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Lovestruck Librarians #6
Hidden Hearts
An Admirer With A Secret . . . Mary Higgs could be the poster girl for the buttoned-up librarian. She follows the rules. Stays ʼtil closing. Her kindness and dedication to her patrons is legendary. But those patrons have no idea what she's typing to the mysterious shut-in who emailed the library needing a library card three months ago . . .
When the elusive Miles O'Connor shows up, he's no invalid. A year ago, he was the gleaming, ab-sational star of the small screen. Then came the accident. Now he's a wounded recluse with a pizza habit and fears so unshakable that only the thought of losing Mary to an online date could lure him out of his cabin.
Soon their email rapport has turned into weekends on the couch, watching tearjerkers and driving each other insane with red-hot makeout sessions. But as the desire grows and their horizons expand, the life that brought them together might not be enough for either of them . . .
"Love is never out of reach for the librarians of the Nice County Library System . . . Sarah's charm and humor are perfectly suited to a beach read." --Publishers Weekly on Ready to Fall
When the elusive Miles O'Connor shows up, he's no invalid. A year ago, he was the gleaming, ab-sational star of the small screen. Then came the accident. Now he's a wounded recluse with a pizza habit and fears so unshakable that only the thought of losing Mary to an online date could lure him out of his cabin.
Soon their email rapport has turned into weekends on the couch, watching tearjerkers and driving each other insane with red-hot makeout sessions. But as the desire grows and their horizons expand, the life that brought them together might not be enough for either of them . . .
"Love is never out of reach for the librarians of the Nice County Library System . . . Sarah's charm and humor are perfectly suited to a beach read." --Publishers Weekly on Ready to Fall
207 pages, Paperback
First published June 20, 2017
24 people are currently reading
714 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Dade
25 books5,856 followersOlivia Dade grew up an undeniable nerd, prone to ignoring the world around her as she read any book she could find. Her favorites, though, were always, always romances. As an adult, she earned an M.A. in American history and worked in a variety of jobs that required the donning of actual pants: Colonial Williamsburg interpreter, high school teacher, academic tutor, and (of course) librarian. Now, however, she has finally achieved her lifelong goal of wearing pajamas all day as a hermit-like writer and enthusiastic hag. She currently lives outside Stockholm with her delightful family and their ever-burgeoning collection of books.
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If you want to find me online, here’s where to go!
Website: https://oliviadade.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/OliviaWrites
Newsletter: https://go.oliviadade.com/Newsletter
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If you want to find me online, here’s where to go!
Website: https://oliviadade.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/OliviaWrites
Newsletter: https://go.oliviadade.com/Newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
April 13, 2017
I can't think of any other word to describe this book except cute. Or maybe sweet. Ok, so it is both. But it is also pretty funny as well. Alright, that is three words. But it is true. This is cute, sweet and nicely humorous.
Even though the two main characters deal with their share of angst -- Miles, the hero, is in hiding and throwing a bit of a pity party because he is learning to cope with a loss and Mary, the heroine, has repressed a lot of herself because of a terrible living experience she had while younger is also hiding in a way -- they manage to be charming and funny with each other so they aren't wallowing. Which I love cuz I can't with super angst. There is good angst-to-normal behavior balance in this.
The romance itself if fairly low conflict, but even as the characters spend time together and get to know each other, the author manages to keep a level of suspense & anticipation in the romance as we get layers of reveal about who these two people are and what might be holding them back from fully committing. Even though the overall romantic conflict is not too high, there is a believable barrier to their HEA that they both need to overcome. I also really liked that both characters are rather dynamic, by that I mean the couple we meet at the beginning of the book have transformed believably to two people who feel much stronger by the end of the book.
And finally, there is this scene where the heroine is at the Smithsonian looking at a portrait. She describes it and uses it as a metaphor for herself. For some reason her description of the picture and her reaction to it made me want to see it for myself. So I googled it. And yeah, seeing the picture for myself made that scene really pop for me.
Fun book that was an easy read.
**This review is from an ARC received via Netgalley **
Even though the two main characters deal with their share of angst -- Miles, the hero, is in hiding and throwing a bit of a pity party because he is learning to cope with a loss and Mary, the heroine, has repressed a lot of herself because of a terrible living experience she had while younger is also hiding in a way -- they manage to be charming and funny with each other so they aren't wallowing. Which I love cuz I can't with super angst. There is good angst-to-normal behavior balance in this.
The romance itself if fairly low conflict, but even as the characters spend time together and get to know each other, the author manages to keep a level of suspense & anticipation in the romance as we get layers of reveal about who these two people are and what might be holding them back from fully committing. Even though the overall romantic conflict is not too high, there is a believable barrier to their HEA that they both need to overcome. I also really liked that both characters are rather dynamic, by that I mean the couple we meet at the beginning of the book have transformed believably to two people who feel much stronger by the end of the book.
And finally, there is this scene where the heroine is at the Smithsonian looking at a portrait. She describes it and uses it as a metaphor for herself. For some reason her description of the picture and her reaction to it made me want to see it for myself. So I googled it. And yeah, seeing the picture for myself made that scene really pop for me.
Fun book that was an easy read.
**This review is from an ARC received via Netgalley **
April 8, 2017
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
4.5 stars
A wonderful read and an excellent take on the wounded hero trope – it’s rare to find a story where the hero’s new condition and reality are so thoughtfully woven into the plot (the difficulties, the new body, the grief, the adaptations… and the awakening to the new possibilities of a different life (“That didn’t mean he couldn’t use his new body and test his limits. For work, for fun, and for pleasure”, quote from ARC).
I really loved the hero, Miles O’Connor. He starts like a reclusive bear with a wounded paw, emotionally and physically damaged, and slowly – with the heroine’s help, of course – regains his self-confidence and optimism. And he is such a charming, caring and kind man who, besides that, has an interesting job, a fascinating mixture of manual skills and glamour (I loved how Olivia Dade developed “The Naked Carpenter” concept).
I also liked the heroine, Mary Higgs, a librarian, also dealing with insecurities. Their romance is a slow-build, just as I like,
I must say that the beginning of the story seemed trivial and I disliked how quickly the heroine gave the hero her personal email address and hugged him when they met for the first time – but really, those were mere hitches and I loved the depth Olivia Dade infused in the story and the character’s complexity.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Kensington Books/Lyrical Shine, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
4.5 stars
A wonderful read and an excellent take on the wounded hero trope – it’s rare to find a story where the hero’s new condition and reality are so thoughtfully woven into the plot (the difficulties, the new body, the grief, the adaptations… and the awakening to the new possibilities of a different life (“That didn’t mean he couldn’t use his new body and test his limits. For work, for fun, and for pleasure”, quote from ARC).
I really loved the hero, Miles O’Connor. He starts like a reclusive bear with a wounded paw, emotionally and physically damaged, and slowly – with the heroine’s help, of course – regains his self-confidence and optimism. And he is such a charming, caring and kind man who, besides that, has an interesting job, a fascinating mixture of manual skills and glamour (I loved how Olivia Dade developed “The Naked Carpenter” concept).
