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Just a Series #2

Just a Girl

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What happens when the right girl and the right guy meet at the wrong time?

One thing that can be said about Quinn Pearson is that she has a knack for doing the wrong thing at the wrong time. Like, the worst time ever. Take her job for instance. One little slip of the tongue using the mother of all swear words while reporting the news, and suddenly she finds herself with over 18 million views on YouTube and her employment in jeopardy. If that wasn’t bad enough, when she meets the man of her dreams, she nearly chokes to death on a powdered sugar donut.

Thankfully for Quinn, the dashing Brit, Henry, finds her near death experience quite charming. But just when Quinn thinks her luck is going to change, she finds out her timing is all wrong again. Henry is off limits. Or is he? Maybe it’s time for Quinn to quit settling for what life hands her. Perhaps it's time for her to become more than just a girl.

319 pages, Paperback

Published August 17, 2020

487 people are currently reading
553 people want to read

About the author

Becky Monson

22 books1,288 followers
By day, Becky Monson is a mother to three young children, and a wife. By night, she escapes with reading books and writing. In her debut novel, Becky uses humor and true-life experiences to bring her characters to life. She loves all things chick-lit (movies, books, etc.), and wishes she had a British accent. She has recently given up Diet Coke for the fiftieth time and is hopeful this time will last... but it probably won't.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,299 reviews1,779 followers
November 12, 2020
Favorite Quotes:

Oh, dear heaven above. Handsome Man has an accent. A very British one, in fact… Be still, my beating ovaries. I’ve always been a sucker for a British accent. But of course, I’m standing in front of him, hair askew, my face a nice shade of red, if the burning feeling I’m currently experiencing is any indication. Oh, and powdered sugar down the front of me. I’m also still holding on to the donut. I’m a work of art. A Picasso.

I chose kale. I’m not even sure how that’s a food. It tastes like disappointment.

Romantic interludes in my life so far have just been more of a mutual “You’ll do” type of scenario.

Red is perfect for her—it matches her evil insides… I briefly wonder what kind of machine she uses to file down her horns.

Is she for real? She’s like a villain out of a bad campy movie. “Well, I don’t know about that,” I say. “I mean, someday, when your skin becomes Botox resistant, they’ll need to replace you.” I give her my best smirk. Like an automatic reflex, she reaches up and touches her forehead, which hasn’t been able to move since I’ve known her. It’s just frozen in place.


My Review:

Oh – happy - day! I have a new favorite author and her name is Becky Monson – and she is brilliant and made me giggle-snort more than once during perusal. I adored every word of this cleverly written missive. In addition to Ms. Monson’s sparkling wit and keenly honed levity; her well-crafted storylines hit all the feels with a bevy of relevant topics and family issues. Anyone who has ever had the misfortunate experiences of landing their dream job within a toxic work environment, suffered dastardly co-workers, grappled with their weight, dated a lovely man with issues, and/or struggled with a critical and unappeasable parent will find themselves within the pages.

The main character of Quinn resonated deeply with me. Her inner musings were smirk-worthy and highly entertaining. I was quickly implanted within Quinn’s head and under her skin, living her feels, and fully engaged and immersed in her tale. I am also in total agreement with her stance on kale; it is ghastly!
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,617 reviews178 followers
November 10, 2020
I liked this book but I didn’t love it. I liked the story line but found it too obvious. In the end, I found I was frustrated that the plot wasn’t developing as quickly as I had hoped because I had predicted the outcome so early on.

This book is the second of a series and it really shows. I felt like I was missing a massive chunk of backstory. Although Monson makes references to key events, I wanted the detail and understanding that can only be gained from reading the first book. Therefore, I recommend trying to read this series in order because I think you will gain a greater appreciation of characters.

Quinn is a likeable character. I liked the theme that the writer develops where Quinn grows to recognise she shouldn’t just “settle” with the circumstances she finds herself in. As a result, as the story progresses, she becomes a stronger character who isn’t afraid to stand up for herself. I really admired this quality in her, particularly when it involved standing up to her mother. She is not “just” a girl, she is a woman who is determined to seek satisfaction in what she does.

