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The Hollywoodland Series #1
Let Me Love You Anyway
Welcome to Los Angeles! Home of Hollywood magic, highrise buildings, and occasionally hope. For creatives, it’s one of the best places to build a career, but not everyone can handle the city of angels.
He needs a reason to stay. She needs a way.
Falling into an emotional spiral following a tragic accident, James Barton questioned his ability to handle life in Los Angeles. After abandoning his passions, he was staring at a stack of bills looming as tall as the stack of rejection letters. Broke and downhearted, he lands one last job before making his choice.
He’s ready to give up on more than just LA. Until a chance encounter changes everything.
With incredible friends, an amazing career, and a cute apartment in the heart of the Arts District, Alexis Strauss is living the California dream. She’ll admit her dating life could use some work, but nobody is perfect. Behind her joyful facade, though, secrets haunt her. Secrets that could upend everything she’s worked for.
She loves LA, but a toxic family is doing everything they can to hold her back.
Co-workers in love, found family, and he falls first tropes are just a taste of what you can expect in this contemporary romance novel. Packed with raw, powerful emotions, and a sprinkling of spice, Let Me Love You Anyway is book one in the Hollywoodland series and author Jordyn Barnes’s debut novel.
He needs a reason to stay. She needs a way.
Falling into an emotional spiral following a tragic accident, James Barton questioned his ability to handle life in Los Angeles. After abandoning his passions, he was staring at a stack of bills looming as tall as the stack of rejection letters. Broke and downhearted, he lands one last job before making his choice.
He’s ready to give up on more than just LA. Until a chance encounter changes everything.
With incredible friends, an amazing career, and a cute apartment in the heart of the Arts District, Alexis Strauss is living the California dream. She’ll admit her dating life could use some work, but nobody is perfect. Behind her joyful facade, though, secrets haunt her. Secrets that could upend everything she’s worked for.
She loves LA, but a toxic family is doing everything they can to hold her back.
Co-workers in love, found family, and he falls first tropes are just a taste of what you can expect in this contemporary romance novel. Packed with raw, powerful emotions, and a sprinkling of spice, Let Me Love You Anyway is book one in the Hollywoodland series and author Jordyn Barnes’s debut novel.
468 pages, Paperback
First published August 13, 2024
10 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
About the author
Jordyn Barnes
5 books37 followersJordyn Barnes is a graphic designer, nerd, goth, and soon, a published author. When she’s not writing or reading, she can be found rearranging her Bucky memorabilia, designing, or watching Marvel movies, true crime, or sports. She’s also a Disney nerd who relates most strongly with Madam Mim’s dislike of sunshine and envies her forest hag lifestyle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 21, 2024
I just finished this book and I'm still processing everything I felt while reading it. James and Lexi are such beautifully broken characters. They see a shared darkness in each other, and their love story is truly lovely. But they also have the most incredible support system in their found family of friends.
That said, it's important to note that there are some heavy trigger warnings and delicate subject matter throughout. The mental health struggles and traumas - both from childhood and the present day - run deep for these two. It was heart-wrenching but also captivating to witness how they grappled with it all.
Despite the difficulty of some of the themes, the way the author handled it all was incredibly moving. I could feel every emotion these characters went through - when they hurt, I hurt; and when they fell in love, I fell in love right along with them. This is a story that has really burrowed its way into my heart.
That said, it's important to note that there are some heavy trigger warnings and delicate subject matter throughout. The mental health struggles and traumas - both from childhood and the present day - run deep for these two. It was heart-wrenching but also captivating to witness how they grappled with it all.
Despite the difficulty of some of the themes, the way the author handled it all was incredibly moving. I could feel every emotion these characters went through - when they hurt, I hurt; and when they fell in love, I fell in love right along with them. This is a story that has really burrowed its way into my heart.
June 4, 2024
This book was a beautiful emotional rollercoaster ride with a “zero to sixty” launch! When they say “he falls first” they really mean it. Not in an un believable or “insta lust” way. But in a “like calls to like” soul deep connection way.
Not only are the main characters of this book beautiful written , there is a cast of amazing side characters ! Including but not limited to: Sassy meddling best friends ! And a supportive boss that champions mental health and well being in the workplace ! We love to see it !!!
This book gives you the full range of emotions… and some really good spice !
At first I may have been slightly put off out by the fact that so much happens in the very short time line of this book, which may have affected the “believability” of the plot for a second. However, I think that it only reinforces the connection between the Jaime and Lexi.
One final thing that I noticed was the way the dual POV is set up can be a little confusing to follow in some parts. There are some chapters where it stays in line where each chapter feels like it moves on to another piece of a scene or a new one all together. However, there are times the next chapter goes back to the same scene from the next characters POV.
It took me a paragraph or so sometimes to realize what was happening. I don’t think this is a negative thing, it is just something that took a second to navigate while reading. If anything it sets the writing apart from other Dual POV romances by !
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Not only are the main characters of this book beautiful written , there is a cast of amazing side characters ! Including but not limited to: Sassy meddling best friends ! And a supportive boss that champions mental health and well being in the workplace ! We love to see it !!!
This book gives you the full range of emotions… and some really good spice !
At first I may have been slightly put off out by the fact that so much happens in the very short time line of this book, which may have affected the “believability” of the plot for a second. However, I think that it only reinforces the connection between the Jaime and Lexi.
One final thing that I noticed was the way the dual POV is set up can be a little confusing to follow in some parts. There are some chapters where it stays in line where each chapter feels like it moves on to another piece of a scene or a new one all together. However, there are times the next chapter goes back to the same scene from the next characters POV.
It took me a paragraph or so sometimes to realize what was happening. I don’t think this is a negative thing, it is just something that took a second to navigate while reading. If anything it sets the writing apart from other Dual POV romances by !
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 17, 2025
Dude. I need a tandem bike ride with a hot dude that likes to flirt with me. That sounds like a marvelous way to spend the day.
Wait. The story. We need to get to the story.
No. I am not jealous that Lexi and James met at a boba shop. Boba is so good. 🤤
So, over all these two are adorable. Individually they are a hot mess. They have first class tickets on the sweet, understanding, hot mess express. Yet adorable non the less. What didn’t sit right with me is they why they almost insta connected, then immediately halted their attraction. Lots of valid reasons to do so, but as it played out it felt off.
A few scenes felt that way. Like it just didn’t make sense why any of it was happening. Just about everything finally came together at the end, but it took a few of the head scratchers a few chapters before it finally made sense.
Side note: The baggage reference from RENT! made my heart happy. So very happy.
Wait. The story. We need to get to the story.
