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Reality of Love #2
Mom-Com
This single parent dating experiment is about to go viral…
Jameson
When my eight-year-old son starts asking question about love, I decide to use a magazine article on how to woo a woman to prove, once and for all, that romantic love doesn’t exist. Companionship, habit, mild fondness, sure, but not that thing called love. I have my hypothesis ready and I’m dead set on experimenting on my new neighbor, the single mom who does the weirdest things.
But my experiment goes awry in unexplainable ways...
Lily-Marie
When dating apps fail me spectacularly, I decide to go old school and use a 1950s magazine I dug up at a yard sale to help find Mr. Right.
Fifty Ways to Find a Husband.
Sounds legit.
Problem is, my new neighbor, Mr. Science Professor, keeps blocking my attempts. And keeps losing his shirt. How does a book nerd have so many muscles anyway? Thing is, my kids like his son and we start spending a lot of time together, which is distracting me from my ultimate goal: to find a husband to sweep me off my feet and be a good father to my kids.
Things get comical quick when my best friend records everything in her daily newspaper column. I can’t help but wonder if single moms like me can actually catch a husband. Or will this Mom-Com go viral as an epic train wreck?
Jameson
When my eight-year-old son starts asking question about love, I decide to use a magazine article on how to woo a woman to prove, once and for all, that romantic love doesn’t exist. Companionship, habit, mild fondness, sure, but not that thing called love. I have my hypothesis ready and I’m dead set on experimenting on my new neighbor, the single mom who does the weirdest things.
But my experiment goes awry in unexplainable ways...
Lily-Marie
When dating apps fail me spectacularly, I decide to go old school and use a 1950s magazine I dug up at a yard sale to help find Mr. Right.
Fifty Ways to Find a Husband.
Sounds legit.
Problem is, my new neighbor, Mr. Science Professor, keeps blocking my attempts. And keeps losing his shirt. How does a book nerd have so many muscles anyway? Thing is, my kids like his son and we start spending a lot of time together, which is distracting me from my ultimate goal: to find a husband to sweep me off my feet and be a good father to my kids.
Things get comical quick when my best friend records everything in her daily newspaper column. I can’t help but wonder if single moms like me can actually catch a husband. Or will this Mom-Com go viral as an epic train wreck?
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2019
540 people are currently reading
723 people want to read
About the author
Marika Ray
89 books1,426 followersMarika is a USA Today bestselling author writing steamy RomComs to make your heart explode and bring a smile to your face. She lives by the beach and posts a delightful number of hot lifeguard pictures.
Drop your email to be notified when each book releases: http://bit.ly/MarikaRayNews
Be sure to add my new releases to your TBR Today!
Drop your email to be notified when each book releases: http://bit.ly/MarikaRayNews
Be sure to add my new releases to your TBR Today!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
June 28, 2025
This book was cute and funny at times, but the cringe was hard to ignore.
There was a great premise of both MCs following advice on how to find a spouse. The advice was from a ’50s magazine, and some of the tips were absolutely hilarious. That would’ve been enough to build a story around, especially since they were both single parents, so there was enough going on.
But alas.
There was a second part of the premise: Jameson running a “scientific experiment” to prove that romantic love doesn’t exist. To his eight-year-old son. With all due respect—wtf.
I liked the writing well enough, and following advice from the ’50s got them both into some pretty funny situations, so I enjoyed the book despite the “science.” I even briefly considered giving it four stars. But then came the grand gesture, so over the top it left a bad taste in my mouth. So three stars it is.
————-
Cute and funny, but too many cringe moments. The thing I hate almost as much as third-act breakups are over-the-top grand gestures. Yikes!”😬
RTC
There was a great premise of both MCs following advice on how to find a spouse. The advice was from a ’50s magazine, and some of the tips were absolutely hilarious. That would’ve been enough to build a story around, especially since they were both single parents, so there was enough going on.
But alas.
There was a second part of the premise: Jameson running a “scientific experiment” to prove that romantic love doesn’t exist. To his eight-year-old son. With all due respect—wtf.
I liked the writing well enough, and following advice from the ’50s got them both into some pretty funny situations, so I enjoyed the book despite the “science.” I even briefly considered giving it four stars. But then came the grand gesture, so over the top it left a bad taste in my mouth. So three stars it is.
————-
Cute and funny, but too many cringe moments. The thing I hate almost as much as third-act breakups are over-the-top grand gestures. Yikes!”😬
RTC
April 30, 2021
Well, talk nerdy to me, I loved this!!
Jameson is such an adorkable science professor. And man, is he is HOT! And Lily-Marie is the beautiful neighbor who ends up being his next science experiment victim. These two together made my heart so happy.
