What do you think?
Rate this book
Check Me Out
Greta loves her job as assistant librarian. She loves her best friend, Will, the high school civics teacher and debate coach. She even loves her mother despite her obvious disappointment that Greta is still single.
Then she meets Mac in the poetry section of the library, and she is smitten. Mac is heart-stoppingly gorgeous and showers her with affection, poetic text messages, and free hot chocolate at the local café where he works. The only problem is that he seems to be a different person in his texts than in his face-to-face conversation.
When the Franklin Library is threatened with closure, Greta leaps into action. She arranges for a "battle of the bands" book jam, hosts a book signing by a famous author, and finally, stages a protest that raises more than a few eyebrows.
Through it all, she slowly realizes that it is Will, not Mac, who she turns to for support and encouragement. Mac has the looks; Will has the heart. How can she choose between them?
Check Me Out is a contemporary romance--with just a hint of Cyrano de Bergerac--that reminds us that it is what's on the inside that matters most.
Then she meets Mac in the poetry section of the library, and she is smitten. Mac is heart-stoppingly gorgeous and showers her with affection, poetic text messages, and free hot chocolate at the local café where he works. The only problem is that he seems to be a different person in his texts than in his face-to-face conversation.
When the Franklin Library is threatened with closure, Greta leaps into action. She arranges for a "battle of the bands" book jam, hosts a book signing by a famous author, and finally, stages a protest that raises more than a few eyebrows.
Through it all, she slowly realizes that it is Will, not Mac, who she turns to for support and encouragement. Mac has the looks; Will has the heart. How can she choose between them?
Check Me Out is a contemporary romance--with just a hint of Cyrano de Bergerac--that reminds us that it is what's on the inside that matters most.
368 pages, Paperback
First published February 3, 2018
22 people are currently reading
1386 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 361 reviews
June 6, 2017
I got to meet this company this weekend at Book Con. I was lucky enough to win 1 book and I went up on Sunday to inquire after this one because I could not get it out of my head. So, I asked if I could have a copy of this ARC. They graciously gave one to me and told me more about their company. I love that all of their romances are clean and accessible to all ages. However, this book was a bit rough for me.
***Spoliers*** STOP READING HERE
I personally thought that the author could have been MUCH MORE delicate and less hurtful/blunt about Will. Will, who is apparently VERY overweight from the way the author describes it (and never STOPS describing it), is head over heels in love with his childhood sweetheart and is hiding behind the pretty face/body of his cousin to win her.
I think it had every potential of being and adorable love triangle. Very modern day Cyrano de Bergerac but I checked out when I read things like:
~~"Will had been a chunky kid. Now he wasn't a kid anymore, and "chunky" didn't really do justice to his form. He was huge....Huge in the way nobody really wants to be" (pg 28).
~~ "The tiny bistro table wasn't really big enough for three, especially since one of the three was Will" (pg 37)
At this point I have barely made a dent in the book and I am already hoping that Will finds someone that will love and appreciate him for him. Which is what I hope in the end.
I wanted to give this book 2/3 stars is because when Greta says something incredibly awful toward the end, she does show some remorse ("You big fat jerk! And there it was. I said the words I couldn't take back. (pg. 317)) ten pages later she references him "heaving" himself up a staircase to sit net to her. The more I think about it, the more I can't justify more stars for the plot.
I can't give this book a good review. It makes me sad. I feel bad for Will. I want him to have someone that loves all of him. Not just wants to "try" (pg. 355) and see where it goes. I found the book very insulting and beyond rude when it came to the portrayal of an overweight character. I am sad. My heart hurts. I wanted so much more. :(
***Spoliers*** STOP READING HERE
I personally thought that the author could have been MUCH MORE delicate and less hurtful/blunt about Will. Will, who is apparently VERY overweight from the way the author describes it (and never STOPS describing it), is head over heels in love with his childhood sweetheart and is hiding behind the pretty face/body of his cousin to win her.
I think it had every potential of being and adorable love triangle. Very modern day Cyrano de Bergerac but I checked out when I read things like:
~~"Will had been a chunky kid. Now he wasn't a kid anymore, and "chunky" didn't really do justice to his form. He was huge....Huge in the way nobody really wants to be" (pg 28).
~~ "The tiny bistro table wasn't really big enough for three, especially since one of the three was Will" (pg 37)
At this point I have barely made a dent in the book and I am already hoping that Will finds someone that will love and appreciate him for him. Which is what I hope in the end.
I wanted to give this book 2/3 stars is because when Greta says something incredibly awful toward the end, she does show some remorse ("You big fat jerk! And there it was. I said the words I couldn't take back. (pg. 317)) ten pages later she references him "heaving" himself up a staircase to sit net to her. The more I think about it, the more I can't justify more stars for the plot.
I can't give this book a good review. It makes me sad. I feel bad for Will. I want him to have someone that loves all of him. Not just wants to "try" (pg. 355) and see where it goes. I found the book very insulting and beyond rude when it came to the portrayal of an overweight character. I am sad. My heart hurts. I wanted so much more. :(
January 10, 2018
In all honesty I am so torn right now about this book. The cover caught my eye. I mean, look at that catchy title and books too. Then the synopsis, completely Cyrano de Bergerac storyline and it's about a librarian. Can we say I was so excited and couldn't wait to read it. The love triangle seemed like it would be fun and witty, and I will admit that there were several spots that I found humorous. I laughed at several points while reading...but I think I was cringing and almost holding in some building frustration more than I was laughing and wanting to cheer on the characters.
I am definitely somebody you would term 'a people person.' I love meeting and making new friends anywhere I go. I can easily start up a conversation with a stranger at the store and we're laughing and having a great conversation and can feel like we've been friends for years even though we've just met. It's me, it's my personality. I'm happy and I am not the kind of person who likes to belittle others or even think that someone felt excluded or hurt from something I did or said. I just can't. So, with that explanation about me and my personality, I will also say that I read and review a lot of books. Even with all the review books I get, with how many books and stories out there that I want to read, I really don't want to pick a book that I don't think I'll enjoy. I read because I love it, I want to experience characters and places and peril and love and goodness and hurt and healing and redemption and forgiveness. So if you were to look at my ratings for books, you'd see that my average is above 4 stars. I usually won't agree to review books if there's no chance of it looking like I won't like, really like or absolutely love it. Hence, most of my reviews are 3-5 star ratings. But occasionally one slips in that I just have mixed feelings about. This is, unfortunately, one of those books.
I really don't want to ramble on forever about all my frustrated feelings and my 'grrrrrrrr' thoughts. But I have so many different thoughts that have been tumbling around in my head since reading this book that you might just find me really rambling today about this book. I think there will be many who absolutely love this book. I've seen many positive reviews about it already and the comments are great. And honestly, I could see how they felt that way, I really can. Like I said, I think there will be many who absolutely love this book and I can see how the things that made me really frustrated, the author was trying to use to show readers to 'not judge a book by its cover.' Which I totally agree with. My hangup is that I just think it could have been handled a different way. Ok, here goes, if you don't want spoilers and don't want to hear my frustrations then I suggest you don't read further because yes, they will be below and yes I will probably ramble on, you have been warned.