No. I am not jealous that Lexi and James met at a boba shop. Boba is so good. 🤤
So, over all these two are adorable. Individually they are a hot mess. They have first class tickets on the sweet, understanding, hot mess express. Yet adorable non the less. What didn’t sit right with me is they why they almost insta connected, then immediately halted their attraction. Lots of valid reasons to do so, but as it played out it felt off.
A few scenes felt that way. Like it just didn’t make sense why any of it was happening. Just about everything finally came together at the end, but it took a few of the head scratchers a few chapters before it finally made sense.
Side note: The baggage reference from RENT! made my heart happy. So very happy.
June 1, 2024
I am squealing after finishing Let Me Love You Anyway by Jordyn Barnes. I could not put it down, I read it in two days only because life interrupted me. It had everything I wanted, he falls first, strong and badass leads, and of course smut 🌶️. I cannot wait for the next installment and I’m so happy it’s a series! 5/5 ⭐️. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 17, 2024
[I was provided an ARC copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.]
As an unapologetic pink loving girly, I LOVE the FMC. She is fun and sassy, and the dynamic between her and the MMC was so sweet.
Their first (accidental) meeting had me absolutely hooked. I’m a sucker for insta-love, what can I say??
Being able to help each other and build each other up through their trauma and issues, without minimizing the other’s thoughts and feelings, was so beautiful to read.
1.5/5 spice raring🌶️
As an unapologetic pink loving girly, I LOVE the FMC. She is fun and sassy, and the dynamic between her and the MMC was so sweet.
Their first (accidental) meeting had me absolutely hooked. I’m a sucker for insta-love, what can I say??
Being able to help each other and build each other up through their trauma and issues, without minimizing the other’s thoughts and feelings, was so beautiful to read.
1.5/5 spice raring🌶️
May 7, 2025
James was a little bit too cheesy for me at times, but he was still a likeable character. Both Lexi and James past lives were so traumatic and I’m so happy they had each other. I just wanted to hold Lexi and I hated how her parents treated her and how they tried to diminish her spirit any chance they got in the name of religion. I loved how the mc’s were in their 30s and felt very relatable, struggling with life, jobs, family etc.
I thought this was just going to be a romance book with spicy scenes, which it is and I enjoyed them throughly but the twists and turns with both James and Lexi’s family really kept me engaged until the end.
Can’t wait for the rest of the books to come out !
Tropes:
Touch her and you die
He falls first
Thank you Jordyn Barnes for this free ARC via Booksirens in exchange for my honest review
I thought this was just going to be a romance book with spicy scenes, which it is and I enjoyed them throughly but the twists and turns with both James and Lexi’s family really kept me engaged until the end.
Can’t wait for the rest of the books to come out !
Tropes:
Touch her and you die
He falls first
Thank you Jordyn Barnes for this free ARC via Booksirens in exchange for my honest review
August 4, 2024
3.75⭐️
-
First I want to say thank you to Jordyn for allowing me to read this arc. I enjoyed it and I loved the mental health representation I really felt what the characters were feeling and know what it feels like.
-
I wish I would have gotten into the book quicker but unfortunately life. There was quite a bit of words/sentences that I thought were corny/cringey. Mostly I only enjoyed reading about Lexi and James when they were having special cute moments and when they were trying to get through the depression.
-
There was tons of spice for those of you who love it and overall the plot was good. A little crazy at times but I found it fitting for the characters. This is a love at first sight type of book and I had to keep reminding myself about that whenever they were moving so quickly into developing a relationship. I did love that they pretty much got a HEA 🤍
-
First I want to say thank you to Jordyn for allowing me to read this arc. I enjoyed it and I loved the mental health representation I really felt what the characters were feeling and know what it feels like.
-
I wish I would have gotten into the book quicker but unfortunately life. There was quite a bit of words/sentences that I thought were corny/cringey. Mostly I only enjoyed reading about Lexi and James when they were having special cute moments and when they were trying to get through the depression.
-
There was tons of spice for those of you who love it and overall the plot was good. A little crazy at times but I found it fitting for the characters. This is a love at first sight type of book and I had to keep reminding myself about that whenever they were moving so quickly into developing a relationship. I did love that they pretty much got a HEA 🤍
August 14, 2024
I just don't have words for this book! These two characters might be some of the most authentic, true to life MCs I've ever read. James saying all the wrong things when he first met Lexi was hilarious! He was so nervous, it was definitely endearing!
I loved the shyness, the struggles with insecurities, family drama, and that feeling of needing someone in your corner. The mental health rep was done so well and I loved how James and Lexi each took turns being there for each other.
My favorite part of this story was watching both characters heal and learn to move forward. There was an unexpected element of suspense and I seriously couldn't put the book down!
A special shout out to the interior formatting of the book and e-book! I loved the chapter art and song titles for each chapter! So much fun!
I loved the shyness, the struggles with insecurities, family drama, and that feeling of needing someone in your corner. The mental health rep was done so well and I loved how James and Lexi each took turns being there for each other.
My favorite part of this story was watching both characters heal and learn to move forward. There was an unexpected element of suspense and I seriously couldn't put the book down!
A special shout out to the interior formatting of the book and e-book! I loved the chapter art and song titles for each chapter! So much fun!
August 4, 2024
Rating : ☆☆☆☆
————
𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬, 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘺𝘣𝘦, 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘢 𝘴𝘭𝘶𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘑𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘉𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘭𝘶𝘦 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘦𝘴𝘺 𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘶𝘱 𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴.
————
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 & 𝙄𝙣𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 :
- 𝘼𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙭 𝘿𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙚𝙧
- 𝘿𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝙋𝙊𝙑
- 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙣𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨 : 𝘼𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙡 & 𝘾𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙮 𝘽𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙤𝙢
- 𝙃𝙚 𝙁𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙨 𝙁𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩
- 𝙁𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮
- 𝙒𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙍𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚
- 𝙈𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙝 𝙍𝙚𝙥
- 𝙄𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙖 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚
- 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧
- 𝙈𝘾’𝙨 𝙄𝙣 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 30’𝙨
————
This was so sweet. The romance is so light and fluffy but it does deal with some really heavy topics.
I love both Lexi and Jamie. They are perfect for eachother and you can tell how much they are each others other half. They are meant to be.
The side characters in this book were top tier. I am a HUGE Dani girlie. I loved her the most. I also love Cooper aswell!
I’m really excited for future books in this series!
Thank you Jordyn for letting me read this early!
————
𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬, 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘺𝘣𝘦, 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘢 𝘴𝘭𝘶𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘑𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘉𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘭𝘶𝘦 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘦𝘴𝘺 𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘶𝘱 𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴.
