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Book Nerds and Boyfriends Collection #2
Literarily For Keeps
She only has to pretend to be married for five days. What's the worst that could happen?
Literature professor Ashleigh Darmody never imagined her life would turn into a classic trope, but that's exactly what happens when her sister Claire calls with a bizarre request--quickly find a fake husband. Backstory is a powerful thing, and Ashleigh's has plenty of shadows, but is her past so shady that it requires an elaborate scheme to ensure Claire's prospective father-in-law, renowned TV evangelist Ken Abrams, will give her his blessing to marry his son?
Already divorced from a man who turned out to be other than he claimed, Ashleigh now has to pretend to be blissfully married to a stranger for the next five days. But when the lines of fiction and reality blur with each tick of the clock, could a temporary deal turn into something for keeps?
Literature professor Ashleigh Darmody never imagined her life would turn into a classic trope, but that's exactly what happens when her sister Claire calls with a bizarre request--quickly find a fake husband. Backstory is a powerful thing, and Ashleigh's has plenty of shadows, but is her past so shady that it requires an elaborate scheme to ensure Claire's prospective father-in-law, renowned TV evangelist Ken Abrams, will give her his blessing to marry his son?
Already divorced from a man who turned out to be other than he claimed, Ashleigh now has to pretend to be blissfully married to a stranger for the next five days. But when the lines of fiction and reality blur with each tick of the clock, could a temporary deal turn into something for keeps?
107 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2018
32 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Monzon
27 books831 followersA Carol award finalist and Selah award winner, Sarah Monzon is a stay-at-home mom who makes up imaginary friends to have adult conversations with (otherwise known as writing novels). As a navy chaplain's wife, she resides wherever the military happens to station her family and enjoys exploring the beauty of the world around her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
October 7, 2018
Sarah Monzon once again demonstrates great skill in this genre. While I do not read many contemporary romance, I find there to be more than initially meets the eye in Monzon's writings. It is hard to deliver the same depth in a novella that is usually present in a full-length novel. However, Monzon demonstrates great skill as she pens a story both lighthearted and whimsical, yet with many meaningful moments in Literally for Keeps. There are plenty of lighthearted, laugh-out-loud moments to pacify a romantic reader's heart. But it is the underlying soul-searching moments that can cause soul-searching in the reader's heart as well.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 27, 2022
Update: I think there's a big difference between guarding your heart and hating evil, and treating people hatefully. I just don't think this book conveys that clearly.
I kind of struggled with this novella. And it wasn't because of any of the issues that were addressed. It was because of the only one that wasn't.
Ashleigh's sister, Claire, asks Ashleigh, a divorced woman, to pretend to be married to someone so she and her boyfriend can receive approval for their engagement from his dad, a well-known televangelist. Claire and her boyfriend are afraid that his dad will judge Claire and deem her unworthy to marry into the family because of Ashleigh's divorce. Although her request involves deception, judgments and assumptions, none of that bothered me as much as the fact that Claire's request made me feel like she was ashamed of her sister. Her sister! Claire and her boyfriend are so intent on hiding the truth about Ashleigh to gain approval and acceptance that they don't even realize that's not how you should treat someone you love (or claim to). Instead, they are so self-involved that they don't see anything wrong with treating Ashleigh and her past like a dirty little secret.
Therefore, her request really irked me, which was unfortunate considering that's the whole premise of the novella. Needless to say, I started off the novella on a sour note and carried that feeling with me for the entire read. It was also concerning that this agitator was never acknowledged or properly addressed.
I don't think it would have bugged me as much if Ashleigh came up with the idea herself, but the fact that it was coming from her sister and her boyfriend - it made me think of them as insensitive and shortsighted. And no love haze excuse was gonna change that opinion. So yeah, this book was a miss for me.
I kind of struggled with this novella. And it wasn't because of any of the issues that were addressed. It was because of the only one that wasn't.
