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Detroit Panthers #1
Looks Real Good Now
Some yeses are easier to give than others…
Alana Fitzpatrick should be spending Christmas in Aspen, but she ruined her own plans when her (ex) boyfriend got down on one knee to propose…and she didn’t say yes.
She is dreading going home to Westchester, New York for the holidays. Facing her parents and the small-town gossip amid her not-so-impending nuptials does not sound like a merry time. That is, until an old childhood friend, and the first boy she ever loved, runs into her at the airport.
Liam Mulligan is also dreading the holidays. When an old shoulder injury reared its ugly head, he called time on his professional ice hockey career. Then his girlfriend of five years broke up with him. He is tired of telling everyone he is okay and having no one believe him, even though it’s the truth. Mostly.
When he bumps into Alana at the airport, he sees an opportunity.
The proposition is simple. Alana and Liam tell their parents that they recently reconnected and started dating. Everyone will be so distracted, that there will be no mention of failed proposals and early retirements.
What isn’t simple is keeping the old feelings they both ran away from as teenagers at bay. Will Liam be able to hold onto the most important person in his life? Will Alana finally stop running and let herself fall for the one that got away?
Or will they both learn that some things are only for a season?
Alana Fitzpatrick should be spending Christmas in Aspen, but she ruined her own plans when her (ex) boyfriend got down on one knee to propose…and she didn’t say yes.
She is dreading going home to Westchester, New York for the holidays. Facing her parents and the small-town gossip amid her not-so-impending nuptials does not sound like a merry time. That is, until an old childhood friend, and the first boy she ever loved, runs into her at the airport.
Liam Mulligan is also dreading the holidays. When an old shoulder injury reared its ugly head, he called time on his professional ice hockey career. Then his girlfriend of five years broke up with him. He is tired of telling everyone he is okay and having no one believe him, even though it’s the truth. Mostly.
When he bumps into Alana at the airport, he sees an opportunity.
The proposition is simple. Alana and Liam tell their parents that they recently reconnected and started dating. Everyone will be so distracted, that there will be no mention of failed proposals and early retirements.
What isn’t simple is keeping the old feelings they both ran away from as teenagers at bay. Will Liam be able to hold onto the most important person in his life? Will Alana finally stop running and let herself fall for the one that got away?
Or will they both learn that some things are only for a season?
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 3, 2024
59 people are currently reading
381 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Thomas
3 books36 followersLondoner. Writer. Reader. Breaks the rules of grammar far too often for someone with an English degree. Enjoys getting idiots to fall in love and kiss each other (and get secret tattoos for one another).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
November 24, 2024
what a debut!
i was so excited to read this novel from my friend, sophie. she has such a keen eye and a wit about her that i just knew she would write epic, steamy banter.
this book is perfect for fans of the co-op by tarah dewitt and chelsea curto's sports romances.
alana fitzpatrick is heading home to westchester for the holidays after declining her long term partner's proposal. at detroit airport, whilst waiting for her flight she is reunited with her long lost best friend, liam mulligan.
this is a beautiful friends to lovers story with a black cat with claws and a golden retriever who loves to simp.
i cant wait to read sophie's next book, because she has created something really addictive here and i just know it will be a good time.
this book is set during the Christmas holiday period, but not over the top on Christmas which was perfect for me in November.
add this one to your tbr now!!
i was so excited to read this novel from my friend, sophie. she has such a keen eye and a wit about her that i just knew she would write epic, steamy banter.
this book is perfect for fans of the co-op by tarah dewitt and chelsea curto's sports romances.
alana fitzpatrick is heading home to westchester for the holidays after declining her long term partner's proposal. at detroit airport, whilst waiting for her flight she is reunited with her long lost best friend, liam mulligan.
this is a beautiful friends to lovers story with a black cat with claws and a golden retriever who loves to simp.
i cant wait to read sophie's next book, because she has created something really addictive here and i just know it will be a good time.
this book is set during the Christmas holiday period, but not over the top on Christmas which was perfect for me in November.
add this one to your tbr now!!
December 14, 2024
cute lil christmas novella !!! 🤭 3.25 RTC
୨୧‧₊˚ 🎞️ pre-review ✧˖°
💌 ꒱ Thank you to Love Notes PR for the chance to read and review this 💕 the cover looks so cute !!!
୨୧‧₊˚ 🎞️ pre-review ✧˖°
💌 ꒱ Thank you to Love Notes PR for the chance to read and review this 💕 the cover looks so cute !!!
December 6, 2024
Lots of pieces and moments that made this a fun read. I love the best friends to stranger to lovers track in a romance, especially when they both have loved each other that entire time, and this one did just that. A chance encounter in the airport after not seeing each other for years leads to them fake dating since their families live next door to each other. He’s just retired from hockey and she’s just said no to a proposal, so they hope that this fake dating will help shift focus away from those things.
The two of them get thrown right in to it when they end up sharing a bed for the time at home and the feelings and actions come out pretty quickly after that. It didn’t feel rushed though given they were best friends from childhood and had their past. Sure there was the miscommunication resulting in them not speaking to each other for years, but the communication they have looking back on it all makes up for it.
The really like the fmc and found her relatable — hesitant to share her feelings, a tall queen, independent, and very much preferred to avoid social settings. The mmc was a bit of an opposite as the fun social butterfly. It was easy to see how they were best friends in their past and that they will work as a couple for their future.
I really enjoyed this and will definitely be reading more from the author!
✨ best friends to strangers to lovers
🛏️ only one bed
🤭 secret tattoos
🤍 fake dating
🏒 retired hockey player
👏🏼 no third act breakup
dual POV
4.5/5 stars ⭐️
3/5 spice level 🌶️
The two of them get thrown right in to it when they end up sharing a bed for the time at home and the feelings and actions come out pretty quickly after that. It didn’t feel rushed though given they were best friends from childhood and had their past. Sure there was the miscommunication resulting in them not speaking to each other for years, but the communication they have looking back on it all makes up for it.
The really like the fmc and found her relatable — hesitant to share her feelings, a tall queen, independent, and very much preferred to avoid social settings. The mmc was a bit of an opposite as the fun social butterfly. It was easy to see how they were best friends in their past and that they will work as a couple for their future.
I really enjoyed this and will definitely be reading more from the author!
✨ best friends to strangers to lovers
🛏️ only one bed
🤭 secret tattoos
🤍 fake dating
🏒 retired hockey player
👏🏼 no third act breakup
dual POV
4.5/5 stars ⭐️
3/5 spice level 🌶️
December 10, 2024
4⭐️
What an amazing novel!!! I mean, what can you except from an author named Sophie??? (I might or might not be Sophie biased😶)
Girl, let me tell you, this book reminded me of Hallmark movies and not in a bad way. Let me explain: the plot sounds really like a cliche movie but the execution was fabulous. The best friends to strangers to lovers plot was just chef’s kiss and them meeting at the airport??? That is what I’d call destiny! The relationship between them evolved in such a nice manner that it really felt right when they finally got together. Especially the fact that they both loved each other before was so heartwarming in a way because you could really feel them yearning for one another.
Thank you for providing me with an arc!!!
