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The Romano Sisters #2
Love and the Laws of Motion
Love and the Laws of Motion by Amanda Weaver will be available Sep 2019 from Carina Press!
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 9, 2019
10 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Weaver
14 books485 followersAmanda has loved romance since she read that very first Kathleen E. Woodiwiss novel at fifteen. After a long detour into a career as a costume designer in theatre, she’s found her way back to romance, this time as a writer.
A native Floridian, Amanda transplanted to New York City many years ago and now considers Brooklyn home, along with her husband, daughter, two cats, and nowhere near enough space.
A native Floridian, Amanda transplanted to New York City many years ago and now considers Brooklyn home, along with her husband, daughter, two cats, and nowhere near enough space.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 16, 2019
Oh, I felt like Livie in so many different ways. She's a heroine I feel like we don't see a lot--totally wrapped up in school to the point where she's never been kissed at 25 (I think), totally fearing of change due to her mother dying when she was a teenager, socially awkward and yet with an enormous heart. I felt everything she was going through during the book and while sometimes that would make me uncomfortable, here it really worked for me.
And Nick is also great. A mostly reformed hacker, who is estranged from his family, he just laps up all the affection that Livie is offering without realizing that's what he's doing until it's too late, and his grand gesture? This is me doing a chef's kiss at it. It was perfect.
Anyway, really recommend if any of that appeals to you, plus a heroine who is in STEM. Really looking forward to the third book which I am hoping means a chef heroine?!? It has to be, but I'm not sure how it comes about.
And Nick is also great. A mostly reformed hacker, who is estranged from his family, he just laps up all the affection that Livie is offering without realizing that's what he's doing until it's too late, and his grand gesture? This is me doing a chef's kiss at it. It was perfect.
Anyway, really recommend if any of that appeals to you, plus a heroine who is in STEM. Really looking forward to the third book which I am hoping means a chef heroine?!? It has to be, but I'm not sure how it comes about.
did-not-finish
August 18, 2019I received an advance copy from the publisher via Netgalley for review purposes. This in no way influences my review; all words, thoughts, and opinions are my own.
DNF @ 16%
Content notes up to 16%:
I was excited for this book because I really liked the first book (enemies to lovers~), but Love & the Laws of Motion is hitting some big Nope feelings for me and I’m too frustrated to continue.
One of the first, and biggest, things that stands out to me is how Livie’s attraction to Nick is being portrayed and set up. She talks about never having experienced attraction previously, but rather than exploring an ace or aro spectrum experience it’s only that’s she’s been too busy to pay attention to men previously 😒 But hey, moment this “hot” guy opens the door she’s all tingles and interest and attraction. It feels to me, as an aspec reader, that this is setting up an idea of meeting the right person and suddenly attraction will come easily and immediately. And it is an immediate attraction. From the comments Livie has made, it feels rather abrupt that she is this immediately attracted and interested in Nick. But that could just me reading from my own experiences and feelings.
The other thing that bothers me is how Livie describes her advisor(?) who she is working under/with for her doctorate. The first time we meet Dr Finch she has destroyed all the organization Livie set up in her office at the beginning of the summer (this is beginning of new semester) and the only explanation is that she dropped a pen. Livie then proceeds to “explain” this as Dr Finch not living in the same universe as 99% of people but being so brilliant she sees beyond the known universe. Like, she’s so brilliant because she lives on another plane. This reads to me as something savant and feels like it’s playing into (harmful) autistic tropes.
Finally, I’m just uncomfortable with the way body descriptions are done. I can’t even explain why, but something about how Livie was describing Nick and his fiancée Poppy feels uncomfortable to read.
Side complaint, there’s a big guy who uses his size to intimidate and while it’s challenged (by Michiko Satsuma so presumably Japanese by name while other characters in the scene are presumably white…) it’s not fun or comfortable to see big white guys use their size to intimidate and try to bully those around them, especially when they’re all women so there’s obviously a major element of misogyny. Plus, from the blurb, I strongly suspect he’s the main antagonist that tries to steal Livie’s research, and that’s from the first time meeting him at 8%.
I wanted to enjoy this because blurb sounded cute and I loved the sisterly dynamic from The One I Love to Hate but this isn’t feeling like a book for me. I may give it another chance at a later date, but for now I’m too upset by the elements mentioned above to continue reading. Thank you again to the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
DNF @ 16%
Content notes up to 16%:
I was excited for this book because I really liked the first book (enemies to lovers~), but Love & the Laws of Motion is hitting some big Nope feelings for me and I’m too frustrated to continue.
One of the first, and biggest, things that stands out to me is how Livie’s attraction to Nick is being portrayed and set up. She talks about never having experienced attraction previously, but rather than exploring an ace or aro spectrum experience it’s only that’s she’s been too busy to pay attention to men previously 😒 But hey, moment this “hot” guy opens the door she’s all tingles and interest and attraction. It feels to me, as an aspec reader, that this is setting up an idea of meeting the right person and suddenly attraction will come easily and immediately. And it is an immediate attraction. From the comments Livie has made, it feels rather abrupt that she is this immediately attracted and interested in Nick. But that could just me reading from my own experiences and feelings.
