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The Pepper Lane Club #1
Willow
Willow Lawson is a fun loving social media expert, who helps companies stand out from their competitors. Yet, despite her bubbly personality, her social life is mostly work-related, and her love life is non-existent. That’s when she starts The Pepper Lane Club, a chance to get away once a month from her maddening life and reconnect with her friends. It’s at this very first meeting that she meets Thomas Greer, who owns the café. He’s everything she’s not. He’s serious, unsociable, unfashionable, and dead set against social media. She decides to take him on as a client despite his refusals. She wants the challenge, and she wants to prove to him that he needs her help. He frustrates her, but there’s something about his old fashioned ways that also intrigues her.
Six women. Six stories. Six chances of love. One café.
The Pepper Lane series tells the stories of six women, who agree to meet once a month at their local café. They promise to meet no matter what life throws their way, and, as we soon find out, life throws a lot more than any of them expected. Friendships are forged, and deepened, as the women get to know each other. It’s only once a month, but they soon realize how important this little club has become to each of them. They might be an unlikely group of friends, but it takes all types to form a tribe.
Six women. Six stories. Six chances of love. One café.
The Pepper Lane series tells the stories of six women, who agree to meet once a month at their local café. They promise to meet no matter what life throws their way, and, as we soon find out, life throws a lot more than any of them expected. Friendships are forged, and deepened, as the women get to know each other. It’s only once a month, but they soon realize how important this little club has become to each of them. They might be an unlikely group of friends, but it takes all types to form a tribe.
139 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2021
8 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
June 24, 2021
Willow by Grace Parks is a contemporary romance and the first book in The Pepper Lane Club romance series. It features Willow Lawson, a social media expert, who helps companies improve or set up websites and their social media sites. Willow suggests to her twin sister, Riley that they start a dinner club. They plan to have it at the Pepper Lane Café. The restaurant has no web or social media presence and Willow is determined to meet owner Thomas Greer and convince him to be her client.
While she has an outgoing personality and goes to a lot of events, her circle of friends is small. She’s a people pleaser, acts confident, but isn’t, hates her boss, and is messy in her personal life and her work desk; but she’s great at her job. Thomas is unsociable, doesn’t like social media, serious, and doesn’t want her help. However, the reader doesn’t get to see enough of Thomas’ life to get to know him well. The other five women in the dinner club are introduced, but didn’t have a lot of depth. Their characters will likely be fleshed out in later books in the series.
The story line is straight-forward without a lot of twists. However, besides romance, themes include friendship, sisterhood, interoffice politics, betrayal, and family. Truman, Willow’s dog, provided some adorable moments. The one major problem I had was that Willow was an hour late to her first meeting with Thomas. This was so unprofessional that it grated on me.
Overall, this novel is light, funny, and entertaining. It’s a good start to the series and I look forward to seeing what happens to each of the other five women in the dinner club.
Author Collective 20 and Grace Parks provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date was April 19, 2019.
While she has an outgoing personality and goes to a lot of events, her circle of friends is small. She’s a people pleaser, acts confident, but isn’t, hates her boss, and is messy in her personal life and her work desk; but she’s great at her job. Thomas is unsociable, doesn’t like social media, serious, and doesn’t want her help. However, the reader doesn’t get to see enough of Thomas’ life to get to know him well. The other five women in the dinner club are introduced, but didn’t have a lot of depth. Their characters will likely be fleshed out in later books in the series.
The story line is straight-forward without a lot of twists. However, besides romance, themes include friendship, sisterhood, interoffice politics, betrayal, and family. Truman, Willow’s dog, provided some adorable moments. The one major problem I had was that Willow was an hour late to her first meeting with Thomas. This was so unprofessional that it grated on me.
Overall, this novel is light, funny, and entertaining. It’s a good start to the series and I look forward to seeing what happens to each of the other five women in the dinner club.
Author Collective 20 and Grace Parks provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date was April 19, 2019.
July 31, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
We turned around to the sound of our boss, who had snuck up on us like a thief in the night. Megan was a heavy set woman who, despite her size, always managed to creep up on us when we were least expecting it. Despite wearing big leather boots today, we hadn’t heard a sound. We were certain she owned some magic powers, and that by signing our work contract we had also signed away our lives.
Carey worked quickly, like the Edward Scissorhands of the salon world, and I knew this was the job for her.
My Review:
This lighthearted and playful tale has put me in the mood for alliteration; it was fast, fun, frothy, and feisty. I enjoyed the entertaining storylines, wry wit, clever humor, breezy writing style, and lively collection of characters. Willow’s banter and verbal exchanges were often like a Masters level tennis match and kept a frequent smirk on my face while reading. Her character could also be a bit annoying to others as she was often late, hung-over, argumentative, and messy. Hmm, we could be closely related.
We turned around to the sound of our boss, who had snuck up on us like a thief in the night. Megan was a heavy set woman who, despite her size, always managed to creep up on us when we were least expecting it. Despite wearing big leather boots today, we hadn’t heard a sound. We were certain she owned some magic powers, and that by signing our work contract we had also signed away our lives.
Carey worked quickly, like the Edward Scissorhands of the salon world, and I knew this was the job for her.
My Review:
This lighthearted and playful tale has put me in the mood for alliteration; it was fast, fun, frothy, and feisty. I enjoyed the entertaining storylines, wry wit, clever humor, breezy writing style, and lively collection of characters. Willow’s banter and verbal exchanges were often like a Masters level tennis match and kept a frequent smirk on my face while reading. Her character could also be a bit annoying to others as she was often late, hung-over, argumentative, and messy. Hmm, we could be closely related.
August 5, 2019
4☆ A Fun Start to a New Series!
Willow is a wonderful Romance and a fun start to a brand new series.
Riley and Willow are Twins and on a night where Willow can't sleep She rings Riley and talks her into organising a Dinner Club.
They come up with the name... The Pepper Lane Club.
Only inviting a select few of their friends the first club meet goes down a treat.
Willow is curious to find out who the owner of The establishment is as she is shocked to find out they have no online presence.
So when she finally gets in contact with Thomas the owner, she is shocked when he refuses her help, to promote The Pepeer Lane Cafe online!
But never one to turn down a challange she sets out to get The Pepper Lane Cafe online.
However Thomas has other ideas as he hates the internet and technology!
I loved the sass, sarcasm and flirty banter that is so oobviously apparent between Willow and Thomas.
I especially loved the closeness and relationships between Willow and her Twin Sister Riley, I loved how they supported each other, was very different, yet best of friends.
