What do you think?
Rate this book
Oaks Sisters #2
No Place Like You
Not yet published
Expected 10 Mar 26Childhood friends turned high school rivals fall into a small-town fake dating scheme in this sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible romance from the author of Give Me Butterflies.
Fable Oaks never planned to return to Fern River. But after a string of failures, here she is, living in her parents’ backyard, watching her beloved late grandfather’s A-frame crumble around her. She can't seem to find her direction, and to make matters worse, Theo Nikolaou, her ex-best friend, has also resurfaced, distracting dimples and charming grin in tow.
Theo knew it was only a matter of time before he came back. The demons of his past once drove him to leave, but Fern River always seemed meant to be. So, when Theo’s boss, Arthur, announces he is selling his veterinary practice, it feels like the perfect opportunity. He just needs to show Arthur he’s sticking around for good. And when Fable—Fable, with her smart mouth and sexy curls—quite literally falls into Theo's lap, an idea forms.
If they can convince the town that they're madly in love, it could solve all their problems. Theo can prove to Arthur he's settling down, and Fable can get some much-needed help fixing up the A-frame, a task she is determined to see through.
The only problem is, the more time they spend together, the blurrier the line gets between fake dating and falling hard.
She’s lost her way. He’s finding his path. Together, they might discover there's no place like home.
Fable Oaks never planned to return to Fern River. But after a string of failures, here she is, living in her parents’ backyard, watching her beloved late grandfather’s A-frame crumble around her. She can't seem to find her direction, and to make matters worse, Theo Nikolaou, her ex-best friend, has also resurfaced, distracting dimples and charming grin in tow.
Theo knew it was only a matter of time before he came back. The demons of his past once drove him to leave, but Fern River always seemed meant to be. So, when Theo’s boss, Arthur, announces he is selling his veterinary practice, it feels like the perfect opportunity. He just needs to show Arthur he’s sticking around for good. And when Fable—Fable, with her smart mouth and sexy curls—quite literally falls into Theo's lap, an idea forms.
If they can convince the town that they're madly in love, it could solve all their problems. Theo can prove to Arthur he's settling down, and Fable can get some much-needed help fixing up the A-frame, a task she is determined to see through.
The only problem is, the more time they spend together, the blurrier the line gets between fake dating and falling hard.
She’s lost her way. He’s finding his path. Together, they might discover there's no place like home.
359 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 10, 2026
58 people are currently reading
12139 people want to read
About the author
Jillian Meadows
5 books915 followersJillian Meadows writes cozy love stories that make you swoon, smile, and squeal. She lives thirty miles past The Middle of Nowhere with her husband, four wild daughters, two unruly dogs, and her sparkling water addiction. When she’s not writing, you can find her devouring a romance novel, playing board games, or enjoying the outdoors with her family.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 362 reviews
January 25, 2026
what am I supposed to do now that I finished this?😔😔 ugh I loved this so much, Theo and Fable own my heart and I really wished they were real 3
rtc
________
┆ ⤿ 💐 ༝ pre-read:
going back to my roots reading a fake dating😝 I’m so excited for this book, I don’t have a way to explain it. Hopefully this turns out to be amazing cause I have very high hopes🤞🏻🤞🏻
rtc
________
┆ ⤿ 💐 ༝ pre-read:
going back to my roots reading a fake dating😝 I’m so excited for this book, I don’t have a way to explain it. Hopefully this turns out to be amazing cause I have very high hopes🤞🏻🤞🏻
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an E-Arc in exchange for an honest review!*
5 Stars!
This was my first book by Jillian Meadows, and I am now definitely interested in reading the first book in this interconnected series after how much I loved this one! Even though I haven’t read the first book yet, receiving this ARC made me over the moon. The cover is just the most adorable, especially the little doggy on it — I couldn’t stop smiling at it.
The friends-to-rivals-to-fake-dating trope? Agh, gets me every time. The chemistry, the banter, and the way the characters rediscover each other in this cozy small-town setting had me swooning, laughing, and fully invested. Even though it’s technically the second book, it works beautifully as a standalone, so I never felt lost or like I was missing anything.
Even though I gave it five stars, I feel like — since I’ve been in an on-and-off reading slump for years now — I might have enjoyed it even more if I weren’t in one. I also would have appreciated more flashbacks to their childhood and high school rivalry days, which I think would have added an extra layer of fun and nostalgia to their dynamic. That said, this book definitely pulled me in, and now I can’t wait to read the first book and everything else this author has written. It’s cozy, flirty, heartfelt, and just utterly charming.
_______________
Childhood friends turned high school rivals fall into a small-town fake dating scheme!
You had me at childhood friends turned rivals in high school.
Ugh, I already know the pining and the tension is going to ruin me!!! 😩
5 Stars!
This was my first book by Jillian Meadows, and I am now definitely interested in reading the first book in this interconnected series after how much I loved this one! Even though I haven’t read the first book yet, receiving this ARC made me over the moon. The cover is just the most adorable, especially the little doggy on it — I couldn’t stop smiling at it.
The friends-to-rivals-to-fake-dating trope? Agh, gets me every time. The chemistry, the banter, and the way the characters rediscover each other in this cozy small-town setting had me swooning, laughing, and fully invested. Even though it’s technically the second book, it works beautifully as a standalone, so I never felt lost or like I was missing anything.
Even though I gave it five stars, I feel like — since I’ve been in an on-and-off reading slump for years now — I might have enjoyed it even more if I weren’t in one. I also would have appreciated more flashbacks to their childhood and high school rivalry days, which I think would have added an extra layer of fun and nostalgia to their dynamic. That said, this book definitely pulled me in, and now I can’t wait to read the first book and everything else this author has written. It’s cozy, flirty, heartfelt, and just utterly charming.
_______________
Childhood friends turned high school rivals fall into a small-town fake dating scheme!
You had me at childhood friends turned rivals in high school.
Ugh, I already know the pining and the tension is going to ruin me!!! 😩
December 8, 2025
Fable + Theo are absolute perfection together!
Jillian Meadows delivers every time! Her books are filled with so much heart, emotional depth for days, and hot as fuck spice!
No Place Like You might be my favorite from her yet!
Whats to love…
- Fake-dating
- Single timeline second chance romance
- a sexy contract
- animal companions!
- small-town
- family forward, but also found family
- former high school rivals
- he is actually obsessed with her
- FMC who’s still figuring it out
- tortured MMC who doesn’t “do” relationships (haha, yeah righhhhttt)
- Emotional depth for days!
- exploration of grief
- bookish book (her name is Fable!)
- heavier topics handled with care (loss of a grandparent from Alzheimer’s, past abuse)
🌶️- Open door, explicit in detail, sexy as hell. Ch: 14 (kinda), 25, 26, 28, 29, 32, +
| IG | TikTok |
Thank you Avon for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
Jillian Meadows delivers every time! Her books are filled with so much heart, emotional depth for days, and hot as fuck spice!
No Place Like You might be my favorite from her yet!
Whats to love…
- Fake-dating
- Single timeline second chance romance
- a sexy contract
- animal companions!
- small-town
- family forward, but also found family
- former high school rivals
- he is actually obsessed with her
- FMC who’s still figuring it out
- tortured MMC who doesn’t “do” relationships (haha, yeah righhhhttt)
- Emotional depth for days!
- exploration of grief
- bookish book (her name is Fable!)
- heavier topics handled with care (loss of a grandparent from Alzheimer’s, past abuse)
🌶️- Open door, explicit in detail, sexy as hell. Ch: 14 (kinda), 25, 26, 28, 29, 32, +
| IG | TikTok |
Thank you Avon for the gifted book. All opinions are my own.
February 11, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Avon Books, and the author for this advance copy. All opinions are my own.
This is going to be a long one, sorry! My first NetGalley ARC was a success!
I love the coziness paired with emotional depth that Jillian Meadows brings to her stories. I’ve read all 3 of them now and they make me smile, but also have moments where I’d be rubbing my chest to try and ease the ache that she created. I teared up multiple times through the reading of No Place Like You and the author does include a note at the start of the book, including some content notes, so please mind your own emotional health. For me, the topic of grief and how it was still being processed by Fable (h), hit very close to home.
