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The Love Interest
Dear Fiona, I hope this letter finds you well—and by well, I mean significantly less infuriated than you were yesterday.
I’ve wanted to continue our conversation from the night we met, but there are so many things I can’t say or do, now that I’m your professor.
As an anonymous letter writer, I can give you some idea of what I have planned for us, once the year is over.
As an author, I can share my work in progress with you.
Not for you to critique but to show you how much you mean to me.
When you’re done reading this page, destroy it—and then write me back.
Don’t sign the letter. Don’t put a return address on the envelope. Mail it from a random mailbox.
Yours in problem solving,
Me
P.S. I still think you’re wasting your talent on that historical romance novel.
P.P.S. I really wanted to push you up against the door and kiss your beautiful, angry face. I will. One day.
***
Dear Emmett,
Your handwriting is almost as terrible as your mood swings, and it would have been my instinct to destroy that letter even if you hadn’t ordered me to.
If you show me your work in progress, I will critique it.
I am currently still too infuriated to write about all the other feelings I have for you.
Expect another letter soon.
Your problem and your solution,
Me
P.S. I still think an overpaid, overrated, overly handsome bestselling author of thrillers has no business teaching creative writing at a prestigious New York university.
P.P.S. To my great horror, I really wanted you to push me up against that door and kiss my angry face too. I understand now that your appalling way of treating me in class has been overcompensation, but I don’t forgive you for it. I’ll kiss you again anyway. One day.
I’ve wanted to continue our conversation from the night we met, but there are so many things I can’t say or do, now that I’m your professor.
As an anonymous letter writer, I can give you some idea of what I have planned for us, once the year is over.
As an author, I can share my work in progress with you.
Not for you to critique but to show you how much you mean to me.
When you’re done reading this page, destroy it—and then write me back.
Don’t sign the letter. Don’t put a return address on the envelope. Mail it from a random mailbox.
Yours in problem solving,
Me
P.S. I still think you’re wasting your talent on that historical romance novel.
P.P.S. I really wanted to push you up against the door and kiss your beautiful, angry face. I will. One day.
***
Dear Emmett,
Your handwriting is almost as terrible as your mood swings, and it would have been my instinct to destroy that letter even if you hadn’t ordered me to.
If you show me your work in progress, I will critique it.
I am currently still too infuriated to write about all the other feelings I have for you.
Expect another letter soon.
Your problem and your solution,
Me
P.S. I still think an overpaid, overrated, overly handsome bestselling author of thrillers has no business teaching creative writing at a prestigious New York university.
P.P.S. To my great horror, I really wanted you to push me up against that door and kiss my angry face too. I understand now that your appalling way of treating me in class has been overcompensation, but I don’t forgive you for it. I’ll kiss you again anyway. One day.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 16, 2021
516 people are currently reading
1292 people want to read
About the author
Kayley Loring
41 books1,661 followersAmazon Top 25 and USA Today bestselling author Kayley Loring spent many years as a screenwriter (under a different name) in Los Angeles before moving to the Pacific Northwest to live out her childhood dream of being a Disney heroine who talks and sings to woodland creatures. When not trying to keep animals alive, she’s writing steamy romantic comedy novels, obviously. She’s breathing cleaner air, writing dirtier words, and staring at her computer screen until her eyeballs dry out instead of prancing around Southern California in miniskirts and going to the hair salon. Still waiting for the woodland creatures to clean her house, though.
Read or listen to Kayley’s books when you want humor, heat, and heart. You’ll enjoy top-notch banter, strong heroines, lovable characters you’d want to know in real life and you’ll swoon over perfectly imperfect book boyfriends. All Kayley Loring books are steamy open door romance. Be sure to check out her next-level audiobooks!
Learn more at www.kayleyloring.com
Come join Kayley in her Facebook reader group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/kayle...
Follow Kayley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayleyloring/
Listen to Kayley talk to the wildly talented narrators who narrate her audiobooks on the Multiple Eargasms with Kayley Loring podcast!
Read or listen to Kayley’s books when you want humor, heat, and heart. You’ll enjoy top-notch banter, strong heroines, lovable characters you’d want to know in real life and you’ll swoon over perfectly imperfect book boyfriends. All Kayley Loring books are steamy open door romance. Be sure to check out her next-level audiobooks!
Learn more at www.kayleyloring.com
Come join Kayley in her Facebook reader group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/kayle...
Follow Kayley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayleyloring/
Listen to Kayley talk to the wildly talented narrators who narrate her audiobooks on the Multiple Eargasms with Kayley Loring podcast!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 336 reviews
April 23, 2021
"This was two bodies colliding because our souls needed to smash into each other to create something newer and better than we’d ever known."
One, this book is one of the most original ones I've read. I mean, one published author, one wannabe author, one 4ft metal cock, and book characters who are somehow involved in the story?
Two, this is deliciously hot, sexy, and somewhat dirty. And also romantic. And swoony. And it gave me the feels.
Three, I love Kayley Loring. Whenever I'm feeling down, her books turn everything around for me. Just like this one did. It's unique, and one of the best novels of the year for me.
"You looked sad. You just walk around New York with sad eyes and a frowny face every day and night, don’t you? What would it take to make you smile, I wonder?"
Emmett Ford, the bestselling author. Emmett Ford, who, at the ripe age of 35, thinks he'll never love again. Emmett Ford, who is facing writer's block and needs inspiration. Being the night owl he is, he goes to a 24-hour diner in the middle of the night. And there he meets someone he was totally unprepared for. OK, he was also unprepared for her nipples, which only adds to the story. (you have to read it, I found it hilarious!)
"I would ruin my life and everyone else’s for this woman right now."
Fiona Walker, the wannabe writer. The wannabe historical romance writer, actually, who is also in need of some inspiration of her own. The California girl, unprepared for NYC and New Yorkers, who never allowed herself to fall in love because she was afraid of losing herself. I love her quirks and her personality. I love how open she is about sex. I love how passionate and strong she is, and how she gives as good as she gets.
"I want her to be mad at me for making her feel so good that she knows for a fact I’m the only man she’ll ever want."
There's something between them from that first night at the diner. On the outside, they're so different, but on the inside they desperately need each other in each other's lives.
The sexual tension radiates from the pages. It was so frustrating at times I found myself wanting to scream for them to get on with it already!!! But they took their time, and it made perfect sense.
When Emmett finds himself as Fiona's teacher, making her off-limits to him, you have the angst. There's fighting, there's resistance, there's a back and forth between them. Their letters to each other (yes, people, actual letters, very old school - I LOVE it!) are incredible. Their banter and their text messages made me giggle, laugh, and giddy.
And then they let go. And their love, their closeness, their intimacy, it's just heartwarming - and hot.
I have highlighted so many passages in this book that it was hard for me to choose the ones to have here. I decided to leave the laugh-out-loud stuff out and concentrate on the romantic side. You can check some of the other parts in the highlights I made visible.
"Let the rain come down on us. I don’t care. I am pure fucking sunshine, and Emmett’s kiss is the rainbow and the sexy, grumpy pot of gold at the end of it."
I feel that Emmett and Fiona needed the inspiration for their characters as much as they needed inspiration to live their own story at the same time.
There is nothing bad about this book for me. I have nothing to critique.
Kayley, if you ever read this - I needed this book in my life! Thank you for writing it. Thank you for the epilogues, and the cock's point of view. Thank you not jut for the laughing-out-loud moments, but for ALL the moments.
One, this book is one of the most original ones I've read. I mean, one published author, one wannabe author, one 4ft metal cock, and book characters who are somehow involved in the story?
Two, this is deliciously hot, sexy, and somewhat dirty. And also romantic. And swoony. And it gave me the feels.
Three, I love Kayley Loring. Whenever I'm feeling down, her books turn everything around for me. Just like this one did. It's unique, and one of the best novels of the year for me.
"You looked sad. You just walk around New York with sad eyes and a frowny face every day and night, don’t you? What would it take to make you smile, I wonder?"
Emmett Ford, the bestselling author. Emmett Ford, who, at the ripe age of 35, thinks he'll never love again. Emmett Ford, who is facing writer's block and needs inspiration. Being the night owl he is, he goes to a 24-hour diner in the middle of the night. And there he meets someone he was totally unprepared for. OK, he was also unprepared for her nipples, which only adds to the story. (you have to read it, I found it hilarious!)
"I would ruin my life and everyone else’s for this woman right now."
Fiona Walker, the wannabe writer. The wannabe historical romance writer, actually, who is also in need of some inspiration of her own. The California girl, unprepared for NYC and New Yorkers, who never allowed herself to fall in love because she was afraid of losing herself. I love her quirks and her personality. I love how open she is about sex. I love how passionate and strong she is, and how she gives as good as she gets.
"I want her to be mad at me for making her feel so good that she knows for a fact I’m the only man she’ll ever want."
There's something between them from that first night at the diner. On the outside, they're so different, but on the inside they desperately need each other in each other's lives.
The sexual tension radiates from the pages. It was so frustrating at times I found myself wanting to scream for them to get on with it already!!! But they took their time, and it made perfect sense.
When Emmett finds himself as Fiona's teacher, making her off-limits to him, you have the angst. There's fighting, there's resistance, there's a back and forth between them. Their letters to each other (yes, people, actual letters, very old school - I LOVE it!) are incredible. Their banter and their text messages made me giggle, laugh, and giddy.
And then they let go. And their love, their closeness, their intimacy, it's just heartwarming - and hot.
I have highlighted so many passages in this book that it was hard for me to choose the ones to have here. I decided to leave the laugh-out-loud stuff out and concentrate on the romantic side. You can check some of the other parts in the highlights I made visible.
"Let the rain come down on us. I don’t care. I am pure fucking sunshine, and Emmett’s kiss is the rainbow and the sexy, grumpy pot of gold at the end of it."
I feel that Emmett and Fiona needed the inspiration for their characters as much as they needed inspiration to live their own story at the same time.
There is nothing bad about this book for me. I have nothing to critique.
