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Holding Out for a Gyro
When it comes to love, it’s all Greek to her…in this delightfully funny and lively romantic comedy that’s bound to be a hit for fans of Kate Clayborn or Lynn Painter.
If you’re really lucky, you have a best friend who pushes you to do the stuff that scares you. We have this whole thing where we challenge each other to take some (calculated) risks and do everything we’re terrified to do. Of course, when you avoid love at all costs, that means doing the unthinkable: being vulnerable.
So for one night, I’m going to be completely and brutally real about who I am…to a complete stranger, whose mischievous and ridiculously dark eyes promise all kinds of trouble. I’ll open the darkest corners of my soul to him. I’ll admit I run from love. That I believe in mind-blowing sex, not soul mates. Hell, I’ll even tell him why.
The problem is that instead of running screaming—the way I (and any level-headed commitment-phobe) would—the hot Greek guy is actually intrigued. I shouldn’t want to kiss him. I shouldn’t want more.
But I do.
It was just supposed to be a one-off thing. Bare my soul, flee at the stroke of midnight, and never see him again. But FML, I just discovered he’s the genius chef at my favorite organic kitchen and is single-handedly responsible for keeping me, and my stomach, so happy these past few months.
He’s the perfect Greek hero.
The only problem is that when it comes to romance…I might be the perfect villain.
If you’re really lucky, you have a best friend who pushes you to do the stuff that scares you. We have this whole thing where we challenge each other to take some (calculated) risks and do everything we’re terrified to do. Of course, when you avoid love at all costs, that means doing the unthinkable: being vulnerable.
So for one night, I’m going to be completely and brutally real about who I am…to a complete stranger, whose mischievous and ridiculously dark eyes promise all kinds of trouble. I’ll open the darkest corners of my soul to him. I’ll admit I run from love. That I believe in mind-blowing sex, not soul mates. Hell, I’ll even tell him why.
The problem is that instead of running screaming—the way I (and any level-headed commitment-phobe) would—the hot Greek guy is actually intrigued. I shouldn’t want to kiss him. I shouldn’t want more.
But I do.
It was just supposed to be a one-off thing. Bare my soul, flee at the stroke of midnight, and never see him again. But FML, I just discovered he’s the genius chef at my favorite organic kitchen and is single-handedly responsible for keeping me, and my stomach, so happy these past few months.
He’s the perfect Greek hero.
The only problem is that when it comes to romance…I might be the perfect villain.
291 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 17, 2024
8 people are currently reading
354 people want to read
About the author
Mary Ann Marlowe
14 books373 followersMary Ann Marlowe is a romance junkie with wanderlust. She’s lived in twelve states and three countries, but she’s called the Charlottesville, Virginia area home for nearly twenty years. She’s held dozens of jobs from university-level French teacher to Wall Street computer programmer, got her black belt in karate, and beat Zelda Breath of the Wild. She loves to pull from her experiences when creating her fictional worlds. When she isn’t writing, she day jobs as a developer, hangs with her two amazing kids, and dreams of travel. She also writes under the name Lorelei Parker.
No AI used in the writing, audio, or cover art of any of my books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
October 2, 2024
Oh boy, do I wish this was the book for me! I actually did like it at the very beginning and thought it seemed promising, maybe even a four star read, but then the guys were introduced, Chelsea and Basil started their not-dating-but-kinda-dating thing and their back and forth with each other became exhausting.
Chelsea told Basil what she was like early on, and he just didn't listen. They're both stubborn, but in different ways. I often got annoyed with how Chelsea treated him, but also got annoyed at the expectations Basil placed on her, knowing she wouldn't be able to fulfil them, but asking her to anyway.
I don't think they're right for each other. I feel like Elizabeth and Evan are a more balanced couple, and their romance was more engaging to me than Chelsea and Basil's.
I also feel a bit bamboozled, because, based on the cover, I was expecting this book to be set in Greece, or at least half of it, but the Greece part doesn't come in until 80 something percent. The rest of it is set in the US which is okay, it's just not what I thought it would be.
Plot wise, not much happened, I felt as if I was reading the same thing over and over again. The biggest focus was definitely on the relationship and there didn't seem to be enough room to explore anything else.
But I liked the friendship crumbs we got at the start, Elizabeth and Chelsea function well together and I'm certain that, if this had been a book about their travelling adventures instead, my rating would be higher.
I also liked the Greek culture and food, the way Basil's family interacted with each other...it was sweet.
The ending was okay, but still frustrating, because these two CANNOT go a few days without arguing over commitment or lack thereof. Yes, they do eventually agree on something, and it seems like it's all sunshine and rainbows, but I just don't believe it, I'm sorry.
Now, I have to mention this one line that rubbed me the wrong way. Basil is talking to his family on the phone and saying how there was a reason he moved to Charlottesville despite his family's protests and "You'd think I moved to the most dangerous neighbourhood in Beirut by the way my mom fretted and nagged".
I want to know if that line was really necessary??? And why say Beirut, why not say an American city, since he's in America? I do wonder if the author has ever been to Lebanon, or has friends/family there, because they'd tell you - there are no dangerous neighbourhoods in Beirut!
There are less safe ones, sure, but outright dangerous, no. Literally any capital city has areas where you wouldn't wanna be at night, for one reason or another, so why was Beirut singled out?
This line made it into the final copy, as far as I'm aware, so that was certainly...a choice. I'm surprised no one else noticed it, to be honest.
The rest of the book was vetted by a Greek-American, so you can be sure things are correct. I liked that the author chose to write endearments in Greek, and then after in Latin script. I'm used to authors just using Latin script straight up for languages like Russian that use the Cyrillic alphabet, so I'm glad that some effort was put in to write it as it's actually written.
That's about it from me for this book, I really was hoping I'd like it, but it wasn't meant to be.
2.5
*Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Chelsea told Basil what she was like early on, and he just didn't listen. They're both stubborn, but in different ways. I often got annoyed with how Chelsea treated him, but also got annoyed at the expectations Basil placed on her, knowing she wouldn't be able to fulfil them, but asking her to anyway.
I don't think they're right for each other. I feel like Elizabeth and Evan are a more balanced couple, and their romance was more engaging to me than Chelsea and Basil's.
I also feel a bit bamboozled, because, based on the cover, I was expecting this book to be set in Greece, or at least half of it, but the Greece part doesn't come in until 80 something percent. The rest of it is set in the US which is okay, it's just not what I thought it would be.
