit more agitated throughout the story, whereas Lucy was calm and chilled, creating a nice balance. Right from the start she understood Emma, and you could just tell that they were going to end up falling for one another because of the situation they found themselves in. For both of them it was a bit more of a surprise, but their connection just felt natural at all times and I loved how they supported one another. I expected Lucy to find things more difficult once she developed feelings for Emma because of the dynamic and family relationship they shared through marriage but she really didn’t. When things seemed tough, she was still making clear decisions and knew what she really wanted.
I was smiling so much while reading this, unable to put it down for the thrill of all the fun and excitement of their adventure. And when things got more serious, I felt so emotionally connected to them both, I just really hoped they’d make it work because after everything they both really deserved it.
October 23, 2023
would like to thank netgalley and the publishers for letting me read this book a vintage vw bus a lawyer and an abused wife lucy has for years been wandering mostly away from her family but now she is back and wants that final adventure before she puts down roots her brother jordan is selling a vintage vw bus and she goes round to buy it... no much love is lost between them so the deal is struck and she is off on her last adventure but its not long before she realises she has a stowaway and one that then abducts her by gun point and the vw bus interesting read loved the adventures in a vw bus and new orleans always sounds the best place to go
October 18, 2023
Neither Emma nor Lucy have had an easy time in life, but their resilience, strength, and determination make both of them compelling characters. Emma is fed up with the life she's been living for the past six years and has finally taken a stand. She technically does kidnap her sister-in-law but at no point does Lucy ever feel like she’s in danger. Lucy’s easygoing personality and curiosity about Emma’s life allow her to stay in the van…bus…with Emma for the duration. Lucy is trying to figure out her next steps and is planning to use her solo cross-country trip to find herself. She certainly got more than she bargained for when Emma revealed herself in the VW’s backseat!
Emma’s marriage to Lucy’s estranged brother Jordan has taken a toll on her mental and physical health. She’s spent years, even more years than her marriage, feeling like an impostor. She’s a caretaker at heart and spent her teenage years taking care of her father and younger sister after her mother left. She wants to feel needed which is why she’s continued to stay in her less than happy marriage. As details about her past are slowly revealed, it’s clear that Emma’s feelings have finally been validated and Lucy is the only person in her life who accepts her without reservation and judgment. I appreciate Emma’s ability to hold strong to her convictions despite the difficulties.
Lucy’s always been made to feel less than by her family and many of her life choices she’s made to spite them. Despite her rebellious ways, she’s built herself into an extremely successful adult with so many fulfilling life experiences under her belt. I absolutely adore her vibe! She’s intelligent, adventurous, quirky, and loyal. I could easily visualize every outfit she donned, especially the tux and tophat she wore for Emma and Jordan’s wedding. She’s extremely patient and an excellent listener. All of these wonderful qualities she possesses help Emma become comfortable in her presence and lead to Emma falling for her.
The chemistry between Emma and Lucy is apparent from the start and as their relationship rolls from friends to lovers, the transition is seamless and without much drama and fanfare. They’re like those complicated puzzle pieces, the ones you look at and think won’t fit, but when you give it a try, they fit perfectly. Yes, Emma is Lucy’s sister-in-law and infidelity is a part of their story, but without Emma’s turbulent marriage to Jordan, the two would never have even met.
The supporting characters, especially Lucy’s best friend and Emma’s sister Mick are well-developed and extremely important to who Lucy and Emma are. Lucy’s sister and parents play a small but integral role as does Jordan, Emma’s husband and Lucy’s brother.
This is a really entertaining read and I highly recommend it!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Emma’s marriage to Lucy’s estranged brother Jordan has taken a toll on her mental and physical health. She’s spent years, even more years than her marriage, feeling like an impostor. She’s a caretaker at heart and spent her teenage years taking care of her father and younger sister after her mother left. She wants to feel needed which is why she’s continued to stay in her less than happy marriage. As details about her past are slowly revealed, it’s clear that Emma’s feelings have finally been validated and Lucy is the only person in her life who accepts her without reservation and judgment. I appreciate Emma’s ability to hold strong to her convictions despite the difficulties.
Lucy’s always been made to feel less than by her family and many of her life choices she’s made to spite them. Despite her rebellious ways, she’s built herself into an extremely successful adult with so many fulfilling life experiences under her belt. I absolutely adore her vibe! She’s intelligent, adventurous, quirky, and loyal. I could easily visualize every outfit she donned, especially the tux and tophat she wore for Emma and Jordan’s wedding. She’s extremely patient and an excellent listener. All of these wonderful qualities she possesses help Emma become comfortable in her presence and lead to Emma falling for her.
The chemistry between Emma and Lucy is apparent from the start and as their relationship rolls from friends to lovers, the transition is seamless and without much drama and fanfare. They’re like those complicated puzzle pieces, the ones you look at and think won’t fit, but when you give it a try, they fit perfectly. Yes, Emma is Lucy’s sister-in-law and infidelity is a part of their story, but without Emma’s turbulent marriage to Jordan, the two would never have even met.
The supporting characters, especially Lucy’s best friend and Emma’s sister Mick are well-developed and extremely important to who Lucy and Emma are. Lucy’s sister and parents play a small but integral role as does Jordan, Emma’s husband and Lucy’s brother.
This is a really entertaining read and I highly recommend it!