I also liked the heroine, Mary Higgs, a librarian, also dealing with insecurities. Their romance is a slow-build, just as I like,
I must say that the beginning of the story seemed trivial and I disliked how quickly the heroine gave the hero her personal email address and hugged him when they met for the first time – but really, those were mere hitches and I loved the depth Olivia Dade infused in the story and the character’s complexity.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Kensington Books/Lyrical Shine, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
November 29, 2018
Hidden Hearts by Olivia Dade is the 6th book in her Lovestruck Librarians series (It may also be listed as book 4, depending on whether 2 novellas are included in the series total). The staff of a small town library system are the heroines and every story I’ve read to date has been a delightful tale with lots of laughs and sexy romance. This one has a more serious tone to it but is no less entertaining and I devoured it in one sitting.
Mary Higgs once had dreams of leaving Nice County and exploring the wide world but a less than positive experience while at college in L.A. had her returning home a much more serious young woman. The part-time job she has at Battlefield Library is just her speed – quiet and with no risks. When a reclusive patron emails her to inquire about getting a library card, she strikes up a correspondence. But she soon discovers he’s not what she’d imagined.
Miles O’Connor’s heady days of TV stardom as ‘The Naked Carpenter’, star of a travel and carpentry series on a home and garden network, are over. A rooftop fall resulted in a horrendous injury and an amputated arm. Holing up in a cabin in Nice County, Miles is working on healing his physical and emotional wounds, but without much success on the latter. When he and Mary start to write to each other, it’s a breakthrough in the shell he’s built around himself. Miles knows he has to come out of seclusion if he wants a chance to be with Mary, and makes his move. Mary is definitely interested but wary – she’s nothing like the women he dated before his accident. Both of them have issues to deal with, ones they share with each other as their relationship builds. But will they be willing to risk more to have a future together?
I really loved this story! Both Miles and Mary had issues to deal with themselves in order to be able to commit to a real partnership and I enjoyed how these were presented, as well as how both characters showed such growth over the story. Miles’ problems are fairly predictable given his injury. He’s dealing with a loss of self-esteem, frustration over his new physical limitations, and he’s still in denial over the injury. He’s spent too much time wallowing in self-pity instead of finding concrete ways to move forward, and it’s only his relationship with Mary that causes him to think about the future instead of hiding from it.
Mary’s issues are fairly complex too. As a young black woman, she’s relished the idea of leaving home for the diverse and cultural experience of L.A. But the constant expectations of physical perfection by the women around her led to an eating disorder and exercise obsession. Her health suffered to the point where she had to move back home and seek therapy. She’s okay now, but always on guard for a possible relapse. To his credit, Miles is the kind of guy who couldn’t care less about physical appearances, especially with his own limitations, and he makes sure to tell Mary this and make her feel desirable. Their first real sexual encounter is a heartfelt scene, both feeling a little awkward but able to share those feelings and get past them to an amazingly emotional and physical connection. After that, sex is definitely not a problem for these two!
Mary has some wonderful co-workers and friends at the library and there are some fun scenes with the girls, as well as with her and Miles as a couple as he becomes friends with her friends. When the external conflict comes into play, I wondered how it could possibly work out to a happy ending for this couple. Fortunately, it does, and there is a very satisfying conclusion to their romance. Hidden Hearts is an emotional and sexy romance with characters who will steal your heart too.
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Mary Higgs once had dreams of leaving Nice County and exploring the wide world but a less than positive experience while at college in L.A. had her returning home a much more serious young woman. The part-time job she has at Battlefield Library is just her speed – quiet and with no risks. When a reclusive patron emails her to inquire about getting a library card, she strikes up a correspondence. But she soon discovers he’s not what she’d imagined.
Miles O’Connor’s heady days of TV stardom as ‘The Naked Carpenter’, star of a travel and carpentry series on a home and garden network, are over. A rooftop fall resulted in a horrendous injury and an amputated arm. Holing up in a cabin in Nice County, Miles is working on healing his physical and emotional wounds, but without much success on the latter. When he and Mary start to write to each other, it’s a breakthrough in the shell he’s built around himself. Miles knows he has to come out of seclusion if he wants a chance to be with Mary, and makes his move. Mary is definitely interested but wary – she’s nothing like the women he dated before his accident. Both of them have issues to deal with, ones they share with each other as their relationship builds. But will they be willing to risk more to have a future together?
I really loved this story! Both Miles and Mary had issues to deal with themselves in order to be able to commit to a real partnership and I enjoyed how these were presented, as well as how both characters showed such growth over the story. Miles’ problems are fairly predictable given his injury. He’s dealing with a loss of self-esteem, frustration over his new physical limitations, and he’s still in denial over the injury. He’s spent too much time wallowing in self-pity instead of finding concrete ways to move forward, and it’s only his relationship with Mary that causes him to think about the future instead of hiding from it.
Mary’s issues are fairly complex too. As a young black woman, she’s relished the idea of leaving home for the diverse and cultural experience of L.A. But the constant expectations of physical perfection by the women around her led to an eating disorder and exercise obsession. Her health suffered to the point where she had to move back home and seek therapy. She’s okay now, but always on guard for a possible relapse. To his credit, Miles is the kind of guy who couldn’t care less about physical appearances, especially with his own limitations, and he makes sure to tell Mary this and make her feel desirable. Their first real sexual encounter is a heartfelt scene, both feeling a little awkward but able to share those feelings and get past them to an amazingly emotional and physical connection. After that, sex is definitely not a problem for these two!
Mary has some wonderful co-workers and friends at the library and there are some fun scenes with the girls, as well as with her and Miles as a couple as he becomes friends with her friends. When the external conflict comes into play, I wondered how it could possibly work out to a happy ending for this couple. Fortunately, it does, and there is a very satisfying conclusion to their romance. Hidden Hearts is an emotional and sexy romance with characters who will steal your heart too.
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
do-not-read
June 18, 2020Content Warnings for up to 39%
DNF at 39% when the heroine decides that she cannot date someone who doesn't leave the house and the hero must be interested in curing his agoraphobia or she cannot stay with him. There were many other red flags but that was my final ableist straw. I let a lot of things go because I generally trust the author and adore her books but this one is full of ableism and fat antagonism and it makes me sad. The cute epistolary element is not enough to redeem it for me and I am done trying to push past these issues to read a romance that basically repeatedly tells me I'm unloveable, as a fat disabled reader who is mostly house bound.
ETA: the author herself cautions readers about this book in this thread.
DNF at 39% when the heroine decides that she cannot date someone who doesn't leave the house and the hero must be interested in curing his agoraphobia or she cannot stay with him. There were many other red flags but that was my final ableist straw. I let a lot of things go because I generally trust the author and adore her books but this one is full of ableism and fat antagonism and it makes me sad. The cute epistolary element is not enough to redeem it for me and I am done trying to push past these issues to read a romance that basically repeatedly tells me I'm unloveable, as a fat disabled reader who is mostly house bound.
ETA: the author herself cautions readers about this book in this thread.
April 27, 2023
This book was... hm.
