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Boston Classics #2.5
Like It's 1999
Love ’em and Leave ’em Alice Kim and “Hot” Steve Lowell are perfect for each other. It’ll only take them ten years to figure that out.
Just because they throw the most bodacious wedding party ever…
Just because they’re perfect partners in pranks…
Just because they love all the same boss movies…
Just because they share one totally bangin’ night of sex together…
Does not mean they’ll break the One Time Rule.
Even if they do… they don’t do relationships.
And they’re never getting married.
Like, ever.
In this friends-to-lovers, marriage-pact novella spanning the last decade of the 20th century, life forces a playboy and a playgirl grow up—and grow apart—before giving them a chance to create a happy-ever-after they can actually be happy about.
Just because they throw the most bodacious wedding party ever…
Just because they’re perfect partners in pranks…
Just because they love all the same boss movies…
Just because they share one totally bangin’ night of sex together…
Does not mean they’ll break the One Time Rule.
Even if they do… they don’t do relationships.
And they’re never getting married.
Like, ever.
In this friends-to-lovers, marriage-pact novella spanning the last decade of the 20th century, life forces a playboy and a playgirl grow up—and grow apart—before giving them a chance to create a happy-ever-after they can actually be happy about.
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About the author
Karen Grey
22 books616 followersKAREN GREY is a USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of vintage romantic comedies with smart heroines and hunky heroes. Drawing on a long career as a performer, her retro 80's and 90's romances are populated with characters working both on- and off-stage in theater, TV and film.
She's a lifelong omnivorous reader (including 20 years as an audiobook narrator). When not reading or writing, she's lounging at the beach or hiking in the mountains. Or dreaming about both with an IPA in hand and a dog or a cat nearby.
To get the latest news, join her VIP club at followkarengrey.com.
If you are seeking content guidance for any of my books (which may include spoilers) it can be found at http://bit.ly/ContentGuidanceKarenGrey
Enjoy your trip back in time! Karen
She's a lifelong omnivorous reader (including 20 years as an audiobook narrator). When not reading or writing, she's lounging at the beach or hiking in the mountains. Or dreaming about both with an IPA in hand and a dog or a cat nearby.
To get the latest news, join her VIP club at followkarengrey.com.
If you are seeking content guidance for any of my books (which may include spoilers) it can be found at http://bit.ly/ContentGuidanceKarenGrey
Enjoy your trip back in time! Karen
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
December 9, 2020
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life in Books.
I really enjoyed this novella! I haven't read a lot of novellas lately but there is something really satisfying about being able to sit down and read an entire story in a single sitting. It is even better when that story features characters that can't wait to see again. When I found out that this story would focus on "Hot" Steve, I just knew that I had to read it and it was everything I had hoped it would be.
"Hot" Steve and Alice are Kate's best friends. Both characters played a role in the first book in the series, What I'm Looking For, and it was fun to catch up with all the key players from this story in this novella. Steve and Alice really are perfect for each other, trading movie quotes with each other at every opportunity, not to mention the chemistry that they share.
The events in this story occur on New Year's Eve in a number of years. It was nice to see how much had changed in each of their lives. I just couldn't wait for these two to figure out that they needed to make each other a priority in their lives. I was very happy about how things worked out in the end and happy to see this group of friends remained so close over the years.
I would recommend this story to others. I do think that readers will get the most out of this story if they have read the first book in the series but it could work as a stand-alone story if necessary. I definitely plan to read more of Karen Grey's work in the future.
I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
I really enjoyed this novella! I haven't read a lot of novellas lately but there is something really satisfying about being able to sit down and read an entire story in a single sitting. It is even better when that story features characters that can't wait to see again. When I found out that this story would focus on "Hot" Steve, I just knew that I had to read it and it was everything I had hoped it would be.
"Hot" Steve and Alice are Kate's best friends. Both characters played a role in the first book in the series, What I'm Looking For, and it was fun to catch up with all the key players from this story in this novella. Steve and Alice really are perfect for each other, trading movie quotes with each other at every opportunity, not to mention the chemistry that they share.
The events in this story occur on New Year's Eve in a number of years. It was nice to see how much had changed in each of their lives. I just couldn't wait for these two to figure out that they needed to make each other a priority in their lives. I was very happy about how things worked out in the end and happy to see this group of friends remained so close over the years.
I would recommend this story to others. I do think that readers will get the most out of this story if they have read the first book in the series but it could work as a stand-alone story if necessary. I definitely plan to read more of Karen Grey's work in the future.
I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
February 24, 2021
I’ve only read the 2nd book in this series, and so I feel like I didn’t know Hot Steve or Alice that well. But that’s okay, because I really did get to know them through this story, which I have to say I ended up loving!
Probably my favorite part of the story was how the two of them quoted movies at each other or the other people in their lives constantly. Because that is something that my family and myself do all the time. I find that I even think in movie quotes to myself a lot of the time as well.
Another thing I loved is that Alice was able to be “love em and leave em” and that she wasn’t made to feel as if that made her loose or immoral. I like that we can have a female character get to do the same things as a male character would do with no problem. Something that should be more normalized in both stories and real life if you ask me.
The end we had a lot of jumping around, missing out on what exactly what was happening and why, even though I could kind of guess based on the characters, as well as the author did explain it through the story as well.
I liked the female narrator, and the male narrator wasn’t bad, I just didn’t feel his voice fit my image of that character.
Loved the nostalgic look back at some good times in my own life with the time periods this book took place in. And I need to go read all the other books in the series now as well!
