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Seven Shores #4
Love Like This
Sometimes the most imperfect match is the most perfect surprise.
Hadley Cooper believes in happily-ever-afters with her whole heart. Described by her friends as a wide-eyed, eternal optimist, she looks for the bright side in most any situation. However, when her job as the assistant manager of Silhouette, a posh boutique on Rodeo Drive, is on the line, she realizes it’s time to pull her head out of the clouds and find a way to turn business around, and that just might mean partnering with the most stubborn up-and-coming fashion designer she’s ever encountered.
Spencer Adair has a passion for fashion, but hates the fact that it rhymes. She’s serious about her designs, fiercely protective of her work, and is waiting patiently for her big break. What she didn’t plan on, however, was the unsolicited opinions of that overly-friendly blond boutique manager. Or the way her heart beats faster every time she’s around.
Hadley Cooper believes in happily-ever-afters with her whole heart. Described by her friends as a wide-eyed, eternal optimist, she looks for the bright side in most any situation. However, when her job as the assistant manager of Silhouette, a posh boutique on Rodeo Drive, is on the line, she realizes it’s time to pull her head out of the clouds and find a way to turn business around, and that just might mean partnering with the most stubborn up-and-coming fashion designer she’s ever encountered.
Spencer Adair has a passion for fashion, but hates the fact that it rhymes. She’s serious about her designs, fiercely protective of her work, and is waiting patiently for her big break. What she didn’t plan on, however, was the unsolicited opinions of that overly-friendly blond boutique manager. Or the way her heart beats faster every time she’s around.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 16, 2018
123 people are currently reading
746 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Brayden
32 books2,757 followersMelissa Brayden is the multi-award winning author of more than twenty-five sapphic romance novels and is hard at work on more. She is a wine enthusiast, a fan of all donuts, and is probably staring off into space as you're reading this. You can find her at www.melissabrayden.com and on most social media sites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
September 17, 2018
4.5 Stars. I really enjoyed this. I have been fighting a reading slump for the past couple weeks. I keep thinking I have it beat but then it comes back full on. Brayden has helped me out of slumps before so I was excited to try this. A few of the early reviews were a little mixed. It had me a little worried. I’m happy to say this book was good read that I really needed. In fact I think it was better than Brayden’s last two books.
This is the fourth and final book in the Seven Shores series. For anyone not familiar, these books center on a group of friends, each book having a new star. This book was Hadley’s turn. I think it’s impossible not to love Hadley. Hadley was a favorite of mine from the first book and I was dying to finally read her story. Hadley the girl that believes in true love, would she ever find hers?
The new main and potential love interest in this book is Spencer. Spencer is an up and coming designer that Hadley is trying to get into her store. I was pleasantly surprised to find that Spencer was a POC. I have read all but one of Brayden’s books. I may be wrong, but I don’t remember her having a POC main character before. Anyway, it was a nice to see Brayden branching out more. Spencer was very easy to like and I thought her and Hadley had a perfect balance for a potential relationship.
The romance was very enjoyable. I loved getting to see more of who Hadley was. She is the sweetest person on earth, but sexy in the sheets. Spencer and Hadley had a ton of chemistry and it was just obvious a mile away. It made the possibility of them as a couple very believable. These two women totally clicked.
What I also enjoyed about the book was the friendship moments. There were a lot of good moments with all the characters together. I won’t give anything away but there are important moments that happen to solidify this as a worthy goodbye to the series. The dialogue between the friends was entertaining. And all the characters seemed like their old selves if that makes sense. I thought in a previous book Izzy was acting outside her character. Everyone seemed back to normal and just fit. While I enjoy the romances in these books, I love the friendship aspect too.
My only complaint and why this is not a 5 star book is I felt the book was a little rushed towards the end. It’s not a short book, but with everything happening I wanted a few more chapters.
Overall I really enjoyed this. I’m hopefully this book will stop my slump for good. I absolutely recommend this to fans of the series. I think Brayden did justice to Hadley’s character and I think fans will be happy.
An ARC was given to me by BSB for a honest review.
This is the fourth and final book in the Seven Shores series. For anyone not familiar, these books center on a group of friends, each book having a new star. This book was Hadley’s turn. I think it’s impossible not to love Hadley. Hadley was a favorite of mine from the first book and I was dying to finally read her story. Hadley the girl that believes in true love, would she ever find hers?
The new main and potential love interest in this book is Spencer. Spencer is an up and coming designer that Hadley is trying to get into her store. I was pleasantly surprised to find that Spencer was a POC. I have read all but one of Brayden’s books. I may be wrong, but I don’t remember her having a POC main character before. Anyway, it was a nice to see Brayden branching out more. Spencer was very easy to like and I thought her and Hadley had a perfect balance for a potential relationship.
The romance was very enjoyable. I loved getting to see more of who Hadley was. She is the sweetest person on earth, but sexy in the sheets. Spencer and Hadley had a ton of chemistry and it was just obvious a mile away. It made the possibility of them as a couple very believable. These two women totally clicked.
What I also enjoyed about the book was the friendship moments. There were a lot of good moments with all the characters together. I won’t give anything away but there are important moments that happen to solidify this as a worthy goodbye to the series. The dialogue between the friends was entertaining. And all the characters seemed like their old selves if that makes sense. I thought in a previous book Izzy was acting outside her character. Everyone seemed back to normal and just fit. While I enjoy the romances in these books, I love the friendship aspect too.
My only complaint and why this is not a 5 star book is I felt the book was a little rushed towards the end. It’s not a short book, but with everything happening I wanted a few more chapters.
Overall I really enjoyed this. I’m hopefully this book will stop my slump for good. I absolutely recommend this to fans of the series. I think Brayden did justice to Hadley’s character and I think fans will be happy.
An ARC was given to me by BSB for a honest review.
October 15, 2018
Hadley, my dear Hadley. Oh so sweet and gorgeous and Disney Princess-like to a fault. In fact, there are times I pictured her as Giselle from Enchanted, haha.
I've been looking forward to this book ever since Eyes Like Those, which is the first of the Seven Shores series and my absolute fave, followed by Sparks Like Ours. Meaning that I'll rank this as third. Not bad, but I wanted a bit more to meet the ranks of the aforementioned two!
More, you ask? Yes, I'm aware that Melissa Brayden writes top-notch romance. So, what happens is I rate her books in relation to each other. I loved a lot, and I'm reminded of nitpicks I've always had with her writing, too.
Let's start with the good. HADLEY COOPER. Wow, wow, wow, she is a stellar character and I can't imagine anyone but Brayden to deliver someone like this. I imagine Brayden's inner voice similar to Hadley's, if not a little toned down. Her personality's stayed consistent through the entire season and I'm so pleased because she's a winner.
Then, we have Spencer, our kick-ass designer! Points for having a gorgeous WOC as Hadley's love interest. To me, Spencer and Hadley had great chemistry. And oh my god to their sexual compatibility. But first! My biggest Brayden complaint: voice! I could see her trying to um, make POC characters talk more...urban? However, mixed with Brayden's all-encompassing tone, it comes off quite awkward, to where characters--Kendra or Spencer's awesome mother, for instance--turn into Autumn or Hadley or Brayden herself. There are ways to vary voice without getting offensive.
Back to the good! We saw some range in Hadley. Even though it crushed me, I appreciated watching her move through bad situations. Also, seeing her navigate around Spencer, who's much less peppy, was a treat. Actually, I'd wished for the full-on ice queen treatment for Spencer. It would've pushed their dynamic. Spencer melted and realized her attraction to Hadley a little too easily. I wanted a bit more push-and-pull conflict.
