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Awkward in Love
Ilhan is in love with John, the apartment complex caretaker. The big problem is that John can't stand being around him. Matters get worse as Ilhan's folks don't know that he's gay...
- GenresM M RomanceContemporary
118 pages, ebook
First published October 8, 2015
25 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 15, 2015
Anyone who follows my reviews or ever talks to me about books I enjoy know I don't write unbiased reviews, because I can't separate myself emotionally from beautiful stories that take me on a journey of self-discovery, of love, fear, loss, hope, redemption and forgiveness.
That doesn't mean that I can't be objective about a book, however. Reading Lily's "Awkward In Love" is a journey into a craftily created world filled with 90s pop music references, moody building caretaker, adorable Turkish twinks and lots of sweaty, grinding dancing.
As is completely just so much like Lily, she took the time to offer some key translations at the beginning of the book so that the reader can familiarize himself with the Turkish terms used in the story.
There is an undeniable sweetness to this story, that is similar to the sweet nature of its author in real life. I thoroughly enjoyed the enemies-to-lovers theme and identified a lot with Ilhan's crush on the seemingly unattainable hot guy.
I'm just happy for once there is a happy ending (even if it is only in a story) and look forward to Lily's future stories.
Amazon purchase link: http://ow.ly/Tsm35
October 16, 2015
I'm starting off by admitting I participated in the beta reading process of this book. Some of you might consider my rating biased although I take pride in staying true to myself and, thus, I don't tend to review unless I'm particularly connected to them - but of course, feel free to disagree.
It just breaks my hard when I see my friends' books getting bad reviews often for the simple reason that they didn't fit the readers' own tastes. I think there's a lot to appreciate about this book- the vibe is sweet and light, peppered with a spice of sexy. I loved that the characters weren't American, like in 90% of the books - might I add, thanks to Lily, I've given in to temptation and researched Turkish cuisine (uh-oh!) and found an excellent cookie recipe :P.
I think it's not fair to be so critical about a new writer when there's nothing inherently wrong about the book other than not being a masterpiece (and I'm referring to Lily's first book as well).
Mind you, I'm not trying to start a debate, but I want to encourage those who are planning on buying the book to do so if they like fluffy romance, and are fans of interracial stories, even with a bit of flamboyance.
Each author has a style and each reader has a taste. Before dismissing a book, consider this: all those who rated the book with a one star had the possibility to search for an excerpt before buying it. SO why not do that first so that you don't buy it and accuse authors of robbing you of your money? It's not the author's fault you don't like their style.
That being said, good job Lily, for writing such a sweet romance story with such cute and lovable characters! I, for one, am looking forward to the next book you write :D
It just breaks my hard when I see my friends' books getting bad reviews often for the simple reason that they didn't fit the readers' own tastes. I think there's a lot to appreciate about this book- the vibe is sweet and light, peppered with a spice of sexy. I loved that the characters weren't American, like in 90% of the books - might I add, thanks to Lily, I've given in to temptation and researched Turkish cuisine (uh-oh!) and found an excellent cookie recipe :P.
I think it's not fair to be so critical about a new writer when there's nothing inherently wrong about the book other than not being a masterpiece (and I'm referring to Lily's first book as well).
Mind you, I'm not trying to start a debate, but I want to encourage those who are planning on buying the book to do so if they like fluffy romance, and are fans of interracial stories, even with a bit of flamboyance.
Each author has a style and each reader has a taste. Before dismissing a book, consider this: all those who rated the book with a one star had the possibility to search for an excerpt before buying it. SO why not do that first so that you don't buy it and accuse authors of robbing you of your money? It's not the author's fault you don't like their style.
That being said, good job Lily, for writing such a sweet romance story with such cute and lovable characters! I, for one, am looking forward to the next book you write :D
October 17, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book, lovely written keeping me turning the pages to the end, I like the characters, Lily is very talented.
October 19, 2015
Great read, lovely personalites nice solid storyline
October 12, 2015
Young love is always so sweet and intense, but being gay and closeted because of your ethnicity can be even tougher and makes it near impossible to follow through with your desires.
