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Work It Out
It’s all work and even more play in this irresistible and quirky romance that’s a perfect fit for fans of Amy Lea & Talia Hibbert.
With the lead role in a huge action film up for grabs, actor Jake Newman has ninety days to get in shape. How does a man grow abs without the tabloids watching his every move? By sneaking off to a high-end health resort in his Arizona hometown to supersize his biceps…Thor style. Oh, and hope no one discovers the real reason he bailed from Los Angeles—or the teeny little health issue he’s hoping to keep from everyone.
Especially his cute, sunshiny, and absolute hard-ass new trainer.
Former gymnast Rayah Summers has poured everything she has into her desert a full-service resort that helps people transform their bodies and lifestyles. But a run of bad luck has her on the brink of bankruptcy —and the Hollywood hunk with insanely sexy dimples is all that’s standing between her and disaster.
Now everything depends on her her future, her roof over her head, and especially her trainers—who are more family than employees. Rayah can’t afford for anything to go wrong… and no one’s able to explain why Jake Newman keeps collapsing during even the lightest workouts. Now it’s a balance beam nightmare, with Rayah trying to keep her business afloat—all while managing her staff’s drama, keeping her celebrity client a secret, and not falling for him or his devilishly sexy grin. And it’s just a matter of time before Jake’s secrets threaten not only her dreams, but the chosen family she’s found…
With the lead role in a huge action film up for grabs, actor Jake Newman has ninety days to get in shape. How does a man grow abs without the tabloids watching his every move? By sneaking off to a high-end health resort in his Arizona hometown to supersize his biceps…Thor style. Oh, and hope no one discovers the real reason he bailed from Los Angeles—or the teeny little health issue he’s hoping to keep from everyone.
Especially his cute, sunshiny, and absolute hard-ass new trainer.
Former gymnast Rayah Summers has poured everything she has into her desert a full-service resort that helps people transform their bodies and lifestyles. But a run of bad luck has her on the brink of bankruptcy —and the Hollywood hunk with insanely sexy dimples is all that’s standing between her and disaster.
Now everything depends on her her future, her roof over her head, and especially her trainers—who are more family than employees. Rayah can’t afford for anything to go wrong… and no one’s able to explain why Jake Newman keeps collapsing during even the lightest workouts. Now it’s a balance beam nightmare, with Rayah trying to keep her business afloat—all while managing her staff’s drama, keeping her celebrity client a secret, and not falling for him or his devilishly sexy grin. And it’s just a matter of time before Jake’s secrets threaten not only her dreams, but the chosen family she’s found…
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 29, 2024
48 people are currently reading
599 people want to read
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January 9, 2024
As a person whose love language is acts of service (and therefore pushing others to be their best selves!) I was in love with our heroine Rayah! Smart, respects her body, and knows how to bring out the best in people? YES.
When Rayah pours her life savings into opening her dream wellness resort - she doesn't expect the idea not to flourish overnight. When a potential client, AKA movie star, needs help getting fit for an upcoming role - it's just the challenge she needs to make a name for herself. As Rayah and Jake clash while he's putting up walls to protect his vulnerability (and secrets) - they grow closer without even realizing that they need each other!
Male vulnerability is not often discussed. It's usually the feminine character who's physically a little weaker and the men who have the means to save the woman. I really like that role reversal and the breakdown of emotional barriers to creating a truly sweet story!
↑↑ Update - Finished January 9th, 2024 ↑↑
Needed something a little lighter to listen to after reading Manacled. Good lord.. lol hopefully this is exactly what I need!!
↑↑ Update - Started January 8th, 2024 ↑↑
**Thank you to Entangled Publishing, LLC & NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
When Rayah pours her life savings into opening her dream wellness resort - she doesn't expect the idea not to flourish overnight. When a potential client, AKA movie star, needs help getting fit for an upcoming role - it's just the challenge she needs to make a name for herself. As Rayah and Jake clash while he's putting up walls to protect his vulnerability (and secrets) - they grow closer without even realizing that they need each other!
Male vulnerability is not often discussed. It's usually the feminine character who's physically a little weaker and the men who have the means to save the woman. I really like that role reversal and the breakdown of emotional barriers to creating a truly sweet story!
↑↑ Update - Finished January 9th, 2024 ↑↑
Needed something a little lighter to listen to after reading Manacled. Good lord.. lol hopefully this is exactly what I need!!
↑↑ Update - Started January 8th, 2024 ↑↑
**Thank you to Entangled Publishing, LLC & NetGalley for the advanced reader copy. I received this book for free, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR 🖤
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
March 29, 2024
⭐️ 3 ⭐️
Work It Out
Plot:
Actor Jake Newman has 90 days to get into shape. He stays at a high-end health resort where he meets owner, Rayah Summers. On the brink of bankruptcy her future relies on Jake keeping his health issues at bay and not falling for his charm.
Romance | Disability Representation | He falls first | Found Family
My Thoughts:
I really struggled! to get through this. I really wanted to like this. The set up and concept was so interesting to me. But the writing style and constant dialogue killed me. I felt like nothing really happened. I would have DNFed this but I wanted to see it through. Some parts were really cheese and gross. I just wanted to like this but I didn’t.
Work It Out
Plot:
Actor Jake Newman has 90 days to get into shape. He stays at a high-end health resort where he meets owner, Rayah Summers. On the brink of bankruptcy her future relies on Jake keeping his health issues at bay and not falling for his charm.
Romance | Disability Representation | He falls first | Found Family
My Thoughts:
I really struggled! to get through this. I really wanted to like this. The set up and concept was so interesting to me. But the writing style and constant dialogue killed me. I felt like nothing really happened. I would have DNFed this but I wanted to see it through. Some parts were really cheese and gross. I just wanted to like this but I didn’t.
