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Honey Creek #1
Like You Love Me
Two childhood friends are playing house—and maybe playing for keeps—in USA Today bestselling author Adriana Locke’s funny, sexy, and unpredictable marriage-of-convenience romance.
To save her Tennessee bed-and-breakfast, Sophie Bates needs a fast-cash miracle. Holden McKenzie, her childhood best friend, needs to prove to a prospective employer that he’s a committed man. Their fortunes on the line, Holden proposes…a solution.
He’ll take care of Sophie’s bills if she agrees to a temporary marriage of convenience. And why not? They’re comfortable together, they have fun, and they trust each other. It’s as simple as saying “I do.” But the off-the-cuff wedding has all of Honey Creek talking—and Sophie and Holden realizing that their perfect arrangement is working too well. If they’re not careful, this marriage could turn into a love story.
To save her Tennessee bed-and-breakfast, Sophie Bates needs a fast-cash miracle. Holden McKenzie, her childhood best friend, needs to prove to a prospective employer that he’s a committed man. Their fortunes on the line, Holden proposes…a solution.
He’ll take care of Sophie’s bills if she agrees to a temporary marriage of convenience. And why not? They’re comfortable together, they have fun, and they trust each other. It’s as simple as saying “I do.” But the off-the-cuff wedding has all of Honey Creek talking—and Sophie and Holden realizing that their perfect arrangement is working too well. If they’re not careful, this marriage could turn into a love story.
287 pages, Paperback
First published February 16, 2021
2369 people are currently reading
10904 people want to read
About the author
Adriana Locke
89 books16k followersAdriana Locke is a USA Today and Amazon Charts Bestselling author with a knack for writing swoony, unforgettable contemporary romances. At nineteen, she traded her small-town roots for big-city life, only to realize her heart beats for quiet mornings and cozy chaos. These days, she’s living her happily-ever-after in Ohio with Mr. Locke—her high school sweetheart—four lively sons, and two hilariously hyper Jack Russell terriers.
When she’s not penning love stories that will leave you laughing and sighing, Adriana is battling the epic quest of missing silverware, “gardening” (a.k.a. chatting with her plants), or leaving her grocery list on the counter as she heads to the store. Grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let her books whisk you away to a world of heartwarming romance and irresistible heroes.
When she’s not penning love stories that will leave you laughing and sighing, Adriana is battling the epic quest of missing silverware, “gardening” (a.k.a. chatting with her plants), or leaving her grocery list on the counter as she heads to the store. Grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let her books whisk you away to a world of heartwarming romance and irresistible heroes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,011 reviews
February 20, 2021
Another triple S (soft, sweet, swoon) friends to lovers story with arranged marriage theme. The characters were sweet pies. The story’s development may be a little predictable, a little drama, angst, but mostly safe, entertaining, easy to read, heartwarming, relaxing.
Yes, there are some cliches but there are so many awww moments put so many lovely smiles on your face which break your dark cloudy mood.
The agreement was simple: friends with benefits theme. No! They don’t plan to sleep together. At least they didn’t plan it at the beginning!
Sophie needs fast cash to save her inherited bed&breakfast as Holden who recently broke up with her fiancée, tries to prove one of his important employer he can be decent committed man.
The arranged marriage can fix their all problems but what about the secret spark between them which slowly grows throughout the years. It can blurt out any second with additional undeniably hot chemistry.
People think they’re in love. They think they’re great pretenders. But guess what they’re not Oscar worthy actors as like they think. They start to fall for each other which also means the fall out of their perfect plan!
Yes, I gave so many clues. It’s a great beach read but you may also lying on your couch with your snacks and refreshments and consume this lovely book as a reward for happy weekend plan.
I love the author’s work and her writing style. So I’m giving my lovely, second chances, friends-lovers four stars with a big smile on my face.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for sharing this lovely arc with me in exchange my honest opinions.
Yes, there are some cliches but there are so many awww moments put so many lovely smiles on your face which break your dark cloudy mood.
The agreement was simple: friends with benefits theme. No! They don’t plan to sleep together. At least they didn’t plan it at the beginning!
Sophie needs fast cash to save her inherited bed&breakfast as Holden who recently broke up with her fiancée, tries to prove one of his important employer he can be decent committed man.
The arranged marriage can fix their all problems but what about the secret spark between them which slowly grows throughout the years. It can blurt out any second with additional undeniably hot chemistry.
People think they’re in love. They think they’re great pretenders. But guess what they’re not Oscar worthy actors as like they think. They start to fall for each other which also means the fall out of their perfect plan!
Yes, I gave so many clues. It’s a great beach read but you may also lying on your couch with your snacks and refreshments and consume this lovely book as a reward for happy weekend plan.
I love the author’s work and her writing style. So I’m giving my lovely, second chances, friends-lovers four stars with a big smile on my face.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for sharing this lovely arc with me in exchange my honest opinions.
February 15, 2021
Adriana Locke can write a grocery list and I'll read it. Characters that jump off the page, a small-town setting that makes you feel as if you are THERE, tangible chemistry, and one of my fav tropes eva!!!! Fake marriage... SWOON.
May 12, 2021
4 stars
Like You Love Me is a sweet, lighthearted, small town romance by Adriana Locke. I love Locke's small town love stories and when I heard this was a childhood friends/marriage of convenience book I was thrilled. I had a lot of fun reading this book and I adored both Sophie and Holden. If you're looking for a great romance with no over the top drama, a sweet couple, and a story with that small town charm, pick this up. I hope we get books for Sophie's siblings because I would love to read more from these characters!
