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Aggie the Horrible vs. Max The Pompous Ass
One’s playing a game. The other’s keeping score.
When wild-child Aggie Johansson shows up for an interview with the last person she’d ever want to work for, golden-boy entrepreneur Max Treadwell, she has one goal—to not be offered the position. While she hates to disappoint the two matchmaking grandmothers who’d pressed Max to hire her, she wants nothing to do with a pity job. Besides, the guy could easily win Mr. Pompous Ass of the year.
The last thing Max wants is to offer Aggie a job. The woman, a mixture of bizarre and annoying, has gone through at least a half-dozen employers this year already. He might’ve promised Grandmother he’d hire her, but if Aggie doesn’t take it because he’s more than a little un-charming, that won’t be his fault. After all, his company is on the brink of a major land acquisition, and the last thing he needs is a screw-up as a personal assistant.
With neither of them willing to disappoint their grandmothers, the interview becomes the stuff of legends, and somehow, before either can blink, they’re suddenly stuck working together.
Aggie’s determined the only way out is to be the worst assistant ever and get fired…
Max knows his grandmother would kill him if he fired Aggie, so he’ll just have to be so awful she quits…
But what happens next, no one could have seen coming.
When wild-child Aggie Johansson shows up for an interview with the last person she’d ever want to work for, golden-boy entrepreneur Max Treadwell, she has one goal—to not be offered the position. While she hates to disappoint the two matchmaking grandmothers who’d pressed Max to hire her, she wants nothing to do with a pity job. Besides, the guy could easily win Mr. Pompous Ass of the year.
The last thing Max wants is to offer Aggie a job. The woman, a mixture of bizarre and annoying, has gone through at least a half-dozen employers this year already. He might’ve promised Grandmother he’d hire her, but if Aggie doesn’t take it because he’s more than a little un-charming, that won’t be his fault. After all, his company is on the brink of a major land acquisition, and the last thing he needs is a screw-up as a personal assistant.
With neither of them willing to disappoint their grandmothers, the interview becomes the stuff of legends, and somehow, before either can blink, they’re suddenly stuck working together.
Aggie’s determined the only way out is to be the worst assistant ever and get fired…
Max knows his grandmother would kill him if he fired Aggie, so he’ll just have to be so awful she quits…
But what happens next, no one could have seen coming.
Unknown Binding
Published July 19, 2021
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dnf
August 3, 2021⫷ The ARC copy of this book was provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing in exchange of an honest review ⫸
DNF at 25%
Max + Aggie
✔ Matchmaking grandmas
✔ Office Romance
✔ Dual POV [Third person]
This book was kinda hard to get into but I started reading anyway. But then something made me to halt my reading. While I loved those not-so-sneaky matchmaking grandmas, I hated Aggie. Max? I have no opinion about him. At the beginning, I thought Aggie was hilarious and I was gonna love her weirdness. However, the more I read the more her behavior pissed me off. She behaved like she owned this world. News flash. She didn't. I don't get the fact. Didn't she feel any remorse that she's living on her grandma's money because she couldn't stay in one job? And she had the nerve to try to sabotage her new job interview because she felt it was a handout? Wow. That's not all. There's an incident where Max specifically told her not to touch the rocks in his office but she did it anyway and it turned into Max almost losing them. WTF? I would've punched her if it was me in Max's place. Consequences be damned. It's not over there. She tried to manipulate Max so that he wouldn't fire her by talking about his grandma's death. WTF? 😠
"Because I am part of the birthday gift you gave Ms. Grace for her birthday. Who knows how many more birthdays she'll celebrate?'
He paled. "Don't say something like that."
I had to double take here to see if I actually read correctly. How could I want a happy ending for a woman like her? I mean seriously? Who said stuff like this to someone when she knew how much his grandma meant to him? Just the other day Max actually defended her in front of his father. Oh, then she demanded to know about the rocks.🙄 I know I may be making a big deal outta nothing but personally it's really a deal breaker for me. Max? He seemed to be the doormat in this book. Never stood up for himself. And had daddy issues. Honestly, I'm getting sick of this trope. I sorta liked his best friend though. Loved the interview as well. But then again, I did think the book was gonna be good at the beginning.
I'm done with this book. Ugh! I really wanted to read this. Btw, the writing was a bit sloppy as well. At least, on the conversation department. Anyway, I have no regrets. Because I can't read a book where I already hate one of the lead character. Adios.