Overall I can't rate this book very high. There are a few parts that I would give 3 stars to and others that I would give 1 or 2 stars to. So I think in all fairness my rating would be a 2/2.5 star rating. I will also say this, don't let my ramblings and personal frustrations influence your choice to read this book if you are looking forward to it. Everyone has different tastes and preferences and so what I felt about this book could be something completely different than what you would feel. So make your choice and I hope you enjoy whatever that choice is.
Content: Clean. Some kissing but nothing further.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I am definitely somebody you would term 'a people person.' I love meeting and making new friends anywhere I go. I can easily start up a conversation with a stranger at the store and we're laughing and having a great conversation and can feel like we've been friends for years even though we've just met. It's me, it's my personality. I'm happy and I am not the kind of person who likes to belittle others or even think that someone felt excluded or hurt from something I did or said. I just can't. So, with that explanation about me and my personality, I will also say that I read and review a lot of books. Even with all the review books I get, with how many books and stories out there that I want to read, I really don't want to pick a book that I don't think I'll enjoy. I read because I love it, I want to experience characters and places and peril and love and goodness and hurt and healing and redemption and forgiveness. So if you were to look at my ratings for books, you'd see that my average is above 4 stars. I usually won't agree to review books if there's no chance of it looking like I won't like, really like or absolutely love it. Hence, most of my reviews are 3-5 star ratings. But occasionally one slips in that I just have mixed feelings about. This is, unfortunately, one of those books.
I really don't want to ramble on forever about all my frustrated feelings and my 'grrrrrrrr' thoughts. But I have so many different thoughts that have been tumbling around in my head since reading this book that you might just find me really rambling today about this book. I think there will be many who absolutely love this book. I've seen many positive reviews about it already and the comments are great. And honestly, I could see how they felt that way, I really can. Like I said, I think there will be many who absolutely love this book and I can see how the things that made me really frustrated, the author was trying to use to show readers to 'not judge a book by its cover.' Which I totally agree with. My hangup is that I just think it could have been handled a different way. Ok, here goes, if you don't want spoilers and don't want to hear my frustrations then I suggest you don't read further because yes, they will be below and yes I will probably ramble on, you have been warned.
Overall I can't rate this book very high. There are a few parts that I would give 3 stars to and others that I would give 1 or 2 stars to. So I think in all fairness my rating would be a 2/2.5 star rating. I will also say this, don't let my ramblings and personal frustrations influence your choice to read this book if you are looking forward to it. Everyone has different tastes and preferences and so what I felt about this book could be something completely different than what you would feel. So make your choice and I hope you enjoy whatever that choice is.
Content: Clean. Some kissing but nothing further.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
February 3, 2018
Isn't that cover super cute? I love it! I also was excited to see a contemporary romance in the Shadow Mountain Proper Romance line. They have some great historicals and I'm glad they're included contemporaries now as well.
I've always enjoyed the Cyrano de Bergerac storyline, especially the old Steve Martin movie Roxanne, so I was very curious how this story would play out.
I have mixed feelings. Greta, Will and Mac have an interesting dynamic. Greta and Will have been friends for a long time. Will is in love with Greta, but she is not attracted to him and therefore not interested in dating him. I totally believe you should get to know someone well and not judge solely on appearances. I also think you should be physically attracted to your significant other, but usually someone can become more or less attractive the more you know them. I also think we should make an effort to look our best for ourselves and for our significant others. So the question is -- should Greta force a relationship just because she likes other things about him? Is that fair to him? Or her? So, I'm on the fence about whether Greta and Will should end up together.
Good writing, fun banter and an interesting story that will make you think.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: None
Source: ARC from Publisher
I've always enjoyed the Cyrano de Bergerac storyline, especially the old Steve Martin movie Roxanne, so I was very curious how this story would play out.
I have mixed feelings. Greta, Will and Mac have an interesting dynamic. Greta and Will have been friends for a long time. Will is in love with Greta, but she is not attracted to him and therefore not interested in dating him. I totally believe you should get to know someone well and not judge solely on appearances. I also think you should be physically attracted to your significant other, but usually someone can become more or less attractive the more you know them. I also think we should make an effort to look our best for ourselves and for our significant others. So the question is -- should Greta force a relationship just because she likes other things about him? Is that fair to him? Or her? So, I'm on the fence about whether Greta and Will should end up together.
Good writing, fun banter and an interesting story that will make you think.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: None
Source: ARC from Publisher
March 7, 2018
My expectations were super high going into this one. I love Shadow Mountain's Proper Romance line and love Becca Wilhite. I enjoyed this story overall but it fell just short of being a full 5-star book. I think my issue was with how insensitive and blind Greta was with regards to Will. I felt a little bit that she deserved Mac not Will. Someone once told me tall, dark and handsome works but short, fat and bald can be even better if he's the right kind of guy. Will is that right kind of guy and sometimes looking beneath the surface is the most important thing we can do. That said this is a great book. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys clean contemporary romance.
4.5 Stars! - Great book.
Content: Clean
4.5 Stars! - Great book.
Content: Clean
February 2, 2018
I appreciate that the publishers allowed me to review this book but it was not for me at ALL! I loved the cover and the concept but I will get straight to the point of what killed this story for me.
The main character and the story drove me insane with her shallowness! It seemed every moment that it was possible that she couldn’t get over how “big” aka overweight someone was! It was ridiculous that this was made in too such a big of a deal. As a woman who has struggled with weight problems because of health issues it made me very uncomfortable to read this book.
The main character and the story drove me insane with her shallowness! It seemed every moment that it was possible that she couldn’t get over how “big” aka overweight someone was! It was ridiculous that this was made in too such a big of a deal. As a woman who has struggled with weight problems because of health issues it made me very uncomfortable to read this book.
Read
June 9, 2022This was a great story! Witty banter, check. Clever dialogue, check. Unique characters, check, check, check. And the best part? All of these things were told in Wilhite's easy-breezy style of writing, which is such a pleasure to read. This story made me smile, swoon, and even laugh. I loved snuggling into bed each night, and reading. One of the things I liked best about this book, however, was the honesty with which it was told. I loved that this story challenged me. I'll admit, though, at times I had a struggled with my own prejudices. Prejudices I didn't realize that I carried. I think that's a sign of a great book: it made me think, ponder, and change. Great read! I highly recommend this book to fans of clean romance. Available for sale in Feb. 2018.
*I was so lucky to receive this advanced reader copy from the author for review.
*I was so lucky to receive this advanced reader copy from the author for review.
February 6, 2018
I'm glad I kept reading to the end, because the beginning was a bit rough. I loved the aged library setting and Greta's passion for her job as a librarian. Being in her head however, was a bit of a trip. There was a lot of random information passing through her narrative that showed her personality and life and seemed like they were supposed to be sassy/snarky/quirky, but I have to admit it was rather annoying and I began skimming. Her thoughts about Mac and his hotness were so shallow... and she completely embraced that shallowness in her own thoughts on more than one occasion. Flawed and totally frustrating.
