You Know it's Love

Love in the City #2

by Jen Morris

Get ready for a bumpy ride of disaster dates, self-discovery, and sizzling chemistry in this friends to lovers romantic comedy about learning to trust in love, one more time. I have three rules for 1. Always be my best self
2. Don’t put out too soon
3. Stay the hell away from anyone like my ex-husband—including liars, cheaters, guys with more looks than substance, and (especially important) bartenders Everyone says you “just know” when you meet the one, but the only thing I know is New York men are the worst. So when Myles, the cocky, tattooed bartender at my brother’s bar starts hitting on me, it’s a hard pass, thanks. I won’t make that mistake again. Besides, I have enough going on with my ex trying to run my vintage clothing store out of business. So what if I’d rather be selling my own designs? I have bills to pay. But it turns out Myles is good at more than just looking sexy while pouring drinks. He knows how to save my business, and that’s an offer I can’t refuse. Everything else he’s offering? Not interested—not in the slightest. Not even if he could be the best mistake I ever make… Here's what you can expect from You Know it's ♥ Friends to lovers, sexy romantic comedy
♥ Strong, creative heroine
♥ Cheeky, tattooed bartender with a melt-your-heart sweet side
♥ Great friendships and protective big brother
♥ New York’s artsy East Village
♥ 1950s-inspired fashion
♥ Sweet, hard-won happily ever after Please note that this book contains sensitive topics such as parental abandonment, attempted sexual assault, infidelity, and divorce. It also contains cursing and sex scenes, and is intended for audiences 18 years and older.

This book can be read as a standalone, but it contains spoilers for book one in the series.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Rom Com, Friends To Lovers, Ebooks, Chick Lit

388 pages, Paperback

Published February 20, 2021

About the author

Jen Morris writes steamy escapist romance with imperfect heroines and tall, bearded heroes. She believes that almost anything can be fixed with a good laugh, a good book, or a plane ticket to New York.

Her books follow people with big dreams as they navigate life and love in the city. Her characters don’t just find love—they find themselves, too.

Jen lives with her partner and son, in a tiny house on wheels in New Zealand. She spends her days writing, dreaming about New York, and finding space for her ever-growing book collection.

Reviews

[Aoife - Bookish_Babbling · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mid-thirties, cynical, unlucky in dating Cat meets unexpectedly philosophical sexy tattoo & bearded cheeky chappy cinnamon roll Myles...problem is Cat won't date bartenders after bad experiences with her ex-husband and on top of that Myles works for her brother ❌
Friendship combined with some business aid and a side of "fake" dating for a dinner party where fireworks fly on top of earlier sparks makes for a fun & steamy read 🤩

Cat's sometimes short sighted self-sabotaging was a little irksome but only cos I wanted so much more for her all the while understanding how her past has shaped the decisions she makes. She has some serious blindspots & I didn't love many of the dating storylines, S was obviously the worst...what an absolute 🍆 Cat has had the wind knocked out of her sails & has lost her way a little; I really liked the journey of self rediscovery she takes in this but would have preferred if she came to some of the realisations by herself and not cos the (albeit sexy & supportive) dude opens her eyes 🤷‍♀️

This toes the line and flirts with my least favourite tropes lack of/miscommunication. While the character feels understandably misled & hurt by the other's choice(s) and obviously this could have been avoided. However as the BFFs point out the "damaging" party made their decisions for specific reasons based off what had gone before - I am trying to keep this somewhat cryptic. It wasn't the most galling use of this trope and the way it helps the BFFs shine some more warmed my usually viciously cynical 🖤
((I didn't love this turn in the story, and felt it a smidge blown out of proportion but considering what the character has been through I also understand the reactions if that makes any sort of sense...aka I don't like this trope, but I see why it was used here 🙈))

Speaking of the BFFs Geoff & Alex reappear from Love In The City. Geoff is such a supportive friend and I just adore him all the more in this instalment 🤩
Altho this is book2 in the series it can be read as a standalone, yes reading this first will somewhat spoil the couple of book1's story but these are companion novels and do give some context & backgroubd to what has come before 👍

I'm curious to see where this series progresses, especially as I think Ms Morris is enjoying writing steamier scenes - bring'em on girl 😆
I'd love to see Hayley get a spin off although I think the siblings are up next & I already know I've to wait till book4 - but *grabby-hands* for Cory's story 😈

3.5-3.75*

PS - yes I did reread this pretty much immediately after finishing it.
I might have been a little obsessed with Myles even if typically the super-understanding-too-good-to-be-true love interest irrationally irks me (I know I'm a picky wossface/pita cos I hate machomen/bully romances more)...I dunno this time it worked 🤗 apparently I've a weakness for tattoos and facial scruff #no-one-is-surprised.
Cat's cynicism spoke to my dark soul even if many of her decisions/reasoning more often than not annoyed me I still had a fun time reading this (twice) and have no idea why it has taken me over 2months to share this wafflefest of a review eventho I had most of it drafted after finishing my first readthru 🤦‍♀️ Blaming #lackofreviewmojo

[RateTheRomance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, my HEART! Prepare for ALL THE GUSHING about this book.

