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#No Filter
In an Instagram world, can you find love just being yourself…
Popular lifestyle blogger, Libby Cartwright, is being boggled by business when help shows up in the shape of gorgeous but shy, Charlie Richmond. Libby’s determined to keep it at ‘just good friends’ – she’s dated someone from ‘Corporate Land’ before and it didn’t end well. As she and Charlie begin spending more time together, Libby is starting to waver – until she discovers something which makes her question if she’s ready for love.
Still reeling, she suffers another blow as her blog is attacked in a national newspaper, for promoting unachievable perfection. Libby knows it’s not true – but the only way to prove that is to strip off the armour she’s been wearing for years.
Is she brave enough to show the world she’s far from perfect? And will Charlie be by her side if she does…
Popular lifestyle blogger, Libby Cartwright, is being boggled by business when help shows up in the shape of gorgeous but shy, Charlie Richmond. Libby’s determined to keep it at ‘just good friends’ – she’s dated someone from ‘Corporate Land’ before and it didn’t end well. As she and Charlie begin spending more time together, Libby is starting to waver – until she discovers something which makes her question if she’s ready for love.
Still reeling, she suffers another blow as her blog is attacked in a national newspaper, for promoting unachievable perfection. Libby knows it’s not true – but the only way to prove that is to strip off the armour she’s been wearing for years.
Is she brave enough to show the world she’s far from perfect? And will Charlie be by her side if she does…
348 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2019
1338 people are currently reading
1017 people want to read
About the author
Maxine Morrey
29 books316 followersMaxine has wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember and wrote her first (very short) book for school when she was ten. Coming in first, she won a handful of book tokens – perfect for a bookworm!
As years went by, she continued to write, but ‘normal’ work often got in the way. She has written articles on a variety of subjects, as well as a book on Brighton for a Local History publisher. However, novels are what she loves writing the most. After self publishing her first novel when a contract fell through, thanks to the recession, she continued to look for opportunities.
In August 2015, she won Harper Collins/Carina UK’s ‘Write Christmas’ competition with her romantic comedy, ‘Winter’s Fairytale’.
Maxine lives on the south coast of England, and when not wrangling with words loves to read sew and listen to podcasts. As she also likes cake she can also be found either walking or doing something vaguely physical at the gym.
As years went by, she continued to write, but ‘normal’ work often got in the way. She has written articles on a variety of subjects, as well as a book on Brighton for a Local History publisher. However, novels are what she loves writing the most. After self publishing her first novel when a contract fell through, thanks to the recession, she continued to look for opportunities.
In August 2015, she won Harper Collins/Carina UK’s ‘Write Christmas’ competition with her romantic comedy, ‘Winter’s Fairytale’.
Maxine lives on the south coast of England, and when not wrangling with words loves to read sew and listen to podcasts. As she also likes cake she can also be found either walking or doing something vaguely physical at the gym.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
October 7, 2019
I really enjoyed the bright and quirky personality of Libby in this, and she was a breath of fresh air. I also laughed out loud a couple of times at her clumsy antics! Meanwhile Charlie was calming and patient, and the two of them balanced each other out so well! My only complaint, which took this down a star for me, was that it took them so long to get together.
I'm someone who LOVES slow burns, but I wish we had been able to see more of them as a couple, rather than it ending before their relationship really even began. There were definitely parts that were agonizing because it was so. bloody. obvious. that they liked one another, and I couldn't help but wonder if it was really possible for two people to be so oblivious (when he took care of her while she was sick, I literally yelled at my phone "Come ON, Libby, this man so obviously loves you!").
After such a long stand-off in which they refused to admit their feelings even to themselves, let alone to one another, it then felt a bit anticlimactic for them to profess they were in love with one another in pretty much the last chapter. If they had just communicated about their feelings a bit earlier, and we had seen them together as an actual couple, then this would've easily been a 4, or possibly even 5, star read for me.
But I still really enjoyed this, and it was such a feel good novel that it put a huge smile on my face when I finished it! I just wish we had a chance to see more of them in a romantic light, rather than only seeing their friendship with the tiniest glimpse of romance at the end.
*This ARC was provided to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
I'm someone who LOVES slow burns, but I wish we had been able to see more of them as a couple, rather than it ending before their relationship really even began. There were definitely parts that were agonizing because it was so. bloody. obvious. that they liked one another, and I couldn't help but wonder if it was really possible for two people to be so oblivious (when he took care of her while she was sick, I literally yelled at my phone "Come ON, Libby, this man so obviously loves you!").
After such a long stand-off in which they refused to admit their feelings even to themselves, let alone to one another, it then felt a bit anticlimactic for them to profess they were in love with one another in pretty much the last chapter. If they had just communicated about their feelings a bit earlier, and we had seen them together as an actual couple, then this would've easily been a 4, or possibly even 5, star read for me.
But I still really enjoyed this, and it was such a feel good novel that it put a huge smile on my face when I finished it! I just wish we had a chance to see more of them in a romantic light, rather than only seeing their friendship with the tiniest glimpse of romance at the end.