Highly recommend if you like:
✨second chance
✨fake dating
✨friends to lovers
~arc for honest review~
What an amazing novel!!! I mean, what can you except from an author named Sophie??? (I might or might not be Sophie biased😶)
Girl, let me tell you, this book reminded me of Hallmark movies and not in a bad way. Let me explain: the plot sounds really like a cliche movie but the execution was fabulous. The best friends to strangers to lovers plot was just chef’s kiss and them meeting at the airport??? That is what I’d call destiny! The relationship between them evolved in such a nice manner that it really felt right when they finally got together. Especially the fact that they both loved each other before was so heartwarming in a way because you could really feel them yearning for one another.
Thank you for providing me with an arc!!!
Highly recommend if you like:
✨second chance
✨fake dating
✨friends to lovers
~arc for honest review~
December 5, 2024
If you love second chance romance with childhood best friends and a hint of sport, you'll probably love this book!
We follow Liam and Alana from the moment they bump into each other after years with no contact. The author did a great job at renewing their spark while also telling us when and why they fell apart years ago. There's a single, present, timeline, but their relationship from the past was talked about enough so you wouldn't question their banter and attraction. The story is properly spicy with a lot of experimental scenes done with a lot of care and respect. I loved how these two dealt with their issues and how naturally their relationship grew. Liam has just retired from hockey, so I wouldn't really classify this as a sports romance, but there's a lot of talk about the constant pressure, the downsides of fame, physical injuries, and the expectations your family puts on you. The family dynamics were interesting and made room for many important conversations.
I would definitely recommend this, especially for the holidays, because, apart from the sweet romance, it also perfectly embodies the feeling of returning home to spend Christmas with your family.
A huge thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for sending me an ARC of this book!
We follow Liam and Alana from the moment they bump into each other after years with no contact. The author did a great job at renewing their spark while also telling us when and why they fell apart years ago. There's a single, present, timeline, but their relationship from the past was talked about enough so you wouldn't question their banter and attraction. The story is properly spicy with a lot of experimental scenes done with a lot of care and respect. I loved how these two dealt with their issues and how naturally their relationship grew. Liam has just retired from hockey, so I wouldn't really classify this as a sports romance, but there's a lot of talk about the constant pressure, the downsides of fame, physical injuries, and the expectations your family puts on you. The family dynamics were interesting and made room for many important conversations.
I would definitely recommend this, especially for the holidays, because, apart from the sweet romance, it also perfectly embodies the feeling of returning home to spend Christmas with your family.
A huge thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for sending me an ARC of this book!
December 4, 2024
Arc review for Looks Real Good Now by Sophie Thomas
✈️✨ Available Now ✨✈️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is Sophie’s debut novel and I really enjoyed this a lot.
I’m an absolute simp for childhood bestfriends to lovers so I knew I’d like it as the two MCs had pined for eachother while in highschool but never told one another. This story starts 12 after Alana moves away for College.
It had a lot of my favourite tropes and I loved the relationship between Liam and Alana they were so good to each other and so supportive. Even though they had avoided eachother for so long they seemed to fall back into eachother like no time had passed.
If you want a holiday/hockey romance this might for you. It was super sweet, funny and spicy, I couldn’t put it down!
❤️ Fake Dating
❄️ Forced Proximity
❤️ Second Chance
❄️ Black Cat x Golden Retriever
❤️ Friends to Lovers
Thanks so much to Sophie and Love Notes PR for the arc 💋
✈️✨ Available Now ✨✈️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is Sophie’s debut novel and I really enjoyed this a lot.
I’m an absolute simp for childhood bestfriends to lovers so I knew I’d like it as the two MCs had pined for eachother while in highschool but never told one another. This story starts 12 after Alana moves away for College.
It had a lot of my favourite tropes and I loved the relationship between Liam and Alana they were so good to each other and so supportive. Even though they had avoided eachother for so long they seemed to fall back into eachother like no time had passed.
If you want a holiday/hockey romance this might for you. It was super sweet, funny and spicy, I couldn’t put it down!
❤️ Fake Dating
❄️ Forced Proximity
❤️ Second Chance
❄️ Black Cat x Golden Retriever
❤️ Friends to Lovers
Thanks so much to Sophie and Love Notes PR for the arc 💋
December 8, 2024
ARC Review - thanks to LoveNotesPR and the author Sophie Thomas for the ARC
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5
This was my first Christmas romance, so I was very excited. This is a debut novel and what a debut novel. I really loved it and couldn't stop reading it. I like the characters in the book, Liam and Alana. Both of them are so lovable and each have their story. This book is such a good second chance romance.
I marked some quotes in it so cute. Really recommend reading this book during this time of the year. The writing style is very smooth and I just flew through the book once I was invested.
However I kind of missed the Christmas vibes in it, I don't know how this is in other books, since this is my first. I wished there was just a bit more of that in the book.
It is a spicy book, so know that before going into it. If you are in for a cute second chance, fake dating romance, than this book is perfect for you.
*ad: gifted
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5
This was my first Christmas romance, so I was very excited. This is a debut novel and what a debut novel. I really loved it and couldn't stop reading it. I like the characters in the book, Liam and Alana. Both of them are so lovable and each have their story. This book is such a good second chance romance.
I marked some quotes in it so cute. Really recommend reading this book during this time of the year. The writing style is very smooth and I just flew through the book once I was invested.
However I kind of missed the Christmas vibes in it, I don't know how this is in other books, since this is my first. I wished there was just a bit more of that in the book.
It is a spicy book, so know that before going into it. If you are in for a cute second chance, fake dating romance, than this book is perfect for you.
*ad: gifted
December 9, 2024
4.5⭐️ for me!
I really liked this love story. It's always a good time when you've got childhood best friends turned lovers and this one has some fun extra layers. Also always a big fan of a hockey romance - but it was nice the guy was retired for a change. Their chemistry is a big part of what makes this so good!
I think the .5 loss for me was the weird parental dynamics and then the friends at the end. I know they're setting up another book but it just felt like it wa stuffed in there at moments. But that's okay! Not a big deal overall. I also feel like the line between real and fake dating changed super fast and I needed a smidge more tension towards the end but it all works!
I really liked this love story. It's always a good time when you've got childhood best friends turned lovers and this one has some fun extra layers. Also always a big fan of a hockey romance - but it was nice the guy was retired for a change. Their chemistry is a big part of what makes this so good!
I think the .5 loss for me was the weird parental dynamics and then the friends at the end. I know they're setting up another book but it just felt like it wa stuffed in there at moments. But that's okay! Not a big deal overall. I also feel like the line between real and fake dating changed super fast and I needed a smidge more tension towards the end but it all works!
December 5, 2024
who doesn’t love a good fake dating romance?
both were so obsessed with each other and it was cute to get teasing moments of the memories that since they’ve been friends forever.
both were so obsessed with each other and it was cute to get teasing moments of the memories that since they’ve been friends forever.
December 10, 2024
Mixed feelings but ultimately had fun.