On the other hand, Henry is quintessentially British, even down to his name! He is also surprisingly vulnerable which makes him more appealing as the love interest. I found the Epilogue to be a complete surprise as Monson switches to his perspective. The dark side of my imagination wondered if this would suddenly reveal Henry as a secret serial killer – what was I thinking?! Instead, I actually felt it was rather cheesy. I would have preferred to have stuck with Quinn’s narrative perspective throughout.

Although this was shorter than my average read, I did not get the sense that this was too short. Monson takes her time to establish the plot and I did enjoy the scenes where Quinn is reflecting on her relationships with her closest friends. I think there was an opportunity for them to have more attention in the plot, particularly as Quinn sees them as her support network. I guess this is where the series is most prevalent.

This is a pretty good read but I think I would have enjoyed it more with the understanding from the first book. It is a sweet romance story that, whilst predictable, means you can loose yourself in a narrative that will eventually see Quinn coupled with her dreamboat.

With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Mara.
1,466 reviews110 followers
December 18, 2020
December 2020--I listened to the audiobook this time around. I loved Quinn's voice. "Seize the cupcake!!" Don't be a settler in Catan. Have to love Thomas.

Quinn and Henry have an unusual meet-cute when she chokes on a powdered donut. A couple of dates later and they're really hitting it off, but she's yet to tell him what her job is and he hasn't told her what job he's in town interviewing for. Of course this leads to awkward situations and misunderstandings, which when cleared up leads to secret dates and snogging sessions.

I loved Quinn and could relate to her a lot more than I did to her bestie, Holly in Just a Name. Quinn has insecurities that has her accepting the limitations others put on her, especially where her job was concerned, but also in her relationship with Henry and her family. She's accepted as fact that she's stuck with the noon broadcast until the evening anchor retires, instead of fighting for what she wants. As her friend Thomas told her "Don't do that settling thing...Just like that game you used to make me play. You're a settler of Catan."

Oh Henry! What is it with British guys named Henry? Dark hair, blue eyes (my favorite combo), that swoony accent, and knee buckling snogging sessions--that probably would've had me agreeing to keep our relationship secret too. Thankfully Henry comes to his senses before it's too late.

I love the humor Becky Monson puts in her books. I laughed out loud at some of Quinn's inner thoughts, especially about her work nemesis Moriarty. I wonder if she uses the same file for her horns as she does for her claws. LOL Quinn's not the only one with humorous quips. Her friend Thomas is pretty blunt, and my favorite was a comment he made about one of Quinn's favorite suits she wears for work--But that suit! Can you please get something with less shoulder padding? You look like you're about to invade Russia. Vive Napoléon! Even Quinn says Thomas is an acquired taste, but that was hilarious.

I was thrilled when Quinn stood up for herself (I won't spoil it by saying how), and it made the people around her take notice, and reevaluate things. Her job got immensely better and so did her relationships.

I received a complimentary copy to review. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
Profile Image for Margo.
2,112 reviews130 followers
November 15, 2023
Light and fun. The H needs to snap out of his neurosis and the h needs to stop being a martyr, but there’s nothing that makes you want to give up on either of them. It’s briskly paced and low-angst. 3 1/2 stars.
3 reviews
August 12, 2020
I loved this book. Quinn is easy to love and easy to relate to, more so than Holly in the first book of the series, at least for me. Quinn meets Henry and their connection is quick, but Quinn holds back some information and it, of course, becomes an issue. This made me a little anxious initially. I have a hard time reading stories where the protagonist gets embroiled in a lie and the entire plot revolves around the coming unveiling. Fortunately, this story isn’t like that! Though Quinn's half-truth adds to the initial tension, the real heart of this story is about Quinn accepting other people’s judgements about her, and her willingness to settle rather than pursue what she really wants. Refreshingly, Henry is not perfect, and he gets to do some growing too. Not only was it thought-provoking, it was heart-warming as well. I’ll definitely read it again. This is a clean romance, so if that concerns you, no worries here. I’d happily share this with my young adult daughters. I look forward to the next book in the series. I think this will be available for purchase on 8/18. Get it! Do you need to know that I read an ARC and this is an honest review? Well, I did, and it is.
Profile Image for Aimee .
3,072 reviews298 followers
August 19, 2020
I Couldn't Put It Down!

