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Bait and Switch
Full-time marine biologist and part-time heartbreaker Liv Cucinelli knows that there are plenty of fish in the sea. So why can’t she seem to escape the lure of the one woman she hates the most?
When Liv is unexpectedly reunited with Mira Butler—the homophobic princess who ruined Liv’s college career—the last thing she wants is to spend even a second in the company of her former nemesis. Having loathed Mira for years, she’s not prepared to forgive her, let alone pursue a friendship. But Mira, who is oblivious to the destruction she caused, refuses to leave Liv alone.
Once Liv learns the truth about their shared past, she begins to see there is more to Mira than she could have ever anticipated.
Can they overcome their stormy history to become friends? Or maybe even more?
Genre: Romance
Editor: Ann Roberts
Cover Designer: Sandy Knowles
When Liv is unexpectedly reunited with Mira Butler—the homophobic princess who ruined Liv’s college career—the last thing she wants is to spend even a second in the company of her former nemesis. Having loathed Mira for years, she’s not prepared to forgive her, let alone pursue a friendship. But Mira, who is oblivious to the destruction she caused, refuses to leave Liv alone.
Once Liv learns the truth about their shared past, she begins to see there is more to Mira than she could have ever anticipated.
Can they overcome their stormy history to become friends? Or maybe even more?
Genre: Romance
Editor: Ann Roberts
Cover Designer: Sandy Knowles
208 pages, Paperback
Published October 15, 2017
10 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
Blythe H. Warren
5 books17 followersBlythe H. Warren teaches English to college freshmen, and she has a terrible reputation for infecting English-weary composition haters with her love of writing. They enter her class dreading the written word and leave thinking that writing can actually be fun. When she’s not busy writing or shamelessly converting young minds, she enjoys (yes, actually enjoys) running marathons. She and her partner live in Chicago with their three cats and their dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
October 11, 2017
This was a really good book! Bella is having a great month when it comes to romances. First Turbulence by EJ Noyes, now this book, romance fans are going to eat these up. What is interesting is both authors are on only their second published books. They both already write like seasoned authors. I need to go and read Warren's first book, My Best Friend's Girl, because if it is anywhere as good as this one, I know I'll enjoy it.
This is one of those really feel good romances. I'm happy right now, and I enjoy that feeling. While this book deals with a few tough subjects, it does it with a does of humor and wonderful dialog, which just helps to make a great reading experience.
This is a true enemies to lovers story. When I found out what Mira did to Liv in college, I was blown away. How could these two ever even be in the same room together? But Warren just weaves the story perfectly, I was absolutely impressed.
This story is in first person. I know some people don't care for that, but it honestly worked perfectly. Liv, is the wronged party, so it's important to be in her POV. But Warren does such a great job of showing Mira's emotions, I actually found myself forgetting this was a first person story. Both characters are very likeable, especially Liv. She may actually go up on my top 10 list of favorite lesfic characters, she was that good. Her sarcastic and witty thoughts, were wonderful. And gave this book a dose of humor it needed.
Besides the great characters, I really enjoyed the romance. It went at the perfect pace. No insta-love here. In fact, this book stays away from many common tropes found in lesfic romance. I don't want to say what they are, cause it would be to much of a spoiler, but I will say I was impressed and happy.
I also want to mention, Mira has a daughter in this book who is deaf. We don't see too many deaf main or secondary characters in lesfic. It was nice to see. And not only that, she was one of my favorite kids in a lesfic romance that I can remember. Warren did a good job at navigating this. For people that don't care to read about kids in lesfic, this is a child that won't get on your nerves and she doesn't distract from the storyline of the romance. For those of you who enjoy kids in lesfic, she is a wonderful character, and the kind of kid you would like to know in real life.
If you are looking for a feel good romance, don't pass this book up! I know everyone has their own tastes, but I honestly think romances fans are going to really enjoy this. As I said before, I love a good book that makes you feel happy, and that's exactly what this book did. I can't wait to read more by Warren.
An ARC was given to me by Bella, for a honest review.
This is one of those really feel good romances. I'm happy right now, and I enjoy that feeling. While this book deals with a few tough subjects, it does it with a does of humor and wonderful dialog, which just helps to make a great reading experience.
This is a true enemies to lovers story. When I found out what Mira did to Liv in college, I was blown away. How could these two ever even be in the same room together? But Warren just weaves the story perfectly, I was absolutely impressed.