Kayley, if you ever read this - I needed this book in my life! Thank you for writing it. Thank you for the epilogues, and the cock's point of view. Thank you not jut for the laughing-out-loud moments, but for ALL the moments.
May 19, 2021
5+ STARS!!
I don’t have too much to say. I have no critiques. Finally literature gods heard my prayers that I’ve been requesting to read a fantastic romance that I’ve been craving for so long. I suspected this would be a five star read after the third chapter but I didn’t expect it to end up being one of the most wonderful stories I’ve ever read.
This book made me feel so many things: grief, sadness, frustration, anxiety, happiness, joy, enjoyment, serenity… It made me laugh and cry so many times.
The things I loved mostly:
※ amazing banter, smart and entertaining dialogues.
※ a witty plot: the hero and heroine are both writers. This figures into the story more than anything else - there are excerpts from both of their works in progress and we see how their writing is influenced by their relationship with each other.
※ both main characters, grumpy Emmett (35) and sunny quirky sassy Fiona (25), are beautiful and so wonderful, and so perfect for each other. I adored them both so much and I was cheering for them from the start.
※ captivating storytelling from the beginning. Emmett and Fiona have wonderful meet-cute, that is magical in a sense and set the mood for the whole story excellently. It is heartfelt, heart wrenching, intimate, sweet, swoony and so funny at the same time...
※ the ‘forbidden romance’ aspect of the story (teacher/student) was so perfectly depicted. They basically felt like the only way to be in a contact at one point of their story was to write letters to each other. The sizzling chemistry and undeniably growing attraction was so palpable and there was so much sexual tension and frustration…
This book warmed my heart, put a smile on my face, and made my life a little bit happier. And it is definitely my favorite romance read of the year so far...
P.S. and the cover? oh my...
finally a cover that portrays the hero exactly the way I picture him in my head according to the description in the book (I guess one of the perks being self-published author, you can choose your covers by yourself...)
"It’s almost as if we exist in three separate parallel universes now. In these letters. In our manuscripts. And in the real world, on campus, where you are a grumpy assface. Just know that in the real world, beneath my sassy demeanor is a rapidly beating heart."
I don’t have too much to say. I have no critiques. Finally literature gods heard my prayers that I’ve been requesting to read a fantastic romance that I’ve been craving for so long. I suspected this would be a five star read after the third chapter but I didn’t expect it to end up being one of the most wonderful stories I’ve ever read.
This book made me feel so many things: grief, sadness, frustration, anxiety, happiness, joy, enjoyment, serenity… It made me laugh and cry so many times.
The things I loved mostly:
※ amazing banter, smart and entertaining dialogues.
※ a witty plot: the hero and heroine are both writers. This figures into the story more than anything else - there are excerpts from both of their works in progress and we see how their writing is influenced by their relationship with each other.
"It’s difficult to say if art imitates life or vice versa, or if one simply inspires the other."He is a bestselling author of action thrillers and she is writing her first Regency romance novel.
※ both main characters, grumpy Emmett (35) and sunny quirky sassy Fiona (25), are beautiful and so wonderful, and so perfect for each other. I adored them both so much and I was cheering for them from the start.
※ captivating storytelling from the beginning. Emmett and Fiona have wonderful meet-cute, that is magical in a sense and set the mood for the whole story excellently. It is heartfelt, heart wrenching, intimate, sweet, swoony and so funny at the same time...
※ the ‘forbidden romance’ aspect of the story (teacher/student) was so perfectly depicted. They basically felt like the only way to be in a contact at one point of their story was to write letters to each other. The sizzling chemistry and undeniably growing attraction was so palpable and there was so much sexual tension and frustration…
This book warmed my heart, put a smile on my face, and made my life a little bit happier. And it is definitely my favorite romance read of the year so far...
P.S. and the cover? oh my...
finally a cover that portrays the hero exactly the way I picture him in my head according to the description in the book (I guess one of the perks being self-published author, you can choose your covers by yourself...)
May 31, 2021
The Love Interest is not Miss Loring finest work. It is light, min drama (aside from teacher student relationship) and whole lot of funny banter.
That's it.
I think Miss Loring drew inspiration while she writes her books. The sexy times are not that steamy. Standard and done in hurry. I wish for more chemistry between Emmet and Fiona.
Overall, not bad and not very good either.
3 stars
That's it.
I think Miss Loring drew inspiration while she writes her books. The sexy times are not that steamy. Standard and done in hurry. I wish for more chemistry between Emmet and Fiona.
Overall, not bad and not very good either.
3 stars
April 19, 2021
This book was so refreshing and beautiful.
The characters were great.
It’s worth the reading.
The characters were great.
It’s worth the reading.
April 6, 2021
5 uniquely romantic and beautiful stars!
OMG, what a book! A unique, funny, and beautifully romantic story that is so cleverly written, I laughed and swooned the whole way through and I freaking loved it!
Emmett Ford is the bestselling author of thriller books that have also been made into a movie series. He should be riding high on his success, but he is lonely and living a life of solitude since the death of his fiancé a decade ago. He is also completely stuck when it comes to writing his next book - he has no inspiration, and he desperately needs it.
Fiona is a new arrival in NYC. She has traveled from California to attend a creative writing course in the big city, and is writing her debut novel – a historical romance. She is living large and loud, sucking every bit of life she can get from her new and exciting adventure.
Emmett and Fiona run into each other at a diner in the middle of the night. They are both pretty much smitten at first sight, and they spend the evening wandering the city, exploring, talking and sharing experiences, including one helluva hot first kiss. It’s the kind of meeting that romance readers dream about – full of chemistry, flirting, epic banter, a sense of ‘realness’, and a whole lot of laughs as these two strangers connect in a way that neither of them were anticipating.
But their burgeoning romance comes to a screeching halt when it turns out that Emmett is the teacher of one of Fiona’s writing courses at university. Their beautiful love story is stopped even before it had a chance to start, and they are both crushed, but their feelings for each other are still very much alive, and so we get this deliciously forbidden flirtation that is so much fun, and continues to sizzle with chemistry.
They come to realise that they are unable to cut contact completely, so they take up writing letters to each other, sharing their pasts, their present, and their filthy fantasies for the future, in the only way they can, while being as cold to each other as possible in real life (with a few very-welcome slip ups here and there). At the same time, they are both writing their novels, and we get to read chapters from both of their books, watching their characters and their stories be influenced by their feelings for each other and their changing relationship. It all really cleverly ties together to give a fantastically well-rounded view of everything that is going on with them, and OMG, the feels!
Everything builds beautifully, and there is this epic sense of anticipation as we wait for something to happen with these two. And when it does… OMG, it’s beautiful! So right, and so real and so well-deserved. I was desperate for these two to find a way to be together, and it was everything I was hoping for.
I love these characters so much. They are both loveable and relatable, strong yet sometimes awkward, and as much as I loved their dynamic and flirty banter, their inner monologues were just as entertaining, and I laughed so many times at the thoughts running through their heads.
It’s so freaking funny, but at the centre of it all is a beautifully heartfelt romance that had me in a world of swoon as these two opposites come together, completing each other in a way they didn’t even realised they needed, and fighting for the future that they so desperately want, and I loved every moment of it.
Kayley Loring is one of the most exciting new-to-me authors that I have discovered in the last year, if you haven’t read her books yet, you really need to get onto it, because she is such a wonderful storyteller.
I adored this one - 5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
OMG, what a book! A unique, funny, and beautifully romantic story that is so cleverly written, I laughed and swooned the whole way through and I freaking loved it!
Emmett Ford is the bestselling author of thriller books that have also been made into a movie series. He should be riding high on his success, but he is lonely and living a life of solitude since the death of his fiancé a decade ago. He is also completely stuck when it comes to writing his next book - he has no inspiration, and he desperately needs it.
Fiona is a new arrival in NYC. She has traveled from California to attend a creative writing course in the big city, and is writing her debut novel – a historical romance. She is living large and loud, sucking every bit of life she can get from her new and exciting adventure.
Emmett and Fiona run into each other at a diner in the middle of the night. They are both pretty much smitten at first sight, and they spend the evening wandering the city, exploring, talking and sharing experiences, including one helluva hot first kiss. It’s the kind of meeting that romance readers dream about – full of chemistry, flirting, epic banter, a sense of ‘realness’, and a whole lot of laughs as these two strangers connect in a way that neither of them were anticipating.
But their burgeoning romance comes to a screeching halt when it turns out that Emmett is the teacher of one of Fiona’s writing courses at university. Their beautiful love story is stopped even before it had a chance to start, and they are both crushed, but their feelings for each other are still very much alive, and so we get this deliciously forbidden flirtation that is so much fun, and continues to sizzle with chemistry.
“I would really love if it you wouldn’t be so rude to me in class.”
“I don’t think I’m rude to you. I’m just not as nice to you as you’d like me to be.”
“I don’t understand why you can’t be nice to me – it’s not my fault I’m in your class. I tried to get out of it.”
“I’m aware of that.”
“Then what else can I do, Emmett?”
“Don’t call me Emmett.”
“Veronica calls you Emmett.”
“Veronica doesn’t need a spanking.”
They come to realise that they are unable to cut contact completely, so they take up writing letters to each other, sharing their pasts, their present, and their filthy fantasies for the future, in the only way they can, while being as cold to each other as possible in real life (with a few very-welcome slip ups here and there). At the same time, they are both writing their novels, and we get to read chapters from both of their books, watching their characters and their stories be influenced by their feelings for each other and their changing relationship. It all really cleverly ties together to give a fantastically well-rounded view of everything that is going on with them, and OMG, the feels!
“I can’t make you wait for me.”
“But you want me to? You want me to wait for you?”
“I have no right to ask you to.”
“If you asked me to, I would. If you told me that you wanted me…” Her voice is trembling, and it’s killing me. “If you want me to be yours, I will wait for you.”
Everything builds beautifully, and there is this epic sense of anticipation as we wait for something to happen with these two. And when it does… OMG, it’s beautiful! So right, and so real and so well-deserved. I was desperate for these two to find a way to be together, and it was everything I was hoping for.