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2023
⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
🚌🏳️🌈⚖️🐴🎤
If you want to read a book about falling in love with your brother's wife, after being hijacked in the van you just brought off of him, then this book is for you!
I wanted to get into this book because it gave off Thelma and Louise-type vibes with the runaway wife-type situation, and some of it was good, but then some of it just... wasn't. I found myself having to re-read paragraphs to make sense of it. I found it confusing who was saying what to whom and it just didn't really flow well for my brain.
Some of it was a bit concerning, like the Plantation jokes. I didn't find it funny considering it was a bunch of rich people getting married in it and laughing about it afterward. I found there wasn't any huge tension between the two before they eventually had sex like it was rushed in a way they hadn't formed that connection yet. A
But what I did love about it was that Emma was brave and stood up for herself. She needed it after the controlling bs of a husband.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldstroke Books for a copy of the ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
🌶️🌶️
🚌🏳️🌈⚖️🐴🎤
If you want to read a book about falling in love with your brother's wife, after being hijacked in the van you just brought off of him, then this book is for you!
I wanted to get into this book because it gave off Thelma and Louise-type vibes with the runaway wife-type situation, and some of it was good, but then some of it just... wasn't. I found myself having to re-read paragraphs to make sense of it. I found it confusing who was saying what to whom and it just didn't really flow well for my brain.
Some of it was a bit concerning, like the Plantation jokes. I didn't find it funny considering it was a bunch of rich people getting married in it and laughing about it afterward. I found there wasn't any huge tension between the two before they eventually had sex like it was rushed in a way they hadn't formed that connection yet. A
But what I did love about it was that Emma was brave and stood up for herself. She needed it after the controlling bs of a husband.
Thanks to Netgalley and Boldstroke Books for a copy of the ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
October 23, 2023
A road trip adventure that had me hooked from the start. The VW bus, the fake kidnapping, and the hippie sister create an intriguing mix of elements that promise a wild ride, and the book certainly delivers on that promise.
Lucy and Emma's dynamic is the heart of the story, reminiscent of a Thelma and Louise duo, but thankfully without the murder! Their bond and the way they bring out the best in each other make for a compelling and heartwarming story. Lucy's unwavering support for Emma, even at the expense of her own family, adds strength to their relationship. Annie, a character introduced in the middle of the trip, is a real scene-stealer. Her quirky personality adds a delightful twist to the journey, and I can't help but hope she gets her own story in the future.
What I liked is the perfect balance between fun and poignant moments. The story has its share of sadness, but it's beautifully contrasted with Emma's journey to find her voice and freedom. It's a testament to the author's skill that these emotional arcs are woven seamlessly into the story.
This for me is a book that belongs on the re-read pile. It offers an exciting and heartfelt journey that combines adventure, friendship, and personal growth in a way that's impossible to resist. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an enjoyable and emotionally resonant read.
Lucy and Emma's dynamic is the heart of the story, reminiscent of a Thelma and Louise duo, but thankfully without the murder! Their bond and the way they bring out the best in each other make for a compelling and heartwarming story. Lucy's unwavering support for Emma, even at the expense of her own family, adds strength to their relationship. Annie, a character introduced in the middle of the trip, is a real scene-stealer. Her quirky personality adds a delightful twist to the journey, and I can't help but hope she gets her own story in the future.
What I liked is the perfect balance between fun and poignant moments. The story has its share of sadness, but it's beautifully contrasted with Emma's journey to find her voice and freedom. It's a testament to the author's skill that these emotional arcs are woven seamlessly into the story.
This for me is a book that belongs on the re-read pile. It offers an exciting and heartfelt journey that combines adventure, friendship, and personal growth in a way that's impossible to resist. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an enjoyable and emotionally resonant read.
November 4, 2023
I loved this book, the journey was interesting and the characters left you rooting for them! An enjoyable take on a road trip romance with diverse characters and interesting back stories. It was really nicely written and a fun read, with lots of emotional moments too.
October 15, 2023
This was a quick, fun read. The ‘kidnap’ is not very realistic but this is fiction and the artistic license trumps. I enjoyed this one, not familiar with the author but I’s pick their books in the future.
Free ARC via NetGalley.
Free ARC via NetGalley.
December 24, 2023
Based on the blurb I was looking forward to Ride with Me by Jenna Jarvis. I enjoyed the first couple of chapters, but as the story progressed I had a hard time getting a sense of who Lucy and Emma were as people. They felt somewhat shallow and underdeveloped. The writing, though technically proficient, was at times confusing and the dialogue was occasionally difficult to follow as well.
I persevered however, because I liked the premise of the story and saw the potential for a really cute roadtrip romance. Unfortunately that never seemed to materialize. In my opinion, the author had them get together way too early, before any chemistry or feelings could really develop, and at that point I lost interest.
I see the potential for this author and would give her another try, but for me this book just wasn’t my cup of tea and was a DNF.
I received an advance copy of this book via Netgalley and all opinions are my own.
I persevered however, because I liked the premise of the story and saw the potential for a really cute roadtrip romance. Unfortunately that never seemed to materialize. In my opinion, the author had them get together way too early, before any chemistry or feelings could really develop, and at that point I lost interest.
I see the potential for this author and would give her another try, but for me this book just wasn’t my cup of tea and was a DNF.
