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Lilliana Jones and the Temple of Groom

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When her best friend stages a love-life intervention with a psychic at a Chinese restaurant, Lilly Jones suddenly finds herself flying to Rome in search of her future husband. The only thing separating Lilly from true love is the fear of flying, lactose intolerance, a scandal with the Pope, and the sexy Italian she meets on the plane.

Audiobook

First published May 12, 2016

336 people are currently reading
754 people want to read

About the author

Rich Amooi

32 books638 followers
Rich Amooi is a Taleflick Discovery Winner, Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Recipient, Holt Medallion Finalist, and the Amazon Bestselling author of 24 romantic comedies, including It's Not PMS, It's You, Dying to Meet You, Royal Crush, and Men or Paws.

A former radio personality and wedding DJ, Rich now writes romantic comedies full-time in San Diego, California, and is happily married to a kiss monster imported from Spain. Rich believes in public displays of affection, silliness, infinite possibilities, donuts, gratitude, laughter, and happily ever after.

Get a FREE romantic comedy by visiting his website at https://www.richamooi.com.

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5 stars
416 (51%)
4 stars
247 (30%)
3 stars
116 (14%)
2 stars
24 (2%)
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8 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
Profile Image for Vicki.
1,206 reviews177 followers
May 14, 2016
Lilliana Jones and the Temple of Groom, was a fun adventure filled book. There is humor, romance and Amazing Italian landmarks.
Lilliana Jones is a single girl that believes men will always walk off and leave you. She has had some experience with this phenomenon, and does not allow herself to get in situations where this can happen.
Her best friend plans an intervention which involves a psychic and several highly unlikely signs which may involve her meeting her soul mate.

As a doubter she is not prepared for what happens next. The book is so fun. I laughed at her explosive reactions to certain foods as well as her over the top chase for an elusive employee.

Rich Amooi has really brought home a winner. This is a really good book. I have enjoyed several of his other books, but this one is the icing on the cake.
Profile Image for Cyndi.
2,450 reviews123 followers
May 9, 2018
That’s Amore! Our heroine is dragged to a psychic by her best friend. There she learns she will meet her future husband while on a trip far away. Then her boss sends her to Italy.
Meanwhile our hero is busy building his career until he meets our heroine.
Good romantic comedy with some lovely shots of Italy.
Profile Image for Zoé-Lee O'Farrell.
Author 1 book241 followers
January 17, 2020
First off I must say I love the play on the title here and the other thing I 110% adored was the cameo from Madam Love! She was superb in sending Lily on her way to meet her dream husband.

Lily has been burned by two men in her life and now meticulously plans everything to the very last minute, I absolutely kid you not, she can’t do spontaneity as bad things happen when she does. But could she take the risk here?

Marco, the traditional tall dark and handsome male of the story, he too closed himself off from love. How can he open up when he jetting off to Australia for six months?!

A chance meeting on a flight to Italy, and these two are on a collision course for love and a lot of mishaps!! Plus Madam Love’s predictions well you know it’s going to be a hoot!

Yes it is a case of girl meets boy, boy shows her how to lighten up and fall in love and then they are whisked off in the sunset forever. I actually really love this with Amooi, because when I pick up a book by him, I know exactly what is going to happen but not how and I get to enjoy the journey with the characters.

I got to go to Italy with Lilly Philly and Marco Polo and I loved my adventure and I really want to go to Capri it sounds beautiful! And who doesn’t want to risk their lives going 15 mph on a Vespa! Plus the Pope scene did tickle me a lot.

