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Under Her Influence
Fraser Park, the award-winning Scottish nature reserve and theme park, means everything to Beth Fraser. She’s more than a little preoccupied saving her family’s legacy and struggling against a board of directors who all seem to hate her. The last person she wants to need is selfie-obsessed, filtered to perfection, social media influencer Jemma Johnson. But she’s got to protect Fraser Park from a corporate takeover, and according to her brother, that means boosting their online presence. Jemma might be necessary, but Beth doesn’t have to like her, or follow her, or whatever it’s called.
Jemma Johnson, an Insta-success with hundreds of thousands of followers, is proud of her perfectly curated life. When she’s invited to stay at Fraser Park, the trip sounds like a fun adventure for a good cause, until she meets Beth, the only woman who sees beneath her sparkly facade and reminds her that not everything is as easy or flawless as it seems.
On their path to #truelove, will Beth and Jemma discover that reality is even better than illusion?
Cover Artist: Tammy Seidick
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
Words: 72,000
Jemma Johnson, an Insta-success with hundreds of thousands of followers, is proud of her perfectly curated life. When she’s invited to stay at Fraser Park, the trip sounds like a fun adventure for a good cause, until she meets Beth, the only woman who sees beneath her sparkly facade and reminds her that not everything is as easy or flawless as it seems.
On their path to #truelove, will Beth and Jemma discover that reality is even better than illusion?
Cover Artist: Tammy Seidick
Genres: Contemporary / Romance
Words: 72,000
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2021
17 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Radley
31 books155 followersSee main profile as A.E. Radley
Amanda Radley had no desire to be a writer but accidentally turned into an award-winning, best-selling author. Residing in the UK with her wife and pets, she loves to travel. She gave up her marketing career in order to make stuff up for a living instead. She claims the similarities are startling.
Amanda Radley had no desire to be a writer but accidentally turned into an award-winning, best-selling author. Residing in the UK with her wife and pets, she loves to travel. She gave up her marketing career in order to make stuff up for a living instead. She claims the similarities are startling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 5, 2021
Love at Fraser Park.
This book has received many good reviews by people loving it for the low angst, heartwarming story that it is. I've no doubt it is, but I'm not exactly crazy about it because nothing really goes on for a good 70% of the book. And I don’t mean sex. No one expects sex from Radley’s books. But it was such a slow burn that the characters don’t engage in even the mildest intimacy until the end, which is why I found it hard to see the chemistry the characters supposedly have.
For me, Beth and Jemma feel like an odd couple. Beth is 42 and works extremely hard to keep the theme park / resort that she co-owns going. Jemma is a 20-ish social media influencer who is equally dedicated to her job. At Beth’s twin brother’s invitation, Jemma spends a week or two at Fraser Park, where the two women meet for the first time and spend time together. In that short time, they discover a great deal about themselves and each other. Beth wonders more than once why Jemma would be interested in her and I'm wondering the same thing too. She appears almost too dull for Jemma even though Jemma seems to vehemently feel the need to change her own lifestyle choices. Plus Beth feels older than her 42, honestly, because of her serious personality. And partly because of her ignorance when it comes to social media. Okay, I know this one is a little unfair but even my 70 year old parents are on Facebook and Instagram, so......
Again, I must stress that this is a book that most people would enjoy and have. I'm really an outlier on this one.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book has received many good reviews by people loving it for the low angst, heartwarming story that it is. I've no doubt it is, but I'm not exactly crazy about it because nothing really goes on for a good 70% of the book. And I don’t mean sex. No one expects sex from Radley’s books. But it was such a slow burn that the characters don’t engage in even the mildest intimacy until the end, which is why I found it hard to see the chemistry the characters supposedly have.
For me, Beth and Jemma feel like an odd couple. Beth is 42 and works extremely hard to keep the theme park / resort that she co-owns going. Jemma is a 20-ish social media influencer who is equally dedicated to her job. At Beth’s twin brother’s invitation, Jemma spends a week or two at Fraser Park, where the two women meet for the first time and spend time together. In that short time, they discover a great deal about themselves and each other. Beth wonders more than once why Jemma would be interested in her and I'm wondering the same thing too. She appears almost too dull for Jemma even though Jemma seems to vehemently feel the need to change her own lifestyle choices. Plus Beth feels older than her 42, honestly, because of her serious personality. And partly because of her ignorance when it comes to social media. Okay, I know this one is a little unfair but even my 70 year old parents are on Facebook and Instagram, so......
Again, I must stress that this is a book that most people would enjoy and have. I'm really an outlier on this one.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 5, 2021
4 Stars
“Under Her Influence” is a low angst, sweet age-gap romance.
Beth Fraser is struggling to run her family’s theme park and resort. She’s got a board of directors wanting to kick her out. Her brother, Cameron, thinks bringing in a social media influencer will help their online presence and bring in more revenue. Jemma Johnson is a travel influencer with almost a million followers. She’s always wanted to visit Fraser Park in Scotland and jumps at the chance for a week-long visit.
While this is a romance, the romance doesn’t really start until about 80%. The majority of the book is Beth and Jemma getting to know one another and figuring out their struggles.
Initially, Beth is skeptical about Jemma’s presence at the park. She’s too busy for social media and doesn’t really understand the influencer business/lifestyle nor does see how it’ll positively impact the park. Despite Beth’s doubts and serious demeanor, Jemma does what she can to talk to her and tries to get to know her anyway. Jemma is impressed and attracted to Beth and I loved their development. Beth is overwhelmed with her work as all the responsibilities of the resort fall on her. Jemma is getting more and more discouraged with her platform and having to look perfect at all times.
I liked their friendship in the beginning and how they each helped the other. Their romance developed pretty slowly and as I said, nothing really picks up until about 80%. However, I really enjoyed what we got. I appreciated the fact that there were no grand declarations of love seeing as how the timeline is a week. I was still happy with how it ended up and the ending made me smile.
Just a note to fans of steamier books, as with all Radley books, this is very low-heat and/or clean in regards to steamy scenes. There’s handholding and some light kisses but don’t expect anything beyond that, not even fade to black.
I recommend this to anyone looking for a more light-hearted, low angst romance.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
“Under Her Influence” is a low angst, sweet age-gap romance.
Beth Fraser is struggling to run her family’s theme park and resort. She’s got a board of directors wanting to kick her out. Her brother, Cameron, thinks bringing in a social media influencer will help their online presence and bring in more revenue. Jemma Johnson is a travel influencer with almost a million followers. She’s always wanted to visit Fraser Park in Scotland and jumps at the chance for a week-long visit.
While this is a romance, the romance doesn’t really start until about 80%. The majority of the book is Beth and Jemma getting to know one another and figuring out their struggles.
Initially, Beth is skeptical about Jemma’s presence at the park. She’s too busy for social media and doesn’t really understand the influencer business/lifestyle nor does see how it’ll positively impact the park. Despite Beth’s doubts and serious demeanor, Jemma does what she can to talk to her and tries to get to know her anyway. Jemma is impressed and attracted to Beth and I loved their development. Beth is overwhelmed with her work as all the responsibilities of the resort fall on her. Jemma is getting more and more discouraged with her platform and having to look perfect at all times.
I liked their friendship in the beginning and how they each helped the other. Their romance developed pretty slowly and as I said, nothing really picks up until about 80%. However, I really enjoyed what we got. I appreciated the fact that there were no grand declarations of love seeing as how the timeline is a week. I was still happy with how it ended up and the ending made me smile.
Just a note to fans of steamier books, as with all Radley books, this is very low-heat and/or clean in regards to steamy scenes. There’s handholding and some light kisses but don’t expect anything beyond that, not even fade to black.
I recommend this to anyone looking for a more light-hearted, low angst romance.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books in exchange for an honest review.
May 27, 2021
This is my second book by Amanda Radley and there is just something about the writing style and general flow of the story that makes it comfortable, lighthearted, and puts a smile on my face. Even when the story and the main characters are dealing with some stressful and emotional stuff it just makes for reading that puts a smile on your face.
Beth co-owns a theme park/ resort in Scotland and she is struggling, the park is in financial distress and the board is hostile. Her brother, Cameron, isn't pulling his weight and is scatterbrained as they come. I find him annoying and endearing all at once. Cameron invites influencer Jemma to come to Fraser Park and do her thing. Beth is unaware of the young woman coming to their hotel and park and just filming everything. Mostly Beth just doesn't understand it. Cameron's kids are fans of Jemma and when Beth is in the park with her niece they encounter Jemma. This sets things in motion where the characters are attracted to each other but are convinced they aren't right for the other. Their insecurities about themselves and their lives is what makes this a believable story and an endearing romance.
