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The Gin Lover's Guide to Dating
When life gives you lemons... add a splash of gin
Two parts sparkling comedy. One dose of romantic tension. Mix well with a second chance, a splash of mystery, and garnish with a twist of fate...
When Liv's high-flying career goes off the rails, she finds herself working at a glitzy new gin bar to pay the bills. Yes, she's got a knack for reading the customers, she's finally got time to have some fun, and she might have just found some real friends - but it's just until she gets her life back on track, right?
But between humiliating encounters with her old workmates, one very hot bartender, and a lot of soul searching to do, Liv's life is even more muddled than a Blackberry Bramble...
Can Liv face up to her past, seize her future, and mix her own recipe for happiness?
A hilarious, feel-good romantic comedy for fans of Mhairi McFarlane and Sophie Ranald
***
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2019
23 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
About the author
Nina Kaye
17 books73 followersNina Kaye is a contemporary romance author who writes warm, witty and uplifting reads with a deeper edge.
Nina started writing her first novel when she was seventeen (and locked in her room, supposedly studying for her future). It was a short-lived experience that ended as soon as Nina’s exams did, but the dream of writing never left her.
Nina lives in Edinburgh with her husband and much adored side-kick, James. In addition to writing, Nina enjoys swimming, gin and karaoke (preferably all enjoyed together in a sunny, seaside destination).
Nina started writing her first novel when she was seventeen (and locked in her room, supposedly studying for her future). It was a short-lived experience that ended as soon as Nina’s exams did, but the dream of writing never left her.
Nina lives in Edinburgh with her husband and much adored side-kick, James. In addition to writing, Nina enjoys swimming, gin and karaoke (preferably all enjoyed together in a sunny, seaside destination).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
July 28, 2020
Will it sound crazy if I say the alcohol content in this one was too high?
What I totally like is how self-empowering and corporate-bashing this whole novel was. There's no amount of corp-bashing that I won't lap up. Factor in the journey to self-discovery, the resilience, escape from difficult-to-escape background and eventual self-acceptance. This is worth a whole bunch of stars that won't fit into the GR scale.
What I would've liked to see way less often is the word 'poncey'. It gave me a nice workout eyeroll-style but did nothing else for me.
It also felt like the friend of the childhood was a bit less than honest with our MC: while he was having a corporate career (yes, IT or start up or whatever it was, it's still corporate!), he was bashing our MC over the same thing just 'cause what? PR and communications are way more 'water-based' than IT? Give her a break.
I would've liked to see the MC actually finding some useful career. The ending's weakish: becoming a yet another blogger, leeching articles off random people seen in bars and money off ads, loosing even her flat, all the while the former colleagues got to enjoy their cushy salaries and not-too-bothersome careers? Besides, how does one get there: what communications professional would fail to realize that colleagues are not exactly friend material, never were, never will be? Could this be the soft skill deficiency that had the possibility to get this MC pegged for the weak-link-to-fire?
The Aaron angle was pretty creepster as well. Anyway, firing the girl while enjoying her blog simultaneously felt a bit, uhhh, unnecessary. I'm pretty sure there could've been better ways to deal with this crisis. I'm also not sure just how a PR&Com gal did not manage to insert some nifty tidbits that would make her stories less easy to IDentify with.
Q:
From here on in, the only way is up. (c)
Q:
I’m a colleague. Is that all I am to them? Surely not. We’re all friends. Great friends. It’ll all settle down and we’ll be back to normal – I’ll just have different shop talk to share.(c)
Q:
A rejection? What the hell?... Flustered, I click onto the next email.
As I read through it, my jaw almost hits the floor. Another rejection? This is so not what I expected. I massage my forehead in a bid to get my head around these revelations. What’s going on? The last time I was job-hunting, I was snapped up so quickly. And the time before. Always for roles above my current post. Have things changed? Or is it because of the level I’m applying for? (c)
Q:
How have I got to this point? Just three and a bit months ago, I was unstoppable. My career was unstoppable. I was exactly where I wanted to be: my five-year plan on track. Now… now I’m unemployed with an ever-growing gap in my CV, which is making it more and more difficult to get a job. I can’t even seem to make a sideways move, let alone secure the step up I was after. I wasn’t prepared for this. (c)
Q:
What do you do? What are you up to these days? Translation: where have you got to in life; are you successful; and sometimes, are you as successful as me? (c)
Q:
‘So, he does exist, this Dylan?’
‘Of course, he exists.’ I look at Aaron like he’s mad.
‘That’s good. At least you’re not at the stage of creating an imaginary friend.’ (c)
Q:
Aaron grins maniacally, as he towers over the two of us like a socially awkward pine tree. (с)
Q:
How have I gone from being a high-performing, credible professional who manages my own time and workload, to being publicly scolded like a toddler, by someone who probably wasn’t much more than a toddler herself when I entered the world of work? It’s almost unbearable. (c)
Q:
Has it all been false: a façade based on not much more than a shared office, common expertise, and the politics that go with it? A hurt deeper than I knew possible slices through my consciousness. I realise I’m even more alone and hopeless than I had feared. I had been avoiding my so-called friends. (c)
Q:
‘You must care about more than work – and money. You must not let other people decide if you have success. You must create your success. Not just from work and money. Why do you think that only work and money are important?’ (c)
Q:
‘MY ONLY TRUE BARRIER IS MYSELF. MY ONLY TRUE BARRIER IS MYSELF. MY ONLY TRUE BARRIER IS MYSELF.’
...
‘Young lady.’ A faltering elderly male voice suddenly descends from above me. ‘That was quite inspired. Even I want to take over the world now.’
…
Instead of feeling a burning humiliation from being overheard, my inner composure surprisingly holds.
‘I’m glad,’ I call up to him. ‘And you know what? You can if you want to.’
‘Think it’s a bit late for me.’ He chuckles. ‘But it’s definitely not too late for you. Go get ’em, my dear. Goodness, we need more people like you running our country.’(c)
Q:
I’ve seen this before. True leaders never want the spotlight. They show people the way, and their reward is seeing them blossom and succeed. They are a rarer breed than the type of leader Sharon is: driven by power, money and an oversized ego. The type who’d elbow anyone out the way for a shot on the podium. Aaron is clearly struggling with the attention. It’s not in his nature to sell himself publicly the way the magazine wants. This is my chance to repay some of the favours he’s so selflessly paid me. (c)
What I totally like is how self-empowering and corporate-bashing this whole novel was. There's no amount of corp-bashing that I won't lap up. Factor in the journey to self-discovery, the resilience, escape from difficult-to-escape background and eventual self-acceptance. This is worth a whole bunch of stars that won't fit into the GR scale.
What I would've liked to see way less often is the word 'poncey'. It gave me a nice workout eyeroll-style but did nothing else for me.