January 6, 2024
➛ 3 stars!! ★
💌 ”love is worth the weights.”
i had high hopes, i mean, that cover? adorable! 😚 and the synopsis got me like, “this is gonna be good!” but, sigh, it kinda tripped after 30%, and now i'm here a bit disappointed. the potential was sky-high, but it's was a big mess with pacing issues 🙃
writing . . . the writing started smooth, making it a quick read, but after 30%, it went on a rollercoaster. rushed pace, no clear rhythm – like the author was trying to cram all their ideas into those little 400 pages. just needed better pacing or maybe a few more pages to breathe 🤷🏾♀️. now, the dialogue – it started natural, but as the main characters got closer, it got cringe-worthy 😭. i'm talking goosebumps of cringe, and not the good kind. also, mixed pov’s? usually my jam, but here, it felt like a mixtape gone wrong. got a bit lost at times ☹️
plot . . . jake newman , a hollywood hunk with secret health issues (POTS), and rayah summers , a hard-ass trainer on the brink of bankruptcy. jake needs to shape up for a superhero role, and rayah's resort is his last hope. but it's not just about the workouts; it's a balance beam nightmare with secrets threatening everyone's dreams ( POTENTIAL! 😣)
rayah summers . . . admirable journey, really, but for some reason, i couldn't fully attach myself to her 🤷🏾♀️. sweet, funny, and overcoming trauma – great qualities, but not super obsessed with her character 💞
jake newman . . . is very desperate and cheesy after 30% 😐. i couldn't take him seriously, and my attachment level was even lower than with rayah. his POTS was handled beautifully, though. the book shed light on a sensitive topic, and i learned a lot about POTS, so props for that 👏🏾
rayahjake . . . chemistry? yes. conversations? good. desperation? a bit too much. liked their relationship but felt the third-act breakup was way too late (not that i even like third-act breakups in books 🥱), and the end was severely rushed.
fitness storyline . . . loved it! 🫣 not your usual abusive diet culture, but a natural fitness journey. gym family vibes and small-town charm – nailed it. the female trainer angle was refreshing. great insight into fitness without being preachy – well done! 💞
overall, cute, sweet, spicy – a mixed bag. not a perfect five, but hey, it's a cute read 😚. celebrity romance vibes on point. characters and writing could use some polishing, but it's a nice addition to your reading list. coming out on january 29, 2024 – mark your calendar if you're into playful, lighthearted romance with self-improvement vibes 🗓️
💌 notes !! . . . i'm low-key hoping the author spills the tea on vicky and samuel. almost loved them more than the main duo 👀. also, more grace, please 🤲🏾
"Thank you NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, and the author for sending me a copy of this e-arc. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
💌 ”love is worth the weights.”
i had high hopes, i mean, that cover? adorable! 😚 and the synopsis got me like, “this is gonna be good!” but, sigh, it kinda tripped after 30%, and now i'm here a bit disappointed. the potential was sky-high, but it's was a big mess with pacing issues 🙃
writing . . . the writing started smooth, making it a quick read, but after 30%, it went on a rollercoaster. rushed pace, no clear rhythm – like the author was trying to cram all their ideas into those little 400 pages. just needed better pacing or maybe a few more pages to breathe 🤷🏾♀️. now, the dialogue – it started natural, but as the main characters got closer, it got cringe-worthy 😭. i'm talking goosebumps of cringe, and not the good kind. also, mixed pov’s? usually my jam, but here, it felt like a mixtape gone wrong. got a bit lost at times ☹️
plot . . . jake newman , a hollywood hunk with secret health issues (POTS), and rayah summers , a hard-ass trainer on the brink of bankruptcy. jake needs to shape up for a superhero role, and rayah's resort is his last hope. but it's not just about the workouts; it's a balance beam nightmare with secrets threatening everyone's dreams ( POTENTIAL! 😣)
rayah summers . . . admirable journey, really, but for some reason, i couldn't fully attach myself to her 🤷🏾♀️. sweet, funny, and overcoming trauma – great qualities, but not super obsessed with her character 💞
jake newman . . . is very desperate and cheesy after 30% 😐. i couldn't take him seriously, and my attachment level was even lower than with rayah. his POTS was handled beautifully, though. the book shed light on a sensitive topic, and i learned a lot about POTS, so props for that 👏🏾
rayahjake . . . chemistry? yes. conversations? good. desperation? a bit too much. liked their relationship but felt the third-act breakup was way too late (not that i even like third-act breakups in books 🥱), and the end was severely rushed.
fitness storyline . . . loved it! 🫣 not your usual abusive diet culture, but a natural fitness journey. gym family vibes and small-town charm – nailed it. the female trainer angle was refreshing. great insight into fitness without being preachy – well done! 💞
overall, cute, sweet, spicy – a mixed bag. not a perfect five, but hey, it's a cute read 😚. celebrity romance vibes on point. characters and writing could use some polishing, but it's a nice addition to your reading list. coming out on january 29, 2024 – mark your calendar if you're into playful, lighthearted romance with self-improvement vibes 🗓️
💌 notes !! . . . i'm low-key hoping the author spills the tea on vicky and samuel. almost loved them more than the main duo 👀. also, more grace, please 🤲🏾
"Thank you NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, and the author for sending me a copy of this e-arc. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."