Plot wise, not much happened, I felt as if I was reading the same thing over and over again. The biggest focus was definitely on the relationship and there didn't seem to be enough room to explore anything else.
But I liked the friendship crumbs we got at the start, Elizabeth and Chelsea function well together and I'm certain that, if this had been a book about their travelling adventures instead, my rating would be higher.
I also liked the Greek culture and food, the way Basil's family interacted with each other...it was sweet.
The ending was okay, but still frustrating, because these two CANNOT go a few days without arguing over commitment or lack thereof. Yes, they do eventually agree on something, and it seems like it's all sunshine and rainbows, but I just don't believe it, I'm sorry.
Now, I have to mention this one line that rubbed me the wrong way. Basil is talking to his family on the phone and saying how there was a reason he moved to Charlottesville despite his family's protests and "You'd think I moved to the most dangerous neighbourhood in Beirut by the way my mom fretted and nagged".
I want to know if that line was really necessary??? And why say Beirut, why not say an American city, since he's in America? I do wonder if the author has ever been to Lebanon, or has friends/family there, because they'd tell you - there are no dangerous neighbourhoods in Beirut!
There are less safe ones, sure, but outright dangerous, no. Literally any capital city has areas where you wouldn't wanna be at night, for one reason or another, so why was Beirut singled out?
This line made it into the final copy, as far as I'm aware, so that was certainly...a choice. I'm surprised no one else noticed it, to be honest.
The rest of the book was vetted by a Greek-American, so you can be sure things are correct. I liked that the author chose to write endearments in Greek, and then after in Latin script. I'm used to authors just using Latin script straight up for languages like Russian that use the Cyrillic alphabet, so I'm glad that some effort was put in to write it as it's actually written.
That's about it from me for this book, I really was hoping I'd like it, but it wasn't meant to be.
2.5
*Thank you to the publishers and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
August 20, 2024
Holding Out for a Gyro by Mary Ann Marlowe
Contemporary romance. Alternating 1st person POV’s.
Chelsea Abbott and her best friend have a list of goals. Some of it is easy, some is stuff that scares you. Each crossed out line item gets points for vacations and traveling which Chelsea loves to do. Visit a museum, take a class, double date, forgive someone, have an authentic and open conversation with a stranger. Out for a drink, the two women approach a couple of men at the bar where Chelsea is going to be totally honest even if it terrifies here. She surprised when they hit it off and she ends up going home with him. But Chelsea is a one-time and done woman. No ties. No commitments. Even if it was the best night of her life, she’ll walk away.
Basil Stavros feels that he and Chelsea really connect and he sees a long term relationship between them. They live close to each other and between her coffee shop and picking up meals everyday where he works, they been crossing paths for months. He’s ready for more.
Chelsea has family issues and while she’s working on them with her therapist, it’s slow going. Bas wins her over with his food, his family, his enthusiasm and his heart. But she’s lived with her heart behind walls since she was young.
There is a lot of heat as they date and there is also a lot of angst as she struggles with her growing feelings, knowing she can’t trust him to stay. So very slow relationship building.
Confirmed romance guaranteed ending but you’ll have to wait until the very end. It is awesome when she figures out that love opens a lot of doors.
There are occasional humorous moments but I would not call it a comedy or romcom.
The below line though, had me chuckling and immediately marking it for sharing. He’s a chef.
“From 2pm to 3pm, I cut the faces off crabs and drenched them through cornmeal, contemplating the horrors that awaited me in hell if these guys were there, too.”
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Contemporary romance. Alternating 1st person POV’s.
Chelsea Abbott and her best friend have a list of goals. Some of it is easy, some is stuff that scares you. Each crossed out line item gets points for vacations and traveling which Chelsea loves to do. Visit a museum, take a class, double date, forgive someone, have an authentic and open conversation with a stranger. Out for a drink, the two women approach a couple of men at the bar where Chelsea is going to be totally honest even if it terrifies here. She surprised when they hit it off and she ends up going home with him. But Chelsea is a one-time and done woman. No ties. No commitments. Even if it was the best night of her life, she’ll walk away.
Basil Stavros feels that he and Chelsea really connect and he sees a long term relationship between them. They live close to each other and between her coffee shop and picking up meals everyday where he works, they been crossing paths for months. He’s ready for more.
Chelsea has family issues and while she’s working on them with her therapist, it’s slow going. Bas wins her over with his food, his family, his enthusiasm and his heart. But she’s lived with her heart behind walls since she was young.
There is a lot of heat as they date and there is also a lot of angst as she struggles with her growing feelings, knowing she can’t trust him to stay. So very slow relationship building.
Confirmed romance guaranteed ending but you’ll have to wait until the very end. It is awesome when she figures out that love opens a lot of doors.
There are occasional humorous moments but I would not call it a comedy or romcom.
The below line though, had me chuckling and immediately marking it for sharing. He’s a chef.
“From 2pm to 3pm, I cut the faces off crabs and drenched them through cornmeal, contemplating the horrors that awaited me in hell if these guys were there, too.”
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
January 25, 2024
Thank you to the author Mary Ann Marlowe, publishers Amara and Entangled Publishing, and NetGalley, for an advance digital copy of HOLDING OUT FOR A GYRO. All views are mine.
Three (or more) things I loved:
1. The character's yearly friends challenge checklist at the beginning, before the opening of chapter 1, is brilliant. It also lends an interesting form to the narrative.
2. I have become very picky about what I consider a really well-written steamy scene. I want to see all participants having fun, I want lots of consent, and I want participants talking about protection. It's hard to meet these standards and keep it sexy, I hear this. But Marlowe writes beautiful, spicy intimate scenes that meet all these standards. Bravo!
3. Omg the cat's name is Jacques Lacan!😍 Okay, between this and the Derrida lecture, I gather Marlowe has some higher education in writing. But these name drops don't really fit the context that well, as neither fmc is a writer or whatever, so I gather the references are in here for bragging rights purposes.
4. One of my most favorite things about this story is that it's a dual love story. Each of these inseparable best friends, Chelsea and Elizabeth, go through the challenges of new love at the same time. I adore stories about friendship, so this really appealed to me.
Three (or less) things I didn't love:
This section isn't only for criticisms. It's merely for items that I felt something for other than "love" or some interpretation thereof.