Greta has an amazing friend in Will, but because he's fat, he's stuck in the friends-only zone. She laments about how others don't give him a fair shot or the attention he deserves because of his appearance, and is self-righteously defensive of him. Hypocrite, much? Other thoughts of hers come across as judgemental, but right when I get fed up, other redeeming qualities come forth- her work in bringing local history to light by organizing and digitizing forgotten scraps, letters, and photos. Her focus on fundraising to save the library from budget cuts. Her activism in standing up for the library on social media and in other... attention-grabbing ways. Her SLOW realization that Will is supportive in all the right ways, and Mac is coming up short.
By the last third of the book I was invested in the outcome- it's obvious that Will is the words behind Mac, but the way Greta finds out was a little belated, and then it's Will who is the villain. But honestly, as much as Will is a good friend to her- is she a good friend to him? I wish the author would have made Greta more likeable by showing the ways she supports Will and is there for him in his life, besides letting him be her friend. Maybe because it's written in first person, it comes across as "the Greta show" but I don't think that's just it. The way it's written, I think she comes across as self-centered and selfish, but would never see herself that way. Even in the end, when she forgives Will and decides to "try" a romantic relationship, it's about the words he tells her, not what she feels for him.
Some other secondary characters were interesting and I think the book would have benefited from exploring them a bit more, or at least making them a bit more three-dimensional- Greta's mother, Marigold- the young hippie, Mr. Greenwood- the neighborhood hoarder, and the other librarians- Julie, Bonita, and Kevin.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
Greta has an amazing friend in Will, but because he's fat, he's stuck in the friends-only zone. She laments about how others don't give him a fair shot or the attention he deserves because of his appearance, and is self-righteously defensive of him. Hypocrite, much? Other thoughts of hers come across as judgemental, but right when I get fed up, other redeeming qualities come forth- her work in bringing local history to light by organizing and digitizing forgotten scraps, letters, and photos. Her focus on fundraising to save the library from budget cuts. Her activism in standing up for the library on social media and in other... attention-grabbing ways. Her SLOW realization that Will is supportive in all the right ways, and Mac is coming up short.
By the last third of the book I was invested in the outcome- it's obvious that Will is the words behind Mac, but the way Greta finds out was a little belated, and then it's Will who is the villain. But honestly, as much as Will is a good friend to her- is she a good friend to him? I wish the author would have made Greta more likeable by showing the ways she supports Will and is there for him in his life, besides letting him be her friend. Maybe because it's written in first person, it comes across as "the Greta show" but I don't think that's just it. The way it's written, I think she comes across as self-centered and selfish, but would never see herself that way. Even in the end, when she forgives Will and decides to "try" a romantic relationship, it's about the words he tells her, not what she feels for him.
Some other secondary characters were interesting and I think the book would have benefited from exploring them a bit more, or at least making them a bit more three-dimensional- Greta's mother, Marigold- the young hippie, Mr. Greenwood- the neighborhood hoarder, and the other librarians- Julie, Bonita, and Kevin.
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
February 6, 2018
Cover love and a book about a librarian won my heart from the start. Greta has spent a good chunk of her life working her way up to head librarian at her charmingly old local library. She's good at what she does, but she lacks some social qualities. You see, Greta is a little superficial, oblivious, and selfish. Her best friend is not physically attractive, but definitely her soulmate. Will is quite heavy and it's mentioned numerous times, but man, that guy is a poet at heart, with his silvery, smooth tongue and irresistible personality, he could melt any girl's heart.
Every year, Will delivers an amazing gift to Greta for her birthday and this year, it's his cousin Mac, the "perfect" man. Is there really such a thing as perfect? It seems rare to get the whole package deal--either you go for personality or for looks and in my honest opinion, personality can help make or break looks. Greta is ecstatic with her "gift" and can't see what's right in front of her, although it's obvious to everyone else, including the reader.
One thing that I loved best is that although Greta is blind, unknowingly hurtful, and living with her rose colored glasses on, she eventually comes to a crossroads and has to make that choice--personality or looks? It's a tough choice for her to make, but I love the growth that gradually happens through her journey.
Greta is also campaigning for a library bond on the voting ballot to help her beloved workplace stay open. She goes about things in an interesting way, which really shows her extreme flaws and shortcomings, but once again, her journey and learning experiences make her feel like an average person and not some idol. However, I'm not completely convinced that she's all the way "grown up" yet and I'm not sure she'll find her HEA without more time.
All in all, the voice is entertaining and the flaws make for realistic characters. No one can judge by a cover and no one can expect perfection.
Content: mild romance
*I received a copy through Netgalley, which had no influence on my thoughts and opinions*
Every year, Will delivers an amazing gift to Greta for her birthday and this year, it's his cousin Mac, the "perfect" man. Is there really such a thing as perfect? It seems rare to get the whole package deal--either you go for personality or for looks and in my honest opinion, personality can help make or break looks. Greta is ecstatic with her "gift" and can't see what's right in front of her, although it's obvious to everyone else, including the reader.
One thing that I loved best is that although Greta is blind, unknowingly hurtful, and living with her rose colored glasses on, she eventually comes to a crossroads and has to make that choice--personality or looks? It's a tough choice for her to make, but I love the growth that gradually happens through her journey.
Greta is also campaigning for a library bond on the voting ballot to help her beloved workplace stay open. She goes about things in an interesting way, which really shows her extreme flaws and shortcomings, but once again, her journey and learning experiences make her feel like an average person and not some idol. However, I'm not completely convinced that she's all the way "grown up" yet and I'm not sure she'll find her HEA without more time.
All in all, the voice is entertaining and the flaws make for realistic characters. No one can judge by a cover and no one can expect perfection.
Content: mild romance
*I received a copy through Netgalley, which had no influence on my thoughts and opinions*
February 8, 2018
2.5, rounding up
This a tough book to review. I'm not sure where to start.
I'll start with the cover. I love it. Easily one of my favorites. It makes me happy just looking at it because I love books and reading and libraries hold a special place in my heart. I have so many good memories that revolve around libraries and reading. Which is one thing I love about the main character, Greta. She works in a library that is in danger of closing. Greta is a fantastic supporter of books, reading and her library. She works feverishly to save the library she loves. It is, by far, her best redeeming quality. I loved her library tweets. It made me wonder if my library does that! I want to be a library tweeter!
I think my hangups might be because this book is told from Greta's point of view only. It becomes a bit tedious hearing all about Greta and how she views everyone and everything. Aside from her job at the library, Greta is very self centered. At least she comes across that way. It's all about what everyone else can do for her or how they make her feel. There isn't anything about Greta being a good friend to Will or doing kind things for him. She doesn't even do nice things for Mac. It's all about what he can do for her. It's so very one sided. I had such a hard time liking Greta and unfortunately, it's hard to love a book when you just don't like the main character very much.