December 24, 2023
— 2.5 ⚝
this book started out rlly well for me. the dialogue was great, the humour was top notch and so was the setting and characterization. but all that quickly fell apart for me. the pacing is very off and rushed and it feels like the book is trying to pack in too much to the point where it becomes very perplexing. around the 20ish% mark, the dialogue starts become too cheesy and some of it feels thrown in there just because it can be and not because it's deserved. paced differently, it could have made this a much better read for me. i also feel like the things the main male character said were very unbelievable to me because it doesn't flow with the rest of the story. 24% in, he says things like "i see you for who u are" while he's having a crisis physically. it doesn't make sense to me at all.
additionally, sometimes it was very hard to follow the pov because it was unclear who's pov we were getting. third person doesn't bother me much and i quite enjoy it even but in this situation, it could have been written in a way that gives the reader more clarity, even adding something as simple as a name at the beginning of the chapter would help imo.
i definitely do see potential in the author because her humour is delivered excellently and the plot of the book is also great. but this one was sadly not for me.
thank you to netgalley and Entangled publishing for an e-arc of this book. all thoughts are my own and not influenced in any way.
this book started out rlly well for me. the dialogue was great, the humour was top notch and so was the setting and characterization. but all that quickly fell apart for me. the pacing is very off and rushed and it feels like the book is trying to pack in too much to the point where it becomes very perplexing. around the 20ish% mark, the dialogue starts become too cheesy and some of it feels thrown in there just because it can be and not because it's deserved. paced differently, it could have made this a much better read for me. i also feel like the things the main male character said were very unbelievable to me because it doesn't flow with the rest of the story. 24% in, he says things like "i see you for who u are" while he's having a crisis physically. it doesn't make sense to me at all.
additionally, sometimes it was very hard to follow the pov because it was unclear who's pov we were getting. third person doesn't bother me much and i quite enjoy it even but in this situation, it could have been written in a way that gives the reader more clarity, even adding something as simple as a name at the beginning of the chapter would help imo.
i definitely do see potential in the author because her humour is delivered excellently and the plot of the book is also great. but this one was sadly not for me.
thank you to netgalley and Entangled publishing for an e-arc of this book. all thoughts are my own and not influenced in any way.
February 25, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up.
Work it Out by Eva Siedler was an interesting read, it had a lot going for it, humor, diverse characters, some tough topics, and celebrities. It follows the perspectives of Jake, who is trying to get ready to audition for a role in an upcoming superhero movie when he meets Rayah, who owns and operates the facility he is at in his hometown. It is a contemporary romance, set in a small town. It has a great disability representation that I really liked seeing. The plot was pretty good, kept me engaged and invested in characters and story, it was more on the serious side, but had some hilarious moments that had me busting out laughing. The romance was ok for me. I had a hard time with the chemistry and development of their relationship, especially at the beginning of the book but by the end it was great. I loved both Jake and Rayah, they were both great characters to follow, well developed and flushed out. Jake had great humor, did not let anything slow him down and sometimes got in his own way. Rayah was just amazing, compassionate about her work and people. There are some trigger warnings in this book so please check them out before picking it up. I enjoyed this read and would recommend it.
Trigger warnings: Sexual assault, domestic abuse.
I received an advanced ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.
Work it Out by Eva Siedler was an interesting read, it had a lot going for it, humor, diverse characters, some tough topics, and celebrities. It follows the perspectives of Jake, who is trying to get ready to audition for a role in an upcoming superhero movie when he meets Rayah, who owns and operates the facility he is at in his hometown. It is a contemporary romance, set in a small town. It has a great disability representation that I really liked seeing. The plot was pretty good, kept me engaged and invested in characters and story, it was more on the serious side, but had some hilarious moments that had me busting out laughing. The romance was ok for me. I had a hard time with the chemistry and development of their relationship, especially at the beginning of the book but by the end it was great. I loved both Jake and Rayah, they were both great characters to follow, well developed and flushed out. Jake had great humor, did not let anything slow him down and sometimes got in his own way. Rayah was just amazing, compassionate about her work and people. There are some trigger warnings in this book so please check them out before picking it up. I enjoyed this read and would recommend it.
Trigger warnings: Sexual assault, domestic abuse.
I received an advanced ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.
January 4, 2024
I really loved the premise of this book and I got so excited when I saw that I had been approved for an ARC.
The characters were likeable, relatable and you couldn’t help but root for them. I also loved that this book gave representation to a condition that you don’t see portrayed much in media.
I do feel that a lot happened in such a small amount of pages and that made me feel overwhelmed and confused. I think that due to that, it felt rushed to me at the end. This is just my personal opinion and I can see lots of people picking this up and loving it.
I’m super interested to see what comes next with this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for providing me with this ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters were likeable, relatable and you couldn’t help but root for them. I also loved that this book gave representation to a condition that you don’t see portrayed much in media.
I do feel that a lot happened in such a small amount of pages and that made me feel overwhelmed and confused. I think that due to that, it felt rushed to me at the end. This is just my personal opinion and I can see lots of people picking this up and loving it.
I’m super interested to see what comes next with this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for providing me with this ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 12, 2024
I enjoyed reading this cute small-town romantic comedy. I liked the chemistry and banter between the main characters but also the surrounding characters were interesting which made the story more complete. The storytelling was nice and I will look for other books by this author.
February 19, 2024
Jake is a television star desperate for his big into motion pictures. He see’s his chance to star in an superhero action film. The only problem is Jake has POTS. So training and bulking up is not only difficult but dangerous. After winding up in the headlines over a hug with his MUCH younger costar, Jake decides to leave Hollywood for a while to hide from the press and train for his chance at the new role.
Rayah is a former Gymnast who after being a part of an olympic scandal cuts her ties as a professional athlete and opens a state of the art training facility. The last thing she wants is to get involved with a Hollywood star or be involved in another lawsuit.