1. I'm not sure how I feel about Basil the face- model-beauty from Greece. I just...can't buy into him. Also, how am I to read "Bas?" Is it like "base?" Like "bass," the fish? Like "bazz?" Or the very sexy "boss?" I just don't think these characters are well designed, at least not at first.
2. I feel like this book goes on too long, by at least 50 pages. The list takes over, becoming too much of the story instead of just giving it a really good shape.
3. Oh no, not truth or dare.🤦♀️ This is such a common romance and horror genre occurrence, it should be a trope. One of my least favorites.
4. The plot has a bit of an odd structure. It's like two short, related plots, end-to-end. This is probably what's making the book feel so stretched out!
Rating: 📃📃📃.5 long lists
Recommend? Yes!
Finished: Jan 24 '24
Format: Digital arc, Kindle, NetGalley
Read this book if you like:
💖 romance
🚪 open door romance
👭🏽 women's friendships
🪣 bucket lists
🫂 strangers to lovers trope
⁉️ truth or dare trope
Three (or more) things I loved:
1. The character's yearly friends challenge checklist at the beginning, before the opening of chapter 1, is brilliant. It also lends an interesting form to the narrative.
2. I have become very picky about what I consider a really well-written steamy scene. I want to see all participants having fun, I want lots of consent, and I want participants talking about protection. It's hard to meet these standards and keep it sexy, I hear this. But Marlowe writes beautiful, spicy intimate scenes that meet all these standards. Bravo!
3. Omg the cat's name is Jacques Lacan!😍 Okay, between this and the Derrida lecture, I gather Marlowe has some higher education in writing. But these name drops don't really fit the context that well, as neither fmc is a writer or whatever, so I gather the references are in here for bragging rights purposes.
4. One of my most favorite things about this story is that it's a dual love story. Each of these inseparable best friends, Chelsea and Elizabeth, go through the challenges of new love at the same time. I adore stories about friendship, so this really appealed to me.
Three (or less) things I didn't love:
This section isn't only for criticisms. It's merely for items that I felt something for other than "love" or some interpretation thereof.
1. I'm not sure how I feel about Basil the face- model-beauty from Greece. I just...can't buy into him. Also, how am I to read "Bas?" Is it like "base?" Like "bass," the fish? Like "bazz?" Or the very sexy "boss?" I just don't think these characters are well designed, at least not at first.
2. I feel like this book goes on too long, by at least 50 pages. The list takes over, becoming too much of the story instead of just giving it a really good shape.
3. Oh no, not truth or dare.🤦♀️ This is such a common romance and horror genre occurrence, it should be a trope. One of my least favorites.
4. The plot has a bit of an odd structure. It's like two short, related plots, end-to-end. This is probably what's making the book feel so stretched out!
Rating: 📃📃📃.5 long lists
Recommend? Yes!
Finished: Jan 24 '24
Format: Digital arc, Kindle, NetGalley
Read this book if you like:
💖 romance
🚪 open door romance
👭🏽 women's friendships
🪣 bucket lists
🫂 strangers to lovers trope
⁉️ truth or dare trope
February 18, 2024
Another book with a super cute cover and premise that unfortunately fell flat for me. I was really into this book at first- I mean who doesn't love a bucket list and a ML who is in love with love? Sign me up! I love how Chelsea and Elizabeth supported each other as friends recovering from trauma and pushing each other to be a better version of themselves. However, once the guys were introduced it went kinda 'meh' from there. Chelsea was a kind of irritating character, and I am unsure whether the intent for a FMC with family trauma was meant to come off in a selfish and uncaring way. I know trauma responses are different for everyone, but Chelsea was almost a walking contradiction when it came to this and her therapy. I was also surprised when I found out these characters were supposed to be around 30 because it did not seem that way at all. As much as I enjoy characters who love love, Basil was a bit too insta-lovey for me, especially since he was calling Chelsea 'my heart' and 'my love' after a few times they had sex. Not to mention that the smut scenes were very weak as well.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 3, 2024
I really liked the checklist format of this story, the one created by the two best friends, Chelsea and Elizabeth. I thought that it was an interesting way to form the narrative and shape each chapter. Kind of like having an outline while also being a plot point. I am also a big fan of dual POV, which this one has, because I get to see the emotions both sides are experiencing. Chelsea comes from a traumatic past and I liked how patient Basil was with working around that and helping her grow. I found Chelsea frustratingly stubborn sometimes with it though, but I know everyone deals with their trauma differently, and she basically stonewalled. So that’s something to look out for: very stubborn FMC but because of traumatic past. It’s not really a trigger warning, but I know that can turn some readers off. I did enjoy the self exploration and discovery aspect it led to, for both Chelsea and Basil, showing them that they are more than what their parents were or expect them to be. They’re not their parents.
Thank you Amara, Entangled Publishing, and NetGalley for the arc!
Thank you Amara, Entangled Publishing, and NetGalley for the arc!
September 1, 2024
This was a really fun book that covered some really serious topics. After Not In Love by Ali Hazelwood, I wanted more romance books like this and liked how this one handled things as well.
Recently, someone on Twitter asked for non-spicy tropes that make us swoon (or something like that) and my first thought was about characters cooking for each other. Food is one of my love languages and nothing makes me feel more loved than a home-cooked meal so I love having that in my books as well. I immediately fell for the mMC when he started cooking for her!
One of the funnest parts of the book was the checklist that each chapter was based on. It was such a cool way for the characters that get out of their comfort zones but also find their way to each other. A really neat thread throughout the entire book. My husband and I are considering doing something similar after our international move now.
While I liked the early intro of spicy scenes and how that affected the characters differently, here and there the spice did feel a little awkward sometimes. It smoothed out a bit throughout the book, though we also didn’t get quite as much detail later on. Overall though, I enjoyed the intersection of romance and emotions and spice.
I liked how one character had quite a bit of trauma but that the other one wasn’t this sunshine and rainbows child either. Their childhoods may have been vastly different but there are still things that can be quite stressful and put a lot of pressure on characters that come from happy families too. It was interesting to see how they bounced off each other at moments and handled every situation that came up. It was really difficult to cheer for one of them towards the end when you saw the stress affect them in negative ways but it’s a romance book so we all know it has a happy ending! It didn’t have quiiiteee the depth that the majority of the book had for character development, in my opinion, but overall it was a book I really enjoyed in terms of emotional depth, which is one of my main requirements for a book like this.
I already have another book by this author added to my TBR and am looking forward to giving that a try!