This story is in first person. I know some people don't care for that, but it honestly worked perfectly. Liv, is the wronged party, so it's important to be in her POV. But Warren does such a great job of showing Mira's emotions, I actually found myself forgetting this was a first person story. Both characters are very likeable, especially Liv. She may actually go up on my top 10 list of favorite lesfic characters, she was that good. Her sarcastic and witty thoughts, were wonderful. And gave this book a dose of humor it needed.
Besides the great characters, I really enjoyed the romance. It went at the perfect pace. No insta-love here. In fact, this book stays away from many common tropes found in lesfic romance. I don't want to say what they are, cause it would be to much of a spoiler, but I will say I was impressed and happy.
I also want to mention, Mira has a daughter in this book who is deaf. We don't see too many deaf main or secondary characters in lesfic. It was nice to see. And not only that, she was one of my favorite kids in a lesfic romance that I can remember. Warren did a good job at navigating this. For people that don't care to read about kids in lesfic, this is a child that won't get on your nerves and she doesn't distract from the storyline of the romance. For those of you who enjoy kids in lesfic, she is a wonderful character, and the kind of kid you would like to know in real life.
If you are looking for a feel good romance, don't pass this book up! I know everyone has their own tastes, but I honestly think romances fans are going to really enjoy this. As I said before, I love a good book that makes you feel happy, and that's exactly what this book did. I can't wait to read more by Warren.
An ARC was given to me by Bella, for a honest review.
January 15, 2018
I thought this was an okay read.
What it does have going for it are two romantic leads that communicate, little drama, no tropey breakups, good dialogue, an interesting premise, a single mom, a good kid, a bisexual lead, time for the relationship to develop, no insta-love, and humorous descriptions of Mira's mother throughout the story.
If you want a fluffy, warm and fuzzy, low drama romance this would fit the bill.
For all of its strengths, though, I just never got into the book that much.
Mainly, I think I couldn't connect with Liv because she felt more immature than her years. Something about her just kept her at a distance to me so I never sunk into the story since the book is from her perspective.
And, it could just be me, but I thought the drinking or mentions of beer in the book was excessive. Many times when Liv goes to Mira's she's quickly offered a beer without her even asking, when they go on a date they end up at a bar, and whenever Liv meets up with her friend or Mira's friends it's at a bar. Beer is on the brain or pages more times than seemed necessary. I don't know about you but when I visit a friend water/tea/soda/coffee are offered as options and if I meet up with friends a bar isn't on the cards unless it has some other entertainment/dining involved. It's not the main event. Anyway, obviously this didn't gel with me.
I enjoyed the scenes where people interacted through dialogue but the book also has a good amount of tell (ie, "this happened and that happened" but, as readers, we don't see it). I know it was in part to convey the passage of time but it still felt a little heavy.
There's also a scene where a trauma happens for Mira that is over the top melodramatic to make a point but, if something like that happened in real life, it would be the kind of thing that impacts a person for months if not longer. Here the incident impacts her for just that day.
So, for me, this book was just an okay read. 3.5 stars
What it does have going for it are two romantic leads that communicate, little drama, no tropey breakups, good dialogue, an interesting premise, a single mom, a good kid, a bisexual lead, time for the relationship to develop, no insta-love, and humorous descriptions of Mira's mother throughout the story.
If you want a fluffy, warm and fuzzy, low drama romance this would fit the bill.
For all of its strengths, though, I just never got into the book that much.
Mainly, I think I couldn't connect with Liv because she felt more immature than her years. Something about her just kept her at a distance to me so I never sunk into the story since the book is from her perspective.
And, it could just be me, but I thought the drinking or mentions of beer in the book was excessive. Many times when Liv goes to Mira's she's quickly offered a beer without her even asking, when they go on a date they end up at a bar, and whenever Liv meets up with her friend or Mira's friends it's at a bar. Beer is on the brain or pages more times than seemed necessary. I don't know about you but when I visit a friend water/tea/soda/coffee are offered as options and if I meet up with friends a bar isn't on the cards unless it has some other entertainment/dining involved. It's not the main event. Anyway, obviously this didn't gel with me.
I enjoyed the scenes where people interacted through dialogue but the book also has a good amount of tell (ie, "this happened and that happened" but, as readers, we don't see it). I know it was in part to convey the passage of time but it still felt a little heavy.
There's also a scene where a trauma happens for Mira that is over the top melodramatic to make a point but, if something like that happened in real life, it would be the kind of thing that impacts a person for months if not longer. Here the incident impacts her for just that day.