Of course just like the unpredictable Monsoons, Jake and Rayah are flooded with feelings with each other that they don’t really want to fight. Can Jake continue to keep his illness a secret from her, and can they both weather the storm of jealousy when others are fighting for their attention?
You’ll just have to give it a read and find out.
Rayah is a former Gymnast who after being a part of an olympic scandal cuts her ties as a professional athlete and opens a state of the art training facility. The last thing she wants is to get involved with a Hollywood star or be involved in another lawsuit.
Of course just like the unpredictable Monsoons, Jake and Rayah are flooded with feelings with each other that they don’t really want to fight. Can Jake continue to keep his illness a secret from her, and can they both weather the storm of jealousy when others are fighting for their attention?
You’ll just have to give it a read and find out.
December 22, 2023
Work it out is a very enjoyable small-town romance between a famous actor,Jake, and a former gymnast, Rayah. I liked the pace of the book for the most part and the way the surrounding characters are portrayed and contribute to the story. I also liked the way the more sensitive issues were addressed, it was subtle but not superficial.
I would have liked to know some more things about the MMC’s past and how he grew to become the man he is now, it felt like the FMC had more attention by the author in this part.
I guess the thing that bothered me the most was Rayah’s tolerance of Jake’s attitude towards her in the beginning of their acquaintance- I mean she was portrayed as strict, how could she not complain when he started calling her “cupcake” out of nowhere?
-Written in 3rd person
-Spice: max 2/5 🌶️
Overall: 4/5 ⭐️ for me.
I received an advanced free copy of this book via NetGalley & Entangled Publishing and I’m leaving a voluntary review.
I would have liked to know some more things about the MMC’s past and how he grew to become the man he is now, it felt like the FMC had more attention by the author in this part.
I guess the thing that bothered me the most was Rayah’s tolerance of Jake’s attitude towards her in the beginning of their acquaintance- I mean she was portrayed as strict, how could she not complain when he started calling her “cupcake” out of nowhere?
-Written in 3rd person
-Spice: max 2/5 🌶️
Overall: 4/5 ⭐️ for me.
I received an advanced free copy of this book via NetGalley & Entangled Publishing and I’m leaving a voluntary review.
January 5, 2024
This is a somewhat the opposite of many books. Usually, the first few chapters are hard to get through and then the rest of the story is pretty easy to read and addictive. With this book, I was instantly engrossed with the characters and writing style, only for it to fall flat later on in the story.
I loved how both MCs could be vulnerable around each other, both physically and emotionally. I'm usually a hater of name calling (honey, sweetheart) but the way Jake called Rayah 'cupcake' actually felt natural and super cute. They just had great chemistry and trust, and oh my god I loved the sarcasm. The scene where Rayah effortlessly carries Jake (who's much taller than her) had me swooning. Ooh and also their "fur baby" Hogrid the pig, wow he was such a character.
For disability rep, I'll say I was impressed. I hadn't even heard of POTS before reading this book, so the information was quite welcome. Jake has a good number of episodes in the story and seeing how it affected him (and how he tried to keep it a secret) struck a chord with me.
While the story has some great plot points, I was not very happy with the flow in narration, though I loved Siedler's writing style and humor. I'm not going to hate on this book because I enjoyed it, but there's so much that could've been done better. And I'm keeping an eye out for more books by the author!
(Rating is rounded up)
I loved how both MCs could be vulnerable around each other, both physically and emotionally. I'm usually a hater of name calling (honey, sweetheart) but the way Jake called Rayah 'cupcake' actually felt natural and super cute. They just had great chemistry and trust, and oh my god I loved the sarcasm. The scene where Rayah effortlessly carries Jake (who's much taller than her) had me swooning. Ooh and also their "fur baby" Hogrid the pig, wow he was such a character.
For disability rep, I'll say I was impressed. I hadn't even heard of POTS before reading this book, so the information was quite welcome. Jake has a good number of episodes in the story and seeing how it affected him (and how he tried to keep it a secret) struck a chord with me.
While the story has some great plot points, I was not very happy with the flow in narration, though I loved Siedler's writing style and humor. I'm not going to hate on this book because I enjoyed it, but there's so much that could've been done better. And I'm keeping an eye out for more books by the author!
(Rating is rounded up)
January 5, 2024
There was definitely many layers to this one, making it a deeper romcom than I expected. Jake/Chris (one is his actor name) is up for a big superhero role, akin to our Marvel universe, but he has to buff up for the role. That’s easier said than done for someone who suffers from POTS.
Rayah is hired to get him in shape, which starts off a bit rocky given some altitude sickness, and then later discovery (on her end) of his POTS. Also that there is no denying their chemistry. Layers get added as Rayah’s past comes back to haunt her, some of Jake’s does to as well as some obligations he has to getting the part, managers, a bad father, a best friend who has unrequited feelings, and of course, the “I can’t keep my hands off of you” aspect.
This one was a workout of my brain at time (LOL get it?), and I enjoyed it! Thank you Entangled Publishing for the early copy.
Rayah is hired to get him in shape, which starts off a bit rocky given some altitude sickness, and then later discovery (on her end) of his POTS. Also that there is no denying their chemistry. Layers get added as Rayah’s past comes back to haunt her, some of Jake’s does to as well as some obligations he has to getting the part, managers, a bad father, a best friend who has unrequited feelings, and of course, the “I can’t keep my hands off of you” aspect.
This one was a workout of my brain at time (LOL get it?), and I enjoyed it! Thank you Entangled Publishing for the early copy.
