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A Guy Like Him
Skylar is the kind of girl who knows exactly how many seconds it takes to read this summary. She knows exactly what her perfect future looks like and how to get there because her dad has already defined it for her and her older sister has already paved the way.
That means she knows what college classes to take her junior year, what accounting firm she’ll work at after graduation, and exactly the kind of guy she needs to keep her parents happy.
So it’s only logical that she makes a pros and cons list after every coffee date. And when she unexpectedly dives headfirst into a casual fling, she defines it with a contract that clearly outlines the rules of this secret relationship.
In this coming-of-age novel — while she balances planning her sister’s wedding, going on way too many dates, and fulfilling obligations as SGA’s Social Outreach vice chair — Skylar has to find the line between perfection and what she really wants. And discover if they are the same thing or if it pays to sometimes break the rules.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 3, 2019
129 people are currently reading
1976 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Gambill
4 books391 followersAmanda is a Top 40 Amazon contemporary romance bestselling author. She likes love stories, messy characters, secrets, and will always make at least one bad joke when she’s supposed to seem serious and important.
As a former journalist, published poet, award-winning public relations professional, and digital marketing agency executive, she now writes romance books full-time.
She's currently working on her next book (#Sable ❤️🔥). If you want to stay in the know and see her writing process, teasers, and more, make sure you follow her on Instagram at @byamandagambill. And drop her a message! She loves meeting her readers.
As a former journalist, published poet, award-winning public relations professional, and digital marketing agency executive, she now writes romance books full-time.
She's currently working on her next book (#Sable ❤️🔥). If you want to stay in the know and see her writing process, teasers, and more, make sure you follow her on Instagram at @byamandagambill. And drop her a message! She loves meeting her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 238 reviews
April 14, 2023
All good books end with me crying at 4 in the morning.
I believe this is the first book I've read where the guy was actually perfect. No cons. Absolutely none. And the FMC grovels towards the end. I hate speeches but ofc i loved hers, both of them. I actually teared up. Oof. Going soft. Big time.
Eventhough miss Gambill is easily one of my favourites, i really don't like that we don't see the couple together after they get back together after the third act break up.
That's my ONLY complaint. ONLY.
But there's a novella. So bye gotta read that to check if i need to backspace all my complaint.
I believe this is the first book I've read where the guy was actually perfect. No cons. Absolutely none. And the FMC grovels towards the end. I hate speeches but ofc i loved hers, both of them. I actually teared up. Oof. Going soft. Big time.
Eventhough miss Gambill is easily one of my favourites, i really don't like that we don't see the couple together after they get back together after the third act break up.
That's my ONLY complaint. ONLY.
But there's a novella. So bye gotta read that to check if i need to backspace all my complaint.
August 16, 2022
5 easy stars! This book, oh my goodness!
I wish I could read it again for the very first time!
I wish I could read it again for the very first time!
December 2, 2022
A Guy Like Him was a complete and utter delight from beginning to end.
I can see why so many of my bookish friends list Dean as a top book boyfriend - he is so GOOD. I love how he pushed Skye out of her comfort zone, allowing her space to sit in the moment and take it in. This book is pieced together with dozens of different beautiful moments between the two of them and I loved every single one.
How viscerally I reacted to Skye’s family and how they treat her is such a testament to Amanda’s writing. I hated them so much, though I did come around on Krista a teeny tiny bit by the end. Parents using their children as pawns, burdening them with expectations and not giving them space to be truly themselves are the WORST. I was sick to my stomach before the scene in which Dean met Skye’s family for the first time - I knew it was going to be difficult to read, and it most definitely was.
Skye’s growth throughout this book was such a joy to be apart of. I wish we could have gotten an epilogue with this book - I need to know that these two crazy kids will make it!!!!
Read if you like: new adult, opposites attract, “oops! This was supposed to be a fling, but I caught feelings”, strong character growth, sweet boys with tattoos
ETA: just finished my reread before reading the new holiday novella and loved it even more the second time around. Dean is a GIFT.
I can see why so many of my bookish friends list Dean as a top book boyfriend - he is so GOOD. I love how he pushed Skye out of her comfort zone, allowing her space to sit in the moment and take it in. This book is pieced together with dozens of different beautiful moments between the two of them and I loved every single one.
How viscerally I reacted to Skye’s family and how they treat her is such a testament to Amanda’s writing. I hated them so much, though I did come around on Krista a teeny tiny bit by the end. Parents using their children as pawns, burdening them with expectations and not giving them space to be truly themselves are the WORST. I was sick to my stomach before the scene in which Dean met Skye’s family for the first time - I knew it was going to be difficult to read, and it most definitely was.
Skye’s growth throughout this book was such a joy to be apart of. I wish we could have gotten an epilogue with this book - I need to know that these two crazy kids will make it!!!!
Read if you like: new adult, opposites attract, “oops! This was supposed to be a fling, but I caught feelings”, strong character growth, sweet boys with tattoos
ETA: just finished my reread before reading the new holiday novella and loved it even more the second time around. Dean is a GIFT.