An issue I have is with the age of the mains, Beth is 42 and I wasn't able to find out Jemma's age. I'm estimating her to be mid to late twenties. I don't have a problem with age-gap romance per se, but I do have an issue with it when I don't know the age of both characters involved. I also find that some of the issues Jemma struggles with are very teen-like, I'm not saying her issues aren't legit, but it feels a bit too young. And on the other hand, she acts very maturely in how she is with Beth, it's confusing. Beth is so frazzled and I think in over her head I don't fully understand how she can suddenly find time to do things other than work. I think from the 70% mark onwards those things got a bit annoying for me, but it did still put a smile on my face because it's just sweet. Oh and Jemma? I kept reading Jenna… I’m awful with names, especially when there is a similar and more common one in my mind.
Something I really appreciate in Radley's book is the absence of sex scenes. I don't mind them in books when they make sense, but I really don't miss them in Radley's books. I think they would even be out of place and very uncomfortable. There are some sweet kisses and comforting touches, it's sweet.
All-in-all it's just sweet and worthy of 3.5 stars.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
Beth co-owns a theme park/ resort in Scotland and she is struggling, the park is in financial distress and the board is hostile. Her brother, Cameron, isn't pulling his weight and is scatterbrained as they come. I find him annoying and endearing all at once. Cameron invites influencer Jemma to come to Fraser Park and do her thing. Beth is unaware of the young woman coming to their hotel and park and just filming everything. Mostly Beth just doesn't understand it. Cameron's kids are fans of Jemma and when Beth is in the park with her niece they encounter Jemma. This sets things in motion where the characters are attracted to each other but are convinced they aren't right for the other. Their insecurities about themselves and their lives is what makes this a believable story and an endearing romance.
An issue I have is with the age of the mains, Beth is 42 and I wasn't able to find out Jemma's age. I'm estimating her to be mid to late twenties. I don't have a problem with age-gap romance per se, but I do have an issue with it when I don't know the age of both characters involved. I also find that some of the issues Jemma struggles with are very teen-like, I'm not saying her issues aren't legit, but it feels a bit too young. And on the other hand, she acts very maturely in how she is with Beth, it's confusing. Beth is so frazzled and I think in over her head I don't fully understand how she can suddenly find time to do things other than work. I think from the 70% mark onwards those things got a bit annoying for me, but it did still put a smile on my face because it's just sweet. Oh and Jemma? I kept reading Jenna… I’m awful with names, especially when there is a similar and more common one in my mind.
Something I really appreciate in Radley's book is the absence of sex scenes. I don't mind them in books when they make sense, but I really don't miss them in Radley's books. I think they would even be out of place and very uncomfortable. There are some sweet kisses and comforting touches, it's sweet.
All-in-all it's just sweet and worthy of 3.5 stars.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
June 3, 2021
I’m going to be completely honest. This book isn’t my kind of read.
It’s a wholesome feel good romance that I highly recommend for a slow day casual read.
Beth owns Fraser Park and one day her brother hires a social media influencer, Jemma, hoping that it would give the park some more attraction and he does this without telling Beth. So instantly Beth has some reserves and upset about it.
All the characters in this book are likable and it was interesting to see them struggle with their careers and each other but this doesn’t actually happen till 80% of the book. The first 80% is mostly a slow burn insight to the characters.
Definitely not my type of book, it’s slow, drama free, and dare I say it... boring.
Now you may be wondering, why five stars if you think it’s boring?
Because even though this book was a bit too PG and angst free for me, it can totally be something better for someone else. The writing was perfect, the character development was amazing- the satisfaction of Jemma’s character breakdown was painfully beautiful even though I felt like there could’ve been more buildup. Cameron also reminded me a bit of my own twin brother. I feel comfortable saying that this is a good book and I do recommend it even though I lacked excitement.
Though I feel like other existing reviews and critiques on this book are all justifiable and logical I feel like most went into this book expecting a hot angst filled romance. But as I said this book is really PG, honestly if you buy the paperback you can probably give it to a younger audience.
4.5 stars.
As I said before it was a nice feel good casual read and I do recommend it if you’re looking for something short and simple. Maybe if you’ve had a few heart wrenching stories and need a good 100% happy ending.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the arc in return for an honest review!
It’s a wholesome feel good romance that I highly recommend for a slow day casual read.
Beth owns Fraser Park and one day her brother hires a social media influencer, Jemma, hoping that it would give the park some more attraction and he does this without telling Beth. So instantly Beth has some reserves and upset about it.
All the characters in this book are likable and it was interesting to see them struggle with their careers and each other but this doesn’t actually happen till 80% of the book. The first 80% is mostly a slow burn insight to the characters.
Definitely not my type of book, it’s slow, drama free, and dare I say it... boring.
Now you may be wondering, why five stars if you think it’s boring?
Because even though this book was a bit too PG and angst free for me, it can totally be something better for someone else. The writing was perfect, the character development was amazing- the satisfaction of Jemma’s character breakdown was painfully beautiful even though I felt like there could’ve been more buildup. Cameron also reminded me a bit of my own twin brother. I feel comfortable saying that this is a good book and I do recommend it even though I lacked excitement.
Though I feel like other existing reviews and critiques on this book are all justifiable and logical I feel like most went into this book expecting a hot angst filled romance. But as I said this book is really PG, honestly if you buy the paperback you can probably give it to a younger audience.
4.5 stars.
As I said before it was a nice feel good casual read and I do recommend it if you’re looking for something short and simple. Maybe if you’ve had a few heart wrenching stories and need a good 100% happy ending.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the arc in return for an honest review!
May 21, 2021
This is a sweet, wholesome, feel-good romance. I greatly enjoyed Amanda Radley’s Detour to Love and was excited when I found another book of hers to request. I’m pleased to say this book delivered just as well! Note: This novel is perfect for those looking for an adult sapphic romance without cussing and sex. Also, from what other reviewers have said, Radley generally doesn’t include these things in her books.
Beth Fraser (42) co-owns Fraser park alongside her forgetful-yet-lovable twin brother Cameron. Beth is as stoic and serious as Cameron is charming – she’s an ice queen with a reputation. When Cameron invites peppy influencer Jemma Johnson (~late 20’s) to stay at the resort in exchange for some much-needed promotion, Beth is remarkably unimpressed. Jemma, however, loves that Beth is an icy older woman (I love this energy) and doesn’t hesitate to try to get to know Beth. I liked the relationship development between Beth and Jemma throughout the novel. Each woman is unhappy with the current state of her career, and they gently help each other learn to make the right changes. I also enjoyed the theme park setting, which made for several cute interactions.
I’m pleased to report that there aren’t any annoying side characters who keep showing up when you want nothing more than to shoo them away (I know everyone’s read at least one book like this, lol). Cameron’s kids, Luke and Abigail, are sweet and round out the cast nicely. Everyone’s so darn lovable even with their minor flaws: Beth is hardworking and sensitive beneath her prickly exterior, Jemma is genuinely caring beneath her perfect social media façade, and Cameron often makes terrible mistakes but is always earnest and kind. Also, none of the events in this book seemed contrived or made me roll my eyes, which is always a plus.
If anything, I found the romance a bit on the mild side and wish we had gotten some of that delicious tension that was present in Detour to Love. However, what we did get was lovely and I’m looking forward to the next romance from Amanda Radley!
content warnings: anxiety, death of a loved one (off-page, past), death of a parent (off-page, past), mentions of medical stuff
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Beth Fraser (42) co-owns Fraser park alongside her forgetful-yet-lovable twin brother Cameron. Beth is as stoic and serious as Cameron is charming – she’s an ice queen with a reputation. When Cameron invites peppy influencer Jemma Johnson (~late 20’s) to stay at the resort in exchange for some much-needed promotion, Beth is remarkably unimpressed. Jemma, however, loves that Beth is an icy older woman (I love this energy) and doesn’t hesitate to try to get to know Beth. I liked the relationship development between Beth and Jemma throughout the novel. Each woman is unhappy with the current state of her career, and they gently help each other learn to make the right changes. I also enjoyed the theme park setting, which made for several cute interactions.
I’m pleased to report that there aren’t any annoying side characters who keep showing up when you want nothing more than to shoo them away (I know everyone’s read at least one book like this, lol). Cameron’s kids, Luke and Abigail, are sweet and round out the cast nicely. Everyone’s so darn lovable even with their minor flaws: Beth is hardworking and sensitive beneath her prickly exterior, Jemma is genuinely caring beneath her perfect social media façade, and Cameron often makes terrible mistakes but is always earnest and kind. Also, none of the events in this book seemed contrived or made me roll my eyes, which is always a plus.
If anything, I found the romance a bit on the mild side and wish we had gotten some of that delicious tension that was present in Detour to Love. However, what we did get was lovely and I’m looking forward to the next romance from Amanda Radley!
content warnings: anxiety, death of a loved one (off-page, past), death of a parent (off-page, past), mentions of medical stuff
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2021
Definitely influenced!