Probably my favorite part of the story was how the two of them quoted movies at each other or the other people in their lives constantly. Because that is something that my family and myself do all the time. I find that I even think in movie quotes to myself a lot of the time as well.
Another thing I loved is that Alice was able to be “love em and leave em” and that she wasn’t made to feel as if that made her loose or immoral. I like that we can have a female character get to do the same things as a male character would do with no problem. Something that should be more normalized in both stories and real life if you ask me.
The end we had a lot of jumping around, missing out on what exactly what was happening and why, even though I could kind of guess based on the characters, as well as the author did explain it through the story as well.
I liked the female narrator, and the male narrator wasn’t bad, I just didn’t feel his voice fit my image of that character.
Loved the nostalgic look back at some good times in my own life with the time periods this book took place in. And I need to go read all the other books in the series now as well!
June 17, 2021
6/16/2021 - Update for audio: Cindy Kay and Ryan West were fantabulous. This production was perfectly in sync. I also really liked Kay’s male voices and West’s female voices.
I’m ready for book 3, You Spin Me. (ebook is out now, but I’m waiting for audio coming soon!)
6/10/2021 - Audio is $1.99 on Kobo. 🎧📚🎧
12/9/2020: It’s release day! This is in KU too!
12/6/2020: The minute I finished the first book in Karen Grey’s Boston Classics series, What I’m Looking For, I immediately wanted a book about “Hot" Steve. While I don’t think you have to read the other books in the series to enjoy Like It’s 1999, I do think that you’d appreciate some of the references more if you’ve read or listened to at least book 1.
Like It’s 1999 is a fun novella featuring Kate’s best-friends “Hot" Steve and Alice as they become co-bridesmaids…er… bridespeople for Kate & Will’s wedding. Grey’s writing style definitely works for me and in this case there were some parallels in my relationship with my personal “Hot" Steve. Hubby and I are known for constantly throwing movie lines at each other, we started dating on New Year’s Eve, and once we got together everyone was pretty much, “What took you so long?”
While this is a relationship slow burn, Grey gives us a few steamy scenes and lots of interactions to know that Steve & Alice could be great together. They have a lot of fun and the movie lines definitely kept me grounded in the late 80’s. Unfortunately, the timing isn’t right. For 10 years. We get to catch up with Will & Kate and get a peek into their future. Or, maybe their past? (insert Back to the Future time-bending here) No worries. Steve & Alice’s story gets a cute and happy ending.
I received a free advanced copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review. Later I joyfully purchased the audio!
I’m ready for book 3, You Spin Me. (ebook is out now, but I’m waiting for audio coming soon!)
6/10/2021 - Audio is $1.99 on Kobo. 🎧📚🎧
12/9/2020: It’s release day! This is in KU too!
12/6/2020: The minute I finished the first book in Karen Grey’s Boston Classics series, What I’m Looking For, I immediately wanted a book about “Hot" Steve. While I don’t think you have to read the other books in the series to enjoy Like It’s 1999, I do think that you’d appreciate some of the references more if you’ve read or listened to at least book 1.
Like It’s 1999 is a fun novella featuring Kate’s best-friends “Hot" Steve and Alice as they become co-bridesmaids…er… bridespeople for Kate & Will’s wedding. Grey’s writing style definitely works for me and in this case there were some parallels in my relationship with my personal “Hot" Steve. Hubby and I are known for constantly throwing movie lines at each other, we started dating on New Year’s Eve, and once we got together everyone was pretty much, “What took you so long?”
While this is a relationship slow burn, Grey gives us a few steamy scenes and lots of interactions to know that Steve & Alice could be great together. They have a lot of fun and the movie lines definitely kept me grounded in the late 80’s. Unfortunately, the timing isn’t right. For 10 years. We get to catch up with Will & Kate and get a peek into their future. Or, maybe their past? (insert Back to the Future time-bending here) No worries. Steve & Alice’s story gets a cute and happy ending.
I received a free advanced copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review. Later I joyfully purchased the audio!
February 17, 2021
(audiobook) This is the love story between two commitment-phobic people, and it’s delightful! I loved watching them grow up and learn what they want in life, and finally finding each other. Again. Though it took ten years.
I really enjoyed travelling through a whole decade, experiencing how the world changed–the first cellphones, the emergence of the Silicon Valley, etc. It gave a realistic and interesting background to the story.
The link between Alice and Steve is Kate–from the first book of the series–and her marriage and family life becomes another common thread. It’s the standard to which Alice and Steve analyze their own love life. I loved that aspect. Commitment, and lack of, are the focus of this book.
As an audiobook, it was short and quite enjoyable. Both narrators do a great job, and I really loved Alice and Steve’s romance.
Quickie
- Series: Boston classics #2.5 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romcom #friends to lovers #movie quotes
- Triggers: cheating, multiple miscarriages, mention of illness
- Main couple: Alice Kim & Steve Lowell
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + ‘bridesmaid’ Steve painting his nails? wonderful idea!
- – I was frustrated because I rooted for them and it took so long for them to be together!
I really enjoyed travelling through a whole decade, experiencing how the world changed–the first cellphones, the emergence of the Silicon Valley, etc. It gave a realistic and interesting background to the story.
The link between Alice and Steve is Kate–from the first book of the series–and her marriage and family life becomes another common thread. It’s the standard to which Alice and Steve analyze their own love life. I loved that aspect. Commitment, and lack of, are the focus of this book.
