Two romance book lovers. One epic happily-ever-after.
Working at The Romance Library in the small seaside town of Sunshine Bay is Jane’s dream job. Which is why she can’t risk it by falling for her childhood crush and hot co-worker, Jackson.
With the library in big trouble, Jane should be focusing on finding ways to save it, not fantasising about Jackson popping her cherry.
But as a thirty-one-year-old virgin love librarian, Jane feels like a fraud. She doesn’t just want to read about passionate trysts in romance novels, she wants to experience them. And with their shared interests and explosive chemistry, Jackson would be the perfect man to help.
Except after what happened the last time she dated a colleague, Jane knows that if she crosses the line, the consequences could be catastrophic. Especially if her family finds out.
But when late-night book chats lead to Jane and Jackson recreating steamy scenes at the library, their bond deepens, and Jane realises that reading about romance is no longer enough. She’d love her own fairy tale: with him.
There’s a problem, though. Jane’s convinced that Jackson’s keeping a secret—something big. And if he’s not the man she thinks he is, it could shatter her dreams of a perfect happy ending, forever…
The Love Librarian is a steamy, dual POV, small-town, childhood friends-to-lovers romance, set in a library with an entertaining cast of romance book lovers, including a virgin female main character and a swoonworthy hero with a secret identity. Ideal for fans of Lucy Score and Meghan Quinn.
This novel can be read as a standalone, but is best enjoyed after devouring book one in the series, The Romance Library.
Olivia Spring is the bestselling author of fifteen romantic comedy and women’s fiction books.
Whether you want to fake date a hot Hollywood movie star in London, jet off to Paris with a handsome billionaire, enjoy some sun, sand and sea with a gorgeous Spanish DJ in Marbella or attend a castle wedding in the South of France, Olivia’s books will help you to escape reality and transport you to a dreamy romantic location. No ticket or passport required!
Olivia was born and raised in London and divides her time between the UK and Spain.
When she's not writing new steamy romcoms, Olivia can be found reading on the beach, enjoying cupcakes and cocktails and of course, seeking inspiration for her next book!
Olivia has absolutely nailed it once again! I can’t get enough of this town or the Romance Library—I'm ready to dive back in over and over! Jackson and Jane were the perfect match for this story, and I felt completely immersed in their worlds. The spice was on point! Now, how long until book 3? I can't wait!
I was very excited to start this book. I was anxiously waiting for it to come out. Olivia was nice and kind enough to give me an advanced reader copy and I am so honored. Jane has been micromanaged and treated horribly by her parents ever since she was little. Her dad is an older guy who is very stubborn and rude and disrespectful and stuck in his ways and he does not like other races. Which has caused Jane to miss out on a lot of things and to be very naïve at the age of 31. Jackson hasn’t had it easy, after losing his dad at a young age and his mom getting sick. After a series of unfortunate events in his life, Jackson ends up with debt, an ailing, mother, and no money. So he decides to do all that he can to take care of his mother and himself. Jane and Jackson meet again after so many years when they both start working at the romance library. I loved how innocent Jane was. It was nice to see Jackson be vulnerable with Jane, especially when it came to how he felt about her. He constantly was there when She needed him, and he constantly was paying attention to her needs as well. These two were so cute together their chemistry and the steam between these two was perfect. I felt as if this story touched on being good enough for someone which I always love to read books about the characters finding themselves and realizing that they are perfect just the way that they are. Nevertheless, I wanted to give this book 5 stars but I felt like there was just a little bit missing at times. I felt like we were being rushed along in their story in the second half and that there wasn’t a lot of depth at times with them. Overall, I give the story 4 1/2 stars because it was a very good story and the cuteness was great. Jackson was the perfect man for Jane and I felt as if these two complimented each other perfectly.
I received an advanced reader, copy for free and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review. Thank you, Olivia for this arc copy.
When I received this as a ebook as an arc I’d not read the first book (the romance library) but read it before I started reading The Love Librarian.
Loved the premise of the story and thought it was so good. I didn’t want the story to end, it was that good.
I loved the characters Jane and Jackson, the chemistry between these two is off the charts. Jane is working in the library and then Jackson joins the library to help with organising events. They used to know each other in school and they reconnect whilst working in the library.
Jackson’s mum is in a home as she has Alzheimer’s and he’s struggling to pay for her to stay in the home so has to come up with an inventive way to raise money for this.