April 30, 2024
This was a cute read with chronic illness rep and I really enjoyed the last half specifically! There was a *lot* of millennial talk which I don’t mind because I’m in that generation but I could see how younger people might not like it. I also read reviews in the beginning and a lot of people were upset with Rayah’s “tiny” size and how often it was mentioned. I don’t think they read the book fully to know that Rayah was a former gymnast who was strong and muscular. She was also described as curvy several times so if that’s putting you off from reading this, it was a height thing and people need to settle down lol.
January 15, 2024
A really fun, refreshing contemporary romance! Loved the chemistry and banter between the leads and the found family aspect.
4 stars
4 stars
December 31, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Contemporary romance may not be my favorite subgenre but I'm always willing to take a bite when the plot intrigues me. Work It Out seemed like it had potential, but I was inundated by overexposition. I was bombarded by too many characters and a bloated narrative. The story started off with deceit and I immediately knew what my reading experience would entail. Jake and Rayah could have had a perfect romance, but it appeared like they were committed to self sabotage. Lying about a serious medical diagnosis before embarking on an intense exercise regime is a red flag the size of Arizona.
I wanted to like this couple, I really did. I love endearments and Jake called her Cupcake. It was cute at first until it was repeated nearly three times per page. Sweet little nicknames are a nice touch, but goodness gracious, use some variety. There was also a gross love triangle element and the heroine ended up kissing the third party with nary a sizzle. She wasn't fully involved with the hero yet but it still felt wrong. Rayah gave off major Shawn Johnson vibes and was a firecracker in a tiny muscular body. The hero lightly fetishized her size and grew ickier as the book progressed. As a pocket princess myself, I was very self conscious over my diminutive height while I read. I get that she's tiny, but leave the poor lady be!
This was my first exercise-centric romance and let's just say we didn't Work It Out. It's a bummer because I was looking forward to a new trope to experience. I'll still experiment with contemporary and hopefully I can find another book that meets the same enjoyment I've found with historical and paranormal romance. I do all my exercises at home with my darling Youtuber GrowWithJo and refuse to pay for a membership, although I would be more inclined if I scored a honey like Jake. I know the gym is a great way to meet people, but I'm not interested in liars. Looks like it didn't work out this time. Maybe next time, pal.
Contemporary romance may not be my favorite subgenre but I'm always willing to take a bite when the plot intrigues me. Work It Out seemed like it had potential, but I was inundated by overexposition. I was bombarded by too many characters and a bloated narrative. The story started off with deceit and I immediately knew what my reading experience would entail. Jake and Rayah could have had a perfect romance, but it appeared like they were committed to self sabotage. Lying about a serious medical diagnosis before embarking on an intense exercise regime is a red flag the size of Arizona.
I wanted to like this couple, I really did. I love endearments and Jake called her Cupcake. It was cute at first until it was repeated nearly three times per page. Sweet little nicknames are a nice touch, but goodness gracious, use some variety. There was also a gross love triangle element and the heroine ended up kissing the third party with nary a sizzle. She wasn't fully involved with the hero yet but it still felt wrong. Rayah gave off major Shawn Johnson vibes and was a firecracker in a tiny muscular body. The hero lightly fetishized her size and grew ickier as the book progressed. As a pocket princess myself, I was very self conscious over my diminutive height while I read. I get that she's tiny, but leave the poor lady be!
This was my first exercise-centric romance and let's just say we didn't Work It Out. It's a bummer because I was looking forward to a new trope to experience. I'll still experiment with contemporary and hopefully I can find another book that meets the same enjoyment I've found with historical and paranormal romance. I do all my exercises at home with my darling Youtuber GrowWithJo and refuse to pay for a membership, although I would be more inclined if I scored a honey like Jake. I know the gym is a great way to meet people, but I'm not interested in liars. Looks like it didn't work out this time. Maybe next time, pal.
June 25, 2024
I was a little confused at first. The story of Jake and Rayah is good, I can't deny it, but I was a little lost in the first few chapters. Once I figured out what was going on, everything started to make sense. It was an enjoyable read, although I felt like these two rushed into a romantic relationship a bit. However, they also took their “time” getting to know each other, so that's a point in their favor. There is a little bit of drama at the end, but it is resolved quickly.
This is a light read, but it does deal with some heavy themes that could be triggering for some readers. Please check the trigger warnings before reading.
📌I received an e-arc through netgalley, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.
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A la primera estaba un poco confundida, la historia de Jake y Rayah es buena, no puedo negarlo pero los primeros capítulos estaba un poco perdida ya cuando le agarre el hilo todo conecto hermosamente, fue una lectura amena, aunque sí, sentí que estos dos se apuraron un poco en tener una relación romántica, pero también se dieron su “tiempo” así que punto a su favor, tiene un pequeño drama al final que se resolvió un rápido.
Si bien es una lectura ligera, tiene temas un poco fuertes que pueden ser un desencadenante para cualquier lector así que revisen los trigger warnings.
This is a light read, but it does deal with some heavy themes that could be triggering for some readers. Please check the trigger warnings before reading.
📌I received an e-arc through netgalley, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.
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A la primera estaba un poco confundida, la historia de Jake y Rayah es buena, no puedo negarlo pero los primeros capítulos estaba un poco perdida ya cuando le agarre el hilo todo conecto hermosamente, fue una lectura amena, aunque sí, sentí que estos dos se apuraron un poco en tener una relación romántica, pero también se dieron su “tiempo” así que punto a su favor, tiene un pequeño drama al final que se resolvió un rápido.
Si bien es una lectura ligera, tiene temas un poco fuertes que pueden ser un desencadenante para cualquier lector así que revisen los trigger warnings.
December 27, 2023
I was originally drawn in by the cover of this book and the description. The humor is top notch and the dialogue was really quick and funny.