————
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 & 𝙄𝙣𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 :
- 𝘼𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙭 𝘿𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙚𝙧
- 𝘿𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝙋𝙊𝙑
- 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙣𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨 : 𝘼𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙡 & 𝘾𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙧𝙮 𝘽𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙨𝙤𝙢
- 𝙃𝙚 𝙁𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙨 𝙁𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩
- 𝙁𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙮
- 𝙒𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙍𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚
- 𝙈𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙝 𝙍𝙚𝙥
- 𝙄𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙖 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚
- 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧
- 𝙈𝘾’𝙨 𝙄𝙣 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 30’𝙨
————
This was so sweet. The romance is so light and fluffy but it does deal with some really heavy topics.
I love both Lexi and Jamie. They are perfect for eachother and you can tell how much they are each others other half. They are meant to be.
The side characters in this book were top tier. I am a HUGE Dani girlie. I loved her the most. I also love Cooper aswell!
I’m really excited for future books in this series!
Thank you Jordyn for letting me read this early!
August 16, 2024
3.75 ⭐️
2🌶️
If you like:
Grumpy x Sunshine
He falls first
Found family
Workplace romance
This book it’s for you.
This book was really good. Jamie and Alexis are one of those couple I will keep forever in my heard. Their love develops in a way that’s so realistic but at the same time so so beautiful.
The depression rep meant a lot to me because it’s something I don’t really read much in books, so I felt like I could relate a lot.
I honestly think my favorite part of this book was the found family aspect. I LOVE how supportive and encouraging the people around them were. Just PERFECT!!!!
I was slightly confused on whose point of view I was reading when it changed and that distracted me from the story a bit.
This was one of the first ARCs I received so I want you to say a million thank yous to the author 💕🫶🏽
2🌶️
If you like:
Grumpy x Sunshine
He falls first
Found family
Workplace romance
This book it’s for you.
This book was really good. Jamie and Alexis are one of those couple I will keep forever in my heard. Their love develops in a way that’s so realistic but at the same time so so beautiful.
The depression rep meant a lot to me because it’s something I don’t really read much in books, so I felt like I could relate a lot.
I honestly think my favorite part of this book was the found family aspect. I LOVE how supportive and encouraging the people around them were. Just PERFECT!!!!
I was slightly confused on whose point of view I was reading when it changed and that distracted me from the story a bit.
This was one of the first ARCs I received so I want you to say a million thank yous to the author 💕🫶🏽
August 7, 2024
I think I fell in love with EVERYTHING about this book. To the graphics, the dedication, the Edgar Allan Poe references, the song title chapters, the characters (side characters included,) the mental health and trauma. It was devastatingly beautiful. It’s definitely love at first sight but it really gives me soulmate vibes the way they mirror each other,simply made for each other💜. There were a few characters that I royally wanted to punch and kick in the throat (she did great writing the antagonists 😂) I laughed, giggled, smiled and DEFINITELY cried. Lexi and James both suffer tremendously, but the way they show up for each other Every. Single. Time is just beautiful. Two broken people on a healing journey figuring out their baggage together while simultaneously falling in love. “Your baggage goes with mine” James quoted RENT and i swooooned! I’m so excited for the next book. I think I’ve found another favorite author. 🥹 Jordyn thank you for this absolutely beautiful book and thank you so much for being so kind with my reactions in your DMs. 😂💜
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌸🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🌸Love at first sight (soulmates, I swear)
🌸Mental Health Rep (check trigger warnings)
🌸D-tionary for spice scenes
🌸FMC with pink hair
🌸He falls first
🌸Both MCs in their 30s
🌸She’s a graphic designer
🌸He’s a freelance photographer/artist
🌸The dedication page 💜
🌸Playlist link
🌸Badass best friend
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌸🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
🌸Love at first sight (soulmates, I swear)
🌸Mental Health Rep (check trigger warnings)
🌸D-tionary for spice scenes
🌸FMC with pink hair
🌸He falls first
🌸Both MCs in their 30s
🌸She’s a graphic designer
🌸He’s a freelance photographer/artist
🌸The dedication page 💜
🌸Playlist link
🌸Badass best friend
January 4, 2025
With alternating POV there were some chapters at the beginning that didn’t line up, but she seemed to fix that after the beginning. I really enjoyed this and look forward to the rest of the series.
August 19, 2024
Omg I freaking loved this. It’s a wild ride with a lot to unpack but so worth it!
See my full review on Instagram :)
https://www.instagram.com/p/C-oUbLjAk...
See my full review on Instagram :)
https://www.instagram.com/p/C-oUbLjAk...
August 27, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
I got this as a physical ARC. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!! This book made me cry, laugh, anger and a little bit of anxiety. I loved Jamie’s and Lexi’s story so much!! They went through so much together! I hated Jamie’s sister Elle; Lexi’s mom and Stepfather Ronnie and Catherine. I also hated Noah Jones!!
FAVORITE QUOTES:
“Be mine. Be my girl, my Angel, my muse. Be my forever.”
“You have me Angel. Always.”
“For as long as you’re mine to have, James. Yes.”
“Always. I’m yours forever.”
🌶🌶🌶
I got this as a physical ARC. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!! This book made me cry, laugh, anger and a little bit of anxiety. I loved Jamie’s and Lexi’s story so much!! They went through so much together! I hated Jamie’s sister Elle; Lexi’s mom and Stepfather Ronnie and Catherine. I also hated Noah Jones!!
FAVORITE QUOTES:
“Be mine. Be my girl, my Angel, my muse. Be my forever.”
“You have me Angel. Always.”
“For as long as you’re mine to have, James. Yes.”
“Always. I’m yours forever.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2024
As soon as I saw this book I knew it was for me. Can't wait to start reading it. ARC Review COMING SOON!!! 🥰🥰🥰
Update:
I wanna thank the author and Booksiren for issuing me this ARC read. And I know it has taken awhile for me to read, I'm sooooo sorry. Life happened and it was ALOT, but I was still determined to get this done before the release date.
PLEASE GO AND READ THIS BOOK. ITS WORTH IT. TRUST ME. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT. PLEASE READ THR TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE YOU START READING. ❤❤💯💯🥰🥰
This book is definitely one of my top reads for this year and well in life. The book, the characters, everything spoke to my soul. I went through all the emotions and I mean all of them. I wish this didnt have to be spoiler free because I have ALOT to say.
When I first read the synopsis for this book, I thought I was gonna get a regular rom com and boy was I wrong in all the best ways. There were rom com moments to the book of course, super cute moments and James and Alexis' meet cute was breathtaking and it was love at first sight for him, for her it was crush at first sight I would say. But that wasn't it. There were plot twists and some VERY VERY spicy moments. But one of the best parts for me was the point of the book I would say in a way and that was awareness to mental health.
