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One Fairy Tale Wedding #1
Unguarded
Once upon a time, there was a young woman who'd been treated like a princess all her life. Then her parents died and left her in the care of a beast.
Ever since she lost her parents when she was eighteen, Charlie has had to put up with Simon Shae, whom her parents made the trustee of her inheritance. He's grumpy and unsmiling and always trying to boss her around. At first, she resented him, but she's twenty-five now, and she kind of likes his beast-like qualities. In fact, she's crazy about him.
All she has to do is make him stop looking at her as a little girl and see her as the woman she is. A romantic weekend at a grand wedding in the mountains is the perfect opportunity to open his eyes. He reluctantly agrees to be her date, but if she wants to win his heart, she has to be brave enough to make her move.
Unguarded is the first novella in the One Fairy Tale Wedding series, in which three friends make a pact to get what they really want during one wedding weekend.
Ever since she lost her parents when she was eighteen, Charlie has had to put up with Simon Shae, whom her parents made the trustee of her inheritance. He's grumpy and unsmiling and always trying to boss her around. At first, she resented him, but she's twenty-five now, and she kind of likes his beast-like qualities. In fact, she's crazy about him.
All she has to do is make him stop looking at her as a little girl and see her as the woman she is. A romantic weekend at a grand wedding in the mountains is the perfect opportunity to open his eyes. He reluctantly agrees to be her date, but if she wants to win his heart, she has to be brave enough to make her move.
Unguarded is the first novella in the One Fairy Tale Wedding series, in which three friends make a pact to get what they really want during one wedding weekend.
172 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 13, 2018
382 people are currently reading
497 people want to read
About the author
Noelle Adams
139 books2,690 followersNoelle handwrote her first romance novel in a spiral-bound notebook when she was twelve, and she hasn't stopped writing since. She has lived in eight different states and currently resides in Virginia, where she teaches English, reads any book she can get her hands on, and offers tribute to a very spoiled cocker spaniel.
She loves travel, art, history, and ice cream. After spending far too many years of her life in graduate school, she has decided to reorient her priorities and focus on writing contemporary romances.
She loves travel, art, history, and ice cream. After spending far too many years of her life in graduate school, she has decided to reorient her priorities and focus on writing contemporary romances.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
February 21, 2018
h chased the much older H in a sweet way, but this was one book which needed the H POV because he was so enigmatic that he was a mystery locked inside a puzzle or whatever,lol.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
September 14, 2025
Um…no. I’ll be the first to admit that Noelle Adams might very well be my favorite author. Her books are usually fantastic. Stacked with emotion, slice of life elements, fantastic characters, and hot sex. She’s got it all. I finished Counted earlier today, and was craving another Noelle Adams. So naturally I picked up another one I owned on my kindle. Out of eenie-meanie mioni-mo, I chose Unguarded. Unfortunately, this is actually my first miss from this author.
I think if this story had been longer, it would have been way better. There was just not enough time here to get familiar with our characters, their motives, and their personalities. This MMC is almost a caricature of every alphahole MMC, and this FMC is bare bones for personality. The plot is so underdeveloped—even for a novella—and makes no sense. The FMC also has two best friends that have their own books but not relevance to the story. And this main couple had zero chemistry, i genuinely skimmed their sex scenes. I repeat: I skimmed the sex scenes. A book has to be extremely boring or bad for me to say no to smut.
Overall, extremely poor book. I’m sad to say this is the first Noelle Adams that I’m not a fan of. I don’t see myself continuing this series either.
I think if this story had been longer, it would have been way better. There was just not enough time here to get familiar with our characters, their motives, and their personalities. This MMC is almost a caricature of every alphahole MMC, and this FMC is bare bones for personality. The plot is so underdeveloped—even for a novella—and makes no sense. The FMC also has two best friends that have their own books but not relevance to the story. And this main couple had zero chemistry, i genuinely skimmed their sex scenes. I repeat: I skimmed the sex scenes. A book has to be extremely boring or bad for me to say no to smut.
Overall, extremely poor book. I’m sad to say this is the first Noelle Adams that I’m not a fan of. I don’t see myself continuing this series either.
March 8, 2021
Oh my gosh! I wasn’t expecting the older hero/younger heroine trope here. What a great surprise!
Charlie was an easy going heroine that’s decided to take her chance with Simon, the man that has looked after her finances following the death of her parents. He’s fifteen years older but that never bothers Charlie.
Simon is a grumpy bear and it’s pretty obvious he’s keeping his distance from Charlie when it comes to anything that might be crossing a line he’s drawn in his own mind. I did love his protective ways and his growly attitude. When he finally yields to his desire...holy heck it was hot!