*This ARC was provided to me by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
September 24, 2019
This book started out with SO MUCH promise. I loved Libby - she had such a bright happy spirit. Even though the grief over her mom's sudden death stayed close to the surface, she maintained such a joyful attitude towards life. Her blog sounded lovely and she definitely downplayed her own success! Charlie was just - well - he's a dream. A Beta personality - but so sweet, funny, and of course doesn't know how gorgeous he really is.
I don't mind a slow burn, but this book definitely pushed that to the limit.
All was going SO WELL until the author brought Charlie's friend Alex. Although I agree the Libby and Charlie needed a kick in the rear to get moving, but she pushed it too far with Alex.
Then after the stuff with Alex is resolved - the book took another turn for the worse, with drama that really needed to be resolved more quickly - and a side of work drama that should have been skipped altogether. Ultimately, this book would have been a four star read for me if the author had stayed the course with just Libby and Charlie and not added in the work related stuff at the end. Ultimately, there was just too many angles the author was trying to work with this book: (1) Libby feeling undervalued as a person because she wrote a lifestyle blog and didn't have a "real" "serious" job, (2) personal jealousy between Alex and Charlie that played out in a very negative way and had to be pretty much glossed over because we don't see Charlie's perspective, only Libby's, (3) Libby being attacked (somewhat randomly, by some random journalist for portraying a perfect life and having a subsequent meltdown over it; (4) Libby's unresolved grief over her mom - that is addressed frequently but never really dealt with in a meaningful way; and (5)
Anyway - I was so sad that this book did not turn out as well as I thought it would. It was a MAJOR disappointment.
I received a copy of this book as an Advanced Reader Copy via NetGalley but the opinions here are my own.
I don't mind a slow burn, but this book definitely pushed that to the limit.
All was going SO WELL until the author brought Charlie's friend Alex. Although I agree the Libby and Charlie needed a kick in the rear to get moving, but she pushed it too far with Alex.
Then after the stuff with Alex is resolved - the book took another turn for the worse, with drama that really needed to be resolved more quickly - and a side of work drama that should have been skipped altogether. Ultimately, this book would have been a four star read for me if the author had stayed the course with just Libby and Charlie and not added in the work related stuff at the end. Ultimately, there was just too many angles the author was trying to work with this book: (1) Libby feeling undervalued as a person because she wrote a lifestyle blog and didn't have a "real" "serious" job, (2) personal jealousy between Alex and Charlie that played out in a very negative way and had to be pretty much glossed over because we don't see Charlie's perspective, only Libby's, (3) Libby being attacked (somewhat randomly, by some random journalist for portraying a perfect life and having a subsequent meltdown over it; (4) Libby's unresolved grief over her mom - that is addressed frequently but never really dealt with in a meaningful way; and (5)
Anyway - I was so sad that this book did not turn out as well as I thought it would. It was a MAJOR disappointment.
I received a copy of this book as an Advanced Reader Copy via NetGalley but the opinions here are my own.
November 11, 2019
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
#No Filter
By: Maxine Morrey
*REVIEW* ❤❤❤❤
#No Filter is both a delightful romcom and a commentary on the perils of social media. Libby is a lifestyle blogger, and we all inherently know that bloggers generally only show perfection. Real life is not pictured, and Libby is no exception. While her blog is thriving, Libby needs some accounting and tax help. Charlie comes to her aid from the corporate ladder climbing world. He and Libby are nothing alike, but that is often a good thing. They form a friendship and get along very well while denying the spark between them. Libby soon realizes that perfection may not be the best way to portray her life, but she is afraid of the consequences if she drops the filter and becomes real. Will Charlie like her or turn away? Many obstacles are in the path to true love, and it's questionable whether Libby and Charlie are meant to be or not. Libby is a great example of female empowerment lacking actual self confidence. There is an entire generation hiding behind every available filter, but being real is not an option. It's sad, really, and I'm glad the story addresses this relevant topic. Otherwise, Libby is fun and endearing in a silly kind of way that suits her well. Charlie is introverted and business minded. His serious nature balances well with Libby. I enjoyed the pacing, descriptions and dialogue throughout. Although predictable, this is a charming romcom that is great fun to read. Check it out!
#No Filter
By: Maxine Morrey
*REVIEW* ❤❤❤❤
#No Filter is both a delightful romcom and a commentary on the perils of social media. Libby is a lifestyle blogger, and we all inherently know that bloggers generally only show perfection. Real life is not pictured, and Libby is no exception. While her blog is thriving, Libby needs some accounting and tax help. Charlie comes to her aid from the corporate ladder climbing world. He and Libby are nothing alike, but that is often a good thing. They form a friendship and get along very well while denying the spark between them. Libby soon realizes that perfection may not be the best way to portray her life, but she is afraid of the consequences if she drops the filter and becomes real. Will Charlie like her or turn away? Many obstacles are in the path to true love, and it's questionable whether Libby and Charlie are meant to be or not. Libby is a great example of female empowerment lacking actual self confidence. There is an entire generation hiding behind every available filter, but being real is not an option. It's sad, really, and I'm glad the story addresses this relevant topic. Otherwise, Libby is fun and endearing in a silly kind of way that suits her well. Charlie is introverted and business minded. His serious nature balances well with Libby. I enjoyed the pacing, descriptions and dialogue throughout. Although predictable, this is a charming romcom that is great fun to read. Check it out!