Jane is inexperienced with men, so when Jackson says he will offer her a one time thing she jumps at the chance. Her dad and brother are awful to Jane so when she gets more involved with Jackson things go from bad to worse with her family.
Whilst planning the events things start to happen around the library that can’t be explained and the police get involved several times, not going to lie I actually thought someone else was responsible for the attacks on the library.
Thank you to Olivia Spring for the opportunity to read this book, I loved it and can’t wait for the next instalment…
So I read Jess' story, and this is just as if not spicier than Jess'!!
I love this series and this town, and true love really does run through the taps. I can't wait for book 3, which I hope is about Sarah!
The revelations just don't stop between Jane and Jackson. Bomb after bomb after bomb!! But just like in a good romance book, it follows the formula, and I got the ending I wanted.
I love Olivia's storytelling. She writes these characters so realistically, and you care for them instantly. I want to live where they do and drink their water while I read all the books. Maybe not on the sofa in the library though!!
I adore Jane, and I loved her growth and how she found her voice. She was a beauty to behold and love.
Everything I wanted and more. I can't wait for more!
Olivia Spring does it again with this steamy workplace romance! Even though the Virgin FMC trope isn’t usually one of my favorites, Jane felt like someone worth knowing and I could relate to her love of romance novels and I admired her pursuing her dreams at The Romance Library. Jane and Jackson cared about each other in high school and I was glad that them reconnecting led to a love match. I think romance lovers will be delighted over their discussions over recent romance novels and authors like I was. There are some trigger warnings worth mentioning - toxic family members and caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s - but they are dealt with in a thoughtful way that makes you root for Jane and Jackson even more. I wish I had read the first book in the series first and I will do that soon but this book could also be read as a stand alone.
Even though this book focuses on different protagonists and could be enjoyed as a standalone novel, I'd recommend reading the first book to introduce the community of Sunshine Bay, secondary characters and the importance of the romance library.
I enjoyed following Jane and Jackson navigate the awkwardness of childhood to colleague crushes, as well as updates about characters from Book 1!
Fans of Olivia's previous work may find some of the character's baggage a bit heavier than they're used to, which added another layer to the expected romance storyline.
At times it got a bit meta with a romance book describing romance books, tropes and plot points! (Yes, I did check the % on my kindle when things kicked up a gear!).
As an aside, this author is very generous in her praise (via Jane or Celeste) about other romance authors so I now have an even longer TBR list!
Thank you Book Funnel for giving me an ARC of this book
It was a very sweet reading. I felt an affinity towards both of them, especially with Jane. I totally appreciate how both characters were so supportive of each other. It was easy to cheer for them because they had to face some difficult moments and events. I liked so much the mention of so many good romance books, a great way of suggesting possibile new readings.
I didn’t like so much the constant referring of Jane’s virginity like it’s a big problem for her. I don’t think nowadays we should still consider it a negative thing: everyone has their time and we should never make them feel not valid just because they haven’t experienced sex yet. It was very sweet how Jackson made her feel wanted and desired, how he was eager to made her feel better aiming to her pleasure. Jackson was indeed the perfect bookboyfriend!
I recommend this book! It was very romantic and cute!
Book 2 in this series was so good! While I enjoyed Book 1 better, Jane and Jackson’s second chance romance was a beautiful story. Jane and Jackson both have family issues that they learn to communicate about and help each other with. The friendship that was evident from page 1 really laid the foundation for the rest of the book.
A super steamy & thoroughly romantic, unputdownable friends-to-lovers, small-town romance! Olivia Spring has crafted a love letter to romance readers and book lovers.
This is book 2 in the Romance Library series and I said it with the first book also, I want to visit this library! A library dedicated purely to romance books, yes please. What a shame it is 1. on the other side of the world and 2. fictional 😂
This book follows the story of Jane who works at the library and the new hire and Jane’s school crush Jackson. It was great to head back to the Romance Library, catch up with some familiar faces from book 1 and meet some new characters, which also helped set up for book 3 in the series.
I did find parts of this story a bit cringe, especially the spicy scenes but did enjoy the storyline
I was so excited to read this book because, i absolutely loved the first book in the series and just couldn’t wait to be immersed in all the goodness of Sunshine Bay again!!
