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The Time of Her Life
The end is just the beginning.
Julie Branch is a loser. No job, no friends, no future, dumped by her girlfriend and living in a laundry closet, she’s finally given up on her dreams of making it big, and she’s ready to give up and leave New York.
And rock bottom is where she meets a sketchy life coach called Kingmaker in a sketchy pizza parlor, and she agrees to use her limited time left here to give it one more shot. After all, it’s not like her life can get worse, right?
Until he tricks her into taking on unmanageable debt, a false identity with a fictional husband, lying her way into two separate careers she isn’t qualified for, and falling for a woman well out of her league.
Helena Warrick is tired of her carefully managed life. Model, actress, and daughter of an international luxury brand magnate, all she really wants is to build her own life in the startup scene.
It was supposed to just be one founders’ party, experiencing that life. But with the mysterious woman she met there who she should not be flirting with, evasive about her past and about her husband, maybe there’s no turning back.
The Time of Her Life is a 90,000-word mistaken-identity romance with more bad choices, bad ideas and bad luck than you’d think you could fit into a book. Features the most untrustworthy life coach you could imagine, the most fish-out-of-water girl trying to fake it till she makes it you could imagine, and the most needlessly forbidden "forbidden attraction" you could imagine. Content warnings for a homophobic mother, references to domestic violence (that’s never actually happening), poverty and debt and financial stress, and a girl who makes every bad choice available and finds an extra bonus bad choice nobody knew about and manages to make that one too.
Julie Branch is a loser. No job, no friends, no future, dumped by her girlfriend and living in a laundry closet, she’s finally given up on her dreams of making it big, and she’s ready to give up and leave New York.
And rock bottom is where she meets a sketchy life coach called Kingmaker in a sketchy pizza parlor, and she agrees to use her limited time left here to give it one more shot. After all, it’s not like her life can get worse, right?
Until he tricks her into taking on unmanageable debt, a false identity with a fictional husband, lying her way into two separate careers she isn’t qualified for, and falling for a woman well out of her league.
Helena Warrick is tired of her carefully managed life. Model, actress, and daughter of an international luxury brand magnate, all she really wants is to build her own life in the startup scene.
It was supposed to just be one founders’ party, experiencing that life. But with the mysterious woman she met there who she should not be flirting with, evasive about her past and about her husband, maybe there’s no turning back.
The Time of Her Life is a 90,000-word mistaken-identity romance with more bad choices, bad ideas and bad luck than you’d think you could fit into a book. Features the most untrustworthy life coach you could imagine, the most fish-out-of-water girl trying to fake it till she makes it you could imagine, and the most needlessly forbidden "forbidden attraction" you could imagine. Content warnings for a homophobic mother, references to domestic violence (that’s never actually happening), poverty and debt and financial stress, and a girl who makes every bad choice available and finds an extra bonus bad choice nobody knew about and manages to make that one too.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 19, 2026
About the author
Lily Seabrooke
38 books356 followersLily Seabrooke is a lesbian, trans woman, and author of sapphic romance, originally from the US and living in Portugal.
She's often been described as "sunshine" and "uses too many sparkly heart emojis and never shuts up," two descriptions she will not argue with.
She's often been described as "sunshine" and "uses too many sparkly heart emojis and never shuts up," two descriptions she will not argue with.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 20, 2026
What a rollercoaster ride! This author knows how to deliver just what you need in a book! I know I will fall in love with each character in some way (if not every way ;)).
Julie is the kind of character you want to root for and shake at the same time. She is a hoot! I enjoyed her dry humor and her journey to succeed even as she lies and schemes to try to move toward the future she’s always wanted. Her arc is tremendous from rock bottom to rebuilding herself. Perfectly done.
Helena is kind and on her own journey to strike out on her own. Her every move is planned to help her father’s business. She has her own desires and plans.
Their romance is well done a wonderfully paced. Their connection overall is warm, tender and steamy and built with emotional depth and resilience.
Highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Julie is the kind of character you want to root for and shake at the same time. She is a hoot! I enjoyed her dry humor and her journey to succeed even as she lies and schemes to try to move toward the future she’s always wanted. Her arc is tremendous from rock bottom to rebuilding herself. Perfectly done.
Helena is kind and on her own journey to strike out on her own. Her every move is planned to help her father’s business. She has her own desires and plans.
Their romance is well done a wonderfully paced. Their connection overall is warm, tender and steamy and built with emotional depth and resilience.
Highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2026
Review of advanced copy
This is the third book I‘ve read by this author and I think it’s my favourite so far. At the beginning, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the main character, on the first few pages she is insufferably pessimistic (kind of understandable in her position, but could have been a bit less often mentioned, how shitty her life is).
However, Julie really grew on me as she starts to be more confident, selfloving and successful. I liked the romance, but to be honest I was more invested in the development of her career and Kingmaker’s involvement in the whole thing.
Overall, a solid read!
This is the third book I‘ve read by this author and I think it’s my favourite so far. At the beginning, I wasn’t the biggest fan of the main character, on the first few pages she is insufferably pessimistic (kind of understandable in her position, but could have been a bit less often mentioned, how shitty her life is).
However, Julie really grew on me as she starts to be more confident, selfloving and successful. I liked the romance, but to be honest I was more invested in the development of her career and Kingmaker’s involvement in the whole thing.
Overall, a solid read!
Review of advance copy
Julie Branch Presides Over a Court of Foolishness from a Throne of Lies
Guin dumped me over the phone…”Julie, you’re just kind of a loser.” Well, there was no coming back from that. (Chapter 1)
Well, you can’t blame a girl for trying though, right? Life is the ultimate blood sport (no one escapes alive) and sometimes, when you want to win in the WORST way, you will.
The Time Of Her Life, Lily Seabrooke’s latest novel, drew me in right from the first sentence. I felt an immediate need to follow Julie’s journey and root for her (often sad and misguided) attempts to better her lot in life.
I usually prefer kind, nurturing characters such as Lydia Howard Fox in Crescendo or Brooklyn Sterling in A Quick Stop in Paradise. A scrappy underdog can steal my heart as well, however, even if Julie comes off more like a junkyard dog in the beginning.
Julie is funny, in a gallows humor sort of way:
I took some dark comfort in the knowledge that my combined organ value on the black market would make me the most valuable I’d ever been. (Chapter 1)
With really nothing left to lose, and trapped by circumstance (and Kingmaker), Julie plunges into a scheme to obtain her life goals. (“Counting my stacks drinking champagne in the back of a limousine with my hot girlfriend.”) She also really wants to avoid having to flee New York City with her tail between her legs and return to her mom’s house (in the “sad little suburban hole of Benley, Missouri”).
