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Thick As Thieves
Some people have a voice for radio, but I must have a fanny for infidelity. This is why I bought a one-way ticket from London to New York and decided to ignore all men forever. And then I meet Owen.
Owen holds all the red flags I can’t resist: mysterious and handsome, sarcastic with a clever smile… Plus, he works in tech like I do? Here’s my knickers, good sir.
But, a few cybersecurity breaches at my job means I don’t have time for anything, especially not a classic New York City romance. The bad part is I think the break-ins are coming from the same source. The worst part is that Owen is quickly stealing my heart.
The more time I spend with mysterious, handsome Owen, the more I wonder if maybe he’s the man I’ve been looking for all along. And unfortunately for me, I think that statement might be true in more ways than one.
Owen holds all the red flags I can’t resist: mysterious and handsome, sarcastic with a clever smile… Plus, he works in tech like I do? Here’s my knickers, good sir.
But, a few cybersecurity breaches at my job means I don’t have time for anything, especially not a classic New York City romance. The bad part is I think the break-ins are coming from the same source. The worst part is that Owen is quickly stealing my heart.
The more time I spend with mysterious, handsome Owen, the more I wonder if maybe he’s the man I’ve been looking for all along. And unfortunately for me, I think that statement might be true in more ways than one.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2020
88 people are currently reading
1248 people want to read
About the author
Julie Olivia
23 books2,826 followersJulie Olivia writes cozy love stories filled with humor, spice, and close friend groups that feel like a warm hug. She is a roller coaster fan, avid romance reader, and rainy day enthusiast.
Julie lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband and their very opinionated pets.
Sign-up for the newsletter for book updates, special offers, and VIP exclusives!: https://julieoliviaauthor.com/newslet...
She can be easily reached on Instagram at @JulieOliviaAuthor! Come say hi!
Visit her at JulieOliviaAuthor.com
Instagram: @JulieOliviaAuthor
Facebook: @JulieOliviaAuthor
Bookbub: https://bit.ly/2NbH7Jy
Julie lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband and their very opinionated pets.
Sign-up for the newsletter for book updates, special offers, and VIP exclusives!: https://julieoliviaauthor.com/newslet...
She can be easily reached on Instagram at @JulieOliviaAuthor! Come say hi!
Visit her at JulieOliviaAuthor.com
Instagram: @JulieOliviaAuthor
Facebook: @JulieOliviaAuthor
Bookbub: https://bit.ly/2NbH7Jy
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
September 11, 2020
arc kindly provided by the author
4.5! I adored this book! Francesca moves to New York to escape her past relationships. She works as a penetration tester (yes, I also laughed at first… but it’s actually a hacker with good intentions! Hahaha) and since she’s allowed to do her job from home, she took the leap and moved from London to the big city.
Enter Owen! Tall, nerdy, handsome, and with Robert Pattinson’s jaw. Yep, I was sold there. Everyone who knows me knows that Robert Pattinson is my biggest weakness. Owen and Francesca’s connection is immediate and their chemistry is palpable. I loved their push and pull friendship, and what I loved the most was how soft and honest Owen is. He’s like the perfect boy for me <3
The book is a very fast read with a few plot twists I didn’t see coming. I loved the funny parts and the steamy parts, and even though their attraction was immediate, I love how they take time knowing each other and Owen never pressures Francesca to more. Basically, it’s not a slowburn, but it isn’t instalove either. It’s in the middle, and that’s my favorite pacing in romance books.
4.5! I adored this book! Francesca moves to New York to escape her past relationships. She works as a penetration tester (yes, I also laughed at first… but it’s actually a hacker with good intentions! Hahaha) and since she’s allowed to do her job from home, she took the leap and moved from London to the big city.
Enter Owen! Tall, nerdy, handsome, and with Robert Pattinson’s jaw. Yep, I was sold there. Everyone who knows me knows that Robert Pattinson is my biggest weakness. Owen and Francesca’s connection is immediate and their chemistry is palpable. I loved their push and pull friendship, and what I loved the most was how soft and honest Owen is. He’s like the perfect boy for me <3
The book is a very fast read with a few plot twists I didn’t see coming. I loved the funny parts and the steamy parts, and even though their attraction was immediate, I love how they take time knowing each other and Owen never pressures Francesca to more. Basically, it’s not a slowburn, but it isn’t instalove either. It’s in the middle, and that’s my favorite pacing in romance books.
September 18, 2020
Fellow romantic comedy lovers, you need Fran and Owen in your lives.
Fuelled from a breakup, Fran creates a fresh start by packing up her life in London and moving to New York City, vowing to not get involved in a relationship. From her career in the tech industry as a penetration tester (I’m still giggling over this) to her love of buffets and feline friends, I absolutely loved Fran. The humour, witty and sarcastic, spoke to my soul.
Along with setting the pages on fire, the romance between Fran and Owen, both workaholics, was utterly charming and caused a permanent smile on my face while reading. Beginning in the most adorable meet cute scenario, expecting to never see each other again, I loved the coincidental ways their lives continued to intertwine.
As Owen also works in the tech industry, there’s a slight mystery thrown in that added a fun twist to the story with unexpected surprises. And with an epilogue that made my heart somersault in delight, I absolutely loved this one.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for a review.
Fuelled from a breakup, Fran creates a fresh start by packing up her life in London and moving to New York City, vowing to not get involved in a relationship. From her career in the tech industry as a penetration tester (I’m still giggling over this) to her love of buffets and feline friends, I absolutely loved Fran. The humour, witty and sarcastic, spoke to my soul.
Along with setting the pages on fire, the romance between Fran and Owen, both workaholics, was utterly charming and caused a permanent smile on my face while reading. Beginning in the most adorable meet cute scenario, expecting to never see each other again, I loved the coincidental ways their lives continued to intertwine.