Wow, I literally plowed right through this book, full steam ahead. I probably should have slowed down and savored it but I just couldn't help myself. I just HAD to know how it was all going to work out. Quinn and Henry (yummy, yummy Henry) were fun characters. I smiled a lot, I laughed, I cheered, I swooned. Author Becky Monson did a great job of creating characters that felt real and believable with their flaws, insecurities and moments of brilliance. I really loved this story!!
Content: kissing
Profile Image for Pascale’s*ARC,Unwind,Read,Review.
2,355 reviews31 followers
July 2, 2022
-“...worthy of love, no matter what.”-

Secret rendez-vous. A clandestine relationship. Steamy snogging sessions. Ooh! So much to love about this book! This one rates right up there along with her Spinster series for me.
I absolutely love this author’s work! Her sense of humour always shines brightly in all of her work and her stories are always down-to-Earth and fast-paced. I find myself getting completely enthralled every time. She is an author who is an automatic read for me and she absolutely never disappoints. I know I will be reading “Just a Girl” over and over again. (Similar writing style to Jennifer Peel and Sariah Wilson for comparison.) This is a clean romance and I highly recommend it! I would give it 10 stars if I could! Already anticipating and very much looking forward to reading more of her stories!
Profile Image for Julie - One Book More.
1,320 reviews236 followers
November 15, 2020
Just a Girl is a smart, funny, and entertaining romantic comedy that focuses on Quinn, a news reporter scandalized from swearing on camera, and Henry, a sexy and charming executive.

I love Quinn! She’s funny and smart, and she tells it like it is. However, she is also self-conscious and insecure, especially since her mother is constantly pushing diet books on her and a particularly scathing “fan” takes every opportunity to insult her. Quinn often feels as if she is not good enough. However, she shows tremendous growth throughout the story and learns not to settle for less than she deserves. I love how Quinn learns to “seize the cupcake” and take charge of her life. Her self-doubt slowly changes as she becomes more confident and sure of herself.

Henry is positively swoon-worthy with his good looks and British accent, not to mention his charm. However, he is painted as realistically as Quinn, and he makes plenty of mistakes. Like Quinn, he shows great personal growth and learns to put his misgivings aside and trust his feelings.

The romance between Quinn and Henry is one I rooted for from the start. I loved them together! They are both such likable characters, and they are well-suited to each other. They connect on a deep level, and it’s pretty clear from the start that they have something special. Of course, several obstacles stand in their way, which jeopardizes their happily ever after.


Another part of the story that I adored is the humor. It is on point! I love the witty banter, the sarcasm, and the situational comedy. For example, Henry and Quinn meet as Quinn chokes on a powdered donut, which is a hilarious scene! I can so relate to feeling awkward and weird when meeting someone new, and Quinn’s cringe-worthy donut-infused encounter is fantastic. In another scene, Quinn accidentally sends Henry an embarrassing text, much to her chagrin. To make matters worse, she does it while surrounded by her teasing friends. Humorous anecdotes like these make for a charming and entertaining read.

In addition to the lovely romance and the comedy, I adored Quinn’s close-knit group of friends. They support and encourage, but they’re also goofy and ridiculous, as only good friends can be. I thought they were hilarious, and they brought some cheer and lightheartedness into Quinn’s life at times when she really needed it. They reminded me of the friends in Four Weddings and a Funeral – dynamic and entertaining with a perfect blend of levity and seriousness.