To say that i ‘loved’ The Love Librarian was a definite understatement, i thoroughly enjoyed every single little thing about it!
i absolutely fell in love with the Romance Library, with it’s pink & white bookcases, rolling ladders, comfy sofas and delicious baked goods from the wonderful cafè!
from the second i started this book i was intrigued and all the way through i just couldn’t wait to find out things and how the story was going to unfold.
i loved all the characters, especially Jane and Jackson, they were perfect for each other and such nice, down-to-earth characters too. We also get little snippets of story about Jess and Theo from book 1 in the series and i loved catching up with their lives, I have missed them!
i also enjoyed getting to know all the wonderful residents of Sunshine Bay and i loved the whole sense of community and the way that they all rally around when there is an incident or emergency.
I thought that all the mentions of different authors throughout the story was wonderful and i had great fun researching them all and finding lots of new books to read!
alongside the main story there were also a few little side stories going on too and this all added to the intrigue of the story.
The Love Librarian put my emotions through the wringer, i was happy, i swooned, I was sad, I was angry and i laughed - a lot!! I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful book and thought that the spice level was amazing - definitely spicier than her previous books!!
I loved it, couldn’t read it fast enough and thought that the ending was absolutely perfect and now I just cannot wait for the next instalment so that i can get my Sunshine Bay fix and yes I am definitely addicted!!!
First, I want to thank Olivia Spring and Hartley Publishing for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
Ohh Olivia Spring is back with The Love Librarian book 2 in The Romance Library Series and it is better than the first one!!! Please note this can also be read as a standalone if you had not read the first one. OMG Olivia turned up the spice big time in this and WOWZERS she had some pretty hott and steamy scenes written!! Now I want to find my special person and recreate some of those scenes too!! Olivia has talent writing those scenes!
I really appreciated that Olivia personally addressed her triggers in her book in the author's note in the beginning of her book. She wanted her readers to know that this story touched on toxic families, controlling parental behavior, racism, and a parent suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. She cares about her readers and writes about these topics with care and thoughtfulness.
Kudos to the graphic designers who created the cover for The Love Librarian they did an incredible job! The graphic was eye catching and along with the title I just had to know what the book was about.
Jane and Jackson’s story had me smiling ear to ear from their backstory to how they came full circle!
Olivia pulled out a lot of emotions out of me in this book where so many time I wanted to reach into the book and hug the characters for comfort.
This is a fun and easy read that will have you smiling ear to ear and give you a little spark in your step. It is fast paced, addicting and can be read in one sitting.
Jane may not have been following her dreams, yet with her love for books, she has found truly her dream job. Working at The Romance Library even succeeds her dreams, and her bosses Jess and Theo are more friends to her than actual bosses. When a new co – worker starts, Jane is a bit shocked to learn that it isn’t a complete stranger, but it is Jackson, her childhood crush. And with the library struggling to be truly successful, Jane should be thinking about work, and not having those resurfaced feelings. Feelings that Jane wants to act on, because even if she is thirty – one, she is ready to experience those passionate feelings and not just read about them. Even if she has learned the hard way already that dating a colleague isn’t the best of the ideas. The more time Jane and Jackson spend together, the closer they get and makes Jane wonder if Jackson could be The One to lose her virginity with. Especially since there have been several steamy scenes being recreated. However, no matter how happy Jackson is with his new job, and his reconnection with Jane, he isn’t in the right place for a relationship. The struggles he has with the care of his mother, made him do things he would never want anyone to know about. And if Jane would know about it, it would ruin just everything…
At the start of the book, I was over the moon, because Olivia Spring for sure writes marvellous books. And while I immediately liked Jane and Jackson, there were also several moments that truly infuriated me! Luckily, those moments didn’t take away the final enjoyment and happiness I felt when I reached the end of another AH – MA – Z ING book!
If there is one person that doesn't like Jane, or Jackson for that matter, well, there must be something wrong with them, because both main characters are the loveliest people on earth. Yes, they have struggles of their own, very different struggles, but that makkes them more likeable and just truly human.
Jane is truly a delightful character. She for sure is the perfect example that nurture is an important aspect while growing up, but that doesn't define you per se. Her family is an awful one, especially her own father. He truly is stuck on times, not evolving at all, and even a real and despicable racist. The whole family even held and still holds Jane back from being completely herself. And instead of supporting her and standing by her side, they see her as a failure and even worse, just a person they can use and even abuse for their own plans and profits.
