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The Grand Mountain #3
Reconciling With the Rival
Ella Williams is a fiery workaholic who always puts others before herself. She has her hands full with work, her side hustle, and worrying about her family and friends, but she manages as best she can. But when her annoyingly attractive college rival gets a job where she works, her perfectly structured routine—and her sanity—comes crashing down.
Leo Zimmerman is a rich, British womanizer, and he knows it. He’s back in Virginia for a new job after taking care of his ill father in England. Consumed by the guilt of being so far from home, and battling his worst romantic dry spell in years, he tries to make the best of his new life. That is, until he has to move in with his sister and the girl who pushes his buttons like no other.
Will the two of them be able to reconcile or will this rivalry turned roommates with benefits prove they were right about one another all along?
Leo Zimmerman is a rich, British womanizer, and he knows it. He’s back in Virginia for a new job after taking care of his ill father in England. Consumed by the guilt of being so far from home, and battling his worst romantic dry spell in years, he tries to make the best of his new life. That is, until he has to move in with his sister and the girl who pushes his buttons like no other.
Will the two of them be able to reconcile or will this rivalry turned roommates with benefits prove they were right about one another all along?
Paperback
Published February 20, 2025
13 people are currently reading
633 people want to read
About the author
Emily Tudor
9 books406 followersEmily Tudor creates characters and stories about platonic and romantic love for anyone and everyone. She lives in the state of New York and loves listening to music and creating stories. She loves Marvel movies, the song mirrorball by Taylor Swift, and buying too many books when she already has many to read at home.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
February 20, 2025
Honestly where to start to talk about this absolute masterpiece!!! Emily Tudor is never wrong and I’m obsessed with this book and with these characters. I love them. Ella and Leo supremacy forever.
Reconciling With The Rival is my absolute new fav in the Grand Mountain series. I’m so happy for being back in this universe that I can’t even explain!!!
This book is a rivals to lovers, workplace romance with the best banter and tension ever!!!
I don’t think I’ll ever be able to explain how much I love this book. Both characters are incredibly written and you can’t help but falling in love with them. I laughed, I cried, I swooned!! And the spice in this one? Off the charts incredible.
Also, this series absolutely has the best found family ever!!!
read this book if you love:
workplace romance
forced proximity
rivals to lovers
amazing found family
thank you Emily Tudor for the arc for this book!!
———
September 2024:
Emily did it again!! Beta read this one and oh my goodness!!! Immediately 5 stars. Can’t wait for you to read it. RTC near the release date ❤️
Reconciling With The Rival is my absolute new fav in the Grand Mountain series. I’m so happy for being back in this universe that I can’t even explain!!!
This book is a rivals to lovers, workplace romance with the best banter and tension ever!!!
I don’t think I’ll ever be able to explain how much I love this book. Both characters are incredibly written and you can’t help but falling in love with them. I laughed, I cried, I swooned!! And the spice in this one? Off the charts incredible.
Also, this series absolutely has the best found family ever!!!
read this book if you love:
workplace romance
forced proximity
rivals to lovers
amazing found family
thank you Emily Tudor for the arc for this book!!
———
September 2024:
Emily did it again!! Beta read this one and oh my goodness!!! Immediately 5 stars. Can’t wait for you to read it. RTC near the release date ❤️
Read
September 16, 2024i’m actually unwell. this book is so different than anything i’ve done but WOW it had me laughing, crying and swooning even though i literally wrote it.
February 17, 2025
Fist of all this was an ARC and I’m very happy to have been chosen,
I loooove love the friendship in this book. Their type of ride or die is something that I was not expecting in a romance book and I thank the author for it.
Now I must confess that the main couple weren’t my favorite (is that something I shouldn’t say in a review?) but I do like the characters as individuals, the Ella’s fear and her issues as well as Leo’s were so well fleshed out, I felt them deep in my soul and I love how they weren’t their main thing but what made them.
Great book, everyone who’s looking for a spicy fun read should get it
I loooove love the friendship in this book. Their type of ride or die is something that I was not expecting in a romance book and I thank the author for it.
Now I must confess that the main couple weren’t my favorite (is that something I shouldn’t say in a review?) but I do like the characters as individuals, the Ella’s fear and her issues as well as Leo’s were so well fleshed out, I felt them deep in my soul and I love how they weren’t their main thing but what made them.
Great book, everyone who’s looking for a spicy fun read should get it
February 7, 2025
Third book in the Grand Mountain series and it keeps get better and better. The way Emily Tudor writes her stories has the ability to make you laugh and cry in the span of a few pages. I basically cried the last fifteen chapters of the book.
I loved how Ella and Leo were at each other’s throat for so long that when they inevitably realized there was so much more to it, their fall was so good, and it made me smile so much. But this book was so much more than their hate and their love. It was about growth, about facing your own fears and even taking a big leap of faith in doing the things that unsettle you the most. The way both Ella and Leo carried the weight of their own worlds on their shoulders was painful to read, especially because they had their minds set that nobody could or would have helped them. That was what hurt the most. But finding out that there are people out there willing to do anything in their power to help you out just because they love you, it’s a wonderful thing.
What can I say about the book club?? – I love you Grant – This group is wonderfully supportive of one another and this is probably what makes you love these books so much.
Can’t wait to read about Amelia in the next book.