Willow is a beautifully light hearted, Rom Com, it's funny, plenty of banter, friendships, romance, and determination.
The Characters were a quirky bunch and I can't wait to get to know them more as the series progresses.
So if you are looking for a new fun series that's easy to read, funny, sassy, a great bunch of friends, with a sprinkle of Romance, then you will adore Willow!
I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
Willow is a wonderful Romance and a fun start to a brand new series.
Riley and Willow are Twins and on a night where Willow can't sleep She rings Riley and talks her into organising a Dinner Club.
They come up with the name... The Pepper Lane Club.
Only inviting a select few of their friends the first club meet goes down a treat.
Willow is curious to find out who the owner of The establishment is as she is shocked to find out they have no online presence.
So when she finally gets in contact with Thomas the owner, she is shocked when he refuses her help, to promote The Pepeer Lane Cafe online!
But never one to turn down a challange she sets out to get The Pepper Lane Cafe online.
However Thomas has other ideas as he hates the internet and technology!
I loved the sass, sarcasm and flirty banter that is so oobviously apparent between Willow and Thomas.
I especially loved the closeness and relationships between Willow and her Twin Sister Riley, I loved how they supported each other, was very different, yet best of friends.
Willow is a beautifully light hearted, Rom Com, it's funny, plenty of banter, friendships, romance, and determination.
The Characters were a quirky bunch and I can't wait to get to know them more as the series progresses.
So if you are looking for a new fun series that's easy to read, funny, sassy, a great bunch of friends, with a sprinkle of Romance, then you will adore Willow!
I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
August 2, 2019
You can read all my review on Blog - Books Teacup and Reviews
Willow is first in series, a love story of one of the member of club, Willow. It was about friendship, social media vs anti-social media, getting over the past and betrayal, and second chance at love.
Characters-
Meet 6 members of the dinner club ‘The Paper Lane Club’.
Willow, 25, main character and narrator of her story, was witty, fun-loving, social media expert who helped business to reach out to world, who got the idea to start all girls dinner club. I felt connected to her in many ways- bargain and free products or sale person, I like to organize but things never stay that way, and some more. She was nice character, good at her work, amazing with her sister and other paper Lane girls. She eventually saw things from Thomas’ perspective and started to think differently about his job and its effects.
Riley was Willow’s twin sister, gave name to club. She was writer, nerdy, introvert, calm and organized, and great friend and supporter of her sister.
Aria – fashion magazine editor. Workaholic. Willow’s friend from workplace. Loaded with energy, wild hair, a person whom you cannot not notice. She and Willow were close like sisters. While she and Riley were opposite, she and Aria were same in many ways.
Mary– Riley’s editor, 45. She was married, sensible and adult of the group. She was intimidating at first but was soft once she get connected to others.
Carey– hairdresser. Chatterbox of the group. No one has to worry about out-of-topic silence if she is in the group.
Rachel, 35, worked at stationery shop, and the beautiful one, yet single. I loved her apartment.
They all were different and so readers will find themselves easily connected to one of these charming ladies. They were lively, high-spirited and realistic and had their own issues in life. One common thing they had, they all were single except Mary.
‘It takes all types to make a tribe.’– that line from summery of Paper Lane Club series was befitting.
What I Liked-
First I loved that cover. In fact, all covers in series.
Just looking at blurb, both of series and Willow in the beginning of the book, I knew I’m going to like this. And this concept of telling story of members individually in series was great. I loved it in lunar chronicles and I know I’ll love it again.
Writing was easy, gripping, and entertaining from very first page. Willow’s voice was charming. She drew me into her world that was filled with social media and lovely family.
It started Willow’s idea of dinner club, introduction to her sister and all other characters of the club. On their first meeting at Paper Lane café she was surprised she hadn’t heard about the place before, the place wasn’t anywhere on social media, and there were not many diners even though the place was beautiful. She contacted the owner of the café, Thomas, to offer her service but Thomas was old fashioned and technophobic person, he refused her offer. And so started their sweet banter and romance.
Willow’s relationship with her sister and other club members was great. They had something that pulled me towards them. We get to know them a little throughout the book and as novel progressed, Willow formed strong friendship with each of them. The gossips were entertaining and conversations were delightful. I felt jealous for not having nerdy sister or not being part of any club.
I love social media vs anti-social media arc in the books these days. It proves how social media has turned into necessity in every business but at the same time it shows the how the place can be so special if not many people knew about it. Of course it is not good for business but at the same time you would not like the place crowded and noisy. I myself avoid too much crowd and noise and so mostly prefer takeaway. So advantage and disadvantage of both cases were perfectly put together.
Romance between Willow and Thomas was cute. Thomas was cute. I wish I could know him more. Willow could not tolerate Thomas and his denial to get her service. She found him arrogant, cocky and old-fashioned, not exactly a person she would date. But as they met more, her view changed and their relationship developed.
Entry of Willow’s past was good turn in the story. I expected big twist around the climax but it wasn’t there. However, story flowed easily. End was sweet. I wish I could see Willow and Thomas more in next books of the series, as this was not enough. I can’t wait to see how Riley is going to find her novel worthy prince.
Why not 5 Stars-
As this was first in series, it formed a base of the series by introducing all characters and representing Willow’s story. So we only hear Willow’s part not the rest of the characters and therefore there wasn’t much depth in characters. Development was okay.
Overall, it was sweet, charming, entertaining chick-lit that I recommend to readers of this genre. If you prefer light-hearted, fast paced and short book that you can devoured in a day or few hours, this is perfect one.
*** Note : I received e-copy of this book as a part of blog tour, in exchange for an honest review. ***
Willow is first in series, a love story of one of the member of club, Willow. It was about friendship, social media vs anti-social media, getting over the past and betrayal, and second chance at love.
Characters-
Meet 6 members of the dinner club ‘The Paper Lane Club’.
Willow, 25, main character and narrator of her story, was witty, fun-loving, social media expert who helped business to reach out to world, who got the idea to start all girls dinner club. I felt connected to her in many ways- bargain and free products or sale person, I like to organize but things never stay that way, and some more. She was nice character, good at her work, amazing with her sister and other paper Lane girls. She eventually saw things from Thomas’ perspective and started to think differently about his job and its effects.
Riley was Willow’s twin sister, gave name to club. She was writer, nerdy, introvert, calm and organized, and great friend and supporter of her sister.
Aria – fashion magazine editor. Workaholic. Willow’s friend from workplace. Loaded with energy, wild hair, a person whom you cannot not notice. She and Willow were close like sisters. While she and Riley were opposite, she and Aria were same in many ways.