DNF at 25%
Max + Aggie
✔ Matchmaking grandmas
✔ Office Romance
✔ Dual POV [Third person]
This book was kinda hard to get into but I started reading anyway. But then something made me to halt my reading. While I loved those not-so-sneaky matchmaking grandmas, I hated Aggie. Max? I have no opinion about him. At the beginning, I thought Aggie was hilarious and I was gonna love her weirdness. However, the more I read the more her behavior pissed me off. She behaved like she owned this world. News flash. She didn't. I don't get the fact. Didn't she feel any remorse that she's living on her grandma's money because she couldn't stay in one job? And she had the nerve to try to sabotage her new job interview because she felt it was a handout? Wow. That's not all. There's an incident where Max specifically told her not to touch the rocks in his office but she did it anyway and it turned into Max almost losing them. WTF? I would've punched her if it was me in Max's place. Consequences be damned. It's not over there. She tried to manipulate Max so that he wouldn't fire her by talking about his grandma's death. WTF? 😠
"Because I am part of the birthday gift you gave Ms. Grace for her birthday. Who knows how many more birthdays she'll celebrate?'
He paled. "Don't say something like that."
I had to double take here to see if I actually read correctly. How could I want a happy ending for a woman like her? I mean seriously? Who said stuff like this to someone when she knew how much his grandma meant to him? Just the other day Max actually defended her in front of his father. Oh, then she demanded to know about the rocks.🙄 I know I may be making a big deal outta nothing but personally it's really a deal breaker for me. Max? He seemed to be the doormat in this book. Never stood up for himself. And had daddy issues. Honestly, I'm getting sick of this trope. I sorta liked his best friend though. Loved the interview as well. But then again, I did think the book was gonna be good at the beginning.
I'm done with this book. Ugh! I really wanted to read this. Btw, the writing was a bit sloppy as well. At least, on the conversation department. Anyway, I have no regrets. Because I can't read a book where I already hate one of the lead character. Adios.
June 25, 2022
This was a very nice, quirky and fun read!
It's the story of Aggie and Max and how they get together because of their meddling grandmothers.
While they come from different parts of town their grandmothers get along wonderfully and they rope Aggie and Max into working together and so the office romance begins.
Max is a charming character, trying to raise his firm and prove to his father he can win the bet they set. He has his hang-ups and it's hard for him to get over his fears and all the misunderstandings that fuel them. Which make Aggie hurt in the process. She is truly unique, she has been into a lot of jobs trying to find the perfect match, though she is super creative, full of talents and ideas. Her part is more than an assistant to Max yet she is hired for only a couple of months and from time to time he wants to fire her despite their contract.
There are hot moments, though the story is pretty slow burn, there are charming characters and with each interaction Aggie shines brighter. There is however her encounter with an important person from her life that is so heartbreaking.. And comes a bit sudden, it dynamites the story and things take a fast turn.
While Aggie and Max were both lovely, I felt Aggie had it very hard and, despite the happy ending, she is always the one with less, always acting from a place of inferiority and I would have loved for the story to give her even more than just the guy.
All in all this was a cute, fun story, a very nice read. But at times it hurt my heart and it didn't recover it in a grand way.
I received this in order to offer my honest view on it.
It's the story of Aggie and Max and how they get together because of their meddling grandmothers.
While they come from different parts of town their grandmothers get along wonderfully and they rope Aggie and Max into working together and so the office romance begins.
Max is a charming character, trying to raise his firm and prove to his father he can win the bet they set. He has his hang-ups and it's hard for him to get over his fears and all the misunderstandings that fuel them. Which make Aggie hurt in the process. She is truly unique, she has been into a lot of jobs trying to find the perfect match, though she is super creative, full of talents and ideas. Her part is more than an assistant to Max yet she is hired for only a couple of months and from time to time he wants to fire her despite their contract.
There are hot moments, though the story is pretty slow burn, there are charming characters and with each interaction Aggie shines brighter. There is however her encounter with an important person from her life that is so heartbreaking.. And comes a bit sudden, it dynamites the story and things take a fast turn.
While Aggie and Max were both lovely, I felt Aggie had it very hard and, despite the happy ending, she is always the one with less, always acting from a place of inferiority and I would have loved for the story to give her even more than just the guy.
All in all this was a cute, fun story, a very nice read. But at times it hurt my heart and it didn't recover it in a grand way.