The other thing that bothers me is how Livie describes her advisor(?) who she is working under/with for her doctorate. The first time we meet Dr Finch she has destroyed all the organization Livie set up in her office at the beginning of the summer (this is beginning of new semester) and the only explanation is that she dropped a pen. Livie then proceeds to “explain” this as Dr Finch not living in the same universe as 99% of people but being so brilliant she sees beyond the known universe. Like, she’s so brilliant because she lives on another plane. This reads to me as something savant and feels like it’s playing into (harmful) autistic tropes.
Finally, I’m just uncomfortable with the way body descriptions are done. I can’t even explain why, but something about how Livie was describing Nick and his fiancée Poppy feels uncomfortable to read.
Side complaint, there’s a big guy who uses his size to intimidate and while it’s challenged (by Michiko Satsuma so presumably Japanese by name while other characters in the scene are presumably white…) it’s not fun or comfortable to see big white guys use their size to intimidate and try to bully those around them, especially when they’re all women so there’s obviously a major element of misogyny. Plus, from the blurb, I strongly suspect he’s the main antagonist that tries to steal Livie’s research, and that’s from the first time meeting him at 8%.
I wanted to enjoy this because blurb sounded cute and I loved the sisterly dynamic from The One I Love to Hate but this isn’t feeling like a book for me. I may give it another chance at a later date, but for now I’m too upset by the elements mentioned above to continue reading. Thank you again to the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 16, 2020
Rated: 4 Pink Hearts Reviewed by: Dani
A reformed hacker and astrophysicist pair up to make discoveries in space? YES PLEASE. I love nerdy, smart heroes and heroines, so having the two of them in one book had me raring to go as soon as I read the blurb. Never mind that I knew, going in, that some of the computer-related stuff might be a bit off. I willingly ignored inaccuracies for the chance to read glorious geekery.
Livie, our heroine, passed up the opportunity to do her PhD at top universities in the US so she could work alongside an amazing astrophysicist examining primordial blackholes. (Yeah, doesn’t that sound cool already?) After being awarded funding for their research, Livie manages to find Nick, a former hacker and all-round coding genius, who just so happened to come from the same neighborhood. The attraction on her part was immediate, but Nick was engaged to an aspiring model, and the task at hand was more important anyway.
Except the universe put Livie and Nick in a position of working closer together than they anticipated. The forced proximity, the late hours working, the stargazing. Coming as a shock to no one reading, these things all led to Nick and Livie giving in to some very sexy temptation. And because cheating is a big No for me, I want to reassure anyone who might be worried about that happening here that it doesn’t. By the time a relationship developed, Nick was no longer engaged. Phew.
It wasn’t all fun and data, though. Both Livie and Nick had their own issues, and both forced the other to confront their personal demons in some way. Livie was a lot nicer about it, but Nick’s strong words really kicked Livie in the backside to some major personal growth I absolutely loved. Livie went from this quiet academic without a voice to a snarky, strong badass thanks to a little heartbreak, which really connected with me. That heartbreak did make me cry, though, as it was written in a very relatable way that dredged up some memories for me!
However, not everything worked for me. I appreciate this is a very personal thing, but it was a little off-putting to read about how small and thin Livie was. Nick was very fixated on her large chest and slim waist. I know there are many women who are thin, but with everything else in media portraying skinny as the only way to be attractive, it always takes me out of the story a bit when I see it in romance novels. Especially when a heroine has a great sister who cooks Italian food and doesn’t exercise (as far as was shared with me as a reader). And while we’re at it, how is Nick so slim but muscular if he’s always on a computer? I’d expect that physique requires some gym time. Again, a personal thing, but reading and reviewing is a personal experience for me.
All-in-all, this is one for you nerds out there! Pair it with some pasta, though, as that’s what I’m craving now I’ve finished.
Originally reviewed September 2019
A reformed hacker and astrophysicist pair up to make discoveries in space? YES PLEASE. I love nerdy, smart heroes and heroines, so having the two of them in one book had me raring to go as soon as I read the blurb. Never mind that I knew, going in, that some of the computer-related stuff might be a bit off. I willingly ignored inaccuracies for the chance to read glorious geekery.
Livie, our heroine, passed up the opportunity to do her PhD at top universities in the US so she could work alongside an amazing astrophysicist examining primordial blackholes. (Yeah, doesn’t that sound cool already?) After being awarded funding for their research, Livie manages to find Nick, a former hacker and all-round coding genius, who just so happened to come from the same neighborhood. The attraction on her part was immediate, but Nick was engaged to an aspiring model, and the task at hand was more important anyway.
Except the universe put Livie and Nick in a position of working closer together than they anticipated. The forced proximity, the late hours working, the stargazing. Coming as a shock to no one reading, these things all led to Nick and Livie giving in to some very sexy temptation. And because cheating is a big No for me, I want to reassure anyone who might be worried about that happening here that it doesn’t. By the time a relationship developed, Nick was no longer engaged. Phew.