Ashleigh's sister, Claire, asks Ashleigh, a divorced woman, to pretend to be married to someone so she and her boyfriend can receive approval for their engagement from his dad, a well-known televangelist. Claire and her boyfriend are afraid that his dad will judge Claire and deem her unworthy to marry into the family because of Ashleigh's divorce. Although her request involves deception, judgments and assumptions, none of that bothered me as much as the fact that Claire's request made me feel like she was ashamed of her sister. Her sister! Claire and her boyfriend are so intent on hiding the truth about Ashleigh to gain approval and acceptance that they don't even realize that's not how you should treat someone you love (or claim to). Instead, they are so self-involved that they don't see anything wrong with treating Ashleigh and her past like a dirty little secret.
Therefore, her request really irked me, which was unfortunate considering that's the whole premise of the novella. Needless to say, I started off the novella on a sour note and carried that feeling with me for the entire read. It was also concerning that this agitator was never acknowledged or properly addressed.
I don't think it would have bugged me as much if Ashleigh came up with the idea herself, but the fact that it was coming from her sister and her boyfriend - it made me think of them as insensitive and shortsighted. And no love haze excuse was gonna change that opinion. So yeah, this book was a miss for me.
December 4, 2018
So I said I would try this author again and I’m glad I did! This lighthearted story was a fun read from beginning to end. The two leads were so fun to be around that I even was really to believe in a good dose of instalove. I’ll definitely be trying more of her books.
February 6, 2019
I. LOVED. THIS. 😍😍😍
Fake marriages.
Book quotes.
Hunky lead men.
All the things. 😍😍
I loved.
5/5 stars!
Fake marriages.
Book quotes.
Hunky lead men.
All the things. 😍😍
I loved.
5/5 stars!
October 3, 2018
What a great book! The cover is spectacular, so it should lead you to pick it up.
There are many lighthearted, sweetly romantic moments, but where Monzon shines with her writing is with the deeper, more meaningful messages. It's surprising that this can be accomplished within a shorter novel (novella), but it definitely can. This author truly elevates novellas to another level.
Spiritual insights are portrayed from many of the characters on different topics and levels. Yet, like I mentioned above, there are also wonderful moments of romance that don't feel forced, fake, or rushed despite the book's length.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
There are many lighthearted, sweetly romantic moments, but where Monzon shines with her writing is with the deeper, more meaningful messages. It's surprising that this can be accomplished within a shorter novel (novella), but it definitely can. This author truly elevates novellas to another level.
Spiritual insights are portrayed from many of the characters on different topics and levels. Yet, like I mentioned above, there are also wonderful moments of romance that don't feel forced, fake, or rushed despite the book's length.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
October 8, 2018
Y’all, I absolutely adore Ashleigh and Landon’s story. From the cute cover, bookish title, and the story within, I was hooked! This book has all the feels! Laughter–I snorted a few times while laughing at some of the antics. Tears–the heartache Ashleigh and Landon carry is so very real. Romantic sighs–seriously, I adore romantic moments. The ones that you expect and the ones you don’t.
This book has it all and it’s so well done within this novella. I didn’t want it to end, but when it did I was ready to give it 5 stars.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. My review was not influenced in any way.
**First seen at https://tonishiloh.wordpress.com/2018...
This book has it all and it’s so well done within this novella. I didn’t want it to end, but when it did I was ready to give it 5 stars.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. My review was not influenced in any way.
**First seen at https://tonishiloh.wordpress.com/2018...
September 28, 2018
I don’t know how she does it!
Eep! It doesn’t seem to matter what sub-genre or page length it is, Sarah Monzon knows how to write it and evoke all the right feelings at all the right moments. After Bookishly Ever After, I thought we’d had novella perfection, but no, this one is even better. Hilarious moments of hyperbolic similes, awkward missteps, unintended outbursts, one hot kiss, and plenty of epic literary quotes all add up to one fantastic read that kept me up far too late on a work night. To be fair, I started it late, and it is a very quick read. Please keep writing more of these, because they’re pretty much book-lover crack and I’m hooked!
Eep! It doesn’t seem to matter what sub-genre or page length it is, Sarah Monzon knows how to write it and evoke all the right feelings at all the right moments. After Bookishly Ever After, I thought we’d had novella perfection, but no, this one is even better. Hilarious moments of hyperbolic similes, awkward missteps, unintended outbursts, one hot kiss, and plenty of epic literary quotes all add up to one fantastic read that kept me up far too late on a work night. To be fair, I started it late, and it is a very quick read. Please keep writing more of these, because they’re pretty much book-lover crack and I’m hooked!