Yet Jane is the total opposite, as she is truly a nice persona, always having a kind word for everyone, ready to help out and despite her burns from the past, she never gives up and keeps onlooking on the bright side of everything. And still, despite Jane being lovely Jane, it saddened me that she hasn't truly been able to live her life at the fullest. And that because of her background, she has missed out on so many things. And while I can understand her sense of shame of still being a virgin, I also felt that it was unnecessary to feel that way. Because it is even admirable in a world where everything goes faster and faster and where more is online available and there is a certain expectance, where things need to be done at or before a certain age, to keep your standards and follow your own feelings and not just give in.
So obviously I was happy that Karma was finally working in Jane's favour. There isn't a more fitting place for Jane to work than in the Romance Library, surrounded by books and just like her, amazing people. It it clear that Jane is at her happiest in the Library, a place that she can truly be herself.
Now, I need to say too, that Jane for sure is the perfect example that still waters run deep. Because we see that, despite her inexperience, she is very curious and isn't a prude at all.
And Jackson... to say that his life is a walk in the park would be also a total lie. He was looking at a very successful career yet due certain circumstances he had to return home. And things for him aren't that straightforward now. He is trying to play the cards that he has been dealt, but it's not easy. He wants to be a good son, a responsible man but he cannot be at his best by once again, circumstances.
Circumstances that make him do things that he feels ashamed about and doesn't want anyone to know about, with the exception of his best friend. His actions make him feel ashamed, but they are also a testament of his character. He is the kind of person that does what needs to be done to protect the people he loves. He is a warm man, scarred by his past but hasn't lost his joie de vivre completely.
For the readers it's crystal-clear that Jane and Jackson are just a perfect match, despite their backgrounds. Yet it was also sweet to read that they have a shared background, as they are not complete strangers to each others. And it was even funny to read how even at a younger age, they already had a sweet spot for each other. Seeing that attraction ignite again, as adults now, how amazing was that!
Of course Jane and Jackson don't immediately jump into a relationship together, as not only they have their personal issues but they also both know that having a relationship with a colleague isn't always the smartest idea. But they start becoming friends (again) and seeing that trust being build, and evolve, once again, just amazing!
We know both Jane and Jackson's struggles, and what secrets they are keeping. So we also know that at one point it will all come out. And it made me curious to see the reactions to those secrets. Reactions that were very understandable but as a reader wanting to have a happy end, also a bit frustrating. 🙂
While reading, not only did my heart feel all warm and fuzzy, but there were also so many funny moments in it. And yes, also a few awkward situations and conversations that would even make me blush, and a few mysterious and vile actions.
Olivia Spring wrote a BEAUTIFUL, AMAZING, WONDERFUL story, about people that deserve the world and even more, despite what they have been already through. I felt so connected with all the marvellous characters in this book, even if I am not or have been in the same situations they have. Yet reading what love can do to a person, what it can make a person feel and experience, I am repetitive here, but it was just superb! Whenever I start a book written by Olivia, I have extremely high expectations. Yet Olivia manages EVERY TIME to not only fulfil those impossible expectations and even surpass them in full glory!
I received an advanced copy and these are my thoughts:
This was entertaining, but spicier than what I was expecting - don't be fooled by the innocent cover.
Jane is a 31-year-old librarian at "The Romance Library" but she feels somewhat like a fraud because, even though she reads romance and loves her books spicy, she is still a virgin. When her teenage crush is hired to work alongside her, sparks fly. They easily fall back into being friends but their mutual attraction proves hard to resist.
Between sexy, steamy book scenes and some reenactments; Jackson keeping secrets and someone trying to put an end to The Romance Library, a lot happens. I liked the emphasis on positive sexuality. Even though Jane feels embarrassed that she's still a virgin at 31, Jackson doesn't feed into the negative stereotype and proves to be a caring and supportive partner. They made a great couple.
Jackson's big secret - I won't delve into it because it will be a spoiler - is somewhat of a tabu subject. It brings forth the discussion of 'to what extent people are willing to go to make money' and how things aren't always what they seem.
Jane's family was insufferable - especially her father. He was an awful character in the sense that he was a racist and controlling of his daughter. I liked how Jane stood up for herself and the person she loved.
I felt the humour to be very British and I enjoyed how the community of this small town came together to help in times of need.
If you want a spicy and steamy romance, filled with bookish clichés and you enjoy a second chance, friends to lovers story, then this is for you!