As an audiobook, it was short and quite enjoyable. Both narrators do a great job, and I really loved Alice and Steve’s romance.
Quickie
- Series: Boston classics #2.5 (can be read as a standalone)
- Hashtags: #romcom #friends to lovers #movie quotes
- Triggers: cheating, multiple miscarriages, mention of illness
- Main couple: Alice Kim & Steve Lowell
- Hotness: 3/5
- Romance: 5/5
- + ‘bridesmaid’ Steve painting his nails? wonderful idea!
- – I was frustrated because I rooted for them and it took so long for them to be together!
August 27, 2024
I thought that this book was good
December 7, 2020
Like It’s 1999 is a novella that reads as a full story; you get to know the characters and their story. I like the characters and love this couple together. This commitment-phobic couple belong together, it just takes them awhile. I’m so glad “Hot Steve” got his own story. That being said, he was a secondary character in a previous book and I wanted to know more about him. Wish granted! Like It’s 1999 is full of humor and on-point nostalgia reference and movie quotes. Makes me long for the last decades of the 20th century when times were simpler and fun (and I was in my late teens, early-mid 20’s). Karen Grey has become an auto buy author for me. I like her writing style/voice. She writes go-getter female characters and awesome male characters. Highly recommend as well as the other books in the Boston Classics series.
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December 22, 2020
Like It’s 1999 is such a fun NYE novella that spans a decade and will have you laughing.
I adored Alice and Steve, even though it took them a long time to come to the realization how perfect they are for each other. From the moment they meet on New Years Eve in 1988 there is a connection and with each passing year that connection continues to grow.
Throw in some fun references from the times and this book will have you wanting to transport back in time and laugh out loud the whole way through.
If you’re looking for a fun novella to read Like It’s 1999 is one to check out!
I adored Alice and Steve, even though it took them a long time to come to the realization how perfect they are for each other. From the moment they meet on New Years Eve in 1988 there is a connection and with each passing year that connection continues to grow.
Throw in some fun references from the times and this book will have you wanting to transport back in time and laugh out loud the whole way through.
If you’re looking for a fun novella to read Like It’s 1999 is one to check out!
December 6, 2020
I love Alice. She is a no nonesense, take charge, like me or not kind of girl. I love Steve, he is sweet and fun, and a good friend. I love their interactions. I like that they have this intense connection. I like the way they have to live their own lives, endure their own grief and that they still.come out on top in the end. I love Kate and Will and all of the secondary characters.
January 3, 2021
Anyone else drawn to a book that has a year in it when that year has significance in it? I graduated high school in 1999 and I was immediately drawn to the title. I really wanted to read a few New Years themed books and this was perfect.
.
After a few years of New Years Hook ups, commit phobe Alice and Steve decide that if neither are married by 1999 they will marry each other. A back up plan if you will. Ten years fly by and it’s easy to see these two were always meant to be together.
.
This was a fun read and I love their banter and all the movie quotes they throw at Each other!
.
After a few years of New Years Hook ups, commit phobe Alice and Steve decide that if neither are married by 1999 they will marry each other. A back up plan if you will. Ten years fly by and it’s easy to see these two were always meant to be together.
.
This was a fun read and I love their banter and all the movie quotes they throw at Each other!
January 20, 2021
This was my first book by this author and I love her writing style! This book has a cute couple. By far the best thing is the on point references and quotes from 1999. A fun novella I highly recommend.
January 14, 2021
I fell in love with “Hot Steve” while reading the first book in Ms. Grey’s Boston Classics series, What I’m Looking For. He is a special “guy’s guy” with a heart of gold, becoming one of Kate’s best friends. In that book, we also met Alice, Kate’s long-time best gal pal. In Like It’s 1999, the pair team up to help plan Kate’s wedding and they realize they are quite the pair. However, neither wants a relationship, marriage, kids, etc. So they shy away from anything more than a one-night stand.
Like It’s 1999 is a special story that spans a decade. It wasn’t at all what I was expecting, but everything I needed. Steve and Alice are meant to be, but like Harry and Sally, it takes them a while to figure it out. We see them joke and bond, and because the story’s POV is split between the two, we also learn about their fears, making them relatable characters that I really care about. Each struggles to find him/herself and their individual journeys, filled with ups and downs, are necessary for them to blossom into who they are meant to be. Ms. Grey gives readers just enough of both the highs and the lows for me to experience and feel it all.
While the novella is a standalone story, I’m glad I read What I’m Looking For first because I got to know both characters before coming into the book. There is a lot of emotions and story packed into the shorter format. I highly recommend grabbing Like It’s 1999 as a New Year’s treat.
My Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Like It’s 1999 is a special story that spans a decade. It wasn’t at all what I was expecting, but everything I needed. Steve and Alice are meant to be, but like Harry and Sally, it takes them a while to figure it out. We see them joke and bond, and because the story’s POV is split between the two, we also learn about their fears, making them relatable characters that I really care about. Each struggles to find him/herself and their individual journeys, filled with ups and downs, are necessary for them to blossom into who they are meant to be. Ms. Grey gives readers just enough of both the highs and the lows for me to experience and feel it all.
While the novella is a standalone story, I’m glad I read What I’m Looking For first because I got to know both characters before coming into the book. There is a lot of emotions and story packed into the shorter format. I highly recommend grabbing Like It’s 1999 as a New Year’s treat.
My Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
February 20, 2021
I Liked this book pretty much from the beginning to the very end it was a very enjoyable book.
The story line was great and the author did explain with their writing what the story was about.