I enjoyed this from beginning to end. The Disney movies, the kids, and OMGoodness...the lists!
This book was full of so much charming goodness, I never wanted to put it down.
And can we talk about the dirty talking? Holy MF-ing deliciousness. Whoa. Not only is he hiding a sexy bod under those sweater vests, he’s also got a filthy mouth. *heart eyes*
This single mom + single dad romance was everything I’d hoped it would be...sweet, sexy, and fun!
Jameson is such an adorkable science professor. And man, is he is HOT! And Lily-Marie is the beautiful neighbor who ends up being his next science experiment victim. These two together made my heart so happy.
I enjoyed this from beginning to end. The Disney movies, the kids, and OMGoodness...the lists!
This book was full of so much charming goodness, I never wanted to put it down.
And can we talk about the dirty talking? Holy MF-ing deliciousness. Whoa. Not only is he hiding a sexy bod under those sweater vests, he’s also got a filthy mouth. *heart eyes*
This single mom + single dad romance was everything I’d hoped it would be...sweet, sexy, and fun!
May 29, 2019
-Sara, ☆☆☆☆☆
Firstly you need to read this book!! What is better than two deserving single parents finding love?? Nothing! This book covers it all, your perfect happily ever after. I love a book that can make me laugh out loud and this book definitely had me laughing.
Firstly you need to read this book!! What is better than two deserving single parents finding love?? Nothing! This book covers it all, your perfect happily ever after. I love a book that can make me laugh out loud and this book definitely had me laughing.
May 25, 2019
This book is a great laugh. Single parents need to have some fun, too, sometimes. I loved how Lily-Marie and Jameson's kids liked hanging out, it gave them more than enough reason to be near each other. Definitely a quick, one-sitting kind of read. The chemistry between them was great. Marika Ray is a new author to me. Really glad I read this book. Highly recommend for anyone needing a good laugh.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book through Kylie's Fiction Addiction. This is my honest, voluntary review.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book through Kylie's Fiction Addiction. This is my honest, voluntary review.
May 24, 2019
Mom-Com by Marika Ray is a sweet and funny story that will have you in stitches. This is a delicious treat of a rom-com that puts together a single mother and single dad. The chemistry between them is sensational!!! They are next door neighbors and of course this makes things between them a bit angsty but oh so good and steamy. We learn why each of them are wearied when it comes to dating yet soon they find a reason to get back into the dating world again. The story picks up and goes into overdrive. Without giving too much away, Lily-Marie and Jameson make this story shine and heat ! I enjoyed their romance and their relationship. It was a great read with laughs, drama, small angst, twists and great romance with beautiful heat. I can't wait for book 3 in this new series.
My Rating: 4.5 stars ****
My Rating: 4.5 stars ****
May 23, 2019
#Hotnerd ALERT 💗💗💗
Marika Ray, this new to me author, had me laughing out loud and smiling like a loon in this awkward, sexy romance. Jameson and Lily-Marie are so unassuming and quirky with each other, you can't help but fall in love with them. It was hard to believe they were so clueless about their feelings towards one another at times, but that is exactly what made their journey so endearing.
Jameson is a very smart guy, but socializing and flirting with woman is not his speciality. He's a book worm and stepping outside that comfort zone doesn't come easy to him. He was an alpha male in his own right, but it was so refreshing to read about one that didn't act like an a**hole too.
Lily-Marie is honestly waiting for her prince charming. The tactics she uses to snag that ideal man are downright hilarious. The fact that she's so oblivious of Jameson's intentions made me want to jump in and grab him for myself. Once the initial misinterpretation of their relationship wears off and they realize how attracted they are to one another, LOOK OUT 🔥🔥
Marika's dialogue is fresh, witty and the banter is great. If you need a break from the heavy, check this out!
Marika Ray, this new to me author, had me laughing out loud and smiling like a loon in this awkward, sexy romance. Jameson and Lily-Marie are so unassuming and quirky with each other, you can't help but fall in love with them. It was hard to believe they were so clueless about their feelings towards one another at times, but that is exactly what made their journey so endearing.
Jameson is a very smart guy, but socializing and flirting with woman is not his speciality. He's a book worm and stepping outside that comfort zone doesn't come easy to him. He was an alpha male in his own right, but it was so refreshing to read about one that didn't act like an a**hole too.
Lily-Marie is honestly waiting for her prince charming. The tactics she uses to snag that ideal man are downright hilarious. The fact that she's so oblivious of Jameson's intentions made me want to jump in and grab him for myself. Once the initial misinterpretation of their relationship wears off and they realize how attracted they are to one another, LOOK OUT 🔥🔥
Marika's dialogue is fresh, witty and the banter is great. If you need a break from the heavy, check this out!