Speaking of conflict, this book isn't a stressful one. The Paris-Venice mixup drove me CRAZY, but not in an angsty way. For that, I'm pleased. I didn't need too much angst in my life. I mean, you've all seen the news.
"Disneyland on fire" is hilarious, along with many of Hadley's other sayings. I chuckled. Per usual, I highlighted so many bits. Their Breakfast Club meetings grounded me as much as they did Hadley. I love their friendly bond.
Hadley is a mix of super sweet and low-key foxy and that is CRAZY HOT. Her whispering swear words...is sexy. I imagine Spencer as a heartbreaking model type, so their trysts are quite enjoyable. Delicious.
Another pet peeve! Brayden's obvious preference for blue eyes. I believe Spencer waxes on and on in her mind about blonde hair and blue eyes...but wouldn't Hadley obsess over Spencer's features just as much? Was Spencer's hair curly? straight? Was it dark or light? Simply mentioning she's black doesn't fill in all the gaps. I'd love to read about her "luminous brown eyes" just as much from Hadley's perspective.
Brayden's a favorite, so I really hope she takes these comments into consideration. I love falling into her worlds of lovely lesbian goofballs.
☆The copy provided by NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books Inc. in exchange for an honest review.☆
I've been looking forward to this book ever since Eyes Like Those, which is the first of the Seven Shores series and my absolute fave, followed by Sparks Like Ours. Meaning that I'll rank this as third. Not bad, but I wanted a bit more to meet the ranks of the aforementioned two!
More, you ask? Yes, I'm aware that Melissa Brayden writes top-notch romance. So, what happens is I rate her books in relation to each other. I loved a lot, and I'm reminded of nitpicks I've always had with her writing, too.
Let's start with the good. HADLEY COOPER. Wow, wow, wow, she is a stellar character and I can't imagine anyone but Brayden to deliver someone like this. I imagine Brayden's inner voice similar to Hadley's, if not a little toned down. Her personality's stayed consistent through the entire season and I'm so pleased because she's a winner.
Then, we have Spencer, our kick-ass designer! Points for having a gorgeous WOC as Hadley's love interest. To me, Spencer and Hadley had great chemistry. And oh my god to their sexual compatibility. But first! My biggest Brayden complaint: voice! I could see her trying to um, make POC characters talk more...urban? However, mixed with Brayden's all-encompassing tone, it comes off quite awkward, to where characters--Kendra or Spencer's awesome mother, for instance--turn into Autumn or Hadley or Brayden herself. There are ways to vary voice without getting offensive.
Back to the good! We saw some range in Hadley. Even though it crushed me, I appreciated watching her move through bad situations. Also, seeing her navigate around Spencer, who's much less peppy, was a treat. Actually, I'd wished for the full-on ice queen treatment for Spencer. It would've pushed their dynamic. Spencer melted and realized her attraction to Hadley a little too easily. I wanted a bit more push-and-pull conflict.
Speaking of conflict, this book isn't a stressful one. The Paris-Venice mixup drove me CRAZY, but not in an angsty way. For that, I'm pleased. I didn't need too much angst in my life. I mean, you've all seen the news.
"Disneyland on fire" is hilarious, along with many of Hadley's other sayings. I chuckled. Per usual, I highlighted so many bits. Their Breakfast Club meetings grounded me as much as they did Hadley. I love their friendly bond.
Hadley is a mix of super sweet and low-key foxy and that is CRAZY HOT. Her whispering swear words...is sexy. I imagine Spencer as a heartbreaking model type, so their trysts are quite enjoyable. Delicious.
Another pet peeve! Brayden's obvious preference for blue eyes. I believe Spencer waxes on and on in her mind about blonde hair and blue eyes...but wouldn't Hadley obsess over Spencer's features just as much? Was Spencer's hair curly? straight? Was it dark or light? Simply mentioning she's black doesn't fill in all the gaps. I'd love to read about her "luminous brown eyes" just as much from Hadley's perspective.
Brayden's a favorite, so I really hope she takes these comments into consideration. I love falling into her worlds of lovely lesbian goofballs.
☆The copy provided by NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books Inc. in exchange for an honest review.☆
March 15, 2019
Oh Hadley... you adorable, sweet, wide eyed, precious, little, gay, toe wiggling, cinnamon roll, you! You finally get your well deserved happy ending.
I was a little worried about how this story would play out in the beginning since there was so little interaction between Hadley & Spencer. I wondered if the author would spend too much time wrapping up the series and rush their story but luckily that was not the case.
Instead we got to see a slight role reversal in which the sweet and innocent Hadley turned out to be a first class seductress and the cynical and level headed Spencer lose her cool while trying to impress her.
The other thing worth mentioning is that even though the last part of the book was a little predictable, the problems and obstacles Hadley & Spencer came to face felt perfectly natural. Sometimes Brayden can go a little overboard with the drama before sending off the couple into the sunset but that was thankfully not the case.
Hadley's sweet story was a great way to end this series. I only wish the SoHo loft series had such a satisfying ending. Overall rating for this final book is 4,0*
I was a little worried about how this story would play out in the beginning since there was so little interaction between Hadley & Spencer. I wondered if the author would spend too much time wrapping up the series and rush their story but luckily that was not the case.
Instead we got to see a slight role reversal in which the sweet and innocent Hadley turned out to be a first class seductress and the cynical and level headed Spencer lose her cool while trying to impress her.
The other thing worth mentioning is that even though the last part of the book was a little predictable, the problems and obstacles Hadley & Spencer came to face felt perfectly natural. Sometimes Brayden can go a little overboard with the drama before sending off the couple into the sunset but that was thankfully not the case.
Hadley's sweet story was a great way to end this series. I only wish the SoHo loft series had such a satisfying ending. Overall rating for this final book is 4,0*
September 18, 2018
Love Like This series favorite, Hadley finally has her shot at true love. The fourth and final book in the Seven Shores series has been one I have anxiously awaited. My overall thoughts are pretty simple, I liked it, I didn't love it.
Hadley is one of those characters who just draw you in and you cannot help love her. She's super nice, genuine and has a uniqueness that just jumps of the page. I truly believe that her character has made this series have that little something extra that sets it apart. She's just fun!
Hadley is introduced to an old high school friend of Elle's, Spencer Adair. Spencer is an up and coming fashion designer who is seeing a lot of success selling her design's through social media. With the help of Hadley and a few tweaks to her designs, Spencer has just landed a huge account selling her pieces on Rodeo Drive.
Hadley and Spencer have an instant connection. They notice each other right from the start and are on an unexpected first date by their second meeting. This relationship evolves easily. I think that's maybe why it didn't pull me in like all the other Brayden books. It's just so easy there isn't any angst, drama, denial, nope nothing but an easy transition that is sweet and nice, but kinda lackluster as well. To me, Spencer never really evolves into a spectacular character. She is great at what she does, fashion-wise. I felt as the story progressed Spencer never really pulled me in. She was always kind of flat and just didn't have that magnetic quality that other love interests in this series had. I liked her but I didn't love her.
This is the lowest I have ever rated a Brayden. I have always rated them a five with the exception of two (both of those were high 4s). It may just me being off this time, my headspace or coming of an intense novel just a few days before. I want to say that this book is absolutely worth your time. It is good and I imagine that to a lot of folks it will be a great book. What holds me back from rating it higher is I just go no feels from it. To me, it was missing that special spark and wit that I have come to expect from this series and Melissa Brayden. 3.75 stars (rounding up to 4)
What did you think of it?