The characters made the story in my opinion.
The story line was great and the author did explain with their writing what the story was about.
The characters made the story in my opinion.
March 2, 2021
Audiobook courtesy of Karen Grey and StoryOrigin in exchange for my review.
Like It’s 1999 is a novella and part of Karen Grey’s Boston Classics series. Characters from the previous books are featured in the story. That said, if you haven’t had a chance to read those yet, this novella can stand alone.
I enjoyed the story of Steve and Alice. They meet when their friends get married and they are part of the wedding party. As can happen at these events Steve and Alice get together. But as soon as the celebration is over they go their separate ways. Before leaving they make a pact and leave their fate up to a date ten years hence. A lot of life happens in those ten years.
This novella was just what I needed. It’s light and funny but also hit on a couple of serious issues regarding marriage and parenthood. Novellas usually don’t have the luxury for a lot of background on characters but I felt Karen Grey gave readers a good sense of each character. I liked how Steve and Alice first connected through their love of movie quotes. I have that same connection with people in my life – so much fun.
I enjoyed the narration by Cindy Kay and Ryan West. Their voices fit the characters perfectly and added to the reading experience.
Like It’s 1999 is a novella and part of Karen Grey’s Boston Classics series. Characters from the previous books are featured in the story. That said, if you haven’t had a chance to read those yet, this novella can stand alone.
I enjoyed the story of Steve and Alice. They meet when their friends get married and they are part of the wedding party. As can happen at these events Steve and Alice get together. But as soon as the celebration is over they go their separate ways. Before leaving they make a pact and leave their fate up to a date ten years hence. A lot of life happens in those ten years.
This novella was just what I needed. It’s light and funny but also hit on a couple of serious issues regarding marriage and parenthood. Novellas usually don’t have the luxury for a lot of background on characters but I felt Karen Grey gave readers a good sense of each character. I liked how Steve and Alice first connected through their love of movie quotes. I have that same connection with people in my life – so much fun.
I enjoyed the narration by Cindy Kay and Ryan West. Their voices fit the characters perfectly and added to the reading experience.
February 25, 2021
I have loved the two full books in this series and "Hot" Steve was one of my favorite characters from the first book and so I was excited to read about him and Alice.
It was a short but sweet book about two people who never wanted to settle down and how their paths go different ways but they end up back together many years later.
If you like contemporary romances then you will enjoy this series even this novella! :)
It was a short but sweet book about two people who never wanted to settle down and how their paths go different ways but they end up back together many years later.
If you like contemporary romances then you will enjoy this series even this novella! :)
August 6, 2021
A lovely and heartfelt romance novella set from new year 1989 to 1999. I listened to the audio and the narrators are really good. It does stand alone as a story but I have read the first book and it would be better to read them in order, so you understand the side characters. Well written.
January 18, 2021
I received an ARC of Karen Grey’s novella, Like it’s 1999. This is a part of the Boston Classic Retro Romcom world that Karen has brilliantly created. In this sweet, nostalgic novella we get “Hot” Steve Lowell and “Love em’ and Leave em" Alice’s story.
The story begins on New Year’s Eve in 1988. Kate, Alice’s best friend gets engaged to be married the following New Years Eve. Alice is Kate’s best friend from college, and Steve and Kate became good friends through work. Kate wants Alice and Steve to be her bridesmaid and bridesman. Steve and Alice have a lot of planning to do for the wedding. That night, Steve and Alice chat a lot and end up hooking up. The next morning, they agree that it was just a one time thing and agree to be friends and help work together to plan all the wedding festivities for the following year.
As much as these two claim they don’t want to be together, they are drawn to each other. Over the next ten years, several obstacles become between them, and it may take till 1999 for them to finally figure out that they are in fact perfect for each other.
Karen Grey has written a funny, feel-good novella that is themed perfectly to ring in the new year! I love how she intertwined epic movie quotes throughout the different years in the story. These quotes helped compliment Alice and Steve’s love for movies and showed their congenial personalities. I’m looking forward to reading more from Karen and finding more characters to fall in love with!
***Update***
I received an ALC of the audio of this Novella! Cindy Kay and Ryan West narrate. These two narrators did a fantastic job of bringing Alice and Steve to life. Cindy portrays Alice's witty, independent personality perfectly. Ryan West's voice is the perfect fit for "Hot" Steve! I enjoyed the audio of this story; these narrators' voices complimented each other in the best possible way!
The story begins on New Year’s Eve in 1988. Kate, Alice’s best friend gets engaged to be married the following New Years Eve. Alice is Kate’s best friend from college, and Steve and Kate became good friends through work. Kate wants Alice and Steve to be her bridesmaid and bridesman. Steve and Alice have a lot of planning to do for the wedding. That night, Steve and Alice chat a lot and end up hooking up. The next morning, they agree that it was just a one time thing and agree to be friends and help work together to plan all the wedding festivities for the following year.
As much as these two claim they don’t want to be together, they are drawn to each other. Over the next ten years, several obstacles become between them, and it may take till 1999 for them to finally figure out that they are in fact perfect for each other.
Karen Grey has written a funny, feel-good novella that is themed perfectly to ring in the new year! I love how she intertwined epic movie quotes throughout the different years in the story. These quotes helped compliment Alice and Steve’s love for movies and showed their congenial personalities. I’m looking forward to reading more from Karen and finding more characters to fall in love with!