I received this in order to offer my honest view on it.
July 12, 2021
This book was a fun, light, fast paced read. I really liked the connection between the characters and I liked Aggie’s ideas that she had. She seemed like a fun character. I liked that she tried to make Max think outside of the box a little.
The grandmothers were also fun and cute as well. I liked their little story line and what happened to them at the end because of the story.
My heart broke when Aggie went through her struggles during the story.
There were some things that were predictable and the romance did seem like it was instant.
I still liked this book because of the fun characters and the fast pacing. This was a four star rating. Thank you Netgalley and publishers for allowing me the chance to read and review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
The grandmothers were also fun and cute as well. I liked their little story line and what happened to them at the end because of the story.
My heart broke when Aggie went through her struggles during the story.
There were some things that were predictable and the romance did seem like it was instant.
I still liked this book because of the fun characters and the fast pacing. This was a four star rating. Thank you Netgalley and publishers for allowing me the chance to read and review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 19, 2021
Yes, Yes, Yes, YES! This is what I needed in my life right now. Some perfectly hilarious opposites attract chemistry with a dash of sassy badassery female persona and steamy-steamy bum-chica-chica. Lisa Wells you have made my weekend with this gem of a read!
Aggie comes from what some may call the ‘wrong side of the tracks.’ Dropped off by her mother when she was younger, she was raised in a loving home by her Meemaw and taught she is worth so much more than where her roots came from. Max comes from wealth and is currently in a bet with his not-so-wondrous stuck-up father that has his mind focused on the next winning bid at his company. His grandmother, Ms. Grace, has taught him how to be appreciative in life but not everyone sees past the money. When both grandmothers get together to play cupid and setup the wild and boisterous Aggie to work for the starchy and unthrilled, Max; well, the proverbial poo hits the fan blades folks. Hilarity, budding chemistry and excellent rivalry come to play.
The characters are excellent and the plot is well-rounded. The grandmothers absolutely made my day with their meddling and very in-the-know demeanors. Max and Aggie are truly the icing on the romcom cake. The chemistry slowly builds and the enemies to lovers situation ensues. They have banter that had me laughing well into the novel which I appreciated. Most times, once characters in romcoms become romantically involved the hilarity tappers and the steam takes over. Not here. Wells kept the chemistry and banter alive till the end. What I fell in love with most was the family aspect. There is so much love between the kids and their grandmas that my heart just melted. Aggie and Max struggle with a vastly distant parent when all they really want is the comfort of knowing they are loved. However, that love may come at a cost and it takes coming into their own to realize that.
My one slight eyebrow raise was with Aggie towards the end. I was thrilled to have a female lead who didn’t let her head run-away with the wrong idea and create havoc. She would listen to what her Meemaw instilled in her and find out the truth before jumping to conclusions. Part way there comes a point where that changes and sets the stage for the breaking point. Now don’t get me wrong, every romcom has that starting breaking point but I was really hoping it wouldn’t come from Aggie and miscommunication or the lack of hearing someone out. Redemption occurs though! Hence why it was only a slight eyebrow raise for me. I did really enjoy the true game changer that sends everything into a tizzy. Not your typical playout and unique compared to others in this genre.
I found myself laughing, cheesy grinning and wholly invested with these two (possibly a happy eye mist moment). I adored the wholesomeness of Aggie and her fight to better her circumstances and that of those she loves. Max is such a teddy bear at heart and was such a breath of fresh air in the gentleman department. Themed with inspiring messages of family, self-worth and rising from the ashes, this is one you won’t want to miss. For all my romcom lovers, I would highly recommend this novel. Special thank you to Entangled Publishing for introducing me to a fun new author and for the gifted digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
Aggie comes from what some may call the ‘wrong side of the tracks.’ Dropped off by her mother when she was younger, she was raised in a loving home by her Meemaw and taught she is worth so much more than where her roots came from. Max comes from wealth and is currently in a bet with his not-so-wondrous stuck-up father that has his mind focused on the next winning bid at his company. His grandmother, Ms. Grace, has taught him how to be appreciative in life but not everyone sees past the money. When both grandmothers get together to play cupid and setup the wild and boisterous Aggie to work for the starchy and unthrilled, Max; well, the proverbial poo hits the fan blades folks. Hilarity, budding chemistry and excellent rivalry come to play.