So first, the protagonist is literally so Jes-coded. Mary is a black librarian who's been diagnosed with PCOS. She's a rule follower and a little uptight, never swearing and constantly concerned with being polite. It's legit like looking into a mirror. (Okay, so I curse in my reviews sometimes. But I just can't can't seem to get the words out, in real life. But it is eerie, my middle name is Louise as well.) The way the story characterizes her is really cool for the most part. As much as I adore a heroine overcoming religious trauma, the book doesn't do that at all. Mary is buttoned-up because that's how she wants to live. Her arc does revolve around her becoming more willing to take risks, but she gets to stay as herself and keep her prim nature. Again, stories about religious trauma are my absolute favorite thing ever. I just like the approach to a black heroine who's a little repressed for her own reasons.
Otherwise? This book was objectively pretty terrible. I love the idea of small-town contemporary but it often ends up being really cartoony. This book relies on other characters from the five previous book. Unfortunately, they are all annoying beyond the point of comprehension. I haven't read the first books (and don't plan to) but I can only imagine that the old characters are behaving as caricatures of themselves. Because there's no way the previous books got by with protagonists this obnoxious.
In any case, nothing else about this book was remotely good. I'm only bumping it up one star because I am biased towards black girl protags, as you can imagine. I won't be reading anymore from this series, but I have another book about a librarian heroine. It's giving the same small town vibes as this one, but without a black main character, so we'll see how this goes.
So first, the protagonist is literally so Jes-coded. Mary is a black librarian who's been diagnosed with PCOS. She's a rule follower and a little uptight, never swearing and constantly concerned with being polite. It's legit like looking into a mirror. (Okay, so I curse in my reviews sometimes. But I just can't can't seem to get the words out, in real life. But it is eerie, my middle name is Louise as well.) The way the story characterizes her is really cool for the most part. As much as I adore a heroine overcoming religious trauma, the book doesn't do that at all. Mary is buttoned-up because that's how she wants to live. Her arc does revolve around her becoming more willing to take risks, but she gets to stay as herself and keep her prim nature. Again, stories about religious trauma are my absolute favorite thing ever. I just like the approach to a black heroine who's a little repressed for her own reasons.
Otherwise? This book was objectively pretty terrible. I love the idea of small-town contemporary but it often ends up being really cartoony. This book relies on other characters from the five previous book. Unfortunately, they are all annoying beyond the point of comprehension. I haven't read the first books (and don't plan to) but I can only imagine that the old characters are behaving as caricatures of themselves. Because there's no way the previous books got by with protagonists this obnoxious.
In any case, nothing else about this book was remotely good. I'm only bumping it up one star because I am biased towards black girl protags, as you can imagine. I won't be reading anymore from this series, but I have another book about a librarian heroine. It's giving the same small town vibes as this one, but without a black main character, so we'll see how this goes.
June 18, 2017
Hidden Hearts is genuinely nothing like I expected! Like the previous installments of Olivia Dade's Lovestruck Librarians series, it was funny and filled with jocular innuendos (after all, the (heroes and) heroines from previous books returned as supporting characters here. Yet, there's an added humongous issue involving Mary and Miles which involved mental-related subject. Even so, the author still managed to spin humorous and lighthearted tale; Olivia Dade is fast becoming another favorite author of mine!
I noticed Battlefield library's recluse customer and The Naked Carpenter mentioned on Driven to Distraction, the previous entry to the series. However, at that time I didn't realize they were one and the same! Miles O'Connor ran from California to Maryland and be a hermit after a freak accident that changed his life. He (virtually) met and got to know Mary when applied for library membership. The comfort they felt toward one another slowly built up from friendship to more, until something from Miles's old life caught up with them.
Now, I wouldn't expect it from a recluse but Miles was one charming guy. Still wary from the burden he kept inside, but he's funny, not afraid to shed a few tears from watching tear-jerker movies (blame Mary, he just followed along), and very considerate to her feeling. He's a perfect boyfriend material! Yet his inner struggle, resentment and guilt-ridden was real and heartbreaking. Understandably so. Those feelings were so transparent it gutted me to read the whole thing.
Mary was having similar issue with self-confidence. In a way, I could relate to her fear and struggle, as the issue was something that - in various levels - easily found in real life. It might look shallow and trivial; but this matter is real and exist in present's world. I loved that the author brought up this issue and laid it bare without seemingly preached about it.
The pairing of (physically) imperfect characters - as in not having flawless and model bods - was a plus for me. That they went through process to figure out their course in life, not rushing with the whole "I love you so of course we will be together," anted up another point. And in the usual Olivia Dade's fashion, I was entertained in a very attractive way: the witty back and forth, the dirty and hilarious innuendos... Heck. Even the steamy scenes got their fair share of bantering jokes! It's also great that the author introduced another interracial pairing in the series not in an in-your-face manner.
In short, Hidden Hearts delivered touching subjects in the story with subtle and lighthearted tone, with a couple of imperfect hero and heroine at the helm. It's a story any readers could easily relate to!
Advanced copy of the book is kindly provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I noticed Battlefield library's recluse customer and The Naked Carpenter mentioned on Driven to Distraction, the previous entry to the series. However, at that time I didn't realize they were one and the same! Miles O'Connor ran from California to Maryland and be a hermit after a freak accident that changed his life. He (virtually) met and got to know Mary when applied for library membership. The comfort they felt toward one another slowly built up from friendship to more, until something from Miles's old life caught up with them.
Now, I wouldn't expect it from a recluse but Miles was one charming guy. Still wary from the burden he kept inside, but he's funny, not afraid to shed a few tears from watching tear-jerker movies (blame Mary, he just followed along), and very considerate to her feeling. He's a perfect boyfriend material! Yet his inner struggle, resentment and guilt-ridden was real and heartbreaking. Understandably so. Those feelings were so transparent it gutted me to read the whole thing.
Mary was having similar issue with self-confidence. In a way, I could relate to her fear and struggle, as the issue was something that - in various levels - easily found in real life. It might look shallow and trivial; but this matter is real and exist in present's world. I loved that the author brought up this issue and laid it bare without seemingly preached about it.
The pairing of (physically) imperfect characters - as in not having flawless and model bods - was a plus for me. That they went through process to figure out their course in life, not rushing with the whole "I love you so of course we will be together," anted up another point. And in the usual Olivia Dade's fashion, I was entertained in a very attractive way: the witty back and forth, the dirty and hilarious innuendos... Heck. Even the steamy scenes got their fair share of bantering jokes! It's also great that the author introduced another interracial pairing in the series not in an in-your-face manner.
In short, Hidden Hearts delivered touching subjects in the story with subtle and lighthearted tone, with a couple of imperfect hero and heroine at the helm. It's a story any readers could easily relate to!
Advanced copy of the book is kindly provided by the author/publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2017
Review also found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! It is expected to be released later this month.
This is book six in the Lovestruck Librarians. While I have read some of the earlier books in the series, I have not read them all. For those considering this as a stand alone, go ahead and start reading as it is not necessary to read it in order. While some of the characters are mentioned in passing, none are featured heavily in a way that would impact the enjoyment of this story.
I liked the fact that the attraction Miles felt for Mary started via simple email exchanges. As he was suffering through his personal pain, both physical and emotional, she was the one that was able to draw him out of his shell. I also liked that Mary seemed infinitely patient and calm, two qualities which I do not possess.