“I want you, Fiona. I want you, and I’m not asking you to wait for me. I’m yours. Now.”
I love these characters so much. They are both loveable and relatable, strong yet sometimes awkward, and as much as I loved their dynamic and flirty banter, their inner monologues were just as entertaining, and I laughed so many times at the thoughts running through their heads.
I’m becoming a woman for him, I think. The sexiest, most intoxicating version of myself. This must be some kind of reproductive evolution. My body wants to make babies with him, so it’s making me do all the porny things I’ve never been inspired to do for anyone else.
I am pretty sure my blood content is about ninety percent sex hormones right now.
It’s so freaking funny, but at the centre of it all is a beautifully heartfelt romance that had me in a world of swoon as these two opposites come together, completing each other in a way they didn’t even realised they needed, and fighting for the future that they so desperately want, and I loved every moment of it.
Kayley Loring is one of the most exciting new-to-me authors that I have discovered in the last year, if you haven’t read her books yet, you really need to get onto it, because she is such a wonderful storyteller.
I adored this one - 5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2021
(2.5 stars) This was only 99 cents, it's by Kayley Loring, who has writing talent, and it's about two writers. The H an established and very successful author of a popular spy/thriller series and the h an aspiring historical romance author. Sounded good. How could I go wrong?
It starts out so well that I was sure I had at least a 4-star contemporary romance in my hands. The H, although very successful, is not especially happy. He lost his true love to leukemia many years ago and can't seem to move on. His literary character Jack mirrors this emotional issue and it has been suggested to author Emmett that fictional Jack needs to find a love interest for the next book of the series. Emmett can't seem to get inspired to do this and goes out wandering his NYC neighborhood.
That leads him to meeting our heroine Fiona, new to NYC, who's in the diner he enters in his nighttime search for someone who'll inspire him to come up with a woman for his fictional character to fall in love with. Up to here this is a great story. It's cleverly written, integrating first draft chapters from Emmett's new book and chapters from Fiona's attempt at historical romance into the mix. Their fictional characters even talk to them, chastising the authors when the story does not go along as the characters feel it should.
But, unfortunately, it deteriorates for me rapidly, losing its cleverness and becoming just another sexy CR lust-fest. How many times, for example, did I have to read about Fiona's nipples? They almost became another character in the story. And instead of continuing with the clever dialogue of the first third of the book, the interactions of H and h, whether in person, in letters, or via text, were just endless talk about their physical attraction for each other. I want to kiss you. I want to hold you. I want to lurve you. I want to have sex with you this way and that way and the other ways.
The best thing about this story is the hero's relationship with his sister and with his "favorite" niece Bettina. Those conversations were a lot of fun. Bettina was cute as a button and the brains behind the letters the two lovers sent to each other that were to be destroyed after reading. (Maybe you had to be there, but when you get to this part of the story you will see what I mean and possibly say, "Aww.")
Kayley Loring writes well. She's especially good at dialogue and at putting children in stories. But the good beginning of this one fizzled out and I felt the last half lacked any nuance or subtlety. That's probably just me. Readers who like characters to spend most of their time thinking about sex or talking about sex or having sex will enjoy this.
It starts out so well that I was sure I had at least a 4-star contemporary romance in my hands. The H, although very successful, is not especially happy. He lost his true love to leukemia many years ago and can't seem to move on. His literary character Jack mirrors this emotional issue and it has been suggested to author Emmett that fictional Jack needs to find a love interest for the next book of the series. Emmett can't seem to get inspired to do this and goes out wandering his NYC neighborhood.
That leads him to meeting our heroine Fiona, new to NYC, who's in the diner he enters in his nighttime search for someone who'll inspire him to come up with a woman for his fictional character to fall in love with. Up to here this is a great story. It's cleverly written, integrating first draft chapters from Emmett's new book and chapters from Fiona's attempt at historical romance into the mix. Their fictional characters even talk to them, chastising the authors when the story does not go along as the characters feel it should.
But, unfortunately, it deteriorates for me rapidly, losing its cleverness and becoming just another sexy CR lust-fest. How many times, for example, did I have to read about Fiona's nipples? They almost became another character in the story. And instead of continuing with the clever dialogue of the first third of the book, the interactions of H and h, whether in person, in letters, or via text, were just endless talk about their physical attraction for each other. I want to kiss you. I want to hold you. I want to lurve you. I want to have sex with you this way and that way and the other ways.
The best thing about this story is the hero's relationship with his sister and with his "favorite" niece Bettina. Those conversations were a lot of fun. Bettina was cute as a button and the brains behind the letters the two lovers sent to each other that were to be destroyed after reading. (Maybe you had to be there, but when you get to this part of the story you will see what I mean and possibly say, "Aww.")
Kayley Loring writes well. She's especially good at dialogue and at putting children in stories. But the good beginning of this one fizzled out and I felt the last half lacked any nuance or subtlety. That's probably just me. Readers who like characters to spend most of their time thinking about sex or talking about sex or having sex will enjoy this.
April 18, 2021
3.5 STARS
I came for the blurb's promise of an epistolary romance and was rewarded with more than I had bargained for.
A 35 old grumpy widower, best selling author, meets this sunshine 26 years old Cali transplant one night at a dinner in New York. Chemistry and banter erupts and makes it nearly impossible to put the book down.
With the memories of their perfect night together still ringing and the anticipation for the two of them to reunite comes the news that Emmett is hired last minute to be Fiona's creative writing class substitute teacher. Welcome sweet slow burning angst. Welcome infuriatingly sexy letters. Welcome teasing of epic proportions. The verbal teasing between Fiona and Emmett was golden, the sex was even better and I truly adored them.
The author interspersed Fiona and Emmett's story with excerpts of their current work in progress, as such we get a story within the story... within a story as Emmett is writing his current novel strongly inspired by his interactions with Fiona and same goes for Fiona whose first Regency Romance is colored by her burgeoning feelings for Emmett. We actually get some interesting peek at the characters processing their own feelings this way but I found it to be more a diversion from the main story than bonus. Additionally, we also get inside the head of their own fictional characters—their muses, and although I found it fun the first time, it became something interfering too much with the main story for me, distracting me from getting what I wanted most : more Fiona and Emmett together.
It was a good idea, I've loved it in some books before, it didn't work for me here. I guess my brain was wired too literally today.
All in all this one was really entertaining, fun and sexy romance. (currently available on KU!)
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I came for the blurb's promise of an epistolary romance and was rewarded with more than I had bargained for.
A 35 old grumpy widower, best selling author, meets this sunshine 26 years old Cali transplant one night at a dinner in New York. Chemistry and banter erupts and makes it nearly impossible to put the book down.
With the memories of their perfect night together still ringing and the anticipation for the two of them to reunite comes the news that Emmett is hired last minute to be Fiona's creative writing class substitute teacher. Welcome sweet slow burning angst. Welcome infuriatingly sexy letters. Welcome teasing of epic proportions. The verbal teasing between Fiona and Emmett was golden, the sex was even better and I truly adored them.
The author interspersed Fiona and Emmett's story with excerpts of their current work in progress, as such we get a story within the story... within a story as Emmett is writing his current novel strongly inspired by his interactions with Fiona and same goes for Fiona whose first Regency Romance is colored by her burgeoning feelings for Emmett. We actually get some interesting peek at the characters processing their own feelings this way but I found it to be more a diversion from the main story than bonus. Additionally, we also get inside the head of their own fictional characters—their muses, and although I found it fun the first time, it became something interfering too much with the main story for me, distracting me from getting what I wanted most : more Fiona and Emmett together.
It was a good idea, I've loved it in some books before, it didn't work for me here. I guess my brain was wired too literally today.
All in all this one was really entertaining, fun and sexy romance. (currently available on KU!)
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You can find me here too ☞
April 23, 2021
Stars: 4.5
Length: Full Novel
POV: 4 POVs I suppose, maybe 5 if you count the epilogue (it's weird just role with it)
Series: No
Ending: HEA
Re-read? Maybe
"Still—how dare he just sit there being handsome and staring in my general direction while I’m trying to write a romance novel. Who does he think he is?"
Fiona and Emmett are absolutely perfect together. I can't think of two leads that I've read lately that seem to be better suited.
Fiona is quirky, fun, and just plain hilarious. She pulls this off without being annoying which is a true feat.
"He’s got your photo and your name, so if you murder me, he’ll…probably call the police before hitting on you? I’m unsure about that, actually. Hopefully you won’t murder me.”
The book begins with Emmett and I was a little worried the whole story would have a sad undertone because he's kind of broken and just a sad romantic figure. Luckily he runs into Fiona and they share this perfect (no sex) evening together and stay out to watch the sunrise. This really changes him and his outlook on this life.
“You’re stoic. Stubborn. But I’m guessing once you commit to something…or someone…you’re all in. Except when you get hurt, you retreat and you never want to get hurt again.” Jesus. I feel attacked. And seen.
Unfortunately, it turns out that she is in his graduate class and that keeps them apart. So what do they do? Write secret love letters to each other. There are just so many elements to this story and I enjoyed them all. I highly recommend this book!
Length: Full Novel
POV: 4 POVs I suppose, maybe 5 if you count the epilogue (it's weird just role with it)
Series: No
Ending: HEA
Re-read? Maybe
"Still—how dare he just sit there being handsome and staring in my general direction while I’m trying to write a romance novel. Who does he think he is?"
Fiona and Emmett are absolutely perfect together. I can't think of two leads that I've read lately that seem to be better suited.
Fiona is quirky, fun, and just plain hilarious. She pulls this off without being annoying which is a true feat.
"He’s got your photo and your name, so if you murder me, he’ll…probably call the police before hitting on you? I’m unsure about that, actually. Hopefully you won’t murder me.”
The book begins with Emmett and I was a little worried the whole story would have a sad undertone because he's kind of broken and just a sad romantic figure. Luckily he runs into Fiona and they share this perfect (no sex) evening together and stay out to watch the sunrise. This really changes him and his outlook on this life.
