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Adelaide Springs Love Stories #2
Cole and Laila Are Just Friends
Cole and Laila have been inseparable since they could crawl. And they've never thought about each other that way. Except for when they have. Rarely. Once in a while, sure. But seriously . . . hardly ever.
Cole Kimball and Laila Olivet have been best friends their entire lives. Cole is the only person (apart from blood relatives) who's seen Laila in her oversized, pink, plastic, Sophia Loren glasses. Laila is always the first person to taste test any new dish Cole creates in his family's restaurant . . . even though she has the refined palate of a kindergartener. Most importantly, Cole and Laila are always talking. About everything.
When Cole discovers a betrayal from his recently deceased grandfather that shatters his world, staying in Adelaide Springs, Colorado, is suddenly unfathomable. But Laila loves her life in their small mountain town and can't imagine ever living anywhere else. She loves serving customers who tip her with a dozen fresh eggs. She loves living within walking distance of all her favorite people. And she's very much not okay with the idea of not being able to walk to her very favorite person.
Still, when Cole toys with moving across the country to New York City, she decides to support her best friend--even as she secretly hopes she can convince him to stay home. And not just for his killer chocolate chip pancakes. Because she loves him. As a friend. Just as a friend. Right?
They make a deal: Laila won't beg him to stay, and Cole won't try to convince her to come with him. They have one week in New York before their lives change forever, and all they have to do is enjoy their time together and pretend none of this is happening. But it's tough to ignore the very inconvenient feelings blooming out of nowhere. In both of them. And these potentially friendship-destroying feelings, once out in the open, have absolutely no take-backs.
If When Harry Met Sally had a quippy literary love child with Gilmore Girls' Luke and Lorelai, you'd get Cole and Laila. Just . . . don't tell them that.
Cole Kimball and Laila Olivet have been best friends their entire lives. Cole is the only person (apart from blood relatives) who's seen Laila in her oversized, pink, plastic, Sophia Loren glasses. Laila is always the first person to taste test any new dish Cole creates in his family's restaurant . . . even though she has the refined palate of a kindergartener. Most importantly, Cole and Laila are always talking. About everything.
When Cole discovers a betrayal from his recently deceased grandfather that shatters his world, staying in Adelaide Springs, Colorado, is suddenly unfathomable. But Laila loves her life in their small mountain town and can't imagine ever living anywhere else. She loves serving customers who tip her with a dozen fresh eggs. She loves living within walking distance of all her favorite people. And she's very much not okay with the idea of not being able to walk to her very favorite person.
Still, when Cole toys with moving across the country to New York City, she decides to support her best friend--even as she secretly hopes she can convince him to stay home. And not just for his killer chocolate chip pancakes. Because she loves him. As a friend. Just as a friend. Right?
They make a deal: Laila won't beg him to stay, and Cole won't try to convince her to come with him. They have one week in New York before their lives change forever, and all they have to do is enjoy their time together and pretend none of this is happening. But it's tough to ignore the very inconvenient feelings blooming out of nowhere. In both of them. And these potentially friendship-destroying feelings, once out in the open, have absolutely no take-backs.
If When Harry Met Sally had a quippy literary love child with Gilmore Girls' Luke and Lorelai, you'd get Cole and Laila. Just . . . don't tell them that.
336 pages, Paperback
First published June 4, 2024
132 people are currently reading
8742 people want to read
About the author
Bethany Turner
12 books1,381 followersBethany Turner has been writing since the second grade, when she won her first writing award for explaining why, if she could have lunch with any person throughout history, she would choose John Stamos. She stands by this decision. Bethany now writes pop culture–infused rom-coms for a new generation of readers who crave fiction that tackles the thorny issues of life with humor and insight. She lives in Southwest Colorado with her husband, whom she met in the nineties in a chat room called Disco Inferno. As sketchy as it sounds, it worked out pretty well in this case, and they are now the proud parents of two grown sons. Connect with Bethany at seebethanywrite.com or across social media @seebethanywrite, where she clings to the eternal dream that John Stamos will someday send her a friend request. Text her any time at (970) 387-7811!
Learn more at seebethanywrite.com.
Learn more at seebethanywrite.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 663 reviews
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May 1, 2024This was a DNF @55 percent? Should I still count as read?
The characters were late 30s almost 40. They acted their age but why did it take them almost half their life to realize they like each other?!! Like y’all never thought about?!! Just unrealistic imo
The characters were late 30s almost 40. They acted their age but why did it take them almost half their life to realize they like each other?!! Like y’all never thought about?!! Just unrealistic imo
June 9, 2024
3.5⭐️ Every year during the holidays, my mom and I watch Hallmark (and Lifetime) made-for-TV movies on repeat until it’s time to return to real life and reset the clock. There’s something about the consistency of a classic Hallmark Christmas movie that makes them so easy and comforting to enjoy.
Cole and Laila are Just Friends is a Hallmark movie in book form. Lifelong best friends Cole and Laila have always been inseparable, but never more than friends—until now. After the death of his grandfather and a resulting betrayal, Cole contemplates leaving their charming small town for New York City to start fresh. The two take a week-long trip to NYC which forces them to confront their growing feelings and the possibility of transforming their friendship into something more. Y’all can see where this is going, right?
V cute friends to lovers "clean" romance.
The only thing that threw me off was the dialogue and character actions feeling mismatched with their ages. In their late 30s, they came across as a bit too immature and naive.