March 9, 2023
first of all don’t get me wrong, their relationship was beautiful i really loved them. the problem here is that Skylar didn’t explode like wtf seriously her whole family is INSANE and it was all brushed off as if they just are planning ppl??? YALL ARE CONTROLLING AND TOXIC, YES SPECIALLY YOU KRISTA, im shocked that dean survived all that, skye with dean is a whole different character than skylar with her family, and that’s fucking insane, i didn’t want a redemption arc for her family i wanted skye to tell them to go fuck themselves, like girl i’m like 99% sure you don’t even like accounting you’re just brainwashed, this has a looooooot of potential seriously i really liked the parts where it’s just skye and dean, but the fact that the author just let these insane family get away with these horrible thoughts, like you are nothing without a degree, or that you NEED to work and only work to be fulfilled in life, the fact that they’re obsessed with this ridiculous social rules and that everything is rude for them, shut the fuck up for the love of god! they’re horrible, I honestly feel bad for skylar and i understand it’s hard to let go this controlling lifestyle but she really needed to cut ties with all these ppl including fucking lindy.
to finish i want to say that krist and kyle will probably be so unhappy together but won’t divorce because it’s just not right to divorce even if after years of marriage you hate eachother 🥺
to finish i want to say that krist and kyle will probably be so unhappy together but won’t divorce because it’s just not right to divorce even if after years of marriage you hate eachother 🥺
July 28, 2020
There’s so many beautiful feelings I have towards this book. It’s just so amazing! I love everything about it. First, let’s talk about the amazing author. Her writing style was beautiful. I love how the whole story flowed so perfectly. I didn’t feel confused at any point. The writing was so detailed and I loved that so much.
Dean freakin Cross doesn’t even make it on my book boyfriends list, he makes it on my book husbands list (yes I have husbands too. Haha). He’s so amazing and has such a gentle attitude. He’s not rude, he’s such a gentle soul. Doesn’t like to get angry. He’s such a go with the flow guy. His artistic side is so beautiful too. I love this character so much.
Skye is such an awesome character as well. I love how shes so particular about certain things, but knows how to let go with Dean. I literally love how her mind works and her love for numbers.
Overall this book is the cutest ever! I love the way Dean doesn’t judge Skye because of her obsession with time and numbers. He gets her for who she is. I love seeing Dean through Skyes eyes. And again Dean Cross is my favorite barista.
I highly recommend this book. It was so cozy and beautiful read. I didn’t want it to finish. This author easily has become a favorite of mine!!
Dean freakin Cross doesn’t even make it on my book boyfriends list, he makes it on my book husbands list (yes I have husbands too. Haha). He’s so amazing and has such a gentle attitude. He’s not rude, he’s such a gentle soul. Doesn’t like to get angry. He’s such a go with the flow guy. His artistic side is so beautiful too. I love this character so much.
Skye is such an awesome character as well. I love how shes so particular about certain things, but knows how to let go with Dean. I literally love how her mind works and her love for numbers.
Overall this book is the cutest ever! I love the way Dean doesn’t judge Skye because of her obsession with time and numbers. He gets her for who she is. I love seeing Dean through Skyes eyes. And again Dean Cross is my favorite barista.
I highly recommend this book. It was so cozy and beautiful read. I didn’t want it to finish. This author easily has become a favorite of mine!!
March 30, 2025
4.25★
This was a super cute new adult romance. I thought gambill used Skylar's number-obsessed, type A personality in creative, interesting ways and it was a fun contrast to artsy Dean.
My one major complaint was that this could've been edited down 100 pages. I enjoyed reading it, but for the sake of tightening up this plot and story, definitely could've cut some down. I also think the ending does wrap up pretty quickly and we could've worked through some of that a little bit more but because it was longer, I also was OK with it.
honestly, I'm totally faking it is still my fave so far, but I'm definitely looking forward to more books from gambill!
This was a super cute new adult romance. I thought gambill used Skylar's number-obsessed, type A personality in creative, interesting ways and it was a fun contrast to artsy Dean.
My one major complaint was that this could've been edited down 100 pages. I enjoyed reading it, but for the sake of tightening up this plot and story, definitely could've cut some down. I also think the ending does wrap up pretty quickly and we could've worked through some of that a little bit more but because it was longer, I also was OK with it.
honestly, I'm totally faking it is still my fave so far, but I'm definitely looking forward to more books from gambill!
August 20, 2022
I guess I'm a sucker for Amanda Gambill. I'm also a sucker for a lot of other things, including, but not limited to, artists, dark-haired tattooed men, baristas and oh... Dean.
Dean is perfect. Dean. Is. The. Definition. Of. Perfection.
Honestly, 90% of the book I couldn't help thinking how undeserving Skye is of Dean. There was hatred in there, I admit it, but by the end, she suddenly came through and got on my good side.
The story is sweet, spice level is minimal, despite the "friends with benefits" theme going on, but even tho it includes all the story elements I didn't like, Gambill has this power over me that I cannot not like her writing. I loved this. ❤️
Definitely 5 stars! 🌟
Dean is perfect. Dean. Is. The. Definition. Of. Perfection.
Honestly, 90% of the book I couldn't help thinking how undeserving Skye is of Dean. There was hatred in there, I admit it, but by the end, she suddenly came through and got on my good side.
The story is sweet, spice level is minimal, despite the "friends with benefits" theme going on, but even tho it includes all the story elements I didn't like, Gambill has this power over me that I cannot not like her writing. I loved this. ❤️
Definitely 5 stars! 🌟
January 21, 2025
She should have gone no contact with her family and start therapy. Also when she asked Dean if he could make an exeption and eat non-vegan food "Just this one time because it will look rude if you don't eat or drink anything." I nearly lost it. Me personaly, i would not let that slide.