This was such a cute and sweet (with spice also 😍) love story of Jane and Jackson 👩❤️👨 I had read the first story in The Romance Library series of Jess and Theo, so it was more relatable 😌
The Romance Library🏩 is struggling financially. Hence, Jess has recruited Jackson to give ideas about how it could improve. Jane is already working in the library and guess what! Jane and Jackson were childhood best friends 👫 Their bond was visible instantly.
However, both of them had some issues in life personally, so it was hard to give words to their feelings. But once they started to talk, they shared their problems and their feelings were also visible in their actions and words.☺️
I cannot reveal how they got together after resolving their misunderstanding and issues, but the story thoroughly gave me flutters in my heart and butterflies in my stomach. 🥰🥰
I also loved how the Romance Library 🏩 was back on track with all the wonderful events like book signings, silent reading parties, etc.🤩 The café Love and Latte☕ was also a big hit with Maddie's lovely book-themed cupcakes 🧁 and biscuits 🍪. Also, drumrolls 🥁 please.... D.D. Desire (author of Office Delight) also came to the Romance Library for the signing of her sequel book Illicit Delight 📚 Wow! The readers of this series know how this book has helped Jess and Theo to get together, and now Jane Jackson are also connected through this book.🤌🫠
I totally recommend this book to all romance readers😍 and also read the first book, The Romance Library 🏩
Ahh Jane and Jackson were just everything! Their chemistry was palpable right from the very first moment. I was so invested in these characters and hoped the whole way through that Jane would find her happy ever after as well as find the strength in herself to move out of her parents. The way Olivia built these characters up made me feel like I knew them personally, the foundation of friendship made their connection seem more genuine and for me helped with the romance in the story.
After working in a highly toxic environment Jackson thrives in The Romance Library, trying to move on from the ghosts of his working history he needs to work to earn money. He certainly isn’t looking for romance 🙊. His reaction to seeing Jane made me swoon 🥹 I was happy clapping when I realised she had been his crush too!
Whilst one of the twists I predicted based on how much I read and loved The Romance Library, I really enjoyed the way that the two books connected.
When Jane propositioned Jackson I actually laughed because I don’t think I was expecting it 😂 considering how quiet Jane is! I loved seeing that side to her. There was a moment I felt angered by Jane at her response to something Jackson said to her, it passed eventually but I was annoyed and if you know, you know 😂🤦🏼♀️.
I loved the ending and although it centred away from Jane and Jackson it was really really wholesome. I can’t wait for the next instalment of this series 🫶🏼.
The Love Librarian by Olivia Spring is the second book in the Romance Library series and although it would work well as a standalone, I really do recommend that you read the first book, The Romance Library
I absolutely adored Jane and Jackson. One another’s crushes since they were teenagers, they were destined to be together. Both dealing with family issues that complicate their lives, I loved how they were both so selfless and supportive of one another in spite of their own problems. The storyline regarding Jackson’s mum having Alzheimer’s and with her care home needs hit close to home for me, but I felt it was really sensitively handled.
The spice level in this story was high, but if you are familiar with Olivia Spring’s books, humour and incredibly steamy moments are a given. I loved the idea that steamy moments in the books that the characters were reading inspired them to role play those moments too.
I really loved the merch ideas for the library (I need that enemies to lovers bookmark!) and the events that were organised. It made me desperately wish that either I lived in Sunshine Bay, or the entire library could be transported to me. Okay, so I realise it’s fiction, but please, let a girl dream! I need a romance library in my area, right now!
This steamy romance will have you strongly rooting for the love interests, and ultimately is so bookishly heart-warming it will soothe your soul.
💕Jane is working at the newly opened library in charming Sunshine Bay, but it’s not all plain sailing yet. Her boss Jess inherited the money to set up the library, but it has to be able to fund itself.
💕When Jess hires Jackson to help drive events and profit for the romance-themed library and bookstore, Jane is delighted to meet up with her old school friend who she had a crush on. Jackson was successful in his studies and work, but he’s been forced to make some life changes, and he’s having a tough time.
💕As Jane and Jackson grow closer, and start to share parts of their lives, their relationship starts to mirror the romance stories they both love so much.
✏️This is the second book in the series, but I think it works well as a standalone story as well. As plain as Jane seems on the surface, she wishes her life had more romance. While Jackson’s experienced much more than her, it’s Jane’s good heart and kindness that he is attracted to. The steam in this story sizzles, and this library is a real hot spot 🔥 Olivia Spring has brought all the things romance readers love together in a story that tugs at your heartstrings.