Lily Seabrooke explored the trials and tribulations of a lesbian adult content creator in Christmas Toys. The Time Of Her Life highlights another facet of America’s economic underbelly; the emergence of grind culture and hustle culture. Facing an economic reality in which there are far too few “real” (career track) jobs available, young people are encouraged to “hustle” for the best opportunities, grinding away from gig to gig, trying to make a living.
With little in the way of job security, a shredded social safety net, and a broken healthcare system, is it any wonder that many workers currently feel like the deck is always stacked against them. Younger workers have a very different perception of company loyalty and the role of honesty in business than previous generations. Considering that people in the highest reaches of government and business now routinely cheat and steal without compunction, why would low-wage workers feel any shame in bending and twisting the truth as well. After all, the accepted business models these days seem to be “fake it ‘til ya make it” and “move fast and break things” which hardly engender trust and loyalty in the general population.
Perhaps THIS book should have been titled Burned From Both Ends (or Burning the Midnight Oil), because Julie never stops, never rests, barely ever sleeps, constantly grinding away to keep her hustle moving forward. Exhaustion eventually leads to a moped accident. When Julie shows up to an event with blood in her hair, Helena Warrick (the hot model Julie wants in the back of her limousine drinking champagne) rightfully freaks out, leading them both deeper into Julie’s web of deception. Because Helena doesn’t really KNOW Julie Branch, small-town loser and small-time hustler. Helena thinks Julie is actually Cassandra Evans-Pierre, a successful (and married) businesswoman.
Meanwhile, Helena has a problem of her own. Helena’s problem is of a more traditional nature. She feels trapped in the career and lifestyle her father has built for her, and is looking for a way to explore other options more in line with her own interests. In Chapter 13, Helena’s best friend Estelle commiserates with her: “You like feeling like you’re moving forward, and you want to make progress towards something beyond just your father’s work.”
Unfortunately, Julie/Cassandra has become a big part of Helena’s plan to move forward, and Julie’s plan is all based on a house of cards and a throne of lies. Krysten Adesina, Cassandra Evans-Pierre’s actual business partner, confronts Julie in Chapter 6. “You preside over a court of foolishness from your throne of lies.” Krysten then adds in, however, “You are perhaps a combination of brave and stupid that will work well” before offering Julie a chance to work with her company (unpaid and unofficial, of course).
Writing a comprehensive review without revealing essential portions of the plot is a tricky business. As I move closer to the end of The Time Of Her Life, I will shut off the spigot. The important thing to know is that this book is not just a simple Sapphic romance (Lily Seabrooke’s novels rarely are), but an exploration of larger themes through the lens of romance: honesty, trust, and how “making it” in our contemporary hustle culture is at odds with making real connections meant to last a lifetime. (Not to worry, however. The Time Of Her Life is, of course, a Lily Seabrooke Sapphic romance. It is well written, funny, cringe, swoony, spicy and all those other things you have come to expect from his talented author.)
Think. Feel. Enjoy. And don’t forget to pause and laugh at yourself a little as you hustle through your life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Guin dumped me over the phone…”Julie, you’re just kind of a loser.” Well, there was no coming back from that. (Chapter 1)
Well, you can’t blame a girl for trying though, right? Life is the ultimate blood sport (no one escapes alive) and sometimes, when you want to win in the WORST way, you will.
The Time Of Her Life, Lily Seabrooke’s latest novel, drew me in right from the first sentence. I felt an immediate need to follow Julie’s journey and root for her (often sad and misguided) attempts to better her lot in life.
I usually prefer kind, nurturing characters such as Lydia Howard Fox in Crescendo or Brooklyn Sterling in A Quick Stop in Paradise. A scrappy underdog can steal my heart as well, however, even if Julie comes off more like a junkyard dog in the beginning.
Julie is funny, in a gallows humor sort of way:
I took some dark comfort in the knowledge that my combined organ value on the black market would make me the most valuable I’d ever been. (Chapter 1)
With really nothing left to lose, and trapped by circumstance (and Kingmaker), Julie plunges into a scheme to obtain her life goals. (“Counting my stacks drinking champagne in the back of a limousine with my hot girlfriend.”) She also really wants to avoid having to flee New York City with her tail between her legs and return to her mom’s house (in the “sad little suburban hole of Benley, Missouri”).
Lily Seabrooke explored the trials and tribulations of a lesbian adult content creator in Christmas Toys. The Time Of Her Life highlights another facet of America’s economic underbelly; the emergence of grind culture and hustle culture. Facing an economic reality in which there are far too few “real” (career track) jobs available, young people are encouraged to “hustle” for the best opportunities, grinding away from gig to gig, trying to make a living.
With little in the way of job security, a shredded social safety net, and a broken healthcare system, is it any wonder that many workers currently feel like the deck is always stacked against them. Younger workers have a very different perception of company loyalty and the role of honesty in business than previous generations. Considering that people in the highest reaches of government and business now routinely cheat and steal without compunction, why would low-wage workers feel any shame in bending and twisting the truth as well. After all, the accepted business models these days seem to be “fake it ‘til ya make it” and “move fast and break things” which hardly engender trust and loyalty in the general population.
Perhaps THIS book should have been titled Burned From Both Ends (or Burning the Midnight Oil), because Julie never stops, never rests, barely ever sleeps, constantly grinding away to keep her hustle moving forward. Exhaustion eventually leads to a moped accident. When Julie shows up to an event with blood in her hair, Helena Warrick (the hot model Julie wants in the back of her limousine drinking champagne) rightfully freaks out, leading them both deeper into Julie’s web of deception. Because Helena doesn’t really KNOW Julie Branch, small-town loser and small-time hustler. Helena thinks Julie is actually Cassandra Evans-Pierre, a successful (and married) businesswoman.
Meanwhile, Helena has a problem of her own. Helena’s problem is of a more traditional nature. She feels trapped in the career and lifestyle her father has built for her, and is looking for a way to explore other options more in line with her own interests. In Chapter 13, Helena’s best friend Estelle commiserates with her: “You like feeling like you’re moving forward, and you want to make progress towards something beyond just your father’s work.”
Unfortunately, Julie/Cassandra has become a big part of Helena’s plan to move forward, and Julie’s plan is all based on a house of cards and a throne of lies. Krysten Adesina, Cassandra Evans-Pierre’s actual business partner, confronts Julie in Chapter 6. “You preside over a court of foolishness from your throne of lies.” Krysten then adds in, however, “You are perhaps a combination of brave and stupid that will work well” before offering Julie a chance to work with her company (unpaid and unofficial, of course).
Writing a comprehensive review without revealing essential portions of the plot is a tricky business. As I move closer to the end of The Time Of Her Life, I will shut off the spigot. The important thing to know is that this book is not just a simple Sapphic romance (Lily Seabrooke’s novels rarely are), but an exploration of larger themes through the lens of romance: honesty, trust, and how “making it” in our contemporary hustle culture is at odds with making real connections meant to last a lifetime. (Not to worry, however. The Time Of Her Life is, of course, a Lily Seabrooke Sapphic romance. It is well written, funny, cringe, swoony, spicy and all those other things you have come to expect from his talented author.)