Mary– Riley’s editor, 45. She was married, sensible and adult of the group. She was intimidating at first but was soft once she get connected to others.
Carey– hairdresser. Chatterbox of the group. No one has to worry about out-of-topic silence if she is in the group.
Rachel, 35, worked at stationery shop, and the beautiful one, yet single. I loved her apartment.
They all were different and so readers will find themselves easily connected to one of these charming ladies. They were lively, high-spirited and realistic and had their own issues in life. One common thing they had, they all were single except Mary.
‘It takes all types to make a tribe.’– that line from summery of Paper Lane Club series was befitting.
What I Liked-
First I loved that cover. In fact, all covers in series.
Just looking at blurb, both of series and Willow in the beginning of the book, I knew I’m going to like this. And this concept of telling story of members individually in series was great. I loved it in lunar chronicles and I know I’ll love it again.
Writing was easy, gripping, and entertaining from very first page. Willow’s voice was charming. She drew me into her world that was filled with social media and lovely family.
It started Willow’s idea of dinner club, introduction to her sister and all other characters of the club. On their first meeting at Paper Lane café she was surprised she hadn’t heard about the place before, the place wasn’t anywhere on social media, and there were not many diners even though the place was beautiful. She contacted the owner of the café, Thomas, to offer her service but Thomas was old fashioned and technophobic person, he refused her offer. And so started their sweet banter and romance.
Willow’s relationship with her sister and other club members was great. They had something that pulled me towards them. We get to know them a little throughout the book and as novel progressed, Willow formed strong friendship with each of them. The gossips were entertaining and conversations were delightful. I felt jealous for not having nerdy sister or not being part of any club.
I love social media vs anti-social media arc in the books these days. It proves how social media has turned into necessity in every business but at the same time it shows the how the place can be so special if not many people knew about it. Of course it is not good for business but at the same time you would not like the place crowded and noisy. I myself avoid too much crowd and noise and so mostly prefer takeaway. So advantage and disadvantage of both cases were perfectly put together.
Romance between Willow and Thomas was cute. Thomas was cute. I wish I could know him more. Willow could not tolerate Thomas and his denial to get her service. She found him arrogant, cocky and old-fashioned, not exactly a person she would date. But as they met more, her view changed and their relationship developed.
Entry of Willow’s past was good turn in the story. I expected big twist around the climax but it wasn’t there. However, story flowed easily. End was sweet. I wish I could see Willow and Thomas more in next books of the series, as this was not enough. I can’t wait to see how Riley is going to find her novel worthy prince.
Why not 5 Stars-
As this was first in series, it formed a base of the series by introducing all characters and representing Willow’s story. So we only hear Willow’s part not the rest of the characters and therefore there wasn’t much depth in characters. Development was okay.
Overall, it was sweet, charming, entertaining chick-lit that I recommend to readers of this genre. If you prefer light-hearted, fast paced and short book that you can devoured in a day or few hours, this is perfect one.
*** Note : I received e-copy of this book as a part of blog tour, in exchange for an honest review. ***
August 1, 2019
I've enjoyed to follow Willow and her girlfriends adventures in this delightful story.
Our heroine,Willow, is very good at doing her job.She helps various business to get enough exposure creating social media pages and new websites but when she isn't working she doesn't feel content with her life,so the boredom is the reason why she decided to found a girls club.
Pepper Lane Cafe is the perfect place to held the monthly dinner of her club because it is lovely, with a great menu and a nice waiter but when she realizes that the place is pretty empty she tries to convince the owner that the cafe needs more exposure.Thomas is wary of technology and all Willow's ideas.
Will they stop bickering and start to work together?You have to read this book to find out.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
May 20, 2019
This is an incredibly sweet romance, that is an lovely start to a new series featuring The Pepper Lane Club. I believe thought it may be aimed at a slightly younger audience than me, as I found myself a bit frustrated that everything seemed at surface level.
There was no real depth to Willow, as nice as she was, but I think its more that I've stopped enjoying her character type than anything to do with the writing. Plus is only the first book in the series so plenty of time to see a good amount of development across the books.
I already suspect I'll love Riley's book a lot, and probably Mary too, as they are the book lovers in the group. There is also hairdresser Carey and Aria who loves her fashion and Rachel who seems like she may have some hidden depths to her.
Although I may not have been keen on Willow (and please note I didn't hate her, just she frustrated me), I absolutely loved Thomas, and Willow's interactions with him. It was all so awkward and cute, and any man who is determined to ignore social media already intrigues me.
This is a quick and easy read, that is very promising, and I'm definitely keen to read more from the series. It lays good ground work, and well I want to see what happens with Willow next, even if she is only a side character in the rest.
The Pepper Lane Cafe itself is a wonderful setting, and Luca the handsome waiter certainly caught my attention. Although I won't say any more about it, Willow gets a pet that completely steals my heart too!
Bring on Book 2, I suspect that now I'm familiar with the author's writing style and have reminded myself what a sweet romance is, I may enjoy it even more.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
There was no real depth to Willow, as nice as she was, but I think its more that I've stopped enjoying her character type than anything to do with the writing. Plus is only the first book in the series so plenty of time to see a good amount of development across the books.
I already suspect I'll love Riley's book a lot, and probably Mary too, as they are the book lovers in the group. There is also hairdresser Carey and Aria who loves her fashion and Rachel who seems like she may have some hidden depths to her.
Although I may not have been keen on Willow (and please note I didn't hate her, just she frustrated me), I absolutely loved Thomas, and Willow's interactions with him. It was all so awkward and cute, and any man who is determined to ignore social media already intrigues me.
This is a quick and easy read, that is very promising, and I'm definitely keen to read more from the series. It lays good ground work, and well I want to see what happens with Willow next, even if she is only a side character in the rest.
The Pepper Lane Cafe itself is a wonderful setting, and Luca the handsome waiter certainly caught my attention. Although I won't say any more about it, Willow gets a pet that completely steals my heart too!
Bring on Book 2, I suspect that now I'm familiar with the author's writing style and have reminded myself what a sweet romance is, I may enjoy it even more.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
January 18, 2020
2.5 I was really disappointed. I really wanted to like this book. But the characters didn't live up to what was described, the dialogue didn't sound how real people spoke. And at the end with Willow's boss. So unrealistic and ridiculous. I will say I like the idea of the dinner club and the bond of the group of women. I love books will strong female friendships. This book had potential, it just didn't exactly live up to them. Maybe one day I'll try another book from the series.