September 25, 2024
This was a cute and funny read...I was chuckling so often while reading.
I really liked the plot and the characters.
Lily-Marie and Jameson are single parents and newly neighbours.They are two opposites,they have such different personalities. Lily-Marie is a dreamer who still believes in Love,Happily Ever After and Prince Charming. Jameson is a nerd professor who never believed in Love.
It was entertaining to follow their adventure in the quest of true love for the first and that to finally prove that love doesn't exist for the latter.
I'm a Marika Ray new fan and I can't wait to read next book.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
August 30, 2022
a lot of secondhand embarrassment
August 21, 2019
I so wanted to love this book. The blurb was awesome, it was a whole new spin to the most classic of tales, and it felt really fresh and inventive.
What could possibly go wrong when the story is about Lily-Marie, a single mother of two, who decides to try tips from the 1950s to catch a husband? All the while her new (hot) neighbour Jameson is trying to prove to his son that romantic love doesn’t exist and uses Lily-Marie as his subject? That sounds like a fun, quirky story with endless potential.
But unfortunately, my high expectations weren’t met.
Don’t get me wrong, it was an entirely nice and passable read. The story had the most charming vibe, the characters were appealing and the family dynamics were lovely. There was such a homey feel to it all, I kind of wanted to go live in the book for a while.
I love funny and witty reads. The romances I enjoy the most are the ones that combine lovable characters with wit and smut. So it felt like an utter letdown that Mom-Com so clearly tipped over the edge, from wit to exaggerated comedy, so quickly. Many of the scenes were so over-the-top silly and embarrassing that I just had to stop reading and take a break. In other words, I was pulled out of the story again and again simply because I was cringing so much.
Once I accepted the fact that the story was more of a comedy than a romance, I did enjoy the read way more. I started to re-evaluate my first impressions and was almost entirely convinced it was actually really charming, and it being so original made it even better.
Then the ILU-incident happened. I mean, what the ever-loving f*ck! Come on! I had just started to warm up to the read again and Ray had to ruin it by introducing declarations of love way too soon for it to make any sense. But okay. I took a break. And went at it again. And I learned that yes, I could in fact enjoy the story despite the ILU.
Only then date-night happened. The scene when Lily-Marie and Jameson finally get it on is probably one of the most awkward sex-scenes I’ve ever read. Sure, they changed position a lot, but that was about it. I felt completely cheated. I was counting on the dirt to save the day …or read as it were.
And as the icing on this very irregular cake, I had a very hard time overlooking the obvious misconceptions of how scientists work. Jameson’s “experiment” doesn’t fulfill even the most basic criteria of experimental research, so to repeatedly refer to him as a professor, a scientist, and mention his analytical capability is just irritating. But I realise that most readers won’t bat an eye at those fallacies in Mom-Com, but since I’m an actual scientist myself, it’s hard not to flinch from Ray’s descriptions.
In conclusion, this is a perfectly readable book. A solid 3-star. It’s a shame really, because the story-line is really fun and original, and the characters are awesome. But to me it was the most uneven read in that some parts were fantastic while some parts ruined the entire experience.
https://reflectionsofaswedishgirl.blo...
What could possibly go wrong when the story is about Lily-Marie, a single mother of two, who decides to try tips from the 1950s to catch a husband? All the while her new (hot) neighbour Jameson is trying to prove to his son that romantic love doesn’t exist and uses Lily-Marie as his subject? That sounds like a fun, quirky story with endless potential.
But unfortunately, my high expectations weren’t met.
Don’t get me wrong, it was an entirely nice and passable read. The story had the most charming vibe, the characters were appealing and the family dynamics were lovely. There was such a homey feel to it all, I kind of wanted to go live in the book for a while.
I love funny and witty reads. The romances I enjoy the most are the ones that combine lovable characters with wit and smut. So it felt like an utter letdown that Mom-Com so clearly tipped over the edge, from wit to exaggerated comedy, so quickly. Many of the scenes were so over-the-top silly and embarrassing that I just had to stop reading and take a break. In other words, I was pulled out of the story again and again simply because I was cringing so much.
Once I accepted the fact that the story was more of a comedy than a romance, I did enjoy the read way more. I started to re-evaluate my first impressions and was almost entirely convinced it was actually really charming, and it being so original made it even better.
Then the ILU-incident happened. I mean, what the ever-loving f*ck! Come on! I had just started to warm up to the read again and Ray had to ruin it by introducing declarations of love way too soon for it to make any sense. But okay. I took a break. And went at it again. And I learned that yes, I could in fact enjoy the story despite the ILU.