Fable and Theo (H) have known each other since childhood, starting as friends and turning into high school rivals who pushed each other, as everyone around them witnessed. As adults, they’re aware of the other, but haven’t spent much time together in years, until Theo moves back to their small town and they find themselves in situations that are going painfully wrong. The solution is an arrangement of fake dating (for Theo) in exchange for renovation assistance (for Fable). However, these two have personal challenges they’re facing, as well as a wealth of history between them. Plus some major attraction and chemistry. All of which makes this scenario complex in a way that drives character growth and relationship development.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama (the H does get caveman over h when another man flirts with her and the h does have a couple of run-ins with her most recent situationship that are just vaguely uncomfortable since he’s so self-absorbed). Both are experienced, H hasn’t been with anyone in months and only had hook-ups. The h appeared to have a few relationships. There’s no long-term pining that happened, but plenty of current day yearning.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Childhood friends to rivals to antagonism to fake dating to lovers
☆ He’s a veterinarian, she’s still figuring things out
☆ Grief and trauma from the past that affect the present
☆ FMC is fixing up her grandfather’s A frame
☆ MMC is hoping to buy into the vet clinic he works at
☆ They forget how to function around each other
☆ They’re also safe with each other
☆ Caretaking MMC
☆ Fears and tears
☆ Flight or fight
☆ They encourage each other
☆ Slow burn with PAYOFF
☆ They both whimper
☆ Praise, good boy, dirty talk, spit on it, and more
☆ Co-coaching a youth sports team while decorated in unicorn
☆ Therapy rep
☆ Animal companions
☆ Positive and supportive friendships and family
☆ Small town
☆ Group chats, including a secret one
The author made a wonderful choice to stay in the present timeline. Since there’s an ocean’s worth of moments between the mains from childhood to now, recollections and reflections are tucked throughout the story. We get the memories and the emotional impact without dragging the reader back and forth through time jumps. The pace is slow, but steady, and character-focused. I think some readers may feel bogged down, but I found it easy to love the main characters so was engaged enough to not lose that thread in the slower sections.
Theo often comes across as dazzled by Fable. She’s equally distracted, but seemed to play it cooler at first. Possibly helped along by all the practice she had with the facade of holding other aspects of her life together. Fable is in a place of her life that I think many young adults struggle with. A feeling of failure’s bitten down in places and she’s had to lean on her support system when she’d rather feel more capable on her own. She’s messy and unsure what direction to go in, feeling as though she should already have this all figured out. This does cause her to frustratingly pull back from that very support system. I wanted to shake her several times, while also wanting to bring her in for a hug. This character element was very relatable. There’s one scene early on where the mess and the mess-ups crash down on her and it was just heart achingly real. I’ve actually had a crushing moment similar to Fable’s and for anyone else who’s been there, I think how the author wrote it will resonate deeply.
Theo’s personal struggles center more on trauma from his youth and how it’s still bleeding into the present. He doesn’t trust himself, when he’s truly become a great man, protective and kind. His pain over the past, his fears, and how to move forward leap off the page. Both main characters had times in their lives when they defaulted to either fight or flight and moments definitely felt visceral in places.
Some interactions between Theo and Fable are obvious or predictable. There’s also some repetition in their thought processes because of the history they have, as they move back into friendship under the fake dating guise. Thank goodness they don’t lie to their families about dating, it adds even more authenticity that they’re only trying to present a front to peripheral people. The “fake” relationship is simple but tension-filled. They’ve known each other so long and they’re both down bad for the other way earlier than they’re willing to admit. Theo’s dimples, Fable’s freckle, the banter between them - it was easy to smile like an idiot at the two (sometimes) idiots and want to go ahead and mash their faces together. But you’re going to have to wait this slow burn out, physical intimacy doesn’t kick in til after the halfway mark.
But once it hits, whew buddy. Jillian Meadows knows how to write some steaminess that also drags in the feels to keep it intimate across the board. There’s some reluctance at first to cross lines and some confusion over whether they’re both on board for a moment. But communication and magnetism win out (thank goodness). A couple of make-out sessions before they fully go all in, there are plenty of spicy scenes.
In addition to the relationship arc and the characters developing, there’s a lovely cast of small town residents and the family and friends who are 100% shipping these two. No family drama in that sense and Theo’s sister is actually Fable’s bestie, who loves them together. Plus, multiple animal companions who add joy to their scenes. Fable’s family are wonderful (one of her sisters had her story told in Give Me Butterflies and the cameos of that lil family made my heart happy). Theo’s sister, her fiancee, and his mom were also special. There is an adorable side romance that’s referenced between Fable’s boss and a coffee shop owner that I wish we saw more of on page.
Now, this story is cozy, but also poignant. The third act does feature some conflict that’s emotionally driven and reactionary. I don’t know that I would classify it as a third act break-up exactly, because they hadn’t defined themselves completely outside of the fake dating (which is very real fyi). Even though it does give both characters a push they badly needed, it broke my heart a little for the pain that was experienced. The resolution is sweet, a little easily obtained though. Then the author wraps up this romance with multiple tiny jump aheads into their future to show their HEA growing, which I adored. I’m so glad I continued the Oaks sister series and I’m very curious what comes next for this author.
This is going to be a long one, sorry! My first NetGalley ARC was a success!
I love the coziness paired with emotional depth that Jillian Meadows brings to her stories. I’ve read all 3 of them now and they make me smile, but also have moments where I’d be rubbing my chest to try and ease the ache that she created. I teared up multiple times through the reading of No Place Like You and the author does include a note at the start of the book, including some content notes, so please mind your own emotional health. For me, the topic of grief and how it was still being processed by Fable (h), hit very close to home.
Fable and Theo (H) have known each other since childhood, starting as friends and turning into high school rivals who pushed each other, as everyone around them witnessed. As adults, they’re aware of the other, but haven’t spent much time together in years, until Theo moves back to their small town and they find themselves in situations that are going painfully wrong. The solution is an arrangement of fake dating (for Theo) in exchange for renovation assistance (for Fable). However, these two have personal challenges they’re facing, as well as a wealth of history between them. Plus some major attraction and chemistry. All of which makes this scenario complex in a way that drives character growth and relationship development.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama (the H does get caveman over h when another man flirts with her and the h does have a couple of run-ins with her most recent situationship that are just vaguely uncomfortable since he’s so self-absorbed). Both are experienced, H hasn’t been with anyone in months and only had hook-ups. The h appeared to have a few relationships. There’s no long-term pining that happened, but plenty of current day yearning.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Childhood friends to rivals to antagonism to fake dating to lovers
☆ He’s a veterinarian, she’s still figuring things out
☆ Grief and trauma from the past that affect the present
☆ FMC is fixing up her grandfather’s A frame
☆ MMC is hoping to buy into the vet clinic he works at
☆ They forget how to function around each other
☆ They’re also safe with each other
☆ Caretaking MMC
☆ Fears and tears
☆ Flight or fight
☆ They encourage each other
☆ Slow burn with PAYOFF
☆ They both whimper
☆ Praise, good boy, dirty talk, spit on it, and more
☆ Co-coaching a youth sports team while decorated in unicorn
☆ Therapy rep
☆ Animal companions
☆ Positive and supportive friendships and family
☆ Small town
☆ Group chats, including a secret one
The author made a wonderful choice to stay in the present timeline. Since there’s an ocean’s worth of moments between the mains from childhood to now, recollections and reflections are tucked throughout the story. We get the memories and the emotional impact without dragging the reader back and forth through time jumps. The pace is slow, but steady, and character-focused. I think some readers may feel bogged down, but I found it easy to love the main characters so was engaged enough to not lose that thread in the slower sections.