It also felt like the friend of the childhood was a bit less than honest with our MC: while he was having a corporate career (yes, IT or start up or whatever it was, it's still corporate!), he was bashing our MC over the same thing just 'cause what? PR and communications are way more 'water-based' than IT? Give her a break.
I would've liked to see the MC actually finding some useful career. The ending's weakish: becoming a yet another blogger, leeching articles off random people seen in bars and money off ads, loosing even her flat, all the while the former colleagues got to enjoy their cushy salaries and not-too-bothersome careers? Besides, how does one get there: what communications professional would fail to realize that colleagues are not exactly friend material, never were, never will be? Could this be the soft skill deficiency that had the possibility to get this MC pegged for the weak-link-to-fire?
The Aaron angle was pretty creepster as well. Anyway, firing the girl while enjoying her blog simultaneously felt a bit, uhhh, unnecessary. I'm pretty sure there could've been better ways to deal with this crisis. I'm also not sure just how a PR&Com gal did not manage to insert some nifty tidbits that would make her stories less easy to IDentify with.
Q:
From here on in, the only way is up. (c)
Q:
I’m a colleague. Is that all I am to them? Surely not. We’re all friends. Great friends. It’ll all settle down and we’ll be back to normal – I’ll just have different shop talk to share.(c)
Q:
A rejection? What the hell?... Flustered, I click onto the next email.
As I read through it, my jaw almost hits the floor. Another rejection? This is so not what I expected. I massage my forehead in a bid to get my head around these revelations. What’s going on? The last time I was job-hunting, I was snapped up so quickly. And the time before. Always for roles above my current post. Have things changed? Or is it because of the level I’m applying for? (c)
Q:
How have I got to this point? Just three and a bit months ago, I was unstoppable. My career was unstoppable. I was exactly where I wanted to be: my five-year plan on track. Now… now I’m unemployed with an ever-growing gap in my CV, which is making it more and more difficult to get a job. I can’t even seem to make a sideways move, let alone secure the step up I was after. I wasn’t prepared for this. (c)
Q:
What do you do? What are you up to these days? Translation: where have you got to in life; are you successful; and sometimes, are you as successful as me? (c)
Q:
‘So, he does exist, this Dylan?’
‘Of course, he exists.’ I look at Aaron like he’s mad.
‘That’s good. At least you’re not at the stage of creating an imaginary friend.’ (c)
Q:
Aaron grins maniacally, as he towers over the two of us like a socially awkward pine tree. (с)
Q:
How have I gone from being a high-performing, credible professional who manages my own time and workload, to being publicly scolded like a toddler, by someone who probably wasn’t much more than a toddler herself when I entered the world of work? It’s almost unbearable. (c)
Q:
Has it all been false: a façade based on not much more than a shared office, common expertise, and the politics that go with it? A hurt deeper than I knew possible slices through my consciousness. I realise I’m even more alone and hopeless than I had feared. I had been avoiding my so-called friends. (c)
Q:
‘You must care about more than work – and money. You must not let other people decide if you have success. You must create your success. Not just from work and money. Why do you think that only work and money are important?’ (c)
Q:
‘MY ONLY TRUE BARRIER IS MYSELF. MY ONLY TRUE BARRIER IS MYSELF. MY ONLY TRUE BARRIER IS MYSELF.’
...
‘Young lady.’ A faltering elderly male voice suddenly descends from above me. ‘That was quite inspired. Even I want to take over the world now.’
…
Instead of feeling a burning humiliation from being overheard, my inner composure surprisingly holds.
‘I’m glad,’ I call up to him. ‘And you know what? You can if you want to.’
‘Think it’s a bit late for me.’ He chuckles. ‘But it’s definitely not too late for you. Go get ’em, my dear. Goodness, we need more people like you running our country.’(c)
Q:
I’ve seen this before. True leaders never want the spotlight. They show people the way, and their reward is seeing them blossom and succeed. They are a rarer breed than the type of leader Sharon is: driven by power, money and an oversized ego. The type who’d elbow anyone out the way for a shot on the podium. Aaron is clearly struggling with the attention. It’s not in his nature to sell himself publicly the way the magazine wants. This is my chance to repay some of the favours he’s so selflessly paid me. (c)
April 28, 2020
4☆ A Witty, Light Hearted, Fun Rom Com!
The Gin Lover’s Guide to Dating is a heart warming rom com, that is about new beginnings, second chances, swallowing your pride, fitting in, Embracing a new Career, Romance and Friendship.
Liv had a great job in PR, and was set for a big promotion. What she didn't expect was, to be called in for a meeting, and to be told she no longer fitted in with their new structure and thought it best she took a payout and moved on..... I guess loyalty counts for nothing!
Liv is devastated, angry, confused, embarrassed and determined to find a better job. It's a good job her best friend Dylan is around to help her out!
But it's a dog eat dog world out there and she finds herself becoming more and more despondent as the rejections roll in.
So when an old boss of hers offers her some temporary work in a Hotel and the glam gin bar, she politely turns him down, determined she was not going to change paths.
But with her finances becoming pretty low she might just not have a choice!, but can she swallow her pride and accept help?
I really enjoyed this feel good, rom com.
Liv was grating on me in the beginning but once she got over her hang ups and started embracing her new job I really enjoyed her character and zest.
I liked how she sort of ended up in a love triangle, but working out who she would pick or who I thought she should pick kept me on my toes.
The start of the book, was a slower start for me, and was more about setting the plot. But once the story got going it had a nice flow to it!
If you are looking for a light hearted, witty, fun Rom Com, with some delicious sounding cocktails (although I'm not huge gin fan 🙈 sorry!) then you will thoroughly enjoy The Gin Lover’s Guide to Dating.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
The Gin Lover’s Guide to Dating is a heart warming rom com, that is about new beginnings, second chances, swallowing your pride, fitting in, Embracing a new Career, Romance and Friendship.
Liv had a great job in PR, and was set for a big promotion. What she didn't expect was, to be called in for a meeting, and to be told she no longer fitted in with their new structure and thought it best she took a payout and moved on..... I guess loyalty counts for nothing!
Liv is devastated, angry, confused, embarrassed and determined to find a better job. It's a good job her best friend Dylan is around to help her out!
But it's a dog eat dog world out there and she finds herself becoming more and more despondent as the rejections roll in.
So when an old boss of hers offers her some temporary work in a Hotel and the glam gin bar, she politely turns him down, determined she was not going to change paths.
But with her finances becoming pretty low she might just not have a choice!, but can she swallow her pride and accept help?
I really enjoyed this feel good, rom com.
Liv was grating on me in the beginning but once she got over her hang ups and started embracing her new job I really enjoyed her character and zest.
I liked how she sort of ended up in a love triangle, but working out who she would pick or who I thought she should pick kept me on my toes.
The start of the book, was a slower start for me, and was more about setting the plot. But once the story got going it had a nice flow to it!