I think there were many attempts at humor in this book that just sort of fell flat for me. Especially when those attempts at humor came at the expense of someone else. I did love the scene where Greta literally sews herself into her dress. That was funny to imagine.
I have read other books by this author that I have enjoyed. This book isn't a make or break deal for me, I'll be back to her future books. She has a such an easy writing style that I love. It's easy to settle in with her words.
Content: kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
This a tough book to review. I'm not sure where to start.
I'll start with the cover. I love it. Easily one of my favorites. It makes me happy just looking at it because I love books and reading and libraries hold a special place in my heart. I have so many good memories that revolve around libraries and reading. Which is one thing I love about the main character, Greta. She works in a library that is in danger of closing. Greta is a fantastic supporter of books, reading and her library. She works feverishly to save the library she loves. It is, by far, her best redeeming quality. I loved her library tweets. It made me wonder if my library does that! I want to be a library tweeter!
I think my hangups might be because this book is told from Greta's point of view only. It becomes a bit tedious hearing all about Greta and how she views everyone and everything. Aside from her job at the library, Greta is very self centered. At least she comes across that way. It's all about what everyone else can do for her or how they make her feel. There isn't anything about Greta being a good friend to Will or doing kind things for him. She doesn't even do nice things for Mac. It's all about what he can do for her. It's so very one sided. I had such a hard time liking Greta and unfortunately, it's hard to love a book when you just don't like the main character very much.
I think there were many attempts at humor in this book that just sort of fell flat for me. Especially when those attempts at humor came at the expense of someone else. I did love the scene where Greta literally sews herself into her dress. That was funny to imagine.
I have read other books by this author that I have enjoyed. This book isn't a make or break deal for me, I'll be back to her future books. She has a such an easy writing style that I love. It's easy to settle in with her words.
Content: kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
the-nope-wagon
April 18, 2018Blurb is booorrrriiiinnnnggg!
January 11, 2018
Oh dear. Oh dear.
Great concept. Gorgeous, well thought out cover. If I had been in the store, I would have picked this book up and bought it on that basis alone. However, I am so very glad I did not.
There is much I have struggled with as I read this book. To start with the story telling is flat with very little 'zing' to grab the reader. The relationships are bland with no chemistry. The main character Greta is shallow and seems to carry this unrealistic expectation about her own life. I was confused about the minor characters. Marigold seemed a mystery, and I couldn't place her in my head. Until the end. I would say I was probably 4/5 of the way through this book before I even remotely was grabbed by interest. This is way too far into a book. If I hadn't been reading this to review for Shadow Mountain I would have given up on this book after reading the first fifth.
I was so disappointed. Greta has this beautiful life long friendship with Will, but the author repeatedly reminds us of how he doesn't 'match up' to an acceptable level of boyfriend/love of your life material. There's a focus on outward appearances, not just his face but his body shape. If this had been a man describing how he wrote about his female best friend, the readers would have been in uproar. This is not the society we live in today, to put down based on appearances and be OK with that. It was harsh, and totally distracted from the development in my mind of their special bond, that the author I am assuming wants us to believe. On the other hand, I do get that she is trying to convince us of the reason they are NOT dating and why Greta needs to have this very shallow relationship with Mac. Who on outward appearances seems to have it all. I have read other books based on this concept of 'unrequited love' from the best friend. It can be done better than this with a lot more class.
Then there was the dating relationship with Mac. No chemistry. When the dialogue is all about how 'hot' someone is it just sounds middle school and petty. I was also taken aback by the lesson in kissing she receives in her teen years from Will. It seemed lengthy and a lot deeper than what you would equate with a couple teenagers - trying it out. They apparently can kiss for a long time, and seem to just get up and walk away from it - completely unaffected.
There are aspects of this story that I did enjoy. The visit from the author, wow - cleverly written and executed. Dr Silver, and the twist of events near the end. The struggling plight of our community libraries, and the very real threat of keeping them viable. The library described reminds me very much of the one from my childhood. I grew up in England, and the building was a Victorian building, purposefully built for a library, but it had many of the same features, though only one story and never a house. I have so many wonderful memories of visiting the library, and even have been able to utilize it with my own children during the 8 years I lived there with them. Sadly that library has gone the way of so many others. Seen as too costly to the council budget. Why does one library succeed and others do not. I think about the current library I have access to. It is a fairly large 2 story modern building. It seems to always range from very busy to busy. There are slow times, but they are far and few between. Maybe is the vast range of items they offer. The wide selection of books, the huge computer areas, the many specific rooms, used for groups, clubs and special events. The appeal of the children's area, with almost as many toys to be played with as there are books on shelves. The very specific computer facilities geared towards young minds. The layout and design. The teen area is one I have never seen in a library before. Very well done. The inter-library lending system within the state of Michigan is also a huge benefit to the library patron. The vast amount of digital resources available to the member without even stepping foot in the building.
There is a thought posed in the story that libraries are of little value to an author. As a influencer and reviewer, I have many times put in a request with my local library that they purchase a book I have read, and enjoyed. This is something that is actively encouraged by author's themselves. I would beg to differ on this opinion that having libraries take away book sales. For me, even though I read mountains more digital copies than paperbacks, my bookshelves at home are filled with 90% books I pre-read either in the library or as a eARC copy. Books I love make it onto my shelves regardless if I have read them before purchase. It is an absolute benefit to an author to have their books 'discovered' on the shelves of a library. In fact I have found most my new authors that way.
Its interesting to me, as I live in a small town that has no library service to most residents - I am one of the lucky ones, we live far enough on the edge that we are pulled into the school district for the town with the library. As such we get to enjoy those library benefits. Friends not more than a mile away however, have to pay a yearly fee if they wish to become a member. I would pay for library membership especially with the one we have on offer, its uses have been far reaching and absolutely vital to me and my family.
Overall, I enjoyed the ending, it was presented well. I still lacked belief in the conviction of Greta's final feelings towards Will. It felt a little off.
Becca Wilhite writes clean contemporary fiction. There's a wide array of opinion over this book, which says to me, the reviewer, that everyone has a different taste, and take away for the books they read. Give it a go. You may love it. I just didn't, and hopefully I have explained why.
I received this eARC from Shadow Mountain & Netgalley. This is my honest review.
Great concept. Gorgeous, well thought out cover. If I had been in the store, I would have picked this book up and bought it on that basis alone. However, I am so very glad I did not.
There is much I have struggled with as I read this book. To start with the story telling is flat with very little 'zing' to grab the reader. The relationships are bland with no chemistry. The main character Greta is shallow and seems to carry this unrealistic expectation about her own life. I was confused about the minor characters. Marigold seemed a mystery, and I couldn't place her in my head. Until the end. I would say I was probably 4/5 of the way through this book before I even remotely was grabbed by interest. This is way too far into a book. If I hadn't been reading this to review for Shadow Mountain I would have given up on this book after reading the first fifth.