As Owen also works in the tech industry, there’s a slight mystery thrown in that added a fun twist to the story with unexpected surprises. And with an epilogue that made my heart somersault in delight, I absolutely loved this one.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for a review.
September 21, 2020
September has been kicking me in the butt this year. The beginning of the school year is usually rough, but add a pandemic and a one year old..... let’s just say it takes teacher tired to a whole new level. I’ve only read 3 books so far this month, but at least I’ve enjoyed the 3. I promise the reviews for the other 2 and 2 months of BOTM posts will come later this week!
I’m getting back on track by starting with my latest read. I read Thick as Thieves by @julieoliviaauthor this weekend. It was exactly what I needed after a crazy week! I really enjoyed Julie Olivia’s last book, which meant that I was really excited when she asked if I wanted to read her newest!
Thick as Thieves was released September 17th. So it’s available to read now! We follow Owen and Fran. They are both working in the technology field. Fran has just moved to New York City after getting out of a bad relationship in London that leaves her with tons of worries and concerns when it comes to love. She has a completely adorable meet cute with Owen and things progress from there!
❤️Review❤️
Julie Olivia can write a rom-com! This book had all of the witty banter you want and expect in a rom-com! She sets the tone from the very first page. I loved how their personality jumped right off of the page. There’s a scene with a murder mystery dinner party that was just perfection! There was an element of surprise with the ending that I just didn’t see coming even when I thought I had it all figured out. If you are looking for a fun story with a fun element of technology, I highly recommend you check this one out!!! Julie Olivia is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors!
4 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#books #kindlebooks #romanticcommedybooks #romcombooks #funauthors #creativestories #2020bookreleases #2020books #bookstagram
I’m getting back on track by starting with my latest read. I read Thick as Thieves by @julieoliviaauthor this weekend. It was exactly what I needed after a crazy week! I really enjoyed Julie Olivia’s last book, which meant that I was really excited when she asked if I wanted to read her newest!
Thick as Thieves was released September 17th. So it’s available to read now! We follow Owen and Fran. They are both working in the technology field. Fran has just moved to New York City after getting out of a bad relationship in London that leaves her with tons of worries and concerns when it comes to love. She has a completely adorable meet cute with Owen and things progress from there!
❤️Review❤️
Julie Olivia can write a rom-com! This book had all of the witty banter you want and expect in a rom-com! She sets the tone from the very first page. I loved how their personality jumped right off of the page. There’s a scene with a murder mystery dinner party that was just perfection! There was an element of surprise with the ending that I just didn’t see coming even when I thought I had it all figured out. If you are looking for a fun story with a fun element of technology, I highly recommend you check this one out!!! Julie Olivia is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors!
4 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#books #kindlebooks #romanticcommedybooks #romcombooks #funauthors #creativestories #2020bookreleases #2020books #bookstagram
September 16, 2020
If I could give a character award out, I think I would be nominating Fran from Thick As Thieves. She is the epitome of what I consider a strong female character. Her relationship experiences have left her hurt and hateful towards people, which is completely understandable. All of her past boyfriends ended up cheating on her and it left her with a very painful edge to her that she wears constantly. This is confidently displayed from the moment she meets Owen at the furniture shop and is immediately curious of why such a handsome man would even be bothering with her. Fran’s constant questioning and challenging of Owen and his intentions, just attracts Owen that much more.
Fran helped me remember why I love being a woman and why it’s completely acceptable to be curious of others and their intentions. After so many bad experiences, it makes it very difficult to trust people with that open door kind of policy. But Fran does it in such a way that she’s not off-putting in an aggressive way, but an endearing way.
Owen on the other hand is a sexy hunk of open book. Except for that little secret he IS keeping from everyone. But time will not be on his side there. His goal right now is to win over the elusive and gorgeous Fran and help remind her that she is worth loving and that he wants to be the one to do that.
Their comedic dynamics made this read incredibly quick and such a lovely story that I had a hard time putting it down when I absolutely knew I had to. Getting lost in the world of Fran and Owen that’s filled with shots and quips at one another while simultaneously flirting and enjoying each other was just too much fun for my own good.
Another intriguing element about this particular story is that there is an amazing supporting character. Lara. The old lady that lives down the hall from Fran and who kind of just invites herself into Fran’s life without and question. She shows up at odd times, she butts in when she’s not invited and the old bitty LOVES her nature documentaries. What book doesn’t need this kind of an awesome support character? I adored Lara so much. I want me very own old lady neighbor that invites herself in and constantly makes me borderline uncomfortable with humor.
If you love a solid romantic comedy, this is one you’ll want to get your hands on. My first read of Olivia’s and it certainly won’t be my last!
Fran helped me remember why I love being a woman and why it’s completely acceptable to be curious of others and their intentions. After so many bad experiences, it makes it very difficult to trust people with that open door kind of policy. But Fran does it in such a way that she’s not off-putting in an aggressive way, but an endearing way.
Owen on the other hand is a sexy hunk of open book. Except for that little secret he IS keeping from everyone. But time will not be on his side there. His goal right now is to win over the elusive and gorgeous Fran and help remind her that she is worth loving and that he wants to be the one to do that.
Their comedic dynamics made this read incredibly quick and such a lovely story that I had a hard time putting it down when I absolutely knew I had to. Getting lost in the world of Fran and Owen that’s filled with shots and quips at one another while simultaneously flirting and enjoying each other was just too much fun for my own good.
Another intriguing element about this particular story is that there is an amazing supporting character. Lara. The old lady that lives down the hall from Fran and who kind of just invites herself into Fran’s life without and question. She shows up at odd times, she butts in when she’s not invited and the old bitty LOVES her nature documentaries. What book doesn’t need this kind of an awesome support character? I adored Lara so much. I want me very own old lady neighbor that invites herself in and constantly makes me borderline uncomfortable with humor.