I received an advance copy of this book via Netgalley and all opinions are my own.
July 12, 2024
I'm not usually a huge fan of romance but this book reeled me in. Whilst navigating some difficult topics, there is a breezy, lighthearted ease to this charming novel.
January 15, 2024
DNF at the end of Chapter 2 (16%)
I had been a huge fan of Jenna Jarvis since her debut sapphic dragon fantasy book, Digging for Heaven. This is Jarvis’ second publication, a contemporary romance between Lucy and Emma that blossoms on a cross-country road trip from Florida to Portland.
While I don't think it's inherently problematic, I am giving this book a major side eye. For one, this book is basically the FMC cheating with her brother's wife. For another, I do take issue with some of the contents of this book. My biggest questions are - Was writing certain points necessary? Did these portions of the book really need to be written in for a full effect to be reached? Was the author the correct person to write certain aspects into the book and if not, did it go through a diversity or sensitivity reader or team?
From what I know of the author, she is a queer white woman from Glasgow, Scotland. The moment I read certain passages in the prologue, I did reach out to Jarvis and ask if there was a sensitivity reader hired and she said there wasn’t as the budget in the book didn’t allow for one. I was buddy reading this with a friend of mine and when she, too, ended up reaching out of her own volition later, Jarvis confirmed that her editor is a Southern non-person of color who looked over the book. As Jarvis mentions in the acknowledgements “Barbara, thank you for making me a better writer all over again. Thank you for putting up with my constant mistakes about the United States and how real people living there speak. I also need to thank my wonderful friend Caro, who was my go-to point of reference throughout this process.”
In the prologue, we open with the FMC, Lucy, as she attends her brother's wedding to a girl named Emma, that just so happens to be taking place on a plantation. While Lucy does muse how tasteless the wedding is, the wedding pushes through and Lucy goes on with her life. The prologue ends and skips to Lucy getting back to her apartment with her planning the road trip on chapter 1 and 2. I do believe the goal of adding a plantation scene was to show that her family and her brother (the groom) were horrible people, but I don't think it was quite a necessary detail to show how horrible a family could be without potentially triggering Black readers.
In chapter 1 we find Lucy starting on her road trip and as soon as she gets in a van she got from her brother and discovers someone hiding in the back seat of her van when all of a sudden she gets threatened.
What made me most uncomfortable about this van hijack situation, as a person of color, was reading the scene where they joke about cops. I think it tried to make this situation lighthearted and funny but I honestly didn't find it funny at all. It made me quite uncomfortable instead.
At the beginning of chapter 2, the terrorist attack of September 11 was brought up in casual conversation as a way to refer to the type of country songs they were listening to. While I understand that this is a term to used to indicate the shift of country music into the more patriotic style that emerged after this historical event, it seems to be of use more in the analysis of country music and not something that is dropped in casual conversation. As no country music examination was done in chapter 2, I do believe that the use of the term “pre-9/11 country songs” could’ve easily been changed to 80’s or 90’s country music without taking away the meaning of passage. Instead Jarvis and her Editor chose to use a term that referenced a massive terrorist attack that shook the nation and led to a surge in Islamophobia and a resurgence of anti-Muslim hate crimes. This being released in the middle of the current political events, with the spike of anti-Muslim crimes, especially towards Palestinian-American children, feels even more tasteless.
The writing on its own is quite muddled and confusing. I had to reread portions of it over and over to truly understand who was who and which passages were referring to which characters. I’m not sure why this book was so different from the wonderfully written Digging For Heaven but it honestly makes me worried about picking up anything else from this author in the future.
To go back on the references of the Plantation Wedding, while I did DNF this at the end of chapter 2, I did skim for all other references of the world plantation and it seemes to be was used as the butt of many jokes.
Again, I only did read until the end of chapter 2 so someone who might have read the whole thing might not have the same issues I do. But I do believe three chapters are enough for me to know that I am not the right audience for this book.
I had been a huge fan of Jenna Jarvis since her debut sapphic dragon fantasy book, Digging for Heaven. This is Jarvis’ second publication, a contemporary romance between Lucy and Emma that blossoms on a cross-country road trip from Florida to Portland.
While I don't think it's inherently problematic, I am giving this book a major side eye. For one, this book is basically the FMC cheating with her brother's wife. For another, I do take issue with some of the contents of this book. My biggest questions are - Was writing certain points necessary? Did these portions of the book really need to be written in for a full effect to be reached? Was the author the correct person to write certain aspects into the book and if not, did it go through a diversity or sensitivity reader or team?
From what I know of the author, she is a queer white woman from Glasgow, Scotland. The moment I read certain passages in the prologue, I did reach out to Jarvis and ask if there was a sensitivity reader hired and she said there wasn’t as the budget in the book didn’t allow for one. I was buddy reading this with a friend of mine and when she, too, ended up reaching out of her own volition later, Jarvis confirmed that her editor is a Southern non-person of color who looked over the book. As Jarvis mentions in the acknowledgements “Barbara, thank you for making me a better writer all over again. Thank you for putting up with my constant mistakes about the United States and how real people living there speak. I also need to thank my wonderful friend Caro, who was my go-to point of reference throughout this process.”