The fact that this story touches on what it is like to lose a limb was interesting. I must admit that I only sympathised with Miles until about the 55% mark of the story (reading on kindle) and then I wanted him to buck up and move forward. If I am being completely honest, I am not sure I would have stood by him the way Mary did due to the fact that he was so closed off...again going back to my lack of patience. I admit it is easy for me to sit over here and judge what I would or would not do when I am not faced with such a reality.
Overall this was a pleasant book in a series that I have mostly read and come to know what to expect. Dade has a habit of writing stories with characters who are quirky and eccentric (although Mary was not either) and I enjoy. For those who have followed the series thus far, you get more of the librarian you have come to know. /for those who haven't, it is an entertaining way to pass the time.
My only question is this. From all the stories I have read I judge the backdrop as a smaller town. Where does a small town find so many Librarians?
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! It is expected to be released later this month.
This is book six in the Lovestruck Librarians. While I have read some of the earlier books in the series, I have not read them all. For those considering this as a stand alone, go ahead and start reading as it is not necessary to read it in order. While some of the characters are mentioned in passing, none are featured heavily in a way that would impact the enjoyment of this story.
I liked the fact that the attraction Miles felt for Mary started via simple email exchanges. As he was suffering through his personal pain, both physical and emotional, she was the one that was able to draw him out of his shell. I also liked that Mary seemed infinitely patient and calm, two qualities which I do not possess.
The fact that this story touches on what it is like to lose a limb was interesting. I must admit that I only sympathised with Miles until about the 55% mark of the story (reading on kindle) and then I wanted him to buck up and move forward. If I am being completely honest, I am not sure I would have stood by him the way Mary did due to the fact that he was so closed off...again going back to my lack of patience. I admit it is easy for me to sit over here and judge what I would or would not do when I am not faced with such a reality.
Overall this was a pleasant book in a series that I have mostly read and come to know what to expect. Dade has a habit of writing stories with characters who are quirky and eccentric (although Mary was not either) and I enjoy. For those who have followed the series thus far, you get more of the librarian you have come to know. /for those who haven't, it is an entertaining way to pass the time.
My only question is this. From all the stories I have read I judge the backdrop as a smaller town. Where does a small town find so many Librarians?
June 22, 2017
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH NET GALLEY. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!
This book is, by far, the best of the series! I had a very hard time putting it down!
I enjoyed Mary as a character, loved her quiet and caring nature and how she grew to love Miles. I liked that she was a relateable character because of her medical issues. She was slightly repressed as well, but that made her more realistic to me.
Miles was a bit self absorbed and wallowed too much in his loss, but I liked watching him blossom into loving Mary. The one thing I hated about him was his tendency to close Mary out on certain things, but I think it was done for realism more so than anything else.
The book was engaging and entertaining, and dealt with some tough subjects, but did so in a sensitive and respectful manner. While I didn't care for the series overall, I did enjoy this book!
This book is, by far, the best of the series! I had a very hard time putting it down!
I enjoyed Mary as a character, loved her quiet and caring nature and how she grew to love Miles. I liked that she was a relateable character because of her medical issues. She was slightly repressed as well, but that made her more realistic to me.
Miles was a bit self absorbed and wallowed too much in his loss, but I liked watching him blossom into loving Mary. The one thing I hated about him was his tendency to close Mary out on certain things, but I think it was done for realism more so than anything else.
The book was engaging and entertaining, and dealt with some tough subjects, but did so in a sensitive and respectful manner. While I didn't care for the series overall, I did enjoy this book!
April 24, 2018
So I'm on a roll with another of the Lovestruck Librarians and this was one was equally adorable but Eugene, the pizza owner, totally had me rolling in tears.. he has a "this is your brain on pizza" shtick with and egg that had Mr laughing so hard, I stopped reading to laugh and cry.
I love that Miles wasn't a perfect man just as much as I loved that Mary had her own personal trials that didn't deter either of them to try at love.
I love that Miles wasn't a perfect man just as much as I loved that Mary had her own personal trials that didn't deter either of them to try at love.
August 3, 2017
I first heard about the Lovestruck Librarians series on Smart Podcasts Trashy Books, and knew right then that I had to read some of these books. They are all about librarians, or library workers falling in love. Talk about right up my alley. The first one I read is Hidden Hearts by Olivia Date and I loved this book.
Hidden Hearts is about Mary Higgs, a librarian at one of the Nice County libraries. While at work she gets an email from a patron that wants a library card. Even though they are supposed to come in to a get a card, Mary breaks the rules for this patron, Miles, and helps him out through email. Over a few months, they get to be friends of a sort. Miles was a huge TV personality hosting a travel and construction TV show. But after a horrible accident, Miles loses one of his arms. He moves to Nice County to recoup, and he's not very happy. But through his emails with Mary (who doesn't know who he is, or that he lost an arm), he decides he wants to venture outside again and hopefully start seeing Mary.
You guys, Miles and Mary are so freaking adorable, I can't even. I loved both of them so much. They are both so realistic, and it was easy to relate to them.
Mary lived in California for a few years, but was very unhappy there, so she moved back home, but she's not super happy in Nice County, even if she loves her coworkers and her job as a librarian. Mary wants more (more culture, and to not be one of a handful of people of color where she lives), but she's not really sure what, or if she has the courage to try something new. I just loved Mary. She's kind and thoughtful, and maybe a little too cautious, but it was impossible not to love her.
And Miles! He's going through so much, both physically and mentally. He's hiding out, and doesn't want to be recognized. He's done very little since he came to Nice County but eat pizza and email Mary. He does not want to leave his home. Finally he decides that if he ever wants to have anything lasting with Mary he has to leave his home, and I just loved it. I loved that he got a little belly fat because he was just eating pizza every day. And of course he is self conscious about losing his arm.
When Miles and Mary finally do meet - oh my gosh, it was just adorable. I was rooting for these two right from the beginning. Their romance is slow, and it isn't full of heat, but it just felt so real. I couldn't get enough. Although Miles is still dealing with having lost his arm, Mary has some issues to, and they have to work it out of they want to stay together.
I cannot wait to read more from the Lovestruck Librarians series. The side characters in Hidden Hearts have their own romances, and I seriously cannot wait to get to know them better. Hidden Hearts by Olivia Dade was a fantastic introduction to the Luckstruck Librarians series. I cannot wait to read more!This review was originally posted on Quinn's Book Nook
Hidden Hearts is about Mary Higgs, a librarian at one of the Nice County libraries. While at work she gets an email from a patron that wants a library card. Even though they are supposed to come in to a get a card, Mary breaks the rules for this patron, Miles, and helps him out through email. Over a few months, they get to be friends of a sort. Miles was a huge TV personality hosting a travel and construction TV show. But after a horrible accident, Miles loses one of his arms. He moves to Nice County to recoup, and he's not very happy. But through his emails with Mary (who doesn't know who he is, or that he lost an arm), he decides he wants to venture outside again and hopefully start seeing Mary.
You guys, Miles and Mary are so freaking adorable, I can't even. I loved both of them so much. They are both so realistic, and it was easy to relate to them.
Mary lived in California for a few years, but was very unhappy there, so she moved back home, but she's not super happy in Nice County, even if she loves her coworkers and her job as a librarian. Mary wants more (more culture, and to not be one of a handful of people of color where she lives), but she's not really sure what, or if she has the courage to try something new. I just loved Mary. She's kind and thoughtful, and maybe a little too cautious, but it was impossible not to love her.