This is a fast read and is centered on the relationship issues which is primarily the age difference.
Heroine POV
Safe
Triggers
Charlie was an easy going heroine that’s decided to take her chance with Simon, the man that has looked after her finances following the death of her parents. He’s fifteen years older but that never bothers Charlie.
Simon is a grumpy bear and it’s pretty obvious he’s keeping his distance from Charlie when it comes to anything that might be crossing a line he’s drawn in his own mind. I did love his protective ways and his growly attitude. When he finally yields to his desire...holy heck it was hot!
This is a fast read and is centered on the relationship issues which is primarily the age difference.
Heroine POV
Safe
Triggers
Want to read
January 9, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (4/27/2019)! 🎁
February 9, 2018
Unguarded is the first story in a romantic novella series with three friends who vow to take hold of their love lives while at at a mutual acquaintance's wedding.
Charlie lost her wealthy parents at eighteen, with her father having named an employee and personal friend Simon as the trustee to her inheritance. Since that time they'd had a respectful relationship as something like friends, with Simon giving her advice and keeping in touch on a weekly basis. Now Charlie is 25 and seeing the 40 year old Simon in a different light. Can she convince Simon to do the same?
I love how the author puts together these fun, flirty romances in a sweet and sexy package. This one has a Beauty and the Beast theme, with the older, grumpy, 'bear' like Simon refusing to see that Charlie is now a grown woman with her own mind. Well, he sees it, he just doesn't want to take any inappropriate actions and worries that others will think he's taking advantage of her. Charlie is eventually able to convince him to take a chance and they share some sexy scenes on the way to their happy ending. It's an easy, lighthearted and low angst romance.
A copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
Charlie lost her wealthy parents at eighteen, with her father having named an employee and personal friend Simon as the trustee to her inheritance. Since that time they'd had a respectful relationship as something like friends, with Simon giving her advice and keeping in touch on a weekly basis. Now Charlie is 25 and seeing the 40 year old Simon in a different light. Can she convince Simon to do the same?
I love how the author puts together these fun, flirty romances in a sweet and sexy package. This one has a Beauty and the Beast theme, with the older, grumpy, 'bear' like Simon refusing to see that Charlie is now a grown woman with her own mind. Well, he sees it, he just doesn't want to take any inappropriate actions and worries that others will think he's taking advantage of her. Charlie is eventually able to convince him to take a chance and they share some sexy scenes on the way to their happy ending. It's an easy, lighthearted and low angst romance.
A copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
June 27, 2021
I enjoy Noelle Adams books especially as they are free. This one wasn't too impressed with as she was 25 acting like a besotted teenager but suppose she got what she wanted in the end
February 16, 2019
A lovely little Beauty and the Beast themed novella! The concept of this entire series--and this story in particular--is so fun and feels unique and exciting. I adored Charlie and Simon, and it was great to watch their relationship grow. Charlie was a great heroine, and I was impressed with her character development and growth during a short story. Simon is the quintessential Noelle Adams hero--quiet and brooding, but deeply emotional with so much more underneath the surface.
While this is a quick story, I was completely hooked from page 1 and didn't feel like anything was missing once I reached the end. The epilogue in particular was just perfection! The glimpses of Hannah and Bruce were intriguing, and I am really looking forward to reading how their story plays out! Also, I know you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but this cover is just gorgeous! This would be a one-click for me just based on the cover alone.
I adored this story and can't wait for more!
While this is a quick story, I was completely hooked from page 1 and didn't feel like anything was missing once I reached the end. The epilogue in particular was just perfection! The glimpses of Hannah and Bruce were intriguing, and I am really looking forward to reading how their story plays out! Also, I know you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but this cover is just gorgeous! This would be a one-click for me just based on the cover alone.
I adored this story and can't wait for more!
May 19, 2022
This free novella is an age-gap romance where Charlie pursues her father's friend, Simon. From that description, you'd be surprised by how passionless it is. There's no element of taboo.
This didn't really work for me as a romance. I felt uncomfortable with how many times Simon had to tell Charlie he didn't want her. She was relentless. She turned up to his bedroom in a sexy nighty after being explicitly rejected. In another story, she'd be the creepy side character.
Lastly, Charlie accuses Polly of being catty, but Charlie is very catty towards Polly herself. She doesn't even have a kind thought for her supposed friend when Polly is literally walking down the aisle. Why even go to the wedding, Charlie?
This didn't really work for me as a romance. I felt uncomfortable with how many times Simon had to tell Charlie he didn't want her. She was relentless. She turned up to his bedroom in a sexy nighty after being explicitly rejected. In another story, she'd be the creepy side character.