I read the first book in this series, Love In The City, and I really liked it (I rated it 4 stars). So I was excited to read the next book, YOU KNOW IT'S LOVE, by Jen Morris. And, people, I looooovvvve this book!!!

Kat was a totally relatable female lead. We see her struggle to trust again after a series of betrayals and I loved that even as the reader wants to shake some sense into her, we also know exactly where she is coming from. You can picture yourself making the same decisions she does because her character is so well written. And Kat trying to take a meditation class is 100% ME. I snort-laughed at her internal monologue.

Myles is now in my top five favorite Book Boyfriends. He is written with the perfect blend of masculinity and sweetness. He practices yoga and meditation, but is tattooed, protective, and freaking hot. The author has found the perfect balance of man's man and sensitive soul.

Both of these characters are so wonderfully written and so perfectly complex and human that you couldn't help but adore them both.

As with all of my favorite romances, this book has meaningful friendships. Not "perfect" friendships where no one ever disagrees with each other, REAL friendships with ups and downs and mistakes and apologies.

Now, let's talk about the next-level writing of the steamy scenes in this book. These scenes MEAN something. They tell an important part of the story. Without them the story would suffer. Now, I love reading a good shag no matter what and the steamy scenes in this book are melt-yo-Kindle HOT. But Jen Morris writes these scenes with intent and purpose. That is GREAT WRITING.

Besides all that good stuff I already mentioned, this story is sweet, smart, hilariously funny, swoony, and genuinely fun. Read this book immediately. That's an order. You can thank me later.

RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated R
TRIGGERS: Parent abandonment, cheating, sexual assault

Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Jln · Rating 2 out of 5]

Loved Myles, but Cat is just insufferable. I had to skim the last bit, because I just couldn't bring myself to care about her HEA anymore.

[Blythe D · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5 stars!

All this time I was afraid that I couldn’t trust him, but I’m the one who couldn’t be trusted. I’m the one who caused the most hurt.

This was such a great swoony read with enough sweet and steam that will make you want to read until the end. The character development was very pronounced. I loved how our hero was made to be this great balance of "bad boy persona" (from the tattoos, charisma, and bartending-skills) and cinnamon-hearted goodness. I want me some Myles. STAT. 🤧

Books with this kind of plot, wherein the hero/heroine shuts his/her heart out from love/loving again (due to justifiable reasons), will forever be dear to my heart. I absolutely love a great push and pull in the ultimate course of pursuing your love interest, who's caging her/his heart out.


This is my first read of Jen Morris and I'm sure this won't be the last. This is a 2nd book in an interconnected series and I had no problem with it being the middle.

I, a romance-book junkie, compel you fellow reader to get your fill of this feel-good, character-dissection, swoon-inducing story.


PLOT:

Catherine Porter, "Cat", has the talent to make these 1950s-inspired, quirky-looking dresses. The sewing machine is her beeyatch. She owns the "Loved Again" boutique store that sells vintage dresses.

Cat has been divorced and is having problems keeping her business above the water, especially when her ex-husband/landlord opted to raise the rent on her store place.

Myles Ellis, seeing the dilemma that Cat is in, opted to help her out, by creating a website for her store that would ultimately widen her spectrum of potential costumers and can move her store forward into an online business. Myles bartends in Bounce, a bar where Cat brings in her mostly disastrous attempts at dating.

Myles can be such a flirt and Cat tries her very very best to resist him but the tension and the chemistry between them just intensifies. Not to mention that Myles brings out the best in Cat. He can see through Cat's bullshit and calls her out on it. He scrutinizes and psychoanalyzes her, which is really making her squirm and would probably make her hate him, if not for the fact that she's falling for the guy. Oof. 😅

I highly recommend. Buy and read the book! 🧡

[susana ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

arc kindly provided by jen morris in exchange of an honest reveiw

if you read love in the city (which i strongly recommend), you already know cat. she’s the owner of a small shop of vintage clothes, though what she really wants to do is selling her own designs. however, she’s been burnt by lots of people around her, and she’s now struggling to trust new people and sometimes, herself. myles is the new bartender at her brother’s bar. he’s flirty, cocky and too handsome for her own good. but he’s not just that… he’s the one who can save cat’s business.

i adored this book so much. i loved cat in love in the city and i knew i was going to love her book, but it blew me away. cat’s trust issues were very relatable and i loved seeing her character development. she felt real and her thoughts were super relatable most of the time. she was complex and strong and her mistakes only made her perfect for me.

myles was book boyfriend material pretty much instantly. i love the type: cocky, flirty, self-assured and funny on the outside, but actually soft and sensible on the inside. he was smart and respectful and just what cat needed. communication is so sexy! it’s always amazing to read about an emotionally intelligent hero. this is the kind of masculinity that we want!!! not saying i don’t enjoy an alpha hero once in a while but seriously, this is my jam. i’d pick a nice, calm hero over any other type.

cat, geoff and alex’s friendship has totally grown on me. friendships in books are usually my favorite thing, sometimes even more than the romance itself, and this little group is amazing. the found family vibes in it are so cute and beautiful. i can’t wait to see it grow and become a real family for all of them.

i won’t say who comes next, you’ll have to read it to discover it! but i can already tell it’s going to be awesome and i really can’t wait for it!

[mrsljgibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really quite apprehensive to read this book as the author’s first book Love In The City was so amazing and I was wary that this one wouldn’t compare - but boy was I wrong!! I think it’s safe to say I loved this second instalment just as much as the first, if not a little bit more!!!
The story was brilliant and kept me captivated throughout and Cat and Myles were both just perfect. I’m also loving that there is a bit of a back story with Alex and Geoff and even a little cameo mention of Agnes, all characters from the first book. There are so many swoonsome parts and the storyline kept me engrossed right to the very end.
From the very beginning I was enticed in to this wonderful story. Cat’s character is developed beautifully throughout and slowly we get to find out about Myles and then their two lives entwine perfectly, but not without a few hiccups along the way.
Cat’s character was developed really well and I began to feel as if I was going along for her journey with her. When things were going downhill I could sympathise with her and when things picked up and were going great I felt really happy for her.
Well, what can I say about the swoonsome Myles....... I love him!! From the second he was described and all throughout the story I just kept loving him more and more. And even when he and Cat had a massive argument, I still felt for him and knew that he was a good guy really.
There are quite a few laugh out loud moments throughout the book, starting with the first page, which quite honestly has got to be the best first page of a book ever!! There are also some heartfelt moments which made me have a lump in my throat and yes there may have been tears too. The ending was perfect, all the loose ends were tied up enough for it to be satisfying but also left us a lot of little tidbits that I hope are going to be resolved later in the series.
I find it hard to believe that this is only this authors second novel. When reading her books they just feel so real, as if the characters are friends and I’m not just reading about them in a book. I love how we slowly learn everything about the characters and become very attached to them and don’t get me started on the book boyfriends, I have now fallen head over heels for both the heroes in the first two books!!
Overall this book was a wonderful rom com, filled with the right amount of romance, hilarious moments and sauciness!! I cannot wait for the next book in the series, I need to know what happens next.....

[Nainika Gupta · Rating 3 out of 5]

Adorable and endearing. A perfect fall read.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks for the ARC and for including me on the book tour of You Know it’s Love!

Jen Morris has done it again. The moment I finished Jens debut Love in the City, I knew I needed her next book, You Know it’s Love. Let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint. I was hooked from the first few pages, and read it faster than I usually do.

Jen has a way of writing stories that are full of love, sass, steam & special moments! Her characters have a realness behind them and you feel their struggles and their victories.

While both of her books can be read alone, I highly suggest reading them in order and meeting the full cast of characters!

[Andi · Rating 5 out of 5]

You Know It’s Love is the second book in Jen Morris’ Love in the City series and although can be read as a stand alone, I implore you to read Love in the City. It was one of my favorites last year and it’s just so, so good.

Cat is a vintage clothing store owner who is looking for a nice guy, but has trust issues stemming from past relationships. She uses dating apps and meets the guys at Bounce, the bar her brother Cory owns, because she feels safe there.

Myles is the new, tattooed, sexy bartender at Bounce and in instantly attracted to Cat. Cat’s ex-husband was also a tattooed bartender when they met, so she refuses to start anything with Myles because of those similarities, but appearances can be deceiving.

I love how Jen Morris writes. In both of her books, I was hooked from the get go and know pretty early on I’m going to love the rest of the book. Her characters are complex and relatable and she writes with a lot of humor and heart. It will have you smiling, laughing, and, at times, even crying.

Cat is a strong, female lead and although you’ll be frustrated with her at times, she has good reasons to make the decisions she does. Myles is the perfect combination of Alpha and Beta. He’s self assured and cocky at times, but he also meditates and practices yoga. I love that he doesn’t give up on Cat, but also that he stands up for himself. The risk of the relationship is never one sided and you see a vulnerability in both of them.

I love that Cat’s friends are supportive, but also aren’t afraid to say what’s on their minds. It’s nice to be able to visit them again and see what they’ve been up to since Love in the City.

Let’s not forget about the steam! It was a slow burn at first, but it’s hard to stay that way with all the steamy, hot chemistry these two have with each other. Jen writes these scenes with intent and they are important to the story and they’re sooooo good.

I know it’s only February, but this is my top read of the year so far and I have a feeling it’s gonna be up there for a while, if not all year.Jen has quickly become one of my favorite authors.