Like You Love Me is a sweet, lighthearted, small town romance by Adriana Locke. I love Locke's small town love stories and when I heard this was a childhood friends/marriage of convenience book I was thrilled. I had a lot of fun reading this book and I adored both Sophie and Holden. If you're looking for a great romance with no over the top drama, a sweet couple, and a story with that small town charm, pick this up. I hope we get books for Sophie's siblings because I would love to read more from these characters!
Audio book source: Audible (purchased)
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Ryan West & Lidia Dornet
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary romance (small town, marriage of convivence)
Length: 9 hours and 26 minutes
February 16, 2021
Like you love me has two things that make me swoon every time I come across them in a book- a small town setting with kind, supportive, quirky in their own way inhabitants, and my favourite trope- friends to lovers. There's nothing more romantic than falling in love with the person you've known and respected for years....
Holden, a.k.a. Dr Holden, aka Dr McKenzie comes back to a small Tennessee town where his grandfather runs a veterenary prctice. Holden has just lost both his dream job (through no fault of his own) and his fiancee. The problem is in his field employers take a prospective candidates seriousness and stability very seriously...
Sophie Bates is about to lose her beloved bed-and-breakfast...unless she comes up with a quick cash intervention. The business is a bit slow, so however hard she wracks her brains, she is no closer to finding a solution. Until Holden, her childhood friend, comes up with a perfect arrangement that will help them get weather their respective storms and get on their feet, ready to face life. A temporary marriage. You can probably guess what is going to happen with these two charming newly weds. Yep, it's obvious, they are bound to find out that they are perfect for each other.
I loved Adriana Locke's writing style- it was so easy to fall into the story and keep turning pages on and on. You know what is going to happen and you are there for evry minute of the characters' journey to their happily-ever-after.
Can't wait to read the next story in the series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the review copy provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
Holden, a.k.a. Dr Holden, aka Dr McKenzie comes back to a small Tennessee town where his grandfather runs a veterenary prctice. Holden has just lost both his dream job (through no fault of his own) and his fiancee. The problem is in his field employers take a prospective candidates seriousness and stability very seriously...
Sophie Bates is about to lose her beloved bed-and-breakfast...unless she comes up with a quick cash intervention. The business is a bit slow, so however hard she wracks her brains, she is no closer to finding a solution. Until Holden, her childhood friend, comes up with a perfect arrangement that will help them get weather their respective storms and get on their feet, ready to face life. A temporary marriage. You can probably guess what is going to happen with these two charming newly weds. Yep, it's obvious, they are bound to find out that they are perfect for each other.
I loved Adriana Locke's writing style- it was so easy to fall into the story and keep turning pages on and on. You know what is going to happen and you are there for evry minute of the characters' journey to their happily-ever-after.
Can't wait to read the next story in the series!
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the review copy provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
March 7, 2022
My brain was tired after reading so much heavy stuff, and thought this book would fix the mood as it had a childhood friends to lover, marriage of convenience/fake relationship trope, which was also set in a small town (kind of my favorite trope). Truthfully It didn't really work as I expected.
- Great friendship? Yes!
- Was there any emotional connection or strong bond between them? Big NO!
- The pacing was extremely slow
- Deficient in their chemistry
- There wasn't a huge amount of angst
- Predictable and forgettable storyline
- Writing style was good
- The personalities of the two main characters were not interesting
- Got bored towards the end
Even then, I will say that I have no regrets after reading the book, whether it is good or bad. There is definitely a lot to be gained from any story.
- Great friendship? Yes!
- Was there any emotional connection or strong bond between them? Big NO!
- The pacing was extremely slow
- Deficient in their chemistry
- There wasn't a huge amount of angst
- Predictable and forgettable storyline
- Writing style was good
- The personalities of the two main characters were not interesting
- Got bored towards the end
Even then, I will say that I have no regrets after reading the book, whether it is good or bad. There is definitely a lot to be gained from any story.
February 15, 2021
*sigh* Like You Love Me, the first book in Adriana Locke's Honey Creek series, kicked off with a bang with Holden and Sophie's story. And what a story it is!!! I fell completely in love with both of these characters and all the characters in this small town!
Sophie agrees to childhood bestie Holden's idea to get "married" (for real, but temporarily) to help them both out. Sophie needs money to save the B&B she inherited from her Gran and Holden needs a wife to prove to a prospective employer that he's "stable". Perfect solution, right? Uhmmmmm, WRONG! When their attraction to one another boils over and they give in to the INTENSE chemistry between them, all bets are off...and the FEELS start! And OMG, the feels got me! I loved how Sophie was the first to realize how she felt and boy did I FEEL her emotions....every single one of them! Holden is one of my fave characters (that isn't a possessive Alpha-hole), he's just sooooooo sweet and kind....and did I mention, HAWT??!!
Ms. Locke has this knack of twisting my heart up but ALWAYS gives me the HEA my heart yearns for! Like You Love Me is no exception. It's the PERFECT book to curl up with and get lost in for a day or so! Small-town, fake-marriage romance at it's BEST! I can't wait to read the other stories I know are coming from Honey Creek!
Sophie agrees to childhood bestie Holden's idea to get "married" (for real, but temporarily) to help them both out. Sophie needs money to save the B&B she inherited from her Gran and Holden needs a wife to prove to a prospective employer that he's "stable". Perfect solution, right? Uhmmmmm, WRONG! When their attraction to one another boils over and they give in to the INTENSE chemistry between them, all bets are off...and the FEELS start! And OMG, the feels got me! I loved how Sophie was the first to realize how she felt and boy did I FEEL her emotions....every single one of them! Holden is one of my fave characters (that isn't a possessive Alpha-hole), he's just sooooooo sweet and kind....and did I mention, HAWT??!!
Ms. Locke has this knack of twisting my heart up but ALWAYS gives me the HEA my heart yearns for! Like You Love Me is no exception. It's the PERFECT book to curl up with and get lost in for a day or so! Small-town, fake-marriage romance at it's BEST! I can't wait to read the other stories I know are coming from Honey Creek!
