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Five Minutes Late
Can an always-tardy garlic mogul and a punctual Silicon Valley librarian fall in love?
The world needs garlic and somebody’s got to sell that garlic. Cedric Johnson is that man. But even though he’s got just about everything he can wish for, Cedric is still missing one thing in his life: someone special. Fate may be on his side, but he encounters a few distractions along the way—like almost being killed by a UPS truck. Oh, and a little case of blackmail.
Ellie Fontaine is a walking Wikipedia with clear professional goals, but when it comes to landing Mr. Right, she doesn’t know jack squat. She even gives online dating a shot and ends up with an unappetizing buffet of unibrows and losers. What’s a girl to do?
After Ellie saves Cedric’s life, serendipity takes over as they continue to run into each other. Their connection grows stronger with each meeting, even though he embodies her number one pet peeve: he’s always late. But even if they can get past their issues and misunderstandings, Ellie’s ex-boyfriend, an unscrupulous cop, will do anything to keep them apart.
Five Minutes Late is a hilarious fast-paced romantic comedy, full of snappy dialogue and fun, quirky characters, guaranteed to warm your heart.
The world needs garlic and somebody’s got to sell that garlic. Cedric Johnson is that man. But even though he’s got just about everything he can wish for, Cedric is still missing one thing in his life: someone special. Fate may be on his side, but he encounters a few distractions along the way—like almost being killed by a UPS truck. Oh, and a little case of blackmail.
Ellie Fontaine is a walking Wikipedia with clear professional goals, but when it comes to landing Mr. Right, she doesn’t know jack squat. She even gives online dating a shot and ends up with an unappetizing buffet of unibrows and losers. What’s a girl to do?
After Ellie saves Cedric’s life, serendipity takes over as they continue to run into each other. Their connection grows stronger with each meeting, even though he embodies her number one pet peeve: he’s always late. But even if they can get past their issues and misunderstandings, Ellie’s ex-boyfriend, an unscrupulous cop, will do anything to keep them apart.
Five Minutes Late is a hilarious fast-paced romantic comedy, full of snappy dialogue and fun, quirky characters, guaranteed to warm your heart.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 22, 2014
791 people are currently reading
1465 people want to read
About the author
Rich Amooi
32 books638 followersRich Amooi is a Taleflick Discovery Winner, Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Recipient, Holt Medallion Finalist, and the Amazon Bestselling author of 24 romantic comedies, including It's Not PMS, It's You, Dying to Meet You, Royal Crush, and Men or Paws.
A former radio personality and wedding DJ, Rich now writes romantic comedies full-time in San Diego, California, and is happily married to a kiss monster imported from Spain. Rich believes in public displays of affection, silliness, infinite possibilities, donuts, gratitude, laughter, and happily ever after.
Get a FREE romantic comedy by visiting his website at https://www.richamooi.com.
A former radio personality and wedding DJ, Rich now writes romantic comedies full-time in San Diego, California, and is happily married to a kiss monster imported from Spain. Rich believes in public displays of affection, silliness, infinite possibilities, donuts, gratitude, laughter, and happily ever after.
Get a FREE romantic comedy by visiting his website at https://www.richamooi.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 257 reviews
May 19, 2018
An adorable romance, but I will warn you that there are some sad parts with deaths.
Our hero has been afraid to fall in love after the death of his girlfriend. Our heroine is in search of love but has strict guidelines after the death of her mother.
Cute romance with some comical parts but lots of sad parts, too.
Our hero has been afraid to fall in love after the death of his girlfriend. Our heroine is in search of love but has strict guidelines after the death of her mother.
Cute romance with some comical parts but lots of sad parts, too.
May 20, 2021
My Rating: 4.5 stars
Genre Chick Lit | Romantic Comedy.
Review Snapshot : When searching for laugh out loud romcoms books from this author kept popping up so I decided to give this one a try. WOW! This book is HILARIOUS! I laughed so much while reading it!
︙︙︙︙︙︙︙︙︙
Laugh out loud romantic comedies have always been my favorite genre to read. Lately though it seems like all the romance books I pick up are the same! Sure, they have different characters, but the plots are starting to blend together for me, and I’ve been VERY hesitant to read strictly within the romance genre. So, while I was browsing for something light and funny, I stumbled upon this author and decided to give it a chance. WOW! I am so glad I did! Five Minutes Late is HILARIOUS!!!! Laugh out loud funny, silly, and absolutely ADORABLE! I can’t remember the last time a book made me laugh this much and I am so grateful to have found an author that I can go to when I need something less serious. Don’t get me wrong, this book isn’t just about the funnies. There are some very deep parts to the story as well (which is amazing because he flawlessly adds these in while still making it feel like a comedy). But if you want something a bit on the lighter side (just like I did) then this is the perfect book to read! Honestly, it’s the whole package. I think the ONLY reason I went down a half a star with my rating is because the miscommunications between the hero and heroine was getting on my nerves. Not enough to make me dislike the book (obviously) but enough that it took away from my absolute LOVE for it.
In any event, I’m so glad I read this one and I’ve already got another one waiting on my iPad to read. I know I’m going to be a huge fan of this authors work! I can feel it in my bones! His humor and mine are right on par with one another!
Genre Chick Lit | Romantic Comedy.
Review Snapshot : When searching for laugh out loud romcoms books from this author kept popping up so I decided to give this one a try. WOW! This book is HILARIOUS! I laughed so much while reading it!