The characters are excellent and the plot is well-rounded. The grandmothers absolutely made my day with their meddling and very in-the-know demeanors. Max and Aggie are truly the icing on the romcom cake. The chemistry slowly builds and the enemies to lovers situation ensues. They have banter that had me laughing well into the novel which I appreciated. Most times, once characters in romcoms become romantically involved the hilarity tappers and the steam takes over. Not here. Wells kept the chemistry and banter alive till the end. What I fell in love with most was the family aspect. There is so much love between the kids and their grandmas that my heart just melted. Aggie and Max struggle with a vastly distant parent when all they really want is the comfort of knowing they are loved. However, that love may come at a cost and it takes coming into their own to realize that.
My one slight eyebrow raise was with Aggie towards the end. I was thrilled to have a female lead who didn’t let her head run-away with the wrong idea and create havoc. She would listen to what her Meemaw instilled in her and find out the truth before jumping to conclusions. Part way there comes a point where that changes and sets the stage for the breaking point. Now don’t get me wrong, every romcom has that starting breaking point but I was really hoping it wouldn’t come from Aggie and miscommunication or the lack of hearing someone out. Redemption occurs though! Hence why it was only a slight eyebrow raise for me. I did really enjoy the true game changer that sends everything into a tizzy. Not your typical playout and unique compared to others in this genre.
I found myself laughing, cheesy grinning and wholly invested with these two (possibly a happy eye mist moment). I adored the wholesomeness of Aggie and her fight to better her circumstances and that of those she loves. Max is such a teddy bear at heart and was such a breath of fresh air in the gentleman department. Themed with inspiring messages of family, self-worth and rising from the ashes, this is one you won’t want to miss. For all my romcom lovers, I would highly recommend this novel. Special thank you to Entangled Publishing for introducing me to a fun new author and for the gifted digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2021
This book grabbed me with the title as it made me crack up and sounded like it would be a fun LOL read. The book introduces us to Max who owns his own business and out of a temporary secretary and Aggie who is still searching for that job that gives her that "spark" of excitement and fulfilment. When Max's grandmother decides to use "the favour" and hire Aggie, he decides to make her hate the job so much that she will quit. Aggie decides to do the opposite and make it so he hates her and will fire her or not offer her the job. This led the book to remind me of the movie "How to Lose a Guy in 10 days" starring Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey. I enjoyed the chemistry between the two characters and the book had a few LOL moments. The other thing I loved was the characters' relationships with their grandmothers/mee-maws as both myself and my partner are close to our grandmothers/Nanas. If you are wanting a book that has laughs and romance, then Aggie the Horrible Vs Max the Pompous Ass is the read for you.
July 19, 2021
For those who are regular listeners to our podcast, you’ll know that one of my favorite books of the past 5 years has been The Hating Game. For the uninitiated, THG follows an intense enemies to lovers office romance between a stodgy yet sexy hero and a homespun plucky heroine. For a good portion of the book, we are privy to agonizing and sometimes emotionally scarring arguments in which their juxtaposition provides the reader with the sweetest and most fulfilling denouement. You can feel it in your bones, people! All that being said, the premise of Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompus Ass by Lisa Wells boasts to be a light impersonation of THG. Honestly, the hallmarks are present: two work colleagues with instant animosity who need to collaborate in order to complete an all important task. The follow through, however, is quite lackluster. There are some things to like in both Aggie and Max, I just don’t know if either character encompasses the charm to successfully fulfill the friends to lovers trope.
Let’s talk about the plot: or, The Tale of Two Meddling Grandmothers
Maxwell Treadwell (for f---s sake, really?) is in desperate need of a personal assistant; Aggie Johasson, is in need of regular employment. With over 100 jobs in the past 18 months, she seems more like a hindrance than a help for any employer. Both of their respective grandmothers play matchmaker, forcing Max to interview Aggie and Aggie to accept the job when offered. Aggie presents the worst version of herself in order to torpedo the interview; Max however, is left hot under the collar and with no choice than to hire her immediately. Sparks fly and soon Aggie and Max find they have more in common than they thought.
The Compliment Sandwich
Top Bun (The Pro)
Max Treadwell
Honestly, I found Max to be charming, realistic and unassuming. Through his close relationship with his grandmother, he’s been exposed to an unpretentious and open minded perspective which is exceptionally different from that modeled by his parents. When he begins to fall for Aggie her station in life, lack of career goals, or overbearing personality bear no weight in his overall feelings. “Agnes LaBelle Johansson, I love you. So. Fucking. Much. Your pedigree has never been an issue.”