If you are looking for a light hearted, witty, fun Rom Com, with some delicious sounding cocktails (although I'm not huge gin fan 🙈 sorry!) then you will thoroughly enjoy The Gin Lover’s Guide to Dating.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/0...
April 22, 2020
Favorite Quotes:
By the time she’s done, I’ve only heard, and taken in, a fraction of what she’s said. But I have developed, in my head, a full technicolour adaptation of how, given the chance, I would inflict the slowest and most painful death possible upon her. This beast needs to be slain.
‘She is clever. With Aaron she is like butter that would not spread.’ ‘You mean melt.’ … ‘She is a real jacket and hype.’ ‘You mean Jekyll and Hyde!’
I don’t have time for men in my life… My rule is to enjoy looking, but not to touch. They never turn out to be as good as the fantasy anyway.
‘So, you are older. This is good. You can teach him. You can be his puma… You know.’ Reyes searches for the explanation. ‘The older woman who takes a young hombre.’ ‘The word you’re looking for is cougar,’ I say flatly.
‘You are not over this hill.’ Reyes swipes her hand through the air, causing me to instinctively duck. ‘You are only thirty-one. This world is still your oyster sauce.’ ‘Oyster,’ I correct her. ‘It’s just oyster.’
My Review:
This was a slowly developing character-driven novel of women's fiction with random yet frequent sparkles of amusing levity. I initially struggled with this one as I had difficulty working up much empathy for the main character as Liv came off as snobbish and just far too over-served with her own self-importance. Her goals were serious yet she lived a frivolous and shallow life while contemptuous of anything that appeared beneath her desired standing – Liv was not someone whom I would enjoy sharing my air. But I felt her devastation and inner turmoil and understood her issues once her history was revealed.
The secondary characters were an entertaining and interesting collection of likable personalities and the impetus of most of the humorous content with malaprops from an adorable English as a second language speaker. And the character's surreptitious blog posts were beyond clever with tasty gin pairings that I was eager to replicate and consume. However, I nearly spluttered my Tom Collins at the idea of Liv waking up and discovering her new blog had amassed over twelve thousand subscribers without effort, that and her expectation to make serious coin from said blog. I laughed and laughed…
I stumbled upon a fun addition to my British Isles word list while enjoying this highly fictional account - with stonker, which is something that is large or impressive. I had a stonker of a bill for bar supplies after reading this thirst-inducing missive.
By the time she’s done, I’ve only heard, and taken in, a fraction of what she’s said. But I have developed, in my head, a full technicolour adaptation of how, given the chance, I would inflict the slowest and most painful death possible upon her. This beast needs to be slain.
‘She is clever. With Aaron she is like butter that would not spread.’ ‘You mean melt.’ … ‘She is a real jacket and hype.’ ‘You mean Jekyll and Hyde!’
I don’t have time for men in my life… My rule is to enjoy looking, but not to touch. They never turn out to be as good as the fantasy anyway.
‘So, you are older. This is good. You can teach him. You can be his puma… You know.’ Reyes searches for the explanation. ‘The older woman who takes a young hombre.’ ‘The word you’re looking for is cougar,’ I say flatly.
‘You are not over this hill.’ Reyes swipes her hand through the air, causing me to instinctively duck. ‘You are only thirty-one. This world is still your oyster sauce.’ ‘Oyster,’ I correct her. ‘It’s just oyster.’
My Review:
This was a slowly developing character-driven novel of women's fiction with random yet frequent sparkles of amusing levity. I initially struggled with this one as I had difficulty working up much empathy for the main character as Liv came off as snobbish and just far too over-served with her own self-importance. Her goals were serious yet she lived a frivolous and shallow life while contemptuous of anything that appeared beneath her desired standing – Liv was not someone whom I would enjoy sharing my air. But I felt her devastation and inner turmoil and understood her issues once her history was revealed.
The secondary characters were an entertaining and interesting collection of likable personalities and the impetus of most of the humorous content with malaprops from an adorable English as a second language speaker. And the character's surreptitious blog posts were beyond clever with tasty gin pairings that I was eager to replicate and consume. However, I nearly spluttered my Tom Collins at the idea of Liv waking up and discovering her new blog had amassed over twelve thousand subscribers without effort, that and her expectation to make serious coin from said blog. I laughed and laughed…
I stumbled upon a fun addition to my British Isles word list while enjoying this highly fictional account - with stonker, which is something that is large or impressive. I had a stonker of a bill for bar supplies after reading this thirst-inducing missive.
April 16, 2020
Liv's career and high-flying plans all come crashing down. In the aftermath, she finds her true passion and learns what counts in life.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
After a rough childhood, Liv has proved all the doubters wrong. She's cast off all of her old life (with the exception of her best friend Dylan), and now has a high-flying career in PR and Marketing, a swanky flat in Edinburgh (psst: so excited for an UK urban romance set in not-London), and money to burn. Until she doesn't.
Despite pouring her heart and soul into the company she works for, when a merger takes place, her colleagues and 'friends' take the opportunity to oust her and take all the credit.
As this wasn't in her 5 year plan, her savings are non-existent, and she has to take up a bar job, to delay losing her flat.
There is romance, and there is comedy in this book, as you might expect from the cover and description; but the real strengths of the book are the friendships that develop, and Liv's journey to discover what really matters in life.
After working so hard to get away from the estate she grew up on, with an alcoholic mother and abusive father, Liv thinks she's finally won and proven her doubters wrong. I totally understand her feelings of failure when it all falls apart; and how she tries to hide it from her colleagues. It was hard work winning the friends she had in the Marketing circle; and it would be impossible if they knew she had to stoop to bar work, when all her interviews fall through.
It was lovely to see her perspective start to change, as Liv fights to subdue her pride. Then she can really start to build a new life, without judging it solely on success and wealth.
I really related to Liv, growing up in a rough area, fighting to succeed, moving away to chase dreams and, in the end returning to my hometown, because it's the only place I belong.
Liv's friends are a massive influence on her - her real friends, I mean, not the corporate-flakes.
Dylan is the one part of Liv's old life that she can't shake, he tries to keep her grounded when she's hypnotised by her glamorous new life; and eventually tries to get her to connect to her old life.
Reyes is a new friend from the bar, who takes Liv under her wing, determined to make her see there is more to life than success - like Hot Josh and finding love.
These two are an absolute powerhouse, and there was no way Liv could deny their theologies for long.
The budding romance between Liv and her online hombre Graham was kinda sweet, if a little obvious who the mystery man was.
I felt sooo sorry for Josh, he was an absolute sweety and a puppy-dog that was clearly falling for Liv. It annoyed me that, even after months of dating, Liv still considered them as 'casual'.
Their relationship reminded me of the blonde woman off Love is Blind (the Netflix show I might have got a little hooked on), who dates a younger man who is clearly in love with her, and just wants to treat her as a queen; but she has her eye on someone else from the beginning, but she's happy to string along the other dude.