***Update***
I received an ALC of the audio of this Novella! Cindy Kay and Ryan West narrate. These two narrators did a fantastic job of bringing Alice and Steve to life. Cindy portrays Alice's witty, independent personality perfectly. Ryan West's voice is the perfect fit for "Hot" Steve! I enjoyed the audio of this story; these narrators' voices complimented each other in the best possible way!
January 18, 2021
*****UPDATE*****
I was lucky enough to receive an ALC of this audiobook and all I can add to book I already loved with 5 stars is the narration by Ryan West and Cindy Kay brought 'Hot Steve' and 'Love 'em & Leave 'em Alice' to life. Karen cast them perfectly. Karen has found herself a fabulous niche and I hope she continues to find her inspiration from the best decade ever!
What can I say? I loved everything about this book! The author engaged me from the 1st quote and I enjoyed strolling down memory lane while reading this sweet and funny story.
I knew every reference, movie quote, song title, fads and sayings from this book. I can't wait to read the rest in this series and have no doubt I'll love every single page.
So, go snag some 80s swag you know you still own (or wish you did!)and grab this fun read about a guy and a girl who are meant to be but too stubborn to read the writing on the wall. Dont worry, there's a HEA you'll love!!
I was lucky enough to receive an ALC of this audiobook and all I can add to book I already loved with 5 stars is the narration by Ryan West and Cindy Kay brought 'Hot Steve' and 'Love 'em & Leave 'em Alice' to life. Karen cast them perfectly. Karen has found herself a fabulous niche and I hope she continues to find her inspiration from the best decade ever!
What can I say? I loved everything about this book! The author engaged me from the 1st quote and I enjoyed strolling down memory lane while reading this sweet and funny story.
I knew every reference, movie quote, song title, fads and sayings from this book. I can't wait to read the rest in this series and have no doubt I'll love every single page.
So, go snag some 80s swag you know you still own (or wish you did!)and grab this fun read about a guy and a girl who are meant to be but too stubborn to read the writing on the wall. Dont worry, there's a HEA you'll love!!
January 24, 2021
Enjoyable Read/Listen ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️s
There is a lot I enjoyed about Karen Grey’s novella - likable characters that communicate via movie dialogue are my catnip. The movie dialogue used as epigraphs are also a fun touch. Plus, Grey has truly captured the essence of the particular moment (or decade) in which the story takes place. Grey brings the late 1980s alive in the entire series and in this story that extends (even if through far too brief glimpses) into the 1990s. The setting and the time are clear to the reader/listener in fun and engaging ways. The H and h are wonderful and are given added life by two talented narrators - Cindy Kay and Ryan West - who compellingly capture the personalities of, as well as the blossoming romance between, the leads.
What Grey accomplished with this story’s H, Steve, (aka Hot Steve for those who read ‘What I am Looking For) - is pretty great. She took a character who could easily have been an obnoxious, stock character and worked to give him depth and dimension - as Kate became his friend in the first book, so did the reader; I was so happy to see he had his own story in this novella. My only wish is that this had been a novel instead; so that Steve’s character and personality could have been even more fully explored. The same is true of Alice, the h, who is such a refreshing character is so many ways - her independence, her understanding of her own desires - that pull the reader towards her. This story has the beginnings of some really wonderful character development, but the one disappointment here is that the shorter length of the novella form doesn’t allow that development (for either character) to reach its full potential. Alice gets a little more space than Steve, but it still isn’t enough!
The novella is broken down by parts that correspond to 3 particular years over the course of a decade, and I could not help but wish there had been more parts/years explored so that this had been fleshed out into a full novel. These characters are unique in so many ways that they deserved much more space to breathe. Especially when Grey moves to take the plot and characters through hard times, moments that are meant to build intensity and lend more weight to the story, are given too short shrift to do that heavy lifting. Sadly, the shorter form leads to a lot of catching up on what has happened to characters in ways that doesn’t allow the emotion of those experiences to get much more than superficial treatment, which is a real shame as there were some great themes here that I wish had been given more room to grow - ones that don’t often get a lot of room in the genre (for example, a central couple who do not want kids; the pressure on the h by her family to have kids despite that; a H struggling with how he is seen or not seen by himself and by others; etc). These are things I would have loved to dive more deeply along side these particular characters.
Overall, even though I personally wanted a longer story for these two, the one that’s here is still an enjoyable read/listen and I do recommend it, especially to anyone who enjoys having their nostalgia dial turned up to eleven.
**I received a copy of the audiobook from the author via Book Funnel and read the novella through KU.**
There is a lot I enjoyed about Karen Grey’s novella - likable characters that communicate via movie dialogue are my catnip. The movie dialogue used as epigraphs are also a fun touch. Plus, Grey has truly captured the essence of the particular moment (or decade) in which the story takes place. Grey brings the late 1980s alive in the entire series and in this story that extends (even if through far too brief glimpses) into the 1990s. The setting and the time are clear to the reader/listener in fun and engaging ways. The H and h are wonderful and are given added life by two talented narrators - Cindy Kay and Ryan West - who compellingly capture the personalities of, as well as the blossoming romance between, the leads.
What Grey accomplished with this story’s H, Steve, (aka Hot Steve for those who read ‘What I am Looking For) - is pretty great. She took a character who could easily have been an obnoxious, stock character and worked to give him depth and dimension - as Kate became his friend in the first book, so did the reader; I was so happy to see he had his own story in this novella. My only wish is that this had been a novel instead; so that Steve’s character and personality could have been even more fully explored. The same is true of Alice, the h, who is such a refreshing character is so many ways - her independence, her understanding of her own desires - that pull the reader towards her. This story has the beginnings of some really wonderful character development, but the one disappointment here is that the shorter length of the novella form doesn’t allow that development (for either character) to reach its full potential. Alice gets a little more space than Steve, but it still isn’t enough!
