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Lucy Loves Him Not
Lucy Rhodes finished the school year as a kindergarten teacher and she’s excited to get started on her decade-long summer tradition of running the Sweet River Summer Festival. A tradition started by her grandmother, but for the past few years Lucy has carried it on herself in honor of that beloved memory.
But, this summer, the new city manager Adam, throws a major wrench in Lucy's tradition and seems set on ruining her perfectly set plans.
After a meet-disaster, and the drawing up of an extensive contract, Adam and Lucy decide to work together on the festival. Even if it might drive her crazy.
While working together they realize the Texas summer isn't the only thing heating up. Adam's looking for a place, or a person, to call home. And Lucy's big heart has room to spare.
But, this summer, the new city manager Adam, throws a major wrench in Lucy's tradition and seems set on ruining her perfectly set plans.
After a meet-disaster, and the drawing up of an extensive contract, Adam and Lucy decide to work together on the festival. Even if it might drive her crazy.
While working together they realize the Texas summer isn't the only thing heating up. Adam's looking for a place, or a person, to call home. And Lucy's big heart has room to spare.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2024
34 people are currently reading
1124 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Jo Jackson
6 books148 followersRebecca Jo Jackson writes love stories that make you swoon. She grew up in a small town in TX, but now lives and writes in California.
Find her on Instagram @authorrebeccajojackson
Find her on Instagram @authorrebeccajojackson
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
May 8, 2024
(1.5 ⭐️) Demasiado MEH para escribir una reseña.
May 1, 2024
Such a cute story. Lucy and her family had such a great bond. Adam’s wholesome nerdiness was just perfect. The witty banter they had was fun to read. This was such a sweet love story. I love small town series where I can follow the characters and be part of their story. @rebeccajojackson did just that. She had me wanting more. Thank you for allowing me to be on your ARC team. Such a cute, easy read. I recommend giving Rebecca Jo Jackson’s books a try. They don’t disappoint.
April 29, 2024
Lucy Rhodes is a kindergarten teacher who has a summer tradition of running the Sweet River Summer Festival. This was a tradition Lucy grandma started and now Lucy continues it in her memory. Adams Stevens is the new city manager who threw a wrench in Lucys plans. There first meeting was a disaster but then the decide to work together to plan the festival. This was an amazing story with an adorable love story. I loved how Lucy and Adam didn’t instantly go from hating each other to being in love that there was a gradual build up. Adam was so cute I loved how he remembered the little things Lucy mentioned like her favorite flowers and it was adorable all the little things he did to get Lucys attention. The end was wonderful done and I loved the look into the future. While this was the first book I read by this author I can’t wait to read more; I really hope she writes more story about the characters from the book.
April 11, 2024
This was exactly like a hallmark movie and I mean that in the best way possible. I absolutely loved Lucy and Adam and the small town. In my mind I kept giving everyone southern accents it just felt right.
The only reason this isn’t getting five stars is because in the year of our lord 2024 we do not need Harry Potter references.
The only reason this isn’t getting five stars is because in the year of our lord 2024 we do not need Harry Potter references.
May 1, 2024
4.5⭐️
Read if you love
🎠rivals to lovers
🍦workplace rivals
🎠closed door romance
🍦found family
🎠slow burn
🍦witty banter
🎠small town romance
This was seriously the cutest book I’ve read in a while. I saw myself in the FMC so much too🥺 Lucy and Adams story was so sweet and it felt like I was watching a rom-com the entire time. Speaking of Adam… THIS MANS FAVORITE BOOK HAD ME SCREAMING?! you’ll find out when you read this… it’s one of my faves too🤭
Warning… reading this book will make you crave peanut butter shakes and peach ice cream! You’ll also want to be at a summer festival asap living your own rom-com.
Read if you love
🎠rivals to lovers
🍦workplace rivals
🎠closed door romance
🍦found family
🎠slow burn
🍦witty banter
🎠small town romance
This was seriously the cutest book I’ve read in a while. I saw myself in the FMC so much too🥺 Lucy and Adams story was so sweet and it felt like I was watching a rom-com the entire time. Speaking of Adam… THIS MANS FAVORITE BOOK HAD ME SCREAMING?! you’ll find out when you read this… it’s one of my faves too🤭
Warning… reading this book will make you crave peanut butter shakes and peach ice cream! You’ll also want to be at a summer festival asap living your own rom-com.
April 10, 2024
4.5 Stars.
🎠 The vibes:
- Enemies to lovers
- Forced proximity
- Workplace
- Family dynamics
- Found family
- Slow burn
🍦 My thoughts:
I love the way that Rebecca’s books are so much more than a romance. The family dynamics plays a huge role. The relationship between Lucy and her sisters and their mom was very sweet.There’s a lot of self discovery and found community in her books which I love. This was such a slow burn - but if y’all know me you know I love a love that’s very slow. I want to see the friendship and the emotional connection.
🎠 I think Lucy is based off Kathleen Kelly from You’ve Got Mail. They have the same energy. And there’s definitely some YGM Easter eggs in this book that I loveddddd.
🍦 Adam is such a vibe for me. He loves books, Harry Potter, and he cooks. He’s such a softy and I honestly loved him so much. And the book talks between Adam and Lucy were some of my favorite moments.
🎠 I liked the glimpse of characters from It Couldn’t Be You. I’m so glad I read that book and knew who they were. It isn’t necessary to read before this one but I think if you like this one, you would also enjoy that one and vice versa. Overall- this was such a fun summery read, and I’d definitely pick up more books from this author.
Release date: April 30, 2024.
Thank you so much to Rebecca Jo Jackson for the gifted copy.
🎠 The vibes:
- Enemies to lovers
- Forced proximity
- Workplace
- Family dynamics
- Found family
- Slow burn
🍦 My thoughts:
I love the way that Rebecca’s books are so much more than a romance. The family dynamics plays a huge role. The relationship between Lucy and her sisters and their mom was very sweet.There’s a lot of self discovery and found community in her books which I love. This was such a slow burn - but if y’all know me you know I love a love that’s very slow. I want to see the friendship and the emotional connection.