Theo often comes across as dazzled by Fable. She’s equally distracted, but seemed to play it cooler at first. Possibly helped along by all the practice she had with the facade of holding other aspects of her life together. Fable is in a place of her life that I think many young adults struggle with. A feeling of failure’s bitten down in places and she’s had to lean on her support system when she’d rather feel more capable on her own. She’s messy and unsure what direction to go in, feeling as though she should already have this all figured out. This does cause her to frustratingly pull back from that very support system. I wanted to shake her several times, while also wanting to bring her in for a hug. This character element was very relatable. There’s one scene early on where the mess and the mess-ups crash down on her and it was just heart achingly real. I’ve actually had a crushing moment similar to Fable’s and for anyone else who’s been there, I think how the author wrote it will resonate deeply.
Theo’s personal struggles center more on trauma from his youth and how it’s still bleeding into the present. He doesn’t trust himself, when he’s truly become a great man, protective and kind. His pain over the past, his fears, and how to move forward leap off the page. Both main characters had times in their lives when they defaulted to either fight or flight and moments definitely felt visceral in places.
Some interactions between Theo and Fable are obvious or predictable. There’s also some repetition in their thought processes because of the history they have, as they move back into friendship under the fake dating guise. Thank goodness they don’t lie to their families about dating, it adds even more authenticity that they’re only trying to present a front to peripheral people. The “fake” relationship is simple but tension-filled. They’ve known each other so long and they’re both down bad for the other way earlier than they’re willing to admit. Theo’s dimples, Fable’s freckle, the banter between them - it was easy to smile like an idiot at the two (sometimes) idiots and want to go ahead and mash their faces together. But you’re going to have to wait this slow burn out, physical intimacy doesn’t kick in til after the halfway mark.
But once it hits, whew buddy. Jillian Meadows knows how to write some steaminess that also drags in the feels to keep it intimate across the board. There’s some reluctance at first to cross lines and some confusion over whether they’re both on board for a moment. But communication and magnetism win out (thank goodness). A couple of make-out sessions before they fully go all in, there are plenty of spicy scenes.
In addition to the relationship arc and the characters developing, there’s a lovely cast of small town residents and the family and friends who are 100% shipping these two. No family drama in that sense and Theo’s sister is actually Fable’s bestie, who loves them together. Plus, multiple animal companions who add joy to their scenes. Fable’s family are wonderful (one of her sisters had her story told in Give Me Butterflies and the cameos of that lil family made my heart happy). Theo’s sister, her fiancee, and his mom were also special. There is an adorable side romance that’s referenced between Fable’s boss and a coffee shop owner that I wish we saw more of on page.
Now, this story is cozy, but also poignant. The third act does feature some conflict that’s emotionally driven and reactionary. I don’t know that I would classify it as a third act break-up exactly, because they hadn’t defined themselves completely outside of the fake dating (which is very real fyi). Even though it does give both characters a push they badly needed, it broke my heart a little for the pain that was experienced. The resolution is sweet, a little easily obtained though. Then the author wraps up this romance with multiple tiny jump aheads into their future to show their HEA growing, which I adored. I’m so glad I continued the Oaks sister series and I’m very curious what comes next for this author.
January 25, 2026
any book with an a-frame is a winner to me!!
jillian meadows is such an underrated romance author right now and i won’t be having this. ever since i read give me butterflies, i knew that miss meadows was a small town romance author for me. her characters are so well written and i just love the softness of their love. it feels so wholesome, like a warm hug. she’s also writing just amazing men, like hello theo please come fix up my house and bring me to bookstores and buy me tacos and get me a dog… please!
fable is going through a lot in this book. she needs a life revamp because she’s just feeling lost and very sad because of the loss of her grandfather. her and theo strike up a fake dating deal, yay, that helps both of them career wise and home wise. the two also have a bit of a rocky past so there’s that to deal with. i loved the past element becuase i’m a second chance girlie for ever and ever but the slow burn of the fake dating plot had me swooning!!
while there were some things i wanted to be fleshed out a bit more, i. e. theo’s past and the reconciliation of the third act, i enjoyed this book overall. it does get annoying to constantly read romances that just send the characters to therapy in the end and call it a day so i appreciated how theo made plans with maddox to keep him on track. it made his going to therapy feel more real and less like a plot device. not sure how that fits into this section but apparently i wanted to mention it. we will obviously be getting a tessa story, i’m assuming but i have to be right, so i can’t wait to see what come of that!! honestly the perfect spring romance so be sure to pick this up in march!
*thank you avon and netgalley for the copy!*
jillian meadows is such an underrated romance author right now and i won’t be having this. ever since i read give me butterflies, i knew that miss meadows was a small town romance author for me. her characters are so well written and i just love the softness of their love. it feels so wholesome, like a warm hug. she’s also writing just amazing men, like hello theo please come fix up my house and bring me to bookstores and buy me tacos and get me a dog… please!
fable is going through a lot in this book. she needs a life revamp because she’s just feeling lost and very sad because of the loss of her grandfather. her and theo strike up a fake dating deal, yay, that helps both of them career wise and home wise. the two also have a bit of a rocky past so there’s that to deal with. i loved the past element becuase i’m a second chance girlie for ever and ever but the slow burn of the fake dating plot had me swooning!!
while there were some things i wanted to be fleshed out a bit more, i. e. theo’s past and the reconciliation of the third act, i enjoyed this book overall. it does get annoying to constantly read romances that just send the characters to therapy in the end and call it a day so i appreciated how theo made plans with maddox to keep him on track. it made his going to therapy feel more real and less like a plot device. not sure how that fits into this section but apparently i wanted to mention it. we will obviously be getting a tessa story, i’m assuming but i have to be right, so i can’t wait to see what come of that!! honestly the perfect spring romance so be sure to pick this up in march!
*thank you avon and netgalley for the copy!*
November 29, 2025
▹TL;DR Review: I really liked this one (even more than Give Me Butterflies). Theo’s depth as a character and the small-town charm of this book are what really did it for me. This is book 2 in the series, but could be read as a standalone.
▹My ⭐ Rating: ★★★.75 out of 5
▹Format: 📱 eReader
A gracious thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for an advanced e-copy of this book. These opinions are my own. Check this out when it hits shelves on March 10, 2026!
─────────────────────────
○★○ What to Expect from This Book: ○★○
– About: Fable returns to her small hometown of Fern River after a series of failures, back to her parents’ home and to her late grandfather’s crumbling A-frame. Her life feels stalled—until her childhood friend-turned-high-school-rival, Theo Nikolaou, reappears. When Theo proposes a mutually beneficial fake-dating scheme (he needs to prove his stability to keep a vet job, she needs help fixing up the house), Fable agrees—but as they pretend to be in love, real feelings begin to take over. What starts as a plan to save their futures slowly becomes something real.
– FMC: Fabel Oaks (aka “sweetheart”). 28-years-old. A little lost in life. Grieving her grandpa and the dream they had of opening a book store. Struggles with self-worth. Holding a grudge against Theo, despite her once having a crush on him when they were kids.
– MMC: Theo Nikolaou. 29-years-old. Veterinarian that is trying to prove his commitment and stability by planting roots in his home town. Does not want to be in a relationship (due to past trauma). In need of healing from past hurts. Hard on himself. Has had a crush on Fable since they were kids.
– Location: Washington state (fictional small town)
– POV: Dual first-person
– Spice: 5-6 open-door explicit spicy scenes
– Tropes: fake dating, childhood friends to rivals to lovers, small town, he’s a veterinarian AND volunteer fire fighter, healing arc, emotional growth, she’s a little mean to him and he loves it
– Content warning: grief (loss of grandparent to Alzheimer’s), abusive parent (off page), characters who feel like a “failure”
– Representation: tatted FMC, LGBTQ+ side characters
─────────────────────────
↻ ◁ || ▷ ↺ 1:00 ──ㅇ────── 4:12
Now Playing: Save Me by Aimee Mann
─────────────────────────
★○ If You Like the Following, You Might Like This Book ○★
➼ MMCs who grapple with the wake of an abusive father and try desperately to break that mold
➼ Books like Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams (but wish it were spicier), Secret Nights and Northern Lights by Megan Oliver, and More Than Words by Mia Sheridan
─────────────────────────
⍟»This or That«⍟
Character Driven———✧————————Plot Driven
Fast Burn———————✧————Slow Burn
Sweet——————✧——————Spicy
Light/Fluffy————✧———————Heavy/Emotional
─────────────────────────
🎯 My Thoughts:
Give me a character that is overcoming any abusive situation and I will fall in love with them. To me, it’s the perfect love story when both characters are hurting from something and they support each other through the healing (not trying to fix them, but just give them the room to heal). This book has a bit of that. And then add in the tension of childhood friends turned rivals? Chef’s kiss!