I wonder if Wells intended to create a complex character that we would still ultimately root for, like Josh Templeman. Unfortunately, she forgot to include the contrarian underpinnings that Josh displayed in THG. We don’t have true enemies to lovers, and it’s a misrepresentation to categorize it as such. From Jumpstreet, Max is willing to overlook all of Aggies’ character flaws and absolute fuck-upery allowing himself to fall for her unconditionally.
Personally, I felt Max was way too good for Aggie. I read a review that stated they thought his Grand Gesture wasn’t grand enough, that he needed to grovel more. I’m sorry, when his spaced out girlfriend/PA fails to do the ONE THING he needed her to do, bebe is allowed to be upset. Poor guy should probably hooked up with more girls on acid in college and filled his ‘girl with responsibility issues and self-preservation mindset” quota. Aggie needed to perform the Grand Gesture, groveling, and taking responsibility. Max forgave Aggie, literally, every single time she fucked up. Every. Single. Time. At some point, he did become a bit of a doormat.
The Meat (The Con)
Agnes (Aggie) Johansson
Dis Bich. Seriously guys, this chick is the worst. I’m inserting the gif of Jean Ralphio here just to display my emotions about Aggie.
As I mentioned above, she’s had over 100 jobs in 18 months. The reason for this? If the job doesn’t make her happy, she just quits or gets fired. Cool. Cool. Cooooool. Real responsible, jackass. Did I mention that she’s living with her Grandmother who works 3 jobs and Aggie can’t even contribute because she’s too busy ‘finding her bliss’?
I’m very confused as to why Wells went out of her way to have Aggie not only sabotage her burgeoning healthy relationship with the first man who didn’t treat her like a complete slag. At one point, she finds a kitten in an alleyway and decides to take it into the office as a mascot. Wait. What? She doesn’t ask normal questions like, “I wonder if Max is allergic to cats?”, “How will the millionaire clientele feel about a random cat just shitting in the corner of the office?”, and, “As this is a temporary assignment, who will take care of said cat after I leave?”. Normal questions that people with healthy brains would ask. If you are wondering, Max IS deathly allergic and this is the second instance where he fires/rehires her. Seriously, I’m voting to canonize Max for sainthood.
I’m not going to spoil the ending, but lets just say, Aggie flakes off something fierce and almost ruins Max’s life yet she is portrayed as the lovable loser who can’t help but fuck up. Aggie reminds me of a bit by standup comedian, Mike Birbiglia. He said, we all have someone like Aggie in our lives, in his case, he referred to him as Wiffle Ball Tony. Wiffle Ball Tony is great to play Wiffle Ball with, but when planning a party, you never put him in charge of potato salad or burgers. “The burgers and the potato salad? I don’t think that’s such a good idea.” Aggie is the Wiffle Ball Tony of the working world...and also, life.
The Bottom Bun (The Pro)
The Pacing
At 400 pages, you could be saying to yourself, “um, Rae, wtf are you talking about? That’s a Zapata-length novel”. I would then say to you, dude, you need to add about 150 more pages for it to be a true slow burn Zapata, get it straight. The book takes place over a month, and Wells paces the plot in which we sometimes move along one day at a time, then skip a few in the future. We are not subjected to every monotonous second with the characters, which honestly, I was thankful for. If I had to sit with Aggie longer than I needed to, Veronica would be asking “which are we doing? Burnin’ or burying” and searching for a new cohost. Blessedly, the book moves at a quick clip. Is it enough to truly recommend it? I’m not so sure.
I’m doing a lot of soul searching on this one. I wanted to like this one so much: the promise of an enemies to lovers, opposites attract, and an ‘all on the line’ ending: how did it miss the mark so much? If I had to supply a theory, I’d say overambition. Ms. Wells wanted the story to incorporate so many different angles, and yet underperformed with each through line. Does Aggie learn to be more organized and find her true calling - that job that will make her truly happy?
Honestly, I have no clue.
Does Max gain independence from his father and become a respected and self-sufficient businessman?
Got me swinging… no clue.
So, my suggestion is, if you have the time and want a light fluffy opposites attract novel, go for it. Otherwise, settle in for a reread of The Hating Game instead.