And Miles! He's going through so much, both physically and mentally. He's hiding out, and doesn't want to be recognized. He's done very little since he came to Nice County but eat pizza and email Mary. He does not want to leave his home. Finally he decides that if he ever wants to have anything lasting with Mary he has to leave his home, and I just loved it. I loved that he got a little belly fat because he was just eating pizza every day. And of course he is self conscious about losing his arm.
When Miles and Mary finally do meet - oh my gosh, it was just adorable. I was rooting for these two right from the beginning. Their romance is slow, and it isn't full of heat, but it just felt so real. I couldn't get enough. Although Miles is still dealing with having lost his arm, Mary has some issues to, and they have to work it out of they want to stay together.
I cannot wait to read more from the Lovestruck Librarians series. The side characters in Hidden Hearts have their own romances, and I seriously cannot wait to get to know them better. Hidden Hearts by Olivia Dade was a fantastic introduction to the Luckstruck Librarians series. I cannot wait to read more!This review was originally posted on Quinn's Book Nook
June 20, 2017
My Review:
I've loved this series so much, but I'm pretty positive this has been my favorite book of the bunch. And now I'm sitting here wondering how much I can explain that love without giving away spoilers, because I think that description is perfect. It gives you just enough so that you can read along in the dark with the characters...wondering EXACTLY how Miles got to this place.
Because Miles is a recluse...he doesn't leave his house. He doesn't bathe. He doesn't shave. From what the reader can tell at the beginning, he simply eats a lot of pizza. But he's young...only 33. What happened to him?
Mary wonders the same thing. She's this small town librarian and ends up exchanging emails with him...daily...many times a day. She knows he's young, but has no idea why he's housebound, but she enjoys their exchanges and is more than a little intrigued.
As a long time romance reader...and fan of washboard abs...Miles's story broke my heart and totally captured my imagination. I wanted to gather him up in my arms and take care of him. Luckily, as the reader, I got to do that through Mary...and it was so good.
On the surface, Miles is the one with mental hangups, but as the story evolves, we come to find out that Mary has some significant ones of her own. I had no idea how the author was going to sort this all out for both of them. But she did and it was so good. I loved this book!
And just let me say that although I loved and adored Miles and Mary, the pizza guy was hands-down my favorite character in the book. OMG, he had me rolling. I loved him so much. I even read some of his scenes out loud to my husband because they were so freaking fun and funny.
This book was amazing. If you like librarians...and the delicious images of sweaty abs...I highly recommend you check it out.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I've loved this series so much, but I'm pretty positive this has been my favorite book of the bunch. And now I'm sitting here wondering how much I can explain that love without giving away spoilers, because I think that description is perfect. It gives you just enough so that you can read along in the dark with the characters...wondering EXACTLY how Miles got to this place.
Because Miles is a recluse...he doesn't leave his house. He doesn't bathe. He doesn't shave. From what the reader can tell at the beginning, he simply eats a lot of pizza. But he's young...only 33. What happened to him?
Mary wonders the same thing. She's this small town librarian and ends up exchanging emails with him...daily...many times a day. She knows he's young, but has no idea why he's housebound, but she enjoys their exchanges and is more than a little intrigued.
As a long time romance reader...and fan of washboard abs...Miles's story broke my heart and totally captured my imagination. I wanted to gather him up in my arms and take care of him. Luckily, as the reader, I got to do that through Mary...and it was so good.
On the surface, Miles is the one with mental hangups, but as the story evolves, we come to find out that Mary has some significant ones of her own. I had no idea how the author was going to sort this all out for both of them. But she did and it was so good. I loved this book!
And just let me say that although I loved and adored Miles and Mary, the pizza guy was hands-down my favorite character in the book. OMG, he had me rolling. I loved him so much. I even read some of his scenes out loud to my husband because they were so freaking fun and funny.
This book was amazing. If you like librarians...and the delicious images of sweaty abs...I highly recommend you check it out.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
April 4, 2017
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley.
... although when I requested it, I was confusing this series with a different one about librarians by Sarah Title. Anyway, in this novel, Mary is a vaguely dissatisfied librarian in a small town in Maryland, who receives an email from Miles requesting a membership so that he can access ebooks online. Miles is, for undeclared reasons, unwilling to come to the library to show his ID, and Mary bends the rules for him. Soon (in a manner which seems out of character with everything else we know about her), Mary is giving Miles her personal email address and they are emailing away merrily together.
At the same time one of Mary's many friends, most of whom I suspect are in the novel as they appeared in previous books in this series and therefore need to pop up again here, persuades her to try online dating. When Mary tells Miles she is about to go on a date with an online contact, Miles overcomes his reluctance and comes to the library to meet her.
Initially I found this book pretty humourless and hard work (lines and lines were devoted the the addresses and time stamps of the many emails that were exchanged, for example), but it grew on me to an extent. I enjoyed Mary's love of tear-jerker movies and the hockey-obsessed Natasha. On the other hand, the constant obsession with physical appearance and weight was unpleasant and off-putting. While there were lots of heavy-handed comments about how this was a bad thing, most characters were constantly described in terms like their "compact body" (Mary), the need Miles felt to lose his "pizza baby" before even approaching Mary, her sorrow at the loss of his "hint of pudge" which she felt had made him more likely to stay, and so on and so on.
The ending was sweet, although perhaps a little abrupt - an epilogue might have been nice.
... although when I requested it, I was confusing this series with a different one about librarians by Sarah Title. Anyway, in this novel, Mary is a vaguely dissatisfied librarian in a small town in Maryland, who receives an email from Miles requesting a membership so that he can access ebooks online. Miles is, for undeclared reasons, unwilling to come to the library to show his ID, and Mary bends the rules for him. Soon (in a manner which seems out of character with everything else we know about her), Mary is giving Miles her personal email address and they are emailing away merrily together.
At the same time one of Mary's many friends, most of whom I suspect are in the novel as they appeared in previous books in this series and therefore need to pop up again here, persuades her to try online dating. When Mary tells Miles she is about to go on a date with an online contact, Miles overcomes his reluctance and comes to the library to meet her.
Initially I found this book pretty humourless and hard work (lines and lines were devoted the the addresses and time stamps of the many emails that were exchanged, for example), but it grew on me to an extent. I enjoyed Mary's love of tear-jerker movies and the hockey-obsessed Natasha. On the other hand, the constant obsession with physical appearance and weight was unpleasant and off-putting. While there were lots of heavy-handed comments about how this was a bad thing, most characters were constantly described in terms like their "compact body" (Mary), the need Miles felt to lose his "pizza baby" before even approaching Mary, her sorrow at the loss of his "hint of pudge" which she felt had made him more likely to stay, and so on and so on.
The ending was sweet, although perhaps a little abrupt - an epilogue might have been nice.
May 29, 2017
I loved this latest book by Olivia Dade. Ms. Dade has the remarkable ability to make her characters so compelling. I literally could not put this book down until I reached the last page. I had to know what would happen.