This also felt so different from book 1 (Give Me Butterflies), which actually worked really well for this series. That book was about two scientists, grumpyXsunshine, single parent. We get to see Millie and Finn (and the girls) briefly in this book, but it was just an echo, which allows this book and plot to sing beautifully on its own. You could easily read both books as a standalone (and honestly you could read them out of order if you wanted).
What worked for me:
Fable as a character was fun to read. A girl who is struggling with self-worth, who is currently down in the mud but trying to pick herself up (and who uses lingerie as a form of self-care) is a girl after my own heart. I also loved the banter and chemistry between Theo and Fable. And despite him “not wanting a real relationship”…he was down bad for her and I ate that up.
What didn’t quite work for me:
I fully respect and admire the author’s decision to leave the abusive parent nameless and voiceless. What I wish we had a little more of was even more depth to Theo’s inciting incident from the past that became the catalyst of him pulling away from Fable. I wished I was in that mind frame with him a little more to really feel his healing. I get why he pulled away, but I think there was a way to not go into detail about the abuse while also diving deeper into what caused him to spiral.
Would I Recommend?: Yes! I think I liked this even more than book 1, but it could be the tropes were more to my liking. The writing was fun, but knew how to transition between serious and flirty. It maybe isn’t the most unique fake-dating or friends to rivals to lovers out there, but it’s got a lot of heart and I’m sure will be relatable to many readers.
And I'm very excited for Tessa's book!
▹My ⭐ Rating: ★★★.75 out of 5
▹Format: 📱 eReader
A gracious thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for an advanced e-copy of this book. These opinions are my own. Check this out when it hits shelves on March 10, 2026!
─────────────────────────
○★○ What to Expect from This Book: ○★○
– About: Fable returns to her small hometown of Fern River after a series of failures, back to her parents’ home and to her late grandfather’s crumbling A-frame. Her life feels stalled—until her childhood friend-turned-high-school-rival, Theo Nikolaou, reappears. When Theo proposes a mutually beneficial fake-dating scheme (he needs to prove his stability to keep a vet job, she needs help fixing up the house), Fable agrees—but as they pretend to be in love, real feelings begin to take over. What starts as a plan to save their futures slowly becomes something real.
– FMC: Fabel Oaks (aka “sweetheart”). 28-years-old. A little lost in life. Grieving her grandpa and the dream they had of opening a book store. Struggles with self-worth. Holding a grudge against Theo, despite her once having a crush on him when they were kids.
– MMC: Theo Nikolaou. 29-years-old. Veterinarian that is trying to prove his commitment and stability by planting roots in his home town. Does not want to be in a relationship (due to past trauma). In need of healing from past hurts. Hard on himself. Has had a crush on Fable since they were kids.
– Location: Washington state (fictional small town)
– POV: Dual first-person
– Spice: 5-6 open-door explicit spicy scenes
– Tropes: fake dating, childhood friends to rivals to lovers, small town, he’s a veterinarian AND volunteer fire fighter, healing arc, emotional growth, she’s a little mean to him and he loves it
– Content warning: grief (loss of grandparent to Alzheimer’s), abusive parent (off page), characters who feel like a “failure”
– Representation: tatted FMC, LGBTQ+ side characters
─────────────────────────
↻ ◁ || ▷ ↺ 1:00 ──ㅇ────── 4:12
Now Playing: Save Me by Aimee Mann
╰┈➤ ❝But can you save me? Come on and save me…from the ranks of the freaks who suspect they could never love anyone…❞
─────────────────────────
★○ If You Like the Following, You Might Like This Book ○★
➼ MMCs who grapple with the wake of an abusive father and try desperately to break that mold
➼ Books like Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams (but wish it were spicier), Secret Nights and Northern Lights by Megan Oliver, and More Than Words by Mia Sheridan
─────────────────────────
⍟»This or That«⍟
Character Driven———✧————————Plot Driven
Fast Burn———————✧————Slow Burn
Sweet——————✧——————Spicy
Light/Fluffy————✧———————Heavy/Emotional
─────────────────────────
🎯 My Thoughts:
Give me a character that is overcoming any abusive situation and I will fall in love with them. To me, it’s the perfect love story when both characters are hurting from something and they support each other through the healing (not trying to fix them, but just give them the room to heal). This book has a bit of that. And then add in the tension of childhood friends turned rivals? Chef’s kiss!
This also felt so different from book 1 (Give Me Butterflies), which actually worked really well for this series. That book was about two scientists, grumpyXsunshine, single parent. We get to see Millie and Finn (and the girls) briefly in this book, but it was just an echo, which allows this book and plot to sing beautifully on its own. You could easily read both books as a standalone (and honestly you could read them out of order if you wanted).
What worked for me:
Fable as a character was fun to read. A girl who is struggling with self-worth, who is currently down in the mud but trying to pick herself up (and who uses lingerie as a form of self-care) is a girl after my own heart. I also loved the banter and chemistry between Theo and Fable. And despite him “not wanting a real relationship”…he was down bad for her and I ate that up.
What didn’t quite work for me:
I fully respect and admire the author’s decision to leave the abusive parent nameless and voiceless. What I wish we had a little more of was even more depth to Theo’s inciting incident from the past that became the catalyst of him pulling away from Fable. I wished I was in that mind frame with him a little more to really feel his healing. I get why he pulled away, but I think there was a way to not go into detail about the abuse while also diving deeper into what caused him to spiral.
Would I Recommend?: Yes! I think I liked this even more than book 1, but it could be the tropes were more to my liking. The writing was fun, but knew how to transition between serious and flirty. It maybe isn’t the most unique fake-dating or friends to rivals to lovers out there, but it’s got a lot of heart and I’m sure will be relatable to many readers.
And I'm very excited for Tessa's book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was so cute! There is just something about the way that Jillian Meadows writes a small town romance that has me falling in love with the characters she creates and so invested in their story to find love. In this one, Fable is struggling with what to do with her life as she's on yet another job, which Theo works at the vet office in town and really wants to buy the practice and finally set down roots in the small town. No one believes he's staying for good, though, so a misunderstanding leads to Fable and Theo agreeing to fake date, even though they haven't gotten along since high school. There were so much emotional depth with these two characters and what they were going through, and I loved how they were able to open up to one another as they were fake dating, which caused them to reopen old wounds with one another and realize how much they missed each other and need each other. Their journey was so sweet and I definitely recommend grabbing this one when it releases!!
December 1, 2025
i’m in SHAMBLES OVER MY LOVE FOR THEM
January 17, 2026
Give Me Butterflies was my first five-star read of 2025. I loved Fable and Theo’s characters in the first book, and I was excited to see that they would get their own story. Jillian Meadows did not disappoint with No Place Like You and it quickly made my first five-star read of 2026. I loved this book more than the first, if that is even possible. Fable and Theo are the perfect couple, and they were hilarious as they figured out how to transition from rivals/friends to fake dating. I loved how Theo was always there to support Fable’s dream of owning a bookstore. This book had the perfect balance of romance and spice, and I cannot wait to see what Jillian Meadows comes up with next.
I highly recommend this book if you are a fan of:
*Fake Dating
*Friends to Lovers
*Small Town Romance
*Adorable Animals
No Place Like You releases on March 10th.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the opportunity to review No Place Like You. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I highly recommend this book if you are a fan of:
*Fake Dating
*Friends to Lovers
*Small Town Romance
*Adorable Animals
No Place Like You releases on March 10th.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the opportunity to review No Place Like You. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Avon for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I JUST finished this book and I already want to read it all over again (and I DEFINITELY will once I get my hands on the audiobook 😍).