Only then date-night happened. The scene when Lily-Marie and Jameson finally get it on is probably one of the most awkward sex-scenes I’ve ever read. Sure, they changed position a lot, but that was about it. I felt completely cheated. I was counting on the dirt to save the day …or read as it were.
And as the icing on this very irregular cake, I had a very hard time overlooking the obvious misconceptions of how scientists work. Jameson’s “experiment” doesn’t fulfill even the most basic criteria of experimental research, so to repeatedly refer to him as a professor, a scientist, and mention his analytical capability is just irritating. But I realise that most readers won’t bat an eye at those fallacies in Mom-Com, but since I’m an actual scientist myself, it’s hard not to flinch from Ray’s descriptions.
In conclusion, this is a perfectly readable book. A solid 3-star. It’s a shame really, because the story-line is really fun and original, and the characters are awesome. But to me it was the most uneven read in that some parts were fantastic while some parts ruined the entire experience.
https://reflectionsofaswedishgirl.blo...
May 8, 2019
So this is a true must read, 5 star book in my opinion. There is so much that I want to say, and so much I don't want to say as to not ruin this read for you.
This book is what you get when you mix a true Disney princess fan that wants her prince charming to come in and sweep her off her feet- Lily-Marie, and a nerdy, and awkward science professor that doesn't believe that you can fall in love because it is scientifically impossible- Jameson.
This book has so much heart, soul and funny scenes that you will not want to put it down. From laughing at Lily-Marie for her ridiculous antics and wanting to hug Jameson because he is so freaking adorable and awkward. Jameson is so sweet, romantic and will steal your heart with one flower. He doesn't know how to say what he wants to say and it makes him even that much more endearing. I am totally in love with his character and the scenes in this book. He makes you want to keep reading to see what is going to happen next.
You will get the heat, the passion, the laugh out loud hilarious moments, and the so sweet moments that you may tear up for a minute. It is the first book that I have read in a while that brought out so many emotions in me. It was the right book at the right moment for my mood. A very different romance read as well, I haven't seen any with a premise like it and I love that I got a look into a book that is very different than all the other romance books out there.
Trust me when I say, you must read this book! It is 110% worth the read. My favorite book of Marika's yet. Loved it so much!!!
If you want to know a little about the characters, here ya go!
Lily-Marie-- single mom of two kids, looking for her prince. She watches Disney movies on repeat before bed. She wants to fall in love, she wants that prince that will just walk in and sweep her off her feet. She's quirky, fun loving and when she finds an article in a magazine from the 50's at a yard sale that she believes will help her find that man, she starts trying things from it knowing it will find her a man. You get some super funny scenes because of it, and you will want to knock her over the head on some of the other times as well.
Jameson- OH MY Jameson. a single dad and a science professor that doesn't believe that you can fall in love. He believes that it is impossible, and he is out to prove it to his son, scientifically of course that it is not possible. His dad emails him an article written about 50 ways to get a wife and he uses it as his base for his experiment. He is sexy and will steal every single bit of your heart!
True 5 Star read!! Check it out!!
This book is what you get when you mix a true Disney princess fan that wants her prince charming to come in and sweep her off her feet- Lily-Marie, and a nerdy, and awkward science professor that doesn't believe that you can fall in love because it is scientifically impossible- Jameson.
This book has so much heart, soul and funny scenes that you will not want to put it down. From laughing at Lily-Marie for her ridiculous antics and wanting to hug Jameson because he is so freaking adorable and awkward. Jameson is so sweet, romantic and will steal your heart with one flower. He doesn't know how to say what he wants to say and it makes him even that much more endearing. I am totally in love with his character and the scenes in this book. He makes you want to keep reading to see what is going to happen next.
You will get the heat, the passion, the laugh out loud hilarious moments, and the so sweet moments that you may tear up for a minute. It is the first book that I have read in a while that brought out so many emotions in me. It was the right book at the right moment for my mood. A very different romance read as well, I haven't seen any with a premise like it and I love that I got a look into a book that is very different than all the other romance books out there.
Trust me when I say, you must read this book! It is 110% worth the read. My favorite book of Marika's yet. Loved it so much!!!
If you want to know a little about the characters, here ya go!
Lily-Marie-- single mom of two kids, looking for her prince. She watches Disney movies on repeat before bed. She wants to fall in love, she wants that prince that will just walk in and sweep her off her feet. She's quirky, fun loving and when she finds an article in a magazine from the 50's at a yard sale that she believes will help her find that man, she starts trying things from it knowing it will find her a man. You get some super funny scenes because of it, and you will want to knock her over the head on some of the other times as well.