︙︙︙︙︙︙︙︙︙
Laugh out loud romantic comedies have always been my favorite genre to read. Lately though it seems like all the romance books I pick up are the same! Sure, they have different characters, but the plots are starting to blend together for me, and I’ve been VERY hesitant to read strictly within the romance genre. So, while I was browsing for something light and funny, I stumbled upon this author and decided to give it a chance. WOW! I am so glad I did! Five Minutes Late is HILARIOUS!!!! Laugh out loud funny, silly, and absolutely ADORABLE! I can’t remember the last time a book made me laugh this much and I am so grateful to have found an author that I can go to when I need something less serious. Don’t get me wrong, this book isn’t just about the funnies. There are some very deep parts to the story as well (which is amazing because he flawlessly adds these in while still making it feel like a comedy). But if you want something a bit on the lighter side (just like I did) then this is the perfect book to read! Honestly, it’s the whole package. I think the ONLY reason I went down a half a star with my rating is because the miscommunications between the hero and heroine was getting on my nerves. Not enough to make me dislike the book (obviously) but enough that it took away from my absolute LOVE for it.
In any event, I’m so glad I read this one and I’ve already got another one waiting on my iPad to read. I know I’m going to be a huge fan of this authors work! I can feel it in my bones! His humor and mine are right on par with one another!
October 15, 2014
I received a complimentary copy of Five Minutes Late in exchange for an honestn review.
Pickles! Five Minutes Late is one of the most entertaining books I've read this year. I've finished reading the book a few hours ago and I'm still smiling while typing this review. This book just made my day!
The author sure knows how to write a perfect romantic comedy. Five Minutes Late is a perfect blend of humor, romance, and a good story. Be sure to read this when you're alone or in private. Otherwise, people might think you're crazy, laughing and smiling all by yourself.
Overall, I love all the characters in the book. They're so real and normal that I can imagine them as neighbors. I LOVE CEDRIC. Pickles! (Just pretend you didn't read that one, lol!) But this guy is really adorable. He's kind, smart, sweet, and really funny. Not to mention, drop-dead gorgeous. I love the fact that he wasn't perfect like most book heroes. Yep, you can actually see him acting or saying something stupid like people do in real life. The fact that he's a farmer who grows garlics and cherries already made me like him. And his dog is so lovable. I love Ellie, too. Maybe because she's a librarian, lol! But really, you'll get a lot of laughs from her blind dates. Those scenes were really hilarious. As a bibliophile myself, I can relate to Ellie's passion for books.
If you're going to read the book, I'm sure you'll also love Tony, Cedric's best friend, and Grandpa Frank, Ellie's granddad. Tony is so funny. I just love his sense of humor. Scenes with Tony are probably the funniest parts of the book. I can't help but love Grandpa Frank. He's so wise, funny, and so supportive I wish I have a Grandpa like him too.
The book is written in a 3rd person POV. It switches between Ellie and Cedric so you get a glimpse on each side. I have to admit that I like Cedric's story more. It's funnier and, as I mentioned, Cedric is so adorable. I like the fact that the story was kept light even though there was a minor character who died in the book. I can't think of a specific scene that I liked best. The whole book is a page-turner and each chapter has a shining moment somewhere. I love the author's writing style. It was filled with humor and was fast-paced exciting. you will never get bored reading this book. I will definitely read more from the author.
My verdict: I love this book! If you're in the mood for something funny and romantic, YOU SHOULD READ THIS BOOK! You will not be disappointed, I promise. I'm recommending this book to all readers especially to people who need a feel-good story that will leave you laughing and smiling like you just had a great day.
Pickles! Five Minutes Late is one of the most entertaining books I've read this year. I've finished reading the book a few hours ago and I'm still smiling while typing this review. This book just made my day!
The author sure knows how to write a perfect romantic comedy. Five Minutes Late is a perfect blend of humor, romance, and a good story. Be sure to read this when you're alone or in private. Otherwise, people might think you're crazy, laughing and smiling all by yourself.
Overall, I love all the characters in the book. They're so real and normal that I can imagine them as neighbors. I LOVE CEDRIC. Pickles! (Just pretend you didn't read that one, lol!) But this guy is really adorable. He's kind, smart, sweet, and really funny. Not to mention, drop-dead gorgeous. I love the fact that he wasn't perfect like most book heroes. Yep, you can actually see him acting or saying something stupid like people do in real life. The fact that he's a farmer who grows garlics and cherries already made me like him. And his dog is so lovable. I love Ellie, too. Maybe because she's a librarian, lol! But really, you'll get a lot of laughs from her blind dates. Those scenes were really hilarious. As a bibliophile myself, I can relate to Ellie's passion for books.
If you're going to read the book, I'm sure you'll also love Tony, Cedric's best friend, and Grandpa Frank, Ellie's granddad. Tony is so funny. I just love his sense of humor. Scenes with Tony are probably the funniest parts of the book. I can't help but love Grandpa Frank. He's so wise, funny, and so supportive I wish I have a Grandpa like him too.
The book is written in a 3rd person POV. It switches between Ellie and Cedric so you get a glimpse on each side. I have to admit that I like Cedric's story more. It's funnier and, as I mentioned, Cedric is so adorable. I like the fact that the story was kept light even though there was a minor character who died in the book. I can't think of a specific scene that I liked best. The whole book is a page-turner and each chapter has a shining moment somewhere. I love the author's writing style. It was filled with humor and was fast-paced exciting. you will never get bored reading this book. I will definitely read more from the author.
My verdict: I love this book! If you're in the mood for something funny and romantic, YOU SHOULD READ THIS BOOK! You will not be disappointed, I promise. I'm recommending this book to all readers especially to people who need a feel-good story that will leave you laughing and smiling like you just had a great day.
