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North Pole, Minnesota #3
Approximately Yours
Danny Garland is so out of Holly’s league. And her family is only back in North Pole, Minnesota, long enough to sell Grandma’s house and say “Merry Christmas.” So telling her basketball-star, too-hot-to-be-real long-time crush that she’d like to kiss him under the mistletoe just isn’t going to happen.
And now he’s asked out her cousin, Elda. Elda is a mess at flirting, so when she begs Holly to intervene, she does. Holly helps her flirt with him over text. And then again. And again. Now she’s stuck texting him as her cousin, and Elda is the one going on the date. Holly thought she could settle for just conversation with Danny, but talking with him is some kind of magic. He’s got the perfect comebacks, she makes him laugh, they text until everyone is asleep.
She just can’t ever tell him it’s her he’s really texting.
Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book has hot texts, gingerbread wars, and a slow-burn romance that could melt a Minnesota winter.
And now he’s asked out her cousin, Elda. Elda is a mess at flirting, so when she begs Holly to intervene, she does. Holly helps her flirt with him over text. And then again. And again. Now she’s stuck texting him as her cousin, and Elda is the one going on the date. Holly thought she could settle for just conversation with Danny, but talking with him is some kind of magic. He’s got the perfect comebacks, she makes him laugh, they text until everyone is asleep.
She just can’t ever tell him it’s her he’s really texting.
Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book has hot texts, gingerbread wars, and a slow-burn romance that could melt a Minnesota winter.
241 pages, ebook
First published October 2, 2017
24 people are currently reading
531 people want to read
About the author
Julie Hammerle
9 books246 followersUSA Today best-selling, RITA nominated author Julie Hammerle writes romantic comedies for adults and teens. Before settling down to write "for real," she studied opera, taught Latin, and held her real estate license for one hot minute. Currently, aside from writing, she ropes people into conversations about Game of Thrones and makes excuses to avoid the gym. Her favorite YA-centric TV shows include 90210 (original spice), Felicity, and Freaks and Geeks. Her iPod reads like a 1997 Lilith Fair set list.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
September 24, 2017
(I received an advance copy of this book for free. Thanks to Entangled Publishing, LLC and NetGalley.)
This was a YA contemporary romance story, about a girl who pretended to be her cousin in text messages in order to impress a boy.
Holly was a sweet girl and she had her heart in the right place when she tried to help her cousin to seduce a boy, I didn’t really like the way she had to lie in person though, as it was Holly that had the most in common with Danny not her cousin.
The storyline in this was about Holly and her cousin visiting North Pole after their grandmother’s death, and bumping into Danny, star basketball player who had broken his leg. Holly had always liked Danny, but didn’t think that a popular boy like him would be interested in a geeky girl like her, so instead tried to set him up with her cousin, and started texting him from her cousins phone pretending to be her. This was an interesting storyline, but I didn’t really like the deceit, and the true romance felt like a long time coming.
The ending to this was a happily ever after.
6.5 out of 10
“We are going to make Danny Garland fall hopelessly in love with you.”
This was a YA contemporary romance story, about a girl who pretended to be her cousin in text messages in order to impress a boy.
Holly was a sweet girl and she had her heart in the right place when she tried to help her cousin to seduce a boy, I didn’t really like the way she had to lie in person though, as it was Holly that had the most in common with Danny not her cousin.
The storyline in this was about Holly and her cousin visiting North Pole after their grandmother’s death, and bumping into Danny, star basketball player who had broken his leg. Holly had always liked Danny, but didn’t think that a popular boy like him would be interested in a geeky girl like her, so instead tried to set him up with her cousin, and started texting him from her cousins phone pretending to be her. This was an interesting storyline, but I didn’t really like the deceit, and the true romance felt like a long time coming.
The ending to this was a happily ever after.
6.5 out of 10
September 25, 2017
I didn't want this book to end! :(
I would love to visit North Pole the Christmas town! Approximately Yours is the second book I've read in this series, and I'm totally hooked (This is book 3, but all can be read as standalone stories). My favourite thing about this author is that she doesn't make her characters perfect. They are dynamic and interesting.
Elda and Holly's grandmother has recently passed away. They are cousins, and the family have gone to sort out their grandmother's possessions. A visit to North Pole is a blast from the past. Holly used to enter the gingerbread contest every year and crush on the boy she knew growing up. Will she see Danny while she's in town and will he remember her? The problem is Elda thinks he's cute. Holly thinks Danny is out of her league and when she sees him looking at her cousin she decides to help them get together.
Approximately Yours is a sweet romance. It had me laughing and hooked on every page. It's about believing in your self and accepting who you are. 5 stars out of 5. I'm hooked on this series and I can't wait for more!
ARC received in exchange for a fair review
I would love to visit North Pole the Christmas town! Approximately Yours is the second book I've read in this series, and I'm totally hooked (This is book 3, but all can be read as standalone stories). My favourite thing about this author is that she doesn't make her characters perfect. They are dynamic and interesting.
Elda and Holly's grandmother has recently passed away. They are cousins, and the family have gone to sort out their grandmother's possessions. A visit to North Pole is a blast from the past. Holly used to enter the gingerbread contest every year and crush on the boy she knew growing up. Will she see Danny while she's in town and will he remember her? The problem is Elda thinks he's cute. Holly thinks Danny is out of her league and when she sees him looking at her cousin she decides to help them get together.
Approximately Yours is a sweet romance. It had me laughing and hooked on every page. It's about believing in your self and accepting who you are. 5 stars out of 5. I'm hooked on this series and I can't wait for more!
ARC received in exchange for a fair review
October 6, 2017
And this lovely series is back with another couple getting together the unique town of North Pole, Minnesota. Of course, you can also read it as a standalone. I'd say this is a 3+ stars, just not enough to be rounded up to four.
After her grandmother's death, Holly goes back to the small town where her family needs to put the house in order and sell it. Not only the bittersweet memories of her grandma come back, but also of the boy who had won the gingerbread contests and her heart. However, as they hadn't seen each other for so many years, Danny doesn't even remember her and is unable to take his eyes off her attracting cousin Elda. Thus, Holly decides to give up on her childhood crush and help Elda texting Danny on her behalf.
This was cute, I loved both characters. I did think Danny was a bit stupid for choosing Elda over and again when he knew he wasn't into her. But we knew why he wouldn't go for Holly (we or rather, I just never got why the heck wouldn't he want to just be alone after a six-year-long relationship!).
Hammerle's writing is very easy to read and the way she brings North Pole to life always makes me think of shows like Gilmore Girls. On top of that, it's like she knows all my favorite tropes!
The way she handled the whole love triangle was also smooth. Of course, a lot could have gone wrong. As I mentioned, I did find Danny's insistence on Elda a little forced but not enough to annoy me.
Perhaps, this was the only book in which the family wasn't a problem—unless you consider the cousins in a triangle—, and I even wish we had had more scenes featuring the crazy scheme of so many people living under the same ceiling. This time, it deals with grief and appreciating people while they are around. Holly's grandma seems to have been a great woman and even I wish I had known her. She made for a heartwarming part of the book.
Also, you can rest assured the conclusion is good.
I was a little disappointed with the second book of the series Artificial Sweethearts, since not only the plot but everything was too more of the same. While Approximately Yours still doesn't hold a candle to the first book, it's much better. I'd say the magic is finally back.
One thing I noticed was that the second book barely had any reference to the first. Had it not been in the same town, people would hardly connect one to the other—although Sam was a character in both and all. Approximately Yours has a more take one the idea of a series and we get to see a lot of Sam and Tinka mentioned here and there—they're not important enough, don't worry if you haven't read their story. Elena and Oliver are very present though, their story is just mentioned as a curiosity among many in the town.
I can see Hammerle's progress now we've got to the third and want to keep following her.
Honest review based on an ARC provided by Netgalley. Many thanks to the publisher for this opportunity.
October 5, 2017
A special thanks goes out to Entangled Teen publishing for allowing me to read this early. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love it when books surprise me. I love it when they turn out to be something different than what one would previously think. That is what happened with this book and I'm super happy about it! I thought that this book would a fun cutesy little Christmas book but what I got was teenagers coming to terms with who they are, grief, and self esteem issues all in a little town obsessed with Christmas.
I really liked this! Holly was such a relatable character. She suffered some self esteem issues and as a result, kept people back and kept up a cool edgy facade. Her why put myself out there when I know I will be rejected thought process rang true with me, like I'm sure it will with other young girls. Elda, I felt, she was also extremely relatable. She is this stunningly beautiful girl that all the guys drool over and she is just so awkward and has a hard time talking to guys like that. Danny was self conscious and he was a guy. You never see that! I was genuinely excited to see this. He constantly doubted himself and so badly wants to prove he isn't some dorky loser.
If you want a book that shows teenagers/young adults (Elda is in college, while Holly and Danny are in high school) actually acting their age and being true to their age, then this is the book for you. If you are worried about this being too Christmassy (like that is an actual thing!), don't be! This book just happens during the Christmas but it doesn't shove it down your throat. I highly suggest this book to everyone.
note: this is part of a series but can read as a standalone.
I love it when books surprise me. I love it when they turn out to be something different than what one would previously think. That is what happened with this book and I'm super happy about it! I thought that this book would a fun cutesy little Christmas book but what I got was teenagers coming to terms with who they are, grief, and self esteem issues all in a little town obsessed with Christmas.
I really liked this! Holly was such a relatable character. She suffered some self esteem issues and as a result, kept people back and kept up a cool edgy facade. Her why put myself out there when I know I will be rejected thought process rang true with me, like I'm sure it will with other young girls. Elda, I felt, she was also extremely relatable. She is this stunningly beautiful girl that all the guys drool over and she is just so awkward and has a hard time talking to guys like that. Danny was self conscious and he was a guy. You never see that! I was genuinely excited to see this. He constantly doubted himself and so badly wants to prove he isn't some dorky loser.
If you want a book that shows teenagers/young adults (Elda is in college, while Holly and Danny are in high school) actually acting their age and being true to their age, then this is the book for you. If you are worried about this being too Christmassy (like that is an actual thing!), don't be! This book just happens during the Christmas but it doesn't shove it down your throat. I highly suggest this book to everyone.
note: this is part of a series but can read as a standalone.
October 2, 2017
3 Cute Stars!
It’s that time of year. The weather is getting cooler and I can’t stop myself from diving into the holiday reads. This time, I took a bit of a departure and switched things up with a YA read. When I came across Approximately Yours, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the synopsis of the story and just knew I’d have to dive in.