It wasn’t all fun and data, though. Both Livie and Nick had their own issues, and both forced the other to confront their personal demons in some way. Livie was a lot nicer about it, but Nick’s strong words really kicked Livie in the backside to some major personal growth I absolutely loved. Livie went from this quiet academic without a voice to a snarky, strong badass thanks to a little heartbreak, which really connected with me. That heartbreak did make me cry, though, as it was written in a very relatable way that dredged up some memories for me!
However, not everything worked for me. I appreciate this is a very personal thing, but it was a little off-putting to read about how small and thin Livie was. Nick was very fixated on her large chest and slim waist. I know there are many women who are thin, but with everything else in media portraying skinny as the only way to be attractive, it always takes me out of the story a bit when I see it in romance novels. Especially when a heroine has a great sister who cooks Italian food and doesn’t exercise (as far as was shared with me as a reader). And while we’re at it, how is Nick so slim but muscular if he’s always on a computer? I’d expect that physique requires some gym time. Again, a personal thing, but reading and reviewing is a personal experience for me.
All-in-all, this is one for you nerds out there! Pair it with some pasta, though, as that’s what I’m craving now I’ve finished.
Originally reviewed September 2019
no-thank-you
August 18, 2019No thank you due to concerns expressed in this review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
September 30, 2019
Oh this was GREAT. I really liked the relationship, but I also really liked Nick as a person, which doesn't always happen in romances for me.
September 19, 2019
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Romano sisters are back! I have been anticipating the next story in this series since I read The One I Love to Hate back in March.
Can I just say, I freaking LOVE smarty pants heroines. Livie is an astrophysicist and PhD candidate living with her family in Brooklyn. She meets Nick, a computer hacker/genius who happens to be from her neighborhood when she is looking for a coder to help with her research. When shit hits the fan in Nick's personal life & he is left without an apartment, Livie offers him the spare bedroom at her families house.
I loved this genius meets genius and all around good girl meets bad boy with a little added forced proximity romance. The writing was fantastic, the characters have layers and depth, and the conflict/resolution was so good.
The Romano sisters are back! I have been anticipating the next story in this series since I read The One I Love to Hate back in March.
Can I just say, I freaking LOVE smarty pants heroines. Livie is an astrophysicist and PhD candidate living with her family in Brooklyn. She meets Nick, a computer hacker/genius who happens to be from her neighborhood when she is looking for a coder to help with her research. When shit hits the fan in Nick's personal life & he is left without an apartment, Livie offers him the spare bedroom at her families house.
I loved this genius meets genius and all around good girl meets bad boy with a little added forced proximity romance. The writing was fantastic, the characters have layers and depth, and the conflict/resolution was so good.
September 10, 2019
Wow. Livie and Nick’s story is such a cool one. It’s like a match made in geek heaven.
Olivia Romano, the middle sister, a PhD student in astronomy, researching the phenomena occurring right when a black hole is created, is working alongside a brilliant mind. Her doctorate professor is what drew her to choose the college she is now at. Generally, not the best out there for her.
Nick DeSantis is a freelance hacker, estranged from his family, and apparently – gorgeous looking. He’s joining Livie and her professor as the code person to crack the algorithm that will dissect and analyze data from Hubble, thus getting them closer to their academic goal.
Nick and Livie’s relationship essentially begins when Livie offers Nick the Romano’s spare room until he picks himself back up after a breakup with his fiancee. Their attraction undeniable, they become sort of friends with benefits, but both also develop deep emotional bond with the other.
Dismissing their emotional closeness to each other, they face a challenging resolution to being together, amplified when Nick comes through for Livie with a solution when she is faced with a criminal behavior within the astronomy department, in the absence of her professor.
I loved this story. Granted, there was a little something missing for me in terms of Livie and Nick’s love story, them as a couple. But it might just be that as two super-nerds (and I mean that in a positive sense) they will just always be a little different.
Olivia Romano, the middle sister, a PhD student in astronomy, researching the phenomena occurring right when a black hole is created, is working alongside a brilliant mind. Her doctorate professor is what drew her to choose the college she is now at. Generally, not the best out there for her.
Nick DeSantis is a freelance hacker, estranged from his family, and apparently – gorgeous looking. He’s joining Livie and her professor as the code person to crack the algorithm that will dissect and analyze data from Hubble, thus getting them closer to their academic goal.
Nick and Livie’s relationship essentially begins when Livie offers Nick the Romano’s spare room until he picks himself back up after a breakup with his fiancee. Their attraction undeniable, they become sort of friends with benefits, but both also develop deep emotional bond with the other.
Dismissing their emotional closeness to each other, they face a challenging resolution to being together, amplified when Nick comes through for Livie with a solution when she is faced with a criminal behavior within the astronomy department, in the absence of her professor.
I loved this story. Granted, there was a little something missing for me in terms of Livie and Nick’s love story, them as a couple. But it might just be that as two super-nerds (and I mean that in a positive sense) they will just always be a little different.
