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#CassiNova
Samantha Cassidy, award-winning actress, up-and-coming Hollywood “It Girl”, is missing three things in her life: an Oscar, a special someone to share her life with, and a baby goat in pajamas.
Alex Novato married her college sweetheart, but tragedy struck and the love of her life was ripped from her arms. Now she refuses to open her heart again, choosing casual sex over deeper commitments, until a not-so-chance meeting with her favorite Hollywood starlet turns her world upside down.
Will Alex give love another try? Will Sam find the courage to follow her heart, Hollywood be damned? Will anyone get a baby goat in pajamas?
#CassiNova is a sweet, funny, fun romp through the Hollywood Hills.
Genre: Romance
Editor: Alissa McGowan
Cover Designer: Kayla Mancuso
Alex Novato married her college sweetheart, but tragedy struck and the love of her life was ripped from her arms. Now she refuses to open her heart again, choosing casual sex over deeper commitments, until a not-so-chance meeting with her favorite Hollywood starlet turns her world upside down.
Will Alex give love another try? Will Sam find the courage to follow her heart, Hollywood be damned? Will anyone get a baby goat in pajamas?
#CassiNova is a sweet, funny, fun romp through the Hollywood Hills.
Genre: Romance
Editor: Alissa McGowan
Cover Designer: Kayla Mancuso
296 pages, Paperback
First published November 12, 2020
26 people are currently reading
307 people want to read
About the author
Lori G. Matthews
8 books44 followersLori G. Matthews lives outside of Philadelphia with her wife and three cats. Her first brush with literary fame came at the age of thirteen when her composition, an amusing tale told from the perspective of a soccer ball, was the only one read aloud by her teacher. To this day, she still loves to write lighthearted comedies because laughter truly is the best medicine. When she’s not writing, Lori plays ice hockey, hikes, bikes, and bird-watches. But her favorite place to be is on the golf course, where she’s proudly earned the nickname Long and Wrong.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
November 26, 2020
3.75 Stars. I ended up enjoying this more than I expected. If you follow my reviews you will know I’m not the biggest rom-com fan. My funny bone seems to be broken when it comes to book humor and I struggle more times than not. However, I do love reading debut authors and Bella has a track record of publishing some really good debut authors these last few years, so I wanted to read this. I’m glad I did since this was an entertaining read. There were some bumps for sure, but for the most part they didn’t affect my enjoyment too much.
The author mentioned that this story was originally based on fanfiction. I honestly have no idea what this could have started out as. This is a celebrity romance with one of the main characters as an actress on a show that resembles The 100, so maybe this started as uber Clexa, I’m just not sure. I thought it was cute that one of the characters actually writes fanfiction so I think fanfiction fans will get a kick out of this book.
I do have to say I didn’t like the book at first. Taking place in WeHo, with beautiful people, it seemed like really fake, stereotypical California. One character is a player sleeping with anything that moves, and for almost every character attraction is 100% based on looks with perfect bodies flying around. It was hard to see through all the plastic. Luckily, this really calmed down and got so much better as the book went on. I mean yes, the two mains are still the most perfect physical specimens on the planet, but at least they became more human with flaws, feelings, and actual personalities.
When it came to the romance I really enjoyed it, especially once the characters became more real. I don’t think I would call this slow-burn, but it was a really nice even pace. The “actress” wants to win the heart of the “player” so she is trying to woo her. So this means a ton of flirting and making out before the characters even go further. And slowing it down this way brought out a ton of good chemistry. I was impressed, these two women set off fireworks together. I completely bought into them as a potential couple and I was rooting hard they would make it.
I do have to say that I was not big on the storyline of an actress in the closet worried about her career. I feel like this has been done to death and it doesn’t have the same impact it would have had even five years ago. On the good side, it led to some really funny comedic moments. A group of friends had to keep the potential couple apart, at a bar, when drinking and dancing were involved. Let’s just say it was really funny and like one long comedy sketch. There is a lot of humor in this book. Unfortunately, not everything hits and at times I thought it was too much, that the author was trying too hard. However, I laughed out loud more times while reading this book, then I have since I read Ambereye over four years ago. I mean even sometimes something was a little stupid funny and I didn’t even want to laugh, but it still popped out of me anyway. When the humor landed this book was very funny indeed.
Overall, I would easily recommend this to rom-com fans. The romance has great chemistry and the humor is funny, exactly what you want in a rom-com. I would especially recommend this to Hollywood/celebrity romance fans and fanfiction fans. I did think that the book started off a little rough, and there were a few characters that were over the top, but this really was a fun read. There is some angst but it’s pretty low, all things considered this is mostly a feel-good and laugh out loud romance. I would absolutely read Lori G. Matthews again.
A copy was given to me for an honest review.