I’d like to thank Jen for gifting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Hannah Clarke (Love Books Actually) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fabulous Jen Morris has done it again! ‘You Know it’s Love’ is the second book in the ‘Love in the City’ series but fear not either can be read as standalones but why miss out when you can and should read both!

The little I knew of Cat from the first book, I found her to be quite a closed book with huge walls around her for extra security, she may as well also hang up a sign ‘No dodgy dates or bartenders welcome’ but reading her own story has completely changed my mind on her. She’s warm, loyal and feisty but she’s also hiding a vulnerable side.

Cat is in no mood to listen to her loved up friends advice of you ‘just know’ when you meet the one. But while out on yet another disastrous date Cat meets new bartender Myles. In Cat’s eyes Myles is yet another cocky bartender but when he offers to help her with her business maybe just maybe Cat might give him the benefit of the doubt.

An enjoyable read from start to finish, hated when I had to put it down and I was sad when I came to the end. I liked Cat, she was a lot more relatable than I first thought. Myles... My new fictional boyfriend who is now added to a huge list of fictional boyfriends! Ha! Jen always writes amazing leading men, bloody gorgeous but never quite perfect (who is?!) they always seem to have a few flaws which I love. She always makes me want to jump on a plane to New York. It’s my favourite place ever and reading about the big apple just makes me so happy.

Like a lot of us, I read purely for fun to loose myself to another world and Jen has created yet another fun filled story with relatable features and quite a few steamy moments! I cannot wait to head back to New York to the friendship circle of Alex, Cat and Geoff (I want a Geoff!) because I know it’s going to be epic!

Thanks to the author for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.

[Mae Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

CW: parental abandonment, sexual harassment, sexual assault (flashback and attempt), gaslighting, and inability to see child

I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)

-m/f friends to lovers
-this is just a hookup
-a bit of fake dating
-some major flirting over a bar
-an accident with a stapler gun
-amazing friendships
-an overprotective brother
-an adorable dog

I loved this one. Cat has her walls up after a messy divorce and bad dating experiences, not just with guys but everyone around her. She was so realistic to me dealing with the crappy modern dating world. Her journey to slowly let people in, not just Myles but her friends as well was so beautifully and carefully done, one step forward and two steps back at times and just an honest portrayal of a woman opening herself back up.

And Myles, sweet sweet cinnamon roll Myles. While he appeared very similar to Cat's ex on the outside, on the inside he was all piney goodness and all about Cat from the very beginning and I loved it. He tried to give her space and let her see that he was different from the other men in her life before all at the same time and he just melted me. He also had to figure out the person he was letting people see versus who he really was. All in from the very beginning, he was a wonderful book boyfriend.

I loved all the glimpses of Alex and Geoff (who deserves his own book). I adored Cat's older brother and all of the well-drawn secondary characters, with Bounce as a great setting to bring them all together. I can't wait for more in this series.

Rating: 5
Steam: 3.5

[Stephanie (read_with_steph) · Rating 5 out of 5]

You Know it's Love is Jen Morris' second book, after her stellar debut Love in the City, and it continues a chain of great, steamy reads full of New York romanticism. I say that with a bit of cynicism, since I lived and New York and spent every minute wanting to leave... but! To each their own. This time we get Kat, the sidekick from book one, who definitely deserved her own story after leaving a cheating husband who ends up hooking up with her pure evil ex-best friend. I liked the trajectory and pacing of this story, and Jen Morris has a great way of shaping lovable characters, bringing both heart and heat.

I will say I didn't necessarily picture Myles and Kat (the two main characters) together, as Myles was just so triggering for Kat (without spoiling too much, his job, family situation, look, piano-playing and general being seemed to be designed to give Kat hardship). I liked the characters independently, I'm just not sure I saw them together. For that reason (and because I loved that Alex was a romance reader and writer), I liked Book One a little bit more, though I think I'm in the minority among my friends!

I am so psyched for book three, which is I believe Alex's sister coming in from New Zealand for Alex's wedding!

TW/CW: attempted sexual assault, parental abandonment, cheating (previous relationship)

Thank you to author Jen Morris for my eARC in exchange for an honest review!

5 stars - 8/10

[Laura Barnard · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG I absolutely loved this book! I read Love in the City and loved it so jumped at the chance of an ARC. This one was just unbelievable. Cat is so damaged and scared of being hurt. She has so many walls up around her heart, quite rightly so after all she's been through. With the help of Myles and her friends we see her grow, learn to listen to her heart and become the best version of herself. The sex was hot. I cried three times. I held the kindle to my heart when I'd finished. I just loved it. This author is hands down amazing and I will be reading everything she writes. Pre-order it now!