But I’m afraid, it lost me around 30%. The male main character got unbelievably cheesy. And then the plot got so convoluted. It was hard to follow and not enjoyable to read. I kept reading until finally dnfing at 51%. It didn’t keep my attention AT ALL.
I think it has great potential but unfortunately not for me.
But I’m afraid, it lost me around 30%. The male main character got unbelievably cheesy. And then the plot got so convoluted. It was hard to follow and not enjoyable to read. I kept reading until finally dnfing at 51%. It didn’t keep my attention AT ALL.
I think it has great potential but unfortunately not for me.
January 30, 2024
This book is a romantic comedy that will have you full belly laughing.
Jake is a movie star with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia (POTS) and he is trying to gain muscle for an upcoming role. His condition makes it hard to exercise and he keeps it secret so that it doesn’t affect his chance at action movies.
The FMC, Rayah, is the owner of the training facility and has had a traumatic past that resulted in her ending her gymnastics career. She and Jake have an immediate connection and it is hard for them to resist one another in and out of the gym.
I like that this book has disability representation through the MMC. It bucks the norm while also providing a swoony character. I also appreciated that the FMC has struggles that she too has to overcome. Neither character is flawless and they literally have to “work it out” in order to move forward.
The banter between the MMC and the FMC and pretty much all of the characters is top tier in my opinion. There were so many instances where I couldn’t help, but crack up. The townspeople especially are hilarious! I got major Stars Hallow vibes each time I read about Jake’s grandparents and their friends. They are shameless meddlers and pop up throughout the story.
So if you are looking for a romcom with plenty of banter and a little spice, this book might be for you!
Jake is a movie star with Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia (POTS) and he is trying to gain muscle for an upcoming role. His condition makes it hard to exercise and he keeps it secret so that it doesn’t affect his chance at action movies.
The FMC, Rayah, is the owner of the training facility and has had a traumatic past that resulted in her ending her gymnastics career. She and Jake have an immediate connection and it is hard for them to resist one another in and out of the gym.
I like that this book has disability representation through the MMC. It bucks the norm while also providing a swoony character. I also appreciated that the FMC has struggles that she too has to overcome. Neither character is flawless and they literally have to “work it out” in order to move forward.
The banter between the MMC and the FMC and pretty much all of the characters is top tier in my opinion. There were so many instances where I couldn’t help, but crack up. The townspeople especially are hilarious! I got major Stars Hallow vibes each time I read about Jake’s grandparents and their friends. They are shameless meddlers and pop up throughout the story.
So if you are looking for a romcom with plenty of banter and a little spice, this book might be for you!
February 7, 2024
Work It Out by Eva Siedler is an intriguing romance between a television star trying to get in shape for the next big superhero film & the owner of the fancy gym he’s training at. There’s two people with secrets, pasts & a running chemistry between the pair…can they work it out?!
I highly recommend checking out the content warnings because this covers some difficult topics.
Work It Out is great for fans of…
💪 Celebrity Romance
💪 Forced Proximity
💪 Disability Representation
I was ecstatic to see that this book has POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) representation because I only know of two books with it. I was also super excited because there was a hero with POTS, which I’ve never seen before. I loved how that played an integral part into the story. & I could relate heavily to the beginning aspects of his journey. Disability representation is so important & one of my greatest passions. I’m so grateful that it exists, especially in romance.
If you’re looking for a cheeky, forced proximity romance to work out your blues, I recommend checking out Work It Out!
Massive thanks to NetGalley & Entangled Publishing for the gifted copy, which I voluntarily read & reviewed.
Content Warnings: This book mentions &/or contains past sexual abuse.
I highly recommend checking out the content warnings because this covers some difficult topics.
Work It Out is great for fans of…
💪 Celebrity Romance
💪 Forced Proximity
💪 Disability Representation
I was ecstatic to see that this book has POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) representation because I only know of two books with it. I was also super excited because there was a hero with POTS, which I’ve never seen before. I loved how that played an integral part into the story. & I could relate heavily to the beginning aspects of his journey. Disability representation is so important & one of my greatest passions. I’m so grateful that it exists, especially in romance.
If you’re looking for a cheeky, forced proximity romance to work out your blues, I recommend checking out Work It Out!
Massive thanks to NetGalley & Entangled Publishing for the gifted copy, which I voluntarily read & reviewed.
Content Warnings: This book mentions &/or contains past sexual abuse.
January 8, 2024
Do not let the cover fool you, this is not your average romance novel. It is so much more. It is deep, raw and emotional but also sprinkled with witty commentary between all of the characters. Eva Seidler weaves the lives of both Jake and Rayah so beautifully that you feel every emotion Rayah feels as she relives here past and faces her future and you can sense the shame and failure Jake felt and lived with because of his POTS. I absolutely loved that there was more story than there was romance and that each character, even the background characters had their own past and future written out for us. I also loved that POTS was featured prominently throughout the book because it is a more common condition than some would think but not widely talked about.
Overall this book had my heart breaking one second and laughing the next the entire time. I Loved every second of it!
⭐ 5/5
🌶️ 1/5
I received an advance review copy for free from Entangled Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Overall this book had my heart breaking one second and laughing the next the entire time. I Loved every second of it!
⭐ 5/5
🌶️ 1/5
I received an advance review copy for free from Entangled Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
December 26, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Entangled Publishing via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
“Work it Out”, by Eva Siedler, is an enjoyable story featuring a sexy Beta hero with an unusual medical condition and a heroine with baggage but also an admirable strength.