Hadley is one of those characters who just draw you in and you cannot help love her. She's super nice, genuine and has a uniqueness that just jumps of the page. I truly believe that her character has made this series have that little something extra that sets it apart. She's just fun!
Hadley is introduced to an old high school friend of Elle's, Spencer Adair. Spencer is an up and coming fashion designer who is seeing a lot of success selling her design's through social media. With the help of Hadley and a few tweaks to her designs, Spencer has just landed a huge account selling her pieces on Rodeo Drive.
Hadley and Spencer have an instant connection. They notice each other right from the start and are on an unexpected first date by their second meeting. This relationship evolves easily. I think that's maybe why it didn't pull me in like all the other Brayden books. It's just so easy there isn't any angst, drama, denial, nope nothing but an easy transition that is sweet and nice, but kinda lackluster as well. To me, Spencer never really evolves into a spectacular character. She is great at what she does, fashion-wise. I felt as the story progressed Spencer never really pulled me in. She was always kind of flat and just didn't have that magnetic quality that other love interests in this series had. I liked her but I didn't love her.
This is the lowest I have ever rated a Brayden. I have always rated them a five with the exception of two (both of those were high 4s). It may just me being off this time, my headspace or coming of an intense novel just a few days before. I want to say that this book is absolutely worth your time. It is good and I imagine that to a lot of folks it will be a great book. What holds me back from rating it higher is I just go no feels from it. To me, it was missing that special spark and wit that I have come to expect from this series and Melissa Brayden. 3.75 stars (rounding up to 4)
What did you think of it?
September 25, 2018
Hadley’s story is the final book in the “Seven Shores” series and the one I’ve been waiting for. She’s popped in and out of the others’ stories with her good cheer, wisdom, fantastic fashion sense and gentle humility and, finally, she’s the centre of attention. She’s beautiful, a little geeky, puts her friends’ needs above her own comfort and her toes wiggle when she excited. She has no artifice. What’s not to like?
Hadley needs to find a designer to give the upmarket Rodeo Drive clothing store she works for a new look in order to encourage younger buyers to shop there. Spencer Adair is the designer whose work is fresh and vibrant. Hadley thinks Spencer is too and the attraction is mutual but their long term ideals are poles apart.
This is a beautiful ending to the series – a series which is well worth reading.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Hadley needs to find a designer to give the upmarket Rodeo Drive clothing store she works for a new look in order to encourage younger buyers to shop there. Spencer Adair is the designer whose work is fresh and vibrant. Hadley thinks Spencer is too and the attraction is mutual but their long term ideals are poles apart.
This is a beautiful ending to the series – a series which is well worth reading.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
October 24, 2018
As #4 in the Seven Shores series, this is the final book. The series follows four friends which live in the same apartment building near Venice Beach. In every book, one person has the main lead on the story. In this one, we follow Hadley. I recommend reading the books in order for a better understanding of the group of friends. I was wondering about Hadley’s part since the beginning. In some aspects, I’m the contrary to her, especially in terms of fashion. I’m the jeans and shirt type and have no clue about fashion.
The story the author wrote was wonderful. I loved Hadley, even more, knowing her better, she is such a sweet and romantic person, everybody has to love her. But she’s able to surprise you with her behavior, in a positive way, but I won’t say more. She always puts her friends above her own needs. Then she meets Spencer, the upcoming fashion designer she wants to design for the store on Rodeo Drive she works for. There was chemistry from the first moment they lead eyes on each other. But soon they learn, that they expect different things from life and love. The romance was very sweet and holy moly they are like fire in bed.
I very much loved the friends-time, where we heard more about the other couples and what was going on in their life. And we witnessed some important moments.
With the end of the book, it was clear, there will be no more coming of the four friends. I would have loved when the story of the four would continue, but it’s OK. The only small complaint is, I think the author packed too much in the last chapter, the epilogue. On one hand, it was great to see what they achieve in the near future, but on the other hand, it seems a little rushed. But that’s complaining at a high level.
I highly recommend this book, or more the whole series, to all romance fans.
My rating 4.75 stars.
The story the author wrote was wonderful. I loved Hadley, even more, knowing her better, she is such a sweet and romantic person, everybody has to love her. But she’s able to surprise you with her behavior, in a positive way, but I won’t say more. She always puts her friends above her own needs. Then she meets Spencer, the upcoming fashion designer she wants to design for the store on Rodeo Drive she works for. There was chemistry from the first moment they lead eyes on each other. But soon they learn, that they expect different things from life and love. The romance was very sweet and holy moly they are like fire in bed.
I very much loved the friends-time, where we heard more about the other couples and what was going on in their life. And we witnessed some important moments.
With the end of the book, it was clear, there will be no more coming of the four friends. I would have loved when the story of the four would continue, but it’s OK. The only small complaint is, I think the author packed too much in the last chapter, the epilogue. On one hand, it was great to see what they achieve in the near future, but on the other hand, it seems a little rushed. But that’s complaining at a high level.
I highly recommend this book, or more the whole series, to all romance fans.
My rating 4.75 stars.
October 18, 2018
This is an ARC I received from Bold Strokes Books & Netgalley.
It’s been a month or more (more) since I last reviewed an ARC. Various reasons, and I only make note now of this issue because this specific ARC review appears the same day the book is published. Why did I wait until this date to review anything? Simple enough – I did not have access to the book until a few days ago. And unlike a few years ago when I could easily read a book a day, sometimes three (sometimes requiring a week), I now literally live in a different state, have a different job, and have different responsibilities so I do not read as quickly as I used to. (I bore everyone with this opening paragraph because I’m like the last person to review an ARC for this book, and quite possibly there are people who have bought, read, and reviewed the book before this review appears).
This is the fourth book in this series, and I believe I saw something somewhere indicating that this is also the last book in the series. This seems reasonable since the last of the Seven Shores friends’ stories unfolds in this here book. That last friend being Hadley Cooper, bubbly, seemingly always happy, always bouncing around like a cat on catnip, and always mentioning that she believes in soul mates/true love/or however she put it – and yet her romantic story is told last (also, she hasn’t exactly been happy in love so far). Hadley also, readers may recall, is the one heavily involved in the fashion industry.
I take a moment to note: for those curious about the continuing stories of the other friends of Seven Shores: their stories are deeply intertwined with this book, and more of their life unfolds before the readers eyes over the course of this book (and even more over the course of the epilogue – which, I believe, might include more time elapsing than in the main part of the book). So Isabel & Taylor, Autumn & Kate, Gia and Elle continue to be seen and felt by the readers.
Getting back to Hadley and my mention of her lust for fashion: the main thrust of this book, the underlying connective tissue is fashion. As in, Hadley has been tasked with finding ‘new blood’ for her store, find young designers to join the group of designers who fill the high class store on Rodeo drive. Hadley has had zero success so far in finding someone her boss will accept, but has good feelings about the newest potential addition to the store: Spencer Adair (the other main point of view in the book).
The reader learns instantly certain factors during the meeting between Hadley and Spencer, which occurs at the store: the store Hadley works at has an aging vibe, one that seems to cater more to over 40 year old white women (over 45?); while Spencer herself has a much younger vibe (though she herself is in her 30s) and . . . has dark skin. Is Hadley’s store ready for a black designer?
No it is not.
Or at least that’s what Trudy (her name was Trudy, right?) tells Hadley. Now before anyone screams racism, I’m not sure Trudy has the first clue who the designer is that Hadley pushed forward – she, Trudy, just saw a few sketches, barely looked at a few samples before making a snap judgment (I can’t imagine a) working for Trudy; b) why anyone would work for her – she literally tells Hadley to fire whoever did the glove display because the colors hurt her gut . . . or something like that).