Thank you Emily Tudor for choosing me to be part of your arc team.
I loved how Ella and Leo were at each other’s throat for so long that when they inevitably realized there was so much more to it, their fall was so good, and it made me smile so much. But this book was so much more than their hate and their love. It was about growth, about facing your own fears and even taking a big leap of faith in doing the things that unsettle you the most. The way both Ella and Leo carried the weight of their own worlds on their shoulders was painful to read, especially because they had their minds set that nobody could or would have helped them. That was what hurt the most. But finding out that there are people out there willing to do anything in their power to help you out just because they love you, it’s a wonderful thing.
What can I say about the book club?? – I love you Grant – This group is wonderfully supportive of one another and this is probably what makes you love these books so much.
Can’t wait to read about Amelia in the next book.
Thank you Emily Tudor for choosing me to be part of your arc team.
February 20, 2025
ARC REVIEW
“I can see you, Ella. I see you more clearly than you see yourself.” AHHHH!!
This is my first book stepping into Emily’s Grand Mountain Series, and i went in with little to no expectations. I feel that works best for me when it comes to my overall review/rating on any book.
This book made me wish i had a close knit friend group like Ella’s. I mean bookclubs, late night drives, games evening.. count me in!
Ella and Leo’s banter, prank wars and overall rivalry was so fun and intriguing to see how it would unfold. However i appreciated while Leo despite having the biggest EGO and confidence, his character showed vulnerability, especially when it came to his family.
I found Emily’s work-life super relatable, the corporate world can be a tough nut to crack especially as a woman. But emily being the baddie she was always quick to speak her mind and prove that she is a rising talent in the industry.
Towards the epilogue i do feel there were some questions i had regarding Amelia and Henry’s relationship, that feels abit unanswered. But perhaps That will be revealed in the next book?🤭
“I can see you, Ella. I see you more clearly than you see yourself.” AHHHH!!
This is my first book stepping into Emily’s Grand Mountain Series, and i went in with little to no expectations. I feel that works best for me when it comes to my overall review/rating on any book.
This book made me wish i had a close knit friend group like Ella’s. I mean bookclubs, late night drives, games evening.. count me in!
Ella and Leo’s banter, prank wars and overall rivalry was so fun and intriguing to see how it would unfold. However i appreciated while Leo despite having the biggest EGO and confidence, his character showed vulnerability, especially when it came to his family.
I found Emily’s work-life super relatable, the corporate world can be a tough nut to crack especially as a woman. But emily being the baddie she was always quick to speak her mind and prove that she is a rising talent in the industry.
Towards the epilogue i do feel there were some questions i had regarding Amelia and Henry’s relationship, that feels abit unanswered. But perhaps That will be revealed in the next book?🤭
March 30, 2025
“I can see you, Ella. I see you more clearly than you see yourself.”
First of all, he calls her “Darling” in a British accent, let that sink in. Second of all, this healed my older daughter trauma a little. Third of all, you had me at rivals to lovers. The banter, the chemistry was everything. I loved how raw and honest they could be with each other, go and talk through their trauma together. I loved how Leo was willing to fight for her and waited for her, to do it on her terms. If you wanted to read this book, just know, it’s darling in a British accent.
- rivals to lovers
- A sex pact
- Older sibling MMC
- Forced proximity
First of all, he calls her “Darling” in a British accent, let that sink in. Second of all, this healed my older daughter trauma a little. Third of all, you had me at rivals to lovers. The banter, the chemistry was everything. I loved how raw and honest they could be with each other, go and talk through their trauma together. I loved how Leo was willing to fight for her and waited for her, to do it on her terms. If you wanted to read this book, just know, it’s darling in a British accent.
- rivals to lovers
- A sex pact
- Older sibling MMC
- Forced proximity
February 15, 2025
This one's for you if you enjoy:
-best friend’s brother
-enemies to lovers x workplace
-found family
-forced proximity
I have to preface this by saying I haven’t read the first two books in the series, and I think that impacted my reading experience. There are a lot of characters and dynamics in the friend group that I had no context on. And a lot of time was spent on very detailed interactions with those characters but they didn’t really further the main story. If I had their backstories I may have enjoyed it more? I think this doesn’t work well as a standalone, which is fine, I’m just not the target reader. I also found it hard to connect with the FMC and MMC. The enemies part dragged on and on, then suddenly they were in love. It was an okay read but probably won’t stick with me.
3.5⭐️
Thanks to Emily Tudor’s team for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
-best friend’s brother
-enemies to lovers x workplace
-found family
-forced proximity
I have to preface this by saying I haven’t read the first two books in the series, and I think that impacted my reading experience. There are a lot of characters and dynamics in the friend group that I had no context on. And a lot of time was spent on very detailed interactions with those characters but they didn’t really further the main story. If I had their backstories I may have enjoyed it more? I think this doesn’t work well as a standalone, which is fine, I’m just not the target reader. I also found it hard to connect with the FMC and MMC. The enemies part dragged on and on, then suddenly they were in love. It was an okay read but probably won’t stick with me.