Lastly, Charlie accuses Polly of being catty, but Charlie is very catty towards Polly herself. She doesn't even have a kind thought for her supposed friend when Polly is literally walking down the aisle. Why even go to the wedding, Charlie?
February 13, 2018
Charlie has lost her parents at 18 and they named Simon as her trustee in their will. He is 15 years older and basically an introvert. But, at 25 years old she find herself completely smitten by this grumpy, unsmiling man. Will this beast succumb the charms of this woman and her romance?
This series is very interesting, a tree book series telling the story of three friends that make a pact of getting what their really want in a wedding weekend, all based in fairy tales.
Charlie is the rose and Simon is the beast, but what you see in this book is an independent, charming and beautiful woman conquering the man of her dreams. It is so beautiful!
A tale that you will want to read it!
This series is very interesting, a tree book series telling the story of three friends that make a pact of getting what their really want in a wedding weekend, all based in fairy tales.
Charlie is the rose and Simon is the beast, but what you see in this book is an independent, charming and beautiful woman conquering the man of her dreams. It is so beautiful!
A tale that you will want to read it!
December 3, 2021
3.5 כוכבים.
אני אוהבת את הכתיבה של נואל אדמס. כל הספרים שלה שקראתי עד כה כתובים בצורה כנה ומרגשת. הספר הזה הוא חלק מטרילוגיה שעוסקת בשלוש חברות טובות: צ'רלי (שרלוט), האנה ומדיסון, שכולן מוזמנות לחתונה בבית מלון יוקרתי בהרים. הספר הראשון מוקדש לצ'רלי.
הוריה של צ'רלי נפטרו כשהיתה בת 18. בצוואתם הם מינו את סיימון להיות המנהל של הירושה שלה, עד שימלאו לה 24 ואז הנכסים שירשה מהוריה יעברו לשליטתה. סיימון מבוגר מצ'רלי ב15 שנה ומכיר אותה מאז שהיתה נערה. הוא היה ידיד טוב של אביה, שהיה סוג של מנטור בשבילו. סיימון תמיד דאג לצ'רלי, לכספה ונכסיה, והקפיד על שיחות עדכון שוטפות, ויחד עם זאת תמיד היה קר ומנוכר כלפיה. ביום הולדתה ה24, בעקבות תקרית ביניהם, צ'רלי מבינה שהיא נמשכת לסיימון ומעוניינת להעמיק את הקשר ביניהם, אבל סיימון נרתע מכל העניין. שניהם מוזמנים לחתונה בבית מלון יוקרתי בהרי וירג'יניה, וצ'רלי מחליטה לנסות להתקרב לסיימון בסוף השבוע הזה.
ספר קצר וממש מתוק, קראתי בביס אחד. חבל שדמותו של סיימון נשארת חידתית ולא ברור מדוע הוא כל כך סגור ולא חברותי. היה נחמד אם הסופרת היתה מראה את הדברים גם מנקודת המבט שלו ומפרטת יותר על העבר שלו.
נראה שהסיפור כביכול אמור לשאוב השראה מ"היפה והחיה" אבל אין שום דמיון לאגדה הזו. הסיפור הזכיר לי בעיקר את "אמה" של ג'יין אוסטן (אחד הספרים האהובים עליי).
אני ממשיכה הלאה לספר השני בסדרה, שמוקדש להאנה.
אני אוהבת את הכתיבה של נואל אדמס. כל הספרים שלה שקראתי עד כה כתובים בצורה כנה ומרגשת. הספר הזה הוא חלק מטרילוגיה שעוסקת בשלוש חברות טובות: צ'רלי (שרלוט), האנה ומדיסון, שכולן מוזמנות לחתונה בבית מלון יוקרתי בהרים. הספר הראשון מוקדש לצ'רלי.
הוריה של צ'רלי נפטרו כשהיתה בת 18. בצוואתם הם מינו את סיימון להיות המנהל של הירושה שלה, עד שימלאו לה 24 ואז הנכסים שירשה מהוריה יעברו לשליטתה. סיימון מבוגר מצ'רלי ב15 שנה ומכיר אותה מאז שהיתה נערה. הוא היה ידיד טוב של אביה, שהיה סוג של מנטור בשבילו. סיימון תמיד דאג לצ'רלי, לכספה ונכסיה, והקפיד על שיחות עדכון שוטפות, ויחד עם זאת תמיד היה קר ומנוכר כלפיה. ביום הולדתה ה24, בעקבות תקרית ביניהם, צ'רלי מבינה שהיא נמשכת לסיימון ומעוניינת להעמיק את הקשר ביניהם, אבל סיימון נרתע מכל העניין. שניהם מוזמנים לחתונה בבית מלון יוקרתי בהרי וירג'יניה, וצ'רלי מחליטה לנסות להתקרב לסיימון בסוף השבוע הזה.