Jameson- OH MY Jameson. a single dad and a science professor that doesn't believe that you can fall in love. He believes that it is impossible, and he is out to prove it to his son, scientifically of course that it is not possible. His dad emails him an article written about 50 ways to get a wife and he uses it as his base for his experiment. He is sexy and will steal every single bit of your heart!
True 5 Star read!! Check it out!!
May 4, 2019
Oh, I love this book! I can say I have never had the pleasure of coming across a book like this. Finally, a premise I haven't ever read! Also, Marika Ray is a new author for me. I will have to check out more from her because this book thoroughly entertained me. So much so that I could not put this book down and read it in one sitting. Even better is there will be another book featuring the heroine's best friend.
So, I love everything about this book. Every aspect. While yes, it became a little predictable, I did not mind. Especially while I knew something funny was about to happen, I wasn't sure exactly what is was. There are some totally cringe-worthy moments that forced second hand embarrassment on me and I loved every minute. Unfortunately, because this book was pretty fast-paced, I felt like it was over too soon. I needed more! Both H/h were the epitome of awkward and endearing characters. Even the secondary characters made this book more likable.
Jameson and Lily-Marie were so adorable. I couldn't stop laughing at their behavior. I can promise you this book is lighthearted and enjoyable. I can also promise you laughter and the most amazing grand gesture. Our hero may be awkward and clueless when it comes to romance but he was truly one of the most endearing characters I have ever had the pleasure of reading about.
I definitely recommend this romantic comedy. It's a well-written, fast-paced entertaining read!
This is my honest on unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
So, I love everything about this book. Every aspect. While yes, it became a little predictable, I did not mind. Especially while I knew something funny was about to happen, I wasn't sure exactly what is was. There are some totally cringe-worthy moments that forced second hand embarrassment on me and I loved every minute. Unfortunately, because this book was pretty fast-paced, I felt like it was over too soon. I needed more! Both H/h were the epitome of awkward and endearing characters. Even the secondary characters made this book more likable.
Jameson and Lily-Marie were so adorable. I couldn't stop laughing at their behavior. I can promise you this book is lighthearted and enjoyable. I can also promise you laughter and the most amazing grand gesture. Our hero may be awkward and clueless when it comes to romance but he was truly one of the most endearing characters I have ever had the pleasure of reading about.
I definitely recommend this romantic comedy. It's a well-written, fast-paced entertaining read!
This is my honest on unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it. :)
August 16, 2019
This book.
1. What a great premise - they are BOTH using Jameson's grandma's old advice column to try to score a husband or prove love doesn't exist. And they are both wrong AND right.
2. This book is so freaking funny. I snort-laughed a few too many times!!! I swear they think things I would think!
3. The characters were so relatable! Jameson is a little nerdy, and has trouble saying the right things. Lily-Marie is a single mom, struggling to believe she wasn't returned, damaged goods. And it's everything a 30-something can relate to.
4. The HEAT when it came! Oh my word! So good!!!
5. The black moment was small and not horribly long, which I'm thankful for. Angst isn't my favorite. This was just long enough to wonder what might happen.
6. The Grand Gesture and the HEA. Oh. My. Swoon. I teared up. So many times. Jameson is so perfect. This, right here: "I needed to listen to her, fully understand what she needed in a partner, and then be that partner." Sigh. Swoon. Love.
I'll be going back and reading the first in the series, and waiting impatiently for the third!!!
I was given a free ARC of this book, and am giving my honest opinion.
1. What a great premise - they are BOTH using Jameson's grandma's old advice column to try to score a husband or prove love doesn't exist. And they are both wrong AND right.
2. This book is so freaking funny. I snort-laughed a few too many times!!! I swear they think things I would think!
3. The characters were so relatable! Jameson is a little nerdy, and has trouble saying the right things. Lily-Marie is a single mom, struggling to believe she wasn't returned, damaged goods. And it's everything a 30-something can relate to.
4. The HEAT when it came! Oh my word! So good!!!
5. The black moment was small and not horribly long, which I'm thankful for. Angst isn't my favorite. This was just long enough to wonder what might happen.
6. The Grand Gesture and the HEA. Oh. My. Swoon. I teared up. So many times. Jameson is so perfect. This, right here: "I needed to listen to her, fully understand what she needed in a partner, and then be that partner." Sigh. Swoon. Love.
I'll be going back and reading the first in the series, and waiting impatiently for the third!!!
I was given a free ARC of this book, and am giving my honest opinion.