3.5⭐️
Thanks to Emily Tudor’s team for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 20, 2025
Thank you so much Author Emily Tudor, for giving me the amazing opportunity to read another ARC for you new upcoming Sports Romance Novel🏒❤️💋✨
“Reconciling With The Rival”
The 3rd Installment In-
“The Grand Mountain Book Series”
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Read!! I flew through the book in no time!! It was absolutely everything I'd hoped for and more!! The main characters had me smitten from the start, and their love-hate relationship kept me guessing with every heart-pumping moment and clever quip! The author's work on this book was absolutely phenomenal, I loved every minute of it and I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series, especially after that cliffhanger ending that had me screaming for more!!!🤩🤩🤩
“Reconciling With The Rival,” Stars two
beautiful main characters-
(✨❤️Ella Williams & Leo Zimmerman❤️✨)
Emily Tudor, beings her tale when-
Ella Williams is a driven perfectionist who always prioritizes others. Between her demanding job, side hustle, and caring for loved ones, her plate is full. But when her infuriatingly charming college nemesis lands a job at her workplace, her meticulous routine and grip on reality begin to unravel.
And that’s when the lovely author finally introduces us to my new favorite- Leo Zimmerman✨He’a a wealthy and charismatic British womanizer. He returns to Virginia with a mix of emotions. After putting his life on hold to care for his ill father in England, he's now grappling with guilt and a severe case of romantic withdrawal. Just as he's trying to settle into his new life, he's thrust into close quarters with his sister and the one girl who drives him crazy!! And the only way to find out how this amazing tale unfolds is by reading this book ASAP but Emily Tudor doesn’t just deliver an profound plot of stories but she also does for her main characters🤩
Ella, my girlie🤍✨embodies the essence of beauty, and her vibrant fiery personality and charisma have a profound magnetic effect on her lover boy Leo! Her diligent work ethic and loving nature make her impossible not to adore, especially her strength and determination are a testament to her capacity to thrive despite the obstacles she's encountered from such a tender age. As you watch her evolve, into someone more beautiful. The way she loves Leo is distinctively special and heartwarming, as they navigate from a foundation of hate and love banter to an unintentional, yet deepening, romance with each new chapter!! and I truly loved the way Ella is always looking out for Leo🥹and it’s so sincere with her efforts to lift his spirits and show him she truly cares for him is forever heartwarming❤️✨
Leo, my new everything & beyond💋✨
his character is literally my absolute favorite! I'm completely obsessed with how he portrays this confident and charismatic side that's totally captivating, alongside a distinctive and authentic persona that's genuinely heartwarming and memorable each page and chapter❤️
At first, he appears a little rough around the edges, but as the story progresses, his character undergoes a transformation, drawing us into his journey. Beneath his tough exterior lies a heart of pure love and compassion and a charming personality, particularly when he's alone with the woman who has always held his heart from the very beginning🥹His devotion to his darling is so adorable and deeply touching, the way he makes her feel cherished and loved on every page is absolutely heartwarming and even all the way to his very attractive protective nature that he constantly provides for his lover girl and his family.
It’s truly admirable and I loved reading every second of it🥹❤️Author Emily Tudor wrote this all so beautifully❤️
“Forever, Ella. I want to fight with you forever
if I’m able.”- Leo Zimmerman💋✨
“ORDER”
“Reconciling With The Rival”
Out now and you can do just that by visiting the author social media @authoremilytudor on IG and also get the chance to view lovely teasers and character artwork🤩
“Reconciling With The Rival”
The 3rd Installment In-
“The Grand Mountain Book Series”
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Read!! I flew through the book in no time!! It was absolutely everything I'd hoped for and more!! The main characters had me smitten from the start, and their love-hate relationship kept me guessing with every heart-pumping moment and clever quip! The author's work on this book was absolutely phenomenal, I loved every minute of it and I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series, especially after that cliffhanger ending that had me screaming for more!!!🤩🤩🤩
“Reconciling With The Rival,” Stars two
beautiful main characters-
(✨❤️Ella Williams & Leo Zimmerman❤️✨)
Emily Tudor, beings her tale when-
Ella Williams is a driven perfectionist who always prioritizes others. Between her demanding job, side hustle, and caring for loved ones, her plate is full. But when her infuriatingly charming college nemesis lands a job at her workplace, her meticulous routine and grip on reality begin to unravel.
And that’s when the lovely author finally introduces us to my new favorite- Leo Zimmerman✨He’a a wealthy and charismatic British womanizer. He returns to Virginia with a mix of emotions. After putting his life on hold to care for his ill father in England, he's now grappling with guilt and a severe case of romantic withdrawal. Just as he's trying to settle into his new life, he's thrust into close quarters with his sister and the one girl who drives him crazy!! And the only way to find out how this amazing tale unfolds is by reading this book ASAP but Emily Tudor doesn’t just deliver an profound plot of stories but she also does for her main characters🤩
Ella, my girlie🤍✨embodies the essence of beauty, and her vibrant fiery personality and charisma have a profound magnetic effect on her lover boy Leo! Her diligent work ethic and loving nature make her impossible not to adore, especially her strength and determination are a testament to her capacity to thrive despite the obstacles she's encountered from such a tender age. As you watch her evolve, into someone more beautiful. The way she loves Leo is distinctively special and heartwarming, as they navigate from a foundation of hate and love banter to an unintentional, yet deepening, romance with each new chapter!! and I truly loved the way Ella is always looking out for Leo🥹and it’s so sincere with her efforts to lift his spirits and show him she truly cares for him is forever heartwarming❤️✨
Leo, my new everything & beyond💋✨
his character is literally my absolute favorite! I'm completely obsessed with how he portrays this confident and charismatic side that's totally captivating, alongside a distinctive and authentic persona that's genuinely heartwarming and memorable each page and chapter❤️
At first, he appears a little rough around the edges, but as the story progresses, his character undergoes a transformation, drawing us into his journey. Beneath his tough exterior lies a heart of pure love and compassion and a charming personality, particularly when he's alone with the woman who has always held his heart from the very beginning🥹His devotion to his darling is so adorable and deeply touching, the way he makes her feel cherished and loved on every page is absolutely heartwarming and even all the way to his very attractive protective nature that he constantly provides for his lover girl and his family.