“You’re stoic. Stubborn. But I’m guessing once you commit to something…or someone…you’re all in. Except when you get hurt, you retreat and you never want to get hurt again.” Jesus. I feel attacked. And seen.
Unfortunately, it turns out that she is in his graduate class and that keeps them apart. So what do they do? Write secret love letters to each other. There are just so many elements to this story and I enjoyed them all. I highly recommend this book!
June 11, 2021
I picked this book after reading Mia.Mi.Jou's review and because the professor-student relationship is one of my favorite taboo tropes 🤭 (only if it's done right of course).
I'm not really sure how I feel about this book for some reason. It was well written and there were some things in the story that I think are very original but it wasn't that captivating for me.
Emmett (H) is a widower and a best-selling author of thriller books. He meets Fiona (h), who's an amateur writer of regency romance novels, at a diner when they're both trying to find inspiration for their stories. They're attracted to each other but nothing major happens that night. After a few days they find out that he's going to be her professor at the master program she attends so, even if they both really want to, they can have any sort of romantic relationship.
What I thought it was really original in this story is that the reader gets to see what happens in the main characters head by reading some of the chapters of the books they wrote at that moment. I'm not gonna lie, I was somewhat confused at the beginning but I got used to it after a few chapters.
What I didn't get to see, even tough I really want to, was more scenes with the hero's niece. She was so cute but it seems to me that the author only mentions her so that she (the author) can add some things to the story but after that I'm not sure she's mentioned again... 🤔
Also, I was really tired of reading in almost every single chapter about heroine's nipples, I just can't 😩
Overall, it was a good story but it could definitely be better. I enjoyed it but I'm not really sure how to rate it. It's more like 3.5 stars rounded up to 4 because of the original things in it.
April 24, 2021
4.5 Cock-a-doodle-do Stars
Doing the happy dance! This one is such fun to read and puts lots of grins on your face. And, if nothing else hooks you, think 4-ft. cock – bet that’ll catch your attention. And then there’s that cover model – whoa! He’s hawt! My favorite from Kayley Loring.
Fiona and Emmett were a classic case of meant-to-be! The dual POVs maintain a strong connection between the two making them and their story really endearing.
I’m not generally a fan of big age difference pairings between main characters, but the age-gap match-up here was so good that I didn’t even think twice about letting it affect how much I was enjoying this relationship. And for once, I was more than willing to agree with those who say that age is but a number.
The relationship Emmett shared with his young niece, Bettina, was a delightful addition to the story. She’s smart as a whip and has her uncle’s best interests at heart. Add in Bettina’s mom and the sisterly element adds lots of funny dialogue shared between the three.
I must admit that I agree with some other reviews with concerns with the overplay of attention paid to Fiona’s breasts (by both him and her). I think the author meant the subject to enhance the overall comedic element – but sometimes too much of a good thing becomes just too much – and the phrase “less is more” works best.
Bolstering this fantastic story with three unexpected epilogue(s) – yes! I said THREE EPILOGUES that includes happy-ever-afters for one and all -- even that "rooster," makes me a very happy reader!
Doing the happy dance! This one is such fun to read and puts lots of grins on your face. And, if nothing else hooks you, think 4-ft. cock – bet that’ll catch your attention. And then there’s that cover model – whoa! He’s hawt! My favorite from Kayley Loring.
Fiona and Emmett were a classic case of meant-to-be! The dual POVs maintain a strong connection between the two making them and their story really endearing.
I’m not generally a fan of big age difference pairings between main characters, but the age-gap match-up here was so good that I didn’t even think twice about letting it affect how much I was enjoying this relationship. And for once, I was more than willing to agree with those who say that age is but a number.
The relationship Emmett shared with his young niece, Bettina, was a delightful addition to the story. She’s smart as a whip and has her uncle’s best interests at heart. Add in Bettina’s mom and the sisterly element adds lots of funny dialogue shared between the three.
I must admit that I agree with some other reviews with concerns with the overplay of attention paid to Fiona’s breasts (by both him and her). I think the author meant the subject to enhance the overall comedic element – but sometimes too much of a good thing becomes just too much – and the phrase “less is more” works best.
Bolstering this fantastic story with three unexpected epilogue(s) – yes! I said THREE EPILOGUES that includes happy-ever-afters for one and all -- even that "rooster," makes me a very happy reader!
April 14, 2021
4.5 Stars
'Although you and I have different backstories, I guess I’ve been resisting the possibility of a first love in the same way that you’ve been resisting the possibility of a second.’
Kayley Loring has done it again! We love, love, love her stories! And we LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this book! What’s not to love in The Love Interest? Our reading tastes were certainly sated with this book. Let’s see, there was:
Student/teacher
Age Gap
Loveable heroine
Grouchy gorgeous hero
Humour
Emotion
Sizzling chemistry
Forbidden love
Fabulous secondary characters
3 stories in one (you’ll understand when you read the book)
A story that made us grin with delight from ear to ear.
‘Even years from now, I doubt that I’ll be able to string a bunch of words together to describe how good it feels to be kissed by him like this.’
We always look forward to a new book by Kayley Loring because she never disappoints. She injects just enough drama to make our hearts flip flop, whilst having us in fits of riotous laughter, and her ability to perfectly push and pull our emotions with the vulnerability of her characters really hits our hearts.
‘Here is a young woman with a cautious heart, and I feel connected to it somehow. Not the woman, but the cautious heart. There’s an unspoken, involuntary camaraderie between the broken-hearted.’
35-year-old Emmett Ford is a NYT bestselling author of the hugely successful action thriller series Jack Irons, with his books already turned into a movie franchise with Ryan Gosling playing the macho protagonist Jack Irons. Yes, Emmett has it all, but love is something he avoids. Following the death of his fiancée over ten years ago, Emmett promised himself he’d never fall in love and risk that sort of heartache ever again. One thing Emmett does need is inspiration – his character Jack Irons, needs to find love.
‘My protagonist needs a woman. I don’t need a woman. I need inspiration.’
25-year-old Fiona Walker has moved from California to New York to further her writing career and hopefully finish the historical romance she’s currently writing. Fiona needs inspiration too. Since landing in New York her man pickings have been slim, so the inspiration for her character William Dexter has dried up. Fiona has never known the love of a man, Emmett has loved and lost – they may be different, but in other ways, so similar.
‘Prologues before bros. That’s my motto.’
Two authors meet in a diner. A cliché? Maybe, but that’s how it went down, and that’s where all the flirty fun begins, not only that but Fiona (and Emmett) are going to get the shock of their lives when Emmett turns out to be a substitute professor in Fiona’s creative writing class.
‘I would ruin my life and everyone else’s for this woman right now.’
This book is hot, flirty, sweet, and swoony fun. You don’t want to miss this one! We didn’t want it to end! We loved Fiona and Emmett and their madcap friends and family. The dual POV’s were beautifully in sync, and watching Fiona bring out the romantic in the gruff Emmett, made our hearts flutter. She may seem scatty, but she’s every bit as sharp as Emmett. The way Kayley Loring delivers her humour is comedic timing at its best – she’s hilarious! We would’ve loved a little more time with Emmett and Fiona and a little less with their characters, but that’s a small gripe in what was a fantastic read. The epilogue both bewildered and delighted us and giggling like crazy ha-ha!
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January 4, 2022
Some stories you want to read, you want to devour the words yourself and others you want to listen to and hear the voices of the characters you know you are going to love. Then there are the ones you can do either one because you know no matter what that this story is going to stay with you for a long time, The Love Interest was one of those stories.
I listened to this book because the cast for the narration was spectacular and I knew having all four of them together would be magic, and it was. While Teddy Hamilton and Mackenzie Cartwright were outstanding through the whole book it was Connor Crais & Shane East who stole the show for me, specifically Connor Crais. I've never read or listened to a story like this, but Shane & Connor performed their parts. Their parts were brief, but boy did they make an impact. Connor doing Jack Irons and the that third epilogue just tied the story together in such an expected way. I couldn't help but love this narration.
Fiona was vivacious and feisty from the very start. Seeing her character grow so much from the grad student to the woman she became was kind of mind boggling to me. You don't expect to see a character grow like that in such a short amount of time, but it was everything that this story needed.
“I can’t make you wait for me.”
“But you want me to? You want me to wait for you?”
“I have no right to ask you to.”
“If you asked me to, I would. If you told me that you wanted me…” Her voice is trembling, and it’s killing me. “If you want me to be yours, I will wait for you.”
Gah, Emmett!! He broke my heart from the very first page and from that point on I was a goner for him. Finding love once is unimaginable to some but for him to find it again after such a long time was achingly beautiful. This woman comes out of nowhere and makes him rethink everything he has been doing the last few years of his life. She makes him want to start living again and she does. Their age difference played such a huge part of this story in seeing the way that they interacted and how she made him come alive again.
This was my first Kayley Loring book and I have no idea how! The steam was *chefs kiss*, the chemistry was perfection, and the bittersweet moments gave my heart all the gooey feels. Looking forward to seeing what else she has coming our way in 2022.
I listened to this book because the cast for the narration was spectacular and I knew having all four of them together would be magic, and it was. While Teddy Hamilton and Mackenzie Cartwright were outstanding through the whole book it was Connor Crais & Shane East who stole the show for me, specifically Connor Crais. I've never read or listened to a story like this, but Shane & Connor performed their parts. Their parts were brief, but boy did they make an impact. Connor doing Jack Irons and the that third epilogue just tied the story together in such an expected way. I couldn't help but love this narration.
Fiona was vivacious and feisty from the very start. Seeing her character grow so much from the grad student to the woman she became was kind of mind boggling to me. You don't expect to see a character grow like that in such a short amount of time, but it was everything that this story needed.
“I can’t make you wait for me.”
“But you want me to? You want me to wait for you?”
“I have no right to ask you to.”
“If you asked me to, I would. If you told me that you wanted me…” Her voice is trembling, and it’s killing me. “If you want me to be yours, I will wait for you.”