No matter what James and Alexis never have up on each other. Before they even knew everything about each other; the trauma, the abuse, etc, they loved each other. They loved each other anyway. It started with Lexi and he never left her side, then it was him going through it and she stood by him. Then it was just both of them and they just loved each other anyway. I can't stop saying that. 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺 It was so emotional reading this book and just seeing everything that they both went through, the masks they put on for the world to see, pretending, and yet the moment they meet each other, properly and stopped running, it was nothing but realness and love.
James and Alexis were beautiful characters who deserve the best things in life. They deserved each other and nothing could keep them apart. I love how understanding and patient they both were with each other. I love how they never gave up on each other. And I know at this point I'm repeating myself but I just love this book so much. These are characters that will stay with me forever, not to mention the actual book. These characters had such an amazing development and anybody say less simply didnt read and understand the book. It's one of the best I've read and I really and truly cannot wait for the authors next books.
Overall I give this book a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 and it deserves even more. I'm so inlove with this book, it's not even funny. Everything happens for a reason and I needed this book right now you know. It was very personal for me and I see these characters. The book was so well written and I just loved the love, the friendships, the plot twists, the suspense, the spice, the overall love story. This is a book that everybody should read atleast once in their life. Its just one of those books that make you look at life differently and just so relatable. This was certainly an emotional; in every way possible, journey and I loved every single second of it. Also, IT. WAS. SUPER. SPICY. The balance of this book was incredible because one moment you're feeling down and sad and depressed because you just learnt either something of their past or some crazy story plan to keep them apart. The spice was spicing and these two were soooo passionate, the level of love and chemistry they had, it exploded all over th pages; pun very much intended😏😏😏. I want to be Alexis because I want a James in my life. That man was hotter than a Jamaica's summers day 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵.
I now bring I the emojis of what I felt reading this book. Not in a particular order thou. ❤❤❤🤍🤍🤍🥰🥰😍😍🥺🥺😏😏🙁🙁😊😊😁😁🤬🤬🤬🤬🌶🌶🌶🌶🥵🥵🥵🥵🔥🔥🔥🔥 And overall: 💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗
PLEASE GO AND READ THIS BOOK. ITS WORTH IT. TRUST ME. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT. PLEASE READ THR TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE YOU START READING. ❤❤💯💯🥰🥰
Update:
I wanna thank the author and Booksiren for issuing me this ARC read. And I know it has taken awhile for me to read, I'm sooooo sorry. Life happened and it was ALOT, but I was still determined to get this done before the release date.
PLEASE GO AND READ THIS BOOK. ITS WORTH IT. TRUST ME. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT. PLEASE READ THR TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE YOU START READING. ❤❤💯💯🥰🥰
This book is definitely one of my top reads for this year and well in life. The book, the characters, everything spoke to my soul. I went through all the emotions and I mean all of them. I wish this didnt have to be spoiler free because I have ALOT to say.
When I first read the synopsis for this book, I thought I was gonna get a regular rom com and boy was I wrong in all the best ways. There were rom com moments to the book of course, super cute moments and James and Alexis' meet cute was breathtaking and it was love at first sight for him, for her it was crush at first sight I would say. But that wasn't it. There were plot twists and some VERY VERY spicy moments. But one of the best parts for me was the point of the book I would say in a way and that was awareness to mental health.
No matter what James and Alexis never have up on each other. Before they even knew everything about each other; the trauma, the abuse, etc, they loved each other. They loved each other anyway. It started with Lexi and he never left her side, then it was him going through it and she stood by him. Then it was just both of them and they just loved each other anyway. I can't stop saying that. 🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺 It was so emotional reading this book and just seeing everything that they both went through, the masks they put on for the world to see, pretending, and yet the moment they meet each other, properly and stopped running, it was nothing but realness and love.
James and Alexis were beautiful characters who deserve the best things in life. They deserved each other and nothing could keep them apart. I love how understanding and patient they both were with each other. I love how they never gave up on each other. And I know at this point I'm repeating myself but I just love this book so much. These are characters that will stay with me forever, not to mention the actual book. These characters had such an amazing development and anybody say less simply didnt read and understand the book. It's one of the best I've read and I really and truly cannot wait for the authors next books.
Overall I give this book a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 and it deserves even more. I'm so inlove with this book, it's not even funny. Everything happens for a reason and I needed this book right now you know. It was very personal for me and I see these characters. The book was so well written and I just loved the love, the friendships, the plot twists, the suspense, the spice, the overall love story. This is a book that everybody should read atleast once in their life. Its just one of those books that make you look at life differently and just so relatable. This was certainly an emotional; in every way possible, journey and I loved every single second of it. Also, IT. WAS. SUPER. SPICY. The balance of this book was incredible because one moment you're feeling down and sad and depressed because you just learnt either something of their past or some crazy story plan to keep them apart. The spice was spicing and these two were soooo passionate, the level of love and chemistry they had, it exploded all over th pages; pun very much intended😏😏😏. I want to be Alexis because I want a James in my life. That man was hotter than a Jamaica's summers day 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵.
I now bring I the emojis of what I felt reading this book. Not in a particular order thou. ❤❤❤🤍🤍🤍🥰🥰😍😍🥺🥺😏😏🙁🙁😊😊😁😁🤬🤬🤬🤬🌶🌶🌶🌶🥵🥵🥵🥵🔥🔥🔥🔥 And overall: 💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗
PLEASE GO AND READ THIS BOOK. ITS WORTH IT. TRUST ME. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT. PLEASE READ THR TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE YOU START READING. ❤❤💯💯🥰🥰
August 14, 2024
Amazing amazing book! He falls first has become one of my new fav tropes and let me just say he FALLS. And i absolutely love that ! I love the chapter titles … the spice ! It’s just an all around amazing book! Cannot wait to read more from Jordyn!
August 14, 2024
Profoundly in love ❤️
I absolutely love this style of writing, world building, and plot. Fair warning read your trigger warnings! The villains make your skin crawl but ever the harder mountain to climb the better the peak! I laughed, I cried, and I fell in love with the characters. Deep characters with real world problems. The HEA is well earned and not a dry eye in the room. I'm looking forward to the whole series and consider me addicted! Follow Jordyn on their Instagram you'll love the Easter eggs and opportunities to be part of the fandom! I love you Jordyn Barnes!! 5 Spicy Flames approved! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
I absolutely love this style of writing, world building, and plot. Fair warning read your trigger warnings! The villains make your skin crawl but ever the harder mountain to climb the better the peak! I laughed, I cried, and I fell in love with the characters. Deep characters with real world problems. The HEA is well earned and not a dry eye in the room. I'm looking forward to the whole series and consider me addicted! Follow Jordyn on their Instagram you'll love the Easter eggs and opportunities to be part of the fandom! I love you Jordyn Barnes!! 5 Spicy Flames approved! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
June 25, 2024
ARC read
I love how you added 🌶️ into the spicy scenes chapters I love great spicy moments.
