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30 Dates in 30 Days
Veronica Welch has made it. She’s about to be named a partner at one of the most prestigious law firms in New York City. She’s on top of the world, except for one tiny ridiculous thing: she promised herself she’d be married by thirty-five. After a drink too many, she accidentally lets her “life plan” slip to Bea, her steadfast, ever meddling assistant, and now Bea won’t let the idea go.
Rachel Monaghan doesn’t do serious relationships. As a busy wedding photographer, she’s jaded about lasting love, has a thriving repeat business, and hasn’t had much luck with love herself. While bartending at her cousin’s bar, Rachel learns of Bea’s plan to get her boss married off by scheduling thirty dates in thirty days.
In this sophisticated contemporary romance, Veronica Welch tries to find love in the most efficient way possible, while Rachel Monaghan avoids love at all costs. What could possibly go wrong?
77,000 words
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
Rachel Monaghan doesn’t do serious relationships. As a busy wedding photographer, she’s jaded about lasting love, has a thriving repeat business, and hasn’t had much luck with love herself. While bartending at her cousin’s bar, Rachel learns of Bea’s plan to get her boss married off by scheduling thirty dates in thirty days.
In this sophisticated contemporary romance, Veronica Welch tries to find love in the most efficient way possible, while Rachel Monaghan avoids love at all costs. What could possibly go wrong?
77,000 words
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
231 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2019
74 people are currently reading
1301 people want to read
About the author
Elle Spencer
11 books510 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 220 reviews
November 22, 2019
This romance was so cute. This is a f/f romance that follows Veronica, who is about to make partner about New York’s most prestigious law firm, and Rachel - a wedding photographer by day and bartender by night.
Veronicas assistant sets her up with this online dating program and she’s going to do 30 dates in 30 days. Rachel is the bartender at the bar where all these 30 dates are taking place. Rachel and Veronicas banter was so cute and I love how Veronica is ready to settle down but Rachel doesn’t believe in love and only wants short term flings. The sexual tension between them was so great and they were just really adorable to read about. 🥰 I want to read more books from this author!
This is the 2nd book I finished for Buzzwordathon!
Veronicas assistant sets her up with this online dating program and she’s going to do 30 dates in 30 days. Rachel is the bartender at the bar where all these 30 dates are taking place. Rachel and Veronicas banter was so cute and I love how Veronica is ready to settle down but Rachel doesn’t believe in love and only wants short term flings. The sexual tension between them was so great and they were just really adorable to read about. 🥰 I want to read more books from this author!
This is the 2nd book I finished for Buzzwordathon!
September 30, 2019
Elle Spencer is slowly but surely taking her spot up there on my fav authors list! The thing about her is that she’s consistent .. you know when she has sthg new, that it will be on your “to read” list even without reading the blurb.
This one specifically was as expected very entertaining! The idea and the plot was interesting..
So I really liked Rachel (even had a small crush on her) but I wanted to strangle Veronica ! It’s not that I didn’t like her character it’s just that god she’s so annoying! But then comes Rachel and somehow I start liking Veronica more! It’s like I could feel the change Rachel had on Veronica! She became funnier and more alive when Rachel got into her life ..
So the best thing also about this book is the incredible dialogue! I thought Elle Spencer did a brilliant job there!
There’s also an appearance by Anna and Madison, a couple that I really liked from her previous book! I thought this was a very cool addition :)
My only issue is the ending felt a bit too rushed for me but I have a feeling the next book might feature this couple and give us more news on them :) I just felt the book needed an epilogue !
My rating is a 4.25 and I really recommend this book! It’s so romantic ..
“I received an ARC for an honest review.”
This one specifically was as expected very entertaining! The idea and the plot was interesting..
So I really liked Rachel (even had a small crush on her) but I wanted to strangle Veronica ! It’s not that I didn’t like her character it’s just that god she’s so annoying! But then comes Rachel and somehow I start liking Veronica more! It’s like I could feel the change Rachel had on Veronica! She became funnier and more alive when Rachel got into her life ..
So the best thing also about this book is the incredible dialogue! I thought Elle Spencer did a brilliant job there!
There’s also an appearance by Anna and Madison, a couple that I really liked from her previous book! I thought this was a very cool addition :)
My only issue is the ending felt a bit too rushed for me but I have a feeling the next book might feature this couple and give us more news on them :) I just felt the book needed an epilogue !
My rating is a 4.25 and I really recommend this book! It’s so romantic ..
“I received an ARC for an honest review.”
September 23, 2019
30 dates in 30 days, can you even imagine all that pressure and awkwardness. Hard pass. Don't hard pass on this book though, Elle Spencer gives us a delightful romance full of fun, silliness, angst and a dang good romance.
Veronica Welch is just a few weeks away from being named partner at her prestigious New York City law firm. Her goal has been to make partner and then find the love of her life and settle down. That is winning to Veronica. While the partnership is almost a done deal, there is no lady on the horizon. Her fabulous assistant, Bea, takes matters into her own hands and puts V on a dating app specifically for lesbians. Bea convinces the ambitious lawyer that now is the time to find Mrs. Right and by having 30 dates in 30 days is the way to do it.
Rachel Monaghan is a world-renowned wedding photographer. Her business is booming, but when she has downtime she helps out her bestie/cousin tend bar at the family pub. Her cousin is going through a lot right now, so any help she can give she will. What this "I don't believe in love anymore photographer" doesn't expect is to strike up a friendship with a successful lawyer who is looking for the love of her life.
Elle Spencer delivers with this one. This book has all the elements to keep you spellbound to the end. 30 Dates in 30 Days is a fun dynamic read. Don't let this one pass you by.
Veronica Welch is just a few weeks away from being named partner at her prestigious New York City law firm. Her goal has been to make partner and then find the love of her life and settle down. That is winning to Veronica. While the partnership is almost a done deal, there is no lady on the horizon. Her fabulous assistant, Bea, takes matters into her own hands and puts V on a dating app specifically for lesbians. Bea convinces the ambitious lawyer that now is the time to find Mrs. Right and by having 30 dates in 30 days is the way to do it.
Rachel Monaghan is a world-renowned wedding photographer. Her business is booming, but when she has downtime she helps out her bestie/cousin tend bar at the family pub. Her cousin is going through a lot right now, so any help she can give she will. What this "I don't believe in love anymore photographer" doesn't expect is to strike up a friendship with a successful lawyer who is looking for the love of her life.
Elle Spencer delivers with this one. This book has all the elements to keep you spellbound to the end. 30 Dates in 30 Days is a fun dynamic read. Don't let this one pass you by.
October 11, 2019
4.5*
While I really like The Road to Madison, it lacked (mostly due to a rather tragic premise) what made Casting Lacey so good, this quirky and witty sense of humor. But it’s back in this new novel and that makes my heart sing.
Veronica « V » Welch is a very busy lawyer who has sacrificed everything on her way to be named a partner by the firm she works for. One night, she goes out to celebrate a big win and spills the beans to her very sweet and meddling assistant Bea about her dreams: a wife, a family, a beautiful love story by the time she’s thirty-five. With V’s birthday looming, Bea takes the matter in her own hands, with the help of V’s mother, and creates a profile for her beautiful and talented boss on a lesbian dating app. At first, V is irritated then agrees to go on 30 dates in 30 days, hoping to find the love of her life with as little hassle as possible. All the dates take place in the same bar, where wedding photographer Rachel Monaghan, the owner’s cousin, gives a hand as a bartender. She has her own reasons not to believe in happily-ever-afters and actually fight against the temptation but neither V nor Rachel can resist falling for the other.