Real-world issues like body shaming, fighting to rise up in one’s job, dealing with insecurities, and cyberbullying are addressed, as are family issues. Quinn and Henry must deal with parental disappointment and fight to stay true to themselves amid familial pressure, work pressure, and personal expectations. I like that the author doesn’t shy away from issues that many readers can relate to. Furthermore, Monson makes some strong points about the detrimental effects these issues have on one’s sense of self.

Just a Girl is a fun, witty, and entertaining contemporary romance with fantastic characters, strong messages, and excellent dialogue! Many thanks to the author and Rachel’s Random Resources for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Jessie.
1,476 reviews86 followers
November 6, 2020
Cheeky

When Quinn meets the gorgeous Brit, Henry, they hit it off. But a sour experience with workplace romances leads Henry to push her away when he ends up being her new boss. Things get even more awkward when Quinn’s pitch for a feature leads to a “date our producer” feature. Now she has a front row seat to Henry dating other women.
I loved Quinn’s friends. They were supportive and downright hilarious. I am a sucker for a British accent. I loved Henry’s dialogue, especially when he was flirting with Quinn! There were so many funny parts to this story, but a lot of depth too.
Henry needed to learn to trust. Quinn had issues with body image and being bullied. I loved watching Quinn find her confidence and figure out that she was already enough. So inspiring!

Content: mild language, making out
Profile Image for Sherry.
102 reviews1 follower
August 15, 2020
Becky Monson does it again! If you’ve read her other books you’re going to love Just A Girl! It had been awhile since I’d read Just A Name so I went back and read some of Holly’s story... However, I totally didn’t need to but I’m that type of person. I would read it first though if you haven’t.
Quinn and Henry’s story is cute, funny, and dreamy. There’s some little secrets that could get both Quinn and Henry into trouble but thankfully it doesn’t take a horribly long time for it to work out. Henry is lovely especially with his British accent!! Quinn is a strong woman who works through her personal issues and gets what she wants!

This is a cute, quick read and I’m really hoping Thomas gets his story!! Hint hint!! I love Becky’s chic lit - absolutely one of my favorite authors!! I’m so thankful I got to read this ARC!! (I guess I like using double exclamation points too....)
Profile Image for Sandi Wilbourn.
1 review2 followers
August 15, 2020
Becky Monson nailed it with this romantic comedy! I immediately fell in love with Quinn and rooted for her through her mishaps and struggles. Quinn had an incident happen that unfortunately was caught on camera and viewed by millions. She initially allowed herself to be defined by that one moment and let it hold her back. She allowed others around her to treat her poorly because she didn't feel that she had many options. But after much reflection (and a few other things - read the book!), Quinn decided to put herself first and not settle for any more negative relationships. She took charge of her life! I loved every second I was reading this book and I literally laughed out loud at parts. You won't regret reading this book or any other book by Becky Monson. I can't wait for her next book!
Profile Image for Eclectic Review.
1,682 reviews5 followers
November 14, 2020
If a handsome British stranger still believes you have a beautiful smile after you choke on a donut, he’s a keeper…unless he’s your boss.

I love Quinn’s gumption and quirkiness. Her spontaneity and friendliness are refreshing in a heroine, but it’s her self-deprecating thoughts brought on by a video gone viral and nasty criticisms from social media and her mother that make her human and make her a strong woman worth rooting for. And boy, do some people get payback! Way to go Quinn!!

Quinn and the charming, Henry are good for each other. Their initial awkwardness together is endearing. They both understand being disappointments to their parents. They both are kind and caring people who like each other for the right reasons. However, they need to step up and be what they are meant to be and in the end, they do it on their own terms. The story is not all serious stuff though. There are a lot of LOL moments such as the donut thing, the hilarious auto-correct text, and Quinn’s f-bomb Rap video.