Think. Feel. Enjoy. And don’t forget to pause and laugh at yourself a little as you hustle through your life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 9, 2026
THIS!
OMG. I did NOT expect the story to turn up this way...at all! Well, blame my preconceived notion when I saw the cover of the book!! I assumed it'd be something "glittery" like Fitzgerald's classic, "The Great Gatsby." NOPE! Never judge a book by its cover! Touché! Lesson learned! In a very good way, I must add. Lily Seabrooke's "The Time of Her Life" turns out to be WAY more fun, hilarious, and thoroughly enjoyable story that reads like a visual comedy that you find yourself feeling like you're "watching" one ridiculously hilarious scenario after another like you would on TV or in the cinema!
Firstly, the comedy!! Guffaw!! Seabrooke has the urban comedy style down cold, what with nailing all the cultural lexicons, social perspectives, the real-life hustle like the back of her head with such raw delivery of the universal themes of urban humour that it felt personal when I was reading it. It's like I could literally "hear" Seabrooke's voice in Julie Branch! Heck, I wouldn't be surprised if her MC's life story was inspired by her own real-life experiences. Not that I know her in person at all. I'm just intuiting, just a feeling...
Anyway, I digress...
Kingmaker. Oh, how I absolutely adore the character! I mean, he's infuriating, yes, but, completely and utterly adorable in his own madhatter way! Reminds me of "Coming to America," for some reason!! Haha! You'll know what I mean when you read the book...maybe! To me, Kingmaker's a standout character who "stole the show," so to speak! He sounded fantastical on the surface, yet, on a deeper level, his character also felt sort of taken from a real-life person (or persons), too...at least the mannerisms (lexicon) and attitude/behaviour? Again, MY own warped opinion only!
I love the way Seabrooke wrote the story's entire situation. Julie's situation, to be precise. The fast-paced hustle, the social observations, focusing on financial survival, neighbourhood politics, relationships, overcoming systemic struggles with facetious humour, the LOL-lexicons, and at the heart of the story - the social/financial/class clash between the 2 MCs - was so precise, distinct, and familiar, that it gave Julie's "time of her life" a sense of authenticity despite all the mad, LOL, impossible situations but with a personal touch. Which, imho, made this story such a fascinating and fun read, not to mention, a completely bonkers roller-coaster ride from start to finish!
And, get ready for Seabrooke's hyper, fast-paced talking, adrenaline-filled narrative style because it's like watching a high-octane comedy the likes of Eddie Murphy's which will leave you panting for breath! Yep! To me, I'd say “The Time of Her Life” is like the comedian's iconic "Trading Places" and "Coming to America" combined with a side of "Crazy Rich Asians" to create this thoroughly fun and hilarious comedy/romcom with a BIG heart!
**Disclaimer - all these movie references are just from my own POV.
And I just found out that my fave AB performer, Allie Shae, will be embodying Julie Branch, Helena Warrick, Kingmaker (omg! lol!), and the rest of Seabrooke’s ragtag crew!! I KNOW they're going to elevate Seabrooke's already brilliant story to another level of absolute hilarity and fun adventure! Can't wait! The AB is available to pre-order on Audible now! It’s releasing on Mar 27, 2027!
But for now, I HIGHLY recommend you pick up this book and READ IT immediately!!!
"The Time of Her Life is now my FAVE Lily Seabrooke story yet!! One of my top 10 in 2026, for sure! Congrats and well done, Lily Seabrooke!
OMG. I did NOT expect the story to turn up this way...at all! Well, blame my preconceived notion when I saw the cover of the book!! I assumed it'd be something "glittery" like Fitzgerald's classic, "The Great Gatsby." NOPE! Never judge a book by its cover! Touché! Lesson learned! In a very good way, I must add. Lily Seabrooke's "The Time of Her Life" turns out to be WAY more fun, hilarious, and thoroughly enjoyable story that reads like a visual comedy that you find yourself feeling like you're "watching" one ridiculously hilarious scenario after another like you would on TV or in the cinema!
Firstly, the comedy!! Guffaw!! Seabrooke has the urban comedy style down cold, what with nailing all the cultural lexicons, social perspectives, the real-life hustle like the back of her head with such raw delivery of the universal themes of urban humour that it felt personal when I was reading it. It's like I could literally "hear" Seabrooke's voice in Julie Branch! Heck, I wouldn't be surprised if her MC's life story was inspired by her own real-life experiences. Not that I know her in person at all. I'm just intuiting, just a feeling...
Anyway, I digress...
Kingmaker. Oh, how I absolutely adore the character! I mean, he's infuriating, yes, but, completely and utterly adorable in his own madhatter way! Reminds me of "Coming to America," for some reason!! Haha! You'll know what I mean when you read the book...maybe! To me, Kingmaker's a standout character who "stole the show," so to speak! He sounded fantastical on the surface, yet, on a deeper level, his character also felt sort of taken from a real-life person (or persons), too...at least the mannerisms (lexicon) and attitude/behaviour? Again, MY own warped opinion only!
I love the way Seabrooke wrote the story's entire situation. Julie's situation, to be precise. The fast-paced hustle, the social observations, focusing on financial survival, neighbourhood politics, relationships, overcoming systemic struggles with facetious humour, the LOL-lexicons, and at the heart of the story - the social/financial/class clash between the 2 MCs - was so precise, distinct, and familiar, that it gave Julie's "time of her life" a sense of authenticity despite all the mad, LOL, impossible situations but with a personal touch. Which, imho, made this story such a fascinating and fun read, not to mention, a completely bonkers roller-coaster ride from start to finish!
And, get ready for Seabrooke's hyper, fast-paced talking, adrenaline-filled narrative style because it's like watching a high-octane comedy the likes of Eddie Murphy's which will leave you panting for breath! Yep! To me, I'd say “The Time of Her Life” is like the comedian's iconic "Trading Places" and "Coming to America" combined with a side of "Crazy Rich Asians" to create this thoroughly fun and hilarious comedy/romcom with a BIG heart!
**Disclaimer - all these movie references are just from my own POV.
And I just found out that my fave AB performer, Allie Shae, will be embodying Julie Branch, Helena Warrick, Kingmaker (omg! lol!), and the rest of Seabrooke’s ragtag crew!! I KNOW they're going to elevate Seabrooke's already brilliant story to another level of absolute hilarity and fun adventure! Can't wait! The AB is available to pre-order on Audible now! It’s releasing on Mar 27, 2027!
But for now, I HIGHLY recommend you pick up this book and READ IT immediately!!!