Depression is real for males and females it’s important to have a great support system both people had so much going on in their lives. Family drama is real I’m glad everything worked out for the couple this was a really good story.
I love how you added 🌶️ into the spicy scenes chapters I love great spicy moments.
Depression is real for males and females it’s important to have a great support system both people had so much going on in their lives. Family drama is real I’m glad everything worked out for the couple this was a really good story.
June 25, 2024
It took me a bit to write this review because I had to process this book. This is not at all in a bad way! This book deals with childhood trauma, abuse, and the process of healing from it, and those are very heavy topics! I just had to sit with it a bit. So please be cognizant of the trigger warnings the author provides! I also have to applaud the author for providing linkages to mental health resources in their book. The characters both talk about therapy for their mental health issues, and I really appreciate the normalization of it- especially coming from a male character.
I adored the characters in this book and I truly wish we had more men in the world like James Barton (men, go to therapy! 😅). He was grumpy, but oh so loving and supportive, and the way he recognized anxiety responses in Alexis -muah- 🤌🏼. The mutual support of these characters through their ups and downs, you just really love to see it. Alexis was just so cute! I appreciated the introvert-extrovert duality in her, it really spoke to me! I could definitely see myself grabbing boba with her. As someone familiar with the city of Los Angeles, I loved the callouts to popular eateries. I felt like the meme of Leonard DiCaprio pointing at the TV screen everytime I recognized something 😂!
What really spoke to me about this story is that the authors points out that, yes, hey, many of us have mental health issues, a lot of us are broken, and it’s okay to heal from these issues while also finding love. You hear so much about “how can you love someone if you can’t love yourself?”, or “broken people don’t deserve love”- and that’s not the case in this story. The author shows us that it’s okay to have your own personal issues and still find your person/ fall in love and to be loved. I think it’s such a wonderful message to put into society. And also the acceptance and support shown by the friends of Alexis and James, we need more of that!
This book is a whirlwind, and A LOT happens. The end of the book with people getting their dues moves pretty quickly, and, to me, felt a bit rushed, BUT MY GOODNESS IM SO HAPPY THEY GOT WHAT THEY DESERVED. There’s some truly vile characters in this book and guess what, they’re family 😠!
If you enjoy some HOT OPEN DOOR SPICE (ooo it was good!🌶️), insta-love, found family, co-worker romance, grumpy/sunshine, and are okay with the potential triggers, definitely give Jordyn Barnes’ debut, Let Me Love You Anyway, a read! It’s a fantastic debut and can’t wait to see what the author has in store next. I’m also excited to read the sequels for this book because I am intrigued by these side characters (I need to know more about Chase!!!!!)
Thank you to author Jordyn Barnes and InsertTropeHere PR for providing me with an advanced copy for my honest review.
I adored the characters in this book and I truly wish we had more men in the world like James Barton (men, go to therapy! 😅). He was grumpy, but oh so loving and supportive, and the way he recognized anxiety responses in Alexis -muah- 🤌🏼. The mutual support of these characters through their ups and downs, you just really love to see it. Alexis was just so cute! I appreciated the introvert-extrovert duality in her, it really spoke to me! I could definitely see myself grabbing boba with her. As someone familiar with the city of Los Angeles, I loved the callouts to popular eateries. I felt like the meme of Leonard DiCaprio pointing at the TV screen everytime I recognized something 😂!
What really spoke to me about this story is that the authors points out that, yes, hey, many of us have mental health issues, a lot of us are broken, and it’s okay to heal from these issues while also finding love. You hear so much about “how can you love someone if you can’t love yourself?”, or “broken people don’t deserve love”- and that’s not the case in this story. The author shows us that it’s okay to have your own personal issues and still find your person/ fall in love and to be loved. I think it’s such a wonderful message to put into society. And also the acceptance and support shown by the friends of Alexis and James, we need more of that!
This book is a whirlwind, and A LOT happens. The end of the book with people getting their dues moves pretty quickly, and, to me, felt a bit rushed, BUT MY GOODNESS IM SO HAPPY THEY GOT WHAT THEY DESERVED. There’s some truly vile characters in this book and guess what, they’re family 😠!
If you enjoy some HOT OPEN DOOR SPICE (ooo it was good!🌶️), insta-love, found family, co-worker romance, grumpy/sunshine, and are okay with the potential triggers, definitely give Jordyn Barnes’ debut, Let Me Love You Anyway, a read! It’s a fantastic debut and can’t wait to see what the author has in store next. I’m also excited to read the sequels for this book because I am intrigued by these side characters (I need to know more about Chase!!!!!)
Thank you to author Jordyn Barnes and InsertTropeHere PR for providing me with an advanced copy for my honest review.
July 4, 2024
ARC REVIEW
"I want you to call me God while I worship you."
Let Me Love You Anyway by @jordyn.writes.and.reads
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🌸 Insta Love
🌸 Found family vibes
🌸 Grumpy × Sunshine
🌸 Co-workers
🌸 He falls first and hard
🌸 Healing together
🌸 Mental rep
First of all, I am so fucking glad that I applied for the ARC of this book and I was accepted. Thank you so much for that Jordyn and @inserttropehere
I don't think there are enough words in the English language to appreciate this book. This is a masterpiece. So perfectly written, it's insane.
We meet Alexis and James in this book. Both broken or so what they think. They don't think they deserve anyone and are just about ready to give up.
Then they meet. James is enamored, enraptured and trapped by Lexi the first time he sees her. He knows she is the one. The girl with pink hair. But he has been hurt so many times that he thinks he isn't what she deserves and he'll fuck it all up.
And Lexi is astounded by the gorgeous man, Jamie. She is surprised that there are men who can be so chivalrous outside and as dominant in bed. But she has doubts about her worth and beauty.
And yet no matter how many challenges they face, they don't give up on each other. They heal the other and heal themselves too. They love the other and learn to love themselves too. They are so freaking cute together.
I mean, "Angel" "Cherry blossom" !??!?
The spicy scenes and the emotional scenes are equally amazing. And omg the side characters (except the evil ones ofc) are awesome. Sam, Dani, Coop, Steve...everyone. They are so supportive and amazing and loyal and funny.