Quinn’s friends, Holly, Thomas, Bree, Alex, and Logan are supportive and Quinn’s work colleague Jerry is a hoot and has Quinn’s back when the nasty evening newscaster, Sarah Moriarty, puts her down.

Ms. Monson cleverly and realistically touches on the serious topics of bullying, body shaming, and self-worth. I was thrilled to read this meaningful and delightful romcom with colorful characters and humorous antics. Another author to add to my list. Give it a try!

Thank you to Ms. Monson for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectations of a positive review.
Profile Image for Heidi Lynn’s BookReviews.
1,307 reviews109 followers
November 12, 2020
First, I want to thank Becky Monson and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with this book so I may bring you this review.

Just a Girl by Becky Monson had me cracking up laughing like I haven't laughed in ages!! It was just the book I needed after the crazy week I had just had. Oh the lines and situations she came up with were just priceless. I was grinning ear to ear! If you are looking for a fun, easy read to escape your crazy week-you need to put this on your TBR!

Becky dedicates this book to her girls Audrey and Violet. I hope you’ll always know your worth.

Angela Talley Smith created great art for the cover of Just a Girl. It was cartoonish, cute, and perfect for the theme of the book.

I totally agree with Quinn about how British men have sexy accents! Ohh and I totally understood what they did to her ovaries too!! I loved everything about Henry and their budding friendship. The revelations of their secrets made for the story to get very interesting.

The story did focus on two important topics and that was cyber bullying and fat shaming. That leads to the individuals low self esteem which is also an issue.

Becky has a little bit of everything for everyone in Just a Girl. There are comical scenes, good looking British men, characters with interesting careers, a budding relationship, a mystery to be solved, etc.

Becky has an amazing way of putting an everlasting smile on your face and my heart was full at the end of the book. However, I wasn’t ready for the story to end! I need more Quinn and Henry!


Profile Image for Monique.
1,277 reviews57 followers
April 26, 2021
Just..... As Good As The First.

4.5 🌟s

What a great follow up to the first book! I adored Quinn in that, and knew I’d love her more in this novel. We got more of her sensitive side and a fuller picture of who she is. She wasn’t Holly’s bestie for nothing.

Essentially we have a love story that has...quoting Logan’s favorite word from book one....boundaries. Quinn falls for a cute and delightful English gentleman and they hit it off beautifully. Until they discover there’s a conflict of interest and old hurts from previous relationships, which being up all sorts of issues. One that Quinn needs to overcome is not settling and come to terms with the realization that she is worth the fight and deserves a full commitment. From someone that struggles with self worth, I understood her inner thoughts and rationale. I also could sympathize with Henry on why he had to have boundaries. I don’t think he made those decisions lightly. Was his grand gesture over the top, yeah a bit. I don’t think that would ever actually happen but it did make for some entertainment and payback to a certain news anchor.

I was recommended this series by a book buddy and I’m grateful I took her advice. I’m slowly making my way through all this authors books. My biggest wish is that we get more from this group. I am dying to know if Bree gets her own book and who her beau might be. I’m also intrigued to see if anyone can tame and capture Thomas’s heart.
284 reviews44 followers
November 15, 2020
Just A Girl is a delightfully funny book with an important message for women to quash the negative voices dragging them down and fight for what they deserve.

Body image issues and self-esteem issues are smartly addressed. You want to hug Quinn in joy after she finally stands up to her nagging mother, nasty coworker, and the (dithering) man of her dreams.

I think the blurb is slightly misleading because the novel’s message about developing the self-confidence to feel comfortable in your own skin stood out rather than the feisty will they-won’t they romance.

Consider the opening lines of the novel:

“I’m convinced that any compliment I’ve ever been given was somehow done as charity by a family member or a friend. Like they paid someone to do it. So when the handsome stranger with extremely dark hair and brilliant blue eyes tells me that I have a beautiful smile, my first reaction is to almost choke on my donut.”