I want to say Happy Thanksgiving to all my friends who are celebrating. May your turkey be perfectly cooked, your mashed potatoes well-seasoned, and your pecan pie have extra whipped cream:)
The author mentioned that this story was originally based on fanfiction. I honestly have no idea what this could have started out as. This is a celebrity romance with one of the main characters as an actress on a show that resembles The 100, so maybe this started as uber Clexa, I’m just not sure. I thought it was cute that one of the characters actually writes fanfiction so I think fanfiction fans will get a kick out of this book.
I do have to say I didn’t like the book at first. Taking place in WeHo, with beautiful people, it seemed like really fake, stereotypical California. One character is a player sleeping with anything that moves, and for almost every character attraction is 100% based on looks with perfect bodies flying around. It was hard to see through all the plastic. Luckily, this really calmed down and got so much better as the book went on. I mean yes, the two mains are still the most perfect physical specimens on the planet, but at least they became more human with flaws, feelings, and actual personalities.
When it came to the romance I really enjoyed it, especially once the characters became more real. I don’t think I would call this slow-burn, but it was a really nice even pace. The “actress” wants to win the heart of the “player” so she is trying to woo her. So this means a ton of flirting and making out before the characters even go further. And slowing it down this way brought out a ton of good chemistry. I was impressed, these two women set off fireworks together. I completely bought into them as a potential couple and I was rooting hard they would make it.
I do have to say that I was not big on the storyline of an actress in the closet worried about her career. I feel like this has been done to death and it doesn’t have the same impact it would have had even five years ago. On the good side, it led to some really funny comedic moments. A group of friends had to keep the potential couple apart, at a bar, when drinking and dancing were involved. Let’s just say it was really funny and like one long comedy sketch. There is a lot of humor in this book. Unfortunately, not everything hits and at times I thought it was too much, that the author was trying too hard. However, I laughed out loud more times while reading this book, then I have since I read Ambereye over four years ago. I mean even sometimes something was a little stupid funny and I didn’t even want to laugh, but it still popped out of me anyway. When the humor landed this book was very funny indeed.
Overall, I would easily recommend this to rom-com fans. The romance has great chemistry and the humor is funny, exactly what you want in a rom-com. I would especially recommend this to Hollywood/celebrity romance fans and fanfiction fans. I did think that the book started off a little rough, and there were a few characters that were over the top, but this really was a fun read. There is some angst but it’s pretty low, all things considered this is mostly a feel-good and laugh out loud romance. I would absolutely read Lori G. Matthews again.
A copy was given to me for an honest review.
I want to say Happy Thanksgiving to all my friends who are celebrating. May your turkey be perfectly cooked, your mashed potatoes well-seasoned, and your pecan pie have extra whipped cream:)
November 21, 2020
A bit too silly for my liking even for a romantic comedy. I really do like some humor and witty dialogue in romances but this was over the top -- a kind of screwball/slapstick combination. In general, the book gives the impression of exaggeration in everything and that made reading it quite an exhausting experience for me. The said exaggeration includes too much f-bombs and s-bombs. The book lacks depth in some essential things and although the author's writing is technically not bad, her plot and character choices are just not my cup of tea.
So, the quality of writing -- three stars, degree of enjoyment -– two stars, in total -- two and a half stars rounded up considering it is the author's first published novel.
Regardless of all this, read it and see for yourself. Maybe you will not be bothered by all this as much as I was.
2.5 stars
November 21, 2020
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
So, the quality of writing -- three stars, degree of enjoyment -– two stars, in total -- two and a half stars rounded up considering it is the author's first published novel.
Regardless of all this, read it and see for yourself. Maybe you will not be bothered by all this as much as I was.
2.5 stars
November 21, 2020
*A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher.*
November 10, 2020
3.75 stars. I haven’t laughed reading a book as much as I did this one in a long time. Personally, sarcasm is my only form of humour - so the sarcasm from most of the characters in this was right in my wheelhouse.
Reading the notes from the author at the beginning of the book I was aware that this started as a work of fan fiction - however I’m clearly behind in my popular culture as I couldn’t work out what this aligned with. Either it’s moved on so much the original inspiration really didn’t matter - or someone else will spot something that has completely passed me by.
Sam is an actress in a popular sci-fi TV show (I think I get the inspiration here) that inspires much fan fiction, but she’s in the closet - it’s been a long time since she dated anyone except the guy she uses to hide her orientation and really wants a girlfriend. Her manager Jade advises her against it due to the usual you won’t be successful in your career if you’re out thoughts.
Alex is a landscaper by day but an inspiring writer. Her sister encourages her to write fan fiction about Sam’s show. Sam and Jade spot her work and decide to hunt Alex down leading to Sam hiring Alex as a contractor.