Hadley, eventually, gets Trudy to reconsider – as long as Spencer does some redesigns immediately – or, I mean, in a month. So, that happens. Over the course of the book.
I’ve yet to mention the only thing I discussed in my status updates: sexual harassment. This book really did seem to be going down a weird road: showcase everything you are not supposed to do, at least in terms of sexual harassment. Exhibit 1: during a job interview, the interviewer cups the interviewee’s hand in an attempt to ‘calm her down’ (remember sexual harassment class: don’t do this – no touching!); exhibit 2: during the same job interview, one of the women tells the other that she looks outstanding in her jeans, in a ‘your ass looks so fine in those jeans’ kind of way (here it was the job interviewee, instead of interviewer, who made the physical appearance comment so . . . ). I realize that this is an apparently acceptable thing in romantic comedies (seriously, the amount of stalking and otherwise creepy behavior that occurs in romantic comedies . . . are so extreme that to showcase that someone really is a nutball and not actually a loveable-screwed-up-socially misfit, the person has to go to the extreme of cooking the other person’s pet rabbit (you know, Fatal Attraction), and the like, but . . . eh, it annoys me personally but probably not everyone else. So, whatever. The story quickly moved from ‘two complete strangers, who might have talked briefly not face to face prior’ to ‘people dating’ so I stopped paying attention to sexual harassment no-nos.
Despite my dive into weirdness above, I actually liked both main characters (though there was a period there wherein I was finding more enjoyment watching the other people’s stories unfold, or, more accurately, watching everyone’s story unfold except when Hadley and Spencer were in the same room). Eventually the story-line that actually followed the two main characters turned neat/interesting/exciting, so I was happy and stuff.
Not sure what-all else to say. There’s lots and lots of sex. There are tender, emotional moments. I enjoyed the book.
Rating: 4.38
October 17 2018
It’s been a month or more (more) since I last reviewed an ARC. Various reasons, and I only make note now of this issue because this specific ARC review appears the same day the book is published. Why did I wait until this date to review anything? Simple enough – I did not have access to the book until a few days ago. And unlike a few years ago when I could easily read a book a day, sometimes three (sometimes requiring a week), I now literally live in a different state, have a different job, and have different responsibilities so I do not read as quickly as I used to. (I bore everyone with this opening paragraph because I’m like the last person to review an ARC for this book, and quite possibly there are people who have bought, read, and reviewed the book before this review appears).
This is the fourth book in this series, and I believe I saw something somewhere indicating that this is also the last book in the series. This seems reasonable since the last of the Seven Shores friends’ stories unfolds in this here book. That last friend being Hadley Cooper, bubbly, seemingly always happy, always bouncing around like a cat on catnip, and always mentioning that she believes in soul mates/true love/or however she put it – and yet her romantic story is told last (also, she hasn’t exactly been happy in love so far). Hadley also, readers may recall, is the one heavily involved in the fashion industry.
I take a moment to note: for those curious about the continuing stories of the other friends of Seven Shores: their stories are deeply intertwined with this book, and more of their life unfolds before the readers eyes over the course of this book (and even more over the course of the epilogue – which, I believe, might include more time elapsing than in the main part of the book). So Isabel & Taylor, Autumn & Kate, Gia and Elle continue to be seen and felt by the readers.
Getting back to Hadley and my mention of her lust for fashion: the main thrust of this book, the underlying connective tissue is fashion. As in, Hadley has been tasked with finding ‘new blood’ for her store, find young designers to join the group of designers who fill the high class store on Rodeo drive. Hadley has had zero success so far in finding someone her boss will accept, but has good feelings about the newest potential addition to the store: Spencer Adair (the other main point of view in the book).
The reader learns instantly certain factors during the meeting between Hadley and Spencer, which occurs at the store: the store Hadley works at has an aging vibe, one that seems to cater more to over 40 year old white women (over 45?); while Spencer herself has a much younger vibe (though she herself is in her 30s) and . . . has dark skin. Is Hadley’s store ready for a black designer?
No it is not.
Or at least that’s what Trudy (her name was Trudy, right?) tells Hadley. Now before anyone screams racism, I’m not sure Trudy has the first clue who the designer is that Hadley pushed forward – she, Trudy, just saw a few sketches, barely looked at a few samples before making a snap judgment (I can’t imagine a) working for Trudy; b) why anyone would work for her – she literally tells Hadley to fire whoever did the glove display because the colors hurt her gut . . . or something like that).
Hadley, eventually, gets Trudy to reconsider – as long as Spencer does some redesigns immediately – or, I mean, in a month. So, that happens. Over the course of the book.
I’ve yet to mention the only thing I discussed in my status updates: sexual harassment. This book really did seem to be going down a weird road: showcase everything you are not supposed to do, at least in terms of sexual harassment. Exhibit 1: during a job interview, the interviewer cups the interviewee’s hand in an attempt to ‘calm her down’ (remember sexual harassment class: don’t do this – no touching!); exhibit 2: during the same job interview, one of the women tells the other that she looks outstanding in her jeans, in a ‘your ass looks so fine in those jeans’ kind of way (here it was the job interviewee, instead of interviewer, who made the physical appearance comment so . . . ). I realize that this is an apparently acceptable thing in romantic comedies (seriously, the amount of stalking and otherwise creepy behavior that occurs in romantic comedies . . . are so extreme that to showcase that someone really is a nutball and not actually a loveable-screwed-up-socially misfit, the person has to go to the extreme of cooking the other person’s pet rabbit (you know, Fatal Attraction), and the like, but . . . eh, it annoys me personally but probably not everyone else. So, whatever. The story quickly moved from ‘two complete strangers, who might have talked briefly not face to face prior’ to ‘people dating’ so I stopped paying attention to sexual harassment no-nos.
Despite my dive into weirdness above, I actually liked both main characters (though there was a period there wherein I was finding more enjoyment watching the other people’s stories unfold, or, more accurately, watching everyone’s story unfold except when Hadley and Spencer were in the same room). Eventually the story-line that actually followed the two main characters turned neat/interesting/exciting, so I was happy and stuff.
Not sure what-all else to say. There’s lots and lots of sex. There are tender, emotional moments. I enjoyed the book.
Rating: 4.38
October 17 2018
August 14, 2018
I am madly in love with this book on like five different levels. Best of the series, and possibly my new favorite Brayden couple, for reals. I smiled the entire time reading it.
September 16, 2018
‘Love like this’ is the final book on the ‘Seven shores’ series that follows four friends living in the same condo in Venice Beach, California. This novel is the story of Hadley Cooper, an assistant manager of a boutique in Rodeo drive. When she meets fashion designer Spencer Adair sparkles fly between them. But Hadley’s ideas about love and commitment are very different from Spencer’s. Will they have a future together?
This is definitely my favourite of the series as the four friends’ stories wrap up and the readers get to know about their future in detail. All the best traits of Brayden’s books are present here: great dialogues, banter, humour, a well laid plot, multidimensional characters and, last but not least, a good old romance. The chemistry between Hadley and Spencer is extremely well done. As usual, the author manages the attraction and the sexual tension magnificently. Kudos to Ms. Brayden to introduce an interracial couple (only her second after Sarah and Emory from ‘Heart block’) which needs to happen more often in lesfic.