September 3, 2014
This book was sweet, funny, charming and witty. Cedric is a garlic farmer and has been avoiding relationships for the last 2 years after the loss of his girlfriend. He is kind, sweet, handsome and rich. Ellie is smart, loyal and funny. The writing of this book reminded me a lot of the great Jennifer Crusie (without any steamy scenes.) There were a couple of times when I laughed out loud while reading this book. I really loved this one and can't wait to read more by this author. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a sweet romance.
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
October 16, 2014
This book had me in stitches from start to finish. It has light hearted, fun, and plain adorable. Cedric and Ellie were disasters but perfect for each other. Cedric was so cute and just all around a nice guy. One we all want. He was kind, generous,thoughtful and funny. Him and his dog tofu were my faves. Tofu was awesome I mean that dog was comic relief to the funny show that was happening around him. Cedric as always was running late when Ellie saved him from being hit by a UPS truck. This seared her in his mind. He couldn’t stop thinking about her. Ellie was on her way to her car after sneaking away from her date when she helped Cedric. Her disastrous date. He had three strikes before they got to order. It was funny though the date. And her list was just too much. Grandpa Frank though was awesome. Always there for her. Anyhow Cedric is now in her mind as well. This is their story. The story of how they met. How Ellie went on disastrously but funny dates. Cedric and his funny adventures like with fainting guy. About their misunderstandings and Ellie fighting Cedric every step of the way. About Cedric healing and finding love. Ellie forgiving herself and finding love in Cedric. Saving Cedrics promise to his mom. Fighting and winning against the bad guy and being together in the end. All this is their story with hysterical anecdotes along the way such as the golf ball to the head or the cowboy and his visions of children. This is a breath of fresh air with its fun light approach to finding love and forgiveness. A great read that will have you laughing in your boots watching these two characters come together.
March 17, 2015
*Possible spoiler alert*
Wow.
I agree with an earlier reviewer who stated that the main characters were very immature, and that they couldn't stand either of them.
Now I don't necessarily need to love the characters to enjoy the book; I hated both Nick and Amy Dunne in Gone Girl - but I still could not put that book down. That I hated both of them was part of the magic of the story - that even though I hated them, I still wanted to see how their story played out.
This book was incredibly immature. The male lead, a garlic farmer, never spent any of his time running his business. Except to work the farmer's market when it was opportune for him. Yet he visited the female lead at her place of business all the time. (And of course he is rich and helps her get a promotion because he donated a bunch of money to her library. And she did not refuse the promotion or argue about it - she just accepted that he basically bought her promotion. This did not sit well with me.)
The female lead says 'pickles!' to herself instead of 'oh crap' or 'shit' or any other expletive - and yet the reasoning behind that is never revealed (trying to swear less? A swear jar growing up?). She's not a prude as she uses the word 'ass', so what gives?
The clincher for me was when she actually said, 'kiss me you fool!"
Seriously?
I read chick-lit. I am not opposed to chick-lit. I love good chick-lit.
I have no idea what this was, but it was not chick-lit. Kid-lit? Crap-lit?
No wonder the Kindle version was free from Amazon.
Wow.
I agree with an earlier reviewer who stated that the main characters were very immature, and that they couldn't stand either of them.
Now I don't necessarily need to love the characters to enjoy the book; I hated both Nick and Amy Dunne in Gone Girl - but I still could not put that book down. That I hated both of them was part of the magic of the story - that even though I hated them, I still wanted to see how their story played out.
This book was incredibly immature. The male lead, a garlic farmer, never spent any of his time running his business. Except to work the farmer's market when it was opportune for him. Yet he visited the female lead at her place of business all the time. (And of course he is rich and helps her get a promotion because he donated a bunch of money to her library. And she did not refuse the promotion or argue about it - she just accepted that he basically bought her promotion. This did not sit well with me.)
The female lead says 'pickles!' to herself instead of 'oh crap' or 'shit' or any other expletive - and yet the reasoning behind that is never revealed (trying to swear less? A swear jar growing up?). She's not a prude as she uses the word 'ass', so what gives?
The clincher for me was when she actually said, 'kiss me you fool!"
Seriously?
I read chick-lit. I am not opposed to chick-lit. I love good chick-lit.
I have no idea what this was, but it was not chick-lit. Kid-lit? Crap-lit?
No wonder the Kindle version was free from Amazon.
February 24, 2016
Such a fun romantic comedy from beginning to end, with a little bit of suspense, stalker like behavior thrown in! Ellie Fontaine saved a man from getting hit by a UPS truck and the web of events to follow is nothing short of crazy. Ellie is a spunky librarian with lots of useless knowledge of just about anything really and she is looking for Mr. Perfect. She even has a list to prove it. You will get to enjoy each of her dates with her and I will admit that they may put you off of dating for a while.
Cedric is a garlic farmer who is single and has no intention of that changing anytime soon. He is afraid of putting himself out there just to get hurt in the end or so he thinks. But his friend decides to put together a dating profile to help his best friend out.
After Ellie saved Cedric, they seem to keep running into each other - for Cedric he is dying to find the right words to connect with her each time and for Ellie she just wished that this guy would stop popping up and bothering her! (And her psycho Ex-Boyfriend would like Cedric to disappear for good as well).
Will these two fall madly in love or will they both have their hearts broken again and swear off dating for good? Grab a bottle of wine and relax and enjoy this crazy tale that is Ellie and Cedric!
Cedric is a garlic farmer who is single and has no intention of that changing anytime soon. He is afraid of putting himself out there just to get hurt in the end or so he thinks. But his friend decides to put together a dating profile to help his best friend out.
After Ellie saved Cedric, they seem to keep running into each other - for Cedric he is dying to find the right words to connect with her each time and for Ellie she just wished that this guy would stop popping up and bothering her! (And her psycho Ex-Boyfriend would like Cedric to disappear for good as well).