The novella is broken down by parts that correspond to 3 particular years over the course of a decade, and I could not help but wish there had been more parts/years explored so that this had been fleshed out into a full novel. These characters are unique in so many ways that they deserved much more space to breathe. Especially when Grey moves to take the plot and characters through hard times, moments that are meant to build intensity and lend more weight to the story, are given too short shrift to do that heavy lifting. Sadly, the shorter form leads to a lot of catching up on what has happened to characters in ways that doesn’t allow the emotion of those experiences to get much more than superficial treatment, which is a real shame as there were some great themes here that I wish had been given more room to grow - ones that don’t often get a lot of room in the genre (for example, a central couple who do not want kids; the pressure on the h by her family to have kids despite that; a H struggling with how he is seen or not seen by himself and by others; etc). These are things I would have loved to dive more deeply along side these particular characters.
Overall, even though I personally wanted a longer story for these two, the one that’s here is still an enjoyable read/listen and I do recommend it, especially to anyone who enjoys having their nostalgia dial turned up to eleven.
**I received a copy of the audiobook from the author via Book Funnel and read the novella through KU.**
February 17, 2021
Fabulous Story & Narration🎧 A Heartfelt Delight!
Like It's 1999
A Boston Classics Novella
By: Karen Grey
Narrated by: Cindy Kay, Ryan West
With character’s referred to as “Love ‘em and Leave ‘em Alice Kim and “Hot” Steve Lowell there was no doubt that I was going to love this book, but then again I had no doubts I would since it is written by Karen Grey a truly gifted author and storyteller. I have been loving her wonderful Boston Classics series, this story is set in that world, each book stands on its own and are enjoyable and entertaining reads and/or audiobook listens. Ok, back to “Like It’s 1999”, this book grabbed my attention right from the start and captivated it straight to the end. I adored the two lead characters, Alice and Steve, they are likable and full of personality. Both are friends with Kate and are asked to stand up for her at her wedding, to be her bridesmaid and brides man. Kate had ulterior motives for this pairing, she hoped her two best friends would fall in love. The chemistry between them was undeniable but Alice had her own life plans plus parents she need to appease. Steve would have liked more but it was a no go so instead they made a pact, in 10 years, if neither one was married they would marry. and it did not include a husband just yet.The story is set over a decade, from 1989 to 1999, a lot goes on in their lives but they never forgot about each other and when they meet again the sparks still fly between them. This novella sized book packs a lot of story, it is cleverly plotted with plenty of drama, a touch of angst, some great humor and witty dialogue, heartfelt and emotional moments and a wonderful romance ten years in the making. Loved the nostalgia of late 80’s and 90’s and all the movie references and quotes. Karen Grey, thank you for another fabulous story.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Cindy Kay and Ryan West did a great job portraying the characters, humanizing them, giving each their own voice and personality. They handled the witty dialogue with ease and set the perfect tone for the story, captured the characters emotions and projected them in to their performance. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this fabulous listen🎧
Like It's 1999
A Boston Classics Novella
By: Karen Grey
Narrated by: Cindy Kay, Ryan West
With character’s referred to as “Love ‘em and Leave ‘em Alice Kim and “Hot” Steve Lowell there was no doubt that I was going to love this book, but then again I had no doubts I would since it is written by Karen Grey a truly gifted author and storyteller. I have been loving her wonderful Boston Classics series, this story is set in that world, each book stands on its own and are enjoyable and entertaining reads and/or audiobook listens. Ok, back to “Like It’s 1999”, this book grabbed my attention right from the start and captivated it straight to the end. I adored the two lead characters, Alice and Steve, they are likable and full of personality. Both are friends with Kate and are asked to stand up for her at her wedding, to be her bridesmaid and brides man. Kate had ulterior motives for this pairing, she hoped her two best friends would fall in love. The chemistry between them was undeniable but Alice had her own life plans plus parents she need to appease. Steve would have liked more but it was a no go so instead they made a pact, in 10 years, if neither one was married they would marry. and it did not include a husband just yet.The story is set over a decade, from 1989 to 1999, a lot goes on in their lives but they never forgot about each other and when they meet again the sparks still fly between them. This novella sized book packs a lot of story, it is cleverly plotted with plenty of drama, a touch of angst, some great humor and witty dialogue, heartfelt and emotional moments and a wonderful romance ten years in the making. Loved the nostalgia of late 80’s and 90’s and all the movie references and quotes. Karen Grey, thank you for another fabulous story.
🎧📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Cindy Kay and Ryan West did a great job portraying the characters, humanizing them, giving each their own voice and personality. They handled the witty dialogue with ease and set the perfect tone for the story, captured the characters emotions and projected them in to their performance. They are entertaining storytellers and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for this fabulous listen🎧
February 12, 2021
Like It’s 1999 is a novella set in the Boston Classics world that author Karen Grey created. Like the rest of the series, it takes us “Back in Time” as the Huey Lewis & the News tune would say, to the nostalgia of the 1980s and early 90s. As a girl who grew up in that era, I have thoroughly enjoyed this entire series.
The first book in the series, What I’m Looking For, introduced us to “Hot Steve” and I’m so glad that Ms. Grey decided to devote this novella to giving us his own story. This book can be read as a stand-alone, but you are really missing out if you don’t take the time to enjoy the whole series.