As usual with Spencer, the characters are wonderfully layered and flawed, the chemistry is out of this world and even though at times I wanted to shake Rachel, I liked the way her journey was told. She also gets bonus points for her taste in wine (I’ll take a Brunello di Montalcino over almost anything). V’s reluctance to date was endearing and funny, and the descriptions of the dates made me laugh more than once. I actually laughed a lot reading this book, right from the start, which I didn’t completely expect. The secondary cast is excellent too, from Bea to V’s cousin Tiffany or her parents. And of course the best are the small gang from the bar: Rachel’s cousin Charlotte, Charlotte’s dead father’s best friend Harry and the very lovable older couple Carol and Joe. I want them all to be my friends, seriously.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
While I really like The Road to Madison, it lacked (mostly due to a rather tragic premise) what made Casting Lacey so good, this quirky and witty sense of humor. But it’s back in this new novel and that makes my heart sing.
Veronica « V » Welch is a very busy lawyer who has sacrificed everything on her way to be named a partner by the firm she works for. One night, she goes out to celebrate a big win and spills the beans to her very sweet and meddling assistant Bea about her dreams: a wife, a family, a beautiful love story by the time she’s thirty-five. With V’s birthday looming, Bea takes the matter in her own hands, with the help of V’s mother, and creates a profile for her beautiful and talented boss on a lesbian dating app. At first, V is irritated then agrees to go on 30 dates in 30 days, hoping to find the love of her life with as little hassle as possible. All the dates take place in the same bar, where wedding photographer Rachel Monaghan, the owner’s cousin, gives a hand as a bartender. She has her own reasons not to believe in happily-ever-afters and actually fight against the temptation but neither V nor Rachel can resist falling for the other.
As usual with Spencer, the characters are wonderfully layered and flawed, the chemistry is out of this world and even though at times I wanted to shake Rachel, I liked the way her journey was told. She also gets bonus points for her taste in wine (I’ll take a Brunello di Montalcino over almost anything). V’s reluctance to date was endearing and funny, and the descriptions of the dates made me laugh more than once. I actually laughed a lot reading this book, right from the start, which I didn’t completely expect. The secondary cast is excellent too, from Bea to V’s cousin Tiffany or her parents. And of course the best are the small gang from the bar: Rachel’s cousin Charlotte, Charlotte’s dead father’s best friend Harry and the very lovable older couple Carol and Joe. I want them all to be my friends, seriously.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2021
I have mixed feelings about this one. I know I liked it enough to read it in one sitting, but some of the stuff I found problematic were also nagging at me.
I enjoyed the clever lines and the general lightness of the mood. The secondary characters were also a welcome addition for entertainment. I was taken aback by the arrival of a specific character, and I remember not being able to stop saying "OH MY GOD" over and over again after learning who she is. It was hands down the best shock value I've encountered in a book in a while. *slow clap*
The pacing was a bit weird for me though. When the first kiss happened, I got worried things might be moving too fast. But then the MCs took a step back and things began to slow down. Reaching 3/4 of the book, when I took a peek at how many pages were left, I got worried things were not developing fast enough this time around - because that could only mean one thing: a quick wrap up of the story - and I'm never a fan of those.
Turns out I was right.
It didn't help that I didn't like Veronica much as a character. She was childlike in her approach to relationships, and her naiveté was not quite believable for a 35-year old. I was disconcerted about how she fast-forwards to imagining things that could happen while she's still only in the current process of taking the first steps. Idk about you, but when the characters are sharing a beautiful moment, I want to savor it as much as possible. I don't want to be bombarded with fantasies of what could/would happen next, because aside from it being distracting, it also cheapens the moment.
I also found Veronica to be too pushy at times. Maybe this is just my pride speaking, but when someone rejects me the first time, I sure as hell will think twice about chasing that person again. Or I would at least respect the boundaries this person is clearly setting for things she is NOT ready for. I simply can't imagine being rejected repeatedly and still pursue someone like that 😖 Talk about being a glutton for punishment.
I wanted to enjoy the chemistry between Veronica and Rachel. Really, I did. But more often than not, I viewed their chemistry as unbalanced. I wanted the tables to be turned. I wanted V to grow some self-respect. And I wanted Rachel to do the chasing as much as V did - for until she proved to have moved on from her personal issues and wanted V just as much. I'm not sure if this was accomplished in the end, because like I said, things were concluded pretty quickly.
And remember that certain character I was talking about in the beginning? I feel like she should've had another scene with one of our MCs. Things between them shouldn't have been left hanging. Look up: Ghosting.
As much fun as the dialogues were, I also squirmed at the mushy parts and some seemingly out of place lines here. Sexy talk can be tricky sometimes. It could make or break a moment.
Anyway, based on what I've already shared, it's true that I would've changed a sizeable part of this book. However, truth be told, I still enjoyed it as it is.
------------------------------
Sharing this excerpt 'cause it literally made me snort:
“When we kissed, you tasted like thirty-three.” - Can someone please tell me what a 33 tastes like? I am utterly curious 😅
I enjoyed the clever lines and the general lightness of the mood. The secondary characters were also a welcome addition for entertainment. I was taken aback by the arrival of a specific character, and I remember not being able to stop saying "OH MY GOD" over and over again after learning who she is. It was hands down the best shock value I've encountered in a book in a while. *slow clap*
The pacing was a bit weird for me though. When the first kiss happened, I got worried things might be moving too fast. But then the MCs took a step back and things began to slow down. Reaching 3/4 of the book, when I took a peek at how many pages were left, I got worried things were not developing fast enough this time around - because that could only mean one thing: a quick wrap up of the story - and I'm never a fan of those.
Turns out I was right.
It didn't help that I didn't like Veronica much as a character. She was childlike in her approach to relationships, and her naiveté was not quite believable for a 35-year old. I was disconcerted about how she fast-forwards to imagining things that could happen while she's still only in the current process of taking the first steps. Idk about you, but when the characters are sharing a beautiful moment, I want to savor it as much as possible. I don't want to be bombarded with fantasies of what could/would happen next, because aside from it being distracting, it also cheapens the moment.
I also found Veronica to be too pushy at times. Maybe this is just my pride speaking, but when someone rejects me the first time, I sure as hell will think twice about chasing that person again. Or I would at least respect the boundaries this person is clearly setting for things she is NOT ready for. I simply can't imagine being rejected repeatedly and still pursue someone like that 😖 Talk about being a glutton for punishment.
I wanted to enjoy the chemistry between Veronica and Rachel. Really, I did. But more often than not, I viewed their chemistry as unbalanced. I wanted the tables to be turned. I wanted V to grow some self-respect. And I wanted Rachel to do the chasing as much as V did - for until she proved to have moved on from her personal issues and wanted V just as much. I'm not sure if this was accomplished in the end, because like I said, things were concluded pretty quickly.
And remember that certain character I was talking about in the beginning? I feel like she should've had another scene with one of our MCs. Things between them shouldn't have been left hanging. Look up: Ghosting.
As much fun as the dialogues were, I also squirmed at the mushy parts and some seemingly out of place lines here. Sexy talk can be tricky sometimes. It could make or break a moment.
Anyway, based on what I've already shared, it's true that I would've changed a sizeable part of this book. However, truth be told, I still enjoyed it as it is.
------------------------------
Sharing this excerpt 'cause it literally made me snort:
“When we kissed, you tasted like thirty-three.” - Can someone please tell me what a 33 tastes like? I am utterly curious 😅
September 29, 2019
Veronica is a New York lawyer on the precipice of becoming partner at her firm. Her assistant, Bea, sneakily sets her up on a date each night until Veronica finds 'the one.' This is all the result of a drunken night where Veronica uncharacteristically spilled how she wanted to be married by the time she was 35. Well, 35 is just around the corner.