It’s clear Alex and Sam have feelings for each other, but they decide to take it slow and tease and flirt with each other constantly. The humour in Alex and Sam falling for each other and their conversations with their friends is the thing that made this book really good in my opinion. Clearly some of the friends exist in the narrative purely for humour opportunities but nonetheless it works. Despite it being the expected I still really enjoyed the ending and I love these two main characters together. I’d also really like to see a prequel book relating to Alex’s sister and her wife.
Whilst it’s not the most original storyline I’d happily recommend this to anyone who loves wlw fiction - and hopefully people will enjoy the humour too.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Reading the notes from the author at the beginning of the book I was aware that this started as a work of fan fiction - however I’m clearly behind in my popular culture as I couldn’t work out what this aligned with. Either it’s moved on so much the original inspiration really didn’t matter - or someone else will spot something that has completely passed me by.
Sam is an actress in a popular sci-fi TV show (I think I get the inspiration here) that inspires much fan fiction, but she’s in the closet - it’s been a long time since she dated anyone except the guy she uses to hide her orientation and really wants a girlfriend. Her manager Jade advises her against it due to the usual you won’t be successful in your career if you’re out thoughts.
Alex is a landscaper by day but an inspiring writer. Her sister encourages her to write fan fiction about Sam’s show. Sam and Jade spot her work and decide to hunt Alex down leading to Sam hiring Alex as a contractor.
It’s clear Alex and Sam have feelings for each other, but they decide to take it slow and tease and flirt with each other constantly. The humour in Alex and Sam falling for each other and their conversations with their friends is the thing that made this book really good in my opinion. Clearly some of the friends exist in the narrative purely for humour opportunities but nonetheless it works. Despite it being the expected I still really enjoyed the ending and I love these two main characters together. I’d also really like to see a prequel book relating to Alex’s sister and her wife.
Whilst it’s not the most original storyline I’d happily recommend this to anyone who loves wlw fiction - and hopefully people will enjoy the humour too.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2020
#CassiNova is a lighthearted romantic comedy by debut author Lori G. Matthews. It is a story that is based on the Clexa fandom so those of you who are knowledgeable of this genre will recognize it in the tale.
The story is technically well written with a good premise. I did have some problems though. I never connected with the characters. They just seemed to lack depth. They were surface characters with little growth to them. The plot was kind of predictable and also needed a bit more depth. While I do enjoy comedy in stories, there was sometimes a bit too much slapstick comedy here. That may be just a personal preference though. Some of you may really enjoy this type of comedy.
While this novel is kind of a mixed bag for me, I do see lots of potential for this author, and I will be looking for more from her in the future.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
The story is technically well written with a good premise. I did have some problems though. I never connected with the characters. They just seemed to lack depth. They were surface characters with little growth to them. The plot was kind of predictable and also needed a bit more depth. While I do enjoy comedy in stories, there was sometimes a bit too much slapstick comedy here. That may be just a personal preference though. Some of you may really enjoy this type of comedy.
While this novel is kind of a mixed bag for me, I do see lots of potential for this author, and I will be looking for more from her in the future.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bella Books for an honest review.
did-not-finish
October 3, 2021Another DNF. My own fault - I should learn by now not to read Hollywood stories and especially stories of closeted peeps - they ultimately just rankle my jimmies...not in the good way.
The biggest issue I had was all the characters seemed to have the same voice and are always 'on' cracking wise and acting outrageous for reacts - so you're literally waiting for a laugh track to roll out the canned laughter. It couldn't have been more obvious if there was a neon sign blinking and saying "laugh here".
Every person is around 30 - yet they act like immature teenagers being all "What up Bitches!?" to each other and using the word Fuck A LOT. I felt too old for them at 34.
Also, what professional actors manager goes around reading every fanfic of their show, and just chilling at the actors house all day? It's cringey to say the least. The whole thing read of a fanfiction of what someone hopes their fave stars do, but hasn't really got any idea of what that professional world is like.
I get it, it's supposed to be light hearted funzies - but there has to be a balance. Sorry to poop on the party.
The biggest issue I had was all the characters seemed to have the same voice and are always 'on' cracking wise and acting outrageous for reacts - so you're literally waiting for a laugh track to roll out the canned laughter. It couldn't have been more obvious if there was a neon sign blinking and saying "laugh here".
Every person is around 30 - yet they act like immature teenagers being all "What up Bitches!?" to each other and using the word Fuck A LOT. I felt too old for them at 34.
Also, what professional actors manager goes around reading every fanfic of their show, and just chilling at the actors house all day? It's cringey to say the least. The whole thing read of a fanfiction of what someone hopes their fave stars do, but hasn't really got any idea of what that professional world is like.
I get it, it's supposed to be light hearted funzies - but there has to be a balance. Sorry to poop on the party.
July 22, 2024
#CassiNova by Lori G. Mathews is another delightful romantic comedy that showcases her exceptional comedic talent. After reading I Dare You to Love Me and absolutely loving how funny it was, I was so excited to try her debut, #CassiNova. Once again I found myself laughing out loud throughout this book, especially while on my neighbourhood walks with my dog. I'm sure my neighbours think I'm slightly mad now...