Will these two fall madly in love or will they both have their hearts broken again and swear off dating for good? Grab a bottle of wine and relax and enjoy this crazy tale that is Ellie and Cedric!
August 24, 2021
You cannot read this authors book without thinking of his real life wife. She is hot and they are so fun together. Just as this book is crazy funny, it’s rich with friendship, heritage, and love and I loved every minute I was reading. You will too
September 11, 2014
This was a fun, heart-felt story with plenty of laughs.
The characters were enjoyable, although I found Ellie to be a little too rigid with her rules. Cedric was five minutes late meeting her at the restaurant and, even though he called, she was going to leave. Her excuse was that she didn't have her phone with her. It wasn't his fault she didn't get the message. While I understood why she had her rules, she didn't have to follow them so strictly. Cedric was more than patient with her, and I felt for him when he had to choose between his promise to his deceased mother and Ellie.
I felt the ending was a little rushed, especially covering the issue with Vlad. I would have liked to know what exactly the land deal was that could have gotten him thrown into jail. Then bringing in tax evasion, when it wasn't mentioned anywhere else in the story, just seemed to be thrown in there as a way to get him out of the picture.
Despite this, I liked this story and look forward to reading more from this author.
**A free copy was provided by the author via LibraryThing in exchange for an honest review**
The characters were enjoyable, although I found Ellie to be a little too rigid with her rules. Cedric was five minutes late meeting her at the restaurant and, even though he called, she was going to leave. Her excuse was that she didn't have her phone with her. It wasn't his fault she didn't get the message. While I understood why she had her rules, she didn't have to follow them so strictly. Cedric was more than patient with her, and I felt for him when he had to choose between his promise to his deceased mother and Ellie.
I felt the ending was a little rushed, especially covering the issue with Vlad. I would have liked to know what exactly the land deal was that could have gotten him thrown into jail. Then bringing in tax evasion, when it wasn't mentioned anywhere else in the story, just seemed to be thrown in there as a way to get him out of the picture.
Despite this, I liked this story and look forward to reading more from this author.
**A free copy was provided by the author via LibraryThing in exchange for an honest review**
January 13, 2016
This review was originally posted on karaneleni.com
WARNING: Listen to (or read) this book when you're able to laugh hysterically. NOT when you're at work. I listened over the course of a few days and found myself covering my mouth and silently laughing several times.
This story is absolutely amazing. You will need to be able to stomach some witty and "creative" language with no holds barred conversation between the characters. Personally, I loved it. But I'm twisted and immature, and this is right up my alley! If you're looking for a book that will make you laugh and awww, then this is the one to grab now.
Narrator review: I have trouble listening to audiobooks where the narrator sounds...computery. Recently, I've found a few that I can handle. Michael is the only male narrator that I have found (so far) that I absolutely love. He can handle the different tones and vocal ranges and it sounds like I'm listening to multiple people. I'll definitely check out other books that Michael has narrated!
August 31, 2014
A truly fantastic read. I stayed up until well after Midnight to finish this book. I started it after dinner and was able to finish it in one night. It was so funny that at one point I woke my husband up laughing and choking and crying. Then took a few minutes before I could stop long enough to read to him the passage that had me in stitches.
The author has a fabulous book here. I could see my old stomping grounds in his descriptions and vivid details. And I could completely relate to Ellie. I did my share of online dating in my early 20’s and though they weren’t nearly as memorable as Elli’s adventures, I had a list as well. I thought that it would help with the vetting process. And like Ellie I found someone who didn’t fit my list exactly and not from my online dating adventures but from real life.
This book was fun, silly and full of life. I would recommend it to anyone that likes a good laugh. I enjoyed it so much I went out and bought it for a friend of mine right away. I am looking forward to Rich’s next book.
The author has a fabulous book here. I could see my old stomping grounds in his descriptions and vivid details. And I could completely relate to Ellie. I did my share of online dating in my early 20’s and though they weren’t nearly as memorable as Elli’s adventures, I had a list as well. I thought that it would help with the vetting process. And like Ellie I found someone who didn’t fit my list exactly and not from my online dating adventures but from real life.
This book was fun, silly and full of life. I would recommend it to anyone that likes a good laugh. I enjoyed it so much I went out and bought it for a friend of mine right away. I am looking forward to Rich’s next book.
March 11, 2015
Nope, can't do t anymore, DNF at 62%!!
This book was not funny at all, I didn't laugh once!! so disappointing, I really wanted to laugh. I felt like I was reading about 12 year old's so immature and I just didn't like either of them.
Also something happened at about the 50% mark and I just didn't feel it at all, there was no emotion, and it was rushed and glossed over and just poorly executed. I found myself skim reading a lot and skipping bits, but I just don't care enough to see if these two dip wits get there HEA.
This book was not funny at all, I didn't laugh once!! so disappointing, I really wanted to laugh. I felt like I was reading about 12 year old's so immature and I just didn't like either of them.
Also something happened at about the 50% mark and I just didn't feel it at all, there was no emotion, and it was rushed and glossed over and just poorly executed. I found myself skim reading a lot and skipping bits, but I just don't care enough to see if these two dip wits get there HEA.
October 16, 2016
Interesting story. Several unneeded f-bombs. Kissing scenes, with added raunch...completely uncalled for. I would have given 3stars if it was just cleaned up a bit. It was like the author added the bad stuff just because he could. Not even needed. There wasn't much dept, and the barriers the main characters had were so ridiculous I couldn't believe it. Hello...communicate already.
September 30, 2014
This was a wonderfully written, charming story.