January 28, 2021
Loved this new series by Adriana Locke. It’s a small town feel good book that is low drama. This book reminded me of the Doc Hollywood movie with Michael J Fox. Holden has big dreams and big plans but this small town and a girl he spent summers with as a kid makes him question all of that. Sometimes life isn’t about getting to what we think is our destination but instead it’s enjoying the journey and opening ourselves up to the possibility of a new destination. Sweet story with all the feels. I’m looking forward to Liv and Jobe’s stories now!
February 19, 2021
This was exactly what I needed right now, it was SO cute, fun and charming! I sped through this because I just couldn't put it down and I couldn't stop smiling!
This is a friends to lovers, PLUS marriage of convenience and I was 100% here for it. Sophie and Holden were so cute, their chemistry was strong from the very beginning and I literally just could not get enough. The banter, the charm, the FLUFF, I loved it all. I will definitely be keeping my eye out to see if there's going to be more books in the Honey Creek setting!
This is a friends to lovers, PLUS marriage of convenience and I was 100% here for it. Sophie and Holden were so cute, their chemistry was strong from the very beginning and I literally just could not get enough. The banter, the charm, the FLUFF, I loved it all. I will definitely be keeping my eye out to see if there's going to be more books in the Honey Creek setting!
February 17, 2021
Adriana Locke has done it again, creating a sweet and heart-warming small-town romance, but also speaking about difficult subjects that people face in everyday life. Sophie and Holden were two people who thought they’d never find happiness with someone else, for different reasons, but fate stepped in and proved them wrong.
Holden McKenzie has returned to Honey Creek, Tennessee for a couple of weeks to look after his Pop’s vet practice, a place he used to spend his summers as a teen. He has left behind a life in Arizona and is hopeful he will be getting his dream job in Florida working for a conservation project. Problem is, he needs to look settled, a family man, something he was close to having in Arizona but is now gone. Enter Sophie Bates, his childhood best friend and local B&B owner, who is need of some cash for her business. Sophie and Holden had chemistry growing up, but that’s only grown in the time they’ve been apart. Now they both need something from the other, would it be so crazy that the get married so they can both achieve their dream? Problem is, by the end, will their dreams be the same as when they started?
Sophie and Holden had danced around their spark when they were teens and continued once Holden arrived back in town. But it didn’t take long for them to come to their business arrangement, and then give into the tension that had been building for decades.
Sophie was so strongly independent, having been burned badly in the past, she wanted to prove it to herself and her family that she could make it on her own. She had so many sides to her, the sweet small-town girl, the sassy and feisty friend, but also the girl who just wants the ones she loves to be happy even at her own expense. She put pretty much everyone before herself, but still knew what she wanted in life, and was content with it. I wasn’t completely sold on her until the final chapter, because I’m not the biggest fan of heroines who are nothing without their man. But Sophie was not that in the slightest, while she knew she would hurt for a while, she also knew that she would be okay, and that’s what made me love her.
Holden was lost, he had been working towards this goal for so long, but his trip to Honey Creek made him question everything. He had been told since he was a child that he wasn’t good enough, and was constantly trying to find that approval, but realised as he fell for Sophie, that he didn’t need it. Honey Creek showed him how life could be, yes it wasn’t glitz and glam, and making huge changes in the world, but it would be making changes in their small one, and in return it could give him the happiness he had been looking for for so long. Sophie proved that while all his fears of a relationship and needing someone, were valid thanks to his past, that in the long term, it was worth overcoming them, he just had to work it out on his own.
Adriana’s writing was as good as always, she writes the perfect small-town romance like no other, and I happily revisit her Dogwood Lane series on a regular basis, which is why their cameo in Like You Love Me was so special. She has set up the rest of this series so well, with hints as to who the future couples will be, and I am so intrigued to read more about Sophie’s siblings Liv and Jobe. If you love small-town romance books which are sweet like honey, the first book in the Honey Creek series is for you!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
Holden McKenzie has returned to Honey Creek, Tennessee for a couple of weeks to look after his Pop’s vet practice, a place he used to spend his summers as a teen. He has left behind a life in Arizona and is hopeful he will be getting his dream job in Florida working for a conservation project. Problem is, he needs to look settled, a family man, something he was close to having in Arizona but is now gone. Enter Sophie Bates, his childhood best friend and local B&B owner, who is need of some cash for her business. Sophie and Holden had chemistry growing up, but that’s only grown in the time they’ve been apart. Now they both need something from the other, would it be so crazy that the get married so they can both achieve their dream? Problem is, by the end, will their dreams be the same as when they started?
Sophie and Holden had danced around their spark when they were teens and continued once Holden arrived back in town. But it didn’t take long for them to come to their business arrangement, and then give into the tension that had been building for decades.
Sophie was so strongly independent, having been burned badly in the past, she wanted to prove it to herself and her family that she could make it on her own. She had so many sides to her, the sweet small-town girl, the sassy and feisty friend, but also the girl who just wants the ones she loves to be happy even at her own expense. She put pretty much everyone before herself, but still knew what she wanted in life, and was content with it. I wasn’t completely sold on her until the final chapter, because I’m not the biggest fan of heroines who are nothing without their man. But Sophie was not that in the slightest, while she knew she would hurt for a while, she also knew that she would be okay, and that’s what made me love her.
Holden was lost, he had been working towards this goal for so long, but his trip to Honey Creek made him question everything. He had been told since he was a child that he wasn’t good enough, and was constantly trying to find that approval, but realised as he fell for Sophie, that he didn’t need it. Honey Creek showed him how life could be, yes it wasn’t glitz and glam, and making huge changes in the world, but it would be making changes in their small one, and in return it could give him the happiness he had been looking for for so long. Sophie proved that while all his fears of a relationship and needing someone, were valid thanks to his past, that in the long term, it was worth overcoming them, he just had to work it out on his own.