Poor Josh. Just be honest with him already!
Liv does have a habit of self-sabotage. She basically sets herself up for everything that goes wrong in this book, and is surprised when it blows up in her face.
Again, it was frustrating that she didn't take other people's feelings into consideration, in her own personal mission for redemption.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to reading more of the author's work.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
After a rough childhood, Liv has proved all the doubters wrong. She's cast off all of her old life (with the exception of her best friend Dylan), and now has a high-flying career in PR and Marketing, a swanky flat in Edinburgh (psst: so excited for an UK urban romance set in not-London), and money to burn. Until she doesn't.
Despite pouring her heart and soul into the company she works for, when a merger takes place, her colleagues and 'friends' take the opportunity to oust her and take all the credit.
As this wasn't in her 5 year plan, her savings are non-existent, and she has to take up a bar job, to delay losing her flat.
There is romance, and there is comedy in this book, as you might expect from the cover and description; but the real strengths of the book are the friendships that develop, and Liv's journey to discover what really matters in life.
After working so hard to get away from the estate she grew up on, with an alcoholic mother and abusive father, Liv thinks she's finally won and proven her doubters wrong. I totally understand her feelings of failure when it all falls apart; and how she tries to hide it from her colleagues. It was hard work winning the friends she had in the Marketing circle; and it would be impossible if they knew she had to stoop to bar work, when all her interviews fall through.
It was lovely to see her perspective start to change, as Liv fights to subdue her pride. Then she can really start to build a new life, without judging it solely on success and wealth.
I really related to Liv, growing up in a rough area, fighting to succeed, moving away to chase dreams and, in the end returning to my hometown, because it's the only place I belong.
Liv's friends are a massive influence on her - her real friends, I mean, not the corporate-flakes.
Dylan is the one part of Liv's old life that she can't shake, he tries to keep her grounded when she's hypnotised by her glamorous new life; and eventually tries to get her to connect to her old life.
Reyes is a new friend from the bar, who takes Liv under her wing, determined to make her see there is more to life than success - like Hot Josh and finding love.
These two are an absolute powerhouse, and there was no way Liv could deny their theologies for long.
The budding romance between Liv and her online hombre Graham was kinda sweet, if a little obvious who the mystery man was.
I felt sooo sorry for Josh, he was an absolute sweety and a puppy-dog that was clearly falling for Liv. It annoyed me that, even after months of dating, Liv still considered them as 'casual'.
Their relationship reminded me of the blonde woman off Love is Blind (the Netflix show I might have got a little hooked on), who dates a younger man who is clearly in love with her, and just wants to treat her as a queen; but she has her eye on someone else from the beginning, but she's happy to string along the other dude.
Poor Josh. Just be honest with him already!
Liv does have a habit of self-sabotage. She basically sets herself up for everything that goes wrong in this book, and is surprised when it blows up in her face.
Again, it was frustrating that she didn't take other people's feelings into consideration, in her own personal mission for redemption.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and look forward to reading more of the author's work.
May 2, 2020
So. Yup. The ratings made me read this book. And? Well, I am not impressed.
My mood has been really bad recently with all the reads that end up on my average bookshelf. You might ask why didn't I enjoy this 'rom-com'. Hmm. I cringed many times, thought it was forced funny and the heroine was really annoying me.
What was good?
Gin bar. I love gin 😍😅🤭
I am just wishing to find a read to inspire me to write a proper review... It's been hard.
My mood has been really bad recently with all the reads that end up on my average bookshelf. You might ask why didn't I enjoy this 'rom-com'. Hmm. I cringed many times, thought it was forced funny and the heroine was really annoying me.
What was good?
Gin bar. I love gin 😍😅🤭
I am just wishing to find a read to inspire me to write a proper review... It's been hard.
October 27, 2019
I loved this story, nice light read and would be perfect for Christmas. Wish I could make some money blogging lol. Loved the setting of bars for juicy stories. Well written with characters you could relate too. Loved it.
April 14, 2020
First off, I’m going to start off with a rant about the current trend of contemporary chick lit being marketed as romantic comedy. They are NOT THE SAME THING and I’m getting really annoyed by publishers claiming they are. This is a fun and charming read, and it’s definitely a romance because there’s a Happily Ever After, but it’s not a rom com because it’s quite simply not funny enough. I felt more sorry for Liv than amused by the situations she finds herself in, and so does she; she’s more likely to spend her time in self-reflection trying to give herself a pep talk than laughing at herself. And in all honesty… there’s not much to laugh about in losing your dream corporate job and having to take on bar work in a desperate attempt to make ends meet.
WIth my little This Is Not A Rom Com rant out of the way, I’m now going to say that this is actually a really good read. I had a great deal of sympathy for Liv from the start as she struggled to recover from a series of nasty blows. Thrown a lifeline by Aaron, a former boss now running a luxury hotel who offers her some part-time bar work until she gets back on her feet, Liv meets some new friends and discovers there’s more to life than climbing the corporate ladder. There are a couple of love interests on the scene, with the interesting twist that one of them is online and she doesn’t find out his real identity until right at the end of the book. As such, if love triangles aren’t your thing, you might want to give this one a miss.
Nina Kaye has created an extremely likeable character in Liv, who comes from a difficult background and clawed her way up by sheer graft. Liv finds it hard to trust and open up to anyone except her best friend Dylan who comes from the same background as her, but makes a new friend in fellow bartender Reyes, a Spanish girl who’s just an utter delight. In a lot of ways this is a story about Liv and Reyes’ growing friendship just as much as Liv’s romantic arc and it’s both realistic and charming. It’s a lovely read, but I’d definitely call it an uplifting contemporary chick lit rather than a rom com. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via Rachel’s Random Resources.
WIth my little This Is Not A Rom Com rant out of the way, I’m now going to say that this is actually a really good read. I had a great deal of sympathy for Liv from the start as she struggled to recover from a series of nasty blows. Thrown a lifeline by Aaron, a former boss now running a luxury hotel who offers her some part-time bar work until she gets back on her feet, Liv meets some new friends and discovers there’s more to life than climbing the corporate ladder. There are a couple of love interests on the scene, with the interesting twist that one of them is online and she doesn’t find out his real identity until right at the end of the book. As such, if love triangles aren’t your thing, you might want to give this one a miss.
Nina Kaye has created an extremely likeable character in Liv, who comes from a difficult background and clawed her way up by sheer graft. Liv finds it hard to trust and open up to anyone except her best friend Dylan who comes from the same background as her, but makes a new friend in fellow bartender Reyes, a Spanish girl who’s just an utter delight. In a lot of ways this is a story about Liv and Reyes’ growing friendship just as much as Liv’s romantic arc and it’s both realistic and charming. It’s a lovely read, but I’d definitely call it an uplifting contemporary chick lit rather than a rom com. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via Rachel’s Random Resources.