Recently, someone on Twitter asked for non-spicy tropes that make us swoon (or something like that) and my first thought was about characters cooking for each other. Food is one of my love languages and nothing makes me feel more loved than a home-cooked meal so I love having that in my books as well. I immediately fell for the mMC when he started cooking for her!
One of the funnest parts of the book was the checklist that each chapter was based on. It was such a cool way for the characters that get out of their comfort zones but also find their way to each other. A really neat thread throughout the entire book. My husband and I are considering doing something similar after our international move now.
While I liked the early intro of spicy scenes and how that affected the characters differently, here and there the spice did feel a little awkward sometimes. It smoothed out a bit throughout the book, though we also didn’t get quite as much detail later on. Overall though, I enjoyed the intersection of romance and emotions and spice.
I liked how one character had quite a bit of trauma but that the other one wasn’t this sunshine and rainbows child either. Their childhoods may have been vastly different but there are still things that can be quite stressful and put a lot of pressure on characters that come from happy families too. It was interesting to see how they bounced off each other at moments and handled every situation that came up. It was really difficult to cheer for one of them towards the end when you saw the stress affect them in negative ways but it’s a romance book so we all know it has a happy ending! It didn’t have quiiiteee the depth that the majority of the book had for character development, in my opinion, but overall it was a book I really enjoyed in terms of emotional depth, which is one of my main requirements for a book like this.
I already have another book by this author added to my TBR and am looking forward to giving that a try!
March 3, 2024
I did not like this. Seemed liked a romance book from someone who doesn’t know how to write one. I found myself pretty bored. Rating one star because it was set in Virginia and where I live. But other than that not for me.
February 7, 2024
1.5 stars ⭐
this took me so long to finish because I just couldn't click with any of it. the male main character, Basil, has the worst case of “pick me” syndrome i’ve ever seen. And the female main character, Chelsea, was almost just as bad. in retrospect, they are perfect for each other because they both are so one dimensional.
here are some things that most irked me:
- “He sometimes paid the price for his devastating good looks” cry me a river lmao he can't stop thinking about how hot he is and how it ruins his life :(
- the word epicenter was used for you know what
- this man has the worst case of insta love. what besides her body, was so amazing about her that you cared about her opinion so much? all he can talk about is how beautiful/hot/sexy she is yet gets pissy and hurt when anyone else does the same to thing??
- Chelsea expected Basil to read her mind 97% of the time like girl just communicate!!!
- The way Chelsea’s deep rooted family issues/trauma were magically solved (aka no longer existed?) by being in a relationship with Basil is so insane to me
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for an earc in exchange for my honest review!
this took me so long to finish because I just couldn't click with any of it. the male main character, Basil, has the worst case of “pick me” syndrome i’ve ever seen. And the female main character, Chelsea, was almost just as bad. in retrospect, they are perfect for each other because they both are so one dimensional.
here are some things that most irked me:
- “He sometimes paid the price for his devastating good looks” cry me a river lmao he can't stop thinking about how hot he is and how it ruins his life :(
- the word epicenter was used for you know what
- this man has the worst case of insta love. what besides her body, was so amazing about her that you cared about her opinion so much? all he can talk about is how beautiful/hot/sexy she is yet gets pissy and hurt when anyone else does the same to thing??
- Chelsea expected Basil to read her mind 97% of the time like girl just communicate!!!
- The way Chelsea’s deep rooted family issues/trauma were magically solved (aka no longer existed?) by being in a relationship with Basil is so insane to me
Thank you NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for an earc in exchange for my honest review!
February 16, 2024
I really wanted to LOVE this book. I loved Bas and his family. I kept picturing a young John Stamos. I loved the bucket lists. I loved the friendship of Chelsea and Elizabeth. I think that's where my love stops. The book seemed to go on forever and jumped into light speed with a rushed ending. Chelsea's character was extremely irritating. I understand the trauma, however, it seems that she wanted wallow in it instead of getting past it. I would have liked to see some closure with her parents.
January 28, 2024
I really tried to get into this book, but it really fell flat for me. The overall plot was weak, and I did not enjoy one of the main characters. I loved Chelsea & Elizabeth’s friendship, and how her friend loving supports her through trauma related issues. I also really loved the banter & game between the two best friends. When the male characters are introduced, I had such high hopes but I quickly got extremely irritated with Chelsea’s character. Throughout the book she just appears shallow and selfish. I think the author was trying to denote how trauma can make you uncaring, but it just came off very childish. I struggled to get through this book & thought Basil was the greatest man on the earth for putting up with her! I do think the international travel aspect was exciting, but once again, Chelsea ruined that until the end when she finally decided to give Basil a real chance. Also the sex scenes felt cheap & rushed, and almost unrealistic. I am giving a 2 star because I loved the girls’ friendship and Basil. Thank you for letting me review! Best of luck!
August 10, 2024
Note: I read this book as a digital ARC through NetGalley.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It could have been better in a few places, but it was constricted by the expectations/tropes of this genre.
Chelsea and Bas are two of the most realistic main characters I've met. Every miscommunication moment in this book works because time has been spent with each of them setting up their flaws, experiences, and biases.
Elizabeth and Evan are introduced as the respective best friends and foils. In the beginning it felt like they were going to be given more complexity, but that abruptly ended. It's like the author/publishing team decided that they needed to end it so they could get a book just with them.
There were a few spots where I think editors should've caught logic errors or added clarity.
I loved the incorporation of Greek, but I wish they utilized the transliterations. And this could've been done in a fairly cute way of Bas saying something with the Greek characters and Chelsea attempting to say it back and then Bas clarifying with the correct pronunciation and the meaning.
Lastly, the lists worked but not as chapter titles/subtitles. Throw those in as vignettes if you really needed to. The point of the list was to highlight the character growth journeys and set up the story.
Will I recommend this? Yes. All in all, it's a story that works and has a lot of heart and cultural connections in it.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It could have been better in a few places, but it was constricted by the expectations/tropes of this genre.
Chelsea and Bas are two of the most realistic main characters I've met. Every miscommunication moment in this book works because time has been spent with each of them setting up their flaws, experiences, and biases.
Elizabeth and Evan are introduced as the respective best friends and foils. In the beginning it felt like they were going to be given more complexity, but that abruptly ended. It's like the author/publishing team decided that they needed to end it so they could get a book just with them.
There were a few spots where I think editors should've caught logic errors or added clarity.