June 23, 2020
[ I received a copy on Netgalley in return for an honest review.]
'#No Filter' follows the main character Libby, and her popular lifestyle blog on Instagram. Through assisting her with her blog, she meets Charlie Richmond, a shy but handsome accountant, and their friendship soon turns to something more.
This book was such a warm, bubbly and heartwarming comedy. I loved pretty much every character and I really liked how the story actually showed the behind-the-scenes of being a blogger instead of skipping over it. I always find that aspect so interesting to read!
You could see the two main characters, Libby and Charlie, were made for each other from the very beginning. From the moment they met in fact! And it was absolutely adorable. I loved their easy banter and how respectful and supportive they were to each other.
The main character herself was a smart and proactive woman and I honestly found that so inspiring and motivational!
Overall, I really enjoyed Maxine Morrey's writing style, and I would love to check out more of her books in the future! Would definitely recommend if you're looking for a short, comedic romance!
Rating: 4/5
'#No Filter' follows the main character Libby, and her popular lifestyle blog on Instagram. Through assisting her with her blog, she meets Charlie Richmond, a shy but handsome accountant, and their friendship soon turns to something more.
This book was such a warm, bubbly and heartwarming comedy. I loved pretty much every character and I really liked how the story actually showed the behind-the-scenes of being a blogger instead of skipping over it. I always find that aspect so interesting to read!
You could see the two main characters, Libby and Charlie, were made for each other from the very beginning. From the moment they met in fact! And it was absolutely adorable. I loved their easy banter and how respectful and supportive they were to each other.
The main character herself was a smart and proactive woman and I honestly found that so inspiring and motivational!
Overall, I really enjoyed Maxine Morrey's writing style, and I would love to check out more of her books in the future! Would definitely recommend if you're looking for a short, comedic romance!
Rating: 4/5
October 17, 2025
I am a huge fan of Maxine Morrey’s books, and this one did not disappoint. I listened to the audiobook and was intimidated with it being 14.5 hours, but it flew by. I enjoyed the character development and felt the emotions during certain parts of the book. Good book!
January 17, 2022
3.5 out of 5 stars
May 7, 2020
Libby Cartwright has a popular lifestyle blog, she’s happily single and has no filter in what she shares. She’s blunt and brass. We then meet Charlie who is shy and the total opposite to Libby. But they do say opposites attract don’t they? ✨ This book was such a slow burn then it was all rush rush and suddenly ended. It was funny and had likeable characters. I just wanted more. 2.5 🌟
May 5, 2020
I was really enjoying this book until the author threw in another man. It really ruined the story for me. I liked Charlie a lot but he is so darn passive as a romantic interest.
July 3, 2023
This book took me forever to finish. At one point, I was thinking to stop reading it altogether because slow-burns are not my type. However, this book turned out to be a terrapin-burn for me (no butterflies in stomach, no feeling of heart’s dancing, no confession, just a void).
It was supposed to be a romance as per the genre but it turned out to be an average friendship book between two polar opposite characters who do everything together except admitting their relationship openly. They flirt, they check out each other’s hot looks, they go on lunches, take teas together and even give those “love-induced” looks to each other while staying friends, but guess what???? There is no confession except in the last five pages for the briefest period. In fact the heroine had more chemistry with hero’s best friend who was just there to hold the burden of fragile male ego and stereotypical macho man who’s good in approaching girls.
Can you believe there was this particular point where the heroine finally confesses to the hero and as things go wrong. What’s her immediate response? Not to protect her sanity or self respect, but she is more concerned about informing the hero that a side chick is actually dreaming to have a “spanking session” with the hero. Yeah! That’s how real-life arguments occur that you end up a friendship and before leaving, you don’t leave anything else but a gossip that someone’s trying to be kinky with your friend. 10/10 for the creative thinking.
As it began, I believed that it was going to be one hell of an interesting narrative where the female protagonist fakes her appearance and is super ugly but then reveals out her truest self to the male protagonist. Turns out it was just a mediocre influencer-turned-client-turned-friend-turned-best friend-turned-gf of another best friend-turned-businesswoman-turned-a disheartened lover-turned-thinker-turned-gf of the male protagonist. Super boring!!!!
Potential Warning: The main protagonist is a habitual whiner and keeps on committing stupid acts which actually she believes signify her innocence and genuineness.
It was supposed to be a romance as per the genre but it turned out to be an average friendship book between two polar opposite characters who do everything together except admitting their relationship openly. They flirt, they check out each other’s hot looks, they go on lunches, take teas together and even give those “love-induced” looks to each other while staying friends, but guess what???? There is no confession except in the last five pages for the briefest period. In fact the heroine had more chemistry with hero’s best friend who was just there to hold the burden of fragile male ego and stereotypical macho man who’s good in approaching girls.
Can you believe there was this particular point where the heroine finally confesses to the hero and as things go wrong. What’s her immediate response? Not to protect her sanity or self respect, but she is more concerned about informing the hero that a side chick is actually dreaming to have a “spanking session” with the hero. Yeah! That’s how real-life arguments occur that you end up a friendship and before leaving, you don’t leave anything else but a gossip that someone’s trying to be kinky with your friend. 10/10 for the creative thinking.