September 30, 2018
This fun rom-com was the perfect easy read. It was packed with plenty of humorous moments, some zinging romantic attraction, and deeper discussions of how Jesus wants us to treat others. I enjoyed it from start to finish.
September 29, 2018
Even though my TBR list/pile for October is out of control, the minute I read Sarah Monzon’s new novella was out in the world, everything else got set aside. And I don’t regret the decision one iota!
Monzon finds the perfect balance between light-heartedness around the ridiculous situation Ashley finds herself in while shining a light on the prejudice and judgement occurring in too many churches today. She reminds readers that Jesus loves the broken but too often, it’s those same people shamed and shunned by those calling themselves Christ-followers.
I thoroughly enjoyed Monzon’s first rom-com (Bookishly Ever After), but Literarily for Keeps made a bigger, better impression—complete with loads of fun book and character references. An impression that calls for the examination of hearts and acceptance of those who need to be loved.
Monzon finds the perfect balance between light-heartedness around the ridiculous situation Ashley finds herself in while shining a light on the prejudice and judgement occurring in too many churches today. She reminds readers that Jesus loves the broken but too often, it’s those same people shamed and shunned by those calling themselves Christ-followers.
I thoroughly enjoyed Monzon’s first rom-com (Bookishly Ever After), but Literarily for Keeps made a bigger, better impression—complete with loads of fun book and character references. An impression that calls for the examination of hearts and acceptance of those who need to be loved.
September 27, 2018
-‘I thrust out my hand. “I promise I’m not crazy.” Don’t make promises you can’t keep. His brow quirked. Yeah, I didn’t believe it either. “Fine. My straitjacket is on order. Should be here in about three days.” He chuckled.’-
Straight up, I loved it. The humour, the simple and direct way the story is told, like a friend talking to another, ... I couldn’t put it down. People need to read this book. That’s it.
Sweet. Funny. Fun. Romantic. Loved it.
Straight up, I loved it. The humour, the simple and direct way the story is told, like a friend talking to another, ... I couldn’t put it down. People need to read this book. That’s it.
Sweet. Funny. Fun. Romantic. Loved it.
October 10, 2018
Literarily For Keeps (2018) by Sarah Monzon is such a GREAT novella. This book currently comes in eBook form, and is 108 pages in length. With a full-time job and a precocious six-year old at home, this book took me one sitting to read. I received a copy of this novel in eBook form from the author. In no way has this influenced my opinion of the story. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. I give Literarily For Keeps 5 STARS. This book is a Contemporary Christian Romance.
Literarily For Keeps is such a GOOOOOOOOOD novella! This story had me laughing so hard in some places that tears were streaming down my face. I absolutely adore Ashleigh’s character — she could be my literary soul sister. I very much appreciate how intelligent and independent she is. And I LOVE how she views her world through the lens of every great classic novel she’s ever read. It was so much fun for me to know and understand all of her literary references; it felt like Ashleigh and I speak the same language! Literarily For Keeps is a super fun read that I will make sure to keep in my re-read pile so I can enjoy this charming story again and again.
One idea that really resonated with me is the concept of moving out of our comfort zones for the sake of others. At one point in the novella, Ashleigh ruminates, “Isn’t feeling a little discomfort good sometimes? We need to be shaken up by humanity’s plight, or soon we’ll all be sitting in sterile white boxes focused too much on ourselves and not enough on others.” Well said Ashleigh!!! I couldn’t agree more. It is good, especially in our day and age of instant gratification, social media blasts, and the selfie, for us to be discomforted for a moment to realize that we are NOT the center of the universe. It is easy to get caught up in the busyness of our lives, but we have to be careful we don’t become myopic to the needs of others. This blindness to others is the exact opposite of what Jesus teaches in Matthew 25: 31-46. In this passage of Scripture, Jesus proclaims that when we feed the poor, clothe the naked, give drink to the thirsty, befriend the stranger, and visit the downtrodden in prison, we are actually doing these things to Him, too. When we do these good things not only are we making our Heavenly Father proud, but we are also ensuring that this world is a better place because of our selflessness. This is definitely a reminder I needed!