The premise of this was a tad too unrealistic for me – they hadn't seen eachother in twelve years (!!) but they start their fake dating scheme within 5 minutes of seeing eachother again? C'mon 😂 There were some other OTT scenes which is why this isn't rated higher but everything else was really cute! I love a good friends to lovers and even if the start was a bit ridiculous, they both acted really maturely and I liked how kink-positive this was (don't let the cartoon cover fool you!). There's also an explicit conversation about *not* having kids and I loved that so much. Really solid for a debut novel 🫶🏻
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The premise of this was a tad too unrealistic for me – they hadn't seen eachother in twelve years (!!) but they start their fake dating scheme within 5 minutes of seeing eachother again? C'mon 😂 There were some other OTT scenes which is why this isn't rated higher but everything else was really cute! I love a good friends to lovers and even if the start was a bit ridiculous, they both acted really maturely and I liked how kink-positive this was (don't let the cartoon cover fool you!). There's also an explicit conversation about *not* having kids and I loved that so much. Really solid for a debut novel 🫶🏻
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2024
Thank you Love Notes PR for sending me a copy of this book! I honestly don’t remember signing up for it but I’m glad I did!
Alana & Liam are returning home for the holidays, they haven’t seen each other in 12 years! I really enjoyed seeing this childhood friends to lovers relationship play out as it is one of my favourite tropes ☺️. Sophie wrote a great book! Everything felt so organic, not forced and the chemistry was perfection.
A story of high school best friends and next door neighbors, who were in love with each other but never told each other - INJECT IT IN MY VEINS 🤭🤭. I thought it was a great holiday read.
I think I just found a new favourite author, and I love that for me.
Tropes:
- Childhood friends to lovers
- One Bed
- Fake dating
- Holiday romance
Looks Real Good Now releases December 3, 2024
Alana & Liam are returning home for the holidays, they haven’t seen each other in 12 years! I really enjoyed seeing this childhood friends to lovers relationship play out as it is one of my favourite tropes ☺️. Sophie wrote a great book! Everything felt so organic, not forced and the chemistry was perfection.
A story of high school best friends and next door neighbors, who were in love with each other but never told each other - INJECT IT IN MY VEINS 🤭🤭. I thought it was a great holiday read.
I think I just found a new favourite author, and I love that for me.
Tropes:
- Childhood friends to lovers
- One Bed
- Fake dating
- Holiday romance
Looks Real Good Now releases December 3, 2024
December 10, 2024
A Cozy Holiday Escape with LOOKS REAL GOOD NOW
If you’re looking for a book that’s like the perfect Christmas cookie—warm, sweet, and filled with just the right amount of spice—then "Looks Real Good Now" is your new best friend. Seriously, this book has all the feel-good vibes you need to escape into a world of fake dating, second chances, and long-time friends-turned-lovers.
Let’s talk about the chemistry between Alana (aka Lenny) and Liam (aka Muller). These two have been best friends for years, but when Alana decides to escape her own emotional turmoil by hiding out in Detroit, sparks fly faster than Christmas lights on a tree when they meet after almost 13 years. She’s contemplating how to manage the questions about the failed proposal, and he’s just trying to figure out life after hockey. What starts as a fake dating scheme quickly turns into something much more real (but way more fun).
Liam’s past as an ex-hockey player who’s retired after too many shoulder injuries is a bit of a mess, but Alana’s here to support him that life doesn’t stop at the rink. Their journey from best friends to lovers feels so natural, like slipping into your favorite sweater by the fire. She supports him, encourages him, and loves him for who he is—not just for his ex-hockey-star status. And when it all comes to a head with that first kiss (swoon-worthy, by the way), you’ll be cheering them on like a proud fan in the stands.
Oh, and let’s not forget Alana herself! She’s a baker with a dream, running her own bakery in Detroit, and she's got some seriously adorable secret tattoos (a girl after my own heart). She’s got a heart of gold, and her relationship with Liam feels like it’s always been meant to be. Alana helping out with Liams' pre-game rituals will make you want to turn the cooker on while it's -10° outside.
The whole thing reads like a Hallmark movie—except with way more heat, chemistry, and a dash of spice. Seriously, there’s sharing a bed, first kisses, and first I Love You's that will make you swoon hard. And I don’t know about you, but the idea of dating someone whose ex is obsessed with your love interest? Peak romance drama, and I live for it.
If you’re looking for the perfect book to curl up with this Christmas (or anytime you need a good pick-me-up), "Looks Real Good Now" is the one. It’s got all the tropes you adore, and the kind of cozy, heartwarming moments that make you believe in love all over again. And hey, if you’re a fan of hockey or baked goods, it’s a double win.
If you’re looking for a book that’s like the perfect Christmas cookie—warm, sweet, and filled with just the right amount of spice—then "Looks Real Good Now" is your new best friend. Seriously, this book has all the feel-good vibes you need to escape into a world of fake dating, second chances, and long-time friends-turned-lovers.
Let’s talk about the chemistry between Alana (aka Lenny) and Liam (aka Muller). These two have been best friends for years, but when Alana decides to escape her own emotional turmoil by hiding out in Detroit, sparks fly faster than Christmas lights on a tree when they meet after almost 13 years. She’s contemplating how to manage the questions about the failed proposal, and he’s just trying to figure out life after hockey. What starts as a fake dating scheme quickly turns into something much more real (but way more fun).
Liam’s past as an ex-hockey player who’s retired after too many shoulder injuries is a bit of a mess, but Alana’s here to support him that life doesn’t stop at the rink. Their journey from best friends to lovers feels so natural, like slipping into your favorite sweater by the fire. She supports him, encourages him, and loves him for who he is—not just for his ex-hockey-star status. And when it all comes to a head with that first kiss (swoon-worthy, by the way), you’ll be cheering them on like a proud fan in the stands.
Oh, and let’s not forget Alana herself! She’s a baker with a dream, running her own bakery in Detroit, and she's got some seriously adorable secret tattoos (a girl after my own heart). She’s got a heart of gold, and her relationship with Liam feels like it’s always been meant to be. Alana helping out with Liams' pre-game rituals will make you want to turn the cooker on while it's -10° outside.
The whole thing reads like a Hallmark movie—except with way more heat, chemistry, and a dash of spice. Seriously, there’s sharing a bed, first kisses, and first I Love You's that will make you swoon hard. And I don’t know about you, but the idea of dating someone whose ex is obsessed with your love interest? Peak romance drama, and I live for it.
If you’re looking for the perfect book to curl up with this Christmas (or anytime you need a good pick-me-up), "Looks Real Good Now" is the one. It’s got all the tropes you adore, and the kind of cozy, heartwarming moments that make you believe in love all over again. And hey, if you’re a fan of hockey or baked goods, it’s a double win.
December 10, 2024
I was able to secure an ARC of Looks Real Good Now by Sophie Thomas.
This book was good. I love the plot and characters. The chapters are short but pack a lot of punch. There were parts that were a little slow and whils the amount to descriptive writing compared to dialog in some chapters. I lost my connection with the characters.
Alana is your FMC. She has recently called a quits aft3r being proposed to by an ex. She is very insecure about certain things after the things men have said to her while dating. Alana has a lot of personal growth on that front throughout this book. Liam is your MMC. He has recently retired from hockey and had his girlfriend leave him because of it. Liam has a lot of self-discovery about who he is after being the top player. What could happen when two old friends reconnect and fake date to trick their parents.
This book was good and I do recommend it. I will be rereading during holiday seasons on the years to come. I will also be reading more by Sophie Thomas.
This book was good. I love the plot and characters. The chapters are short but pack a lot of punch. There were parts that were a little slow and whils the amount to descriptive writing compared to dialog in some chapters. I lost my connection with the characters.