So, for me, this book was just an okay read. 3.5 stars
October 1, 2017
Latin phrase 'Nomen est omen' proved to be incorrect for Bait and Switch. It has baited me with an interesting blurb and attractive vivid cover, but a switch did not happen. This book stays interesting, attractive and vivid all along the line. The author has a great way with words and a witty mind. She has a wonderful way of showing the funny side to even a serious situation. A few times I found myself chuckling aloud. Very refreshing style of writing which suits me really well.
With very good character development, good pacing, plausible conflict, believable romance, satisfying ending... Bait and Switch makes a great and really enjoyable read. Sincerely recommended.
4 stars
Sep 28, 2017
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
With very good character development, good pacing, plausible conflict, believable romance, satisfying ending... Bait and Switch makes a great and really enjoyable read. Sincerely recommended.
4 stars
Sep 28, 2017
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
February 12, 2020
When I read what Mira did to Liv I was furious, I didn't think I could like them as a couple but that changed quickly. The slow development of rivals to friends to lovers was done beautifully. Their first kiss was a bit too aggressive imo. With a few exceptions I never like kids in fiction, Cassie thankfully was one of the exception. No 'wise beyond years' cliché moments with her. She was such a cute kid. The book deals with some heavy topics and still manages to be light and fluffy.
March 28, 2018
This was an absolute delight!
I really like this book. It had managed to make me laugh and cry within the first few chapters. You can't help but fall in love with the two main characters. Even after I found out what had happened in college and what Mira had unknowingly caused, I still could not bring myself to dislike her in the slightest. The author did a fantastic job writing the banter between Liv and Mira and thereby creating their amazing chemistry.
The other thing about this book that I really appreciated was that although I can't classify it as a slow burn, I can't classify it as insta-love either. It has a great balance between the two because the road to a happily ever after usually has a few bumps along the way and the author does not shy away from adding those moments. People make mistakes after all.
One thing that you might want to prepare yourself for though is the amount of homophobia in this book. Though it's only in small fragments, the things that are said are truly hurtful and downright awful. To make up for that however this book had me laughing many times at the names Liv, who speaks fluent sarcasm, would call Mira's mother. Not to her face of course but it was just as funny. Imagine describing someone as "Satan Clause", "Krampus in couture" or "the dark lord".
This was an overall great story that will probably leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. Especially now that the holidays are right around the corner. Full 5* rating.
I really like this book. It had managed to make me laugh and cry within the first few chapters. You can't help but fall in love with the two main characters. Even after I found out what had happened in college and what Mira had unknowingly caused, I still could not bring myself to dislike her in the slightest. The author did a fantastic job writing the banter between Liv and Mira and thereby creating their amazing chemistry.
The other thing about this book that I really appreciated was that although I can't classify it as a slow burn, I can't classify it as insta-love either. It has a great balance between the two because the road to a happily ever after usually has a few bumps along the way and the author does not shy away from adding those moments. People make mistakes after all.
One thing that you might want to prepare yourself for though is the amount of homophobia in this book. Though it's only in small fragments, the things that are said are truly hurtful and downright awful. To make up for that however this book had me laughing many times at the names Liv, who speaks fluent sarcasm, would call Mira's mother. Not to her face of course but it was just as funny. Imagine describing someone as "Satan Clause", "Krampus in couture" or "the dark lord".
This was an overall great story that will probably leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. Especially now that the holidays are right around the corner. Full 5* rating.
January 12, 2019
Again, my new hobby as a treasure hunter, raiding friends' book shelves came back with a fruitful result.
Enemies - lovers one of my favorite trope, usually however, the enemies status quo remained for a few pages only before feelings of attraction took over and everything turned cheesy. In Bait and Switch, that didn't happen. Liv was in a great place and already bonded with her nemesis' daughter before 'the Satan' herself reappeared in her life. Memories of the past consumed her mind and there were several scenes where Liv managed to speak her mind out to Mira but she was never overboard.
It took Liv and Mira quite some time to become friends and during such period, Liv had no lovey dovey thoughts on Mira (thankfully) Through Cassie, Liv and Mira bonded too and the beginning of an unexpected relationship began (Liv and Mira had no idea but we readers saw it happening when we clicked purchase)
The points above made this story enjoyable to me, threw in the extra bonus - the cool jobs the hs had - a marin biologist and a cosmetic manager, Cassie, Mira's pre teen wonder daughter, Liv's awesome bestie, the creative nicknames Liv called Mira's mother and of course the animals at the Aquatic center made this book more entertaining.