If you love a solid romantic comedy, this is one you’ll want to get your hands on. My first read of Olivia’s and it certainly won’t be my last!
September 17, 2020
“𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣, 𝙥𝙪𝙧𝙥𝙤𝙨𝙚”
This is a romcom book about two people from two different worlds—London and New York—who were connected by fate, maybe?
Francesca and Owen both works at the technology industry where their small world collides. From the moment they met, their banters were quick and on-point which made this book fun to read. I also enjoyed how the POV for each chapter switches between the two of them which made this book more interesting to read. The narration of their thoughts were precise but also interesting.
However, something felt a bit off to me and i think it was because i couldn’t really relate to their jobs well so i could not fully absorb the story. I can’t seem to connect to a book when there’s something i can’t relate to, hence the deduction in the rating. Other than that though, the story was fun and interesting to read! I would definitely still recommend this book to romcom lovers!
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫, 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐞 𝐎𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐚, 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐢𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰.
This is a romcom book about two people from two different worlds—London and New York—who were connected by fate, maybe?
Francesca and Owen both works at the technology industry where their small world collides. From the moment they met, their banters were quick and on-point which made this book fun to read. I also enjoyed how the POV for each chapter switches between the two of them which made this book more interesting to read. The narration of their thoughts were precise but also interesting.
However, something felt a bit off to me and i think it was because i couldn’t really relate to their jobs well so i could not fully absorb the story. I can’t seem to connect to a book when there’s something i can’t relate to, hence the deduction in the rating. Other than that though, the story was fun and interesting to read! I would definitely still recommend this book to romcom lovers!
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫, 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐞 𝐎𝐥𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐚, 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐢𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰.
September 17, 2020
4.5 stars. I’ll be forever grateful with Julie for reaching out to me offering me her new book in exchange for an honest review.
Fran moves from London to NY seeking for a change in her life, trying to escape from her cheating ex-boyfriends and old life. She is happy to move to a new city, with a new job, new opportunities and new thoughts, the ones that state she is going to ignore all men. Little does she know that in NY, she will meet Owen, a witty, sexy and lovely penetration tester. What are the odds to run into someone who has the same job as you? It can be normal for a lawyer, a doctor maybe, but a PENETESTER? She hopes it’s a joke, but sadly (or not so much) it is not.
Their relationship grows as fast as her problems at work, and it doesn’t help that Owen (aka Stuart the rat as she calls her hacker) is the one who is causing her all that trouble, even though none of them know. Sharing their passion about technology is what makes them close in the first time, but it may also be what drives them apart.
This book is the nerd and geek story i didn’t know i needed. I fell in love with the characters from page 1, they are both sassies, careless, and they both enjoy messing with each other.
I enjoyes the fact that Julie gives us a lot of background information about Fran and Owen’s life before being ethical hackers (😉😎), it helped me a lot to understand why they acted as they did.
Emma, Taylor, Lara and Natalie were absolutely perfect as “side” characters, they had a lot of importance in the story and they were very well developed.
The conversations in this book had me laughing for some solid 5’, and i absolutely loved it.
And for the ones who are wondering, this book has some scenes that O M G they were hot, like “i had to open my window” hot.
Julie’s writing style is impeccable, she mixed some British expressions that were perfectly placed and added something extra to that scene.
Fran moves from London to NY seeking for a change in her life, trying to escape from her cheating ex-boyfriends and old life. She is happy to move to a new city, with a new job, new opportunities and new thoughts, the ones that state she is going to ignore all men. Little does she know that in NY, she will meet Owen, a witty, sexy and lovely penetration tester. What are the odds to run into someone who has the same job as you? It can be normal for a lawyer, a doctor maybe, but a PENETESTER? She hopes it’s a joke, but sadly (or not so much) it is not.
Their relationship grows as fast as her problems at work, and it doesn’t help that Owen (aka Stuart the rat as she calls her hacker) is the one who is causing her all that trouble, even though none of them know. Sharing their passion about technology is what makes them close in the first time, but it may also be what drives them apart.
This book is the nerd and geek story i didn’t know i needed. I fell in love with the characters from page 1, they are both sassies, careless, and they both enjoy messing with each other.
I enjoyes the fact that Julie gives us a lot of background information about Fran and Owen’s life before being ethical hackers (😉😎), it helped me a lot to understand why they acted as they did.
Emma, Taylor, Lara and Natalie were absolutely perfect as “side” characters, they had a lot of importance in the story and they were very well developed.
The conversations in this book had me laughing for some solid 5’, and i absolutely loved it.
And for the ones who are wondering, this book has some scenes that O M G they were hot, like “i had to open my window” hot.
Julie’s writing style is impeccable, she mixed some British expressions that were perfectly placed and added something extra to that scene.
September 28, 2020
Fran is a british woman who moves into New York after breaking up with her boyfriend. She is a penetration tester, which basically has to do with the security behind firewells. A big company has hired her because she's good at what she's doing. She also has one goal. To stay away from guys and love interests. A plan that goes to hell when she meets the charming Owen.
This was such a pleasant surprise! I thoroughly enjoyed this one! The plot was intriguing when it came to their jobs, since it was about a field I didn't know much. But the characters stole the show. Their chemistry was palpable, their dialogues were fun, there were some hot scenes and amazing secondary characters! What else do you need?
If you need to read a fast paced light romance, with some swoon worthy and laugh out loud moments, then this is the book you need to read. Give it a chance and you won't regret it!
PS: I also loved the bonus epilogue I got from the newsletter!! :)
Thank you to the author who kindly offered a copy to me in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a pleasant surprise! I thoroughly enjoyed this one! The plot was intriguing when it came to their jobs, since it was about a field I didn't know much. But the characters stole the show. Their chemistry was palpable, their dialogues were fun, there were some hot scenes and amazing secondary characters! What else do you need?
If you need to read a fast paced light romance, with some swoon worthy and laugh out loud moments, then this is the book you need to read. Give it a chance and you won't regret it!