[Jeeves Reads Romance · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hated the heroine

This is an adorable, intelligent rom com... that is just RUINED by an unbearable heroine. There were so many times when I almost abandoned ship because of her snap judgments, constant negativity, hurtful actions, and myriad of insecurities, but there’s so much GOOD in the story that I wanted to see how it all played out. I actually really think I’d enjoy the author’s work with a different dynamic, because the hero was a cinnamon roll sweetie, the steamy scenes built up the intimacy, and there’s some great depth to the story. But, WOW, this heroine got on my nerves in a big, big way.

The story follows Cat, a woman who has lost her trust in men (a few unexpected triggers there). Her ex-husband did a number on her, and dating has proven to be an exhausting, disappointing waste of time ever since. So it just figures that the one guy she seems to have a connection with is a cocky bartender who reminds her way too much of her cheating ex. Myles has the flirtatious, charming persona of a playboy, but he seems to spend a surprising amount of time studying Cat. And when she starts to see another side to Myles - a sweet, endearing, insecure side - Cat isn’t sure what to think.

I loved Myles a lot and wholeheartedly wish that we got to see his side of the story. It was obvious to me that Cat broke his heart repeatedly, and she humiliated him more than once. If gender roles were reversed, Myles would be considered a doormat, that’s how much abuse he takes from Cat. She needs therapy to deal with her trust issues before any relationship will last. The evolution of their love story didn’t work, and the first declaration of feelings elicited a cringe and a surprised laugh from me - not the desired reaction.

I hate that this review ended up sounding so negative, because the foundation of the book is strong. I love that this deals with empowerment and loving yourself as you are. I love the overall tone of the story, with its light yet heartfelt vibe. I love the complexity of the characters. I love how intimacy was showcased in the steamy scenes. There’s so much potential here that, while this particular book was not a total win for me, there’s definitely enough good stuff to have me coming back for more.

[keira · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5?? i’m conflicted cause i absolutely adored the first 70% of this book; it made me laugh and the chemistry and tension was insane and i loved the way it was written and i stayed up until 1am cause i couldn’t put it down

for some reason, after 70% it started to get super cringe and i may have rolled my eyes once or twice and i just didn’t really enjoy cat and myles actually IN a relationship????

i’m not even sure how to explain it but i just preferred everything when they were dancing around each other and leading up to it, because it wasn’t so cringey??? IDK shh

this would’ve been a solid 4 star read if i’d stopped reading at that point so i’m kinda annoyed about that but OVERALL it was super fun and i really enjoyed it AND there’s a pug called stevie so winner winner

[Kelly (AndKellyReads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jen Morris what have you done to me?! I’m still sitting here weeping, thinking about this book, and I don’t know if I can move on. It was beautifully written, well plotted, and the characters were just a great group of people, and now I’m just supposed to go on living my life? That doesn’t seem fair.

You Know It’s Love is, at its core, a beautiful story about learning to trust your gut. Cat had been pushed around and knocked down by both love and men for most of her life, so it’s safe to say she had some trust issues. She was jaded to the point that the only person she thought she could trust was herself, but as the story went on, we (and Cat!) learn that maybe even that’s not true. This book was a journey of self-discovery, love, and ultimately how to have faith in yourself, and I can’t think of a better character to discover all of this with than Cat.

Look, I am going to be honest and say that Cat and I had a bit of a rocky start. I was nervous for a while that I wasn’t going to like her (which is okay) because she really did have some serious trust issues and some pretentious opinions. She was judgemental and quick to assume, and it started to get on my nerves. However, Cat was also quick to realize her mistakes and take accountability for her actions. With the help of her friends, including her new friend Myles, she was able to acknowledge where she went wrong, and was often the first to apologize. It made her far more likeable when she stopped letting her assumptions get the better of her, and I grew to love her fairly quickly after that.

Now Myles, he was a breath of fresh air. Let it be known that men in books CAN COMMUNICATE and can communicate WELL. This man, I tell ya. Jen broke the mold because he was just *chefs kiss* and I could not get enough of him. There is nothing I hate more in a romance book than a plot driven solely by (one) miscommunication. Now, it’s true, Cat was the last person to state what she wanted when she wanted it, and often was terrible at communicating. Myles, however, was not going to let her get away with that and it was so great watching him knock down defense after defense when Cat tried to hide. Miscommunications happen, of course they do, but when you’re reading and you realize all the characters need to do to resolve the ENTIRE story is have one conversation, you get frustrated. Jen didn’t let that happen in You Know It’s Love, and instead, used the hero to force her heroine to talk, and it was absolutely brilliant. Cat blossomed when she was with Myles, and it just made me feel all warm and fuzzy seeing our heroine so genuinely happy.

Granted, she still mucked it up more often than not, but hey, we all make mistakes. And luckily for us, Cat acknowledged them and learned from them.

I really enjoyed this story, did I say that already? It was funny, it was steamy, and it was a massive heart-squeeze that just made me feel good. By the end of the book I was sobbing into my kindle, so I guess it’s safe to say it was also emotional. It may have been my first book by Jen Morris, but it definitely won’t be my last.