In the prologue, we open with the FMC, Lucy, as she attends her brother's wedding to a girl named Emma, that just so happens to be taking place on a plantation. While Lucy does muse how tasteless the wedding is, the wedding pushes through and Lucy goes on with her life. The prologue ends and skips to Lucy getting back to her apartment with her planning the road trip on chapter 1 and 2. I do believe the goal of adding a plantation scene was to show that her family and her brother (the groom) were horrible people, but I don't think it was quite a necessary detail to show how horrible a family could be without potentially triggering Black readers.
Joanna groaned as she brushed down her satin dress. “For God’s sake, it’s just an old private estate that was available quickly enough for them.”
“You’re telling me you’d risk a wedding this haunted?”
>>>
Eventually, Mick spoke up again with what sounded like deep regret. “This is a plantation, isn’t it.”
“Yup.”
“They called it a family estate on the invite.”
>>>
“Absolutely a plantation, you were right.”
“Thank you.”
“Bride was hot, though.”
In chapter 1 we find Lucy starting on her road trip and as soon as she gets in a van she got from her brother and discovers someone hiding in the back seat of her van when all of a sudden she gets threatened.
“All right.” The voice was low and a little shaky but frighteningly certain. “Stop driving and switch seats. I’ve got a gun, and there is no way I’m driving around in the back seat of my own fucking van.”
What made me most uncomfortable about this van hijack situation, as a person of color, was reading the scene where they joke about cops. I think it tried to make this situation lighthearted and funny but I honestly didn't find it funny at all. It made me quite uncomfortable instead.
“You know, I doubt the cops would see it that way.”
“What, about it being a van?”
“No,” Lucy said, crossing her arms childishly. “About me being the car thief. Van thief. I bought this from your husband. The dipshit even wrote me a receipt. I’m sure that’d be good enough for any Florida police cruiser driving by.”
>>>
“Are we really calling being held at gunpoint an inconvenience?”
“Haven’t shot you yet, have I?” There was a squirming look in Emma’s eye. Guilt, maybe, but also like she felt bad for finding some of this funny.
At the beginning of chapter 2, the terrorist attack of September 11 was brought up in casual conversation as a way to refer to the type of country songs they were listening to. While I understand that this is a term to used to indicate the shift of country music into the more patriotic style that emerged after this historical event, it seems to be of use more in the analysis of country music and not something that is dropped in casual conversation. As no country music examination was done in chapter 2, I do believe that the use of the term “pre-9/11 country songs” could’ve easily been changed to 80’s or 90’s country music without taking away the meaning of passage. Instead Jarvis and her Editor chose to use a term that referenced a massive terrorist attack that shook the nation and led to a surge in Islamophobia and a resurgence of anti-Muslim hate crimes. This being released in the middle of the current political events, with the spike of anti-Muslim crimes, especially towards Palestinian-American children, feels even more tasteless.
“They’d just finished their fourth cassette tape, another made up primarily of pre-9/11 country songs, when she spoke up for the first time.”
The writing on its own is quite muddled and confusing. I had to reread portions of it over and over to truly understand who was who and which passages were referring to which characters. I’m not sure why this book was so different from the wonderfully written Digging For Heaven but it honestly makes me worried about picking up anything else from this author in the future.
To go back on the references of the Plantation Wedding, while I did DNF this at the end of chapter 2, I did skim for all other references of the world plantation and it seemes to be was used as the butt of many jokes.
“Hmm. Good point.” Reluctantly, Lucy started hunting for her shorts. “Or we could go have another visit to a plantation house.”
Emma’s eyes flashed in warning, but this felt like one Lucy didn’t want to leave alone.
>>>
“Actually,” Lucy felt compelled to continue, “she’s my brother’s wife.”
“You dumb fuck,” Annie breathed, shaking her head at Lucy fondly.
“You remember that wedding you refused to be my date for?”
“The plantation wedding?”
Emma groaned as Annie continued shaking her head.
>>>
Annie leaned back in her chair and finally acknowledged Lucy’s arrival by blinking sweetly.
“This one here didn’t let me know it was a family thing until the day of. Or the plantation of it all. Coffee’s in the pot, Lu.”
>>>
“It…it was a plantation, wasn’t it?”
“No doubt.”
“Babe, that place was so fucking cursed.”
Again, I only did read until the end of chapter 2 so someone who might have read the whole thing might not have the same issues I do. But I do believe three chapters are enough for me to know that I am not the right audience for this book.
November 7, 2023
⭐️⭐⭐⭐✨4.5/5
A road trip vacation turns into a strange kidnapping situation when Emma, the sister-in-law Lucy hardly knows, decides to take back her life (and her van) and run away. This story has humor, spice, romance, and adventure. Jenna did a wonderful job weaving together the heavy and light-hearted parts of this story to create a beautiful journey about friendship, love, finding yourself, and starting over.
Lucy has expertly kept her distance from her wealthy and pretentious family - living and working in other countries, traveling the world, and using her background in law to help make the world better instead of pad her pockets. Finally ready to plant some roots, she decides to take a classic American road trip when she finds out her brother, Jordan, is selling an old VW van.
The problem is - the van doesn’t belong to Jordan. It’s his wife, Emma’s, most treasured possession. Tired of living a life she never really wanted and furious with Jordan for selling her van, she hides out in the van prepared for a good ol’ fashioned hijacking. Except other than getting some cash and clothes - she didn’t really think this plan through. So she strikes a deal with her practically stranger sister-in-law.