The story centres on Sam, an actress in a popular sci-fi TV show, and Alex, a landscaper and aspiring writer. Their chemistry is palpable from the start, and their playful banter and interactions with friends add depth to the narrative. The humour and romance are perfectly balanced, creating a lighthearted yet engaging read. The side characters, although sometimes serving mainly for comedic purposes, contribute to the overall charm of the story.
While the plot isn't groundbreaking, it's the execution that shines. The humour is well-played, and the gradual development of Sam and Alex's relationship keeps readers invested. Some moments might seem clichéd, but the strong writing and genuine humour make #CassiNova a standout rom-com. I highly recommend a read if you love witty, feel-good romances with a Hollywood twist.
The story centres on Sam, an actress in a popular sci-fi TV show, and Alex, a landscaper and aspiring writer. Their chemistry is palpable from the start, and their playful banter and interactions with friends add depth to the narrative. The humour and romance are perfectly balanced, creating a lighthearted yet engaging read. The side characters, although sometimes serving mainly for comedic purposes, contribute to the overall charm of the story.
While the plot isn't groundbreaking, it's the execution that shines. The humour is well-played, and the gradual development of Sam and Alex's relationship keeps readers invested. Some moments might seem clichéd, but the strong writing and genuine humour make #CassiNova a standout rom-com. I highly recommend a read if you love witty, feel-good romances with a Hollywood twist.
November 21, 2020
This is a light, and sweet romance about mutual pining and with a lot of humor thrown in. There's not too much on the dramatic side, just enough to keep the plot moving, so it is really hinges on the comedy and connection between the two leads.
For me, what it did very well was the connection between the two leads, Hollywood actress Samantha Cassidy and Casanova Alex Novato. These two almost instantly have chemistry even though they met under so, so circumstances. I also found that there is a bit of a role reversal with the pair - even though Alex is supposed to be smooth, I had imagined her to be a little starstruck once she realized she was in the presence of the super popular Samantha. But its not that way at all: Sam can't seem to get it together around Alex and even has a few bits of cringe worthy moments like being struck dumb at the sight of Alex.
This is a rom com so there's bound to be a bunch of humorous moments to go along with the courtship. I'd say it is a bit of a mixed bag, with what seems to be a ton of stuff that is thrown at the wall to see what sticks. There are a couple of running gags that do get tiring after a short bit, like Sam's friend absolutely shamelessly objectifying Alex throughout the story. I thought it was kind of funny at the beginning when she didn't know Alex, but once Alex integrated into the group it started to get old kind of quick.
This is a debut for Matthews, and I thought it was a solid start. I like that she connected some newer aspects of fandoms into the book, but only a little bit. Things like social media, fanfiction and para-social relationships deserve their own in-depth looks but I enjoyed that it was Alex's steamy fanfic of Sam's show that brought them together. So if you're just looking for a light, easy read with a bit of good humor thrown in, this is for you.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
For me, what it did very well was the connection between the two leads, Hollywood actress Samantha Cassidy and Casanova Alex Novato. These two almost instantly have chemistry even though they met under so, so circumstances. I also found that there is a bit of a role reversal with the pair - even though Alex is supposed to be smooth, I had imagined her to be a little starstruck once she realized she was in the presence of the super popular Samantha. But its not that way at all: Sam can't seem to get it together around Alex and even has a few bits of cringe worthy moments like being struck dumb at the sight of Alex.
This is a rom com so there's bound to be a bunch of humorous moments to go along with the courtship. I'd say it is a bit of a mixed bag, with what seems to be a ton of stuff that is thrown at the wall to see what sticks. There are a couple of running gags that do get tiring after a short bit, like Sam's friend absolutely shamelessly objectifying Alex throughout the story. I thought it was kind of funny at the beginning when she didn't know Alex, but once Alex integrated into the group it started to get old kind of quick.
This is a debut for Matthews, and I thought it was a solid start. I like that she connected some newer aspects of fandoms into the book, but only a little bit. Things like social media, fanfiction and para-social relationships deserve their own in-depth looks but I enjoyed that it was Alex's steamy fanfic of Sam's show that brought them together. So if you're just looking for a light, easy read with a bit of good humor thrown in, this is for you.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 16, 2020
It’s been four years since Alex Novato lost her wife. They met in college, thinking they had all the time in the world but their life took a different life. Now on her own, living with her sister and sister-in-law, working alongside her sister in her landscaping business. She guards her heart having it broken once wasn’t something she wanted to do again. So she made do with a lot of one night stands, making it clear to the women she met it would not go anywhere beyond one night.
Alex still hasn’t given up on her writing. But so far no publisher has decided to print and sell her books. She keeps writing, even writing some fanfic. Her first trip into this medium was to write a better ending for her favorite show. As it was, the main character was allowed to have a kiss with another woman and then the writers killed off her role.