{Many thanks to the author for my review copy!}

[Hannah Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Starting new books by new authors often means that it can take me awhile to get into a story. And by awhile I mean, a handful of chapters. This book started out that way, as I expected. It was lovely and easy to read, but I wasn’t invested. Until ...

I REALISED I’D BEEN READING FOR TWO EFFING HOURS PAST MY BEDTIME, MY NECK HAD A CRAMP IN IT AND I WAS SMILING STUPIDLY AT MY KINDLE.

The tension, the steam, the angst ... all of it was right up my romance-addicted alley, and Jen Morris did a beautiful job of sucking me into Cat and Myles’ world😍🌏 And guys ... it gets hot as shit🔥 Give me tatted up bartenders who are cheeky, make you laugh and get vulnerable AF any day.

I won’t say more so I don’t give it all away before release day, but overall, this book is just the sort of thing I like. Filled with romance, laugh out loud humour, hope, and a strong female lead who has a little bit of all of us in her. Just so lovely.

Swoon-loving romance readers, add to your #TBR 🔥🔥🔥🔥

🌟🌟🌟🌟 #youreallyshouldread

{Thank you to @jenmorrisauthor for providing an ARC of your book in exchange for an honest review}

[Alphie · Rating 5 out of 5]

**I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review**

Okay everyone... I have a new favorite romance author and her name is Jen Morris!! Was it possible to love this book more than the first in the series?! I didn’t think so, but here we are. INDIE AUTHORS GO HARD.

Cat has been burned before, in love, in friendship, and in business, but is still trying to put her heart out there. Myles is the new bartender at Cat’s brothers bar who offers to help Cat with her website. This romance is real and sweet and sooooo steamy. I loved their chemistry and vulnerability with each other. It’s just a really beautiful love story.

This book is about forgiveness, intuition, trust, friendship. It’s amazing and wonderful and everyone who loves romance books needs to read it NOW.

CW: Sexual harassment, parent abandonment, cheating

[Tracy Larner-Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be sent a free ARC of this book in exchange for leaving an honest review.

I absolutely loved the first book in this series 'Love in the City and did worry that this wouldn't live up to my expectations, oh boy was I wrong!

Thanks to Jen's writing style, the character feel so real and it was great to catch up with Cat, Alex, Geoff, Cory and Michael. But ooh the introduction of sexy bartender Myles? I admit it, I was lusting after him from the get go - a real man with a sensitive side, what's not to love?

Cat's character really evolved throughout and it was great to see her fight her way through her fears, follow her dreams, stand up to her ex and allow herself to trust again.

This is a great will they, won't they, steamy, laugh out loud, rom com and I can't wait to read the next one.

I have two words for you fellow bookworm - READ IT!

[Ramona Porter · Rating 5 out of 5]

How do you know I loved every word of this book? Because I stayed up until 3am to finish it, at midnight, I said "a couple more pages", at 2am I said "a couple pages" but I just couldn't stop. I read the first book in the series, Love in the City and loved it, it received 4 stars from me so I will admit I was nervous about reading this book. Like the main character Cat I am scared of let down 😄. But this book did not disappoint and I loved it even more and it is a 5 star read for me.

You Know it's Love follows Cat, divorced and jaded by her relationship with men and Myles, hot, tattooed, hot, brilliant, has a soul and deep as hell, hot...oh I said hot 😍. I think he now one of my fav fictional boyfriends. We don't often get guys who are so well balanced. He is so sweet and caring that you can't help rooting for him.

They had amazing chemistry and banter, I did laugh out loud a couple times while reading this. The friendships with the secondary characters are also great, not your typical romcom perfect but real and makes you want to be friends with them.

There was more steam than the first book in the series and it needed that...it made the book as great as it was so thanks for turning up the steam Jen.

There is nothing I didn't like about this book and it will probably be one of those that I read again.

I love this book and highly recommend it.

TW: infidelity, sexual assault and child abandonment.

Thanks to the author for an ARC in return for my honest opinion.

[Andrea Wimmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am lucky to have received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Jen Morris!

I can't wait to have this paperback in my hands. The moment I finished it a few weeks ago I was dying to post this review.

First, I want to give standing ovation to Jen Morris for writing pure gold. The beauty of this couple and their story is beyond measure.


When do you know it's love?

-When you find someone who accepts you with your flaws and baggage and helps you to get rid of it, even when they can't understand it.
-When you can be yourself with this person unapologetically and without reservations.
-When that person encourages you and gives you the little push you need to believe in yourself and do what you're capable of.
-When you let yourself fall and that person makes it a safe landing.

This is what this book is about.

I can't express how much this book touched my heart! Cat and Myles were beautiful and every single way there is! Their banter, the explosive physical chemistry, the true care and honest feelings being exchanged in every interaction and gesture, even when didn't even know what they were feeling.