PS: I also loved the bonus epilogue I got from the newsletter!! :)
Thank you to the author who kindly offered a copy to me in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2020
4.5🌟
What do you get when 2 penetration testers (get your minds out the gutter) meet in a furniture shop? Chemistry! pure I can't stop reading I want to see where this is going chemistry.
This was a really enjoyable rom com with a hint of mystery. Poor Francesca. I really felt she'd been dealt a crappy hand. Cheated on by her previous boyfriends she decides to upsticks and move from London to New York to start a new job. Fully intent on staying single she never imagined a simple trip to buy a new chair would end up in her meeting hunky Owen. The pair had a real sizzle going between them but Francesca has her walls up high and desperately tries to fight this thing building between them. Owen oh Owen I swooned hard for you! I read this story with heart eyes for you 😍
This book made me smile, made me mad, made me curious and made me laugh but overall it made me love Julie's writing even more.
What do you get when 2 penetration testers (get your minds out the gutter) meet in a furniture shop? Chemistry! pure I can't stop reading I want to see where this is going chemistry.
This was a really enjoyable rom com with a hint of mystery. Poor Francesca. I really felt she'd been dealt a crappy hand. Cheated on by her previous boyfriends she decides to upsticks and move from London to New York to start a new job. Fully intent on staying single she never imagined a simple trip to buy a new chair would end up in her meeting hunky Owen. The pair had a real sizzle going between them but Francesca has her walls up high and desperately tries to fight this thing building between them. Owen oh Owen I swooned hard for you! I read this story with heart eyes for you 😍
This book made me smile, made me mad, made me curious and made me laugh but overall it made me love Julie's writing even more.
September 12, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! It was such a quick and fun love story. I am always down for a hater to lover story and she did not disappoint!! I also liked how the characters were so nerdy with their computer talk and I was bored in the slightest! It was definitely a fun coupling. I also fell in love with the characters and how they interacted with each other. I could feel the chemistry through the pages! I’d definitely recommend this book!
September 13, 2020
ARC provided by author.!(
First off the cover.! OMG 😍
I love the cover, absolutely love it. One of my favorite. Now I loved the book. I completely fell in love with Fran and Owen. Their banter and sarcasm is something else. I love how independent Fran is and how she makes Owen work for that first date.(: I love their meet cute. I want my own Elijah Owen. I love this book.
After a breakup Fran is ready to start fresh. She gets a new job and moves from London to New York. She throws herself into her work and doesn’t try to make friend. Through a series of events she ends up meeting Owen. She tries to evade his advances, while he pursues her to get a date and she tries to keep it professional, until she can’t. Overall, great book definitely recommend.
First off the cover.! OMG 😍
I love the cover, absolutely love it. One of my favorite. Now I loved the book. I completely fell in love with Fran and Owen. Their banter and sarcasm is something else. I love how independent Fran is and how she makes Owen work for that first date.(: I love their meet cute. I want my own Elijah Owen. I love this book.
After a breakup Fran is ready to start fresh. She gets a new job and moves from London to New York. She throws herself into her work and doesn’t try to make friend. Through a series of events she ends up meeting Owen. She tries to evade his advances, while he pursues her to get a date and she tries to keep it professional, until she can’t. Overall, great book definitely recommend.
September 17, 2020
Fran is determined to remain single after disastrous relationships. Owen is hot and mysterious and happens to also work in the same field. There is a lot to love and enjoy about this storyline which hit the right spot for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 17, 2020
Francesca and Owen are so adorable. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and how she made him work for every interaction! I was in a similar field as our couple, and I was pleased that the information provided was overall fairly realistic. This is my first book by this author, but it will not be my last!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 17, 2020
Oh my god...! Owen and Fran together are so funny and cute...and the air around them chisels when their near...I am a fan the book is beautifully written.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 28, 2024
Absolutely delightful and fun to read!
I love Fran and Owen! Their chemistry is so steamy and cheeky. I sometimes don't enjoy the heroine if she's too pessimistic/suspect but I still found Fran to be light with her woes and still humourous and likeable . I did see the plot twist from a mile away but there were still some surprises in store.
I love Fran and Owen! Their chemistry is so steamy and cheeky. I sometimes don't enjoy the heroine if she's too pessimistic/suspect but I still found Fran to be light with her woes and still humourous and likeable . I did see the plot twist from a mile away but there were still some surprises in store.
September 20, 2020
One word : WOW!!!!
full review to come soon.
full review to come soon.
October 9, 2020
Thank you to the Author for an ARC of this. It was a quick read that was so cute and funny!
Fran just moved from the UK to London to start a new work-from-home job of "anti-hacking" where she makes sure the company cannot get hacked into. She meets Owen at a furniture store and she is immediately drawn to them; they go for coffee and she assumes he's just a typical boy that will break her heart so she leaves. Only to meet him again at a networking event, they are paired up together to bounce ideas off of each other. The more time she spends with him the more she starts to like him - but will she still like him when she discovers his secret?
The pacing of this book was perfect and I loved all the little twists and turns along the way. I'm not a fan of instalove so I really enjoyed that they let the tension and the feelings build throughout the book. Very well written, I would definitely recommend it for a fun, light read!
Fran just moved from the UK to London to start a new work-from-home job of "anti-hacking" where she makes sure the company cannot get hacked into. She meets Owen at a furniture store and she is immediately drawn to them; they go for coffee and she assumes he's just a typical boy that will break her heart so she leaves. Only to meet him again at a networking event, they are paired up together to bounce ideas off of each other. The more time she spends with him the more she starts to like him - but will she still like him when she discovers his secret?
The pacing of this book was perfect and I loved all the little twists and turns along the way. I'm not a fan of instalove so I really enjoyed that they let the tension and the feelings build throughout the book. Very well written, I would definitely recommend it for a fun, light read!