🎠 I think Lucy is based off Kathleen Kelly from You’ve Got Mail. They have the same energy. And there’s definitely some YGM Easter eggs in this book that I loveddddd.
🍦 Adam is such a vibe for me. He loves books, Harry Potter, and he cooks. He’s such a softy and I honestly loved him so much. And the book talks between Adam and Lucy were some of my favorite moments.
🎠 I liked the glimpse of characters from It Couldn’t Be You. I’m so glad I read that book and knew who they were. It isn’t necessary to read before this one but I think if you like this one, you would also enjoy that one and vice versa. Overall- this was such a fun summery read, and I’d definitely pick up more books from this author.
Release date: April 30, 2024.
Thank you so much to Rebecca Jo Jackson for the gifted copy.
February 13, 2026
Omg, this story was so cute!! 💕 I enjoyed reading Lucy and Adam’s story! I love the playful and flirty banter between the two of them. I liked seeing how they worked together on the festival. The enemies to lovers dynamic was done so well! I loved Lucy’s bond with her sisters and their mom! The relationship between them all was so heartwarming. 🥰🥹 I liked seeing the beginning stages and Olivia and Victor’s relationship, too! Reminded me why I loved her story so much! Adam was sooo swoon-worthy, argh! 🤭😍 From the moment he laid eyes on Lucy, he knew that she would be his forever home. He uplifted her and showed her that it’s okay for her to do the things that she loves and that it’s okay for her to need someone! He reminded her that she doesn’t have to be that one that is always needed. I loved everything about this story and I can’t wait to dive into the other books in this series!
April 5, 2024
This is a very sweet story. It would make a fantastic Hallmark movie. Small town girl who is a kindergarten teacher, cute guy with glasses who moves to town, annual festival planning, both book lovers, just so sweet. If you like a cute romance that is sweet and not overly steamy, this is a must read.
I received an advanced copy to review. All opinions are my own.
I received an advanced copy to review. All opinions are my own.
April 29, 2024
Thank you so much Rebecca Jo Jackson for providing me with the eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
This was my very first book by Rebecca Jo Jackson and it will not be my last!! I did not want this book to end! I want more!!
Lucy Loves Him Not was such a fun, cute, and easy read! If I didn’t have young kids always on me, I could have read this in one sitting!!
The dedication alone hooked me and got me excited for what was ahead. The story begins with the main female character, Lucy, wrapping up another school year as a kindergarten teacher and gearing up for summer and planning the towns festival, that was left to her after her grandmother passed. She meets with her sisters for dinner and the banter begins! The family dynamic between the Rhodes girls, is so sweet. They are all so close, always looking out for one another and supporting one another.
Then the main male character, Adam, comes in and turns Lucy’s summer plans upside down. Adam is sarcastic, straight to the point and happens to be the new city worker trying to do his job, which is planning the festival. The banter between Lucy and Adam made me think of my relationship with my husband. Always sarcastic but then so sweet.
Seeing the character development between Lucy and Adam was my favorite! Their relationship kept me on my toes at all times. Some of my favorite quotes about Adam were, “He’s got those arms that could hold you but also hold one of your giant stack of books” and “It’s like God dreamed you up and dropped you off down the street from me as a little gift-and a little challenge who knows how to push all my buttons.”
Tropes:
Rivals to lovers
Slow burn
Closed door romance
Small town romance
Workplace Romcom
Found family
Chemistry and Banter
Go add this to your TBR and preorder! Book comes out April 30th! In the mean time I’ll be re reading this, for research purposes. 😉
This was my very first book by Rebecca Jo Jackson and it will not be my last!! I did not want this book to end! I want more!!
Lucy Loves Him Not was such a fun, cute, and easy read! If I didn’t have young kids always on me, I could have read this in one sitting!!
The dedication alone hooked me and got me excited for what was ahead. The story begins with the main female character, Lucy, wrapping up another school year as a kindergarten teacher and gearing up for summer and planning the towns festival, that was left to her after her grandmother passed. She meets with her sisters for dinner and the banter begins! The family dynamic between the Rhodes girls, is so sweet. They are all so close, always looking out for one another and supporting one another.
Then the main male character, Adam, comes in and turns Lucy’s summer plans upside down. Adam is sarcastic, straight to the point and happens to be the new city worker trying to do his job, which is planning the festival. The banter between Lucy and Adam made me think of my relationship with my husband. Always sarcastic but then so sweet.
Seeing the character development between Lucy and Adam was my favorite! Their relationship kept me on my toes at all times. Some of my favorite quotes about Adam were, “He’s got those arms that could hold you but also hold one of your giant stack of books” and “It’s like God dreamed you up and dropped you off down the street from me as a little gift-and a little challenge who knows how to push all my buttons.”
Tropes:
Rivals to lovers
Slow burn
Closed door romance
Small town romance
Workplace Romcom
Found family
Chemistry and Banter
Go add this to your TBR and preorder! Book comes out April 30th! In the mean time I’ll be re reading this, for research purposes. 😉
January 1, 2025
First and foremost, a huge THANK you to the author Rebecca Jo Jackson for the ARC of Lucy Loves Him Not. I feel so honoured to have had the chance to read this novel prior to its release (April 30, 2024). 🩷🧡🩵
What a sweet story about finding unexpected love, taking chances, and realizing home is where the heart is. With female & male leads you’ll root for, and secondary characters you’ll want more of, Lucy Loves Him Not checks all the boxes. This closed-door romance did not have a third-act breakup (yay!), is set against the backdrop of a Texas summer festival, and has swoon-worthy kissing in the rain moments.
I absolutely adored Lucy and Adam. Being an elementary teacher myself, it was lovely to see my profession represented. I also appreciated the small-town vibes (like driving out on the backroads to find the perfect fireworks viewing spot), as I’m from a rural area and could absolutely relate. However, even if these things don’t strike a direct chord with you, you’ll still enjoy reading this book. Adam is a true gentleman, and perfect book boyfriend material.