October 11, 2019
2.5 stars
I wasn't as invested in this one as I was in the first couple and book. There was no connection between me and either of the main characters and I actually had a bit of trouble buying their relationship.
The author mentioned in her AN at the end that she had some problems figuring out what Livie's story would be, that it wasn't as clear as the other two sisters and I think that showed.
Also did not care for the sleazy, immoral professor plotline or the amount of drama at the end.
Still, very much looking forward to the third book, though!
I wasn't as invested in this one as I was in the first couple and book. There was no connection between me and either of the main characters and I actually had a bit of trouble buying their relationship.
The author mentioned in her AN at the end that she had some problems figuring out what Livie's story would be, that it wasn't as clear as the other two sisters and I think that showed.
Also did not care for the sleazy, immoral professor plotline or the amount of drama at the end.
Still, very much looking forward to the third book, though!
January 1, 2020
I love, love, loved this. The Brooklyn, small town feel setting: the con artist hero: the slow friends to lovers burn. So good!
Read
September 1, 2019Categories
Carina Press Romance Promise, Contemporary Romance, Romance
Miniseries
The Romano Sisters (Book #2)
Carina Press Romance Promise, Contemporary Romance, Romance
Miniseries
The Romano Sisters (Book #2)
September 9, 2019
Firstly a huge thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for this wonderful book. I read the first book in this series and quickly became a fan of Amanda Weaver's writing. There's no other way to express how much I loved this book than to say that I could not put it down once I started reading it. The mystry behind the hero's elusive status or the dorkiness of the heroine simply made me smile. I loved the hacker twist that is made in the plot. And absolute loved the evident chemistry between the protagonist from the first time they met. This book is a delight. No let me correct that, this whole series is a complete delight. There banter,chemistry,slowburn romance-all this played a major role in making this book such a success. I really don't want to give any spoilers other than saying that all gets well ans above in the end despite police and FBI's involvement. Intriguing right? Well you don't have to read the previous book to enjoy this one though I will hugely suggest reading that too because I still love it more than this one(guilty🤭). I love intelligent protagonists and this book have those characters in spade. Hope you too have a great time reading it. It was a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐read for me! Happy reading...xoxo.
August 28, 2019
Thank you netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Disappointed in this novel. I love geeky romances but this read like a YA. Lizzie needs a computer guy to help her create a computer program for her disertation and she finds Nick, cocky computer hacker who works only jobs he finds interesting. Wow! He introduced Lizzie to his fiance and treats her like a naive little girl while she crushes on him lamenting her lack of game. So frustrating to read. Immature and both characters lacked chemistry.
Disappointed in this novel. I love geeky romances but this read like a YA. Lizzie needs a computer guy to help her create a computer program for her disertation and she finds Nick, cocky computer hacker who works only jobs he finds interesting. Wow! He introduced Lizzie to his fiance and treats her like a naive little girl while she crushes on him lamenting her lack of game. So frustrating to read. Immature and both characters lacked chemistry.
October 5, 2019
Livie the Squirrelly Girl
Strong educated female characters who love flawed but capable men. Another great book in this series by one of my favorite authors
Strong educated female characters who love flawed but capable men. Another great book in this series by one of my favorite authors
September 1, 2019
Rating: 3.5 stars
Content warnings: past loss of parent, stroke, cheating, all about that thin waist, bullying, misogyny
Reformed hacker and astrophysicist pair up to make discoveries in space? YES PLEASE. I love nerdy, smart heroes and heroines, so having the two of them in one book had me raring to go as soon as I read the blurb. Never mind that I knew, going in, that some of the computer-related stuff might be a bit off. I willingly ignored inaccuracies for the chance to read glorious geekery.
Livie, our heroine, passed up the opportunity to do her PhD at top universities in the US so that she could work alongside an amazing astrophysicist examining primordial black holes. (Yeah, doesn’t that sound cool already?) After being awarded funding for their research, Livie manages to find Nick, a former hacker and all-round coding genius, who just so happened to come from the same neighbourhood. The attraction on her part was immediate, but Nick was engaged to an aspiring model, and the task at hand was more important anyway.
Except the universe put Livie and Nick in a position of working closer together than they anticipated. The forced proximity, the late hours working, the stargazing. Coming as a shock to no one reading, these things all led to Nick and Livie giving in to some very sexy temptation. And because cheating is a big No for me, I want to reassure anyone who might be worried about that happening here that it doesn’t. By the time a relationship developed, Nick was no longer engaged. Phew.
It wasn’t all fun and data, though. Both Livie and Nick had their own issues, and both forced the other to confront their personal demons in some way. Livie was a lot nicer about it, but Nick’s strong words really kicked Livie in the backside to some major personal growth that I absolutely loved. Livie went from this quiet academic without a voice to a snarky, strong badass thanks to a little heartbreak, which really connected with me. That heartbreak did make me cry, though, as it was written in a very relatable way that dredged up some memories for me!