I loved absolutely EVERYTHING about this, it was perfect ♾️ all the stars
no notes 11/10 def recommend
No Place Like You had me swooning,
laughing out loud, sobbing - all of the feels 🥹
I absolutely adored both Fable & Theo SO MUCH 🥰
Fable is a little lost, grieving her Gramps & trying to figure out her path.
Theo knows what he wants in his career & life, but doesn’t think he a real relationship, thanks to trauma from his past & abusive father.
The time they spend together leads them both to see how much more they deserve in life, & how they can be there for each other in it all.
I love how often they’re in their own little bubble, and the rest of the world ceases to exist 🥹
and THEIR BANTER my goodness, I was definitely laughing out loud often, between my tears.
“I dream about that freckle.” 🫠🫠
moments from my notes:
• PROTECT THIS MAN AT ALL COSTS
• the lobster 🦞 beanie baby I’m ☠️
• I WANNA HUG THEO
• that drive in movie scene 😮💨
• I love how much he loves when she’s mean to him 😅
• Theo & Fable’s dad 😭😭
Give Me Butterflies (book 1) is a fav read of mine, and I had HIGH expectations going into this - they were all met AND exceeded 💫
✦ tropes & stuff:
💫 childhood friends to rivals to lovers
🥸 fake dating
💙 best friend’s brother
🩺 veterinarian mmc (& volunteer firefighter 🔥)
📚 booklover fmc figuring out her path
💔 grief rep
🛠 home renovations
❤️🩹 caretaking
🫶🏼 family + found family
🌳 small town
💞 dual 1st person pov
ebook | ⭐️: ♾ | 🌶️: open door, a few scenes |
📖 No Place Like You by Jillian Meadows
📚 book 2 • Oak Sisters series
💜: contemporary romance (mf)
*Connect with Me*
🤍 Instagram 🤍 Blog 🤍
I JUST finished this book and I already want to read it all over again (and I DEFINITELY will once I get my hands on the audiobook 😍).
I loved absolutely EVERYTHING about this, it was perfect ♾️ all the stars
no notes 11/10 def recommend
No Place Like You had me swooning,
laughing out loud, sobbing - all of the feels 🥹
I absolutely adored both Fable & Theo SO MUCH 🥰
Fable is a little lost, grieving her Gramps & trying to figure out her path.
Theo knows what he wants in his career & life, but doesn’t think he a real relationship, thanks to trauma from his past & abusive father.
The time they spend together leads them both to see how much more they deserve in life, & how they can be there for each other in it all.
I love how often they’re in their own little bubble, and the rest of the world ceases to exist 🥹
and THEIR BANTER my goodness, I was definitely laughing out loud often, between my tears.
“I dream about that freckle.” 🫠🫠
moments from my notes:
• PROTECT THIS MAN AT ALL COSTS
• the lobster 🦞 beanie baby I’m ☠️
• I WANNA HUG THEO
• that drive in movie scene 😮💨
• I love how much he loves when she’s mean to him 😅
• Theo & Fable’s dad 😭😭
Give Me Butterflies (book 1) is a fav read of mine, and I had HIGH expectations going into this - they were all met AND exceeded 💫
✦ tropes & stuff:
💫 childhood friends to rivals to lovers
🥸 fake dating
💙 best friend’s brother
🩺 veterinarian mmc (& volunteer firefighter 🔥)
📚 booklover fmc figuring out her path
💔 grief rep
🛠 home renovations
❤️🩹 caretaking
🫶🏼 family + found family
🌳 small town
💞 dual 1st person pov
ebook | ⭐️: ♾ | 🌶️: open door, a few scenes |
📖 No Place Like You by Jillian Meadows
📚 book 2 • Oak Sisters series
💜: contemporary romance (mf)
*Connect with Me*
🤍 Instagram 🤍 Blog 🤍
November 27, 2025
This book is quite literally “Mary’s Song” by Taylor Swift.
Theo was such a complex character that I found myself falling head over heels for him. His trauma was heartbreaking and added an emotional feel to this read without feeling too heavy.
I loved seeing Fable find her footing in life and stand her ground. Her struggles were so raw and relatable I found myself admiring how strong of a woman she was to keep trying again after so many failures. It gave me hope for myself. The words of wisdom in here really kept me going. I think I needed to hear those words more than anything, and now I’ll be living by them indefinitely.
I enjoyed Fable and Theo together SO MUCH. Not only are they freaking hilarious with their banter, but the way Theo loved Fable wholly and loudly is the cutest thing! I ate it UP. There’s just something about a hero that loves to annoy their girl and a spitfire heroine with insanely funny comebacks. I may have a few complaints about them here and there, but I enjoyed the couple as a whole, so don’t let my picky self deter you. Them coaching girls soccer together was downright the cutest thing! There’s nothing better than a man that’s good with kids after all.
The main thing that sucked about this read is that when Fable and Theo started to be more open with their feelings, it became so cringe. I definitely liked the two together more at the beginning—they were just super cringe worthy in the end. Still a cute and humorous pair that I’ll definitely be editing in the future though! Also, to Theo… you have my heart. I miss you already.
I love that animals are such a huge part of this book. They truly are the best companions, and I loved to see that shown in this story. Might’ve been my favorite part!
Sadly, as much as I USUALLY love the nosey townsfolk/people trying to push the MCs together trope, this one didn’t deliver the usual humor that would accompany it. It was just overall way too corny for my taste. A little annoying too.
Something I just absolutely HATE is when characters make a big deal of absolutely NOTHING. What Theo did at the parade was an accident, and for that to cause a feud was ridiculous. Totally unnecessary. As much as I enjoyed the banter that rivals to lovers come with, I can’t lie and say it was understandable. It wasn’t. Wayyyy too exaggerated.
Now I’m not saying I didn’t like this read—I know I had a lot of complaints, but I still enjoyed it. It had redeemable qualities. I wasn’t obsessed with this, but I would still recommend it to anyone looking for a cheesy little romcom that gets you believing in love again.
𓃦 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀
Childhood friends to rivals to lovers
Second chance (in a way?)
Nosey townsfolk
HE fell first
Small town
BANTER
Grief rep
Found family
Fake dating
3.1 ★
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙪𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙉𝙚𝙩𝙂𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙍𝘾!
Theo was such a complex character that I found myself falling head over heels for him. His trauma was heartbreaking and added an emotional feel to this read without feeling too heavy.
I loved seeing Fable find her footing in life and stand her ground. Her struggles were so raw and relatable I found myself admiring how strong of a woman she was to keep trying again after so many failures. It gave me hope for myself. The words of wisdom in here really kept me going. I think I needed to hear those words more than anything, and now I’ll be living by them indefinitely.
I enjoyed Fable and Theo together SO MUCH. Not only are they freaking hilarious with their banter, but the way Theo loved Fable wholly and loudly is the cutest thing! I ate it UP. There’s just something about a hero that loves to annoy their girl and a spitfire heroine with insanely funny comebacks. I may have a few complaints about them here and there, but I enjoyed the couple as a whole, so don’t let my picky self deter you. Them coaching girls soccer together was downright the cutest thing! There’s nothing better than a man that’s good with kids after all.
The main thing that sucked about this read is that when Fable and Theo started to be more open with their feelings, it became so cringe. I definitely liked the two together more at the beginning—they were just super cringe worthy in the end. Still a cute and humorous pair that I’ll definitely be editing in the future though! Also, to Theo… you have my heart. I miss you already.
I love that animals are such a huge part of this book. They truly are the best companions, and I loved to see that shown in this story. Might’ve been my favorite part!
Sadly, as much as I USUALLY love the nosey townsfolk/people trying to push the MCs together trope, this one didn’t deliver the usual humor that would accompany it. It was just overall way too corny for my taste. A little annoying too.
Something I just absolutely HATE is when characters make a big deal of absolutely NOTHING. What Theo did at the parade was an accident, and for that to cause a feud was ridiculous. Totally unnecessary. As much as I enjoyed the banter that rivals to lovers come with, I can’t lie and say it was understandable. It wasn’t. Wayyyy too exaggerated.