And one thing I really liked is that this book just didn't mention mental problems once and then left them. No. It was so nicely incorporated. It felt real and honest.
This book is beautifully written and is everything. Also, I am in love with Jamie, thank you.
"I want you to call me God while I worship you."
Let Me Love You Anyway by @jordyn.writes.and.reads
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🌸 Insta Love
🌸 Found family vibes
🌸 Grumpy × Sunshine
🌸 Co-workers
🌸 He falls first and hard
🌸 Healing together
🌸 Mental rep
First of all, I am so fucking glad that I applied for the ARC of this book and I was accepted. Thank you so much for that Jordyn and @inserttropehere
I don't think there are enough words in the English language to appreciate this book. This is a masterpiece. So perfectly written, it's insane.
We meet Alexis and James in this book. Both broken or so what they think. They don't think they deserve anyone and are just about ready to give up.
Then they meet. James is enamored, enraptured and trapped by Lexi the first time he sees her. He knows she is the one. The girl with pink hair. But he has been hurt so many times that he thinks he isn't what she deserves and he'll fuck it all up.
And Lexi is astounded by the gorgeous man, Jamie. She is surprised that there are men who can be so chivalrous outside and as dominant in bed. But she has doubts about her worth and beauty.
And yet no matter how many challenges they face, they don't give up on each other. They heal the other and heal themselves too. They love the other and learn to love themselves too. They are so freaking cute together.
I mean, "Angel" "Cherry blossom" !??!?
The spicy scenes and the emotional scenes are equally amazing. And omg the side characters (except the evil ones ofc) are awesome. Sam, Dani, Coop, Steve...everyone. They are so supportive and amazing and loyal and funny.
And one thing I really liked is that this book just didn't mention mental problems once and then left them. No. It was so nicely incorporated. It felt real and honest.
This book is beautifully written and is everything. Also, I am in love with Jamie, thank you.
July 13, 2024
4.5 (we really need half stars)
This story follows James (Jamie) and Alexis (Lexi), two people dealing with different trauma in different ways, James due to tragedy and Lexi due to her family. They meet by chance in a boba shop and learn soon after they’ll be working together. The story focuses on their relationship, dealing together with trauma, and navigating life when things are falling apart around you.
❗️Check Trigger Warnings - the book dives deep into traumatic themes, please be sure you can handle the topics.❗️
Spice Rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌸My Favorite Parts of the Story🌸
>I’m now a believer that insta love can be done in a way that feels right and I thought the way their relationship unfolded was very cute.
>I enjoyed the deeper topics and the almost thriller level intrigue towards the end of the story. It was unexpected depth in a romance.
>I liked that there’s a third act conflict, but not a breakup and the conflict is short lived and instead is used to show that Alexis and James are there for one another despite their challenges with mental health.
Minor spoiler ‼️
✨My absolute favorite part was the ending that I thought was going to be a baby but it was a dog!! I so rarely see no kids relationships represented and as a woman with no kids or desire for kids it was nice to have a moment✨
🌸I rated this 4.5 because I really enjoyed the book and I could barely put it down. I loved the characters. The villains were truly villains. Jordyn did not hold back on the personalities, flaws and all. The spice was well done. Truly, the only reason I rated it 4.5 was because my brain had trouble going from love, to trauma, to spice, and it was a little rapid fire for me and I do recognize that’s a me problem!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story follows James (Jamie) and Alexis (Lexi), two people dealing with different trauma in different ways, James due to tragedy and Lexi due to her family. They meet by chance in a boba shop and learn soon after they’ll be working together. The story focuses on their relationship, dealing together with trauma, and navigating life when things are falling apart around you.
❗️Check Trigger Warnings - the book dives deep into traumatic themes, please be sure you can handle the topics.❗️
Spice Rating 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌸My Favorite Parts of the Story🌸
>I’m now a believer that insta love can be done in a way that feels right and I thought the way their relationship unfolded was very cute.
>I enjoyed the deeper topics and the almost thriller level intrigue towards the end of the story. It was unexpected depth in a romance.
>I liked that there’s a third act conflict, but not a breakup and the conflict is short lived and instead is used to show that Alexis and James are there for one another despite their challenges with mental health.
Minor spoiler ‼️
✨My absolute favorite part was the ending that I thought was going to be a baby but it was a dog!! I so rarely see no kids relationships represented and as a woman with no kids or desire for kids it was nice to have a moment✨
🌸I rated this 4.5 because I really enjoyed the book and I could barely put it down. I loved the characters. The villains were truly villains. Jordyn did not hold back on the personalities, flaws and all. The spice was well done. Truly, the only reason I rated it 4.5 was because my brain had trouble going from love, to trauma, to spice, and it was a little rapid fire for me and I do recognize that’s a me problem!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 2, 2024
They say that to know what real love feels like, you should be loved by an artist or a musician, and I felt that while reading this book. The story starts with our MCs—James, a photographer, and Alexis, a graphic designer—navigating life while going through issues of their own. They are more similar than they know. But when life puts each in the path of the other, it doesn’t take a minute for them to know that they are special. Will they accept it as a blessing, or will their secrets and issues from the past make them let go of the best thing that has happened to each other?
“It’s the dreamer artist in me; I fall fast and hard. I only hope that this time, I can get a softer landing than usual”
James Barton is a sweetheart. 😋 His character was very refreshing. He made me fall in love with a broke man (not exactly—he is a freelancer🤭). I can understand why Alexis fell in love with him. He is going through his things, but that doesn’t stop him from being the man Alexis needs.
“Good days are magical, but shitty days are going to happen.”
Alexis Strauss is a strong and vulnerable FMC. I loved her character arc. I loved how she stood up for herself and stayed with James when he needed it. She is fun, sassy, but also loving and understanding.
Both leads are mental health representatives. It's wonderful to see how they both fight through their inner demons and emerge victorious while being there for the other person. The understanding between them is simply lovely to read. I would also like to express my appreciation to the author for writing a story that includes many sensitive topics in a way that doesn't make one feel uncomfortable.
That being said, I loved the book. It’s something you need to read when you want to come back to reality—a love story that grounds you. More than that, it’s a love story that gives one hope.💜
#arcreview
“It’s the dreamer artist in me; I fall fast and hard. I only hope that this time, I can get a softer landing than usual”
James Barton is a sweetheart. 😋 His character was very refreshing. He made me fall in love with a broke man (not exactly—he is a freelancer🤭). I can understand why Alexis fell in love with him. He is going through his things, but that doesn’t stop him from being the man Alexis needs.
“Good days are magical, but shitty days are going to happen.”
Alexis Strauss is a strong and vulnerable FMC. I loved her character arc. I loved how she stood up for herself and stayed with James when he needed it. She is fun, sassy, but also loving and understanding.