Emma has a lot of things to work through both from her childhood and marriage - and she isn’t ready to talk about any of it. Especially not to Lucy whom she hardly knows let alone trusts. But as the two women take off on this strange cross-country road trip, they begin to connect on a deeper level. And it doesn’t take long for the sparks to start flying. But talk about a predicament! Your husband’s sister? Your brother’s wife? Surely it could never work or be anything more than a road tip fling… Right? As time goes on, and decisions have to be made, it gets harder and harder to think about their time coming to an end.
This was a fun and wild ride that kept me hooked from page one! I loved the pining, the banter, the shenanigans, the intimacy, and literally everything about Emma’s and Lucy’s connection.
I received an ARC through NetGalley and Bold Strokes books and this is my honest review.
TW/CW: The story tackles some serious subjects like emotional abuse/gaslighting, minor physical abuse from a spouse, parental abandonment, misogyny, and challenging family dynamics (most of which happens off page and isn’t very detailed).
A road trip vacation turns into a strange kidnapping situation when Emma, the sister-in-law Lucy hardly knows, decides to take back her life (and her van) and run away. This story has humor, spice, romance, and adventure. Jenna did a wonderful job weaving together the heavy and light-hearted parts of this story to create a beautiful journey about friendship, love, finding yourself, and starting over.
Lucy has expertly kept her distance from her wealthy and pretentious family - living and working in other countries, traveling the world, and using her background in law to help make the world better instead of pad her pockets. Finally ready to plant some roots, she decides to take a classic American road trip when she finds out her brother, Jordan, is selling an old VW van.
The problem is - the van doesn’t belong to Jordan. It’s his wife, Emma’s, most treasured possession. Tired of living a life she never really wanted and furious with Jordan for selling her van, she hides out in the van prepared for a good ol’ fashioned hijacking. Except other than getting some cash and clothes - she didn’t really think this plan through. So she strikes a deal with her practically stranger sister-in-law.
Emma has a lot of things to work through both from her childhood and marriage - and she isn’t ready to talk about any of it. Especially not to Lucy whom she hardly knows let alone trusts. But as the two women take off on this strange cross-country road trip, they begin to connect on a deeper level. And it doesn’t take long for the sparks to start flying. But talk about a predicament! Your husband’s sister? Your brother’s wife? Surely it could never work or be anything more than a road tip fling… Right? As time goes on, and decisions have to be made, it gets harder and harder to think about their time coming to an end.
This was a fun and wild ride that kept me hooked from page one! I loved the pining, the banter, the shenanigans, the intimacy, and literally everything about Emma’s and Lucy’s connection.
I received an ARC through NetGalley and Bold Strokes books and this is my honest review.
TW/CW: The story tackles some serious subjects like emotional abuse/gaslighting, minor physical abuse from a spouse, parental abandonment, misogyny, and challenging family dynamics (most of which happens off page and isn’t very detailed).
December 5, 2023
What a delightful journey this book was!
In Jenna Jarvis' captivating novel, a seemingly ordinary road trip transforms into a gripping rollercoaster of emotions, blending humor, spice, romance, and adventure. I saw someone else refer to this book as "Thelma and Louise" Sapphic edition, and I couldn't agree more!
Lucy, seeking a fresh start after years abroad, finds herself entangled in an unexpected escapade when her sister-in-law, Emma, decides to reclaim her life and hijack her own beloved VW van. A deal is struck, and the two women, who hardly know each other, set out on an unexpected cross-country journey.
As the road trip unfolds, the characters connect on a deeper level. The story skillfully balances heavy and light-hearted elements, creating a beautiful narrative that explores friendship, love, self-discovery, and new beginnings.
Overall, Jarvis delivers an entertaining romance with a mix of drama and lighthearted moments.
Thank you Bold Stroke Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
In Jenna Jarvis' captivating novel, a seemingly ordinary road trip transforms into a gripping rollercoaster of emotions, blending humor, spice, romance, and adventure. I saw someone else refer to this book as "Thelma and Louise" Sapphic edition, and I couldn't agree more!
Lucy, seeking a fresh start after years abroad, finds herself entangled in an unexpected escapade when her sister-in-law, Emma, decides to reclaim her life and hijack her own beloved VW van. A deal is struck, and the two women, who hardly know each other, set out on an unexpected cross-country journey.
As the road trip unfolds, the characters connect on a deeper level. The story skillfully balances heavy and light-hearted elements, creating a beautiful narrative that explores friendship, love, self-discovery, and new beginnings.
Overall, Jarvis delivers an entertaining romance with a mix of drama and lighthearted moments.
Thank you Bold Stroke Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
November 6, 2023
Lucy, returning from working abroad, purchases a vintage VW bus from her brother. She plans to use it for a cross country trip before she settles into a new job. Little does she know that it actually belongs to his wife Emma whom she has only met once before. And Emma decides to take this opportunity to flee her marriage.