I was so disappointed. Greta has this beautiful life long friendship with Will, but the author repeatedly reminds us of how he doesn't 'match up' to an acceptable level of boyfriend/love of your life material. There's a focus on outward appearances, not just his face but his body shape. If this had been a man describing how he wrote about his female best friend, the readers would have been in uproar. This is not the society we live in today, to put down based on appearances and be OK with that. It was harsh, and totally distracted from the development in my mind of their special bond, that the author I am assuming wants us to believe. On the other hand, I do get that she is trying to convince us of the reason they are NOT dating and why Greta needs to have this very shallow relationship with Mac. Who on outward appearances seems to have it all. I have read other books based on this concept of 'unrequited love' from the best friend. It can be done better than this with a lot more class.
Then there was the dating relationship with Mac. No chemistry. When the dialogue is all about how 'hot' someone is it just sounds middle school and petty. I was also taken aback by the lesson in kissing she receives in her teen years from Will. It seemed lengthy and a lot deeper than what you would equate with a couple teenagers - trying it out. They apparently can kiss for a long time, and seem to just get up and walk away from it - completely unaffected.
There are aspects of this story that I did enjoy. The visit from the author, wow - cleverly written and executed. Dr Silver, and the twist of events near the end. The struggling plight of our community libraries, and the very real threat of keeping them viable. The library described reminds me very much of the one from my childhood. I grew up in England, and the building was a Victorian building, purposefully built for a library, but it had many of the same features, though only one story and never a house. I have so many wonderful memories of visiting the library, and even have been able to utilize it with my own children during the 8 years I lived there with them. Sadly that library has gone the way of so many others. Seen as too costly to the council budget. Why does one library succeed and others do not. I think about the current library I have access to. It is a fairly large 2 story modern building. It seems to always range from very busy to busy. There are slow times, but they are far and few between. Maybe is the vast range of items they offer. The wide selection of books, the huge computer areas, the many specific rooms, used for groups, clubs and special events. The appeal of the children's area, with almost as many toys to be played with as there are books on shelves. The very specific computer facilities geared towards young minds. The layout and design. The teen area is one I have never seen in a library before. Very well done. The inter-library lending system within the state of Michigan is also a huge benefit to the library patron. The vast amount of digital resources available to the member without even stepping foot in the building.
There is a thought posed in the story that libraries are of little value to an author. As a influencer and reviewer, I have many times put in a request with my local library that they purchase a book I have read, and enjoyed. This is something that is actively encouraged by author's themselves. I would beg to differ on this opinion that having libraries take away book sales. For me, even though I read mountains more digital copies than paperbacks, my bookshelves at home are filled with 90% books I pre-read either in the library or as a eARC copy. Books I love make it onto my shelves regardless if I have read them before purchase. It is an absolute benefit to an author to have their books 'discovered' on the shelves of a library. In fact I have found most my new authors that way.
Its interesting to me, as I live in a small town that has no library service to most residents - I am one of the lucky ones, we live far enough on the edge that we are pulled into the school district for the town with the library. As such we get to enjoy those library benefits. Friends not more than a mile away however, have to pay a yearly fee if they wish to become a member. I would pay for library membership especially with the one we have on offer, its uses have been far reaching and absolutely vital to me and my family.
Overall, I enjoyed the ending, it was presented well. I still lacked belief in the conviction of Greta's final feelings towards Will. It felt a little off.
Becca Wilhite writes clean contemporary fiction. There's a wide array of opinion over this book, which says to me, the reviewer, that everyone has a different taste, and take away for the books they read. Give it a go. You may love it. I just didn't, and hopefully I have explained why.
I received this eARC from Shadow Mountain & Netgalley. This is my honest review.
February 13, 2018
***3.5 stars***
Often the best things in life are those that we take for granted. Will and Greta are best friends. They have a bond that has not been broken since elementary school. There is a problem, Greta is not attracted to Will because of his physical appearance, he is not thin. She gets upset when others say she should not hang around him because he is not husband material. She doesn't realize her own prejudice. She thinks she is looking for the perfect man. One who is good looking, and well, not fat.
I really appreciated the underlying message in the book, there is more to a person than their physical appearance. We are inundated with the message that you have to look a certain way to have value. If you want love, you need to be thin and fit into the mold that others have created. It takes a while for Greta to realize that beauty is more than skin deep.
Will uses his cousin to relay his feelings for Greta, of course she doesn't realize who it is coming from. It is a modern spin on Cyrano de Bergerac . (Remember the guy with the big nose?) Will gives Greta a present for her birthday. He introduces her to his good looking cousin, Mac, who becomes the voice to Will's feelings.
Words are an important part of the story. Greta is a librarian and Will is an English teacher. Words convey emotion, they can give a glimpse of the soul. That is the important part of a person, the soul. Like I stated above, I can really get behind the message of the book. The journey to get there is sometimes difficult.
This is a clean book with kissing. Becca Wilhite is an author whose books I have always enjoyed. You should "Check" this one out and see what you think!
Source: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Often the best things in life are those that we take for granted. Will and Greta are best friends. They have a bond that has not been broken since elementary school. There is a problem, Greta is not attracted to Will because of his physical appearance, he is not thin. She gets upset when others say she should not hang around him because he is not husband material. She doesn't realize her own prejudice. She thinks she is looking for the perfect man. One who is good looking, and well, not fat.
I really appreciated the underlying message in the book, there is more to a person than their physical appearance. We are inundated with the message that you have to look a certain way to have value. If you want love, you need to be thin and fit into the mold that others have created. It takes a while for Greta to realize that beauty is more than skin deep.
Will uses his cousin to relay his feelings for Greta, of course she doesn't realize who it is coming from. It is a modern spin on Cyrano de Bergerac . (Remember the guy with the big nose?) Will gives Greta a present for her birthday. He introduces her to his good looking cousin, Mac, who becomes the voice to Will's feelings.
Words are an important part of the story. Greta is a librarian and Will is an English teacher. Words convey emotion, they can give a glimpse of the soul. That is the important part of a person, the soul. Like I stated above, I can really get behind the message of the book. The journey to get there is sometimes difficult.
This is a clean book with kissing. Becca Wilhite is an author whose books I have always enjoyed. You should "Check" this one out and see what you think!
Source: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
September 20, 2018
Greta has worked at her local library for ten years and feels strongly about the role a library plays in a community. When poor funding threatens to close the library, she works from all angles to make sure the library survives.
Meanwhile, her best friend Will has given her the best birthday present: the perfect single guy, both inside and out. As Mack and Greta become more and more involved, aspects of his personality and actions seem to conflict with her first impressions.
My rating is due to my frustration with the heroine and not necessarily a reflection on the quality of the writing etc.
Meanwhile, her best friend Will has given her the best birthday present: the perfect single guy, both inside and out. As Mack and Greta become more and more involved, aspects of his personality and actions seem to conflict with her first impressions.
My rating is due to my frustration with the heroine and not necessarily a reflection on the quality of the writing etc.
January 8, 2020
DNF (did not finish)
I only made it to chapter 8. Greta, the so called heroine, was a stumbling block that eventually made me give up the fight. She's selfish, superficial and a not so likable simpleton, in spite of the masters degree she likes to remind the reader she's earned.