ספר קצר וממש מתוק, קראתי בביס אחד. חבל שדמותו של סיימון נשארת חידתית ולא ברור מדוע הוא כל כך סגור ולא חברותי. היה נחמד אם הסופרת היתה מראה את הדברים גם מנקודת המבט שלו ומפרטת יותר על העבר שלו.
נראה שהסיפור כביכול אמור לשאוב השראה מ"היפה והחיה" אבל אין שום דמיון לאגדה הזו. הסיפור הזכיר לי בעיקר את "אמה" של ג'יין אוסטן (אחד הספרים האהובים עליי).
אני ממשיכה הלאה לספר השני בסדרה, שמוקדש להאנה.
March 7, 2021
This is such a heartwarming romantic read. I loved Charlie and Simon together. Charlie was a strong woman who had lost a lot in her life. Her parents both died when she was eighteen and they left her with a very big trust. That trust was managed by a friend of her parents, Simon. Charlie honestly just wanted someone to love her for her and not for her money. She was finding that task to be a very difficult one. On the night of her twenty fourth birthday she realized that perhaps she had been looking in all the wrong places. Will Charlie be able to convince the grumpiest man of all that they were meant to be?
July 28, 2022
Decent novella. Too much chasing by the heroine (actually, she did ALL the chasing), and very little dialogue from the hero. His responses were barely more than a few words, and other than thinking he was broody and uptight, it was hard to gage his interest in her…especially since most of what he says is telling her being together would be wrong.
February 5, 2018
**My thanks to the author for providing me with a free copy for an honest review**
This novella is very loosely based on the Beauty and the Beast story, however in this book the girl is the one that fights for what she wants as the man is reluctant to go for what he would like.
Charlie and her three friends have made a pact that at an up coming wedding that they will get what they want. For Charile that means her former Trustee Simon.
Simon is 15 years her senior and is more reserved and believes nothing can happen between them, Charlie pushes past his barriers and pushes her way past his walls into an area that very few others have been, his heart.
It is a fast moving novella and it pretty much all happens over one weekend.
A delightful quick read, perfect for a wet, cold rainy day.
This novella is very loosely based on the Beauty and the Beast story, however in this book the girl is the one that fights for what she wants as the man is reluctant to go for what he would like.
Charlie and her three friends have made a pact that at an up coming wedding that they will get what they want. For Charile that means her former Trustee Simon.
Simon is 15 years her senior and is more reserved and believes nothing can happen between them, Charlie pushes past his barriers and pushes her way past his walls into an area that very few others have been, his heart.
It is a fast moving novella and it pretty much all happens over one weekend.
A delightful quick read, perfect for a wet, cold rainy day.
April 3, 2018
just ok
February 7, 2020
Franchement, un peu déçue par cette histoire. Il ne s'y passe pas grand-chose. Simon n'est pas vraiment un "our" mais plutôt une tête de mule....
August 2, 2024
3.5⭐️
This is a cute and quick read. It's also a good palate cleanser. My only wish is to read Simon's POV too. Curious about Hannah's book too!
This is a cute and quick read. It's also a good palate cleanser. My only wish is to read Simon's POV too. Curious about Hannah's book too!
October 19, 2025
actual rating 3.5⭐
March 30, 2021
Overall I liked this book. I thought the heroine chased the hero a little too much and would have liked to get some of his POV to see his perspective. But otherwise it was a solid read from this author and I'll be curious to read the other stories in the series.
March 31, 2018
Ungraded is the first story in a novella series with three friends who make a pact to take hold of their love lives while at a mutual friends wedding.
Charlie lost her wealthy parents when she was eighteen, her father naming a personal friend Simon to be her financial trustee. Since that time they have had a relationship sort of like friends with Simon giving her advice and keeping in touch on a weekly basis.
Now Charlie is 25 and has started to see the much older Simon in a very different light. Charlie convinces Simon to be her date to a wedding where he was also invited. At this wedding she is determined to take control and change their relationship as she has noted that there is something between them.
This book was nice and easy to read and I liked the relationship of Charlie and Simon. I also liked Charlie’s friends, Hannah and Madison. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
Check out my review on my blog: https://www.auniversaltruth.com/?p=1990
Charlie lost her wealthy parents when she was eighteen, her father naming a personal friend Simon to be her financial trustee. Since that time they have had a relationship sort of like friends with Simon giving her advice and keeping in touch on a weekly basis.