As it began, I believed that it was going to be one hell of an interesting narrative where the female protagonist fakes her appearance and is super ugly but then reveals out her truest self to the male protagonist. Turns out it was just a mediocre influencer-turned-client-turned-friend-turned-best friend-turned-gf of another best friend-turned-businesswoman-turned-a disheartened lover-turned-thinker-turned-gf of the male protagonist. Super boring!!!!
Potential Warning: The main protagonist is a habitual whiner and keeps on committing stupid acts which actually she believes signify her innocence and genuineness.
November 12, 2019
Rating 4.5/5*
Libby Cartwright is a lifestyle blogger who is making a successful career out of her blogging, including having some large companies wanting her to work with them. However, this success means she really needs to get her tax returns submitted and that's totally daunting for her. Fortunately her friend's boyfriend's brother knows all things accounting and is willing to help her sort it out, and so Charlie enters into her life. As the two work together to sort out her accounts, a friendship grows between them . . . . but could it be more than friendship? They really are opposites in so many ways. He's quiet, careful and highly successful member of 'Corporate Land'. She's dated someone from that ilk before. with disastrous consequences, so she's determined to keep them in the 'friends zone'. However, sometimes the best laid plans just don't work out, especially as their mutual attraction grows but horrendous negative publicity may put a large spanner in the works for this couple.
This is another delightful, fun read from this talented author. The characters are well developed, the plot has plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing and there's a lovely flow to events throughout it. I really enjoyed it and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a romance with lots of laugh out loud moments as well as angst and surprises - a fantastic romcom that will have you giggling and smiling as you read it.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
Libby Cartwright is a lifestyle blogger who is making a successful career out of her blogging, including having some large companies wanting her to work with them. However, this success means she really needs to get her tax returns submitted and that's totally daunting for her. Fortunately her friend's boyfriend's brother knows all things accounting and is willing to help her sort it out, and so Charlie enters into her life. As the two work together to sort out her accounts, a friendship grows between them . . . . but could it be more than friendship? They really are opposites in so many ways. He's quiet, careful and highly successful member of 'Corporate Land'. She's dated someone from that ilk before. with disastrous consequences, so she's determined to keep them in the 'friends zone'. However, sometimes the best laid plans just don't work out, especially as their mutual attraction grows but horrendous negative publicity may put a large spanner in the works for this couple.
This is another delightful, fun read from this talented author. The characters are well developed, the plot has plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing and there's a lovely flow to events throughout it. I really enjoyed it and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a romance with lots of laugh out loud moments as well as angst and surprises - a fantastic romcom that will have you giggling and smiling as you read it.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
November 8, 2019
This is a really good read: lots of laugh out loud moments but with lots going on outwith that.
Libby is a lifestyle blogger. Having worked hard on her blog she is beginning to reap the rewards, with larger companies looking to get into sponsorship with her. She can cope with the planning, photos, videos and everything else to do with her small business but falls apart at the seams when faced with the paperwork for the tax man. Enter Charlie - a friend of a friend who agrees to sort it all out as a favour. He's not Libby's type at all; far too serious about his career but they strike up a good friendship - and that's where Libby is happy for it to stay.
A fun read, this is packed with both giggly and 'oh, no!' moments thank to Libby's habit of speaking first and thinking later - it's easy to see where the title came from! It's a peek into the blogging world that was new to me, and an enjoyable book to read. The story flows beautifully with a wide cast of characters and packed with very believable events, and the ending is just perfect. If you enjoy a good rom-com, then add this one to your list! Definitely worth the four stars I'm giving it.
Libby is a lifestyle blogger. Having worked hard on her blog she is beginning to reap the rewards, with larger companies looking to get into sponsorship with her. She can cope with the planning, photos, videos and everything else to do with her small business but falls apart at the seams when faced with the paperwork for the tax man. Enter Charlie - a friend of a friend who agrees to sort it all out as a favour. He's not Libby's type at all; far too serious about his career but they strike up a good friendship - and that's where Libby is happy for it to stay.
A fun read, this is packed with both giggly and 'oh, no!' moments thank to Libby's habit of speaking first and thinking later - it's easy to see where the title came from! It's a peek into the blogging world that was new to me, and an enjoyable book to read. The story flows beautifully with a wide cast of characters and packed with very believable events, and the ending is just perfect. If you enjoy a good rom-com, then add this one to your list! Definitely worth the four stars I'm giving it.
May 21, 2020
Disappointing. I had high hopes when I started reading this book mostly because I liked the female character and how she was portrayed .
BUT I found the whole book a disappointment due to the fact that she actually admitted to HERSELF that she liked the male protagonist at the 85% bookmark. It took her till the last pages to blare out to him the truth. I mean we are not talking about slow burn but no burn.
She dated the male's character best friend longer in the book than the actual male lead. They had dates and cute moments and a break up.
In the meantime we new Charlie (male protagonist)liked her back he never made a move. His reaction to her spilling out that she was in love with his was to get mad. Throughout the whole book he was shy and very gentlemany but for God's sake he never openly showed her he was in love neither did he fight for her when his best friend asked her out and started dating her.