SPOILERS BEGIN
She is against a new library facility because it would put an end to the library she loves, that she grew up in and her parents went to. Okay, she's attached to her library. I get it. However, her current library isn't handicap accessible, something an article makes her aware of (if she wasn't already) and she's still like, too bad for them. I love my library and want it to stay just like it is. Really chick???
Then she's always, ALWAYS talking about how Will, her so called friend, is overweight. Okay, I get it. You want the reader to know that he isn't the typical hunky hero. Fine. Many people's significant others don't have bulging biceps, but really is he that big? He must be enormous for the number of times she says it. Whether he is or not, she's mighty hung up about it, and obviously not worthy of him even as a friend.
SPOILERS END
Whatever is the root cause of the heroine's problems, I'll never know.
I requested this ARC on NetGalley and when I went to download it, I noticed that the average review was 3 stars, from 20 total reviews. I didn't read the actual reviews at that time: 1) because I'd already requested the book and wanted to give it a fair shake 2) Because one man's trash is another's treasure 3) my triggers may not be another person's so what they see as obnoxious, I may interpret as quirky. When I reached my breaking point with Greta I went back to the reviews and read a few. I'm in complete agreement with the folks who didn't like this read. The two spoilers I shared help support why I feel this way. If those examples don't bother you, you'll probably like this read. If they do, I'd advise you to give this one a pass.
After reading reviews from people who made it until the very end, I'm even more thankful that I stopped!
The opinions expressed here are honest and my own.
I only made it to chapter 8. Greta, the so called heroine, was a stumbling block that eventually made me give up the fight. She's selfish, superficial and a not so likable simpleton, in spite of the masters degree she likes to remind the reader she's earned.
SPOILERS BEGIN
She is against a new library facility because it would put an end to the library she loves, that she grew up in and her parents went to. Okay, she's attached to her library. I get it. However, her current library isn't handicap accessible, something an article makes her aware of (if she wasn't already) and she's still like, too bad for them. I love my library and want it to stay just like it is. Really chick???
Then she's always, ALWAYS talking about how Will, her so called friend, is overweight. Okay, I get it. You want the reader to know that he isn't the typical hunky hero. Fine. Many people's significant others don't have bulging biceps, but really is he that big? He must be enormous for the number of times she says it. Whether he is or not, she's mighty hung up about it, and obviously not worthy of him even as a friend.
SPOILERS END
Whatever is the root cause of the heroine's problems, I'll never know.
I requested this ARC on NetGalley and when I went to download it, I noticed that the average review was 3 stars, from 20 total reviews. I didn't read the actual reviews at that time: 1) because I'd already requested the book and wanted to give it a fair shake 2) Because one man's trash is another's treasure 3) my triggers may not be another person's so what they see as obnoxious, I may interpret as quirky. When I reached my breaking point with Greta I went back to the reviews and read a few. I'm in complete agreement with the folks who didn't like this read. The two spoilers I shared help support why I feel this way. If those examples don't bother you, you'll probably like this read. If they do, I'd advise you to give this one a pass.
After reading reviews from people who made it until the very end, I'm even more thankful that I stopped!
The opinions expressed here are honest and my own.
November 14, 2017
Read this as a NetGalley ARC.
I could not finish this book. I had a lot of problems with the main character Greta.
Greta is a librarian, trying to save her local library from being closed. Her best friend Will, who is secretly in love with her, is helping her in her endeavor.
Will, has sent his hot cousin to go on a few dates with Greta - Cyrano de Bergerac style; Greta might notice that looks aren't everything and that she is secretly in love with Will, too.
So far so good. What made the book unfinishable for me was Greta's constantly telling the reader that Will is overweight. Over and over. On the one hand Greta is protective about him, on the other hand she tells us that he is too big to sit at her dinner table. I could just not reconsile the two things with each other.
I could not finish this book. I had a lot of problems with the main character Greta.
Greta is a librarian, trying to save her local library from being closed. Her best friend Will, who is secretly in love with her, is helping her in her endeavor.
Will, has sent his hot cousin to go on a few dates with Greta - Cyrano de Bergerac style; Greta might notice that looks aren't everything and that she is secretly in love with Will, too.
So far so good. What made the book unfinishable for me was Greta's constantly telling the reader that Will is overweight. Over and over. On the one hand Greta is protective about him, on the other hand she tells us that he is too big to sit at her dinner table. I could just not reconsile the two things with each other.
December 5, 2024
I have been waiting for another book by Becca for years and Check Me Out was worth the wait. Greta is a wonderful character, full of enduring humor, heart, and compassion for what she believes in. In this book, it is the Franklin library. Greta is trying to save her beloved library, all while getting to know her dreamy suitor. As much as I loved Greta, Will stole the show. He's fantastic. All of the supporting characters were the glue that held the story. I love how Becca writes. Her characters are spunky and fun, people I would want to be friends with. Very well done!
I received a pass-along ARC from the author, all views and opinions expressed are my own.
I received a pass-along ARC from the author, all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Read
August 31, 2023I'm so excited to have another Becca Wilhite novel in my hands! This is a great story, with protagonists you'll love to love and root for. They feel like real people--a credit to Wilhite's descriptive ability and the smart, well paced dialogue that brings her characters to life. While the plot is fun, (especially when one loves libraries like I do) and the conflict believable with just enough comic relief, it's the people that made this novel work for me. I recognized bits of myself in each one of them and truly enjoyed the time I spent immersed in their world.
May 16, 2018
I really wanted to love this, the cover is cute and I love the Proper Romance books but I must not love the modern proper romance books (also didnt love Lies Jane Austen Told Me). It didn't come off as funny to me, the author tried but it didn't flow with me. It was predictable, I really didn't like how much she focused on Will's weight, she doesnt deserve him. This is fat shaming and not okay. I'm glad I didn't buy this book but now feel awful that I requested my library buy it. oh the irony. Don't check this book out!
February 13, 2019
* - There is a character named Marnie! :)
Completely predictable and juvenile - characters felt like they were in high school, instead of post-grad employed adults. Lacked any emotional depth. It was a chore to read.
Moral of the story? Fat people can be worthy of love too.
My favourite line:
Did this book even have an editor? Ever heard of a thesaurus?
Completely predictable and juvenile - characters felt like they were in high school, instead of post-grad employed adults. Lacked any emotional depth. It was a chore to read.
Moral of the story? Fat people can be worthy of love too.
My favourite line:
"I wasn't sure what his expression was expressing."
Did this book even have an editor? Ever heard of a thesaurus?
February 20, 2018
This was such an enjoyable book. The crux of the story (to me) was the fate of our public libraries. Larger cities are blessed to have wonderful libraries but smaller towns might have problems keeping them open if they do not have a large town base. In this story, the Franklin Library is on the verge of being shut down because it cannot be made ADA compliant. The library is housed in a historic home with lots of charm and character, but if you know anything about those older homes, they weren't built with wheelchairs in mind. So Greta takes this as a personal challenge to make sure the taxpayers vote for the bond to build a new library. Some of her methods are a bit crazy, but she is passionate and will do whatever it takes to keep her job and the library open.