The author had me engaged from start to finish, and the characters were witty, honest, intelligent, and real.
I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel, and look forward to reading more work from this author.
The author had me engaged from start to finish, and the characters were witty, honest, intelligent, and real.
I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel, and look forward to reading more work from this author.
September 29, 2021
Light hearted...
I enjoyed the comic bantering of all the characters. It was light hearted with a few unexpected twists. What I loved the best is most anyone could relate to the characters thought process and the life events that influence us.
I enjoyed the comic bantering of all the characters. It was light hearted with a few unexpected twists. What I loved the best is most anyone could relate to the characters thought process and the life events that influence us.
January 12, 2015
Had me laughing out loud several time. Lots of fun. A great read!
February 10, 2020
It’s the second time I’ve read this book and it’s the second time I have absolutely adored it! If you don’t know the story with me and this book well I will tell it again!
Foremost it’s Richs’ debut into a full-length book, and I tell you we have a lot to thank his wife for! To me it’s perfect. Yes, there are some slightly cheesy scenes but I LOVE THEM ALL!! I was chuckling and smiling the whole way through this as I remembered falling in love with Ellie and Cedric. Both have issues with falling in love, both have heartbreaks and both need to learn to open themselves to new possibilities again.
With most of Amooi’s books, we do see some stereotypical men and it does make me laugh! Mainly because you know these men really do exist!! I felt for Ellie going on these disastrous dates while all the time pretending she didn’t care for Cedric but she can not bear tardiness. Tardiness stems from a rather sad story for Ellie and I can see why she would think and act the way in which she does. Cedric, he is the king of tardiness but for him, he has closed himself off due to a truly tragic event that happened.
All the while you are rooting for these two and you are shouting for them to make it work and forget the past and just talk to each other!! Plus with the douche ex, Vlad rearing his ugly was you do wonder if love will ever run smoothly for this duo. He is your stereotypical “bad guy” in a romance novel, every time he spoke you feel your eyes rolling and just urgh! But he is such a small part of the novel that we can get past it, he is just the fuel, the spark, to ignite Ellie and Cedric together.
Oh, my days I really do love this book! It’s just too cute and it makes me smile. This is a book I could read over and over and over and I will never get bored. It has so much going for it with the supporting cast who you embrace completely as one of your own. They are all so strong and they all do their best to help propel Ellie and Cedric further into their lives. And anyway, a man who owns a Garlic firm, he’s a winner in my eyes I love garlic!!!!!!
Within these pages, I am in a bubble. It is my safe place and it’s my happy place. Nothing can knock me in here. I don’t care if people think this book might be a bit cheesy or not their cup of tea. For me, it is what love is about. Yeah, I admit I am 110% completely and utterly sappy underneath it all! I believe in Prince Charming, love at first sight etc etc and Amooi’s book reinforces it all for me. Amooi’s books are just so charming and ALWAYS make me smile.
If you want to lose yourself on a cold winters afternoon, or a sunny one, then these books are for you! Despite the book-length, you find that you whizz through the book so quickly, well I did, without even realising it.
Wow, I think that this enough gushing. So far out of the books I have read this is my favourite…but at the time of writing this I have 7 more to read and out of the other 6 I have read, nothing comes close at all!!
Foremost it’s Richs’ debut into a full-length book, and I tell you we have a lot to thank his wife for! To me it’s perfect. Yes, there are some slightly cheesy scenes but I LOVE THEM ALL!! I was chuckling and smiling the whole way through this as I remembered falling in love with Ellie and Cedric. Both have issues with falling in love, both have heartbreaks and both need to learn to open themselves to new possibilities again.
With most of Amooi’s books, we do see some stereotypical men and it does make me laugh! Mainly because you know these men really do exist!! I felt for Ellie going on these disastrous dates while all the time pretending she didn’t care for Cedric but she can not bear tardiness. Tardiness stems from a rather sad story for Ellie and I can see why she would think and act the way in which she does. Cedric, he is the king of tardiness but for him, he has closed himself off due to a truly tragic event that happened.
All the while you are rooting for these two and you are shouting for them to make it work and forget the past and just talk to each other!! Plus with the douche ex, Vlad rearing his ugly was you do wonder if love will ever run smoothly for this duo. He is your stereotypical “bad guy” in a romance novel, every time he spoke you feel your eyes rolling and just urgh! But he is such a small part of the novel that we can get past it, he is just the fuel, the spark, to ignite Ellie and Cedric together.
Oh, my days I really do love this book! It’s just too cute and it makes me smile. This is a book I could read over and over and over and I will never get bored. It has so much going for it with the supporting cast who you embrace completely as one of your own. They are all so strong and they all do their best to help propel Ellie and Cedric further into their lives. And anyway, a man who owns a Garlic firm, he’s a winner in my eyes I love garlic!!!!!!
Within these pages, I am in a bubble. It is my safe place and it’s my happy place. Nothing can knock me in here. I don’t care if people think this book might be a bit cheesy or not their cup of tea. For me, it is what love is about. Yeah, I admit I am 110% completely and utterly sappy underneath it all! I believe in Prince Charming, love at first sight etc etc and Amooi’s book reinforces it all for me. Amooi’s books are just so charming and ALWAYS make me smile.
If you want to lose yourself on a cold winters afternoon, or a sunny one, then these books are for you! Despite the book-length, you find that you whizz through the book so quickly, well I did, without even realising it.
Wow, I think that this enough gushing. So far out of the books I have read this is my favourite…but at the time of writing this I have 7 more to read and out of the other 6 I have read, nothing comes close at all!!
January 13, 2020
Very good
This is another well written romantic comedy by Rich Amooi. He brought the characters to life. Again the storyline was fantastic, but this one seemed to drag on a bit.