All the action happened at the last 10% of the book and it was difficult to be interested in the plot and finish it to be honest. If you were to only read the first and last chapter you wouldn't have missed anything from the plot and that tells it all.
BUT I found the whole book a disappointment due to the fact that she actually admitted to HERSELF that she liked the male protagonist at the 85% bookmark. It took her till the last pages to blare out to him the truth. I mean we are not talking about slow burn but no burn.
She dated the male's character best friend longer in the book than the actual male lead. They had dates and cute moments and a break up.
In the meantime we new Charlie (male protagonist)liked her back he never made a move. His reaction to her spilling out that she was in love with his was to get mad. Throughout the whole book he was shy and very gentlemany but for God's sake he never openly showed her he was in love neither did he fight for her when his best friend asked her out and started dating her.
All the action happened at the last 10% of the book and it was difficult to be interested in the plot and finish it to be honest. If you were to only read the first and last chapter you wouldn't have missed anything from the plot and that tells it all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2020
4.75 stars for this one! I loved this book and couldn’t put it down, but I thought the ending was just so quick and predictable! But although it was predictable, I still have so many questions that need answers! I really recommend this book!
January 20, 2020
Even though it was predictable, still a cute and fun read!
September 3, 2020
Libby is a lifestyle blogger living in Brighton, she has a happy-go-lucky bubbly nature. Focusing on the positives in her life rather than what she is missing. Needing help with her accounts, her best friend arranges for Charlie to pop over one Saturday morning to see if he can help.
Charlie is a risk analyst, a logical thinker and has a reserved nature. As soon as he mets Libby she is unlike anyone he has ever met. Immediately putting him at ease and a friendship blossoms between them. Each giving support, companionship and entertainment to the other.
Told from Libby's point of view, you are shown the realities of blogging (including the backlash that comes with it), how not everything you see is the whole truth and how sometimes you have to say the difficult thing - even though it might be easier to say nothing.
I would have loved an epilogue chapter to this story. Feeling as though it left me with unanswered questions.
Charlie is a risk analyst, a logical thinker and has a reserved nature. As soon as he mets Libby she is unlike anyone he has ever met. Immediately putting him at ease and a friendship blossoms between them. Each giving support, companionship and entertainment to the other.
Told from Libby's point of view, you are shown the realities of blogging (including the backlash that comes with it), how not everything you see is the whole truth and how sometimes you have to say the difficult thing - even though it might be easier to say nothing.
I would have loved an epilogue chapter to this story. Feeling as though it left me with unanswered questions.
May 21, 2021
Kindle unlimited
3 stars
Started off with promise and actually the leading lady has a cute personality. I liked the side characters, too, but midway into the book the romance build-up was getting tired and the typical "drama" curve balls came into play—*cue eyeroll*. I generally do like this author, though there have been some duds. This was not so bad, so I will keep trying her. Oh and there is a smattering of language (but no f bombs, I think?) No open door sex / super steamy scenes (references and implied, though). So up an extra half star for that! It actually was an enjoyable read just not anything special.
3 stars
Started off with promise and actually the leading lady has a cute personality. I liked the side characters, too, but midway into the book the romance build-up was getting tired and the typical "drama" curve balls came into play—*cue eyeroll*. I generally do like this author, though there have been some duds. This was not so bad, so I will keep trying her. Oh and there is a smattering of language (but no f bombs, I think?) No open door sex / super steamy scenes (references and implied, though). So up an extra half star for that! It actually was an enjoyable read just not anything special.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2020
Cheers to heroes who are not ***holes even when they are trying to keep their feelings under wraps.
Uhhhh reading back2back books with truly lovable heroes who do not ratchet up the toxicity/alpha/***hole levels is going to be hard to beat.
Uhhh this book. The banter it is always the make or break.
The best part, is the fact that the characters talk. They bonded. They did not spend hours eyefcuking the other. No internal monologues on their conflicting and uncontrollable lust.
The characters actually fell in-love with each other's personality it was perfect.
Uhhh..more of these heroes please.
Uhhhh reading back2back books with truly lovable heroes who do not ratchet up the toxicity/alpha/***hole levels is going to be hard to beat.
Uhhh this book. The banter it is always the make or break.
The best part, is the fact that the characters talk. They bonded. They did not spend hours eyefcuking the other. No internal monologues on their conflicting and uncontrollable lust.
The characters actually fell in-love with each other's personality it was perfect.
Uhhh..more of these heroes please.
January 9, 2023
Terribly boring and went nowhere for the longest time. 👎
March 29, 2021
Loved it! Loved Charlie too!
October 14, 2019
I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really love that at least the first 2-3 chapters could pass the Bechdel test. That drew me in right away as being different from so many other books slated as romance novels. I love a solid female friendship, and a strong main character.
I enjoyed Libby quite a bit. She really did have no filter, and was very blunt, which made for some funny scenarios. She's a British blogger/ influencer, which I don't love reading about as a career, necessarily, but once she revealed how her blog started, I thought it was sweet.