Cat! Oh my goodness this woman! She had so much love to give, so much talent and kindness to share with the world, but shut down by people in her past who didn't appreciate her. She was so passionate about everything she did but so afraid of giving that leap of faith. I loved how she was able to remember who she was and her worth to finally make those scary but yet so exciting moves to go after her dreams. She just needed a little motivation, a gentle, loving push.

Yes, Myles! My dear, sweet Myles! Words are not enough! This guy wore his heart on his sleeve. He felt with all his heart, he loved too much and was exactly what Cat needed to get rid of the veil that was blinding her. He was the sweetest person in the world and he loved Cat fiercely. He was so patient and understanding; he went above and beyond to prove himself worthy of her love and trust. His backstory was hard to learn but understandable, I was able to see him formed and shaped into a better person after everything he went through. He was a true, honest man and he wanted to love Cat the way he knew she deserved it.

I loved to see Cat discovering layer after layer the guy who Myles really was. Even with all her doubts, she was able to give herself (and him) a chance to love. She realized how he managed to crumble her walls and tear down everything that was holding her back from happiness.

I loved to see them both growing mentally, emotionally and professionally. They didn't settle for less than what they knew they were capable of and deserved. They accomplished so much together and on their own account, complementing each other perfectly.
The steam of this book was off the charts! They were absolute fire together! I loved how the connection and emotional depth of every sexy scene were so profound and meaningful to the moral of the story. It made the swoon go on forever and it allowed me to believe the whole time that this couple was truly in love.

I need to give a big shout out to the supporting cast. Geoff is the best friend someone could ever wish for and I loved how he had Cat's back no matter what. I will forever love Alex and Michael! Alex is the sweetest woman in the world and I loved seeing her spreading her loving self as always in every scene she was in! I absolutely adored Cory! He was definitely the best big brother, I loved how protective and supportive he was, even if sometimes he was a little misguided, he definitely had the best intentions at heart, his character intrigued me and I hope we can have a book for him in the future!

Jen Morris, you are a talented, funny and versatile author. You know how to make me swoon and make me crave for more. I can't wat to read more of your books, this series keeps getting better.
Get You know it's love here and get ready for a super swoony ride!

[imanslibrary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun and light read. Cat was a really relatable character. I mean how can you trust someone when all they do is either lie or cheat. That's what I loved about Cat, she was strong and cautious. Then we have the kind and cocky Myles. I mean the guy was judged so poorly, I felt so bad for him. I liked how Jen Morris talked about consent in her book. It was really nice seeing Myles asking if Cat was comfortable whenever they got physical. Overall this was such a fun and fast paced book.

Thank you Jen for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review!!🥰

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✨Q. Would I recommend to you this book?
Yesss!! Absolutely!!❤️

[Kellie]

DNF @ 75%.

The main character was really hard to like. She was rude and REALLY judgmental, even to her own supposed best friends. Her inner dialogue was always so petty and hateful. There was no real excuse as to why she was so negative which made it weirder, but I tried to ignore it because I really liked Myles and the plot was cute (the clothes!) but it just became too much and it’s not worth finishing the last bit. You kind of start rooting for her to not have a happy ending because she’s kind of *Jean-Ralphio voice* the woooorst.

[Stephanie]

DNF @ 12%. I was not liking the main character, so I put this one down to try something else. A few days later and I have no desire to pick it up again.

[Rochelle Bautista · Rating 4 out of 5]

A huge thank you to Jen Morris for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I may have forgotten that this was book 2 of this series so I went and binge read the first book in one sitting yesterday and then immediately dove into this book today and finished it within the day and wow, I've never been so happy to have gotten an ARC because I don't think I would've been to wait that long if I had read the first book and not have the second one in my hands already.

Cat intrigued me enough in the first book that I was happy to see her in this beautiful cover and know that I'll be able to read her story next!

"𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘥𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘦𝘸, 𝘪𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘦 𝘢 𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘬—𝘱𝘶𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘻𝘰𝘯𝘦."

This book wasn't only about Cat's happily ever after but also about dealing with the fears and distrust she came to have after experiencing everything that could go wrong in her relationships and I loved every moment of her journey towards happiness.

I cried so much in this book for her and with her. I just love how Jen writes such painfully realistic struggles that makes you connect with these characters in such a personal level.

Alongside that, I enjoyed the slow burn teasing between the main characters and seeing how much they perfectly complemented each other. I admire Jen for being so good at writing these captivating love stories filled with so much tension, passion and deliciously written smut that I'm literally holding on to every scene they're in. And I don't know Jen keeps on making these swoon-worthy males that you just can't help but love. Can I get my own Michael and Myles someday?

I would also like to talk about the amazing friendships in these books! I especially love how they can be so honest to each other even in telling when someone is in the wrong and I think that honesty is a quality in true, forever friend that we need to see more in books.