Read an eARC copy courtesy of the author My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ Pub date 27 March 2025
Olivia just keeps creating stories that will have you swooning all over. First, I loved the idea of Jackson. I mean everything about him was just pure BLISS. The man had a hard life and I just wanted to hug him so much.
Jane was such a breath of fresh air as a character. I liked that she wasn’t your average FMC. She wanting things in life, and wanted to finally decide things for herself. I really liked that about her. Her being a virgin was pretty cool to see. Her point of views really stood out to me. I also really loved the way she helped Jackson just by being there.
Their story is cute, and adorable. I found myself really wanting them to connect and get their HEA. All the drama they faced tugged my heart. Especially Jane and her father. I really do hope he never gets elected lol. That man was AWFUL. I was proud when she finally put her foot down.
Jackson, my sweet guy. I loved him. Wanted to hold him through his struggles. His character felt very real and always was a testament at how men can also be victims too. It hurt to hear about what happened to him. Im so glad he had Jane by his side.
I was alit upset with her at first when she found out about Jackson. Lol but she quickly got it together.
Thanks Olivia for this lovely read. I also loved the Bonus epilogue! IYKYK!
I am so excited for the next story with Sarah and Ben!
This is the second book in the "Romance Library" series by Olivia Spring but it can be read as a stand-alone. Jane is a 31-year-old virgin that works at the romance library and dreams about losing her virginity and maybe finding a boyfriend IRL instead of enjoying only reading about romance. When her former friend from school Jackson starts working at the library too Jane is immediately attracted to him but he doesn't seem to be interested in being more than friends. Little does Jane know that Jackson had a crush on her in school and still finds her very attractive. So there is mutual attraction but since both main characters have been hurt before and have a lot of family problems to deal with can they give in to their attraction? I really enjoyed reading this book. Both main characters were genuinly nice people who put other people's feelings before their own. I loved the idea of The Romance Library and really enjoyed meeting Jess and Theo (from the first book) again. I read this sweet and entertaining romance (with some spicy scenes) in one day and am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received and ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. Thank you Olivia Spring for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC!
This book is awesome ! Jane and Jackson are great characters and the steam eventually is a dream. There’s plenty to go through for material in a library ,I’d imagine. So why not get her cherry popped as well as her eyes. She finds it’s rather nice and much better in the flesh than between the covers of a book when they explore every last nook and cranny and he’s mighty canny as reaching depths and charging to sink his battleship in her basin. Heart racing she’s spent ,heaven sent. Her co-worker sends her to dizzy heights but she’s unsure if he’s something big he’s keeping hush about and not the kind of keeping quiet but not spilling the beans .Her dad and her brother are nice to her but Jackson is though he has troubles of his own ,his mum in a home he’s scarcely getting by to pay for . There’s things happening at the library ,disturbing occurrences that she must report . The police called a last resort. There’s angst romance and a that’s life dance about this real to life book . It’s great writing ,I enjoyed the story and the dual pov brings it together nicely . Go to a look for yourself and you’ll see what a wonderful ,romantic story
4.5🌟 stars I was really rooting for this couple and overall it's a great story, mostly due to the challenges each is facing. Jane's problem is a lack of self confidence and an unsupportive, strict father who wants to totally control her life; Jackson's is financial, largely due to his mother's expensive medical care, and he's been sexually harassed which, no fault of his, ends up losing him jobs, leading him to some desperate choices. The history of their friendship as kids before life sent them on their separate ways: great touch. The mysterious saboteur also added to the plot.
I could have done with a bit less steam and I am not a big fan of the virgin who's anxious to get experience trope. Despite this, I definitely enjoyed this romance and, as a bibliophile, having much of the action set either in the library or with the characters devouring their romance reads elsewhere.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
This was a new author to me and with so many books, I thought this would be the start of a new writer for me.I was hoping for a romantic, emotionally satisfying story when I saw the blurb - but what a disappointment. This was the weirdest excuse for a romantic story that I’ve read.
There was so much potential in the hero and heroine’s characters but the author seemed to go for the easy shock, the predictable threats and avoid anything deep and properly emotional.
The sex scenes were unbelievably crude and vulgar (and I love a well-written sex scene) and the language sounded more like a couple of adolescents rather than a couple in their thirties.