April 27, 2024
3,5 ⭐
I love the FMC and Dean but damn, maths and her family made me so stressed out. I'm curious how it went between Dean and her father at the wedding tho
I love the FMC and Dean but damn, maths and her family made me so stressed out. I'm curious how it went between Dean and her father at the wedding tho
September 7, 2020
A Guy Like Him is a rom com/new adult romance by author, Amanda Gambill. This book has so much heart. Not only is it beautifully written and perfectly paced and plotted, the book features two romantic leads who are just so gosh darn good it’ll make you want to search out the best cup of coffee in the city, get French fries, and visit an art gallery stat (iykyk).
This is the book the rom com/new adult genre needed. And you need it. To brighten your day, make you want to dance to classic love songs, swoon over sweet artistic types, and wake up to dreams you didn’t even know you had.
Here are the details: Skylar is a planning-obsessed college junior. Her life has always been planned out to the smallest detail. She knows exactly what classes she’ll take each semester, where she’ll work after graduation, and the exact specifications of the perfect man she’ll someday marry. It’s easy because she’s following in her sister’s exact footsteps, pleasing her parents who have carefully mapped out life for her.
Her perfect plan goes out the window when she meets Dean, a barista at the campus coffee shop. He’s everything she shouldn’t want. But that doesn’t stop her from starting a no-strings-attached romantic fling with him. There are contracts and there are rules. She has no intention of knocking her perfect life plan off course, but what is she going to do with A GUY LIKE HIM?! Maybe fall in love?
Dean and Skylar are total opposites. And I love it. These are the kind of characters I want to read about in romance. Dean is the perfect gentleman, unique, caring, secure in who he is. Skylar is respectful to her parents, but also considerate of her own desires to explore more of life than just what’s planned out for her. These are genuinely nice people and it’s so easy to love them.
I loved that neither of the main characters experienced a wild, 180 degree personality shift. No one went wild or crazy. They keep their unique quirks. But there’s a gradual shifting of Skylar’s priorities and perceptions of life that is healthy and realistic. Dean is so supportive and creative with their budding relationship. There are challenges and there are conflicts, but it’s an exemplary relationship overall. It felt like this could actually happen in real life. It made the story all the easier to immerse myself in.
This is feel good reading. That day when you just need to curl up on the couch with good coffee and a good book? This is the one to reach for.
This is the book the rom com/new adult genre needed. And you need it. To brighten your day, make you want to dance to classic love songs, swoon over sweet artistic types, and wake up to dreams you didn’t even know you had.
Here are the details: Skylar is a planning-obsessed college junior. Her life has always been planned out to the smallest detail. She knows exactly what classes she’ll take each semester, where she’ll work after graduation, and the exact specifications of the perfect man she’ll someday marry. It’s easy because she’s following in her sister’s exact footsteps, pleasing her parents who have carefully mapped out life for her.
Her perfect plan goes out the window when she meets Dean, a barista at the campus coffee shop. He’s everything she shouldn’t want. But that doesn’t stop her from starting a no-strings-attached romantic fling with him. There are contracts and there are rules. She has no intention of knocking her perfect life plan off course, but what is she going to do with A GUY LIKE HIM?! Maybe fall in love?
Dean and Skylar are total opposites. And I love it. These are the kind of characters I want to read about in romance. Dean is the perfect gentleman, unique, caring, secure in who he is. Skylar is respectful to her parents, but also considerate of her own desires to explore more of life than just what’s planned out for her. These are genuinely nice people and it’s so easy to love them.
I loved that neither of the main characters experienced a wild, 180 degree personality shift. No one went wild or crazy. They keep their unique quirks. But there’s a gradual shifting of Skylar’s priorities and perceptions of life that is healthy and realistic. Dean is so supportive and creative with their budding relationship. There are challenges and there are conflicts, but it’s an exemplary relationship overall. It felt like this could actually happen in real life. It made the story all the easier to immerse myself in.
This is feel good reading. That day when you just need to curl up on the couch with good coffee and a good book? This is the one to reach for.