Extra note — While reading I was inspired to create a playlist for this novel. I had so much fun finding the perfect songs, and reading lyrics. Took me back to my mixtape & burned CD days!! If anyone is interested the playlist can be found on Spotify. It is called “Inspired by: Lucy Loves him Not,” and under the profile name Lindsy.
What a sweet story about finding unexpected love, taking chances, and realizing home is where the heart is. With female & male leads you’ll root for, and secondary characters you’ll want more of, Lucy Loves Him Not checks all the boxes. This closed-door romance did not have a third-act breakup (yay!), is set against the backdrop of a Texas summer festival, and has swoon-worthy kissing in the rain moments.
I absolutely adored Lucy and Adam. Being an elementary teacher myself, it was lovely to see my profession represented. I also appreciated the small-town vibes (like driving out on the backroads to find the perfect fireworks viewing spot), as I’m from a rural area and could absolutely relate. However, even if these things don’t strike a direct chord with you, you’ll still enjoy reading this book. Adam is a true gentleman, and perfect book boyfriend material.
Extra note — While reading I was inspired to create a playlist for this novel. I had so much fun finding the perfect songs, and reading lyrics. Took me back to my mixtape & burned CD days!! If anyone is interested the playlist can be found on Spotify. It is called “Inspired by: Lucy Loves him Not,” and under the profile name Lindsy.
May 13, 2024
When it comes to rom-coms, one of my favourite things is finding one that knocks me off my feet, where humour is so poignantly mixed with the heart that it blows me away. This story was one of them.
I felt Lucy’s struggles on a soul level—the need to constantly feel needed while also being afraid to need others. The Rhodes women are those I could call friends; their strength & resilience are inspiring and their multi-generational bond is precious.
Lucy & Adam’s relationship got off on the wrong foot. A certain tone in a phone call. A few hastily uttered words. It was a miscommunication, but it felt natural and not blown over the top. The way her family welcomes his lonely soul and the way he helps her let her guard down to accept help are the sweetest.
Filled with small town charm, deep family bonds, witty banter, and a boatload of thematic depth, Jackson crafted a winsome rom-com that’s the perfect summer companion!
I felt Lucy’s struggles on a soul level—the need to constantly feel needed while also being afraid to need others. The Rhodes women are those I could call friends; their strength & resilience are inspiring and their multi-generational bond is precious.
Lucy & Adam’s relationship got off on the wrong foot. A certain tone in a phone call. A few hastily uttered words. It was a miscommunication, but it felt natural and not blown over the top. The way her family welcomes his lonely soul and the way he helps her let her guard down to accept help are the sweetest.
Filled with small town charm, deep family bonds, witty banter, and a boatload of thematic depth, Jackson crafted a winsome rom-com that’s the perfect summer companion!
July 15, 2024
Don’t let the cutesy cover fool you…This book has DEPTH. I loved Adam and Lucy’s story from the get go. I loved the meaningful friendships with Lucy’s sisters. I loved the deep relationship Lucy had with her mom. I loved the small town of Sweet Water. I loved how much Adam Loved Lucy from the very start. Their relationship developed naturally over time (even a short period) and each thing they faced added to the meaningfulness of their budding romance. The side plots were important to the main plot. The side characters perfectly supported the main couple, not stealing the show but creating a beautiful background tapestry.
If you’re looking for a book that manages to be light yet is deep, full of heart, swoon, and meaningful relationships, look no further. This was a perfect balance of all the things I look for in a romance.
RATINGS:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✝️
💋
15+
If you’re looking for a book that manages to be light yet is deep, full of heart, swoon, and meaningful relationships, look no further. This was a perfect balance of all the things I look for in a romance.
RATINGS:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✝️
💋
15+
April 1, 2024
Your Lucy Loves Him Not by Rebecca Jo Jackson is a slow burn, small town romance that makes you laugh and smile.
** I would like to express my thanks to ☆ Rebecca Jo Jackson ☆ for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
This book felt undeniably easy to read. The banter between Lucy’s sisters and mom was super cute. I also liked the way that though all four of them had separate lives, they all made time to meet up, or call to discuss what was going on. They also had goals for themselves and helped each other out when they were feeling down. It really was such a cute relationship to see. I also felt that the tension and the banter between Lucy and Adam was cute, though at times it felt like Lucy was too quick to jump and judge Adam. It really made us wonder why Adam would stick up with some treatment sometime. But the author explained how and why the characters were the way that they were, so I made a pass.
If I had to give one feedback, I wish the author would talk more about the setting up with the summer festival, just to give a better picture to what was going on, and what they were preparing for. However, despite the lack of detail on that part, I don’t think the story was missing at all. I felt that there was the right amount of pushback and thrill. There were ups and downs and it felt like a realistic life, people fall, things go wrong, bad luck happens. I think that this book is like cotton candy, soft and fluffy, and easy to digest. It was a super cute read, the confessions of the characters were really special, and I wished I went to such a tight knit town like Sweet River. I also think that the characters did a great job (well the author wrote the characters well lol) to opening up, bit by bit, showing off the different sides to them as human, and showed them in different times, like times of stress, times of joy, times of loneliness, etc.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants a great slow burn romance, that hits the right amount of feel good.
** I would like to express my thanks to ☆ Rebecca Jo Jackson ☆ for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
This book felt undeniably easy to read. The banter between Lucy’s sisters and mom was super cute. I also liked the way that though all four of them had separate lives, they all made time to meet up, or call to discuss what was going on. They also had goals for themselves and helped each other out when they were feeling down. It really was such a cute relationship to see. I also felt that the tension and the banter between Lucy and Adam was cute, though at times it felt like Lucy was too quick to jump and judge Adam. It really made us wonder why Adam would stick up with some treatment sometime. But the author explained how and why the characters were the way that they were, so I made a pass.
If I had to give one feedback, I wish the author would talk more about the setting up with the summer festival, just to give a better picture to what was going on, and what they were preparing for. However, despite the lack of detail on that part, I don’t think the story was missing at all. I felt that there was the right amount of pushback and thrill. There were ups and downs and it felt like a realistic life, people fall, things go wrong, bad luck happens. I think that this book is like cotton candy, soft and fluffy, and easy to digest. It was a super cute read, the confessions of the characters were really special, and I wished I went to such a tight knit town like Sweet River. I also think that the characters did a great job (well the author wrote the characters well lol) to opening up, bit by bit, showing off the different sides to them as human, and showed them in different times, like times of stress, times of joy, times of loneliness, etc.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants a great slow burn romance, that hits the right amount of feel good.