In the acknowledgements the author hints that this book might be different from what readers expected and, boy, is she right. We thought we had Hadley sussed out from the previous books but in this one we are up for a big surprise. It’s not that Hadley is out of character, it’s just that we see her from a more intimate perspective and the results are incredibly hot. I don’t want to be more specific to spoil anything but let me say that Ms. Brayden manages to blow our minds big time with this one.
The level of angst and drama is quite low compared to other books in the series but suits the story perfectly. This is mainly a feel good romance, upbeat and positive to suit Hadley’s personality and to finish the series on a high.
Overall, a feel-good, entertaining and sizzling hot romance. A great end to the series. 5 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
This is definitely my favourite of the series as the four friends’ stories wrap up and the readers get to know about their future in detail. All the best traits of Brayden’s books are present here: great dialogues, banter, humour, a well laid plot, multidimensional characters and, last but not least, a good old romance. The chemistry between Hadley and Spencer is extremely well done. As usual, the author manages the attraction and the sexual tension magnificently. Kudos to Ms. Brayden to introduce an interracial couple (only her second after Sarah and Emory from ‘Heart block’) which needs to happen more often in lesfic.
In the acknowledgements the author hints that this book might be different from what readers expected and, boy, is she right. We thought we had Hadley sussed out from the previous books but in this one we are up for a big surprise. It’s not that Hadley is out of character, it’s just that we see her from a more intimate perspective and the results are incredibly hot. I don’t want to be more specific to spoil anything but let me say that Ms. Brayden manages to blow our minds big time with this one.
The level of angst and drama is quite low compared to other books in the series but suits the story perfectly. This is mainly a feel good romance, upbeat and positive to suit Hadley’s personality and to finish the series on a high.
Overall, a feel-good, entertaining and sizzling hot romance. A great end to the series. 5 stars.
ARC provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
October 23, 2018
I was actually saving this for a rainy day but I think this year was always a rainy day in my book world.
Out of all the stories in this series I like this one the most, I was actually kind of surprised. My no expectations had worked again. I enjoyed it, I like Hadley. She’s too nice, and I kind of felt bad for her because she’s always there for everyone but when the time had come that she needs someone, everyone is too busy for her. She deserved better. She’s the happily ever after kind of girl. A total opposite of Spencer.
Spencer is a woman of color. She’s a likable character hence the relationship view, she’s afraid of commitment like Izzy, but I’m glad she kept her mind open. 😉
I like Gia and Elle here more and I loved their HEA. Wow!
Also with Taylor and Isabelle.
With the twins and Kate and Autumn.
What a great ending!
From 4stars I changed it to 5 because I was so happy with the Epilogue.
4.5
Out of all the stories in this series I like this one the most, I was actually kind of surprised. My no expectations had worked again. I enjoyed it, I like Hadley. She’s too nice, and I kind of felt bad for her because she’s always there for everyone but when the time had come that she needs someone, everyone is too busy for her. She deserved better. She’s the happily ever after kind of girl. A total opposite of Spencer.
Spencer is a woman of color. She’s a likable character hence the relationship view, she’s afraid of commitment like Izzy, but I’m glad she kept her mind open. 😉
I like Gia and Elle here more and I loved their HEA. Wow!
Also with Taylor and Isabelle.
With the twins and Kate and Autumn.
What a great ending!
From 4stars I changed it to 5 because I was so happy with the Epilogue.
4.5
September 17, 2018
BEAUTIFUL.😭😭
That word perfectly describes this book. I fell in love with Hadley in the first book of the Seven Shores series, and all subsequent releases just built up the anticipation for her story. At one point I was worried that I had raised my expectations too high. But God no, this was the best thing ever.
Hadley is a very cheerful and outgoing gal, who is the manager of a high-end boutique in LA. Spencer Adair is a upcoming fashion designer, who is hired by Hadley, to save her the store and her job.
The premise is pretty simple, but the author is brilliant. She somehow managed to write a touching story, that actually surpassed all of my expectations. I'm so pleased that I look forward to all of Melissa Brayden's novels with the same enthusiasm. The best part is, not a single book of hers that I have read so far has disappointed me :)
She has a way with her words, her metaphors, her characters and all of this put together is perfection. I love the subtle personality traits of Spencer that are bought out. And Hadley! She's the most precious thing ever and she needs to be protected at all costs. I went from laughing to crying back to laughing so many times through the course of this book.
This book didn't have as much drama as other books by this author. There was a very 'FRIENDS'esque situation at the end and it was so adorable. If you weren't rooting for them till then you would certainly do it after that.
And the epilogue. I cried at that too. Basically I was a blubbering mess for the last 10% of the book.
If you wanna read this book, don't have a second thought. It's amazing and the perfect end to the series.
Cheers :)
That word perfectly describes this book. I fell in love with Hadley in the first book of the Seven Shores series, and all subsequent releases just built up the anticipation for her story. At one point I was worried that I had raised my expectations too high. But God no, this was the best thing ever.
Hadley is a very cheerful and outgoing gal, who is the manager of a high-end boutique in LA. Spencer Adair is a upcoming fashion designer, who is hired by Hadley, to save her the store and her job.
The premise is pretty simple, but the author is brilliant. She somehow managed to write a touching story, that actually surpassed all of my expectations. I'm so pleased that I look forward to all of Melissa Brayden's novels with the same enthusiasm. The best part is, not a single book of hers that I have read so far has disappointed me :)
She has a way with her words, her metaphors, her characters and all of this put together is perfection. I love the subtle personality traits of Spencer that are bought out. And Hadley! She's the most precious thing ever and she needs to be protected at all costs. I went from laughing to crying back to laughing so many times through the course of this book.
This book didn't have as much drama as other books by this author. There was a very 'FRIENDS'esque situation at the end and it was so adorable. If you weren't rooting for them till then you would certainly do it after that.
And the epilogue. I cried at that too. Basically I was a blubbering mess for the last 10% of the book.
If you wanna read this book, don't have a second thought. It's amazing and the perfect end to the series.
Cheers :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2018
“Love Like This (Seven Shores #4)” continues the fantastic collaboration of Melissa Brayden and Melissa Sternenberg, and delivers a feel-good…no…feel-GREAT conclusion to the series featuring friends at the Seven Shores apartment complex.
While this is the long-awaited story of Hadley finding true love, much of the book featured events in the intertwined lives of other characters in the series. And it worked. It was so very fun spending time again with the mutual friends and lovers, and listening to Melissa Sternenberg really brought everything to life in a wonderful audiobook!
“Love Like This” is pretty typical Brayden. Very likable MCs have instant chemistry, and despite differences in their love life outlooks, they decide to give things a try. Career vs. love gets in the way, and decisions are made that each MC regrets.
Spencer’s best friend Kendra nicely balances Hadley’s team of friends, and Kendra offers great advice as Spencer panics about having a relationship. I certainly agreed that Spencer’s parents having divorced was a pretty weak excuse for not believing in committed relationships.
I loved the fun playfulness between Spencer and Hadley, and their differences really did complement each other. Hadley was fun as always, reading science fiction and planning a Winnie the Pooh theme party. And yet….Hadley constantly amazes Spencer as a “happy do-gooder one moment, and sex vixen the next”. Yes, our Disney-loving Hadley likes to take charge in the bedroom!
While there’s Brayden’s probably patented break up and make up moment at the 75% completion point, our MCs find their way back to each other and the series ends very nicely. I really liked the epilogue; Taylor and Izzy’s nuptials were absolutely beautiful, and I enjoyed learning of the “later on” adventures and successes for many of the friends. 5* for “Love Like This”!
While this is the long-awaited story of Hadley finding true love, much of the book featured events in the intertwined lives of other characters in the series. And it worked. It was so very fun spending time again with the mutual friends and lovers, and listening to Melissa Sternenberg really brought everything to life in a wonderful audiobook!