Adriana’s writing was as good as always, she writes the perfect small-town romance like no other, and I happily revisit her Dogwood Lane series on a regular basis, which is why their cameo in Like You Love Me was so special. She has set up the rest of this series so well, with hints as to who the future couples will be, and I am so intrigued to read more about Sophie’s siblings Liv and Jobe. If you love small-town romance books which are sweet like honey, the first book in the Honey Creek series is for you!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
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February 15, 2021
I officially want to move to Honey Creek! I instantly fell in love with this small town and the people in it.
Holden and Sophie grew up spending the summers together, they were best friends and they could have been so much more, however, life had other plans…until recently when Holden found himself back in the small town he once visited.
I loved the chemistry between Holden and Sophie. The banter between them had me laughing. I loved their friendship and just how easy and natural everything felt between them. When Holden proposes the marriage of convenience idea to Sophie, I loved that despite how it all started he showed her she is something special and how she deserves to be treated. Everything was based on their friendship and their respect.
Like You Love Me is truly the perfect escape!
If you’re looking for a small town, friends to lovers, marriage of convenience romance this is one to read! I can’t wait to return to Honey Creek!
Holden and Sophie grew up spending the summers together, they were best friends and they could have been so much more, however, life had other plans…until recently when Holden found himself back in the small town he once visited.
I loved the chemistry between Holden and Sophie. The banter between them had me laughing. I loved their friendship and just how easy and natural everything felt between them. When Holden proposes the marriage of convenience idea to Sophie, I loved that despite how it all started he showed her she is something special and how she deserves to be treated. Everything was based on their friendship and their respect.
Like You Love Me is truly the perfect escape!
If you’re looking for a small town, friends to lovers, marriage of convenience romance this is one to read! I can’t wait to return to Honey Creek!
February 17, 2021
This is exactly what I look for in a small town romance, specially adding in a marriage of convenience trope.
It was sweet, swoony, and the chemistry of the MCs was palpable.
The great dynamics of Sophie with her family made me excited for the next books.
I wished it had more interactions with the MCs since it seemed kind of insta-lovey and many of their chapters were spent with their own thoughts.
It was sweet, swoony, and the chemistry of the MCs was palpable.
The great dynamics of Sophie with her family made me excited for the next books.
I wished it had more interactions with the MCs since it seemed kind of insta-lovey and many of their chapters were spent with their own thoughts.
February 16, 2021
Damn, this book was good.
This has ALL of the childhood Friends to Lovers goodness that I want. The shared memories that come up throughout this book from Holden and Sophie's childhood are perfection. Some funny, some sweet, always endearing. The sudden awareness of how sexy the pother has become when "grown up". The friendship that lays the basis of the romance. It's all there in LIKE YOU LOVE ME.
And this book also hits you with all of the quirky, small town charm. I loved the interactions between city boy Holden and the residents of Honey Creek. And the tie that Sophie feels to the town, its residents, and the B and B she runs is such a sweet addition to the story.
The family relationships in this story are meaningful, even when complicated and I can't wait to read the love stories of the other members of Sophie's life. Her older brother and sister are supportive and loving while also being funny and in Sophie's face. I loved their quirky interactions and finished this book wanting to know so much more about them.
Holden and Sophie had mad chemistry and the steamy scenes in this book are hotter than hot. I am ALWAYS here for kitchen counter sex. But with the steamy scenes comes a romance filled with truth, sweetness, respect, and kindness that makes this book a 5 star read.
RATING: 5 STARS
STEAM LEVEL: Rated R
TRIGGERS: Divorce, financial hardship after divorce, death of parent
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced digital copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.
This has ALL of the childhood Friends to Lovers goodness that I want. The shared memories that come up throughout this book from Holden and Sophie's childhood are perfection. Some funny, some sweet, always endearing. The sudden awareness of how sexy the pother has become when "grown up". The friendship that lays the basis of the romance. It's all there in LIKE YOU LOVE ME.
And this book also hits you with all of the quirky, small town charm. I loved the interactions between city boy Holden and the residents of Honey Creek. And the tie that Sophie feels to the town, its residents, and the B and B she runs is such a sweet addition to the story.
The family relationships in this story are meaningful, even when complicated and I can't wait to read the love stories of the other members of Sophie's life. Her older brother and sister are supportive and loving while also being funny and in Sophie's face. I loved their quirky interactions and finished this book wanting to know so much more about them.
Holden and Sophie had mad chemistry and the steamy scenes in this book are hotter than hot. I am ALWAYS here for kitchen counter sex. But with the steamy scenes comes a romance filled with truth, sweetness, respect, and kindness that makes this book a 5 star read.
RATING: 5 STARS
STEAM LEVEL: Rated R
TRIGGERS: Divorce, financial hardship after divorce, death of parent
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced digital copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.
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February 19, 2021💁 I just did an Emma Watson "Oh, I need romance." 🙄
March 20, 2021
Like You Love Me is book one in the brand-new Honey Creek series from Adriana Locke. This book gave me so many swoon worthy moments, it was exactly what I needed. Something lighthearted that would make my hopeless romantic heart flutter.
Holden McKenzie was the gentle hero that I love so much! He was absolutely smitten with Sophie from the moment he saw her again. It might have been years since he had seen her but now as an adult all those childhood confusing feelings are starting to make a lot more sense. In town to help his grandpa at his vet clinic Holden is just biding time until he can hopefully get the job of his dreams. Only problem he is supposed to be this happily engaged family man and he is none of things. Sophie needs a miracle if she is going to be able to save her bed and breakfast, so Holden proposes a marriage of convenience. He will pay to help save her home and business if she will be his wife to help him get the job, he has worked his whole life for. What could possibly go wrong??