April 6, 2024
Book review/recommendation🎨🌼🎠:
Lucy loves him not by @Rebecca Jo Jackson
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Topics throughout the book are:
🌼rivals to lovers
🎠summer festivals
🌼found family
🎠workplace rom com
🌼family legacy
🎠life lessons
Summary🎨🌼🎠:
Lucy Rhodes is a kindergarten teacher in a small town called Sweet River. She plans her summer holidays to coincide in planning the town’s Summer Festival which was started by her grandmother years ago, which Lucy holds dear to her heart. What Lucy didn’t expect was to have her plans take a turn when she receives an unexpected call from the new City Manager Adam. He advised her that he will be taking over the planning of the upcoming festival and that he would like her to provide him the list of all her contacts and vendors. This turn of event left doubts in her mind about Adam. They agree to meet to discuss the possibility of working together. Once face to face, she came to realize that Adam was the guy she matched with on a dating app called Local Love. Will Lucy be able to put her opinions of Adam aside and be able ti work alongside him? Will there be sparks between them? Read to find out!
I would like to thank Rebecca Jo Jackson for providing me my first ever ARC in exchange for my honest review! This book is like a hallmark movie but with spring/summer vibe to it, it’s cute, cozy , heartwarming and gives you all the feel-good emotions. It was a perfect read during these unsettled and drastic weather changes in Canada. If you are looking for a nice easy read during your summer I highly recommend in reading this gem, you won’t regret and it will get you out of a slump.
Release date: April 30th, 2024
Pre-order on Amazon : https://a.co/d/csWWlFA
Add on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
Lucy loves him not by @Rebecca Jo Jackson
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Topics throughout the book are:
🌼rivals to lovers
🎠summer festivals
🌼found family
🎠workplace rom com
🌼family legacy
🎠life lessons
Summary🎨🌼🎠:
Lucy Rhodes is a kindergarten teacher in a small town called Sweet River. She plans her summer holidays to coincide in planning the town’s Summer Festival which was started by her grandmother years ago, which Lucy holds dear to her heart. What Lucy didn’t expect was to have her plans take a turn when she receives an unexpected call from the new City Manager Adam. He advised her that he will be taking over the planning of the upcoming festival and that he would like her to provide him the list of all her contacts and vendors. This turn of event left doubts in her mind about Adam. They agree to meet to discuss the possibility of working together. Once face to face, she came to realize that Adam was the guy she matched with on a dating app called Local Love. Will Lucy be able to put her opinions of Adam aside and be able ti work alongside him? Will there be sparks between them? Read to find out!
I would like to thank Rebecca Jo Jackson for providing me my first ever ARC in exchange for my honest review! This book is like a hallmark movie but with spring/summer vibe to it, it’s cute, cozy , heartwarming and gives you all the feel-good emotions. It was a perfect read during these unsettled and drastic weather changes in Canada. If you are looking for a nice easy read during your summer I highly recommend in reading this gem, you won’t regret and it will get you out of a slump.
Release date: April 30th, 2024
Pre-order on Amazon : https://a.co/d/csWWlFA
Add on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...
April 6, 2024
(3.75) This book feels straight out of a Hallmark movie. Lucy has been over her town’s summer festival since her grandma passed away a few years ago, and this has been a project that she has poured her whole heart into. Cue the city guy who comes in and wants to change everything, and the scene is set for a sweet story of two rivals learning to work together to save the town’s festival - and learning maybe a thing or two about love?? 👀🤭
This was such a quick and sweet read that draws you in with its cozy atmosphere and characters. As someone with a really similar family to Lucy, I deeply resonated with her character and loved all of her interactions with her sisters. (And I would definitely love to read a book about Gracie! I feel like her story would be sooo good.)
There is no third act break up in this book, which was such a relief! (It does take them awhile to get together, but I prefer that being the tension over a third act break up, to be honest.) Adam was such a thoughtful and caring character, and I loved how much he cared for Lucy and her family. I will say that some of the dialogue / interactions between Lucy and Adam didn’t feel super natural, so that was a little hard for me. But overall - I loved seeing them fall in love 🫶🏻
This is a perfect fit for readers who enjoy Sarah Adams and Madison Wright 💗
Thank you to the author for an early copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own ☺️
This was such a quick and sweet read that draws you in with its cozy atmosphere and characters. As someone with a really similar family to Lucy, I deeply resonated with her character and loved all of her interactions with her sisters. (And I would definitely love to read a book about Gracie! I feel like her story would be sooo good.)
There is no third act break up in this book, which was such a relief! (It does take them awhile to get together, but I prefer that being the tension over a third act break up, to be honest.) Adam was such a thoughtful and caring character, and I loved how much he cared for Lucy and her family. I will say that some of the dialogue / interactions between Lucy and Adam didn’t feel super natural, so that was a little hard for me. But overall - I loved seeing them fall in love 🫶🏻
This is a perfect fit for readers who enjoy Sarah Adams and Madison Wright 💗
Thank you to the author for an early copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own ☺️
April 25, 2024
What a delightful story! Despite my slow reading pace, I couldn't stop reading this book and finished it in just two days—it's so captivating! I can already imagine it becoming a charming Hallmark movie. The dynamic between Lucy and Adam, their undeniable chemistry, and their playful banter kept me glued to the pages. And the slow-burning romance? OMG! There were moments when I couldn't contain my excitement, silently urging them to just kiss already! So when that moment finally arrived, I was ecstatic!
The romance wasn't the only driving force of this book - the presence of Lucy's family, including her mother and sisters (aka the Rhodes women), enriched the narrative significantly. And let's not forget about the "friendship" between Olivia and Victor, Adam's assistant. If there's ever a second book set in Sweet River, I'd love for it to delve into their story.