I'm an Elle Spencer fan. I want to say that this was surprisingly good, but I guess I shouldn't really be that surprised. She generally delivers on everything I love about reading romance. Feelings, chemistry, conflict, angst, tears, and happiness. This one particularly had great dialogue.
I loved Veronica and her conflicting characterization. Master of litigation. Clumsy with women. She had a lot of drive to achieve her goals and despite her failures, kept pressing on. She has an idealistic look on love. So many times in this story, she could have let herself become jaded. Her perseverance was sweet. And she was snarky. I have to admit that I developed a nice sized crush on Veronica.
Rachel, a photographer slash assistant bartender, is the classic 'burned by love and never going to give my heart to someone again' character. So clearly, her outlook is challenged. The reason this story worked was because her plight felt genuine and it was not resolved superficially early on. This is a slow burn romance that takes it's time delivering the ultimate payoff.
I think some readers may get annoyed by the hot/cold attitude and push/pull situations that Rachel creates. It was great for me because I love the drama. I like authors who play with my heart.
There were plenty of side characters that were used to further the plot. None of them were robustly developed. On the surface with a small bit of backstory where it made sense to relate to the main characters. That was perfectly fine for me.
There was some character crossover from Spencer's last book, 'Road to Madison.' I thought the first introduction and reason for their inclusion in this book believable and cute. A nice nod to a couple that I enjoyed reading about. Unfortunately, they are also make an appearance a couple of times late in the story that felt overdone, campy, and not plausible at all to me.
Overall, this book had a significant amount of personality. The characters were likable. Fun situations. Great chemistry. A slow burn romance that satisfies int he end.
I recommend this to people who love to read about romance, lawyers, bars, photography, foofy drinks, dating profiles, good dialogue, and push up bras.
I'm an Elle Spencer fan. I want to say that this was surprisingly good, but I guess I shouldn't really be that surprised. She generally delivers on everything I love about reading romance. Feelings, chemistry, conflict, angst, tears, and happiness. This one particularly had great dialogue.
I loved Veronica and her conflicting characterization. Master of litigation. Clumsy with women. She had a lot of drive to achieve her goals and despite her failures, kept pressing on. She has an idealistic look on love. So many times in this story, she could have let herself become jaded. Her perseverance was sweet. And she was snarky. I have to admit that I developed a nice sized crush on Veronica.
Rachel, a photographer slash assistant bartender, is the classic 'burned by love and never going to give my heart to someone again' character. So clearly, her outlook is challenged. The reason this story worked was because her plight felt genuine and it was not resolved superficially early on. This is a slow burn romance that takes it's time delivering the ultimate payoff.
I think some readers may get annoyed by the hot/cold attitude and push/pull situations that Rachel creates. It was great for me because I love the drama. I like authors who play with my heart.
There were plenty of side characters that were used to further the plot. None of them were robustly developed. On the surface with a small bit of backstory where it made sense to relate to the main characters. That was perfectly fine for me.
There was some character crossover from Spencer's last book, 'Road to Madison.' I thought the first introduction and reason for their inclusion in this book believable and cute. A nice nod to a couple that I enjoyed reading about. Unfortunately, they are also make an appearance a couple of times late in the story that felt overdone, campy, and not plausible at all to me.
Overall, this book had a significant amount of personality. The characters were likable. Fun situations. Great chemistry. A slow burn romance that satisfies int he end.
I recommend this to people who love to read about romance, lawyers, bars, photography, foofy drinks, dating profiles, good dialogue, and push up bras.
January 10, 2020
Veronica Welch is a lawyer about to be named partner at one of the most prestigious law firms in New York City. Her professional life’s goal almost achieved, she wants to get married by the age of 35. As she lets her plan known to her assistant, Bea organises a series of 30 dates in 30 days for her boss. Rachel Monaghan doesn’t do serious relationships. She’s a renowned wedding photographer and part-time bartender at her cousins’ place. There, she meets Veronica and each of her daily dates. Sparks fly between them but Veronica believes in true love and Rachel doesn’t. Do they have a chance together?
Although the idea of online dating in romance novels isn’t new, I loved the way Ms. Spencer handled this with humour and originality. Some of the dating stories are hilarious borderline with ridiculous, but the story captures really well how unnerving the situation could be. The premise of identifying each date by their choice of drink is very clever and so is the fact that the reader doesn’t know Veronica’s real kind of drink until the end. V and Rachel are very well written characters, in their differences and similarities. Both V’s desire to find the one and Rachel’s aversion to serious relationships are believable and relatable.
However, what really stole the show for me was the off the charts chemistry between the mains. Ms. Spencer knows how to build the tension so thick that you could cut it with a proverbial knife. The intimate scenes are really hot, especially the one that involves a mirror. It reminded me of another hot scene in Lee Winter’s ‘The brutal truth’. Kudos to the author to bring originality in those crucial but hard to write parts in a romance book. The secondary characters are lovable with their joy of life at old age. Behind the banter and witty dialogues between them, the reader can pick some pearls of wisdom about life and love. In addition, the mains from ‘The road to Madison’ make an appearance in this book so the reader can catch up with their lives.
This was a much-anticipated audiobook release, narrated by the talented Lori Prince. Her cheerful and youthful voice captures the tone of this novel perfectly. All her voices are very well performed but Rachel’s husky tone is a winner for me. One little detail that is not her fault: V and her assistant Bea’s names sounded almost the same to my ears which confused me a little at the beginning (though English isn’t my mother language so take it with a pinch of salt). Even though most of the book is light and funny, there are some emotional parts too. Ms. Prince performed them all superbly. She made one of my favourite books of the year even sound better if possible. Unfortunately, it’s not available in either Audible Escape or Scribd but it’s worth your money. Duration: 8 hours, 25 minutes.
Overall, a clever, funny and light lesbian romance audiobook with great chemistry and a superb cast. 5 stars for both the story and narration.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
Although the idea of online dating in romance novels isn’t new, I loved the way Ms. Spencer handled this with humour and originality. Some of the dating stories are hilarious borderline with ridiculous, but the story captures really well how unnerving the situation could be. The premise of identifying each date by their choice of drink is very clever and so is the fact that the reader doesn’t know Veronica’s real kind of drink until the end. V and Rachel are very well written characters, in their differences and similarities. Both V’s desire to find the one and Rachel’s aversion to serious relationships are believable and relatable.
However, what really stole the show for me was the off the charts chemistry between the mains. Ms. Spencer knows how to build the tension so thick that you could cut it with a proverbial knife. The intimate scenes are really hot, especially the one that involves a mirror. It reminded me of another hot scene in Lee Winter’s ‘The brutal truth’. Kudos to the author to bring originality in those crucial but hard to write parts in a romance book. The secondary characters are lovable with their joy of life at old age. Behind the banter and witty dialogues between them, the reader can pick some pearls of wisdom about life and love. In addition, the mains from ‘The road to Madison’ make an appearance in this book so the reader can catch up with their lives.
This was a much-anticipated audiobook release, narrated by the talented Lori Prince. Her cheerful and youthful voice captures the tone of this novel perfectly. All her voices are very well performed but Rachel’s husky tone is a winner for me. One little detail that is not her fault: V and her assistant Bea’s names sounded almost the same to my ears which confused me a little at the beginning (though English isn’t my mother language so take it with a pinch of salt). Even though most of the book is light and funny, there are some emotional parts too. Ms. Prince performed them all superbly. She made one of my favourite books of the year even sound better if possible. Unfortunately, it’s not available in either Audible Escape or Scribd but it’s worth your money. Duration: 8 hours, 25 minutes.