Charlie enters the book as someone pulled in to help Libby with her taxes, initially. They hit it off and become best friends. He is kind, intelligent, hard-working, but also quite shy. Libby initially worries that he will think she is dumb or shallow, but Charlie never treats her as such. He genuinely seems to value their differences.
They keep their relationship platonic, although almost everyone else keeps pushing them to become more. There are so many sweet scenes showing their relationship grow and flourish. They seem to bring out the best in each other.
All that being said, it's obvious that eventually SOMETHING has to happen between Libby and Charlie. I felt like the book took a bit too long to get to that point in the story. There's only so many times that Libby can tell another character "no really, we're JUST friends". I felt like it took so long to get to that part of the plot, that then the end seemed rather abrupt.
Overall, I would give this 3.5 stars. Excellent use of British slang, sweet characters, but just a bit off with the timing of the plot.
I really love that at least the first 2-3 chapters could pass the Bechdel test. That drew me in right away as being different from so many other books slated as romance novels. I love a solid female friendship, and a strong main character.
I enjoyed Libby quite a bit. She really did have no filter, and was very blunt, which made for some funny scenarios. She's a British blogger/ influencer, which I don't love reading about as a career, necessarily, but once she revealed how her blog started, I thought it was sweet.
Charlie enters the book as someone pulled in to help Libby with her taxes, initially. They hit it off and become best friends. He is kind, intelligent, hard-working, but also quite shy. Libby initially worries that he will think she is dumb or shallow, but Charlie never treats her as such. He genuinely seems to value their differences.
They keep their relationship platonic, although almost everyone else keeps pushing them to become more. There are so many sweet scenes showing their relationship grow and flourish. They seem to bring out the best in each other.
All that being said, it's obvious that eventually SOMETHING has to happen between Libby and Charlie. I felt like the book took a bit too long to get to that point in the story. There's only so many times that Libby can tell another character "no really, we're JUST friends". I felt like it took so long to get to that part of the plot, that then the end seemed rather abrupt.
Overall, I would give this 3.5 stars. Excellent use of British slang, sweet characters, but just a bit off with the timing of the plot.
December 31, 2019
I do love a book featuring a blogger, and I really enjoyed getting to know Libby and her lifestyle blog.
She is a bubbly person, whose mouth often lands her in trouble, not to mention she is just slightly clumsy!
It is clear though instantly that to my eyes that there should be something going on between her and Charlie.
Alas being fictional characters it meant a large amount of wanting to knock some sense into them from this reader, before either of them may see the light.
My one bugbear with this book though is actually the blurb, I kept waiting for things to happen thinking that the bits mentioned in the blurb are huge plot points... and well it was all things happening towards the end.
So my advice to you, is don't even read the blurb, go in completely blind and fresh and you will have a much more enjoyable reading experience.
Libby, Tilly, Amy, Marcus, Charlie and Alex are the main characters in this, and I loved the way they all interacted.
It's an entertaining story and I'm glad I finally sat down and read it.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
She is a bubbly person, whose mouth often lands her in trouble, not to mention she is just slightly clumsy!
It is clear though instantly that to my eyes that there should be something going on between her and Charlie.
Alas being fictional characters it meant a large amount of wanting to knock some sense into them from this reader, before either of them may see the light.
My one bugbear with this book though is actually the blurb, I kept waiting for things to happen thinking that the bits mentioned in the blurb are huge plot points... and well it was all things happening towards the end.
So my advice to you, is don't even read the blurb, go in completely blind and fresh and you will have a much more enjoyable reading experience.
Libby, Tilly, Amy, Marcus, Charlie and Alex are the main characters in this, and I loved the way they all interacted.
It's an entertaining story and I'm glad I finally sat down and read it.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
October 10, 2019
Libby Cartwright is a fashion blogger, and her business is really taking off. She is having some trouble sorting out her taxes though, and Charlie Richmond comes to the rescue. They become instant friends and start to spend a lot of time together.
Libby is exuberant and lively and a very fun character to read. She is able to make fun of herself and what she sees as her shortcomings. She really loves her job. Charlie is more reserved, but Libby manages to coax him out of his shell. He cares a great deal about the people in his life, and he is not afraid to show it.
I enjoyed the witty banter between all the characters, but especially between Charlie and Libby. They are both great characters and both had to make big decisions about themselves and each other as their friendship progressed.
I would definitely recommend this as a light, romantic read. A lovely diversion on any day.
I received an advanced copy of the book from Netgalley to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Libby is exuberant and lively and a very fun character to read. She is able to make fun of herself and what she sees as her shortcomings. She really loves her job. Charlie is more reserved, but Libby manages to coax him out of his shell. He cares a great deal about the people in his life, and he is not afraid to show it.
I enjoyed the witty banter between all the characters, but especially between Charlie and Libby. They are both great characters and both had to make big decisions about themselves and each other as their friendship progressed.
I would definitely recommend this as a light, romantic read. A lovely diversion on any day.
I received an advanced copy of the book from Netgalley to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 13, 2020
4.5 ⭐️.
February 17, 2020
So inane and insipidly written I DNF at 50%. Fine if you don't mind a lack of characterisation, chemistry or plot. Warning also contains a case of a Sunshine MarySue and Generic Sensitive Beta Male.