Looking for an enchanting and uplifting book to enjoy during the summer? I really, really recommend it.
I want to thank Rebecca Jo Jackson for providing me with an early copy of her book!
Release date: April 30, 2024.
The romance wasn't the only driving force of this book - the presence of Lucy's family, including her mother and sisters (aka the Rhodes women), enriched the narrative significantly. And let's not forget about the "friendship" between Olivia and Victor, Adam's assistant. If there's ever a second book set in Sweet River, I'd love for it to delve into their story.
Looking for an enchanting and uplifting book to enjoy during the summer? I really, really recommend it.
I want to thank Rebecca Jo Jackson for providing me with an early copy of her book!
Release date: April 30, 2024.
April 18, 2024
*Updated to a 5 after a few days because I can’t stop thinking about this cute story** What a delightful, seriously cute Texas small town, closed-door romance. It’s told from the single point of view of Lucy, a kindergarten teacher working in a festival during her summer break. She has to learn to work with Adam, a city employee (who is now on the list of my top book boyfriends (Glasses! Wild hair?! Book loving?!)) I was immersed in their story and found myself continuously rooting for their rocky working relationship to turn into real love. I was additionally smitten with the side plot of Lucy’s girl group i.e her relationship with her two sisters and mother, as well as her late grandmother. This novel was made to be on the big screen (hello Hallmark!) or a mini-series! One of my favorite quotes from the book: “He tasted like mint and summer rain…” Swoon.
Shout out to the equally adorable cover design!
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
Shout out to the equally adorable cover design!
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
April 14, 2024
This. Book!
Lucy Loves Him Not is the cutest, fluffy romance that will be perfect for those summer TBRs! This is literally a Hallmark film on paper. It's got all the lovable side characters, the swoony romance, and the charming small town vibes that we all look forward to when watching those movies.
I'm honestly at a loss of words. This book was amazing. All I can truly say is I can't wait to revisit Sweet River again in the future🥰
Thank you so so much, Rebecca, for the early copy!! This book will be released on April 30th, I hope everyone loves it as much as I did!
✨TW: this book contains topics of parental abandonment and burnout.
Lucy Loves Him Not is the cutest, fluffy romance that will be perfect for those summer TBRs! This is literally a Hallmark film on paper. It's got all the lovable side characters, the swoony romance, and the charming small town vibes that we all look forward to when watching those movies.
I'm honestly at a loss of words. This book was amazing. All I can truly say is I can't wait to revisit Sweet River again in the future🥰
Thank you so so much, Rebecca, for the early copy!! This book will be released on April 30th, I hope everyone loves it as much as I did!
✨TW: this book contains topics of parental abandonment and burnout.
April 30, 2024
SO. FREAKING. CUTE!!!!
I had all the feelings while reading! This book truly made me wish I had siblings. I find I’m a lot like Adam. Growing up it was just my mom & I most of the time so yea it did feel a little lonely. I loved that he found people that made him feel less lonely 🥹
Adam is the perfect man! He encouraged Lucy to do what she loves. He was always there for her! Making her life easier anyway he could. He put daisies EVERYWHERE because he knew they made her smile! He was her biggest fan! I need an Adam in my life!
Lucy is such a strong woman! She’s empowering, headstrong, kind, protective, & the perfect sister. I loved watching her grow & slowly let Adam in.
Im hoping we get books on the other sisters cause I’m in desperate need of more Victor & Olivia.
I had all the feelings while reading! This book truly made me wish I had siblings. I find I’m a lot like Adam. Growing up it was just my mom & I most of the time so yea it did feel a little lonely. I loved that he found people that made him feel less lonely 🥹
Adam is the perfect man! He encouraged Lucy to do what she loves. He was always there for her! Making her life easier anyway he could. He put daisies EVERYWHERE because he knew they made her smile! He was her biggest fan! I need an Adam in my life!
Lucy is such a strong woman! She’s empowering, headstrong, kind, protective, & the perfect sister. I loved watching her grow & slowly let Adam in.
Im hoping we get books on the other sisters cause I’m in desperate need of more Victor & Olivia.
May 7, 2024
Thank you, Rebecca, for another lovely eARC!!
If you’re looking for a sweet, summery, feel good read this is the one! The second in a standalone series, Lucy Loves Him Not is full of (one sided) rivals (one might say “enemies” ;-))-to-lovers, banter, and small town sweetness!
I loved getting to know Lucy and Adam. They’re both such sweet and kind souls, and together they’re so dreamy. Seeing Adam pick up on all of Lucy’s little things was so lovely and the definition of “if he wanted to he would”!
The family dynamics of the Rhodes women was everything and more. Their close relationships with one another individually and collectively is something, I think, all people wish they had. And seeing them continue to incorporate and remember their grandma was so sweet.
And, obviously, LOVE seeing Emma & Gabriel and Katie & Terrence around hehehe. I just love love!!!
If you’re looking for a sweet, summery, feel good read this is the one! The second in a standalone series, Lucy Loves Him Not is full of (one sided) rivals (one might say “enemies” ;-))-to-lovers, banter, and small town sweetness!
I loved getting to know Lucy and Adam. They’re both such sweet and kind souls, and together they’re so dreamy. Seeing Adam pick up on all of Lucy’s little things was so lovely and the definition of “if he wanted to he would”!
The family dynamics of the Rhodes women was everything and more. Their close relationships with one another individually and collectively is something, I think, all people wish they had. And seeing them continue to incorporate and remember their grandma was so sweet.
And, obviously, LOVE seeing Emma & Gabriel and Katie & Terrence around hehehe. I just love love!!!