Jemma, a successful social media influencer heads out to award winning Fraser Park in Scotland to document her experience and share the wonders with her followers. Meeting Beth Fraser, co-owner of the family inherited theme park, Jemma is taken by her and can’t explain why she needs to get to know Beth better. When the magic of Fraser Park has Jemma spending time with Beth, can she help her save the park when a board of directors threaten Beth’s position in the place she calls home?
There was just so much to love about this story and I already know that my review is not going to do it the justice it deserves. Every time Amanda Radley releases a new book, I know before even reading it she has produced another winning novel and that is why I am such a fan. Amanda has an amazing talent for telling a lovely, relatable, deep, meaningful and important story in a simple way that it becomes an easy and all indulgent read.
So with Under Her Influence it genuinely felt like Amanda had been in my head again, reading my thoughts, and putting them on paper. I love this! It gives me a deep and meaningful connection that is truly unique with all the characters in the book. I adored Beth, and I loved Jemma. They were opposites in so many ways, they had an all-important age-gap (we know how I love those!) and yet they were similar in their own insecurities, hopes, fears. So once again, Amanda has delivered the perfect characters in the perfect story.
I got so emotional, especially when Beth and Jemma were finally forming and deeper connection and began questioning things. As Jemma is an influencer, and in part as a reviewer I could relate to the social media and interaction tasks that come with such a job, I was in awe of Jemma’s enthusiasm and spirit but I must say, Amanda perfectly captured the unglamorous and business side that sits behind being in such a position. It is a lot of work, whatever you do online, and to keep a pretense in any situation is exhausting. I related so much, it got me questioning so much, for which I am grateful.
Honestly, I can’t put into words how excited I was to read this, how magical the story really was, and just how emotional it was too. You really need to read and experience everything for yourself and I know you will fall in love with Beth, Jemma, Beth’s family and Fraser Park itself.
So, I hope Fraser Park is a real place and if not, why not, and I need to go! It was magical, wonderful, and such a lovely story that I just couldn’t put down. The connection was so real that I miss the characters already and can’t wait to read the story again, and again. I say this every time but this is my new favourite Amanda Radley story (until the next!)
Jemma, a successful social media influencer heads out to award winning Fraser Park in Scotland to document her experience and share the wonders with her followers. Meeting Beth Fraser, co-owner of the family inherited theme park, Jemma is taken by her and can’t explain why she needs to get to know Beth better. When the magic of Fraser Park has Jemma spending time with Beth, can she help her save the park when a board of directors threaten Beth’s position in the place she calls home?
There was just so much to love about this story and I already know that my review is not going to do it the justice it deserves. Every time Amanda Radley releases a new book, I know before even reading it she has produced another winning novel and that is why I am such a fan. Amanda has an amazing talent for telling a lovely, relatable, deep, meaningful and important story in a simple way that it becomes an easy and all indulgent read.
So with Under Her Influence it genuinely felt like Amanda had been in my head again, reading my thoughts, and putting them on paper. I love this! It gives me a deep and meaningful connection that is truly unique with all the characters in the book. I adored Beth, and I loved Jemma. They were opposites in so many ways, they had an all-important age-gap (we know how I love those!) and yet they were similar in their own insecurities, hopes, fears. So once again, Amanda has delivered the perfect characters in the perfect story.
I got so emotional, especially when Beth and Jemma were finally forming and deeper connection and began questioning things. As Jemma is an influencer, and in part as a reviewer I could relate to the social media and interaction tasks that come with such a job, I was in awe of Jemma’s enthusiasm and spirit but I must say, Amanda perfectly captured the unglamorous and business side that sits behind being in such a position. It is a lot of work, whatever you do online, and to keep a pretense in any situation is exhausting. I related so much, it got me questioning so much, for which I am grateful.
Honestly, I can’t put into words how excited I was to read this, how magical the story really was, and just how emotional it was too. You really need to read and experience everything for yourself and I know you will fall in love with Beth, Jemma, Beth’s family and Fraser Park itself.
So, I hope Fraser Park is a real place and if not, why not, and I need to go! It was magical, wonderful, and such a lovely story that I just couldn’t put down. The connection was so real that I miss the characters already and can’t wait to read the story again, and again. I say this every time but this is my new favourite Amanda Radley story (until the next!)
June 26, 2021
4 stars. Fraser Park, a Scottish theme park owned by Beth Fraser and her twin brother, is having some troubles with money. Her bother decides to hire an influencer, Jemma Johnson, to help promote the theme park and draw in more business. Beth is not happy with Jemma t first, until she gets to know her. She feels an attraction to her and knows she should stay away, as Jemma will leave at some point. Jemma travels around the world recording herself for YouTube. Jemma feels attraction to Beth, no matter how much Beth seems to not want her there. Beth knows she needs to do whatever it takes to keep her theme park running.
I enjoyed this novel. I liked the dynamic that was built with Beth and Jemma and how their feels for each other changed throughout the novel. I enjoyed reading this book and recommend it. It was an easy read and I would definitely read it again. Jemma and Beth both have an age difference, but it didn't make a difference in the book. I liked how Beth's brother was involved and helped bring them closer together.
I enjoyed this novel. I liked the dynamic that was built with Beth and Jemma and how their feels for each other changed throughout the novel. I enjoyed reading this book and recommend it. It was an easy read and I would definitely read it again. Jemma and Beth both have an age difference, but it didn't make a difference in the book. I liked how Beth's brother was involved and helped bring them closer together.
June 16, 2021
Under Her Influence was my first foray into Amanda Radley's work and I was very pleasantly surprised! I requested an ARC of this one purely because of the fact that it is set in Scotland (near Stirling which is practically local) and one of the main characters is an influencer - and it turned out to be one of the best lesfic romances I've read in a wee while, certainly one of the best books I've read so far this month!
I absolutely adored the theme park setting and the lightness and nostalgia of it definitely contrasted really well with the stress that the two main characters were facing in their lives and the barriers they were putting up around themselves. The romance was very sweet and, despite the book only taking place over a handful of days, Radley managed to make this feel very much like a slow-burn romance, and I really enjoyed it! The ending was a wee bit predictable, though there's nothing wrong with that, yet I think it worked really well. This is one of the few romance novels that I can see myself picking up again in the future for a re-read (I'm also now starting a petition for a sequel in which Cameron finds love again because he was honestly one of my favourite characters!).
Thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in return for an honest review!
Want more sapphic books? You can find me here: Book Blog | Twitter | Instagram
I absolutely adored the theme park setting and the lightness and nostalgia of it definitely contrasted really well with the stress that the two main characters were facing in their lives and the barriers they were putting up around themselves. The romance was very sweet and, despite the book only taking place over a handful of days, Radley managed to make this feel very much like a slow-burn romance, and I really enjoyed it! The ending was a wee bit predictable, though there's nothing wrong with that, yet I think it worked really well. This is one of the few romance novels that I can see myself picking up again in the future for a re-read (I'm also now starting a petition for a sequel in which Cameron finds love again because he was honestly one of my favourite characters!).
Thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in return for an honest review!
Want more sapphic books? You can find me here: Book Blog | Twitter | Instagram
June 28, 2021
This is not part of my "must read new to me author" project. No, I've read something around 12 books by this author. Under two different names.
This is a good solid two point of view book starring Jemma Johnson & Beth Fraser. Jemma is a media influencer visiting a theme park/resort in Scotland. And Beth Fraser runs the theme park/resort Jemma visits.
I rather enjoyed the book, but there was just some slight bit that kept me from rating it higher.
hmm. What to say, what to say. I liked both women, though one is a woman who spends her life putting on a "perfect" smiling persona, and another woman who . . . is very much not a people person - to the point that the local town decline to do anything for her (like, say, help (for pay) clean up her ruined garden after a storm).
Into the mix is a co-park operator who really is something of a people person, but is flighty and not very good at . . . life. The c0-park operator is Beth's twin brother (his wife died, and stuff, so he's . . . sad? - he has a smiley persona, which is why I put a ? after sad). Two youngsters also factor into the story, they being sad brother's children. I do not, specifically recall any other side character. hmms.
Well, I enjoyed the book. Was fun. Off to the next thing in my life.
(wow, I'm quite off today. I've completely overlooked the part where there is a major age gap story-line; a hidden depressed nature behind one of the characters; and a . . . bit of hypertension for the other character; a bit about "I've been born with a silver spoon, I can't legitimately complain about anything in my life".
Rating: 4.24
June 28 2021
This is a good solid two point of view book starring Jemma Johnson & Beth Fraser. Jemma is a media influencer visiting a theme park/resort in Scotland. And Beth Fraser runs the theme park/resort Jemma visits.