However, not everything worked for me. I appreciate this is a very personal thing, but it was a little off-putting to read about how small and thin Livie was. Nick was very fixated on her large chest and slim waist. I know there are many women who are thin, but with everything else in media portraying skinny as the only way to be attractive, it always takes me out of the story a bit when I see it in romance novels. Especially when a heroine has a great sister who cooks Italian food and doesn’t exercise (as far as was shared with me as a reader). And while we’re at it, how is Nick so slim but muscular if he’s always on a computer? I’d expect that physique requires some gym time. Again, a personal thing, but reading and reviewing is a personal experience for me.
All-in-all, this is one for you nerds out there! Pair it with some pasta, though, as that’s what I’m craving now that I’ve finished.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content warnings: past loss of parent, stroke, cheating, all about that thin waist, bullying, misogyny
Reformed hacker and astrophysicist pair up to make discoveries in space? YES PLEASE. I love nerdy, smart heroes and heroines, so having the two of them in one book had me raring to go as soon as I read the blurb. Never mind that I knew, going in, that some of the computer-related stuff might be a bit off. I willingly ignored inaccuracies for the chance to read glorious geekery.
Livie, our heroine, passed up the opportunity to do her PhD at top universities in the US so that she could work alongside an amazing astrophysicist examining primordial black holes. (Yeah, doesn’t that sound cool already?) After being awarded funding for their research, Livie manages to find Nick, a former hacker and all-round coding genius, who just so happened to come from the same neighbourhood. The attraction on her part was immediate, but Nick was engaged to an aspiring model, and the task at hand was more important anyway.
Except the universe put Livie and Nick in a position of working closer together than they anticipated. The forced proximity, the late hours working, the stargazing. Coming as a shock to no one reading, these things all led to Nick and Livie giving in to some very sexy temptation. And because cheating is a big No for me, I want to reassure anyone who might be worried about that happening here that it doesn’t. By the time a relationship developed, Nick was no longer engaged. Phew.
It wasn’t all fun and data, though. Both Livie and Nick had their own issues, and both forced the other to confront their personal demons in some way. Livie was a lot nicer about it, but Nick’s strong words really kicked Livie in the backside to some major personal growth that I absolutely loved. Livie went from this quiet academic without a voice to a snarky, strong badass thanks to a little heartbreak, which really connected with me. That heartbreak did make me cry, though, as it was written in a very relatable way that dredged up some memories for me!
However, not everything worked for me. I appreciate this is a very personal thing, but it was a little off-putting to read about how small and thin Livie was. Nick was very fixated on her large chest and slim waist. I know there are many women who are thin, but with everything else in media portraying skinny as the only way to be attractive, it always takes me out of the story a bit when I see it in romance novels. Especially when a heroine has a great sister who cooks Italian food and doesn’t exercise (as far as was shared with me as a reader). And while we’re at it, how is Nick so slim but muscular if he’s always on a computer? I’d expect that physique requires some gym time. Again, a personal thing, but reading and reviewing is a personal experience for me.
All-in-all, this is one for you nerds out there! Pair it with some pasta, though, as that’s what I’m craving now that I’ve finished.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 9, 2019
Livie is the middle Romano sister and actually quite relatable to me. She’s a bit of a geek – well, a lot – focused on her academic achievements, and delightfully socially awkward. She is steadily working toward her PhD with her mentor and idol, comfortably living at home and not interacting much with people outside of her family. When she and her dissertation advisor receive a prestigious grant, she sets out to obtain the services of a reportedly brilliant computer programmer. One little issue: he’s dabbled in things less than legal. Oh, and she’s instantly attracted to him.
The insta-attraction might be a cheap shot, if it weren’t for the very plausible scenario of the academic hermit finally experiencing something most girls do in their teens. Attraction. Lust, even. A crush. Having been so focused on her education and research, she never even considered the idea of pursuing a romantic relationship.
But then she meets Nick, and he is the perfect package deal for her. Not only is he attractive, but he’s smart. And, despite a possible criminal record from his college days, he has quite a decent moral compass. He’s a bit closed off, though, and estranged from his family, which proves to be a source of tension at certain points in both their professional and personal relationship.
When they give in to their attraction, the physical aspect of their relationship is described in a way that reflects Livie’s inexperience, without fading to black or becoming too crass. I can believe a girl in her mid-20s whose priority is in her education and career will not make too big a deal of giving her virginity to a guy she’s attracted to both physically and intellectually. I did wonder how they navigated the logistics of hooking up when living in the same house as her father and sisters, though…
Livie has to face her fears, some stemming from the trauma of losing her mother at a young age, and learn to stand up for herself. I like the growth she experienced throughout the book, and how she learned that she can make in on her own, even if that means Nick might no longer be in the picture.
By being exposed to Livie’s family life and dynamic, Nick slowly comes to the realization what he’s been missing, and he starts to open up more and try to be part of a family again. When he is presented with the opportunity to reconnect with his family, his kneejerk reaction is understandable, but I liked how he’s mature enough to give it a chance. Teenage feelings might cloud one’s perception of events, and by giving people another chance, there’s much to be gained.