November 4, 2019
Three and a half stars.
Liv has a high-flying job in PR and marketing until she is made redundant following a merger at her firm. It turns out that the job market has got a lot tougher in Edinburgh since she got her dream job and desperate to save her home she gets a job at a swanky hotel in the gin bar. A keen observer of others Liv finds the customers an endless source of entertainment and uses her powers to 'read' their behaviour. When her BFF from the estate suggests she tries to monetise her observations in a blog Liv begins to intersperse her observations on her customers with recipes for delicious gin cocktails.
I devoured this feel-good novel with cocktails on a business trip to Stockholm, apart from an insane desire for a delicious gin cocktail I found this a great escapist romance. I thought the romance was a bit obvious but I liked Liv trying to decide between the seriously hot toy-boy and her online commentator - style over substance.
Overall, if you like a good cocktail and a funny romance then I think you'll love this - at the very least you'll get some recipes for lush gin cocktails!
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
Liv has a high-flying job in PR and marketing until she is made redundant following a merger at her firm. It turns out that the job market has got a lot tougher in Edinburgh since she got her dream job and desperate to save her home she gets a job at a swanky hotel in the gin bar. A keen observer of others Liv finds the customers an endless source of entertainment and uses her powers to 'read' their behaviour. When her BFF from the estate suggests she tries to monetise her observations in a blog Liv begins to intersperse her observations on her customers with recipes for delicious gin cocktails.
I devoured this feel-good novel with cocktails on a business trip to Stockholm, apart from an insane desire for a delicious gin cocktail I found this a great escapist romance. I thought the romance was a bit obvious but I liked Liv trying to decide between the seriously hot toy-boy and her online commentator - style over substance.
Overall, if you like a good cocktail and a funny romance then I think you'll love this - at the very least you'll get some recipes for lush gin cocktails!
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
December 18, 2019
Nina Kaye has a refreshing voice and this is an imaginative take on a romcom. Two parts romance, one part intrigue, one part heart.
With the prevailing theme of 'finding your own way', Liv is a heroine to champion. Kaye's characters are well-drawn, and its a pacy read that I was late to work to finish.
Loved it - highly recommended.
With the prevailing theme of 'finding your own way', Liv is a heroine to champion. Kaye's characters are well-drawn, and its a pacy read that I was late to work to finish.
Loved it - highly recommended.
February 16, 2020
One of my favourite reads for 2020 so far
As I am a book blogger and part of this book’s tour I am going to refrain from shouting about this (tough challenge!) Nina - you gave me everything I wanted in an uplifting romantic comedy - brilliant!
As I am a book blogger and part of this book’s tour I am going to refrain from shouting about this (tough challenge!) Nina - you gave me everything I wanted in an uplifting romantic comedy - brilliant!
April 14, 2020
Gin Lover’s Guide to Dating is smart, witty, fun, and relatable, the perfect read for the beleaguered pandemic soul. It was precisely the type of reading I was looking for to escape for a short while.
Favorite character: Reyes
I loved Liv, the main character, but Reyes is the character that intrigued me the most. She wears a giant diamond on her left hand, and it is rumored she married a man from a wealthy family – so why is she tending bar? That question, along with a few others, is answered by the end of the story, but there is still so much to learn about her, and I am inquisitive. She is smart, fiery, and a true romantic at heart. She also makes sure that Liv does not sacrifice parts of her self to regain her footing in the corporate world.
What I Loved
In short, I loved everything, and I mean every little thing.
The characters are all so thoroughly developed that you will instantly recognize them among your friends and family.
Liv – she has fought her way up from nothing and made a success of herself in the business world as a communications specialist.
When corporate restructuring leads to the loss of her job, she finds how tough it is out there to find a new job.
But she still has that determination she has always had; she needs to figure out where to direct it.
Dylan is the only person who has remained with Liv since childhood. He is her rock, her sounding board, and, more importantly, her friend.
Josh is the 23-year-old who loves a good game of pool and has risen through the ranks of the hotel staff quickly, speaking to his work ethic and his ability. He is very fond of Liv and is well beyond noticing any significant age difference.
Reyes – Liv’s co-worker at the Gin bar, she believes strongly in enjoying life to its fullest and won’t let Liv do anything less.
I loved that Gin Lovers Guide is a story about identity, self-discovery, and reinventing yourself. What we do as a job/career is a significant factor in how we define ourselves, so how do you handle it when that identity is taken away from you through no fault of your own? The story takes us on Liv’s journey of denial to acceptance to, ultimately, a redefinition that is as inspiring as it is relatable. It’s a path full of sad and scary truths, humility, and finally, determination. All of which Liv goes through with a witty sense of humor and a fighting spirit.
There is a great deal of tongue-in-cheek humor that had me laughing out loud while appreciating how brilliant and creative it is. This is not a story of slapstick comedy, nor is it a sappy romance – it is a story of fighting back and of keeping your sense of humor even when the world is crashing down around your ears.
To Read or Not to Read
YES! READ IT! NOW! TODAY!
Favorite character: Reyes
I loved Liv, the main character, but Reyes is the character that intrigued me the most. She wears a giant diamond on her left hand, and it is rumored she married a man from a wealthy family – so why is she tending bar? That question, along with a few others, is answered by the end of the story, but there is still so much to learn about her, and I am inquisitive. She is smart, fiery, and a true romantic at heart. She also makes sure that Liv does not sacrifice parts of her self to regain her footing in the corporate world.
What I Loved
In short, I loved everything, and I mean every little thing.
The characters are all so thoroughly developed that you will instantly recognize them among your friends and family.
Liv – she has fought her way up from nothing and made a success of herself in the business world as a communications specialist.
When corporate restructuring leads to the loss of her job, she finds how tough it is out there to find a new job.
But she still has that determination she has always had; she needs to figure out where to direct it.
Dylan is the only person who has remained with Liv since childhood. He is her rock, her sounding board, and, more importantly, her friend.
Josh is the 23-year-old who loves a good game of pool and has risen through the ranks of the hotel staff quickly, speaking to his work ethic and his ability. He is very fond of Liv and is well beyond noticing any significant age difference.
Reyes – Liv’s co-worker at the Gin bar, she believes strongly in enjoying life to its fullest and won’t let Liv do anything less.
I loved that Gin Lovers Guide is a story about identity, self-discovery, and reinventing yourself. What we do as a job/career is a significant factor in how we define ourselves, so how do you handle it when that identity is taken away from you through no fault of your own? The story takes us on Liv’s journey of denial to acceptance to, ultimately, a redefinition that is as inspiring as it is relatable. It’s a path full of sad and scary truths, humility, and finally, determination. All of which Liv goes through with a witty sense of humor and a fighting spirit.