It’s truly admirable and I loved reading every second of it🥹❤️Author Emily Tudor wrote this all so beautifully❤️
“Forever, Ella. I want to fight with you forever
if I’m able.”- Leo Zimmerman💋✨
“ORDER”
“Reconciling With The Rival”
Out now and you can do just that by visiting the author social media @authoremilytudor on IG and also get the chance to view lovely teasers and character artwork🤩
February 20, 2025
arc review | 4.25 stars !
i loved this book so much, from start to finish, i loved it. if you haven’t read grand mountain yet, i beg that you do. the found family, the female friendships, the romantic and platonic love is everything you could want in a book.
ella, my selfless baby :( ugh this girl literally puts everyone above herself over and over again, she’s always the first one to help fix everyone else’s problems. she’s the mother of the friend group and her willingness to put everyone above herself a million times over is one of the main reasons i love her so much. when i first started gm ella was the one who’s book i was most excited for, so to say i’m grateful for the arc is an understatement!
leoooo, oh my god. this man. the way he loves and cares for his family captured my heart instantly. he was so willing to, and did, drop everything when his family needed him. i love how caring he is about everyone around him and how soft his heart is :(
ellaleo!!!!!!!!!! they were everything and more. i love their angst and tension. i love how their communication improved throughout the book. i’ve yapped way too much, the point is, i adore them and i beg you all to read this book.
i loved this book so much, from start to finish, i loved it. if you haven’t read grand mountain yet, i beg that you do. the found family, the female friendships, the romantic and platonic love is everything you could want in a book.
ella, my selfless baby :( ugh this girl literally puts everyone above herself over and over again, she’s always the first one to help fix everyone else’s problems. she’s the mother of the friend group and her willingness to put everyone above herself a million times over is one of the main reasons i love her so much. when i first started gm ella was the one who’s book i was most excited for, so to say i’m grateful for the arc is an understatement!
leoooo, oh my god. this man. the way he loves and cares for his family captured my heart instantly. he was so willing to, and did, drop everything when his family needed him. i love how caring he is about everyone around him and how soft his heart is :(
ellaleo!!!!!!!!!! they were everything and more. i love their angst and tension. i love how their communication improved throughout the book. i’ve yapped way too much, the point is, i adore them and i beg you all to read this book.
February 20, 2025
4.5 ⭐
Before I begin I want to thank the author, Emily Tudor, for giving me this ARC.
This book was absolutely so cute. I had so much fun reading this! I loved the dynamics in the friend group and the banter. The book club is a 10 out of 10, and I loved it.
Ella is so authentic to herself and is such a strong person. My favorite thing about her is how she interacts with the people around her. I just love the way she was written.
I know the base of this review is that I loved it and and that I probably said it a million times but I did love it. This is the perfect book for if you love to read a good rival to lovers, forced proximity, found family, and they work together!
Before I begin I want to thank the author, Emily Tudor, for giving me this ARC.
This book was absolutely so cute. I had so much fun reading this! I loved the dynamics in the friend group and the banter. The book club is a 10 out of 10, and I loved it.
Ella is so authentic to herself and is such a strong person. My favorite thing about her is how she interacts with the people around her. I just love the way she was written.
I know the base of this review is that I loved it and and that I probably said it a million times but I did love it. This is the perfect book for if you love to read a good rival to lovers, forced proximity, found family, and they work together!
February 17, 2025
Thank you to Emily for the ARC.
I loved this book. It was a brilliantly written rivals to lovers workplace romance. Leo and Ella were just the perfect couple, I enjoyed their banter, it was hilarious and perfection. I loved the development of their relationship, especially their unrequited feelings that just added to their tense relationship. I enjoyed the other relationships that were throughout the book, especially Ella's with her dad and sister.
This book was well written and easy to read. The tropes were among my favourites, and I'll definitely be waiting for the next book.
I loved this book. It was a brilliantly written rivals to lovers workplace romance. Leo and Ella were just the perfect couple, I enjoyed their banter, it was hilarious and perfection. I loved the development of their relationship, especially their unrequited feelings that just added to their tense relationship. I enjoyed the other relationships that were throughout the book, especially Ella's with her dad and sister.
This book was well written and easy to read. The tropes were among my favourites, and I'll definitely be waiting for the next book.
February 11, 2025
THAT SCENE WHERE HE KNEELS 🙂↕️🙂↕️🙇🏻♀️🙇🏻♀️ I am forever changed by it and by this book- the perfect mix of the hottest romance and also the saddest most relatable characters, this made my month 🥹
ᯓ★ i received an arc from Emily and her team, however all opinions and reviews are mine and mine only <3
ᯓ★ i received an arc from Emily and her team, however all opinions and reviews are mine and mine only <3
February 13, 2025
EMILY EXCUSE ME?!?!