This is another well written romantic comedy by Rich Amooi. He brought the characters to life. Again the storyline was fantastic, but this one seemed to drag on a bit.
July 16, 2020
Cute romantic comedy
I really enjoyed this book. I liked both of the main characters and all the cute banter. I would definitely recommend this book to a friend who was looking for something funny and light hearted to read.
I really enjoyed this book. I liked both of the main characters and all the cute banter. I would definitely recommend this book to a friend who was looking for something funny and light hearted to read.
June 24, 2020
Fantastic
Such a good read. So funny and touching. What more can I say except so looking forward to the next one.
Such a good read. So funny and touching. What more can I say except so looking forward to the next one.
March 22, 2021
Oh, my days I really do love this book! It’s just too cute and it makes me smile. This is a book I could read over and over and over and I will never get bored. It has so much going for it with the supporting cast who you embrace completely as one of your own. They are all so strong and they all do their best to help propel Ellie and Cedric further into their lives. And anyway, a man who owns a Garlic firm, he’s a winner in my eyes I love garlic!!!!!!
Within these pages, I am in a bubble. It is my safe place and it’s my happy place. Nothing can knock me in here. I don’t care if people think this book might be a bit cheesy or not their cup of tea. For me, it is what love is about. Yeah, I admit I am 110% completely and utterly sappy underneath it all! I believe in Prince Charming, love at first sight etc etc and Amooi’s book reinforces it all for me. Amooi’s books are just so charming and ALWAYS make me smile.
If you want to lose yourself on a cold winters afternoon, or a sunny one, then these books are for you! Despite the book-length, you find that you whizz through the book so quickly, well I did, without even realising it.
Within these pages, I am in a bubble. It is my safe place and it’s my happy place. Nothing can knock me in here. I don’t care if people think this book might be a bit cheesy or not their cup of tea. For me, it is what love is about. Yeah, I admit I am 110% completely and utterly sappy underneath it all! I believe in Prince Charming, love at first sight etc etc and Amooi’s book reinforces it all for me. Amooi’s books are just so charming and ALWAYS make me smile.
If you want to lose yourself on a cold winters afternoon, or a sunny one, then these books are for you! Despite the book-length, you find that you whizz through the book so quickly, well I did, without even realising it.
August 27, 2021
I've read other books by Rich Amooi and enjoyed them immensely: the characters, the plot twists, the dialogues, but this inaugural novel, the story of Cedric and Ellie is so charming and delicious that it hurts to finish it. Through their ups and downs and misunderstandings and reticence, there's a sense that their love cannot be conquered. I'm amazed that this is a first time at describing romance with tongue firmly in cheek. It is a triumph. Cannot recommend it too highly!
May 12, 2021
Goodread
Really enjoy reading Rich’s books, they have the feel good factor, and have a funny, yet romantic side to them, and this one did not disappoint.
Really enjoy reading Rich’s books, they have the feel good factor, and have a funny, yet romantic side to them, and this one did not disappoint.
August 20, 2020
Wonderful, as always.
Rich Amooi has become one of my favorite authors. His stories are well written, about not "perfect" people, are always charming, and make me laugh.
Rich Amooi has become one of my favorite authors. His stories are well written, about not "perfect" people, are always charming, and make me laugh.
March 7, 2015
You can never have enough garlic. With enough garlic, you can eat The New York Times. - Morley Safer
“Fear paralyzes you. You can’t dream or even make small changes with fear in the way. Fear will kill your heart and your mind. - Grandpa Frank – Five Minutes Late
22924329Since the last romance I read was a Debbie Downer, I thought I would pull out something that sounded like fun. Bookbasset to the rescue again! Five Minutes Late by Rich Amooi sounded like just the thing. Yes, I have literally hundreds (if not more) books to read, but any time I run across something that sounds good, especially something Free, I download it (yes, that is the sound of pennies screaming as I pinch them) and check it out. I have found several authors that I rabidly follow from this little habit of mine, so sometimes those giveaways are really great for authors – AND their readers!
Anyway, Five Minutes Late is marketed as a romantic comedy, and it is that, without a doubt. I laughed – a lot – while reading the book. Cedric and Ellie are a hoot, and brought a ton of smiles along with their story. But the good thing about it is that is has a lot of “body” to it as well. Yes, there are laughs and giggles, and a really sweet West Highland White Terrier named Tofu. And then there is Ellie’s grandpa Frank, who is wise, kind and generous, and Cedric’s best friend and marketing manager Tony, who is, well, raunchy . . . but has a good and generous heart. And I suppose, as Cyril Connolly said, “vulgarity is the garlic in the salad of life. Well, I have never really been a Connolly fan, but in this case, Tony may be raunchy, but he did make me laugh.
But all is not perfect in Gilroy, the Garlic Capital of the World – or in San Jose were Cedric and Ellie live and meet one another. Well, where Ellie stopped Cedric from stepping off a curb and becoming UPS truck sushi!
Ellie and Cedric have both been desperately hurt before. The deaths of family members on both sides haunt them, making it hard for them to get close. And it doesn’t help that Ellie’s ex-boyfriend is a psycho stalker cop (those are the worst believe me – been there, done that, got the broken bones to show for it!) So it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, but Amooi blends everything into a wonderful story of love, loss and redemption that really left me feeling, well, uplifted actually. That people can go through so much in their lives and not only find one another but allow themselves to love again. So Cool. Especially when 75-year-old grandpa finds his own main squeeze! Double Cool! (Do people even say “cool” anymore? Hum….)