This is the case in this new romance from Lily Lamb and she writes with the knowledge of the Turkish culture...the music, the food and especially the attitudes of the people and specifically the parents of the adorable, virginal Ilhan. John is the hunky caretaker/maintenance man in his apartment complex who he has been watching lustfully from afar, and it was only a matter of time before the games and glances became touches, kisses and a relationship. Of course there's still the matter of Ilhan's old-fashioned, conservative parents and what will happen when they discover the big secret their son is hiding?
I loved this sweet and very sexy new book...it was very interesting to read about all the Turkish customs and the food descriptions just made me hungry...not to mention the hotter than hell sex these two shared!
A great second book full of family, honest conversation about coming out and romance.
***** 5 ***** "coming out with a bang" stars
This is the case in this new romance from Lily Lamb and she writes with the knowledge of the Turkish culture...the music, the food and especially the attitudes of the people and specifically the parents of the adorable, virginal Ilhan. John is the hunky caretaker/maintenance man in his apartment complex who he has been watching lustfully from afar, and it was only a matter of time before the games and glances became touches, kisses and a relationship. Of course there's still the matter of Ilhan's old-fashioned, conservative parents and what will happen when they discover the big secret their son is hiding?
I loved this sweet and very sexy new book...it was very interesting to read about all the Turkish customs and the food descriptions just made me hungry...not to mention the hotter than hell sex these two shared!
A great second book full of family, honest conversation about coming out and romance.
***** 5 ***** "coming out with a bang" stars
October 18, 2015
I don't normally write comments on the books that I read. However, this book deserved some extra effort on my part. The story was very sweet. Low angst for a HEA. I loved both main characters. It also introduced me to a new culture that I have never experienced. This is my first book from this author, I look forward to reading more.
October 15, 2015
The excessive internal monologuing was tedious, and it doesn't matter how many times they each think the other is hot and get off on it, that's not the same as chemistry and 30% into the book there was no chemistry between the chars. DNF.
May 30, 2020
I like Lily's books..Illhan and John were adorable together.....I loved reading their thoughts....I have to say I didn't like how Illhand's parents treated him although it's soon remedied..A great read x
October 13, 2015
I couldn't get more than 15 percent through. One of the MCs is a babbling idiot who giggles behind closed doors. It felt heavy-handed and simplistic before I just couldn't take any more.
August 12, 2016
3.5 Stars
A cute story with 2 lovable characters. Ilhan, a sweet young Aussie/Turk & John a man who started with nothing and made a good life for himself.
A cute story with 2 lovable characters. Ilhan, a sweet young Aussie/Turk & John a man who started with nothing and made a good life for himself.
August 30, 2021
Having recently read this author’s very first book, 'Precious', I thought I’d have a go at another of hers, and I wasn’t disappointed. Once again the story concerns the love affair of two young men who got off on the wrong foot at first meeting, with each being convinced that the other can’t stand them while secretly being attracted to that other. Ilhan having taken the brave step of going to John to correct the misunderstanding, the pair embark on a relationship; however, there are problems in that Ilhan is of a traditional Turkish family and unable to let his parents know that he is gay without attracting the wrath of his father.
The issues of being a social misfit are illustrated here. Ilhan is an immigrant to America, and doing a course of study which he hates, to please his father and avoid being sent back to Turkey; this, along with his inability to come out and be himself make his life a total lie. Matters come to a head when he is accidentally outed; can his relationship with John survive the fallout?
A bittersweet romantic story, with some erotic moments and a look at the pressures which come from being different. Recommended.
The issues of being a social misfit are illustrated here. Ilhan is an immigrant to America, and doing a course of study which he hates, to please his father and avoid being sent back to Turkey; this, along with his inability to come out and be himself make his life a total lie. Matters come to a head when he is accidentally outed; can his relationship with John survive the fallout?
A bittersweet romantic story, with some erotic moments and a look at the pressures which come from being different. Recommended.