There is a great deal of tongue-in-cheek humor that had me laughing out loud while appreciating how brilliant and creative it is. This is not a story of slapstick comedy, nor is it a sappy romance – it is a story of fighting back and of keeping your sense of humor even when the world is crashing down around your ears.
To Read or Not to Read
YES! READ IT! NOW! TODAY!
April 18, 2020
This is a surprising read, in a very good way! I have to admit that I really didn't like the heroine of the story, Liv, to start with. She's convinced she's up for promotion so when instead she's made redundant she's devastated. My problem then was all the lies she told to make herself look good. However, as the story progresses you learn just why she's so determined to put on a facade of being a success, even when she's struggling. She's desperate to leave her past behind though her childhood best friend, Dylan, is there whenever she needs him - he's a brilliant friend and great character. He's also the one who suggests she makes use of her talents in a new way that will help her make money......
There are some fun, laugh out loud incidents in this story, along with others that leave you wanting to give the characters a hug or a taste of their own medicine! It is a story which involves facing up to the past, realising that you are not responsible for your own childhood or parents, facing reality and being honest with yourself and others. It is also about discovering what real friendship is . . . . and how some people really are fake friends, only out for themselves whilst others will always accept you for who you are now. There's the added mystery of who her online follower is . . . . and that revelation is an absolutely fantastic romantic ending to the story!
Get ready for plenty of Gin Fizz in this contemporary romantic comedy! The growth of Liz as a character is well portrayed so she started off as a lying snob and became a lovely young lady in the end, but only after lots of trials and tribulations, plenty of gin and learning to accept help when she needed it.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it - without drinking a drop gin in the process!
There are some fun, laugh out loud incidents in this story, along with others that leave you wanting to give the characters a hug or a taste of their own medicine! It is a story which involves facing up to the past, realising that you are not responsible for your own childhood or parents, facing reality and being honest with yourself and others. It is also about discovering what real friendship is . . . . and how some people really are fake friends, only out for themselves whilst others will always accept you for who you are now. There's the added mystery of who her online follower is . . . . and that revelation is an absolutely fantastic romantic ending to the story!
Get ready for plenty of Gin Fizz in this contemporary romantic comedy! The growth of Liz as a character is well portrayed so she started off as a lying snob and became a lovely young lady in the end, but only after lots of trials and tribulations, plenty of gin and learning to accept help when she needed it.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it - without drinking a drop gin in the process!
April 15, 2020
This was a lovely story and I am so glad that I read it!
It was very uplifting and perfect to distract me from the news during the current lockdown that is in place!
I loved the story and the characters were great, they were well developed and they worked well together too – the book had me smiling, giggling and laughing – just what I needed at the moment.
The book was well rounded and with some genuine and believable characters - it is 4 stars from me for this one, it was well written, definitely recommending this!
It was very uplifting and perfect to distract me from the news during the current lockdown that is in place!
I loved the story and the characters were great, they were well developed and they worked well together too – the book had me smiling, giggling and laughing – just what I needed at the moment.
The book was well rounded and with some genuine and believable characters - it is 4 stars from me for this one, it was well written, definitely recommending this!
October 9, 2019
This book has more ups and downs than a yoyo. However, all the way through you are rooting for the MC as she peels off the layers of her childhood, navigates a new work role and finds time to date and run a blog. Modern life is exhausting!
There's delicious Gin recipes to enjoy and plenty of great supporting characters. I must admit I did guess the twist but this in no way distracted from the enjoyment as it all unfolded to the climax. Enjoyable.
There's delicious Gin recipes to enjoy and plenty of great supporting characters. I must admit I did guess the twist but this in no way distracted from the enjoyment as it all unfolded to the climax. Enjoyable.
November 4, 2019
Nina Kaye had me at gin but the story stole me away. A fun, sexy read for an autumnal night.
May 30, 2020
4.25 stars!
The book was not what I expected and I ended up being pleasantly surprised. Going by the title, I anticipated the heroine up in her arms with internet dating and writing blogs about it. And partly I was right except all her dating tips were not from personal experience but her apparent accurate people watching abilities at a place where she works as a bartender.
She becomes a bartender while down on her luck after being unfairly fired, stripped down to her last savings, and almost on the verge of being evicted. She is crushed because she was on her way to the top in her corporate company when the rug gets pulled off her feet. She is also escaping her childhood and the trauma of it with only her childhood friend who is still a constant grounding presence in her life.
She is given a chance at life by Aaron while she tries to escape her past life and yet again now with the bartender job when her life is thrown off gears. So while getting accustomed to her new temporary job and her new friends (her old colleagues seemed like horror shows) she begins this anonymous blog while she posts bartending tips with romantic short stories she witnesses. And while dating a fellow colleague Josh, all seems better in Liv's life.
Then come the consequences, this book's theme seemed to be a never ending spree of twists with the heroine never seeming to catch a break until she finds her calling and with it an anonymous friend in her blogging chat. You have a faint idea who it is but the author keeps you guessing literally till the last chapter. A fantastic debut with my only grouse being this guessing game of potential suitors leaving our Liv and her main love interest's interaction to the minimum.
The book was not what I expected and I ended up being pleasantly surprised. Going by the title, I anticipated the heroine up in her arms with internet dating and writing blogs about it. And partly I was right except all her dating tips were not from personal experience but her apparent accurate people watching abilities at a place where she works as a bartender.
She becomes a bartender while down on her luck after being unfairly fired, stripped down to her last savings, and almost on the verge of being evicted. She is crushed because she was on her way to the top in her corporate company when the rug gets pulled off her feet. She is also escaping her childhood and the trauma of it with only her childhood friend who is still a constant grounding presence in her life.
She is given a chance at life by Aaron while she tries to escape her past life and yet again now with the bartender job when her life is thrown off gears. So while getting accustomed to her new temporary job and her new friends (her old colleagues seemed like horror shows) she begins this anonymous blog while she posts bartending tips with romantic short stories she witnesses. And while dating a fellow colleague Josh, all seems better in Liv's life.
Then come the consequences, this book's theme seemed to be a never ending spree of twists with the heroine never seeming to catch a break until she finds her calling and with it an anonymous friend in her blogging chat. You have a faint idea who it is but the author keeps you guessing literally till the last chapter. A fantastic debut with my only grouse being this guessing game of potential suitors leaving our Liv and her main love interest's interaction to the minimum.
April 27, 2020
Despite the desperate times we find Liv in, it was really a pleasure to get to know her. She had ambition. She had drive. She had everything planned out for her career including how she was going to get there...until the bottom fell out. Setback after setback plagued her every step, but with a little help from her newfound friends, and a reassessment of what's really important in life, and Liv is once again on the up and up, whether the world believes her or not. Think about it though...your perfect life doesn't look like my perfect life and so on, so the phrase LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE is truly unique to the person. I mean, we all have to make ends meet, but sometimes those ends need looking at again because maybe we've pulled them too taunt with unnecessary things. The adjustment to what we're use to is unwelcome generally, but in the end, it's usually worth the move.