I loved the incorporation of Greek, but I wish they utilized the transliterations. And this could've been done in a fairly cute way of Bas saying something with the Greek characters and Chelsea attempting to say it back and then Bas clarifying with the correct pronunciation and the meaning.
Lastly, the lists worked but not as chapter titles/subtitles. Throw those in as vignettes if you really needed to. The point of the list was to highlight the character growth journeys and set up the story.
Will I recommend this? Yes. All in all, it's a story that works and has a lot of heart and cultural connections in it.
August 11, 2024
RATING: 4.5/5
“Holding Out for a Gyro” was a perfect vacation read. I didn’t go to Greece, but what I had in my hands was a fun, spicy, and humorous story. A relatively quick read, Author Mary Ann Marlowe gives readers some steam right from the start. That’s a win with me!
Chelsea keeps men at a distance regarding love and relationships due to her childhood. At the same time, Bas is incredibly open to love and accepting of heartbreaks. Bas is such a sweetheart, and though he tries to play it cool sometimes, he wears his heart on his sleeve. Through time, Chelsea sees that Bas is nothing like other men, especially not like her father.
Bas has an incredibly close relationship with his family. I love the way the dialogue between them and Bas was written. And I must say, how Bas cooks for Chelsea is adorably sweet throughout the story. Every mention of food and the dishes cooked made me incredibly hungry for Greek food! I could almost smell the citrus through the pages as Bas mixed the lemons with olive oil.
“Holding Out for A Gyro” had a good amount of spice. The scenes were brief, but there were several––I enjoyed the story!
Thank you, Entangled Publishing and Net Galley, for the gifted reader copy of “Holding Out for A Gyro.” I am leaving this review voluntarily.
“Holding Out for a Gyro” was a perfect vacation read. I didn’t go to Greece, but what I had in my hands was a fun, spicy, and humorous story. A relatively quick read, Author Mary Ann Marlowe gives readers some steam right from the start. That’s a win with me!
Chelsea keeps men at a distance regarding love and relationships due to her childhood. At the same time, Bas is incredibly open to love and accepting of heartbreaks. Bas is such a sweetheart, and though he tries to play it cool sometimes, he wears his heart on his sleeve. Through time, Chelsea sees that Bas is nothing like other men, especially not like her father.
Bas has an incredibly close relationship with his family. I love the way the dialogue between them and Bas was written. And I must say, how Bas cooks for Chelsea is adorably sweet throughout the story. Every mention of food and the dishes cooked made me incredibly hungry for Greek food! I could almost smell the citrus through the pages as Bas mixed the lemons with olive oil.
“Holding Out for A Gyro” had a good amount of spice. The scenes were brief, but there were several––I enjoyed the story!
Thank you, Entangled Publishing and Net Galley, for the gifted reader copy of “Holding Out for A Gyro.” I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 18, 2024
Holding Out for a Gyro is the newest book by Mary Ann Marlowe. As the title and cover suggest this book will feature some greek elements. I haven’t read a book by this author before, but I loved the greek vibes this book gives. I was really excited to start reading, but what will this book have in store?
Mary Ann Marlowe has a nice but slow paced writing style. In addition she uses some multiple complicated words, making that this could be a though read for non native english readers. There are many details in this book and lots of character development, making it a rather slow read. I did like the storyline, but felt like the pace could have been better.
Check out my full review on my blog Boekensteeg
Mary Ann Marlowe has a nice but slow paced writing style. In addition she uses some multiple complicated words, making that this could be a though read for non native english readers. There are many details in this book and lots of character development, making it a rather slow read. I did like the storyline, but felt like the pace could have been better.
Check out my full review on my blog Boekensteeg
April 1, 2024
2.5 stars
Sadly, I didn't love this.
I had such a hard time connecting with any of the characters. In fact, most of them - especially Chelsea- irked me. I get she had family trauma, but that doesn't make it okay to treat people, especially Basil - the way she did.
And speaking about Basil, that insta love... I don't mind it, if it's done properly but here it was more insta lust than love.
The only thing I did like was the friendship part. It was cute.
Overall, this was not a favorite.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sadly, I didn't love this.
I had such a hard time connecting with any of the characters. In fact, most of them - especially Chelsea- irked me. I get she had family trauma, but that doesn't make it okay to treat people, especially Basil - the way she did.
And speaking about Basil, that insta love... I don't mind it, if it's done properly but here it was more insta lust than love.
The only thing I did like was the friendship part. It was cute.
Overall, this was not a favorite.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2024
I actually enjoyed this book. Reading through all of the character growth and seeing them come to terms with a lot of life fears.
I love the characters and all the banter and dad jokes between them all.
Little bits of Greek thrown in there, I loved that, especially as someone who loves to learn other languages.
-Banter
-Dad Jokes
-Smaller town, to the whole wide world
*Thanks to Netgalley, Mary Ann Marlowe, and Entangled Publishing for the chance to read this ARC
I love the characters and all the banter and dad jokes between them all.
Little bits of Greek thrown in there, I loved that, especially as someone who loves to learn other languages.
-Banter
-Dad Jokes
-Smaller town, to the whole wide world
*Thanks to Netgalley, Mary Ann Marlowe, and Entangled Publishing for the chance to read this ARC
February 19, 2024
The title on this book completely pulled me in, I had to read it! Unfortunately I think the title was the most interesting thing about it. 🙃😬
Our FMC, Chelsea, has a to do list with her BFF. Developed from therapy as a way for Chelsea to get out of her comfort zone/confront some past childhood trauma. The meet cute with Basil (MMC) and his friend turned into a tumultuous roller coaster of him pursuing her, breaking down walls, and her being stubborn and not being open to the possibility that he's it for her. The insta love was a little much and her denying of feelings, but let me tell ya. Basil was so intentional about trying to woo her. I mean. The food! What. Every recipe he shared with her I desperately wanted to try.
I was expecting a vacation romcom, witb a beautiful Greece setting, some conflict about distance but in reality, it was set I think in Virginia, and the four friends had been in proximity of running into each other for probably a good decade before meeting. The romance their friends ended up in was so much a part of the plot that it took away from the author showing us more to the actual main characters. The ending felt very rushed for the obstacles that the MCs needed to get over and the chemistry was unfortunately pretty lacking. This had a lot of promise but ultimately fell flat.
Thank you Netgalley and Entangled Publishing LLC for the ARC in exchange for my review!