"The Time of Her Life is now my FAVE Lily Seabrooke story yet!! One of my top 10 in 2026, for sure! Congrats and well done, Lily Seabrooke!
July 19, 2026
I was intrigued by the blurb for this book and being a fan of the author I definitely wanted to give it a read. Though it’s taken me entirely too long to finish, it wasn’t from a lack of interest, just too much of my time being consumed by adulting (boo). This story about Julie and Helena had me constantly laughing and shaking my head at the ridiculous scenarios that Julie managed to get herself into after one small lie turned into a series of ever increasing lies, though not any that were intended to cause harm.
The chemistry between the 2 main characters is evident right from the moment they meet. Even though you know Julie will eventually be found out, you still root for her to get the girl. When her lies inevitably catch up with her, it felt authentic to me how Helena reacted.
I enjoyed Helena as well, especially how she’s defined to some extent as a “hot model”, but there is so much more to her than that simple description. I really enjoyed her journey to find herself, and that there was depth to both her and Julie that was uncovered along the way. Turns out she and Julie were on very similar journeys, they just didn’t realize it.
The supporting characters are great, especially Stephen Shale and Linyue, though Kingmaker probably takes the cake. I definitely envisioned a movie while reading this story and how much fun it would be to bring these characters to life.
For those who enjoy some spice in their sapphic romance, you won’t be disappointed, especially if you enjoy hot scenes that sometimes result in awkward/funny moments. I won’t say too much more but a certain solo shower scene absolutely had me chuckling afterward.
All this to say that if you like witty banter and a cast of interesting characters, with a sprinkling of spice here and there, then be sure to check out The Time of Her Life by Lily Seabrooke.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The chemistry between the 2 main characters is evident right from the moment they meet. Even though you know Julie will eventually be found out, you still root for her to get the girl. When her lies inevitably catch up with her, it felt authentic to me how Helena reacted.
I enjoyed Helena as well, especially how she’s defined to some extent as a “hot model”, but there is so much more to her than that simple description. I really enjoyed her journey to find herself, and that there was depth to both her and Julie that was uncovered along the way. Turns out she and Julie were on very similar journeys, they just didn’t realize it.
The supporting characters are great, especially Stephen Shale and Linyue, though Kingmaker probably takes the cake. I definitely envisioned a movie while reading this story and how much fun it would be to bring these characters to life.
For those who enjoy some spice in their sapphic romance, you won’t be disappointed, especially if you enjoy hot scenes that sometimes result in awkward/funny moments. I won’t say too much more but a certain solo shower scene absolutely had me chuckling afterward.
All this to say that if you like witty banter and a cast of interesting characters, with a sprinkling of spice here and there, then be sure to check out The Time of Her Life by Lily Seabrooke.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 7, 2026
Julie, Chaos, and a Cast Full of Charm - NO SPOILERS
I’ve been a fan of this author ever since reading The Other Side of Paradise and A Quick Stop in Paradise, so I was excited to pick this one up—and it didn’t disappoint.
What really made this book work for me was Julie. At the start, she’s at absolute rock bottom: no confidence, no direction, and seemingly no future. Watching her gradually rebuild herself, take risks, and discover what she’s capable of was incredibly satisfying. Her character growth felt earned rather than rushed, which made me root for her from beginning to end.
Julie also has a wonderfully dry, self-deprecating sense of humour that made her instantly likeable. She’s the kind of character who can make you laugh without trying to be funny, and some of the book’s best moments came from her observations and reactions to the increasingly ridiculous situations she found herself in.
Another highlight was the supporting cast. Too often in romance novels, side characters can feel flat or exist solely to move the plot forward, but that definitely wasn’t the case here. The secondary characters were memorable, funny, and full of personality. They reminded me of the great supporting casts from classic rom-com films, where the friends and side characters are just as important to the humour and charm as the main couple.
The romance itself was engaging, but for me, the biggest strengths were the character work and the humour. The combination of Julie’s personal journey, the witty dialogue, and the vibrant supporting cast made this a genuinely enjoyable read.
If you enjoy sapphic romances with a lovable disaster protagonist, strong character development, and side characters who are actually entertaining, I’d definitely recommend this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve been a fan of this author ever since reading The Other Side of Paradise and A Quick Stop in Paradise, so I was excited to pick this one up—and it didn’t disappoint.
What really made this book work for me was Julie. At the start, she’s at absolute rock bottom: no confidence, no direction, and seemingly no future. Watching her gradually rebuild herself, take risks, and discover what she’s capable of was incredibly satisfying. Her character growth felt earned rather than rushed, which made me root for her from beginning to end.
Julie also has a wonderfully dry, self-deprecating sense of humour that made her instantly likeable. She’s the kind of character who can make you laugh without trying to be funny, and some of the book’s best moments came from her observations and reactions to the increasingly ridiculous situations she found herself in.
Another highlight was the supporting cast. Too often in romance novels, side characters can feel flat or exist solely to move the plot forward, but that definitely wasn’t the case here. The secondary characters were memorable, funny, and full of personality. They reminded me of the great supporting casts from classic rom-com films, where the friends and side characters are just as important to the humour and charm as the main couple.
The romance itself was engaging, but for me, the biggest strengths were the character work and the humour. The combination of Julie’s personal journey, the witty dialogue, and the vibrant supporting cast made this a genuinely enjoyable read.
If you enjoy sapphic romances with a lovable disaster protagonist, strong character development, and side characters who are actually entertaining, I’d definitely recommend this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2026
In The Time of Her Life, Julie is having a hard time in NYC. She has no prospects. She’s living in a laundry closet. And she is thinking of possibly moving back home, where her mother doesn’t seem to be able to understand that she is a lesbian, despite Julie telling her several times. At the end of her rope, Julie ends up consulting with a life coach who calls himself Kingmaker. He almost immediately puts her in debt and pushes her to crash a party she isn’t invited to, using the name of a guest who isn’t supposed to be there.
There she meets model Helena, but because of meeting people who the real guest knows, she ends up having to continue to use the name…and the story that she is married. Despite that she and Helena almost immediately begin to flirt.
Both Helena and Julie are interesting and likable characters The story of their relationship is engaging, and some of the novel is as intriguing as any Lily Seabrooke novel.
The reason I can’t give this a very high rating is because of two characters: Kingmaker, who is annoying on a level of Cousin Oliver or Poochie from the Simpsons. The only purpose he serves is getting Julie started on her journey of comedy of errors, which I have to believe could have been accomplished some other way, or at least he could have gotten her started and then, like, just disappeared from the book. And Linyue, who works with Helena’s father and basically oversees Helena’s entire working life. It’s hard to look at the way Linyue interacts with Helena as anything more than emotional abuse. The fact that it is and that it never really gets resolved or named makes the novel harder to enjoy. And, like with Kingmaker, it seems the novel could have existed quite well without her.