November 28, 2020
This book was a wonderful journey between two characters that are both hiding things in their life. You will see them overcome a culture difference and where John try to be tough and not recognize that he see Ilhan in a different light. If you looking for a sweet MM book then this a must read today
#BRVL Rates this book at 5 Stars 💥💥💥💥💥
#BRVL Rates this book at 5 Stars 💥💥💥💥💥
August 30, 2021
This author is amazing, and yet again another good book! It's a story of young love, and what happens in the process. I love how it was love that had to be secreted. Having to figure out who they are in the end. Beautiful, and a book I can highly recommend to anyone!
January 25, 2022
Sweet!
Incredibly cute and romantic. The characters were will developed and likable. The relationship between the characters is sweet and loving. Well done.
Incredibly cute and romantic. The characters were will developed and likable. The relationship between the characters is sweet and loving. Well done.
June 17, 2022
I'm in love!
I absolutely fell in love with these two. Their quirky personalities just made me laugh and my heart melt. It was the perfect sweet romance with a wonderful happily ever after. As a writer of romance myself, I've come away inspired. I want to create characters similar to these two, because they were just so realistic and loveable.
I absolutely fell in love with these two. Their quirky personalities just made me laugh and my heart melt. It was the perfect sweet romance with a wonderful happily ever after. As a writer of romance myself, I've come away inspired. I want to create characters similar to these two, because they were just so realistic and loveable.
November 18, 2015
Awkward in Love by Lily Adile Lamb (MM/Romance)
A copy of this book was provided to me by Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
***3 STARS***
So this is a story about Alpha male John and the boy he falls for, Ilhan. I still have no idea how to correctly pronounce that name lol. It's your typical mistaken "identity", or in this case, mistaken "personality". John thought Ilhan was a twink who thought he was too good for the likes of John, but of course he discovers he's wrong and they start a sweet romance.
I liked Ilhan, he was sweet but accepted himself, even if life is hard. I'm glad he met John, who is such a stand up guy. I rated this a 3 because there really wasn't much going on in the story, but I did appreciate reading a little about the Turkish culture. I don't think I've read a MM main character who was Turkish. Australian, yes.
I recommend this book to those who wants to read a sweet, simple romance when they're having a bad day.
A copy of this book was provided to me by Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
***3 STARS***
So this is a story about Alpha male John and the boy he falls for, Ilhan. I still have no idea how to correctly pronounce that name lol. It's your typical mistaken "identity", or in this case, mistaken "personality". John thought Ilhan was a twink who thought he was too good for the likes of John, but of course he discovers he's wrong and they start a sweet romance.
I liked Ilhan, he was sweet but accepted himself, even if life is hard. I'm glad he met John, who is such a stand up guy. I rated this a 3 because there really wasn't much going on in the story, but I did appreciate reading a little about the Turkish culture. I don't think I've read a MM main character who was Turkish. Australian, yes.
I recommend this book to those who wants to read a sweet, simple romance when they're having a bad day.
October 11, 2015
**GIFTED FOR HONEST REVIEW**
5 sexy stars for this lovely, sweet, romantic story.
John is the caretaker of a block of flats where he lives and is getting increasingly annoyed at Ilhan, the sexy turkish resident for the notes he keeps leaving him and other things too. Even though he's attracted to him he doesn't know if the feeling is mutual but once he finds out that it is WHOA !! Ilhan, even though he seems quite the extrovert is actually rather shy and, at times, fumbling. He's fallen hard for his sexy caretaker and despite his best efforts can't get him to notice him AT ALL !! This leads to him taking drastic action and then leads to some seriously sexy scenes too. There's some angst but not a lot as it really is a brilliantly sweet romantic story and i'm so glad that the author put the translations in the front of the book too xx
5 sexy stars for this lovely, sweet, romantic story.