Two people who want nothing to do with love or marriage seem to make this marriage of convenience look like a piece of cake and before they know it, they have fallen into a routine that is so simple and real. When things start to go sideways both Sophie and Holden try to keep their hearts at bay but sometimes fate has other ideas in mind. What are two people who seem to want vastly different things in life supposed to do when it is time to say goodbye??
Honestly, this story was just all kinds of sweet and adorable. Very little angst and hardly any drama, just sweet small-town perfection. Excited to see who book two is going to be about. It could go either way with Olivia or Jobe and I will 100% be here for it.
3.5 stars rounded up because it was sweet as hell!!
Holden McKenzie was the gentle hero that I love so much! He was absolutely smitten with Sophie from the moment he saw her again. It might have been years since he had seen her but now as an adult all those childhood confusing feelings are starting to make a lot more sense. In town to help his grandpa at his vet clinic Holden is just biding time until he can hopefully get the job of his dreams. Only problem he is supposed to be this happily engaged family man and he is none of things. Sophie needs a miracle if she is going to be able to save her bed and breakfast, so Holden proposes a marriage of convenience. He will pay to help save her home and business if she will be his wife to help him get the job, he has worked his whole life for. What could possibly go wrong??
Two people who want nothing to do with love or marriage seem to make this marriage of convenience look like a piece of cake and before they know it, they have fallen into a routine that is so simple and real. When things start to go sideways both Sophie and Holden try to keep their hearts at bay but sometimes fate has other ideas in mind. What are two people who seem to want vastly different things in life supposed to do when it is time to say goodbye??
Honestly, this story was just all kinds of sweet and adorable. Very little angst and hardly any drama, just sweet small-town perfection. Excited to see who book two is going to be about. It could go either way with Olivia or Jobe and I will 100% be here for it.
3.5 stars rounded up because it was sweet as hell!!
February 15, 2021
I love me a sweet, small town romance. This story gave me Doc Hollywood vibes...a movie from long ago (80's maybe 90's lol) when Michael J Fox stumbles into a small town and becomes the vet to help fix his car...so cute. Wholesome, pure romance. Friends as kids, loved each other through it all without even knowing it. Adriana Locke captures the small town feel, friends to lovers trope perfectly and with a connection to both the heroine and hero that keeps you cheering them on from the sidelines. Cute, easy read. xo
August 25, 2020
I loved this sweet romance! Oh, how I love small towns. I always wanted to up and move to a place where everyone knows everyone. It seems so amazing.
That is exactly what happens here. Holden moves to help his grandfather at his Vet practice while he is between jobs Holden has been coming to visit here since he was a kid. He and Sophie has been friends since then. Always a spark between them is now going to be a blessing and a curse when a fake marriage surprises everyone. I loved their chemistry and their relationship!
Another great read from Adriana Locke!
That is exactly what happens here. Holden moves to help his grandfather at his Vet practice while he is between jobs Holden has been coming to visit here since he was a kid. He and Sophie has been friends since then. Always a spark between them is now going to be a blessing and a curse when a fake marriage surprises everyone. I loved their chemistry and their relationship!
Another great read from Adriana Locke!
March 14, 2021
"I always thought I wanted all these different things in life. But there's only one thing I've ever really wanted. I've just wanted someone to look at me like you look at me."
"How is that?"
"Like you love me."
This was a really cute book and I can't wait for the next one.
4 stars
"How is that?"
"Like you love me."
This was a really cute book and I can't wait for the next one.
4 stars
May 19, 2021
This was such an entertaining, charming, heartwarming and easy read. I liked the writing style and the banter and I'm already looking forward to Liv's story, hopefully next in the series...
February 28, 2021
3.5 stars
This was a sweet small town romance-add in friends to lovers AND marriage of convenience = SOLD!
Sophie and Holden are childhood friends. She stayed in the town they grew up in and he has returned home to help out family. She needs money to help keep her B&B open and he needs a wife to help impress a possible new boss who is a big family fan.
Getting married -to each other- just works. It will help them both out and they won't catch feelings, right?! Right?!!
Such a charming read. Looking forward to more in the series.
This was a sweet small town romance-add in friends to lovers AND marriage of convenience = SOLD!
Sophie and Holden are childhood friends. She stayed in the town they grew up in and he has returned home to help out family. She needs money to help keep her B&B open and he needs a wife to help impress a possible new boss who is a big family fan.
Getting married -to each other- just works. It will help them both out and they won't catch feelings, right?! Right?!!
Such a charming read. Looking forward to more in the series.
May 12, 2021
THREE POINT FIVE STARS
As children, Sophie & Holden became friends over the summers when Holden would come to visit his grandfather. Now, as adults, they haven't seen each other for 10 years when Holden returns to help his grandfather with his vet clinic.
Holden was in between jobs when his grandfather asked for his help. At Holden's last job the owner's wife had the hots for him and when the owner found out he fired him. So, while he is waiting to hear about his dream job he applied for he agreed to help his grandfather out short termed.
Sophie's grandmother left her bed and breakfast. Sophie's love for the place shines through the pages.
Sophie and Holden first got married when they were children with a candy-pop ring. Now, in a roundabout way, their grandparents brought them together.
Knowing that Holden will be moving on to a new place if he gets his dream job these two are cautious about getting in a relationship with each other.
LIKE YOU LOVE ME
♦ Holden is a veterinarian
♦ Sophie is an owner of a bed and breakfast
♦ friends to lovers
♦ marriage of convenience
♦ dual pov’s
♦ small-town romance (Honey Creek, Tennessee)
♦ standalone
As children, Sophie & Holden became friends over the summers when Holden would come to visit his grandfather. Now, as adults, they haven't seen each other for 10 years when Holden returns to help his grandfather with his vet clinic.