For more reviews and information on our podcast visit: The Chick Lit Book Club Podcast
Let’s talk about the plot: or, The Tale of Two Meddling Grandmothers
Maxwell Treadwell (for f---s sake, really?) is in desperate need of a personal assistant; Aggie Johasson, is in need of regular employment. With over 100 jobs in the past 18 months, she seems more like a hindrance than a help for any employer. Both of their respective grandmothers play matchmaker, forcing Max to interview Aggie and Aggie to accept the job when offered. Aggie presents the worst version of herself in order to torpedo the interview; Max however, is left hot under the collar and with no choice than to hire her immediately. Sparks fly and soon Aggie and Max find they have more in common than they thought.
The Compliment Sandwich
Top Bun (The Pro)
Max Treadwell
Honestly, I found Max to be charming, realistic and unassuming. Through his close relationship with his grandmother, he’s been exposed to an unpretentious and open minded perspective which is exceptionally different from that modeled by his parents. When he begins to fall for Aggie her station in life, lack of career goals, or overbearing personality bear no weight in his overall feelings. “Agnes LaBelle Johansson, I love you. So. Fucking. Much. Your pedigree has never been an issue.”
I wonder if Wells intended to create a complex character that we would still ultimately root for, like Josh Templeman. Unfortunately, she forgot to include the contrarian underpinnings that Josh displayed in THG. We don’t have true enemies to lovers, and it’s a misrepresentation to categorize it as such. From Jumpstreet, Max is willing to overlook all of Aggies’ character flaws and absolute fuck-upery allowing himself to fall for her unconditionally.
Personally, I felt Max was way too good for Aggie. I read a review that stated they thought his Grand Gesture wasn’t grand enough, that he needed to grovel more. I’m sorry, when his spaced out girlfriend/PA fails to do the ONE THING he needed her to do, bebe is allowed to be upset. Poor guy should probably hooked up with more girls on acid in college and filled his ‘girl with responsibility issues and self-preservation mindset” quota. Aggie needed to perform the Grand Gesture, groveling, and taking responsibility. Max forgave Aggie, literally, every single time she fucked up. Every. Single. Time. At some point, he did become a bit of a doormat.
The Meat (The Con)
Agnes (Aggie) Johansson
Dis Bich. Seriously guys, this chick is the worst. I’m inserting the gif of Jean Ralphio here just to display my emotions about Aggie.
As I mentioned above, she’s had over 100 jobs in 18 months. The reason for this? If the job doesn’t make her happy, she just quits or gets fired. Cool. Cool. Cooooool. Real responsible, jackass. Did I mention that she’s living with her Grandmother who works 3 jobs and Aggie can’t even contribute because she’s too busy ‘finding her bliss’?
I’m very confused as to why Wells went out of her way to have Aggie not only sabotage her burgeoning healthy relationship with the first man who didn’t treat her like a complete slag. At one point, she finds a kitten in an alleyway and decides to take it into the office as a mascot. Wait. What? She doesn’t ask normal questions like, “I wonder if Max is allergic to cats?”, “How will the millionaire clientele feel about a random cat just shitting in the corner of the office?”, and, “As this is a temporary assignment, who will take care of said cat after I leave?”. Normal questions that people with healthy brains would ask. If you are wondering, Max IS deathly allergic and this is the second instance where he fires/rehires her. Seriously, I’m voting to canonize Max for sainthood.
I’m not going to spoil the ending, but lets just say, Aggie flakes off something fierce and almost ruins Max’s life yet she is portrayed as the lovable loser who can’t help but fuck up. Aggie reminds me of a bit by standup comedian, Mike Birbiglia. He said, we all have someone like Aggie in our lives, in his case, he referred to him as Wiffle Ball Tony. Wiffle Ball Tony is great to play Wiffle Ball with, but when planning a party, you never put him in charge of potato salad or burgers. “The burgers and the potato salad? I don’t think that’s such a good idea.” Aggie is the Wiffle Ball Tony of the working world...and also, life.
The Bottom Bun (The Pro)
The Pacing
At 400 pages, you could be saying to yourself, “um, Rae, wtf are you talking about? That’s a Zapata-length novel”. I would then say to you, dude, you need to add about 150 more pages for it to be a true slow burn Zapata, get it straight. The book takes place over a month, and Wells paces the plot in which we sometimes move along one day at a time, then skip a few in the future. We are not subjected to every monotonous second with the characters, which honestly, I was thankful for. If I had to sit with Aggie longer than I needed to, Veronica would be asking “which are we doing? Burnin’ or burying” and searching for a new cohost. Blessedly, the book moves at a quick clip. Is it enough to truly recommend it? I’m not so sure.