Some of the nicknames for Mira's mother by Liv
-North Shore's own Darth Vader
-Satan Claus
There was a Bollywood worthy drama scene added but it was settled efficiently by # team LiRa.
Ms.Blythe even wrote an epilogue :D
Recommended
Enemies - lovers one of my favorite trope, usually however, the enemies status quo remained for a few pages only before feelings of attraction took over and everything turned cheesy. In Bait and Switch, that didn't happen. Liv was in a great place and already bonded with her nemesis' daughter before 'the Satan' herself reappeared in her life. Memories of the past consumed her mind and there were several scenes where Liv managed to speak her mind out to Mira but she was never overboard.
It took Liv and Mira quite some time to become friends and during such period, Liv had no lovey dovey thoughts on Mira (thankfully) Through Cassie, Liv and Mira bonded too and the beginning of an unexpected relationship began (Liv and Mira had no idea but we readers saw it happening when we clicked purchase)
The points above made this story enjoyable to me, threw in the extra bonus - the cool jobs the hs had - a marin biologist and a cosmetic manager, Cassie, Mira's pre teen wonder daughter, Liv's awesome bestie, the creative nicknames Liv called Mira's mother and of course the animals at the Aquatic center made this book more entertaining.
Some of the nicknames for Mira's mother by Liv
-North Shore's own Darth Vader
-Satan Claus
There was a Bollywood worthy drama scene added but it was settled efficiently by # team LiRa.
Ms.Blythe even wrote an epilogue :D
Recommended
January 16, 2018
All of my reviews go on a blog that I started a while back. Basically, I started writing as a cathartic way of getting my feelings out about what I. So many times, especially after Kindle Unlimited unrolled, I would read a great review, purchase a book and then go WTF. So many bad book suggestions by Amazon and so much money wasted. A few months ago, I get nailed by a reader on the blog, just ranting at me about a bad review and how mean and awful of a person I was. That book was special to her and how dare I claim that it was not an amazing, fabulous read. It wasn't that bad a review either, 3 stars actually. To me, the book was not to my taste and I pointed out the reasons, always trying to be fair but honest. Why I'm saying this is in such a convoluted way is that it's funny, awesome and so fascinating to me how some books can be one person's treasure and another person was like blah, next, please.
Bait and Switch by Blythe H. Warren is one of those books that I went in with high hopes and came out on the other side wondering what did I miss. By no means a lacking book, but I did not resound with me personally. My biggest reason, I did not really connect with the main character, Liv. I for the life of me could not see why Mira would be interested in her, other than being good at her job, character wise she was flat and uninteresting. I felt like as the reader I was supposed to already get and like Liv. Other than working at an aquarium, and a love for beer, I don't know much more about her. The book is told from her POV so I would hope to have more understanding of this character and what makes her tick.
Just because Bait and Switch wasn't my cup of tea and Liv wasn't the protagonist of my dreams doesn't mean that I wouldn't read this author again. I absolutely would. Thanks for reading my rant!
3 stars
Bait and Switch by Blythe H. Warren is one of those books that I went in with high hopes and came out on the other side wondering what did I miss. By no means a lacking book, but I did not resound with me personally. My biggest reason, I did not really connect with the main character, Liv. I for the life of me could not see why Mira would be interested in her, other than being good at her job, character wise she was flat and uninteresting. I felt like as the reader I was supposed to already get and like Liv. Other than working at an aquarium, and a love for beer, I don't know much more about her. The book is told from her POV so I would hope to have more understanding of this character and what makes her tick.
Just because Bait and Switch wasn't my cup of tea and Liv wasn't the protagonist of my dreams doesn't mean that I wouldn't read this author again. I absolutely would. Thanks for reading my rant!
3 stars
May 26, 2019
This was a lovely and light romance. Funny too. The main characters are two strong women who meet again years after leaving college. Liv has bad memories of that time and especially of Mira. After their meeting the story just rolls. There was a lovely dynamic between Liv and Mira and Mira’s daughter Cassie. I enjoyed reading this book very much. 4.5 stars
November 13, 2017
To define this book would be "there is a thin line between love and hate or hate and love". It was a nice and light reading!