The book deals with astrophysics and academia quite a bit, but it doesn’t feel like you need an encyclopedia in order to understand it. Or maybe that’s me. Anyway, the author admits she’s no expert on the subject, but sought help in making the science talk feel plausible. I’m sure actual astrophysicists will find flaws in the science, but I liked how it was portrayed.
If you like The Big Bang Theory, this is definitely a book you’ll enjoy.
The insta-attraction might be a cheap shot, if it weren’t for the very plausible scenario of the academic hermit finally experiencing something most girls do in their teens. Attraction. Lust, even. A crush. Having been so focused on her education and research, she never even considered the idea of pursuing a romantic relationship.
But then she meets Nick, and he is the perfect package deal for her. Not only is he attractive, but he’s smart. And, despite a possible criminal record from his college days, he has quite a decent moral compass. He’s a bit closed off, though, and estranged from his family, which proves to be a source of tension at certain points in both their professional and personal relationship.
When they give in to their attraction, the physical aspect of their relationship is described in a way that reflects Livie’s inexperience, without fading to black or becoming too crass. I can believe a girl in her mid-20s whose priority is in her education and career will not make too big a deal of giving her virginity to a guy she’s attracted to both physically and intellectually. I did wonder how they navigated the logistics of hooking up when living in the same house as her father and sisters, though…
Livie has to face her fears, some stemming from the trauma of losing her mother at a young age, and learn to stand up for herself. I like the growth she experienced throughout the book, and how she learned that she can make in on her own, even if that means Nick might no longer be in the picture.
By being exposed to Livie’s family life and dynamic, Nick slowly comes to the realization what he’s been missing, and he starts to open up more and try to be part of a family again. When he is presented with the opportunity to reconnect with his family, his kneejerk reaction is understandable, but I liked how he’s mature enough to give it a chance. Teenage feelings might cloud one’s perception of events, and by giving people another chance, there’s much to be gained.
The book deals with astrophysics and academia quite a bit, but it doesn’t feel like you need an encyclopedia in order to understand it. Or maybe that’s me. Anyway, the author admits she’s no expert on the subject, but sought help in making the science talk feel plausible. I’m sure actual astrophysicists will find flaws in the science, but I liked how it was portrayed.
If you like The Big Bang Theory, this is definitely a book you’ll enjoy.
September 7, 2019
I received an ARC from Netgalley and I am happy to give my honest review.
This is a new to me author and I requested this book because of the gorgeous cover and blurb. It took me a while to get into the book and the first third was fairly slow going. Once I was invested, I couldn't put the book down.
Livie is a graduate student under a brilliant researcher. They are awarded a substantial research grant but before they can begin her mentor suffers a stroke. Livie meets Nick serendipitously and signs him up to work on the IT coding for their research. Without a mentor, she continues to work on the research and falls into bed with Nick.
Few things I didn't like: Nick is a genius savant IT guru. He's passionate about his work but closed off to the rest of the world. He's engaged to a beautiful model and things look great until they suddenly implode. Poppy breaks up with him and he finds out she was cheating on him. Bummer. I hate cheating. I also didn't like how Livie was a virgin. Now, in and of itself, virginity isn't bad. But when an author uses it in a way to signify that this character is naive, innocent, inexperienced, etc I am annoyed. Livie had no reason to be so removed from the world except by her own doing. She had ample opportunity to be attracted to people and explore her sexuality but it never occurred to her as she's been wrapped up in her scientific mind. Not a fan.
Few things I did like: Livie's sisters/family are amazing. There's a deep family bond and they had each other's backs. I liked that Nick got reconnected to his family and that he didn't blame Livie for pushing it. I also liked that Livie opened herself up to connecting with her fellow students and made some tough decisions about her career/education. I could definitely see character growth in Livie throughout the book.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read. You have to suspend belief a little in regards to their research and Nick's profession. I liked Nick & Livie together and the ending was happy if a little rushed.
This is a new to me author and I requested this book because of the gorgeous cover and blurb. It took me a while to get into the book and the first third was fairly slow going. Once I was invested, I couldn't put the book down.
Livie is a graduate student under a brilliant researcher. They are awarded a substantial research grant but before they can begin her mentor suffers a stroke. Livie meets Nick serendipitously and signs him up to work on the IT coding for their research. Without a mentor, she continues to work on the research and falls into bed with Nick.
Few things I didn't like: Nick is a genius savant IT guru. He's passionate about his work but closed off to the rest of the world. He's engaged to a beautiful model and things look great until they suddenly implode. Poppy breaks up with him and he finds out she was cheating on him. Bummer. I hate cheating. I also didn't like how Livie was a virgin. Now, in and of itself, virginity isn't bad. But when an author uses it in a way to signify that this character is naive, innocent, inexperienced, etc I am annoyed. Livie had no reason to be so removed from the world except by her own doing. She had ample opportunity to be attracted to people and explore her sexuality but it never occurred to her as she's been wrapped up in her scientific mind. Not a fan.
Few things I did like: Livie's sisters/family are amazing. There's a deep family bond and they had each other's backs. I liked that Nick got reconnected to his family and that he didn't blame Livie for pushing it. I also liked that Livie opened herself up to connecting with her fellow students and made some tough decisions about her career/education. I could definitely see character growth in Livie throughout the book.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read. You have to suspend belief a little in regards to their research and Nick's profession. I liked Nick & Livie together and the ending was happy if a little rushed.