Now I’m not saying I didn’t like this read—I know I had a lot of complaints, but I still enjoyed it. It had redeemable qualities. I wasn’t obsessed with this, but I would still recommend it to anyone looking for a cheesy little romcom that gets you believing in love again.
𓃦 𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀
Childhood friends to rivals to lovers
Second chance (in a way?)
Nosey townsfolk
HE fell first
Small town
BANTER
Grief rep
Found family
Fake dating
3.1 ★
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙪𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙉𝙚𝙩𝙂𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙍𝘾!
remind-me-once-out
July 30, 2025I'm going to need an arc of this, Miss J. (I'm manifesting).
January 21, 2026
okkkk i LOVEDDD IT!!! yall know i LOVE childhood friends to lovers but this one put a little spin on it, childhood friends to RIVALS to eventual lovers 😭 (and he’s had a crush on her forever??? hello even better???) THE TENSION was something else in this book & i ate it upppppp. it has my more of my favorite tropes: fake dating (hehe) & THE NICKNAME SWEETHEART!!!!
the mmc in this is such a breath of fresh air: basically a golden retriever in man form (and he’s even a vet hehe) and i would love to take a bite outta him (iykyk)
i also LOVED the fmc in this book, i relate a lot to her, feeling like im just floating through life & don’t really know who i am (ok depressing) anyway the banter in this book really did it for me, i love when they argue but without any heat heheheh. yall please read this when it releases, you won’t regret it ☺️
thank you to the publisher for providing this book for review via netgalley. all opinions are my own <3
the mmc in this is such a breath of fresh air: basically a golden retriever in man form (and he’s even a vet hehe) and i would love to take a bite outta him (iykyk)
i also LOVED the fmc in this book, i relate a lot to her, feeling like im just floating through life & don’t really know who i am (ok depressing) anyway the banter in this book really did it for me, i love when they argue but without any heat heheheh. yall please read this when it releases, you won’t regret it ☺️
thank you to the publisher for providing this book for review via netgalley. all opinions are my own <3
December 31, 2025
4.5 stars!!! Thank you to Avon & Netgalley for the ARC!
Give Me Butterflies was such a highlight read for me this year, so of course I was excited to read No Place Like You! Fable and Theo's story did not disappoint whatsoever. Childhood friends who turn highschool rivals who, many years later, find themselves in a bit of a fake dating situation in their small town? Yeah, I'm there in a heartbeat!
Fable is a headstrong female lead with a lovely sense of humor, strong sense of loyalty, & a beautiful depth. Her struggles with feeling like she can't find her way or succeed, and her struggles with her grief made me want to give her the biggest hug. Theo is a sweet, determined, and gentle male lead with charming wit & a heartbreaking depth. His backstory & all that he has gone through, the fears and insecurities, broke my heart & made me want to protect him from all things evil. Both of their character growth throughout the story is beautiful to see!!! I love them both so much!
Theo & Fable's love story is a joy to watch unfold. Fable who is determined to keep him at arms length, even though she is also helpless against his charm. Theo, who is determined to be in her orbit & basically is obsessed with her (in a good way). The dynamic between these two is filled with undeniable tension, chemistry, banter & so much care. The spice!!!! My god. I believe this was marketed with Theo having biteable forearms? Can confirm! They each offer a safe place to land & I loved seeing their relationship grow!! They are so lovely to me!!!
Highly recommend adding this one to your tbr!!!
Give Me Butterflies was such a highlight read for me this year, so of course I was excited to read No Place Like You! Fable and Theo's story did not disappoint whatsoever. Childhood friends who turn highschool rivals who, many years later, find themselves in a bit of a fake dating situation in their small town? Yeah, I'm there in a heartbeat!
Fable is a headstrong female lead with a lovely sense of humor, strong sense of loyalty, & a beautiful depth. Her struggles with feeling like she can't find her way or succeed, and her struggles with her grief made me want to give her the biggest hug. Theo is a sweet, determined, and gentle male lead with charming wit & a heartbreaking depth. His backstory & all that he has gone through, the fears and insecurities, broke my heart & made me want to protect him from all things evil. Both of their character growth throughout the story is beautiful to see!!! I love them both so much!
Theo & Fable's love story is a joy to watch unfold. Fable who is determined to keep him at arms length, even though she is also helpless against his charm. Theo, who is determined to be in her orbit & basically is obsessed with her (in a good way). The dynamic between these two is filled with undeniable tension, chemistry, banter & so much care. The spice!!!! My god. I believe this was marketed with Theo having biteable forearms? Can confirm! They each offer a safe place to land & I loved seeing their relationship grow!! They are so lovely to me!!!
Highly recommend adding this one to your tbr!!!
November 10, 2025
Thank you Netgalley for the arc of this book -- I love a good fake dating trope and the characters had realistic problems and the pacing of the book was perfect . This was a cute feel good book and definitley will be reading more from this author.
synopsis: Childhood friends turned high school rivals fall into a small-town fake dating scheme in this sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible romance from the author of Give Me Butterflies.
Fable Oaks never planned to return to Fern River. But after a string of failures, here she is, living in her parents’ backyard, watching her beloved late grandfather’s A-frame crumble around her. She can't seem to find her direction, and to make matters worse, Theo Nikolaou, her ex-best friend, has also resurfaced, distracting dimples and charming grin in tow.
Theo knew it was only a matter of time before he came back. The demons of his past once drove him to leave, but Fern River always seemed meant to be. So, when Theo’s boss, Arthur, announces he is selling his veterinary practice, it feels like the perfect opportunity. He just needs to show Arthur he’s sticking around for good. And when Fable—Fable, with her smart mouth and sexy curls—quite literally falls into Theo's lap, an idea forms.
If they can convince the town that they're madly in love, it could solve all their problems. Theo can prove to Arthur he's settling down, and Fable can get some much-needed help fixing up the A-frame, a task she is determined to see through.
The only problem is, the more time they spend together, the blurrier the line gets between fake dating and falling hard.
She’s lost her way. He’s finding his path. Together, they might discover there's no place like home.
Genres
synopsis: Childhood friends turned high school rivals fall into a small-town fake dating scheme in this sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible romance from the author of Give Me Butterflies.
Fable Oaks never planned to return to Fern River. But after a string of failures, here she is, living in her parents’ backyard, watching her beloved late grandfather’s A-frame crumble around her. She can't seem to find her direction, and to make matters worse, Theo Nikolaou, her ex-best friend, has also resurfaced, distracting dimples and charming grin in tow.
Theo knew it was only a matter of time before he came back. The demons of his past once drove him to leave, but Fern River always seemed meant to be. So, when Theo’s boss, Arthur, announces he is selling his veterinary practice, it feels like the perfect opportunity. He just needs to show Arthur he’s sticking around for good. And when Fable—Fable, with her smart mouth and sexy curls—quite literally falls into Theo's lap, an idea forms.
If they can convince the town that they're madly in love, it could solve all their problems. Theo can prove to Arthur he's settling down, and Fable can get some much-needed help fixing up the A-frame, a task she is determined to see through.
The only problem is, the more time they spend together, the blurrier the line gets between fake dating and falling hard.
She’s lost her way. He’s finding his path. Together, they might discover there's no place like home.
Genres
December 29, 2025
4 ⭐️ Thank you NetGalley and Harper Voyager for this eARC!
This was adorable! So far, I read two of Jillian’s books before this and those were both so good and this one did not disappoint 🥹 I’m always a sucker for a small town romance and Jillian’s writing was great!! Also, who doesn’t love a MMC who loves animals and pulls off lumberjack vibes?
First off, I loved Fable our FMC. Her struggles are so real. I do wish we got to see her accomplish her dream throughout the book rather than just at the end. I would’ve liked more build up to it than just the very very end of the book. I loved her personality though and her relationship with her family (especially her sisters). I loved Theo as well! He was so misunderstood and was obviously down bad for Fable pretty much the entire book 😭. I wish we got to see more of him at the vet office though!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I will never turn down a fake dating scenario especially when they are rivals. I definitely recommend !!!!!
This was adorable! So far, I read two of Jillian’s books before this and those were both so good and this one did not disappoint 🥹 I’m always a sucker for a small town romance and Jillian’s writing was great!! Also, who doesn’t love a MMC who loves animals and pulls off lumberjack vibes?