I adore Literarily For Keeps and cannot recommend this book enough. The plot — fake a marriage for 5 days — is tremendously engaging, so much so I tore through this story in one sitting! The characters are wonderful and so realistic. And, the romance between Ashleigh and Landon is wonderful and satisfying. If you are looking for a fast-paced, sweet, and hilarious read then Literarily For Keeps is definitely the book for you.
Literarily For Keeps is such a GOOOOOOOOOD novella! This story had me laughing so hard in some places that tears were streaming down my face. I absolutely adore Ashleigh’s character — she could be my literary soul sister. I very much appreciate how intelligent and independent she is. And I LOVE how she views her world through the lens of every great classic novel she’s ever read. It was so much fun for me to know and understand all of her literary references; it felt like Ashleigh and I speak the same language! Literarily For Keeps is a super fun read that I will make sure to keep in my re-read pile so I can enjoy this charming story again and again.
One idea that really resonated with me is the concept of moving out of our comfort zones for the sake of others. At one point in the novella, Ashleigh ruminates, “Isn’t feeling a little discomfort good sometimes? We need to be shaken up by humanity’s plight, or soon we’ll all be sitting in sterile white boxes focused too much on ourselves and not enough on others.” Well said Ashleigh!!! I couldn’t agree more. It is good, especially in our day and age of instant gratification, social media blasts, and the selfie, for us to be discomforted for a moment to realize that we are NOT the center of the universe. It is easy to get caught up in the busyness of our lives, but we have to be careful we don’t become myopic to the needs of others. This blindness to others is the exact opposite of what Jesus teaches in Matthew 25: 31-46. In this passage of Scripture, Jesus proclaims that when we feed the poor, clothe the naked, give drink to the thirsty, befriend the stranger, and visit the downtrodden in prison, we are actually doing these things to Him, too. When we do these good things not only are we making our Heavenly Father proud, but we are also ensuring that this world is a better place because of our selflessness. This is definitely a reminder I needed!
I adore Literarily For Keeps and cannot recommend this book enough. The plot — fake a marriage for 5 days — is tremendously engaging, so much so I tore through this story in one sitting! The characters are wonderful and so realistic. And, the romance between Ashleigh and Landon is wonderful and satisfying. If you are looking for a fast-paced, sweet, and hilarious read then Literarily For Keeps is definitely the book for you.
October 5, 2018
First, don’t you love the cover? It’s so whimsical! Guess what? So is the story! Whimsical and fun. Don’t get me wrong, there are some deep subjects in here. We see how easy it is to judge someone’s heart and then how that affects life. (I won’t say more because I don’t want to give anything way.) But gee, there sure is entertainment when we see how far a sister will go to help. I did a lot of giggling.
This is a novella, so a quick read. And especially quick because I couldn’t put it down. Seriously, treat yourself to Literarily for Keeps!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
This is a novella, so a quick read. And especially quick because I couldn’t put it down. Seriously, treat yourself to Literarily for Keeps!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
October 1, 2018
I started this book and before I knew it four hours had passed and I had read the whole story. It was so captivating and funny. There were many times I couldn’t help myself from laughing out loud. I loved reading the internal dialogs Ashleigh has all the time. There were many conversations in her head which were hilarious and off the wall. Many were centered around literary pieces or issues. Her life was definitely all about bookish things. That is until she meets her true hero and someone she realizes makes her head confused.
Landon is an IT guy, who is a larger than life, hunk of a guy. He comes along and saves her day and then her life starts to go crazy. Can she really be having all these feelings? Isn’t it all supposed to be make believe?
Sarah Monzon has done it again. She has given us a wonderfully entertaining book to read. One in which, we want to get to know each character personally. She brings such a fresh spin on writing. Each of her books hold lessons we can all learn. I truly enjoy reading anything this author writes.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author. All opinions in this review are my own. I highly recommend this all book to read.
Landon is an IT guy, who is a larger than life, hunk of a guy. He comes along and saves her day and then her life starts to go crazy. Can she really be having all these feelings? Isn’t it all supposed to be make believe?