August 2, 2019
plot
This book was soooo relaxing, and it is 100% totally relevant today. Its one of those books that you just get lost within, even though it’s completely realistic in today’s life, outlook on social media, and how important social media and online presence is such an incredibly remarkable need for all businesses especially important for small businesses. It’s also a great way of seeing what the world with social media is like and what isn’t I.e in the terms of one person being totally social media-obsessed and one who I guess is stuck in the old way, not at all interested, technically-minded where any social media is concerned.
I loved seeing Willow and Thomas blossom as well as seeing there at first love to hate or hate to love relationship. How you can go from disliking and finding them so annoying to really see them.
I love the twist of Willow’s Brad Pitt extremely good looking ex-boyfriend coming back on to the scene. And I think we all have that f**k boy drop-dead gorgeous ex or guy\women that didn’t want us when they had us, broke us but when we are finally moving on. They magically just pop up because they can’t stand the fact we don’t want, need or swoon over them anymore.
Characters
Willow absolutely love her, she is such a relatable characters which I love and adore. This book was based on Willow mainly.
But I loved the little glimpses of the many other characters and personalities. I am really looking forward to reading the other stories and finding out lots more about every individual person.
writing style
Grace has a very easy, relaxing writing style. The type which is just awesome to kick back and be taken on a wonderful escape into another person’s life.
pacing
It was perfectly paced, not too many details or detailed just perfect for this type of short and sweet story.
cover
It’s so scrumptious, honestly, I can just imagine eating this cover. I love the mix of pink and purple.
mini-review
Grace has a very easy, relaxing writing style. The type which is just awesome to kick back and be taken on a wonderful escape into another person’s life with a scrumptious cover. It was a relaxing storyline which is so relevant and in tune within today’s social media society and craze. A romantic, full of friendship, funny sweet book.
This book was soooo relaxing, and it is 100% totally relevant today. Its one of those books that you just get lost within, even though it’s completely realistic in today’s life, outlook on social media, and how important social media and online presence is such an incredibly remarkable need for all businesses especially important for small businesses. It’s also a great way of seeing what the world with social media is like and what isn’t I.e in the terms of one person being totally social media-obsessed and one who I guess is stuck in the old way, not at all interested, technically-minded where any social media is concerned.
I loved seeing Willow and Thomas blossom as well as seeing there at first love to hate or hate to love relationship. How you can go from disliking and finding them so annoying to really see them.
I love the twist of Willow’s Brad Pitt extremely good looking ex-boyfriend coming back on to the scene. And I think we all have that f**k boy drop-dead gorgeous ex or guy\women that didn’t want us when they had us, broke us but when we are finally moving on. They magically just pop up because they can’t stand the fact we don’t want, need or swoon over them anymore.
Characters
Willow absolutely love her, she is such a relatable characters which I love and adore. This book was based on Willow mainly.
But I loved the little glimpses of the many other characters and personalities. I am really looking forward to reading the other stories and finding out lots more about every individual person.
writing style
Grace has a very easy, relaxing writing style. The type which is just awesome to kick back and be taken on a wonderful escape into another person’s life.
pacing
It was perfectly paced, not too many details or detailed just perfect for this type of short and sweet story.
cover
It’s so scrumptious, honestly, I can just imagine eating this cover. I love the mix of pink and purple.
mini-review
Grace has a very easy, relaxing writing style. The type which is just awesome to kick back and be taken on a wonderful escape into another person’s life with a scrumptious cover. It was a relaxing storyline which is so relevant and in tune within today’s social media society and craze. A romantic, full of friendship, funny sweet book.
November 25, 2021
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Thank you to both Author Collective 20 and NetGalley for an e-book copy of this book! All contents in this review are my honest opinion/thoughts.
This book follows Willow, a proclaimed social media expert who decides to start a monthly club with her twin sister and a few other casual acquaintances to make new friends and bond over wonderful memories. At their decided club location, she discovers the owner Thomas is a complete technophobe and is desperate need of social media advertising. Will she be over to win him over?
I was drawn to this book because I wanted to venture into New Adult, and it was nice to read a book where the main character is around my own age! I did not relate to the main character at all, but I adored her twin sister Riley and I thought the love interest was entertaining. The characters definitely have potential, but I have no idea how Willow is so ‘successful’ when she is also a self proclaimed lazy slob and shows up to everything hours late…
Although I did really enjoy some of the characters, and I had a few laugh-out-loud or “aww!!” moments, this felt like more of a comedy than a romance. The logic is not very sound in most of the plots, such as immediately claiming a stray dog with a collar and the boss scene at the end.
I don’t think I will continue this series, but I am still glad I read this one! I would recommend to people who enjoy quick rom-coms!
Thank you to both Author Collective 20 and NetGalley for an e-book copy of this book! All contents in this review are my honest opinion/thoughts.
This book follows Willow, a proclaimed social media expert who decides to start a monthly club with her twin sister and a few other casual acquaintances to make new friends and bond over wonderful memories. At their decided club location, she discovers the owner Thomas is a complete technophobe and is desperate need of social media advertising. Will she be over to win him over?
I was drawn to this book because I wanted to venture into New Adult, and it was nice to read a book where the main character is around my own age! I did not relate to the main character at all, but I adored her twin sister Riley and I thought the love interest was entertaining. The characters definitely have potential, but I have no idea how Willow is so ‘successful’ when she is also a self proclaimed lazy slob and shows up to everything hours late…
Although I did really enjoy some of the characters, and I had a few laugh-out-loud or “aww!!” moments, this felt like more of a comedy than a romance. The logic is not very sound in most of the plots, such as immediately claiming a stray dog with a collar and the boss scene at the end.
I don’t think I will continue this series, but I am still glad I read this one! I would recommend to people who enjoy quick rom-coms!
December 31, 2021
I don't know why it took me so long to read this, it was adorable.
To fully appreciate this, you have to have the patience for the love story to unfold and be satisfied with a cheeky chick lit. In its genre it's really a lovely book, easy to read, sprinkled with cute moments. It also takes the time to introduce the other characters in the series, so you start getting invested :)
Both main characters are very nice and the drama is very low. It's just that kind of book that leaves you with a good feeling.
I received a copy of this in order to offer my honest opinion.
To fully appreciate this, you have to have the patience for the love story to unfold and be satisfied with a cheeky chick lit. In its genre it's really a lovely book, easy to read, sprinkled with cute moments. It also takes the time to introduce the other characters in the series, so you start getting invested :)
Both main characters are very nice and the drama is very low. It's just that kind of book that leaves you with a good feeling.
I received a copy of this in order to offer my honest opinion.