First off, I loved Fable our FMC. Her struggles are so real. I do wish we got to see her accomplish her dream throughout the book rather than just at the end. I would’ve liked more build up to it than just the very very end of the book. I loved her personality though and her relationship with her family (especially her sisters). I loved Theo as well! He was so misunderstood and was obviously down bad for Fable pretty much the entire book 😭. I wish we got to see more of him at the vet office though!
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I will never turn down a fake dating scenario especially when they are rivals. I definitely recommend !!!!!
November 27, 2025
This was such a cute read!!! As my first Jillian Meadows book i'm definitely interested in reading more of her books!
No Place Like You is a charming, small-town romance that delivers exactly what it promises: sweetness, spice, and a whole lot of heart. Fable and Theo’s dynamic, childhood friends turned rivals forced into a fake dating scheme, makes for an irresistible blend of tension, banter, and slow burn chemistry. Their history adds emotional depth, and watching those old wounds shift into something tender is incredibly satisfying.
Loved the cozy small town feel to the book!
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author and publisher!
No Place Like You is a charming, small-town romance that delivers exactly what it promises: sweetness, spice, and a whole lot of heart. Fable and Theo’s dynamic, childhood friends turned rivals forced into a fake dating scheme, makes for an irresistible blend of tension, banter, and slow burn chemistry. Their history adds emotional depth, and watching those old wounds shift into something tender is incredibly satisfying.
Loved the cozy small town feel to the book!
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the author and publisher!
December 24, 2025
This was very cute. The story itself was a little bit of a slow burn but it made for a really down bad mmc. He had it so bad for fable and didn’t even realize it but I loved how descriptive Jillian meadows was about the realization.
You could really feel what he was going through and I loved all of his sweet gestures.
Overall this series has been very entertaining and I’d love to read some more of it! Keep it coming!
You could really feel what he was going through and I loved all of his sweet gestures.
Overall this series has been very entertaining and I’d love to read some more of it! Keep it coming!
December 15, 2025
This is my first ARC EVER, so thank you so much Harper Collins and Avon Books for the opportunity to read this masterpiece in advance of its release date. Now onto Fable and Theo — I absolutely LOVE them. Their history, their chemistry, the small town setting — all of it captured me right from the beginning. The yearning and the pining and all of the sweet moments in between. It was such a spectacular read and I can’t wait for Tessa’s story to come out so I can be back in the world of Fern River again!
Want to read
October 4, 2025Still can’t resist a gorgeous cover 🌸🤭
December 28, 2025
No Place Like You by Jillian Meadows 🏡🐾🌷
Jillian’s books never fail to make me feel like I just received a warm hug. The way she writes her characters and her stories are so special. This one especially is special to me with how much both the main characters are animal people. It made me love Fable and Theo even more than I already did.
Fable and Theo’s childhood friendship started with Theo passing Fable a note that said “Do you want to be my best friend? Check yes or no.” They were inseparable ever since until one incident beginning of high school that turned them into rivals, and after high school to strangers. Living in the same town made seeing each other unavoidable, but Fable held her grudge keeping her distance from Theo. That’s until a photo that sure makes it look like they’re dating gets spread around town. After much reluctance from Fable she agrees to fake date Theo so he can help prove he is settling down and a good option to co-own the vet he works at while Fable gets help renovating her late grandfathers A-frame she inherited. Of course, lines quickly blur between them and the fake dating soon doesn’t feel all that fake.
Theo was the cutest golden retriever of a man that was so down bad for Fable. I loved him so much. He’s also a vet who adores animals and has the absolute biggest heart. Fable knew she wasn’t going to stand a chance at resisting him. I also adored Fable. I completely understand what she was going through feeling like things continuously never went right for her in life yet being too stubbornly independent to ask for and accept help.
The romantic progression between Fable and Theo was so well done. While we don’t see it, we know that they have history growing up and going to school together. The fake dating gave them the push they needed.
Really there were so many small things and moments about this book that I loved and you need to experience for yourself when you read it.
🏡 small town
🦮 golden retriever mmc
🤭 fake dating
🤍 childhood friends to rivals to strangers to lovers
🩺 he’s a veterinarian
🐾 includes a bunch of animals
dual POV
5/5 stars ⭐️
2/5 spice level 🌶️
Jillian’s books never fail to make me feel like I just received a warm hug. The way she writes her characters and her stories are so special. This one especially is special to me with how much both the main characters are animal people. It made me love Fable and Theo even more than I already did.
Fable and Theo’s childhood friendship started with Theo passing Fable a note that said “Do you want to be my best friend? Check yes or no.” They were inseparable ever since until one incident beginning of high school that turned them into rivals, and after high school to strangers. Living in the same town made seeing each other unavoidable, but Fable held her grudge keeping her distance from Theo. That’s until a photo that sure makes it look like they’re dating gets spread around town. After much reluctance from Fable she agrees to fake date Theo so he can help prove he is settling down and a good option to co-own the vet he works at while Fable gets help renovating her late grandfathers A-frame she inherited. Of course, lines quickly blur between them and the fake dating soon doesn’t feel all that fake.
Theo was the cutest golden retriever of a man that was so down bad for Fable. I loved him so much. He’s also a vet who adores animals and has the absolute biggest heart. Fable knew she wasn’t going to stand a chance at resisting him. I also adored Fable. I completely understand what she was going through feeling like things continuously never went right for her in life yet being too stubbornly independent to ask for and accept help.
The romantic progression between Fable and Theo was so well done. While we don’t see it, we know that they have history growing up and going to school together. The fake dating gave them the push they needed.
Really there were so many small things and moments about this book that I loved and you need to experience for yourself when you read it.
🏡 small town
🦮 golden retriever mmc
🤭 fake dating
🤍 childhood friends to rivals to strangers to lovers
🩺 he’s a veterinarian
🐾 includes a bunch of animals
dual POV
5/5 stars ⭐️
2/5 spice level 🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
sat with this more and upgraded to a 5⭐️
Arc read! Thank you Netgalley🤍
This was just a sweet wholesome romance and literally everything I needed! Childhood friends to rivals/enemies to fake dating (only for one person🤣 everyone else knew it was fake which was funny) to friends with benefits to lovers! I love the progression of the book, it felt so real, the tension and banter was great and I just loved this story so much! If you want a sweet romance with not much tension and just a feel good love story this is for YOU!! It was just written so well, hooked me in and I didn’t want to put the book down! Both the main characters had their own personal struggles and there was a plot outside the romance which I really loved!! I just really LOVE her writing style 🩷
Arc read! Thank you Netgalley🤍
This was just a sweet wholesome romance and literally everything I needed! Childhood friends to rivals/enemies to fake dating (only for one person🤣 everyone else knew it was fake which was funny) to friends with benefits to lovers! I love the progression of the book, it felt so real, the tension and banter was great and I just loved this story so much! If you want a sweet romance with not much tension and just a feel good love story this is for YOU!! It was just written so well, hooked me in and I didn’t want to put the book down! Both the main characters had their own personal struggles and there was a plot outside the romance which I really loved!! I just really LOVE her writing style 🩷
November 23, 2025
~Thank you so much to Netgalley for the arc of this book!~
This is the first book I've read by this author and I cannot wait to read more! I couldn't put this down! The banter between Fable and Theo was so flirty and playful. I found myself rooting for these two characters the whole time. I loved that they each had their own struggles to overcome and we really got to know each character through their own pov. The pacing was just right. Fable was very relatable!
Two hs rivals team up to fake date and feelings start to come to the surface where it can't be denied anymore! Fable is trying to figure out her place in the world and Theo pushes her to become the best version of herself. She in return helps Theo overcome his struggles from the past.
This was emotional and sweet in the best way! I found myself tearing up and laughing throughout their journey. I will definitely be purchasing this book when it comes out!
This is the first book I've read by this author and I cannot wait to read more! I couldn't put this down! The banter between Fable and Theo was so flirty and playful. I found myself rooting for these two characters the whole time. I loved that they each had their own struggles to overcome and we really got to know each character through their own pov. The pacing was just right. Fable was very relatable!