March 27, 2018
I liked this one very much. It is an enemy to lovers story and when you learn why they are enemies, you can’t imagine, that they will ever be friends, let alone lovers. But as others said in their reviews, Warren has perfectly created a wonderful story. You have to love the two main characters and the fantastic second character of Cassie, the deaf daughter of Mira. She is one of the greatest characters, I’ve read in a long time. Also, the horrible character of Mira's mother brings some depth and drama into the story.
I absolutely love the character of Liv, her humorous, witty and sarcastic way to speak was refreshing and I had to laugh out loud. My favorite sentence in this book was a thought from Liv: I realized that celebrating anything with Gail Butler could drive Santa Claus to punch an elf.
Besides the romance, this story deals with homophobia within family and friends. But also with characters which can change and accept the new love in Mira’s life.
Overall a fun and fast read. I enjoyed it really much and it will not be the last book by this author.
I give this story 4,5 stars.
I absolutely love the character of Liv, her humorous, witty and sarcastic way to speak was refreshing and I had to laugh out loud. My favorite sentence in this book was a thought from Liv: I realized that celebrating anything with Gail Butler could drive Santa Claus to punch an elf.
Besides the romance, this story deals with homophobia within family and friends. But also with characters which can change and accept the new love in Mira’s life.
Overall a fun and fast read. I enjoyed it really much and it will not be the last book by this author.
I give this story 4,5 stars.
November 16, 2017
4 stars. It has it all - romance, family values, good humor. The enemies to lovers angle was executed down to a T. It would be a 5 star book if it wasn't written from a 1st person view but overall a lovely story.
November 7, 2017
Definitely this was a nice, heartwarming story. I liked it... a lot!
March 30, 2024
Difficult to review - so many burning topics treated as run of the mill, with unbelievable forgiveness running through. Writing this 12 hours after finished & surprised I gave it 5*s - but given the subjects had a charm that surprised. Recommended.
February 11, 2018
I liked it. There were some plotting issues that could have used a nudge here and there. But all in all it was a good read.
The sheer volume and diversity to describe Gail, Mira's mom, was kinda funny but at the same time kinda drolls on a bit. There's the whole Mira's background and evolution into being with Liv that doesn't ever get explained, that was weird. The constant presence of booze at every scene. Liv could have been fleshed out more as a whole I think. There wasn't anything personality wise that really sucks you in. Little things that add up that pull you away from being a full 5 star book.
All in all not bad. Solid read.
The sheer volume and diversity to describe Gail, Mira's mom, was kinda funny but at the same time kinda drolls on a bit. There's the whole Mira's background and evolution into being with Liv that doesn't ever get explained, that was weird. The constant presence of booze at every scene. Liv could have been fleshed out more as a whole I think. There wasn't anything personality wise that really sucks you in. Little things that add up that pull you away from being a full 5 star book.
All in all not bad. Solid read.
September 26, 2018
This book is in my recommended books of the month
https://lezreviewbooks.com/recommende...
This is an enjoyable lesbian rom-com with emphasis in the comedy part. Written in first person from the point of view of marine biologist Liv Cucinelli, the story starts when she meets her former college nemesis Mira. To say that Liv holds a grudge against Mira for ruining her college career is an understatement but somehow they manage to go past their previous differences to start an unlikely friendship. Will it develop into something more?
As an English College teacher, Ms. Warren is quite good with words though she has a flair for using some strange ones like 'preternatural' or 'immiscible'. I haven't read her previous book so I'm not sure if it's her usual writing style or this particular character's voice. Sometimes, her choice of words is distracting but in most cases is hilarious. A good example is all the different ways she calls Mira's mother: 'Darth Vader in a pantsuit', 'Lady Lucifer', 'homophobic terrorist', 'empress of evil' and so on. The plot is entertaining, the dialogues are realistic and the secondary characters complement the story nicely, specially Mira's deaf daughter Cassie.
Overall, a very enjoyable and entertaining read. 4 stars.
ARC provided by Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
See my other reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
https://lezreviewbooks.com/recommende...
This is an enjoyable lesbian rom-com with emphasis in the comedy part. Written in first person from the point of view of marine biologist Liv Cucinelli, the story starts when she meets her former college nemesis Mira. To say that Liv holds a grudge against Mira for ruining her college career is an understatement but somehow they manage to go past their previous differences to start an unlikely friendship. Will it develop into something more?