September 28, 2019
So I am not a fan of Romance. But this was fun. I liked the story and the idea of a girls wine group. I liked that the girls had issues.
While some of the themes are obvious, I felt a connection with the characters so it didn't seem too bad.
What I didn't like was the fake Italian accent. lol. Almost a deal breaker.
This leaves you wanting for more.
Great job!
I was offered a credit in exchange for an honest review.
While some of the themes are obvious, I felt a connection with the characters so it didn't seem too bad.
What I didn't like was the fake Italian accent. lol. Almost a deal breaker.
This leaves you wanting for more.
Great job!
I was offered a credit in exchange for an honest review.
dnf
August 3, 2019Too much chick lit, took too long to get anywhere near a romance, so just wasn't for me. Others will probably really enjoy, it just wasn't for me.
May 21, 2019
For more book reviews like this one, please check out my book blog at BeckieWrites.com , where I will be hosting this book on an upcoming blog tour as well as an author interview!
Reading this book made me so happy! The dialogue is delightful, the characters are relatable, and the romance is so incredibly sweet. Loosing myself in the pages of this book was like watching one of my favorite romantic comedies from the late 90’s or early 2000’s. The author’s light and breezy style grabbed med immediately and I couldn’t put it down.
This book was like watching one of my favorite romantic comedies!
The romance between Willow and Thomas was just my cup of tea. It was both sweet and humorous and reading about the two of them together really warmed my heart. I particularly enjoyed the description of Thomas. He sounded very intelligent and very cute.
Reading this book was like being part of a group of amazing gal pals!
There were several times I actually laughed out loud while reading this book. I was able to imagine myself in the role of the protagonist and in many ways, for me at least, this book was classic wish fulfillment. In the pages of this brief novel, I could steal away from the stress and worry of my own life and instead that I’m part of the Pepper Lane Club. I truly felt for Willow, and I enjoyed the female friendships in this book equally as much as I enjoyed the romance. All of the characters were fun and relatable, but I particularly enjoyed the protagonist, Willow, and her twin, Riley.
This book made me so happy that I couldn’t put it down!
I downloaded this book on Kindle Unlimited because I was curious to see what it was about. I had only intended to read a few pages, but I was immediately caught up in the voice of the protagonist. I was immersed in Willow’s story. As soon as I finished this book, I went back to Kindle Unlimited in order to download Riley’s story. I’m already several chapters in and I can’t wait to hear about how Willow’s bookish twin sister finds a happy ending of her own.
So fun!
So happy!
So cute!
I can’t wait to read more of the Pepper Lane Club!
Reading this book made me so happy! The dialogue is delightful, the characters are relatable, and the romance is so incredibly sweet. Loosing myself in the pages of this book was like watching one of my favorite romantic comedies from the late 90’s or early 2000’s. The author’s light and breezy style grabbed med immediately and I couldn’t put it down.
This book was like watching one of my favorite romantic comedies!
The romance between Willow and Thomas was just my cup of tea. It was both sweet and humorous and reading about the two of them together really warmed my heart. I particularly enjoyed the description of Thomas. He sounded very intelligent and very cute.
Reading this book was like being part of a group of amazing gal pals!
There were several times I actually laughed out loud while reading this book. I was able to imagine myself in the role of the protagonist and in many ways, for me at least, this book was classic wish fulfillment. In the pages of this brief novel, I could steal away from the stress and worry of my own life and instead that I’m part of the Pepper Lane Club. I truly felt for Willow, and I enjoyed the female friendships in this book equally as much as I enjoyed the romance. All of the characters were fun and relatable, but I particularly enjoyed the protagonist, Willow, and her twin, Riley.
This book made me so happy that I couldn’t put it down!
I downloaded this book on Kindle Unlimited because I was curious to see what it was about. I had only intended to read a few pages, but I was immediately caught up in the voice of the protagonist. I was immersed in Willow’s story. As soon as I finished this book, I went back to Kindle Unlimited in order to download Riley’s story. I’m already several chapters in and I can’t wait to hear about how Willow’s bookish twin sister finds a happy ending of her own.
So fun!
So happy!
So cute!
I can’t wait to read more of the Pepper Lane Club!
June 18, 2021
This is a rom-com, this is the story of Willow and the first in the series. The story is funny, sweet with a bit of romance, this is the first book by the author I read and the blurb caught me, however, it felt a bit flat on some character development, and during some situations, I even felt it ab it more like YA than NA. Overall it was entertaining.
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June 30, 2021
4 star review of Willow (The Pepper Lane Club #1) by Grace Parks
Grace Parks is a new author to me and I have not come across her books before, I have no idea. This was a fun, entertaining read that had me hooked from the first to the last chapter. Willow Lawson is fed up with the chaos that is her busy social media expert life and starts The Pepper Lane Dinner Club to give her and her friends the opportunity to re connect on a monthly basis and this is such a great idea.
At their first meeting she meets the owner of the Pepper Lane Cafe, Thomas Greer, who is her total opposite. He hates anything to do with social media, is old fashioned and a tad set in in ways and refuses the help she offers. However Willow has not gotten to be as successful as she is without learning to fight for what she believes in.
Six women, a tribe if you will, all different and all there for one another, a sisterhood and a theme I loved. I enjoyed the push and pull of their relationship as Willow digs her heels in and is determined to bring Thomas and his cafe into the present. The relationship Willow has with her twin sister Riley was so supportive and it is obvious they they are best friends as well as sisters.
If this first book is anything to go by then this will be an entertaining series. The banter is witty, the friendships heart warming and the love and support that they have for one another added an additional layer to the story.
Grace Parks is a new author to me and I have not come across her books before, I have no idea. This was a fun, entertaining read that had me hooked from the first to the last chapter. Willow Lawson is fed up with the chaos that is her busy social media expert life and starts The Pepper Lane Dinner Club to give her and her friends the opportunity to re connect on a monthly basis and this is such a great idea.
At their first meeting she meets the owner of the Pepper Lane Cafe, Thomas Greer, who is her total opposite. He hates anything to do with social media, is old fashioned and a tad set in in ways and refuses the help she offers. However Willow has not gotten to be as successful as she is without learning to fight for what she believes in.
Six women, a tribe if you will, all different and all there for one another, a sisterhood and a theme I loved. I enjoyed the push and pull of their relationship as Willow digs her heels in and is determined to bring Thomas and his cafe into the present. The relationship Willow has with her twin sister Riley was so supportive and it is obvious they they are best friends as well as sisters.
If this first book is anything to go by then this will be an entertaining series. The banter is witty, the friendships heart warming and the love and support that they have for one another added an additional layer to the story.