Holden was in between jobs when his grandfather asked for his help. At Holden's last job the owner's wife had the hots for him and when the owner found out he fired him. So, while he is waiting to hear about his dream job he applied for he agreed to help his grandfather out short termed.
Sophie's grandmother left her bed and breakfast. Sophie's love for the place shines through the pages.
Sophie and Holden first got married when they were children with a candy-pop ring. Now, in a roundabout way, their grandparents brought them together.
Knowing that Holden will be moving on to a new place if he gets his dream job these two are cautious about getting in a relationship with each other.
LIKE YOU LOVE ME
♦ Holden is a veterinarian
♦ Sophie is an owner of a bed and breakfast
♦ friends to lovers
♦ marriage of convenience
♦ dual pov’s
♦ small-town romance (Honey Creek, Tennessee)
♦ standalone
Audiobook source: Audible
Narrator: Ryan West & Lidia Dornet
Length: 9H 26M
February 6, 2021
This was just super enjoyable and I can't believe I read it so fast, guess that's what happens when a story sucks you in. It's small town, friends to lovers, marriage of convenience. And even though they've known each other for years, the love story moves fast. Like it did not take Holden and Sophie any time at all to fall hard. But I think maybe they were always drawn to one another and it was fate. This was sweet and made me smile, with just the right amount of humor and emotion. I loved these two.
April 13, 2021
3.5 Stars 🌟
February 28, 2021
“That’s marriage for you. Taking two people and their hopes and wishes and passion and creating on life out of all of it.”
Sweet, swoony and a little saucy. If you’re looking to escape into low angst, friends to lovers marriage of convenience romance with a small-town setting, then Like You Love Me, the first book in the Honey Creek series by Adriana Locke might be just the ticket to make your heart flutter.
“Second chances are the most romantic of them all.”
The last time Holden McKenzie visited Honey Creek was the year he graduated high school – and the last time he saw his friend and crush, Sophie. But the sexy vet is back in town to run his Pap’s veterinary surgery whilst he’s vacationing in Florida, but he didn’t count on the gorgeous Sophie Bates knocking the wind out of his sails. Holden stole our hearts!
“I wouldn’t have turned you down when I was seventeen.”
“I wouldn’t have turned you down either,” he says.
This is a temporary step for Holden who has his sights set on his dream job in Orlando. The break comes just in time as Holden leaves behind a life turned upside down in Arizona. A change of scenery for a few weeks is just what he needs, and the scenery doesn’t get much better than Sophie Bates! Sophie lives and breathes Honey Creek. Running her late Grandmothers B&B is her passion – it’s something close to her heart and she needs money to keep it afloat. Holden needs a wife to convince his prospective employer that he’s stable – maybe a marriage of convenience could benefit them both? But can they convince the gossiping Honey Creek residents it’s the real deal? And can they keep their chemistry and hearts out of the equation? We loved their journey from friends to lovers as they both had to dig deep inside themselves to realise what’s important.
“You aren’t supposed to mix business and pleasure.”
“I bet that man would be a whole lot of pleasure.”
Set in Honey Creek, Tennessee we meet an array of quirky characters, including Holden’s sweet Pap with his corny jokes. We were caught up in the small-town gossip and tall tales and look forward to Sophie’s supportive sister Liv’s story and her protective womanising brother, Jobe’s story. We do love small-town romance and the townsfolk of Honey Creek have stolen our hearts! This romance is a sweet and lovely read which we highly recommend.
‘I was finally right where I wanted to be – on the precipice of acquiring everything I ever wanted.
So why does it feel like I’m about to lose something in the process? And why does that hurt so damn much?’
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February 18, 2021
📚 Hello Book Friends! LIKE YOU LOVE ME by Adriana Locke was a sweet and romantic story. Perfect for a Valentine’s feel-good read. I love the chemistry between Sophie and Holden. I love that they were friends since childhood. The story is filled with heat and tension. It is a beautiful love story with a terrific ending.
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February 6, 2021
Ah so much heart, check out my full review as always on my BLOG -> CLICK HERE
did-not-finish
February 13, 2023DNF at 23%. Maybe it’s a great book. But it’s too similar to other books with things that annoy me like:
1. We both like each other but we’re going to fight it for way too long
And
2. My potential new boss thinks that single people are trash so I’m going to get married so I can get that job I always wanted just to be able to work with some *sshole who doesn’t value single people.
1. We both like each other but we’re going to fight it for way too long
And
2. My potential new boss thinks that single people are trash so I’m going to get married so I can get that job I always wanted just to be able to work with some *sshole who doesn’t value single people.
February 11, 2021
Like You Love Me
Honey Creek Series #1
Adriana Locke
https://www.facebook.com/authoradrian...
Release Date 02/16/2021
Publisher Montlake
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Two childhood friends are playing house—and maybe playing for keeps—in USA Today bestselling author Adriana Locke’s funny, sexy, and unpredictable marriage-of-convenience romance.
To save her Tennessee bed-and-breakfast, Sophie Bates needs a fast-cash miracle. Holden McKenzie, her childhood best friend, needs to prove to a prospective employer that he’s a committed man. Their fortunes on the line, Holden proposes…a solution.
He’ll take care of Sophie’s bills if she agrees to a temporary marriage of convenience. And why not? They’re comfortable together, they have fun, and they trust each other. It’s as simple as saying “I do.” But the off-the-cuff wedding has all of Honey Creek talking—and Sophie and Holden realizing that their perfect arrangement is working too well. If they’re not careful, this marriage could turn into a love story.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they let their past scars come between them ...
I know the author is well renowned in Romanceland, yet as I am mostly a historical romance reader, this explains that.