I would rate this 2.5 stars and will bump it up to 3.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There she meets model Helena, but because of meeting people who the real guest knows, she ends up having to continue to use the name…and the story that she is married. Despite that she and Helena almost immediately begin to flirt.
Both Helena and Julie are interesting and likable characters The story of their relationship is engaging, and some of the novel is as intriguing as any Lily Seabrooke novel.
The reason I can’t give this a very high rating is because of two characters: Kingmaker, who is annoying on a level of Cousin Oliver or Poochie from the Simpsons. The only purpose he serves is getting Julie started on her journey of comedy of errors, which I have to believe could have been accomplished some other way, or at least he could have gotten her started and then, like, just disappeared from the book. And Linyue, who works with Helena’s father and basically oversees Helena’s entire working life. It’s hard to look at the way Linyue interacts with Helena as anything more than emotional abuse. The fact that it is and that it never really gets resolved or named makes the novel harder to enjoy. And, like with Kingmaker, it seems the novel could have existed quite well without her.
I would rate this 2.5 stars and will bump it up to 3.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2026
Lily Seabrooke has much to celebrate with the launch of The Time of Her Life, which I found to be entertaining, uplifting, humorous, compassionate, and containing a cast of memorable characters.
Seabrooke tells the story of Julie Branch, an impoverished loser trying to succeed in NYC with no real skills or marketable experience. She’s just been dumped by her girlfriend, is trying to survive on delivery gigs, while illegally subletting a laundry closet that she shares with Harold, a mouse.
She’s ready to toss in the towel and crawl back home to Missouri when she sees a damp poster on a light pole promoting guaranteed life coaching services by the self-described Kingmaker.
Wrongly figuring she’s got little to lose, Julie makes an appointment to meet with Kingmaker, who holds court in the back corner of a bedraggled pizza parlor.
To my amusement and appreciation, I found that Julie’s first impression of her new life coach typifies Seabrooke’s entire book: “I wouldn’t have trusted this man to housesit for an empty lot,” she muses.
Kingmaker counsels Julie that becoming a king depends on making contacts, so he assigns her to pretend to be Mrs. Cassandra Evans-Pierre and crash an invitation-only tony tech business launch party.
Miraculously, at the party, Julie meets Helena Warrick, an affluent model, actress, and brand builder who finds “Cassandra” to be charming, and who stars alongside Julie in this sapphic Cinderella-like story.
For a great escape, add Seabrooke’s clever and often quirky latest release — The Time of Her Life — to your TBR collection.
Seabrooke tells the story of Julie Branch, an impoverished loser trying to succeed in NYC with no real skills or marketable experience. She’s just been dumped by her girlfriend, is trying to survive on delivery gigs, while illegally subletting a laundry closet that she shares with Harold, a mouse.
She’s ready to toss in the towel and crawl back home to Missouri when she sees a damp poster on a light pole promoting guaranteed life coaching services by the self-described Kingmaker.
Wrongly figuring she’s got little to lose, Julie makes an appointment to meet with Kingmaker, who holds court in the back corner of a bedraggled pizza parlor.
To my amusement and appreciation, I found that Julie’s first impression of her new life coach typifies Seabrooke’s entire book: “I wouldn’t have trusted this man to housesit for an empty lot,” she muses.
Kingmaker counsels Julie that becoming a king depends on making contacts, so he assigns her to pretend to be Mrs. Cassandra Evans-Pierre and crash an invitation-only tony tech business launch party.
Miraculously, at the party, Julie meets Helena Warrick, an affluent model, actress, and brand builder who finds “Cassandra” to be charming, and who stars alongside Julie in this sapphic Cinderella-like story.
For a great escape, add Seabrooke’s clever and often quirky latest release — The Time of Her Life — to your TBR collection.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I certainly had the time of my life reading this book and I am sure most will too. -𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝗻𝗼 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘀
Julie Branch and Helena Warrick come into each other's lives through the circumstances of a clown show and I was hooked through out all of it.
Julie Branch is in a tough tough spot, broke and more or less destitute she has no where else to go but her mother back in Missouri, leaving behind her dreams of making it big in the big apple. Dreams that have laughed in her face throughout her stay in New York and have remained dreams for the longest time.
Out of options and clearly not in her right state of mind she goes to see the Kingmaker, a white man in braids, a durag and a gold jumpsuit. Kingmaker is a character, but even through his nonsense there is a person in his unreliable promises and confusion between the makings of a King vs a Queen. Julie is now in trouble, this sleazy white man has now put her in debt. She HAS to be a King now and what unfolds is a story of romance, comedy and a lesson on perseverance and being truthful.
The writing of this book made it difficult to tear my eyes away. The prose perfectly aids the tone of the book, there is not a chapter (except the sad ones) that you wouldn't be smiling at. Either due to the cute flirting of Julie and Helena or Julie's lies and circumstances.
I do believe this is more than a book worth reading and you will most certainly have the time of your life.
Julie Branch and Helena Warrick come into each other's lives through the circumstances of a clown show and I was hooked through out all of it.
Julie Branch is in a tough tough spot, broke and more or less destitute she has no where else to go but her mother back in Missouri, leaving behind her dreams of making it big in the big apple. Dreams that have laughed in her face throughout her stay in New York and have remained dreams for the longest time.
Out of options and clearly not in her right state of mind she goes to see the Kingmaker, a white man in braids, a durag and a gold jumpsuit. Kingmaker is a character, but even through his nonsense there is a person in his unreliable promises and confusion between the makings of a King vs a Queen. Julie is now in trouble, this sleazy white man has now put her in debt. She HAS to be a King now and what unfolds is a story of romance, comedy and a lesson on perseverance and being truthful.
The writing of this book made it difficult to tear my eyes away. The prose perfectly aids the tone of the book, there is not a chapter (except the sad ones) that you wouldn't be smiling at. Either due to the cute flirting of Julie and Helena or Julie's lies and circumstances.
I do believe this is more than a book worth reading and you will most certainly have the time of your life.
Want to Read
June 17, 2026A Heartfelt Journey of Healing, Love, and Second Chances
The Time of Her Life by Lily Seabrooke is a heartfelt, beautifully crafted story that blends romance, self-discovery, and emotional growth into a truly memorable read.
Seabrooke excels at creating characters who feel authentic and relatable, and the journey at the center of this novel is both moving and empowering. The protagonist’s path toward rediscovering herself is handled with care and nuance, making it easy to root for her every step of the way. The emotional beats land perfectly—whether it’s moments of vulnerability, joy, or quiet reflection, each scene feels purposeful and genuine.
The romance is especially well done: tender, slow-building, and grounded in real connection rather than clichés. Seabrooke captures the magic of second chances and the courage it takes to open your heart again, making the relationship feel earned and deeply satisfying.