Overall, a clever, funny and light lesbian romance audiobook with great chemistry and a superb cast. 5 stars for both the story and narration.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
October 3, 2019
Veronica Welch is a lawyer about to be named partner at one of the most prestigious law firms in New York City. Her professional life’s goal almost achieved, she wants to get married by the age of 35. As she lets her plan known to her assistant, Bea organises a series of 30 dates in 30 days for her boss. Rachel Monaghan doesn’t do serious relationships. She’s a renowned wedding photographer and part-time bartender at her cousins’ place. There, she meets Veronica and each of her daily dates. Sparks fly between them but Veronica believes in true love and Rachel doesn’t. Do they have a chance together?
Elle Spencer made a big entrance in the lesfic world with her very popular debut book ‘Casting Lacey‘ which I loved. I admit that I wasn’t fussed about the following ones, specially ‘The road to Madison’ but I’m happy to say that she absolutely nailed this one. ’30 dates in 30 days’ is a fantastic story, a prime example of a lesbian Chick Lit book in the style of Melissa Brayden. If you are a Brayden’s fan, you cannot go wrong with this one.
Although the idea of online dating in romance novels isn’t new, I loved the way Ms. Spencer handled this with humour and originality. Some of the dating stories are hilarious borderline with ridiculous, but the story captures really well how unnerving the situation could be. The premise of identifying each date by their choice of drink is very clever and so is the fact that the reader doesn’t know Veronica’s real kind of drink until the end. Both V and Rachel are very well written characters, in their differences and similarities. Both V’s desire to find the one and Rachel’s aversion to serious relationships are believable and relatable.
However, what really stole the show for me was the off the charts chemistry between the mains. Ms. Spencer knows how to build the tension so thick that you could cut it with a proverbial knife. The intimate scenes are really hot, specially the one that involves a mirror. Kudos to the author to bring originality in those crucial but hard to write parts in a romance book. The secondary characters are lovable with their joy of life at old age. Behind the banter and witty dialogues between them, the reader can pick some pearls of wisdom about life and love. In addition, the mains from ‘The road to Madison’ make an appearance in this book so the reader can catch up with their lives.
Overall, a clever, funny and light romance with great chemistry and a superb cast. 5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
Elle Spencer made a big entrance in the lesfic world with her very popular debut book ‘Casting Lacey‘ which I loved. I admit that I wasn’t fussed about the following ones, specially ‘The road to Madison’ but I’m happy to say that she absolutely nailed this one. ’30 dates in 30 days’ is a fantastic story, a prime example of a lesbian Chick Lit book in the style of Melissa Brayden. If you are a Brayden’s fan, you cannot go wrong with this one.
Although the idea of online dating in romance novels isn’t new, I loved the way Ms. Spencer handled this with humour and originality. Some of the dating stories are hilarious borderline with ridiculous, but the story captures really well how unnerving the situation could be. The premise of identifying each date by their choice of drink is very clever and so is the fact that the reader doesn’t know Veronica’s real kind of drink until the end. Both V and Rachel are very well written characters, in their differences and similarities. Both V’s desire to find the one and Rachel’s aversion to serious relationships are believable and relatable.
However, what really stole the show for me was the off the charts chemistry between the mains. Ms. Spencer knows how to build the tension so thick that you could cut it with a proverbial knife. The intimate scenes are really hot, specially the one that involves a mirror. Kudos to the author to bring originality in those crucial but hard to write parts in a romance book. The secondary characters are lovable with their joy of life at old age. Behind the banter and witty dialogues between them, the reader can pick some pearls of wisdom about life and love. In addition, the mains from ‘The road to Madison’ make an appearance in this book so the reader can catch up with their lives.
Overall, a clever, funny and light romance with great chemistry and a superb cast. 5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
October 18, 2019
I read this book a few days ago now and had since been putting off writing a review for it because I'd been having a difficult time trying to put my thoughts into words. Luckily not so long ago I stumbled onto a ridiculously simple format that seemed to work. So here goes.
+ Lots and lots of humor.
+ The banter between Bea & Veronica.
+ Fast and straightforward set up of plot.
+ Dates are named after their drinks.
+ Secondary characters Joe, Carol and Harry.
+ Conflicts between characters isn't drawn out.
+ Veronica takes no BS from Avery (or Rachel).
+ Believable creation and use of angst.
+ They have good chemistry.
- RACHEL
- Rachel's hot & cold attitude.
- Her immaturity when she messes up.
- She can't apologize worth a damn.
- I wanted more of Bea.
- Veronica's character shift into a weakling.
- I skipped the sex scene b/c I hate Rachel.
- What happened to Dirty Martini girl?
- The end was predictable and cheesy.
Finally, if you're planning on reading The Road to Madison, do so before reading this book. The author managed to spoil everything and even included what could be seen as a tiny epilogue. Don't say I didn't warn you.
+ Lots and lots of humor.
+ The banter between Bea & Veronica.
+ Fast and straightforward set up of plot.
+ Dates are named after their drinks.
+ Secondary characters Joe, Carol and Harry.
+ Conflicts between characters isn't drawn out.
+ Veronica takes no BS from Avery (or Rachel).
+ Believable creation and use of angst.
+ They have good chemistry.
- RACHEL
- Rachel's hot & cold attitude.
- Her immaturity when she messes up.
- She can't apologize worth a damn.
- I wanted more of Bea.
- Veronica's character shift into a weakling.
- I skipped the sex scene b/c I hate Rachel.
- What happened to Dirty Martini girl?
- The end was predictable and cheesy.
Finally, if you're planning on reading The Road to Madison, do so before reading this book. The author managed to spoil everything and even included what could be seen as a tiny epilogue. Don't say I didn't warn you.
November 25, 2019
I loved this book! What a great, feel good story.
September 28, 2019
4.5
I will admit that I was so looking forward to this book and dreading it as well. I loved Casting Lacey but The Road to Madison frustrated me beyond belief. Which side would 30 Dates in 30 Days fall on? Thankfully this one fell in the Love It category.
Veronica Welch is a woman with a plan - make partner and get a partner by the time she's 35. Well on the way to her professional goal, she is sorely behind on her personal goal. Thankfully her assistant, Bea, and mother, have her covered and signed her up for an online dating app (Ryder) so that Veronica can efficiently skim though available lesbians and find Ms Right to check off that final box. Meeting each date in a local pub, she gives them under an hour for the "interview". Obviously, there's some rather amusing dates and the drink choices definitely set the stage for the personalities of her dates; but, Spencer blends in a few women who actually seem like they would be a good match.
Veronica isn't necessarily an ice queen, but she's brilliant, focused, practical and has a wonderfully dry sense of humour that makes this rather silly premise work quite well. As much as she protested Bea and her mother's scheme, she secretly wants a relationship and love but has been so focused on her career, she doesn't really know what she wants in a partner - just that she'll know the it when she feels it. As she progresses through the dates, it's more and more obvious that she's really not sure what she's looking for, but Rachel Monaghan, the cynical wedding photographer who avoids relationships, seems to have that mysterious "it" factor.
Helping out her cousin by manning the pub in the evenings, Rachel is quickly drawn into the unfolding parade of dates - and her attraction to Veronica is definitely at war with her reticence in entering another relationship. There's a definite sizzle between the two women and Rachel's reluctance sets up a great push and pull dynamic that amps up the chemistry. Both she and Veronica are likable and you can't help but root along with the pub's peanut gallery of regulars that they both get on with it.