April 4, 2024
Lucy, a kindergarten teacher, is off for the summer and ready to plan the Sweet River summer festival as she does every year. Adam, the new city manager, arrives just in time to rain on her parade (or festival). the two decide to split the responsibilities and work as a team to bring the event to life.. and get to know one another as they do!
first of all, this book has no business being as sweet as it is! the perfect lighthearted, feel good read for this summer. pack it on vacation or read it by the pool or in a field of daisies… whatever floats your boat but i’m telling you this book was so cute
our FMC Lucy has such a big heart and i loved seeing her character development as the story went on. Lucy learns to care for herself as much as she cares for everyone around her. Adam and Lucy complement each other so well. following the side character’s stories was almost as fun as following Lucy and Adam! they were so well written and lovable. i loved the Rhodes family dynamic.
the banter. the slow burn. the town of Sweet River that reminds you of home. Adam reminded me so much of Ben Wyatt from Parks and Rec which is an obvious +10 for me. i loved it all!
this book is as beautiful as its stunning cover. somebody call hallmark because it would make the PERFECT cozy, cute, sigh and smile at the end movie.
thank you Rebecca Jo Jackson for this ARC in exchange for my honest review! i enjoyed every second!
read if you love..
enemies to lovers
workplace rivals
small town romance
closed door chemistry
sweetest summer festivals
daisies and peanut butter and chocolate shakes and all things good in the world
his favorite book is divine rivals (are we kidding)
now, go preorder and add this to your TBR! out april 30th! (and i will not shut up about it until then, thank you).
first of all, this book has no business being as sweet as it is! the perfect lighthearted, feel good read for this summer. pack it on vacation or read it by the pool or in a field of daisies… whatever floats your boat but i’m telling you this book was so cute
our FMC Lucy has such a big heart and i loved seeing her character development as the story went on. Lucy learns to care for herself as much as she cares for everyone around her. Adam and Lucy complement each other so well. following the side character’s stories was almost as fun as following Lucy and Adam! they were so well written and lovable. i loved the Rhodes family dynamic.
the banter. the slow burn. the town of Sweet River that reminds you of home. Adam reminded me so much of Ben Wyatt from Parks and Rec which is an obvious +10 for me. i loved it all!
this book is as beautiful as its stunning cover. somebody call hallmark because it would make the PERFECT cozy, cute, sigh and smile at the end movie.
thank you Rebecca Jo Jackson for this ARC in exchange for my honest review! i enjoyed every second!
read if you love..
enemies to lovers
workplace rivals
small town romance
closed door chemistry
sweetest summer festivals
daisies and peanut butter and chocolate shakes and all things good in the world
his favorite book is divine rivals (are we kidding)
now, go preorder and add this to your TBR! out april 30th! (and i will not shut up about it until then, thank you).
April 24, 2024
This is such a sweet, wholesome, small-town romance.
Family is EVERYTHING to Lucy. Her sisters are her best friends, and continuing her Grandmother’s legacy is critical.
Adam is the new City Manager, bent on upgrading the summer festival, regardless of its history. Falling for Lucy wasn't in the plan.
Family is EVERYTHING to Lucy. Her sisters are her best friends, and continuing her Grandmother’s legacy is critical.
Adam is the new City Manager, bent on upgrading the summer festival, regardless of its history. Falling for Lucy wasn't in the plan.
April 16, 2024
ARC BOOK REVIEW 📖: LUCY LOVES HIM NOT by Rebecca Jo Jackson
Rating: 5⭐️/5
Format: ebook
Thank you Rebecca and BookFunnel for sending me this ARC and for allowing me to be apart of the ARC team! This book will be published on 4/30. So, make sure you add it to your TBR!
Synopsis: Lucy Rhodes is finishing another year working as a Kindergarten teacher and looking forward to her summer planning the town’s annual festival. The Sweet River Festival has always held a special place in her heart, especially since her grandma passed away. However, this year the city has hired a manager, Adam, who does things by the book. Soon the two are planning the festival together but will emotions get in the way?
Thoughts: I LOVED this story! It gave me all the hallmark vibes and had me smiling throughout. I loved the close relationship Lucy has with her mom and sisters. Family is so important to me so I could feel their love for one another as I turned the pages. And don’t get me started on Adam 😍 Officially making him my new favorite book boyfriend! I was swooning over many of his actions and one liners!
Read if you love enemies to lovers, small towns, and slow burn. I can’t recommend this book enough and I look forward to reading more from this author!
Favorite Quote:
“Men who read books know a heroine when they see one.”
Rating: 5⭐️/5
Format: ebook
Thank you Rebecca and BookFunnel for sending me this ARC and for allowing me to be apart of the ARC team! This book will be published on 4/30. So, make sure you add it to your TBR!
Synopsis: Lucy Rhodes is finishing another year working as a Kindergarten teacher and looking forward to her summer planning the town’s annual festival. The Sweet River Festival has always held a special place in her heart, especially since her grandma passed away. However, this year the city has hired a manager, Adam, who does things by the book. Soon the two are planning the festival together but will emotions get in the way?
Thoughts: I LOVED this story! It gave me all the hallmark vibes and had me smiling throughout. I loved the close relationship Lucy has with her mom and sisters. Family is so important to me so I could feel their love for one another as I turned the pages. And don’t get me started on Adam 😍 Officially making him my new favorite book boyfriend! I was swooning over many of his actions and one liners!
Read if you love enemies to lovers, small towns, and slow burn. I can’t recommend this book enough and I look forward to reading more from this author!
Favorite Quote:
“Men who read books know a heroine when they see one.”
April 29, 2024
This was a really cute clean romance book. It was a super quick easy read and I couldn’t put it down. I really liked Lucy’s fiery personality and Adam’s by the book ways. I thought this book was a great small town read where you got to really know the characters and their personalities. I really loved the Rhodes girls and their tight knit relationship that they had. I liked how both Lucy and Adam loved to read and it was something they could connect over as well as the other tiny details they had in common. This book did pull at your heartstrings since it was so sweet. It definitely reminded me of a hallmark movie!
April 4, 2024
*Thank you to Rebecca Jo Jackson for providing me with this ARC for my honest review*
Oh. My. Gosh. This book!!! I read her “prequel” right before this and claimed it was my favorite romance book of the year, but this one takes the cake. The way I was giggling and swooning over every page… I honestly don’t think there was a single thing I didn’t like.
🌼 Small town
🌼 Work place romance
🌼 Meet fail
🌼 Swoony MMC and hesitant FMC 👌🏼
🌼 Sisters that are besties
🌼 The daisies and the mouse toy?? 🥰
I will think about this book daily and will never get over it. Sorry not sorry. Read this now!!!