Sarah Monzon has done it again. She has given us a wonderfully entertaining book to read. One in which, we want to get to know each character personally. She brings such a fresh spin on writing. Each of her books hold lessons we can all learn. I truly enjoy reading anything this author writes.
I was provided a copy of this book by the author. All opinions in this review are my own. I highly recommend this all book to read.
October 5, 2018
A fun read
What lengths will a sister go to when true love is in jeopardy? She might pretend to be married. To a stranger. How this comes to be, and where it ends up makes for a sweet and funny story. This author is new to me, but no longer! Looking forward to reading more of her work. My only complaint is this is a novella and it ended much sooner than I desired. The characters left me wanting to know more about them, yet the story is complete. I'm hoping they'll appear in other works.
What lengths will a sister go to when true love is in jeopardy? She might pretend to be married. To a stranger. How this comes to be, and where it ends up makes for a sweet and funny story. This author is new to me, but no longer! Looking forward to reading more of her work. My only complaint is this is a novella and it ended much sooner than I desired. The characters left me wanting to know more about them, yet the story is complete. I'm hoping they'll appear in other works.
October 6, 2018
Really good!
Ha! I thought Ashleigh was crazy with a capital C for the majority of the book but loved her all the same. Sarah Monzon has a bomb sense of humor and I was laughing audibly on multiple occasions through the book. Although I think this book could have been just a smidge longer to develop the characters and Ashleigh and Landon’s relationship just a bit more, there was JUST enough development that I rooted for and loved them both. Five stars.
Ha! I thought Ashleigh was crazy with a capital C for the majority of the book but loved her all the same. Sarah Monzon has a bomb sense of humor and I was laughing audibly on multiple occasions through the book. Although I think this book could have been just a smidge longer to develop the characters and Ashleigh and Landon’s relationship just a bit more, there was JUST enough development that I rooted for and loved them both. Five stars.
December 31, 2018
Light, fun, quick read! I really enjoyed it.
September 29, 2018
This super-quick, easy read was the perfect antidote to my melancholy mood.
Sharp, self-deprecating wit, and a handsome hero made for fun reading.
I give it 5-stars for writing, 3 for content, so, 4 stars here.
Sharp, self-deprecating wit, and a handsome hero made for fun reading.
I give it 5-stars for writing, 3 for content, so, 4 stars here.
October 4, 2018
This one was cute and sad and complicated...kinda like all these characters' lives. I loved all the literary references and tropes! Such a cute couple too! I didn't even know that I wanted a guy who could quote Lewis Carroll! :)
February 17, 2021
Enjoyed this novella romance with lots of humor. Fun story.
October 29, 2018
Cute, cute, cute! But meaningful too. I loved it!
September 29, 2018
So Sweet!
I actually sighed "aww" when I finished this sweet novella. It made me smile. I loved how the author spoke to us as if we were sitting with her. Lots of fun with a little drama, and a lesson on forgiveness. There are several bookish quotes sprinkled about too.
I actually sighed "aww" when I finished this sweet novella. It made me smile. I loved how the author spoke to us as if we were sitting with her. Lots of fun with a little drama, and a lesson on forgiveness. There are several bookish quotes sprinkled about too.