On top of two really engaging main characters, Spencer has an interesting cast of secondary characters - friends, family, the regulars at the bar who watch Veronica's dates like it's a spectator sport. There's a wonderful sense of connection with them all - no cardboard cut outs or stereotypes, each one feels real and endearing. If you've read her other books, Ana and Madison make a brief appearance - thankfully they have run out of angst (omigod did they have angst) and have settled nicely into their HEA, making them great secondary characters for this story.
30 Dates in 30 Days is a fun read - Spencer imbues the story with some great humour and witty banter that brings the characters to life and the romance hits all the right notes. I really enjoyed this one - it hit all the right notes for me and left me with a bit of an aw shucks smile on my face when I finished.
Definitely Recommended
I will admit that I was so looking forward to this book and dreading it as well. I loved Casting Lacey but The Road to Madison frustrated me beyond belief. Which side would 30 Dates in 30 Days fall on? Thankfully this one fell in the Love It category.
Veronica Welch is a woman with a plan - make partner and get a partner by the time she's 35. Well on the way to her professional goal, she is sorely behind on her personal goal. Thankfully her assistant, Bea, and mother, have her covered and signed her up for an online dating app (Ryder) so that Veronica can efficiently skim though available lesbians and find Ms Right to check off that final box. Meeting each date in a local pub, she gives them under an hour for the "interview". Obviously, there's some rather amusing dates and the drink choices definitely set the stage for the personalities of her dates; but, Spencer blends in a few women who actually seem like they would be a good match.
Veronica isn't necessarily an ice queen, but she's brilliant, focused, practical and has a wonderfully dry sense of humour that makes this rather silly premise work quite well. As much as she protested Bea and her mother's scheme, she secretly wants a relationship and love but has been so focused on her career, she doesn't really know what she wants in a partner - just that she'll know the it when she feels it. As she progresses through the dates, it's more and more obvious that she's really not sure what she's looking for, but Rachel Monaghan, the cynical wedding photographer who avoids relationships, seems to have that mysterious "it" factor.
Helping out her cousin by manning the pub in the evenings, Rachel is quickly drawn into the unfolding parade of dates - and her attraction to Veronica is definitely at war with her reticence in entering another relationship. There's a definite sizzle between the two women and Rachel's reluctance sets up a great push and pull dynamic that amps up the chemistry. Both she and Veronica are likable and you can't help but root along with the pub's peanut gallery of regulars that they both get on with it.
On top of two really engaging main characters, Spencer has an interesting cast of secondary characters - friends, family, the regulars at the bar who watch Veronica's dates like it's a spectator sport. There's a wonderful sense of connection with them all - no cardboard cut outs or stereotypes, each one feels real and endearing. If you've read her other books, Ana and Madison make a brief appearance - thankfully they have run out of angst (omigod did they have angst) and have settled nicely into their HEA, making them great secondary characters for this story.
30 Dates in 30 Days is a fun read - Spencer imbues the story with some great humour and witty banter that brings the characters to life and the romance hits all the right notes. I really enjoyed this one - it hit all the right notes for me and left me with a bit of an aw shucks smile on my face when I finished.
Definitely Recommended
October 22, 2019
I have read all of Elle Spencer's books that have been published through Amazon and it is easy to see she is getting better with her storytelling and her writing. The main characters, Veronica (lawyer) and Rachel (photog by day bartender by night) are very likable but of course one of them has to be kind of hate-able (Rachel) as the story progresses. It really is a story about finding your one and only and figuring out to make her your one and only when the "one" doesn't want to be her. Confused? Guess you'll just have to read it.
Anyway, it was really cool to see cameos by the two MCs from Spencer's previous book, "The Road to Madison." It was even nicer how everything tied together for everyone. I will say i was rather disappointed how quickly it ended but hopeful these characters will make an appearance again.
***Received an ARC from Netgalley for an honest review by me***
Anyway, it was really cool to see cameos by the two MCs from Spencer's previous book, "The Road to Madison." It was even nicer how everything tied together for everyone. I will say i was rather disappointed how quickly it ended but hopeful these characters will make an appearance again.
***Received an ARC from Netgalley for an honest review by me***
September 30, 2019
Veronica Welch is about to become a partner in the prestigious law firm she has worked for the past few years. About to turn thirty five and with her career on track, she’s pushed into finding ‘the one’. Her assistant signs Veronica up for 30 dates in 30 days through an app, and arranges for the dates to meet at the bar next door. The experience proves to be futile but does manage to bring Rachel into her life. Rachel Monaghan is a wedding photographer helping her cousin with bartending duties during a family emergency. The sparks are immediate but Rachel has sworn off serious relationships after her last heartbreak. Can she get past her insecurities before Veronica slips away?
I was looking forward to this novel and it did not disappoint. Ms Spencer just gets to me every time. She simply has the ability to create great chemistry between the main characters. One just has to root for them! This was a slow burn romance...with some fast parts! What a tease at times! This story was not as angsty as ‘The Road to Madison’ and will likely appeal to more romance readers out there. This is a pretty straightforward romance but for the most part it had a good pace, and did I mention chemistry?
The novel is filled with witty dialog and funny situations. The dates, the parents, the cousins. For those of you concerned about a strict format with the 30 dates, the title is a little misleading. Do not worry about having to read through 30 dates since the author did a great job managing the flow of the dates. The bar next door with its occupants was charming and became a fantastic setting for the story.
The secondary characters were endearing and all over the novel as well. Even the parents were a welcome sight (that means a lot coming from me!). They all provided a solid presence to move the story along with levity and humor. I will be looking for the audiobook as I think it has great potential with all these cute characters.
Overall, another hit by Ms Spencer that will appeal to all romance fans out there. 4.5
ARC generously provided to me by BSB via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was looking forward to this novel and it did not disappoint. Ms Spencer just gets to me every time. She simply has the ability to create great chemistry between the main characters. One just has to root for them! This was a slow burn romance...with some fast parts! What a tease at times! This story was not as angsty as ‘The Road to Madison’ and will likely appeal to more romance readers out there. This is a pretty straightforward romance but for the most part it had a good pace, and did I mention chemistry?
The novel is filled with witty dialog and funny situations. The dates, the parents, the cousins. For those of you concerned about a strict format with the 30 dates, the title is a little misleading. Do not worry about having to read through 30 dates since the author did a great job managing the flow of the dates. The bar next door with its occupants was charming and became a fantastic setting for the story.
The secondary characters were endearing and all over the novel as well. Even the parents were a welcome sight (that means a lot coming from me!). They all provided a solid presence to move the story along with levity and humor. I will be looking for the audiobook as I think it has great potential with all these cute characters.
Overall, another hit by Ms Spencer that will appeal to all romance fans out there. 4.5
ARC generously provided to me by BSB via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2019
Fabulous. Veronica is about to make partner at her law firm but she also wants to settle down with someone. But she’s single. She enlists the help of her assistant to find her 30 dates in 30 days through an online dating site. Rachel is a renowned wedding photographer who is temporarily helping her cousin out at her bar while she deals with family responsibility. Serving Veronica and her succession of dates isn’t easy for Rachel because she finds Veronica attractive but she’s not willing to settle down herself.
Great dialogue, clever plot, superb chemistry and likeable characters. Nice cameo of characters from another of Spencer’s novels. Everything worked really well together.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Great dialogue, clever plot, superb chemistry and likeable characters. Nice cameo of characters from another of Spencer’s novels. Everything worked really well together.
Book received from Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
October 13, 2019
Another wonderful story by Elle Spencer. As usual with her books the main characters have a strong chemistry between them. Their dialog, their banter, their interaction, everything is just right. Even the secondary characters feel as real as the main ones.