Mary Higgs is a librarian in Nice County. She moved back to her hometown after going to college in LA and then living there for a few years. She loves her hometown and her job. Her favorite part is helping the patrons which is why when she gets an email about a library card from a new patron, Mary decides to do what she can to help. Mary never expected that helping Miles would turn into a lengthy email exchange with a man she has yet to meet.
Miles O’Connor moved to Nice County to avoid life. He wanted to be somewhere where no one knew him and where he could hide out. Emailing with Mary is the highlight of his day. When she mentions that she is online dating, Miles takes a look at himself and decides to get back in shape. When Mary says she has an actual date, Miles knows that he must leave the house in order to stop her.
Mary and Miles are perfect for each other. They both have insecurities, but those insecurities complement each other. They have to work through them if they are ever going to be more than email buddies.
Ms. Dade handles both of their issues with compassion and heart. She shows that things which may feel like they have derailed your life can be turned into stepping stones to something even better. I don’t want to go into either Mary or Miles’s issue too much because learning about them and having them revealed by the characters is part of the fun of this book.
Mary Higgs is a librarian in Nice County. She moved back to her hometown after going to college in LA and then living there for a few years. She loves her hometown and her job. Her favorite part is helping the patrons which is why when she gets an email about a library card from a new patron, Mary decides to do what she can to help. Mary never expected that helping Miles would turn into a lengthy email exchange with a man she has yet to meet.
Miles O’Connor moved to Nice County to avoid life. He wanted to be somewhere where no one knew him and where he could hide out. Emailing with Mary is the highlight of his day. When she mentions that she is online dating, Miles takes a look at himself and decides to get back in shape. When Mary says she has an actual date, Miles knows that he must leave the house in order to stop her.
Mary and Miles are perfect for each other. They both have insecurities, but those insecurities complement each other. They have to work through them if they are ever going to be more than email buddies.
Ms. Dade handles both of their issues with compassion and heart. She shows that things which may feel like they have derailed your life can be turned into stepping stones to something even better. I don’t want to go into either Mary or Miles’s issue too much because learning about them and having them revealed by the characters is part of the fun of this book.
July 3, 2017
Two lonely people hiding behind their self imposed insecurities and worries somehow find each other in Nice County library. Lots of small town realism and real life dating quirks, like Eugene the overbearing pizzas delivery guy and Mary's secret preference for Miles' post binge pizza baby belly.
Lovely that Mary and Miles found each other but also that each had to find his or her way to overcoming his or her fears in order to really love each other. I just wished the ending wasn't so quick or abrupt. It would have been nice to get a glimpse of their future together and to check in with Mary's friends from the library. The ending felt unfinished.
Added note: I just read that the author did write an epilogue about Mary and Miles and the other Lovestruck Librarians couples, but the story is free if you pre-ordered the book. Well, I borrowed this book from the library so I guess no real ending for me and anyone else who didn't pre-order. This is not how I envisioned leaving the Lovestruck Librarians series. I should have just stopped with Constance and Sam's story.
Lovely that Mary and Miles found each other but also that each had to find his or her way to overcoming his or her fears in order to really love each other. I just wished the ending wasn't so quick or abrupt. It would have been nice to get a glimpse of their future together and to check in with Mary's friends from the library. The ending felt unfinished.
Added note: I just read that the author did write an epilogue about Mary and Miles and the other Lovestruck Librarians couples, but the story is free if you pre-ordered the book. Well, I borrowed this book from the library so I guess no real ending for me and anyone else who didn't pre-order. This is not how I envisioned leaving the Lovestruck Librarians series. I should have just stopped with Constance and Sam's story.
April 30, 2017
I so enjoyed this latest offering from Olivia Dade! Mary is everything a good girl should be and Connor is everything any girl could ever ask for, especially once Mary helps him overcome his demons. In each other they find love, friendship and the courage to face every fear. That’s my kind of HEA!
A couple of the previous books in this series were a bit underwhelming, but this offering shows Ms. Dade regaining her stride.
I received an ARC of this book, via Net Galley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
A couple of the previous books in this series were a bit underwhelming, but this offering shows Ms. Dade regaining her stride.
I received an ARC of this book, via Net Galley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
January 1, 2018
Writing style: Dual POVs
Cover design: It’s really cute!
I’ve skipped around in this series, and I think this one is my favorite one yet. These two had a unique start to their relationship and interesting challenges to their romance moving forward. But move forward they did. I had a big smile on my face when I reached the end of their journey. I look forward to an update on them as I read the rest of this series.
Cover design: It’s really cute!
I’ve skipped around in this series, and I think this one is my favorite one yet. These two had a unique start to their relationship and interesting challenges to their romance moving forward. But move forward they did. I had a big smile on my face when I reached the end of their journey. I look forward to an update on them as I read the rest of this series.
May 24, 2017
Mary is such a sweet person with a helpful heart. Her willingness to help people is what leads to her getting to know Miles. But then it is also Miles need of solidarity that finally leads him to get over his pity party to finally meet Mary. Have hour tissues handy. This book made me cry several times.
Read
July 13, 2017Ugh-- Mary Sue heroine, could not deal. I was bummed too because I liked that the hero was disabled and had a difficult backstory. There was absolutely nothing interesting about the heroine-- all her dialogue was wooden. Could not get through this.
May 2, 2019
The author does so much right with this series - the relationships feel very realistic and the characters are three-dimensional and interesting, but this was not catchy and I think the quirkiness of the small town setting might be a bit too much for me here so 2.5 stars.
April 11, 2017
This book took a little bit to warm up, but once it did it was just so adorable. Miles is so heartrendingly normal and yet vulnerable at the same time; you can really feel his struggle to figure out the "now what?" questions that life has thrown at him. And you can see why he would have been such an appealing star - while remaining the same kind of warm, curious guy he always was, and always would be.
The sex, when it got to that point, is realistically nervous yet hot at the same time. I loved how Miles and Mary both had reasons to encourage the other, and both grew in the process.
I was especially happy that the book focused on the slow-growing intimacy they shared and didn't get bogged down with the kinds of creepy or negative subplots that many books seem to have. The conflicts felt real, and when they managed to overcome them, it was easy to feel their joy.
The sex, when it got to that point, is realistically nervous yet hot at the same time. I loved how Miles and Mary both had reasons to encourage the other, and both grew in the process.
I was especially happy that the book focused on the slow-growing intimacy they shared and didn't get bogged down with the kinds of creepy or negative subplots that many books seem to have. The conflicts felt real, and when they managed to overcome them, it was easy to feel their joy.
April 18, 2017
I don't want to say much because the reveal was so well done. I went in not knowing much about the story aside from it having a wounded hero and an interracial couple. Two things I was very interested in reading.
Both Mary and Miles were likeable. Miles in particular was pretty dreamy -- at all stages.
It was a sweet story with likeable characters; a read that made me smile from start to finish.
Solid 4 stars!
Both Mary and Miles were likeable. Miles in particular was pretty dreamy -- at all stages.
It was a sweet story with likeable characters; a read that made me smile from start to finish.
Solid 4 stars!
April 1, 2021
3.5 Stars
Grade=B-
Grade=B-
January 9, 2021
4 stars. I enjoyed the build up of their relationship via email and then several tame dates. The conflict both faced was realistic. Just when the book started to slow down, the brother showed up with some story-invigorating news.