June 23, 2022
2.75/5.
I really, really want to rate this higher but I can't bring myself to. For such a cute and fluffy book, it just didn't have much to it. I loved all the characters, but everyone seemed underdeveloped. I don't think I learnt anything about Owe beyond how big his arms were. The later angst points in their relationship felt too simple, their tension too easily solved, and the plot moved far too quickly towards the end. The intimacy too was very fast paced and then suddenly done.
A lot of this book relied on sudden fate and surprise meetings, which is fine, but I expected it to be based on subtle hacking and meetings, etc. Unfortunately as I wrote this, I knocked down from 3 to 2.75.
I love Julie Olivia's later works but this seems to undeveloped for me, however cute it was.
And it was cute!
I really, really want to rate this higher but I can't bring myself to. For such a cute and fluffy book, it just didn't have much to it. I loved all the characters, but everyone seemed underdeveloped. I don't think I learnt anything about Owe beyond how big his arms were. The later angst points in their relationship felt too simple, their tension too easily solved, and the plot moved far too quickly towards the end. The intimacy too was very fast paced and then suddenly done.
A lot of this book relied on sudden fate and surprise meetings, which is fine, but I expected it to be based on subtle hacking and meetings, etc. Unfortunately as I wrote this, I knocked down from 3 to 2.75.
I love Julie Olivia's later works but this seems to undeveloped for me, however cute it was.
And it was cute!
May 18, 2021
4 stars
This was such a fun, enjoyable read with two very likeable main characters!
This was such a fun, enjoyable read with two very likeable main characters!
September 17, 2020
"This. This is what a kiss should be. His lips are everything—everything— I imagined , and yet my mind could not have dreamed up such a perfect mouth. Nothing could have prepared me for its perfect size, the lips ’ mastery as they open and place little pecks along my own mouth, and the hot, wickedly harsh breaths that exit every time he demands more in return."
Fran is so over men and all their rubbish lies! So much so that she packs up her life, her cat and ex's recliner and ships or to New York, this fresh start with a super chilled out job as a remote location pentester was supposed to be her fresh start with her remaining man free. Well that plan flew right out the window when Fran meets Owen while she is waiting - for like forever - to get served when she went to get a new recliner after she burned her old one. The two instantly hit it of with their snarky banter, so much so that Owen asks Frannie to coffee. When their coffee date doesn't really goes the way Owen hopped and Frannie leaves without so much as her phone number, Owen is convinced his perfect match is now lost to him. But as fate would have it the two are brought back together and Owen is determined not to let Fran slip through his fingers again, but when they realize that their work is actually intertwined will it be to late to save their budding relationship?
"The lyrics may be from McCartney, but his vocals are deep and smooth like butter, just like Sinatra. Damn, I must be the Wicked Witch of the West , because holy moly, am I melting ? Does anyone have water, or would that just make it worse? I discreetly fan my face, stopping only when I notice the bartender watching me."
••
“So, dicks are off the table?” I ask. “They were never on the table.”“That’d be weird if they were.”“Well, sure, how would you feel with a bunch of dicks just rolling around on a table?”“Are they attached to anything?”“Men, I would imagine.”“But they’re rolling?”
I loved reading this book by Olivia. I will say it started out slow but this slow burn read was so worth getting invested in. I loved that Thick as Thieves was that the story was not rushed and the storyline flowed seamlessly. Both main characters were cute in their own way, my only issues was that Fran kept letting her past relationships make her doubt Owen. As for Owen, I loved that he didn't push to hard but he worked his way to building Frans trust. However the real winner for me was the secondary characters in this book; Emma was just to cute and bubbly. But really the star was Lara, I love a good oldie and Lara was the perfect combination of meddling old gal and sassy lady, added to this her quirky love for all thing wildlife and I was sold.
••
"This. This is what a kiss should be. His lips are everything—everything— I imagined , and yet my mind could not have dreamed up such a perfect mouth. Nothing could have prepared me for its perfect size, the lips ’ mastery as they open and place little pecks along my own mouth, and the hot, wickedly harsh breaths that exit every time he demands more in return."
Overall this slow burn romance is definitely one I would recommend reading, not only was there a super cute couple but I loved the suspense element of this novel.
Fran is so over men and all their rubbish lies! So much so that she packs up her life, her cat and ex's recliner and ships or to New York, this fresh start with a super chilled out job as a remote location pentester was supposed to be her fresh start with her remaining man free. Well that plan flew right out the window when Fran meets Owen while she is waiting - for like forever - to get served when she went to get a new recliner after she burned her old one. The two instantly hit it of with their snarky banter, so much so that Owen asks Frannie to coffee. When their coffee date doesn't really goes the way Owen hopped and Frannie leaves without so much as her phone number, Owen is convinced his perfect match is now lost to him. But as fate would have it the two are brought back together and Owen is determined not to let Fran slip through his fingers again, but when they realize that their work is actually intertwined will it be to late to save their budding relationship?
"The lyrics may be from McCartney, but his vocals are deep and smooth like butter, just like Sinatra. Damn, I must be the Wicked Witch of the West , because holy moly, am I melting ? Does anyone have water, or would that just make it worse? I discreetly fan my face, stopping only when I notice the bartender watching me."
••
“So, dicks are off the table?” I ask. “They were never on the table.”“That’d be weird if they were.”“Well, sure, how would you feel with a bunch of dicks just rolling around on a table?”“Are they attached to anything?”“Men, I would imagine.”“But they’re rolling?”
I loved reading this book by Olivia. I will say it started out slow but this slow burn read was so worth getting invested in. I loved that Thick as Thieves was that the story was not rushed and the storyline flowed seamlessly. Both main characters were cute in their own way, my only issues was that Fran kept letting her past relationships make her doubt Owen. As for Owen, I loved that he didn't push to hard but he worked his way to building Frans trust. However the real winner for me was the secondary characters in this book; Emma was just to cute and bubbly. But really the star was Lara, I love a good oldie and Lara was the perfect combination of meddling old gal and sassy lady, added to this her quirky love for all thing wildlife and I was sold.