Approximately Yours was an absolutely cute read and while I do think this book could be enjoyed by any age group, I do think that leans more to the younger side of YA. With festive names and holiday details around each corner, there is no denying that this is one festive book. Danny is one of the sweetest guys ever and is getting over a broken heart. When he asks Elda out, he has no idea that Holly is the one really texting him. Holly and Danny’s banter is entertaining and you can feel the chemistry between the two of them. I loved watching the two of them get to know one another and couldn’t wait to see what would happen when Danny realizes he hasn’t been talking to Elda this whole time….It is the perfect YA set-up.
If you’re looking for a book that is sweet, light, festive and totally YA, look no further.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via the publisher & NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
It’s that time of year. The weather is getting cooler and I can’t stop myself from diving into the holiday reads. This time, I took a bit of a departure and switched things up with a YA read. When I came across Approximately Yours, I couldn’t help but fall in love with the synopsis of the story and just knew I’d have to dive in.
Approximately Yours was an absolutely cute read and while I do think this book could be enjoyed by any age group, I do think that leans more to the younger side of YA. With festive names and holiday details around each corner, there is no denying that this is one festive book. Danny is one of the sweetest guys ever and is getting over a broken heart. When he asks Elda out, he has no idea that Holly is the one really texting him. Holly and Danny’s banter is entertaining and you can feel the chemistry between the two of them. I loved watching the two of them get to know one another and couldn’t wait to see what would happen when Danny realizes he hasn’t been talking to Elda this whole time….It is the perfect YA set-up.
If you’re looking for a book that is sweet, light, festive and totally YA, look no further.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via the publisher & NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
September 18, 2017
Genre: Romance, Contemporary
Release Date: October 2, 2017
For those of you who don't know me,here's a little snippet about me- I am a Christmas junkie! I love everything about Christmas so when I read the Synopsis about this book-I jumped right into it! I mean come on, the place is called North Pole! Didn't you ever write Santa Claus letters every Christmas and address it as "To, Santa Claus, Santa Claus Factory,North Pole"? Anyone?! Well I did and I'm not ashamed about it..at all! OK.. maybe a teensy bit embarrassed.
I was a little bit disappointed with this book, it's nothing out of the 'box'. It was sweet and very festive! With a boutique called Mrs. Claus's Closet or the gas station named Reindeer Fueling station or the coffee house aptly named Santabucks- You can't help but feel nostalgic yet happy!
Holly and Danny's chemistry is sweet and they have a lot in common.. they just don't realize it until the end. I think Holly and Danny both have a chip on their shoulder- Holly may act like a cool girl with a 'don't-care' attitude but once you crack through the barrier, she's a softy. Danny on the other hand, 'use to be' a nerd but then he became a star athlete. I liked that Danny wasn't obnoxious- he's kinda nerdy, gentle and sweet.
Christmas is just around the corner..well...fine...a few more months.. but if you love Christmas.... Approximately yours will definitely put you into the spirit of Christmas.
Happy Reading!
Visit my blog at https://sentrancedjem.wordpress.com
October 3, 2017
This was my second trip to North Pole, Minnesota, and I have to say, this one was even more fun than the last! I really liked Holly. She felt real to me. She's strong and outspoken and knows what to say to guys, but she keeps a protective wall around her at all times and assumes that people are going to hurt her. But, hidden behind Elda's cell phone, she's able to finally connect with a guy...Danny, the guy she's been crushing on since they were little. Only, it ends up getting her into big trouble. I had a lot of fun reading all their texts and gifs back and forth. The GOT references were SO great in this book. I was laughing my head off and kept thinking, "These are my kind of people." So clearly, Julie is also my kind of people. Julie? Why aren't we friends? After reading your non-acknowledgements/Airing of Grievances page I really felt like our friendship should be a thing, especially the parts about George R. R. Martian and avocados being so delicious and so expensive. I feel your pain.
I digress... Back to my review.
Elda was hilarious with her gorgeous body and awkward conversation. Her obsession with gross stuff felt so random and was fun. I feel like I missed out on her relationship with Dinesh though. I kind of wanted them to have their own book because they both seem like such cool characters.
And Craig. I LOVED that guy. Making his gingerbread people the entire Stark family made me giddy. I want to see more of him. He needs his own quirky Throner chick. I'm just sayin'.
There were so many good parts to this book. I just want to read it over because it went too fast and I savored every moment of it. Thanks Julie and Entangled for another yummy, fun read.
I digress... Back to my review.
Elda was hilarious with her gorgeous body and awkward conversation. Her obsession with gross stuff felt so random and was fun. I feel like I missed out on her relationship with Dinesh though. I kind of wanted them to have their own book because they both seem like such cool characters.
And Craig. I LOVED that guy. Making his gingerbread people the entire Stark family made me giddy. I want to see more of him. He needs his own quirky Throner chick. I'm just sayin'.
There were so many good parts to this book. I just want to read it over because it went too fast and I savored every moment of it. Thanks Julie and Entangled for another yummy, fun read.
September 15, 2017
***I received an ARC through Netgalley for an Honest Review***
I gave this book 3.5 stars. It was cute and fun, but not really anything I hadn’t already read before. I still liked it, but it was nothing new, you know?
In the midst of my contemporary craze, I read this book fairly quickly. While it wasn’t eh best contemporary romance I had ever read in my entire life, it was still a book where I enjoyed the storyline and the characters.
Holly, is a complex. Aside from the puppy tattoo which I think is more cutesy than punk rock, Holly can seem a bit hard core. I mean, Danny was convinced she hated him despite reality being the exact opposite. Holly has really bad self esteem issues caused by constant rejection and I can’t help but relate to that. Holly was a character that I had no problem seeing her point. She pushed people away and was a bit mean to them at times because she was afraid of rejection.
Danny is a sweet guy. His ex girlfriend has definitely caused some damage. Especially considered his breakup happened right after he almost ruins his career by breaking his leg in a basketball related accident. I found it so cute that whenever him and his friends were talking about the Page girls, they would always talk about the hot one, now to everyone else the hot one was Elda, but Danny always thought they were talking about Holly. It was absolutely adorable his quiet crush on her. He was never the obnoxious athlete that is common in YA and teen movies. He was the gentle nerd/athlete who just wanted to be good at everything, I can appreciate that.
The two characters together was pure chemistry. They had so much in common and could talk about anything. Although, I have to dock points because they talked shit about Game of Thrones, and I’m obsessed with that show. Besides that obvious blunder, they were in fact, a very cute book couple.
I would recommend this book to anyone currently going through a contemporary craze. It’s nothing that absolutely blew my mind, but it definitely helps with the craving.
I gave this book 3.5 stars. It was cute and fun, but not really anything I hadn’t already read before. I still liked it, but it was nothing new, you know?
In the midst of my contemporary craze, I read this book fairly quickly. While it wasn’t eh best contemporary romance I had ever read in my entire life, it was still a book where I enjoyed the storyline and the characters.
Holly, is a complex. Aside from the puppy tattoo which I think is more cutesy than punk rock, Holly can seem a bit hard core. I mean, Danny was convinced she hated him despite reality being the exact opposite. Holly has really bad self esteem issues caused by constant rejection and I can’t help but relate to that. Holly was a character that I had no problem seeing her point. She pushed people away and was a bit mean to them at times because she was afraid of rejection.
Danny is a sweet guy. His ex girlfriend has definitely caused some damage. Especially considered his breakup happened right after he almost ruins his career by breaking his leg in a basketball related accident. I found it so cute that whenever him and his friends were talking about the Page girls, they would always talk about the hot one, now to everyone else the hot one was Elda, but Danny always thought they were talking about Holly. It was absolutely adorable his quiet crush on her. He was never the obnoxious athlete that is common in YA and teen movies. He was the gentle nerd/athlete who just wanted to be good at everything, I can appreciate that.
The two characters together was pure chemistry. They had so much in common and could talk about anything. Although, I have to dock points because they talked shit about Game of Thrones, and I’m obsessed with that show. Besides that obvious blunder, they were in fact, a very cute book couple.
I would recommend this book to anyone currently going through a contemporary craze. It’s nothing that absolutely blew my mind, but it definitely helps with the craving.
October 4, 2017
This was another super cute book in the North Pole, Minnesota series by Julie Hammerle. I love that there are always cameos from other past characters in the series and this one didn't disappoint me. Dinesh, Craig, Tinka, Sam, and others all had parts. Some more than others. I adored Dinesh in this one.
Holly is a cool artsy girl, but had low self esteem. She is curvy and a bit nerdy and that definitely affected her thinking. Plus she had a bad experience with a guy friend she liked in the past and was afraid to put herself out there again.
Elda is beautiful, but super weird and awkward. She's the girl all guys drool over, but she's into dead things and plumbing.
Danny is the cool sporty guy. But after he breaks his leg, he has no idea who he really is. He's no longer the jock and his girlfriend of six years dumps him.
Holly and Elda's grandma died and they're only in North Pole to take care of things at her house. But Holly decides to enter the gingerbread contest she and her grandma always entered when she was young. That is where she first met Danny and fell for him. He was nerdy back then and she was in love.
However, because Holly is too afraid to be hurt, she decides to set Elda up with Danny. Who does that? Holly might be the kindest person ever, even if she frowns a lot. I loved how she was an introvert and awkward in person. Holly wasn't perfect and I prefer that in a contemporary.
As with all the Entangled Teen romance books, there is a huge lead up to a romance and this was a fun one to get to.
I received a copy of this book from netgalley for review.
Holly is a cool artsy girl, but had low self esteem. She is curvy and a bit nerdy and that definitely affected her thinking. Plus she had a bad experience with a guy friend she liked in the past and was afraid to put herself out there again.
Elda is beautiful, but super weird and awkward. She's the girl all guys drool over, but she's into dead things and plumbing.
Danny is the cool sporty guy. But after he breaks his leg, he has no idea who he really is. He's no longer the jock and his girlfriend of six years dumps him.
Holly and Elda's grandma died and they're only in North Pole to take care of things at her house. But Holly decides to enter the gingerbread contest she and her grandma always entered when she was young. That is where she first met Danny and fell for him. He was nerdy back then and she was in love.
However, because Holly is too afraid to be hurt, she decides to set Elda up with Danny. Who does that? Holly might be the kindest person ever, even if she frowns a lot. I loved how she was an introvert and awkward in person. Holly wasn't perfect and I prefer that in a contemporary.
As with all the Entangled Teen romance books, there is a huge lead up to a romance and this was a fun one to get to.
I received a copy of this book from netgalley for review.
October 13, 2017
Approximately Yours!!! First things first: I received this book through NetGalley.
This is the third book in the North Pole, Minnesota series, but can be read on it's own. Same town, different characters. But mentions of some of the characters in the earlier books.