Despite this, I enjoyed the storytelling and found it to be a very easy listen.
Thanks to Netgalley, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Bethany Turner, Talon David and Andrew Eiden for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Cole and Laila are Just Friends is a Hallmark movie in book form. Lifelong best friends Cole and Laila have always been inseparable, but never more than friends—until now. After the death of his grandfather and a resulting betrayal, Cole contemplates leaving their charming small town for New York City to start fresh. The two take a week-long trip to NYC which forces them to confront their growing feelings and the possibility of transforming their friendship into something more. Y’all can see where this is going, right?
V cute friends to lovers "clean" romance.
The only thing that threw me off was the dialogue and character actions feeling mismatched with their ages. In their late 30s, they came across as a bit too immature and naive.
Despite this, I enjoyed the storytelling and found it to be a very easy listen.
Thanks to Netgalley, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Bethany Turner, Talon David and Andrew Eiden for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2023
Okay, look...I wrote this book, so I know that means I should probably be all humble and self-deprecating and walk that fine line between "I just write for the joy of it all. Sales don't matter!" and "I'll literally do ANYTHING to convince you to buy this book. Shall I dance for you?" But guess what? I'm finding it easier than ever to talk about this book, because I LOVE this book. I love these characters. I loved writing this story. It was the most joyous writing experience of my life and I truly can't wait to share Cole and Laila with you. So, having said that...you know...please add this book to your Want To Read. Shall I dance for you? 😬
Want to read
February 5, 2024જ⁀➴
My arc got approved!!
Can’t wait to read this🥹🤞🏼
My arc got approved!!
Can’t wait to read this🥹🤞🏼
January 12, 2024
4.5 for me! Wow!!!
I am currently sitting in my desk chair with tears in my eyes and a big ol' warm bubble of happiness in my chest. I loved this story. Effervescent joy! My FAVORITE of all her books! Cole and Layla's love for each other is PERFECT! Truly the fake-first-date to BEAT ALL fake-first-dates!!!! And now I will go away and simultaneously grin and doubt my abilities to ever write a book again.
Thank you.
(I'll have a better review to come but...well, it was just super!!!) #gocoleandlayla
I am currently sitting in my desk chair with tears in my eyes and a big ol' warm bubble of happiness in my chest. I loved this story. Effervescent joy! My FAVORITE of all her books! Cole and Layla's love for each other is PERFECT! Truly the fake-first-date to BEAT ALL fake-first-dates!!!! And now I will go away and simultaneously grin and doubt my abilities to ever write a book again.
Thank you.
(I'll have a better review to come but...well, it was just super!!!) #gocoleandlayla
June 4, 2024
Happy New Release!
This book gets all the hearts and stars from me!
I fell in love with the first book, Brynn and Sebastian Hate Each Other and this one was no different, from the first page, I fell in love with Cole and Laila...It's a cute, silly, and sweet romantic comedy.
When Cole uncovers a betrayal from his recently deceased grandfather that shatters his world, staying in Colorado becomes unimaginable. However, Laila loves her life in their small mountain town and can't envision living elsewhere. Despite this, when Cole considers moving to New York City, she decides to support her best friend. They have one week in New York before their lives change forever, and all they have to do is enjoy their time together and pretend none of this is happening. But it's tough to ignore the very inconvenient feelings blooming out of nowhere.
Cole and Laila have been best friends their whole lives...the friends-to-lovers is my least favorite trope, but I think Bethany did a wonderful job with this story. It didn't feel awkward or forced by Cole and Laila's transition from being longtime friends to being in love. I think they always saw themselves together and had so much respect for each other. They were very intuitive about one another, and the feeling that they had always been in love was easy to believe, even before they understood the dynamics of love.
"She matters more than the rest." It had always been. He'd always known."
This sweet, clean romance is full of funny, emotional, and heartwarming moments. I loved seeing Brynn and Sebastian. There were a lot of scenes featuring these two in the story, and like the first book, there were also plenty of pop culture and celebrity mentions. It was delightful and refreshing to read about two people who cared about each other and would do anything for each other.
It's a great read... It is Exceptionally Sweet and entertaining, and I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This book gets all the hearts and stars from me!
I fell in love with the first book, Brynn and Sebastian Hate Each Other and this one was no different, from the first page, I fell in love with Cole and Laila...It's a cute, silly, and sweet romantic comedy.
When Cole uncovers a betrayal from his recently deceased grandfather that shatters his world, staying in Colorado becomes unimaginable. However, Laila loves her life in their small mountain town and can't envision living elsewhere. Despite this, when Cole considers moving to New York City, she decides to support her best friend. They have one week in New York before their lives change forever, and all they have to do is enjoy their time together and pretend none of this is happening. But it's tough to ignore the very inconvenient feelings blooming out of nowhere.
Cole and Laila have been best friends their whole lives...the friends-to-lovers is my least favorite trope, but I think Bethany did a wonderful job with this story. It didn't feel awkward or forced by Cole and Laila's transition from being longtime friends to being in love. I think they always saw themselves together and had so much respect for each other. They were very intuitive about one another, and the feeling that they had always been in love was easy to believe, even before they understood the dynamics of love.
"She matters more than the rest." It had always been. He'd always known."