June 17, 2020
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts are entirely my own and in no way biased.*
DNF @ 20%
Okay. Full disclosure. I DID NOT KNOW THIS WOULD BE A SUBPLOT IN THIS BOOK.
Basically... The guy, Nick, and his fiancee, Poppy break up at around the 17-18% mark of the book. Poppy is a model while Nick is a computer tech guy, basically "cyberspace Robin Hood" as the FL calls him. And yes... The model is very tropey. She only cares about her parties and gets mad when Nick refuses to go to them. She loves to shop. She's a little ditzy. She doesn't understand computers at all. She forgets the name of the FL. She's insecure of the FL despite the ML having met her only thrice by that point of the story, twice of which, she spoke to the FL as well.
This stereotyping just didn't sit well with me. But, I tried to look past it and read ahead, but the next chapter only had the ML cussing out his ex's friends saying they're all fake and vain too. He talks about how she doesn't like that he works so much when he has enough money to live comfortably without lifting a finger and doesn't understand that he *loves* working, but doesn't acknowledge that he ignores her for his computer. And then he went on to say how he never really proposed to her but it sort of just happened.
Yeah. I just couldn't read past that. Believe me, I tried. I stared at my Kindle for a long time, willing myself to read it, but it just didn't happen.
DNF @ 20%
Okay. Full disclosure. I DID NOT KNOW THIS WOULD BE A SUBPLOT IN THIS BOOK.
Basically... The guy, Nick, and his fiancee, Poppy break up at around the 17-18% mark of the book. Poppy is a model while Nick is a computer tech guy, basically "cyberspace Robin Hood" as the FL calls him. And yes... The model is very tropey. She only cares about her parties and gets mad when Nick refuses to go to them. She loves to shop. She's a little ditzy. She doesn't understand computers at all. She forgets the name of the FL. She's insecure of the FL despite the ML having met her only thrice by that point of the story, twice of which, she spoke to the FL as well.
This stereotyping just didn't sit well with me. But, I tried to look past it and read ahead, but the next chapter only had the ML cussing out his ex's friends saying they're all fake and vain too. He talks about how she doesn't like that he works so much when he has enough money to live comfortably without lifting a finger and doesn't understand that he *loves* working, but doesn't acknowledge that he ignores her for his computer. And then he went on to say how he never really proposed to her but it sort of just happened.
Yeah. I just couldn't read past that. Believe me, I tried. I stared at my Kindle for a long time, willing myself to read it, but it just didn't happen.
March 14, 2024
Another in the Romano Sisters series, in which middle sister, Olivia/Livi just wants to get her PhD in astrophysics. Toward that end, she's working with her mentor until the woman has a massive heart attack and then a stroke, rendering her out of the office and never to return. Livi has already found a tech guy who can help her with the program she needs to write to direct the Hubble Telescope to find elements in black holes. And Nick, although coming from another family in Brooklyn, hasn't seen his family in years and doesn't intend to. But he's taken both with Livi and also the programming work she needs him for.
She's all for family and staying home, even if it means not getting her academic work completed, while Nick is all about change and staying away from the tethers to family that Livi craves. How can these two memorable characters get together?
Turns out that illegalities at the university pave the way by means Livi had never imagined and that Nick has to undertake, even if it means a possible jail sentence if he can't convince the FBI he had good, legitimate reasons for doing what he does. But will Livi believe him, forgive him, take him back?
She's all for family and staying home, even if it means not getting her academic work completed, while Nick is all about change and staying away from the tethers to family that Livi craves. How can these two memorable characters get together?
Turns out that illegalities at the university pave the way by means Livi had never imagined and that Nick has to undertake, even if it means a possible jail sentence if he can't convince the FBI he had good, legitimate reasons for doing what he does. But will Livi believe him, forgive him, take him back?
July 21, 2019
Love and the Laws of Motion is the second book in the Romano Sisters series. The first book - The One I Love to Hate - is one of my favorite books of 2019 so I had to drop everything to read this as soon as I got it!
Livie is working on her PhD in astrophysics and hasn’t put any effort into her social life or dating. When she meets Nick - a computer genius who can help develop the coding she needs for her research - the sparks are there from the start.
I really enjoyed this book - I love a heroine who is intelligent and focused on her goals. I loved spending more time with the Romano family. While you could certainly read this as a stand-alone - I think you’ll love it more if you read the other first since you can see characters from that book in this one.
The only reason this wasn’t a five star read for me is that I didn’t feel as connected to Nick and Livie as a couple. I would still definitely recommend this series and I am anxiously waiting for Gemma’s story coming in 2020!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Carina Press for the advance review copy.
Livie is working on her PhD in astrophysics and hasn’t put any effort into her social life or dating. When she meets Nick - a computer genius who can help develop the coding she needs for her research - the sparks are there from the start.