I rather enjoyed the book, but there was just some slight bit that kept me from rating it higher.
hmm. What to say, what to say. I liked both women, though one is a woman who spends her life putting on a "perfect" smiling persona, and another woman who . . . is very much not a people person - to the point that the local town decline to do anything for her (like, say, help (for pay) clean up her ruined garden after a storm).
Into the mix is a co-park operator who really is something of a people person, but is flighty and not very good at . . . life. The c0-park operator is Beth's twin brother (his wife died, and stuff, so he's . . . sad? - he has a smiley persona, which is why I put a ? after sad). Two youngsters also factor into the story, they being sad brother's children. I do not, specifically recall any other side character. hmms.
Well, I enjoyed the book. Was fun. Off to the next thing in my life.
(wow, I'm quite off today. I've completely overlooked the part where there is a major age gap story-line; a hidden depressed nature behind one of the characters; and a . . . bit of hypertension for the other character; a bit about "I've been born with a silver spoon, I can't legitimately complain about anything in my life".
Rating: 4.24
June 28 2021
May 17, 2021
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Beth doesn’t have time to rest and it causing her to have hypertension. Her and twin brother Cameron runs a theme park that was started by their great great-grandmother and over the years it expand.
Jemma is influencer social media she developed a great career out of it. She is ask by Cameron to help influence the theme park to bring on new customers.
Beth and Jemma meet and becomes friends but start to feel more for each other but Beth tries pushing her away because she isn’t there long and she fears she leave anyway because everyone she loves does. Jemma she love what she does but she starts to wonder if she could do something else because she isn’t enjoying anymore.
This was a good read.
Beth doesn’t have time to rest and it causing her to have hypertension. Her and twin brother Cameron runs a theme park that was started by their great great-grandmother and over the years it expand.
Jemma is influencer social media she developed a great career out of it. She is ask by Cameron to help influence the theme park to bring on new customers.
Beth and Jemma meet and becomes friends but start to feel more for each other but Beth tries pushing her away because she isn’t there long and she fears she leave anyway because everyone she loves does. Jemma she love what she does but she starts to wonder if she could do something else because she isn’t enjoying anymore.
This was a good read.
March 6, 2023
A little unrealistic but go with the flow and it’s a steady and enjoyable book, complete with twin and excellent children. Recommended.
March 5, 2024
4.5/5
I’ve really enjoyed most of the Radley books that I’ve read previously, so when I saw that a new one was being released, I knew I was going to want to read it. Luckily, I was given an ARC eBook from Netgalley and the publisher to aid that desire. So disclaimer, I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Fraser Park is a nature reserve and theme park that has been handed down in the family for a few (couple?) generations now and is currently in the hands of Beth Fraser and her brother. Beth does most of the work around the park and has gotten a bit of a reputation because of it, even the board doesn’t really seem to like her. Her brother, in trying to help keep the park going, invites Jemma Johnson to stay for a week and post about the park. Jemma is a social media influencer and staying at Fraser Park has been on her bucket list. The two first meet at the park and, after a slightly bumpy meeting, the two end up spending time together.
I honestly really enjoyed this book. I think the main reason that I did was that it isn’t too serious. It’s not a book with a tremendous amount of serious drama. It falls more along the lines of a comfort read. Something you pick up when you just want a sweet story about likeable characters with a happy ending.
I really liked both characters. Beth is the perfect archetype of a workaholic who doesn’t really have time for much else in her life. She’s also portrayed very sympathetically. Radley gives you the reasons why she works so much, lets you see how this affects her. It’s nice and humanizing. She’s not portrayed as a monster who ignores everything for work. She’s portrayed as someone who still finds time to spend with her niece and nephew even as she struggles to deal with the load of work that she’s been given to keep her family’s park running. Jemma is also a very interesting character. Radley even made sure to include a bit about the toll that being an influencer can have on a person, the mental strain. I think Radley did an amazing job at the influencer side of things and I’m very curious to know how researched that information was. I’m really hoping most of it is at least somewhat realistic because it honestly sounded like things that would occur.
The only character who ever bothered me was Cameron. I do understand why he was the way he was, to a certain extent. He just got on my nerves when he seemed to ignore things that were blatant to other people. He didn’t even notice that his sister was suffering trying to make sure that they could keep the park. Part of me wishes the health part got played up a bit more just to freak Cameron out.
I do however have one major drawback that I need to mention. This entire book, including the epilogue, seems to take place over the span of a month or so. That didn’t bother me too much because I don’t actually mind insta-love stories sometimes, but I know that it could bother other people, so I felt like I needed to mention it. I do think the book would have benefited from being dragged out a bit. Having a few chapters between the board meeting and the epilogue where the two have to adjust to their new positions, in a professional and personal sense, and then setting the epilogue farther out than just a few weeks.
If you want a book that will kill a few hours and entertain you, I think this would be a great book. You don’t spend a lot of time wondering whether the characters are going to be okay when drama pops up and the characters bond nicely together.
I’ve really enjoyed most of the Radley books that I’ve read previously, so when I saw that a new one was being released, I knew I was going to want to read it. Luckily, I was given an ARC eBook from Netgalley and the publisher to aid that desire. So disclaimer, I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Fraser Park is a nature reserve and theme park that has been handed down in the family for a few (couple?) generations now and is currently in the hands of Beth Fraser and her brother. Beth does most of the work around the park and has gotten a bit of a reputation because of it, even the board doesn’t really seem to like her. Her brother, in trying to help keep the park going, invites Jemma Johnson to stay for a week and post about the park. Jemma is a social media influencer and staying at Fraser Park has been on her bucket list. The two first meet at the park and, after a slightly bumpy meeting, the two end up spending time together.
I honestly really enjoyed this book. I think the main reason that I did was that it isn’t too serious. It’s not a book with a tremendous amount of serious drama. It falls more along the lines of a comfort read. Something you pick up when you just want a sweet story about likeable characters with a happy ending.
I really liked both characters. Beth is the perfect archetype of a workaholic who doesn’t really have time for much else in her life. She’s also portrayed very sympathetically. Radley gives you the reasons why she works so much, lets you see how this affects her. It’s nice and humanizing. She’s not portrayed as a monster who ignores everything for work. She’s portrayed as someone who still finds time to spend with her niece and nephew even as she struggles to deal with the load of work that she’s been given to keep her family’s park running. Jemma is also a very interesting character. Radley even made sure to include a bit about the toll that being an influencer can have on a person, the mental strain. I think Radley did an amazing job at the influencer side of things and I’m very curious to know how researched that information was. I’m really hoping most of it is at least somewhat realistic because it honestly sounded like things that would occur.
The only character who ever bothered me was Cameron. I do understand why he was the way he was, to a certain extent. He just got on my nerves when he seemed to ignore things that were blatant to other people. He didn’t even notice that his sister was suffering trying to make sure that they could keep the park. Part of me wishes the health part got played up a bit more just to freak Cameron out.
I do however have one major drawback that I need to mention. This entire book, including the epilogue, seems to take place over the span of a month or so. That didn’t bother me too much because I don’t actually mind insta-love stories sometimes, but I know that it could bother other people, so I felt like I needed to mention it. I do think the book would have benefited from being dragged out a bit. Having a few chapters between the board meeting and the epilogue where the two have to adjust to their new positions, in a professional and personal sense, and then setting the epilogue farther out than just a few weeks.
If you want a book that will kill a few hours and entertain you, I think this would be a great book. You don’t spend a lot of time wondering whether the characters are going to be okay when drama pops up and the characters bond nicely together.
May 21, 2021
Love is a Wild Ride
I really enjoyed this book. As with all the awesomeness of Ms Radley’s other books, this one is well written, easy and fast to read and full of feels. It is so easy to get lost in this story and forget the world around you. I was submerged into another world where I could almost smell the popcorn and hear the noises of a busy amusement park. I love it when I am able to get this swept away with a tale. I adored watching these two lovely women struggle with their developing feelings for each other as they work so hard to keep their businesses running smoothly, even in the face of adversity. Beth has so much on her plate with money troubles, a hostile board, her forgetful brother and a case of hypertension that is getting worse. She has been put in the place of having to be an ice queen but a tender heart beats underneath. Jemma works just as hard putting so much pressure on herself but she keeps an upbeat attitude while being generous and kind. They are truly made for each other, being supportive and strong when the other needs a boost. Cameron’s kids are a lot of fun too. I loved how quickly they bonded with Jemma and how natural she was with them. Not all is easy and Beth has some hard times that strain and stress her over and above everyday pressures and because I was so very invested in these characters, I worried and stressed right along with her. I think this book might be my new favourite of Ms Radley’s and I know you will love it too.