I fucking adore ellaleo. They're soooooo. SO good. They're literally so dumb and I love them for it. Ella is incredible, I love her and her ferociousness, determination, and her need to take care of everyone, and I love Leo for being the one to take care of her
🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
Forever grateful I've been chosen for the permanent ARC team for Emily. Grand Mountain has one more book and idk that I'm ready for it to be over.
I fucking adore ellaleo. They're soooooo. SO good. They're literally so dumb and I love them for it. Ella is incredible, I love her and her ferociousness, determination, and her need to take care of everyone, and I love Leo for being the one to take care of her
🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
Forever grateful I've been chosen for the permanent ARC team for Emily. Grand Mountain has one more book and idk that I'm ready for it to be over.
February 21, 2025
Ella and Leo were great! I loved this book , and love this series so much!
February 22, 2025
4.75☆
im actually obsessed with ella and leo ❤️
emily always does it for me, i eat it up every single time
im actually obsessed with ella and leo ❤️
emily always does it for me, i eat it up every single time
February 23, 2025
i like the found family in this series! seeing all the other characters is sm fun to read. this one was good but the tropes weren't my fav. i'll read anything emily writes tho!!
February 16, 2025
4.5✨ i could talk about this series forever
January 30, 2025
i loved this book so much. this is gonna sound like every single other review of the GM series, but im being so serious, i LOVED this one. the slow burn, the tension, the drama. it was everything. how everything just led from one thing to another. the chemistry between Ella and Leo was obvious from the start but DAMN. DAAAAMN. I love
i literally don’t even know what to write here except that I loved. prolly my fav out of the whole series icl. ❤️
i literally don’t even know what to write here except that I loved. prolly my fav out of the whole series icl. ❤️
February 1, 2025
em did it AGAIN and it was so scary how much of myself i saw in ella........ like istg we're one and the same and i dont think i ever related to a character more than her
February 24, 2025
I knew Emily would deliver with EllaLeo and BOY DID SHE EVER!! Rivals to lovers EXCELLENCE. 🤌🏻💋
I love this series with my whole heart and I can’t think about there being only one more book because I will actually cry… so we’re just not gonna go there, k? 😭😭😭
"I can see you, Ella. I see you more clearly than you see yourself."
I love this series with my whole heart and I can’t think about there being only one more book because I will actually cry… so we’re just not gonna go there, k? 😭😭😭
"I can see you, Ella. I see you more clearly than you see yourself."
February 20, 2025
4.5. happy release day!!!!! ❤️❤️
my sweeties i loved them so much 😭😭 they were so so fun to read about omg. their banter was so good i was never bored. i loved how their relationship evolved, and the pacing of them becoming rivals to lovers was perfect.
both characters were amazing i’m in love with both of them. ella my girl i aspire to be as confident as her. she’s just so so strong and deserves the world. and leo my british man. i’m obsessed with him !!!!!!!!
i’m so so excited for amelia’s book you have no idea. my girl emily you NEVER FAIL !!!! thank you so much for the arc queen ily so grateful to be on ur team <33
my sweeties i loved them so much 😭😭 they were so so fun to read about omg. their banter was so good i was never bored. i loved how their relationship evolved, and the pacing of them becoming rivals to lovers was perfect.
both characters were amazing i’m in love with both of them. ella my girl i aspire to be as confident as her. she’s just so so strong and deserves the world. and leo my british man. i’m obsessed with him !!!!!!!!
i’m so so excited for amelia’s book you have no idea. my girl emily you NEVER FAIL !!!! thank you so much for the arc queen ily so grateful to be on ur team <33
February 20, 2025
ARC review -
I read this book as a ARC signup and ended up really enjoying this read, but this was so much more to it! This book was beautiful. Tropes: workplace romance, found family, rivals to benefits to lover, forced proximity (like who doesn't love these tropes!?!). The FMC was so relatable in how see cares for her friends and family than herself; the MMC was so funny and charming. The banter between the two character was immaculate. If you want to read characters who give older sister vibes, is always on the go, working hard, caring for others, who will drop anything for you - Ella (fmc) is the one for you. Still if you want an MMC who is funny, notices you, sees through you, gives you a little bit of hard time but is still there, plus British - Leo (mmc) fits right up the alley. Definitely read this book, you won't regret!
I read this book as a ARC signup and ended up really enjoying this read, but this was so much more to it! This book was beautiful. Tropes: workplace romance, found family, rivals to benefits to lover, forced proximity (like who doesn't love these tropes!?!). The FMC was so relatable in how see cares for her friends and family than herself; the MMC was so funny and charming. The banter between the two character was immaculate. If you want to read characters who give older sister vibes, is always on the go, working hard, caring for others, who will drop anything for you - Ella (fmc) is the one for you. Still if you want an MMC who is funny, notices you, sees through you, gives you a little bit of hard time but is still there, plus British - Leo (mmc) fits right up the alley. Definitely read this book, you won't regret!
February 20, 2025
It was so good!! Ahh I loved Ella and Leo so much!! I also loved the found family in this series so far!! And I love a good Hart sisters cameo!!