Overall, I found this one rather delightful! My suspicions were proven correct as to the identity of the online connection, and despite things consistently going feet over head for our leading lady, she finally gets hers in the end...not revenge, but something better...happiness. Really, isn't that what we're all after in life anyway? Finding our happiness in the things, people, and situations we surround ourselves with?
**ebook received for review; opinions are my own
Overall, I found this one rather delightful! My suspicions were proven correct as to the identity of the online connection, and despite things consistently going feet over head for our leading lady, she finally gets hers in the end...not revenge, but something better...happiness. Really, isn't that what we're all after in life anyway? Finding our happiness in the things, people, and situations we surround ourselves with?
**ebook received for review; opinions are my own
October 10, 2019
(I received an e-arc thanks to Netgalley and Orion Publishing Group)
This is due to be published November 4th
A Gin Lover’s Guide To Dating has me in fits of laughter but it was very slow going for the first half. As the story and plot doesn’t really begin to pick up until then.
Liv is totally flawed and no where near perfect and I thought it was great to see. It was also great that other characters helped keep her grounded and supported her when she needed it.
There are some things that I didn’t like about this including spoiler filled and non spoiler thoughts but I’ll keep the spoilers to myself but should you want to hear them feel free to send me a message. One non spoiler problem I had is the pacing. It went from being day by day to skipping weeks and even months forward in time with little context as to what relationships developed.
Over all I did really enjoy this book and I would recommend it to anyone wanting a light hearted rom/com style novel.
This is due to be published November 4th
A Gin Lover’s Guide To Dating has me in fits of laughter but it was very slow going for the first half. As the story and plot doesn’t really begin to pick up until then.
Liv is totally flawed and no where near perfect and I thought it was great to see. It was also great that other characters helped keep her grounded and supported her when she needed it.
There are some things that I didn’t like about this including spoiler filled and non spoiler thoughts but I’ll keep the spoilers to myself but should you want to hear them feel free to send me a message. One non spoiler problem I had is the pacing. It went from being day by day to skipping weeks and even months forward in time with little context as to what relationships developed.
Over all I did really enjoy this book and I would recommend it to anyone wanting a light hearted rom/com style novel.
April 21, 2020
Thank you to @rachelsrandomresources for inviting me in the blog tour on this brilliant RomCom by Nina Kaye
When Liv's high-flying career goes off the rails, she finds herself working at a glitzy new gin bar to pay the bills. She's never let romance distract her, but with one very hot colleague, a mysterious online follower who might just be her soulmate, and a lot of cocktails, her dating life is about to be shaken up...
But is Liv looking for a sparkling flirtation, or something a little stronger?
Sometimes you have to face up to your past, seize your future, and mix your own recipe for happy ever after...
This was an absolute perfect mix of light hearted romance and comedy.
So well written it was very easy to read and you can easily drink it all in one sitting!
Only 99p on kindle right now... check it out!
Question is..... what’s your favourite Gin tipple?
When Liv's high-flying career goes off the rails, she finds herself working at a glitzy new gin bar to pay the bills. She's never let romance distract her, but with one very hot colleague, a mysterious online follower who might just be her soulmate, and a lot of cocktails, her dating life is about to be shaken up...
But is Liv looking for a sparkling flirtation, or something a little stronger?
Sometimes you have to face up to your past, seize your future, and mix your own recipe for happy ever after...
This was an absolute perfect mix of light hearted romance and comedy.
So well written it was very easy to read and you can easily drink it all in one sitting!
Only 99p on kindle right now... check it out!
Question is..... what’s your favourite Gin tipple?
October 9, 2019
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
So though I'm not a fan of gin this book sounded like it could be pretty fun and it was certainly an enjoyable read. The characters were fun and they did feel pretty real.
But it wasn't perfect. The blurb talks of the blog on dating but it didn't appear in the book until almost halfway through. And the romance was even later than that. I didn't struggle to get to that point as the friendships and everything else were good but it wasn't quite what I expected.
Still, this book was a clever little grab from the recent gin trend and I'll definitely recommend it!
So though I'm not a fan of gin this book sounded like it could be pretty fun and it was certainly an enjoyable read. The characters were fun and they did feel pretty real.
But it wasn't perfect. The blurb talks of the blog on dating but it didn't appear in the book until almost halfway through. And the romance was even later than that. I didn't struggle to get to that point as the friendships and everything else were good but it wasn't quite what I expected.
Still, this book was a clever little grab from the recent gin trend and I'll definitely recommend it!
April 21, 2020
This cover, title and blurb drew me in on first sight!
I absolutely loved the story. From the very beginning I was invested in the characters, especially Liv and Dylan. Following Liv on her journey was addictive.
The writing is so easy to read, fast paced, funny, honest and relatable. I loved the blog posts,
Comments and the texting formatting in particular to break up the story.
The dialogue, friendships and dynamics were completely natural and believable.
I would recommend this book, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5!
I absolutely loved the story. From the very beginning I was invested in the characters, especially Liv and Dylan. Following Liv on her journey was addictive.
The writing is so easy to read, fast paced, funny, honest and relatable. I loved the blog posts,
Comments and the texting formatting in particular to break up the story.
The dialogue, friendships and dynamics were completely natural and believable.
I would recommend this book, ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5!
Want to read
October 30, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/30/2020)! 🎁
April 16, 2020
This book was nothing like I was initially expecting. It's so much better in many ways. The cover portrayed a trendy romantic comedy but the book itself encompasses mystery, hardship and turning your life around. A real shock but in a good way.
Having said that, I initially thought I was wasn't going to enjoy the book. Liv, the protagonist, comes across as a lying snob who cares far more about her own self importance and image than anything else. After being made redundant from her senior role in a big business, she cannot come to terms with not being the elegant, well-off business woman she had adapted to become. When reality hits and she realises that it's a lot harder to stay afloat financially and finding a job isn't what it used to be, she's humiliated by the lack of interest in her in the business world.
The amount of times Liv lies in this book is borderline ridiculous. Losing a job is horrendous, but lying and not getting support is worse. It wasn't comfortable to read how she treated others or herself at times. I can understand why she felt she had to lie, but it didn't make for easy reading. Sometimes in even the most minor situation where there is absolutely no need to lie, she still lies. I'm fairly certain that if there's a compulsive lying disorder, she's got it.
Fortunately, Liv's character became far more bearable as the story progressed. Her character growth is one of the best parts of the book and it's all thanks to the interactions she has with her friends, especially her best friend Dylan. The new friends she meets at the bar really show Liv what real friendship is and they make sure she is supported and that she has people who care every step of the way.
The mystery romance element to the story was fantastic. I was on tenterhooks waiting to find out if she would choose hunky Josh or the mysterious GrahamLeeton. It shows that love can develop without knowing a person physically and that emotional connection can be just as strong. I didn't know which man I wanted Liv to end up with!