I’m doing a lot of soul searching on this one. I wanted to like this one so much: the promise of an enemies to lovers, opposites attract, and an ‘all on the line’ ending: how did it miss the mark so much? If I had to supply a theory, I’d say overambition. Ms. Wells wanted the story to incorporate so many different angles, and yet underperformed with each through line. Does Aggie learn to be more organized and find her true calling - that job that will make her truly happy?
Honestly, I have no clue.
Does Max gain independence from his father and become a respected and self-sufficient businessman?
Got me swinging… no clue.
So, my suggestion is, if you have the time and want a light fluffy opposites attract novel, go for it. Otherwise, settle in for a reread of The Hating Game instead.
For more reviews and information on our podcast visit: The Chick Lit Book Club Podcast
November 7, 2021
Disclaimer: An eARC was provided by The Author via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The Thoughts, opinions & feelings expressed in the review are therefore, my own.
I didn’t know what I was expecting; but this hilarious, light and fast paced romance wasn’t exactly what I had in mind going into the book. (Tbh, I had requested this book on Netgalley; and promptly forgot what the blurb was all about! Please tell me I am not the only who does this!).
Two actual opposites; like absolute opposites of each other; have no choice but to work with each other – not just because of their respective grandmother’s meddling but also because they are both stubborn enough not to bend towards each other or in front of a challenge.
Their push and pull relationship is what made this for a hilarious ride of a read – and with Aggie and her chip on her shoulder, about being “born on the wrong side of the tracks” and Max, because he has his own reasons to be the strict, rule abiding boss that he is!
A wonderful read that will have invested for the time you find yourself reading it!
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July 21, 2021
'WARNING - ADDICTIVE AS FUCK'
Ahh, I loved this laugh-out-loud little rom-com. I'm normally a dark romance reader, but after reading the blurb for this, I decided to give it a go as it seemed like it would be a fun read, and it didn't disappoint.
Due to some meddaling on their grandmothers' parts, Max is forced into interviewing Aggie for the position of his temporary assistant. With Max not wanting to take Aggie on, due to her flighty nature, and Aggie not wanting a hand-out, the two butt heads right from the get go.
'How would you describe the man who is interviewing you?'
'Cocky. Handsome in a pretty-boy way. Not my type. But I'm sure we'll mesh on a professional level.'
The chemistry is there right from the beginning with these two as Aggie tries to downplay her intelligence, coming off as a flighty, free spirited young woman who doesn't like to be tied down. Meanwhile, Max is on a mission to earn his first billion, and doesn't see that happening with Aggie as an assistant. "He's not ugly, but he is pompous. And more rigid than a dead man's hard-on."
Although this was a rom-com, there were definitely parts that were angsty and pulled at my heart strings. Aggie is used to being labelled as 'the girl from the wrong side of the tracks' or via a similar moniker, and whilst she doesn't outwardly show it, she is very much self-concious about it. My heart broke for her on all the occasions where she immediately saw herself as less than, or believed others didn't have a higher opinion of her. And even though Max contributed to that feeling, at points, he was so adorable with his jealousy and awkwardness at trying to judge Aggie's feelings towards him. 'I wanted your last moo of the night to be from me.'
Overall, this was a really good light-hearted read that had me laughing and rooting for the main characters, whilst constantly wondering what issue they were going to come up against next! It was very cliche and some parts were unrealistic but it still read well and I think some of those parts were what made this a funnier story. Although this was a rom-com, I liked that we got to see a lot of Aggie's internal thoughts about her 'status' as it gave more depth to the story and addressed a deeper issue whilst still remaining light-hearted and fun. Likewise, the main side characters in this were good additions and added to my enjoyment of the story. And even though this was quite a slow burn story, there is continual chemistry between the two main characters which carried through the entire story and built up nicely. Glad I decided to pick this one up as I really enjoyed it and hopefully we'll get to see more of these characters, I know I would definitely like to see more of Grant. Would recommend if you're looking for an easy read that will make you laugh.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Ahh, I loved this laugh-out-loud little rom-com. I'm normally a dark romance reader, but after reading the blurb for this, I decided to give it a go as it seemed like it would be a fun read, and it didn't disappoint.