I appreciated how the author wrote about Jake’s condition (unknown for me), and the way the hero handled it, a bit jokingly, sometimes even not taking it seriously enough (as his personality often shows in other fields).
Hiding it in these circumstances seemed immature but Jake redeemed himself later.
I liked how the omission was solved because POTS and training seemed irreconcilable with this premise.
The revelation of Rayah’s past was dramatic and surely gave the story another layer.
There was some small town, friends and celebrity inspired drama that I wasn’t expecting and dragged the story.
I understood the hero is a flirt but some of his innuendos and tirades at the beginning, the emphasis on Rayah’s shortness, Blaine’s largeness or A, B or C physical attributes left me a bit tired.
I liked the setting, in Bigbone, Arizona.
“Work it Out”, by Eva Siedler, is an enjoyable story featuring a sexy Beta hero with an unusual medical condition and a heroine with baggage but also an admirable strength.
I appreciated how the author wrote about Jake’s condition (unknown for me), and the way the hero handled it, a bit jokingly, sometimes even not taking it seriously enough (as his personality often shows in other fields).
Hiding it in these circumstances seemed immature but Jake redeemed himself later.
I liked how the omission was solved because POTS and training seemed irreconcilable with this premise.
The revelation of Rayah’s past was dramatic and surely gave the story another layer.
There was some small town, friends and celebrity inspired drama that I wasn’t expecting and dragged the story.
I understood the hero is a flirt but some of his innuendos and tirades at the beginning, the emphasis on Rayah’s shortness, Blaine’s largeness or A, B or C physical attributes left me a bit tired.
I liked the setting, in Bigbone, Arizona.
January 19, 2024
Thank you to Entangled for the advanced reader copy. These opinions are my own.
Jake is a B-list celebrity hoping for a chance to play the next Marvel superhero. So he returns to his hometown to train in secret with his best friend at a new gym there. Rayan owns the gym and ultimately takes over his training.
Both Jake and Rayan have a lot going on, and there are numerous additional storylines as well. I appreciated how well the many characters were fleshed out and felt I got to know each. I also was glad to see disability representation with Jake's POTS and the way it addressed ableism. But I was surprised that the book still used ableist language.
My favorite aspects were the found family of Rayan's gym and the absurd small town festival. I also liked seeing the slow growth of their relationship over time. But I wasn't fully sold that they came to trust and love each other.
CW: sexual assault, domestic violence
3.5 stars rounded up
Jake is a B-list celebrity hoping for a chance to play the next Marvel superhero. So he returns to his hometown to train in secret with his best friend at a new gym there. Rayan owns the gym and ultimately takes over his training.
Both Jake and Rayan have a lot going on, and there are numerous additional storylines as well. I appreciated how well the many characters were fleshed out and felt I got to know each. I also was glad to see disability representation with Jake's POTS and the way it addressed ableism. But I was surprised that the book still used ableist language.
My favorite aspects were the found family of Rayan's gym and the absurd small town festival. I also liked seeing the slow growth of their relationship over time. But I wasn't fully sold that they came to trust and love each other.
CW: sexual assault, domestic violence
3.5 stars rounded up
January 26, 2024
Immediately after finishing:
I enjoyed this book SO much. But it's late and I'm tired, so the real review will have to wait until tomorrow.
The Next Day:
I loved this book so much. It made me laugh out loud. I loved the two main characters and their flirting (ESPECIALLY JAKE) and I love the found family part (which should not be a surprise to anyone) I love how everyone at Explosion takes care of each other and will do literally anything for one of their own.
To read the rest of this rambly review please go to RandomlyKait
Thank you so so much to Entangled Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
I enjoyed this book SO much. But it's late and I'm tired, so the real review will have to wait until tomorrow.
The Next Day:
I loved this book so much. It made me laugh out loud. I loved the two main characters and their flirting (ESPECIALLY JAKE) and I love the found family part (which should not be a surprise to anyone) I love how everyone at Explosion takes care of each other and will do literally anything for one of their own.
To read the rest of this rambly review please go to RandomlyKait
Thank you so so much to Entangled Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
February 15, 2024
Work It Out is packed with a huge cast of colorful characters, tons of soap-y drama, and a steamy, heartfelt romance. Jake is an actor with a condition known as POTS that complicates his goal of getting super buff to land a role as a superhero. Rayah runs the brand-new, state-of-the-art exercise complex back in Jake's hometown, Big Bone, Arizona. (So many jokes.) They form an instant bond, working (it out) together (sorry, not sorry), both failing to ignore the developing attraction. The two share hilariously fun banter, but also some deep emotional conversations--they both have quite a bit of issues and history they have to learn to trust each other with. The town itself plays a big role. Plus there's an adorable pig. Super fun, fast read.
January 6, 2024
Overall this book was a cute fun romance book. I loved the characters thought they were written pretty well. I liked that it was a workout book with the female being the trainer, enjoyed that the male main character did have a disability and his journey of accepting it.
I did find it very rushed the whole book took place from September- November. And due to the fast timeline and the way the one character was described and her trust issues due her past I’m having a hard time understanding how she just bam instantly got over it and 100% trusted the main male character so fast.
Thank you Entangled Publishing for providing this ARC all opinions are my own
I did find it very rushed the whole book took place from September- November. And due to the fast timeline and the way the one character was described and her trust issues due her past I’m having a hard time understanding how she just bam instantly got over it and 100% trusted the main male character so fast.
Thank you Entangled Publishing for providing this ARC all opinions are my own
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2024
I found the premise of the book quite interesting but throughout the story I felt like it was a bit rushed, and I was kind of disappointed with it. The humor and the setting were right on top.