This book was funny and emotional, two qualities that I've come to expect from Elle Spencer's books.
Loved it!
This book was funny and emotional, two qualities that I've come to expect from Elle Spencer's books.
Loved it!
June 29, 2021
My reading of new, to me, authors continues (with interruptions). And I've yet again enjoyed a book by author I've not read before.
Quickly moving to: I've seen the author name before while being a reader, and I have owned this book for more than a year, though I don't recall why I bought it.
Right, so.
Two POV book about a lawyer looking for love, and an assistant who helped her do so. And my opening just confused things. No, the assistant is not the other POV.
A 34 year old, about to turn 35 (well, some time that year), has spent her life in pursuit of her career and her goal of making partner in a law firm. Prior to the book's opening, in a fit of drunkness, she let slip that she wants more in life than just being a partner in a law firm. She wants a partner in life. So, and this is where the assistant comes in, her assistant, who was the person she confided in, sets up the lawyer on an app. Ryder. 30 dates in 30 nights (though, for some reason, the book says "30 days"; all of the dates with the Ryder women happen at night).
The lawyer is named Veronica "V" Welch. And . . . apparently I have nothing else to say here . . . . mmphs. Other than: remember: 34 year old woman who spent her life away from relationships but is now in the market for a love.
The other main POV character is, in fact, meet in the location that all of Veronica's dates occur: a local, to her work, bar. A block or two from her workplace. I'll move on, mostly, from commenting on her to leave a bit of mystery. Since this second POV isn't meet immediately. So: that bit I'll mention: while the first point of view character, Veronica wants love; the other scoffs at the idea, and doesn't want anything to do with relationships.
Right, so. Good bit of humor. The relationship developed nicely. I rather liked the main characters, and, oddly, also, mostly, liked the side characters.
Head killing me. Will move on now.
Rating: 4.75
June 28 2021
Quickly moving to: I've seen the author name before while being a reader, and I have owned this book for more than a year, though I don't recall why I bought it.
Right, so.
Two POV book about a lawyer looking for love, and an assistant who helped her do so. And my opening just confused things. No, the assistant is not the other POV.
A 34 year old, about to turn 35 (well, some time that year), has spent her life in pursuit of her career and her goal of making partner in a law firm. Prior to the book's opening, in a fit of drunkness, she let slip that she wants more in life than just being a partner in a law firm. She wants a partner in life. So, and this is where the assistant comes in, her assistant, who was the person she confided in, sets up the lawyer on an app. Ryder. 30 dates in 30 nights (though, for some reason, the book says "30 days"; all of the dates with the Ryder women happen at night).
The lawyer is named Veronica "V" Welch. And . . . apparently I have nothing else to say here . . . . mmphs. Other than: remember: 34 year old woman who spent her life away from relationships but is now in the market for a love.
The other main POV character is, in fact, meet in the location that all of Veronica's dates occur: a local, to her work, bar. A block or two from her workplace. I'll move on, mostly, from commenting on her to leave a bit of mystery. Since this second POV isn't meet immediately. So: that bit I'll mention: while the first point of view character, Veronica wants love; the other scoffs at the idea, and doesn't want anything to do with relationships.
Right, so. Good bit of humor. The relationship developed nicely. I rather liked the main characters, and, oddly, also, mostly, liked the side characters.
Head killing me. Will move on now.
Rating: 4.75
June 28 2021
October 27, 2019
Another winner for me! Very well-written - in fact all Ms Spencer’s writing are to me... I’ve always loved reading great dialogues & banters. No different here. And who doesn’t love hot femme in suits/skirts, going all corporate and the likes (Veronica); and throw in an artistic talent (Rachel) and what I got is hotness! I for one, loved it! The plot & settings were great and there’s much lesser angst than Road to Madison (which I adored as well) but one scene too many on blowing hot and cold... Madison and Ana made an appearance and we got a glimpse of their story, on what’s next for them. My only complaint with 30 Days is that ending was a bit rushed and there’s no epilogue! Would have been really great if we get a little bit more of V and Rachel....
February 24, 2020
Don't you just love it when you pick up a book and it suits your mood at that moment? This was that for me. A very light, predictable read that was soused with wit and humour, with two main characters that I truly enjoyed. It has flaws and a few themes I am somewhat tired of (that whole "gotta be married before I am X age trope just doesn't do anything for me) but overall I enjoyed this. And I was happy Ms. Spencer redeemed herself after her non-inspiring "Road to Madison."
MC Rachel is a wedding photographer who helps out at her cousin's bar when needed. MC Veronica is on her way to being partner at a law firm and is hell-bent on getting married by the time she's 35 (blarg, I don't like when people time-line their lives). She agrees to go on 30 dates in 30 days on the advice of her assistant and her mom (huh? I don't know how close y'all are to your moms but....really??). The bar she chooses for all the dates happens to be the one Rachel helps at. I liked the added bit about Veronica wanting to know the person's drink before she met them. I'm an enthusiastic cocktail maker for my guests so this detail delighted me. :)
I LOVED the secondary characters! Oh Carol, Harry and Joe.....yay! I just love when an author knows how to write strong and relevant secondaries that add depth to the story, that makes my day so bright. The regulars at the bar are quick to start rating Veronica's dates and I just adored how they all quickly became like family to one another.
The sparks b/w Rachel and Veronica are palpable early on. I found Rachel's reason for being so relationship-adverse totally plausible. What a terrible, humiliating thing to go through. However her shameless flirting with Veronica, when V is very clear about her pathway, really would have done a number on my head had I been in V's place. That got to be a little much.
LOL moments:
Oh really Rachel? You are an in demand photographer, to celebs and the jet setters, fully booked all season, and you say you will be able to send an entire wedding catalog "in a few days?" No, no you will not. I laughed out loud at this craziness. That couple will be waiting a good 6 weeks minimum, c'mon.
Rachel: "Ok stop.... you are none of those things, I mean no, you don't have a woman in your life. Okay, also no job, but...
V: "I always feel so much better after talking to you, Rachel. It's like talking to a therapist, except without the PhD or the feeling better."
".....damn this room is romantic." Veronica went to the window. "There's even a full moon. And is that a horse out there?" I don't know why but I guffawed at that image. Fireplace, low lights, gorgeous estate, full moon....cue horse in the moonlight.....
I would have liked a little more ooomph with the intimacy once the predictable ending happened, but ah well. Nicely done read, Ms. Spencer!
MC Rachel is a wedding photographer who helps out at her cousin's bar when needed. MC Veronica is on her way to being partner at a law firm and is hell-bent on getting married by the time she's 35 (blarg, I don't like when people time-line their lives). She agrees to go on 30 dates in 30 days on the advice of her assistant and her mom (huh? I don't know how close y'all are to your moms but....really??). The bar she chooses for all the dates happens to be the one Rachel helps at. I liked the added bit about Veronica wanting to know the person's drink before she met them. I'm an enthusiastic cocktail maker for my guests so this detail delighted me. :)
I LOVED the secondary characters! Oh Carol, Harry and Joe.....yay! I just love when an author knows how to write strong and relevant secondaries that add depth to the story, that makes my day so bright. The regulars at the bar are quick to start rating Veronica's dates and I just adored how they all quickly became like family to one another.
The sparks b/w Rachel and Veronica are palpable early on. I found Rachel's reason for being so relationship-adverse totally plausible. What a terrible, humiliating thing to go through. However her shameless flirting with Veronica, when V is very clear about her pathway, really would have done a number on my head had I been in V's place. That got to be a little much.