Beyond the love story, the novel shines in its themes of healing, resilience, and embracing life on your own terms. There’s a reassuring warmth throughout the book that leaves you feeling uplifted and inspired long after you’ve turned the final page.
Overall, "The Time of Her Life" is a touching, feel-good read that balances emotional depth with hopeful optimism—perfect for anyone who loves character-driven romance with heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Time of Her Life by Lily Seabrooke is a heartfelt, beautifully crafted story that blends romance, self-discovery, and emotional growth into a truly memorable read.
Seabrooke excels at creating characters who feel authentic and relatable, and the journey at the center of this novel is both moving and empowering. The protagonist’s path toward rediscovering herself is handled with care and nuance, making it easy to root for her every step of the way. The emotional beats land perfectly—whether it’s moments of vulnerability, joy, or quiet reflection, each scene feels purposeful and genuine.
The romance is especially well done: tender, slow-building, and grounded in real connection rather than clichés. Seabrooke captures the magic of second chances and the courage it takes to open your heart again, making the relationship feel earned and deeply satisfying.
Beyond the love story, the novel shines in its themes of healing, resilience, and embracing life on your own terms. There’s a reassuring warmth throughout the book that leaves you feeling uplifted and inspired long after you’ve turned the final page.
Overall, "The Time of Her Life" is a touching, feel-good read that balances emotional depth with hopeful optimism—perfect for anyone who loves character-driven romance with heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was very excited to read Lily's next book, and The Time of Her Life definitely didn't disappoint. An excellent love story wrapped with a nice through thread of learning to believe in yourself and persisting against whatever the world throws at you.
It took a little bit longer for me to get hooked on this book compared to some of Lily's other stories. Poor Julie is at the end of her rope and makes the very questionable decision to meet with a self-proclaimed life coach. At the beginning of the book, I couldn't help but be exasperated at some of the terrible decisions that Julie was making, but paradoxically enough she was ALSO exasperated at herself every time she made these decisions.
As the book continued and Julie and Helena continued to develop their relationship, I really started cheering for them. The third act conflict is well telegraphed, but Lily does a great job with how it is handled. It would've been really easy to fall into classic tropes, but I felt and understood both Julie and Helena and how they handled it.
Lily's descriptions were quite often unique and hilarious, and I have to say she's a master at writing the useless flustered lesbian. Can't wait for the next one!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It took a little bit longer for me to get hooked on this book compared to some of Lily's other stories. Poor Julie is at the end of her rope and makes the very questionable decision to meet with a self-proclaimed life coach. At the beginning of the book, I couldn't help but be exasperated at some of the terrible decisions that Julie was making, but paradoxically enough she was ALSO exasperated at herself every time she made these decisions.
As the book continued and Julie and Helena continued to develop their relationship, I really started cheering for them. The third act conflict is well telegraphed, but Lily does a great job with how it is handled. It would've been really easy to fall into classic tropes, but I felt and understood both Julie and Helena and how they handled it.
Lily's descriptions were quite often unique and hilarious, and I have to say she's a master at writing the useless flustered lesbian. Can't wait for the next one!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2026
This is a quirky and charming book about a quirky charming woman who is trying to survive in the big apple. A strange set of circumstances finally sets her in motion and she starts working harder than ever to secure her future.
Funnily enough, this is just the moment she meets a hot supermodel, straight out of her “wish list”. And even funnier, the hot supermodel likes her (!!) and actively flirts with her. Some things are just too strange to fathom, right?
So the quirky adorable MC gets herself into one embarrassment after another but through hard work and sheer determination, somehow pulls through and manages to sweep the hot supermodel into her orbit, make her dreams come true and crash it all down when secrets are revealed and it seems she’s about to lose everything.
However, this is a romance book, and a good one at that, so HEA is in the cards for our heroine.
And it is an epic one, beautiful, heart warming, and full of funny weirdos 🙂
Loved the premise, loved the execution. I thought the anxious rambling of lies and pretentious bravado were a bit over the top at times, but it works. And it works well enough to make me laugh out loud several times.
Rating: 4.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Funnily enough, this is just the moment she meets a hot supermodel, straight out of her “wish list”. And even funnier, the hot supermodel likes her (!!) and actively flirts with her. Some things are just too strange to fathom, right?
So the quirky adorable MC gets herself into one embarrassment after another but through hard work and sheer determination, somehow pulls through and manages to sweep the hot supermodel into her orbit, make her dreams come true and crash it all down when secrets are revealed and it seems she’s about to lose everything.
However, this is a romance book, and a good one at that, so HEA is in the cards for our heroine.
And it is an epic one, beautiful, heart warming, and full of funny weirdos 🙂
Loved the premise, loved the execution. I thought the anxious rambling of lies and pretentious bravado were a bit over the top at times, but it works. And it works well enough to make me laugh out loud several times.
Rating: 4.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2026
You would expect with a title like this, that things would go smoothly, but no, not for Julie.
There were moments when I sat laughing out loud, moments I would internally curse at the way things were going downhill. But Julie is a fighter, even when things go wrong for her on so many levels.
This is a romance, but much can be taken from the way Julie just keeps on fighting through it, with a little help here and there. I liked reading about the progress she made in her life and fought for a better life.
I must say, Helena is swoon worthy! These two just work together, both profesionally and personally.
There's not much angst (dispite Julie's bad luck streak), so it reads wonderfully (I finished it in little over 24 hours). The spice is also hot, so the book delivers on that front as well.
The only point I have to add isn't all that worthy, but I'd have like to read about the meeting between Julie and Helena's parents. But it explains later on how that relationship has progressed. So really, I am nitpicking.
This is a great book and I highly recommend it!
There were moments when I sat laughing out loud, moments I would internally curse at the way things were going downhill. But Julie is a fighter, even when things go wrong for her on so many levels.
This is a romance, but much can be taken from the way Julie just keeps on fighting through it, with a little help here and there. I liked reading about the progress she made in her life and fought for a better life.
I must say, Helena is swoon worthy! These two just work together, both profesionally and personally.
There's not much angst (dispite Julie's bad luck streak), so it reads wonderfully (I finished it in little over 24 hours). The spice is also hot, so the book delivers on that front as well.
The only point I have to add isn't all that worthy, but I'd have like to read about the meeting between Julie and Helena's parents. But it explains later on how that relationship has progressed. So really, I am nitpicking.
This is a great book and I highly recommend it!
Review of advance copy
Despite being dumped and barely able to afford the tiny non-apartment she shares with rodent roommates, it only takes one dubious and desperate decision for Julie Branch to become the luckiest down-on-her-luck girl in New York City. In a turn of events full of comical twists and warmhearted farce worthy of an O Henry yarn or Frank Capra film, Julie bluffs and charms her way toward a promising career and into the arms of a kind and beautiful model…but will love and luck survive when her bluff is called?