June 25, 2021
Willow is the first in a new series that focuses on a group of friends. In this first book, we meet them and learn about that dinner club that they have set up. Willow is the one behind the club and it's her story that we begin with.
This is a fun, opposites attract story. When we first meet Willow, she's still suffering from the hurt that her ex-boyfriend West caused her. She hasn't had a relationship since, even though she is over him. She certainly doesn't think that owner of the cafe she and her friends are holding the dinner club at is for her. The more time that she spends with him though, the more that she begins to understand that perhaps this man who is the complete opposite of what she wanted, is actually for her.
This is a fun romance that doesn't really take itself too seriously. I really enjoyed it and enjoyed the growing relationship between Willow and Thomas. While Willow might not have been convinced that he was the one for her, it was obvious to us that they were perfect for one another.
I think that Willow's twin sister will be the next to get a story. I'm looking forward to finding out what is in store for her.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This is a fun, opposites attract story. When we first meet Willow, she's still suffering from the hurt that her ex-boyfriend West caused her. She hasn't had a relationship since, even though she is over him. She certainly doesn't think that owner of the cafe she and her friends are holding the dinner club at is for her. The more time that she spends with him though, the more that she begins to understand that perhaps this man who is the complete opposite of what she wanted, is actually for her.
This is a fun romance that doesn't really take itself too seriously. I really enjoyed it and enjoyed the growing relationship between Willow and Thomas. While Willow might not have been convinced that he was the one for her, it was obvious to us that they were perfect for one another.
I think that Willow's twin sister will be the next to get a story. I'm looking forward to finding out what is in store for her.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 7, 2021
3.5 Stars
Willow Lawson is a fun loving social media expert, who helps companies stand out from their competitors. Yet, despite her bubbly personality, her social life is mostly work-related, and her love life is non-existent. So along with her twin Riley they start a dinner club & the venue is the Pepper Lane Café hence The Pepper Lane Club is formed. It’s at this very first meeting that she meets Thomas Greer, who owns the café. He’s everything she’s not. He’s serious, unsociable, unfashionable, and dead set against social media. She decides to take him on as a client despite his refusals. The Pepper Lane series tells the stories of six women, who agree to meet once a month at their local café.
I found this to be a fun, light hearted start to a new series & look forward to reading the rest of the series. I liked Willow even though her time keeping needed some attention. Truman her dog simply stole the book. I liked Thomas but felt he was two dimensional & didn’t get to know him. Ideal for whiling away a few hours
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Willow Lawson is a fun loving social media expert, who helps companies stand out from their competitors. Yet, despite her bubbly personality, her social life is mostly work-related, and her love life is non-existent. So along with her twin Riley they start a dinner club & the venue is the Pepper Lane Café hence The Pepper Lane Club is formed. It’s at this very first meeting that she meets Thomas Greer, who owns the café. He’s everything she’s not. He’s serious, unsociable, unfashionable, and dead set against social media. She decides to take him on as a client despite his refusals. The Pepper Lane series tells the stories of six women, who agree to meet once a month at their local café.
I found this to be a fun, light hearted start to a new series & look forward to reading the rest of the series. I liked Willow even though her time keeping needed some attention. Truman her dog simply stole the book. I liked Thomas but felt he was two dimensional & didn’t get to know him. Ideal for whiling away a few hours
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 6, 2021
**FULL REVIEW**
Cute, quirky, clean romance with a slow burn.
I have to admit, I had that face (you know the one where you go in blind and realize about 60% through that you’re getting nothing else but a few stolen kisses?), but I kept on because it just felt right.
Not every romance is about sex and this book proves it…I enjoyed the change of pace, the development of characters and almost didn’t mind the parts that felt as if they would drag on forever.
A shorter read, but didn’t read like it, if that makes any sense…I will absolutely pick up the next book in the series because honestly? I’m intrigued. And I enjoy a good, clean, quirky romance. It’s all in the story and the connection…my imagination can do the rest.
**3 Not So Into Social Media, Stars**
Cute, quirky, clean romance with a slow burn.
I have to admit, I had that face (you know the one where you go in blind and realize about 60% through that you’re getting nothing else but a few stolen kisses?), but I kept on because it just felt right.
Not every romance is about sex and this book proves it…I enjoyed the change of pace, the development of characters and almost didn’t mind the parts that felt as if they would drag on forever.
A shorter read, but didn’t read like it, if that makes any sense…I will absolutely pick up the next book in the series because honestly? I’m intrigued. And I enjoy a good, clean, quirky romance. It’s all in the story and the connection…my imagination can do the rest.
**3 Not So Into Social Media, Stars**
December 13, 2021
This is a sweet book about a group of girlfriends, who appear so different, but find they have a lot in common. The Pepper Lane Club was formed and with it lots of wine, laughs and a camaraderie that they all needed.
Willow is book one and we meet the social media guru of the group, who is a bit of a lukewarm mess. She's been burned in the love department and a bit shy about the possibility of another heart break. When she finds out her dinner clubs restaurant owner does zero advertising and has no social media presence, she's determined to change this fact. Can love bloom over a plate of pasta and good wine? It sure can.
This was a cute read.
Willow is book one and we meet the social media guru of the group, who is a bit of a lukewarm mess. She's been burned in the love department and a bit shy about the possibility of another heart break. When she finds out her dinner clubs restaurant owner does zero advertising and has no social media presence, she's determined to change this fact. Can love bloom over a plate of pasta and good wine? It sure can.
This was a cute read.
October 22, 2019
Review on Audiobook:
I loved this the first book in the Pepper Lane Club series. The story was fun and just the right combination of romance and friendship and life in general. I loved the characters and how they felt real and relateble.I loved how the author wove the story with little surprises and makes me want to know the story of each lady of the club. I definately will be looking out for the other books in the series.
I loved this the first book in the Pepper Lane Club series. The story was fun and just the right combination of romance and friendship and life in general. I loved the characters and how they felt real and relateble.I loved how the author wove the story with little surprises and makes me want to know the story of each lady of the club. I definately will be looking out for the other books in the series.
October 21, 2019
I normal don’t read or listen to this genre but this was definitely a cute and funny contemporary read. Willow is quite quirky and had me laughing throughout the book. She wasn’t really looking for love after her last relationship but love seemed to find her. And her friendships with her sister and the Pepper lane club ladies was quit interesting and fun. I’d definitely can’t wait to listen to the rest of the stories.
July 14, 2021
- Didnt like this book...
-
- Quite superfluous heroine, silly chatter...