I really enjoyed this book. As with all the awesomeness of Ms Radley’s other books, this one is well written, easy and fast to read and full of feels. It is so easy to get lost in this story and forget the world around you. I was submerged into another world where I could almost smell the popcorn and hear the noises of a busy amusement park. I love it when I am able to get this swept away with a tale. I adored watching these two lovely women struggle with their developing feelings for each other as they work so hard to keep their businesses running smoothly, even in the face of adversity. Beth has so much on her plate with money troubles, a hostile board, her forgetful brother and a case of hypertension that is getting worse. She has been put in the place of having to be an ice queen but a tender heart beats underneath. Jemma works just as hard putting so much pressure on herself but she keeps an upbeat attitude while being generous and kind. They are truly made for each other, being supportive and strong when the other needs a boost. Cameron’s kids are a lot of fun too. I loved how quickly they bonded with Jemma and how natural she was with them. Not all is easy and Beth has some hard times that strain and stress her over and above everyday pressures and because I was so very invested in these characters, I worried and stressed right along with her. I think this book might be my new favourite of Ms Radley’s and I know you will love it too.
June 22, 2021
I now know more about an influencer and how it works then I did prior to this read. In my opinion when you can be entertained and learn in the same read, that is a good thing. Jemma Johnson, did not travel much as a child and when the opportunity presented itself to make a living doing just that, she made the most of it. But, was she being true to herself? Beth Fraser, co-owns a theme park and nature reserve with her twin brother Cameron. But, is Beth working smart?
I enjoyed the park descriptions and how the park has been handed down through generations and run mostly by women. There is hardly any angst which tends to be the norm with Radley reads. I like that as a refreshing change of pace. There are many characters to like in this read, especially Cameron's children, Abigail and Luke.
I also appreciated the work that goes on to present an image on social media. And something to think about is how that image can be adjusted or manipulated to present the picture you want people to see. Hummmm....algorithms.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
I enjoyed the park descriptions and how the park has been handed down through generations and run mostly by women. There is hardly any angst which tends to be the norm with Radley reads. I like that as a refreshing change of pace. There are many characters to like in this read, especially Cameron's children, Abigail and Luke.
I also appreciated the work that goes on to present an image on social media. And something to think about is how that image can be adjusted or manipulated to present the picture you want people to see. Hummmm....algorithms.
ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books, Inc. via NetGalley
May 31, 2021
Jemma Johnson never traveled as a child so when she was choosing a career she wanted to make sure she was able to see the world. Now she works on her own channel and brings her travels to her followers. Thus she’s an influencer, someone who shows others their lives while reporting on the various destinations and the best places to stay. Now she finds herself at the Fraser Resort in Scotland. Now this was a place she’s always wanted to go to, even as a child. Now here she was with her camera turned on all the best places to visit while at the Fraser.
Beth Fraser and her twin brother Cameron were the owners of the park that has been handed down through the generations. Keeping everything running smoothly and at the same time trying to keep building on the resort was a full time job. Most of the work is left to Beth, seeing as Cameron had lost his wife leaving him a widower and raising two children. Beth tries to give as much time as she can to the children’s needs.
Beth likes running a neat ship and when Cameron brings Jemma into the resort to tell her audience about the resort. Beth has never heard of such a thing as a ‘influencer’ so she’s not thrilled with Cameron. And why does Jemma have to be so nice and good looking. For Jemma she finds herself drawn to Beth but it doesn’t look like she'll get to know the sexy owner because Beth doesn’t want to be a part of Jemma’s world. The two children have a different idea. They know who Jemma is and the ‘influence’ she has with her followers.
I have loved Amanda’s work for a while and while this may be a good read it’s missing the humor that you can usually find in her books. I’m hoping she doesn’t keep with just a good read but goes back to writing books and you find yourself laughing out loud. Very nice read.
ARC via NetGalley/Bold Stroke Books
Beth Fraser and her twin brother Cameron were the owners of the park that has been handed down through the generations. Keeping everything running smoothly and at the same time trying to keep building on the resort was a full time job. Most of the work is left to Beth, seeing as Cameron had lost his wife leaving him a widower and raising two children. Beth tries to give as much time as she can to the children’s needs.
Beth likes running a neat ship and when Cameron brings Jemma into the resort to tell her audience about the resort. Beth has never heard of such a thing as a ‘influencer’ so she’s not thrilled with Cameron. And why does Jemma have to be so nice and good looking. For Jemma she finds herself drawn to Beth but it doesn’t look like she'll get to know the sexy owner because Beth doesn’t want to be a part of Jemma’s world. The two children have a different idea. They know who Jemma is and the ‘influence’ she has with her followers.
I have loved Amanda’s work for a while and while this may be a good read it’s missing the humor that you can usually find in her books. I’m hoping she doesn’t keep with just a good read but goes back to writing books and you find yourself laughing out loud. Very nice read.
ARC via NetGalley/Bold Stroke Books
July 7, 2021
Where do I start? I'll start by saying that is a slow burn, very low angst book. Worth reading if you're really into well written felt as well as physical descriptions of places (Fraser Park in this books case); and understanding and reading a lot about main characters' inner feelings and insecurities.
This book focuses on two main characters, a 42 year old Beth, who runs an old, award winning Scottish theme and nature park, that has been passed down to her through generations; and a 20-something youtube/Instagram influencer Jemma. It touches on issues such as women being in power and the struggles and prejudices that they may face due to them being women, what it means to be an influencer and how much hard work people put into it, it also touches on grief in case of Beth's brother loosing his partner and how that touched the whole family. Although I think some of these issues could've been explored a bit more.
To be honest, this book didn't really draw me in. I found it lacking a bit of action throughout the whole book (excluding the last maybe 100 pages, where something finally (kind of) did happen). I know that this is a slow burn, but I think having a little bit of drama would've helped to keep the reader more interested. I found it also to be lacking more intimacy and chemistry between the main characters. And I don't just mean steamy bits, which this book certainly does not have. The characters were both unhappy with the lives they were leading or how they were leading them and that's literally what they bonded over (?). Although the book did touch on the physical attraction at first, but I don't think it was explored enough to be truly felt through the pages.
I would recommend this book purely for the well written descriptions of the theme park this story takes place it, and if you want some very light, low angst reading.
This book focuses on two main characters, a 42 year old Beth, who runs an old, award winning Scottish theme and nature park, that has been passed down to her through generations; and a 20-something youtube/Instagram influencer Jemma. It touches on issues such as women being in power and the struggles and prejudices that they may face due to them being women, what it means to be an influencer and how much hard work people put into it, it also touches on grief in case of Beth's brother loosing his partner and how that touched the whole family. Although I think some of these issues could've been explored a bit more.
To be honest, this book didn't really draw me in. I found it lacking a bit of action throughout the whole book (excluding the last maybe 100 pages, where something finally (kind of) did happen). I know that this is a slow burn, but I think having a little bit of drama would've helped to keep the reader more interested. I found it also to be lacking more intimacy and chemistry between the main characters. And I don't just mean steamy bits, which this book certainly does not have. The characters were both unhappy with the lives they were leading or how they were leading them and that's literally what they bonded over (?). Although the book did touch on the physical attraction at first, but I don't think it was explored enough to be truly felt through the pages.
I would recommend this book purely for the well written descriptions of the theme park this story takes place it, and if you want some very light, low angst reading.
January 8, 2025
4.75⭐
Really enjoyed this one!
I liked all the characters and found the story really interesting.
I'm just a teeny-tiny bit disappointed with the romance.
There just weren't enough romantic and cute scenes between the two of them.
I feel like the book would have benefited from at least 50 more pages.
Or at least set the epilogue further into the future, like a year later and not just 3 weeks.
I do enjoy slow books in which not much happens, but I can definitely understand people who'd find this boring.
Really enjoyed this one!
I liked all the characters and found the story really interesting.
I'm just a teeny-tiny bit disappointed with the romance.
There just weren't enough romantic and cute scenes between the two of them.
I feel like the book would have benefited from at least 50 more pages.
Or at least set the epilogue further into the future, like a year later and not just 3 weeks.
I do enjoy slow books in which not much happens, but I can definitely understand people who'd find this boring.
June 15, 2021
This was an easy, sweet, quick read and I feel so grateful because I haven’t being having luck with books lately. It was basically an instalove story, it happened in (I think) a week, but no I love yous where exchanged, also, it was kinda of an uhaul situation, but none moved in with the other one, just the vicinity, so that gave it a lot of points. Pure new crush infatuation with a side of drama not happening between the MCs.
May 22, 2021
My heart is just...filled with love and warmth! Finally, I have found an author who does not rely on sex to make the book interesting!! I'm probably going to go on an Amanda Radley read-a-thon
Okay, I suppose I should compose myself a little but it was all so wholesome!!
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Inhale. Exhale.