Gah, Emmett!! He broke my heart from the very first page and from that point on I was a goner for him. Finding love once is unimaginable to some but for him to find it again after such a long time was achingly beautiful. This woman comes out of nowhere and makes him rethink everything he has been doing the last few years of his life. She makes him want to start living again and she does. Their age difference played such a huge part of this story in seeing the way that they interacted and how she made him come alive again.
This was my first Kayley Loring book and I have no idea how! The steam was *chefs kiss*, the chemistry was perfection, and the bittersweet moments gave my heart all the gooey feels. Looking forward to seeing what else she has coming our way in 2022.
June 11, 2021
Audio review, and second read through!
5+ Sweet baby Jane Austen stars!!
This audio heightened and intensified this whole book for me! Kayley imo, is a very much underrated author that I don’t see enough fuss about. She is has such a hilariously sexy way of writing that makes me squirm in my chair, and cry with intense laughter at the same time. The heroes in her books are my type 100%!!
The Love Interest is incredible. I already knew this having read it before, but the audio really brought the characters to life in my mind. I love the slightly forbidden and age gap so I was all over this like an Oreo craves cold milk!! Fantastical, super sexy and love so good it makes you drop to your knees. If you haven’t experienced the true literary gift that is KL then rectify this mistake ASAP!!
“If a copy of Wuthering Heights kissed me, it would feel like this. If the song “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin kissed me, it would feel like this. If the first few seasons of Game of Thrones kissed me, it would feel like this. Nope. Never mind. Nothing else could ever feel like this.”
My exact feels after reading this book, and this one below.
“I’m becoming a woman for him, I think. The sexiest, most intoxicating version of myself. This must be some kind of reproductive evolution. My body wants to make babies with him, so it’s making me do all the porny things I’ve never been inspired to do for anyone else. I am pretty sure my blood content is about ninety percent sex hormones right now.”
No truer words spoken EVER!!!
5+ Sweet baby Jane Austen stars!!
This audio heightened and intensified this whole book for me! Kayley imo, is a very much underrated author that I don’t see enough fuss about. She is has such a hilariously sexy way of writing that makes me squirm in my chair, and cry with intense laughter at the same time. The heroes in her books are my type 100%!!
The Love Interest is incredible. I already knew this having read it before, but the audio really brought the characters to life in my mind. I love the slightly forbidden and age gap so I was all over this like an Oreo craves cold milk!! Fantastical, super sexy and love so good it makes you drop to your knees. If you haven’t experienced the true literary gift that is KL then rectify this mistake ASAP!!
“If a copy of Wuthering Heights kissed me, it would feel like this. If the song “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin kissed me, it would feel like this. If the first few seasons of Game of Thrones kissed me, it would feel like this. Nope. Never mind. Nothing else could ever feel like this.”
My exact feels after reading this book, and this one below.
“I’m becoming a woman for him, I think. The sexiest, most intoxicating version of myself. This must be some kind of reproductive evolution. My body wants to make babies with him, so it’s making me do all the porny things I’ve never been inspired to do for anyone else. I am pretty sure my blood content is about ninety percent sex hormones right now.”
No truer words spoken EVER!!!
May 4, 2021
Well this was a waste of time...
cliché storyline, boring charaters.no angst.no chemistry between the main characters.
cliché storyline, boring charaters.no angst.no chemistry between the main characters.
December 31, 2021
** One of my Top 20 of 2021 Picks on www.JeevesReads.com! **
Another wholly unique, chemistry-filled, SWOONY love story from this author! This couple's meet cute was just a little bit magical, and that bantery goodness kept the magic alive throughout the book. Their relationship has a little of everything, from grumpy/sunshine to student/professor to optimist/realist. I loved the opposites attract vibe, and I absolutely adored this couple together. It's apparent from their first interaction that Emmett and Fiona are PERFECT for one another - even if their journey to happily ever after is a rocky one. The sexual tension was INTENSE at times, but the sexy, swoony moments made it all worth it. I can always count on this author for storylines that feel distinctly different than the norm, and this is another great one.
The story follows Fiona (25), an aspiring author who came to New York City to go to grad school and pursue her dream. On a night when she's feeling particularly alone, Fiona meets a sexy stranger. It's clear from the start that Emmett (35) is moody, broody, and too handsome for his own good, but that only makes Fiona want to get to know him better. They spend one magical evening together and both hope that it will lead to something more, but their budding relationship is sidelined by an unexpected issue. It turns out that Emmett is actually the author who will be teaching Fiona's writing class this semester, and there's no way they can be together without tanking his teaching career before it even gets started.
Part of me wants to call this a slow burn to SIZZLE romance, because WOW does this get smokin' towards the end. But the sexual tension is palpable from the start, and the forbidden nature of Emmett and Fiona's relationship means that their every interaction is tense and filled with the promise of more. The swoony moments, though? Are everything. I loved the tender interactions the most, and the transformation of Emmett from start to finish is so fulfilling. I would've liked a few more sweet moments and a few less excerpts from Emmett and Fiona's novels, but the letter-writing and storytelling are a huge part of what makes this feel so unique. It feels distinctive from the first page - yet completely like the author's voice - which is one of the things I love most about her books. And if you're worried about the student/teacher, age gap dynamic - don't be. Fiona is fiercely independent and her vibrancy is what makes Emmett come alive again. It's a little sweet, a lot sexy, and has the kind of chemistry that's combustible.
Another wholly unique, chemistry-filled, SWOONY love story from this author! This couple's meet cute was just a little bit magical, and that bantery goodness kept the magic alive throughout the book. Their relationship has a little of everything, from grumpy/sunshine to student/professor to optimist/realist. I loved the opposites attract vibe, and I absolutely adored this couple together. It's apparent from their first interaction that Emmett and Fiona are PERFECT for one another - even if their journey to happily ever after is a rocky one. The sexual tension was INTENSE at times, but the sexy, swoony moments made it all worth it. I can always count on this author for storylines that feel distinctly different than the norm, and this is another great one.
The story follows Fiona (25), an aspiring author who came to New York City to go to grad school and pursue her dream. On a night when she's feeling particularly alone, Fiona meets a sexy stranger. It's clear from the start that Emmett (35) is moody, broody, and too handsome for his own good, but that only makes Fiona want to get to know him better. They spend one magical evening together and both hope that it will lead to something more, but their budding relationship is sidelined by an unexpected issue. It turns out that Emmett is actually the author who will be teaching Fiona's writing class this semester, and there's no way they can be together without tanking his teaching career before it even gets started.
Part of me wants to call this a slow burn to SIZZLE romance, because WOW does this get smokin' towards the end. But the sexual tension is palpable from the start, and the forbidden nature of Emmett and Fiona's relationship means that their every interaction is tense and filled with the promise of more. The swoony moments, though? Are everything. I loved the tender interactions the most, and the transformation of Emmett from start to finish is so fulfilling. I would've liked a few more sweet moments and a few less excerpts from Emmett and Fiona's novels, but the letter-writing and storytelling are a huge part of what makes this feel so unique. It feels distinctive from the first page - yet completely like the author's voice - which is one of the things I love most about her books. And if you're worried about the student/teacher, age gap dynamic - don't be. Fiona is fiercely independent and her vibrancy is what makes Emmett come alive again. It's a little sweet, a lot sexy, and has the kind of chemistry that's combustible.
April 16, 2021
Deftly crafted, adorably witty, and effortlessly swoony, The Love Interest is a romantic comedy masterpiece. Brilliantly creative, light but emotionally resonant, this is the kind of story that both absorbs you and charms. We have everything we love about Kayley- the sharp humor, the delightful sweetness, the frenetic chemistry, and the innovative narrative approach- all working in perfect symphony to deliver an unforgettably hopeful and endearing story. My heart is all a flutter!
The Love Interest plays out like the reels of your favorite, perfectly crafted romantic comedy movie. From the unforgettable and unique meet cute to the happily ever after, The Love Interest dazzles page after page. Delivering a unique romantic euphoria, like the sparkle of a first kiss- as if you’ve been sprinkled with a bit of fairy dust, and suddenly the world feels bright, and shiny, and new again.
Like so many Kayley stories before, this story is deliciously rich with inventive humor and charming characters- from our quirky and perfectly matched hero and heroine to the lovable and catalytic secondary characters that orbit and enrich their romance. We have our hero, Emmett, new graduate professor and best selling action-thriller author with an a-list movie deal struggling through a bout of writer’s block. And we have our heroine Fiona- the bright eyed NYC newbie just beginning her career as a Regency romance writer. Both are wrestling with their fictional heroes - and just can’t seem to land on the story they want to tell. Emmett is trapped in his past, and while his hero seems ready for a love interest, he himself is not. And Fiona, a soulful romantic, can’t seem to find the right balance for her story’s love interest, weighed down by her own imposter syndrome. Their chance encounter inspires the direction of their work- helps them envision the love story they need for their characters, but also sparks something neither expected but both somehow needed- they find their OWN love interest in each other.
I loved these characters. They are nuanced, interesting, and here I found an even deeper emotional chord, especially with our reluctant hero. Both are captivating in their own way- quirky, vivid, and truly clever. We have the usual witty banter, the creative ways Kayley use different written modalities to express parts of this story, and of course some delicious steam. This is much slower burn than I’m used to- but I found it to be more than worth the weight. We get more angst and emotional longing, ALL that delicious chemistry just brewing. All the fun antics, humor, and story with in a story brilliance aside, the heart of this story is about taking a chance with your heart, about leaning in when someone makes your heart come alive. It's a beautifully straight forward theme, poignant and powerful. And Emmett and Fiona embody it perfectly.
I also just LOVED all the different angles through which we get this story- including the stories within the stories. Fiona and Emmett’s characters are real and hugely important to their romantic and character arcs- and the evolution of their work not only gives us a greater window into who the authors are as people but also wonderfully encapsulates key milestones in their burgeoning romance. It’s truly brilliant- and Kayley wows in code switching her own writing style, tone, and voice as she uses snippets from their work to help tell this story. Not to mention, both fictional heroes are comedic gold. And, I loved the subtle nods Kayley gives to both the quirks and challenges of being a writer. There’s a tender honesty and keen self-awareness to it- and I especially loved the direct ways Kayley uplifts Fiona’s craft as Fiona is forced to defend her decision to write romance. Truly innovative and thought provoking story telling- I found myself marveling at its cleverness over and over again.