Samantha Cassidy wanted to be an actress since she was a little girl. Now that she’s made it she was still living her life in ‘the closet’, having her last girlfriend while in college. Pretending to have a relationship with a male actor was getting old. She missed being with another woman. Sam also has two friends, Jade, Sam’s manager and Emma, a fellow actor.
It was their idea to find a lover for Sam, someone who would be fine in the closet with Sam. After reading Alex’s fanfic they decided to find her and hopefully some sparks would fly. The attraction and feelings between Sam and Alex is strong, making keeping the relationship secret all the harder.
Never having the pleasure of reading Ms Matthew’s works, I was more than surprised just how much I enjoyed this first time author's work. Characters that are more than likeable and the supporting cast giving this read some very fun moments. All in all a great read. Now I just have to wait for Ms Mattew’s next book. Very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books
Alex still hasn’t given up on her writing. But so far no publisher has decided to print and sell her books. She keeps writing, even writing some fanfic. Her first trip into this medium was to write a better ending for her favorite show. As it was, the main character was allowed to have a kiss with another woman and then the writers killed off her role.
Samantha Cassidy wanted to be an actress since she was a little girl. Now that she’s made it she was still living her life in ‘the closet’, having her last girlfriend while in college. Pretending to have a relationship with a male actor was getting old. She missed being with another woman. Sam also has two friends, Jade, Sam’s manager and Emma, a fellow actor.
It was their idea to find a lover for Sam, someone who would be fine in the closet with Sam. After reading Alex’s fanfic they decided to find her and hopefully some sparks would fly. The attraction and feelings between Sam and Alex is strong, making keeping the relationship secret all the harder.
Never having the pleasure of reading Ms Matthew’s works, I was more than surprised just how much I enjoyed this first time author's work. Characters that are more than likeable and the supporting cast giving this read some very fun moments. All in all a great read. Now I just have to wait for Ms Mattew’s next book. Very enjoyable read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bella Books
December 3, 2020
In just one word: insta-lust. Or is it insta-love? Whatever. I'm guessing this was supposed to be humorous, but I found this just plain and simple silly.
December 3, 2020
Oh Wow! A book that made me laugh out loud- always a strange experience, but it felt so good. A real humdinger of a book - superb feel good factor - one to treasure! Can you tell I loved it??
March 22, 2025
I smiled like an idiot the whole time while reading this. It's that kind of book.
August 29, 2024
This book reminds me of a sitcom show. It's really light, totally fun, and crazy. I would totally watch #CassiNova on TV or in a movie. In the book/audiobook version, I admit I struggled a bit; it was a bit too crazy... The craziness and fun side of the characters felt like immaturity to me. Sam's character is supposed to be in the closet but acts like she wants to showcase her gayness like someone starting a fire in the forest to call for help. There is a whole chapter about the characters trying to define what base went to after a made out cession and one paragraph focused on Alex and Sam sharing details about their lives. There was potential for more depth with Alex being a widow. Overall, this book made me laugh at some points, but it definitely wasn't for me. Maybe if the fun part were more balanced with the romance part, I would have connected to the book more.
November 10, 2020
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Sam is Emmy winning actress with her own popular sci-fi tv show she doing what she loves but what she wants is a girlfriend but the only problem is she in the closet. Her best friend and manger Jade tells her if she comes out she won’t get the scripts she wants if she wants to get an Oscar she tells her she need to get laid.
Alex is a inspiring writer but also own a landscaping business she doesn’t do relationships when her and sister Leana and her wife Sophie watches Sam show and was disappointing by the ending convince Alex to write fanfic of Sam show.
When Sam and Jade and their friend Emma starts to reads fanfic they get a kick out how fanfic is better then the show. When Jade spot a new fanfic and gets Sam to read it Jade convince Sam to track down the writer and decides to hire her to do some landscapes.
This was a funny read. I enjoy the friendships Sam being a clumsy around Alex as they get to know each other as friends all the while falling for each other even though they both want to get together for different reason it’s funny they had a specific plan but it goes out the window because they start falling for each other. It’s funny though because fanfic is sometimes better then what written on a show.
Sam is Emmy winning actress with her own popular sci-fi tv show she doing what she loves but what she wants is a girlfriend but the only problem is she in the closet. Her best friend and manger Jade tells her if she comes out she won’t get the scripts she wants if she wants to get an Oscar she tells her she need to get laid.
Alex is a inspiring writer but also own a landscaping business she doesn’t do relationships when her and sister Leana and her wife Sophie watches Sam show and was disappointing by the ending convince Alex to write fanfic of Sam show.
When Sam and Jade and their friend Emma starts to reads fanfic they get a kick out how fanfic is better then the show. When Jade spot a new fanfic and gets Sam to read it Jade convince Sam to track down the writer and decides to hire her to do some landscapes.