LOL moments:
Oh really Rachel? You are an in demand photographer, to celebs and the jet setters, fully booked all season, and you say you will be able to send an entire wedding catalog "in a few days?" No, no you will not. I laughed out loud at this craziness. That couple will be waiting a good 6 weeks minimum, c'mon.
Rachel: "Ok stop.... you are none of those things, I mean no, you don't have a woman in your life. Okay, also no job, but...
V: "I always feel so much better after talking to you, Rachel. It's like talking to a therapist, except without the PhD or the feeling better."
".....damn this room is romantic." Veronica went to the window. "There's even a full moon. And is that a horse out there?" I don't know why but I guffawed at that image. Fireplace, low lights, gorgeous estate, full moon....cue horse in the moonlight.....
I would have liked a little more ooomph with the intimacy once the predictable ending happened, but ah well. Nicely done read, Ms. Spencer!
May 6, 2020
Very nice and romantic read. Helped putting my mind on other things than social distancing and kept me safe at home.
October 5, 2019
Elle Spencer is rapidly becoming one of my favorite authors. Her skill in writing romance with a mixture of chemistry, angst and humor is outstanding, and this skill is very evident in her newest novel 30 Dates in 30 Days.
In this tale, we meet Veronica Welch who has achieved most of her “life plan”. She is a successful lawyer who is about to be made partner in a prestigious law firm. There is only one goal she has yet to achieve. She had planned to be married by the age of thirty-five which is only five months away. When her assistant, Bea finds out about this goal, she conspires with Veronica’s mother to help by setting up thirty dates in thirty days through a dating app. Veronica reluctantly agrees, thinking of this as an efficient way to find a wife. The dates are set to take place at a bar called Monaghan’s. There Veronica meets Rachel Monaghan. Rachel is a successful wedding photographer who has been helping her cousin by tending bar when her cousin needs to be away from the bar. Rachel doesn’t believe in love and marriage, but she can’t seem to get Veronica out of her mind.
I honestly believe Ms. Spencer could teach classes on how to write chemistry between two characters. The attraction between Veronica and Rachel practically crackles and sizzles on the pages. I already knew this author is a master at creating and weaving angst through her stories. I saw her talent for this in her novel, The Road to Madison. While this book doesn’t have the same amount of angst, there is an undercurrent of that emotion that runs through the plot. What surprised and delighted me was the humor that she also introduces in the story, especially with all the different dates that Veronica has to “suffer” through. I actually chuckled out loud several times as I read this book.
This is a delightful romance that will send you on a roller coaster ride of emotions. I am very
glad I chose to take that journey with Veronica and Rachel, and I think you might enjoy it too.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
In this tale, we meet Veronica Welch who has achieved most of her “life plan”. She is a successful lawyer who is about to be made partner in a prestigious law firm. There is only one goal she has yet to achieve. She had planned to be married by the age of thirty-five which is only five months away. When her assistant, Bea finds out about this goal, she conspires with Veronica’s mother to help by setting up thirty dates in thirty days through a dating app. Veronica reluctantly agrees, thinking of this as an efficient way to find a wife. The dates are set to take place at a bar called Monaghan’s. There Veronica meets Rachel Monaghan. Rachel is a successful wedding photographer who has been helping her cousin by tending bar when her cousin needs to be away from the bar. Rachel doesn’t believe in love and marriage, but she can’t seem to get Veronica out of her mind.
I honestly believe Ms. Spencer could teach classes on how to write chemistry between two characters. The attraction between Veronica and Rachel practically crackles and sizzles on the pages. I already knew this author is a master at creating and weaving angst through her stories. I saw her talent for this in her novel, The Road to Madison. While this book doesn’t have the same amount of angst, there is an undercurrent of that emotion that runs through the plot. What surprised and delighted me was the humor that she also introduces in the story, especially with all the different dates that Veronica has to “suffer” through. I actually chuckled out loud several times as I read this book.
This is a delightful romance that will send you on a roller coaster ride of emotions. I am very
glad I chose to take that journey with Veronica and Rachel, and I think you might enjoy it too.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
November 27, 2019
The idea of going on 30 basically blind dates in 30 days makes my skin crawl.
Veronica decides to go this route because she had promised herself she would be a kept woman by 35, she goes on date after date but little does she know that the woman she’s been looking for might not be on her assistance app.
I really enjoyed this match up, Rachel and Veronica are absolutely perfect and their back and forth was fun to read. Rachel is a free spirit who has sworn off marriage after a horrible break-up and Veronica is a no nonsense business woman who desperately wants to find a woman to settle down with, the class brings many laughs.
I didn’t think I’d like the speed dating element of the book and it originally put me off reading it but I’m glad I picked it up because it’s definitely some of the best stuff I’ve read this year.
There are also wonderful secondary characters that give us this play by play element during the speed dating and you very easily fall in love with the regulars.
It’s fast paced, fun and light hearted, I really recommend it.
Veronica decides to go this route because she had promised herself she would be a kept woman by 35, she goes on date after date but little does she know that the woman she’s been looking for might not be on her assistance app.
I really enjoyed this match up, Rachel and Veronica are absolutely perfect and their back and forth was fun to read. Rachel is a free spirit who has sworn off marriage after a horrible break-up and Veronica is a no nonsense business woman who desperately wants to find a woman to settle down with, the class brings many laughs.
I didn’t think I’d like the speed dating element of the book and it originally put me off reading it but I’m glad I picked it up because it’s definitely some of the best stuff I’ve read this year.
There are also wonderful secondary characters that give us this play by play element during the speed dating and you very easily fall in love with the regulars.
It’s fast paced, fun and light hearted, I really recommend it.
November 10, 2023
I finally circled back to reading Elle Spencer! After Casting Lacey I swore I’d read all her books. Finally!
I love how the author’s characters are awkward people. She knows her way around quirky humour and it jumps out of nowhere so I end up LOLing out of nowhere.
I really liked how the author walked the readers through Rachel’s struggles and eventually her healing process. The secondary characters were also very loveable. The premise of calling the dates after their drink of choice was a nice touch. It’s sad because I don’t drink so I have no idea what the drinks discussed tastes like. And I’m now curious how they taste like. Especially gimlet.
I love how the author’s characters are awkward people. She knows her way around quirky humour and it jumps out of nowhere so I end up LOLing out of nowhere.
I really liked how the author walked the readers through Rachel’s struggles and eventually her healing process. The secondary characters were also very loveable. The premise of calling the dates after their drink of choice was a nice touch. It’s sad because I don’t drink so I have no idea what the drinks discussed tastes like. And I’m now curious how they taste like. Especially gimlet.
December 11, 2024
30 april 2020 Started the audio It’s even better than the ebook. Again wiping tears away. Lori Prince did a great job narrating this.
25 January 2020 Oh my God!!!! What a great book!!! Still wiping tears away and laughed a lot. The chemistry...pfff top of the bill!! Could have had a bit more sex, but the sex in it was hot. Jeezz, will reread this one often. And will check out other books by Elle Spencer, cause this first one I read was more than 5 stars for me.
25 January 2020 Oh my God!!!! What a great book!!! Still wiping tears away and laughed a lot. The chemistry...pfff top of the bill!! Could have had a bit more sex, but the sex in it was hot. Jeezz, will reread this one often. And will check out other books by Elle Spencer, cause this first one I read was more than 5 stars for me.
November 3, 2019
Another FANTASTIC book by Ms. Spencer😍😍
March 4, 2020
This one has a lot of feels. I really enjoyed it.
February 3, 2021
We love light-hearted romcoms with a side of drama and Spencer’s books mostly fit this groove nicely. This one is no exception. It has an entertaining premise – racing against time (35th birthday being round the corner) to find The One, in a month via thirty dates and thirty days.