This sweet, clean romance is full of funny, emotional, and heartwarming moments. I loved seeing Brynn and Sebastian. There were a lot of scenes featuring these two in the story, and like the first book, there were also plenty of pop culture and celebrity mentions. It was delightful and refreshing to read about two people who cared about each other and would do anything for each other.
It's a great read... It is Exceptionally Sweet and entertaining, and I highly recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 8, 2024
Cole and Laila have been best friends their entire lives: intimately familiar with Laila’s oversized, pink, plastic, Sophia Loren glasses, and trying every single new dish Cole creates in his family’s restaurant . . . even though she has the refined palate of a kindergartener.
When Cole decides to move to New York City from their small mountain town, Laila doesn’t want to lose her very favorite person. She goes to NYC with him for the first few days and not just for his killer chocolate chip pancakes. It’s because she loves him. As a friend. Just as a friend. Obviously.
Highlight I know people will drool over - it’s dual perspective!
This kind of reminded me of Happy Place, in the sense that there was a larger focus on future ambitions and the surrounding supportive friend group.
I have just looked it up and it turns out there I s a book one and that explains the immediate love I felt the author had for all her characters (namely their friends who are a couple). I think I was more invested in their relationship (lol), so will be looking up book one!
”What if we’re so afraid to mess up what we have that we’re actually messing up the best stuff? The stuff we haven’t even seen yet.”
I also enjoyed the peppering of plenty of pop culture and celebrity references. Imagine just being down the street from Taylor Swift’s apartment?! Laila is also a maaaajor Friends fan so expect a lot of episode allusions.
However, I have a feeling this book will become dated quickly with all the popular culture nods.
Major Cons:
The amount of times ‘I let out a breath I didn’t know I was holding’ used was waaay too much.
I also found it unbelievable that Laila was such a ‘country bumpkin’ that she didn’t even know what Uber was? Or that restaurants and takeaways are open past 8pm?!
In the end, I just felt the plot extremely frustrating and the lacking communication for two people who say they share everything unbelievable and convoluted.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for providing the audiobook in exchange for a review.
Bookstagram
When Cole decides to move to New York City from their small mountain town, Laila doesn’t want to lose her very favorite person. She goes to NYC with him for the first few days and not just for his killer chocolate chip pancakes. It’s because she loves him. As a friend. Just as a friend. Obviously.
Highlight I know people will drool over - it’s dual perspective!
This kind of reminded me of Happy Place, in the sense that there was a larger focus on future ambitions and the surrounding supportive friend group.
I have just looked it up and it turns out there I s a book one and that explains the immediate love I felt the author had for all her characters (namely their friends who are a couple). I think I was more invested in their relationship (lol), so will be looking up book one!
”What if we’re so afraid to mess up what we have that we’re actually messing up the best stuff? The stuff we haven’t even seen yet.”
I also enjoyed the peppering of plenty of pop culture and celebrity references. Imagine just being down the street from Taylor Swift’s apartment?! Laila is also a maaaajor Friends fan so expect a lot of episode allusions.
However, I have a feeling this book will become dated quickly with all the popular culture nods.
Major Cons:
The amount of times ‘I let out a breath I didn’t know I was holding’ used was waaay too much.
I also found it unbelievable that Laila was such a ‘country bumpkin’ that she didn’t even know what Uber was? Or that restaurants and takeaways are open past 8pm?!
In the end, I just felt the plot extremely frustrating and the lacking communication for two people who say they share everything unbelievable and convoluted.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for providing the audiobook in exchange for a review.
Bookstagram
May 31, 2024
So...this story is about two friends in their midlife who are now experiencing the changes that life brings, and deciding how that will change their relationship. I found both the main characters likable. There was some banter but I felt it was flat at times, and I felt very little tension between the characters. The book was more like exploring the comfort of friendship and almost had like a platonic romance if that makes sense. I found the characters to be well developed. I did find something missing from this for me...and I think it was that it needed more romance development and absolutely more tension/attraction. If you are looking for spice...this is not your book. They only kiss a few times.
July 25, 2024
This is a wonderful millennial pop reference filled rom-com. Zero spice but the banter and the romance is off the charts. Friends to lovers at it’s finest.
# Cole and Laila Are Just Friends
# 7/23/2024 ~ 7/25/2024
# 5.0 / 5.0
# Cole and Laila Are Just Friends
# 7/23/2024 ~ 7/25/2024
# 5.0 / 5.0
Read
June 21, 2024Reading this book was like taking a fun sight-seeing tour around New York City with a couple of very amusing friends. Glad I read it.
June 26, 2024
Cute! I love a fun friends to more story. And Cole and Laila are just adorable and you can definitely see that they are the best of friends. The perfect start to any relationship! I loved how they knew each other so well that they could anticipate what the other was thinking or feeling. That's a gift to have in any relationship. But I will say that I had to suspense reality and my disbelief that these two have known each other their whole lives and are 40ish years old and this is the first time that they are realizing there is more to their feelings than just a platonic friendship. Yes, the author does put some thoughts in both characters' POVs about them brushing off those feelings and just staying friends but now with Cole getting ready to leave their small town, those feelings come rushing to the surface. So if you can suspend reality and your disbelief on those and go with the story, it is really cute and full of humor and great references that older adults will love! Gilmore Girls and many other tv show/movie references, and lots of celebrity references that those in their 40s+ will understand and giggle over. And hey, hopefully others who are younger will catch the references and will enjoy them as well!