John is the caretaker of a block of flats where he lives and is getting increasingly annoyed at Ilhan, the sexy turkish resident for the notes he keeps leaving him and other things too. Even though he's attracted to him he doesn't know if the feeling is mutual but once he finds out that it is WHOA !! Ilhan, even though he seems quite the extrovert is actually rather shy and, at times, fumbling. He's fallen hard for his sexy caretaker and despite his best efforts can't get him to notice him AT ALL !! This leads to him taking drastic action and then leads to some seriously sexy scenes too. There's some angst but not a lot as it really is a brilliantly sweet romantic story and i'm so glad that the author put the translations in the front of the book too xx
August 25, 2019
Beautiful love story
This is the second time I read this story. The first time I loved it, and the second time I loved it even more. The author is talented and brings so many issues to the forefront with ease. The characters and plot are refreshing, and the written words are as beautiful as the story itself. There are lesson to be learned, there are human behaviors to be taught but at the end love always wins. This story is a winner.
This is the second time I read this story. The first time I loved it, and the second time I loved it even more. The author is talented and brings so many issues to the forefront with ease. The characters and plot are refreshing, and the written words are as beautiful as the story itself. There are lesson to be learned, there are human behaviors to be taught but at the end love always wins. This story is a winner.
July 10, 2022
John is the caretaker for some flats. He's attracted to Ilhan, a Turkish guy, but he won't admit it, and he's annoyed because Ilhans always leaving notes. It turns out they both like each other! This was a really amazing story with some great steam! I'm never disappointed when I read Lily Lamb's stories!
October 27, 2015
I so enjoyed reading this story!!
November 5, 2015
It was enjoyable but some of the dialogue could have been improved and was slightly disappointing.
July 19, 2016
Not for me. Even if i like different POVs, there are too many internal monologues for my liking...
August 15, 2024
John has disliked Ilhan since he moved into the apartment complex, or at least he has been trying to tell himself that.
Ilhan has been carrying a torch for John, secretly watching him do his chores, but too insecure to do more.
What will it take to push these two together?
This is a cute love story as we watch the characters grow, and move from dislike to warming up, to love. The author skillfully interweaves their private thoughts that add a wonderful personal touch and makes the reader feel like an honored guest to this heartwarming story.
Ilhan has been carrying a torch for John, secretly watching him do his chores, but too insecure to do more.
What will it take to push these two together?
This is a cute love story as we watch the characters grow, and move from dislike to warming up, to love. The author skillfully interweaves their private thoughts that add a wonderful personal touch and makes the reader feel like an honored guest to this heartwarming story.
February 1, 2023
This book had two parts; in the first, two men fall in love, and there's lots of sexual tension and then sex. If you like that, this book will fill your cup. But in the second half, the young Turkish guy has to reconcile it to his family; his parents are somewhat traditional and there's a rift with his father. The book is well written, and I enjoyed it.
December 31, 2015
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie in exchange for a fair and honest review. ***
Ilhan has been crushing on John —his apartment's building caretaker— for as long as he's lived there. He's shy and inexperienced for the most part, so he has no clue how to make John notice him and instead makes John think he's a bit of a douchebag. Still, Ilhan is a douchebag John is very interested in, even if he can't bring himself to talk to the younger man for fear he might be looked down to on him because of his job. Ilhan finally gets over his fears and makes the first move, and John and Ilhan hit it off after a rather awkward start. Ilhan is not out to his parents, though, and considering his strict Turkish upbringing that's a conversation that he'd rather not have anytime soon, only things do not always go the way we want them to go and when his parents discover what Ilhan has been hiding, the stress of it all might bring John and Ilhan closer together or break them apart for good.
This was a sweet romance, with a low angst level. It was as the title says a little awkward in some parts especially at the beginning while both Ilhan and John were pining for each other. It was less so once they got together. They laughed and were silly and playful together, and they genuinely seem to care for the other, nevermind that they had good chemistry and seemed to complement the other quite nicely.
The book was enjoyable for the most part and It would have been more so if it weren't for a few continuity issues that I found, but that don't detract much from the story. I loved that the author showed us so much of the Turkish culture and that she did it in a way that I didn't feel lost in translation. If you're in the mood for a sweet, hot and short read with a lovely HEA romance this book is a good place to start!
Rating: 4 Stars!!!