-
- not enough humor or hottneesssssss
-
- It was strange, so long dialogues, of nothing,,,, im very introverted person, i dont like chatting for nothing...
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Maybe its good read on the beach or near cold swim pool, but for me didnt work.
-
- Quite superfluous heroine, silly chatter...
-
- not enough humor or hottneesssssss
-
- It was strange, so long dialogues, of nothing,,,, im very introverted person, i dont like chatting for nothing...
-
Maybe its good read on the beach or near cold swim pool, but for me didnt work.
June 28, 2021
When I hear that I'm going to read a romance novel, I'm expecting to read a romance novel, not a kind of book with a few romantic elements in it. So it's not surprising that I finish the book with a lot of frustration.
Plus, the heroine was so annoying and to read the book with her POV only, well it annoyed me as well.
Plus, the heroine was so annoying and to read the book with her POV only, well it annoyed me as well.
August 9, 2021
This is a charming first book in a series involving Willow, her twin Riley, and restaurant owner Thomas. Willow adores social media and tries to encourage Thomas to "put his on the map." But he's a little "old school" and likes things the way they are. Willow fights the attraction she has to him, even as he jokes with her and woos her with his charm and wardrobe. I'll definitely be reading more of this series as it's a breath of fresh air!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
June 23, 2021
So, I gave this book three stars because the writing is decent. There were grammatical and structural errors, missing words, that would take you out of book for a moment, but nothing that would make you yell at the author. I'm going to give you all the reason I took two stars off and then finish it with some redemption. There will more than likely be spoilers, so be aware as you read this. My main problem was with the main character, but I will get to that last. Okay! Let's start with the Pepper Lane Club. There are 5 members, and I can't really tell you much about four of the ladies other than their occupations. In fact, if the author hadn't almost always mentioned what type of job 3 of the characters had, you couldn't really tell them apart. They are old, young, short, tall. The same with male characters. I know that the Ex is Brad Pitt like. The new love possibility is tall compared to Willow's short. But that could mean anything. I didn't even know that Thomas wore glasses until the last few pages (though I'm not sure that matters). I just would have liked a few more details about each character. Aria is the only one that sort of stood out because of her wild hair, but again that could mean several things as well. Now, for Willow: I read one of the reviews about how they couldn't read the whole book because they despised the character of Willow. I agree with about 95% of that statement. I don't think I've ever actually rooted against our lead character for things to fail or go wrong for her. There are way too many things that annoyed me as much as they should have annoyed Thomas (which they did until her started trying to change himself to fit into Willow's mold) to list here. I guess you might chalk it up to generation gaps. Though I'm not crazy older than the character of Willow, I was hoping she would have a little more substance. Though she had until 35 to grow up according to Willow. I think in the end the author was trying to make you see Willow’s revelations as a redemption point. The problem I have with that is that Willow was so dislikable without really any reason on the other side that it was hard to like her even with her transformation (don’t hold your breath because it wasn’t earth shattering). Maybe if Thomas could have balanced her out a little more, then she would have been a likable redemption in my opinion. Again, this maybe a perfectly fine book for some. I just couldn’t get past Willow’s personality even in the end.
July 1, 2021
In order to thoroughly enjoy a romance, I need to really care about the main protagonist(s). And Parks did a solid job in creating a sympathetic, amusing protagonist with sufficient depth of character to hold me throughout the story – and yet not too much so that it unduly slowed the pace.
Willow is interesting in that she is one of twins – and I liked the fact that for a refreshing change, they came from a loving family, with nice parents. Indeed, Willow looks at her parents’ relationship with some envy. She also has a close relationship with her twin sister, as well as a wide circle of acquaintance and a busy social life. But… how close are those friendships she has fostered online? Other than her family, Willow realises that she is missing a relationship with a group of people she is really close to, outside her Facebook and Instagram accounts – and decides to do something about it.
I thought this aspect of the story was smart, as this is an ongoing dilemma for so many of us, now staggering out of the various lockdowns and grappling with the reality of face-to-face meetings, after having thrown our energy into keeping our social networks going digitally. While Parks doesn’t allude to any of that – this must be a hurdle for so many folks. And Willow’s idea of meeting up once a month for a lovely meal with women she likes and trusts is also a really good one.
I’m conscious that I haven’t said much about the romance. But I also liked that dynamic, too. It wasn’t groundbreakingly original – going along the lines of fake relationship deepening into something more substantial. But Willow’s confusion regarding Thomas worked well, and didn’t get too ridiculously muddled – a common moan I have about romance stories – before resolving into a believable, cute relationship that was founded on a genuine respect and liking for each other. Highly recommended for fans of romance stories. While I obtained an arc of Willow from the publishers via Netgalley, the opinions I have expressed are unbiased and my own.
8/10
Willow is interesting in that she is one of twins – and I liked the fact that for a refreshing change, they came from a loving family, with nice parents. Indeed, Willow looks at her parents’ relationship with some envy. She also has a close relationship with her twin sister, as well as a wide circle of acquaintance and a busy social life. But… how close are those friendships she has fostered online? Other than her family, Willow realises that she is missing a relationship with a group of people she is really close to, outside her Facebook and Instagram accounts – and decides to do something about it.
I thought this aspect of the story was smart, as this is an ongoing dilemma for so many of us, now staggering out of the various lockdowns and grappling with the reality of face-to-face meetings, after having thrown our energy into keeping our social networks going digitally. While Parks doesn’t allude to any of that – this must be a hurdle for so many folks. And Willow’s idea of meeting up once a month for a lovely meal with women she likes and trusts is also a really good one.
I’m conscious that I haven’t said much about the romance. But I also liked that dynamic, too. It wasn’t groundbreakingly original – going along the lines of fake relationship deepening into something more substantial. But Willow’s confusion regarding Thomas worked well, and didn’t get too ridiculously muddled – a common moan I have about romance stories – before resolving into a believable, cute relationship that was founded on a genuine respect and liking for each other. Highly recommended for fans of romance stories. While I obtained an arc of Willow from the publishers via Netgalley, the opinions I have expressed are unbiased and my own.
8/10
June 21, 2021
Willow, a sweet romance novel I read in just a day. I just couldn’t make myself to put it down. Its not often I read a romance novel without some steamy scenes in it. But I read the description of this book, found it very interesting and requested to read it. I was hooked from the beginning and I really enjoyed how the story unfolded.
Willow and Thomas are two opposites who are attracted to each other. willow, a social butterfly and sweet Thomas who likes to live off-grid. their connection grows as they find middle ground and start agreeing with each other's perspective. The scenes with the lead characters were relatively less and it kept the anticipation going. I loved how the story was not just about the leads, the relationship with willow and her pepper lane club members helped build some mystery around the characters for the sequels.