October 6, 2018
Literarily for Keeps is a charming novella that pulled me in from the first page. Sarah Monzon is a pro at writing realistic, engaging, and lovable characters. Filled with wit and humor, this story kept me turning the pages as I got involved in the drama along with Ashleigh and Landon. Their banter and literary quote conversations were such fun. A message of not being quick to judge others added some inspiration to the story. I wouldn’t have minded a little longer story to add more depth to the relationship between the main characters.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
March 11, 2019
Terrible theology!! The self-righteous preaching in this book was not only a major turn off, it was dangerous. Bad message. Those in the church were condemned as narrow-minded haters, while those disillusioned with the church were the good guys who "understandably" behaved deceitfully, vengefully and cruelly. When they discovered they were mistaken in their uninformed assumptions, there was no need to apologize..."they'll understand". Really?? The only Scripture thrown out was a litany against the pastor (televangelist....of course a negative connotation....because in this book church people are horrible) about loving everyone. Great truth, but not ALL the truth. Galatians 5:17 says you can't live as you please, and goes on to mention behaviors that aren't acceptable. In other words, there are behaviors that are not acceptable for believers. We can pull out lots of Scripture passages and twist them to fulfill our agenda, but what does the whole of Scripture say? The gospel isn't going to be acceptable to the masses, because submission and obedience are a part of loving Jesus. That will involve putting off unbiblical behavior. Is that convenient? No, it's not. But you accept it or you don't. Please don't say unbiblical behavior is okay, and anyone who says differently is a bigot. The church is not horrible if they hold their people to a holy standard. They're instructed by Scripture to do so. That doesn't mean everyone in the church thinks they're perfect or better than anyone else. And it doesn't give permission to be mean or hateful or self-righteous or condescending to others. But one can't say, "I'm going to live however I choose, and you have to love me and allow me to be part of this church or you're a bigot". You left out I Corinthians 5 as well as countless passages that enumerate acceptable vs unacceptable behavior. It's inconvenient, but sanctification is a part of following Christ. You call sin exactly what it is, even if it's you doing it. You don't say it's acceptable behavior. I could say more about other things that just didn't work for me in this book, but the dangerous theology is enough to not recommend the book. I have read other books by this author that I very much enjoyed, but this one was not one of them.
November 9, 2018
I’ll start by saying that I love the cover of this book. I enjoyed some of the humor in the book and the relationship between Landon and Ashleigh (their interactions with each other, their banter, their chemistry). But the novella seemed to be taken over by too many heavy hot button topics and issues that are much too complicated to drop into a novella and have time to fully develop them. There are some delicate topics that need more careful handling and development than I think this novella was able to provide. Had the book been a full length novel, then perhaps there could have been more time to go more in depth and really deal with the situations appropriately. Even if it had been a full length book, there still might have been just too many issues to fully develop all of them.
Spoiler Alert:
The book tried too quickly to handle too many big issues—from homosexuality, sexual abuse in the church, hypocrisy, judging (even judging others for being what some of the characters considered too judging), hypocrisy in the church, leaving the church and no longer participating anywhere with a fellowship of believers, to many of the characters not really being truly honest with themselves. So, so many things that just did not have the time to be sufficiently developed well. It was especially frustrating to see characters such as the sister and her boyfriend lying and encouraging others to lie and never seeing a moment where they were convicted by the Holy Spirit over that. They only seemed to be upset over it when they were caught in the lie and it seemed more like guilt than true conviction. And yet those who were lying were the very ones who were looking at someone else and judging him for, in their opinion, being too judgmental.
I think I would have enjoyed the novella more if the focus had stayed more on the development of Landon and Ashleigh’s relationship rather than flitting from one heavy topic to another with not enough time to manage the topics well.
Spoiler Alert:
The book tried too quickly to handle too many big issues—from homosexuality, sexual abuse in the church, hypocrisy, judging (even judging others for being what some of the characters considered too judging), hypocrisy in the church, leaving the church and no longer participating anywhere with a fellowship of believers, to many of the characters not really being truly honest with themselves. So, so many things that just did not have the time to be sufficiently developed well. It was especially frustrating to see characters such as the sister and her boyfriend lying and encouraging others to lie and never seeing a moment where they were convicted by the Holy Spirit over that. They only seemed to be upset over it when they were caught in the lie and it seemed more like guilt than true conviction. And yet those who were lying were the very ones who were looking at someone else and judging him for, in their opinion, being too judgmental.
I think I would have enjoyed the novella more if the focus had stayed more on the development of Landon and Ashleigh’s relationship rather than flitting from one heavy topic to another with not enough time to manage the topics well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2020
I think this tried to unpack wayyyyy too many big social issues in a novella. The premise itself was a little ridiculous (um, no sis, I won’t cover up my broken marriage for your benefit) and the feelings for her fake husband came a little too easily.