There are several funny scenes as we watch Ellie have a series of blind dates off the internet (yes, before she and Cedric work things through) that had me in stitches. Wait till you read about Dick the Date who thinks taking her to Hooter’s for their date is a good idea… A Riot!
So. FREE, kids – and well worth reading if you like romantic comedy with a bit of ‘bite’ to it. Not everything is all fun and games, but I found everything to be worth reading. There is a lot of funny name dropping (wait till you get to the whole Samuel L. Jackson and the golf ball thing) and a great story of garlic – and I DO love garlic!
Enjoy!
4.5 stars
“Fear paralyzes you. You can’t dream or even make small changes with fear in the way. Fear will kill your heart and your mind. - Grandpa Frank – Five Minutes Late
22924329Since the last romance I read was a Debbie Downer, I thought I would pull out something that sounded like fun. Bookbasset to the rescue again! Five Minutes Late by Rich Amooi sounded like just the thing. Yes, I have literally hundreds (if not more) books to read, but any time I run across something that sounds good, especially something Free, I download it (yes, that is the sound of pennies screaming as I pinch them) and check it out. I have found several authors that I rabidly follow from this little habit of mine, so sometimes those giveaways are really great for authors – AND their readers!
Anyway, Five Minutes Late is marketed as a romantic comedy, and it is that, without a doubt. I laughed – a lot – while reading the book. Cedric and Ellie are a hoot, and brought a ton of smiles along with their story. But the good thing about it is that is has a lot of “body” to it as well. Yes, there are laughs and giggles, and a really sweet West Highland White Terrier named Tofu. And then there is Ellie’s grandpa Frank, who is wise, kind and generous, and Cedric’s best friend and marketing manager Tony, who is, well, raunchy . . . but has a good and generous heart. And I suppose, as Cyril Connolly said, “vulgarity is the garlic in the salad of life. Well, I have never really been a Connolly fan, but in this case, Tony may be raunchy, but he did make me laugh.
But all is not perfect in Gilroy, the Garlic Capital of the World – or in San Jose were Cedric and Ellie live and meet one another. Well, where Ellie stopped Cedric from stepping off a curb and becoming UPS truck sushi!
Ellie and Cedric have both been desperately hurt before. The deaths of family members on both sides haunt them, making it hard for them to get close. And it doesn’t help that Ellie’s ex-boyfriend is a psycho stalker cop (those are the worst believe me – been there, done that, got the broken bones to show for it!) So it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, but Amooi blends everything into a wonderful story of love, loss and redemption that really left me feeling, well, uplifted actually. That people can go through so much in their lives and not only find one another but allow themselves to love again. So Cool. Especially when 75-year-old grandpa finds his own main squeeze! Double Cool! (Do people even say “cool” anymore? Hum….)
There are several funny scenes as we watch Ellie have a series of blind dates off the internet (yes, before she and Cedric work things through) that had me in stitches. Wait till you read about Dick the Date who thinks taking her to Hooter’s for their date is a good idea… A Riot!
So. FREE, kids – and well worth reading if you like romantic comedy with a bit of ‘bite’ to it. Not everything is all fun and games, but I found everything to be worth reading. There is a lot of funny name dropping (wait till you get to the whole Samuel L. Jackson and the golf ball thing) and a great story of garlic – and I DO love garlic!
Enjoy!
4.5 stars
June 15, 2021
Very good, fast reading and laugh out loud book. I liked Cedric and Sam. The dog, Tofu, was cute and Sam's good friend Tony was a good secondary character. This is my first book to read by Rich Amooi and I would definitely read others.
September 12, 2021
That's Rich
Never have I ever read one of Rich's books and not laughed out loud. The chuckle's his books give me were and still are the best medicine for Covid blues. Cute couple with highs, lows, romance, wit make for a good page turner and late night reading. Thank you Rich, hope your back and knee get better soon. Congratulations on your award and all things crossed regards a rom-com. You've got this!
Never have I ever read one of Rich's books and not laughed out loud. The chuckle's his books give me were and still are the best medicine for Covid blues. Cute couple with highs, lows, romance, wit make for a good page turner and late night reading. Thank you Rich, hope your back and knee get better soon. Congratulations on your award and all things crossed regards a rom-com. You've got this!
October 16, 2014
You never know what can happen when you’re running five minutes late!
Ellie wants to meet a man that meets her mile-long list of requirements and has decided to give internet dating a chance. But she can’t manage to find someone she’d even contemplate going on a second date with, though you don’t need to know her ‘three strikes and you’re out’ rule to know that she’s picky. She’s so over dating losers like her last boyfriend Vlad, a cop with a chip on his shoulder the size of Texas and an entitled attitude to go along with it.
Cedric, a generous man with a heart of gold almost seems too good to be true. He’s intelligent, good-looking and gives back to organizations in the community through proceeds from his farming business. His closest friends desperately want him to forget his past and be open to letting a woman into his life. For a guy that thinks “relationships equal pain”it’s easier said than done.
Serendipity takes matters into her own hands when Ellie saves Cedric from a speeding UPS truck. They begin to run into each other all over town and begin to wonder if they can they work past their issues and misunderstandings and have their own happily ever after. This novel will make you start believing that timing is everything, and sometimes, just sometimes, it’s okay to be five minutes late.
‘Comedy & Romance…with a side order of madness!’ This was a fabulous, laugh-out-loud, debut novel from a promising author. I look forward to the release of his next novel, ‘Dog Day Wedding‘.
Ellie wants to meet a man that meets her mile-long list of requirements and has decided to give internet dating a chance. But she can’t manage to find someone she’d even contemplate going on a second date with, though you don’t need to know her ‘three strikes and you’re out’ rule to know that she’s picky. She’s so over dating losers like her last boyfriend Vlad, a cop with a chip on his shoulder the size of Texas and an entitled attitude to go along with it.