Oh. My. Gosh. This book!!! I read her “prequel” right before this and claimed it was my favorite romance book of the year, but this one takes the cake. The way I was giggling and swooning over every page… I honestly don’t think there was a single thing I didn’t like.
🌼 Small town
🌼 Work place romance
🌼 Meet fail
🌼 Swoony MMC and hesitant FMC 👌🏼
🌼 Sisters that are besties
🌼 The daisies and the mouse toy?? 🥰
I will think about this book daily and will never get over it. Sorry not sorry. Read this now!!!
April 8, 2024
Thank you to Rebecca Jo Jackson, for letting me be part of your ARC team.
I absolutely loved this book, it gave me all the spring/summer vibes. It was such a fun, sweet read.
Loved the banter, slow burn between Lucy (fmc) and Adam (mmc).
If you enjoy slow burn, closed door, and enemies to lovers you’ll really enjoy this book, I highly recommend it.
This was my first Rebecca book, and it won’t be my last. I hope we get to find out what happens between Olivia and Victor 🤞
I absolutely loved this book, it gave me all the spring/summer vibes. It was such a fun, sweet read.
Loved the banter, slow burn between Lucy (fmc) and Adam (mmc).
If you enjoy slow burn, closed door, and enemies to lovers you’ll really enjoy this book, I highly recommend it.
This was my first Rebecca book, and it won’t be my last. I hope we get to find out what happens between Olivia and Victor 🤞
April 1, 2024
I received this book as an ARC and leaving my own and honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
While my rating seems low, PLEASE hear me out! i LOVED this book and i genuinely loved the plot, the characters, everything. I just wish we got a little more romance between the characters. This book is a slow burn and I would rate it PG-13ish. I loved the setting of the book and all of the ideas. the beginning was really slow for me but picked up around the 50% mark. I heavily related to both Adam and Lucy and definitely want a love similar to theirs when that time comes from me!
I still heavily recommend, especially for a quick and fun read! It got me ready for Spring/Summer and so grateful to be on the arc team! Rooting for Rebecca’s release and success with this fun one 🫶🏻
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
While my rating seems low, PLEASE hear me out! i LOVED this book and i genuinely loved the plot, the characters, everything. I just wish we got a little more romance between the characters. This book is a slow burn and I would rate it PG-13ish. I loved the setting of the book and all of the ideas. the beginning was really slow for me but picked up around the 50% mark. I heavily related to both Adam and Lucy and definitely want a love similar to theirs when that time comes from me!
I still heavily recommend, especially for a quick and fun read! It got me ready for Spring/Summer and so grateful to be on the arc team! Rooting for Rebecca’s release and success with this fun one 🫶🏻
April 29, 2024
I received an eARC in exchange for my honest review of Lucy Loves Him Not.
LLHN is a swoony, small-town, work rivals romance between Sweet River local Lucy and new city manager Adam.
The first few chapters, I wasn't completely sold. The usage of past tense threw me off- it felt like it belonged in present tense, although I adjusted to that as I kept reading. The characters also felt surface level and the run-ins felt a little cheesy, but by the end of the book, my opinion did a complete 180.
The story is still cheesy at times, as all rom coms are, but in the best way. And in addition to the cheesiness, there's also a lot of depth revealed as the story goes on, insanely sweet moments, and plenty of laughing out loud. The subtle humor throughout this novel was incredible, outshined only by the sweetness of every single relationship in this book.
Aside from Lucy and Adam's blooming relationship, there were plenty of side relationships that were equally adorable. Lucy, her sisters, and their mother are the cutest, most supportive little girl gang. The open communication between them all, the way they know each other so well, and the way they constantly rally for each other was perfection. Olivia and Victor's budding- friendship? romance?- was equally fun to watch despite them not even being the main characters, and all of the random friends and townspeople who made appearances felt like solid characters rather than randoms simply needed to make a scene work. This was really well done.
Now for Lucy and Adam's relationship: while I wasn't sold at first, I was OBSESSED with these two by the end. Adam's shameless attempts to find any way to hang out with Lucy was absolutely adorable, as was the way he soaked up every little detail about her. To be loved is to be seen and Adam sees Lucy 110%. The way they show up for each other is absolutely beautiful (spoilers ahead): from Adam dropping everything to drive Lucy to help the little sister he'd never met (and buy her a care package and cook for her???) to Lucy and her family driving back to Sweet River early to help Adam with post-storm festival prep. And don't even get me started on the tension. At some point Lucy thinks, "I wasn't sure who was more agonized, him or me." The answer is me. I could FEEL the tension between these two just building and building and building, and when they finally give in, it is everything.
Lastly, each character had their own complexities and struggles they were working through, and these were all demonstrated and developed very well. They learned from and leaned on each other and grew over the course of the novel.
Overall, Lucy Loves Him Not is a delight, and I'm very thankful to have gotten to ARC read it.
LLHN is a swoony, small-town, work rivals romance between Sweet River local Lucy and new city manager Adam.
The first few chapters, I wasn't completely sold. The usage of past tense threw me off- it felt like it belonged in present tense, although I adjusted to that as I kept reading. The characters also felt surface level and the run-ins felt a little cheesy, but by the end of the book, my opinion did a complete 180.
The story is still cheesy at times, as all rom coms are, but in the best way. And in addition to the cheesiness, there's also a lot of depth revealed as the story goes on, insanely sweet moments, and plenty of laughing out loud. The subtle humor throughout this novel was incredible, outshined only by the sweetness of every single relationship in this book.
Aside from Lucy and Adam's blooming relationship, there were plenty of side relationships that were equally adorable. Lucy, her sisters, and their mother are the cutest, most supportive little girl gang. The open communication between them all, the way they know each other so well, and the way they constantly rally for each other was perfection. Olivia and Victor's budding- friendship? romance?- was equally fun to watch despite them not even being the main characters, and all of the random friends and townspeople who made appearances felt like solid characters rather than randoms simply needed to make a scene work. This was really well done.