The formula may be a safe one in some peoples eyes but to me it’s magical. I know a lot of people say you don’t need a man to define you blah blah blah but I love these books because I am an old fashioned romantic and these books make me happy at the end. If you want to be taken out of the mundane for two hours and whisked away to the warmth, love and Pope of a good time then you need to grab this book. I devoured it in no time as I wanted to read about Lily and Marco adventures and ensure I got my HEA!
2,311 reviews11 followers
May 13, 2016
Well, well, well. Who would have thought that I could smile or laugh through a whole book? 
Rich Amooi, you have a wicked sense of humour!
This story is about a very skeptical and unspontaneous young lady with trust issues and a hunk of a guy who knows just how to handle her. Some of the funniest parts happen when she starts realizing that what has been predicted for her future has come true and she has a problem dealing with this.
Each step this couple takes is an adventure that brings them closer to the inevitable conclusion and I loved every step of this journey.
So, if you want a good laugh or even want your day to feel brighter, shinier or even want to feel happier, read this book!
A copy of this book was provided by the author at no cost in exchange for my unbiased review.
Profile Image for Heather Cowan.
1 review
May 13, 2016
I read, A LOT. I go through a book every few days. I'm a voracious reader, and usually spend my time reading mysteries, true crime, police procedurals, and supernatural thrillers. Somehow, one day I bought one of Mr. Amooi's books, and I was HOOKED!
His latest story continues to prove to me exactly why I look forward to new releases by this author. I won't rehash the plot, and i hate reviews that have spoilers in them; so i won't go there. What I will do is say that as I read this story, I found myself laughing out loud, I realized I NEEDED Italian food ASAP, (with hunky Marco, please?), found myself wanting to visit Rome, and was sad to come to the end of the ride. It is rare for me to discover a new author I love, one whose books have great editing, a fun story, and characters that catch my interest; and Rich Amooi has all of that and more. His joy for life is so evident in his writing. I'm avidly awaiting his next story, and the opportunities for laughter it's sure to bring
839 reviews7 followers
July 2, 2021
Enjoyable

This love story was so adorable. I had to keep reading to true love some through to the end. It was an awesome tale.
Profile Image for Erica.
459 reviews25 followers
May 16, 2016
Great book to get a good laugh.

After being told of her furtune, Lilly decides to go across the world. She meets a man on an airplane that decides to be her tour guide. Because he is the complete opposite of her, Marco is completely frustrating. BUT, he starts to grow on her. And she realizes that she actually enjoys his company. But once he finds her destination, she realizes she has falling for him.

Marco is in Rome to see his family before he goes to Australia for work. He constantly travels for work so he has no time for a relationship. But, on the airplane listening to this crazy woman talking in her sleep, he just has to take her on a tour.

What this crazed planner goes through is down right hilarious. Marco, being the king of spontaneous, drags her every where in the time frame they have. They have these moments of pure awesomeness.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews63 followers
January 17, 2024
Lilly’s history had taught her that if you don’t control everything you can, your world will spin wildly out of control. But, that meant that her whole life was rigidly planned, with no room for sudden inspiration or detours. Can the poster girl for Type A personalities find happiness when sent on what appeared to be a wild goose chase? Oh my. I couldn’t help but feel for Lilly. Everything about this story was designed to drag her kicking and screaming out of her comfort zone. This was so much fun, and I adored the ending.
Profile Image for Sandra R.
3,345 reviews46 followers
August 30, 2022
A cute, sweet romance, about an American couple who meet while they are in Italy. Insta love with some humourous scenes. I liked it, but it was fairly typical of this genre, very light-hearted. Great narration from Michael Ferraiuolo, he's fabulous at women's voices. 😃
56 reviews2 followers
January 9, 2021
Engaging and Sweet!

A very nice story that kept you guessing as to the result. I really appreciated how the author smoothly transitioned between scenes. I also enjoyed learning about some places to visit when I eventually visit Italy!
1,266 reviews26 followers
August 3, 2016
I listened to my first Rich Amooi audiobook last year and enjoyed it, so when the chance came to get a review copy of another one of his stories, I jumped at it.

The pun-tastically named Lilliana Jones and the Temple of Groom brings back what I like from Amooi’s writing. It has good plotting and didn’t lag anywhere. Some of the parts of the story are laugh out loud funny to me. (The psychic character of Madam Love is a hoot!) This would fit the bill for those wanting a “clean” romance because there are no on page sex scenes, just a few kisses that aren’t overly described.

The plot concerns the very contained Lilli takes an opportunity to go to Italy to seek out the savior of her company and hopefully find love along the way—that is, if she takes Madam Love’s advice to heart. While en route, she meets Marco, who is going there for his job. They hit it off and have some great adventures—some of them hilarious, some hilariously bad, all of them memorable.

Lilli is the better written character because she feels more real with flaws. Marco, on the other hand, sometimes feels too good to be true and without flaws. I was starting to feel skeptical as I do with much of modern romance, but the story moved along so I didn’t have time to dwell on it.