The parts that I was not completely satisfied with was how some scenes ended abruptly which put the flow of the story off-balance. I would have also liked more history on the lead characters, especially Thomas, which would have helped me connect more with him since the novel was just from willow's POV.
I found myself disappointed when the story ended too because I really wanted more of willow and Thomas. It had the perfect amount of emotions and drama, no miscommunication BS. The tiny additional details in the story were just soo heart-warming and also hilarious
I recommend this book for anyone who’s looking for a fun, light read, wholesome romance novel to uplift your mood 😊
Thanks to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Willow and Thomas are two opposites who are attracted to each other. willow, a social butterfly and sweet Thomas who likes to live off-grid. their connection grows as they find middle ground and start agreeing with each other's perspective. The scenes with the lead characters were relatively less and it kept the anticipation going. I loved how the story was not just about the leads, the relationship with willow and her pepper lane club members helped build some mystery around the characters for the sequels.
The parts that I was not completely satisfied with was how some scenes ended abruptly which put the flow of the story off-balance. I would have also liked more history on the lead characters, especially Thomas, which would have helped me connect more with him since the novel was just from willow's POV.
I found myself disappointed when the story ended too because I really wanted more of willow and Thomas. It had the perfect amount of emotions and drama, no miscommunication BS. The tiny additional details in the story were just soo heart-warming and also hilarious
I recommend this book for anyone who’s looking for a fun, light read, wholesome romance novel to uplift your mood 😊
Thanks to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2021
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC.
This was my first book written by Grace Parks and the first in her Pepper Lane series. Willow is the story of Willow (a social media expert) and Thomas the owner of the Pepper Lane Cafe who is resistant to embracing technology. After Willow starts the Pepper Lane Club and meets Thomas she offers her assistance to expand his business/marketing. With ex-boyfriends causing drama, a weird boss and a loveable group of dinner club girls this was an interesting read.
Things I liked:
- The idea of the Pepper Lane club as a dinner club is brilliant. A little different to the regular book club storylines etc. This was really the highlight if the book and was well written.
- The characters were all different and really seemed to complement one another.
- Book as a whole was quite well written and interesting.
- Its the start of a series but all books seem to have been released!!!! More reading!!!
Things I didn't like:
- not a lot of character development which was disappointing with the primary and secondary characters.
- Not a huge fan of the 1st person account as I really like both perspectives.
- Didn't really seem like a romance novel more of a young adult fiction/ adult womens fiction.
- Very clean and the most adult thing to happen was a hell of a lot of alcohol and some kissing. My preference is for something a little steamier.
- The whole thing with Willow's boss was plain weird and not realistic at all.
- I don't feel we really got to know Thomas at all.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series!
This was my first book written by Grace Parks and the first in her Pepper Lane series. Willow is the story of Willow (a social media expert) and Thomas the owner of the Pepper Lane Cafe who is resistant to embracing technology. After Willow starts the Pepper Lane Club and meets Thomas she offers her assistance to expand his business/marketing. With ex-boyfriends causing drama, a weird boss and a loveable group of dinner club girls this was an interesting read.
Things I liked:
- The idea of the Pepper Lane club as a dinner club is brilliant. A little different to the regular book club storylines etc. This was really the highlight if the book and was well written.
- The characters were all different and really seemed to complement one another.
- Book as a whole was quite well written and interesting.
- Its the start of a series but all books seem to have been released!!!! More reading!!!
Things I didn't like:
- not a lot of character development which was disappointing with the primary and secondary characters.
- Not a huge fan of the 1st person account as I really like both perspectives.
- Didn't really seem like a romance novel more of a young adult fiction/ adult womens fiction.
- Very clean and the most adult thing to happen was a hell of a lot of alcohol and some kissing. My preference is for something a little steamier.
- The whole thing with Willow's boss was plain weird and not realistic at all.
- I don't feel we really got to know Thomas at all.
Looking forward to reading the next in the series!
August 3, 2021
What a sweet romance! This book is the first in a new series. It is a co-workers to love interest story. It follows Willow and Thomas. They get off on the wrong foot when Thomas refuses Willow's help with his restaurant and is very rude about it. Now, it is hard to avoid Thomas, when Willow's new dinner club is hosted at his café every month. We follow Willow’s perspective throughout the book. She was a bit all over the place at times, and could not make up her mind. The romance is very subtle and does not jump right into insta love, which I enjoyed. The build up and sweet moments that happened instead, were all very heartwarming and built up to a believable relationship. There is no spice in this story, just a light, fun romance, with a big emphasis on building bonds of friendship . The writing was great, a little jumpy at times, would skip a month at a time and throw me off some and take me out of the story a little. Plot wise, nothing stood out, surprise or shock me. It was ok and I liked it. I would recommend it, especially if you're looking for a story that has girls night out, awkward encounters with a tall drink of water and a good time.
Trigger warnings: excessive drinking, cheating
I received this advanced ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.
Trigger warnings: excessive drinking, cheating
I received this advanced ebook, via Netgalley. This review is my own honest opinion.
June 19, 2021
What on earth is wrong with Willow? She claims to be successful at her job, yet is a slob at work and home. Seriously, how can she live in a house that stinks? (More than one person points this out to her and she still doesn't clean??) How can she be successful when she disregards time-coming as much as an hour late for appointments-is a mystery to me. And the ultimate confusion for this reader, how can she be maudlin when the businesses she was hired to help achieve success?
So to sum up the main character, she is rude, slovenly, and has questionable judgement. She does, however, adopt a very sweet and smart dog. But then she fails to discipline him and allows him to be the sole occupant of her new couch! Not someone I would want for a friend! What makes up for it somewhat are the other characters. The majority are interesting, positive people.
The other characters and the dog boosted the book from three stars to four stars.
This is not a series I am interested in finishing. I do appreciate Author Collective 20 and Net Galley for giving me the opportunity to read the first book of the series and let me give my honest review.
So to sum up the main character, she is rude, slovenly, and has questionable judgement. She does, however, adopt a very sweet and smart dog. But then she fails to discipline him and allows him to be the sole occupant of her new couch! Not someone I would want for a friend! What makes up for it somewhat are the other characters. The majority are interesting, positive people.
The other characters and the dog boosted the book from three stars to four stars.
This is not a series I am interested in finishing. I do appreciate Author Collective 20 and Net Galley for giving me the opportunity to read the first book of the series and let me give my honest review.
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