••
"This. This is what a kiss should be. His lips are everything—everything— I imagined , and yet my mind could not have dreamed up such a perfect mouth. Nothing could have prepared me for its perfect size, the lips ’ mastery as they open and place little pecks along my own mouth, and the hot, wickedly harsh breaths that exit every time he demands more in return."
Overall this slow burn romance is definitely one I would recommend reading, not only was there a super cute couple but I loved the suspense element of this novel.
September 14, 2020
4 stars
This book was super fun and such a great rom-com!
Fran moves to New York to get away from her old life and cheating men. She has no interest in meeting someone new. She is solely focused on her new job in the tech world. Well that is until she meets Owen, a fellow hacker who is sexy, mysterious and a sense of humour. He has to have something wrong with him?
This book is so much fun! I mean laugh out loud type of fun. The characters are lovable! I mean honestly, I don't know who I loved more. The main characters or the supporting characters. They are all very well written with their unique personalities. Even though this book is based on Owen and Fran's relationship, the personalities of the supporting characters shone through and were given the perfect amount of "air time". They didn't overpower the storyline yet they impacted it.
The chemistry between Owen and Fran was instant however I loved their friendship too. They didn't rush into the romance yet it wasn't dragged out. Julie kept the readers wanting more, and when we got it, it did NOT disappoint.
The fun witty and banter throughout this book was amazing. It was like reading with friends. There was a few dialogues that even after I finished the book I was still laughing at it.
Julie Olivia is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors, I would say she is very close to Max Monroe standards! Funny, witty and amazing.
Thank you to the author for providing me with this arc in exchange for an honest review.
This book was super fun and such a great rom-com!
Fran moves to New York to get away from her old life and cheating men. She has no interest in meeting someone new. She is solely focused on her new job in the tech world. Well that is until she meets Owen, a fellow hacker who is sexy, mysterious and a sense of humour. He has to have something wrong with him?
This book is so much fun! I mean laugh out loud type of fun. The characters are lovable! I mean honestly, I don't know who I loved more. The main characters or the supporting characters. They are all very well written with their unique personalities. Even though this book is based on Owen and Fran's relationship, the personalities of the supporting characters shone through and were given the perfect amount of "air time". They didn't overpower the storyline yet they impacted it.
The chemistry between Owen and Fran was instant however I loved their friendship too. They didn't rush into the romance yet it wasn't dragged out. Julie kept the readers wanting more, and when we got it, it did NOT disappoint.
The fun witty and banter throughout this book was amazing. It was like reading with friends. There was a few dialogues that even after I finished the book I was still laughing at it.
Julie Olivia is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors, I would say she is very close to Max Monroe standards! Funny, witty and amazing.
Thank you to the author for providing me with this arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2020
Thick as Thieves is an all new enemies to lovers romcom that will have you swooning and laughing!
Francesca is tired of bad men and crappy relationships. When she gets a great remote job offer for hacking she takes her chances and moves to New York from London. It’s a big change and big city, but Fran is strong and resilient enough to take it head on.
Elijah Owen is a business owner and a penetration tester (yes I laughed at the title too). Pretty much he’s a hacker, and as if hackers are drawn together he and Fran meet randomly and continue from there on.
Owen & Frans starts gives us chemistry immediately. Though Fran is super guarded, she can’t help but leg pieces of Owen into her heart. As they grow closer from enemies to friends, she finds herself giving her trust to him.
But Fran is about to find out NY isn’t that big and the people around her are connected more than she realizes. What she expects the least is that Owen might be keeping secrets about his work. It’s up to Fran to figure out what.
Fran and Owen were really great together. She shows Owen there’s more to time than a job and he teaches Fran that not all men are self serving jerks. steam.
This book was an enjoyable fast paced read, I l loved Fran’s attitude and it was impossible not to love Owens charm. Together they make this book full of funny remarks and steam!
4.5/5 stars
*arc provided for an honest review*
Francesca is tired of bad men and crappy relationships. When she gets a great remote job offer for hacking she takes her chances and moves to New York from London. It’s a big change and big city, but Fran is strong and resilient enough to take it head on.
Elijah Owen is a business owner and a penetration tester (yes I laughed at the title too). Pretty much he’s a hacker, and as if hackers are drawn together he and Fran meet randomly and continue from there on.
Owen & Frans starts gives us chemistry immediately. Though Fran is super guarded, she can’t help but leg pieces of Owen into her heart. As they grow closer from enemies to friends, she finds herself giving her trust to him.
But Fran is about to find out NY isn’t that big and the people around her are connected more than she realizes. What she expects the least is that Owen might be keeping secrets about his work. It’s up to Fran to figure out what.
Fran and Owen were really great together. She shows Owen there’s more to time than a job and he teaches Fran that not all men are self serving jerks. steam.
This book was an enjoyable fast paced read, I l loved Fran’s attitude and it was impossible not to love Owens charm. Together they make this book full of funny remarks and steam!
4.5/5 stars
*arc provided for an honest review*
September 12, 2020
Thick As Thieves is a really fun read! Fran has just moved from London to New York to start a new, man free, chapter in her life. It seems like cruel kismet that she meets the handsome, too good to be true, Owen, who coincidentally works in her field. Fran is determined to live the single life she moved across an ocean for, but Owen has other plans. Fran is funny, spirited, and a bit cheeky. I loved that she wasn’t falling all over Owen, even if she wanted to. She had a plan and she meant to stick to it! Owen was persistent but patient, working to build trust that he understood Fran needed from him. There are also a couple of delightful secondary characters that really add to this story. The only criticism I have is that it seemed a bit sluggish to me, just after the halfway point, when they had kissed but were still figuring out where to go from there. But, I’m always ready for the main event and this was definitely a slow burn, so that may be just a personal preference issue. No complaints when they got there though...very steamy intimate scenes! There’s a bit of a mystery revealed, that I wasn’t expecting, so that was fun. This was my first book by Julie Olivia, but it won’t be my last! I definitely recommend this book is you’re looking for a low angst, sweet but sassy, rom com!