The Time of Her Life is an entertaining and hilarious roller coaster ride of a story from start to finish. Julie and Helena are engaging protagonists with irresistible chemistry that dazzles in each chapter they’re together, and they are surrounded by a colorful and occasionally outlandish cast of characters that could only be believable in a Make Believe World…or Manhattan. All in all, this story does what a Lily Seabrooke romance does best: lavishes the reader with humor, tenderness, spice and, most of all, an extravagant helping of hope.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Time of Her Life is an entertaining and hilarious roller coaster ride of a story from start to finish. Julie and Helena are engaging protagonists with irresistible chemistry that dazzles in each chapter they’re together, and they are surrounded by a colorful and occasionally outlandish cast of characters that could only be believable in a Make Believe World…or Manhattan. All in all, this story does what a Lily Seabrooke romance does best: lavishes the reader with humor, tenderness, spice and, most of all, an extravagant helping of hope.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2026
I love this author's writing, and this book is another great example of why. At its core, it's a story about discovering yourself, recognizing your own strengths and abilities, and gaining confidence in your agency-all while unexpectedly falling in love.
At the beginning, I found it a little frustrating to read about characters who seemed to let life happen to them instead of making choices that were truly in their best interests. However, as the story progressed, I came to appreciate how intentional that was. Their journeys show how stepping outside your comfort zone, taking risks, and embracing change can lead to growth, unexpected opportunities, and sometimes even love.
The character development was particularly well done, and it was rewarding to watch the characters grow into more confident versions of themselves. Overall, this was a wonderful read and another strong book from an author who consistently delivers engaging stories with heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
At the beginning, I found it a little frustrating to read about characters who seemed to let life happen to them instead of making choices that were truly in their best interests. However, as the story progressed, I came to appreciate how intentional that was. Their journeys show how stepping outside your comfort zone, taking risks, and embracing change can lead to growth, unexpected opportunities, and sometimes even love.
The character development was particularly well done, and it was rewarding to watch the characters grow into more confident versions of themselves. Overall, this was a wonderful read and another strong book from an author who consistently delivers engaging stories with heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2026
Humor, romance, vulnerability, trust, and a mouse named Harold!?
Humor: 🤣/5
Spice: 🌶️🥵
Tropes: fake identity, rich girl/poor girl, black cat/ meerkat duo
Helena and Julie what a pair, and god damn Kingmaker? Not to mention a whole cast of diverse and real characters! This book is sweet and spicy in all the right places, you’ll be hooked with the chaotic humor and audacity and stay for the side characters and dialogue.
A fake identity, only in name is at the heart of this story, the rest is just swoon worthy and skittish chaos. To Julie, my tiny beautiful, bashful bottom, I see you and your heart and grit and endless capacity to care. And to Helena, my beautiful, soft and caring top, your vulnerability is a strength! Think black cat and meerkat energy and you’ve got Helena and Julie.
If you’re a fan of goofy characters and a storyline packed with rich characters and a tiny MC all over the place, you can’t go wrong with this Lily Seabrook hit! She does it again- can’t wait for more of her work.
Humor: 🤣/5
Spice: 🌶️🥵
Tropes: fake identity, rich girl/poor girl, black cat/ meerkat duo
Helena and Julie what a pair, and god damn Kingmaker? Not to mention a whole cast of diverse and real characters! This book is sweet and spicy in all the right places, you’ll be hooked with the chaotic humor and audacity and stay for the side characters and dialogue.
A fake identity, only in name is at the heart of this story, the rest is just swoon worthy and skittish chaos. To Julie, my tiny beautiful, bashful bottom, I see you and your heart and grit and endless capacity to care. And to Helena, my beautiful, soft and caring top, your vulnerability is a strength! Think black cat and meerkat energy and you’ve got Helena and Julie.
If you’re a fan of goofy characters and a storyline packed with rich characters and a tiny MC all over the place, you can’t go wrong with this Lily Seabrook hit! She does it again- can’t wait for more of her work.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Read Seabrooke long enough and you're bound to run into the archetype of this book's heroine: a lot stupid, never shuts up, quite good at keeping talking until an embarrassing blunder becomes a hot flirt or a promise that buys her another moment to improvise.
It's a delightful aspect of Seabrooke's writing that lends it something of a manic energy. In "The Time of Her Life", she harnesses it to tell a story of connections and savvy yet risky business moves, of relying on friends and finding the right people to trust.
Both our leads being very turned on by each others' confidence and competence definitely sells the package. The sex scenes are a delight, creative and slightly pathetic in Seabrooke's signature style.
It's a sexy whirlwind tour through despair and hope in trying to make one's way through high society and through life. The fun is guaranteed!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It's a delightful aspect of Seabrooke's writing that lends it something of a manic energy. In "The Time of Her Life", she harnesses it to tell a story of connections and savvy yet risky business moves, of relying on friends and finding the right people to trust.
Both our leads being very turned on by each others' confidence and competence definitely sells the package. The sex scenes are a delight, creative and slightly pathetic in Seabrooke's signature style.
It's a sexy whirlwind tour through despair and hope in trying to make one's way through high society and through life. The fun is guaranteed!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 29, 2026
This book is full of anticipation. Julie was so down on her luck that she was desperate enough to do anything to give New York one last chance.
The whole Kingmaker storyline was definitely unique. Can’t say I’ve ever read a book like it. I felt the cringe and anxiety every time Julie made a decision that deepened her lies.
Helena was a sweet MC, but her relationship with her parents and Lingue felt very toxic. Tracking where she goes? So many lines crossed there. I would have liked to see a smidge more resolution where that was concerned.
Seabrooke was very consistent in that Julie’s personality was 100% her whether it was the rare bouts of confidence that grew throughout the book or the flustering awkwardness Helena brought out in her. It was the stolen identity that drove the deception. The resolution was very satisfying.
Another great read by Lily Seabrooke!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The whole Kingmaker storyline was definitely unique. Can’t say I’ve ever read a book like it. I felt the cringe and anxiety every time Julie made a decision that deepened her lies.
Helena was a sweet MC, but her relationship with her parents and Lingue felt very toxic. Tracking where she goes? So many lines crossed there. I would have liked to see a smidge more resolution where that was concerned.
Seabrooke was very consistent in that Julie’s personality was 100% her whether it was the rare bouts of confidence that grew throughout the book or the flustering awkwardness Helena brought out in her. It was the stolen identity that drove the deception. The resolution was very satisfying.
Another great read by Lily Seabrooke!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have to be honest and say that I struggle with my first impressions and by that I mean the first 30 pages. Julie's amount of desperation led her down a path that seemed chaotic, odd and unbelievable to the point of pulling me out of my immersive experience. As I continued past the introduction of Kingmaker and Daniel, the story started to pick up traction for me. Even though the tale was spun a little thinly, I still really enjoyed reading it. If you don't mind a story that can pull you in by your bootstraps and hustle until you believe in it yourself then I do recommend you take the time and put in the hours to enjoy it yourself.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
First of all, love the art-deco-style movie-poster cover, it's very charming.