I couldn’t quite decide if this is supposed to be funny or emotionally growing. But neither character was easy for me to understand or connect with. I got glimpses of their histories and how they viewed things but other big things got skimmed over. A big deal is made out of something Lucy’s brother did and then it turns out to not be important in the long run. I don’t want to give other examples as I don't want to spoil the story. And then there is the ick cheating factor that is the elephant in the room. The cover is very cute and I did like how everything ends.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
I couldn’t quite decide if this is supposed to be funny or emotionally growing. But neither character was easy for me to understand or connect with. I got glimpses of their histories and how they viewed things but other big things got skimmed over. A big deal is made out of something Lucy’s brother did and then it turns out to not be important in the long run. I don’t want to give other examples as I don't want to spoil the story. And then there is the ick cheating factor that is the elephant in the room. The cover is very cute and I did like how everything ends.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
November 11, 2023
I really enjoyed this!! I was giggling and kicking my feet half the time.
I started this with zero expectations, and ended up pleasantly surprised. The characters are flawed, but lovable and tackles some serious themes, without them seeming to be there just for the plot.
Even the side characters were super cool and I wish there were books on them too.
Can't wait to see what Jenna Jarvis come up with next.
I started this with zero expectations, and ended up pleasantly surprised. The characters are flawed, but lovable and tackles some serious themes, without them seeming to be there just for the plot.
Even the side characters were super cool and I wish there were books on them too.
Can't wait to see what Jenna Jarvis come up with next.
December 12, 2023
I just couldn’t get into this. I liked the ending the best, the epilogue and HEA were well done and enjoyable. But getting there was just kind of boring and I did not really care about the characters. It was fine but not my favorite.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2024
Amazing, incredible, show stopping!
This is a disclaimer since I know the author personally and I am 100% biased, but also I loved this and if you like romance and road trips and some good soul searching drama, you should check it out!
This is a disclaimer since I know the author personally and I am 100% biased, but also I loved this and if you like romance and road trips and some good soul searching drama, you should check it out!
June 5, 2024
If I hadn’t started this in December over the Christmas period I would have finished it a lot faster! The story is not your usual love story and I really enjoyed the journey the main characters took together both emotionally and physically across America.
There is drama, there is tension, there is a road trip that doesn't turn out how you'd expect. You watch both FMC's grow into who they are and become more comfortable with each other as the story goes on and fall in love with them.
There is drama, there is tension, there is a road trip that doesn't turn out how you'd expect. You watch both FMC's grow into who they are and become more comfortable with each other as the story goes on and fall in love with them.
November 16, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up
This is the third book by Jenna Jarvis I've read and the first contemporary by her. Now, I still really enjoyed it, but personally, I think she's a slightly better fantasy author. It was still very well-written and the characters were very complex, well-developed, flawed, and very likeable.
The book follows Lucy, who travels as a lawyer while also engaging in activism after largely distancing herself from her rich family to be hyper-independent and Emma, a women stuck in a controlling, stifling relationship to a man who affords her no freedom or any voice. After years of an unhealthy marriage, Emma leaves after Jordan crosses a line, emotionally and physically hurting her and leading to an incident where she attempts to take back her van from Lucy, her husband's sister, after Jordan sold it and escape.
The first half of the book has a great buildup of the two slowly getting to know each other and open up about their insecurities and who they are. They start being more themselves around each other and letting each other in, bonding over conversation and numerous stops along the road, until their feelings for each other and insecurities come to a head, forcing them both to confront themselves and decide what they want out of their lives—to stop running and settling for safety and familiarity and to trust and be brave.
Both their struggles are very complex and nuanced and their fears understandable. I loved Lucy deciding to stay and put her heart out and Emma learning how to stick up for herself and for settling for more than familiarity and a false sense of happiness.
I also loved Annie (Lucy’s best friend) and her role in the story. She was a great friend and she made me smile. Also, some great unexpected and trans rep with similar depth to her. She was very likeable and I liked her quickly growing friendship with Emma.
I do think the miscommunication was dragged out a few chapters too long and I honestly got a little frustrated. If I didn't love Jenna Jarvis' writing, I'd seriously could've seen myself setting the book aside for months, BUT, I love this author's writing and knew the ending wouldn't disappoint me, so I kept reading and I was honestly surprised and happy about the unexpected ending. I'm glad it swerved away from where it seemed to be going so that both characters got a satisfying scene of their own to conclude their arcs.
While the miscommunication overstayed its welcome for me personally and the novelty of reading sex scenes in adult romances is wearing off and I find them annoying now (I think young adult is more my thing, honestly; I might be largely done with adult romances, we'll see; just personal preference, nothing against this book), the book was overall amazing and the only real downside was potentially that the miscommunication lasted too long and was way too predictable (the characters even acknowledged the cliches) and that the first half was way stronger than the second (though the second was still good). Anyway, if you want to read a book about two women just spending hours talking on a roadtrip, opening up, and falling in love, you'll love this. Like all Jenna Jarvis’ books, it’s very enjoyable, the characters are deep, and the character development and interactions are well-done. That said, it’s probably not one that’ll stick with me as much as her fantasy has, though I appreciate the character arcs and story. I will be reading anything Jenna Jarvis writes. I’ll likely be checking out her other published contemporary next.
I'm still not sure how I feel about the weird pseudo-incest by proxy situation, but I'd rather have Emma end up with her ex-husband's sister than her ending up with her abuser. They do make a great couple.
Trigger Warnings: Domestic Violence (being hit and falling to the ground), Cheating, Controlling Husband, Manipulation, Husband Selling Wife's Possessions
This sorta just feels like a better version of a book I read earlier this year (Love At First Set by Jennifer Dugan). I hope Jenna Jarvis gets way more recognition, because she's a great enough author to be a super well-recognized author.