This was a funny read. I enjoy the friendships Sam being a clumsy around Alex as they get to know each other as friends all the while falling for each other even though they both want to get together for different reason it’s funny they had a specific plan but it goes out the window because they start falling for each other. It’s funny though because fanfic is sometimes better then what written on a show.
January 28, 2021
This one is a sitcom that doesn’t aim at being anything other than broadstrokes funny.
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
Read the full review @ https://bestlesficreviews.blogspot.co...
December 22, 2020
Loved it. Everything about it. It's so funny, and sweet, and hot, and I loved it.
December 1, 2020
Sam is an Emmy awards winning actress who is a hopeless romantic and is searching for love. She meets Alex, who write fanfiction about Sam's show, and the two are immediately drawn to one another. Alex has sworn off all love, but will Sam be the one who helps her move on?
Unfortunately, I could just not get into this one. The dialogue was too over the top to me, and made the characters sound like teenagers and not in their late 20s/30s. There was no consistency in terms of Sam being super reserved/shy and then open to the point where it was a complete character change. The story also moved really fast, although the pacing improved later on. I couldn't connect to them or to their relationships because of all this. The story itself was funny, with some good laugh out loud moments, but the characters grated on me too much to be invested in the romance. This wasn't bad for a debut novel and I'm sure I'll give a book by Lori G. Matthews another go in the future.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I could just not get into this one. The dialogue was too over the top to me, and made the characters sound like teenagers and not in their late 20s/30s. There was no consistency in terms of Sam being super reserved/shy and then open to the point where it was a complete character change. The story also moved really fast, although the pacing improved later on. I couldn't connect to them or to their relationships because of all this. The story itself was funny, with some good laugh out loud moments, but the characters grated on me too much to be invested in the romance. This wasn't bad for a debut novel and I'm sure I'll give a book by Lori G. Matthews another go in the future.
I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 19, 2024
I really loved this! It was laugh out loud funny. Some things bothered me though. I liked all the characters but Jade. She is suppose to be Sam’s best friend, and I think she is a little mean and I get she is her manager/agent or whatever but I would think your best friend happiness is front and center. She just irked me cause she did things and said things a friend shouldn’t do especially with her having her own damn girlfriend. Sorry for the rant but she got on my nerves. All the other characters were so sweet and caring. Overall this is a great read and definitely a RomCom with some hot spice 🥵🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 25, 2024
Very funny, had me shaking of laughter,
Good chemistry between the main characters. Side characters were awesome.
Side note* Mild Spoiler*
(I just did not like the 3 months waiting time, characters were in their 30s not 17)
Good chemistry between the main characters. Side characters were awesome.
Side note* Mild Spoiler*
(I just did not like the 3 months waiting time, characters were in their 30s not 17)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2020
I have to say that the beginning was a bit rough, but it got better as you keep reading. It's also pretty funny even though sometimes the jokes weren't... funny? I think it just went a bit too far and was a little bit over the top (there's nothing wrong with it if you like it, I just don't think it worked for me all that much). Also, I always felt distanced from Alex and couldn't quite connect to her. Alex felt like the largest disconnect, but I also felt it with the other characters, just on a smaller scale.
November 16, 2020
“Oh, yes, she, we just bought a house, and the yard needs a lot of work. There’s a pool that looks like shit, and gardens that look like shit, and a patio that basically looks like shit. We were thinking of redoing everything.”
Warning for readers. Do not read this if you have some kind of persona to upkeep or uphold. The book is hilarious. I showed a lot of teeth while reading, could not contain my giggles and was laughing out loud deep into the night.
Samantha Cassidy, an Emmy winner, popular actress of a sci fi series, darling of scores of lesbians fans, is a closet lesbian. She yearns for a girlfriend but is reluctant to come out for fear of jeopardising her childhood dream of winning an Oscar for her late father. To help Sam along, her agent cum best friend Jade suggested a quick sexual fix and took her on an undercover trip to check out a fanfic writer whose writing got their libidos raging. When Jade found that Alex not only writes but also fix houses, she kicked her plan into action.
Alex Novato, landscaper by day and fanfic writer by night is hot and only into hook ups. Engaged by two weird ladies to remodel her/their house, she was ready to revamp the house and seduce her way into Sam’s bed. When she got to know Sam more, she found herself changing her MO but will she be sacrificed for Sam’s dream?
Family and friends on both sides would amuse you to no end, the characterisations make them all lovable, dorks, bimbos or whatever.
A solid 5 stars based on the entertainment value of the book, perfect for times like this.
I just reviewed #CassiNova by Lori G. Matthews. #CassiNova #NetGalley
Warning for readers. Do not read this if you have some kind of persona to upkeep or uphold. The book is hilarious. I showed a lot of teeth while reading, could not contain my giggles and was laughing out loud deep into the night.