February 16, 2025
ARC REVIEW *** "I see you, Williams" such a fun read! Love the banter between the FMC and the MMC. There enemies to lovers seems to be a little dramatic on the hating but once you find out more backstory on Ella I think it all makes sense why she hates Leo so much. This is the first Emily Tudor book I've read and definitely can't wait to read the other two in the series. This to me is the perfect pallet cleanser and a great book if you just want to enjoy reading a good story. I do love the found family and the book club they have.
The one thing I didn't like is how Ella and Leo call their sisters sis so much but that's my preference. 100% recommend getting it though!
The one thing I didn't like is how Ella and Leo call their sisters sis so much but that's my preference. 100% recommend getting it though!
March 30, 2025
I absolutely loved this 💋 it was so exciting getting back into the grand mountain universe!!! I missed them 💋💋👹
The banter was top tier, I was obsessed. I cannot wait to read it all over again when I annotate my paper copy!!
Obviously I cried because it wouldn’t be a emily tudor book without my tears 🙂↔️
I. CANNOT. WAIT. FOR. AMELIA AND HENRY!!!!! I’ve always had a special place in my heart for them and because you know I’m obsessed with TristanLivvy, I have a feeling I’m gonna be obsessed with HenryAmelia 💛
The banter was top tier, I was obsessed. I cannot wait to read it all over again when I annotate my paper copy!!
Obviously I cried because it wouldn’t be a emily tudor book without my tears 🙂↔️
I. CANNOT. WAIT. FOR. AMELIA AND HENRY!!!!! I’ve always had a special place in my heart for them and because you know I’m obsessed with TristanLivvy, I have a feeling I’m gonna be obsessed with HenryAmelia 💛
March 21, 2025
this book ripped my heart out and shoved it back in the best way possible. ella and leo literally ARE the definition of enemies to lovers. i found myself relating so deeply to ella and her experiences with her family and friends. her trauma and perspective was so well written, and the way her friends were immediately there for her when she needed them nearly made me cry. leo might just be my favorite tudorverse boyfriend, and i swear i'm not just saying that because he's british. he's so caring and loving towards everyone and his willingness to drop everything for ella has restored my faith in humanity. i think this is some of emily's best writing, and i'm so excited for gm4!!
April 26, 2025
Arc Review- 3.75★/5
This book was such a fun read! I had a genuinely good time diving into the story and following Ella and Leo’s journey. Ella? Absolute queen. She was strong, compassionate, and the kind of character you can’t help but root for. And Leo, despite being portrayed as a womanizer (which I don’t usually vibe with), turned out to be such a misunderstood and well-written character. I loved how both of them tackled their family issues, it added depth to their stories and made them relatable. Their relationship evolved so naturally, with amazing chemistry, tension, banter, and that perfect rivals to lovers dynamic. It kept me flipping pages because I had to know what happened next.
The side characters brought a lot of personality to the story, but there were just too many scenes focused on them. While I understand that some moments were setting up for the next book and others reflected the previous ones, a few still felt unnecessary and distracted from Ella and Leo’s journey. I also wish there had been more couple moments between Ella and Leo after they got together - those swoony, heartwarming scenes felt a little sparse, and I wanted more!
That said, I adore the best friend’s brother and rivals to lovers tropes, and this book nailed a lot of what I love about them. The writing was great too! I'd give it a 4 but something felt missing. It’s a solid 3.75 for me, fun, engaging, and worth the read.
This book was such a fun read! I had a genuinely good time diving into the story and following Ella and Leo’s journey. Ella? Absolute queen. She was strong, compassionate, and the kind of character you can’t help but root for. And Leo, despite being portrayed as a womanizer (which I don’t usually vibe with), turned out to be such a misunderstood and well-written character. I loved how both of them tackled their family issues, it added depth to their stories and made them relatable. Their relationship evolved so naturally, with amazing chemistry, tension, banter, and that perfect rivals to lovers dynamic. It kept me flipping pages because I had to know what happened next.
The side characters brought a lot of personality to the story, but there were just too many scenes focused on them. While I understand that some moments were setting up for the next book and others reflected the previous ones, a few still felt unnecessary and distracted from Ella and Leo’s journey. I also wish there had been more couple moments between Ella and Leo after they got together - those swoony, heartwarming scenes felt a little sparse, and I wanted more!
That said, I adore the best friend’s brother and rivals to lovers tropes, and this book nailed a lot of what I love about them. The writing was great too! I'd give it a 4 but something felt missing. It’s a solid 3.75 for me, fun, engaging, and worth the read.
Read
September 6, 2024full review coming closer to release!!! loved getting to beta read this one so much🥹🥹
February 22, 2025
REVIEW/RESEÑA
I want to thank Emily so much for the ARC. Its the first book of Emily's that I read and there is no better way to introduce me to this world created by her.
I was worried because this is part of a series but you can perfectly start with this one and believe me when I tell you that you will want to read the rest of the stories.
Ella is such a beautiful complex character, which often makes her so painful to read because you can realize how lonely and exhausting it is to carry so much. I love her evolution as a character and we see it with her family, her friends and on the love side.
I like that we see her in a complete environment, with different problems and challenges in each one. It touched my heart so much because I think I understand so much of her story and I felt seen and understood, I felt a hug that I didn't realize I had been needing.
And we have Leo who frankly I loved from the beginning, the truth is Ella's hatred is something I didn't understand but I really enjoyed it.