It was not the easy romance book and I really like that aspect of the book; it was quite raw and emotional between our main characters Rayah and Jake. While the scenario takes place around the Hollywood glamour, we have so much more to it. The fact that this book touches the importance of the family we choose was so good.
Overall, I think there’re a lot of good points through the story and the writing was good, but I would wish it was maybe split in two books, so it didn’t feel rushed. Still I’m keeping an eye for the next books from Eva because there’re still very good parts to the story.
Thank you, NetGalley & the publisher, for approving me to read this arc and write this review.
It was not the easy romance book and I really like that aspect of the book; it was quite raw and emotional between our main characters Rayah and Jake. While the scenario takes place around the Hollywood glamour, we have so much more to it. The fact that this book touches the importance of the family we choose was so good.
Overall, I think there’re a lot of good points through the story and the writing was good, but I would wish it was maybe split in two books, so it didn’t feel rushed. Still I’m keeping an eye for the next books from Eva because there’re still very good parts to the story.
Thank you, NetGalley & the publisher, for approving me to read this arc and write this review.
January 18, 2024
2 stars
I really wanted to like this one, but I had a lot of issues with the pacing, and their relationship basically started with them lying to each (or better the hero to the heroine) about something serious.
Also, the pacing was a bit too fast for me, and although I don't mind instalove, I do need to feel sizzling chemistry between our MCs to like it, and here I didn't.
The setting was great, i really liked our heroine, and some of the side characters were fun, but overall, this didn't work for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really wanted to like this one, but I had a lot of issues with the pacing, and their relationship basically started with them lying to each (or better the hero to the heroine) about something serious.
Also, the pacing was a bit too fast for me, and although I don't mind instalove, I do need to feel sizzling chemistry between our MCs to like it, and here I didn't.
The setting was great, i really liked our heroine, and some of the side characters were fun, but overall, this didn't work for me.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 3, 2024
This had a beta hero, small town, chronic illness rep, and found family. But I was bored with the flat writing style and the MMC’s dialogue. If I didn’t have to finish it to review it, I would have DNF at %15
I struggled to understand some of the characters’ motivations. The relationship felt underdeveloped with way too much telling. The hero seemed to fetishize the heroine’s tiny size and his dialogue was cringey. And how many times must you use the nickname cupcake? I might have been more interested if I didn’t know Jake’s diagnosis in chapter one. YMMV
I received an arc from NetGalley
I struggled to understand some of the characters’ motivations. The relationship felt underdeveloped with way too much telling. The hero seemed to fetishize the heroine’s tiny size and his dialogue was cringey. And how many times must you use the nickname cupcake? I might have been more interested if I didn’t know Jake’s diagnosis in chapter one. YMMV
I received an arc from NetGalley
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January 11, 2024I was so excited for this book when I read the synopsis, especially because there aren’t a lot of books about gymnasts/ex-gymnasts. But for me this wasn’t as good as I wanted it to be.
I loved the banter between Rayah and Jake. I loved the found family aspect. I loved how much Jake wanted to do whatever was best for Rayah.
I did not like the other woman/other man drama. I didn’t feel like it was necessary for the story and while everyone is over 18 in the story, I didn’t like that feelings occurred when some were underage (no feelings by our main characters). I felt like there were a lot of different story lines happening, without all of them getting resolved/the attention they deserved. I wanted a deeper connection on page between Jake and Rayah.
I would give this author another try but this book didn’t hit the mark for me unfortunately. I am excited to see what the author comes up with next.
I did receive an early copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I loved the banter between Rayah and Jake. I loved the found family aspect. I loved how much Jake wanted to do whatever was best for Rayah.
I did not like the other woman/other man drama. I didn’t feel like it was necessary for the story and while everyone is over 18 in the story, I didn’t like that feelings occurred when some were underage (no feelings by our main characters). I felt like there were a lot of different story lines happening, without all of them getting resolved/the attention they deserved. I wanted a deeper connection on page between Jake and Rayah.
I would give this author another try but this book didn’t hit the mark for me unfortunately. I am excited to see what the author comes up with next.
I did receive an early copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
January 23, 2024
Okay yeah I’m DNFing this at 5%
I was a little apprehensive to pick this up because the premise of an actor needing to workout to get a role felt like it could toe the line of fatphobia but I heard that this was going to have POTS rep so I figured I’d give it a try.
Then we have the mc Jake calling the fmc Rayah “tiny and feminine” so he wants to put her in his pocket to protect her and comparing her to Keebler elves (which felt so weird).
Then we also get Jake’s best friend talking to Rayah about Jake and saying the line that ended it all for me. Rayah asks if he’s serious about something and Jake responds “As the early-onset heart disease we’re saving him from” which was an instant ick and i noped out of there.
I was a little apprehensive to pick this up because the premise of an actor needing to workout to get a role felt like it could toe the line of fatphobia but I heard that this was going to have POTS rep so I figured I’d give it a try.
Then we have the mc Jake calling the fmc Rayah “tiny and feminine” so he wants to put her in his pocket to protect her and comparing her to Keebler elves (which felt so weird).
Then we also get Jake’s best friend talking to Rayah about Jake and saying the line that ended it all for me. Rayah asks if he’s serious about something and Jake responds “As the early-onset heart disease we’re saving him from” which was an instant ick and i noped out of there.
December 20, 2023
This is one of my all time favorite books! Set in a small town with the perfect level of quirk, it's about a gym owner named Raya who needs to save her gym, a b-list star named Jake who needs to hide his POTs while he gets in shape for a super hero role, and the absolutely steamy relationship that forms between them. It's beautiful, it's funny and it's got a punk-rock pig and a small town tradition called The Hunt. I can't recommend this book enough.
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