July 22, 2021
𝔸 𝔾𝕌𝕐 𝕃𝕀𝕂𝔼 ℍ𝕀𝕄 by Amanda Gambill 🤍
Amanda is a new-to-me author and she quickly became one of my favourites! Her writing is just so beautiful! Can we just take a second to appreciate how GORGEOUS this cover is!!😍😍
I adored this book so much! It was a change of scenery from all the age gaps and mafia romances I’ve been reading lately and I was HERE FOR IT! It was an innocent, pure, sweet and heartwarming read! 🤩
I picked up this book at a time when I was struggling with stress and anxiety due to my midterms and this book was everything I needed to escape for a couple of hours😍😍
DEAN CROSS😍 One of the sweetest and kindest book boyfriends I’ve ever read about! You can’t not fall for him😇🥰
Dean and Skylar come from 2 different worlds. It’s an opposites attract kind of romance. Skye needs to have everything planned out!However, Dean has this more chill, go with the flow, artistic vibe. 💕
Their different realities made it that more interesting to read about them! I loved seeing how they meshed their lives together and learned to love each other’s differences! 🤩
At first, their relationship was strictly physical! They had to follow a contract that they created to keep themselves from falling for each other!😇
I loved seeing how every time when they were breaching a rule on the contract by getting closer to each other emotionally, they wld immediately add a new rule to make it acceptable that they got closer... Until one point when they realize that they had fallen HARD for each other and that there was no coming back😍😍😍
Ratings: 4⭐️
Steam: 🔥/3
Amanda is a new-to-me author and she quickly became one of my favourites! Her writing is just so beautiful! Can we just take a second to appreciate how GORGEOUS this cover is!!😍😍
I adored this book so much! It was a change of scenery from all the age gaps and mafia romances I’ve been reading lately and I was HERE FOR IT! It was an innocent, pure, sweet and heartwarming read! 🤩
I picked up this book at a time when I was struggling with stress and anxiety due to my midterms and this book was everything I needed to escape for a couple of hours😍😍
DEAN CROSS😍 One of the sweetest and kindest book boyfriends I’ve ever read about! You can’t not fall for him😇🥰
Dean and Skylar come from 2 different worlds. It’s an opposites attract kind of romance. Skye needs to have everything planned out!However, Dean has this more chill, go with the flow, artistic vibe. 💕
Their different realities made it that more interesting to read about them! I loved seeing how they meshed their lives together and learned to love each other’s differences! 🤩
At first, their relationship was strictly physical! They had to follow a contract that they created to keep themselves from falling for each other!😇
I loved seeing how every time when they were breaching a rule on the contract by getting closer to each other emotionally, they wld immediately add a new rule to make it acceptable that they got closer... Until one point when they realize that they had fallen HARD for each other and that there was no coming back😍😍😍
Ratings: 4⭐️
Steam: 🔥/3
February 28, 2020
A unique mixture of sweet with a slow-burn quality. I’ll explain more later, but even without the steam, this couple pulled me in and melted my heart.
Blurb: Skylar is on a one track path to success, so when she decides to have a one nightstand with Dean, an artsy barista who couldn’t be anymore different than her, she doesn’t realize the attraction is irresistible.
Skylar decides to make a contract with Dean, telling him they must adhere to all the rules. Their relationship is strictly physical, but Skylar doesn’t anticipate that Dean might be the “perfectly””imperfect guy she’s been looking for.
This is such a heartwarming and cute opposites attract romance. Skylar is a driven perfectionist and Dean is an artsy and relaxed hipster. And even though the relationship is built on sex, their is a slow, beautiful development to their relationship. I really love the way Gambill slowly unfurled this romance one baby step at a time. There was just enough family angst and romantic contrast to propel this story forward. A tender and adorable read that will have you rooting for a lasting connection between these two!
Forewarning: For those of you who love steam, this book always fades away during the sex scenes, so there aren’t any descriptions.
Blurb: Skylar is on a one track path to success, so when she decides to have a one nightstand with Dean, an artsy barista who couldn’t be anymore different than her, she doesn’t realize the attraction is irresistible.
Skylar decides to make a contract with Dean, telling him they must adhere to all the rules. Their relationship is strictly physical, but Skylar doesn’t anticipate that Dean might be the “perfectly””imperfect guy she’s been looking for.
This is such a heartwarming and cute opposites attract romance. Skylar is a driven perfectionist and Dean is an artsy and relaxed hipster. And even though the relationship is built on sex, their is a slow, beautiful development to their relationship. I really love the way Gambill slowly unfurled this romance one baby step at a time. There was just enough family angst and romantic contrast to propel this story forward. A tender and adorable read that will have you rooting for a lasting connection between these two!
Forewarning: For those of you who love steam, this book always fades away during the sex scenes, so there aren’t any descriptions.
March 11, 2023
Preface
It was not my cuppa of tea. Unfortunately, because Amanda Gambill can write.
Sheesh.
I still had fun. That first kiss scene left me gasping. I was confused, then I laughed, proceeding to nod my head in approval. I just wish personal experience had not meshed with the story and that certain characterization choices had not be made.
I’m checking her other books out though. Maybe it will be something more of my interest.
Overall star rating : 2 ⭐️⭐️ Nothing is okay.
It was not my cuppa of tea. Unfortunately, because Amanda Gambill can write.
Sheesh.
I still had fun. That first kiss scene left me gasping. I was confused, then I laughed, proceeding to nod my head in approval. I just wish personal experience had not meshed with the story and that certain characterization choices had not be made.
I’m checking her other books out though. Maybe it will be something more of my interest.
Overall star rating : 2 ⭐️⭐️ Nothing is okay.
May 3, 2020
3.5 stars
College junior Skylar has her life all planned out: She has always followed in her older sister’s footsteps and knows exactly what classes she’ll take each semester, which accounting firm she’ll work at upon graduation, and the kind of man she’ll marry (or that her parents want her to marry, anyway). Skylar enters into a casual, no-strings-attached relationship with the barista at the coffee shop on campus, Dean, and they create a contract outlining exactly what they can and cannot do in their physical-only relationship. Will Skylar be able to follow the rules of their contract while also following her perfect life plan?
What I Liked: I liked the concept of having a contract outlining a “strictly sex” relationship (note, this isn’t a very steamy read; it is of course hinted at and implied that the characters are together, but there are not specifics). I loved Dean and the fact that he was unapologetically himself throughout the book. I liked that Skylar and Dean are basically opposites: her an academic perfectionist and him an artsy dropout. Their relationship felt organic.