In my mind, I'm actually packing my bags and moving to North Pole, Minnesota. This town just seems so damn magical and beautiful, with wonderful people in it and a christmas vibe all year long, something that doesn't sound bad to me at all. I'm writing this review while listening to christmas music (in october, gasp!!!)
This review is going to contain spoilers, cause I can't contain my feels!!!
Summary: Danny Garland is so out of Holly’s league. And her family is only back in North Pole, Minnesota, long enough to sell Grandma’s house and say “Merry Christmas.” So telling her basketball-star, too-hot-to-be-real long-time crush that she’d like to kiss him under the mistletoe just isn’t going to happen.And now he’s asked out her cousin, Elda. Elda is a mess at flirting, so when she begs Holly to intervene, she does. Holly helps her flirt with him over text. And then again. And again. Now she’s stuck texting him as her cousin, and Elda is the one going on the date. Holly thought she could settle for just conversation with Danny, but talking with him is some kind of magic. He’s got the perfect comebacks, she makes him laugh, they text until everyone is asleep.She just can’t ever tell him it’s her he’s really texting.
I still haven't read the first book in the series but I LOVED the second one. And now the third one sucked me in right away. This series is just greatly written and so easy and fun to read.
The characters.The two main characters are Holly and Danny.I loved them both right from the start. Holly broke my heart so many times in this story, just her being super selfconsious and always thinking that she will never be good enough. And Danny, breaking his leg and having to give up on basketball for a while, finding out his girlfriend is cheating on him. Give these two a break. And then they met, and because Holly is Holly and she's thinking that he will never be interested in her, she's trying her best to set him up with her cousin, Elda. On the topic of Elda, I love that girl, she's weird, she talks about gross things. She's wonderful.
So this story is basically about Holly trying to set up Elda with Danny, doing everything in her power to avoid her own feelings and making things happen between these two. She's writing him texts, pretending to be Elda (who knows about it), they pretty much make him believe that Elda is the one their grandma tried to set him up with. When Elda and Danny actually have to talk to each other face to face, it's just painful and awkward. But because Holly is trying to keep her distance, he actually things that she strongly dislikes him.
I love this story. I love the whole thing. Yes, some lies are being told, some feelings get hurt along the way. But I was living for every little moment between Holly and Danny. These two are just such beautiful idiots that I was really rooting for. LOVE THEM. I also really loved Elda and Dinesh. I mean things between them happened really fast, but these two weirdos work so well together that it was just so THEM to jump right into the relationship. Wedding bells and all.
I also very much LOVED the whole gingerbread competition. This is coming from someone who loathes gingerbread. But this element to the story was just so cute. And I loved the little moments of Tinka (from book 2) that we got through this. Girl was not happy about her placing in the competition. Haha, loved it.
I HIGHLY recommend this book for everyone who is in need of a little bit of christmas-y cuteness!!!
This is the third book in the North Pole, Minnesota series, but can be read on it's own. Same town, different characters. But mentions of some of the characters in the earlier books.
In my mind, I'm actually packing my bags and moving to North Pole, Minnesota. This town just seems so damn magical and beautiful, with wonderful people in it and a christmas vibe all year long, something that doesn't sound bad to me at all. I'm writing this review while listening to christmas music (in october, gasp!!!)
This review is going to contain spoilers, cause I can't contain my feels!!!
Summary: Danny Garland is so out of Holly’s league. And her family is only back in North Pole, Minnesota, long enough to sell Grandma’s house and say “Merry Christmas.” So telling her basketball-star, too-hot-to-be-real long-time crush that she’d like to kiss him under the mistletoe just isn’t going to happen.And now he’s asked out her cousin, Elda. Elda is a mess at flirting, so when she begs Holly to intervene, she does. Holly helps her flirt with him over text. And then again. And again. Now she’s stuck texting him as her cousin, and Elda is the one going on the date. Holly thought she could settle for just conversation with Danny, but talking with him is some kind of magic. He’s got the perfect comebacks, she makes him laugh, they text until everyone is asleep.She just can’t ever tell him it’s her he’s really texting.
I still haven't read the first book in the series but I LOVED the second one. And now the third one sucked me in right away. This series is just greatly written and so easy and fun to read.
The characters.The two main characters are Holly and Danny.I loved them both right from the start. Holly broke my heart so many times in this story, just her being super selfconsious and always thinking that she will never be good enough. And Danny, breaking his leg and having to give up on basketball for a while, finding out his girlfriend is cheating on him. Give these two a break. And then they met, and because Holly is Holly and she's thinking that he will never be interested in her, she's trying her best to set him up with her cousin, Elda. On the topic of Elda, I love that girl, she's weird, she talks about gross things. She's wonderful.
So this story is basically about Holly trying to set up Elda with Danny, doing everything in her power to avoid her own feelings and making things happen between these two. She's writing him texts, pretending to be Elda (who knows about it), they pretty much make him believe that Elda is the one their grandma tried to set him up with. When Elda and Danny actually have to talk to each other face to face, it's just painful and awkward. But because Holly is trying to keep her distance, he actually things that she strongly dislikes him.
I love this story. I love the whole thing. Yes, some lies are being told, some feelings get hurt along the way. But I was living for every little moment between Holly and Danny. These two are just such beautiful idiots that I was really rooting for. LOVE THEM. I also really loved Elda and Dinesh. I mean things between them happened really fast, but these two weirdos work so well together that it was just so THEM to jump right into the relationship. Wedding bells and all.
I also very much LOVED the whole gingerbread competition. This is coming from someone who loathes gingerbread. But this element to the story was just so cute. And I loved the little moments of Tinka (from book 2) that we got through this. Girl was not happy about her placing in the competition. Haha, loved it.
I HIGHLY recommend this book for everyone who is in need of a little bit of christmas-y cuteness!!!
October 19, 2017
First of all, I would like to say thank you to Entangled Teen for sending me an eARC copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. And this will not affect my thoughts and opinions about the book in any way.
Approximately Yours is the third book in the North Pole, Minnesota series but you can still read it without reading the first two book as they are standalone stories.
The story is about the Page's girls, Holly and Elda together with their family goes to the small town of North Pole to find new people who will buy the house of their late grandmother. During their first day, they met Danny, whom Holly had a crush for a long time and the boy who won the gingerbread contest every year.
Holly is the main character that has feelings for Danny but tried to set her cousin Elda for him. She pretended to be Elda every time she is texting to Danny that makes her to love him more. One thing to love about Holly's character is the way she set up Elda and Danny even though she love him. In our days, some people will not step down just to make the people they love to be happy even when they are hurting already. But in the story, Holly didn't do it, what she did is to let her feelings hidden by encouraging herself that Danny likes Elda and not her. The way she dedicate herself to win the gingerbread contest for her late grandmother is one thing to love her again. When a person have a positive traits they also have negative traits. And that negative trait of Holly is not telling them, Elda and Danny what she truly feels. She also showed how coward she is and do not want to be rejected is something we shouldn't do. Let's be brave to admit what we feel and just embrace the consequences of being hurt. Cause somethings we learn from the bad things we experience.
I want to wring the necks of both Danny and Elda. I hate how naive they both are in not sensing what Holly really feels. But aside from it, isn't Danny cute every time he stole secret glances to Holly every time they meet. I also find it cute when Danny notice the small thing Holly have that makes him fall in love with her more. He show what are the things a boy is experiencing when they have a girl crush and how they are shy in telling their feelings.
With Elda, I find it cute also how her love story with Dinesh is being developed. And how cute and quirky she is when talking about pipes and creepy things that most girls avoided. She show that not all girls are into flirting, make-ups and cute stuffs.
I love the whole concept of the story especially that the setting is during Christmas. People who loves Christmas, candies and gingerbread contest will surely love the story.
The author wrote the story that every reader will definitely love the characters by their own unique characteristics and cuteness. The reader will also love how the story is well written and will enjoy it without reading the first two books.
Kudos for the author for writing a story that will make you to be the person who you are, be brave and don't be afraid to tell what you really feels. And also to be a better person by forgiving others no matter what they do. We can learned also through the book how family is there beside you willing to help you for the things you really want or love.
I highly recommend the story for all ages that loves Christmas, cute love story and family love.
My rating for the story is 5 out of 5 stars that makes me want to reread and reread it.
Approximately Yours is the third book in the North Pole, Minnesota series but you can still read it without reading the first two book as they are standalone stories.
The story is about the Page's girls, Holly and Elda together with their family goes to the small town of North Pole to find new people who will buy the house of their late grandmother. During their first day, they met Danny, whom Holly had a crush for a long time and the boy who won the gingerbread contest every year.
Holly is the main character that has feelings for Danny but tried to set her cousin Elda for him. She pretended to be Elda every time she is texting to Danny that makes her to love him more. One thing to love about Holly's character is the way she set up Elda and Danny even though she love him. In our days, some people will not step down just to make the people they love to be happy even when they are hurting already. But in the story, Holly didn't do it, what she did is to let her feelings hidden by encouraging herself that Danny likes Elda and not her. The way she dedicate herself to win the gingerbread contest for her late grandmother is one thing to love her again. When a person have a positive traits they also have negative traits. And that negative trait of Holly is not telling them, Elda and Danny what she truly feels. She also showed how coward she is and do not want to be rejected is something we shouldn't do. Let's be brave to admit what we feel and just embrace the consequences of being hurt. Cause somethings we learn from the bad things we experience.
I want to wring the necks of both Danny and Elda. I hate how naive they both are in not sensing what Holly really feels. But aside from it, isn't Danny cute every time he stole secret glances to Holly every time they meet. I also find it cute when Danny notice the small thing Holly have that makes him fall in love with her more. He show what are the things a boy is experiencing when they have a girl crush and how they are shy in telling their feelings.
With Elda, I find it cute also how her love story with Dinesh is being developed. And how cute and quirky she is when talking about pipes and creepy things that most girls avoided. She show that not all girls are into flirting, make-ups and cute stuffs.
I love the whole concept of the story especially that the setting is during Christmas. People who loves Christmas, candies and gingerbread contest will surely love the story.
The author wrote the story that every reader will definitely love the characters by their own unique characteristics and cuteness. The reader will also love how the story is well written and will enjoy it without reading the first two books.
Kudos for the author for writing a story that will make you to be the person who you are, be brave and don't be afraid to tell what you really feels. And also to be a better person by forgiving others no matter what they do. We can learned also through the book how family is there beside you willing to help you for the things you really want or love.
I highly recommend the story for all ages that loves Christmas, cute love story and family love.
My rating for the story is 5 out of 5 stars that makes me want to reread and reread it.