Now Charlie is 25 and has started to see the much older Simon in a very different light. Charlie convinces Simon to be her date to a wedding where he was also invited. At this wedding she is determined to take control and change their relationship as she has noted that there is something between them.
This book was nice and easy to read and I liked the relationship of Charlie and Simon. I also liked Charlie’s friends, Hannah and Madison. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
Check out my review on my blog: https://www.auniversaltruth.com/?p=1990
January 7, 2021
Update: I just re-read this story, and still love it just as much! My first time actually re-reading a Keeper book, I was hesitant actually, as I was scared it would have lost some of the Keeper Magic, but it didn't. Jan 2021.
I loved it!!! I am so glad that I did not go by the current GR ratings of 3.68, because to me, this story was a full 5-stars. In my 30 years of reading, I have always gravitated towards only reading historical romance because I have always found there to be a special charm to the characters having morals, proprieties that they follow, yet still have a good sweet or steamy love story. I have always felt that contemporary romance was more about smut. I am feminine and independent, hear me roar and watch me be a ....slut. No, seriously, I've always thought contemporary romance as being off-the-charts sex-driven instead of love and romance driven.
But this story, Unguarded, caught me off guard. I loved the characters!!! A perfect book boyfriend. I could totally picture myself having reacted as the heroine did, kept pushing for what she wanted as she did. I am currently already reading another book by Noelle Adams (Hired Bride) and I love it as well. Noelle Adams has a perfect way of telling a love story that shows her heroes to be strong, yet vulnerable... the heroines to be cute and sexy, yet not slutty... not incredibly long stories, yet the perfect amount to not need to throw in unnecessary filler and bog the love story down. And the steam was to me very romantic and emotion-filled and believable. April 2020.
So glad I found Noelle Adams :)
I loved it!!! I am so glad that I did not go by the current GR ratings of 3.68, because to me, this story was a full 5-stars. In my 30 years of reading, I have always gravitated towards only reading historical romance because I have always found there to be a special charm to the characters having morals, proprieties that they follow, yet still have a good sweet or steamy love story. I have always felt that contemporary romance was more about smut. I am feminine and independent, hear me roar and watch me be a ....slut. No, seriously, I've always thought contemporary romance as being off-the-charts sex-driven instead of love and romance driven.
But this story, Unguarded, caught me off guard. I loved the characters!!! A perfect book boyfriend. I could totally picture myself having reacted as the heroine did, kept pushing for what she wanted as she did. I am currently already reading another book by Noelle Adams (Hired Bride) and I love it as well. Noelle Adams has a perfect way of telling a love story that shows her heroes to be strong, yet vulnerable... the heroines to be cute and sexy, yet not slutty... not incredibly long stories, yet the perfect amount to not need to throw in unnecessary filler and bog the love story down. And the steam was to me very romantic and emotion-filled and believable. April 2020.
So glad I found Noelle Adams :)
March 11, 2019
This one was too much of... nothing.
February 27, 2018
A sweet girl goes after what she wants novella.
Charlie lost her parents several years ago. Well in their will they left Simon as trustee of her inheritance until she turned 24. At some point Charlie realizes she is attracted to Simon and has to decided what to do about that. This was a sweet novella. Certain spots felt a little rushed however it was still good and told a complete romantic and heart warming story.
Charlie lost her parents several years ago. Well in their will they left Simon as trustee of her inheritance until she turned 24. At some point Charlie realizes she is attracted to Simon and has to decided what to do about that. This was a sweet novella. Certain spots felt a little rushed however it was still good and told a complete romantic and heart warming story.
March 18, 2018
25 y/o h really wanted the 40 y/o grouchy H. She relentlessly pursuing him and came to his room for a fuck. She also got fucked on the hallway as she confronted him. H had been always in love with her. 6 months later, H proposed to h though H’s surprise was ruined by h purposely setting off the alarm.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2021
Unguarding Your Heart Gets You What You Seek
I am a big Noelle Adams fan ever since I read some of the Trophy Husbands and One Night Series books. I had high hopes for the first book, Unguarded in the One Fairy Tale Wedding and it did not disappoint.
Charlotte "Charlie" Devon is still trying to figure out her life. At the age of 18, she lost both her parents and has to survive in the world alone. She has two best friends who have been her constant encouragement and support. But in this mix, is also her trustee, who she respects even if he is always scowling and frustrated with her. However, as time passes, she sees a whole new side of him and herself, will she take a risk?