June 3, 2019
Another Marika great!!! Love this author and all her books but this one was OMG LOL all the way thru!!! Great characters and the story line is awesome! From fairytales to 50yr old gossip columns...while it is very silly at times it is also extremely hot hot hot at others...Jameson is the hot sexy nerd and Lily is the pretty princess next door!!! Very happy ending!!! Quick n easy read!!!
June 1, 2019
ABSOLUTELY LOVE this book! This book makes me want my own nerdy scientist. There are some teal comical moments in here that really got me laughing. This book will make you not want to put it down. This is a must read.
Want to read
February 29, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (2/29/2020)! 🎁
June 3, 2019
I really loved the premise of this book. It felt original.
Both characters are using similar articles as an experiment that goes awry for each of them in a different way, yet leads them to each other and a very sweet HEA. The children are adorable. The exes are not trouble makers for the sake of making trouble. And the chemistry between Jameson and Lily-Marie is off the charts. This sets the book up for many humorous moments and some hot scenes. I loved this book by this author and cannot to read more of her work.
Both characters are using similar articles as an experiment that goes awry for each of them in a different way, yet leads them to each other and a very sweet HEA. The children are adorable. The exes are not trouble makers for the sake of making trouble. And the chemistry between Jameson and Lily-Marie is off the charts. This sets the book up for many humorous moments and some hot scenes. I loved this book by this author and cannot to read more of her work.
May 8, 2019
Shawn wasn’t your forever,but your forever is out there somewhere. I just know it. - Gabby
Lily-Marie is despondent. Her one and only, Shawn, had dumped her. Her, the mother of his two children; discarded like worn out shoes. Lily-Marie had always dreamed of a white dress and a sparkling ring, but it had never happened. Trying to “put herself out there” for two years and date after date has been a dismal failure. Either the guys were losers or cheating liars. But Gabby, her BFF, kept encouraging her. Then Lily-Marie found an old Prevention magazine at a garage sale, and the title caught her attention….
Newly divorced, Jameson and his 8-year-old son Stein moved in next door to Lily-Marie and her children. Jameson thinks she’s a scatterbrain and flighty with no common sense. But still... rather attractive. Jameson has a conversation with his son about love, and he decides to conduct an experiment to prove romantic love doesn’t exist. After all, he’s a scientist, right? The thought leaves as he readies himself to begin his new career in his new position of the head of the science department. Then he receives a phone call and an email from his father. The email attachment gets the wheels spinning once again... what if? What if he could devise an experiment that would PROVE romantic love didn’t exist... what if?
“In life, there were those things that were believed without thought or speculation. My soul remembered. My soul knew. And now my brain just had to catch up. The real declaration of love wasn’t in the words, but in the listening, in the doing. I needed to listen to her, fully understand what she needed in a partner, and then be that partner. Not because I needed her. But because she needed me. Because I wanted to be the man she deserved.” - Jameson
What a hoot! Verbal miscues, fumbling advances, and misunderstandings make this a fun and fascinating read.
Lily-Marie is despondent. Her one and only, Shawn, had dumped her. Her, the mother of his two children; discarded like worn out shoes. Lily-Marie had always dreamed of a white dress and a sparkling ring, but it had never happened. Trying to “put herself out there” for two years and date after date has been a dismal failure. Either the guys were losers or cheating liars. But Gabby, her BFF, kept encouraging her. Then Lily-Marie found an old Prevention magazine at a garage sale, and the title caught her attention….
Newly divorced, Jameson and his 8-year-old son Stein moved in next door to Lily-Marie and her children. Jameson thinks she’s a scatterbrain and flighty with no common sense. But still... rather attractive. Jameson has a conversation with his son about love, and he decides to conduct an experiment to prove romantic love doesn’t exist. After all, he’s a scientist, right? The thought leaves as he readies himself to begin his new career in his new position of the head of the science department. Then he receives a phone call and an email from his father. The email attachment gets the wheels spinning once again... what if? What if he could devise an experiment that would PROVE romantic love didn’t exist... what if?
“In life, there were those things that were believed without thought or speculation. My soul remembered. My soul knew. And now my brain just had to catch up. The real declaration of love wasn’t in the words, but in the listening, in the doing. I needed to listen to her, fully understand what she needed in a partner, and then be that partner. Not because I needed her. But because she needed me. Because I wanted to be the man she deserved.” - Jameson
What a hoot! Verbal miscues, fumbling advances, and misunderstandings make this a fun and fascinating read.
May 24, 2019
I seriously adore, just ADORE, Mom-Com by Marika Ray! I’ve never read Miss Ray before and I feel like I’ve been missing out! The characters are completely fabulous… they are so fun, so real… you can’t help but to fall for them… totally feet over head, adorable! Lily-Marie cracked me up with watching her Disney movies on repeat before bed. That’s a serious woman looking for her Prince Charming. Jameson is so analytical, so scientific. Who would think the romantic and scientific could mesh well, but mesh they do!