To me, the novel revolves around Quinn with her low self-esteem and her insecurities about her extra weight, her boring dates, and her stagnant career. Her budding romance with Henry–blue eyes, dimples and British accent–is secondary. (I’ve just learned that he’s modeled on Henry Cavill and now I can’t get that image out of my mind!)

Everyone should have a set of friends like Quinn’s: they speak the cold, hard truth to her face but also support her through her low times.

I had great fun reading this brilliantly funny and light yet insightful story about self-worth and perseverance, all beautifully wrapped in an exciting romance.

(I received a review copy from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review.)
Profile Image for Charissa.
Author 19 books81 followers
August 24, 2020
Cute chick lit. This story kept me engaged the whole way through. Never a boring spot that made reading slow. Quinn is the heroine in this one. She’s the midday news anchor who’s life suddenly changes when she meets a sexy British guy while eating a powdered sugar doughnut. She starts choking, the guy helps her out, she has major “feels” for him and ends up agreeing to a date later. That’s how she and Henry begin their relationship. She feels comfortable telling him everything—except for what her real job is. She doesn’t want him to Google her and find the viral videos of her letting loose with an F-bomb on public news. That leads to major problems when she walks into work, just after a perfect third date with Henry, to discover that he is her new boss. And now the story begins! Super fun, swoony forbidden romance that I loved with all my heart. I highly recommend!
217 reviews
August 16, 2020
I loved this book. Quinn questions lots of things that so many of us do. I love how Quinn thinks and how somethings become big issues and how as the book unfolds you see how they are dealt with. Henry, what's not to love about him! I liked reading his side of things. You can totally understand and empathise with both characters. This book is great for those who love Bridget Jones. Easy to read, totally engrossing and I didn't want it to end. Look forward to reading the next book by this brilliant author.
Profile Image for Lynette.
506 reviews
September 27, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! Becky’s books have fantastic character development! I loved Quinn! I really related to her, and even learned from her. I loved the “Seize the cupcake” phrase! There’s a paragraph towards the end of the book that really resonated with me. I laughed with Quinn, rooted for her, and cried with her.
This is such a fun book! I couldn’t put it down, and I’ve already started reading it again. No one writes Chick-lit like Becky Monson! One my favorite books of the year. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Mary.
82 reviews4 followers
August 18, 2020
The characters are imperfect, lovable and relatable. I love Becky Monson’s writing style! She instantly makes you feel like you’re close friends with the main character. This book totally checked off all of the things that I love about chick lit!
Profile Image for Melissa Baldwin.
Author 41 books645 followers
February 26, 2021
So fun

Another great book from Becky Monson. Can’t wait to read more! Super fun and entertaining.
Add this to your TBR!
Profile Image for Kristie.
811 reviews
January 27, 2023
Really cute! Quinn is great. An excellent reminder to never let anyone make you feel like less and never settle. Go for what you deserve.👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Profile Image for Mandy.
224 reviews37 followers
November 13, 2020
3.5- I really enjoyed this cute and funny romance. The story revolves around Quinn who is a really likeable and relatable character, and follows her through her workplace exploits including accidentally swearing on live tv and her romantic exploits. We see her being introduced to who she immediately believes is the man of her dreams Henry, but is he all that he seems? The book was lighthearted and funny in places and I found myself rooting for Quinn and cringing with her. This is the second book in a series but I didn’t realise that until I finished it and it definitely didn’t affect anything for me while I was reading it. Will be reading the first in the series and looking out for more.
Profile Image for Brooklyn JoJo.
418 reviews30 followers
November 21, 2021
Really cute, well done light romance. It was a tad predictable but so darn enjoyable I didn’t care. The drama was kept under control too making the story actually believable. I’m definitely going to read more by the author!
Profile Image for Cheyenne Davis.
303 reviews2 followers
August 19, 2020
I loved it!

I think this might be my new favorite book by Becky Monson. There's so many things to love about it.