Leo is this person who is equally burdened with fears, doubts and pain. It was very interesting to see this aspect of how he feels like just a one night stand, of doubting that he is someone capable of more.
I love how almost from the beginning we see Leo being the one who can't pull away from Ella, the one who is constantly taking steps.
The hot scenes are pure perfection!!!!! But also the scenes when we can see the care and afection between them.
There is so much going on but it feels so fluid that you end up getting a little wrapped up in every life of the people surrounding Ella and Leo..
I love the book club, every reader's dream!!!!!!! I need my best friends to do this!!!!
I had a good time laughing, surprised, amused, crying more than I expected and by the end I just felt nostalgic because I knew I would miss these characters once it was over.
I know this book came to me at a time where I think we all came, to accept that we are afraid, that we want more and that we are capable of having it, to trust and to know that family can also be chosen, that it's not always who you are related to, but who chooses you all the time, who you have never been too much.
***********************************************
Quiero agradecer tanto a Emily por permitirme formar parte de los afortunados en ser los primeros en leer este libro.
Es el primer libro de Emily que leo y la verdad es que no hay mejor manera de introducirme a este mundo creado por ella.
Estaba preocupada porque este forma parte de un serie pero se puede perfectamente empezar por este y creeme cuando te digo que vas a querer leer el resto de historias.
Ella es un personaje tan bellamente complejo, lo cual muchas veces hace tan doloroso leerla porque puedes darte cuenta de lo solo y agotador que es cargar con tanto. Amo su evolución como personaje y lo vemos con su familia, sus amigos y en el lado amoroso.
Me gusta que la vemos en un ambiente completo, con diferentes problemas y retos en cada uno. Me llegó tanto al corazón porque creo que entiendo muchísimo su historia y me sentí conmovida y entendida, sentí un abrazo que no notaba que llevaba necesitando.
Y tenemos a Leo que francamente yo ame desde el principio, la verdad el odio de Ella es algo que no comprendia pero sin duda disfrute mucho.
Leo es esta persona que igualmente se encuentra cargando con temores, dudas y dolor. Fue muy interesante ver este aspecto de como el llega a encasillarse en este papel de one night stand, de dudar que sea alguien capaz de más.
Me encanta como es que casi desde el inicio vemos a Leo siendo el que no puede apartarse de Ella, el que está constantemente tomando pasos.
Las escenas hot son perfección pura!!!!! Pero también las escenas donde podemos ver el cariño, el cuidado y preocupación entre ellos dos. El poder estar con las personas aún en momentos dolorosos.
Hay tanto que pasa pero se siente tan fluido que terminas envuelto un poco en cada vida de las personas que rodean a Ella y Leo.
Amoooo el club de libros, el sueño de toda lectora!!!!!!! Necesito que mis mejores amigas hagan esto!!!!
Me la pasé riendo, sorprendida, divertida, llorando más de lo que espere y para el final solo me sentí nostálgica porque supe que extrañaría estos personajes una vez que acabara.
Se que este libro llegó a mi en un momento donde creo que todos llegamos, el aceptar que tenemos miedo, que queremos más y que somos capaces de tenerlo, de confiar y saber que la familia también puede ser elegida, que no siempre es con quién estás relacionado, sino con quién te elige todo el tiempo, para quien nunca has sido demasiado.
I want to thank Emily so much for the ARC. Its the first book of Emily's that I read and there is no better way to introduce me to this world created by her.
I was worried because this is part of a series but you can perfectly start with this one and believe me when I tell you that you will want to read the rest of the stories.
Ella is such a beautiful complex character, which often makes her so painful to read because you can realize how lonely and exhausting it is to carry so much. I love her evolution as a character and we see it with her family, her friends and on the love side.
I like that we see her in a complete environment, with different problems and challenges in each one. It touched my heart so much because I think I understand so much of her story and I felt seen and understood, I felt a hug that I didn't realize I had been needing.
And we have Leo who frankly I loved from the beginning, the truth is Ella's hatred is something I didn't understand but I really enjoyed it.
Leo is this person who is equally burdened with fears, doubts and pain. It was very interesting to see this aspect of how he feels like just a one night stand, of doubting that he is someone capable of more.
I love how almost from the beginning we see Leo being the one who can't pull away from Ella, the one who is constantly taking steps.
The hot scenes are pure perfection!!!!! But also the scenes when we can see the care and afection between them.
There is so much going on but it feels so fluid that you end up getting a little wrapped up in every life of the people surrounding Ella and Leo..
I love the book club, every reader's dream!!!!!!! I need my best friends to do this!!!!
I had a good time laughing, surprised, amused, crying more than I expected and by the end I just felt nostalgic because I knew I would miss these characters once it was over.
I know this book came to me at a time where I think we all came, to accept that we are afraid, that we want more and that we are capable of having it, to trust and to know that family can also be chosen, that it's not always who you are related to, but who chooses you all the time, who you have never been too much.
***********************************************
Quiero agradecer tanto a Emily por permitirme formar parte de los afortunados en ser los primeros en leer este libro.
Es el primer libro de Emily que leo y la verdad es que no hay mejor manera de introducirme a este mundo creado por ella.
Estaba preocupada porque este forma parte de un serie pero se puede perfectamente empezar por este y creeme cuando te digo que vas a querer leer el resto de historias.