From the first pages where I found myself both laughing in merriment and shedding unexpected but powerful tears, I knew this story would be special. Not only is this Kayley’s most swoon-worthy and most innovative opus yet, but it is also her most emotionally complex. There are truly no storytellers out there like Kayley Loring- and the Love Interest is a perfect example of the talent of her craft and the authenticity of her voice. She reminds us just how magical loving can be- helps us all fall in love all over again with the beauty of falling in love. Every story is just as compelling and unique as the last, but the Love Interest is truly special, and now a personal favorite. Kayley’s love and tenderness for this story, these characters radiate out from each and every word. So much so that you can’t help but fall under their spell- to swoon and sigh and fall in love right alongside them. To have your heart swell with love and joy, to fell full of hope and life. There is not greater feeling-and one that somehow Kayley Loring invokes in me every.single.time. Simply sensational!
The Love Interest plays out like the reels of your favorite, perfectly crafted romantic comedy movie. From the unforgettable and unique meet cute to the happily ever after, The Love Interest dazzles page after page. Delivering a unique romantic euphoria, like the sparkle of a first kiss- as if you’ve been sprinkled with a bit of fairy dust, and suddenly the world feels bright, and shiny, and new again.
Like so many Kayley stories before, this story is deliciously rich with inventive humor and charming characters- from our quirky and perfectly matched hero and heroine to the lovable and catalytic secondary characters that orbit and enrich their romance. We have our hero, Emmett, new graduate professor and best selling action-thriller author with an a-list movie deal struggling through a bout of writer’s block. And we have our heroine Fiona- the bright eyed NYC newbie just beginning her career as a Regency romance writer. Both are wrestling with their fictional heroes - and just can’t seem to land on the story they want to tell. Emmett is trapped in his past, and while his hero seems ready for a love interest, he himself is not. And Fiona, a soulful romantic, can’t seem to find the right balance for her story’s love interest, weighed down by her own imposter syndrome. Their chance encounter inspires the direction of their work- helps them envision the love story they need for their characters, but also sparks something neither expected but both somehow needed- they find their OWN love interest in each other.
I loved these characters. They are nuanced, interesting, and here I found an even deeper emotional chord, especially with our reluctant hero. Both are captivating in their own way- quirky, vivid, and truly clever. We have the usual witty banter, the creative ways Kayley use different written modalities to express parts of this story, and of course some delicious steam. This is much slower burn than I’m used to- but I found it to be more than worth the weight. We get more angst and emotional longing, ALL that delicious chemistry just brewing. All the fun antics, humor, and story with in a story brilliance aside, the heart of this story is about taking a chance with your heart, about leaning in when someone makes your heart come alive. It's a beautifully straight forward theme, poignant and powerful. And Emmett and Fiona embody it perfectly.
I also just LOVED all the different angles through which we get this story- including the stories within the stories. Fiona and Emmett’s characters are real and hugely important to their romantic and character arcs- and the evolution of their work not only gives us a greater window into who the authors are as people but also wonderfully encapsulates key milestones in their burgeoning romance. It’s truly brilliant- and Kayley wows in code switching her own writing style, tone, and voice as she uses snippets from their work to help tell this story. Not to mention, both fictional heroes are comedic gold. And, I loved the subtle nods Kayley gives to both the quirks and challenges of being a writer. There’s a tender honesty and keen self-awareness to it- and I especially loved the direct ways Kayley uplifts Fiona’s craft as Fiona is forced to defend her decision to write romance. Truly innovative and thought provoking story telling- I found myself marveling at its cleverness over and over again.
From the first pages where I found myself both laughing in merriment and shedding unexpected but powerful tears, I knew this story would be special. Not only is this Kayley’s most swoon-worthy and most innovative opus yet, but it is also her most emotionally complex. There are truly no storytellers out there like Kayley Loring- and the Love Interest is a perfect example of the talent of her craft and the authenticity of her voice. She reminds us just how magical loving can be- helps us all fall in love all over again with the beauty of falling in love. Every story is just as compelling and unique as the last, but the Love Interest is truly special, and now a personal favorite. Kayley’s love and tenderness for this story, these characters radiate out from each and every word. So much so that you can’t help but fall under their spell- to swoon and sigh and fall in love right alongside them. To have your heart swell with love and joy, to fell full of hope and life. There is not greater feeling-and one that somehow Kayley Loring invokes in me every.single.time. Simply sensational!
April 19, 2021
If you love a good Forbidden Romance then THE LOVE INTEREST will light your panties on fire! (But, like, in a really good way. Not a dangerous kootch burn way).
Fiona and Emmett have SUCH AND EPIC love story! Their first meeting and subsequent time spent together is sweet, sexy, and perfectly romantic! I loved these two together so much! Their letter-writing is so swoony. And I just love how snarky they can be with each other.
Fiona is the perfect funny, smart, and snarky lead female. I adored here and her hippy-dippy parents! And I loved her passion for life and commitment to follow her life goals, even when everyone told her they weren't viable. And Emmett is serious and stern, but funny and witty. And talk about HOT. You can feel the chemistry and passion between Fiona and Emmett jumping off the page!
These characters are both authors and part of this book had excerpts from their WIP novels in it. I really love how Kayley Loring uses alternative communication to further her stories, but these book chapters within the story felt a bit clunky to me. I ended up skimming those sections after a while. Other readers might really love these sections, but they weren't my favorite.
This book is a MUST READ if you are here for banter, hot sex, forbidden romance, and swoony-sweet HEAs.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated R
TRIGGERS: Death of loved one
FEELS-O-METER: 4/5 *covers some seriously heavy topics*
I received a gifted copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
Fiona and Emmett have SUCH AND EPIC love story! Their first meeting and subsequent time spent together is sweet, sexy, and perfectly romantic! I loved these two together so much! Their letter-writing is so swoony. And I just love how snarky they can be with each other.
Fiona is the perfect funny, smart, and snarky lead female. I adored here and her hippy-dippy parents! And I loved her passion for life and commitment to follow her life goals, even when everyone told her they weren't viable. And Emmett is serious and stern, but funny and witty. And talk about HOT. You can feel the chemistry and passion between Fiona and Emmett jumping off the page!
These characters are both authors and part of this book had excerpts from their WIP novels in it. I really love how Kayley Loring uses alternative communication to further her stories, but these book chapters within the story felt a bit clunky to me. I ended up skimming those sections after a while. Other readers might really love these sections, but they weren't my favorite.
This book is a MUST READ if you are here for banter, hot sex, forbidden romance, and swoony-sweet HEAs.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated R
TRIGGERS: Death of loved one
FEELS-O-METER: 4/5 *covers some seriously heavy topics*
I received a gifted copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
July 27, 2021
4 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Wow! The Love Interest was exactly what I needed. This forbidden Romcom Romance captured me right from the beginning.. I instantly fell in love with Fiona and Emmett. I must say this story was pretty interesting with all the different POVs. It really kept me invested…
I think the best thing about this book was the humor. I can’t tell you how many times I laughed out loud. Fiona and her inner dialogue was the best and her Mother…Omg her one lines about the cock Aka rooster had me doubling over in laughter.
This story is about two Authors trying to get through writers block and in the process of them trying to finish their books they both stumble upon love!
Fiona’s being her first love and Emmett having a second chance at finding love again.
This story was not only funny, but the chemistry between Fiona and Emmett was sizzling hot and was overall a refreshing story. This book is definitely worth the read!
Audiobook review: All 4 narrators did a fabulous job bringing this Romcom romance to life. Teddy Hamilton and McKenzie Cartwright are two of my favorite narrators. So it was great to listen to them as always…It was a bonus to get to listen to Shane East because everyone loves his accent, but Connor Crais is a new narrator to me that I definitely need to look up so I can listen to that sexy southern drawl again. 😍
Wow! The Love Interest was exactly what I needed. This forbidden Romcom Romance captured me right from the beginning.. I instantly fell in love with Fiona and Emmett. I must say this story was pretty interesting with all the different POVs. It really kept me invested…
I think the best thing about this book was the humor. I can’t tell you how many times I laughed out loud. Fiona and her inner dialogue was the best and her Mother…Omg her one lines about the cock Aka rooster had me doubling over in laughter.
This story is about two Authors trying to get through writers block and in the process of them trying to finish their books they both stumble upon love!
Fiona’s being her first love and Emmett having a second chance at finding love again.
This story was not only funny, but the chemistry between Fiona and Emmett was sizzling hot and was overall a refreshing story. This book is definitely worth the read!
Audiobook review: All 4 narrators did a fabulous job bringing this Romcom romance to life. Teddy Hamilton and McKenzie Cartwright are two of my favorite narrators. So it was great to listen to them as always…It was a bonus to get to listen to Shane East because everyone loves his accent, but Connor Crais is a new narrator to me that I definitely need to look up so I can listen to that sexy southern drawl again. 😍
April 15, 2021
4.5 Stars
'Although you and I have different backstories, I guess I’ve been resisting the possibility of a first love in the same way that you’ve been resisting the possibility of a second.’
Kayley Loring has done it again! We love, love, love her stories! And we LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this book! What’s not to love in The Love Interest? Our reading tastes were certainly sated with this book. Let’s see, there was:
Student/teacher
Age Gap
Loveable heroine
Grouchy gorgeous hero
Humour
Emotion
Sizzling chemistry
Forbidden love
Fabulous secondary characters
3 stories in one (you’ll understand when you read the book)
A story that made us grin with delight from ear to ear.
‘Even years from now, I doubt that I’ll be able to string a bunch of words together to describe how good it feels to be kissed by him like this.’
We always look forward to a new book by Kayley Loring because she never disappoints. She injects just enough drama to make our hearts flip flop, whilst having us in fits of riotous laughter, and her ability to perfectly push and pull our emotions with the vulnerability of her characters really hits our hearts.