If my husband had left me because he was gay, I’m pretty sure I would put up a crazy emotional fight to ever trust a man again, not go full hormonal teen on a smoldering mountain man just because he smells like the woods and has pretty eyes. I wanted to like Ashleigh, but she was in her head a ton and just never felt real, despite poignant flashbacks. There was no real fallout from her scars, and that’s surprising because emotional trauma was handled so well in Bookishly.
So sadly, this one was just meh.
If my husband had left me because he was gay, I’m pretty sure I would put up a crazy emotional fight to ever trust a man again, not go full hormonal teen on a smoldering mountain man just because he smells like the woods and has pretty eyes. I wanted to like Ashleigh, but she was in her head a ton and just never felt real, despite poignant flashbacks. There was no real fallout from her scars, and that’s surprising because emotional trauma was handled so well in Bookishly.
So sadly, this one was just meh.
May 26, 2019
Cute Novella
I have discovered that I quite enjoy reading novellas on my Kindle. Literarily for Keeps only cemented that thought. Sarah has a knack for writing great ones.
I have discovered that I quite enjoy reading novellas on my Kindle. Literarily for Keeps only cemented that thought. Sarah has a knack for writing great ones.
October 1, 2018
Don't let the cover fool you
Ashleigh’s sister, Claire, and her boyfriend assumed that his father would never give his blessing for them to marry if he knew about Ashleigh’s divorce, especially if he knew the reason. After all, being a famous TV evangelist means that he is under some heavy scrutiny. But Ken and Anne want to meet Ashleigh and her husband, so what’s a girl going to do? After all, this is for her sister!
Enter Landon. When he hears Ashleigh explaining her dilemma to her friends at their book club, he volunteers, much to everyone’s surprise. My romantic heart assumed that his reason was that he had heard all about her from his mom and had developed a crush on her, sight unseen. His explanation as to why he would do this was simply “personal reasons”. And a crush would be personal, right?
I loved the way so many literary quotes and references were used. Ashleigh was stunned that Landon was able to finish her quotes. Their bantering was so fun. I particularly enjoyed the way Ashleigh assumed so many things about what a pastor’s wife should be like. Wow! It makes me think of Elizabeth’s retort to Mr. Darcy and Miss Bingley in Pride and Prejudice:
“I am no longer surprised at your knowing only six accomplished women. I rather wonder now at your knowing any.”
But don’t let the cover fool you. This is not a story full of flowers and sunshine. Author Sarah Monzon tackles some hard issues here. Ashleigh had been hurt by the church for something that wasn’t really even her fault – to the point that it didn’t affect her faith in God but it did keep her from fellowship. Almost everyone has made some rash judgments about the others and it results in secrets being exposed and eyes opened. Yet all of this is handled in a very tactful and sensitive manner with some lighthearted moments interspersed to keep it from being heavy and somber.
This is a book that will make you laugh and will also make you take a second look at the way you perceive things. I hope it will help you to remember to be slower to judge others and more gracious toward those who struggle with different sins than you do."
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I was given a free copy of this item. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.
Ashleigh’s sister, Claire, and her boyfriend assumed that his father would never give his blessing for them to marry if he knew about Ashleigh’s divorce, especially if he knew the reason. After all, being a famous TV evangelist means that he is under some heavy scrutiny. But Ken and Anne want to meet Ashleigh and her husband, so what’s a girl going to do? After all, this is for her sister!
Enter Landon. When he hears Ashleigh explaining her dilemma to her friends at their book club, he volunteers, much to everyone’s surprise. My romantic heart assumed that his reason was that he had heard all about her from his mom and had developed a crush on her, sight unseen. His explanation as to why he would do this was simply “personal reasons”. And a crush would be personal, right?
I loved the way so many literary quotes and references were used. Ashleigh was stunned that Landon was able to finish her quotes. Their bantering was so fun. I particularly enjoyed the way Ashleigh assumed so many things about what a pastor’s wife should be like. Wow! It makes me think of Elizabeth’s retort to Mr. Darcy and Miss Bingley in Pride and Prejudice:
“I am no longer surprised at your knowing only six accomplished women. I rather wonder now at your knowing any.”