Alana is your FMC. She has recently called a quits aft3r being proposed to by an ex. She is very insecure about certain things after the things men have said to her while dating. Alana has a lot of personal growth on that front throughout this book. Liam is your MMC. He has recently retired from hockey and had his girlfriend leave him because of it. Liam has a lot of self-discovery about who he is after being the top player. What could happen when two old friends reconnect and fake date to trick their parents.
This book was good and I do recommend it. I will be rereading during holiday seasons on the years to come. I will also be reading more by Sophie Thomas.
December 5, 2024
Looks Real Good Now by Sophie Thomas is the kind of feel-good romance that hooks you from the start and leaves you wanting more.
This debut novel blends all the best tropes: childhood friends turned lovers, second chances, and a fake-dating scenario with just the right amount of tension and humor. Alana and Liam, who haven’t seen each other in over a decade, slip back into their easy, comfortable dynamic as if no time had passed—while also growing into better versions of themselves. The chemistry between them is palpable, and the emotional depth is beautifully woven through their sweet and steamy interactions. Set against the cozy backdrop of the holidays, the story is filled with heartwarming moments, funny banter, and a bit of spicy tension. It’s perfect for fans of feel-good, friends-to-lovers romances with a dash of holiday magic.
I can’t wait to see what Sophie Thomas writes next!
This debut novel blends all the best tropes: childhood friends turned lovers, second chances, and a fake-dating scenario with just the right amount of tension and humor. Alana and Liam, who haven’t seen each other in over a decade, slip back into their easy, comfortable dynamic as if no time had passed—while also growing into better versions of themselves. The chemistry between them is palpable, and the emotional depth is beautifully woven through their sweet and steamy interactions. Set against the cozy backdrop of the holidays, the story is filled with heartwarming moments, funny banter, and a bit of spicy tension. It’s perfect for fans of feel-good, friends-to-lovers romances with a dash of holiday magic.
I can’t wait to see what Sophie Thomas writes next!
December 8, 2024
This was such a cute Christmas romance. Alana and Liam were best friends for most of their life. After high school, they parted ways and neither of them really knew how the other one felt. Years later, they run into each other on their way home for the holidays. Both are single and decide to fake date to keep their parents from drilling them about their recent break ups. While they are home, they stay together at Alana’s parents and it doesn’t take long for the two of them to realize they aren’t faking anything in their relationship. I loved the twilight references and there was the perfect amount of spicy scenes.
If you love:
• second chance
• forced proximity
• friends to lovers
• fake dating
• only one bed
• she’s a baker, he’s a retired NHL player
• open door romance 🌶️
Thank you love notes PR and Sophie Thomas for the ARC!
If you love:
• second chance
• forced proximity
• friends to lovers
• fake dating
• only one bed
• she’s a baker, he’s a retired NHL player
• open door romance 🌶️
Thank you love notes PR and Sophie Thomas for the ARC!
November 21, 2024
3.7⭐️
Alana y Liam fueron mejores amigos desde la infancia hasta el día de su graduación, cuando ella desapareció sin despedirse de él.
Doce años después, ambos logran cumplir sus metas. Ella se convierte en panadera y es propietaria de una panadería, mientras que él se volvió un famoso jugador de hockey,ñbque se acaba de retirar. Se reencuentran en el aeropuerto, donde ambos viajaban a visitar a sus familias, y él le propone que finjan tener una relación para evitar que los molesten con preguntas sobre sus relaciones pasadas. La de Alana terminó porque rechazó su propuesta de matrimonio, y la de él porque su exnovia solo lo quería por su fama.
Es una historia ideal para la época navideña.
Gracias Love Notes PR por el ARC.
Alana y Liam fueron mejores amigos desde la infancia hasta el día de su graduación, cuando ella desapareció sin despedirse de él.
Doce años después, ambos logran cumplir sus metas. Ella se convierte en panadera y es propietaria de una panadería, mientras que él se volvió un famoso jugador de hockey,ñbque se acaba de retirar. Se reencuentran en el aeropuerto, donde ambos viajaban a visitar a sus familias, y él le propone que finjan tener una relación para evitar que los molesten con preguntas sobre sus relaciones pasadas. La de Alana terminó porque rechazó su propuesta de matrimonio, y la de él porque su exnovia solo lo quería por su fama.
Es una historia ideal para la época navideña.
Gracias Love Notes PR por el ARC.
November 28, 2024
First, thank you Love Notes PR + the author for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I thought there were a lot of things done well here, in the end the romance just fell short in terms of depth for me. I needed more emotion and that could just be my preference! I am not a big spice girl and had to skip a lot. However, I felt their chemistry was organic and I really appreciated the childhood best friends to lovers trope. I thought it was well done overall! I think we could have gotten to know Liam + Alana more as characters and I would have been a bit more invested. I always love a good Christmas read.
I thought there were a lot of things done well here, in the end the romance just fell short in terms of depth for me. I needed more emotion and that could just be my preference! I am not a big spice girl and had to skip a lot. However, I felt their chemistry was organic and I really appreciated the childhood best friends to lovers trope. I thought it was well done overall! I think we could have gotten to know Liam + Alana more as characters and I would have been a bit more invested. I always love a good Christmas read.
December 3, 2024
This book is kind of a mix of fake dating and insta love. While I don’t normally like insta love, it works well in this one because they were best friends that both PINED for each other throughout high school. So trust me when I say I ate this book up, because there is nothing I love more than a good friends to lovers book.
I also really loved some of the conversations that Lenny and Liam had?! They discussed some really great personal topics, and I really appreciated those moments.
I loved their relationship a lot. They were both so good to the other, and it made me so happy to read this book. My only wish was that it was longer, and that’s only because I wanted MORE of both of them.
I’m definitely recommending this book if you want a quick holiday hockey romcom! It was super sweet and a little bit spicy, and altogether a perfect read!
I also really loved some of the conversations that Lenny and Liam had?! They discussed some really great personal topics, and I really appreciated those moments.
I loved their relationship a lot. They were both so good to the other, and it made me so happy to read this book. My only wish was that it was longer, and that’s only because I wanted MORE of both of them.
I’m definitely recommending this book if you want a quick holiday hockey romcom! It was super sweet and a little bit spicy, and altogether a perfect read!
November 22, 2024
Cute, quick, Christmas read! Oh to be loved the way Liam loves Alana. Spicer than I expected!
Thank you to the publishers for the ARC.
Thank you to the publishers for the ARC.
November 28, 2024
Ya’ll. YA’LL. Read. This. I’m simply obsessed. Fake dating, best friends x strangers x lovers, no third act break up, THE SPICE. Goodbye. Give me 100000 more of these romances, please.
December 4, 2024
*** ARC Review ***
Looks Real Good Now by Sophie Thomas
Releases Dec 3rd on Kindle Unlimited
I love a best friends to lovers. Granted, this one had a 12-ish year gap of separation, but it still hit.
Liam and Alana (Lenny to him and him alone) were best friends and neighbors since childhood, until after prom, when Alana left school early and moved to Michigan for college with not a word to Liam.
In the twelve long years apart, Alana opened her dream bakery and it's thriving, and Liam went on to play hockey professionally with a stellar career. The two haven't spoken in all that time, let alone seen each other, but they run into each other at the airport when flying home to New York for Christmas.