This is the third book by Jenna Jarvis I've read and the first contemporary by her. Now, I still really enjoyed it, but personally, I think she's a slightly better fantasy author. It was still very well-written and the characters were very complex, well-developed, flawed, and very likeable.
The book follows Lucy, who travels as a lawyer while also engaging in activism after largely distancing herself from her rich family to be hyper-independent and Emma, a women stuck in a controlling, stifling relationship to a man who affords her no freedom or any voice. After years of an unhealthy marriage, Emma leaves after Jordan crosses a line, emotionally and physically hurting her and leading to an incident where she attempts to take back her van from Lucy, her husband's sister, after Jordan sold it and escape.
The first half of the book has a great buildup of the two slowly getting to know each other and open up about their insecurities and who they are. They start being more themselves around each other and letting each other in, bonding over conversation and numerous stops along the road, until their feelings for each other and insecurities come to a head, forcing them both to confront themselves and decide what they want out of their lives—to stop running and settling for safety and familiarity and to trust and be brave.
Both their struggles are very complex and nuanced and their fears understandable. I loved Lucy deciding to stay and put her heart out and Emma learning how to stick up for herself and for settling for more than familiarity and a false sense of happiness.
I also loved Annie (Lucy’s best friend) and her role in the story. She was a great friend and she made me smile. Also, some great unexpected and trans rep with similar depth to her. She was very likeable and I liked her quickly growing friendship with Emma.
I do think the miscommunication was dragged out a few chapters too long and I honestly got a little frustrated. If I didn't love Jenna Jarvis' writing, I'd seriously could've seen myself setting the book aside for months, BUT, I love this author's writing and knew the ending wouldn't disappoint me, so I kept reading and I was honestly surprised and happy about the unexpected ending. I'm glad it swerved away from where it seemed to be going so that both characters got a satisfying scene of their own to conclude their arcs.
While the miscommunication overstayed its welcome for me personally and the novelty of reading sex scenes in adult romances is wearing off and I find them annoying now (I think young adult is more my thing, honestly; I might be largely done with adult romances, we'll see; just personal preference, nothing against this book), the book was overall amazing and the only real downside was potentially that the miscommunication lasted too long and was way too predictable (the characters even acknowledged the cliches) and that the first half was way stronger than the second (though the second was still good). Anyway, if you want to read a book about two women just spending hours talking on a roadtrip, opening up, and falling in love, you'll love this. Like all Jenna Jarvis’ books, it’s very enjoyable, the characters are deep, and the character development and interactions are well-done. That said, it’s probably not one that’ll stick with me as much as her fantasy has, though I appreciate the character arcs and story. I will be reading anything Jenna Jarvis writes. I’ll likely be checking out her other published contemporary next.
I'm still not sure how I feel about the weird pseudo-incest by proxy situation, but I'd rather have Emma end up with her ex-husband's sister than her ending up with her abuser. They do make a great couple.
Trigger Warnings: Domestic Violence (being hit and falling to the ground), Cheating, Controlling Husband, Manipulation, Husband Selling Wife's Possessions
This sorta just feels like a better version of a book I read earlier this year (Love At First Set by Jennifer Dugan). I hope Jenna Jarvis gets way more recognition, because she's a great enough author to be a super well-recognized author.
November 12, 2023
A forbidden romance steeped in family drama and a complex discussion of abuse.
Lucy does not get along well with her family, least of all her entitled brother Jordan. She’s spent her life working as far away from them as possible. They’ve always seen her as someone who lacks direction without a serious career. But that’s not who Lucy is and she’s ready to try and settle down. Lucy has one last road trip across the US planned and the vintage VW bus her brother is selling is perfect for it. There’s just one problem, the bus really belongs to his wife Emma and she’s not ready to give it up. So, Emma decides to kidnap Lucy in her own bus and drive across the country together.
There is a lot of family drama in this novel and much like real life most of it is not resolved. I assumed that most of the tension would come from Lucy developing a relationship with her brother’s wife but this was almost an afterthought compared to the other family drama. There should be a trigger warning for domestic abuse and gaslighting as this was an important plot line throughout. It’s a challenging topic but I thought it was well handled. In particular, the gas lighting that Emma experienced and her reasons for going back were believable.
This was likely an issue with the ARC but I did also find myself distracted trying to figure out where they were headed. Early on it was mentioned that Emma was going to LA but then there was a reference to a job opportunity in SF for Lucy.
Overall, this contained some complex storylines that I thought were well done but it was not what I was expecting from the blurb.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
Lucy does not get along well with her family, least of all her entitled brother Jordan. She’s spent her life working as far away from them as possible. They’ve always seen her as someone who lacks direction without a serious career. But that’s not who Lucy is and she’s ready to try and settle down. Lucy has one last road trip across the US planned and the vintage VW bus her brother is selling is perfect for it. There’s just one problem, the bus really belongs to his wife Emma and she’s not ready to give it up. So, Emma decides to kidnap Lucy in her own bus and drive across the country together.