First, Quinn. She is such a relatable and lovable character. She has body image issues and has fallen into the habit of settling for things. She has dreams, but has lost a lot of hope that they can or will come true and so doesn't fight for them as she should. Throughout the book she learns to "seize the cupcake", stand up for herself, love herself, and verbalize her boundaries instead of just following along with what others want even though it's not what she wants. Such a great theme, and I thought it was fleshed out very well. It definitely had me rooting so hard for Quinn!

Second, the friends. I enjoyed reading the close-knit friend group from Holly's book, Just a Name, and I continued to love it in this book. I actually really enjoyed Quinn's interactions with Thomas. He's such a pill, but he actually seems like a good friend. I wonder what his deal is, though! And I have hopes for Bree and Alex. Alex, especially seems like a great guy. And, if course, it was fun up see Holly and Logan, even though Logan barely talks. Also, Brady isn't part of the friend group or anything (he's a sort of love interest for Quinn) but I actually really liked him. I liked the role he played in the story and he seems like a really good friend. A very decent person--decent as in honorable and treats Quinn well, not just "okay".

Third, Henry. I really liked Henry. Not a much as Quinn, but it was super fun to see his frustrations and the tension between him and Quinn was very well done. The conflict between them didn't feel contrived to me, and the characters reactions to the situation we're very believable. The awkwardness was on point. I don't know why, but well-done awkwardness in books makes me very happy.

Fourth, the humor. Becky Monson has a knack for situational humor and I enjoy it very much. From the not-so meet cute too Quinn running through the news station in her "seize the cupcake" pajamas, Monson had me smiling and chuckling.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys rom coms and books where learning self-love is a main theme.
Profile Image for Christi.
1,156 reviews34 followers
August 21, 2020
There is so much to love about Just a Girl! In Just a Name, the first book in the series, you read all about Holly and her unfortunate situation, but it is a situation that I found hard to relate to. In Just a Girl you meet Quinn, Holly's best friend, and her incredibly relatable life. I felt like with Quinn I found a kindred spirit, and felt like I was listening to a girlfriend describe one disaster after another. Telling me all about the devious actions of an evil co-worker, the words and actions of a hurtful yet well-meaning parent, and of course the gushing about that incredibly gorgeous guy that she met at the donut shop under less than ideal circumstances. I loved every second.

Besides the fact that this novel is completely relatable, there are parts that I actually laughed out loud on. I was really surprised with how funny some parts were and then how serious and deep they turned as the story progressed. The humor, combined with charming characters, completely won me over. Henry sounds deliciously British in my mind, and I loved (almost) everything about him. Quinn's friends are great, and some of my favorite moments involved her Monday night crew. I would love it if the author would continue the series, and show off the other individuals in this group. Each of them have facets that I could see being explored further.

What really spoke to me was Quinn's insecurities. I think those voices in our heads about ourselves is something we all can relate to. I was so proud of how much this character grew throughout the novel both in her professional and personal life, even if the road wasn't ideal.

I can honestly say I am already impatiently awaiting the next book in this series. It's just such a fun series with quirky writing and characters to match. What's not to love?

*I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
Profile Image for Cheryl M-M.
1,879 reviews54 followers
January 1, 2021
It's fair to say that honesty plays the biggest issue when it comes to Quinn being able to embrace what she feels for a handsome young man she meets. Se becomes her own worst enemy and is extremely talented at presenting herself in a less than favourable light.

What begins as an accidental embarrassing encounter becomes more, but it's a more that entails keeping secrets, and that never ends well for anyone does it?

I think when it comes to Quinn it's a coming-of-age story. Learning to accept yourself and your own limitations without always taking second place to the desires, wants and needs of others. It can become a part or rabbit hole people fall into, the follower and the person who always backs down. The person who always takes a second place to others.

Quinn has to learn to make her own stamp on the world, perhaps even stop being a people pleaser. That is possibly why she is drawn to someone with similar traits, although being utterly charming and hard to resist helps.