What I Didn’t Quite Like: I couldn’t stand how mapped out Skylar’s life was and the pressures her parents and sister put on her, as well as the pressure she put on herself to meet their expectations and conform to what they wanted her life to be. It absolutely drove me mad at points, and I was complaining to my husband about this character not just doing what she wanted at times (and I’m someone who constantly seeks advice from others).
Overall: I enjoyed this and think it’s perfect for in between heavier reads. I don’t read a lot of romance or rom coms, so I kind of doubted if my complaints were valid throughout or if I just had unrealistic expectations for the genre. This is a really cute story, overall, though, and a solid debut novel.
College junior Skylar has her life all planned out: She has always followed in her older sister’s footsteps and knows exactly what classes she’ll take each semester, which accounting firm she’ll work at upon graduation, and the kind of man she’ll marry (or that her parents want her to marry, anyway). Skylar enters into a casual, no-strings-attached relationship with the barista at the coffee shop on campus, Dean, and they create a contract outlining exactly what they can and cannot do in their physical-only relationship. Will Skylar be able to follow the rules of their contract while also following her perfect life plan?
What I Liked: I liked the concept of having a contract outlining a “strictly sex” relationship (note, this isn’t a very steamy read; it is of course hinted at and implied that the characters are together, but there are not specifics). I loved Dean and the fact that he was unapologetically himself throughout the book. I liked that Skylar and Dean are basically opposites: her an academic perfectionist and him an artsy dropout. Their relationship felt organic.
What I Didn’t Quite Like: I couldn’t stand how mapped out Skylar’s life was and the pressures her parents and sister put on her, as well as the pressure she put on herself to meet their expectations and conform to what they wanted her life to be. It absolutely drove me mad at points, and I was complaining to my husband about this character not just doing what she wanted at times (and I’m someone who constantly seeks advice from others).
Overall: I enjoyed this and think it’s perfect for in between heavier reads. I don’t read a lot of romance or rom coms, so I kind of doubted if my complaints were valid throughout or if I just had unrealistic expectations for the genre. This is a really cute story, overall, though, and a solid debut novel.
December 1, 2020
I was fully enabled to read this book. A friend even bought it for me so I would read it. I am so unbelievably happy she did, because this is favourite romance. This was exactly what I needed amongst some sub-par books, to really get me back into the swing of good books!
Skylar has a plan. A very straight forward, built for her by her family plan, that she has worked her entire life for. Every week, she goes on a terrible date and keeps notes about them all, while she searches for her perfect match according to her pro and con list. Then she meets Dean, the barista of the coffee shop she has all her dates in, and he's someone she would never think about twice, until he suggests maybe she's the problem in her relationships. Intrigued, she asks him to confirm she is in fact not the problem, which he happily obliges to, but what happens when her perfect plan veers way off course?
I absolutely adored Skylar and Dean. They may be one of my favourite literary romance couples. My heart ached for Skylar, and for Dean, but for Skylar trying to live her own life while making everyone else happy. Her personal growth throughout this book was incredible, and I loved the role Dean played in all of that. Dean was perfection - mysterious, self-less and caring, what more could you ask for? I don't want to spoil much more, but I truly loved this book and highly HIGHLY suggest all romance lovers pick it up immediately.
Skylar has a plan. A very straight forward, built for her by her family plan, that she has worked her entire life for. Every week, she goes on a terrible date and keeps notes about them all, while she searches for her perfect match according to her pro and con list. Then she meets Dean, the barista of the coffee shop she has all her dates in, and he's someone she would never think about twice, until he suggests maybe she's the problem in her relationships. Intrigued, she asks him to confirm she is in fact not the problem, which he happily obliges to, but what happens when her perfect plan veers way off course?
I absolutely adored Skylar and Dean. They may be one of my favourite literary romance couples. My heart ached for Skylar, and for Dean, but for Skylar trying to live her own life while making everyone else happy. Her personal growth throughout this book was incredible, and I loved the role Dean played in all of that. Dean was perfection - mysterious, self-less and caring, what more could you ask for? I don't want to spoil much more, but I truly loved this book and highly HIGHLY suggest all romance lovers pick it up immediately.
November 8, 2024
B st book of second half of 2024
February 5, 2020
I was so excited to dive into this one and I was not disappointed. This was an amazing case of ‘opposites attract’, with each character so well developed. I adored Dean who was so calm and unapologetically himself throughout the book, and I especially enjoyed seeing how the two main characters helped better one another during their relationship. I was rooting for them the entire time, and I got so absorbed in the scenes where they were just spending time together.
I thought the actual plot was brilliant, with Skylar producing a contract for them to stick to. I also appreciated the fact that the ‘climax’ of the story was a legitimate, believable problem and wasn’t just a case of one of them getting cold feet, as happens in quite a few romance books.
I got so into this book, I couldn’t stop thinking about it when I wasn’t reading and I even managed to sneak in a few pages (*cough* chapters) at work!!
This is the perfect light hearted romance book to get completely lost in- just make sure you have a lot of coffee to hand because the constant descriptions had me drooling!! 😂
I thought the actual plot was brilliant, with Skylar producing a contract for them to stick to. I also appreciated the fact that the ‘climax’ of the story was a legitimate, believable problem and wasn’t just a case of one of them getting cold feet, as happens in quite a few romance books.