The book opens with some sad news that builds up for Cole thinking about moving to NYC where his and Laila's best friends live. We get to go on an adventure in the Big Apple with these two and I loved that!
I listened to the audiobook and loved that there were two narrators, one male and one female to capture the personalities of these two characters! Well done. I really enjoyed it a lot!
Content: There is a one bed trope moment that the main characters share a bed. Nothing happens but some looks and thoughts but the thoughts didn't get graphic. Some kisses but nothing further. Clean language.
I received a copy of the audiobook from the publisher, Harper Collins Christian Publishing, via NetGalley. And a copy of the ebook from the publisher, Thomas Nelson-Fiction, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
The book opens with some sad news that builds up for Cole thinking about moving to NYC where his and Laila's best friends live. We get to go on an adventure in the Big Apple with these two and I loved that!
I listened to the audiobook and loved that there were two narrators, one male and one female to capture the personalities of these two characters! Well done. I really enjoyed it a lot!
Content: There is a one bed trope moment that the main characters share a bed. Nothing happens but some looks and thoughts but the thoughts didn't get graphic. Some kisses but nothing further. Clean language.
I received a copy of the audiobook from the publisher, Harper Collins Christian Publishing, via NetGalley. And a copy of the ebook from the publisher, Thomas Nelson-Fiction, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
June 22, 2024
DNF @47%
I stopped caring so I'm stopping the book. I don't know if this was 100% the book's fault, but this wasn't grabbing my attention at all. Cole and Laila are supposed to be lifelong best friends, but I didn't feel anything about their relationship - and the fake dating element fell flat too. They didn't have any romantic tension to pull it off. And I know this is just set in the same universe as another book from this author and it's not technically a companion. but Brynne and Sebastian are so heavily featured and I felt like I was missing something having not read Brynne and Sebastian Hate Each Other.
I stopped caring so I'm stopping the book. I don't know if this was 100% the book's fault, but this wasn't grabbing my attention at all. Cole and Laila are supposed to be lifelong best friends, but I didn't feel anything about their relationship - and the fake dating element fell flat too. They didn't have any romantic tension to pull it off. And I know this is just set in the same universe as another book from this author and it's not technically a companion. but Brynne and Sebastian are so heavily featured and I felt like I was missing something having not read Brynne and Sebastian Hate Each Other.
May 13, 2024
3.25✨
๋࣭ ⭑"There was no one in the world he was more himself with than Laila." ๋࣭ ⭑
๋࣭ ⭑"There wasn't a singular moment when something had shifted and somewhere deep in his subconscious his soul had whispered, "She matters more than the rest." It had always been. He'd always known." ๋࣭ ⭑
This book is for all my girlies who belive in soulmates and want nothing more than being able to fall, knowing there is this one person in their corner who will catch them. Always. Every single time.
So why did I not give it 5 stars?
Don't get me wrong, it was an amazing read, but there were some issues that made my enjoyment lessen.
The sentences didn't read smoothly, being way too long, and there were many moments I had to read them two or three times to understand. Also, please stop using so many word strings; that's not quirky, that's cringe.
Another point is that Cole and Laila, despite being in their twenties, sometimes act more like teenagers. It wouldn't have taken away from the story to make the characters 10-20 years younger.
The last point is that they go from friends to more-than-friends in the blink of an eye. I would have liked a little bit more pining and less content about their friends who already have their own book.
Nevertheless, don't let me discourage you and give the book a try if it sounds up your alley <33
I still really enjoyed my time!!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
—
I got approved for an arc, I‘m so excited!!
It sounds amazing🥰
๋࣭ ⭑"There was no one in the world he was more himself with than Laila." ๋࣭ ⭑
๋࣭ ⭑"There wasn't a singular moment when something had shifted and somewhere deep in his subconscious his soul had whispered, "She matters more than the rest." It had always been. He'd always known." ๋࣭ ⭑
This book is for all my girlies who belive in soulmates and want nothing more than being able to fall, knowing there is this one person in their corner who will catch them. Always. Every single time.
So why did I not give it 5 stars?
Don't get me wrong, it was an amazing read, but there were some issues that made my enjoyment lessen.
The sentences didn't read smoothly, being way too long, and there were many moments I had to read them two or three times to understand. Also, please stop using so many word strings; that's not quirky, that's cringe.
Another point is that Cole and Laila, despite being in their twenties, sometimes act more like teenagers. It wouldn't have taken away from the story to make the characters 10-20 years younger.
The last point is that they go from friends to more-than-friends in the blink of an eye. I would have liked a little bit more pining and less content about their friends who already have their own book.
Nevertheless, don't let me discourage you and give the book a try if it sounds up your alley <33
I still really enjoyed my time!!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
—
I got approved for an arc, I‘m so excited!!
It sounds amazing🥰
did-not-finish
June 2, 2024Did not finish at 15%.
At this point in the story, not only do I doubt them as lovers, they don't even seem like best friends. We're told that Laila understands Cole perfectly; however, she cannot stop asking him "you okay" as he mourns for his grandpa. Who does that!? Good friends know you don't ask. You just hang around and provide comfort and laughter.
Okay... but maybe that's just me.
But then, around 15%, Cole hears some pretty horrible news and takes some time to be by himself. When he returns Laila sees his face and KNOWS he's okay cause apparently Cole knew to mask his feelings and not show his true self to her. But, in her mind, she knows him and can tell that everything is alright now.