May 12, 2020
I am a big fan of Maxine Morrey - I have already read and reviewed Around the World with My Ex, The Christmas Project, Winter’s Fairytale, Second Chance at the Ranch, No Place Like Home and Coming Home to Wishington Bay (wow, I didn't realise she'd written so many!) so of course I was going to read #No Filter.
Libby Cartwright is a popular lifestyle blogger who doesn't really know where to start when it comes to organising the financial side of her business. Recognising her own weakness in this area she very happily accepts the help of her friends brother, Charlie. A corporate accountant, shy Charlie offers his assistance in his spare time to help her get her business into order. Spending time together means their friendship blossoms, but they are from different worlds - having dated a corporate man before she knows it could never work with Charlie.
Charlie is a handsome, unassuming accountant who is very successful at what he does. In fact, he couldn't be more different from the outgoing, bubbly Libby. However when he finds himself helping Libby professionally as a favour, he can't help but want to spend time with her.
When I first picked up this novel I wasn't sure. Bloggers and influencers are the new normal in society, but as someone that rarely wears makeup, definitely does not have the most immaculate home and does not have the most up to date gadgets, its a little outside of my own life sphere. However, because I love Maxine's writing I was happy to give #No Filter a shot! Libby is not at all who I thought she would be. She clearly works very hard on her own brand, and is choosy about which labels and brands she will work with. She certainly does not aspire to be perfect, although I can see why she may come across that way. I really grew to love her character as she learnt more about herself, the kind of person she wants to be, and how she wants to be portrayed to the public. Charlie is an integral part to her learning these things. Whilst they both make mistakes (don't we all!), they are each able to teach the other things about themselves that they wouldn't necessarily have discovered for themselves. There are times when you just want to knock their heads together, but ultimately their blossoming friendship is a pleasure to follow, and you really root for them both, individually and as a couple.
This is yet another Maxine Morrey novel that I am more than happy to recommend. So in these strange times where staying in is the new going out, grab yourself a copy of #No Filter, a glass of wine and settle in for a good reading session!
Libby Cartwright is a popular lifestyle blogger who doesn't really know where to start when it comes to organising the financial side of her business. Recognising her own weakness in this area she very happily accepts the help of her friends brother, Charlie. A corporate accountant, shy Charlie offers his assistance in his spare time to help her get her business into order. Spending time together means their friendship blossoms, but they are from different worlds - having dated a corporate man before she knows it could never work with Charlie.
Charlie is a handsome, unassuming accountant who is very successful at what he does. In fact, he couldn't be more different from the outgoing, bubbly Libby. However when he finds himself helping Libby professionally as a favour, he can't help but want to spend time with her.
When I first picked up this novel I wasn't sure. Bloggers and influencers are the new normal in society, but as someone that rarely wears makeup, definitely does not have the most immaculate home and does not have the most up to date gadgets, its a little outside of my own life sphere. However, because I love Maxine's writing I was happy to give #No Filter a shot! Libby is not at all who I thought she would be. She clearly works very hard on her own brand, and is choosy about which labels and brands she will work with. She certainly does not aspire to be perfect, although I can see why she may come across that way. I really grew to love her character as she learnt more about herself, the kind of person she wants to be, and how she wants to be portrayed to the public. Charlie is an integral part to her learning these things. Whilst they both make mistakes (don't we all!), they are each able to teach the other things about themselves that they wouldn't necessarily have discovered for themselves. There are times when you just want to knock their heads together, but ultimately their blossoming friendship is a pleasure to follow, and you really root for them both, individually and as a couple.
This is yet another Maxine Morrey novel that I am more than happy to recommend. So in these strange times where staying in is the new going out, grab yourself a copy of #No Filter, a glass of wine and settle in for a good reading session!
August 31, 2021
My second book by this author and I really enjoy her stories and her writing style.
There were a lot of funny bits in this book that made me laugh out loud sometimes. I loved the banter between the characters and they were all very likeable.
Sometimes you meet someone and it's like lightning struck you. You are totally in love, but you are afraid too. You are not the most extrovert person and what if you put yourself on the line and that other person does not feel the same? So you categorise your feelings as being a crush. Nothing more, nothing less and you settle for friendship, a very good friendship at that.
And you were right, weren’t you? She does not love you. Well, she does, but as a friend, like she does her best friend. Everything is better than not having in her life, right?
The bond grows stronger and everybody see things, but is there anything to see?
Until that day someone tells her something about your future and that’s when hell breaks loose. Everything comes tumbling down. Is there a way to build it up again?
I loved this story. 5 stars
Thank you
There were a lot of funny bits in this book that made me laugh out loud sometimes. I loved the banter between the characters and they were all very likeable.
Sometimes you meet someone and it's like lightning struck you. You are totally in love, but you are afraid too. You are not the most extrovert person and what if you put yourself on the line and that other person does not feel the same? So you categorise your feelings as being a crush. Nothing more, nothing less and you settle for friendship, a very good friendship at that.
And you were right, weren’t you? She does not love you. Well, she does, but as a friend, like she does her best friend. Everything is better than not having in her life, right?
The bond grows stronger and everybody see things, but is there anything to see?