‘Here is a young woman with a cautious heart, and I feel connected to it somehow. Not the woman, but the cautious heart. There’s an unspoken, involuntary camaraderie between the broken-hearted.’
35-year-old Emmett Ford is a NYT bestselling author of the hugely successful action thriller series Jack Irons, with his books already turned into a movie franchise with Ryan Gosling playing the macho protagonist Jack Irons. Yes, Emmett has it all, but love is something he avoids. Following the death of his fiancée over ten years ago, Emmett promised himself he’d never fall in love and risk that sort of heartache ever again. One thing Emmett does need is inspiration – his character Jack Irons, needs to find love.
‘My protagonist needs a woman. I don’t need a woman. I need inspiration.’
25-year-old Fiona Walker has moved from California to New York to further her writing career and hopefully finish the historical romance she’s currently writing. Fiona needs inspiration too. Since landing in New York her man pickings have been slim, so the inspiration for her character William Dexter has dried up. Fiona has never known the love of a man, Emmett has loved and lost – they may be different, but in other ways, so similar.
‘Prologues before bros. That’s my motto.’
Two authors meet in a diner. A cliché? Maybe, but that’s how it went down, and that’s where all the flirty fun begins, not only that but Fiona (and Emmett) are going to get the shock of their lives when Emmett turns out to be a substitute professor in Fiona’s creative writing class.
‘I would ruin my life and everyone else’s for this woman right now.’
This book is hot, flirty, sweet, and swoony fun. You don’t want to miss this one! We didn’t want it to end! We loved Fiona and Emmett and their madcap friends and family. The dual POV’s were beautifully in sync, and watching Fiona bring out the romantic in the gruff Emmett, made our hearts flutter. She may seem scatty, but she’s every bit as sharp as Emmett. The way Kayley Loring delivers her humour is comedic timing at its best – she’s hilarious! We would’ve loved a little more time with Emmett and Fiona and a little less with their characters, but that’s a small gripe in what was a fantastic read. The epilogue both bewildered and delighted us and giggling like crazy ha-ha!
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May 22, 2021
4,5 ★
As soon as i read 'Dear Fiona' on the synopsis i wanted to read this book, because I love epistolary romances, but little did I know that it takes a LONG time before the letters.
Fiona just moved to New York and she meets Emmett and they have this ''date'' but after that, he sends her a message telling her that they can't see each other anymore. Why can't they see each other? He's her new grad school professor!
Fiona is 25, she's the classic sunshine character, she wants to write a Historical romance. Emmett is 35, he's a successful author (I think he writes thriller or suspense), he's going through writer's block. Also, 10 years ago Emmett's girlfriend died and since then he hasn't loved anyone.
This book is dual pov, but we also have chapters narrated by the main character from each of their books, at first I didn't like it because the narrator for Emmett's character made this very stoic voice, but after a while, I just rolled with it. The narration for Fiona's character... i pictured Niall Horan, don't ask me why, but when he was '' talking to Fiona'' he had this voice that I pictured as Niall in my head.
* This is very random, and has nothing to do with this book, but can you believe I was copying some things for school, it was 11 pages, it took me this ENTIRE audiobook to copy! and I listen at 3x speed!*
As soon as i read 'Dear Fiona' on the synopsis i wanted to read this book, because I love epistolary romances, but little did I know that it takes a LONG time before the letters.
Fiona just moved to New York and she meets Emmett and they have this ''date'' but after that, he sends her a message telling her that they can't see each other anymore. Why can't they see each other? He's her new grad school professor!
Fiona is 25, she's the classic sunshine character, she wants to write a Historical romance. Emmett is 35, he's a successful author (I think he writes thriller or suspense), he's going through writer's block. Also, 10 years ago Emmett's girlfriend died and since then he hasn't loved anyone.
This book is dual pov, but we also have chapters narrated by the main character from each of their books, at first I didn't like it because the narrator for Emmett's character made this very stoic voice, but after a while, I just rolled with it. The narration for Fiona's character... i pictured Niall Horan, don't ask me why, but when he was '' talking to Fiona'' he had this voice that I pictured as Niall in my head.
* This is very random, and has nothing to do with this book, but can you believe I was copying some things for school, it was 11 pages, it took me this ENTIRE audiobook to copy! and I listen at 3x speed!*
April 16, 2021
Reading a book by Kayley Loring makes me happy. Really happy!
Her books are different. Unique. Sexy. Funny. I simply love whatever book of her I read!
Fiona and Emmett. One night in NY they met in a diner. Instant attraction right there. Palpable! They wander through the city by night, they get to know each other a bit. And want to meet again. But they don’t. At least not as they planned. Having the guy you’re heavily attracted to as your professor? Yeah, that was not planned. How do you survive all the hours in the same classroom together? It’s taking some strength! Can they resist?
Wonderful story once again. The author just knocks it out of the park - once again. I know I’m repeating myself, but 🤷🏼♀️.
I kindly received an arc from the author and voluntarily left a review
Her books are different. Unique. Sexy. Funny. I simply love whatever book of her I read!
Fiona and Emmett. One night in NY they met in a diner. Instant attraction right there. Palpable! They wander through the city by night, they get to know each other a bit. And want to meet again. But they don’t. At least not as they planned. Having the guy you’re heavily attracted to as your professor? Yeah, that was not planned. How do you survive all the hours in the same classroom together? It’s taking some strength! Can they resist?
Wonderful story once again. The author just knocks it out of the park - once again. I know I’m repeating myself, but 🤷🏼♀️.
I kindly received an arc from the author and voluntarily left a review
April 6, 2021
Only you Kayley can write about four foot caulks (yeah I know it’s spelt wrong), viscounts, killers, seriously sexy authors and sassy nip wielding women AND make me WANT MORE (I for one am okay with weekly releases and have zero problems with novellas). Please, please, please, keep giving me your crazy brand of writing because that’s why I’m here: You write the books. I read the words. Deal?
The Love Interest is a book that will reel you in and keep you reading. I started and finished this book in one afternoon and I wish that there was more to read. Emmett is AMAZING. He’s moody and broody and grumpy and melt your kindle hot. Fiona is saucy and silly and seriously funny, she needs to be my BFF. Together they are magic. I loved watching them spar with words and tongues and could not wait for them to get it on. It was worth every single second and so what if this slow burn romance nearly killed me - it so worth it.
The Love Interest should be required reading for romance lovers everywhere and the standard by which future romcom reads should be measured by. TBR this book and fall in love with craziness that is Kayley Loring.
The Love Interest is a book that will reel you in and keep you reading. I started and finished this book in one afternoon and I wish that there was more to read. Emmett is AMAZING. He’s moody and broody and grumpy and melt your kindle hot. Fiona is saucy and silly and seriously funny, she needs to be my BFF. Together they are magic. I loved watching them spar with words and tongues and could not wait for them to get it on. It was worth every single second and so what if this slow burn romance nearly killed me - it so worth it.
The Love Interest should be required reading for romance lovers everywhere and the standard by which future romcom reads should be measured by. TBR this book and fall in love with craziness that is Kayley Loring.
April 16, 2021
I’ve become that person always waiting for the next book by Kayley. I’m always kept smiling!
Fiona & Jack
Professor & student
Writers & secret lovers
An unexpected night brings Fiona & Jack together until it’s quickly gone! They can’t continue their adventurous date, Fiona is left bewildered until she realizes next week who’s her professor!
This book is full of so many funny and steaming moments. It will leave you wanting more!
July 31, 2022
This was so classy.
April 17, 2021
First and foremost, I love a super funny rom-com, but I also like my romance novels steamy. My favorite romance novels have both and I know when Kayley Loring comes out with a book that I’m going to get both and maaaaan did I get both with this one.
Emmett is a 35 year old author of a successful action-thriller series and finds himself with a bit of writers block and is in need of inspiration when trying to write a romance for his leading character.
Fiona is a 25 year old student who has moved to New York, from California, to help with her writing career. She’s trying to write a historical romance and is also in the need of inspiration to figure out her MCs MO.
They develop almost an instant connection after a funny, swoony meet-cute, but before they completely act on it, Fiona finds herself in Emmett’s writing class.
I absolutely loved it!
Kayley put in ALL the work for this one because it’s not only a steamy rom-com. Since her two MCs are writers, you get a glimpse into what they write, so you also get a bit of a thriller and a bit of a historical romance.
It’s flirty and witty and omg with the sexy banter. I love me a grumpy cinnamon roll and a sassy heroine who doesn’t back down from her beliefs and they have SO much chemistry. You are going to LOVE this book!
I’m not much of an audiobook listener, but got Kayley’s A Very Bossy Christmas in Audible and enjoyed it very, very much (Connor Crais 😍). I’m planning on getting the audiobook when it comes out on the 26th because you get Teddy Hamilton, Mackenzie Cartwright, Shane East, AND Connor Crais. I know it’s just going to be super entertaining. The epilogue alone is going to be worth it. 🐓
It’s only 99 pennies or free in KU, so what are you waiting for? Go. Get. It!
The ARC was gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Emmett is a 35 year old author of a successful action-thriller series and finds himself with a bit of writers block and is in need of inspiration when trying to write a romance for his leading character.
Fiona is a 25 year old student who has moved to New York, from California, to help with her writing career. She’s trying to write a historical romance and is also in the need of inspiration to figure out her MCs MO.
They develop almost an instant connection after a funny, swoony meet-cute, but before they completely act on it, Fiona finds herself in Emmett’s writing class.
I absolutely loved it!
Kayley put in ALL the work for this one because it’s not only a steamy rom-com. Since her two MCs are writers, you get a glimpse into what they write, so you also get a bit of a thriller and a bit of a historical romance.
It’s flirty and witty and omg with the sexy banter. I love me a grumpy cinnamon roll and a sassy heroine who doesn’t back down from her beliefs and they have SO much chemistry. You are going to LOVE this book!