Ya, this just makes me think they don't share their deepest selves with each other. If they're not even vulnerable with each other as friends, how is this going to happen for them to be more? I just don't have any interest in them as a couple.
I received this for free as an advanced reader audiobook copy. But, it's not for me. I don't like the way the characters are written. Since this is the second book I've DNF'd by this author, I'm thinking this isn't the author for me.
At this point in the story, not only do I doubt them as lovers, they don't even seem like best friends. We're told that Laila understands Cole perfectly; however, she cannot stop asking him "you okay" as he mourns for his grandpa. Who does that!? Good friends know you don't ask. You just hang around and provide comfort and laughter.
Okay... but maybe that's just me.
But then, around 15%, Cole hears some pretty horrible news and takes some time to be by himself. When he returns Laila sees his face and KNOWS he's okay cause apparently Cole knew to mask his feelings and not show his true self to her. But, in her mind, she knows him and can tell that everything is alright now.
Ya, this just makes me think they don't share their deepest selves with each other. If they're not even vulnerable with each other as friends, how is this going to happen for them to be more? I just don't have any interest in them as a couple.
I received this for free as an advanced reader audiobook copy. But, it's not for me. I don't like the way the characters are written. Since this is the second book I've DNF'd by this author, I'm thinking this isn't the author for me.
February 5, 2024
There were cute and fun aspects to this romcom--even for someone who didn't get a single one of the Gilmore Girls or Friends references. But I also really struggled to find this particular friends-to-more very believable.
Disclosure: I received a digital review copy from NetGalley. Opinions are, clearly, my own.
Disclosure: I received a digital review copy from NetGalley. Opinions are, clearly, my own.
June 19, 2024
Cole and Layla have been friends for most of their lives. When the restaurant Cole owns and Layla works at is sold, their upheaval takes them to New York. Layla tags along with the intent to return to Colorado. This pair of friends begins to ponder life without each other and take a chance on “what if” their relationship should be more than friendship.
This story is told in dual POV that works very well. The unique points of view and humor carries through and is enjoyable. Cole and Layla are in their late 30’s- which is great, but I feel like their personalities and maturity is actually 25ish years old max.
This seems slow at the beginning to me as the author introduces the relationships and characters. Cole and Layla are in a situationship and halfway in love from the beginning- the way their relationship functions and the support they provide each other is that of a couple that isn’t having sex. So it wasn’t a great leap for that relationship to change and it wasn’t very defining for the characters either.
This story is told in dual POV that works very well. The unique points of view and humor carries through and is enjoyable. Cole and Layla are in their late 30’s- which is great, but I feel like their personalities and maturity is actually 25ish years old max.
This seems slow at the beginning to me as the author introduces the relationships and characters. Cole and Layla are in a situationship and halfway in love from the beginning- the way their relationship functions and the support they provide each other is that of a couple that isn’t having sex. So it wasn’t a great leap for that relationship to change and it wasn’t very defining for the characters either.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2024
I will not be accepting any criticism on this book sry, this has my heart forever and ever
August 8, 2024
The way I DESPERATELY wanted an epilogue.
Great story. Loved seeing so much of Sebastian and Brynn from the previous book.
Great story. Loved seeing so much of Sebastian and Brynn from the previous book.
Read
November 7, 2025I read Wes and Addie Had Their Chance: and I enjoyed it so I bought this one as it seemed like a cute friends to lovers rom com. However I really struggled to get into the plot and characters with this book.
It seemed like a sweet concept; best friends for a long time in a small town, Cole leaves for the big city all and his friend, Laila who he sees only as a friend follows him to support him. I got 45 percent in but just wasnt feeling that spark that I felt with Wes and Addies story. I bought the book so may revisit and try again at some point.
It seemed like a sweet concept; best friends for a long time in a small town, Cole leaves for the big city all and his friend, Laila who he sees only as a friend follows him to support him. I got 45 percent in but just wasnt feeling that spark that I felt with Wes and Addies story. I bought the book so may revisit and try again at some point.
April 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this one, and so far it's one of my favorites of Bethany Turner's. I loved the sweet romance between two lifelong friends, and the background setting of smalltown life as well as NYC. I also loved the nods to well-known romance movies set in New York as well. Those sweet romance parts in the city were my favorite.
*thank you to #NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book, all thoughts are my own.
*thank you to #NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book, all thoughts are my own.
Read
November 6, 2024This book, you guys. Oh my goodness. For years, I loved friends to more until it became the same old excuses, same old fears, same old reasoning. But this? It’s an utterly exquisite fresh take on the trope you have NEVER read before. It’s sweet and funny and filled with chemistry and two of the loveliest characters Bethany Turner, Author has ever written. And the audio is spectacular too! 😍
June 23, 2024
I enjoyed Cole and Laila Are Just Friends. I listened to the book and the narrators were fantastic. It was fun to travel with the characters from Colorado to New York as they explored their growing feelings for each other. (This book was a friends to more trope.) I felt as if I was on the trip with them enjoying the sights and sounds of New York. The author did a great job of describing the settings. This was a cute story. I did feel the ages of the characters were a bit off, but it didn’t keep me from enjoying the book. So, if you are looking for a romance with witty quips, pop culture references and sweet and clean romance, I think you'd like this book.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy of this book by the publisher, and this is my honest opinion.