There is a lot of family drama in this novel and much like real life most of it is not resolved. I assumed that most of the tension would come from Lucy developing a relationship with her brother’s wife but this was almost an afterthought compared to the other family drama. There should be a trigger warning for domestic abuse and gaslighting as this was an important plot line throughout. It’s a challenging topic but I thought it was well handled. In particular, the gas lighting that Emma experienced and her reasons for going back were believable.
This was likely an issue with the ARC but I did also find myself distracted trying to figure out where they were headed. Early on it was mentioned that Emma was going to LA but then there was a reference to a job opportunity in SF for Lucy.
Overall, this contained some complex storylines that I thought were well done but it was not what I was expecting from the blurb.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
November 15, 2023
Oh I love a good road trip book so when I read the synopsis, I knew I’d enjoy it! The two main characters, Emma and Lucy, are both struggling to find their way forward in life and I found that relatable.
Their paths crossed years ago but only briefly and through some twists of fate they end up together in a Westie travelling across the country. Emma is running from her deeply unhappy marriage to Lucy’s brother and Lucy is hoping to find something worth staying for as she travels to Portland.
As they travel across the southern states they get into some predicaments and fun and get to know each other (intimately). Honestly the whole sister-in-law situation was a little odd to me. Felt like it would definitely make for some uncomfortable holiday dinners in the future but I decided to let it go and just go for the drive. In the end you are rooting for these two and happy they find their happily ever after. I especially enjoyed the ending where each woman found their voice and advocated for themselves and then found each other. The prologue was also a highlight as we get to find out what happened later which is always a bonus. I love the idea that these two drove off into the sunset together and are out there road tripping still.
The book is filled with well written and complex characters, lots of queer representation, love and lust and happy endings.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Their paths crossed years ago but only briefly and through some twists of fate they end up together in a Westie travelling across the country. Emma is running from her deeply unhappy marriage to Lucy’s brother and Lucy is hoping to find something worth staying for as she travels to Portland.
As they travel across the southern states they get into some predicaments and fun and get to know each other (intimately). Honestly the whole sister-in-law situation was a little odd to me. Felt like it would definitely make for some uncomfortable holiday dinners in the future but I decided to let it go and just go for the drive. In the end you are rooting for these two and happy they find their happily ever after. I especially enjoyed the ending where each woman found their voice and advocated for themselves and then found each other. The prologue was also a highlight as we get to find out what happened later which is always a bonus. I love the idea that these two drove off into the sunset together and are out there road tripping still.
The book is filled with well written and complex characters, lots of queer representation, love and lust and happy endings.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
November 1, 2023
Lucy Johnstone didn’t ever recall feeling as if she belonged. She had nothing in common with any of her family, seeing as they were all about how rich they looked, Lucy was much more down to earth. When she got her law license she took off around the world working with people in need of a lawyer. Now she’s come home looking for a van she wanted to buy so she could travel around her own country for a change. But alas the ‘van’ she wanted to purchase was really owned by her brother's wife, Emma.
Emma Johnstone was Jordan’s wife and she was not happy. She’d had miscarriages trying to conceive a baby, hoping It would make her feel so not alone. She had nothing in common with any of the Johnstone family, at least the ones she's got to know. After being pushed around one more time Emma made plans to escape. She was going to leave Jordans’ house and use her trusty old van to get away. Little did she know Jordan had already sold her van to his sister Lucy. She had to get away, Lucy just wanted to get on the road, not knowing she had a passenger. Now the fun begins.
Ms Jarvis gives us a very interesting and enjoyable read. Fast paced with great characters.
ARC via NetGalley/Bold Stroke Books
Emma Johnstone was Jordan’s wife and she was not happy. She’d had miscarriages trying to conceive a baby, hoping It would make her feel so not alone. She had nothing in common with any of the Johnstone family, at least the ones she's got to know. After being pushed around one more time Emma made plans to escape. She was going to leave Jordans’ house and use her trusty old van to get away. Little did she know Jordan had already sold her van to his sister Lucy. She had to get away, Lucy just wanted to get on the road, not knowing she had a passenger. Now the fun begins.
Ms Jarvis gives us a very interesting and enjoyable read. Fast paced with great characters.
ARC via NetGalley/Bold Stroke Books
October 18, 2023
“Ride with me” tells the very unusual love story between Lucy and Emma. Lucy comes from a rich family, but she’s always felt like an outsider. The first time they met was at Emma’s wedding to Lucy’s brother, and their paths cross again years later when Emma decides to leave her husband and rebel against him selling her old VW to Lucy. From that moment on they go on a journey throughout the country, discovering themselves, falling in love and figuring out what paths they want to take in their lives.
This is Jenna Jarvis’s second novel, but it’s my first experience with her writing.
The book was so funny and caught my attention from the first page. I loved how the characters were so strong and full of opinions. Annie, Lucy’s best friend, was one of the best characters and she deserves so much love.
Jenna represents a lot of how it is to be queer and how family is something we found.
I also would like to say that this book has SO many great jokes and references to old country songs.
I really recommend it!
This is Jenna Jarvis’s second novel, but it’s my first experience with her writing.
The book was so funny and caught my attention from the first page. I loved how the characters were so strong and full of opinions. Annie, Lucy’s best friend, was one of the best characters and she deserves so much love.
Jenna represents a lot of how it is to be queer and how family is something we found.
I also would like to say that this book has SO many great jokes and references to old country songs.
I really recommend it!
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