I really enjoyed this book - I love a heroine who is intelligent and focused on her goals. I loved spending more time with the Romano family. While you could certainly read this as a stand-alone - I think you’ll love it more if you read the other first since you can see characters from that book in this one.
The only reason this wasn’t a five star read for me is that I didn’t feel as connected to Nick and Livie as a couple. I would still definitely recommend this series and I am anxiously waiting for Gemma’s story coming in 2020!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Carina Press for the advance review copy.
June 26, 2020
I grabbed one of Amanda Weaver's books off of my TBR list and it did not disappoint as usual.
This book is the 2nd in a series about the Romano sisters but could be a standalone. Livie, the middle sister is an astrophysicist working on her PhD and living in Brooklyn with her family who run the family bar. To complete some of her work, she needs some computer programming done so that she can train the Hubble telescope to look for something specific in space. Enter Nick, a loaner hacker who only likes to work on jobs that interest him. Nick has had a breach in his family for years and Livie is in the middle of a wonderful, tight-knit family. In that sense opposites attract although both of them are clearly passionate about their work.
Well-developed characters as always-love Weaver's work.
This book is the 2nd in a series about the Romano sisters but could be a standalone. Livie, the middle sister is an astrophysicist working on her PhD and living in Brooklyn with her family who run the family bar. To complete some of her work, she needs some computer programming done so that she can train the Hubble telescope to look for something specific in space. Enter Nick, a loaner hacker who only likes to work on jobs that interest him. Nick has had a breach in his family for years and Livie is in the middle of a wonderful, tight-knit family. In that sense opposites attract although both of them are clearly passionate about their work.
Well-developed characters as always-love Weaver's work.
October 13, 2019
3 1/5 stars!
The description for this book has everything I love - nerds, working together, roommates but unfortunately Nick and Livie’s story fell a bit flat for me.
I was hoping for a slower burn and more chemistry between our main characters but it felt sadly insta-love like. One of my favourite parts of geeky/nerdy characters is really having their awareness of attraction slowly unfold and be explored.
I will say that the ending was really cute and saved it from being a 3 star read for me.
I will definitely continue reading from this author however, my love for her first story in this series remains strong!
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
The description for this book has everything I love - nerds, working together, roommates but unfortunately Nick and Livie’s story fell a bit flat for me.
I was hoping for a slower burn and more chemistry between our main characters but it felt sadly insta-love like. One of my favourite parts of geeky/nerdy characters is really having their awareness of attraction slowly unfold and be explored.
I will say that the ending was really cute and saved it from being a 3 star read for me.
I will definitely continue reading from this author however, my love for her first story in this series remains strong!
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
November 26, 2019
I really liked this as a character study. I thought Livie's motivations progression to self-awareness and confidence were really interesting and complex, but also believable. As an academic, I always enjoy stories of academic skullduggery, and I admired how even minor characters could be well-drawn. The other thing I really love about this series is the family dynamics and the relationships in the Romano household. The romance in this one didn't grab me as much as in the first one, which might be a problem for some readers, but I found some of the other narratives really compelling.
Also--love lines like this: "Anything he was saying this badly had to be one hundred percent genuine."
Also--love lines like this: "Anything he was saying this badly had to be one hundred percent genuine."
August 9, 2019
I was pretty skeptical when I first started this book. I cringe at the "very smart and very attractive" main character trope, but Livie was great! She wasn't the most naive and over-the-top clumsy nerd. She actually was a good character with a great family! Nick was a fun character to play the love interest. This was a fun read and I'd read more by the author!
Read
September 25, 2019DNF at 50% — I just do not care about any of these cliched characters, and if I have to read about Lizzie’s chest “flooding with heat” at the sight of Nick again my eyes will be permanently rolled back. Also not here for the way the fiancée was written—are we not past writing mean girl rivals?
**Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ecopy in exchange for an honest review.**
**Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ecopy in exchange for an honest review.**
October 9, 2019
Delightful! Amanda Weaver never disappoints.I love Livie and the Romano family. I want to move to Brooklyn. LOL I love justice, which seems rare these days. I love to see a young woman realize her abilities and worth. Love and the Laws of Motion has all that and a sweet, smart love story too. Do yourself a favor and read this book.
January 1, 2020
Overall I really enjoyed the book, but for someone supposedly in love Nicholas was an awfully huge jerk especially at the end.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher via Netgalley for review consideration.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher via Netgalley for review consideration.
November 1, 2019
Cute and sweet story, and I'm always a sucker for heroines in STEM, especially those in my field.
January 12, 2021
Wonderful
This story has so much emotion so much interesting astronomy subjects . .I love this story. Excellent characters and setting.I recommend this book to everyone 5 Stars
This story has so much emotion so much interesting astronomy subjects . .I love this story. Excellent characters and setting.I recommend this book to everyone 5 Stars
Read
January 7, 2022
Trigger & Content Warnings
Sexism
Dieting mentioned
Alcohol consumtpion
Death of a mother recounted
Sexism
Dieting mentioned
Alcohol consumtpion
Death of a mother recounted
August 12, 2025
Great story.
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