July 19, 2025
Outstanding! Seriously superb storytelling. I'd love to move to Adelaide Springs (except for the flying or mountain driving) but visiting this vibrant tightknit community in the pages is more than enough to tangle my heartstrings and keep me up past my bedtime. I highly recommend this story!
June 4, 2024
Rating:⭐️2/5
Spice:🌶️2/5
Read in June 2024:🍉02/20
Goodreads Challenge:📚134/240
♥ [𝙻𝚊𝚒𝚕𝚊 & 𝙲𝚘𝚕𝚎] ♥
📌friends to lovers
📌grief
📌trip to New York
📌close proximity
📌quirky
🇺🇸This was NOT good. And when you read this, know that friends to lovers is my favorite trope.
I really didn’t like that the characters were completely platonic until almost 85% of the book and then the author tried to throw down our throat that “they were in love with e/o since they were 11 years old”. NOPE, I refuse that you try to tell me and not show me. I need proof. I need emotions. I need memories and shared moments.
The fact that the story switches from 1st POV in Laila’s chapters to 3rd POV in Cole’s chapters made me completely lose it. How can that be?? Where are the betas? I was completely lost and disconnected from the characters.
The writing style overall really didn’t do it for me. It goes like this: Laila says things like “My dress was green like a cucumber” and then 30 PAGES of some absolutely boring anecdotes about that one time she ate a cucumber to FINALLY return to what’s happening.
Okay, I’m going to stop writing this review because I'm starting to feel angry.
Anyway. Some moments were cute. I guess.
Although I was the very target for this friends-to-lovers romance, I unfortunately didn’t enjoy this book at all.
________________________
🇫🇷Je n’ai pas aimé. Et quand vous lirez ma chronique, sachez que ‘friends to lovers’ est mon trope préféré.
Je n'ai vraiment pas aimé que la relation entre les personnages soit complètement platonique jusqu'à presque 85% du livre et qu'ensuite l'auteure essaie de nous faire avaler qu'ils sont amoureux depuis qu'ils ont 11 ans. NOPE, je refuse que vous essayiez de me dire et non de me montrer. J'ai besoin de preuves. J'ai besoin d'émotions. J'ai besoin de souvenirs et de moments partagés.
Le fait que l'histoire passe de la 1ère personne dans les chapitres de Laila à la 3ème personne dans les chapitres de Cole m'a complètement perdue. Comment est-ce possible ? Où sont les bêta-lecteurs ? J'étais complètement perdue et déconnectée des personnages.
Le style d'écriture en général ne m'a vraiment pas plu. Voilà ce que j’ai lu : Laila dit des choses comme « Ma robe était verte comme un concombre », puis 30 PAGES d'anecdotes absolument ennuyeuses sur la fois où elle a mangé un concombre pour ENFIN revenir à ce qui se passe dans l’histoire.
Ok, je vais arrêter d'écrire cette critique parce que je commence à m’énerver.
Quoi qu'il en soit. Certains moments étaient mignons.
Malgré le fait que j’étais la cible parfaite pour cette histoire, je n’ai pas aimé ce livre du tout.
Spice:🌶️2/5
Read in June 2024:🍉02/20
Goodreads Challenge:📚134/240
♥ [𝙻𝚊𝚒𝚕𝚊 & 𝙲𝚘𝚕𝚎] ♥
📌friends to lovers
📌grief
📌trip to New York
📌close proximity
📌quirky
🇺🇸This was NOT good. And when you read this, know that friends to lovers is my favorite trope.
I really didn’t like that the characters were completely platonic until almost 85% of the book and then the author tried to throw down our throat that “they were in love with e/o since they were 11 years old”. NOPE, I refuse that you try to tell me and not show me. I need proof. I need emotions. I need memories and shared moments.
The fact that the story switches from 1st POV in Laila’s chapters to 3rd POV in Cole’s chapters made me completely lose it. How can that be?? Where are the betas? I was completely lost and disconnected from the characters.
The writing style overall really didn’t do it for me. It goes like this: Laila says things like “My dress was green like a cucumber” and then 30 PAGES of some absolutely boring anecdotes about that one time she ate a cucumber to FINALLY return to what’s happening.
Okay, I’m going to stop writing this review because I'm starting to feel angry.
Anyway. Some moments were cute. I guess.
Although I was the very target for this friends-to-lovers romance, I unfortunately didn’t enjoy this book at all.
________________________
🇫🇷Je n’ai pas aimé. Et quand vous lirez ma chronique, sachez que ‘friends to lovers’ est mon trope préféré.
Je n'ai vraiment pas aimé que la relation entre les personnages soit complètement platonique jusqu'à presque 85% du livre et qu'ensuite l'auteure essaie de nous faire avaler qu'ils sont amoureux depuis qu'ils ont 11 ans. NOPE, je refuse que vous essayiez de me dire et non de me montrer. J'ai besoin de preuves. J'ai besoin d'émotions. J'ai besoin de souvenirs et de moments partagés.
Le fait que l'histoire passe de la 1ère personne dans les chapitres de Laila à la 3ème personne dans les chapitres de Cole m'a complètement perdue. Comment est-ce possible ? Où sont les bêta-lecteurs ? J'étais complètement perdue et déconnectée des personnages.
Le style d'écriture en général ne m'a vraiment pas plu. Voilà ce que j’ai lu : Laila dit des choses comme « Ma robe était verte comme un concombre », puis 30 PAGES d'anecdotes absolument ennuyeuses sur la fois où elle a mangé un concombre pour ENFIN revenir à ce qui se passe dans l’histoire.