Ilhan has been crushing on John —his apartment's building caretaker— for as long as he's lived there. He's shy and inexperienced for the most part, so he has no clue how to make John notice him and instead makes John think he's a bit of a douchebag. Still, Ilhan is a douchebag John is very interested in, even if he can't bring himself to talk to the younger man for fear he might be looked down to on him because of his job. Ilhan finally gets over his fears and makes the first move, and John and Ilhan hit it off after a rather awkward start. Ilhan is not out to his parents, though, and considering his strict Turkish upbringing that's a conversation that he'd rather not have anytime soon, only things do not always go the way we want them to go and when his parents discover what Ilhan has been hiding, the stress of it all might bring John and Ilhan closer together or break them apart for good.
This was a sweet romance, with a low angst level. It was as the title says a little awkward in some parts especially at the beginning while both Ilhan and John were pining for each other. It was less so once they got together. They laughed and were silly and playful together, and they genuinely seem to care for the other, nevermind that they had good chemistry and seemed to complement the other quite nicely.
The book was enjoyable for the most part and It would have been more so if it weren't for a few continuity issues that I found, but that don't detract much from the story. I loved that the author showed us so much of the Turkish culture and that she did it in a way that I didn't feel lost in translation. If you're in the mood for a sweet, hot and short read with a lovely HEA romance this book is a good place to start!
Rating: 4 Stars!!!
April 6, 2016
This was--dare I say it?--incredibly cute. I know, I know, it’s that word. It runs the risk of diminishing what Lamb has accomplished here, but it’s adorable. I’ll start off by saying this: if you’re in the mood for something light and sweet enough to leave you feeling good but deep enough to leave you thoughtful, this is a great read. She cleverly disguises it behind humor and a little bit of fluff, but there are some deep themes in here that are woven in extremely well.
I admit, I got a little intimidated by the slang dictionary at the beginning. There was a moment of, uh-oh, I’m never going to remember any of this. I am pleased to announce to anyone who might have had the same reservation that it’s completely a non-issue. Lamb makes sure the reader understands, usually in a smooth way, even when using something I’m unfamiliar with.
The introduction of Turkish culture fascinated me; I love learning from books, especially when the writer’s bio tells me she’s from Turkey, and I can trust that I’m not just being told some random facts. (Or “facts.”)
I’m rambling, which I do. Ahem.
I loved the characters, because they felt real to me. They had flaws as well as things they were good at. They interacted smoothly at times and poorly in others. There were missteps and mishaps, not everything went as planned, and yet, it worked out in the end. The sex scenes were well written, and even the realism of someone’s first time experiencing anal sex (because let’s face it, unless--OH LOOK SOMETHING SHINY) didn’t detract from the sensuality.
So I’ll sum up by saying that this is a good feel-good read. And now that I’ve showered under the sweetness, it’s time to find something filthy to lick it away. <3 (Seriously, people, stop making me read HEAs. I’m already clutching at the last few shreds of my reputation here.)
I admit, I got a little intimidated by the slang dictionary at the beginning. There was a moment of, uh-oh, I’m never going to remember any of this. I am pleased to announce to anyone who might have had the same reservation that it’s completely a non-issue. Lamb makes sure the reader understands, usually in a smooth way, even when using something I’m unfamiliar with.
The introduction of Turkish culture fascinated me; I love learning from books, especially when the writer’s bio tells me she’s from Turkey, and I can trust that I’m not just being told some random facts. (Or “facts.”)
I’m rambling, which I do. Ahem.
I loved the characters, because they felt real to me. They had flaws as well as things they were good at. They interacted smoothly at times and poorly in others. There were missteps and mishaps, not everything went as planned, and yet, it worked out in the end. The sex scenes were well written, and even the realism of someone’s first time experiencing anal sex (because let’s face it, unless--OH LOOK SOMETHING SHINY) didn’t detract from the sensuality.
So I’ll sum up by saying that this is a good feel-good read. And now that I’ve showered under the sweetness, it’s time to find something filthy to lick it away. <3 (Seriously, people, stop making me read HEAs. I’m already clutching at the last few shreds of my reputation here.)