Since I listened to an audiobook, I must mention the narrator Michael Ferraiuolo’s performance. Simply put, I was very impressed. All his characters sounded different no matter who they are or what gender they were. He handed the Italian accent and few bits of Italian language with aplomb. I’ve listened to another performance of his and enjoyed it, but now I’ve started recognizing his name with other audiobooks I want to try. I doubt this will be the last time I listen to a Michael Ferraiuolo performance or read a Rich Amooi title!

If you want a sweet, funny, romantic adventure, this is the book you want.

Disclaimer: This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.
466 reviews
April 4, 2021
Another fun romcom from this author!! He has become one of my favorites! Lily is so set in her ways as a means to protect herself and her feelings.. all it takes is a hunky Italian male to show her the error of her ways.. and who doesn't love a hunky Italian male??
Profile Image for Arielle Joy.
395 reviews30 followers
July 27, 2016
Review originally posted on livinglifewithjoy.com Check out the blog for more reviews, interviews and excerpts!

Although Lilliana Jones has an open door policy at her HR job at a high- tech company, she has no room for spontaneity in her own life. When her best friend stages a love intervention, Lilly is in for a rocky and laugh-out-loud funny ride. Lilly’s luck – or lack thereof – when she steers off course throughout the novel is absolutely hilarious. My sides hurt from laughing hard when Lilly goes from one unfortunate situation to the next.

I loved the story of Lilly and Marco! This novel had me laughing the whole way through. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a quick, extremely funny read. Filled with romance, chaos, a few wrong turns and tons of laughs, this romantic comedy will have you turning the pages to find out more.
One of the main themes of the novel was that learning to let a little spontaneity in your life can lead to fun new experiences. Planning is great, but sometimes straying from the scheduled course isn’t always a bad thing.

Needless to say, this was a classic Amooi romantic comedy and I loved every minute of it.

Words to describe this novel : spontaneous, humorous, chaotic, romantic, fun, adventure

5/5 stars

I received a complimentary Advanced Review Copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Gina Smith.
466 reviews10 followers
May 13, 2016
A very entertaining and funny book. Collette springs a surprise reading on Lilliana which is given by Madam Love. When several of Madam Love's predictions come true Lilliana really starts to wonder if the forecasted future husband will make an appearance. When Lilliana suddenly has the opportunity to travel to Italy and recruit Roberto to return and work in the US again for his former company, she begins to wonder he will be her destiny. This will be Lilliana's first plane ride because she is terrified of flying. She ends up next to Marco on the plane and he helps her deal with her fright. Marco ends up even offering to show her around Italy. This book is a quick, enjoyable experience that will leave you with a very positive feeling. The setting of Italy is just perfect and I think it is my favorite Rich Amooi book.
Profile Image for Cindy Dorminy.
Author 19 books166 followers
May 13, 2016
I stopped counting the laugh out loud moments at about five… in the first chapter. Rich Amooi has done it again. Liliana Jones and the Temple of Groom is so much fun to read for so many reasons. First off, Amooi has the gift of great titles. The title alone gave me a chuckle and I had to know more. The main characters Lilly and Marco are so believable. Lilly is the least spontaneous person on the planet and Marco is the complete opposite. He loves to wing it. While helping her find her future husband, he encourages her to throw the plans away and enjoy the adventure. The playful banter between them is adorable and I was cheering for them the entire time. And I’ll never think of the Pope the same way… ever! I would definitely recommend this romantic comedy and can’t wait to see what else Amooi has in store for his readers.
Profile Image for Laura.
2,557 reviews
May 16, 2016
This is a great book by Rich Amooi. Lilly Jones’s best friend stages an intervention with a psychic. The next thing Lilly finds herself flying to Rome for work and also find her future husband according the psychic. I couldn’t help but laugh throughout this book at Lilly’s luck. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. This book will keep you reading long into the night. If you are looking for a great book, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this great author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
Profile Image for Ash P Reads.
1,054 reviews16 followers
May 20, 2016
A hilarious and fun read as is to be expected from Rich Amooi. His love for travel shines through in this book. I had the image of Robert Downey Jr in my mind as I read about their escapades because this story reminded me of the movie "Only you" which had the same wild goose chase running through Italy theme. That movie may have been great but this book was a lot more fun. Each site visited in Italy is so vividly described that I felt I've visited Italy and now I am home carrying the great memories of that holiday. Lilly and Marco are so opposite to each other but he lets her live a little by forcing her be spontaneous.

ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
18 reviews
May 1, 2017
I have read other books by Rich Amooi and this one ranks right up there with the rest. Lilly Jones is an uptight girl whose meddling friend sets her up with a psychic reading. The psychic tells her a series of unbelievable events would occur and then she would meet her Mr. Right. Her journey to find her future husband is wrought with mishaps, but nonetheless make for an exciting adventure and a delightful read. The book is light-hearted and I enjoy Rich Amooi's quirky sense of humor. I couldn't help but smile while I read much of this book.
Profile Image for April.
2,201 reviews58 followers
August 7, 2016
“This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.”

Lillyanna Jones cringes at the word spontaneous, Marco a man she meets on her first flight is her polar opposite. They seem to grow on each other as he offers to be her tour guide. I loved the adventure, romance and a glimpse of Italy! I found myself laughing as I listened. I will definitely look for more from this author.




The narration was well done.The characters were well portrayed.
1 review
May 13, 2016
This book is a delight. The characters are likable and believable. I was rooting for Lilly and Marco all the way from their understandable and entertaining awkward reactions to each other to the happily-ever-after ending. Even Madam Love and her predictions are fun. The descriptions of the food and the sights of Italy made me wish I was there as well. Take a trip with Lilly and Marco, you'll be glad you did.
Profile Image for Stacy.
85 reviews1 follower
May 20, 2016
Another amazing romance!!

I have to say, Lilly's life is like so many of other woman's. She has gave up on love due to prior heartbreak. She did what a lot of us do, hide from it and all that finding new love entails. Well, after a surprise (which is not in Lilly's vocab) lunch with her bestie, Colette, some things are about to put her world in a bit of a tailspin. Please, read this book, read ALL of Rich's books. You will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Paula D.
1,580 reviews55 followers
May 13, 2016
Such a cute,funny, romantic book right from the begging! Lilly is so ocd and demanding it's funny .. I love the whole Madam love thing and how her reaction was towards it! And Marco aka hottie he finally finds the woman who he can settle down and not just focus on work they both had me smiling and laughing threw out the book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Liz Rees.
1 review
May 13, 2016
Lilly and Marco are a great couple, even if Lilly doesn't know it yet. Could not put it down because I needed to know what they situation they would get into next. This book is well written and laugh out loud funny. Will recommend it to anyone in need of fun. If you are looking for a good time, do yourself a favor and read Lilliana Jones and the Temple of Groom. Love all of Rich Amooi books.
Profile Image for Rita Leathers.
43 reviews
May 13, 2016
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
Lilliana Jones and the Temple of the Groom is another great book by Rich Amooi. I was really entertained through out the book. The characters in the book are everyday people with real issues that can be related to by the reader. Love and laughter is what this book delivers. I can't wait until the next Rich Amooi book.
3 reviews
May 14, 2016
I have read all of Rich Amooi's Rom-Coms and this one didn't disappoint.
"Lilliana Jones and the Temple of Groom" is a clean, light hearted romantic comedy. It has quirky characters, amusing banter, and some laugh out loud moments. The hero, Marco, was such a gentleman and so patient with the heroine, Lily. Overall, the book put a smile on my face gave me the entertainment I craved.
Profile Image for Delta.
1,242 reviews22 followers
August 12, 2016
A cute story about finding "the one." Lilly is a bit too uptight for my liking, but she does soften up near the end. Marco is adorable, but has very little character growth in the story.

Michael Ferraiuolo did a great job narrating the story. Great timing and his character voices were pretty distinct.

**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**
230 reviews2 followers
March 3, 2021
Awesome

On my gosh what a terrific book. I loved Lily and Marco's story and hope there is a follow up. This author knows how to write a great romance with plenty of fun. I was very impressed with how well it was written and how it held my attention especially since romance books are not my thing, but I will be reading more of Rich Amooi's books.
248 reviews
May 13, 2016
Yet another fun, fast read from Rich Amooi. The characters have a variety of adventures on their way to true love. How do a psychic, the Parthenon, lactose intolerance, a picture of the Pope, a bear and Samsung figure into this story? You'll really need to read the whole story to find out!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews

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