But don’t let the cover fool you. This is not a story full of flowers and sunshine. Author Sarah Monzon tackles some hard issues here. Ashleigh had been hurt by the church for something that wasn’t really even her fault – to the point that it didn’t affect her faith in God but it did keep her from fellowship. Almost everyone has made some rash judgments about the others and it results in secrets being exposed and eyes opened. Yet all of this is handled in a very tactful and sensitive manner with some lighthearted moments interspersed to keep it from being heavy and somber.
This is a book that will make you laugh and will also make you take a second look at the way you perceive things. I hope it will help you to remember to be slower to judge others and more gracious toward those who struggle with different sins than you do."
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I was given a free copy of this item. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.
November 5, 2018
Sarah Monzon does it again! Whether it's a fun rom-com or a deep moving novel she captures the heart, mind and funny bone with her writing.
I love Ashleigh and Landon's story. The cute cover, bookish title, and the laugh out loud story within the pages made this a quick one day read. One swoony kiss, literary quotes, romantic moments, and heartache make up this sweet novella.
Ms. Monzon tackles a hot button topic among believers in this little book and she handles it well and shows both sides respectfully and honestly.
I adored this story and found myself attempting to hold laughter in so I didn't wake my husband, which was impossible. I love books that make me laugh, swoon, and think; this book does all of that. I highly recommend it!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via the publisher in association with the author's street team. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love Ashleigh and Landon's story. The cute cover, bookish title, and the laugh out loud story within the pages made this a quick one day read. One swoony kiss, literary quotes, romantic moments, and heartache make up this sweet novella.
Ms. Monzon tackles a hot button topic among believers in this little book and she handles it well and shows both sides respectfully and honestly.
I adored this story and found myself attempting to hold laughter in so I didn't wake my husband, which was impossible. I love books that make me laugh, swoon, and think; this book does all of that. I highly recommend it!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via the publisher in association with the author's street team. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 21, 2021
Literarily for Keeps was a super fun and adorable read! I found myself literally laughing out loud at times and the classic book references spoke to my book loving heart. Ashleigh, despite the unusual circumstances, was down to earth and relatable while Landon was really sweet and caring. I loved them together and the kisses! Swoon!
This book did mention some things that I was surprised to see, however I think that a lot of the characters learned to not be so judgmental. This is a good lesson for each of us. I found myself pausing in some places and processing what I was reading and that is good. I think this book was a little short for such deep subjects, but it does provide "food for thought".
Because this book was so short I would have loved to see an Epilogue showing the characters after some time had passed. Maybe in the next book, which I was so excited to see features Harper as the main lady! Looking forward to reading it soon.
This book did mention some things that I was surprised to see, however I think that a lot of the characters learned to not be so judgmental. This is a good lesson for each of us. I found myself pausing in some places and processing what I was reading and that is good. I think this book was a little short for such deep subjects, but it does provide "food for thought".
Because this book was so short I would have loved to see an Epilogue showing the characters after some time had passed. Maybe in the next book, which I was so excited to see features Harper as the main lady! Looking forward to reading it soon.
October 20, 2018
Awesome!
Awesome.❤
I desperately need to borrow some synonyms from Ashleigh.
Bookishly Ever After was my favorite.
Now?
I'm not quite sure how to choose.
Literarily For Keeps.
I waited wayyy to long to read this.
I laughed too loud and grinned way too wide as I devoured this incredibly adorable novella.
I think my heart nearly stopped at one point. I had to reread the scene as a millions thoughts flooded my brain. "That did not just happen...Oh My Goodness...Did NOT expect that!!!!"
The above is a summery, kinda.
Literarily For Keeps is a wonderful novella that shouldn't stay on your to-read bookshelf for too long.
Awesome.❤
I desperately need to borrow some synonyms from Ashleigh.
Bookishly Ever After was my favorite.
Now?
I'm not quite sure how to choose.
Literarily For Keeps.
I waited wayyy to long to read this.
I laughed too loud and grinned way too wide as I devoured this incredibly adorable novella.
I think my heart nearly stopped at one point. I had to reread the scene as a millions thoughts flooded my brain. "That did not just happen...Oh My Goodness...Did NOT expect that!!!!"
The above is a summery, kinda.
Literarily For Keeps is a wonderful novella that shouldn't stay on your to-read bookshelf for too long.
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