So when I saw this book, it was the perfect opportunity to correct what I was missing.
I did not know what to expect outside the blurb,
And as a HR lover, a marriage of convenience is a trope I love.
And while the romance part is quite cute, what I very much loved was the dynamic between the siblings, they are fun and love each other without limitations.
Holden and Sophie quickly rekindle their childhood easy friendship, to leave their initial chemistry free rein. But as they believe it with an already settled end date, how can they ask for more when they made a deal with a goal for each one.
Sophie like many needed to leave only to realize that her roots were what made her herself. She now knows from where she comes from and what she wants, if only she was not restrained by material needs.
Holden never reached any of his father’s demands, and now in between two jobs, he is a bit lost, not really knowing what he wants for him or to please his father. What truly are his own dreams...
Their romance is fast paced as in a matter of hours they go from childhood friends to betrothed and married, all for each one’s gain. Well it looks like this on the paper. Until quickly the edges get blurred when they let free reign to their initial attraction.
Yet will chemistry and a deep friendship asking for more be enough when whispers from success call ...
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen mild lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Montlake, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Honey Creek Series #1
Adriana Locke
https://www.facebook.com/authoradrian...
Release Date 02/16/2021
Publisher Montlake
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Two childhood friends are playing house—and maybe playing for keeps—in USA Today bestselling author Adriana Locke’s funny, sexy, and unpredictable marriage-of-convenience romance.
To save her Tennessee bed-and-breakfast, Sophie Bates needs a fast-cash miracle. Holden McKenzie, her childhood best friend, needs to prove to a prospective employer that he’s a committed man. Their fortunes on the line, Holden proposes…a solution.
He’ll take care of Sophie’s bills if she agrees to a temporary marriage of convenience. And why not? They’re comfortable together, they have fun, and they trust each other. It’s as simple as saying “I do.” But the off-the-cuff wedding has all of Honey Creek talking—and Sophie and Holden realizing that their perfect arrangement is working too well. If they’re not careful, this marriage could turn into a love story.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they let their past scars come between them ...
I know the author is well renowned in Romanceland, yet as I am mostly a historical romance reader, this explains that.
So when I saw this book, it was the perfect opportunity to correct what I was missing.
I did not know what to expect outside the blurb,
And as a HR lover, a marriage of convenience is a trope I love.
And while the romance part is quite cute, what I very much loved was the dynamic between the siblings, they are fun and love each other without limitations.
Holden and Sophie quickly rekindle their childhood easy friendship, to leave their initial chemistry free rein. But as they believe it with an already settled end date, how can they ask for more when they made a deal with a goal for each one.
Sophie like many needed to leave only to realize that her roots were what made her herself. She now knows from where she comes from and what she wants, if only she was not restrained by material needs.
Holden never reached any of his father’s demands, and now in between two jobs, he is a bit lost, not really knowing what he wants for him or to please his father. What truly are his own dreams...
Their romance is fast paced as in a matter of hours they go from childhood friends to betrothed and married, all for each one’s gain. Well it looks like this on the paper. Until quickly the edges get blurred when they let free reign to their initial attraction.
Yet will chemistry and a deep friendship asking for more be enough when whispers from success call ...
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen mild lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Montlake, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
February 8, 2021
Quietly adorable, laidback, and a sweet, feel good read, this was just what I needed. It's more understated than a lot of this author's work, leaning into its charming, heartfelt feel, but the story is exactly the kind that I like in a small town romance. These two are childhood friends who lost track of each other until recently, and their very adult selves might just fit perfectly - whether that works for their current plans or not. They're both genuinely good people who openly care for each other, and the angst is kept at a minimum. It's got a touch of sexiness and only a little steam, instead focusing on the emotional connection and the small town lifestyle. I enjoyed it the whole way through, and while this wasn't a standout read for me, it was a sweet dose of low angst goodness.
The story follows Sophie and Holden, two people who flirted with making the shift from friends to lovers during their youth, but never seized the opportunity. When Holden returns to town following the end of his engagement and the loss of his job, he's feeling adrift. And Sophie has her own issues - her bed and breakfast is undergoing renovations, and the debt her ex left her with is coming due. A marriage of convenience seems like the solution to both of their problems, but neither one expects it to come with its own complications. Sophie and Holden's marriage might be temporary, but the feelings they're developing are starting to feel very permanent.
This is definitely a different vibe from the author, and I enjoyed the laidback feel. I've read several of her small town romances in the past, and this is probably the sweetest, easiest one. It's low angst and high feels, bringing the sweetness and the quiet, slow burn. There's actually very little in terms of heat, though there's one SEXY scene and obvious chemistry throughout. I loved how these two transitioned from friends to lovers, and I loved that there was no major angst. It felt natural and authentic, which is a definite plus. We're also introduced to Sophie's siblings, and I'm intrigued by their stories. The small town feel was really working for me, so we'll see where this series goes next. I received an early copy via NetGalley, and am voluntarily leaving a review of this marriage of convenience romance.
The story follows Sophie and Holden, two people who flirted with making the shift from friends to lovers during their youth, but never seized the opportunity. When Holden returns to town following the end of his engagement and the loss of his job, he's feeling adrift. And Sophie has her own issues - her bed and breakfast is undergoing renovations, and the debt her ex left her with is coming due. A marriage of convenience seems like the solution to both of their problems, but neither one expects it to come with its own complications. Sophie and Holden's marriage might be temporary, but the feelings they're developing are starting to feel very permanent.