The story also has a local history aspect. It seems that whenever someone dies all of their papers end up at the library. So Greta, with the help of Will, is tasked with sorting through the boxes and digitizing the photos and documents. In the midst of all the documents, she comes across a Dr Silver who was something of a radical for his time and helped end segregation in their town in Ohio. However, she can't find any information about him after that time period and it sets her on a quest to figure out what happened to him. She even admits to having a historical crush on him. This story has a nice ending but I'm not going to say how she finds Dr Silver.
The romance was delightful, perhaps a bit predictable, but it unfolded nicely. Greta apparently asks for something on her birthday each year and Will gives her whatever it is despite how hard it might be to come up with her wish. Apparently this year she wished for the perfect man, handsome with the soul of a poet. Will being Will, he introduces her to his cousin who is very handsome and seems to be saying all the right things. But everyone else knows the truth about Mac and his words, how long will it take Greta to figure it out? I'm sure you can guess where this is going but I'm not going to spoil it for you.
We loved this book and suggest reading it especially if you are about saving the libraries...just don't go to some of the lengths that Greta did in this story!
The story also has a local history aspect. It seems that whenever someone dies all of their papers end up at the library. So Greta, with the help of Will, is tasked with sorting through the boxes and digitizing the photos and documents. In the midst of all the documents, she comes across a Dr Silver who was something of a radical for his time and helped end segregation in their town in Ohio. However, she can't find any information about him after that time period and it sets her on a quest to figure out what happened to him. She even admits to having a historical crush on him. This story has a nice ending but I'm not going to say how she finds Dr Silver.
The romance was delightful, perhaps a bit predictable, but it unfolded nicely. Greta apparently asks for something on her birthday each year and Will gives her whatever it is despite how hard it might be to come up with her wish. Apparently this year she wished for the perfect man, handsome with the soul of a poet. Will being Will, he introduces her to his cousin who is very handsome and seems to be saying all the right things. But everyone else knows the truth about Mac and his words, how long will it take Greta to figure it out? I'm sure you can guess where this is going but I'm not going to spoil it for you.
We loved this book and suggest reading it especially if you are about saving the libraries...just don't go to some of the lengths that Greta did in this story!
October 18, 2017
A contemporary Proper Romance? Yes, please!!
Check Me Out was a fantastic, fun read that I raced through in just a few sittings. Will and Greta have been best friends forever, but all they'll be is friends because as much as Greta loves talking to Will--she's just not attracted to him. So when Will sets her up with his gorgeous cousin who seems almost too good to be true, Greta falls head-over-heels for him. But things aren't always quite what they seem...
In addition to the romantic plotline, Greta is also working to save the library she works for, which was really interesting as well! The book signing/diva author had me laughing so hard (and cringing. The laugh/cringe of someone who understands.)
Wilhite nails the banter between Will and Greta, and I also loved Greta's spunk! The minor characters were all fun and well-developed too--but Will was the best. *sigh* LOVED him.
Great read and I can't wait for her next!
Thanks to Netgalley/Shadow Mountain for providing me a review copy of this book.
Check Me Out was a fantastic, fun read that I raced through in just a few sittings. Will and Greta have been best friends forever, but all they'll be is friends because as much as Greta loves talking to Will--she's just not attracted to him. So when Will sets her up with his gorgeous cousin who seems almost too good to be true, Greta falls head-over-heels for him. But things aren't always quite what they seem...
In addition to the romantic plotline, Greta is also working to save the library she works for, which was really interesting as well! The book signing/diva author had me laughing so hard (and cringing. The laugh/cringe of someone who understands.)
Wilhite nails the banter between Will and Greta, and I also loved Greta's spunk! The minor characters were all fun and well-developed too--but Will was the best. *sigh* LOVED him.
Great read and I can't wait for her next!
Thanks to Netgalley/Shadow Mountain for providing me a review copy of this book.
June 14, 2020
I am so happy to be done with this book! It took me over a month to read, because I kept going to other books instead.
It felt tedious and way too long! It should be shortened by half! One of the characters is overweight. They comment on that so often, that is it part of why this book is over 300 pages long!
The main character grated on my nerves most of the time. And she is really mean to her "best friend".
Part of it was the digital format - there are a lot of texts in this book, and they were hard to see on the kindle.
Also I Really didn't like the ending! To read 350+ pages for ..... tons of disappointment. I kept pushing through reading it, thinking the ending would be the reward .... nope!
I don't feel like this book was worth the time it took me to read.
It felt tedious and way too long! It should be shortened by half! One of the characters is overweight. They comment on that so often, that is it part of why this book is over 300 pages long!
The main character grated on my nerves most of the time. And she is really mean to her "best friend".
Part of it was the digital format - there are a lot of texts in this book, and they were hard to see on the kindle.
Also I Really didn't like the ending! To read 350+ pages for ..... tons of disappointment. I kept pushing through reading it, thinking the ending would be the reward .... nope!
I don't feel like this book was worth the time it took me to read.
August 14, 2018
Updated review: downgraded to 2 stars based on non-fat-acceptance message for majority of the book.
ORIGINAL REVIEW: Cute, bookish, LIBRARIAN romance - very chaste, only kissing. Satisfyingly light.
ORIGINAL REVIEW: Cute, bookish, LIBRARIAN romance - very chaste, only kissing. Satisfyingly light.
January 11, 2024
Snobby abled librarian is shocked to learn that disabled people want access to libraries too. Also is compelled to remind the reader that her bff is fat, every-time she thinks of him; like she wants brownie points for it.
June 24, 2017
Five star fun. Greta is such a funny, passionate character, and so relatable. I love the small town feel and the cast of colorful characteres.
August 22, 2019
This was such a cute clean read! Loved it, great fast read about friendship, love , and books.❤
October 7, 2019
Huge letdown. The heroine was shallow and I can’t stand shallow bitches.
July 28, 2018
Some parts of this book were good, but a lot of it frustrated me. Mainly Greta, the main character, being so focused on Mac's good looks and being so oblivious to everything. All Greta and Mac did was kiss--first of all, I don't really want to read about that, and secondly, she never stopped talking about how hot he was. That's not important, Greta!
Then she could never figure out that Will was actually the one creating all those messages for her...which I don't consider a spoiler because it was so obvious. Maybe less so in real life than while reading a book, but still.
Will was awesome, and I wanted to read more about him! But he never seemed to get upset, which bothered me. Not when Greta kept going on and on about how wonderful Mac was. It just didn't make sense. Even a good person would get upset when someone you love won't pay attention to you. And I wanted to know how he felt about being overweight. Was he really that chill about it? Does it hurt him inside? Has he ever tried to change? I'm just curious and I want to know. Maybe this book would have been more interesting from his perspective...
Mac was annoying...but honestly, I felt a little bad for him...for the real him. Because beneath all of those good looks, there has to be someone. There must be something he loves, passions he has, etc. Does he flirt so much because he's trying to hide a broken heart? Why does he even agree to Will's scheme and do what Will tells him to? So I feel bad because we never got to find out who he really was inside.