Also liked the diversity: Black heroine and white hero with one arm.
Also liked the diversity: Black heroine and white hero with one arm.
June 23, 2017
Actual rating a 3.5. I've enjoyed this series on the whole. My favorite was definitely Driven to Distraction, the fifth installment. As a librarian, it's incredibly refreshing to read books about librarians that are clearly written by someone who knows what librarians actually do (hint: it's not reading books all day, every day).
I read this book in the course of about a day, and it was a fun read. I thought Miles and Mary had good chemistry, and I liked that the conflicts of the novel were realistic ones for adults and an adult relationship. I thought the portrayal of a character grieving changes in their body/ability status was well done, though that's not something I've personally experienced. And sometimes I forget how rare it is to see romance novels in which the author really develops the characters' lives outside of the romantic sphere. And, like, where the characters have lives independent of the love interest and respect each other's autonomy. Where domineering, condescending, and possessive behavior isn't romanticized. With Olivia Dade, including Hidden Hearts, I never have to worry about those issues, which I do most of the time when looking for romance novels.
On the whole though, I finished feeling like something didn't quite click for me. Maybe part of it was that I didn't really care for Mary. She had insecurities, so it's not like she was flawless or anything, but she still felt too "good" too me. If a character is compulsively, somewhat overbearingly sweet and has super delicate sensibilities, I'd generally want a bit more exploration of why. While her lack of self-esteem was developed, I think going a bit more into how that might have connected to her martyr-complex might have made me a bit more sympathetic to it.
I think it would have deepened her characterization a lot and heightened the conflict to see her get angry or snap or lash out just once. It doesn't have to be an explosion, but a single break from the unending sweetness of Mary would have been a relief.
Also, I know some pretty straight-laced adult women, but I don't know that I've ever encountered any who say "goodness," "gracious," or "goodness gracious" quite so much. I know some of these are personal preference/minor quibbles, but a little variation would have been nice.
I was really looking forward to this book because of this blog post https://oliviadade.com/2017/04/07/walking-on-empty/ the author had written.
I read this book in the course of about a day, and it was a fun read. I thought Miles and Mary had good chemistry, and I liked that the conflicts of the novel were realistic ones for adults and an adult relationship. I thought the portrayal of a character grieving changes in their body/ability status was well done, though that's not something I've personally experienced. And sometimes I forget how rare it is to see romance novels in which the author really develops the characters' lives outside of the romantic sphere. And, like, where the characters have lives independent of the love interest and respect each other's autonomy. Where domineering, condescending, and possessive behavior isn't romanticized. With Olivia Dade, including Hidden Hearts, I never have to worry about those issues, which I do most of the time when looking for romance novels.
On the whole though, I finished feeling like something didn't quite click for me. Maybe part of it was that I didn't really care for Mary. She had insecurities, so it's not like she was flawless or anything, but she still felt too "good" too me. If a character is compulsively, somewhat overbearingly sweet and has super delicate sensibilities, I'd generally want a bit more exploration of why. While her lack of self-esteem was developed, I think going a bit more into how that might have connected to her martyr-complex might have made me a bit more sympathetic to it.
I think it would have deepened her characterization a lot and heightened the conflict to see her get angry or snap or lash out just once. It doesn't have to be an explosion, but a single break from the unending sweetness of Mary would have been a relief.
Also, I know some pretty straight-laced adult women, but I don't know that I've ever encountered any who say "goodness," "gracious," or "goodness gracious" quite so much. I know some of these are personal preference/minor quibbles, but a little variation would have been nice.
I was really looking forward to this book because of this blog post https://oliviadade.com/2017/04/07/walking-on-empty/ the author had written.
June 15, 2017
I have a lot of love for this series about librarians finding love in some pretty unexpected ways. Each has been so very different with characters tackling a variety of issues and situations, with plenty of humour, heat and smut, and I’m sad that this is the last one. Having said that, quiet Mary more than delivers in her own tale of tackling loss, self-esteem issues and fledgling confidence, with plenty of appearances from the other librarians to keep the smutty humour high.
I really liked Mary. Throughout the series she’s been the easily shocked conscience of some of the more reckless heroines. She might have seemed a little tame and possibly boring compared to the others, but she’s lovely, kind, helpful and genuinely cares about the people in her life. It’s easy to see why Miles feels so drawn to her purely over email and is willing to push his new limits in order to meet her. Having said that, there were times when her understanding nature seemed to fail both her and Miles and I was a little surprised that she failed to grasp that he was grieving and depressed and probably could have done with some professional help. But her support and kindness work wonders, so there is that.
I really liked Miles too, even if he does keep a lot to himself throughout the whole book. With everything he was dealing with, all that he’d lost and the fact that it hadn’t been all that long since his world fell apart, I really felt for the guy. I also loved seeing him slowly piece himself back together and accept the new challenges he had to face. He’s angry and bitter at times, but it just made him all the more real. He’s not perfect and I still think he should have had some outside help beyond Mary, but I still liked him a lot.
I loved how their relationship gradually progressed from emails to melodramatic movies to more. Both characters have their reasons for hesitating at various moments, but they also support each other through the worst of their fears and insecurities in wonderful ways. They’re great together, especially when Miles began to relax and enjoy himself with her friends.
Of course it’s not all as simple as that and even as Miles progresses it seems like Mary’s own struggles increase. They each have their demons to face, but it stopped the book from feeling lopsided, helped to create conflict and also produced some moving moments. I just wish we’d been given a bit of an epilogue to soften that abrupt ending.
Overall, this was a fine end to a thoroughly enjoyable series. It retains the fun and humour of the previous books, while also tackling a couple of difficult issues with particular care when it comes to Miles. I loved the characters, I liked the story and I’m so sad to say farewell to them all – even Pretend Pirate Clarence (and his wedding)! I can’t wait to see what Olivia Dade comes up with next.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
I really liked Mary. Throughout the series she’s been the easily shocked conscience of some of the more reckless heroines. She might have seemed a little tame and possibly boring compared to the others, but she’s lovely, kind, helpful and genuinely cares about the people in her life. It’s easy to see why Miles feels so drawn to her purely over email and is willing to push his new limits in order to meet her. Having said that, there were times when her understanding nature seemed to fail both her and Miles and I was a little surprised that she failed to grasp that he was grieving and depressed and probably could have done with some professional help. But her support and kindness work wonders, so there is that.
I really liked Miles too, even if he does keep a lot to himself throughout the whole book. With everything he was dealing with, all that he’d lost and the fact that it hadn’t been all that long since his world fell apart, I really felt for the guy. I also loved seeing him slowly piece himself back together and accept the new challenges he had to face. He’s angry and bitter at times, but it just made him all the more real. He’s not perfect and I still think he should have had some outside help beyond Mary, but I still liked him a lot.
I loved how their relationship gradually progressed from emails to melodramatic movies to more. Both characters have their reasons for hesitating at various moments, but they also support each other through the worst of their fears and insecurities in wonderful ways. They’re great together, especially when Miles began to relax and enjoy himself with her friends.