As an English College teacher, Ms. Warren is quite good with words though she has a flair for using some strange ones like 'preternatural' or 'immiscible'. I haven't read her previous book so I'm not sure if it's her usual writing style or this particular character's voice. Sometimes, her choice of words is distracting but in most cases is hilarious. A good example is all the different ways she calls Mira's mother: 'Darth Vader in a pantsuit', 'Lady Lucifer', 'homophobic terrorist', 'empress of evil' and so on. The plot is entertaining, the dialogues are realistic and the secondary characters complement the story nicely, specially Mira's deaf daughter Cassie.
Overall, a very enjoyable and entertaining read. 4 stars.
ARC provided by Bella Books in exchange for an honest review.
See my other reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
April 14, 2018
I'm already at 86%, but lose the energy to finish it. It's just not my cup of a tea, too fluffy too sweet too unproblematic. It slid way too smoothly.
This might be a better book if this was a sequel (this is the second book) and the first one is where we find college Ollie and Mira, we will get much more than a glance at them when in University, and even more eventful story than this one.
I didn't get the hype as others, sorry.
Although I'm glad most of my fellow readers found enjoyments in reading this book.
This might be a better book if this was a sequel (this is the second book) and the first one is where we find college Ollie and Mira, we will get much more than a glance at them when in University, and even more eventful story than this one.
I didn't get the hype as others, sorry.
Although I'm glad most of my fellow readers found enjoyments in reading this book.
November 21, 2019
Very basic rundown: This story is about two people who were acquainted in college but a "huge thing happens," and 15 years later are learning to navigate the waters of forgiveness and attraction. Due to Mira's bigoted and shallow upbringing, she said hurtful things about Liv's sexuality in college, which ended up being taken out of context and an accusation of epic proportions happened that was frankly, shocking.
The good:
-Quote: "I swore I could hear the cries of orphans and the oppressed in the delicate shushing of her skirt as she passed from the room."
-Quote: (before a first ever skating session:) "It's appreciated" she said and paid the fee for the inevitable loss of my dignity on the ice."
-Cassie the 13 year old science fiend: a well written child, she was smart and sassy and accepting and all around cool kid. I liked that her deafness was just a part of her identity and that I completely forgot about it throughout the book.
-I want a Patsy in my life.
-Aquariums are cool. One opened in Toronto not too long ago and I didn't think I'd like it as much as I did, so had no trouble envisioning those scenes in the story.
Issues:
I....just didn't understand the pairing. I didn't connect with Liv at all and besides the intense events that happened around college, she was kind of a dud. She had casual flings, no relationships, wasn't very witty....she just felt flat to me. I didn't understand the draw b/w her and Mira, except that she adored Mira's daughter Cassie. I got the impression that Mira kind of was experimenting with her sexuality, because her attraction came out of nowhere. I didn't buy it.
The overdone descriptions of the awful mother in law. At first the "devil incarnate" and "satan's sister and Cerebus" etc were chuckle-worthy, but it became so relentless. I get it, she is seriously a terrible woman, one of the worst parents I have read in lesfic, but it appeared to me that author was trying to keep things somewhat light with these descriptions while writing such gut-churning hatred and insulting dialogue from this character that it felt nauseating by the end.
The amount of homophobia was alarming, actually. Not just from the mother but the "friend." I don't understand how a) a 38 year old woman would blatantly act like such a bigoted jackass right to someone's face and b) have Mira still want to be her friend and continue to be dense about that homophobia. I was also somewhat surprised at how glib Mira seemed when Liv confronted her about the college accusation, which ended up completely turning Liv's life upside down, by basically stating "oh that is not what I said" and it was pushed under the carpet fairly quickly.
The ended was very rushed and still felt unresolved. Big drama happens at 90% then ties up quickly and was unsatisfactory. Points are always docked from me when this happens.
The good:
-Quote: "I swore I could hear the cries of orphans and the oppressed in the delicate shushing of her skirt as she passed from the room."
-Quote: (before a first ever skating session:) "It's appreciated" she said and paid the fee for the inevitable loss of my dignity on the ice."
-Cassie the 13 year old science fiend: a well written child, she was smart and sassy and accepting and all around cool kid. I liked that her deafness was just a part of her identity and that I completely forgot about it throughout the book.
-I want a Patsy in my life.
-Aquariums are cool. One opened in Toronto not too long ago and I didn't think I'd like it as much as I did, so had no trouble envisioning those scenes in the story.