I got so into this book, I couldn’t stop thinking about it when I wasn’t reading and I even managed to sneak in a few pages (*cough* chapters) at work!!
This is the perfect light hearted romance book to get completely lost in- just make sure you have a lot of coffee to hand because the constant descriptions had me drooling!! 😂
December 12, 2022
I read this in one night/ sitting so that’s saying something. I was heading to a 3 star because I didn’t love the writing and I did not like the female main character. But skylar grew on me a little bit, I loved Dean, and the dialogue got much better. So maybe 3.5 stars.
I know a lot of the jokes in the book were about Skylar and her friend and sister being so white (& rich) girl basic, but it was also super annoying how white this story was. The prejudice of her family vs Dean, and how horrible they were to Skylar herself really pissed me off. Anyway the “redemption” of the characters (sister, father, even Skylar herself) didn’t particularly work for me.
It’s not that serious so read this if you like cute romcoms; the relationship between the main characters was mostly sweet.
I know a lot of the jokes in the book were about Skylar and her friend and sister being so white (& rich) girl basic, but it was also super annoying how white this story was. The prejudice of her family vs Dean, and how horrible they were to Skylar herself really pissed me off. Anyway the “redemption” of the characters (sister, father, even Skylar herself) didn’t particularly work for me.
It’s not that serious so read this if you like cute romcoms; the relationship between the main characters was mostly sweet.
January 14, 2023
ok so I’m not eloquent but wow. I loved this book. I read it in under 24 hours and honestly I could start it again right now. idk what the easy way to say “f*ck buddies who make rules so they don’t fall in love* trope is but I’m here for it. I’m also so here for the opposites attract trope. I just really really loved these characters. they were so well developed and had such personality. ugh, I miss them already.
February 16, 2024
Rating: 3.5 stars
Humbled to admit I need my MMC a little more toxic than this… Sorry Dean <3
Humbled to admit I need my MMC a little more toxic than this… Sorry Dean <3
March 28, 2025
First “Honestly, I’m Totally Faking It” and now this gem! Amanda Gambill, I am a fan, please keep writing books.
I love her style of slow burn. How the relationship dynamic changes sooooo subtly and gradually that the characters don’t even realize what’s happened until all of a sudden it hits them. The romantic payoff feels very earned. I also love her characters! All of the characters in both books I’ve read are super unique. Dean is one of the most genuinely likeable, sweet MMC’s I have read in sooooo long. I was rooting for them so much. Loved it!
I love her style of slow burn. How the relationship dynamic changes sooooo subtly and gradually that the characters don’t even realize what’s happened until all of a sudden it hits them. The romantic payoff feels very earned. I also love her characters! All of the characters in both books I’ve read are super unique. Dean is one of the most genuinely likeable, sweet MMC’s I have read in sooooo long. I was rooting for them so much. Loved it!
November 23, 2025
this ended up being really cute but I am shocked it was only 320 pages bc it felt sooooo much longer. it really dragged in the middle and I was ready to dislike it, but i have a soft spot for cheesy public declarations of love.
January 4, 2025
What can I say, I’m a sucker for an opposites attract book 🤣 loved the slow-burn relationship build & also just the complexity of the characters (they didn’t feel too flat/basic like some rom-com books).
January 2, 2020
Full disclosure, I am probably going to make no sense in this review because I'm having a hard time organizing my thoughts upon completion of this wonderful book!
First and foremost let me just say that Skye and Dean made my heart sing all the songs! I. LOVED. THEM!
Secondly, Skye's family enraged me every single time they were on the page! If I didn't know people with a family like that I'd have thought it was totally unbelievable but alas it's not! I legit felt anxious for the Skye! But it's also why she and Dean made so much sense and worked so well together!
There were times I wondered if things seemed monotonous, oh look they are doing this again or oh... ok they are back doing that. But the feeling dissipated faster than it came on because in the end it actually served a purpose. And in the end, I wanted more of Skye and Dean just being Skye and Dean together! I also kept waiting for that big dramatic bullshit miscommunication thing to happen but it never came and that alone is a win for me!
I went back and forth about my rating. I knew this was going to be a 4-5* book but I wasn't sure where I'd land. I let my emotions pick and they didn't hesitate to click 5 stars! This book is a prime example of why people should pay attention to self-published authors. I read a lot of big publisher released crap over the past year and the two self-published books I read were 5 stars!
First and foremost let me just say that Skye and Dean made my heart sing all the songs! I. LOVED. THEM!
Secondly, Skye's family enraged me every single time they were on the page! If I didn't know people with a family like that I'd have thought it was totally unbelievable but alas it's not! I legit felt anxious for the Skye! But it's also why she and Dean made so much sense and worked so well together!
There were times I wondered if things seemed monotonous, oh look they are doing this again or oh... ok they are back doing that. But the feeling dissipated faster than it came on because in the end it actually served a purpose. And in the end, I wanted more of Skye and Dean just being Skye and Dean together! I also kept waiting for that big dramatic bullshit miscommunication thing to happen but it never came and that alone is a win for me!
I went back and forth about my rating. I knew this was going to be a 4-5* book but I wasn't sure where I'd land. I let my emotions pick and they didn't hesitate to click 5 stars! This book is a prime example of why people should pay attention to self-published authors. I read a lot of big publisher released crap over the past year and the two self-published books I read were 5 stars!