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Under Her Influence is the perfect wholesome read after a dark book I had picked up. This is probably amongst those rarest of times where I found all the characters likable and adorable even when they had their own flaws. Those flaws made them more human, in my opinion.
Beth Fraser AKA The Ice Queen was the owner of the park where Jemma Johnson AKA Miss Posititivity/Influencer was hosted at. Beth's brother/twin, Cameron, had sought help from Jemma without consoling the powerhouse of the Fraser Park.
Beth's character was beautifully crafted. A woman who had devoted so much of her time to work that her personal identity seemed to have dissolved. Whereas, Jemma brimmed with positivity on her online presence, didn't even realize when her love for the craft evaded into a requirement for her living. Something she was supposed to do.
Like an onion, they peeled each other's layers, provided solutions, supported one another. And I live for that. Love or no love, women who support one another rather than being scorned after a misunderstanding, are amazing. Even though there was an attraction on sight, the story helps both the characters explore that attraction into something more.
The side characters. Cameron, Luke, and Abigail. So, so cute. And, I was in awe of the outline of the Park. It reminded me of the time I went to a theme park. And the imagery used was enough to pull me inside.
After all this, I must add my favorite line from the book:
Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for this opportunity
Okay, I suppose I should compose myself a little but it was all so wholesome!!
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Inhale. Exhale.
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Under Her Influence is the perfect wholesome read after a dark book I had picked up. This is probably amongst those rarest of times where I found all the characters likable and adorable even when they had their own flaws. Those flaws made them more human, in my opinion.
Beth Fraser AKA The Ice Queen was the owner of the park where Jemma Johnson AKA Miss Posititivity/Influencer was hosted at. Beth's brother/twin, Cameron, had sought help from Jemma without consoling the powerhouse of the Fraser Park.
Beth's character was beautifully crafted. A woman who had devoted so much of her time to work that her personal identity seemed to have dissolved. Whereas, Jemma brimmed with positivity on her online presence, didn't even realize when her love for the craft evaded into a requirement for her living. Something she was supposed to do.
Like an onion, they peeled each other's layers, provided solutions, supported one another. And I live for that. Love or no love, women who support one another rather than being scorned after a misunderstanding, are amazing. Even though there was an attraction on sight, the story helps both the characters explore that attraction into something more.
The side characters. Cameron, Luke, and Abigail. So, so cute. And, I was in awe of the outline of the Park. It reminded me of the time I went to a theme park. And the imagery used was enough to pull me inside.
After all this, I must add my favorite line from the book:
Sorry, yes, just plain popcorn. But it’s not just plain popcorn, not when you really think about it. It’s the smell that first greets you when you come into the park in the morning— it wafts around most of the resort. It’s fresh, warm, buttery, and perfectly seasoned. Never burnt, never under- or overcooked. It comes in a box that’s thick enough to keep its shape but thin enough to warm your fingers on a chilly morning. It’s shareable and you always want more. It’s never plain. It might not be a fashionable freakshake or ice cream mega concoction, but it’s never plain.”
Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for this opportunity
October 19, 2021
Amanda Radley writes sweet romances and this is no different. It's a simple read about Beth, a stressed park owner and Jemma a travel vlogger. Jemma comes to Fraser park for an item and, ofcourse, they fall in love.
It's not a complicated story at all, doesn't have a lot of angst, is PG, but it flows along nicely and is a quick read.
For anyone who is in the mood for a fast 2 hour read with not that much impact it's perfect.
The characters are easy to like and they actually communicate and the writing style is pleasant. Not a book that stands out, but an enjoyable read none-the-less.
*** An ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for a honest review***
It's not a complicated story at all, doesn't have a lot of angst, is PG, but it flows along nicely and is a quick read.
For anyone who is in the mood for a fast 2 hour read with not that much impact it's perfect.
The characters are easy to like and they actually communicate and the writing style is pleasant. Not a book that stands out, but an enjoyable read none-the-less.
*** An ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for a honest review***
May 19, 2021
This is a sweet romance. I could really feel Beth's struggle trying to solve all the problems by herself and if first you think she is going to be an ice woman, later you see that she is actually a nice person.
Jemma is a character of our days. Trying to conquer the world and finding out that sometimes you better have someone or a safe place. However, all passes in a week and everything evolves very quickly. I think I prefer more angst.
Jemma is a character of our days. Trying to conquer the world and finding out that sometimes you better have someone or a safe place. However, all passes in a week and everything evolves very quickly. I think I prefer more angst.
May 7, 2021
Beth Fraser is barely in her forties and is suffering from stress and hypertension. She runs a family theme park, hotels, spa and nature preserve started by her great-grandmother. (Think a small version of Disney set in Scotland.) Her brother is a dreamer who helps run the park and often causes her more stress. He invites Jemma Johnson, a hugely successful social media influencer to visit and promote the park for a week.
Jemma finds herself drawn to Beth as they spend time together in the park. Beth is in the middle of a takeover battle with her board of directors. Jemma is struggling with the constant pressure of presenting the perfect image for her social media accounts. They find they can talk to each other about their struggles.
I liked this book more than the last book by the same author. I especially enjoyed the theme park setting. I found both main characters very likable. This is the fourth book I've read about influencers and this book explains it in intriguing detail. I'm not a fan of main characters who "just know" there is something between them. I like flirting and time spent getting to know each other. The author also doesn't describe feelings when kissing or touching which I missed. The book is clean for language and sex which I found unusual for les-fiction romances.
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books, Inc for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Jemma finds herself drawn to Beth as they spend time together in the park. Beth is in the middle of a takeover battle with her board of directors. Jemma is struggling with the constant pressure of presenting the perfect image for her social media accounts. They find they can talk to each other about their struggles.
I liked this book more than the last book by the same author. I especially enjoyed the theme park setting. I found both main characters very likable. This is the fourth book I've read about influencers and this book explains it in intriguing detail. I'm not a fan of main characters who "just know" there is something between them. I like flirting and time spent getting to know each other. The author also doesn't describe feelings when kissing or touching which I missed. The book is clean for language and sex which I found unusual for les-fiction romances.
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books, Inc for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
July 7, 2021
Audiobook Version! I enjoyed the narration of Amy Putt in this relatively steady outing for Radley. It is a slowish burn of a romance with a pretty big age gap - the older character, Beth Fraser being 42 years old and the younger character, Jemma Johnson is in her twenties (but has no specific age, which is odd). It follows most of the beats of Radley's tendencies: age-gap romance, workplace romance, ice queen, and a kind of manic pixie dream girl thing going on.
Beth Fraser is running herself into the ground, with the pressures of managing her family's theme park in Scotland, having to deal with her brother's laissez faire attitude, and dealing with a new, hostile board of Directors. In comes Jemma Johnson, a workaholic in her own right: she's a wildly popular social media travel influencer. Jemma is invited to the park by Beth's brother, and of course he doesn't introduce any of the women, but they meet under some not too great circumstances. Over the course of Jemma's stay, they grow closer, and they each learn that some things are more important than their careers.
Amy Putt gives a lot of energy to the narration, and does a great job with dialog in which characters cut each other off - it feels natural which is a feat that doesn't always happen in those places. I love her voices, giving Beth and her family lovely Scottish accents and Jemma a more working class English accent. I think I enjoyed this book a little more because of Amy's narration. Great work there.
I think one of the problems I have with this book is that Beth feels older than she is, and is characterized as a person who doesn't know what an influencer is, at the beginning of the book, but casually drops information about social media later on - something that she certainly could have learned from Jemma, but there is nothing in the book showing that. Also, for someone who is so detail oriented and meticulous about her work, that she would not know about social media influencers as marketing tools is a little bizarre to me. Like, it is clear that Beth doesn't trust digital marketing or services, but it is framed as her not knowing how they work or her assuming they're too expensive. Which, for someone like her, feels off. It is an interesting premise that she'd automatically shoot down her brother's suggestions because he is so flighty in the story, and she's learned to shut him down (which does happen with somethings), but that she would not even research a different, potentially more expansive way to market her park and provide services to guests, is completely out of character for a person like her. She doesn't have to know the ins and outs of how influencers actually work, but she should know, at least what influencers are, and Jemma can teach her what she actually does for a living (this did happen, but it still threw me that Beth seemed to know nothing about influencers and influencer culture).
That said, I loved the park, and I love Beth's character growth - the woman was driving herself into the ground, but through Jemma and her family, she learned to relax a little. I also liked a little bit of Jemma's growth, but it was handled a little more sloppily than Beth's. She is driven to look and be positive all the time, because of some cases, and be 'perfect', which is a massive problem in influencer culture. There's a lot of hints here and there as to Jemma's drive to present a certain image to the world, but there's no real cracks in that until late in the book when Jemma actually does have a break due to the pressure. I think if you catch some of the hints, you'll understand the break down, but it did feel a little out of left field to me.