November 10, 2015
I absolutely love how this all starts because of a “personality misunderstanding” Ilhan is absolutely adorable. Seriously, when I first read him that was my original thought. When I read John for the first time I thought, “How can anyone treat him like crap?” Of course you quickly see what has happened. Then you get to strap in and enjoy the ride.
However, it isn’t all that simple. We have a culture clash happening here. I wasn’t familiar with Ilhan’s culture. Turkish cuisine, lifestyle, all that comes with it. So on top of the fantastic plot, great flow, and fun. I got a wonderful lesson.
Ilhan’s parents don’t take well to his “choice” of lifestyle. And for Ilhan to have John through it all, warmed my soul.
This is a fun and beautiful story with a terrific lesson.
However, it isn’t all that simple. We have a culture clash happening here. I wasn’t familiar with Ilhan’s culture. Turkish cuisine, lifestyle, all that comes with it. So on top of the fantastic plot, great flow, and fun. I got a wonderful lesson.
Ilhan’s parents don’t take well to his “choice” of lifestyle. And for Ilhan to have John through it all, warmed my soul.
This is a fun and beautiful story with a terrific lesson.
January 31, 2016
There were so many things going for this story. The MCs were not just white males. The culture difference was so realistic. (I am married to man from the middle east.) The results of stereotyping and miscommunication. The MCs were wonderful and unexpected. No MC says this, but Ihan, "a gay Aussie-Turk" who wears makeup does.
He studied his image in the mirror and counted the rest of his shortcomings. I Mustn't forget to talk about my not-so-great endowment either. Yup. I have a little dick. It's so small, I can't bring myself to call it a cock.
Ihan wanted to get to know John. John wanted to get to know Ihan. Both had no clue how to do that. I loved them both and loved Ihan's interaction with his parents.
A wonderful read. My first with this author but not the last.
He studied his image in the mirror and counted the rest of his shortcomings. I Mustn't forget to talk about my not-so-great endowment either. Yup. I have a little dick. It's so small, I can't bring myself to call it a cock.
Ihan wanted to get to know John. John wanted to get to know Ihan. Both had no clue how to do that. I loved them both and loved Ihan's interaction with his parents.
A wonderful read. My first with this author but not the last.
February 7, 2016
Aussie Erotic Romance
"Awkward in Love" is an erotic romance that ends in a happily ever after. The book starts with Ilhan and John who live across from each other. Desire brings them together, but the good thing is that their desire turns into something more. It's towards the middle of the book that the author reveals more of their personalities when I, the reader, developed some fondness for them. The story is told via alternating points of view between the characters. A secondary character appears towards the end that sheds some light into the dynamics of the relationships. You have to get to the middle of the book to find its heart, so don't quit in the beginning pages.
"Awkward in Love" is an erotic romance that ends in a happily ever after. The book starts with Ilhan and John who live across from each other. Desire brings them together, but the good thing is that their desire turns into something more. It's towards the middle of the book that the author reveals more of their personalities when I, the reader, developed some fondness for them. The story is told via alternating points of view between the characters. A secondary character appears towards the end that sheds some light into the dynamics of the relationships. You have to get to the middle of the book to find its heart, so don't quit in the beginning pages.
November 26, 2015
3.5*
I won a copy of this book! Yay me!
I really liked Ilhan and all the bits and pieces of Turkish culture. He does come across as being very young but I think pampered only children are raised
that way. I know mine was! John was a great character also. He came from nothing and is trying hard to make it. I really appreciated the explanation of
how Ilhan's culture worked within his family. And a little eyeliner never hurts! Enjoyed this book!
I won a copy of this book! Yay me!
I really liked Ilhan and all the bits and pieces of Turkish culture. He does come across as being very young but I think pampered only children are raised
that way. I know mine was! John was a great character also. He came from nothing and is trying hard to make it. I really appreciated the explanation of
how Ilhan's culture worked within his family. And a little eyeliner never hurts! Enjoyed this book!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews