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The Last Place You Look
Julia Pierce can think of nothing more humiliating than her wife of eight years leaving her for her personal trainer. Oh, wait. She can. Without a career or a place to go when that exact thing happens, she’s forced to move home and take a job at her family’s winery.
Taylor Winslow has been in love with Julia since tenth grade. Not the desperate, pining sort, but the kind that never really went away. When Julia reappears, Taylor has a chance to finally win her heart. The only problem? Julia’s hell-bent on making up for lost time by dating every eligible lesbian in town.
Signing on as Julia’s wingman may land Taylor in the friend zone for good, but it’s a gamble she’s willing to take. With Taylor in her corner, will Julia find love, and herself, where she least expects it?
Taylor Winslow has been in love with Julia since tenth grade. Not the desperate, pining sort, but the kind that never really went away. When Julia reappears, Taylor has a chance to finally win her heart. The only problem? Julia’s hell-bent on making up for lost time by dating every eligible lesbian in town.
Signing on as Julia’s wingman may land Taylor in the friend zone for good, but it’s a gamble she’s willing to take. With Taylor in her corner, will Julia find love, and herself, where she least expects it?
314 pages, Paperback
First published April 14, 2020
30 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
About the author
Aurora Rey
35 books287 followersAurora Rey is a college dean by day and a life coach award-winning author of queer romance author the rest of the time, except when she’s cooking, baking, riding the tractor, or pining for goats. She grew up in a small town in south Louisiana, daydreaming about New England. She keeps a special place in her heart for the South, especially the food and the ways women are raised to be strong, even if they're taught not to show it. After a brief dalliance with biochemistry, she completed both a B.A. and an M.A. in English.
She is the author of the Cape End Romance series and several standalone contemporary lesbian romance novels and novellas. She is has been a finalist for the Lambda Literary, RITA®, and Golden Crown Literary Society awards, but loves reader feedback the most. She lives in Ithaca, New York with her dog and whatever wildlife has taken up residence in the pond.
She is the author of the Cape End Romance series and several standalone contemporary lesbian romance novels and novellas. She is has been a finalist for the Lambda Literary, RITA®, and Golden Crown Literary Society awards, but loves reader feedback the most. She lives in Ithaca, New York with her dog and whatever wildlife has taken up residence in the pond.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
April 17, 2020
This was an enjoyable, feel-good romance. I think this is the 7th book I have read by Rey and it is my new favorite by her. Rey mentioned in the beginning that this book was the most personal to her and her favorite too. I think her love for this book really shined through and it’s one of the reason I can say that this is her best book so far.
The story is about Julie, who has come back to her hometown trying to get over a divorce from a cheating wife. Her life and identity was so wrapped up in her ex that she doesn’t even know what she wants to do with her life. What she does know is she wants to date and have lots of sex since it’s something she never experienced since she got married so young. When she meets the attractive and total gentlewoman Taylor, Julie is hoping she will get the chance to sleep with her. But Taylor isn’t looking for something fun, she wants to date someone that could turn into forever. Can two people so at odds in what they want have a chance at something more?
I was late in reading this tonight and figured I would just get in a few chapters in before bed. Well it’s after 3am now so that just shows how much this book hooked me in. I had to see it all the way through to the end and considering it’s a feel-good romance and not a thriller or action book, I think that is pretty impressive how much it hooked me in.
I loved everything about this story, from what Taylor did as a job (woodworking) to the crazy hook-ups that Julie went on. For a romance where not a ton of things happened, I was into the story from beginning to end. And while I have been recently craving emotional and angsty reads, this was such an enjoyable feel-good romance that I didn’t even mind. The angst is super low, just a tiny baby amount but I was never board and I just really enjoyed the sweetness of the characters connection.
I don’t know what is going on but I am on a stretch of totally crushable butch main characters. I think Taylor was just about perfect. Maybe even too perfect, but it’s like please send the Taylor's my way, thank you. And what was also nice was that while Julie’s low self-esteem bothered me at times, she was pretty wonderful too so it was great having such likeable main characters. Connecting and caring about the main characters are so important to me as a reader so I appreciated how great they were right off the bat.
I’m sure you’re wondering about the actually romance, and besides the great characters, this is where the book really shined for me. I loved the romance. I keep calling this a feel-good romance and it was because it just kept a smile on my face the whole time. I really liked that while the attraction was there from the beginning, this was actually a slow-burn romance. Having it be slower paced helped keep their chemistry growing until it was just about perfect. The sex scenes were good too. They had a bit of baby kink, which was nice since it gave the scenes more variety, plus you could see the characters falling in love the more intimate they were.
All in all this was a really enjoyable feel-good romance. It wasn’t the book I thought I needed, but it surprised me in the best way and I love when that happens. If you are looking for a romance with good chemistry but will also make you smile, I would recommend this book. I have always liked Rey, but this was by far her best book IMHO. It makes me excited to keep a lookout for her next new book.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
The story is about Julie, who has come back to her hometown trying to get over a divorce from a cheating wife. Her life and identity was so wrapped up in her ex that she doesn’t even know what she wants to do with her life. What she does know is she wants to date and have lots of sex since it’s something she never experienced since she got married so young. When she meets the attractive and total gentlewoman Taylor, Julie is hoping she will get the chance to sleep with her. But Taylor isn’t looking for something fun, she wants to date someone that could turn into forever. Can two people so at odds in what they want have a chance at something more?
I was late in reading this tonight and figured I would just get in a few chapters in before bed. Well it’s after 3am now so that just shows how much this book hooked me in. I had to see it all the way through to the end and considering it’s a feel-good romance and not a thriller or action book, I think that is pretty impressive how much it hooked me in.
I loved everything about this story, from what Taylor did as a job (woodworking) to the crazy hook-ups that Julie went on. For a romance where not a ton of things happened, I was into the story from beginning to end. And while I have been recently craving emotional and angsty reads, this was such an enjoyable feel-good romance that I didn’t even mind. The angst is super low, just a tiny baby amount but I was never board and I just really enjoyed the sweetness of the characters connection.
I don’t know what is going on but I am on a stretch of totally crushable butch main characters. I think Taylor was just about perfect. Maybe even too perfect, but it’s like please send the Taylor's my way, thank you. And what was also nice was that while Julie’s low self-esteem bothered me at times, she was pretty wonderful too so it was great having such likeable main characters. Connecting and caring about the main characters are so important to me as a reader so I appreciated how great they were right off the bat.
I’m sure you’re wondering about the actually romance, and besides the great characters, this is where the book really shined for me. I loved the romance. I keep calling this a feel-good romance and it was because it just kept a smile on my face the whole time. I really liked that while the attraction was there from the beginning, this was actually a slow-burn romance. Having it be slower paced helped keep their chemistry growing until it was just about perfect. The sex scenes were good too. They had a bit of baby kink, which was nice since it gave the scenes more variety, plus you could see the characters falling in love the more intimate they were.
All in all this was a really enjoyable feel-good romance. It wasn’t the book I thought I needed, but it surprised me in the best way and I love when that happens. If you are looking for a romance with good chemistry but will also make you smile, I would recommend this book. I have always liked Rey, but this was by far her best book IMHO. It makes me excited to keep a lookout for her next new book.
A copy was given to me for a honest review.
January 30, 2021
Julia comes home to work in her family’s winery when her eight year marriage ends, her ex wife choosing her personal trainer over Julia. With her self esteem at an all time low she decides to trust her dating app and find some women interested in good times and happy for now dating. She soon discovers she needs a wingman and Taylor, someone she’s known since highschool, agrees to help bail her out when needed. Problem is Taylor has loved Julia from afar since tenth grade. What’s a girl going to do when she finds she enjoys spending more time with Taylor than she does with the weird assortment of women she’s been trying to date.
I caught myself smiling while I was reading this book. Always a good sign. Julia’s homecoming, while awkward for her, turns out to be a warm and welcoming one. Taylor makes her transition home better by lending a helping hand, an ear and a chance for Julia to vent about her past mistakes. This book is a second chance of sorts since Taylor has been attracted to Julia for years but the focus is on their butch-femme relationship, a dynamic Aurora Rey writes with confidence. Taylor is so well drawn. Rey understands the fragile ego of a butch, the uncertainty behind the bravado. She’s an encourager and a gentlewoman around Julia, courteous and thoughtful and yes, a tiger in bed. All the things Julia needs after the bashing her self esteem took at the hands of her ex wife. It was a pleasure watching their relationship grow and mature.
I am impressed with the growth I’ve seen in Rey’s writing since her debut novel Winter’s Harbor. I won’t hesitate to read everything she writes now. Her books are a pleasure to read.
4.5 stars
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley for review.
I caught myself smiling while I was reading this book. Always a good sign. Julia’s homecoming, while awkward for her, turns out to be a warm and welcoming one. Taylor makes her transition home better by lending a helping hand, an ear and a chance for Julia to vent about her past mistakes. This book is a second chance of sorts since Taylor has been attracted to Julia for years but the focus is on their butch-femme relationship, a dynamic Aurora Rey writes with confidence. Taylor is so well drawn. Rey understands the fragile ego of a butch, the uncertainty behind the bravado. She’s an encourager and a gentlewoman around Julia, courteous and thoughtful and yes, a tiger in bed. All the things Julia needs after the bashing her self esteem took at the hands of her ex wife. It was a pleasure watching their relationship grow and mature.
I am impressed with the growth I’ve seen in Rey’s writing since her debut novel Winter’s Harbor. I won’t hesitate to read everything she writes now. Her books are a pleasure to read.
4.5 stars
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley for review.
April 8, 2020
Aurora Rey is a safe bet for any lesfic fans looking for a butch-femme romance. She consistently delivers good quality stories, most of them set where she lives in upstate New York. ‘The Last Place you Look’ is no exception.
After Julia Pierce’s wife left her for her personal trainer, Julia decides to leave New York City for her hometown in upstate NY and take a job at her family’s winery. Taylor Winslow has never left town and still has a crush on Julia but Julia is adamant to play the field. As Taylor agrees to be her wingman for Julia’s dates, they seem to strike up a friendship but maybe they’ll find love in the last place they look…
This was an entertaining return to hometown romance with two endearing leads. Ms. Rey knows how to create adorable main characters, build fantastic chemistry between them and then make the most of it with great and varied sex scenes. Even though there is some conflict, this is mainly an angst-free romance with two down to earth characters. I loved the beautiful setting of the semi-rural upstate New York area, the beauty of nature and the nice summer weather. If you are looking for a feel-good romance, then this is a great choice.
Even though Keira Grace has narrated a few lesbian audiobooks, this is the first time I’ve listened to her. I liked her different voices especially for the main characters which were distinctive and according to their personalities. Her performance of the different feelings and her overall narrative tone was spot on. I’ll definitely listen to other audiobooks narrated by Ms. Grace. Length: 9 hrs and 33 mins
Overall, a very good butch-femme romance audiobook. 4 stars.
After Julia Pierce’s wife left her for her personal trainer, Julia decides to leave New York City for her hometown in upstate NY and take a job at her family’s winery. Taylor Winslow has never left town and still has a crush on Julia but Julia is adamant to play the field. As Taylor agrees to be her wingman for Julia’s dates, they seem to strike up a friendship but maybe they’ll find love in the last place they look…
This was an entertaining return to hometown romance with two endearing leads. Ms. Rey knows how to create adorable main characters, build fantastic chemistry between them and then make the most of it with great and varied sex scenes. Even though there is some conflict, this is mainly an angst-free romance with two down to earth characters. I loved the beautiful setting of the semi-rural upstate New York area, the beauty of nature and the nice summer weather. If you are looking for a feel-good romance, then this is a great choice.
Even though Keira Grace has narrated a few lesbian audiobooks, this is the first time I’ve listened to her. I liked her different voices especially for the main characters which were distinctive and according to their personalities. Her performance of the different feelings and her overall narrative tone was spot on. I’ll definitely listen to other audiobooks narrated by Ms. Grace. Length: 9 hrs and 33 mins
Overall, a very good butch-femme romance audiobook. 4 stars.
July 14, 2020
As expected, the book delivered and I'm a happy camper.
Julie who's seriously insecure and reeling from a humiliating divorce reconnecting with the confident and upstanding Taylor who also happens to have a decade long crush on her, is absolutely amazing to read.
There were times when I thought Taylor was too good to be true with her patience that went on for miles and other 'handy' skills.. ;) Anyway towards the end I was glad to be proven wrong when she turned out to be a mere mortal like the rest of us and made me wanna throttle her as much as Julie.
In books that are as feel good as this the conflict part is essential so that the eventual HEA seems realistic. Again, I'm happy with the end result.
4.5 stars
Julie who's seriously insecure and reeling from a humiliating divorce reconnecting with the confident and upstanding Taylor who also happens to have a decade long crush on her, is absolutely amazing to read.
There were times when I thought Taylor was too good to be true with her patience that went on for miles and other 'handy' skills.. ;) Anyway towards the end I was glad to be proven wrong when she turned out to be a mere mortal like the rest of us and made me wanna throttle her as much as Julie.
In books that are as feel good as this the conflict part is essential so that the eventual HEA seems realistic. Again, I'm happy with the end result.
4.5 stars
April 20, 2021
Just didn't sit right with me. For me, the character of Julia seemed flighty, while Taylor positioned herself as her ever ready and waiting doormat. To me, this isn't a good start to a relationship.
Honestly the more I think about it, the less it sits well. Taylor almost comes off as a friend-zoned 'nice guy' from a cliche rom-com watching and supporting the girl they want as they go on hapless dates, pining away, waiting for a chance to strike.
Julia thinking that slutting it up was a way to have a personality and move on, also disappointed, while never truly becoming her own person without Taylor's influence. Neither character came off well in the scenario.
Don't even get me started on the 50 shades of grey nonsense interwoven in their already problematic relationship.
Not for me, sorry.
Honestly the more I think about it, the less it sits well. Taylor almost comes off as a friend-zoned 'nice guy' from a cliche rom-com watching and supporting the girl they want as they go on hapless dates, pining away, waiting for a chance to strike.
Julia thinking that slutting it up was a way to have a personality and move on, also disappointed, while never truly becoming her own person without Taylor's influence. Neither character came off well in the scenario.
Don't even get me started on the 50 shades of grey nonsense interwoven in their already problematic relationship.
Not for me, sorry.
April 3, 2020
Aurora Rey is such an accomplished romance author that I’m always certain I will enjoy any book she writes. That is why I chose to read The Last Place You Look, Rey’s newest contemporary romance. I’m pleased to tell you that I really enjoyed this novel as much as I thought I would.
This is a reunion romance that follows Julia and Taylor. Julia is returning to her hometown after her wife of eight years left her for her personal trainer. Julia decides she want to sow some of those wild oats she never got a chance to before she married. Taylor, an old school chum accidentally runs into Julia and ends up offering to be Julia’s “wingman” for safety reasons. Taylor secretly had a crush on young Julia from high school, and quickly realizes that the feelings are still there, but she doesn’t want to be just another notch in Julia’s bedpost. It would be better to stay in the friend category and help keep Julia safe…right?
Ms. Rey certainly knows how to write intriguing and easy to fall in love with characters. Both women would be great to know as a friend. Taylor, especially, would be easy to fall in love with. It was fun watching Julia slowly find herself after the humiliating breakup that crushed her spirit and ego. Both characters struggle to find their way as a couple and there are several snags that cause some angst along the way. And of course, we have some very steamy sex scenes, which I’ve come to expect from Ms. Rey’s novels.
This is a beautiful romance that I am glad I had a chance to read. I can recommend it to all who love a well written second chance love story.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
This is a reunion romance that follows Julia and Taylor. Julia is returning to her hometown after her wife of eight years left her for her personal trainer. Julia decides she want to sow some of those wild oats she never got a chance to before she married. Taylor, an old school chum accidentally runs into Julia and ends up offering to be Julia’s “wingman” for safety reasons. Taylor secretly had a crush on young Julia from high school, and quickly realizes that the feelings are still there, but she doesn’t want to be just another notch in Julia’s bedpost. It would be better to stay in the friend category and help keep Julia safe…right?
Ms. Rey certainly knows how to write intriguing and easy to fall in love with characters. Both women would be great to know as a friend. Taylor, especially, would be easy to fall in love with. It was fun watching Julia slowly find herself after the humiliating breakup that crushed her spirit and ego. Both characters struggle to find their way as a couple and there are several snags that cause some angst along the way. And of course, we have some very steamy sex scenes, which I’ve come to expect from Ms. Rey’s novels.
This is a beautiful romance that I am glad I had a chance to read. I can recommend it to all who love a well written second chance love story.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review
Rainbow Reflections: http://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
May 6, 2020
It leaves you feeling all good inside. 😀
4* A lovely romance, great story and good like able characters....
4* A lovely romance, great story and good like able characters....
February 28, 2020
When Julia's wife leaves her for her personal trainer, she leaves NYC to go back home to live in her grandmother's house and work at her parent's winery. She's been tied to one person for so long she can barely remember what it was like to be herself and so she throws herself into the dating pool to make up for lost time. Julia bumps into Taylor in town, an old classmate from school, and she offers to be Julia's wingman. But Taylor has had a crush on her since high school, and even after not seeing Julia for ten years, the crush is still there and more intense than ever. Will Taylor help Julia find the next love of her life or will Julia realize that what she's looking for has been right in front of her this whole time?
I am a super fan of everything Aurora Rey write and this book did not disappoint! I loved Julia's evolution throughout the book. She had this sort of quiet confidence, so sure of her self in some ways, that really gave her character a solid foundation to grow and discover new things about herself as the story went on. Taylor was so sure of herself, with her work and her life, and she was the perfect match for Julia. Theres something so empowering and inspiring reading about two confident women who are passionate about what they do that makes you feel badass in your own life. The town and the surrounding area sounds so darling and really added to the whole romantic feel. Aurora Rey is a a master at creating the sweetest romance, the will-they wont-they flirting, and the sexiest chemistry. This book was heart warming and inspiring, the perfect read for a snowy winters day.
I already can't wait to cozy up and read it again in paperback ASAP!
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I am a super fan of everything Aurora Rey write and this book did not disappoint! I loved Julia's evolution throughout the book. She had this sort of quiet confidence, so sure of her self in some ways, that really gave her character a solid foundation to grow and discover new things about herself as the story went on. Taylor was so sure of herself, with her work and her life, and she was the perfect match for Julia. Theres something so empowering and inspiring reading about two confident women who are passionate about what they do that makes you feel badass in your own life. The town and the surrounding area sounds so darling and really added to the whole romantic feel. Aurora Rey is a a master at creating the sweetest romance, the will-they wont-they flirting, and the sexiest chemistry. This book was heart warming and inspiring, the perfect read for a snowy winters day.
I already can't wait to cozy up and read it again in paperback ASAP!
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 3, 2020
I had to drink heavily to write this review.
Forgive my spelling mistakes. How much did I anticipate this read and how much did it disappoint me. I’m not going to go into how much I hated Julia with her constantly changing needs and her incredible snobbishness to her fellow singles— because she wasn’t single from the start.
She had her perfect knight in shining butch armor ready and willing from the start (but not obsessed or anything like that.)
I’m not going to mention the absolutely appalling, viscerally cringeworthy BDSM scene that did nothing to advance the story other than the downtrodden femme likes being downtrodden everywhere. This is the only time Taylor’s character takes a huge blow.
No, I’m going, to talk about something other than those issues.
I’m going to talk about how Julia flaunts her ability and rights to go on multiple dates with different women and learns NOTHING from any of them except how pathetic they are for being lesbian and single and don’t have a solid plan B like Julia does.
The author had a great opportunity to show us that we can learn something from every human interaction but instead fed us on what seems to be re-purposed failed heterosexual dates (up to the “wanna fuck?). I wanted to root for this couple, I wanted to be there when they took that first step together but I feel Julia is such an unllikeable person we just can’t do that.
Okay, said it. I feel awful right now and I am so
sorry.
Two stars
I received this ARC from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Forgive my spelling mistakes. How much did I anticipate this read and how much did it disappoint me. I’m not going to go into how much I hated Julia with her constantly changing needs and her incredible snobbishness to her fellow singles— because she wasn’t single from the start.
She had her perfect knight in shining butch armor ready and willing from the start (but not obsessed or anything like that.)
I’m not going to mention the absolutely appalling, viscerally cringeworthy BDSM scene that did nothing to advance the story other than the downtrodden femme likes being downtrodden everywhere. This is the only time Taylor’s character takes a huge blow.
No, I’m going, to talk about something other than those issues.
I’m going to talk about how Julia flaunts her ability and rights to go on multiple dates with different women and learns NOTHING from any of them except how pathetic they are for being lesbian and single and don’t have a solid plan B like Julia does.
The author had a great opportunity to show us that we can learn something from every human interaction but instead fed us on what seems to be re-purposed failed heterosexual dates (up to the “wanna fuck?). I wanted to root for this couple, I wanted to be there when they took that first step together but I feel Julia is such an unllikeable person we just can’t do that.
Okay, said it. I feel awful right now and I am so
sorry.
Two stars
I received this ARC from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 8, 2023
I was bored. Almost immediately. I considered not finishing it but I didn't have anything I wanted to read instead. It's not that it's bad, per se. But it was just kind of bland. And the drama at end--to make you question whether or not our two protagonists will have a HEA--really seemed contrived and overly dramatic. I do appreciate the butch representation, though. As well as the body positivity.
April 17, 2020
Good stuff!
Julia sure makes a lot of silly decisions, and Taylor has the patience of a Goddess! T'was a nice fun read though.
Julia sure makes a lot of silly decisions, and Taylor has the patience of a Goddess! T'was a nice fun read though.
May 31, 2020
I loved this friend to lovers romance. It made me read with a smile on my face and I don't have a doubt in my mind recommending this book to other readers. Please buy and enjoy this book.
The story is about Julie, who is back in her hometown because her "hot-shot" ex cheated on her with her personal trainer. In the hardware store of said town, she meets Taylor again after all those years. A new friendship is born. After a long relationship, Julie want's to see what's out there, dating-wise. And Taylor, not wanting to be another nudge on her bedpost, agrees on being her wing-woman.
A couple of things I love about this book. For one, Rey knows exactly how to describe how fucked up someone can become after a relationship that obviously wasn't equal (enough) and loving (enough). This story show mighty-fine how insecurities can take over someone's mind after years of not being good enough. It also shows a good dose of realism when it comes to the dating scene: it is not all hot and bothered, there are many curious women out there and the prospect of a hot night of sex mostly is just a night of not so hot sex and a lot of awkwardness.
That being said and laughed about (because I did) let's go to Taylor. Because wouldn't we all want a Taylor in our lives. (Don't get me wrong, I've got one with a different name and not the same level of carpenter skills.) I just loved her character, sweet, strong, no selfishness bone in her body and on a mission to be the best wingmen for Julie. Stupid Taylor...
But in the end, it all works out, because Rey doesn't let us wait until the end before fireworks come out. And thus, you can love a great romance story for most of the book. Off course there is some trouble in paradise, but it's all very balanced and no part of this story comes across as off or oddly placed.
I loved reading this book, loved the characters, the storyline, the secondary characters were great and the writing style was great. All in all a solid 4-star read. I would definitely pick up any other book of Rey after reading this one.
I received an ARC in exchange for a fair review.
The story is about Julie, who is back in her hometown because her "hot-shot" ex cheated on her with her personal trainer. In the hardware store of said town, she meets Taylor again after all those years. A new friendship is born. After a long relationship, Julie want's to see what's out there, dating-wise. And Taylor, not wanting to be another nudge on her bedpost, agrees on being her wing-woman.
A couple of things I love about this book. For one, Rey knows exactly how to describe how fucked up someone can become after a relationship that obviously wasn't equal (enough) and loving (enough). This story show mighty-fine how insecurities can take over someone's mind after years of not being good enough. It also shows a good dose of realism when it comes to the dating scene: it is not all hot and bothered, there are many curious women out there and the prospect of a hot night of sex mostly is just a night of not so hot sex and a lot of awkwardness.
That being said and laughed about (because I did) let's go to Taylor. Because wouldn't we all want a Taylor in our lives. (Don't get me wrong, I've got one with a different name and not the same level of carpenter skills.) I just loved her character, sweet, strong, no selfishness bone in her body and on a mission to be the best wingmen for Julie. Stupid Taylor...
But in the end, it all works out, because Rey doesn't let us wait until the end before fireworks come out. And thus, you can love a great romance story for most of the book. Off course there is some trouble in paradise, but it's all very balanced and no part of this story comes across as off or oddly placed.
I loved reading this book, loved the characters, the storyline, the secondary characters were great and the writing style was great. All in all a solid 4-star read. I would definitely pick up any other book of Rey after reading this one.
I received an ARC in exchange for a fair review.
April 17, 2020
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a nice, sweet romance. The MCs are Julia, who is returning to her hometown to work at the family winery after a bad break-up of her long term romance. She was a bit of a doormat in the previous relationship and her ex cheated, so she has self-esteem issues. Taylor is a furniture maker who had a crush on Julia back when they were in school.
The two meet up again, and there’s instant chemistry but Julia wants to play the field after her break-up and Taylor’s more of a commitment type. Not gonna lie, I found the first part of the book where Julia was dating other people a bit tedious, just because it’s obvious it would amount to nothing and some of the date scenarios seemed a bit contrived, so it felt like a waste of time. But the scenes between the two leads and their growing friendship were very sweet.
Julia also finds her feet in other areas and discovers a knack for photography. Taylor is supportive of everything Julia does, and is a real sweetheart. Julia’s self-esteem issues get a bit tiresome after awhile, but I did like that she kept pushing herself. There’s also some good supporting characters, especially the two MC’s siblings and a nice circle of friends.
Their relationship unfolds over a period of time and in a nice believable way. Once they get to sexy times, there’s also a bit of light bdsm type stuff in their sexual relationship. Towards the end we have a bit of manufactured angst, but the resolution is sweet, and pretty swift, so it didn’t bog the story down. This is probably a 3.5, but I’m rounding up.
This is a nice, sweet romance. The MCs are Julia, who is returning to her hometown to work at the family winery after a bad break-up of her long term romance. She was a bit of a doormat in the previous relationship and her ex cheated, so she has self-esteem issues. Taylor is a furniture maker who had a crush on Julia back when they were in school.
The two meet up again, and there’s instant chemistry but Julia wants to play the field after her break-up and Taylor’s more of a commitment type. Not gonna lie, I found the first part of the book where Julia was dating other people a bit tedious, just because it’s obvious it would amount to nothing and some of the date scenarios seemed a bit contrived, so it felt like a waste of time. But the scenes between the two leads and their growing friendship were very sweet.
Julia also finds her feet in other areas and discovers a knack for photography. Taylor is supportive of everything Julia does, and is a real sweetheart. Julia’s self-esteem issues get a bit tiresome after awhile, but I did like that she kept pushing herself. There’s also some good supporting characters, especially the two MC’s siblings and a nice circle of friends.
Their relationship unfolds over a period of time and in a nice believable way. Once they get to sexy times, there’s also a bit of light bdsm type stuff in their sexual relationship. Towards the end we have a bit of manufactured angst, but the resolution is sweet, and pretty swift, so it didn’t bog the story down. This is probably a 3.5, but I’m rounding up.
September 23, 2022
The Last Place You Look is a nice romance to read.
Julia returns to her small home town after her wife leaves her for her personal trainer. After being with Erica for most of her adult life she seems lost and not confident in anything she does or might like to try. Erica is only mentioned a couple of times and appears towards the end of the book, but I hate her. She did a heck of a number on Julia. Taylor has always lived in their small home town and she has had a crush on Julia since high school. Taylor has her life all figured out be she is just missing love. When they run into each other Taylor offers her help to a rather helpless Julia. Taylor ends up not only helping her with some odd jobs around her meemaws house, but supports her wild dating ‘experiment’. Julie doesn’t know Taylor has/ had a crush on her. They weren’t close in high school. While she is being supportive she doesn’t really understand having to do this. Julia discovers not everything is as fun as it looks on paper, or behind a screen. When Julia finds herself and her strength it’s Taylor who is right their beside her.
This book isn’t for anyone who likes big twists and turns a lots of drama. There is some drama and angst, but not a lot in my opinion. It’s an easy going romance, much like looking at nicely flowing stream that has some rocks in it here and there.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Julia returns to her small home town after her wife leaves her for her personal trainer. After being with Erica for most of her adult life she seems lost and not confident in anything she does or might like to try. Erica is only mentioned a couple of times and appears towards the end of the book, but I hate her. She did a heck of a number on Julia. Taylor has always lived in their small home town and she has had a crush on Julia since high school. Taylor has her life all figured out be she is just missing love. When they run into each other Taylor offers her help to a rather helpless Julia. Taylor ends up not only helping her with some odd jobs around her meemaws house, but supports her wild dating ‘experiment’. Julie doesn’t know Taylor has/ had a crush on her. They weren’t close in high school. While she is being supportive she doesn’t really understand having to do this. Julia discovers not everything is as fun as it looks on paper, or behind a screen. When Julia finds herself and her strength it’s Taylor who is right their beside her.
This book isn’t for anyone who likes big twists and turns a lots of drama. There is some drama and angst, but not a lot in my opinion. It’s an easy going romance, much like looking at nicely flowing stream that has some rocks in it here and there.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
November 11, 2020
I was excited to read this book after reading the synopsis but it wasn't quite what I expected. To be honest, there wasn't much sparks between Julia and Taylor until perhaps the last 10 pages. And for some reason, I had a hard time picturing Julia as someone attractive - which was perhaps fueled by her desperate attempts at casual hookups. I also found the BDSM parts completely random. It was also hard to believe that her marriage to Erica could last for 8 years considering they were two completely different people.
March 24, 2020
The Last Place You look is a cute romance. I can't say there was anything particularly special about it but it was still a decent read.
Julia finds herself back in her hometown living in her grandmother's house after she is dumped by her wife of 8 years. She is embarrassed but determined to get back on her feet. Taylor went to HS with Julia and has always had a crush on her. They run back into each other fairly soon after Julia arrives back in town and Taylor quickly agrees to help her with repairing a screen at the house. Julia finds Taylor attractive but has decided that she just want to serial date because she never had the opportunity. Taylor offers to be her wing-woman. And so the story evolves from there.
Again, I did find this romance to be cute. I especially liked Taylor as I thought she was a very upstanding individual. Plus she had the butch swagger thing going on. I liked Julia well enough and I did understand why she felt she needed to serial date. I just wish she could have realized how much her and Taylor fit each other. I thought the sexual stuff was good, it just seemed a little out of place.
I will rate this 3.5 stars
This ARC was provided by netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
Julia finds herself back in her hometown living in her grandmother's house after she is dumped by her wife of 8 years. She is embarrassed but determined to get back on her feet. Taylor went to HS with Julia and has always had a crush on her. They run back into each other fairly soon after Julia arrives back in town and Taylor quickly agrees to help her with repairing a screen at the house. Julia finds Taylor attractive but has decided that she just want to serial date because she never had the opportunity. Taylor offers to be her wing-woman. And so the story evolves from there.
Again, I did find this romance to be cute. I especially liked Taylor as I thought she was a very upstanding individual. Plus she had the butch swagger thing going on. I liked Julia well enough and I did understand why she felt she needed to serial date. I just wish she could have realized how much her and Taylor fit each other. I thought the sexual stuff was good, it just seemed a little out of place.
I will rate this 3.5 stars
This ARC was provided by netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
August 26, 2020
I listened to this one while walking the doggo as always, and I find the time just drifts by when I've got an Aurora Rey story in my ears. I should point out that I really enjoy the performer, Kiera Grace, and it's almost like listening to an old friend at this point, dropping by to tell me another story of some people she knows and how they fell in love.
The Last Place You Look has quite a few balls to juggle, but they're the perfect mix of low-angst, home-town vs. big-city, finding yourself after a big fall, and starting over with a passion that was tucked aside for the wrong reasons (and the wrong person). We've got Julia, who is living through one of the worst kinds of life-changes: her wife dumped and replaced her and basically kicked her out with nothing. Julia has zero options and heads back home to the town she pretty much ran away from to be with her ex-wife, returning to a family she's not sure ever really "got" her or saw her as much more than a disappointment. It's a lot to feel, and a lot to face down in a "I will prove them wrong" sense, especially while hurting. She ends up in her grandmother's house (her grandmother has passed, but the family hasn't sold the house yet), and in the process of trying to figure out how to repair a window screen, bumps into Taylor, who she kinda-sorta knew in high school.
I mentioned this while I was listening to the book, but Taylor is another example of something Rey does so incredibly well (and, frankly, something I see done so much better in women-loving-women stories), and that's nontoxic masculinity. Rey often explores femme and butch women, and Taylor definitely ticks the butch checkboxes, but it's the specifics of how she does so that I'm talking about here: when faced with a fix-it moment where Taylor is helping Julia with said window screen, there's a moment where Taylor asks what exactly Julia wants here: help, or for Taylor just to fix it. It's such a simple moment, but it's so telling: offering mentorship, rather than "move aside, princess, I got this" shown as somehow a positive, when it's really not. Taylor is the opposite of an alphahole, with exactly the skillset as so many rural alphaholes I've read in heterosexual romances. It's competence without arrogance, and it's so damn refreshing. She builds Taylor up without looking down at her. Also, I loved Taylor's gay brother and his support throughout—it's an ongoing gripe of mine how rarely you see the rest of the queer community in so many romances with queer characters (though that's more often the case in books not written by ownvoice authors, and even moreso in m/m), so the casual mentions of Taylor's gay brother, his husband, the local drag queen story hour... it creates verisimilitude.
Add all of that alongside some scorching consent-centred sex of a variety of flavours, and you've got what I've learned to expect from Aurora Rey: a truly satisfying story of two women falling in love, surrounded by good people, making connections, and coming into their own with help from each other.
The Last Place You Look has quite a few balls to juggle, but they're the perfect mix of low-angst, home-town vs. big-city, finding yourself after a big fall, and starting over with a passion that was tucked aside for the wrong reasons (and the wrong person). We've got Julia, who is living through one of the worst kinds of life-changes: her wife dumped and replaced her and basically kicked her out with nothing. Julia has zero options and heads back home to the town she pretty much ran away from to be with her ex-wife, returning to a family she's not sure ever really "got" her or saw her as much more than a disappointment. It's a lot to feel, and a lot to face down in a "I will prove them wrong" sense, especially while hurting. She ends up in her grandmother's house (her grandmother has passed, but the family hasn't sold the house yet), and in the process of trying to figure out how to repair a window screen, bumps into Taylor, who she kinda-sorta knew in high school.
I mentioned this while I was listening to the book, but Taylor is another example of something Rey does so incredibly well (and, frankly, something I see done so much better in women-loving-women stories), and that's nontoxic masculinity. Rey often explores femme and butch women, and Taylor definitely ticks the butch checkboxes, but it's the specifics of how she does so that I'm talking about here: when faced with a fix-it moment where Taylor is helping Julia with said window screen, there's a moment where Taylor asks what exactly Julia wants here: help, or for Taylor just to fix it. It's such a simple moment, but it's so telling: offering mentorship, rather than "move aside, princess, I got this" shown as somehow a positive, when it's really not. Taylor is the opposite of an alphahole, with exactly the skillset as so many rural alphaholes I've read in heterosexual romances. It's competence without arrogance, and it's so damn refreshing. She builds Taylor up without looking down at her. Also, I loved Taylor's gay brother and his support throughout—it's an ongoing gripe of mine how rarely you see the rest of the queer community in so many romances with queer characters (though that's more often the case in books not written by ownvoice authors, and even moreso in m/m), so the casual mentions of Taylor's gay brother, his husband, the local drag queen story hour... it creates verisimilitude.
Add all of that alongside some scorching consent-centred sex of a variety of flavours, and you've got what I've learned to expect from Aurora Rey: a truly satisfying story of two women falling in love, surrounded by good people, making connections, and coming into their own with help from each other.
May 22, 2020
This is my favourite Aurora Rey novel to date! It was fantastic.
This book is the perfect book to kick your feet up, relax with a glass of wine and enjoy. I’m a big Aurora Rey fan because her deliciously engaging books feature strong women who fall for sweet butch women. It’s a winning recipe.
This is my favourite Aurora Rey novel to date! It was fantastic and ticked heaps of boxes for me. I think the author also wrote outside her comfort zone more in this book and really developed her craft to a higher standard which must have been tough because she already writes impeccably.
I loved Julia from the get-go and could honestly understand her plight. She was left in the wreckage of her marriage so guarding her heart was the priority and boy did she try and avoid heart ache. I really enjoyed her dating antics and more than once had a cringey moment and wished she would just run into Taylors arms.
Taylor was a everything that I love in a strong but sensitive butch. I nearly swooned right of my seat more than once. And the change in the typical dynamic of the femme being the non-fling types and the butches are looking for no strings was awesome, and I love when authors mix it up.
I loved the short-lived secondary characters Amber and Bianca. Especially Amber I’d love for her to find love she was my favourite secondary character. I laughed a lot in her scene.
Oh! The sex in this book is sizzling hot. Some light BDSM moments and some very hot sexy talk. Aurora Rey really surpassed herself with these scenes. This reviewer was left all hot and bothered.
Fantastic book. I cannot recommend this book enough. I think this book is a little bit of sustenance for the soul during our currently global pandemic. ‘The Last Place You Look’ will lift you up and make you forget for a while. And leave you feeling like you’ve had a warm (but sexy) hug. Go grab yourself a copy and enjoy!
Star Rating:
5 stars
This book is the perfect book to kick your feet up, relax with a glass of wine and enjoy. I’m a big Aurora Rey fan because her deliciously engaging books feature strong women who fall for sweet butch women. It’s a winning recipe.
This is my favourite Aurora Rey novel to date! It was fantastic and ticked heaps of boxes for me. I think the author also wrote outside her comfort zone more in this book and really developed her craft to a higher standard which must have been tough because she already writes impeccably.
I loved Julia from the get-go and could honestly understand her plight. She was left in the wreckage of her marriage so guarding her heart was the priority and boy did she try and avoid heart ache. I really enjoyed her dating antics and more than once had a cringey moment and wished she would just run into Taylors arms.
Taylor was a everything that I love in a strong but sensitive butch. I nearly swooned right of my seat more than once. And the change in the typical dynamic of the femme being the non-fling types and the butches are looking for no strings was awesome, and I love when authors mix it up.
I loved the short-lived secondary characters Amber and Bianca. Especially Amber I’d love for her to find love she was my favourite secondary character. I laughed a lot in her scene.
Oh! The sex in this book is sizzling hot. Some light BDSM moments and some very hot sexy talk. Aurora Rey really surpassed herself with these scenes. This reviewer was left all hot and bothered.
Fantastic book. I cannot recommend this book enough. I think this book is a little bit of sustenance for the soul during our currently global pandemic. ‘The Last Place You Look’ will lift you up and make you forget for a while. And leave you feeling like you’ve had a warm (but sexy) hug. Go grab yourself a copy and enjoy!
Star Rating:
5 stars
February 1, 2021
Julia Pierce has spent pretty much her entire adult life with Erica. So when Erica has an affair with her personal trainer, Natasha, and divorces Julia, Julia has literally nothing to fall back on and nowhere to go. She returns home to her supportive family. She has her grandmom’s place to stay in and a job in the family winery while she gathers herself. One of Julia’s action points is to date as much as possible and have as much sex as possible. Except she’s practically never dated because she’d been with Erica for so long. Taylor Winslow was with Julia in high school and had nursed a crush on Julia. Their lives hadn’t intersected at that time so there was no major drama between them in their youth. When Taylor sees Julia again, her little crush rears up its delighted head. But Julia is looking for hook-ups and Taylor doesn’t do hook-ups and ends up offering to be Julia’s wing-woman instead.
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
October 13, 2020
This was really enjoyable and ultimately gave me a good feeling throughout. The chemistry between Taylor and Julia was well developed. I liked the contrast in their personalities and how their differences played out in their relationship( introvert vs extrovert etc). I also really appreciated the emphasis on consent in the love scenes.
March 22, 2020
Happy story, where woman after divorce that came out of nowhere, starts her life again. Where woman, who had hots for someone long time ago gets her chance again. Those two, really belong together. It was easy read. Not much drama, but there was a bit of misunderstanding.
July 14, 2020
At some point in the story someone tells Julia that she is quite the catch. In all honesty, if I had the misfortune to catch her, I'd toss her right back.
May 17, 2020
3 star. A cute, predictable, sometimes erotic tale between Julia, a jilted wife and Taylor, who has had a crush on Julia for over 10 years. The romance starts much sooner than I expected . No slow burn here. And I was surprised when the romance and sex was so brand new and exciting......why did they have to spice it up with an evening of erotic behaviour including being tied up with red scarves. Now what do they have to look forward to in their 3rd year when things slow down.
About 3/4's the way through the book the romance becomes more permanent and just when you think all is well.......doubt and jealousy steps in. Of course none of that lasts too long and all ends well.
As I said...cute and predictable story.
About 3/4's the way through the book the romance becomes more permanent and just when you think all is well.......doubt and jealousy steps in. Of course none of that lasts too long and all ends well.
As I said...cute and predictable story.
March 29, 2020
3 Stars. This book is about Julia Pierce, whose wife left her after 8 years with her personal trainer. She moves back to her home town and lives in her grandmother's old house. She runs into Taylor Winslow, someone she went to high school with and had an unrequited crush on Julia. When Julia went away, she moved on with her life and created a wood working business in her house. When she runs into Julia at the hardware store, she can't help with spend time with Julia and see why she is back in town. When Julia wants to play the field, Taylor offers to be her wingwoman and help her on dates, even if Taylor wants to date Julia herself.
I enjoyed this book. It was a solid read. The two main characters have chemistry and I enjoyed their interactions. Taylor, at times, seemed immature a little and I did not like that. Some plot points of the novel seemed a little off from something that was said not that long ago, but it was done to move the story along more. Overall, their feelings mostly evolved throughout the novel and it made sense. I did not think that this was a perfect or amazing novel, but it was good and an easy read.
I enjoyed this book. It was a solid read. The two main characters have chemistry and I enjoyed their interactions. Taylor, at times, seemed immature a little and I did not like that. Some plot points of the novel seemed a little off from something that was said not that long ago, but it was done to move the story along more. Overall, their feelings mostly evolved throughout the novel and it made sense. I did not think that this was a perfect or amazing novel, but it was good and an easy read.
March 4, 2020
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Julia life is in shambles after her wife Erica leaves her. To rebuild her life she moves back home and works at her family winery while she figures out what she wants to do with her life.
Taylor had a crush on Julia since high school they didn’t really hangout together but they knew of each other and when she bump into Julia she realize the crush is still there.
Julia realize she hasn’t played the field decide to do that to make up for lost time. Taylor agreed to be her wingman even though she wants something more with Julia she doesn’t want to be a notch on her bedposts. As they grow closer Julia realize she may have found what she looking for in Taylor but she wants to be her own person because she came to see that she was so wrapped up in Erica that she lost herself and have self doubt.
I like that Julia and Taylor have great support systems even when Julia doubts that her family is proud of her and I like the relationship with Taylor and her twin Chris and his husband Jack. Overall a great read.
Julia life is in shambles after her wife Erica leaves her. To rebuild her life she moves back home and works at her family winery while she figures out what she wants to do with her life.
Taylor had a crush on Julia since high school they didn’t really hangout together but they knew of each other and when she bump into Julia she realize the crush is still there.
Julia realize she hasn’t played the field decide to do that to make up for lost time. Taylor agreed to be her wingman even though she wants something more with Julia she doesn’t want to be a notch on her bedposts. As they grow closer Julia realize she may have found what she looking for in Taylor but she wants to be her own person because she came to see that she was so wrapped up in Erica that she lost herself and have self doubt.
I like that Julia and Taylor have great support systems even when Julia doubts that her family is proud of her and I like the relationship with Taylor and her twin Chris and his husband Jack. Overall a great read.
March 1, 2020
Typically I'm not a fan of the high school crush/love revisited trope, but this is Aurora Rey, so I had to give it a try. I am terribly happy I did! She writes lovely believable characters you wish you could be friends with. I love the small home town dynamic and I'm a sucker for woodworking. This book is a winner! I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2020
Aurora Rey has been one of my go-to favorite authors since she blew me away with Winter's Harbor. She has never once let me down and her entire catalog is consistently in the four/five star category. Gorgeous settings, strong, sensitive butch leads, interesting, atypical femme leads, great food and drink recommendations, and of course, hot, varied, slight-kink sex. The Last Place You Look is no exception. Maybe it's the time in our lives these days, but I just want to read happy, feel-good stories with great characters who have great sex together. Then the conflict pops up, it's really done well.. Just the right amount of angst with a controversy not borne of miscommunication. Nothing to reinvent the wheel here, but just a gorgeous, solid, well-written book that you can feel great about reading.
April 26, 2020
Divorce can be such a bummer especially when one person wants out and the others wants in. The marriage did not work out and now I need to process and move on. In this case, move back home and into your grandmother's house. Entertaining read with sadness and humor. Julia Pierce is heartbroken and "pierced" after her wife leaves her for another woman. Broke and broken, she has no other choice but to return home and work at the family winery which she is very good at. Taylor Winslow is happy to see Julia back in town but unhappy to sign on as Julia's "wingman" as Julia attempts to make-up for loss time and mend an emotionally battered heart. Easy to read romance with low angst. Taylor is a wonderful character with a big heart and I enjoyed reading about her woodworking.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
April 7, 2020
I always enjoy Aurora Rey’s books, and this one is just as good as the others. I find her characters are real and relatable. After being away for 10 years lead character Julia finds herself back in her hometown after a failed marriage. She is embarrassed and decides to play the field and sow her wild oats. Hometown girl Taylor has always had a crush on Julia and when she arrives back in town Taylor hopes for romance. After a few attempts at online dating Julia realizes maybe it’s not a great thing and she decides to see what will happen with Taylor. It isn’t smooth, but it’s a fun ride. With some spicy scenes to make it steamy. I got this book as an arc for review.
April 24, 2020
This didn't work for me. Another reviewer said everything I didnt know how to articulate about it. @AnnMaree Of Oz. So go and read her review.
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