Simon Shae is a financial wizard who has been given the responsibility of looking over and managing Charlie's assets, estates and portfolios after the demise of her parents. Charlie was only 18 when he took over this task and now she grown up to be a beautiful young woman. Even after his responsibilities are complete, he continues to check in and check up on Charlie. Is he doing this out of some sort of obligation or is there something more?
This was a great story of a woman realizing what she wants and being courageous to seek out what she wants, even if society and the man himself are against the idea. She believed in her instincts and was very honest about her feelings and emotions. Charlie's journey of growth and understanding were a treat to read. As for Simon, the hesitancy and uncertainty was comprehensible. I wish we had his point of view along with Charlie's but I can see why the authoress didn't allow that since this is a book and series about women. The side characters of Hannah and Madison were lovely as the next stories are about them.
I felt the book was too short, but it did its job amazingly and told a wonderful story. If you are looking for an older-younger trope love story with sweetness and kindness that is a quick read, you have come across the right book!
I am a big Noelle Adams fan ever since I read some of the Trophy Husbands and One Night Series books. I had high hopes for the first book, Unguarded in the One Fairy Tale Wedding and it did not disappoint.
Charlotte "Charlie" Devon is still trying to figure out her life. At the age of 18, she lost both her parents and has to survive in the world alone. She has two best friends who have been her constant encouragement and support. But in this mix, is also her trustee, who she respects even if he is always scowling and frustrated with her. However, as time passes, she sees a whole new side of him and herself, will she take a risk?
Simon Shae is a financial wizard who has been given the responsibility of looking over and managing Charlie's assets, estates and portfolios after the demise of her parents. Charlie was only 18 when he took over this task and now she grown up to be a beautiful young woman. Even after his responsibilities are complete, he continues to check in and check up on Charlie. Is he doing this out of some sort of obligation or is there something more?
This was a great story of a woman realizing what she wants and being courageous to seek out what she wants, even if society and the man himself are against the idea. She believed in her instincts and was very honest about her feelings and emotions. Charlie's journey of growth and understanding were a treat to read. As for Simon, the hesitancy and uncertainty was comprehensible. I wish we had his point of view along with Charlie's but I can see why the authoress didn't allow that since this is a book and series about women. The side characters of Hannah and Madison were lovely as the next stories are about them.
I felt the book was too short, but it did its job amazingly and told a wonderful story. If you are looking for an older-younger trope love story with sweetness and kindness that is a quick read, you have come across the right book!
February 15, 2018
FTC : I bought this
Quick Scores –
Heroine – 5/5
Hero – 4/5
Plot – 4/5
Smex factor – 4/5
I won’t be rewriting the plot here as, as it is only 96 pages, I don’t want to go into spoiler territory. The blurb gives a good enough plot overview for me although I will say that there really is not much similarity between this story and beauty and the beast (no actual beast, no kidnapping, no cute french lamps running about….).
The big thing for me was whether or not I could decide whether or not Simon was in a position of authority over Charlie (I was as bad as him for the most part of the book) and the author obviously realized that this may be an issue for readers. She tried very hard, mainly through the conversations between Simon and Charlie, to help me, and other readers, to decide there was no impropriety. I actually felt better about Simon for his doubts but he didn’t have anything to worry about; she was 18 when they met and, although he had control over her finances, there was no actual relationship between them prior to their romance. I absolutely adored the circumstances surrounding the development of their relationship; I love a heroine who knows what she wants and goes for it, no matter the risk to pride.
The story was fast paced and I enjoyed it. I believed in the attraction, I believed in the conflict and I believed in the way it progressed. I will be reading the next one.
Overall, a lovely little novella that kept me reading from start to finish. I want to read more from this series and this author.
Quick Scores –
Heroine – 5/5
Hero – 4/5
Plot – 4/5
Smex factor – 4/5
I won’t be rewriting the plot here as, as it is only 96 pages, I don’t want to go into spoiler territory. The blurb gives a good enough plot overview for me although I will say that there really is not much similarity between this story and beauty and the beast (no actual beast, no kidnapping, no cute french lamps running about….).
The big thing for me was whether or not I could decide whether or not Simon was in a position of authority over Charlie (I was as bad as him for the most part of the book) and the author obviously realized that this may be an issue for readers. She tried very hard, mainly through the conversations between Simon and Charlie, to help me, and other readers, to decide there was no impropriety. I actually felt better about Simon for his doubts but he didn’t have anything to worry about; she was 18 when they met and, although he had control over her finances, there was no actual relationship between them prior to their romance. I absolutely adored the circumstances surrounding the development of their relationship; I love a heroine who knows what she wants and goes for it, no matter the risk to pride.
The story was fast paced and I enjoyed it. I believed in the attraction, I believed in the conflict and I believed in the way it progressed. I will be reading the next one.