Overall, I'm blown away again but how amazing the writing is! The pacing is just perfect for you to be engrossed enough to finish it in one go because every page has you wanting to get to the next one immediately. I'm so hooked on Jen's writing and I just want more so I'll be sure to read whatever else she will be releasing and be excited for what else she has in store for this amazing series!

[Nagma (Take A Look At My Bookshelf) · Rating 5 out of 5]

You Know It’s Love by Jen Morris is a sweet and sexy romance about learning to trust and find love. You Know It’s Love follows Cat Porter, vintage boutique owner and designer of 50s fashionable dresses, and Myles Ellis, a hunky tattooed bartender. Cat has been betrayed multiple times by some of the most important people in her life. This has left her distrusting, closed off, and in a big mess. Myles Ellis recently moved back to the city and works as a bartender for Cat’s brother Cory. When they meet there is an instant attraction, but Myles’ flirtatious behavior rubs Cat the wrong way. Cat is struggling to make ends meet after finding out her landlord, who is also her lying, cheating ex-husband, is raising the rent. Not to mention she’s in debt after a deal arranged by her former ex-best friend went wrong. Myles offers to help Cat with her website and business. Over time they become friends and their attraction to each other develops, the question is will Cat open her heart and trust Myles?

I LOVED this book was the perfect combination of sweet and sexy. Cat and Myles are such relatable and real characters. The book is only from Cat’s point of view, but we get insight into Myles’ character as well. Both of these characters are so complex and well written that you come to understand the reason they do the things they do, even if you’re frustrated with them. I loved the progression of Cat and Myles' relationship from a strong friendship to a romantic relationship no matter how quickly it happened. The timeline of this book is roughly a month to a month and a half, but there’s the whole “If You Know, You Know” so I understand that although this relationship went from 0 to 100 really quickly, it was so beautiful. Cat was hesitant to pursue anything with Myles because she had been betrayed by her ex. Myles consistently proved his reliability and trustworthiness to Cat and that he would be there for her no matter their relationship. I wish I had a man like Myles! Ugh, I LOVED him and I LOVED the both of them together!

“This is why you do it-why you keep taking the risk and putting yourself out there. Because when something works out, it’s worth every past hurt you’ve endured.”

*I am voluntarily leaving an honest review after receiving an advanced copy.*

Rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Lisa Whittaker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was sent an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

I do love a book set in New York and this book, the second in the Love in the City series, was just fab!

It was great to catch up with Cat, Alex, Michael and Geoff and to meet the gorgeous Myles!

This book focuses on Cat’s story. She’s been deeply hurt by her cheating ex-husband and has made a promise to herself to never date anyone like him, especially bartenders. Imagine her walking into her brother’s bar and meeting a new, sexy bartender called Myles. You can pick up on the attraction between them straight away and this is something that Cat fights instantly.

Cat always has her dates at her brother, Cory’s, bar after he insisted that she does that after being attacked by a date the previous year. As you can imagine, this has also affected Cat’s ability to trust men.

But is Myles the stereotypical bartender that Cat assumes he is?

This follows the ups and downs, the will they, won’t they, of Cat and Myles relationship.

Myles helps Cat not only create an amazing new website for her online store selling her own beautiful clothing designs but helps her start to understand that not all men are the same and that you can trust and love again.

Another fantastic book from Jen Morris. I love the characters. Jen has a very clever way of making you fall in love with the lead male characters and why wouldn’t you when that gorgeous man is Myles!

A definite ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me.

[Jess Sealey (Jess's_book_corner) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance copy of the book for my honest opinion.

First of thank you Jen for giving me this opportunity again.

I absolutely loved this book!! Last year I read Love In The City and loved that one. After just finishing this one it's now my favourite out off the two.
I loved finding more out about Cat and her life. Myles is now my favourite (sorry Micheal).

This book is a true romance novel that gives you all the emotions, love,lust friendship,heartache and fear all in one. Also makes you laugh out loud.
I couldn't but this book down and I can't wait for the next one.
If you haven't already I highly recommend you read the first in this series which is Love In The City and preorder this one.

Release date: 23rd February
Rated:5⭐

[Michele · Rating 3 out of 5]

*Cardi B voice* "What is that???? OMG... WHAT. IS. THAT??"

Is it me? Finishing a book? After being 2 months on a book hungover? OMG

It took me 345 years but I did finally finished this book. And it was cute, I loved the Sew In Love pun. But since I'm always a bitch before and after a book hungover: the heroine annoyed me. Myles tho? If he ever got tired of her, he should give me a call.

[Praise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Love in the City series and I enjoyed it as much as the first.

Myles is definitely book boyfriend material. He was such a loving and awesome character to read. He was so patient, kind and all round awesome. I need a Myles in my life.

Cat was well written, she has trust issues and they are portrayed in a realistic light and then we see her overcome these issues.

The chemistry was on point and it was a satisfying read. I'm excited for the next installment in the series.

I received an ARC from the author for an honest review and it has in no way affected my review