Both leads are mental health representatives. It's wonderful to see how they both fight through their inner demons and emerge victorious while being there for the other person. The understanding between them is simply lovely to read. I would also like to express my appreciation to the author for writing a story that includes many sensitive topics in a way that doesn't make one feel uncomfortable.
That being said, I loved the book. It’s something you need to read when you want to come back to reality—a love story that grounds you. More than that, it’s a love story that gives one hope.💜
#arcreview
June 11, 2024
Full of emotions and an epic plot twist, "Let Me Love You Anyway" by Jordyn Barnes is quite the captivating read!
Lexi is a graphic designer and Jamie is a freelance photographer who happen to run into each other at a coffee/boba shop, not knowing that their friend-in-common has been trying to set them up. They don't exchange any information and are both left wondering about the other, when they are suddenly sitting in the same conference room and are informed they will be working on a big project together. Their resulting love story is an emotional ride filled with insta-lust/insta-love, two people working through past and current traumas and supporting each other wonderfully, amazingly supportive friends, exciting open-door scenes, and one epic plot twist!
I definitely suggest reading the trigger warnings before reading, since there are some on-page scenes that some people might find difficult to read. However, if you find the trigger warnings not to be an issue for you, I HIGHLY recommend reading "Let Me Love You Anyway" - especially if you are a fan of insta-love, he falls first, and getting justice against some atrocious people.
I am still giddy from this story and I can't wait to devour the rest of the series and learn more about the other characters!
Lexi is a graphic designer and Jamie is a freelance photographer who happen to run into each other at a coffee/boba shop, not knowing that their friend-in-common has been trying to set them up. They don't exchange any information and are both left wondering about the other, when they are suddenly sitting in the same conference room and are informed they will be working on a big project together. Their resulting love story is an emotional ride filled with insta-lust/insta-love, two people working through past and current traumas and supporting each other wonderfully, amazingly supportive friends, exciting open-door scenes, and one epic plot twist!
I definitely suggest reading the trigger warnings before reading, since there are some on-page scenes that some people might find difficult to read. However, if you find the trigger warnings not to be an issue for you, I HIGHLY recommend reading "Let Me Love You Anyway" - especially if you are a fan of insta-love, he falls first, and getting justice against some atrocious people.
I am still giddy from this story and I can't wait to devour the rest of the series and learn more about the other characters!
August 1, 2024
🌟ARC Review🌟
Let Me Love You Anyway by Jordyn Barnes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🔥He Falls First
🔥Grumpy/Sunshine
🔥Both MCs in their 30s
🔥Matchmaking
🔥Found Family
🔥Mental Health Rep
Is it too early to pick my favorite book of the year? Nah!
Jordyn Barnes's debut novel, Let Me Love You Anyway, wins my personal pick for my favorite book of 2024! It was the perfect mix of MC's I cared about, love I swooned about, and spice I grinned about! It was the whole package.
It was refreshing to read a novel with 30-somethings in it like myself and both MC's had difficult pasts with their families and struggled with their mental health. The hard topics were handled with such care and both MC's had found family support systems that radiated love and compassion.
Jamie and Lexi's love story is a beautiful tale of insta love developing into soulmates. You'll have fun on this ride with the spice! There may be some serious topics but damn the spice be spicing!
Let Me Love You Anyway comes out on August 13th!
Thank you to Jordyn Barnes and Insert Trope Here PR for sending me this ARC.
Let Me Love You Anyway by Jordyn Barnes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🔥He Falls First
🔥Grumpy/Sunshine
🔥Both MCs in their 30s
🔥Matchmaking
🔥Found Family
🔥Mental Health Rep
Is it too early to pick my favorite book of the year? Nah!
Jordyn Barnes's debut novel, Let Me Love You Anyway, wins my personal pick for my favorite book of 2024! It was the perfect mix of MC's I cared about, love I swooned about, and spice I grinned about! It was the whole package.
It was refreshing to read a novel with 30-somethings in it like myself and both MC's had difficult pasts with their families and struggled with their mental health. The hard topics were handled with such care and both MC's had found family support systems that radiated love and compassion.
Jamie and Lexi's love story is a beautiful tale of insta love developing into soulmates. You'll have fun on this ride with the spice! There may be some serious topics but damn the spice be spicing!
Let Me Love You Anyway comes out on August 13th!
Thank you to Jordyn Barnes and Insert Trope Here PR for sending me this ARC.
August 18, 2024
I absolutely LOVED this book! I loved the characters (because of their flaws and their experiences). I loved the writing. I loved the love story. And I loved the HEA. It was all amazing! I loved the playlist the author provided and enjoyed listening to the songs for each chapter as I was reading. I really added to the vibe of the book while reading.
There are a LOT of intense emotions, and difficult scenes in this book. Please check the trigger/content warnings. The scenes are intense. For me, they added to the brilliance of the book, but it will be very difficult for readers who battle with the trigger's listed.
I loved James and Alexis as characters. I loved the side characters and how they were plotting to get James and Alexis together even before their meet cute in the book. I loved the way they clicked, and how their broken edges fit so well together. Just so much of their interaction, and passion, and intensity was *chef's kiss*.
I WILL be reading this book again, many times, in the future!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There are a LOT of intense emotions, and difficult scenes in this book. Please check the trigger/content warnings. The scenes are intense. For me, they added to the brilliance of the book, but it will be very difficult for readers who battle with the trigger's listed.
I loved James and Alexis as characters. I loved the side characters and how they were plotting to get James and Alexis together even before their meet cute in the book. I loved the way they clicked, and how their broken edges fit so well together. Just so much of their interaction, and passion, and intensity was *chef's kiss*.
I WILL be reading this book again, many times, in the future!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 2, 2024
I actually feel this book is a 4.5 stars! The way Jordyn Barnes writes is addicting! I wanted to read this book at the same time as another book but as soon as I started this one I couldn’t put it down! The vibes alone in this book made me feel like I was actually there in Los Angeles with them. The love between James and Alexis feels like an actual physical thing and gave me every emotion possible! The banter between these characters was so charismatic even though there were so many deeper topics throughout their stories. When these characters were hurting, I was hurting and when these characters fell in love, I fell in love! I can’t wait to read Cooper’s story! And I hope we get Dani’s and Steve’s story! I want to see their entire support system just as happy as they are together! The ending could have had more details for us readers but I also don’t think it would ever be enough because I didn’t want to leave their world! Overall, I loved this book and I can’t wait for my friends to read it!