September 22, 2017
3 1/2 stars
The latest entry in Julie Hammerle’s North Pole, Minnesota series feels like Cyrano de Bergerac for Christmas with teens and texting.
Holly used to visit her grandmother in North Pole every Christmas except for the past several years. She would always enter the gingerbread house-building contest with her grandmother, but would mostly be beaten by cute Danny, which she didn’t mind so much because she had a crush on him. The crush that Holly had on Danny stayed with her a long time. Unfortunately she’s had bad experiences in the intervening years. When she and her cousin, Elda, stop for coffee and Holly sees Danny for the first time in years, he doesn’t recognize her and seems more interested in Elda. As a result, Holly tries to get Danny and Elda to fall in love figuring that they are perfect together.
This is a cute story and a cute idea for a story incorporating all of the Christmas elements: gingerbread and hot chocolate and warm toasty fires. Unfortunately Approximately Yours didn’t work for me as well as the previous two entries in the series.
A little more than midway through two thoughts occurred to me. Holly and Danny were apart for most of the novel so it was really hard to just accept that they were a thing. When they finally do come together, it all feels rushed and a little unsatisfying because I didn’t feel like there was a spark between Holly and Danny and I don’t know if that was because they were ultimately too similar. As well, it was hard to believe Danny was falling for anyone considering that just a few days had passed since he found out about his long-time girlfriend cheating on him and their subsequent breakup.
Also, I found Elda a more intriguing character than Holly and would have loved for the subplot with Elda and Dinesh to be fleshed out more. Probably, it would have helped overall if this novel had just been longer to show more interaction between Holly and Danny and some fun between nerds Elda and Dinesh.
However, this novel is sweet and I think for anyone following the series, you don’t want to miss this latest installment, not to mention it’s arrival is just in time for pre-Christmas reading.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The latest entry in Julie Hammerle’s North Pole, Minnesota series feels like Cyrano de Bergerac for Christmas with teens and texting.
Holly used to visit her grandmother in North Pole every Christmas except for the past several years. She would always enter the gingerbread house-building contest with her grandmother, but would mostly be beaten by cute Danny, which she didn’t mind so much because she had a crush on him. The crush that Holly had on Danny stayed with her a long time. Unfortunately she’s had bad experiences in the intervening years. When she and her cousin, Elda, stop for coffee and Holly sees Danny for the first time in years, he doesn’t recognize her and seems more interested in Elda. As a result, Holly tries to get Danny and Elda to fall in love figuring that they are perfect together.
This is a cute story and a cute idea for a story incorporating all of the Christmas elements: gingerbread and hot chocolate and warm toasty fires. Unfortunately Approximately Yours didn’t work for me as well as the previous two entries in the series.
A little more than midway through two thoughts occurred to me. Holly and Danny were apart for most of the novel so it was really hard to just accept that they were a thing. When they finally do come together, it all feels rushed and a little unsatisfying because I didn’t feel like there was a spark between Holly and Danny and I don’t know if that was because they were ultimately too similar. As well, it was hard to believe Danny was falling for anyone considering that just a few days had passed since he found out about his long-time girlfriend cheating on him and their subsequent breakup.
Also, I found Elda a more intriguing character than Holly and would have loved for the subplot with Elda and Dinesh to be fleshed out more. Probably, it would have helped overall if this novel had just been longer to show more interaction between Holly and Danny and some fun between nerds Elda and Dinesh.
However, this novel is sweet and I think for anyone following the series, you don’t want to miss this latest installment, not to mention it’s arrival is just in time for pre-Christmas reading.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Read
September 24, 2017*Thank you so much to Entangled Teen for sending me over a copy for an honest review! I really appreciate it!*
DNF @ 35%
I really enjoyed Julie Hammerle's first book in this standalone series, Any Boy But You. While it was a bit predictable, I thought it still had some adorable elements with a super cute, adorable setting that was whimsical and fun. I'm not usually a fan of the enemies to lovers trope, but she did it very well in that book. When I saw this book, I was eager to request it. However, unlike the spark and fun in the first book, this missed something for me.
I think the issue was that I felt no connection. Literally no connection to anything. I was connected to the town like I was in the first book. I felt no connection to one of our main characters, Danny. I felt not much of connection to Holly. I felt no connection to the writing or the storyline. It all felt so...ehhhhhhhh or overdone or nothing. I just felt so bored reading it, and some of the things that happened (especially the conversations with the boys talking about the girls just made me roll my eyes). It just felt like it was missing the magic for me, and I really tried to push myself further with it. However, in the end, I had to just call it a day when I couldn't sum up any excitement at almost 50% of the book. It's not bad at all - it just didn't entertain or excite me.
No crowns because it is a DNF, and a Snow White rating!
DNF @ 35%
I really enjoyed Julie Hammerle's first book in this standalone series, Any Boy But You. While it was a bit predictable, I thought it still had some adorable elements with a super cute, adorable setting that was whimsical and fun. I'm not usually a fan of the enemies to lovers trope, but she did it very well in that book. When I saw this book, I was eager to request it. However, unlike the spark and fun in the first book, this missed something for me.
I think the issue was that I felt no connection. Literally no connection to anything. I was connected to the town like I was in the first book. I felt no connection to one of our main characters, Danny. I felt not much of connection to Holly. I felt no connection to the writing or the storyline. It all felt so...ehhhhhhhh or overdone or nothing. I just felt so bored reading it, and some of the things that happened (especially the conversations with the boys talking about the girls just made me roll my eyes). It just felt like it was missing the magic for me, and I really tried to push myself further with it. However, in the end, I had to just call it a day when I couldn't sum up any excitement at almost 50% of the book. It's not bad at all - it just didn't entertain or excite me.
No crowns because it is a DNF, and a Snow White rating!
October 15, 2017
Adorable!
Holly and Danny are such likable characters that even when they're being totally blind and frustratingly dense, it's hard to get too mad at them, because if you've ever been an awkward teen you totally get where their insecurities come from, at least a little. Through it all you can see just how absolutely right they'll be together, which will keep you turning the pages like no one's business (except for the brief breaks you may need to take in order to Google one--or fifty--of the gifs they end up texting to one another. Thanks, Julie Hammerle, for making this book take me twice as long to read... ;))
All in all this was a fun read that kind of makes me want to take up competitive gingerbread housing. (Who knew this was a thing?) Though Holly's cousin Elda's ending here gave me a bit of a pause (maybe I'd feel better if she had her own book? I'm not questioning her choice, just how quickly things happened there) overall this was a cute read and a fun way to spend a few weekend hours while I wait for sweater weather to (finally) arrive.
P.S.--read the author's "Airing of Grievances" at the end. Even if you've never seen a single episode of Seinfeld (do such people really exist?) they're good for a laugh.
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Holly and Danny are such likable characters that even when they're being totally blind and frustratingly dense, it's hard to get too mad at them, because if you've ever been an awkward teen you totally get where their insecurities come from, at least a little. Through it all you can see just how absolutely right they'll be together, which will keep you turning the pages like no one's business (except for the brief breaks you may need to take in order to Google one--or fifty--of the gifs they end up texting to one another. Thanks, Julie Hammerle, for making this book take me twice as long to read... ;))
All in all this was a fun read that kind of makes me want to take up competitive gingerbread housing. (Who knew this was a thing?) Though Holly's cousin Elda's ending here gave me a bit of a pause (maybe I'd feel better if she had her own book? I'm not questioning her choice, just how quickly things happened there) overall this was a cute read and a fun way to spend a few weekend hours while I wait for sweater weather to (finally) arrive.
P.S.--read the author's "Airing of Grievances" at the end. Even if you've never seen a single episode of Seinfeld (do such people really exist?) they're good for a laugh.
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 24, 2017
I recieved Approximately Yours by Julie Hammerle from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was attracted to Approximately Yours when I first saw the cover. Then I was a little bit intrigued by the plot about a girl texting a guy while hiding her true identity. And then I was even more sold on this book when I realized it was going to be a Christmas season book! I love Christmas season books.
I sadly couldn't get into the fact that a guy just basically spent the whole book trying to be with somebody while really he wished he was with the other girl the whole time he was with the girl he was supposed to be with. I was glad when the girl called him out on that...not saying when or how, so that isn't really a spoiler.
I did like the secondary characters and the whole Christmas plot though. Not everything about this book was bad, I just couldn't get into the romance drama of it this time. That might work for other people if they want that type of stuff.
This book was a three for me, especially since it had potential to be an overall good story.
I'm still wanting to try the other books by Julie Hammerle. Thank you for giving me the chance to read and review this book.
I was attracted to Approximately Yours when I first saw the cover. Then I was a little bit intrigued by the plot about a girl texting a guy while hiding her true identity. And then I was even more sold on this book when I realized it was going to be a Christmas season book! I love Christmas season books.
I sadly couldn't get into the fact that a guy just basically spent the whole book trying to be with somebody while really he wished he was with the other girl the whole time he was with the girl he was supposed to be with. I was glad when the girl called him out on that...not saying when or how, so that isn't really a spoiler.
I did like the secondary characters and the whole Christmas plot though. Not everything about this book was bad, I just couldn't get into the romance drama of it this time. That might work for other people if they want that type of stuff.
This book was a three for me, especially since it had potential to be an overall good story.
I'm still wanting to try the other books by Julie Hammerle. Thank you for giving me the chance to read and review this book.
October 3, 2017
Danny lives in a town called North Pole. Unsurprisingly the town is an homage to all things Christmas, everything is Christmas themed and the town takes the annual gingerbread competition very seriously.
Danny had high hopes of playing professional basketball until showing off in front of a reporter he fell and broke his ankle. Now his big chance may have gone forever, his girlfriend has dumped him for the waterboy and he realises that he has no clue what he wants from life.
Holly's grandmother lived next door to Danny's family. Growing up Holly and her cousins used to visit North Pole every year at Christmas and Holly would enter the gingerbread competition, mainly because even back then she was in love with Danny. In those days Danny was less athletic and more nerdy.
After Holly's grandmother died the family have returned to North Pole one last time to pack up her house before putting it on the market. When Holly and her cousin Esmerelda (Elda for short) go into Santabucks for coffee they see Danny serving behind the counter. Holly is sad that her childhood crush doesn't even recognise and, just like every other guy she's ever met, he only seems to have eyes for her beautiful cousin. Whilst Elda might be every guy's wet dream, she is also a bit weird, fascinated by plumbing, and has difficulty talking to guys she likes. So a plot is born, Holly will help Elda when she goes on a date with Danny by telling her what to say (and what not to say). In Danny's defence, he is trying to avoid going out with another girl just like his ex, he is attracted to Holly but she seems to turn her nose up at him so he tries to do something different by dating Elda.