This is a hilarious romance between an incredibly pathetic lesbian and a supermodel who wants to shut her up in a variety of lascivious ways. The chemistry between them is palpable, and the mess Julie makes of her life is very, very funny. Lily Seabrooke does a great job of writing messy girlfailures, and Julie's one of her best yet. I fully understand why Helena wants to do dirty dirty things to her.
I fully and unreservedly recommend it to fans of contemporary lesbian romance, and to Lily Seabrooke's readers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a hilarious romance between an incredibly pathetic lesbian and a supermodel who wants to shut her up in a variety of lascivious ways. The chemistry between them is palpable, and the mess Julie makes of her life is very, very funny. Lily Seabrooke does a great job of writing messy girlfailures, and Julie's one of her best yet. I fully understand why Helena wants to do dirty dirty things to her.
I fully and unreservedly recommend it to fans of contemporary lesbian romance, and to Lily Seabrooke's readers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This is my 24th Lily Seabrooke book, and she never misses. The Time of Her Life gives us a phenomenal romance where the protagonist operates with pure George Costanza energy. Watching her hit absolute rock bottom—evicted, dumped, and totally destitute—only to decide her immediate priority is to go "refresh herself" is comedic gold. It’s a hilariously chaotic, self-sabotaging journey to a happily ever after. Five stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I honestly had the time of my life reading this book! I've read several of Lily Seabrooke's books and she has become one of my favorite sapphic authors. I was hooked from the start by Julie's inner dialogue and the flirting between Julie and Helena throughout. There was literally a smile on my face nearly the entire time with several laugh out loud moments along the way. The writing is just so good. I can't recommend this enough.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
What a ride this book was. I blasted through this one. Julie and Helena's story was an absolute whirlwind.
Julie's journey of literally faking it till she makes it was very entertaining. The way she and Helena find support and joy in each other is really well done.
The spice is excellent. Lily Seabrooke never disappoints.
This book is for anyone who has ever felt like they've hit rock bottom, have taken advice from a questionable source or just like a well written romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Julie's journey of literally faking it till she makes it was very entertaining. The way she and Helena find support and joy in each other is really well done.
The spice is excellent. Lily Seabrooke never disappoints.
This book is for anyone who has ever felt like they've hit rock bottom, have taken advice from a questionable source or just like a well written romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 28, 2026
I had a rough start with this book, mainly because of a readers block and also because, as a not native English speaker, I found it a little hard to comprehend the writing/words up until a little after Helena and Julie's first encounter. After that, it was as good as a Lily Seabrooke book can get and I couldn't stop reading. One thing that I think would make the book even better is if I could see more of the family relationship/interactions/domestic setting.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2026
I found the backstory for Julie to be a poignant look at surviving in today's financial climate. Helena was sexy, funny, and more intelligent than most people thought. Not a lot of sex scenes but the ones we got were steamy and dynamic. Enjoyed the flow of the novel, it felt well paced. Really enjoy the author's style.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
I'll be frank - when I received the offer of a free review copy of this book in exchange for a honest review, my first instict was to not accept it because I had too many things in real life. What made me change my mind? The bonkers premise, and the fact that Lily Seabrooke always delivers.
This is a wall to wall comedy, where we watch our heroine Julie fall into a ridiculous situation out of desperation, and then fall into even more trouble trying to get out. It is great fun, with a great supporting cast rounding up the antics. It's also a romance, and I have to hand it to Seabrooke - few writers can write both smooth flirting and transition it into people putting their own foot into their mouths like Seabrooke can.
I do need to warn you that the story involves betrayal of trust - through a comedy of errors, Julie introduces herself to her love interest Helena with a different name and a fake job. Yes, the crux of the story involves Julie becoming that woman through her own means, eventually coming clean and earning her place besides her love interest, but this is a situation that can be hard to stomach.
All in all, I'm glad I accepted the offer because I had a great time with this book. It was a fun smooth read that whisked me away from my real life stress. If you like comedy, some lighthearted romance and/or wacky hijinks inspired by a life coach with a gender-neutral yet somehow misoginistic motivational philosophy, this is a book for you.
This is a wall to wall comedy, where we watch our heroine Julie fall into a ridiculous situation out of desperation, and then fall into even more trouble trying to get out. It is great fun, with a great supporting cast rounding up the antics. It's also a romance, and I have to hand it to Seabrooke - few writers can write both smooth flirting and transition it into people putting their own foot into their mouths like Seabrooke can.
I do need to warn you that the story involves betrayal of trust - through a comedy of errors, Julie introduces herself to her love interest Helena with a different name and a fake job. Yes, the crux of the story involves Julie becoming that woman through her own means, eventually coming clean and earning her place besides her love interest, but this is a situation that can be hard to stomach.
All in all, I'm glad I accepted the offer because I had a great time with this book. It was a fun smooth read that whisked me away from my real life stress. If you like comedy, some lighthearted romance and/or wacky hijinks inspired by a life coach with a gender-neutral yet somehow misoginistic motivational philosophy, this is a book for you.
Review of advance copy
I started off feeling very uncomfortable with all the lies Julie/Cassandra told to Helena and others. But I'm glad i stuck with the story. I went from uncomfortable to rooting for Julie and Helena, and all the suporting cast added debth to the story. I could also eat a slice of Pizza. Funny, entertaing story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed the story of Julie and Helena. Unfortunately, it started on a lie, but they were truthful with their feelings. Once the lies were out of the way, the reestablished how they felt about each other and worked it out. The officially fell in love and work and support one another.I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Totally worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 19, 2026
Thank you to Lily Seabrooke and Booksprout for this advanced review copy.
I was glad to see a new Lily Seabrook book, as I have enjoyed many of her books before.
This was a little harder for me to get into, as Julie has hit rock bottom and turns to questionable desperate tactics to get on top.
I did end up enjoying Julie and Helena's story, as it was filled with chaotic but funny situations throughout.
I was glad to see a new Lily Seabrook book, as I have enjoyed many of her books before.
This was a little harder for me to get into, as Julie has hit rock bottom and turns to questionable desperate tactics to get on top.
I did end up enjoying Julie and Helena's story, as it was filled with chaotic but funny situations throughout.
June 20, 2026
Julie Branch is just done with New York. Bad decision after bad decision leads her to living in a laundry closet and talking to a mouse, until her next bad decision… Kingmaker. Meeting with Kingmaker leads her to a rollercoaster of bad decisions and fake it ‘til you make it encounters with moguls, models, techies, investors, and the beautiful Helena. Go along for the ride. There will be laughs (many) and tears (some) and so many twists and turns that New York just might never recover from.
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