October 7, 2022
A Guy Like Him by @byamandagambill
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
“Are we dating?” I asked, breathless. “Yeah, Skye, we’re dating.”
———————————————————
Dean. Freaking. Cross. Like, I could end the review there. He’s my favourite part of this story.
Skylar lives her life on a very rigid schedule, from her accounting studies to her recently acquired sisterly maid of honour duties and events that her controlling parents make her attend. She even makes sure to schedule in 45 minutes a few times a week for dates that inevitably go nowhere. Skylar is thorough and knows exactly what she wants. Or she thinks she does. Enter Dean Cross. He’s a barista, covered in tattoos and piercings and has dark messy hair. Not her type, apparently. Their banter turns into a casual fling, which Skylar thinks she’s in control of. She even writes up a contract so neither of them develop feelings. Well, sorry to spoil it, but they both fail SPECTACULARLY.
What you’ll find:
❤️🔥 Casual fling to lovers
📝 A ‘let’s keep it physical only’ contract
🤫 Secret relationship
👩🏼 Skylar, in denial, super ambitious and a literal maths genius, desperate to live a life of her own, loves a pros and cons list
🧑🏻 Dean, so obviously written by a female because he’s perfect in every way, patient, artist, eccentric pirate fashion, tattoos, piercings, would do anything for her, literally everything that comes out of his mouth is pure gold
😍 Can’t stop thinking about each other
💕 Both catch feelings even though they’re so sure they won’t
🔥 Their chemistry and banter!
🌌 Romantic star gazing
🖼 Art being a really special part of their relationship and individual character development
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏻 Being each other’s biggest supporters
🎆 A grand gesture/super sweet and public declaration of love
I loved this book so much. Couldn’t put it down! I loved both Skylar and Dean individually and especially them together. It’s a tough call cause all of Amanda’s books are fantastic, but this is my fave! You NEED to read this.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
“Are we dating?” I asked, breathless. “Yeah, Skye, we’re dating.”
———————————————————
Dean. Freaking. Cross. Like, I could end the review there. He’s my favourite part of this story.
Skylar lives her life on a very rigid schedule, from her accounting studies to her recently acquired sisterly maid of honour duties and events that her controlling parents make her attend. She even makes sure to schedule in 45 minutes a few times a week for dates that inevitably go nowhere. Skylar is thorough and knows exactly what she wants. Or she thinks she does. Enter Dean Cross. He’s a barista, covered in tattoos and piercings and has dark messy hair. Not her type, apparently. Their banter turns into a casual fling, which Skylar thinks she’s in control of. She even writes up a contract so neither of them develop feelings. Well, sorry to spoil it, but they both fail SPECTACULARLY.
What you’ll find:
❤️🔥 Casual fling to lovers
📝 A ‘let’s keep it physical only’ contract
🤫 Secret relationship
👩🏼 Skylar, in denial, super ambitious and a literal maths genius, desperate to live a life of her own, loves a pros and cons list
🧑🏻 Dean, so obviously written by a female because he’s perfect in every way, patient, artist, eccentric pirate fashion, tattoos, piercings, would do anything for her, literally everything that comes out of his mouth is pure gold
😍 Can’t stop thinking about each other
💕 Both catch feelings even though they’re so sure they won’t
🔥 Their chemistry and banter!
🌌 Romantic star gazing
🖼 Art being a really special part of their relationship and individual character development
👩🏼❤️💋👨🏻 Being each other’s biggest supporters
🎆 A grand gesture/super sweet and public declaration of love
I loved this book so much. Couldn’t put it down! I loved both Skylar and Dean individually and especially them together. It’s a tough call cause all of Amanda’s books are fantastic, but this is my fave! You NEED to read this.
January 4, 2020
Oh my goodness, I’ve had this book on my kindle for months. Why did I wait so long to read this one?! I seriously loved this book so much!
Skylar is your perfect person, she’s smart, proper, a go getter, a perfectionist, and knows exactly what she wants out of life. That is, until she meets Dean.
Every Monday night Skylar goes to her local coffee shop for a date. Usually the night ends with her not liking her date. Which she will then proceed to stay and mark in her journal a pro/con list of her date. Skylar is convinced there’s an equation to finding the perfect partner.
Her life gets turned upside down when she meets Dean. Dean is the barista at the coffee shop she is at every Monday. Dean is a collage dropout, a barista, and is covered in tattoos. He is her complete opposite. There’s quite the attraction between these two. They decide to have a casual fling, with rules, and a contract to keep this a secret.
I can’t say much more without giving away spoilers. But, I just have to say I loved Skylar and Dean! I loved seeing the growth of Skylar in this book, and where it would take these two in their non-relationship next! Honestly, if you haven’t checked out this book yet, you need to! If you’re a fan of romance, you will love this book!! I want to buy a physical copy of this book, because I loved it so much!
Skylar is your perfect person, she’s smart, proper, a go getter, a perfectionist, and knows exactly what she wants out of life. That is, until she meets Dean.
Every Monday night Skylar goes to her local coffee shop for a date. Usually the night ends with her not liking her date. Which she will then proceed to stay and mark in her journal a pro/con list of her date. Skylar is convinced there’s an equation to finding the perfect partner.
Her life gets turned upside down when she meets Dean. Dean is the barista at the coffee shop she is at every Monday. Dean is a collage dropout, a barista, and is covered in tattoos. He is her complete opposite. There’s quite the attraction between these two. They decide to have a casual fling, with rules, and a contract to keep this a secret.