As she did in her previous books, Ms. Grey finds the perfect way to move the story along, in this case, by having Steve and Alice (his romantic interest) toss 80s movie lines back and forth. The movie quotes, which are so perfectly chosen for the moment, also bring back my own memories of that time.
Steve and Alice have terrific chemistry and narrators Ryan West and Cindy Kay make you feel every emotion the characters experience. While Steve has a reputation as a playboy, and Alice has always been a “love ‘em and leave ‘em” kind of girl, they both begin to re-evaluate their outlook on relationships when they realize their connection to each other is stronger than anything they've experienced before. Although the story is breezy and fun, it also doesn’t hesitate to tackle big questions in terms of relationship goals and the desire to have (or in this case, not have) children.
Steve and Alice are such fun characters and I loved the dialogue and the journey they take to find their own happiness. This novella leaves me wanting more from this series and curious as to what Karen Grey has in store for us next.
The first book in the series, What I’m Looking For, introduced us to “Hot Steve” and I’m so glad that Ms. Grey decided to devote this novella to giving us his own story. This book can be read as a stand-alone, but you are really missing out if you don’t take the time to enjoy the whole series.
As she did in her previous books, Ms. Grey finds the perfect way to move the story along, in this case, by having Steve and Alice (his romantic interest) toss 80s movie lines back and forth. The movie quotes, which are so perfectly chosen for the moment, also bring back my own memories of that time.
Steve and Alice have terrific chemistry and narrators Ryan West and Cindy Kay make you feel every emotion the characters experience. While Steve has a reputation as a playboy, and Alice has always been a “love ‘em and leave ‘em” kind of girl, they both begin to re-evaluate their outlook on relationships when they realize their connection to each other is stronger than anything they've experienced before. Although the story is breezy and fun, it also doesn’t hesitate to tackle big questions in terms of relationship goals and the desire to have (or in this case, not have) children.
Steve and Alice are such fun characters and I loved the dialogue and the journey they take to find their own happiness. This novella leaves me wanting more from this series and curious as to what Karen Grey has in store for us next.
December 26, 2020
I received this book from the author for an honest review. Thank you!
Like It's 1999 is a fun novella set in the universe of the series Boston Classics by Karen Grey. But you can still read this book as a standalone. We meet Steve aka "Hot Steve" in the first book of the series and he was the colleague of Kate and Alicia is the best friend of Kate.
In Like It's 1999, Alicia and Steve have to work together to organize the wedding of Kate and Will. They have fun to organize the wedding and they began an easy friendship. They began to speak in quotes of movies and they were comfortable with each other.
The relationship between them was easy and funny and they understand each other. They don't want a relationship and they enjoyed their time together. But the timing wasn't right for them and for ten years they were apart. They meet again after ten years and they realized that they still have feelings for each other and decided to give a try to their relationship.
I enjoyed Like it's 1999 by Karen Grey. It was wonderful to see Will and Kate together with their kids. If you want to read a fun novella. Like It's 1999 it's the perfect read.
Like It's 1999 is a fun novella set in the universe of the series Boston Classics by Karen Grey. But you can still read this book as a standalone. We meet Steve aka "Hot Steve" in the first book of the series and he was the colleague of Kate and Alicia is the best friend of Kate.
In Like It's 1999, Alicia and Steve have to work together to organize the wedding of Kate and Will. They have fun to organize the wedding and they began an easy friendship. They began to speak in quotes of movies and they were comfortable with each other.
The relationship between them was easy and funny and they understand each other. They don't want a relationship and they enjoyed their time together. But the timing wasn't right for them and for ten years they were apart. They meet again after ten years and they realized that they still have feelings for each other and decided to give a try to their relationship.
I enjoyed Like it's 1999 by Karen Grey. It was wonderful to see Will and Kate together with their kids. If you want to read a fun novella. Like It's 1999 it's the perfect read.
Read
December 24, 2020Like it’s 1999 is one of those novellas that feels longer than it is, but in all of the good ways. Even though it’s a shorter story the characters are fleshed out better than some full length books. And I mean, like the other books in this series, it’s set in an amazing time period. Plus it’s pretty dang funny, and I mean, I like that.
Like I already mentioned, this book really excels in the expert craft of the characters. They really take us through this story and ensure that we are engaged while traversing through the pages. And our MCs are really likeable characters, so it’s not like you’re groaning through certain parts because you’re annoyed. Plus I really enjoyed seeing the passage of time and how their relationship developed and morphed.
I really have loved and enjoyed this series and I cannot wait to see where it takes em next. Grey is truly a wonderful storyteller and I could easily recommend her books for anyone looking for a funny and amazing read.
You can view my full review on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
Like I already mentioned, this book really excels in the expert craft of the characters. They really take us through this story and ensure that we are engaged while traversing through the pages. And our MCs are really likeable characters, so it’s not like you’re groaning through certain parts because you’re annoyed. Plus I really enjoyed seeing the passage of time and how their relationship developed and morphed.
I really have loved and enjoyed this series and I cannot wait to see where it takes em next. Grey is truly a wonderful storyteller and I could easily recommend her books for anyone looking for a funny and amazing read.
You can view my full review on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
June 23, 2021
What a GREAT read / listen. First let me start by saying this is my era - I love the 80's and 90's and all the move quotes makes me want to curl up for a movie marathon weekend! The dual narration is perfection! These main characters - Alice and Steve are great as are the supporting characters. Storyline flows perfectly and I love how I feel like I know these characters in real life, heck, I could so easily be any of these characters. Well written romance where timing is everything. Never say never and know that your future never ends up the way you think it will but everything tends to work out anyway.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read
November 18, 2021
Like It’s 1999 was a such a fun novella that spans a length of ten years for our characters Alice and Steve. It’s full of humor and dives pretty deep for a novella and I was completely engrossed in the story. With unexpected twists and turns, the reader knows immediately that these two are perfect for each other, but it takes them years to realize it.
Both Alice and Steve typically love’em and leave’em, but they find that the connection they have with each other goes deeper. They are great friends with a chemistry that can’t be denied and an affinity for quoting movies. However, both have a fear of love and commitment and make choices that lead them away from the other. They have to experience life and grow in order to make a lasting connection.
I listened to the audio of this book and the narrators were awesome. They brought the story to life in a way that I could feel the character’s emotions.
Each book in this series has been so nostalgic and entertaining. If you love the 80’s and 90’s, you need to check this series out.
Both Alice and Steve typically love’em and leave’em, but they find that the connection they have with each other goes deeper. They are great friends with a chemistry that can’t be denied and an affinity for quoting movies. However, both have a fear of love and commitment and make choices that lead them away from the other. They have to experience life and grow in order to make a lasting connection.
I listened to the audio of this book and the narrators were awesome. They brought the story to life in a way that I could feel the character’s emotions.
Each book in this series has been so nostalgic and entertaining. If you love the 80’s and 90’s, you need to check this series out.
March 4, 2021
Another great addition to the Boston Classics series. This is Alice and Steve's story. If you read or listened to Forget About Me you are introduced to Steve but doesn't need to be to listen to this. This was A fun quick listen about two characters who don't do relationships that hooked up one memorable night on New Years and then had a repeat that lead to a marriage pact. I enjoyed listening to Steve and Alice journey through the years. I'm A big movie buff so I love how in this story they make movie references to a lot of my favorite movies.
December 10, 2020
This book was seriously so much fun!! I loved everything about it. From the hero and heroine both afraid to commit to each other to the fun movie references to the wedding planning. It was well written and gave me all the feels. I can’t wait for more from this author. I received an ARC for an honest review.
December 10, 2020
"Like It's 1999" by Karen Grey features Alice Kim and "Hot" Steve Lowell, who were the best friends of female lead Kate Bishop in the first book of the Boston Classics series. I really liked both Alice and Steve when they were introduced, so I was incredibly excited to read more about them in this novella. They turned out to be a ton of fun together, and their story more than lived up to my expectations.
For various reasons, neither Alice nor Steve was interested in pursuing a serious relationship, and they were especially concerned about getting involved with each other because of their mutual friendship with Kate. Neither could resist the pull of the attraction between them, however, or the fact that they had so much fun when they were together. I especially loved the way they bantered and teased each other, as well as their shared love of movie quotes.
Alice and Steve's story took several surprising twists and turns and included a number of unexpectedly emotional moments too. I loved that I couldn't predict what was going to happen next. Thankfully, it was a relatively short story because I didn't want to put my Kindle down until I knew how it was going to end!
Overall, I loved "Like It's 1999" and highly recommend it for all fans of contemporary(-ish) romance and romantic comedy. I can't wait to see what's next for this author and series.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
For various reasons, neither Alice nor Steve was interested in pursuing a serious relationship, and they were especially concerned about getting involved with each other because of their mutual friendship with Kate. Neither could resist the pull of the attraction between them, however, or the fact that they had so much fun when they were together. I especially loved the way they bantered and teased each other, as well as their shared love of movie quotes.
Alice and Steve's story took several surprising twists and turns and included a number of unexpectedly emotional moments too. I loved that I couldn't predict what was going to happen next. Thankfully, it was a relatively short story because I didn't want to put my Kindle down until I knew how it was going to end!
Overall, I loved "Like It's 1999" and highly recommend it for all fans of contemporary(-ish) romance and romantic comedy. I can't wait to see what's next for this author and series.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 16, 2021
Alice doesn't want attachments, she has a one time rule. "Hot Steve" is just hot. Can he hook up with his best friend's best friend? Their chemistry together is off the charts. It's fun, flirty, with some drama. Will they ever find their HEA? This is a delightful story, that I enjoyed listening.
Cindy Kay and Ryan West are new narrators for me. Their narration is very good and really brings the characters to life. I was gifted this story by Story Origin and offered my honest review.
Cindy Kay and Ryan West are new narrators for me. Their narration is very good and really brings the characters to life. I was gifted this story by Story Origin and offered my honest review.
December 6, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
This was cute!
I enjoyed the second chance romance vibes.. Overall, I feel like this was nothing to write home about.
I did love the. I am aware that this is a novella, but I definitely needed more. It was difficult to get invested in the characters and plot in my opinion.
Added the .25 solely because I loved the movie references!
This was cute!
I enjoyed the second chance romance vibes.. Overall, I feel like this was nothing to write home about.
I did love the. I am aware that this is a novella, but I definitely needed more. It was difficult to get invested in the characters and plot in my opinion.
Added the .25 solely because I loved the movie references!
December 28, 2020
I love this story of Hot Steve & Alice. I've wanted to see if there would be anything between them since I read What I'm Looking For. It was a fun read, watching them continue to cross paths over various years when they were each in a different place in their life. So happy New Year's Eve 1999 turned out the way it did.
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