ARC provided by the author for me to read and review.
ARC provided by the author for me to read and review.
September 11, 2020
“Thick as Thieves”—Julie Olivia [4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️] This was just the light and fun book that I needed right now and I really enjoyed this new super cute rom-com from Julia. Fran decides to pick up and move from London to New York City for a fresh start, landing a job in the tech field which she loves. She’s so tired of all the cheating men from her past in London and she’s not interested in trying to find anyone right now, that is until she meets Owen. Owen is everything she was trying to avoid; he’s handsome, mysterious, snarky, and in the tech field as she is. When Owen first meets Fran, he’s so intrigued by her and is determined to get to know this sassy little Brit whose a part of the tech world too. The more time they spend with each other, the more Fran realizes he may be just the man she’s been looking for. I really enjoyed this cute storyline, the witty banter amongst Fran and Owen, and the slow burn leading up to their techy-romance! Make sure to grab a copy of this book when it comes out on September 17th! 👍🏼 Thank you to Julie Olivia for a digital ARC of her book in exchange for my honest review! 💕📚
September 24, 2020
September has been such a good month for books so far. There was bound to be one that I didn't like, and here it is. The two main characters, Fran and Owen, are great. There is some wonderful quick witted banter between the two. However, neither character is very developed. We get a little bit of back story from the two but we mostly know that Fran is a negative nelly, so to speak, when it comes to relationships. It makes her completely discount Owen at every turn, until she can't anymore....and that's where this book takes a turn. It started out as a light and airy rom-com which I loved. Then we took a sharp turn into steamy territory, which was a bit of a shock. It's not that I don't read the occasional steamy romance novel, but it seems to have come out of left field for this one and for me it just didn't fit. Then the last few chapters read like a spy novel of some sort. I don't know, it was a pretty cute book for the most part, it just seemed to be in too many lanes all at once. I'd give it a two out of five, but I would still recommend as a quick, modern, steamy read if that's what you were looking for.
September 24, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Fran has relocated to America and is working as a penetration tester. She looks for ways hackers could get in and fixes them. After burning her old chair she heads to the store to buy a new one. That’s where she meets Owen buying a dragonfly pillow for one of his staff. He makes an impression when he flirts and insults her at the same time leading to her walking out of the coffee date that follows. She makes a new friend when a neighbour introduces her to Emma who makes the connection that she is the person Owen was talking about. Emma invites her to the hacker mixer and makes sure Owen is her partner. Meanwhile Owen is being blackmailed into hacking a company by an old friend and co founder of his company. What he doesn’t know is that it’s the same company that Fran is working for. They dance around each other for a while before giving into their attraction.
This was a pleasure to read and I loved the witty banter. The characters have interesting relationships and Fran seems to have a lot of man issues. This was my first by this author and I will definitely read more.
Fran has relocated to America and is working as a penetration tester. She looks for ways hackers could get in and fixes them. After burning her old chair she heads to the store to buy a new one. That’s where she meets Owen buying a dragonfly pillow for one of his staff. He makes an impression when he flirts and insults her at the same time leading to her walking out of the coffee date that follows. She makes a new friend when a neighbour introduces her to Emma who makes the connection that she is the person Owen was talking about. Emma invites her to the hacker mixer and makes sure Owen is her partner. Meanwhile Owen is being blackmailed into hacking a company by an old friend and co founder of his company. What he doesn’t know is that it’s the same company that Fran is working for. They dance around each other for a while before giving into their attraction.
This was a pleasure to read and I loved the witty banter. The characters have interesting relationships and Fran seems to have a lot of man issues. This was my first by this author and I will definitely read more.
October 17, 2020
Fun easy read! Enjoyed!
If you are a fan of romantic comedies, then Thick as Thieves is for you. Fran is a beautiful British penetration tester (aka: legal hacker) moves to NY for a new job and meets another gorgeous penetration test (again, a legal hacker) at a Hacker’s Anonymous Meeting. Spikes fly yet Fran isn’t in the mood for another relationship but Owen keeps popping up. Unfortunately, he may be popping up in the one place she never wants to see him…..her computer. Is Owen the amazing, smart, sexy, witty guy she thought or he just another hacker setting out in illegal ways?
This is a fun easy read that I really enjoyed. Its low angst but has enough drama to keep you on your toes. The whole “will they/won’t they” between Fran & Owen was very entertaining. And despite knowing nothing about technology, I somehow always love reading about genius hackers so that was a plus for me. There is definitely some steam to this book so don’t think it is all laughs…Owen & Fran are HOT. So overall, if you are staying away from dark/angsty books like I have been, I think you will adore this book and I would recommend it as it was just fun to read.
If you are a fan of romantic comedies, then Thick as Thieves is for you. Fran is a beautiful British penetration tester (aka: legal hacker) moves to NY for a new job and meets another gorgeous penetration test (again, a legal hacker) at a Hacker’s Anonymous Meeting. Spikes fly yet Fran isn’t in the mood for another relationship but Owen keeps popping up. Unfortunately, he may be popping up in the one place she never wants to see him…..her computer. Is Owen the amazing, smart, sexy, witty guy she thought or he just another hacker setting out in illegal ways?
This is a fun easy read that I really enjoyed. Its low angst but has enough drama to keep you on your toes. The whole “will they/won’t they” between Fran & Owen was very entertaining. And despite knowing nothing about technology, I somehow always love reading about genius hackers so that was a plus for me. There is definitely some steam to this book so don’t think it is all laughs…Owen & Fran are HOT. So overall, if you are staying away from dark/angsty books like I have been, I think you will adore this book and I would recommend it as it was just fun to read.