Samantha Cassidy, an Emmy winner, popular actress of a sci fi series, darling of scores of lesbians fans, is a closet lesbian. She yearns for a girlfriend but is reluctant to come out for fear of jeopardising her childhood dream of winning an Oscar for her late father. To help Sam along, her agent cum best friend Jade suggested a quick sexual fix and took her on an undercover trip to check out a fanfic writer whose writing got their libidos raging. When Jade found that Alex not only writes but also fix houses, she kicked her plan into action.
Alex Novato, landscaper by day and fanfic writer by night is hot and only into hook ups. Engaged by two weird ladies to remodel her/their house, she was ready to revamp the house and seduce her way into Sam’s bed. When she got to know Sam more, she found herself changing her MO but will she be sacrificed for Sam’s dream?
Family and friends on both sides would amuse you to no end, the characterisations make them all lovable, dorks, bimbos or whatever.
A solid 5 stars based on the entertainment value of the book, perfect for times like this.
I just reviewed #CassiNova by Lori G. Matthews. #CassiNova #NetGalley
April 19, 2024
I gave up on this book because Sam slut shames Alex for having participated in a threesome.
Excerpts:
Excerpts:
“She obviously sleeps around. And she’s out of my league sexually. I mean, a three-way? Who has three-ways?”
…
“Maybe she’s your lobster, you know, like Friends,” Emma said.
Sam raised her eyebrows. “She is not lobster material. She had a three-way, for God’s sake.”
…
“I don’t know, Sam. Girlfriend? Are you kidding? She’s not lobster material. You said so yourself.”
August 24, 2023
I needed this book!! A don’t-have-to-think and not angsty book with 80’s and 90’s American comedy serie humour. And with hot sexy times. In a Hollywood glamour world. I really needed this book. It made me laugh out loud. It made me swoon😉. I loved it!! More than 5 stars.
May 17, 2024
This would make a great romcom series or movie, as a book, the jokes were taken a little too far for me. It's well written overall, and yeah, the scenes are hilarious - but they didn't add much to the story itself. As a book, they story could easily lose an hour or two and be the better for it.
January 13, 2021
What a hoot!! I can’t help laughing while reading! I haven’t laugh this much just by reading a book for a while now. Thank you Lori G. Matthews!!!
I like the flow of the story, the storyline was engaging.
The characters were very amusing, may it be the MCs or the supporting characters, they’re all hilariously crazy 😂. The MCs chemistry is sizzling hot, their banter is witty and dorky at the same time, and their interaction is sweet and extremely funny. I love how Alex was so understanding towards Sam’s predicament. I know being in that situation was really hard for her, but I think losing Madi gave her another perception regarding life and relationship, and I guessed that helped a lot in dealing Sam’s problem with being in the closet. I love how Sam outed herself and proposed to Alex. Hurray for HEA!!
Definitely recommending it to others.
I like the flow of the story, the storyline was engaging.
The characters were very amusing, may it be the MCs or the supporting characters, they’re all hilariously crazy 😂. The MCs chemistry is sizzling hot, their banter is witty and dorky at the same time, and their interaction is sweet and extremely funny. I love how Alex was so understanding towards Sam’s predicament. I know being in that situation was really hard for her, but I think losing Madi gave her another perception regarding life and relationship, and I guessed that helped a lot in dealing Sam’s problem with being in the closet. I love how Sam outed herself and proposed to Alex. Hurray for HEA!!
Definitely recommending it to others.
May 4, 2021
I had some trouble reading this and almost DNFed it. I don't usually read romcoms but I wanted to give it a chance. The characters seemed over the top to me in the beginning. Maybe it was their exuberance at everything, and the constant wisecracks and horseplay. As the book went on, the characters grew on me, especially the mains. The last three or four chapters were my favorites. I'm glad I continued to read so that I didn't miss them. #CassiNova is well written and it finished strong. I would read another novel by Lori Matthews as this is her debut.
June 18, 2022
I love this book! I've never laughed out loud, and giggled so much reading a book! I love the 2 MCS Samantha and Alex, and the friends are hysterical! The sex scenes are hot! If you want to thoroughly enjoy your reading time, then buy and read this book!
December 19, 2020
Omg, this was amazing, funny and sweet book. You will laugh, and cry and laugh some more. The main characters are meant for each other from the first meet. They are both goofy, with ideas out of this world. They make their relationship hot, and happy and don't stop playing around. It looks so easy when you read this one and you root for their happy ending. Excellent book in my opinion.
January 8, 2023
First of all i have to say celebrity meets normal girl is one of my favorite tropes so i read this book rater quick. It was a very enjoyable read and very well written. This author is new to me, i will definitly grab another book of her and give it a chance.
So why only 3 stars, for me the story is a bit off. Looking at the cover i expected a young adult story, the title with the # sealed the deal for me believing i will read a cute YA romance, also the describtion of the book gave me this very same vibe.