They fell right into their old ways, reading each other like books, joking, using old nicknames. Both of them had recently ended long-term relationships and Liam had retired from professional hockey, to his father's and his fans' disappointment. They decide to pretend to be dating each other to distract their parents from their recent personal life drama.
SURPRISE! The parents are thrilled and they're forced to share a bedroom at her parent's house-- and one bed. Pretending forces them to finally work through their past, and along with their old friendship, dormant feelings resurface. Do they feel the same about each other? Could they give this a real chance?
I loved Liam and Alana, separately and together. They were witty, funny, and strong. I love their banter, and the way Alana always finds a way to put Liam "the golden boy" in his place if he's getting a big head. At the same time, she is his biggest supporter, and always has been. She lets him know that he is amazing whether he's playing hockey or not. Meanwhile, Liam truly understands Alana on a deep level, unlike anyone else, and shows that through his words, actions, and maybe a grand gesture or two. Not to mention, they have amazing chemistry, and Liam isn't threatened by a toy or two 🤭.
I really enjoyed this book, and I'm looking forward to the second book teased in this story.
4.75 ⭐ 3🌶️
I read an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review. Thank you to Love Notes PR @lovenotes.pr and Author Sophie Thomas @ashakespearenerd for the ARC!
Looks Real Good Now by Sophie Thomas
Releases Dec 3rd on Kindle Unlimited
I love a best friends to lovers. Granted, this one had a 12-ish year gap of separation, but it still hit.
Liam and Alana (Lenny to him and him alone) were best friends and neighbors since childhood, until after prom, when Alana left school early and moved to Michigan for college with not a word to Liam.
In the twelve long years apart, Alana opened her dream bakery and it's thriving, and Liam went on to play hockey professionally with a stellar career. The two haven't spoken in all that time, let alone seen each other, but they run into each other at the airport when flying home to New York for Christmas.
They fell right into their old ways, reading each other like books, joking, using old nicknames. Both of them had recently ended long-term relationships and Liam had retired from professional hockey, to his father's and his fans' disappointment. They decide to pretend to be dating each other to distract their parents from their recent personal life drama.
SURPRISE! The parents are thrilled and they're forced to share a bedroom at her parent's house-- and one bed. Pretending forces them to finally work through their past, and along with their old friendship, dormant feelings resurface. Do they feel the same about each other? Could they give this a real chance?
I loved Liam and Alana, separately and together. They were witty, funny, and strong. I love their banter, and the way Alana always finds a way to put Liam "the golden boy" in his place if he's getting a big head. At the same time, she is his biggest supporter, and always has been. She lets him know that he is amazing whether he's playing hockey or not. Meanwhile, Liam truly understands Alana on a deep level, unlike anyone else, and shows that through his words, actions, and maybe a grand gesture or two. Not to mention, they have amazing chemistry, and Liam isn't threatened by a toy or two 🤭.
I really enjoyed this book, and I'm looking forward to the second book teased in this story.
4.75 ⭐ 3🌶️
I read an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review. Thank you to Love Notes PR @lovenotes.pr and Author Sophie Thomas @ashakespearenerd for the ARC!
December 4, 2024
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Genre: Holiday Romance
Alana recently turned down a proposal from her now ex-boyfriend. She's heading home for the holidays to New York from Michigan (where she is living out her dream of owning her own bakery). She's dreading going home. Not because she's that devastated about the break-up, but because she doesn't want to hear about it from her friends and family. Liam has recently retired from hockey after a shoulder injury put him on the sidelines again and he realized the passion wasn't really there anymore. His girlfriend of five-years dumped him shortly after. He's also not looking forward to the small town gossip. Alana and Liam grew up together as kids and had feelings for each other as teens, but never acted on it. They both have been living in Michigan, but have had little to no contact (though there were signs -- Liam asking for his favorite birthday brownie cake to be made at Alana's bakery and Alana making it twice knowing who it was for because it had to be perfect). When they bump into each other at the airport and share woes they make a plan to fake date for the holidays. But the feelings were never really fake to begin with so they certainly won't stay fake for long!
This book was so fun!! This had a lot of tropes I enjoy, especially fake dating, but also forced proximity, one bed, childhood friends to lovers, and add in a holiday romance! Alana and Liam were both really likeable characters and their connection was so sweet. I love when the MMC notices all the little things about the FMC and remembers and acts on them. That instantly makes me swoon! I wish they hadn't avoided each other for so long (then again I suppose we wouldn't have had this book if they hadn't haha). I did feel like the fake dating was jumped into really fast (almost insta-love-esque, but not really because they had feelings for each other for so long), but as the story went on this didn't matter as much. Really excited that this is the first in a series. Can't wait to read the next one!
Thank you Love Notes PR and Sophie Thomas for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Genre: Holiday Romance
Alana recently turned down a proposal from her now ex-boyfriend. She's heading home for the holidays to New York from Michigan (where she is living out her dream of owning her own bakery). She's dreading going home. Not because she's that devastated about the break-up, but because she doesn't want to hear about it from her friends and family. Liam has recently retired from hockey after a shoulder injury put him on the sidelines again and he realized the passion wasn't really there anymore. His girlfriend of five-years dumped him shortly after. He's also not looking forward to the small town gossip. Alana and Liam grew up together as kids and had feelings for each other as teens, but never acted on it. They both have been living in Michigan, but have had little to no contact (though there were signs -- Liam asking for his favorite birthday brownie cake to be made at Alana's bakery and Alana making it twice knowing who it was for because it had to be perfect). When they bump into each other at the airport and share woes they make a plan to fake date for the holidays. But the feelings were never really fake to begin with so they certainly won't stay fake for long!
This book was so fun!! This had a lot of tropes I enjoy, especially fake dating, but also forced proximity, one bed, childhood friends to lovers, and add in a holiday romance! Alana and Liam were both really likeable characters and their connection was so sweet. I love when the MMC notices all the little things about the FMC and remembers and acts on them. That instantly makes me swoon! I wish they hadn't avoided each other for so long (then again I suppose we wouldn't have had this book if they hadn't haha). I did feel like the fake dating was jumped into really fast (almost insta-love-esque, but not really because they had feelings for each other for so long), but as the story went on this didn't matter as much. Really excited that this is the first in a series. Can't wait to read the next one!
Thank you Love Notes PR and Sophie Thomas for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 12, 2024
Thank you to Love Notes PR for the ARC (and apologies that it took so long!) That being said, these thoughts are my own!
Sophie Thomas has truly outdone herself with *Looks Real Good Now*. From the very first page, I was hooked by the sharp, witty writing and the deeply authentic portrayal of the main characters Lenny and Liam As the story unfolds, it’s clear that Thomas has an exceptional talent for character development. And I can’t lie, the fact that Liam’s last name is Mulligan? Which in golf is a do over?! Absolutely perfect and a hidden detail I love.
The relationship at the heart of the novel is another triumph. The chemistry between Lenny and Liam is undeniable, but what I appreciated most was how authentic and grounded their connection felt. Their dialogue is playful yet poignant, and the way their relationship evolves over time, with its ups and downs, the challenges of accepting their feelings for each other are real and are back (and honestly bigger than ever). It’s the kind of relationship where both characters support each other’s growth, but also push each other to confront their weaknesses. Their dynamic is not only relatable but also beautifully written—showcasing that love isn’t perfect, but it is worth fighting for.