I liked the fact Monson gives her main characters, in each book, such different traits. It's gives the old romcom recipe a bit of a refresher. Combining two people who have to find a way to navigate their way through common obstacles is also what draws them closer together.

It's a romance with a YA vibe that can be read by older and younger readers. A contemporary series that will fall into multiple age brackets. Stories addressing issues that may appear minor, but ultimately can have a major impact on the development of people and their relationships.
*I received a courtesy copy*
Profile Image for Cindy Roesel.
81 reviews3 followers
November 11, 2020
It all started with a powdered donut.

Quinn smacks literally into blue-eyed, British hunk, Henry in town for job interviews. They exchange digits and after several dates, they still don't know the other's last name or their job.

Imagine their shock and surprise when Henry Pierce is announced the television news station's, executive producer and he finds out Quinn's the midday anchor. Henry immediately tells her they can't continue dating, because of a prior dating nightmare at a previous station. But she knows he's the one.

Meanwhile Quinn has another set of challenges, trying to lose 20 lbs., receiving dieting books from her mother, a viewer that writes her daily nasty personal emails about her appearance, and the evening female news anchor viewed as the daughter of Satan who tries belittle Quinn at every turn.

At a morning meeting Quinn pitches a "date with a station intern" and after lots of discussion it turns into a "date with our new executive producer." Quinn's hopes are obliterated! Against Henry's wishes three blind dates are set up and then he has to choose, but he doesn't choose any of the three women. But he does make an announcement!

"The future, it would seem, is looking very bright."

Quinn is delightful neurotic character. Having worked in a newsroom, I recognized all the characters who work at the station. The dialogue is quick, fresh and authentic. JUST A GIRL is definitive romantic chick-lit and lots of fun!
Profile Image for Emma Barnes.
243 reviews3 followers
December 13, 2020
This is the story of Quinn and Henry and what a story it is full of relatable characters from the off set and choc full of moments that will have the reader falling in love. Their story is told over 26 Chapters (+Epilogue) and is actually the second book in the 'Just a' Series, even though the books can be read as standalones, there is a high possibility that the reader will find themselves wanting the first book.
The characters themselves are very much someone that the reader can relate to. Not only that the main characters first meeting is funny and some thing that the reader will no doubt find completely relatable. When it comes to Quinn's interactions with her friends and family they can be described simply as brilliant.
This entire book is choc full of moments that are funny and other moments that are sure to get the readers emotions involved. The reader will easily find themselves absorbed into this book to the point that they may have difficulty putting it down. The main reason readers will find themselves hooked is the basis of this book that is Quinn and Henry's love story and whether these two will end up together.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and other readers will adore the relatable funny moments that this book is full of. Not only that, there is also an underlying theme in the book not just about finding love but about accepting yourself exactly as you are. This theme is present throughout the book and is something that we can all relate to
160 reviews2 followers
May 16, 2021
A Fun Story

I don't normally read romance "lie dramas." I cannot stand romance books that are written about people lying to each other at the beginning of a potential relationship ...and then the whole rest of the book is only about the angst, the regrets, the whining, the blame and the fallout from the lie(s) ...and on & on ad nauseum. It's so tiresome. I was really afraid that this book was going to be one of those after the first 9 chapters... But it wasn't, thankfully.

You see "the big lie that must be overcome" as a plot device in SO MANY romance novels that it's become such a predictable, boring, hackneyed thing. Fortunately the author, Becky Monson, has done something new, different, & unpredictable with that old tired lie plotline using her signature style.

I like Becky's books ... they're well-written. She writes very quirky, funny characters & stories; I have enjoyed reading several of them. The heroine in this book, Quinn, is certainly quirky; though not a favorite character of mine (from Book 1 in the series). She's flaky, a bit shallow & a hot mess (and a little of her inner dialog goes a looong way) but I have become attached to her somehow ... so I was interested in seeing how her story turned out.

Although not my favorite type of story, the author's use of humor kept me reading and guessing what in the world was going to happen next. A fun story.
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