Ok, je vais arrêter d'écrire cette critique parce que je commence à m’énerver.
Quoi qu'il en soit. Certains moments étaient mignons.
Malgré le fait que j’étais la cible parfaite pour cette histoire, je n’ai pas aimé ce livre du tout.
April 15, 2024
Cole and Laila’s story will forever hold a little piece of my heart as one of my favourite friends to lovers books.
Imagine this: Cole and Laila, now in their late 30s, have been inseparable and best friends since they were children. However, certain events in Cole’s life seem to be taking him away their hometown, Adelaide Springs, to New York. Before making any decisions, Cole and Laila decide to spend a week together in New York. She wants to convince him to stay in Adelaide Springs, and he wants to convince her to come with him.
The week gets increasingly complicated for the two of them as romance comes to the forefront of their minds after decades of friendship, and many questions arise.
Cole and Laila as characters were loveable, their quirks, humour and pop-culture references endearing, and their small moments of affection incredibly heartwarming and beautiful. The author spent several pages talking about a hug between Cole and Laila and it still wasn’t enough for me. I needed even more - the writing was lovely.
There were definitely bits of information in the book that didn’t need to be there or didn’t really help, but they didn’t detract from the feeling you get reading about Cole and Laila no longer being “just friends”.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Imagine this: Cole and Laila, now in their late 30s, have been inseparable and best friends since they were children. However, certain events in Cole’s life seem to be taking him away their hometown, Adelaide Springs, to New York. Before making any decisions, Cole and Laila decide to spend a week together in New York. She wants to convince him to stay in Adelaide Springs, and he wants to convince her to come with him.
The week gets increasingly complicated for the two of them as romance comes to the forefront of their minds after decades of friendship, and many questions arise.
Cole and Laila as characters were loveable, their quirks, humour and pop-culture references endearing, and their small moments of affection incredibly heartwarming and beautiful. The author spent several pages talking about a hug between Cole and Laila and it still wasn’t enough for me. I needed even more - the writing was lovely.
There were definitely bits of information in the book that didn’t need to be there or didn’t really help, but they didn’t detract from the feeling you get reading about Cole and Laila no longer being “just friends”.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 9, 2024
Best friends Cole and Laila have always been inseparable. When a family betrayal pushes Cole to consider moving to NYC, Laila, who adores their small-town life in Colorado, is conflicted. They agree to spend a week in New York together, trying to ignore budding feelings that could change everything. Can they keep their bond unbroken?
“What if, just for one day, we pretend we don’t have a lifetime of history and shared memories?”
Filled with pop-culture references and the most decadent slowest of slow burns, Cole and Laila’s friendship is deliciously romantic. I really enjoyed reading a story about characters in their late 30s whose maturity and evolving friendship stabilized even the most painful news and possible life transitions. From Cole’s dreams to Laila’s internal conflict of not wanting her best friend to move, their emotional connection drove the story. I wasn’t even annoyed that it took them forever to finally share their feelings, it was well-worth the palpable tension to get here. This is for the girlies who live in the “what-ifs” & “could’ve beens.”
I couldn’t get enough of the references to..
🗽Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
☕️Friends
🍽️When Harry Met Sally
👩❤️👨Gilmore Girls
🏙️You’ve Got Mail
🧔🏻Milo Ventimiglia
🛌Tent bed
👠Sex and the City
💕Taylor Swift
🥞Pancakes
Thank you @tnzfiction for the ARC 🫶🏻
Perfect for you if you like:
The best slowest of slow burns
Older characters
Childhood friends to lovers + “fake” dating
Wholesome sunshine characters
Similar to:
Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams
Redemption by Karen Kingsbury
Love in Tandem by Becca Kinzer
⛔️closed door romance (kisses only)
⚠️death of a loved one & family hurt
“What if, just for one day, we pretend we don’t have a lifetime of history and shared memories?”
Filled with pop-culture references and the most decadent slowest of slow burns, Cole and Laila’s friendship is deliciously romantic. I really enjoyed reading a story about characters in their late 30s whose maturity and evolving friendship stabilized even the most painful news and possible life transitions. From Cole’s dreams to Laila’s internal conflict of not wanting her best friend to move, their emotional connection drove the story. I wasn’t even annoyed that it took them forever to finally share their feelings, it was well-worth the palpable tension to get here. This is for the girlies who live in the “what-ifs” & “could’ve beens.”
I couldn’t get enough of the references to..
🗽Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
☕️Friends
🍽️When Harry Met Sally
👩❤️👨Gilmore Girls
🏙️You’ve Got Mail
🧔🏻Milo Ventimiglia
🛌Tent bed
👠Sex and the City
💕Taylor Swift
🥞Pancakes
Thank you @tnzfiction for the ARC 🫶🏻
Perfect for you if you like:
The best slowest of slow burns
Older characters
Childhood friends to lovers + “fake” dating
Wholesome sunshine characters
Similar to:
Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams
Redemption by Karen Kingsbury
Love in Tandem by Becca Kinzer
⛔️closed door romance (kisses only)
⚠️death of a loved one & family hurt
April 16, 2024
5 ⭐️
the moment i set eyes into this book i knew it would be amazing... and i wasn't wrong!!!