And let’s talk about the spice—Thomas does an incredible job balancing steaminess with emotional depth. The intimate scenes are not only hot but also serve the story and the characters' development. It’s clear that every moment of heat is earned, enhancing the emotional stakes rather than distracting from them. The spice is there, but it never overshadows the narrative—it’s perfectly woven into the fabric of the story.
In short, *Looks Real Good Now* is a deliciously layered novel. It’s funny, heartwarming, and just the right amount of steamy, with characters you’ll care about long after you’ve finished the last page. Sophie Thomas is a writer to watch, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next!
✨Genre: Contemporary Romance
✨ Spice: 5/5 [edited 12/12/2024 - I was clearly delusional when I wrote this and rated the spice what I did! Phenomenal spice, but all else applies!]
Sophie Thomas has truly outdone herself with *Looks Real Good Now*. From the very first page, I was hooked by the sharp, witty writing and the deeply authentic portrayal of the main characters Lenny and Liam As the story unfolds, it’s clear that Thomas has an exceptional talent for character development. And I can’t lie, the fact that Liam’s last name is Mulligan? Which in golf is a do over?! Absolutely perfect and a hidden detail I love.
The relationship at the heart of the novel is another triumph. The chemistry between Lenny and Liam is undeniable, but what I appreciated most was how authentic and grounded their connection felt. Their dialogue is playful yet poignant, and the way their relationship evolves over time, with its ups and downs, the challenges of accepting their feelings for each other are real and are back (and honestly bigger than ever). It’s the kind of relationship where both characters support each other’s growth, but also push each other to confront their weaknesses. Their dynamic is not only relatable but also beautifully written—showcasing that love isn’t perfect, but it is worth fighting for.
And let’s talk about the spice—Thomas does an incredible job balancing steaminess with emotional depth. The intimate scenes are not only hot but also serve the story and the characters' development. It’s clear that every moment of heat is earned, enhancing the emotional stakes rather than distracting from them. The spice is there, but it never overshadows the narrative—it’s perfectly woven into the fabric of the story.
In short, *Looks Real Good Now* is a deliciously layered novel. It’s funny, heartwarming, and just the right amount of steamy, with characters you’ll care about long after you’ve finished the last page. Sophie Thomas is a writer to watch, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next!
✨Genre: Contemporary Romance
✨ Spice: 5/5 [edited 12/12/2024 - I was clearly delusional when I wrote this and rated the spice what I did! Phenomenal spice, but all else applies!]
December 8, 2024
Looks real good now
Een leuke small town romance. Het is een leuke kerstroman, perfect voor deze tijd van het jaar. Het boek heeft een fijne schrijfstijl en een mooie opbouw. Het verhaal heeft humor, romantiek en vriendschap. Minpuntje was dat dit ARC boek hoofdstukken over sloeg waardoor ik niet helemaal goed in het boek kwam. Maar ondanks dat vond ik het wel een leuk en orgineel verhaal.
Ik vond hun relatie erg leuk. Ze waren allebei zo goed voor elkaar.
Ik zou dit zeker aanraden, vooral voor de feestdagen, omdat het een zoete romance is, met een gevoel van thuis.
✨ beste vrienden tot vreemden tot geliefden
🛏️ slechts één bed
🤍 nepdaten
🏒 gepensioneerde hockeyspeler
Ik heb hier echt van genoten en wil zeker meer van de auteur lezen!
A nice small town romance. It is a nice Christmas novel, perfect for this time of year. The book has a nice writing style and a nice structure. The story has humor, romance and friendship. Downside was that this ARC book skipped chapters so I didn't get into the book properly. But despite that I thought it was a nice and original story.
I loved their relationship a lot. They were both so good to the other.
I would definitely recommend this, especially for the holidays, because it is a sweet romance, with a feeling of home.
✨ best friends to strangers to lovers
🛏️ only one bed
🤍 fake dating
🏒 retired hockey player
I really enjoyed this and will definitely be reading more from the author!
Thank you to Love Notes PR @lovenotes.pr and Author Sophie Thomas @ashakespearenerd for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ sterren
#lezenisontspanning #neverstopreading #spreadthebooklove #reading #bookstagramreadsdecember #boekstagram #bookblogger #lekkerlezen #leesmaand #boekenmaand #boekentips #boekenplank #feelgood #readingisgoodforthesoul #booklover #booksbooksbooks #boekenwurm #spreadthebooklove #sharethebooklove
Een leuke small town romance. Het is een leuke kerstroman, perfect voor deze tijd van het jaar. Het boek heeft een fijne schrijfstijl en een mooie opbouw. Het verhaal heeft humor, romantiek en vriendschap. Minpuntje was dat dit ARC boek hoofdstukken over sloeg waardoor ik niet helemaal goed in het boek kwam. Maar ondanks dat vond ik het wel een leuk en orgineel verhaal.
Ik vond hun relatie erg leuk. Ze waren allebei zo goed voor elkaar.
Ik zou dit zeker aanraden, vooral voor de feestdagen, omdat het een zoete romance is, met een gevoel van thuis.
✨ beste vrienden tot vreemden tot geliefden
🛏️ slechts één bed
🤍 nepdaten
🏒 gepensioneerde hockeyspeler
Ik heb hier echt van genoten en wil zeker meer van de auteur lezen!
A nice small town romance. It is a nice Christmas novel, perfect for this time of year. The book has a nice writing style and a nice structure. The story has humor, romance and friendship. Downside was that this ARC book skipped chapters so I didn't get into the book properly. But despite that I thought it was a nice and original story.
I loved their relationship a lot. They were both so good to the other.
I would definitely recommend this, especially for the holidays, because it is a sweet romance, with a feeling of home.
✨ best friends to strangers to lovers
🛏️ only one bed
🤍 fake dating
🏒 retired hockey player
I really enjoyed this and will definitely be reading more from the author!
Thank you to Love Notes PR @lovenotes.pr and Author Sophie Thomas @ashakespearenerd for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ sterren
#lezenisontspanning #neverstopreading #spreadthebooklove #reading #bookstagramreadsdecember #boekstagram #bookblogger #lekkerlezen #leesmaand #boekenmaand #boekentips #boekenplank #feelgood #readingisgoodforthesoul #booklover #booksbooksbooks #boekenwurm #spreadthebooklove #sharethebooklove
December 2, 2024
I think I just found my new go-to holiday romance, and I couldn’t be happier about it!
Looks Real Good Now has everything I adore in a festive read: childhood best friends-to-lovers, fake dating, and a whole lot of heart. Liam and Alana’s story is equal parts nostalgic, swoony, and steamy—the perfect holiday treat.
After twelve years apart, Liam and Alana cross paths on a flight home for Christmas, and the timing couldn’t be better. Alana’s fresh off rejecting a marriage proposal and facing some awkward family questions, so when Liam steps up as her fake boyfriend, you can feel the magic brewing.
What made this book stand out for me was the deep connection between Liam and Alana. Their shared history as next-door neighbors brought so much warmth and authenticity to their story. It felt like their reunion was meant to happen, and their families being so intertwined only added to the cozy holiday vibes.