Overall, a lovely little novella that kept me reading from start to finish. I want to read more from this series and this author.
February 15, 2018
Simon and Charlie
Charlie has been orphaned at 18, she is able to take care of herself but her parents set up a trustee to handle the financial aspect of her life. With it came Simon the bear of a man in charge of said finances.
What Charlie couldnt predict that she would not only develop a friendship with Simon but it would gradually blossom. A beautiful gentle wave of emotion. If only he'd make a move.
A friends wedding was the perfect oppourtunity to change things- to really put her desire out there for him. Maybe he'd see her. Maybe he'd stop worrying about the 15 years between them...
This is a cute and romantic weekend with all the mixings of emotions, and we get to see the tidal wave of passion, restraint, denial, and guard. It's got so much emotion. Her feelings of rejection, thoughts that he would leave her love unrequited.
But maybe just maybe....
I enjoyed reading through all the different layers of this couple. The worries about what people will think, the anxiety on age, on guilt because of how they met, he's working relationship with her. That she takes what he says right to heart, until her friends put out that it could be his defence rather then rejection.
One weekend. One chance to change it all.
I liked the struggle between these two and how it all came out in one week-end. In one word-heart.
I also enjoyed the glimpses of her friends- cannot wait for the next two books.
Charlie has been orphaned at 18, she is able to take care of herself but her parents set up a trustee to handle the financial aspect of her life. With it came Simon the bear of a man in charge of said finances.
What Charlie couldnt predict that she would not only develop a friendship with Simon but it would gradually blossom. A beautiful gentle wave of emotion. If only he'd make a move.
A friends wedding was the perfect oppourtunity to change things- to really put her desire out there for him. Maybe he'd see her. Maybe he'd stop worrying about the 15 years between them...
This is a cute and romantic weekend with all the mixings of emotions, and we get to see the tidal wave of passion, restraint, denial, and guard. It's got so much emotion. Her feelings of rejection, thoughts that he would leave her love unrequited.
But maybe just maybe....
I enjoyed reading through all the different layers of this couple. The worries about what people will think, the anxiety on age, on guilt because of how they met, he's working relationship with her. That she takes what he says right to heart, until her friends put out that it could be his defence rather then rejection.
One weekend. One chance to change it all.
I liked the struggle between these two and how it all came out in one week-end. In one word-heart.
I also enjoyed the glimpses of her friends- cannot wait for the next two books.
February 11, 2019
Sejak ditinggal pergi kedua orang tuanya, Charlotte atau Charlie dititipkan kepada Simon, teman ayahnya dalam soal finansial. Makannya, Charlie sebal sama Simon, secara mereka berdua bertolak belakang sifat dan Simon cuman berinteraksi seperlunya dengan Charlie.
Tapi malam itu, ketika Charlie diputusin pacarnya, Simon menghiburnya dengan caranya sendiri. Tapi bukan tindakan itu yang bikin Charlie ngeh bahwa Simon menyukai Charlie. Malahan aksi Simon diam-diam yang ngga sengaja kepergok Charlie itu bikin hati nya deg-degan. Sejak itu, perlahan-lahan Charlie mulai melihat sosok Simon dibalik sikap irit bicaranya.
Satu tahun berlalu, perasaan Charlie terhadap Simon tidak berubah. Bersama teman-temannya, Charlie membuat rencana untuk memastikan perasaannya tersampaikan pada Simon dalam suatu perjalanan. Ketika hari H tiba dan Charlie melakukan rencananya, ternyata reaksi Simon memudarkan semangat Charlie. Simon takut dengan pandangan orang-orang kalau mereka menjadi pasangan, apalagi Simon ini lima belas tahun lebih tua dari Charlie.
Dari situ, hubungan Charlie dan Simon beberapa kali maju mundur. tapi aku suka dengan percakapan mereka, yang membuat Charlie jadi mengerti Simon lebih dalam. Terlebih lagi aku suka dengan karakter Simon di sini. Digambarkan sebagai pria pendiam yang punya sifat lembut dibaliknya. Bikin gemes.
Kalau mau cari karakter pria beta, cerita ini sangat cocok.
4 bintang
Tapi malam itu, ketika Charlie diputusin pacarnya, Simon menghiburnya dengan caranya sendiri. Tapi bukan tindakan itu yang bikin Charlie ngeh bahwa Simon menyukai Charlie. Malahan aksi Simon diam-diam yang ngga sengaja kepergok Charlie itu bikin hati nya deg-degan. Sejak itu, perlahan-lahan Charlie mulai melihat sosok Simon dibalik sikap irit bicaranya.