I can’t say much more without giving away spoilers. But, I just have to say I loved Skylar and Dean! I loved seeing the growth of Skylar in this book, and where it would take these two in their non-relationship next! Honestly, if you haven’t checked out this book yet, you need to! If you’re a fan of romance, you will love this book!! I want to buy a physical copy of this book, because I loved it so much!
October 4, 2019
4.5/5
OKAYYYYY this book is soooo cute!!!!! I loved the story, it was extremely addictive to read and I actually didn't get bored in the middle and have to skim through a couple chapters. I feel like sometimes in Contemp Romance novels, there becomes a part where it's just not interesting anymore but this one kept me intrigued! I just wanted to know how her parents were going to react, and her sister!!
I loved that Skylar & Dean. I love how Skylar is brilliant but still normal. She seemed like a relatable character, especially with her relationship with her parents. I feel like a lot of girls who fall in love with the not so typical guy their parents envision for them is something really relatable to a lot of women. I also felt like the author did a great job at creating characters what were really relatable, like Dean and going through stuff with his father. And Skylar with her family, without it getting to dark or deep.
I also loved how their relationship grew into something stronger and he was just always there for her, supportive, and all the things she really needed.
I loved this book! & no steam! like maybe a 2/4? It's not detailed. But you know they hook up :)
OKAYYYYY this book is soooo cute!!!!! I loved the story, it was extremely addictive to read and I actually didn't get bored in the middle and have to skim through a couple chapters. I feel like sometimes in Contemp Romance novels, there becomes a part where it's just not interesting anymore but this one kept me intrigued! I just wanted to know how her parents were going to react, and her sister!!
I loved that Skylar & Dean. I love how Skylar is brilliant but still normal. She seemed like a relatable character, especially with her relationship with her parents. I feel like a lot of girls who fall in love with the not so typical guy their parents envision for them is something really relatable to a lot of women. I also felt like the author did a great job at creating characters what were really relatable, like Dean and going through stuff with his father. And Skylar with her family, without it getting to dark or deep.
I also loved how their relationship grew into something stronger and he was just always there for her, supportive, and all the things she really needed.
I loved this book! & no steam! like maybe a 2/4? It's not detailed. But you know they hook up :)
October 26, 2019
4.5 ⭐️
“...I never had to make something up for it to feel magical.”
Meet Skylar—little miss prim and proper, an A student, your typical go-getter who strives for perfection, someone who thinks she has it all figured out. Until she stumbles upon her complete opposite. Meet Dean—college dropout, a barista by day, a local artist by night, an attractive guy hidden in tattoos and odd fashion. The romance that develops between these two after a heated kiss and repeat hook-ups (amidst rules, amendments, and contracts to keep their non-relationship on the down low) was tangible, adorable, and absolutely sweet. There’s definitely more than meets the eye... for both characters.
You guys. THIS STORY. My dear contemporary romance readers, you have to CHECK. IT. OUT. I loved reading about Dean and Skylar, and all the components that built up their non-relationship, but also the amount of growth and realization Skylar has during it. I would hate to give anymore away, so just read it! A Guy Like Him is currently available on KU.
“...I never had to make something up for it to feel magical.”
Meet Skylar—little miss prim and proper, an A student, your typical go-getter who strives for perfection, someone who thinks she has it all figured out. Until she stumbles upon her complete opposite. Meet Dean—college dropout, a barista by day, a local artist by night, an attractive guy hidden in tattoos and odd fashion. The romance that develops between these two after a heated kiss and repeat hook-ups (amidst rules, amendments, and contracts to keep their non-relationship on the down low) was tangible, adorable, and absolutely sweet. There’s definitely more than meets the eye... for both characters.
You guys. THIS STORY. My dear contemporary romance readers, you have to CHECK. IT. OUT. I loved reading about Dean and Skylar, and all the components that built up their non-relationship, but also the amount of growth and realization Skylar has during it. I would hate to give anymore away, so just read it! A Guy Like Him is currently available on KU.
May 5, 2022
Pretty sure I smiled the whole time while reading this one, it just made my heart happy. Dean is the most thoughtful man and truly just wanted Skylar to be happy - however that looked for her. While Skylar was battling the expectations of her family and trying to live up to her “perfect” sister, Dean was there to remind her that her life was her own and the only person she needed to make happy was herself. Life can’t be planned down to the second, but every second can be enjoyed.
Amanda did an amazing job of describing this fear/anxiety Skylar dealt with in the most real way. Trying to live up to “perfection” is exhausting. Sometimes we all get caught up in checking off our proverbial boxes, when in reality the true magic of life comes from the most unexpected places.
A Guy Like Him was a magical surprise and I can’t wait to read the other novels Amanda has released! 💗
Amanda did an amazing job of describing this fear/anxiety Skylar dealt with in the most real way. Trying to live up to “perfection” is exhausting. Sometimes we all get caught up in checking off our proverbial boxes, when in reality the true magic of life comes from the most unexpected places.
A Guy Like Him was a magical surprise and I can’t wait to read the other novels Amanda has released! 💗
July 24, 2019
This is a book that’s hard to put down! It hooked me from the first chapter, and I was sad to get to the end. Great romantic plot line with relatable characters throughout. Would recommend to anyone!
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