August 9, 2024
Thank you booksirens, insert trope PR and Jordyn Barnes for the ARC copy of this book! Let Me Love You Anyways is a different type of book than I typically read, but I found it very refreshing!
The mental health inclusion in this book was wonderful. I liked that the characters were actively trying to be better humans. I also really like when a man knows what he wants and boy did James want Lexi from the very beginning. I did find him to be almost a little cringy/corny at some points, but it does make the story feel more like real life characters. Also, the amount of times cherry blossom(29 times) was mentioned, used as a nickname, etc in this book was a tad much for my personal tastes. BUT all that to say: if you’re looking for a book with real characters, who feel like people you would know in real life, looots of inclusivity and a truly unique love story this is the book for you! Looking forward to book 2!!
The mental health inclusion in this book was wonderful. I liked that the characters were actively trying to be better humans. I also really like when a man knows what he wants and boy did James want Lexi from the very beginning. I did find him to be almost a little cringy/corny at some points, but it does make the story feel more like real life characters. Also, the amount of times cherry blossom(29 times) was mentioned, used as a nickname, etc in this book was a tad much for my personal tastes. BUT all that to say: if you’re looking for a book with real characters, who feel like people you would know in real life, looots of inclusivity and a truly unique love story this is the book for you! Looking forward to book 2!!
August 18, 2024
Thank you to Jordyn and Insert Trope Here PR for the eARC. Let Me Love You Anyway is available now.
3.75 ⭐
Tropes:
🌸MC's in their 30's
📷mental health rep
🌸strangers-to-lovers
📷hurt x comfort
I really did enjoy the overall plot of the story. It's crazy to think that the entire book happened over just a few days. I think Jordyn did a great job of balancing a sweeter romance with more difficult topics. Don't let the cute cover fool you! There are some *heavy* topics that are covered in this book. It was a great representation that everyone goes through their own journeys and it is important to meet people where they are, rather than try to fit them into a box that you want them to be in. I enjoyed the mental health representation that existed between BOTH Lexi and James and how they leaned on each other to acknowledge each other's challenges and work them together. The mild suspense plot was definitely unexpected and definitely welcome, though it made me quite uncomfy, lol.
The biggest thing for me, was i felt like the book moved fast, which is a bit ironic given how long is. Lexi and James definitely fell HARD and fast for one another, but I wish that we were able to see more of their relationship develop and grow over a longer period of time.
3.75 ⭐
Tropes:
🌸MC's in their 30's
📷mental health rep
🌸strangers-to-lovers
📷hurt x comfort
I really did enjoy the overall plot of the story. It's crazy to think that the entire book happened over just a few days. I think Jordyn did a great job of balancing a sweeter romance with more difficult topics. Don't let the cute cover fool you! There are some *heavy* topics that are covered in this book. It was a great representation that everyone goes through their own journeys and it is important to meet people where they are, rather than try to fit them into a box that you want them to be in. I enjoyed the mental health representation that existed between BOTH Lexi and James and how they leaned on each other to acknowledge each other's challenges and work them together. The mild suspense plot was definitely unexpected and definitely welcome, though it made me quite uncomfy, lol.
The biggest thing for me, was i felt like the book moved fast, which is a bit ironic given how long is. Lexi and James definitely fell HARD and fast for one another, but I wish that we were able to see more of their relationship develop and grow over a longer period of time.
August 11, 2024
• Alexis & James. Seriously Jordyn, AHHHHH. I love them so much. This story was just so amazing, the two “ flawed “ people meeting, immediate chemistry, and lust.. the love. 🥹
• Lexi, my sweet and quirky gal. First off her mother & stepfather are the devil, mmmk. And then you have her, who is just quite literally a girl I am on the hunt for as my friend. Where are you irl lady. On the hunt for a pink haired, tattooed, magical being thanks. ✔️ She is amazing and the strength she ends up showing, queen.
• And Jaime. This. Man. 👏 Honestly people, get ready to swoon and swoon hard. He’s not only thoughtful, caring, and sweet.. but his spicy side. Just, he’s a whole ass package deal. I mean he has his own family stuff going on and traumas from his past that plague him. But he is everything for our girl. Cough cough… Cherry Blossom… my Angel, need I say more?
• The very moment I started their story, I was on the hook. This book didn’t disappoint me in the least bit. And I really hope you add it to your TBRs!
• Lexi, my sweet and quirky gal. First off her mother & stepfather are the devil, mmmk. And then you have her, who is just quite literally a girl I am on the hunt for as my friend. Where are you irl lady. On the hunt for a pink haired, tattooed, magical being thanks. ✔️ She is amazing and the strength she ends up showing, queen.
• And Jaime. This. Man. 👏 Honestly people, get ready to swoon and swoon hard. He’s not only thoughtful, caring, and sweet.. but his spicy side. Just, he’s a whole ass package deal. I mean he has his own family stuff going on and traumas from his past that plague him. But he is everything for our girl. Cough cough… Cherry Blossom… my Angel, need I say more?
• The very moment I started their story, I was on the hook. This book didn’t disappoint me in the least bit. And I really hope you add it to your TBRs!
August 14, 2024
Received as an ARC.
🌸 Found family
🌸 Trauma healing
🌸 Older main characters (in their 30s)
🌸 Artist x Designer
🌸 He falls first, and fast
🌸 Insta love
🌸 Grumpy x Sunshine
🌸 Co-workers
🌸 Mental health representation
Ok this one broke me, but in the best way possible. I was in my feels right from the start and it didn’t stop until I got to the very end. Jordyn’s writing style was the perfect way to tell James and Lexi’s story, that man well and truly found his lobster and fell….hard. Usually I’m not one for insta love stories but this one was done in a way that I felt it was believable and a tale of two people who were truly meant for one another finding their person.
The friends were a great collection of side characters for this book and I’d love to see more of them in the future, their involvement in James and Lexi’s lives added the ideal amount of meddling without going overboard.
🌸 Found family
🌸 Trauma healing
🌸 Older main characters (in their 30s)
🌸 Artist x Designer
🌸 He falls first, and fast
🌸 Insta love
🌸 Grumpy x Sunshine
🌸 Co-workers
🌸 Mental health representation
Ok this one broke me, but in the best way possible. I was in my feels right from the start and it didn’t stop until I got to the very end. Jordyn’s writing style was the perfect way to tell James and Lexi’s story, that man well and truly found his lobster and fell….hard. Usually I’m not one for insta love stories but this one was done in a way that I felt it was believable and a tale of two people who were truly meant for one another finding their person.
The friends were a great collection of side characters for this book and I’d love to see more of them in the future, their involvement in James and Lexi’s lives added the ideal amount of meddling without going overboard.
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