Overall, it is a light romance with a great setting, but it has some odd choices that distracted me from the really excellent characters and amazing theme park setting. Amy Putt's narration is lovely and she is worth the listen.
Beth Fraser is running herself into the ground, with the pressures of managing her family's theme park in Scotland, having to deal with her brother's laissez faire attitude, and dealing with a new, hostile board of Directors. In comes Jemma Johnson, a workaholic in her own right: she's a wildly popular social media travel influencer. Jemma is invited to the park by Beth's brother, and of course he doesn't introduce any of the women, but they meet under some not too great circumstances. Over the course of Jemma's stay, they grow closer, and they each learn that some things are more important than their careers.
Amy Putt gives a lot of energy to the narration, and does a great job with dialog in which characters cut each other off - it feels natural which is a feat that doesn't always happen in those places. I love her voices, giving Beth and her family lovely Scottish accents and Jemma a more working class English accent. I think I enjoyed this book a little more because of Amy's narration. Great work there.
I think one of the problems I have with this book is that Beth feels older than she is, and is characterized as a person who doesn't know what an influencer is, at the beginning of the book, but casually drops information about social media later on - something that she certainly could have learned from Jemma, but there is nothing in the book showing that. Also, for someone who is so detail oriented and meticulous about her work, that she would not know about social media influencers as marketing tools is a little bizarre to me. Like, it is clear that Beth doesn't trust digital marketing or services, but it is framed as her not knowing how they work or her assuming they're too expensive. Which, for someone like her, feels off. It is an interesting premise that she'd automatically shoot down her brother's suggestions because he is so flighty in the story, and she's learned to shut him down (which does happen with somethings), but that she would not even research a different, potentially more expansive way to market her park and provide services to guests, is completely out of character for a person like her. She doesn't have to know the ins and outs of how influencers actually work, but she should know, at least what influencers are, and Jemma can teach her what she actually does for a living (this did happen, but it still threw me that Beth seemed to know nothing about influencers and influencer culture).
That said, I loved the park, and I love Beth's character growth - the woman was driving herself into the ground, but through Jemma and her family, she learned to relax a little. I also liked a little bit of Jemma's growth, but it was handled a little more sloppily than Beth's. She is driven to look and be positive all the time, because of some cases, and be 'perfect', which is a massive problem in influencer culture. There's a lot of hints here and there as to Jemma's drive to present a certain image to the world, but there's no real cracks in that until late in the book when Jemma actually does have a break due to the pressure. I think if you catch some of the hints, you'll understand the break down, but it did feel a little out of left field to me.
Overall, it is a light romance with a great setting, but it has some odd choices that distracted me from the really excellent characters and amazing theme park setting. Amy Putt's narration is lovely and she is worth the listen.
July 19, 2021
Theme park versus Instagram, workaholism versus age-gap romance, popcorn and doughnuts – it is so easy to submerge into this lovely story.
That might be the essence of the book. Nevertheless, there is more than that. I’d like to share some of my cognitive approaches😉
The careers descriptions of the two main characters are the most captivating. Two ambitious women are trying to be successful in men’s world. Amanda Radley beautifully shows the female, Beth, who is trying to run the family business along with her twin brother, Cameron. He seems to be a relatively unrealistic character. He is portrayed as a young widowed, responsible single parent with the two offspring, quite easy-going and open-minded at the same time. His kids are very well-behaved and sensible for their ages as two half orphans. Everything looks adorably sweet and works well for almost perfect Cameron’s image. However, how does he achieve that without a minimal effort? Oh, forgot, it is a men’s world😊
Meanwhile, Beth is slogging her guts out to keep the inherited theme park running. The maintaining of family tradition is another strong point in the book. This is also another proof how much harder a woman have to work to exist in the business world and never equally appreciated as a man (comparing to Cameron’s contribution). This part of the story convinces that no matter how hard a woman works, she will never be considered an only mother of her success. Again, this is the man’s world. Thus, girls, be proud, be beautiful and, please, value the energy you put into your careers, because it will never pay you back as much as you expect.
Following the pattern of overworked woman, there is presented another main character, Jemma. Her Insta-success is occupied by long-hour work with filming, editing, recording voice over and doing perfect make-up for her followers. Her most valued prize for this job appears to be Beth.
All in all, it is a very good read. If you want to experience a fairy tale, take it. Also, if you are a careful reader, and you take your time to read between the lines, you will have your fête. However, please, do not expect hot steam romance, strong emotions or angst. Instead, enjoy flowery narrative.
That might be the essence of the book. Nevertheless, there is more than that. I’d like to share some of my cognitive approaches😉
The careers descriptions of the two main characters are the most captivating. Two ambitious women are trying to be successful in men’s world. Amanda Radley beautifully shows the female, Beth, who is trying to run the family business along with her twin brother, Cameron. He seems to be a relatively unrealistic character. He is portrayed as a young widowed, responsible single parent with the two offspring, quite easy-going and open-minded at the same time. His kids are very well-behaved and sensible for their ages as two half orphans. Everything looks adorably sweet and works well for almost perfect Cameron’s image. However, how does he achieve that without a minimal effort? Oh, forgot, it is a men’s world😊
Meanwhile, Beth is slogging her guts out to keep the inherited theme park running. The maintaining of family tradition is another strong point in the book. This is also another proof how much harder a woman have to work to exist in the business world and never equally appreciated as a man (comparing to Cameron’s contribution). This part of the story convinces that no matter how hard a woman works, she will never be considered an only mother of her success. Again, this is the man’s world. Thus, girls, be proud, be beautiful and, please, value the energy you put into your careers, because it will never pay you back as much as you expect.
Following the pattern of overworked woman, there is presented another main character, Jemma. Her Insta-success is occupied by long-hour work with filming, editing, recording voice over and doing perfect make-up for her followers. Her most valued prize for this job appears to be Beth.
All in all, it is a very good read. If you want to experience a fairy tale, take it. Also, if you are a careful reader, and you take your time to read between the lines, you will have your fête. However, please, do not expect hot steam romance, strong emotions or angst. Instead, enjoy flowery narrative.
June 6, 2021
I usually look forward to Radley's books which are a quick easy read but this one I found boring.
It's an extremely SLOW romance between the 2 MC's with a lot, in my opinion, of incidental dialogue in between. I hope her next one is better
It's an extremely SLOW romance between the 2 MC's with a lot, in my opinion, of incidental dialogue in between. I hope her next one is better
June 20, 2021
Emma Fraser knows theme parks. Her and her brother have been running the Scottish theme park that was started by her great grandmother in the early 1900s. She is overworked, stiff, and unapproachable. Even though her and her brother run the theme park, they answers to the BOD. If only she can get her brother to take on more responsible. Jemma Johnson is a travel blogger who is invited to come to Fraser park by Emma's brother to promote the park. Jemma enjoys her job, but it constantly on the go because she has to be in order to keep her social media numbers high. Emma is skeptical when she first meets Jemma, but has not choice but to play nice.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. It was cute and easy to read. Even though the main story takes place over a week or so, Radley kept throwing the two mains together so they could get to know each other better. I did feel the week's time together was not enough. I did like both mains and the support cast helped to move the story along. There was some chemistry between the mains but it was not overwhelming. I think this is because Radley mainly write PG/G rated romances. I do wish we could have gotten a PG-13 version of the story. I tend to gravitate too romances that has more sex. Not necessarily sex scenes, but more sex appeal and chemistry. I came into reading this one knowing that was a possibility (based on the previous books I have read from this author). I think that if you really like romances with no sex this book would be for you. If you tend to like romances with more sex appeal just know this romance will not give you that.
3.5 stars
This arc was provided by netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. It was cute and easy to read. Even though the main story takes place over a week or so, Radley kept throwing the two mains together so they could get to know each other better. I did feel the week's time together was not enough. I did like both mains and the support cast helped to move the story along. There was some chemistry between the mains but it was not overwhelming. I think this is because Radley mainly write PG/G rated romances. I do wish we could have gotten a PG-13 version of the story. I tend to gravitate too romances that has more sex. Not necessarily sex scenes, but more sex appeal and chemistry. I came into reading this one knowing that was a possibility (based on the previous books I have read from this author). I think that if you really like romances with no sex this book would be for you. If you tend to like romances with more sex appeal just know this romance will not give you that.
3.5 stars
This arc was provided by netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
September 2, 2021
A week instead of just a couple of days at an amusement park that's been family owned and operated for generations? Sign me up! I love amusement parks.
So does Jemma, a social media influencer, who goes to Fraser Park in Scotland for a few days to detail cool stuff there. There's a lot of setup and posing and multiple takes in her room before she heads out to the park. Where she runs into....