Seriously, this has to be one of the cutest storylines I’ve read in a while. Ray’s writing really gave us so much funny! So much heat! I loved the feel of family that centers in the storyline. I really feel like Marika Ray was able to portray a ton of feelings. Really, I probably spent half of this book laughing and the other half explaining to my family what I was laughing so much about.
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
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Seriously, this has to be one of the cutest storylines I’ve read in a while. Ray’s writing really gave us so much funny! So much heat! I loved the feel of family that centers in the storyline. I really feel like Marika Ray was able to portray a ton of feelings. Really, I probably spent half of this book laughing and the other half explaining to my family what I was laughing so much about.
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Check out my Blog: Next Book Review
Check out my Facebook Page: Next Book Review Facebook
May 23, 2019
Are you ready to laugh and swoon at the same time? This is the ultimate rom com. This is the story of two opposites that find each other by fate. Jameson and Lily-Marie are both single parents but that's where their similarities end. Jameson doesn't believe romantic love exists. Lily-Marie believes in it fully and is searching for it. They both come across an old article with steps to find a husband and wife. Jameson is trying to disprove love as a scientist, Lily-Marie is taking it into her own hands to find her prince. They didn't expect to find the real thing with each other. I loved loved this story. I was cracking up the whole way through. I couldn't put it down. It felt like a novella because I couldn't stop reading. Jameson is so swoon worthy. My weakness in a romance novel is a sexy singe dad and that's Jameson. I also love Lily-Marie. She is a strong woman who is a single mother. But she is also quirky and very awkward. I could relate so much with her personality wise. It was a blast watching them interact and talk about hot! Their love is addicting. I can't suggest this book enough. You will thank me as you are laughing out loud with tears in your eyes. I can't wait for more!
May 26, 2019
I'm a HUGE fan of Marika Ray, and I'm totally part of her Beach Squad, but I'm gonna say, she hit Mom-Com out of the park. It's the story of two single parents, each who have their own hangups about the dating world, with kids who don't want them to spend the rest of their lives alone. Each of them finds the same old article, so each tries to follow the article in different ways, which makes for a hilarious read. Jameson is using the article to prove that love doesn't exist, while Lily-Marie, who has been on some spectacularly bad dates from a dating app, is using it to find Mr. Right. However, it turns out that Jameson, her neighbor, ends up blocking all her attempts at finding her HEA. Now, you already know that this is going to get very hilariously complicated, especially when all the kids like to hang out together, so these complete opposites start spending time together, letting the sparks fly. Adding to the chaos, Lily-Marie's bestie decides to make this crazy situation an article recording all of ups (not many of those) & downs (so many of those) which has become such a huge train wreck. So what's a single mom to do? Well with all the laughter, heat, f-bomb worthy twists, and some angst, you'll have to one click to see. HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
May 23, 2019
I can't stop smiling! This book was EVERYTHING! As a single mom myself, I thoroughly enjoy reading about single parents navigating the dating world. This book did not disappoint! I loved how Lily-Marie and Jameson both sought advice from a 1950's magazine on how to find a "wife" or "husband". Jameson was set on proving the magazine article wrong and Lily-Marie was hoping to find Mr. Right with the help of the article. What ensued was an epic, modern day romance that fairy tales are made of. I loved Lily-Marie's antics to try and find true love and how Jameson was there to intercept her plans. I swooned so hard over how romantic and caring Jameson was towards Lily-Marie. He literally swept her off her feet and don't even get me started on how cute and adorable their children were. This book is like a Disney movie. It has everything you could want in a romance novel. Don't miss out on this book.