Issues:
I....just didn't understand the pairing. I didn't connect with Liv at all and besides the intense events that happened around college, she was kind of a dud. She had casual flings, no relationships, wasn't very witty....she just felt flat to me. I didn't understand the draw b/w her and Mira, except that she adored Mira's daughter Cassie. I got the impression that Mira kind of was experimenting with her sexuality, because her attraction came out of nowhere. I didn't buy it.
The overdone descriptions of the awful mother in law. At first the "devil incarnate" and "satan's sister and Cerebus" etc were chuckle-worthy, but it became so relentless. I get it, she is seriously a terrible woman, one of the worst parents I have read in lesfic, but it appeared to me that author was trying to keep things somewhat light with these descriptions while writing such gut-churning hatred and insulting dialogue from this character that it felt nauseating by the end.
The amount of homophobia was alarming, actually. Not just from the mother but the "friend." I don't understand how a) a 38 year old woman would blatantly act like such a bigoted jackass right to someone's face and b) have Mira still want to be her friend and continue to be dense about that homophobia. I was also somewhat surprised at how glib Mira seemed when Liv confronted her about the college accusation, which ended up completely turning Liv's life upside down, by basically stating "oh that is not what I said" and it was pushed under the carpet fairly quickly.
The ended was very rushed and still felt unresolved. Big drama happens at 90% then ties up quickly and was unsatisfactory. Points are always docked from me when this happens.
May 21, 2018
Bait and switch
This is a witty and well written story that has great evolution and progression throughout. In fact it so seem less that you kind of wonder at the end how the characters got there! Lovely story, definitely something I can recommend.
This is a witty and well written story that has great evolution and progression throughout. In fact it so seem less that you kind of wonder at the end how the characters got there! Lovely story, definitely something I can recommend.
March 31, 2020
A really good well written book, I loved the pace of this book and am a sucker when everything fits together neatly especially here with two people with a messy past but stil fits together, I love the fact this author didn't dwell much on what happened on the past, I loved also that the kid was involved and so well written and the connection and chemistry between our MCs, the emotional connection and I love that it wasn't steamy with alot of sex scenes, writers tend to overcompensate with those, the plot was very interesting plus the Aquarium job, Patsy and Gail made interesting secondary Characters. Am just a sucker for family drama and Family romances, Family should always be ENDGAME
December 13, 2017
I found myself feeling stronger about the first half than the second, but I am glad I read this novel. It has some terrifically funny moments and the writing and pacing is excellent. I tend to be very hard on fictional characters, oddly enough much more so than I am on real life people, and I never really warmed up to Mira, who has lousy taste in friends and takes forever to stand up for herself. While I definitely was rooting for a happy ending, I had some trouble believing in one of the most despicably behaved characters having a rather dramatic change by the end. Still, I would definitely recommend this read.
May 29, 2022
3 stars
It wasn't bad, but something about it rubbed me the wrong way.
Maybe the relatively quick and painless forgiveness for damaging Liv's carreer and self-esteem? Actions have consequences even if the damages aren't on purpose and it seemed a bit like Liv's hurt "disappeared", because "it wasn't actually completely Mira's fault". So even though Mira feels like crap, the fallout is still kinda unrealistic.
So I'm not sure how anyone can build trust on that. But the characters somehow managed, so maybe I'm just overly critical.
Otherwise it's a fairly decent romance. I liked the writing style.
It wasn't bad, but something about it rubbed me the wrong way.
Maybe the relatively quick and painless forgiveness for damaging Liv's carreer and self-esteem? Actions have consequences even if the damages aren't on purpose and it seemed a bit like Liv's hurt "disappeared", because "it wasn't actually completely Mira's fault". So even though Mira feels like crap, the fallout is still kinda unrealistic.
So I'm not sure how anyone can build trust on that. But the characters somehow managed, so maybe I'm just overly critical.
Otherwise it's a fairly decent romance. I liked the writing style.
Read
November 17, 2017Stopped reading at 20%. I disliked her writing style and her protagonist. Despite being a 35 yr old, she seemed more like a 15 yr old.
March 28, 2018
This is a good book. I like it. Humor, not much drama and... I dont know what else to say.
The story is going well. I like both main characters. I think this is an easy read book. No stress to worry about much. I think things fix up pretty fast. And there is no something like fighting/argument that lead to almost break up than didnt see each other for a few weeks or months or something like that. Its only took them like one day to back together again. And things go smooth after that. Like i said an easy read book (to me). Something to enjoy to while on the beach? I guess. Well, i enjoy this book. Thank you very much.