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
October 6, 2019
4.25 stars - Having to go through 30 dates in 30 days honestly sound like my worst nightmare, but oh what a delightful premise for a romcom! I had great expectations for this new book by Spencer and I wasn’t disappointed! It’s (mostly) heartlighted, funny and with a side of tasteful angst.
Veronica Welch has worked hard and had to make sacrifices her entire career to make partner at the prestigious law firm where she works. On the verge of turning 35, and with the partnership pretty much in the bag, it’s time for Veronica to focus her energy on finding the one. After confessing to her PA, Bea, that she’d always planned to be married by 35, Bea takes matters into her own hands and sets her boss up for 30 blind dates.
Rachel Monaghan is a successful wedding photographer who doesn’t actually believe in lasting love and doesn’t do relationships. To help out her cousin Charlotte who’s going through a difficult time, Rachel takes over her bartending duties a few nights a week. That’s how she meets Veronica and learns of her plan to possibly find the one in 30 dates.
In 30 Dates in 30 Days, Elle Spencer delivers a slow-burn romance with incredible chemistry between the two main characters, wonderful prose and dialogue, a handful of funny moments and a charming cast of side characters.
If you’ve read Spencer’s other books and thought some of the drama/angst was overdone, I can assure you it isn’t the case with this one. I would definitely recommend you give 30 Dates in 30 Days a shot!
Thanks to Bold Strokes Books for providing me with a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review
Veronica Welch has worked hard and had to make sacrifices her entire career to make partner at the prestigious law firm where she works. On the verge of turning 35, and with the partnership pretty much in the bag, it’s time for Veronica to focus her energy on finding the one. After confessing to her PA, Bea, that she’d always planned to be married by 35, Bea takes matters into her own hands and sets her boss up for 30 blind dates.
Rachel Monaghan is a successful wedding photographer who doesn’t actually believe in lasting love and doesn’t do relationships. To help out her cousin Charlotte who’s going through a difficult time, Rachel takes over her bartending duties a few nights a week. That’s how she meets Veronica and learns of her plan to possibly find the one in 30 dates.
In 30 Dates in 30 Days, Elle Spencer delivers a slow-burn romance with incredible chemistry between the two main characters, wonderful prose and dialogue, a handful of funny moments and a charming cast of side characters.
If you’ve read Spencer’s other books and thought some of the drama/angst was overdone, I can assure you it isn’t the case with this one. I would definitely recommend you give 30 Dates in 30 Days a shot!
Thanks to Bold Strokes Books for providing me with a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review
October 12, 2019
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I read Spencer’s The Road to Madison and was underwhelmed. This is a vast improvement.
Here, we have MC Veronica, a lawyer on track to becoming partner at her firm who is approaching 35 and wants to be married by then. Her assistant and mother come up with a scheme to set her up on 30 dates in 30 days to find ‘the one’.
The other MC is Rachel, a wedding photographer who is helping out a her cousin’s bar due to a family illness. This just happens to be the bar where Veronica’s dates take place, and Rachel gets drawn into the date scenarios, and then becomes drawn to Veronica. This attraction is mutual and through a series of events the leads spend time together, but Rachel has had her heart broken and isn’t looking for love, so the two are not on the same page. There’s a lot of back and forth about this, and it does kind of bog the book down from about halfway to the 3/4 mark, but some cute stuff still happens there.
There’s lots of fun side characters, especially the people at the bar and Veronica’s parents. Madison and Ana and characters from their book also appear, and I liked the update about what was happening with them. The chemistry between the leads is both fun and sexy, and I really liked how they interacted. I could have done with the subplot involving Rachel’s ex, but the other dates were fun enough to compensate. Overall this is a sweet and funny romance. 4 stars.
I read Spencer’s The Road to Madison and was underwhelmed. This is a vast improvement.
Here, we have MC Veronica, a lawyer on track to becoming partner at her firm who is approaching 35 and wants to be married by then. Her assistant and mother come up with a scheme to set her up on 30 dates in 30 days to find ‘the one’.
The other MC is Rachel, a wedding photographer who is helping out a her cousin’s bar due to a family illness. This just happens to be the bar where Veronica’s dates take place, and Rachel gets drawn into the date scenarios, and then becomes drawn to Veronica. This attraction is mutual and through a series of events the leads spend time together, but Rachel has had her heart broken and isn’t looking for love, so the two are not on the same page. There’s a lot of back and forth about this, and it does kind of bog the book down from about halfway to the 3/4 mark, but some cute stuff still happens there.
There’s lots of fun side characters, especially the people at the bar and Veronica’s parents. Madison and Ana and characters from their book also appear, and I liked the update about what was happening with them. The chemistry between the leads is both fun and sexy, and I really liked how they interacted. I could have done with the subplot involving Rachel’s ex, but the other dates were fun enough to compensate. Overall this is a sweet and funny romance. 4 stars.
December 2, 2019
“30 Dates in 30 Days” sounds like a good idea that I might have considered, but after listening to the hilariously badly matched dates I think I’ll skip the approach. Still, it sounds far less daunting than “5.5 Reviews Per Day for 30 Days”, which is what I’m facing to finish my 2019 challenge after being lazy since last March!
Elle Spencer has written a terrifically enjoyable book with lots of great characters and lots and lots of humor. Lori Prince narrates so many books so wonderfully, yet she certainly tailors each performance to the book and the characters, and the author/narrator combination is just perfect here.
MC Veronica has focused on her law career, and now worries that perhaps she’s waited too long to find love. Enter her assistant Bea, a meddlesome assistant “straight out of central casting”, who makes it her mission to find Veronica’s soulmate. Oh my, these hilarious mismatches make my own worst dates sound like they were perfect (they weren’t).
MC bartender/photographer Rachel (“snarky, impossibly beautiful” Rachel) has been burned in the past, and has no interest in trusting or loving again. But she, her bar owner cousin, and a cast of regulars at the bar where “hot and annoying” Veronica meets her dates, become invested in helping Veronica find her own true love.
This is a slow burn romance with lots of fun banter and LOTS of great chemistry. I’m not sure that Veronica ghosting a woman she was enjoying dating (sorry - no spoilers) was handled well, but I get that the complication was making her head spin.
4.8* for “30 Dates in 30 Days”…lots of fun!
Elle Spencer has written a terrifically enjoyable book with lots of great characters and lots and lots of humor. Lori Prince narrates so many books so wonderfully, yet she certainly tailors each performance to the book and the characters, and the author/narrator combination is just perfect here.
MC Veronica has focused on her law career, and now worries that perhaps she’s waited too long to find love. Enter her assistant Bea, a meddlesome assistant “straight out of central casting”, who makes it her mission to find Veronica’s soulmate. Oh my, these hilarious mismatches make my own worst dates sound like they were perfect (they weren’t).
MC bartender/photographer Rachel (“snarky, impossibly beautiful” Rachel) has been burned in the past, and has no interest in trusting or loving again. But she, her bar owner cousin, and a cast of regulars at the bar where “hot and annoying” Veronica meets her dates, become invested in helping Veronica find her own true love.
This is a slow burn romance with lots of fun banter and LOTS of great chemistry. I’m not sure that Veronica ghosting a woman she was enjoying dating (sorry - no spoilers) was handled well, but I get that the complication was making her head spin.
4.8* for “30 Dates in 30 Days”…lots of fun!
April 26, 2021
The back cover summary worried me but it was really good, and reintroduced characters from previous books. Perfect, except the Brick wall ending! Bah!!
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