Our FMC, Chelsea, has a to do list with her BFF. Developed from therapy as a way for Chelsea to get out of her comfort zone/confront some past childhood trauma. The meet cute with Basil (MMC) and his friend turned into a tumultuous roller coaster of him pursuing her, breaking down walls, and her being stubborn and not being open to the possibility that he's it for her. The insta love was a little much and her denying of feelings, but let me tell ya. Basil was so intentional about trying to woo her. I mean. The food! What. Every recipe he shared with her I desperately wanted to try.
I was expecting a vacation romcom, witb a beautiful Greece setting, some conflict about distance but in reality, it was set I think in Virginia, and the four friends had been in proximity of running into each other for probably a good decade before meeting. The romance their friends ended up in was so much a part of the plot that it took away from the author showing us more to the actual main characters. The ending felt very rushed for the obstacles that the MCs needed to get over and the chemistry was unfortunately pretty lacking. This had a lot of promise but ultimately fell flat.
Thank you Netgalley and Entangled Publishing LLC for the ARC in exchange for my review!
October 17, 2024
Cute little book, but I don’t know what it was, didn’t get invested in either the FMC (who became annoying as the story progressed) or the MMC (who was better but… in the end I didn’t really care what happened).
The writing was fun though.
The writing was fun though.
May 8, 2024
OH MY GOD? I need this immediately
sighhhhhhhhhh..... this was irritating. more to come >:/
sighhhhhhhhhh..... this was irritating. more to come >:/
dnf
June 16, 2025I am sad, I am disappointed, I am... confused? And I DNFed at 53%.
I picked this book up because I wanted Greek vibes - as a celebration of the anniversary of when I traveled to Greece myself - only to discover that by the time I gave up on this book, there was not even a plan to go to Greece yet, despite the cover suggesting the country itself would come into play in a major way.
Bas is a hot Greek chef - that's essentially his whole personality. Chelsea is a complicated, (understandably) trauma-ridden woman who struggles to healthily process her experiences in an abusive household - so she self-sabotages as a result. Together, they are a hot mess - hot, yes, but the relationship is so convoluted and I slowly stopped caring. Greek food, though? Yeah, I am down for that.
Evan and Elizabeth are the two best friends who also get together so we have a fun double dating kind of vibe for a while - but around halfway, they start fighting and there was an entire chapter that was so confusing on who was mad at who and why - this is where the book lost me. I am not kidding when I say I do not know what anyone was talking about for a solid 5-6 pages because the plot was lost for a while.
I think this had a lot of promise, but there was a lot of repetitive conversation regarding Chelsea's mental health and counseling - which was valid and good, but ultimately no progress was made and she kept sabotaging her own happiness as well as pretty much everyone else around her. Bas was down BAD for her, but he also didn't want to accept that she did tell him up front that she didn't do long term relationships. He managed to wiggle his way into her heart, but then continued to be upset by her constant whiplash of emotions. Valid, but he shouldn't have been surprised.
Overall, my expectations for this were VERY far from what I got out of it and I eventually just realized that this was not for me - I ended up not liking any of the characters, and the wishy washy emotions were giving ME whiplash too. And on top of that, characters felt so flat and stilted.
Thank you to Entangled Amara for the gifted access to the ARC of this title. My review is completely voluntary, completely my own, and always completely honest.
I picked this book up because I wanted Greek vibes - as a celebration of the anniversary of when I traveled to Greece myself - only to discover that by the time I gave up on this book, there was not even a plan to go to Greece yet, despite the cover suggesting the country itself would come into play in a major way.
Bas is a hot Greek chef - that's essentially his whole personality. Chelsea is a complicated, (understandably) trauma-ridden woman who struggles to healthily process her experiences in an abusive household - so she self-sabotages as a result. Together, they are a hot mess - hot, yes, but the relationship is so convoluted and I slowly stopped caring. Greek food, though? Yeah, I am down for that.
Evan and Elizabeth are the two best friends who also get together so we have a fun double dating kind of vibe for a while - but around halfway, they start fighting and there was an entire chapter that was so confusing on who was mad at who and why - this is where the book lost me. I am not kidding when I say I do not know what anyone was talking about for a solid 5-6 pages because the plot was lost for a while.
I think this had a lot of promise, but there was a lot of repetitive conversation regarding Chelsea's mental health and counseling - which was valid and good, but ultimately no progress was made and she kept sabotaging her own happiness as well as pretty much everyone else around her. Bas was down BAD for her, but he also didn't want to accept that she did tell him up front that she didn't do long term relationships. He managed to wiggle his way into her heart, but then continued to be upset by her constant whiplash of emotions. Valid, but he shouldn't have been surprised.
Overall, my expectations for this were VERY far from what I got out of it and I eventually just realized that this was not for me - I ended up not liking any of the characters, and the wishy washy emotions were giving ME whiplash too. And on top of that, characters felt so flat and stilted.
Thank you to Entangled Amara for the gifted access to the ARC of this title. My review is completely voluntary, completely my own, and always completely honest.
August 19, 2024
I received an ARC from netgalley in exchange of an honest review. And I also wanna thank the author for this copy of the book:
The cover is gorgeous and it's what attracted me to the book in the first place.
I wanted to like the book so much more but I couldn't. Honestly, I didn't like the FMC.
Chelsea had had a very tough childhood and no child deserves that. That trauma carried into her adulthood and defined her whole life. The thing is she expected everyone to make sacrifices for her without her lifting a finger or giving anything up. That I couldn't get past. She expected him to be always at her back and call and to always love her but wasn't willing to give him the same courtesy. I know it was very hard for her to open up to people and let them in, and I understand that perfectly, but she really expected him to wait for her forever without giving him any kind of commitment. That's just messed up. The poor man loved her so much and she barely fed him crumbs.
Basil was not perfect too and maybe he was a little pushy sometimes but that man TRIED SO HARD for her. He did everything in their "relationship" and it just wasn't fair. She didn't appreciate that and when he finally found a job that brougt him joy, she expected him to give it up for her and return to Charlottesville and continue being stuck in a dead end job when she was the one who encourage him to take the job in Greece in the first place.
She elevated my opinion of her in the end a little bit by being the one who went after him for a change, I mean it was necessary. But still, I couldn't like her, she made it impossible for me.
The cover is gorgeous and it's what attracted me to the book in the first place.
I wanted to like the book so much more but I couldn't. Honestly, I didn't like the FMC.