This is definitely a different vibe from the author, and I enjoyed the laidback feel. I've read several of her small town romances in the past, and this is probably the sweetest, easiest one. It's low angst and high feels, bringing the sweetness and the quiet, slow burn. There's actually very little in terms of heat, though there's one SEXY scene and obvious chemistry throughout. I loved how these two transitioned from friends to lovers, and I loved that there was no major angst. It felt natural and authentic, which is a definite plus. We're also introduced to Sophie's siblings, and I'm intrigued by their stories. The small town feel was really working for me, so we'll see where this series goes next. I received an early copy via NetGalley, and am voluntarily leaving a review of this marriage of convenience romance.
February 15, 2021
Like You Love Me by Adriana Locke is the first book in the brand-new Honey Creek series.
Holden and Sophie are childhood friends. They were friends that never crossed that line into more. Now years later, Holden is back, and he needs help. Coming up with what he thought was an amazing plan, he has NO IDEA how much his life is about to change.
There are NO words to adequately describe how good this book is. It is adorable, easygoing, and a sweet story that brings a lot of feels. There was a special charm to this story. The small town aspect of it just adds to the sweetness of this story.
Holden and Sophie’s is a couple that will have you rooting for them. These two are childhood friends who lost track of each other, recently connect. They're both genuinely good people who openly care for each other. This is a low angst read. It's got a touch of sexiness and only a little steam, instead focusing on the emotional connection and the small town lifestyle.
I can already tell that this series is going to be gold! This is a magical small-town romances that I would highly recommend. This story has a much more carefree feel to it. There is a quiet quality to this story, the burn sneaks up on you and just adds to the beauty of the story. There is chemistry without a ton of spice. I loved how these two transitioned from friends to lovers. It felt authentic, that just adds to the beauty of the story.
Holden and Sophie are childhood friends. They were friends that never crossed that line into more. Now years later, Holden is back, and he needs help. Coming up with what he thought was an amazing plan, he has NO IDEA how much his life is about to change.
There are NO words to adequately describe how good this book is. It is adorable, easygoing, and a sweet story that brings a lot of feels. There was a special charm to this story. The small town aspect of it just adds to the sweetness of this story.
Holden and Sophie’s is a couple that will have you rooting for them. These two are childhood friends who lost track of each other, recently connect. They're both genuinely good people who openly care for each other. This is a low angst read. It's got a touch of sexiness and only a little steam, instead focusing on the emotional connection and the small town lifestyle.
I can already tell that this series is going to be gold! This is a magical small-town romances that I would highly recommend. This story has a much more carefree feel to it. There is a quiet quality to this story, the burn sneaks up on you and just adds to the beauty of the story. There is chemistry without a ton of spice. I loved how these two transitioned from friends to lovers. It felt authentic, that just adds to the beauty of the story.
March 19, 2021
Like You Love Me is the first book in the all-new Honey Creek Series by Adriana Locke. Adriana Locke is normally a one click author for me. I have come to depend on her unique take on small-town romance novels. Her heroes are usually swoon worthy nice guys, while her heroines are kind and strong.
The blurb summarizes the plot perfectly. Holden McKenzie is back in Honey Creek for a change and because his grandfather asked him for help running his veterinarian clinic while he is away. Being that Honey Creek is a small town, you get the typical, funny, and classic secondary characters. I will say, I did find Dottie at Frank’s office a bit annoying. Her scenes were meant to be endearing, but I found myself growing tired of the meddling old woman with her nose in Holden’s business. The heroine’s sister was sweet and helpful.
As with most marriage of convenience stories, there’s usually a reason for the fake marriage. Holden is in the running for his dream job however the CEO thinks he’s currently engaged and will only hire a “family man”.
Sophie runs her grandmother’s bed and breakfast in Honey Creek. She’s struggling to pay her bills. She and Holden have known each other for years. When he comes back to town, she feels comfortable seeing an old friend. What she doesn’t expect, is for him to propose marriage. She gets her bills paid while he gets the fake fiancé.
What I didn’t expect was the lack of emotions during the decision-making process. It came about it a very simple and anticlimactic way.
Overall, the book was lackluster but not bad. I do love most of Adriana Locke’s books, therefore I would always read more of her books.
With Like You Love Me I didn’t see the chemistry between Sophie and Holden. There were no fireworks, passion, or spark. I didn’t get a sense that they were falling for each other even though they said they were. It was an actual marriage of convenience. I do respect the fact that the characters in this novel did portray themselves like mature adults and worked through their issues.
I received an ARC and I am providing my honest opinion.
The blurb summarizes the plot perfectly. Holden McKenzie is back in Honey Creek for a change and because his grandfather asked him for help running his veterinarian clinic while he is away. Being that Honey Creek is a small town, you get the typical, funny, and classic secondary characters. I will say, I did find Dottie at Frank’s office a bit annoying. Her scenes were meant to be endearing, but I found myself growing tired of the meddling old woman with her nose in Holden’s business. The heroine’s sister was sweet and helpful.
As with most marriage of convenience stories, there’s usually a reason for the fake marriage. Holden is in the running for his dream job however the CEO thinks he’s currently engaged and will only hire a “family man”.
Sophie runs her grandmother’s bed and breakfast in Honey Creek. She’s struggling to pay her bills. She and Holden have known each other for years. When he comes back to town, she feels comfortable seeing an old friend. What she doesn’t expect, is for him to propose marriage. She gets her bills paid while he gets the fake fiancé.
What I didn’t expect was the lack of emotions during the decision-making process. It came about it a very simple and anticlimactic way.
Overall, the book was lackluster but not bad. I do love most of Adriana Locke’s books, therefore I would always read more of her books.
With Like You Love Me I didn’t see the chemistry between Sophie and Holden. There were no fireworks, passion, or spark. I didn’t get a sense that they were falling for each other even though they said they were. It was an actual marriage of convenience. I do respect the fact that the characters in this novel did portray themselves like mature adults and worked through their issues.
I received an ARC and I am providing my honest opinion.
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