I liked the things about the library, but it wasn't really clear what Greta wanted. Did she want the bond to pass, or did she just want enough money that they could take care of the library on their own? I wish she had a clearer goal so that the readers could follow her along on that goal and feel proud when she made progress. Also, I want to know what kind of books she reads on a regular basis. And what kind of experiences has she had or does she have that make her feel like she deserves to be a snob? And if she reads so much, why can't she figure out what's going on.
I feel like things resolved too quickly, especially between Greta and Will. (Which also shouldn't be a spoiler because it's obvious from the back of the book: "Mac has the looks; Will has the heart. How can she choose between them?" Yep, it's obvious who she'll end up with.) I just feel like Greta didn't have enough of a realization or a change of heart. I don't feel like she changed enough to accept Will completely. I wish I could say the best Greta/Will moment was the ending, but it was actually their first kiss. That was super cute.
Anyway, it was enjoyable, but I wanted more depth...from everyone!
Then she could never figure out that Will was actually the one creating all those messages for her...which I don't consider a spoiler because it was so obvious. Maybe less so in real life than while reading a book, but still.
Will was awesome, and I wanted to read more about him! But he never seemed to get upset, which bothered me. Not when Greta kept going on and on about how wonderful Mac was. It just didn't make sense. Even a good person would get upset when someone you love won't pay attention to you. And I wanted to know how he felt about being overweight. Was he really that chill about it? Does it hurt him inside? Has he ever tried to change? I'm just curious and I want to know. Maybe this book would have been more interesting from his perspective...
Mac was annoying...but honestly, I felt a little bad for him...for the real him. Because beneath all of those good looks, there has to be someone. There must be something he loves, passions he has, etc. Does he flirt so much because he's trying to hide a broken heart? Why does he even agree to Will's scheme and do what Will tells him to? So I feel bad because we never got to find out who he really was inside.
I liked the things about the library, but it wasn't really clear what Greta wanted. Did she want the bond to pass, or did she just want enough money that they could take care of the library on their own? I wish she had a clearer goal so that the readers could follow her along on that goal and feel proud when she made progress. Also, I want to know what kind of books she reads on a regular basis. And what kind of experiences has she had or does she have that make her feel like she deserves to be a snob? And if she reads so much, why can't she figure out what's going on.
I feel like things resolved too quickly, especially between Greta and Will. (Which also shouldn't be a spoiler because it's obvious from the back of the book: "Mac has the looks; Will has the heart. How can she choose between them?" Yep, it's obvious who she'll end up with.) I just feel like Greta didn't have enough of a realization or a change of heart. I don't feel like she changed enough to accept Will completely. I wish I could say the best Greta/Will moment was the ending, but it was actually their first kiss. That was super cute.
Anyway, it was enjoyable, but I wanted more depth...from everyone!
February 6, 2018
First sentence: You know that quote people attribute to Confucius? The one that says, "Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life"? I know that quote. I've had paper copies of it stuck to various household mirrors. I believe in it. I love it.
Premise/plot: Greta, our heroine, is a young librarian who shared a wish with her best friend, Will. Her wish? To find the perfect guy. He delivers; in fact he sends the guy, his cousin Mac, to the library, to the poetry section. Her reaction is total swoon. But what she doesn't know--but readers do--is she's fallen into an adaptation of Cyrano de Bergerac.
The guy she's falling head over heels for--is being told exactly what to say by Will. When they bump into each other impromptu, he stumbles and goofs. On their dates, he's always glued to his phone. But he gives the most awesome compliments--via text and sometimes in person.
The other drama of Check Me Out is Greta's fight to save her small town library. If a bond passes, I believe, then there will be a new library. If it doesn't, well, the current library closes its doors forever.
My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I did. I usually don't read contemporary romances because I don't read smut. (To clarify, I don't judge those who do. I just personally choose to keep my romances clean.) I trust Shadow Mountain's Proper Romance line though. So as soon as I heard that this one was a loose adaptation of Cyrano de Bergerac, I said YES, please!
Cyrano de Bergerac is told from Cyrano's perspective. Obviously, this one is from the female perspective. Greta--like Roxane--is at first concerned SOLELY with appearances. Greta finds Mac to be swoon-worthy. And she can't stop talking about his perfect hair, his perfect body, his perfect smile, his perfect eyes, etc. She melts at the touch of his hand on hers. She's smitten thoroughly. I am often annoyed with Roxane's character--her blindness to what is right in front of her, her shallowness, her silliness. That holds true, in part, with Greta.
Premise/plot: Greta, our heroine, is a young librarian who shared a wish with her best friend, Will. Her wish? To find the perfect guy. He delivers; in fact he sends the guy, his cousin Mac, to the library, to the poetry section. Her reaction is total swoon. But what she doesn't know--but readers do--is she's fallen into an adaptation of Cyrano de Bergerac.
The guy she's falling head over heels for--is being told exactly what to say by Will. When they bump into each other impromptu, he stumbles and goofs. On their dates, he's always glued to his phone. But he gives the most awesome compliments--via text and sometimes in person.
The other drama of Check Me Out is Greta's fight to save her small town library. If a bond passes, I believe, then there will be a new library. If it doesn't, well, the current library closes its doors forever.
My thoughts: I enjoyed this one. I did. I usually don't read contemporary romances because I don't read smut. (To clarify, I don't judge those who do. I just personally choose to keep my romances clean.) I trust Shadow Mountain's Proper Romance line though. So as soon as I heard that this one was a loose adaptation of Cyrano de Bergerac, I said YES, please!
Cyrano de Bergerac is told from Cyrano's perspective. Obviously, this one is from the female perspective. Greta--like Roxane--is at first concerned SOLELY with appearances. Greta finds Mac to be swoon-worthy. And she can't stop talking about his perfect hair, his perfect body, his perfect smile, his perfect eyes, etc. She melts at the touch of his hand on hers. She's smitten thoroughly. I am often annoyed with Roxane's character--her blindness to what is right in front of her, her shallowness, her silliness. That holds true, in part, with Greta.
July 24, 2019
Maybe I went into this with lowered expectations after reading a few reviews, but I thought this was rather well done, considering. I thought the first-person narrative was a brilliant move on the part of the author. Maybe it’s just me, but it made the heroine a more sympathetic character despite her being a shallow snob who is definitely not as intelligent as she thinks she is. Much like Jane Austen was able to do with her character, Emma Woodhouse, who you wind up liking despite all her flaws. Or maybe it really is just me.
The writing is exceptional, the plot flow is perfect, and the characters are fun. One may have to suspend some disbelief and just go with the flow, but this can be a fun read if you let it. I think the author deserves some serious props for making this Cyrano de Bergerac-esque tale work.
The writing is exceptional, the plot flow is perfect, and the characters are fun. One may have to suspend some disbelief and just go with the flow, but this can be a fun read if you let it. I think the author deserves some serious props for making this Cyrano de Bergerac-esque tale work.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 361 reviews