Just like in Cyrano de Bergerac, Elda and Danny are totally incompatible but Holly and Danny text each other constantly. Danny can't understand why the woman he chats to for hours at night about architecture and films and the gingerbread competition suddenly starts talking about plumbing and roadkill when they meet in person.
This was a sweet YA romance, the trouble is when you add the sweetness of Christmas in a Christmas-themed town it becomes almost too sweet. For those who know the plot of Cyrano there were few surprises and very little tension. Danny and Holly were so 'nice' that they didn't really have much character. I was more interested in Elda's obsession with plumbing.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Danny had high hopes of playing professional basketball until showing off in front of a reporter he fell and broke his ankle. Now his big chance may have gone forever, his girlfriend has dumped him for the waterboy and he realises that he has no clue what he wants from life.
Holly's grandmother lived next door to Danny's family. Growing up Holly and her cousins used to visit North Pole every year at Christmas and Holly would enter the gingerbread competition, mainly because even back then she was in love with Danny. In those days Danny was less athletic and more nerdy.
After Holly's grandmother died the family have returned to North Pole one last time to pack up her house before putting it on the market. When Holly and her cousin Esmerelda (Elda for short) go into Santabucks for coffee they see Danny serving behind the counter. Holly is sad that her childhood crush doesn't even recognise and, just like every other guy she's ever met, he only seems to have eyes for her beautiful cousin. Whilst Elda might be every guy's wet dream, she is also a bit weird, fascinated by plumbing, and has difficulty talking to guys she likes. So a plot is born, Holly will help Elda when she goes on a date with Danny by telling her what to say (and what not to say). In Danny's defence, he is trying to avoid going out with another girl just like his ex, he is attracted to Holly but she seems to turn her nose up at him so he tries to do something different by dating Elda.
Just like in Cyrano de Bergerac, Elda and Danny are totally incompatible but Holly and Danny text each other constantly. Danny can't understand why the woman he chats to for hours at night about architecture and films and the gingerbread competition suddenly starts talking about plumbing and roadkill when they meet in person.
This was a sweet YA romance, the trouble is when you add the sweetness of Christmas in a Christmas-themed town it becomes almost too sweet. For those who know the plot of Cyrano there were few surprises and very little tension. Danny and Holly were so 'nice' that they didn't really have much character. I was more interested in Elda's obsession with plumbing.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
December 18, 2021
The ending came so far out of left field (Elda ends up engaged to someone she’s talked to like twice?) that it left me majorly scratching my head.
This is basically a Cyrano de Bergerac retelling and I was liking it well enough at first, but it definitely started to lose steam. Holly’s constant insecurity got to be more than a little wearing.
I liked the gingerbread house making elements - and Craig even recreated the Wall from Game of Thrones using gingerbread which was a fun touch. I also liked that all the stores had Christmassy names. The town of North Pole really embraced the holiday spirit and it was a lot of fun.
This is basically a Cyrano de Bergerac retelling and I was liking it well enough at first, but it definitely started to lose steam. Holly’s constant insecurity got to be more than a little wearing.
I liked the gingerbread house making elements - and Craig even recreated the Wall from Game of Thrones using gingerbread which was a fun touch. I also liked that all the stores had Christmassy names. The town of North Pole really embraced the holiday spirit and it was a lot of fun.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2017
IM SO EXCITED FOR THE RELEASE I LOVE HER BOOKS!!!
November 25, 2021
https://celebrityreaders.com/2021/11/...
3.5 stars — Bummer. This one started off really strong and I stayed up late reading it the first night. But then I got tired of the schtik of the plot, and I just wanted things to be cleared up. Ah well.
This had a bit of a Cyrano de Bergerac retelling feel to it — what with Holly texting Danny as Elda, and thinking she’s not pretty enough. I’m thinking maybe I just don’t like that premise enough…or at least I want it resolved sooner.
The thing is that there was a lot of separate screen time for each of our MCs. We got to see Danny moping about his life and being confused about his feelings on his own. And then we got to see Holly moping about her life and being confused and hanging out with Elda and mourning her Grandma…on her own. There wasn’t nearly enough together time for me. I enjoyed the moments that we did get, when Elda wasn’t self-sabotaging…hence the half star bump.
The thing is that while I got Holly’s insecurities, after awhile it just wasn’t believable anymore. I just started getting annoyed with her. And Danny was exactly as Holly accused him — afraid of rejection and trying to get everyone to like him. And so he wasn’t very honest about his own thoughts and feelings to himself, he let himself be swayed by what others told him he should feel/do.
The Christmas stuff was fun, and the Gingerbread competition was great. Lots of odd side characters in this one, but they are endearing. Elda was bizarre, Dinesh was nerdily adorable, and Craig was…misunderstood and it felt like the author was mean to him in some ways. It was weird.
So yeah. *shrugs* I was hoping it would be stronger, and in the end it was just okay.
3.5 stars — Bummer. This one started off really strong and I stayed up late reading it the first night. But then I got tired of the schtik of the plot, and I just wanted things to be cleared up. Ah well.
This had a bit of a Cyrano de Bergerac retelling feel to it — what with Holly texting Danny as Elda, and thinking she’s not pretty enough. I’m thinking maybe I just don’t like that premise enough…or at least I want it resolved sooner.
The thing is that there was a lot of separate screen time for each of our MCs. We got to see Danny moping about his life and being confused about his feelings on his own. And then we got to see Holly moping about her life and being confused and hanging out with Elda and mourning her Grandma…on her own. There wasn’t nearly enough together time for me. I enjoyed the moments that we did get, when Elda wasn’t self-sabotaging…hence the half star bump.
The thing is that while I got Holly’s insecurities, after awhile it just wasn’t believable anymore. I just started getting annoyed with her. And Danny was exactly as Holly accused him — afraid of rejection and trying to get everyone to like him. And so he wasn’t very honest about his own thoughts and feelings to himself, he let himself be swayed by what others told him he should feel/do.
The Christmas stuff was fun, and the Gingerbread competition was great. Lots of odd side characters in this one, but they are endearing. Elda was bizarre, Dinesh was nerdily adorable, and Craig was…misunderstood and it felt like the author was mean to him in some ways. It was weird.
So yeah. *shrugs* I was hoping it would be stronger, and in the end it was just okay.
September 22, 2017
REVIEW IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH
*I received an e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Entangled Teen!*
I was so excited to read this book. I mean, the synopsis looks very interesting. Boy that falls in love with somebody because of their chat conversations and then discovers that the person writing those texts is not the one he thought it was? This plot promised a lot of drama, profound conversations and bubbly feelings.
Our main character is Holly, a very sarcastic girl who is now returning to the city where she used to live with her grandma, North Pole. The problem is that Danny Garland lives there. And who is Danny? Well, her eternal-childhood love. When they finally reencounter, Danny does not seem to recognise Holly at all. In fact, he looks rather interested in Holly's attractive but clumsy cousin, Elda. As a consequence, Holly decides that she is going to help her cousin so that she can date with Danny. They are the perfect couple and even though Holly loves Danny so much, he is, as she says, 'out of her league' (by the way, I hate understanding what she means with this sentences. I hate so much this type of generalised thoughts regarding beauty and relationships).
One thing that surprised me about this book was the narrator. It's not the typical first-person, but an almost omniscient third-person one. Some chapters focus on Danny's daily life and others on Holly's. Maybe that's why I haven't symphatised with these characters as much as I expected or maybe it's just that I needed more pages in order to fully grasp their love story. However, I'm not going to lie, I couldn't stop reading this novel and if you love Christmas you will understand my point. It's addictive, it's cute, it's about two teenagers who compete in a gingerbread contest, drink coffee at Santabucks and are surrounded by mistletoe! As I was reading, I could imagine everything in my head as if I was watching a Christmas romance movie. Julie Hammerle has managed to condense perfectly the Christmas vibes!
I guarantee this is not the best novel in the world, but it will definitely make your heart melt with such a lovely story. If the characters had been more round, Approximately Yours would have won some extra points for, as I mentioned at the beginning of my review, this plot required long chat conversations and powerful emerging feelings to actually believe that Danny falls in love with Holly and not with Elda. And I did miss some of those emotionally explosive drama scenes, to be honest.
A sweet story about accepting yourself, facing love and Christmas.
*****
Tenía muchas ganas de leer este libro, y es que la sinopsis me parecía muy interesante. ¿Un chico que se enamora de alguien debido a sus conversaciones por chat y luego descubre que la persona con la que se mensajeaba no es la que él pensaba? Esta premisa prometía mucho drama, conversaciones profundas y burbujeantes sentimientos.
Nuestra protagonista es Holly, una muchacha muy sarcástica que ahora tiene que volver a la ciudad donde solía vivir con su abuela, North Pole. El problema es que allí vive Danny Garland. ¿Y quién es Danny? Su eterno amor de la infancia. Cuando finalmente se reencuentran, para desgracia de Holly él ni siquiera parece reconocerla. De hecho, parece que se ha quedado embobado mirando a la atractiva pero torpe prima de Holly, Elda. Por ese motivo, Holly decide ayudar a su prima para que salga con Danny. Ellos hacen la pareja perfecta, por mucho que a Holly le duela ver al chico de sus sueños saliendo con su prima. Como ella dice, él está fuera de su liga (y dejadme que os diga que odio entender a qué se refiere Holly con esa expresión; odio lo que esta sociedad nos hace pensar sobre nosotros mismos en lo referente a la belleza y las relaciones).
Una de las cosas que más me sorprendió de esta novela es que está narrada en tercera persona; no es la típica primera persona de las novelas juveniles. Algunos capítulos se centran en la vida de Danny, otros en la de Holly. Puede que este sea el motivo por el que no he conseguido empatizar del todo con los personajes, porque estoy muy acostumbrada a la primera persona o simplemente porque me han faltado páginas para meterme de lleno en la historia. Sin embargo, no os voy a mentir: no he podido parar de leer y si os gusta la Navidad creo que me entenderéis. Se trata de una historia adictiva, bonita, y es que trata sobre dos adolescentes que compiten en un concurso de mazapanes, toman café en Santabucks y a los que el muérdago acecha. A medida que leía, no podía evitar imaginármelo todo con lujo de detalles como si estuviese viendo una de esas películas navideñas que tanto me gustan. En eso la autora ha hecho un magnífico trabajo, sin duda.
Ya os adelanto que esta no es la mejor novela del mundo, pero definitivamente hará que se os derrita el corazón con esta tierna historia. Si los personajes hubiesen sido más tridimensionales, Approximately Yours habría ganado muchos puntos, ya que como comentaba al principio de esta reseña, esta premisa necesitaba largas conversaciones y escenas cargadas de emociones para conseguir que el lector se creyese que Danny de quien se enamora es de Holly y no de Elda. Y me han faltado esas escenas, si os soy sincera.