“Love Like This” is pretty typical Brayden. Very likable MCs have instant chemistry, and despite differences in their love life outlooks, they decide to give things a try. Career vs. love gets in the way, and decisions are made that each MC regrets.
Spencer’s best friend Kendra nicely balances Hadley’s team of friends, and Kendra offers great advice as Spencer panics about having a relationship. I certainly agreed that Spencer’s parents having divorced was a pretty weak excuse for not believing in committed relationships.
I loved the fun playfulness between Spencer and Hadley, and their differences really did complement each other. Hadley was fun as always, reading science fiction and planning a Winnie the Pooh theme party. And yet….Hadley constantly amazes Spencer as a “happy do-gooder one moment, and sex vixen the next”. Yes, our Disney-loving Hadley likes to take charge in the bedroom!
While there’s Brayden’s probably patented break up and make up moment at the 75% completion point, our MCs find their way back to each other and the series ends very nicely. I really liked the epilogue; Taylor and Izzy’s nuptials were absolutely beautiful, and I enjoyed learning of the “later on” adventures and successes for many of the friends. 5* for “Love Like This”!
September 13, 2018
I am afraid I'm an outlier with this one. I am someone who normally loves Brayden's tried and true "formula". Waiting in the wings and the Soho Loft series are some of my favorite books. However, this didn't work for me. I mean it's Brayden so there are always redeeming qualities.
I think my biggest issue was it felt rushed. I wanted so much more....and honestly thought the story just demanded more.
The good things were there-great chemistry, witty dialogue-but in the end was a let down for me.
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I think my biggest issue was it felt rushed. I wanted so much more....and honestly thought the story just demanded more.
The good things were there-great chemistry, witty dialogue-but in the end was a let down for me.
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2018
We knew Hadley’s story would be special and Brayden delivers once again. I've not been Hadley’s biggest fan in this series, finding her pie-in-the-sky attitude towards life too sweet for my dark roast coffee taste. I loved the many references to her unrealistic “goodness” made in the early chapters of the book. An author who can laugh at her own character and what makes them unique is so entertaining. That she ends up being paired with a pragmatist like Spencer makes Hadley’s fluffy view of life all the more endearing. Spencer is suitably conflicted.
Hadley, Spencer realized, thought a lot of things were awesome. In fact, she was perpetually cheerful and optimistic in every conversation they’d had thus far. She couldn’t decide if that was an endearing quality or annoying one. (Loc. 516-517)
Meeting Spencer, a woman whose feet are firmly planted in the real world, allows the reader to look beneath the Disney princess and see the depth of character we all hoped for in Hayden. I liked the way Spencer challenged Hayden’s view of relationships and I loved how take charge Hayden turns out to be both at work and in the bedroom. A tiger hidden under all those gosh golly good deeds. Who knew?
A great finale to a solid series and some memorable women. Well done.
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley for review.
Hadley, Spencer realized, thought a lot of things were awesome. In fact, she was perpetually cheerful and optimistic in every conversation they’d had thus far. She couldn’t decide if that was an endearing quality or annoying one. (Loc. 516-517)
Meeting Spencer, a woman whose feet are firmly planted in the real world, allows the reader to look beneath the Disney princess and see the depth of character we all hoped for in Hayden. I liked the way Spencer challenged Hayden’s view of relationships and I loved how take charge Hayden turns out to be both at work and in the bedroom. A tiger hidden under all those gosh golly good deeds. Who knew?
A great finale to a solid series and some memorable women. Well done.
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley for review.
September 24, 2018
Fantastic ending to an amazing series.
The only bad thing about this book is that we won't get any new stories about our Seven Shores friends.
The only bad thing about this book is that we won't get any new stories about our Seven Shores friends.
September 24, 2018
What a Phenomenal book… I can’t believe the Seven Shores series is finished for good. How did that happen…
Hadley is happy-go-lucky, kind and believe the best in everyone. She has watched her three best friends find their should mate and she’s just now waiting patiently for hers to show up. Spencer Adair is the next big name in fashion and is working with Hadley to get her line into the Rodeo Drive store where Hadley works. The attraction is instant but with Hadley’s need for happily ever after and Spencer’s view of nothing lasts forever, can they find their way to happy ever after?
This book should come with a box of tissues especially for chapter 3 and for the epilogue! Boy, I have not cried that many happy tears in a book before… I was totally floored!
Hadley is defo my favourite character in the series (as is Autumn... these two fight for first place) so having her story end the tale of the Seven Shores group of friends was actually perfect. On Friday night I started the series again with Eyes Like Those and read right through to Love Like This. What a weekend!
I really have to commend Melissa Brayden in her exceptional writing and especially in the way she writes not only the romance but the friendships between the group of women, she did a very similar thing with the Soho Loft Series. The connection between the four friends of Seven Shores is what every girl aims for in friendship.
The chemistry between Spencer and Hadley in this book radiated of the page and I think their connection with all their doubts was still one of the strongest in this series. As soon as they met there was an undercurrent of just knowing both Spencer and Hadley were made for each other. Hadley reminds me a little of myself as I can be seen as naive and am constantly told my head is in the clouds but really I just believe in the good in people and like to live in a word filled with romance… my wife however is the opposite and I think that is why I just knew Spencer and Hadley had the makings of something great.
The biggest surprise was the bedroom scenes… Best Melissa Brayden has written. EVER. Seriously, and you won’t expect our sweet and innocent Hadley to be the way she is when she hits the sheets! Wow, is all I’m saying. Go Hadley!!!!
I know this is a book (and series) I will read over and over again. Melissa Brayden always has a way of knocking them out of the park and this book is no exception.
5 stars.
Hadley is happy-go-lucky, kind and believe the best in everyone. She has watched her three best friends find their should mate and she’s just now waiting patiently for hers to show up. Spencer Adair is the next big name in fashion and is working with Hadley to get her line into the Rodeo Drive store where Hadley works. The attraction is instant but with Hadley’s need for happily ever after and Spencer’s view of nothing lasts forever, can they find their way to happy ever after?
This book should come with a box of tissues especially for chapter 3 and for the epilogue! Boy, I have not cried that many happy tears in a book before… I was totally floored!
Hadley is defo my favourite character in the series (as is Autumn... these two fight for first place) so having her story end the tale of the Seven Shores group of friends was actually perfect. On Friday night I started the series again with Eyes Like Those and read right through to Love Like This. What a weekend!
I really have to commend Melissa Brayden in her exceptional writing and especially in the way she writes not only the romance but the friendships between the group of women, she did a very similar thing with the Soho Loft Series. The connection between the four friends of Seven Shores is what every girl aims for in friendship.
The chemistry between Spencer and Hadley in this book radiated of the page and I think their connection with all their doubts was still one of the strongest in this series. As soon as they met there was an undercurrent of just knowing both Spencer and Hadley were made for each other. Hadley reminds me a little of myself as I can be seen as naive and am constantly told my head is in the clouds but really I just believe in the good in people and like to live in a word filled with romance… my wife however is the opposite and I think that is why I just knew Spencer and Hadley had the makings of something great.
The biggest surprise was the bedroom scenes… Best Melissa Brayden has written. EVER. Seriously, and you won’t expect our sweet and innocent Hadley to be the way she is when she hits the sheets! Wow, is all I’m saying. Go Hadley!!!!
I know this is a book (and series) I will read over and over again. Melissa Brayden always has a way of knocking them out of the park and this book is no exception.
5 stars.