Overall, The Gin Lover’s Guide to Dating is thoroughly entertaining and an adventure of a read. It shows the reality of having everything and nothing and trying to find that happy place in between. With glitz, glamour and a good a dollop of romance, this book has it all. After all, what's better than a romance book with plenty of gin-spiration. I can't wait to try some of the cocktails from the book either. A captivating romance that's sure to enthrall.
Having said that, I initially thought I was wasn't going to enjoy the book. Liv, the protagonist, comes across as a lying snob who cares far more about her own self importance and image than anything else. After being made redundant from her senior role in a big business, she cannot come to terms with not being the elegant, well-off business woman she had adapted to become. When reality hits and she realises that it's a lot harder to stay afloat financially and finding a job isn't what it used to be, she's humiliated by the lack of interest in her in the business world.
The amount of times Liv lies in this book is borderline ridiculous. Losing a job is horrendous, but lying and not getting support is worse. It wasn't comfortable to read how she treated others or herself at times. I can understand why she felt she had to lie, but it didn't make for easy reading. Sometimes in even the most minor situation where there is absolutely no need to lie, she still lies. I'm fairly certain that if there's a compulsive lying disorder, she's got it.
Fortunately, Liv's character became far more bearable as the story progressed. Her character growth is one of the best parts of the book and it's all thanks to the interactions she has with her friends, especially her best friend Dylan. The new friends she meets at the bar really show Liv what real friendship is and they make sure she is supported and that she has people who care every step of the way.
The mystery romance element to the story was fantastic. I was on tenterhooks waiting to find out if she would choose hunky Josh or the mysterious GrahamLeeton. It shows that love can develop without knowing a person physically and that emotional connection can be just as strong. I didn't know which man I wanted Liv to end up with!
Overall, The Gin Lover’s Guide to Dating is thoroughly entertaining and an adventure of a read. It shows the reality of having everything and nothing and trying to find that happy place in between. With glitz, glamour and a good a dollop of romance, this book has it all. After all, what's better than a romance book with plenty of gin-spiration. I can't wait to try some of the cocktails from the book either. A captivating romance that's sure to enthrall.
April 13, 2020
This light-hearted rom-com is just begging to be made into a movie. It hits all of the classic beats - an unceremonious tumble from grace, a new life situation that might just be better than the first, personal growth with the aid of friends, old and new, and more than a hint of romance.
Surprisingly, it doesn't stop there. While Liv's initial misfortunes aren't her fault, she makes a few decisions later that you know are totally going to come back to bite her. It had me yelling at my screen in the way that is usually reserved for splitting up in horror movies. Even so, there are a few twists and turns that keep you (or at least me) guessing until the very end. I don't want to spoil anything, but I can tell you that not only is there a happy ending, all of Liv's decisions have realistic consequences and the plot threads are wrapped up in a satisfying manner.
The gin thread is also nicely woven in - from Liv's new job to her start-up blog, the little drips of it here and there have me just dying for a drink. For a fizzy little rom-com with a twist or two, pick up this book - best paired with your drink of choice.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own
Surprisingly, it doesn't stop there. While Liv's initial misfortunes aren't her fault, she makes a few decisions later that you know are totally going to come back to bite her. It had me yelling at my screen in the way that is usually reserved for splitting up in horror movies. Even so, there are a few twists and turns that keep you (or at least me) guessing until the very end. I don't want to spoil anything, but I can tell you that not only is there a happy ending, all of Liv's decisions have realistic consequences and the plot threads are wrapped up in a satisfying manner.
The gin thread is also nicely woven in - from Liv's new job to her start-up blog, the little drips of it here and there have me just dying for a drink. For a fizzy little rom-com with a twist or two, pick up this book - best paired with your drink of choice.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own
January 3, 2020
What a lot there is to enjoy in this book! I was drawn in immediately at the beginning as Liv’s corporate high flying world was rocked by unexpected redundancy. Following on from that Liv sometimes isn’t the easiest character to like as she resists help & shuts people out, but as her back story & struggles are revealed it becomes very understandable why. This books is full of interesting unique characters who make up a found-family which Liv becomes part of as she grows and develops. (My favourite being the wonderful Reyes) A great book about person growth set against the backdrop of a gorgeous gin bar which I wish I could go visit so I could people watch just like Liv does.
November 27, 2019
I’ve not read a book in a while and I bought this for my kindle. I like gin, i like hot blokes and I love Edinburgh, what’s not to like?
I finished this book so quickly, easy to read, chapters ended leaving you wanting more.
I got right into the characters and very early on I felt like I knew them. A few twists and turns, a good few laughs and a tremendous feel good story...we can all go through tough times but when life gives you lemons, make things happen.
Hat off to Nina Kaye, when is your next one?
I finished this book so quickly, easy to read, chapters ended leaving you wanting more.
I got right into the characters and very early on I felt like I knew them. A few twists and turns, a good few laughs and a tremendous feel good story...we can all go through tough times but when life gives you lemons, make things happen.
Hat off to Nina Kaye, when is your next one?
November 27, 2019
Book for holiday
Liv discover that she cannot forgets her past as she moved into the world of the business race to forget the hurt she carried deep in her soul, she than lost her job to find that all her hard work can be taken away like a flips of a light.
Back to her old lives without a job. She have to learn to accept who she is and to forgive the people that hurt her . To find peace with herself.
Liv discover that she cannot forgets her past as she moved into the world of the business race to forget the hurt she carried deep in her soul, she than lost her job to find that all her hard work can be taken away like a flips of a light.
Back to her old lives without a job. She have to learn to accept who she is and to forgive the people that hurt her . To find peace with herself.
February 21, 2020
I have to admit that I absolutely hate gin (and tonic!) but that didn't matter in the slightest when reading this lovely, feel-good story, which had me hooked! The heroine has a steep learning curve to go through, but it's wonderful to see her fighting her way towards self-discovery and possible fulfilment. A great way to while away a rainy afternoon with or without a Gin Fizz to hand!
August 1, 2020
As a huge fan of gin this book really shouted out to me to be read, and I wasn’t disappointed at all!
A great story, brilliant characters and gin recipes, it has it all!
Liv is absolutely fabulous! And I loved the little gang she makes at the gin bar.
Really engaging and fun to read, I liked the online conversations.
Absolutely perfect summer evening read, with a glass (or two) of gin! 🍸
A great story, brilliant characters and gin recipes, it has it all!
Liv is absolutely fabulous! And I loved the little gang she makes at the gin bar.
Really engaging and fun to read, I liked the online conversations.
Absolutely perfect summer evening read, with a glass (or two) of gin! 🍸
November 5, 2019
Great story and very fun read. My only problem is that it took a while to get going and did nearly give up. I'm glad i stuck with it though as I soon found myself invested in the characters and the story.
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