Chelsea had had a very tough childhood and no child deserves that. That trauma carried into her adulthood and defined her whole life. The thing is she expected everyone to make sacrifices for her without her lifting a finger or giving anything up. That I couldn't get past. She expected him to be always at her back and call and to always love her but wasn't willing to give him the same courtesy. I know it was very hard for her to open up to people and let them in, and I understand that perfectly, but she really expected him to wait for her forever without giving him any kind of commitment. That's just messed up. The poor man loved her so much and she barely fed him crumbs.
Basil was not perfect too and maybe he was a little pushy sometimes but that man TRIED SO HARD for her. He did everything in their "relationship" and it just wasn't fair. She didn't appreciate that and when he finally found a job that brougt him joy, she expected him to give it up for her and return to Charlottesville and continue being stuck in a dead end job when she was the one who encourage him to take the job in Greece in the first place.
She elevated my opinion of her in the end a little bit by being the one who went after him for a change, I mean it was necessary. But still, I couldn't like her, she made it impossible for me.
August 14, 2024
Thank you to Entangled Publishing and Mary Ann Marlowe for the opportunity to read and review an ARC for Holding Out for a Gyro.
This was a cute read, although not the best romance I've read. What I enjoyed about this book was that it tackled living and growing from an emotionally abusive home life from a young age and worked to normalize and de-stigmatizing using therapy to work through past traumas. it also highlights the importance of communication in relationships particularly through hardships and misunderstandings. Did it do this perfectly? No, but I appreciated that it wasn't just a glossed over plot point.
While Basil and Chelsea's romance was very insta-love it was refreshing that they both were imperfect characters who had to work to understand each other and be patient with their differences. Character growth was necessary for both rather than heavier focus on characters arc. I also felt like there was more of the "2 steps forward, 5 steps back" with regard to character arcs and the third act conflict resolution felt rushed and a bit flat for me.
The big, Greek family aspect was wonderful and as someone who comes from a large, very connected family was relatable in many ways. The descriptions of food were mouth watering and hunger inducing, and it's all topped off with some pretty great cheesy puns and dad jokes.
Trigger warnings for this book: emotional trauma and abuse, daddy issues, and mild anxiety.
This was a cute read, although not the best romance I've read. What I enjoyed about this book was that it tackled living and growing from an emotionally abusive home life from a young age and worked to normalize and de-stigmatizing using therapy to work through past traumas. it also highlights the importance of communication in relationships particularly through hardships and misunderstandings. Did it do this perfectly? No, but I appreciated that it wasn't just a glossed over plot point.
While Basil and Chelsea's romance was very insta-love it was refreshing that they both were imperfect characters who had to work to understand each other and be patient with their differences. Character growth was necessary for both rather than heavier focus on characters arc. I also felt like there was more of the "2 steps forward, 5 steps back" with regard to character arcs and the third act conflict resolution felt rushed and a bit flat for me.
The big, Greek family aspect was wonderful and as someone who comes from a large, very connected family was relatable in many ways. The descriptions of food were mouth watering and hunger inducing, and it's all topped off with some pretty great cheesy puns and dad jokes.
Trigger warnings for this book: emotional trauma and abuse, daddy issues, and mild anxiety.
August 8, 2024
I received an electronic ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly? I didn't like it. The premise sounded cute, but the execution left a lot to be desired. I would not recommend the book and wouldn't even read another of the author's stories. I hate writing reviews like this, especially for ARCs, because I want to like the books and try to focus on the good.
The good: the premise was cute. The book was full of dorky puns. The male lead was almost okay; he was likeable at times. The writing was okay.
The bad: pretty much everything else. The main lead Bas had potential, but he constantly went overboard with his emotions and actions (even though falling into love is supposedly common for him, it came off as obnoxious and needy and whiny) and then he changed in the last third to suddenly completely and willfully ignore every sign Chelsea put out, which was very out of character.
The rest of the characters were worse. The sides Elizabeth and Evan were one-dimensional or annoying (even though normally I'd like a character like Elizabeth, she felt like a wet blanket and I couldn't feel any friend chemistry between her and Chelsea; they are all about their friend vacations but don't even like doing the same things). Chelsea herself was plain annoying. I understand her background and reasoning, but she suddenly feels comfortable with one guy out of nowhere and has no problem talking to him seriously...very unrealistic and felt feigned. The dialogues and references to her therapist felt forced and textbook. Like Bas, she also changes unrealistically.
The puns were okay, but the title wasn't appropriate for the book other than the pun. The blurb mentions a "Greek hero" but it's not mentioned in the book at all, her looking for or finding a hero. She is *not* holding out for a hero. She doesn't want one at all, is actually content for most of the book to be single.
The only factor driving each of them? Food and sexual chemistry. Sure, they connect as friends, but it's so sudden and even for a romantic comedy felt overly forced. The kiss scenes were okay.
****SPOILERS****
The ending was unrealistic. Yes, the book was leaning that way, but Chelsea was clear that though she talked about doing something like moving to another country, realistically she was a homegirl and too afraid. That's not going to change overnight. And, shocker, it does! And even though she says it's not for the guy, yeah, it is. She's doing exactly what she said she wouldn't. Then the epilogue...what is with these romance epilogues that make the story even worse? In less than a year, both Chelsea and Elizabeth are married. Say what now? BOTH of them? Now, I had a relatively fast dating period before moving in at seven months and getting engaged at eleven (faster than anyone I knew), but then had an engagement over a year - and even that was at least twice what they had. They should have just eloped in Las Vegas.
Honestly? I didn't like it. The premise sounded cute, but the execution left a lot to be desired. I would not recommend the book and wouldn't even read another of the author's stories. I hate writing reviews like this, especially for ARCs, because I want to like the books and try to focus on the good.
The good: the premise was cute. The book was full of dorky puns. The male lead was almost okay; he was likeable at times. The writing was okay.
The bad: pretty much everything else. The main lead Bas had potential, but he constantly went overboard with his emotions and actions (even though falling into love is supposedly common for him, it came off as obnoxious and needy and whiny) and then he changed in the last third to suddenly completely and willfully ignore every sign Chelsea put out, which was very out of character.
The rest of the characters were worse. The sides Elizabeth and Evan were one-dimensional or annoying (even though normally I'd like a character like Elizabeth, she felt like a wet blanket and I couldn't feel any friend chemistry between her and Chelsea; they are all about their friend vacations but don't even like doing the same things). Chelsea herself was plain annoying. I understand her background and reasoning, but she suddenly feels comfortable with one guy out of nowhere and has no problem talking to him seriously...very unrealistic and felt feigned. The dialogues and references to her therapist felt forced and textbook. Like Bas, she also changes unrealistically.