The sexual abuse experienced by the hero was dreadful, the parental abuse experienced by the heroine was absolutely unacceptable. The making of sex videos by the hero was so unromantic. If this had been a drama rather than a romance, I might have accepted it but it just didn’t fit my expectations of the genre.
Clearly this is not aimed at me - so many readers have given it 4/5/star reviews - but I was very disappointed. I’ll maybe try a different book because her writing style was otherwise good.
Even though the book touched on some serious issues, I felt Olivia did it with a light touch. You felt the weight of them, but they didn't overtake the feeling of the whole story. I found it very well balanced.
Jane's home life felt very real, I could sympathise with what she was going through and felt. Growing up in a dark household can have a huge impact on your life as you grow.
Loved the relationship between the MCs and you could feel the love and care they had for each other.
I must admit, some of the sex scenes had me cringing, but in a good way. Olivia didn't gloss over the realness of sex and even though juices made me cringe, that is part of real life. No glossy film sex moments but messy, true to life moments.
Can't wait to read more from this series and see how the Romance Library is doing.
I received a digital ARC of this book. I love Olivia Spring and will read anything she writes. This is book 2 in the series and should be read in order to avoid spoilers. The inspiration for the male lead was Michael B. Jordan... need I say more? SWOON!!! Olivia includes an author's note in the front of the book for sensitive topics included in the story, but they are definitely handled respectfully throughout the story. You will be routing for Jackson and Jane from the beginning. Olivia does a great job of showing the whole picture of everything that goes on within our lives that can keep us from our true happiness with someone. No spoilers, but you won't want to put this one down!
Thank you so much @ospringauthor for giving me an early copy to review The Love Librarian, (book 2 of The Romance Library) and what a captivating read it was! Firstly, it was great catching up with Jess and Theo, then continuing Jane’s journey working her dream job at the Love Library then Jane seeing her long lost school friend, Jackson, who is hoping to work there too, which starts a slow burn, very sensual and suggestive blossoming “friendship”. The exceptionally idyllic seaside town of Sunshine Bay, along with it’s inhabitants, is where I want to be, having fish & chips at Mays, shots at The Seaview Arms and a delicious cake & coffee at Sweet Treats before walking along the beach to sit on the bench watching the sunset. Everyone is so friendly and hospitable, really get a sense of community spirit. Then there is Jane and Jackson’s steamy and hedonistic recreation of scenes from Office Delight, hot 🔥 I didn’t want to finish The Love Librarian but equally wanted to devour it! I need book 3 The RomCom Writer, Sarah (Jess’s friend) and Ben’s (Theo’s brother) story ….
Absolutely charming! Former schoolmates Jackson and Jane become reacquainted when they both find jobs at the charming Romance Library in Sunshine Bay, a small UK seaside village. Jackson and Jane have always been attracted to each other, but neither is in the right frame of mind to pursue anything. Of course, the Romance Library atmosphere works its magic to bring them together! Along with many swoony romance bookstore scenes, this book offers a beautiful balance of emotional family heartbreak that adds depth to the story. There’s even a mystery surrounding the sabotage of the library! I found it perfect!
This book was everything! What a joy from start to finish. So many amazing tropes wrapped into one book! Characters that work at a romance library and love romance books? Yes please! Oh and they’re childhood friends who’ve always both secretly had a crush on one another. Jackson and Jane are so lovable! I loved getting to know them and seeing their relationship evolve. And can we talk about the spice? My oh my! It was so so good! Acting out scenes from their favorite romance book? I couldn’t have loved this more and I didn’t want it to end!
This spicy bookish romance picks up where The Romance Library left off, telling the story of late-blooming romance librarian Jane and banker-turned-bookseller (and romance reader) Jackson.
But you don’t have to have read The Romance Library to enjoy The Love Librarian. It’s swoony and sweet, with serious subject matter (an ill mother and a toxic father) but plenty of bookish coziness to balance it out. The story is both comfortable and propulsive, and at the end I wanted to go right back to the library for the sequel.
[I received an advance copy from the author. Opinions are my own.]
This was an easy romance read! I loved the idea of having a romance only library with a cafe and bookshop also. The events that they had in the book made me so jealous! I need a place like that where I live.
There definitely was a lot going on with the plot, but I think 440 pages for a romance is a bit much. I didn’t connect with the writing, but I did finish reading it because I wanted to know what happened.
My favourite line was “My eyes flicked open faster than you could say horny virgin” haha