February 7, 2021
it seems like I’ve stumbled upon yet another book that didn’t excite me. Well, it did excite me when I came across the book but once I started reading, I was… disappointed. It was hard to enjoy this book when I wasn’t at all invested in the plot and the characters. I’m not a fan of Fran. Yes, I get that she’s been hurt one too many times but her hatred, well that’s stretching it so let’s go with irritation, towards Owen is unwarranted. I personally feel like it’s unjustified. He’s been nothing but nice to her — a bit presumptuous maybe but Fran is too — and yet she was so hot and cold towards him. Which is another thing I did not enjoy in this book. I know it’s supposed to be a hate-to-love sort of thing but I feel like I was missing out on something when Fran declared that she didn’t like him and then when she decided that she wanted him. Honestly, her hot and cold attitude didn’t do it for me. Owen, on the other hand, is okay, I guess? He’s boring to be honest, but at least he’s not as annoying as Fran is. all in all, it was a boring and disappointing read.
September 10, 2020
ARC kindly provided by the author. all opinions expressed are my own, and not influenced by this!
what happens when your boyfriend (ex-boyfriend, ex-recliner owner) cheats on you? you book a flight to new york and start over, of course.
thick as thieves is a cute, sweet and swoony read that’ll make you smile and giggle with its witty dialogue.
“How’s the new chair working out?” he asks.
“Papasan.”
“Bless you.”
A laugh erupts from me.
“No,” I say between laughs. “It’s called a papasan.”
and it also has some steamy moments which, by the way, were everything to me.
one thing i particularly liked about this book is the short chapters. it’s SO easy to read.
described as a frenemies to lovers romance, it won’t disappoint if what you’re looking for is funny banter and great chemistry! after their meet cute, you’ll immediately love dear owen and funny fran.
what happens when your boyfriend (ex-boyfriend, ex-recliner owner) cheats on you? you book a flight to new york and start over, of course.
thick as thieves is a cute, sweet and swoony read that’ll make you smile and giggle with its witty dialogue.
“How’s the new chair working out?” he asks.
“Papasan.”
“Bless you.”
A laugh erupts from me.
“No,” I say between laughs. “It’s called a papasan.”
and it also has some steamy moments which, by the way, were everything to me.
one thing i particularly liked about this book is the short chapters. it’s SO easy to read.
described as a frenemies to lovers romance, it won’t disappoint if what you’re looking for is funny banter and great chemistry! after their meet cute, you’ll immediately love dear owen and funny fran.
September 17, 2020
This is a new to me author, but definitely would read her again! Thick as Thieves was a fun RomCom & so much more.
Fran moves to NY from England for a new start. She’s sick of men & isn’t looking for a relationship. She’s focused on work & learning her way around. Of course, while chair shopping, she meets Owen. He’s handsome (that jaw line people!!), smart & somewhat mysterious. After a quick chat at a coffee shop, she leaves him without her number or her last name.
They’re both “penetration testers” (go ahead, giggle - that means “ethical hackers”) and as fate would have it, with a little help from Owen’s coworker Emma, they meet again & sparks fly. It’s not insta-love. Fran fights it. They bicker. They banter. And it’s so much fun!
Owen is involved in something that maybe he shouldn’t be, which causes more issues. Their romance is filled with humor, some mystery, meddling coworkers and a nosy neighbor! This book gives you all the RomCom but has so much more!!!
Fran moves to NY from England for a new start. She’s sick of men & isn’t looking for a relationship. She’s focused on work & learning her way around. Of course, while chair shopping, she meets Owen. He’s handsome (that jaw line people!!), smart & somewhat mysterious. After a quick chat at a coffee shop, she leaves him without her number or her last name.
They’re both “penetration testers” (go ahead, giggle - that means “ethical hackers”) and as fate would have it, with a little help from Owen’s coworker Emma, they meet again & sparks fly. It’s not insta-love. Fran fights it. They bicker. They banter. And it’s so much fun!
Owen is involved in something that maybe he shouldn’t be, which causes more issues. Their romance is filled with humor, some mystery, meddling coworkers and a nosy neighbor! This book gives you all the RomCom but has so much more!!!
February 15, 2024
2.5 ⭐️
I believe that when I first read this story, I gave it a 4-star rating but re-reading it a few years later, and I struggled with quite a few things...
Was this cute? Yes. It definitely had it's moments but when it comes to our mc's, they were incredibly underdeveloped.
Fran has a thing against men; she's been burned a lot. This warrants her to push Owen away, but he eventually wins her over because he's honestly a good guy. Her back and forth, hot and cold attitude towards Owen annoyed me quite a bit. We also don't know much about Owen except he works a lot, which is mentioned many times...
Fran gives in, and they get physical; this is where things get rushed and make for a mundane ending. There's a twist, some sort of detective work, and "conflict" that's smoothed over so quickly.
There's a lot of banter going on between the mc's, and it was fun at times, but it also got to be a bit too much.
I believe that when I first read this story, I gave it a 4-star rating but re-reading it a few years later, and I struggled with quite a few things...
Was this cute? Yes. It definitely had it's moments but when it comes to our mc's, they were incredibly underdeveloped.
Fran has a thing against men; she's been burned a lot. This warrants her to push Owen away, but he eventually wins her over because he's honestly a good guy. Her back and forth, hot and cold attitude towards Owen annoyed me quite a bit. We also don't know much about Owen except he works a lot, which is mentioned many times...
Fran gives in, and they get physical; this is where things get rushed and make for a mundane ending. There's a twist, some sort of detective work, and "conflict" that's smoothed over so quickly.
There's a lot of banter going on between the mc's, and it was fun at times, but it also got to be a bit too much.
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