The story is going well. I like both main characters. I think this is an easy read book. No stress to worry about much. I think things fix up pretty fast. And there is no something like fighting/argument that lead to almost break up than didnt see each other for a few weeks or months or something like that. Its only took them like one day to back together again. And things go smooth after that. Like i said an easy read book (to me). Something to enjoy to while on the beach? I guess. Well, i enjoy this book. Thank you very much.
September 10, 2021
I’m not a people person. And the smaller the person, the more I want to avoid them! Warren created a bite sized character that was way too charming for me not to like. Little Cassie was the perfect catalyst for this heartwarming enemies-to-lovers story. The story had marvelous depth without going overboard to make it feel heavy.
March 16, 2019
Very good writing, witty humour and enjoyable characters. I would love to know more. How for example it will develop the relationship with the gorgon-in-law(lol) etc...
February 20, 2018
I really needed a book like this today. Reading it just made me happy. The people felt real, their interactions felt real, and it was impossible not to love them.
When they screwed up, they hurt, but they also swallowed their pride and apologized, and then talked things out, and were better for it. I love that dynamic. No lies, no great misunderstandings causing unbearable angst, just two people who want to love and be loved and making mistakes as they go.
Cassie, Mira’s 13 year old daughter, really stole the show though. She very much felt like Mira’s daughter, but also her own person, and just completely charming in her own intense way.
Loved it, start to finish.
When they screwed up, they hurt, but they also swallowed their pride and apologized, and then talked things out, and were better for it. I love that dynamic. No lies, no great misunderstandings causing unbearable angst, just two people who want to love and be loved and making mistakes as they go.
Cassie, Mira’s 13 year old daughter, really stole the show though. She very much felt like Mira’s daughter, but also her own person, and just completely charming in her own intense way.
Loved it, start to finish.
March 26, 2023
I wanted much more from this book. Yes, it was snarky and well-written and some of the names and descriptors used for Gail were hilarious. But there was so much that I felt I missed out on.
I’m told about weeks of conversations and all the bonding and getting to know each other that happened but I missed out on experiencing most of it. Most of all, I wanted to know what was going on in Mira’s head. A previously straight woman with a history of homophobia and suddenly she’s seducing a lesbian? The realization that she’s attracted to a woman must have been a big deal. I would have loved getting a glimpse into her thoughts and feelings. Knowing how her mother would react and worry about coming out to her daughter must have caused lots of turmoil.
But because it was a first person POV from Liv, I got nothing from Mira. The more interesting character, in my opinion.
However the humor and writing style (except for all the parenthetical comments) were great.
This is one of those ARCs that got away from me. Yes, I’m trying to work through books I already have this year so there will likely be many old review copies showing up in my posts. I mean, 2017 wasn’t that long ago, amirite?
Thanks to Bella for the ARC.
I’m told about weeks of conversations and all the bonding and getting to know each other that happened but I missed out on experiencing most of it. Most of all, I wanted to know what was going on in Mira’s head. A previously straight woman with a history of homophobia and suddenly she’s seducing a lesbian? The realization that she’s attracted to a woman must have been a big deal. I would have loved getting a glimpse into her thoughts and feelings. Knowing how her mother would react and worry about coming out to her daughter must have caused lots of turmoil.
But because it was a first person POV from Liv, I got nothing from Mira. The more interesting character, in my opinion.
However the humor and writing style (except for all the parenthetical comments) were great.
This is one of those ARCs that got away from me. Yes, I’m trying to work through books I already have this year so there will likely be many old review copies showing up in my posts. I mean, 2017 wasn’t that long ago, amirite?
Thanks to Bella for the ARC.
September 17, 2018
Really good read. Sincerely tempted to give it a five - who knows may edit later.
Old hurts from college give way twenty years later to a chance at true love.
Love the snarkiness (but not in a mean way) of the narrator.
Old hurts from college give way twenty years later to a chance at true love.
Love the snarkiness (but not in a mean way) of the narrator.
May 6, 2020
A lovely first-person fluff fest with a good tinge of tension - which is just what I was in the mood for. I’m turning a willfully blind eye to the epilogue. Epilogue, you know why.
August 8, 2021
7/10
Honestly confused since i read this one two days who and i knew i liked it enough to think of a higher rating but now i can barely remember what was happening in it. Maybe a lower rating is deserved?
review to come
Honestly confused since i read this one two days who and i knew i liked it enough to think of a higher rating but now i can barely remember what was happening in it. Maybe a lower rating is deserved?
review to come
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