March 8, 2024
A real joy😍
I really enjoy this story. It was Inge and interesting. The first page I read I was hooked. Lily-Marie is a amazing single mother. She is funny, pretty, smart and sweet. She is looking a her future husband. After having a horrible dates she found an old guide to find her a husband. Lily-Marie did not count her next door neighbor to block all of her chances. Jameson is a single dad. He is handsome, nerdy, sweet and quirky. When he decide to experiment with Lily-Marie to fall in love with him. Jameson did not count on his feelings for her. He is amazing man. Will the two single parents find love with each other? Or someone else? I love it. The writing was done great and it was easy to follow along. Grab this book and you will not be disappointed. Great work again Marika Ray
I really enjoy this story. It was Inge and interesting. The first page I read I was hooked. Lily-Marie is a amazing single mother. She is funny, pretty, smart and sweet. She is looking a her future husband. After having a horrible dates she found an old guide to find her a husband. Lily-Marie did not count her next door neighbor to block all of her chances. Jameson is a single dad. He is handsome, nerdy, sweet and quirky. When he decide to experiment with Lily-Marie to fall in love with him. Jameson did not count on his feelings for her. He is amazing man. Will the two single parents find love with each other? Or someone else? I love it. The writing was done great and it was easy to follow along. Grab this book and you will not be disappointed. Great work again Marika Ray
July 5, 2019
YOU HAVE TO FOLLOW YOUR HEART TO BE TRULY HAPPY
I don’t think I’ve laughed at a book this hard in a long time. Two people, Jameson, a single parent professor, and Lily-Marie, a single mother who works as an executive-assistant for Disney, have decided that they are going to find love via a 1950s article written by Jameson’s grandmother. Neither knew the other was following the same venue. Their screw-ups and attempts make for an enjoyable read. Follow these two to see if the experiment of getting Lily-Marie to fall in love with Jameson and Lily-Marie’s search for a husband – not Jameson – pans out.
I don’t think I’ve laughed at a book this hard in a long time. Two people, Jameson, a single parent professor, and Lily-Marie, a single mother who works as an executive-assistant for Disney, have decided that they are going to find love via a 1950s article written by Jameson’s grandmother. Neither knew the other was following the same venue. Their screw-ups and attempts make for an enjoyable read. Follow these two to see if the experiment of getting Lily-Marie to fall in love with Jameson and Lily-Marie’s search for a husband – not Jameson – pans out.
August 6, 2019
Absolutely Hilarious!
I'm usually picky about my funny romances. A lot of them end up failing to hold my interest. This one continued to move the relationship forward, but the awkward hilarity of it all had me texting my sisters with quotes from the book. They are currently reading it now by the way. It was refreshing that both the main characters had their fair share of weird, and I rooted for them the entire way. I'm super happy to see a lighthearted single parent romance. (They get pretty depressing sometimes.)
I'm usually picky about my funny romances. A lot of them end up failing to hold my interest. This one continued to move the relationship forward, but the awkward hilarity of it all had me texting my sisters with quotes from the book. They are currently reading it now by the way. It was refreshing that both the main characters had their fair share of weird, and I rooted for them the entire way. I'm super happy to see a lighthearted single parent romance. (They get pretty depressing sometimes.)
March 24, 2020
Truly enjoyed that, even though I'm not big into contemporary romance.
September 26, 2022
Not my favorite. This took a while for me to get into. Was almost a DNF but with it being so short, I powered thru. It was cute. But definitely not her best
September 29, 2019
A modern fairytale, but definitely not a retelling, this story is it’s own. I LOVED Jameson and Lily-Marie!! She’s determined to find a husband, and her happily ever after, and he’s determined to prove that romantic love doesn’t really exist. I couldn’t get enough of these characters. I laughed, I swooned, I wanted these characters to be real! An absolute must read romantic comedy that rivals all your favorite fairytales!
June 28, 2019
Eeep! Could Jameson's bumbling be any more adorable? Loved this story with its two perfect-for-each other leads and cute kids to round out the sweetness. And, damn, but Jameson was sexy! You'll adore this book!
July 17, 2019
This book was an easy fun read that you can't help but enjoy. I laughed and rooted for the characters. Definitely worth the read
July 7, 2019
I enjoyed this funny Rom-Com. This book was a funny, easy to read and hard to put down. Lily was looking for a husband and wanting fairytale princess treatment. She found a article from a 1950's magazine, 50 way to find a husband. Lily tested this out on any male in her path. Except her hot new neighbor. Slowly but surely Jameson ended up being just who Lily was looking for.
Jameson and his son were new to town. He was a science professor. He was trying to prove romantic love didn't exist to his son. After reading an article from a 1950's magazine, 50 ways to find a wife.. He tried his experiment out on his neighbor. I didn't take Jameson long before his experiment completely backfired in his face. Jameson fell for Lily hook line and sinker.
This couple found their happily-ever after. It was sweet, romantic and hilarious. I hope to see another book with Lily's friend Gaby getting her own fairy tale.
Hope to read more bty this author in the future.
Jameson and his son were new to town. He was a science professor. He was trying to prove romantic love didn't exist to his son. After reading an article from a 1950's magazine, 50 ways to find a wife.. He tried his experiment out on his neighbor. I didn't take Jameson long before his experiment completely backfired in his face. Jameson fell for Lily hook line and sinker.
This couple found their happily-ever after. It was sweet, romantic and hilarious. I hope to see another book with Lily's friend Gaby getting her own fairy tale.
Hope to read more bty this author in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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