Una dulce historia sobre aceptarse a uno mismo, sobre hacer frente al amor y sobre la Navidad.
*I received an e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Entangled Teen!*
I was so excited to read this book. I mean, the synopsis looks very interesting. Boy that falls in love with somebody because of their chat conversations and then discovers that the person writing those texts is not the one he thought it was? This plot promised a lot of drama, profound conversations and bubbly feelings.
Our main character is Holly, a very sarcastic girl who is now returning to the city where she used to live with her grandma, North Pole. The problem is that Danny Garland lives there. And who is Danny? Well, her eternal-childhood love. When they finally reencounter, Danny does not seem to recognise Holly at all. In fact, he looks rather interested in Holly's attractive but clumsy cousin, Elda. As a consequence, Holly decides that she is going to help her cousin so that she can date with Danny. They are the perfect couple and even though Holly loves Danny so much, he is, as she says, 'out of her league' (by the way, I hate understanding what she means with this sentences. I hate so much this type of generalised thoughts regarding beauty and relationships).
One thing that surprised me about this book was the narrator. It's not the typical first-person, but an almost omniscient third-person one. Some chapters focus on Danny's daily life and others on Holly's. Maybe that's why I haven't symphatised with these characters as much as I expected or maybe it's just that I needed more pages in order to fully grasp their love story. However, I'm not going to lie, I couldn't stop reading this novel and if you love Christmas you will understand my point. It's addictive, it's cute, it's about two teenagers who compete in a gingerbread contest, drink coffee at Santabucks and are surrounded by mistletoe! As I was reading, I could imagine everything in my head as if I was watching a Christmas romance movie. Julie Hammerle has managed to condense perfectly the Christmas vibes!
I guarantee this is not the best novel in the world, but it will definitely make your heart melt with such a lovely story. If the characters had been more round, Approximately Yours would have won some extra points for, as I mentioned at the beginning of my review, this plot required long chat conversations and powerful emerging feelings to actually believe that Danny falls in love with Holly and not with Elda. And I did miss some of those emotionally explosive drama scenes, to be honest.
A sweet story about accepting yourself, facing love and Christmas.
*****
Tenía muchas ganas de leer este libro, y es que la sinopsis me parecía muy interesante. ¿Un chico que se enamora de alguien debido a sus conversaciones por chat y luego descubre que la persona con la que se mensajeaba no es la que él pensaba? Esta premisa prometía mucho drama, conversaciones profundas y burbujeantes sentimientos.
Nuestra protagonista es Holly, una muchacha muy sarcástica que ahora tiene que volver a la ciudad donde solía vivir con su abuela, North Pole. El problema es que allí vive Danny Garland. ¿Y quién es Danny? Su eterno amor de la infancia. Cuando finalmente se reencuentran, para desgracia de Holly él ni siquiera parece reconocerla. De hecho, parece que se ha quedado embobado mirando a la atractiva pero torpe prima de Holly, Elda. Por ese motivo, Holly decide ayudar a su prima para que salga con Danny. Ellos hacen la pareja perfecta, por mucho que a Holly le duela ver al chico de sus sueños saliendo con su prima. Como ella dice, él está fuera de su liga (y dejadme que os diga que odio entender a qué se refiere Holly con esa expresión; odio lo que esta sociedad nos hace pensar sobre nosotros mismos en lo referente a la belleza y las relaciones).
Una de las cosas que más me sorprendió de esta novela es que está narrada en tercera persona; no es la típica primera persona de las novelas juveniles. Algunos capítulos se centran en la vida de Danny, otros en la de Holly. Puede que este sea el motivo por el que no he conseguido empatizar del todo con los personajes, porque estoy muy acostumbrada a la primera persona o simplemente porque me han faltado páginas para meterme de lleno en la historia. Sin embargo, no os voy a mentir: no he podido parar de leer y si os gusta la Navidad creo que me entenderéis. Se trata de una historia adictiva, bonita, y es que trata sobre dos adolescentes que compiten en un concurso de mazapanes, toman café en Santabucks y a los que el muérdago acecha. A medida que leía, no podía evitar imaginármelo todo con lujo de detalles como si estuviese viendo una de esas películas navideñas que tanto me gustan. En eso la autora ha hecho un magnífico trabajo, sin duda.
Ya os adelanto que esta no es la mejor novela del mundo, pero definitivamente hará que se os derrita el corazón con esta tierna historia. Si los personajes hubiesen sido más tridimensionales, Approximately Yours habría ganado muchos puntos, ya que como comentaba al principio de esta reseña, esta premisa necesitaba largas conversaciones y escenas cargadas de emociones para conseguir que el lector se creyese que Danny de quien se enamora es de Holly y no de Elda. Y me han faltado esas escenas, si os soy sincera.
Una dulce historia sobre aceptarse a uno mismo, sobre hacer frente al amor y sobre la Navidad.
September 19, 2017
*Recieved an Advanced Readers Copy in exchange for an honest review through Netgalley*
Don't let my rating fool you, I enjoyed this book and see myself picking up this book to read again, especially during winter time with a Starbucks in my hand. However, a few things prevented me from giving this book a four or even five stars...
First things first, we have two main characters, Danny and Holly. The story takes place at the "North Pole" and as you may guess it's very much based around everything Christmas that gives you nostalgia.
Holly likes Danny however due to her own insecurities, she steps aside for her cousin Elda who as referenced by many characters including Holly, is the hot one. However, I like to point out at this moment that Danny always thought of Holly as the hot one whenever someone mentioned the pair even though they always seemed to be discussing Elda as the hot one... anyways, despite Elda's bubbly personality she can't seem to talk, let alone text, Danny properly. Which is where Holly swoops in, happily (yet greedily) and texts Danny in her behalf.
Danny, was the star basketball player who "was a total dork trapped inside a hot guys body." (His words not mine but also very true) He's a sweet guy, and I hate to say it, did not deserve to be catfished. Although many might brush off this fact because he knew Holly and talked to her, he was still catfished because he did not know it was Holly behind the screen instead of Elda. Yet I would also like to point out that Holly nor Elda, knew that they were doing this. It was quite unintentional and wasn't meant to hurt his feeling or anything but alas, it still happened and it should be called what it is. Catfish. I couldn't help but feel sympathetic towards him especially since he had just got out of a bad relationship. But then again I was still very much happy with the outcome and that everyone seemed more than happy themselves!
Danny was also a very refreshing character since books involving athletes always seem to be a tad obnoxious yet he didn't really feel this way (only when he got jealous in the beginning). But as he said, he was a dork, a dork that should have just said screw it and gone with his heart instead of his head.
Holly, boy was she a complex character. Yet I admired her, very much so. Especially whenever Danny talked about her through his perspective. She has this cold exterior that just screams 'Nobody talk to me peasants you're not worthy' but she's just as dorky and loving as Danny is! They truly make a perfect pair.
I just wished they grow a pair sometimes but then again that's life. This book was realistic in that way, the way that Holly and Danny are, how they are too afraid for fear of rejection and betrayal. This book really made me think that hey, stop being a wimp and be who you really are, listen to your heart because life doesn't give you much time to go running off hiding your emotions and thoughts.
*Sighs dramatically because I'm getting out of focus* Back to the topic at hand... I felt as if the ending was a bit rushed, especially a certain scene because wow that was out of nowhere but I'm guessing this leads to a future book perhaps? Also there was small annotations I had made that helped me remember certain points and thoughts, and as I am going through them there were many times I felt that the storyline could have shifted a bit that I thought would've been interesting and push the story towards the ending we received but nothing came of it. This is why I gave the book a three instead of a four or five stars. There were just some missed opportunities that I felt could have just been removed entirely from the book since the author didn't use these.
Anyways, hating to be the one to spoil the book, I'll leave my review as is. The only thing I'll add is I do recommend this book- especially during the winter time.
*i would hate myself if I didn't include this but I swooned at the Cinderella story moment (the Hillary Duff movie)*
Don't let my rating fool you, I enjoyed this book and see myself picking up this book to read again, especially during winter time with a Starbucks in my hand. However, a few things prevented me from giving this book a four or even five stars...
First things first, we have two main characters, Danny and Holly. The story takes place at the "North Pole" and as you may guess it's very much based around everything Christmas that gives you nostalgia.
Holly likes Danny however due to her own insecurities, she steps aside for her cousin Elda who as referenced by many characters including Holly, is the hot one. However, I like to point out at this moment that Danny always thought of Holly as the hot one whenever someone mentioned the pair even though they always seemed to be discussing Elda as the hot one... anyways, despite Elda's bubbly personality she can't seem to talk, let alone text, Danny properly. Which is where Holly swoops in, happily (yet greedily) and texts Danny in her behalf.
Danny, was the star basketball player who "was a total dork trapped inside a hot guys body." (His words not mine but also very true) He's a sweet guy, and I hate to say it, did not deserve to be catfished. Although many might brush off this fact because he knew Holly and talked to her, he was still catfished because he did not know it was Holly behind the screen instead of Elda. Yet I would also like to point out that Holly nor Elda, knew that they were doing this. It was quite unintentional and wasn't meant to hurt his feeling or anything but alas, it still happened and it should be called what it is. Catfish. I couldn't help but feel sympathetic towards him especially since he had just got out of a bad relationship. But then again I was still very much happy with the outcome and that everyone seemed more than happy themselves!
Danny was also a very refreshing character since books involving athletes always seem to be a tad obnoxious yet he didn't really feel this way (only when he got jealous in the beginning). But as he said, he was a dork, a dork that should have just said screw it and gone with his heart instead of his head.
Holly, boy was she a complex character. Yet I admired her, very much so. Especially whenever Danny talked about her through his perspective. She has this cold exterior that just screams 'Nobody talk to me peasants you're not worthy' but she's just as dorky and loving as Danny is! They truly make a perfect pair.
I just wished they grow a pair sometimes but then again that's life. This book was realistic in that way, the way that Holly and Danny are, how they are too afraid for fear of rejection and betrayal. This book really made me think that hey, stop being a wimp and be who you really are, listen to your heart because life doesn't give you much time to go running off hiding your emotions and thoughts.
*Sighs dramatically because I'm getting out of focus* Back to the topic at hand... I felt as if the ending was a bit rushed, especially a certain scene because wow that was out of nowhere but I'm guessing this leads to a future book perhaps? Also there was small annotations I had made that helped me remember certain points and thoughts, and as I am going through them there were many times I felt that the storyline could have shifted a bit that I thought would've been interesting and push the story towards the ending we received but nothing came of it. This is why I gave the book a three instead of a four or five stars. There were just some missed opportunities that I felt could have just been removed entirely from the book since the author didn't use these.