Liam is everything you’d want in a book boyfriend—attentive, understanding, and full of quiet confidence. The way he made space for Alana to just be herself, like letting her read at parties instead of forcing her to socialize, melted my heart. And Alana? She’s such a relatable, vibrant heroine who fully owns who she is. The fact that she held onto Liam’s sweater for over a decade? Adorable. Their chemistry? Off the charts. 🔥
With its short chapters and captivating storyline, I flew through this book. Now I’m crossing my fingers for Teddy and Maxine’s story next because I am not ready to leave this world.
If you’re looking for a festive romance full of charm, heat, and all the feels, grab this book ASAP. It’s pure holiday magic. ✨ Thank you, Sophie Thomas and Love Notes PR, for the ARC—I adored every minute! 🎁
Looks Real Good Now has everything I adore in a festive read: childhood best friends-to-lovers, fake dating, and a whole lot of heart. Liam and Alana’s story is equal parts nostalgic, swoony, and steamy—the perfect holiday treat.
After twelve years apart, Liam and Alana cross paths on a flight home for Christmas, and the timing couldn’t be better. Alana’s fresh off rejecting a marriage proposal and facing some awkward family questions, so when Liam steps up as her fake boyfriend, you can feel the magic brewing.
What made this book stand out for me was the deep connection between Liam and Alana. Their shared history as next-door neighbors brought so much warmth and authenticity to their story. It felt like their reunion was meant to happen, and their families being so intertwined only added to the cozy holiday vibes.
Liam is everything you’d want in a book boyfriend—attentive, understanding, and full of quiet confidence. The way he made space for Alana to just be herself, like letting her read at parties instead of forcing her to socialize, melted my heart. And Alana? She’s such a relatable, vibrant heroine who fully owns who she is. The fact that she held onto Liam’s sweater for over a decade? Adorable. Their chemistry? Off the charts. 🔥
With its short chapters and captivating storyline, I flew through this book. Now I’m crossing my fingers for Teddy and Maxine’s story next because I am not ready to leave this world.
If you’re looking for a festive romance full of charm, heat, and all the feels, grab this book ASAP. It’s pure holiday magic. ✨ Thank you, Sophie Thomas and Love Notes PR, for the ARC—I adored every minute! 🎁
December 4, 2024
Tis the season for love!!! Where to begin? When I read the synopsis of this book, I saw it had some of my favorite tropes- fake dating (especially a “just for the holidays”), friends to lovers (after a reconnection), and a hot hockey player (though recently retired). Alana and Liam- who were bffs/neighbors since they were around five and pining since high school- reconnect after TWELVE long years, and agree to give their families a distraction- them (in some of the parents’ own words) “finally” getting together.
I do think this story was the perfect example of a second chance romance. I guess they were only friends before but both wanted the other to be more, so I’m still considering it a second chance. In their time apart, Liam and Alana really were able to live their own lives, Alana following her dream of owning a bakery, and Liam pursuing professional hockey. But even with those years apart, their years together growing up still connects them.
Overall, the bigger criticisms I have are sort of where I wanted more- then again, I wonder if I felt that we had less because Alana is a more reserved, play her-feelings close to the chest kind of person. We did get a fair bit of the story from her POV- trying to keep her feelings to herself, appreciating Liam’s steadiness and who he has become, and opening up about feelings *sometimes*. Liam’s POV? He’s an open book, and I adored him. I loved the relationship he had with Alana’s dad, as well.
Long story short, this was an adorable Christmas romance with two people finally coming together after years apart. You’ll feel the romance, the steam, and root for them all the way with no third act breakup, which is a HUGE win. Thank you to Sophie and Love Notes PR for an advanced reader copy, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily ☺️❤️
I do think this story was the perfect example of a second chance romance. I guess they were only friends before but both wanted the other to be more, so I’m still considering it a second chance. In their time apart, Liam and Alana really were able to live their own lives, Alana following her dream of owning a bakery, and Liam pursuing professional hockey. But even with those years apart, their years together growing up still connects them.
Overall, the bigger criticisms I have are sort of where I wanted more- then again, I wonder if I felt that we had less because Alana is a more reserved, play her-feelings close to the chest kind of person. We did get a fair bit of the story from her POV- trying to keep her feelings to herself, appreciating Liam’s steadiness and who he has become, and opening up about feelings *sometimes*. Liam’s POV? He’s an open book, and I adored him. I loved the relationship he had with Alana’s dad, as well.
Long story short, this was an adorable Christmas romance with two people finally coming together after years apart. You’ll feel the romance, the steam, and root for them all the way with no third act breakup, which is a HUGE win. Thank you to Sophie and Love Notes PR for an advanced reader copy, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily ☺️❤️
December 5, 2024
𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘🎄🩵
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Happy Release Day Sophie to your Debut Book!!
Christmas, second chances, fake dating, AND friends to lover I could not have asked for anything better!!🩵
This book had me laughing, swooning, and kicking my feet in glee on every single page that I read! The banter between these two was perfect and I loved the aspect that these two had been best friends since they were toddlers because it made everything a 100 times better! Alana and Liam haven’t seen each other for 12 years when Alana left their hometown. Liam just retired from the NHL and just broke up with his girlfriend of 5 years while Alana just said no to her now ex-boyfriend’s proposal and they are both not looking forward to returning home. Then they run into each other in the airport before their flights home and Liam comes up with the idea of fake dating to get their parents attention off of his retirement and Alana’s failed proposal.
I loved every single second of these two reconnecting and falling in love with each other again. The dates Liam took Alana on had me swooning every single time, the ice skating together, shopping together, their trip to Macy’s🤭. Liam was the perfect book boyfriend and when he remembered her coffee order and her favorite doughnut and pastry I swooned 🥰
Sophie executed these tropes perfectly and these characters were perfect! Sophie is now an auto read author for me and I cannot wait to follow along with her work!!
If you love second chance romance, fake dating, friends to lovers, golden retriever x black cat, forced proximity, and a Christmas romance then this book is for you!!
*please check TW*
Thank you Sophie and Love Notes PR for an ARC of this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Happy Release Day Sophie to your Debut Book!!
Christmas, second chances, fake dating, AND friends to lover I could not have asked for anything better!!🩵
This book had me laughing, swooning, and kicking my feet in glee on every single page that I read! The banter between these two was perfect and I loved the aspect that these two had been best friends since they were toddlers because it made everything a 100 times better! Alana and Liam haven’t seen each other for 12 years when Alana left their hometown. Liam just retired from the NHL and just broke up with his girlfriend of 5 years while Alana just said no to her now ex-boyfriend’s proposal and they are both not looking forward to returning home. Then they run into each other in the airport before their flights home and Liam comes up with the idea of fake dating to get their parents attention off of his retirement and Alana’s failed proposal.
I loved every single second of these two reconnecting and falling in love with each other again. The dates Liam took Alana on had me swooning every single time, the ice skating together, shopping together, their trip to Macy’s🤭. Liam was the perfect book boyfriend and when he remembered her coffee order and her favorite doughnut and pastry I swooned 🥰
Sophie executed these tropes perfectly and these characters were perfect! Sophie is now an auto read author for me and I cannot wait to follow along with her work!!
If you love second chance romance, fake dating, friends to lovers, golden retriever x black cat, forced proximity, and a Christmas romance then this book is for you!!
*please check TW*
Thank you Sophie and Love Notes PR for an ARC of this book!