November 12, 2018
Damn! I feel like i’m the last person on Earth that read Hadley’s story. I even skipped the 2nd book and 3rd book and went straight to the 4th one. I will read those 2 books later.
Oh Hadley, the sweetest person on Earth! I really like her. After reading this story, it just make me like her even more. Her sudden random words out of nowhere, her whisper swearing and how she interact with everyone. (Though i remembered she couldn’t said the word ‘sex’ out loud in book one, in book 4, she seem okay to say the word and admit she enjoy sex). I kept smiling all the time. Well, minus the problem that she had with Spencer.
Still, I really enjoyed this book T.T i’m also happy that there some scenes that also involved the main characters from book one as well. Isabel’s swearing at random times. Since i havent read book 2 and book 3 yet, i can’t say much about Hadley’s other friends. But they are still funny.
I’m going to miss these people. T.T especially Hadley. But i’ll come back and read again some time in the future. <3
Oh Hadley, the sweetest person on Earth! I really like her. After reading this story, it just make me like her even more. Her sudden random words out of nowhere, her whisper swearing and how she interact with everyone. (Though i remembered she couldn’t said the word ‘sex’ out loud in book one, in book 4, she seem okay to say the word and admit she enjoy sex). I kept smiling all the time. Well, minus the problem that she had with Spencer.
Still, I really enjoyed this book T.T i’m also happy that there some scenes that also involved the main characters from book one as well. Isabel’s swearing at random times. Since i havent read book 2 and book 3 yet, i can’t say much about Hadley’s other friends. But they are still funny.
I’m going to miss these people. T.T especially Hadley. But i’ll come back and read again some time in the future. <3
September 13, 2018
3.5 stars
This story is told in third person and from both heroine's point of view, my favourite style of narration, and is incredibly sweet.
Hadley is close to being an angel, able to see the good in almost every situation. Spencer is an equally likeable character, and their chemistry is palpable. The story is low on angst and high on feel good feels.
If you're looking for a story that will make you dizzy like you've binged on your favourite sweets, this is it.
I really enjoyed catching up with the entire cast of Seven Shores and have to admit I'm a tad sad it's all over, but more so incredibly happy that all characters got a HEA.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley.
This story is told in third person and from both heroine's point of view, my favourite style of narration, and is incredibly sweet.
Hadley is close to being an angel, able to see the good in almost every situation. Spencer is an equally likeable character, and their chemistry is palpable. The story is low on angst and high on feel good feels.
If you're looking for a story that will make you dizzy like you've binged on your favourite sweets, this is it.
I really enjoyed catching up with the entire cast of Seven Shores and have to admit I'm a tad sad it's all over, but more so incredibly happy that all characters got a HEA.
Copy provided by the publisher, Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley.
October 19, 2018
Detailed score: 3.5 rounded up
Brayden usually walks the fine line between swoon worthy romance and treacle.
This one definitely fell on the treacle line much too often for my tastes.
Overall I’ve found the Seven Shoes series a bit disappointing...
...but that is partly because when Brayden gets it right, I cannot hit the five star button fast enough.
Just feels like it’s been a long time since I’ve had the Post-Brayden glow after putting down one of her books.
Still definitely worth the read though.
Brayden usually walks the fine line between swoon worthy romance and treacle.
This one definitely fell on the treacle line much too often for my tastes.
Overall I’ve found the Seven Shoes series a bit disappointing...
...but that is partly because when Brayden gets it right, I cannot hit the five star button fast enough.
Just feels like it’s been a long time since I’ve had the Post-Brayden glow after putting down one of her books.
Still definitely worth the read though.
November 19, 2020
I read the final 3 books of the 'Seven Shores' series in one go. So it kind of felt like one long story for me. I love Melissa Brayden's writing and characters and settings and dialogue and so on and so forth. Each love story in their respective books were sweet with a good dose of drama to get the heart aching in that hurts so good way. I can't recommend Brayden's books enough. They are all good. But since everyone reads them, they don't really even need my stamp of approval anyway.
September 17, 2018
Oh, how I loved Hadley character, ever since I’ve met her in the book one. I couldn’t wait to see what Melissa Brayden is gonna do about her love in the books. I had to say I had my suspicions when she mentioned Spencer character in Sparks like ours, and she didn’t disappoint. I loved how she made Hadley, a hopeless romantic and lifelong believer in “the one person for life, for forever”.
I have to say that I probably had the fuzziest feelings reading exactly this book, of all Brayden’s books so far. I loved the humor all throughout the book, especially the moments of “Satan Autumn”...
If I would have to compare this book to a certain pleasure in life, it’d be like having an amazing, decadent chocolate cake with the best brewed coffee, and delicately sipping an old cognac after that. It just perfectly rolls on your tongue while leaving the most refined aftertaste ringing for hours.
I have to say that I probably had the fuzziest feelings reading exactly this book, of all Brayden’s books so far. I loved the humor all throughout the book, especially the moments of “Satan Autumn”...
If I would have to compare this book to a certain pleasure in life, it’d be like having an amazing, decadent chocolate cake with the best brewed coffee, and delicately sipping an old cognac after that. It just perfectly rolls on your tongue while leaving the most refined aftertaste ringing for hours.
October 5, 2018
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the final story in the seven shores books, and we finally get to Hadley’s story. I loved Had in each of the other stories, and she’s just as delightful here. Her love interest is Spencer, who is a POC, which we still don’t see enough of in lesfic. Hadley works at an upmarket boutique and Spencer is an up and coming designer that Hadley wants to feature in the store (although to be honest I didn’t really buy that the opinion of an assistant manager of a store would sway a designer to change their designs).
Sparks fly immediately (so much so that I honestly think the titles of the last two books should have been switched) and the two start to date. Only problem is Had wants commitment and Spencer doesn’t believe in forever. This lends some angst to the proceedings and there’s the usual to and fro and a breakup to contend with before everything wraps up in a nice big bow.
I really loved Hadley and Spencer and how their story unfolded, and I also liked that Hadley called her friends out for taking her for granted, which they all totally did. Both families and Kendra were nice additions, and the continuation of the previous stories (particularly August and Isabel’s) was nice. I did think the ending seemed a bit rushed (and telegraphed) and the epilogue was a touch heavy handed, but with no more books I can see why Ms Brayden wanted to fill in some future gaps.
I’m giving this 4 stars because I enjoyed it a lot, and Brayden stories are usually always enjoyable, but this is not without flaws. I’ve mentioned in previous reviews of this series that one annoying part of any Brayden novel is that most of the characters sound the same. This was especially grating in any scene featuring the four main friends (with the only difference in their tone being that Isabel swears). The over use of exclamation points for emphasis in sentences was also annoying and could be toned down. Still, this is a nice read, and anyone who’s read the others will no doubt enjoy this.
This is the final story in the seven shores books, and we finally get to Hadley’s story. I loved Had in each of the other stories, and she’s just as delightful here. Her love interest is Spencer, who is a POC, which we still don’t see enough of in lesfic. Hadley works at an upmarket boutique and Spencer is an up and coming designer that Hadley wants to feature in the store (although to be honest I didn’t really buy that the opinion of an assistant manager of a store would sway a designer to change their designs).
Sparks fly immediately (so much so that I honestly think the titles of the last two books should have been switched) and the two start to date. Only problem is Had wants commitment and Spencer doesn’t believe in forever. This lends some angst to the proceedings and there’s the usual to and fro and a breakup to contend with before everything wraps up in a nice big bow.