Anyways, hating to be the one to spoil the book, I'll leave my review as is. The only thing I'll add is I do recommend this book- especially during the winter time.
*i would hate myself if I didn't include this but I swooned at the Cinderella story moment (the Hillary Duff movie)*
November 11, 2017
It’s been years since Holly was in North Pole, Minnesota, the place she loved with her grandmother. But now with her grandmother gone, her and her family are staying in North Pole to sell the house and celebrate Christmas. When Holly runs into her childhood crush, Danny Garland, she knows her chance with him is nonexistent, especially once he asks her cousin, Elda, out. Elda keeps asking Holly for advice on how to talk to him, which leads to Holly texting as Elda again…and again. Before too long, she finds herself falling for him harder than ever, but she’s in too deep to come clean.
APPROXIMATELY YOURS became one of my new favorite books within a few chapters. Julie Hammerle creates a wonderful, holiday-filled story in a town overflowing with cuteness. While I was initially a little hesitant about the love triangle situation, Hammerle handles it absolutely perfectly. There is no girl on girl hate between Holly and Elda. In fact, their friendship is one of the centerpieces of the story, and you’ll find yourself giggling alongside them during their adventures. Danny is also well-developed and far from naïve. He continuously questions his interactions with Holly and Elda while trying to sort everything out. He and Holly have a swoony relationship with so much adorableness you won’t be able to contain the squees.
While I love the romance so much, there are other exceptional themes within the novel that can’t be left undiscussed. Holly is plus-size, something we learn in the beginning. While she has a nice amount of confidence and self-esteem, she has certain assumptions as to how she is perceived, which I was so glad to see in this story. As a fat woman myself, I identified with her. Holly has no desire to change her body, but she believes, as many do, that most people do not find her attractive like they do someone like Elda, who is classically thin and pretty. Part of her journey isn’t about accepting her body, because she’s already quite happy with it, but rather, learning not to assume that others, like Danny, will only find traditional standards of beauty attractive.
I could shout the praises of APPROXIMATELY YOURS for several lengthy pages, but in efforts to be concise, Julie Hammerle has woven an unforgettable story of romance, friendship, family, grief, and a surprisingly number of gingerbread houses in her latest North Pole, Minnesota novel. Whether you’re looking for a cute holiday read or looking to cozy up with a good romance, this is not a book to miss.
Originally posted at YABC: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
APPROXIMATELY YOURS became one of my new favorite books within a few chapters. Julie Hammerle creates a wonderful, holiday-filled story in a town overflowing with cuteness. While I was initially a little hesitant about the love triangle situation, Hammerle handles it absolutely perfectly. There is no girl on girl hate between Holly and Elda. In fact, their friendship is one of the centerpieces of the story, and you’ll find yourself giggling alongside them during their adventures. Danny is also well-developed and far from naïve. He continuously questions his interactions with Holly and Elda while trying to sort everything out. He and Holly have a swoony relationship with so much adorableness you won’t be able to contain the squees.
While I love the romance so much, there are other exceptional themes within the novel that can’t be left undiscussed. Holly is plus-size, something we learn in the beginning. While she has a nice amount of confidence and self-esteem, she has certain assumptions as to how she is perceived, which I was so glad to see in this story. As a fat woman myself, I identified with her. Holly has no desire to change her body, but she believes, as many do, that most people do not find her attractive like they do someone like Elda, who is classically thin and pretty. Part of her journey isn’t about accepting her body, because she’s already quite happy with it, but rather, learning not to assume that others, like Danny, will only find traditional standards of beauty attractive.
I could shout the praises of APPROXIMATELY YOURS for several lengthy pages, but in efforts to be concise, Julie Hammerle has woven an unforgettable story of romance, friendship, family, grief, and a surprisingly number of gingerbread houses in her latest North Pole, Minnesota novel. Whether you’re looking for a cute holiday read or looking to cozy up with a good romance, this is not a book to miss.
Originally posted at YABC: http://www.yabookscentral.com/yaficti...
October 16, 2017
**Was given an ARC by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
The formatting and proofreading really needs to be fixed, especially the formatting of the chapters. Which is why I gave the book 3 stars. This romance was a good read.
After the death of their grandmother, the entire Page family flies to North Pole, Minnesota to weed out and clean up her house to sell it. Holly Page and her cousin, Elda Page are best friends, but complete opposites. Elda is skinny, beautiful, and blonde; she attracts men like flies. Holly has curves, she's closed off, and because of constant rejection, she doesn't put herself out there anymore; she has a hard exterior up all the time.
Holly used to visit her Grandma every Christmas when she was a little girl and they would enter the gingerbread house contest. That was where she met Danny Garland when she was just 8 years old; she's never forgotten him. She kept going back until she was a teenager, then her Grandma would come visit her family. When she and Elda see Danny in town, he's too busy staring at Elda that Holly gives up. But Elda doesn't flirt very well, so Holly helps her out. When Danny texts Elda, Holly ends up talking for hours with him, she actually opens up to him. But when he's alone with Elda, it's awkward. She's quiet, if he refers to their text conversations, she's confused.
Danny Gardner is having a real bad month. He's the captain of his basketball team. While being interviewed by a persistent reporter, he dares him to do a basketball dunk; that dunk ends up causing him to break his tibia in 2 pieces. Then he accidentally finds out his girlfriend of 6 years has been cheating on him, with a supposed friend of his. So when the Page Girls are back in town he can't help but be excited. He likes Holly, but she's hostile to him and constantly pushing him towards Elda.
But when he finds out the truth about what the girls have been doing behind his back, he can't find it in him to forgive Holly. Which breaks her heart, this is why she pushed Elda to him in the first place; to avoid his rejection.
A must read!
The formatting and proofreading really needs to be fixed, especially the formatting of the chapters. Which is why I gave the book 3 stars. This romance was a good read.
After the death of their grandmother, the entire Page family flies to North Pole, Minnesota to weed out and clean up her house to sell it. Holly Page and her cousin, Elda Page are best friends, but complete opposites. Elda is skinny, beautiful, and blonde; she attracts men like flies. Holly has curves, she's closed off, and because of constant rejection, she doesn't put herself out there anymore; she has a hard exterior up all the time.
Holly used to visit her Grandma every Christmas when she was a little girl and they would enter the gingerbread house contest. That was where she met Danny Garland when she was just 8 years old; she's never forgotten him. She kept going back until she was a teenager, then her Grandma would come visit her family. When she and Elda see Danny in town, he's too busy staring at Elda that Holly gives up. But Elda doesn't flirt very well, so Holly helps her out. When Danny texts Elda, Holly ends up talking for hours with him, she actually opens up to him. But when he's alone with Elda, it's awkward. She's quiet, if he refers to their text conversations, she's confused.
Danny Gardner is having a real bad month. He's the captain of his basketball team. While being interviewed by a persistent reporter, he dares him to do a basketball dunk; that dunk ends up causing him to break his tibia in 2 pieces. Then he accidentally finds out his girlfriend of 6 years has been cheating on him, with a supposed friend of his. So when the Page Girls are back in town he can't help but be excited. He likes Holly, but she's hostile to him and constantly pushing him towards Elda.
But when he finds out the truth about what the girls have been doing behind his back, he can't find it in him to forgive Holly. Which breaks her heart, this is why she pushed Elda to him in the first place; to avoid his rejection.
A must read!
October 22, 2017
This is really more like 2.5 stars.
I have a soft-but-uncomfortable spot for Cyrano-inspired stories, and this is definitely one of those tales. Holly has had a crush on Danny from afar for as long as she can remember--the boy from her childhood who inspired her to greatness in architecture and a love of gingerbread house competitions. He's from her grandmother's town, and when her family comes back to North Pole after her death to get her affairs in order, they run in to each other again. The only problem is Holly's newly-single cousin has set her eyes on him.
Holly loves her cousin very much and agrees to help Elda get him, because Elda has a very difficult time talking with boys. So Holly begins wingman-ing like crazy. She talks Elda up, tells her what to say, has text message conversations with Danny. But maybe Danny actually likes Holly?
There are a lot of sweet moments in Approximately Yours. I love the friendship between Holly and Elda, and I love watching them discover things about their grandmother's life. The town and its traditions is super cutesy and kind of reminds me of Stars Hollow. But I felt like this book was really messy. Danny likes Holly from the beginning (like a LOT), and Elda isn't even super into him, but for some reason the majority of the book is still spent trying to shove D & E together. The Cyrano conceit was okay, but it kind of fell flat - it should have been more exciting, or funny. Also, our characters are high school seniors, but I thought they read much younger. Younger YA readers will probably enjoy this much more.
I'd never read a North Pole book before, but this one is a standalone novel. I don't know if there were any references to either of the other books in the series, but I never felt lost.
It's a super sweet, silly, and festive book about a tight-knit family and finding love at Christmastime.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
I have a soft-but-uncomfortable spot for Cyrano-inspired stories, and this is definitely one of those tales. Holly has had a crush on Danny from afar for as long as she can remember--the boy from her childhood who inspired her to greatness in architecture and a love of gingerbread house competitions. He's from her grandmother's town, and when her family comes back to North Pole after her death to get her affairs in order, they run in to each other again. The only problem is Holly's newly-single cousin has set her eyes on him.
Holly loves her cousin very much and agrees to help Elda get him, because Elda has a very difficult time talking with boys. So Holly begins wingman-ing like crazy. She talks Elda up, tells her what to say, has text message conversations with Danny. But maybe Danny actually likes Holly?
There are a lot of sweet moments in Approximately Yours. I love the friendship between Holly and Elda, and I love watching them discover things about their grandmother's life. The town and its traditions is super cutesy and kind of reminds me of Stars Hollow. But I felt like this book was really messy. Danny likes Holly from the beginning (like a LOT), and Elda isn't even super into him, but for some reason the majority of the book is still spent trying to shove D & E together. The Cyrano conceit was okay, but it kind of fell flat - it should have been more exciting, or funny. Also, our characters are high school seniors, but I thought they read much younger. Younger YA readers will probably enjoy this much more.
I'd never read a North Pole book before, but this one is a standalone novel. I don't know if there were any references to either of the other books in the series, but I never felt lost.
It's a super sweet, silly, and festive book about a tight-knit family and finding love at Christmastime.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
December 12, 2017
I really enjoyed this book, the story might be nothing new, we’ve all read the plot a million times before but the writing style and characters managed to keep me interested the whole way through.