Until that day someone tells her something about your future and that’s when hell breaks loose. Everything comes tumbling down. Is there a way to build it up again?
I loved this story. 5 stars
Thank you
March 6, 2023
I actually loved the book. It’s a bit cheesy in places but in typical romcom fashion, it leaves you with a sort of (awwww) feeling at the end.
I loved all the main characters - they were instantly relatable and it seems like they’re based off of real people that everyone knows. As for Libby, she’s the real life heroine think we’re all a bit like at times - clumsy and with a mouth that doesn’t necessarily know when honest is too honest. With Charlie, I wasn’t sure if he was going to be the shy, unassuming type but knew how to flirt with everyone - I’m glad he wasn’t and he was just genuinely a nice guy - NICE ISN’T A BAD THING!
It brought me back to my own dating story and looking at my boyfriend and how we started - it isn’t remotely the same but Libby and Charlie reminded me of us as a couple.
I am glad they got together as it was a case of ‘when’ and not ‘if’ but I do have a couple of questions; what did Charlie get Libby from Tiffany’s? Did Charlie definitely move to New York? Will we ever find out? It’s a nice setup for a sequel and I’d love to read more about Libby and Charlie in the Big Apple!
I loved all the main characters - they were instantly relatable and it seems like they’re based off of real people that everyone knows. As for Libby, she’s the real life heroine think we’re all a bit like at times - clumsy and with a mouth that doesn’t necessarily know when honest is too honest. With Charlie, I wasn’t sure if he was going to be the shy, unassuming type but knew how to flirt with everyone - I’m glad he wasn’t and he was just genuinely a nice guy - NICE ISN’T A BAD THING!
It brought me back to my own dating story and looking at my boyfriend and how we started - it isn’t remotely the same but Libby and Charlie reminded me of us as a couple.
I am glad they got together as it was a case of ‘when’ and not ‘if’ but I do have a couple of questions; what did Charlie get Libby from Tiffany’s? Did Charlie definitely move to New York? Will we ever find out? It’s a nice setup for a sequel and I’d love to read more about Libby and Charlie in the Big Apple!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2020
Tried this a few weeks back & couldn't get into it, but alas I tried again & this time was obviously the right time as it was so easy to get into & I couldn't put it down, so no reflection on the book, it was just crap timing the first time around.
A fantastic read with lovely likeable characters, really liked Libby and her inability to stay silent & always voicing her opinion, I loved that.
Enjoyed it when Alex came into it, as up till then you think that it will all be Libby & Charlie & so it's a forgone conclusion that she will end up with him, but that's not the case with the introduction of Alex.
I liked Libby's blog & didn't think she was false advertising her life, she was open & honest on it.
Would have liked an epilogue, seeing what they were all at years later, would have been perfect. Otherwise a great wee read.
A fantastic read with lovely likeable characters, really liked Libby and her inability to stay silent & always voicing her opinion, I loved that.
Enjoyed it when Alex came into it, as up till then you think that it will all be Libby & Charlie & so it's a forgone conclusion that she will end up with him, but that's not the case with the introduction of Alex.
I liked Libby's blog & didn't think she was false advertising her life, she was open & honest on it.
Would have liked an epilogue, seeing what they were all at years later, would have been perfect. Otherwise a great wee read.
February 9, 2021
I was a bit disappointed by this book, from the title ‘No Filter’ I had pretty high expectations for the protagonist to be more out there, no nonsense and maybe even lightly controversial. Especially as Libby worked in social media and that in itself is a battlefield. Unfortunately, this was the opposite of what I expected. Libby is a good main character but overly nice, everyone in this book is overly nice, so it did make a lot of the story quite bland. The plot seemed to take forever to come and when it did it was resolved within a couple pages and then kind of forgotten. I suppose the main point of the book was the romance, more than the actual media incident, but even the romance was painfully long and drawn out. I did enjoy parts of this book but I think the title did not suit the story at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2022
The story
Libby is a lifestyle blogger living in Brighton. She tries to ensure that the brands she works with are ethical and reputable, and she aims to create self confidence for her followers. But getting her admin and taxes done is one challenge too many and when her best friend Amy offers her boyfriend’s brother Charlie to help Libby, the best type of friendship develops.
My thoughts
There is a lot in this story about self acceptance, dealing with the loss of a parent and thoughts about what we chose to share with the world. I loved the relationship between free-spirited and outgoing Libby and the more conservative, successful Charlie. Their relationship went beyond the typical M-F platonic best friend in so many ways yet both were reluctant to speak about their feelings for each other. ❤️
Read on Kindle
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Libby is a lifestyle blogger living in Brighton. She tries to ensure that the brands she works with are ethical and reputable, and she aims to create self confidence for her followers. But getting her admin and taxes done is one challenge too many and when her best friend Amy offers her boyfriend’s brother Charlie to help Libby, the best type of friendship develops.
My thoughts
There is a lot in this story about self acceptance, dealing with the loss of a parent and thoughts about what we chose to share with the world. I loved the relationship between free-spirited and outgoing Libby and the more conservative, successful Charlie. Their relationship went beyond the typical M-F platonic best friend in so many ways yet both were reluctant to speak about their feelings for each other. ❤️
Read on Kindle
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
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