Of course it’s not all as simple as that and even as Miles progresses it seems like Mary’s own struggles increase. They each have their demons to face, but it stopped the book from feeling lopsided, helped to create conflict and also produced some moving moments. I just wish we’d been given a bit of an epilogue to soften that abrupt ending.
Overall, this was a fine end to a thoroughly enjoyable series. It retains the fun and humour of the previous books, while also tackling a couple of difficult issues with particular care when it comes to Miles. I loved the characters, I liked the story and I’m so sad to say farewell to them all – even Pretend Pirate Clarence (and his wedding)! I can’t wait to see what Olivia Dade comes up with next.
(ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley.)
October 29, 2018
I love librarians. And I have a thing for tortured/injured heroes. But this one just didn't do it for me.
The problem was an over-saturation of issues. Every good book needs a conflict to resolve, and I get that. But this book had SOOOOO many conflicts, it lost me to unhappiness in the mess of it all. If the authoress had wanted the conflict to be overcoming an injury, opening up to love, and/or healing, that would've been fine. If she'd wanted it to be interracial relationships, that would've been fine. If she'd wanted it to be falling for a celebrity/ dealing with the spotlight, that would've been fine. If she'd wanted it to be eating disorders/ compulsive exercise, that would've been fine. If she'd wanted it to be finding one's inner passion and breaking bonds of self-doubt, self-abasement, personal fears, that would've been fine. But my GOODNESS, there were just so many conflicts to be resolved, it made the book mucky.
To be honest, though? I'm not one to willingly read a book about celebrity love, to begin with, though. I went in blindly - I thought it was a small town librarian and a reclusive, newly injured tortured hero. Which would've been enough for me. The eating disorder, interracial thing, paparazzi, globe-trotting, etc. lines all just overwhelmed.
More, she's one of those writers who has to include the character's names in every other line. "I'm not interested, Miles." Then, "Well, maybe you should be, Mary." She glares. "Oh, please, Miles." He smirks. "What are you holding back for, Mary." Like we can't follow the conversation without names inserted. Shoddy writing technique. It's a peeve, and it's fully present in this book.
I wasn't overly fond of the rawness of the dialogue where erotica, adult themes, and such went, either. It was (((thankfully))) brief, but I got the feeling it was stronger in other books in this series, which is a red flag for me to avoid the other books.
In the end, this just wasn't what I was hoping to get. So I guess I was disappointed.
The problem was an over-saturation of issues. Every good book needs a conflict to resolve, and I get that. But this book had SOOOOO many conflicts, it lost me to unhappiness in the mess of it all. If the authoress had wanted the conflict to be overcoming an injury, opening up to love, and/or healing, that would've been fine. If she'd wanted it to be interracial relationships, that would've been fine. If she'd wanted it to be falling for a celebrity/ dealing with the spotlight, that would've been fine. If she'd wanted it to be eating disorders/ compulsive exercise, that would've been fine. If she'd wanted it to be finding one's inner passion and breaking bonds of self-doubt, self-abasement, personal fears, that would've been fine. But my GOODNESS, there were just so many conflicts to be resolved, it made the book mucky.
To be honest, though? I'm not one to willingly read a book about celebrity love, to begin with, though. I went in blindly - I thought it was a small town librarian and a reclusive, newly injured tortured hero. Which would've been enough for me. The eating disorder, interracial thing, paparazzi, globe-trotting, etc. lines all just overwhelmed.
More, she's one of those writers who has to include the character's names in every other line. "I'm not interested, Miles." Then, "Well, maybe you should be, Mary." She glares. "Oh, please, Miles." He smirks. "What are you holding back for, Mary." Like we can't follow the conversation without names inserted. Shoddy writing technique. It's a peeve, and it's fully present in this book.
I wasn't overly fond of the rawness of the dialogue where erotica, adult themes, and such went, either. It was (((thankfully))) brief, but I got the feeling it was stronger in other books in this series, which is a red flag for me to avoid the other books.
In the end, this just wasn't what I was hoping to get. So I guess I was disappointed.
July 12, 2017
This story is about devoted librarian Mary Higgins and the library patron Mile O'Connor who start a friendship via email when he emails the library with questions. Soon it buds into something more. But they both have issues to deal with. Like why Miles doesn't like to be in public. And can Mary get over who Miles was before he came to her town? I just loved this book. I can't give away any details because I don't want to rob anyone of this story. The writer keeps you interested and when you think you've figured out one thing she keeps you guessing on another. I couldn't put this book down! This book left me with a warm feeling, even in the midst of chaos in the story. Readers will fall in love with the relationship of the main characters and also with Mary's librarian friends. I now want to go to my library and meet people! I will definitely be checking out more from this author!
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July 7, 20173.5 Stars
This was an enjoyable read. I really liked Mary. She's relatable because the things she has to work through most women including myself struggle with themselves. I will say her choices in movies is way different then mine, but one of my favorite parts in this book is when Miles and her stay in and watch a movie. I liked both Miles and Mary together because they give each other the strength to to be the people they are meant to be. Miles' life is forever changed because of one event, but it could bring him on the path he was meant to be on. You can feel the pain, the happiness and fear both Miles and Mary have, but it turns into one good book. I really liked Mary's best friend. This is the first book I've read in the series and I'll have to go check out Sarah's book.
This was an enjoyable read. I really liked Mary. She's relatable because the things she has to work through most women including myself struggle with themselves. I will say her choices in movies is way different then mine, but one of my favorite parts in this book is when Miles and her stay in and watch a movie. I liked both Miles and Mary together because they give each other the strength to to be the people they are meant to be. Miles' life is forever changed because of one event, but it could bring him on the path he was meant to be on. You can feel the pain, the happiness and fear both Miles and Mary have, but it turns into one good book. I really liked Mary's best friend. This is the first book I've read in the series and I'll have to go check out Sarah's book.
March 17, 2019
This was a new author to me and I really loved the book. The author's sense of humor worked for me.
The main characters were atypical. Both hero and heroine had issues that they worked through. The plot was more about them falling in love and the development of the relationship and the issues were secondary. I also liked the side characters and their relationships (obviously they were the characters from previous books in the series that I will now have to read). Oh and the Minnies mini-golf massacre--tee hee.
The main characters were atypical. Both hero and heroine had issues that they worked through. The plot was more about them falling in love and the development of the relationship and the issues were secondary. I also liked the side characters and their relationships (obviously they were the characters from previous books in the series that I will now have to read). Oh and the Minnies mini-golf massacre--tee hee.
July 5, 2019
Received an ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
That was really sweet. I wasn't sure at first - especially without knowing what Miles' issue was - but he and Mary changed my mind. I loved that his issue wasn't even an issue for Mary - she fell in love with his heart through email long before she saw him face-to-face.
These Lovestruck Librarians are really something. They're such full characters that you can't help but root for them. You hurt when they hurt and you cheer when they get their HEA.
Dade has a wonderful series on her hands.
That was really sweet. I wasn't sure at first - especially without knowing what Miles' issue was - but he and Mary changed my mind. I loved that his issue wasn't even an issue for Mary - she fell in love with his heart through email long before she saw him face-to-face.
These Lovestruck Librarians are really something. They're such full characters that you can't help but root for them. You hurt when they hurt and you cheer when they get their HEA.
Dade has a wonderful series on her hands.
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