I’ll start off with one of my only negatives - the author tried way too hard to make Holly the “i’m not like other girls” girl and it is my absolute pet hate.
Overall I enjoyed all the characters, Danny and Holly made for the perfect couple and I was rooting for them to get their shit together. They balanced each other out, had a lot of similarities and shared interests. All their conversations and feelings about each other left me grinning. Holly’s self-esteem issues felt so honest and I’m sure it will hold up with a lot of readers own feelings. I also like that Elda wasn’t just the typical air head hot girl, she was weird and wonderful, I loved every second her.
Julie Hammerle’s books are always filled with all my favourite tropes and this story was no exception. The writing is always very easy to read and yet still manages to sweep you up into the characters moments with them. There’s always something real and relatable about them.
I hate love triangles but the way it was done in this was refreshing. It wasn’t completely angst filled, end of the world stuff.
I hope there are more books in this series. Can I just move to North Pole already?
I’ll start off with one of my only negatives - the author tried way too hard to make Holly the “i’m not like other girls” girl and it is my absolute pet hate.
Overall I enjoyed all the characters, Danny and Holly made for the perfect couple and I was rooting for them to get their shit together. They balanced each other out, had a lot of similarities and shared interests. All their conversations and feelings about each other left me grinning. Holly’s self-esteem issues felt so honest and I’m sure it will hold up with a lot of readers own feelings. I also like that Elda wasn’t just the typical air head hot girl, she was weird and wonderful, I loved every second her.
Julie Hammerle’s books are always filled with all my favourite tropes and this story was no exception. The writing is always very easy to read and yet still manages to sweep you up into the characters moments with them. There’s always something real and relatable about them.
I hate love triangles but the way it was done in this was refreshing. It wasn’t completely angst filled, end of the world stuff.
I hope there are more books in this series. Can I just move to North Pole already?
December 27, 2017
******Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a honest review from Entangled Publishing via Netgalley.
This North Pole Minnesota book was good, but not as good as the others in this series sadly. Danny Garland is the star basketball player with everything going his way. Until, he breaks his leg and things seem to go downhill from there for him. Holly’s family is visiting one last time before they sell her grandma’s house.
Holly has had a crush on Danny since she was younger, but feels she could never have a chance with him. When her cousin, Elda, shows interest in Danny, Holly agrees to help her get Danny’s attention. Holly is an interesting character. I liked so much about her, but she often felt sorry for herself and too often hid behind her cousin or anger. She often didn't give people a chance to get to know her. That was frustrating and it was good when she finally learned to open up. Danny was so sweet and I was glad that he started realizing there was more to life than just basketball. Elda was a nice addition to the story. I was glad that she was extremely likable. Her awkwardness was very endearing. Overall, while I enjoyed the book, it was not as good as I hoped it would be.
This North Pole Minnesota book was good, but not as good as the others in this series sadly. Danny Garland is the star basketball player with everything going his way. Until, he breaks his leg and things seem to go downhill from there for him. Holly’s family is visiting one last time before they sell her grandma’s house.
Holly has had a crush on Danny since she was younger, but feels she could never have a chance with him. When her cousin, Elda, shows interest in Danny, Holly agrees to help her get Danny’s attention. Holly is an interesting character. I liked so much about her, but she often felt sorry for herself and too often hid behind her cousin or anger. She often didn't give people a chance to get to know her. That was frustrating and it was good when she finally learned to open up. Danny was so sweet and I was glad that he started realizing there was more to life than just basketball. Elda was a nice addition to the story. I was glad that she was extremely likable. Her awkwardness was very endearing. Overall, while I enjoyed the book, it was not as good as I hoped it would be.
October 4, 2017
Disclaimer: I received an e-ARC of the third - and final - book in Julie Hammerle's North Pole, Minnesota trilogy from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
WARNING: My review contains spoilers.
I enjoyed this storyline for the most part. I thought it was strange that Holly would help her cousin get the guy that she'd been crushing on for eight plus years but I did understand the insecurities behind her reasonings.
Elda wasn't as perspective as I thought until the ending. It made no sense as to why she wouldn't notice that Holly had liked him, I mean the girl had remembered his favorite candy for crying out loud! I also hated how Holly wasn't truthful about how she really was when she communicated with Danny in person. I understood that she didn't want to give him anything to connect the dots but she didn't have to flat out lie either.
I'm going to miss the town of North Pole, Minnesota as I've read the series since before Any Boy But You (the first book in the series) came out but I did read that Julie only had a three book contract. I'd love to see Craig find his own soulmate and find out how Holly and Danny are doing - along with Elda and Dinesh - if she were to ever write a fourth book!
WARNING: My review contains spoilers.
I enjoyed this storyline for the most part. I thought it was strange that Holly would help her cousin get the guy that she'd been crushing on for eight plus years but I did understand the insecurities behind her reasonings.
Elda wasn't as perspective as I thought until the ending. It made no sense as to why she wouldn't notice that Holly had liked him, I mean the girl had remembered his favorite candy for crying out loud! I also hated how Holly wasn't truthful about how she really was when she communicated with Danny in person. I understood that she didn't want to give him anything to connect the dots but she didn't have to flat out lie either.
I'm going to miss the town of North Pole, Minnesota as I've read the series since before Any Boy But You (the first book in the series) came out but I did read that Julie only had a three book contract. I'd love to see Craig find his own soulmate and find out how Holly and Danny are doing - along with Elda and Dinesh - if she were to ever write a fourth book!
September 23, 2017
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I really liked this book, it was a cute, fluffy read that I wish I'd read closer to Christmas.
This is a book about;
A girl who has mastered the art of 'not giving a shit', because nobody can hurt you if you don't care, right? She's confident and spectacular at communicating with the dreaded opposite sex, but they are all repulsed by the idea of dating her (nope, not even a little bit true, as usual).
Her cousin who is stunningly beautiful but hopeless with boys (not as yawn as you might be thinking), due in no small part to the fact that she is obsessed with plumbing and dead things (see?!)
A boy who used to be the most popular jock but is now realising the life he enjoyed was hollow and not all that real anyway (okay, I'll give you that yawn..)
The shenanigans that ensue when girl 1 falls in love with boy, but decides to set girl 2 up with boy instead, and boy has no idea he's just along for the ride.
Hurray for a love triangle where nobody is an asshole.
Serieously though? I want a book about Elda, she's badass.
I really liked this book, it was a cute, fluffy read that I wish I'd read closer to Christmas.
This is a book about;
A girl who has mastered the art of 'not giving a shit', because nobody can hurt you if you don't care, right? She's confident and spectacular at communicating with the dreaded opposite sex, but they are all repulsed by the idea of dating her (nope, not even a little bit true, as usual).
Her cousin who is stunningly beautiful but hopeless with boys (not as yawn as you might be thinking), due in no small part to the fact that she is obsessed with plumbing and dead things (see?!)
A boy who used to be the most popular jock but is now realising the life he enjoyed was hollow and not all that real anyway (okay, I'll give you that yawn..)
The shenanigans that ensue when girl 1 falls in love with boy, but decides to set girl 2 up with boy instead, and boy has no idea he's just along for the ride.
Hurray for a love triangle where nobody is an asshole.
Serieously though? I want a book about Elda, she's badass.
September 25, 2017
This book is #3 in the North Pole, Minnesota series. This book can be read as a standalone novel. To avoid spoilers, and to have a greater understanding of the series, I recommend reading this series in order.
Danny has just been devastated by his now ex-girlfriend. Also - by an unplanned injury. So when he meets the newest visitors to his fine town, he is not at his best. Can he overcome his fear of rejection to make a better impression on the right girl?
Holly and Elda are cousins who are visiting their grandmother's hometown to say goodbye to her for the last time. They meet Danny again, only to both admit attraction for the guy. Holly makes the sacrifice, to allow Elda to get closer to Danny.
This is another love triangle story, with a twist. It is in the spirit of love that the main character allows her loved one to go after the boy she has always wanted. I think the entire town is quirky and this series is a lot of fun to read. Moments that are just laughable, can also turn into swoony moments. Just a great book to have on the shelf!
***This ARC copy was given in exchange for an honest review only by Netgalley and its publishers.
Danny has just been devastated by his now ex-girlfriend. Also - by an unplanned injury. So when he meets the newest visitors to his fine town, he is not at his best. Can he overcome his fear of rejection to make a better impression on the right girl?
Holly and Elda are cousins who are visiting their grandmother's hometown to say goodbye to her for the last time. They meet Danny again, only to both admit attraction for the guy. Holly makes the sacrifice, to allow Elda to get closer to Danny.
This is another love triangle story, with a twist. It is in the spirit of love that the main character allows her loved one to go after the boy she has always wanted. I think the entire town is quirky and this series is a lot of fun to read. Moments that are just laughable, can also turn into swoony moments. Just a great book to have on the shelf!
***This ARC copy was given in exchange for an honest review only by Netgalley and its publishers.
October 4, 2017
Another cute couple from Julie Hammerle, this time inspired by Cyrano di Bergerac,she tells the love story of Holly and Danny.
Holly meets up with her cousin Elda in the little town of North Pole for the funeral of their beloved grandmother, where she meets up with her teenage crush Danny who just was cheated by his girlfriend and broke his leg in a dare, something that took him away from the basketball team .
Danny is devastated by everything that happened to him and is willing to move on and find a girl who wants him for what he really is. Seeing Elda, he thinks she may be this girl and begins to communicate with her by message without knowing that who actually answers the texts is Holly.
The confusion is done :Holly will be able to reveal who she really is? Does Elda really like Danny?
Holly is mourning and very sad at the loss of her grandmother who was her life reference and finding her planner decides to do the things her grandmother had planned to do, she just did not think she had Danny in her life.
This story is very light and enjoyable to read, I had a lot of fun with the muddling of Elda and the rides and adventures experienced by this trio.
Holly meets up with her cousin Elda in the little town of North Pole for the funeral of their beloved grandmother, where she meets up with her teenage crush Danny who just was cheated by his girlfriend and broke his leg in a dare, something that took him away from the basketball team .
Danny is devastated by everything that happened to him and is willing to move on and find a girl who wants him for what he really is. Seeing Elda, he thinks she may be this girl and begins to communicate with her by message without knowing that who actually answers the texts is Holly.
The confusion is done :Holly will be able to reveal who she really is? Does Elda really like Danny?
Holly is mourning and very sad at the loss of her grandmother who was her life reference and finding her planner decides to do the things her grandmother had planned to do, she just did not think she had Danny in her life.
This story is very light and enjoyable to read, I had a lot of fun with the muddling of Elda and the rides and adventures experienced by this trio.
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