I’m not much of an audiobook listener, but got Kayley’s A Very Bossy Christmas in Audible and enjoyed it very, very much (Connor Crais 😍). I’m planning on getting the audiobook when it comes out on the 26th because you get Teddy Hamilton, Mackenzie Cartwright, Shane East, AND Connor Crais. I know it’s just going to be super entertaining. The epilogue alone is going to be worth it. 🐓
It’s only 99 pennies or free in KU, so what are you waiting for? Go. Get. It!
The ARC was gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2021
5 star review The Love Interest by Kayley Loring
From start to finish I was all in, hook, line and sinker. I was so riveted to this book that I read it in almost one go. The Love Interest is a great example of the RomCom genre.
When Emmett Ford and Fiona Walker met the sparks flew between them immediately and both were interested in pursuing a relationship. However they don’t follow through and imagine their surprise when it turns out that Emmett is Fiona’s new professor which puts them off limits for one another, or does it?
I fell hard for Emmett, he is totally swoon worthy and captured my imagination from the start. He is a broody man who hides a lot underneath the surface. Fiona is feisty, sassy and such a fun loving character that you cannot help but be drawn to her.
I found myself laughing out loud on numerous occasions and my husband gave me several funny looks whilst I was reading. Not only was it funny but the storyline was interesting. The chemistry and heat that burns between Emmett and Fiona is too intense for them to ignore.
Both are writers, he a successful NYT best selling author, whilst Fiona is writing her first historical romance, which I found intriguing. Being along for the ride whilst Emmett and Fiona both try and plot their novels was pure gold and was highly entertaining. The balance between steam and humour is one that Kayley Loring has no trouble achieving.
This is a book that I cannot wait to listen to on audio
From start to finish I was all in, hook, line and sinker. I was so riveted to this book that I read it in almost one go. The Love Interest is a great example of the RomCom genre.
When Emmett Ford and Fiona Walker met the sparks flew between them immediately and both were interested in pursuing a relationship. However they don’t follow through and imagine their surprise when it turns out that Emmett is Fiona’s new professor which puts them off limits for one another, or does it?
I fell hard for Emmett, he is totally swoon worthy and captured my imagination from the start. He is a broody man who hides a lot underneath the surface. Fiona is feisty, sassy and such a fun loving character that you cannot help but be drawn to her.
I found myself laughing out loud on numerous occasions and my husband gave me several funny looks whilst I was reading. Not only was it funny but the storyline was interesting. The chemistry and heat that burns between Emmett and Fiona is too intense for them to ignore.
Both are writers, he a successful NYT best selling author, whilst Fiona is writing her first historical romance, which I found intriguing. Being along for the ride whilst Emmett and Fiona both try and plot their novels was pure gold and was highly entertaining. The balance between steam and humour is one that Kayley Loring has no trouble achieving.
This is a book that I cannot wait to listen to on audio
April 23, 2021
4 stars. Sweet, sexy, witty and made me smile. Loved the "cocky" epilogue. ;D
June 30, 2021
I was gonna 4 star this grump because ok, it’s not Loring’s best, and I really didn’t enjoy the chapters from the characters’ own novels being slotted in, they were too long. However… I ended up highlighting so much it just deserved a goddamn 5 stars ok?
No one does bants like Kayley Loring. No one. Text bants. Email bants. Phone bants. All the freaking bants. And when it is done well it is just so addictive.
Loves the grumpy widow and his Sunshiney girl. So well written. Ellen! Ellen! THIS IS SO AMAZING I LOVE YOU! Ellen!!!!!
No one does bants like Kayley Loring. No one. Text bants. Email bants. Phone bants. All the freaking bants. And when it is done well it is just so addictive.
Loves the grumpy widow and his Sunshiney girl. So well written. Ellen! Ellen! THIS IS SO AMAZING I LOVE YOU! Ellen!!!!!
May 5, 2021
4.5 stars
I am so glad I decided to request this book for review! I thought from the blurb that it sounded interesting, possibly funny and likely steamy. It did not disappoint on any front.
I think my favorite thing about this book was the humor. I laughed out loud so many times. There's a giant cock - not what you think - and there's the relationship between Fiona and her mother, as well as Emmett's relationship with his adorable niece. All hilarious!
Despite making me laugh frequently, this book also has a lot of heart. Emmett and Fiona both grow so much over the course of the story. Emmett starts off this fabulously successful author of a action suspense series that is a movie franchise but still grieving the death of his fiance almost a decade ago. His character tells him (because their characters talk to them -- LOVE THIS!) he's ready to have a love interest, and while Emmett isn't quite ready, his search for inspiration opens him up just enough for Fiona to push in.
Fiona is at the start of her writing career - for really great, but spoilery reasons - and so she's holding off on love/sex to focus on her writing. And then in walks Emmett to the dinner where she's working and bam! Obvious where this going, right?
Except, not at exactly! Just enough time had passed since I read the blurb that I forgot what the book was about, which was perfect, because I didn't see the challenge between Emmett and Fiona coming. And I enjoyed every minute of their sexual frustration, which is marvelously played out in the writing of their books (you get chapters here and there of their stories -- almost like 3 book in 1 -- and it's very inspired by their experiences) .
The narration takes this to another level. You get not two, but four narrators! As you'd expect with multiple narrators, one is for Emmett's point of view and one is for Fiona's. The unexpected twist is they each get a narrator for the books they are writing as well. It really adds to the feel that those characters are unique and separate from them as authors. So great! I was new to these narrators - and author - but wouldn't hesitate to listen to - or read - any of them again.
I am so glad I decided to request this book for review! I thought from the blurb that it sounded interesting, possibly funny and likely steamy. It did not disappoint on any front.
I think my favorite thing about this book was the humor. I laughed out loud so many times. There's a giant cock - not what you think - and there's the relationship between Fiona and her mother, as well as Emmett's relationship with his adorable niece. All hilarious!
Despite making me laugh frequently, this book also has a lot of heart. Emmett and Fiona both grow so much over the course of the story. Emmett starts off this fabulously successful author of a action suspense series that is a movie franchise but still grieving the death of his fiance almost a decade ago. His character tells him (because their characters talk to them -- LOVE THIS!) he's ready to have a love interest, and while Emmett isn't quite ready, his search for inspiration opens him up just enough for Fiona to push in.
Fiona is at the start of her writing career - for really great, but spoilery reasons - and so she's holding off on love/sex to focus on her writing. And then in walks Emmett to the dinner where she's working and bam! Obvious where this going, right?
Except, not at exactly! Just enough time had passed since I read the blurb that I forgot what the book was about, which was perfect, because I didn't see the challenge between Emmett and Fiona coming. And I enjoyed every minute of their sexual frustration, which is marvelously played out in the writing of their books (you get chapters here and there of their stories -- almost like 3 book in 1 -- and it's very inspired by their experiences) .
The narration takes this to another level. You get not two, but four narrators! As you'd expect with multiple narrators, one is for Emmett's point of view and one is for Fiona's. The unexpected twist is they each get a narrator for the books they are writing as well. It really adds to the feel that those characters are unique and separate from them as authors. So great! I was new to these narrators - and author - but wouldn't hesitate to listen to - or read - any of them again.
April 15, 2021
Where to start.....I ducking luffed this!
I had this stupid grin on my face from start to finish because this is one sexy smexy, fun, snarky, moody, broody, make your heart jump with joy romcom.
Again, there are side-splitting one-liners galore!
I am fluving everything about this book:
Emmett & Fiona, their fictional characters, Emmett’s adorable niece, the 4-foot metal cock because all this cock action is hilarious, the storyline because Heeelllooo there age difference, rude moody broody handsome professor who has the hots for younger beautiful quirky sassy full of life „cock“ loving student and vice versa, this whole adorable swoony book and Kayley Loring for sure - lady you are so most definitely not a hack. Love your stories! 1-click author for me for sure.
This is a meet-cute made in writers heaven.
Emmett Ford, bestselling thriller fiction author still mourning a personal loss and can’t let go of this memory tries to get lost in his writing but is experiencing writer's block.
Fiona Walker recently moved to New York just starting to break out as a writer, her passion: regency romance.
One night everything changes for both of them as they seem to become each other's muses which leads to their personal worlds getting entwined with their fictional ones.
Things get interesting and complicated but definitely fun for us readers when they find themself in a less than preferable situation.
This book alone is full of laughs and swoony moments. I am also excited to listen to the audio as my stomach had a work out from all the laughter just reading. I probably have a six-pack once I listened to the audio.
I am already imagining the voices of Teddy Hamilton, Mackenzie Cartwright, Shane East (that cockney accent is going to be a treat!) and Connor Crais - haha I am especially looking forward to that last epilogue as its just too funny.
I had this stupid grin on my face from start to finish because this is one sexy smexy, fun, snarky, moody, broody, make your heart jump with joy romcom.
Again, there are side-splitting one-liners galore!
I am fluving everything about this book:
Emmett & Fiona, their fictional characters, Emmett’s adorable niece, the 4-foot metal cock because all this cock action is hilarious, the storyline because Heeelllooo there age difference, rude moody broody handsome professor who has the hots for younger beautiful quirky sassy full of life „cock“ loving student and vice versa, this whole adorable swoony book and Kayley Loring for sure - lady you are so most definitely not a hack. Love your stories! 1-click author for me for sure.
This is a meet-cute made in writers heaven.
Emmett Ford, bestselling thriller fiction author still mourning a personal loss and can’t let go of this memory tries to get lost in his writing but is experiencing writer's block.
Fiona Walker recently moved to New York just starting to break out as a writer, her passion: regency romance.
One night everything changes for both of them as they seem to become each other's muses which leads to their personal worlds getting entwined with their fictional ones.
Things get interesting and complicated but definitely fun for us readers when they find themself in a less than preferable situation.
This book alone is full of laughs and swoony moments. I am also excited to listen to the audio as my stomach had a work out from all the laughter just reading. I probably have a six-pack once I listened to the audio.
I am already imagining the voices of Teddy Hamilton, Mackenzie Cartwright, Shane East (that cockney accent is going to be a treat!) and Connor Crais - haha I am especially looking forward to that last epilogue as its just too funny.
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