this is the very first book of bethany's that i've read and i'm already in love with her writing. the way the events are tied in to each other and how the characters have full built stories... i simply loved it ❤️
the amount of references though... i almost collapse every time taylor was mentioned (i love that i'm not the only one who refers to her as tay tay as if we're best friends 🤣), and don't get me started on the movies/series references... i had a total blast reading this book 👌
thank you netgalley and the publisher for the ARC!
the moment i set eyes into this book i knew it would be amazing... and i wasn't wrong!!!
this is the very first book of bethany's that i've read and i'm already in love with her writing. the way the events are tied in to each other and how the characters have full built stories... i simply loved it ❤️
the amount of references though... i almost collapse every time taylor was mentioned (i love that i'm not the only one who refers to her as tay tay as if we're best friends 🤣), and don't get me started on the movies/series references... i had a total blast reading this book 👌
thank you netgalley and the publisher for the ARC!
dnf
October 13, 2025didn't realize this was a second book of a series. Soft DNF until I find and read the first book. DNF page 21
Also the text is so small and I hate it
Also the text is so small and I hate it
October 6, 2024
So much of what I love about romcoms is included in this book. It’s like a great big hug, and I loved reading it!
This friends to more story is about lifelong best friends, so their connection is strong and their commitment to each other no matter what brings a depth of feeling that is hard to match in insta-love romances. The support of their friends, family and community is also richly layered, heartwarming and endearing. I also absolutely loved all of the pop culture and romcom movie references. So fun to connect to the tv and movie highlights, and even more fun to experience Laila getting to see the settings of favorite scenes in person.
Cole and Laila have been part of a tight group of best friends in their small town of Adelaide Springs, CO, their whole lives. Others have moved on, but Cole and Laila remain in the town working together and being there for each other no matter what. When Cole has some disappointing surprises after his grandfather’s passing he feels the need to probably move away. He pursues a new culinary opportunity in New York. Laila realizes that as much as she can’t stand to see him leave, she has to support him, so she goes to NYC, too. They are supported by their great friends Brynn and Sebastian who let them stay in their place, but they have to leave so Cole & Laila have the fun forced proximity trope to push them into seeing if they might actually be more than just friends. Of course, there’s a HEA or it wouldn’t be 5⭐️ from me.
There are some hard and sad parts that give it some depth, but it made me smile and cry happy tears. Cole and Laila might be my new favorite book couple! It’s predictable, but of course I wanted the happy ending just like it happens. So sweet!
This friends to more story is about lifelong best friends, so their connection is strong and their commitment to each other no matter what brings a depth of feeling that is hard to match in insta-love romances. The support of their friends, family and community is also richly layered, heartwarming and endearing. I also absolutely loved all of the pop culture and romcom movie references. So fun to connect to the tv and movie highlights, and even more fun to experience Laila getting to see the settings of favorite scenes in person.
Cole and Laila have been part of a tight group of best friends in their small town of Adelaide Springs, CO, their whole lives. Others have moved on, but Cole and Laila remain in the town working together and being there for each other no matter what. When Cole has some disappointing surprises after his grandfather’s passing he feels the need to probably move away. He pursues a new culinary opportunity in New York. Laila realizes that as much as she can’t stand to see him leave, she has to support him, so she goes to NYC, too. They are supported by their great friends Brynn and Sebastian who let them stay in their place, but they have to leave so Cole & Laila have the fun forced proximity trope to push them into seeing if they might actually be more than just friends. Of course, there’s a HEA or it wouldn’t be 5⭐️ from me.
There are some hard and sad parts that give it some depth, but it made me smile and cry happy tears. Cole and Laila might be my new favorite book couple! It’s predictable, but of course I wanted the happy ending just like it happens. So sweet!
February 8, 2024
I've been reading books by Bethany Turner since I discovered Sarah Hollenbeck had a secret life. And I fell head over heels in love with Will while he was busy wooing Cadie McCaffrey.
But this. This is now my hands down, ultimate favorite BT novel, forever and always. Cole and Laila are just friends-- yeah they are. The best kind of friends.
The kind that read each other's minds. The kind with hilarious inside jokes. The kind that would move heaven and earth to make the other smile, find comfort, and have confidence.
Until nothing seems to be as it once was. Until the wheels fall off the friendship bus. Until life throws a fast curve ball that neither are ready to catch.
If you love pop culture references galore, long to see the Big Apple without leaving your place, and don't mind a (not so) necessary celebrity sighting (I seriously found it irrelevant and skipped right over him to get to Cole!) you really need this book in your life.
My thanks to the publisher for my advance copy. My review has not been solicited. My review is honest and I really hope convinces you to Buy. This. Book.
But this. This is now my hands down, ultimate favorite BT novel, forever and always. Cole and Laila are just friends-- yeah they are. The best kind of friends.
The kind that read each other's minds. The kind with hilarious inside jokes. The kind that would move heaven and earth to make the other smile, find comfort, and have confidence.
Until nothing seems to be as it once was. Until the wheels fall off the friendship bus. Until life throws a fast curve ball that neither are ready to catch.
If you love pop culture references galore, long to see the Big Apple without leaving your place, and don't mind a (not so) necessary celebrity sighting (I seriously found it irrelevant and skipped right over him to get to Cole!) you really need this book in your life.
My thanks to the publisher for my advance copy. My review has not been solicited. My review is honest and I really hope convinces you to Buy. This. Book.
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