Beth, half of the current duo running the park (with her brother Cameron). Beth is overworked and constantly under pressure. It was a little difficult for me this time with the instalove, but I get it, opposites attract, no matter how weird it is that someone like Jemma would be so instantly attracted to someone about a couple decades her senior who always looks aggrieved.
It's a slow-burning fire, and eventually Jemma gets an offer from Cameron to stay longer, to give a more in depth look at the park for her subscribers. She agrees, mainly so she can hang around with Beth more. Beth, for her part, wishes Cameron would shoulder more of the load.
We all know there's a happily ever after to be had, which comes after just a bit of drama toward the end. That isn't so bad. There's some handholding and no explicit sexytimes, so if that sort of thing isn't what you want to read, this is a safe book.
Overall, I wasn't totally enamored with the book, and I was extremely skeptical about the differences in the two, both in personality and in the age gap, but this is escapist read. On the Drama Llama scale, I'd pin it at a two.
On the star scale, I'll give it a three out of five.
Thanks to bold Strokes books and NetGalley for the reading copy.
So does Jemma, a social media influencer, who goes to Fraser Park in Scotland for a few days to detail cool stuff there. There's a lot of setup and posing and multiple takes in her room before she heads out to the park. Where she runs into....
Beth, half of the current duo running the park (with her brother Cameron). Beth is overworked and constantly under pressure. It was a little difficult for me this time with the instalove, but I get it, opposites attract, no matter how weird it is that someone like Jemma would be so instantly attracted to someone about a couple decades her senior who always looks aggrieved.
It's a slow-burning fire, and eventually Jemma gets an offer from Cameron to stay longer, to give a more in depth look at the park for her subscribers. She agrees, mainly so she can hang around with Beth more. Beth, for her part, wishes Cameron would shoulder more of the load.
We all know there's a happily ever after to be had, which comes after just a bit of drama toward the end. That isn't so bad. There's some handholding and no explicit sexytimes, so if that sort of thing isn't what you want to read, this is a safe book.
Overall, I wasn't totally enamored with the book, and I was extremely skeptical about the differences in the two, both in personality and in the age gap, but this is escapist read. On the Drama Llama scale, I'd pin it at a two.
On the star scale, I'll give it a three out of five.
Thanks to bold Strokes books and NetGalley for the reading copy.
July 17, 2021
This was an easy, low-angst read that I breezed through. It’s the third book I’ve read from this author and I expected
a bit more friction between the two MCs. I love how Radley writes witty, snappy dialogue and that was missing from this book.
The two MCs are both suffering from stress and anxiety and I felt a bit stressed out too reading about it in such detail. I also feel like I learned way too much about being an influencer.
There also wasn’t a whole lot of chemistry between the two MCs and the romance, while sweet, felt forced onto the characters. Don’t expect a lot of heat, either. There are a few kissing scenes and it’s implied they sleep together, but this is a Radley book so there’s nothing “on-screen”.
Alternate story below!!
Okay this may be a spoiler, but I think it would be super cool if Cameron turned out to be actually a psychopath and poisoned his wife and is slowly poisoning his sister, which would account for her health issues. He’s doing it because he actually wants to sell the entire place and live on some tropical island somewhere and the affable but incompetent front is to hide his true Machiavellian self. He lured Jenna there, knowing his love-starved sister would find it hard to resist her and he manufactured situations where they had to be together but never in a million years would such a high-flying, worldly influencer give stodgy older Beth a second glance. That way, when she eventually succumbs to the poison it can be explained as her being “broken hearted”. BUT!! Beth and Jemma figure out something is fishy and they work together to take him down and in the process fall in luuuuuv! Cool, huh?!
But anyway, that doesn’t happen and Cameron turns out to be a very nice guy.
This book was okay but not on my reread list.
My rating: 3.5 stars
ARC received via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
a bit more friction between the two MCs. I love how Radley writes witty, snappy dialogue and that was missing from this book.
The two MCs are both suffering from stress and anxiety and I felt a bit stressed out too reading about it in such detail. I also feel like I learned way too much about being an influencer.
There also wasn’t a whole lot of chemistry between the two MCs and the romance, while sweet, felt forced onto the characters. Don’t expect a lot of heat, either. There are a few kissing scenes and it’s implied they sleep together, but this is a Radley book so there’s nothing “on-screen”.
Alternate story below!!
Okay this may be a spoiler, but I think it would be super cool if Cameron turned out to be actually a psychopath and poisoned his wife and is slowly poisoning his sister, which would account for her health issues. He’s doing it because he actually wants to sell the entire place and live on some tropical island somewhere and the affable but incompetent front is to hide his true Machiavellian self. He lured Jenna there, knowing his love-starved sister would find it hard to resist her and he manufactured situations where they had to be together but never in a million years would such a high-flying, worldly influencer give stodgy older Beth a second glance. That way, when she eventually succumbs to the poison it can be explained as her being “broken hearted”. BUT!! Beth and Jemma figure out something is fishy and they work together to take him down and in the process fall in luuuuuv! Cool, huh?!
But anyway, that doesn’t happen and Cameron turns out to be a very nice guy.
This book was okay but not on my reread list.
My rating: 3.5 stars
ARC received via NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2021
3.75 stars. Under Her Influence is a sweet opposites attract romance set within a family-owned theme park in Scotland. It’s always lovely to see more WLW representation, which was one of the main reasons I requested this book. The romance was well-paced and heartwarming with a low heat level, and the characters also had individual storylines and problems to battle with, which made it all the more interesting. There was a little bit of found family there, too, which was lovely.
I must admit, though, that, for me, the writing felt a little bit robotic somehow. There were A LOT of repeated dialogue tags and a lot of showing rather than telling. A theme park is such a unique, lively place, but that magic didn’t often come through in the book and I found myself wishing for more. I really liked Cameron, Beth’s brother, and he got some great development, but for some reason we kept getting fed the same bits of information about him, sort of as though the author wanted to write about him more than the MCs. At the beginning, the romance didn’t feel believable for me, either. Beth is a tense businesswoman, Jemma is her polar opposite, a fun influencer, and they didn’t really share any banter or chemistry, but for some reason Jemma was smitten from the beginning. I love opposites attract, but we needed something to pull them together more. A shared similarity, a vulnerability, anything. It was more just throwing them together and hoping for the best.
All in all, this was a relaxing, enjoyable read with a satisfying HEA but there always felt to be lacking something, whether it was chemistry between the characters, or the sort of personality and sparkle to the writing that allows the reader to be immersed in the story. It was a story told cleanly from beginning to end, but not much more than that, and unfortunately, romance doesn’t work without the feeling.
I was provided with the ARC from NetGalley via Bold Strokes Books.
I must admit, though, that, for me, the writing felt a little bit robotic somehow. There were A LOT of repeated dialogue tags and a lot of showing rather than telling. A theme park is such a unique, lively place, but that magic didn’t often come through in the book and I found myself wishing for more. I really liked Cameron, Beth’s brother, and he got some great development, but for some reason we kept getting fed the same bits of information about him, sort of as though the author wanted to write about him more than the MCs. At the beginning, the romance didn’t feel believable for me, either. Beth is a tense businesswoman, Jemma is her polar opposite, a fun influencer, and they didn’t really share any banter or chemistry, but for some reason Jemma was smitten from the beginning. I love opposites attract, but we needed something to pull them together more. A shared similarity, a vulnerability, anything. It was more just throwing them together and hoping for the best.
All in all, this was a relaxing, enjoyable read with a satisfying HEA but there always felt to be lacking something, whether it was chemistry between the characters, or the sort of personality and sparkle to the writing that allows the reader to be immersed in the story. It was a story told cleanly from beginning to end, but not much more than that, and unfortunately, romance doesn’t work without the feeling.
I was provided with the ARC from NetGalley via Bold Strokes Books.
August 21, 2021
Big thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for my e-copy. Amanda Radley’s ‘Under Her Influence’ follows a co-owner of theme park in Scotland and an influencer tasked to bring the Fraser Park’s into more people’s radar. I really liked the idea and the premise of an easy and uplifting sapphic romance set in the Scotland and around theme park. It felt like it would an easy and lovely read, but it unfortunately felt short to me in some aspects. There was a huge potential with the story and the characters, especially as Beth and Jemma’s personalities crash almost instantly and there’s huge potential for drama and misunderstandings, and while on some level that has happened in the story, I didn’t feel that ‘Under Her Influence’ met my expectations fully. I generally have nothing against age difference in romances – as long as both are consenting adults – but here the age difference between Beth and Jemma felt too big, perhaps not necessarily because of an age-number but rather due to generational gap, with Beth having no grasp of the world Jemma is part of. Sometimes those differences can be a great clash between characters, but here I just didn’t see the sparks fly so to speak, and as a result the romance between Beth and Jemma felt flat and forced for me. While I didn’t love this book, I may still check some other works by the author – the premise was really nice.
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