The puns were okay, but the title wasn't appropriate for the book other than the pun. The blurb mentions a "Greek hero" but it's not mentioned in the book at all, her looking for or finding a hero. She is *not* holding out for a hero. She doesn't want one at all, is actually content for most of the book to be single.
The only factor driving each of them? Food and sexual chemistry. Sure, they connect as friends, but it's so sudden and even for a romantic comedy felt overly forced. The kiss scenes were okay.
****SPOILERS****
The ending was unrealistic. Yes, the book was leaning that way, but Chelsea was clear that though she talked about doing something like moving to another country, realistically she was a homegirl and too afraid. That's not going to change overnight. And, shocker, it does! And even though she says it's not for the guy, yeah, it is. She's doing exactly what she said she wouldn't. Then the epilogue...what is with these romance epilogues that make the story even worse? In less than a year, both Chelsea and Elizabeth are married. Say what now? BOTH of them? Now, I had a relatively fast dating period before moving in at seven months and getting engaged at eleven (faster than anyone I knew), but then had an engagement over a year - and even that was at least twice what they had. They should have just eloped in Las Vegas.
September 23, 2024
I tried really hard with this one. Got to 55% and just couldn't do it anymore. This was my first book reading about a FMC named Chelsea. That's my name. I didn't know that going into it as no names were mentioned in the synopsis that I saw.
While her and I share a name and parental issues, that's where the similarities start and end. She was actually quite annoying after her and her best friend meet their men. I love the idea of a to do list or bucket list to do with your best friend. That's amazing and the idea behind it was great. However, the constant mention of therapy and Chelsea's therapist showed nowhere in her growth up to the point I got to. It seemed like it was just thrown in there ro try to add to the story but instead of trying to grow and push herself, Chelsea stayed stagnant and very stubborn in her decision to not date.
And then Evan, the best friends new man got mad when he found out about this list because it was what got Elizabeth to talk to him in the first place. But then turns out he was just jealous she was doing it with Chelsea and they end up creating their own list..... I don't know. Big huge red flags there for me.
Thanks a bunch to netgalley and the publisher for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
While her and I share a name and parental issues, that's where the similarities start and end. She was actually quite annoying after her and her best friend meet their men. I love the idea of a to do list or bucket list to do with your best friend. That's amazing and the idea behind it was great. However, the constant mention of therapy and Chelsea's therapist showed nowhere in her growth up to the point I got to. It seemed like it was just thrown in there ro try to add to the story but instead of trying to grow and push herself, Chelsea stayed stagnant and very stubborn in her decision to not date.
And then Evan, the best friends new man got mad when he found out about this list because it was what got Elizabeth to talk to him in the first place. But then turns out he was just jealous she was doing it with Chelsea and they end up creating their own list..... I don't know. Big huge red flags there for me.
Thanks a bunch to netgalley and the publisher for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2024
NetGalley Arc, I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I had a feeling just from the title that I would love this book. I found myself constantly needing to continue the story and find out what was going to happen next. Even though the characters could be insufferable at times, I feel this was one of the most real feeling relationships. Somehow this book made me feel like I had spent a year reading it, instead of 3 days. I don’t say that in a bad way, I mean I feel like I got to see and spend so much time with these characters. It was emotionally exhausting sometimes, I screamed a lot out loud at this book, but I also giggled a lot and teared up a few times. This wasn’t a perfect book, but I gauge my reviews on enjoyment and I really enjoyed this book.
I had a feeling just from the title that I would love this book. I found myself constantly needing to continue the story and find out what was going to happen next. Even though the characters could be insufferable at times, I feel this was one of the most real feeling relationships. Somehow this book made me feel like I had spent a year reading it, instead of 3 days. I don’t say that in a bad way, I mean I feel like I got to see and spend so much time with these characters. It was emotionally exhausting sometimes, I screamed a lot out loud at this book, but I also giggled a lot and teared up a few times. This wasn’t a perfect book, but I gauge my reviews on enjoyment and I really enjoyed this book.
August 18, 2024
This story offers a fun and heartfelt romantic comedy. Chelsea, wary of love, unexpectedly connects with Basil, a charming Greek chef, after baring her soul to him during a friend's challenge. Their chemistry sizzles, blending humor with moments of deep vulnerability as Chelsea confronts her past trauma. The story shines in its portrayal of friendship and the dual love stories of Chelsea and her best friend, Elizabeth. However, the pacing sometimes feels slow, and the characters can come across as one-dimensional. Despite this, it's a delightful read, perfect for romance fans with a dash of Greek flavor and a lot of heart.
February 21, 2024
I loved this book, from start to finish. It’s the perfect blend of spice and romance, and I loved the main characters. It’s well written, and very easy to read.
Overall I absolutely loved it, I would have liked a bit more of the travel included but the book was amazing.
Thank you Entangled Publishing for sending me a copy in return for my honest review.
Overall I absolutely loved it, I would have liked a bit more of the travel included but the book was amazing.
Thank you Entangled Publishing for sending me a copy in return for my honest review.
August 13, 2024
Thank you to the publisher/author and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for a review.
This was one that was a quick read for me. The characters really started off right from the first chapter. There were some harder topics included that some might need trigger warnings for but overall I thought it was a fun read and something mindless to get me back into my reading groove.
This was one that was a quick read for me. The characters really started off right from the first chapter. There were some harder topics included that some might need trigger warnings for but overall I thought it was a fun read and something mindless to get me back into my reading groove.
October 11, 2024
There was a lot of filler, and the story could have been shorter, but overall, it was a fun little rom-com with relatable characters, good chemistry, and a cute love story.
October 15, 2024
Mary Ann Marlowe has written a bunch of great books, but this one is my new favorite! With a likeable MC with baggage, a hilarious meet cute, an absolute sweetheart of a hot Greek guy - who cooks(!)… There is nothing that I didn’t love about this book.
February 8, 2024
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for sending me a copy to review. I really wanted to love this book, but unfortunately I did not. I really did not like the way that Basil almost seemed to try and force and manipulate Chelsea into a relationship (at the beginning), and Chelsea seemed really selfish and didn’t want to communicate or try anything. I understand the trauma of her backstory, but the selfishness of her behaviour was not enjoyable for me.
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