Satu tahun berlalu, perasaan Charlie terhadap Simon tidak berubah. Bersama teman-temannya, Charlie membuat rencana untuk memastikan perasaannya tersampaikan pada Simon dalam suatu perjalanan. Ketika hari H tiba dan Charlie melakukan rencananya, ternyata reaksi Simon memudarkan semangat Charlie. Simon takut dengan pandangan orang-orang kalau mereka menjadi pasangan, apalagi Simon ini lima belas tahun lebih tua dari Charlie.
Dari situ, hubungan Charlie dan Simon beberapa kali maju mundur. tapi aku suka dengan percakapan mereka, yang membuat Charlie jadi mengerti Simon lebih dalam. Terlebih lagi aku suka dengan karakter Simon di sini. Digambarkan sebagai pria pendiam yang punya sifat lembut dibaliknya. Bikin gemes.
Kalau mau cari karakter pria beta, cerita ini sangat cocok.
4 bintang
December 15, 2019
2.5 stars
This book could probably be renamed 'He's just not that into you'.
It honestly had potential, but I felt like it really sagged in the middle, with the two main characters having essentially the exact same conversation about 5 times in a row and no different outcome each time. Charlie was a good protagonist and Simon COULD HAVE BEEN a great love interest. However, there were no little hints throughout that he truly cared about her or was in love with her, other than him sniffing her jacket (which sounds beyond weird when I put it like that). It honestly seemed like he just wasn't interested in Charlie beyond sexual attraction and it continued this way right up until the very end. We didn't get a deep enough dive into who he is (which, contrary to popular belief, can be done without actually having his POV. See: The Hating Game). It wasn't a bad story by any means, but it definitely missed the mark in a lot of places. Considering novellas are short, every word has to count. Instead of having Charlie and Simon have the same conversation over and over again, Adams could have used those words to have a deeper look at one of our characters. How did Charlie's parents death impact her? How did it impact Simon? Was there an event in his life that made Simon very closed off? There's so much more depth here to be had, but unfortunately was missed.
I love Noelle Adams, but this one didn't hit the mark with me.
This book could probably be renamed 'He's just not that into you'.
It honestly had potential, but I felt like it really sagged in the middle, with the two main characters having essentially the exact same conversation about 5 times in a row and no different outcome each time. Charlie was a good protagonist and Simon COULD HAVE BEEN a great love interest. However, there were no little hints throughout that he truly cared about her or was in love with her, other than him sniffing her jacket (which sounds beyond weird when I put it like that). It honestly seemed like he just wasn't interested in Charlie beyond sexual attraction and it continued this way right up until the very end. We didn't get a deep enough dive into who he is (which, contrary to popular belief, can be done without actually having his POV. See: The Hating Game). It wasn't a bad story by any means, but it definitely missed the mark in a lot of places. Considering novellas are short, every word has to count. Instead of having Charlie and Simon have the same conversation over and over again, Adams could have used those words to have a deeper look at one of our characters. How did Charlie's parents death impact her? How did it impact Simon? Was there an event in his life that made Simon very closed off? There's so much more depth here to be had, but unfortunately was missed.
I love Noelle Adams, but this one didn't hit the mark with me.
January 14, 2023
A fine way to pass the time but not my favorite from this author. The premise of three best friends deciding to take a risk with their love interests over the course of a wedding weekend was compelling but the story needed more room to breathe in order for me to buy this relationship. Charlie came across as immature and entitled—even coercive, at one point—which made me question what Simon saw in her. She decided she wanted him and was sure he felt the same and then basically ignored any of his protests that this wasn’t a good idea. Simon was conflicted and opposed to dating her (because of the age gap? because he was friends with her father? because he used to be her trustee? I’m still not sure) and then all of a sudden he’s saying he’s loved her all along. When did his feelings change?! Stronger characterization would have helped, instead of such a thin archetype, as well as a longer story so it didn’t come across as so instalove.
Characters: Charlie is a 25 year old white wealthy philanthropist. She has a cocker spaniel named Lady Jane. Simon is a 40 year old white financial advisor. This is set in Virginia and West Virginia.
Content notes: past death of FMC’s parents, on page sex, alcohol, gendered pejorative, gender essentialism, ableist language, reference to past death of secondary character’s wife
Characters: Charlie is a 25 year old white wealthy philanthropist. She has a cocker spaniel named Lady Jane. Simon is a 40 year old white financial advisor. This is set in Virginia and West Virginia.
Content notes: past death of FMC’s parents, on page sex, alcohol, gendered pejorative, gender essentialism, ableist language, reference to past death of secondary character’s wife
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