I really loved Hadley and Spencer and how their story unfolded, and I also liked that Hadley called her friends out for taking her for granted, which they all totally did. Both families and Kendra were nice additions, and the continuation of the previous stories (particularly August and Isabel’s) was nice. I did think the ending seemed a bit rushed (and telegraphed) and the epilogue was a touch heavy handed, but with no more books I can see why Ms Brayden wanted to fill in some future gaps.
I’m giving this 4 stars because I enjoyed it a lot, and Brayden stories are usually always enjoyable, but this is not without flaws. I’ve mentioned in previous reviews of this series that one annoying part of any Brayden novel is that most of the characters sound the same. This was especially grating in any scene featuring the four main friends (with the only difference in their tone being that Isabel swears). The over use of exclamation points for emphasis in sentences was also annoying and could be toned down. Still, this is a nice read, and anyone who’s read the others will no doubt enjoy this.
October 17, 2018
Lesbians dipped in honey, rolled in sugar and then doused in syrup. This was just too sweet for me.
October 16, 2018
Wow! What a wonderful series! What a wonderful final book in the Seven Shores series! I loved it!
October 11, 2018
This is the fourth and final book in the Seven Shores series. Each book follows a different couple so no need to read them in order, but it is nice to follow all four friends stories from the beginning. This is Hadley's story! At last she meets the love of her life!
Hadley is looking to make some big changes at the upscale clothing boutique she works at on Rodeo Drive in LA. She meets Spencer, an up and coming designer, and works her damnedest to bring Spencer's unique clothing into her shop. Spencer isn't sure she's willing to make the big changes to meet the boutiques style, but Hadley is just as stubborn as she is and attractive to boot. Their relationship blossoms, but are they willing to take a chance on love as their careers take off?
Hadley is just adorable but she is also FIRE. She's so strong and courageous and it was a joy to finally get to know her better. Spencer was her perfect partner, with all the FIRE and courage to match Hadley's. I wish I could see her clothes too! Their chemistry was insane, I loved how it was written, and the romance was the perfect amount of sweetness to balance it out.
I love the big beautiful collection of characters that we've come to know and love over four books. It's such a feel good experience reading one of Melissa Brayden's books.
Ahhhh the ending was soooo romantic! I felt like I was watching a classic romantic comedy like Sleepless in Seattle. It was so perfect and beautiful and ah I just melted. Melissa Brayden is a master at romance. She is great gift to this world.
I’m so sad that this series is over, but I’m always looking forward to when comes next form Melissa Brayden.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Hadley is looking to make some big changes at the upscale clothing boutique she works at on Rodeo Drive in LA. She meets Spencer, an up and coming designer, and works her damnedest to bring Spencer's unique clothing into her shop. Spencer isn't sure she's willing to make the big changes to meet the boutiques style, but Hadley is just as stubborn as she is and attractive to boot. Their relationship blossoms, but are they willing to take a chance on love as their careers take off?
Hadley is just adorable but she is also FIRE. She's so strong and courageous and it was a joy to finally get to know her better. Spencer was her perfect partner, with all the FIRE and courage to match Hadley's. I wish I could see her clothes too! Their chemistry was insane, I loved how it was written, and the romance was the perfect amount of sweetness to balance it out.
I love the big beautiful collection of characters that we've come to know and love over four books. It's such a feel good experience reading one of Melissa Brayden's books.
Ahhhh the ending was soooo romantic! I felt like I was watching a classic romantic comedy like Sleepless in Seattle. It was so perfect and beautiful and ah I just melted. Melissa Brayden is a master at romance. She is great gift to this world.
I’m so sad that this series is over, but I’m always looking forward to when comes next form Melissa Brayden.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2018
There’s a lot to love about how Love Like This is written. It has the usual engaging dialogue and adorable romance that can be found in any Melissa Brayden book. And, like the rest of the series, it has some of the best friendship writing going. It’s sweet and sexy, with enough angst to keep things interesting, but not enough to hurt you. It’s a totally enjoyable romance that’s would be a perfect beach read.
Full review: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/love...
Full review: https://www.thelesbianreview.com/love...
October 8, 2025
*** 4.25 ***
Sugary Sweet cuteness overload!!! This whole series was a happily ever after wrapped up in a big red bow with chocolates and Merlot on the side! Easy, breezy, and I wish real life was more full of people with good intentions and a warm outlook on life as the characters in a Melissa Brayden novel!!! ❤️😃👍
Sugary Sweet cuteness overload!!! This whole series was a happily ever after wrapped up in a big red bow with chocolates and Merlot on the side! Easy, breezy, and I wish real life was more full of people with good intentions and a warm outlook on life as the characters in a Melissa Brayden novel!!! ❤️😃👍
December 28, 2019
I'm not a big fan of Ms Brayden's books, having read only her first books, which I found immature and for a very young audience, and I have not read the previous books in this series, in four parts, which ends . But, I found this book, like a great romance.
Hadley is a positive person, who sees only the good, in life and in others, and who hopes to find someone who will know, to love her for the better and the worse.
She meets Spencer, clothing designer, Hadley working in a luxury clothing store. But Spencer is not one to believe in eternal love.
I was so impressed by this book, its history and especially its romanticism. So I come back to my bad approach to Ms Brayden's books. This romance is complete and endearing. The two characters are quite credible, and the harmony of their relationship that emerges is great. As much Hadley, is a little naive and passive in everyday life, as much, in a bed with Spencer, it is she who amazes us.
I also appreciate, that is presented in this book, a character POC, which changes of the ordinary, with, in general, and at other authors, characters either blond, with blue eyes, or red with green eyes ...
I recommend, therefore, to read the other books in this series, and I apply it to myself.
And I recommend this book absolutely.
Hadley is a positive person, who sees only the good, in life and in others, and who hopes to find someone who will know, to love her for the better and the worse.
She meets Spencer, clothing designer, Hadley working in a luxury clothing store. But Spencer is not one to believe in eternal love.
I was so impressed by this book, its history and especially its romanticism. So I come back to my bad approach to Ms Brayden's books. This romance is complete and endearing. The two characters are quite credible, and the harmony of their relationship that emerges is great. As much Hadley, is a little naive and passive in everyday life, as much, in a bed with Spencer, it is she who amazes us.
I also appreciate, that is presented in this book, a character POC, which changes of the ordinary, with, in general, and at other authors, characters either blond, with blue eyes, or red with green eyes ...
I recommend, therefore, to read the other books in this series, and I apply it to myself.
And I recommend this book absolutely.
November 2, 2018
What a wonderful way to conclude a series. Hadley Cooper is such a likeable character that views her day-to-day life on the sunny side. I like her so much for the bright and upbeat disposition as well as the coo key one liners. Hadley is looking for romance, happiness, love, and forever. I was curious as to how the author would show Hadley as we watch her interact with someone her opposite. Wow, what a pleasant surprise. Spencer Adair is a no nonsense take care of business person that does not have time for a serious relationship. Spencer cares deeply for her parents and her best friend but is distance with others until she meets Hadley. The friend group is awesome as usual with their steadfast support and encouragement.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
October 31, 2018
Oh how we all love Brayden's books. This one is no different. It was a bit sad to finish the Seven Shores series, but I am excited for Brayden's future books. I didn't enjoy this series as much as the Soho Loft series, but it was pretty close. There really isn't much of anything new I could say about this book or anything Brayden has written. Read her books they are all great. Brayden saved the best for last in my opinion. It was really nice to finally see inside Hadley's head. The previous 3 books we have observed her through others eyes, but this one was worth the wait. If you haven't read the previous books in the series I would start there. Fantastic finale to a damn good series.
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