Now for Lucy and Adam's relationship: while I wasn't sold at first, I was OBSESSED with these two by the end. Adam's shameless attempts to find any way to hang out with Lucy was absolutely adorable, as was the way he soaked up every little detail about her. To be loved is to be seen and Adam sees Lucy 110%. The way they show up for each other is absolutely beautiful (spoilers ahead): from Adam dropping everything to drive Lucy to help the little sister he'd never met (and buy her a care package and cook for her???) to Lucy and her family driving back to Sweet River early to help Adam with post-storm festival prep. And don't even get me started on the tension. At some point Lucy thinks, "I wasn't sure who was more agonized, him or me." The answer is me. I could FEEL the tension between these two just building and building and building, and when they finally give in, it is everything.
Lastly, each character had their own complexities and struggles they were working through, and these were all demonstrated and developed very well. They learned from and leaned on each other and grew over the course of the novel.
Overall, Lucy Loves Him Not is a delight, and I'm very thankful to have gotten to ARC read it.
April 7, 2024
Lucy Loves Him Not is the second book in the Sweet River series. I personally had not read the previous book and found I was able to enjoy this just fine as a standalone.
Right from the start, I was drawn into this sweet story. It truly had all the makings of a Hallmark movie, in the best way possible. When we meet Lucy, she is gearing up to work on the summer festival that she had taken over after her grandma passed. Until she learns that the city has brought in a new planner and it seems he intends to take it over from her. Even more surprising, when she goes to confront him, she discovers he's the man she'd matched with on a local dating app. Needless to say, they didn't get off on the right foot after that. Still, they put their differences aside to make the festival the best possible. I really enjoyed the banter between them, and the undeniable chemistry as well. It was such a sweet romance and one that I absolutely couldn't get enough of.
Beyond the romance, I also really loved both the small-town vibes and the great family dynamic with Lucy's family. Their relationship was so fun--- meddling, yes... but the love there was obvious and made the story all that much better... especially when we see how easily Adam fits in.
Lucy Loves Him Not is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Right from the start, I was drawn into this sweet story. It truly had all the makings of a Hallmark movie, in the best way possible. When we meet Lucy, she is gearing up to work on the summer festival that she had taken over after her grandma passed. Until she learns that the city has brought in a new planner and it seems he intends to take it over from her. Even more surprising, when she goes to confront him, she discovers he's the man she'd matched with on a local dating app. Needless to say, they didn't get off on the right foot after that. Still, they put their differences aside to make the festival the best possible. I really enjoyed the banter between them, and the undeniable chemistry as well. It was such a sweet romance and one that I absolutely couldn't get enough of.
Beyond the romance, I also really loved both the small-town vibes and the great family dynamic with Lucy's family. Their relationship was so fun--- meddling, yes... but the love there was obvious and made the story all that much better... especially when we see how easily Adam fits in.
Lucy Loves Him Not is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
April 25, 2024
Man it was good to be back in Sweet River! This hallmark like small town is such a sweet escape. I loved “seeing” some of our old friends, and meeting new ones! I have been waiting for this book since I finished It Couldn’t Be You and Rebecca knocked it out of the park yet again!
Lucy Rhodes was such a joy to get to know as our FMC. She is a totally relatable people pleaser with a super sweet relationship with her family and friends. The banter and fun between her and her sisters had me laughing out loud and making plans to get margaritas on a regular basis with my own sisters. Seriously, if I have to make them read this book, let them move in with me, and force them to spend time with me to get the vibes of the Rhodes sisters… I. WILL. DO. IT. So many giggles in every scene they are in, I couldn’t get enough! Definitely looking forward to more of their stories in future books… *nudge nudge*
Enter our MMC, Adam. Oh Adam… a bookish girls DREAM guy. Dark curly hair, glasses, and he loves books!? *swoon* Plus he has the personality to boot! The patience and concern he has for Lucy even after her continuously assuming the worst of him was so sweet. Their relationship development was such a good and realistic slow burn with no silly third act breakup. The chemistry building… and building… and building… !JUST FREAKING KISS ALREADY! …between them was able to be felt through the pages (or my kindle in this case) and I loved it! It was Hallmarkish but in a more “this could actually happen in real life” sort of way. We get to see them both grow, learn, and break down walls they’ve built over their lives throughout and it was so fun to read! My only complaint… it felt too short and I wanted more!
I am, again, so impressed with Rebecca’s community development. The family and friends of the MCs and other members of the town of Sweet River were such a huge part of this story being what it was. I loved getting to know each one of them and seriously can’t wait for more!
Thank you, Rebecca, for allowing me to be a part of your ARC and street team. It is such a blessing to be a part of sharing your work.
Lucy Rhodes was such a joy to get to know as our FMC. She is a totally relatable people pleaser with a super sweet relationship with her family and friends. The banter and fun between her and her sisters had me laughing out loud and making plans to get margaritas on a regular basis with my own sisters. Seriously, if I have to make them read this book, let them move in with me, and force them to spend time with me to get the vibes of the Rhodes sisters… I. WILL. DO. IT. So many giggles in every scene they are in, I couldn’t get enough! Definitely looking forward to more of their stories in future books… *nudge nudge*
Enter our MMC, Adam. Oh Adam… a bookish girls DREAM guy. Dark curly hair, glasses, and he loves books!? *swoon* Plus he has the personality to boot! The patience and concern he has for Lucy even after her continuously assuming the worst of him was so sweet. Their relationship development was such a good and realistic slow burn with no silly third act breakup. The chemistry building… and building… and building… !JUST FREAKING KISS ALREADY! …between them was able to be felt through the pages (or my kindle in this case) and I loved it! It was Hallmarkish but in a more “this could actually happen in real life” sort of way. We get to see them both grow, learn, and break down walls they’ve built over their lives throughout and it was so fun to read! My only complaint… it felt too short and I wanted more!
I am, again, so impressed with Rebecca’s community development. The family and friends of the MCs and other members of the town of Sweet River were such a huge part of this story being what it was. I loved getting to know each one of them and seriously can’t wait for more!
Thank you, Rebecca, for allowing me to be a part of your ARC and street team. It is such a blessing to be a part of sharing your work.
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