Cedric, a generous man with a heart of gold almost seems too good to be true. He’s intelligent, good-looking and gives back to organizations in the community through proceeds from his farming business. His closest friends desperately want him to forget his past and be open to letting a woman into his life. For a guy that thinks “relationships equal pain”it’s easier said than done.
Serendipity takes matters into her own hands when Ellie saves Cedric from a speeding UPS truck. They begin to run into each other all over town and begin to wonder if they can they work past their issues and misunderstandings and have their own happily ever after. This novel will make you start believing that timing is everything, and sometimes, just sometimes, it’s okay to be five minutes late.
‘Comedy & Romance…with a side order of madness!’ This was a fabulous, laugh-out-loud, debut novel from a promising author. I look forward to the release of his next novel, ‘Dog Day Wedding‘.
September 21, 2014
3½ Fun and Entertaining Stars
I always enjoy a romance which includes witty bantering and joking and after having read the synopsis, it sounded as though that was exactly what I was going to getting here. Rich Amooi’s Five Minutes Late is a worthy effort by this new author and was a fun and entertaining read. I must admit, however, there were moments when I wanted to throw my iPad from frustration of the characters seemingly to always find something that gets in their way of coming together which was a bit frustrating for me. But as the story progresses along we are given more details of their past which helped me to understand their continued hesitation.
Cedric and Ellie do both have circumstances from their past which makes them struggle to open up and begin a new relationship. But as their story develops and they both begin to get to know each other as well as the continued banter between Ellie and Cedric, this very entertaining and amusing story kept me turning pages hoping they would both finally open up and look into their hearts ultimately following a path that would lead them into each other arms.
If you are a reader looking for hot intimate interaction between the characters, this is probably not going to be a read for you. But if you enjoy a sweet story of meeting someone and falling in love as well as fun and witty repartee and wordplay between all of the characters, then you should pick up Five Minutes Late. It will leave you with a smile on your face. I do hope to see more comedic love stories from Rich Amooi in the future.
I always enjoy a romance which includes witty bantering and joking and after having read the synopsis, it sounded as though that was exactly what I was going to getting here. Rich Amooi’s Five Minutes Late is a worthy effort by this new author and was a fun and entertaining read. I must admit, however, there were moments when I wanted to throw my iPad from frustration of the characters seemingly to always find something that gets in their way of coming together which was a bit frustrating for me. But as the story progresses along we are given more details of their past which helped me to understand their continued hesitation.
Cedric and Ellie do both have circumstances from their past which makes them struggle to open up and begin a new relationship. But as their story develops and they both begin to get to know each other as well as the continued banter between Ellie and Cedric, this very entertaining and amusing story kept me turning pages hoping they would both finally open up and look into their hearts ultimately following a path that would lead them into each other arms.
If you are a reader looking for hot intimate interaction between the characters, this is probably not going to be a read for you. But if you enjoy a sweet story of meeting someone and falling in love as well as fun and witty repartee and wordplay between all of the characters, then you should pick up Five Minutes Late. It will leave you with a smile on your face. I do hope to see more comedic love stories from Rich Amooi in the future.
September 15, 2014
4 Stars
I was given this book for my honest review
Get out the screaming towel you will need it for this Pickle of a book.
Cedric-scared, shy and timid, hottie
Ellie-Librarian, cute outspoken
Cedric is the type of man that is shy, cute and funny. But what he is NOT is actively seeking for is any type of relationship. He is scared but not of the past but of losing himself if and when he finds the right woman to complete him. But are not most guys that way today? He longs to keep a promise made to someone and is out to for fill that promise at any cost but is love a cost he is willing to give up?
Ellie is the all around girl. She is outspoken, funny and sarcastic at times. She is however trying to find that right one. But is time on her side? She goes on each date and ticks off the proverbial batter’s box of three strikes and you’re out rule. Pickles is a saying that this librarian uses a lot in this book it is cute and quirky and all out hilarious at times. But does this librarian find true love in an off the wall place?
The conflicts of Cedric and Ellie are downright funny and sad at times but that is what makes this book a well worth read. To see how this couple comes together as one unit is a walk that you should take. You will cry in all the right places, laugh and scream too.
The author did a great job with this book. It was funny and heartwarming, special, frustrating but an all around great read. So come pick up this book and find “Pickles” and laugh and cry with me as I did this couple.
Happy Reading
I was given this book for my honest review
Get out the screaming towel you will need it for this Pickle of a book.
Cedric-scared, shy and timid, hottie
Ellie-Librarian, cute outspoken
Cedric is the type of man that is shy, cute and funny. But what he is NOT is actively seeking for is any type of relationship. He is scared but not of the past but of losing himself if and when he finds the right woman to complete him. But are not most guys that way today? He longs to keep a promise made to someone and is out to for fill that promise at any cost but is love a cost he is willing to give up?
Ellie is the all around girl. She is outspoken, funny and sarcastic at times. She is however trying to find that right one. But is time on her side? She goes on each date and ticks off the proverbial batter’s box of three strikes and you’re out rule. Pickles is a saying that this librarian uses a lot in this book it is cute and quirky and all out hilarious at times. But does this librarian find true love in an off the wall place?
The conflicts of Cedric and Ellie are downright funny and sad at times but that is what makes this book a well worth read. To see how this couple comes together as one unit is a walk that you should take. You will cry in all the right places, laugh and scream too.
The author did a great job with this book. It was funny and heartwarming, special, frustrating but an all around great read. So come pick up this book and find “Pickles” and laugh and cry with me as I did this couple.
Happy Reading
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