November 22, 2024
🎉✨ ARC Review ✨🎉
WOW WOW WOW.
I was emailed this ARC and I did NOT know my brain was going to inhale this book in less than 24 hours. I had just gotten into a holiday novella binge (soooo gooooood) and this one followed suit.
This book, people. Sophie wrote this book in a way I really appreciated; it felt so organic, the spice was HOTTTT, and the chemistry was perfection. I've read two other hockey centered books, but this one focuses more on hockey player physique than the actual game 😏😏. A story of high school best friends & next door neighbors, who were in love with each other but never said it out loud, where Anala, the FMC, flees from New York to Michigan to not face the fact that she was in love with Liam, the MMC. Flash forward 12 years and they bump into each other at the Detroit airport both going back to their parents for the holidays. Having both gotten out of long term relationships, they devise a plan to be each other's significant others to distract from their previous entanglements. Cue being put in Alana's room together for their two week stay, and it all unfolds from there.
Alana moved to Michigan and started her own successful bakery. Liam went on to play in the NHL, eventually ending up in Michigan as well. So we get sexy baking scenes and a couple times of them on the ice together, and the banter/familiarity with each other is so endearing and also extremely hot. Like I mention in the graphic, you'll never look at a Macy's dressing room the same way again 🤣🥵.
Five stars. Literally loved it. No notes. Will add to my holiday novella reading rotation to read every year.
WOW WOW WOW.
I was emailed this ARC and I did NOT know my brain was going to inhale this book in less than 24 hours. I had just gotten into a holiday novella binge (soooo gooooood) and this one followed suit.
This book, people. Sophie wrote this book in a way I really appreciated; it felt so organic, the spice was HOTTTT, and the chemistry was perfection. I've read two other hockey centered books, but this one focuses more on hockey player physique than the actual game 😏😏. A story of high school best friends & next door neighbors, who were in love with each other but never said it out loud, where Anala, the FMC, flees from New York to Michigan to not face the fact that she was in love with Liam, the MMC. Flash forward 12 years and they bump into each other at the Detroit airport both going back to their parents for the holidays. Having both gotten out of long term relationships, they devise a plan to be each other's significant others to distract from their previous entanglements. Cue being put in Alana's room together for their two week stay, and it all unfolds from there.
Alana moved to Michigan and started her own successful bakery. Liam went on to play in the NHL, eventually ending up in Michigan as well. So we get sexy baking scenes and a couple times of them on the ice together, and the banter/familiarity with each other is so endearing and also extremely hot. Like I mention in the graphic, you'll never look at a Macy's dressing room the same way again 🤣🥵.
Five stars. Literally loved it. No notes. Will add to my holiday novella reading rotation to read every year.
December 7, 2024
3.8 ⭐
i received an ARC from the author and LoveNotes PR and i wanted to leave an honest review. a 'tis the damn season inspired book?? sign me up! the book and Liam & Alana's dynamic was soooo cute, it gave me a toothache at times XD there's no forgotten loose ends nor a third act breakup, which i'm oh so grateful for!!!!! i wouldn't classify it as a sports romance since Liam (MMC) is a freshly retired NHL player but we do get quite a few scenes / references! oh, and we loveeee Alana, our independent, successful, thriving queen!
there was this one thing, though, that kinda irked me and almost made me put down the book. you know how you can 'tell' when a character has been written by a man or woman? in this case, the romance was well-written by a woman and we cheered!! but, i felt as though the author wanted to make this relationship / the FMC-MMC dynamic so 'unique' that the characters, at times, came off as too 'quirky' or the like. too many cooks spoil the broth; in this case, too many tropes / stan twitter discourse esque character traits spoilt the character-reader connection for me.
this was written so well for a debut novel! a perfect holiday read, imo! it did have a good amount of spice, which i didn't expect going in, but it was enjoyable (even for someone who doesn't rly like reading smut.) the foreword also mentions the on page spicy chapters which is handy in case you'd like to skip 'em!
i finished this book and immediately rushed to make myself a cup of hot chocolate 😋☕ i highly recommend this book for the holiday season! thanks to the author and LoveNotes PR for the ARC! 🤍✨
i received an ARC from the author and LoveNotes PR and i wanted to leave an honest review. a 'tis the damn season inspired book?? sign me up! the book and Liam & Alana's dynamic was soooo cute, it gave me a toothache at times XD there's no forgotten loose ends nor a third act breakup, which i'm oh so grateful for!!!!! i wouldn't classify it as a sports romance since Liam (MMC) is a freshly retired NHL player but we do get quite a few scenes / references! oh, and we loveeee Alana, our independent, successful, thriving queen!
there was this one thing, though, that kinda irked me and almost made me put down the book. you know how you can 'tell' when a character has been written by a man or woman? in this case, the romance was well-written by a woman and we cheered!! but, i felt as though the author wanted to make this relationship / the FMC-MMC dynamic so 'unique' that the characters, at times, came off as too 'quirky' or the like. too many cooks spoil the broth; in this case, too many tropes / stan twitter discourse esque character traits spoilt the character-reader connection for me.
this was written so well for a debut novel! a perfect holiday read, imo! it did have a good amount of spice, which i didn't expect going in, but it was enjoyable (even for someone who doesn't rly like reading smut.) the foreword also mentions the on page spicy chapters which is handy in case you'd like to skip 'em!
i finished this book and immediately rushed to make myself a cup of hot chocolate 😋☕ i highly recommend this book for the holiday season! thanks to the author and LoveNotes PR for the ARC! 🤍✨
December 9, 2024
Looks Real Good Now By: Sophie Thomas is an adorable holiday romance that has a trope for us all without making it cringy or overbearing; e.g., friends to lovers, childhood crush, forced proximity, and one bed are just a few that come to mind. , 12 years have passed between our two main characters, and a chance encounter at the "airport" while flying back home whirls them back into each other's lives and the childhood friendship they left behind. They both get around to talking and find out that they have something in common: they're both going back home after a breakup. Both of them really don't want to deal with all the prying from their families and decide to come up with a plan: well, Liam does. He convinces Alana that they should both pretend they're (fake) dating. But here's the problem: Back home, growing up, they used to be besties and neighbours who both happened to have crushes on one another but never told each other of their unrequited love, so you all know how that goes in books.
Even after all these years have passed, Alana and Liam have a chemistry that is so sweet and so natural you can't help but love these two together; even though their relationship starts off as fake, it flows into something more meaningful. There isn't any real drama or third-act breakup; they just accept the fact that they're perfect for one another even all these years later, which is refreshing because honestly sometimes the drama in books becomes too much, and all you want is an easy HEA. This coming from me, the hardest enemies-to-lovers shipper ever
⚠️I was gifted an ARC courtesy of Love Notes PR and this is my honest review.
Even after all these years have passed, Alana and Liam have a chemistry that is so sweet and so natural you can't help but love these two together; even though their relationship starts off as fake, it flows into something more meaningful. There isn't any real drama or third-act breakup; they just accept the fact that they're perfect for one another even all these years later, which is refreshing because honestly sometimes the drama in books becomes too much, and all you want is an easy HEA. This coming from me, the hardest enemies-to-lovers shipper ever
⚠️I was gifted an ARC courtesy of Love Notes PR and this is my honest review.
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