Two hs rivals team up to fake date and feelings start to come to the surface where it can't be denied anymore! Fable is trying to figure out her place in the world and Theo pushes her to become the best version of herself. She in return helps Theo overcome his struggles from the past.
This was emotional and sweet in the best way! I found myself tearing up and laughing throughout their journey. I will definitely be purchasing this book when it comes out!
February 9, 2026
No Place Like You
Jillian Meadows
♾️⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC Review: Publishing April 2026
I have been very patiently waiting for this book for 2 years. And it was worth every single moment. Jillian put her heart and soul into this book and you know it immediately. You know it in the author's note honestly, which is when I started crying. And I wish I was exaggerating when I say I cried throughout the entirety of this book.
This book destroyed me. I was an emotional wreck for 400 pages. I cried tears of sadness, grief, joy... Y'all I cried during the first kiss. I was GOING THROUGH IT. Fable and Theo have my whole heart. They have so much grief in their hearts, and this book really shows that grief means different things to different people, and everyone's journey to overcome it or to live with it, is different.
I loved their love story. Childhood friends to lovers is always going to get me. The history and the way the characters know each other so well is delicious. Fable and Theo had such fun banter and it was backed by how well they knew each other, making for absolutely delicious tension.
Y'all. THE TENSION. This slow burn was going to KILL me. But omg, when that tension finally snaps 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵. Obsessed.
Jillian Meadows
♾️⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC Review: Publishing April 2026
I have been very patiently waiting for this book for 2 years. And it was worth every single moment. Jillian put her heart and soul into this book and you know it immediately. You know it in the author's note honestly, which is when I started crying. And I wish I was exaggerating when I say I cried throughout the entirety of this book.
This book destroyed me. I was an emotional wreck for 400 pages. I cried tears of sadness, grief, joy... Y'all I cried during the first kiss. I was GOING THROUGH IT. Fable and Theo have my whole heart. They have so much grief in their hearts, and this book really shows that grief means different things to different people, and everyone's journey to overcome it or to live with it, is different.
I loved their love story. Childhood friends to lovers is always going to get me. The history and the way the characters know each other so well is delicious. Fable and Theo had such fun banter and it was backed by how well they knew each other, making for absolutely delicious tension.
Y'all. THE TENSION. This slow burn was going to KILL me. But omg, when that tension finally snaps 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵. Obsessed.
September 24, 2025
This one snuck up on me. How could I not love a FMC who loves reading and playing soccer and opens up her own bookstore????
November 16, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon for the eARC!
What a perfect second Oaks Sisters book! Jillian Meadows became an auto buy author for me after I read Give Me Butterflies and this story just proves that decision!
This story follows Theo and Fable as they fake date to hopefully allow Theo to buy the vet practice he works at. Fable meanwhile has agreed with the stipulation Theo helps her fix up her A frame home. These two were best friends when they were younger, but had a falling out. The story explores this and their adult relationship and it was wonderful.
I loved that, while this is the second in a series, it can truly be read as a complete standalone. (Though Millie and Finn do make appearances!) I also loved Theo and Fable’s romance and how it stemmed from friendship, but also Theo being so far gone for her from the very beginning. If you’re looking for a sweet romance (with some spice) this is the one!
5 ⭐️ must read!
What a perfect second Oaks Sisters book! Jillian Meadows became an auto buy author for me after I read Give Me Butterflies and this story just proves that decision!
This story follows Theo and Fable as they fake date to hopefully allow Theo to buy the vet practice he works at. Fable meanwhile has agreed with the stipulation Theo helps her fix up her A frame home. These two were best friends when they were younger, but had a falling out. The story explores this and their adult relationship and it was wonderful.
I loved that, while this is the second in a series, it can truly be read as a complete standalone. (Though Millie and Finn do make appearances!) I also loved Theo and Fable’s romance and how it stemmed from friendship, but also Theo being so far gone for her from the very beginning. If you’re looking for a sweet romance (with some spice) this is the one!
5 ⭐️ must read!
December 22, 2025
thank you netgalley & harper collins for the arc!
this was a six star read for me. i loved every second of this book, every tiny detail. i don’t reread books but i think i might have to reread this one. i will be buying the physical copy of this as well.
i loved fable’s character. i loved that she failed, and failed and failed again. i thought it made her feel that much more real.
i absolutely adored theo. everything about him. the way his trauma shaped him into the person he became, the fact that he had insecurities and fears, the way he cared so deeply about the ones he loved. his character was written so, so beautifully.
the plot of this book was perfect. it explores grief, trauma, insecurity and doubt, love, friendship and family. i laughed, i kicked my feet, i cried. i highly, highly recommend this one. it was fantastic. six stars. please read it as soon as you’re able to.
i was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review, all opinions are my own.
this was a six star read for me. i loved every second of this book, every tiny detail. i don’t reread books but i think i might have to reread this one. i will be buying the physical copy of this as well.
i loved fable’s character. i loved that she failed, and failed and failed again. i thought it made her feel that much more real.
i absolutely adored theo. everything about him. the way his trauma shaped him into the person he became, the fact that he had insecurities and fears, the way he cared so deeply about the ones he loved. his character was written so, so beautifully.
the plot of this book was perfect. it explores grief, trauma, insecurity and doubt, love, friendship and family. i laughed, i kicked my feet, i cried. i highly, highly recommend this one. it was fantastic. six stars. please read it as soon as you’re able to.
i was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review, all opinions are my own.
November 23, 2025
High school rivals and former childhood friends find themselves entangled in a fake dating scheme in their small town. Fable never considered returning to Fern River to live with her parents, but memories of her beloved grandfather, the ruined photos from the flood, and the book she cherished so much have resurfaced, reigniting her dream of building a bookshop. Despite self-doubt, Theo's encouragement reminds her that she can make this dream a reality.
Theo journey comes to end when his boss Arthur announces that he is selling his veterinary practice it felt like the proper opportunity to show he is in sticky around for good.
I love books that talk about books and honestly this book does not disappoint very nostalgic heart warming it’s been so long since I actually enjoyed reading this books and Jillian did such an amazing job with this novel and I hope to read more of her work in the future.
Theo journey comes to end when his boss Arthur announces that he is selling his veterinary practice it felt like the proper opportunity to show he is in sticky around for good.
I love books that talk about books and honestly this book does not disappoint very nostalgic heart warming it’s been so long since I actually enjoyed reading this books and Jillian did such an amazing job with this novel and I hope to read more of her work in the future.
November 5, 2025
Thank you so much to Avon for this ARC! I have been absolutely desperate to have another Jillian Meadows book!
Theo and Fable were childhood best friends turned rivals. Now, Fable is trying to fix up her grandpa’s A frame. Theo is back in town working as a veterinarian with hopes of buying the practice.
When a photo of Fable and Theo causes the town to believe they’re dating, they use it to their advantage. Neither are looking for a relationship, but their fake relationship starts feeling real. They’re both dealing with some heavy traumas that threaten their happiness.
As always, this was so cute with some spiceeee!
Theo and Fable were childhood best friends turned rivals. Now, Fable is trying to fix up her grandpa’s A frame. Theo is back in town working as a veterinarian with hopes of buying the practice.
When a photo of Fable and Theo causes the town to believe they’re dating, they use it to their advantage. Neither are looking for a relationship, but their fake relationship starts feeling real. They’re both dealing with some heavy traumas that threaten their happiness.
As always, this was so cute with some spiceeee!
November 6, 2025
This small town romance did not disappoint!! Our main character Fable is figuring herself out and what she wants to do with her life. In the short term she gets wrapped up with her hs rival back in the day, and they start fake dating. This book had minimal spice which was nice as someone who doesn’t care too much for it. This storyline felt quite realistic and had great pacing. I didn’t feel snubbed from any plot points, or stuck on one for too long. This book was so cutesy, and I love a good hgtv moment in a book. If you liked The Christmas Fix by Lucy Score this one has similar vibes. Highly recommend this book when it comes out next year!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 362 reviews