Ella es un personaje tan bellamente complejo, lo cual muchas veces hace tan doloroso leerla porque puedes darte cuenta de lo solo y agotador que es cargar con tanto. Amo su evolución como personaje y lo vemos con su familia, sus amigos y en el lado amoroso.
Me gusta que la vemos en un ambiente completo, con diferentes problemas y retos en cada uno. Me llegó tanto al corazón porque creo que entiendo muchísimo su historia y me sentí conmovida y entendida, sentí un abrazo que no notaba que llevaba necesitando.
Y tenemos a Leo que francamente yo ame desde el principio, la verdad el odio de Ella es algo que no comprendia pero sin duda disfrute mucho.
Leo es esta persona que igualmente se encuentra cargando con temores, dudas y dolor. Fue muy interesante ver este aspecto de como el llega a encasillarse en este papel de one night stand, de dudar que sea alguien capaz de más.
Me encanta como es que casi desde el inicio vemos a Leo siendo el que no puede apartarse de Ella, el que está constantemente tomando pasos.
Las escenas hot son perfección pura!!!!! Pero también las escenas donde podemos ver el cariño, el cuidado y preocupación entre ellos dos. El poder estar con las personas aún en momentos dolorosos.
Hay tanto que pasa pero se siente tan fluido que terminas envuelto un poco en cada vida de las personas que rodean a Ella y Leo.
Amoooo el club de libros, el sueño de toda lectora!!!!!!! Necesito que mis mejores amigas hagan esto!!!!
Me la pasé riendo, sorprendida, divertida, llorando más de lo que espere y para el final solo me sentí nostálgica porque supe que extrañaría estos personajes una vez que acabara.
Se que este libro llegó a mi en un momento donde creo que todos llegamos, el aceptar que tenemos miedo, que queremos más y que somos capaces de tenerlo, de confiar y saber que la familia también puede ser elegida, que no siempre es con quién estás relacionado, sino con quién te elige todo el tiempo, para quien nunca has sido demasiado.
March 7, 2025
Reconciling With The Rival is a delightful rom-com that takes readers on a rollercoaster of emotions, from rivalry to romance, all while exploring the complex dynamics of personal growth, friendship, and unexpected love. With a mix of wit, charm, and tension, this book offers a refreshing take on the enemies-to-lovers trope.
Ella Williams is the perfect protagonist for readers who enjoy strong, independent women who are determined to handle everything on their own. As a dedicated workaholic, she balances her demanding job, side hustle, and family obligations with admirable precision. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when Leo Zimmerman, a charming British heartthrob and her former college rival, lands a job at her workplace. Their immediate tension and unresolved history create a combustible mix that keeps things interesting.
Leo, on the other hand, is the quintessential rich bad boy—cocky, attractive, and more than aware of his charms. But beneath his arrogant exterior, there's a vulnerable side to him that emerges as he grapples with guilt over being away from his sick father and a string of failed relationships. The author does a brilliant job of showing Leo's layers, making him not just a charming love interest, but a well-rounded character with depth and complexity.
The tension between Ella and Leo is palpable from the moment they interact, and the author expertly builds their rivalry into a slow-burn romance that keeps readers hooked. What begins as a clash of personalities evolves into something much more, as they find themselves forced to share living space under unusual circumstances. This "co-workers with benefits" scenario could have easily descended into a predictable cliché, but the author keeps things fresh and exciting by exploring the evolving relationship between these two characters, adding emotional depth and surprising twists.
While the book's plot follows a fairly familiar formula, the chemistry between Ella and Leo feels genuine, and their journey from enemies to lovers is both satisfying and entertaining. The side characters—add an extra layer of warmth and humor to the story, making it feel well-rounded and lively.
If you're in the mood for a charming, feel-good romance with plenty of banter and emotional growth, this book is definitely worth adding to your reading list.
Ella Williams is the perfect protagonist for readers who enjoy strong, independent women who are determined to handle everything on their own. As a dedicated workaholic, she balances her demanding job, side hustle, and family obligations with admirable precision. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when Leo Zimmerman, a charming British heartthrob and her former college rival, lands a job at her workplace. Their immediate tension and unresolved history create a combustible mix that keeps things interesting.
Leo, on the other hand, is the quintessential rich bad boy—cocky, attractive, and more than aware of his charms. But beneath his arrogant exterior, there's a vulnerable side to him that emerges as he grapples with guilt over being away from his sick father and a string of failed relationships. The author does a brilliant job of showing Leo's layers, making him not just a charming love interest, but a well-rounded character with depth and complexity.
The tension between Ella and Leo is palpable from the moment they interact, and the author expertly builds their rivalry into a slow-burn romance that keeps readers hooked. What begins as a clash of personalities evolves into something much more, as they find themselves forced to share living space under unusual circumstances. This "co-workers with benefits" scenario could have easily descended into a predictable cliché, but the author keeps things fresh and exciting by exploring the evolving relationship between these two characters, adding emotional depth and surprising twists.
While the book's plot follows a fairly familiar formula, the chemistry between Ella and Leo feels genuine, and their journey from enemies to lovers is both satisfying and entertaining. The side characters—add an extra layer of warmth and humor to the story, making it feel well-rounded and lively.
If you're in the mood for a charming, feel-good romance with plenty of banter and emotional growth, this book is definitely worth adding to your reading list.
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