So when i started to read and realized there is no way these woman are between 18-24 years old from what they did in the past, their life experience.... it threw me off a completely, because their behavior was so off for woman who are probably around my age (im 34). The jokes and situations were really funny, but not for a group of woman between 30-40 (we celebrate the 40th birthday of Alex´s sister).
To give some examples what i mean: as a 30 something celebrity who won a Emmy to go stalk a woman who wrote a fanfiction about my tv show character, behave like no one ever touched me before, all the giggels and behavior when the other person touched me, first looking for a f* buddy and than keep the girl waiting (when she sends clear signals she wants it) till she says i love you. ALL this would be very cute coming from a 17 year old... So this book a bit rewritten with main characters who are 17-21 (21 to keep many fun parts & for them to be at a legal drinking age in the US^^) and it would be a 5* book for me. If you can blend out the age, which worked for me only sometimes than grab it right now because the storyline itself and the way it is written is amazing.
So why only 3 stars, for me the story is a bit off. Looking at the cover i expected a young adult story, the title with the # sealed the deal for me believing i will read a cute YA romance, also the describtion of the book gave me this very same vibe.
So when i started to read and realized there is no way these woman are between 18-24 years old from what they did in the past, their life experience.... it threw me off a completely, because their behavior was so off for woman who are probably around my age (im 34). The jokes and situations were really funny, but not for a group of woman between 30-40 (we celebrate the 40th birthday of Alex´s sister).
To give some examples what i mean: as a 30 something celebrity who won a Emmy to go stalk a woman who wrote a fanfiction about my tv show character, behave like no one ever touched me before, all the giggels and behavior when the other person touched me, first looking for a f* buddy and than keep the girl waiting (when she sends clear signals she wants it) till she says i love you. ALL this would be very cute coming from a 17 year old... So this book a bit rewritten with main characters who are 17-21 (21 to keep many fun parts & for them to be at a legal drinking age in the US^^) and it would be a 5* book for me. If you can blend out the age, which worked for me only sometimes than grab it right now because the storyline itself and the way it is written is amazing.
November 16, 2020
Delightfully funny. Sam Cassidy is a Hollywood actress. She stars on a tv series, has an Emmy and wants an Oscar. She is closeted for her career but wants a girlfriend. Sam in bumbling silliness meets and hires Alex Navato to landscape her home. Sam makes rules for their friendship as she wants to go slowly and woo Alex. There is attraction and hijinks. A lot of the playfulness comes from the interactions with Sams friends who add in comic relief. But the world seems a nicer place when there are supportive people who love you wether you are a dork, a star or in love.
Alex has her own history. She is very confident in her appeal but has been in a good relationship and isn't looking for a new one. Alex's confidence and Sam's ineptness balance the power difference between the two women making the romance believable. I read this with a grin and outright laughs. Humor is subjective and only a few times did it go too over the top for me. I will look for future books from the author.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bella Books for the ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Alex has her own history. She is very confident in her appeal but has been in a good relationship and isn't looking for a new one. Alex's confidence and Sam's ineptness balance the power difference between the two women making the romance believable. I read this with a grin and outright laughs. Humor is subjective and only a few times did it go too over the top for me. I will look for future books from the author.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bella Books for the ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2020
#CassiNova is funny. You will have to hold your belly because it will be cramping from laughing so hard. Lori G. Matthews (no relation) has produced a rom-com for the season. Heck I want to move to the Hollywood Hills and get me a baby goat.
I do not even know who I love best in this book. Alex’s relationship with her sister is hilarious. Are there even words better than “hilarious” for Jade? Does Matthews even write an unfunny character? Holy sugar just remembering them makes my bellyache (laugh). I am straight up giggling now and I can’t tell you why because hello spoilers.
I definitely want to sleep with Alex because damn the girl got skills. She is funny, suave, and can laugh at herself. I adore how she is with Sam who at times has no skills (laugh). Matthews gives both characters a chance to redeem themselves, sometimes with laughter, show us some steam.
Here’s to christening every room you have, hashtagging, Lori G. Matthews, and #CassiNova. My holiday gift came early.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
I do not even know who I love best in this book. Alex’s relationship with her sister is hilarious. Are there even words better than “hilarious” for Jade? Does Matthews even write an unfunny character? Holy sugar just remembering them makes my bellyache (laugh). I am straight up giggling now and I can’t tell you why because hello spoilers.
I definitely want to sleep with Alex because damn the girl got skills. She is funny, suave, and can laugh at herself. I adore how she is with Sam who at times has no skills (laugh). Matthews gives both characters a chance to redeem themselves, sometimes with laughter, show us some steam.
Here’s to christening every room you have, hashtagging, Lori G. Matthews, and #CassiNova. My holiday gift came early.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
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