Due to some meddaling on their grandmothers' parts, Max is forced into interviewing Aggie for the position of his temporary assistant. With Max not wanting to take Aggie on, due to her flighty nature, and Aggie not wanting a hand-out, the two butt heads right from the get go.
'How would you describe the man who is interviewing you?'
'Cocky. Handsome in a pretty-boy way. Not my type. But I'm sure we'll mesh on a professional level.'
The chemistry is there right from the beginning with these two as Aggie tries to downplay her intelligence, coming off as a flighty, free spirited young woman who doesn't like to be tied down. Meanwhile, Max is on a mission to earn his first billion, and doesn't see that happening with Aggie as an assistant. "He's not ugly, but he is pompous. And more rigid than a dead man's hard-on."
Although this was a rom-com, there were definitely parts that were angsty and pulled at my heart strings. Aggie is used to being labelled as 'the girl from the wrong side of the tracks' or via a similar moniker, and whilst she doesn't outwardly show it, she is very much self-concious about it. My heart broke for her on all the occasions where she immediately saw herself as less than, or believed others didn't have a higher opinion of her. And even though Max contributed to that feeling, at points, he was so adorable with his jealousy and awkwardness at trying to judge Aggie's feelings towards him. 'I wanted your last moo of the night to be from me.'
Overall, this was a really good light-hearted read that had me laughing and rooting for the main characters, whilst constantly wondering what issue they were going to come up against next! It was very cliche and some parts were unrealistic but it still read well and I think some of those parts were what made this a funnier story. Although this was a rom-com, I liked that we got to see a lot of Aggie's internal thoughts about her 'status' as it gave more depth to the story and addressed a deeper issue whilst still remaining light-hearted and fun. Likewise, the main side characters in this were good additions and added to my enjoyment of the story. And even though this was quite a slow burn story, there is continual chemistry between the two main characters which carried through the entire story and built up nicely. Glad I decided to pick this one up as I really enjoyed it and hopefully we'll get to see more of these characters, I know I would definitely like to see more of Grant. Would recommend if you're looking for an easy read that will make you laugh.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2021
Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous Ass was cute, flirty, and fun...until it, well...wasn't anymore. I had a lot of fun reading parts of it--there was even some laughing out loud--but after a while the constant miscommunication (ugh, the bane of my existence!) paired with Aggie's nonstop wrong-side-of-the-tracks insecurities (not to mention Max's dad's constant never fall for someone who isn't "one of us" mantra) really dragged the story down. Add to that the many plot threads that just weren't tied up at the end (is Olivia the office mascot or not? The least of the threads I know, but the one my daughter would want answered)--which honestly, shouldn't happen with a 400-page rom com/contemporary romance book; did she realize she was almost at her desired page count and rush to finish it, plot be damned?--plus the problems that were magically fixed way too easily, and I just couldn't give this one more than three stars.
I wanted to like it so much more, I really did.
Rating: 3 stars / C+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I wanted to like it so much more, I really did.
Rating: 3 stars / C+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
July 27, 2021
2.5-3 stars.
Honestly, I thought I was finally out of a book slump with this enemies to lovers book in their workplace because I love those tropes and it was executed well. And then right towards the end, the final chapters were suddenly so boring. I couldn't stand the heroine, she had such a victim complex and yes we get it, you grew up poor and he didn't. That said, the author has a good style of writing and I will keep her in mind in the future.
Honestly, I thought I was finally out of a book slump with this enemies to lovers book in their workplace because I love those tropes and it was executed well. And then right towards the end, the final chapters were suddenly so boring. I couldn't stand the heroine, she had such a victim complex and yes we get it, you grew up poor and he didn't. That said, the author has a good style of writing and I will keep her in mind in the future.
July 15, 2021
Aggie and Max can't stand each other which made me like them even more. Here's my full review👇
https://priyankapatrabookgallery.blog...
Also, thank you Lisa, Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for the digital arc of this book in exchange for my honest review.
https://priyankapatrabookgallery.blog...
Also, thank you Lisa, Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for the digital arc of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 15, 2021
A great summer read. it was funny, sweet and sexy. Aggie and Max got me really entertain with their epic banter & hot chemistry. I loved their matchmaking grandmas, and the enemies to lovers storyline.
July 20, 2021
This was a fun book with great pacing. Max and Aggie both learn not to judge a book by its cover…or past. The grandmas were great, and it was just a really good book!
July 9, 2021
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This was a super fun read!! Aggie and Max were great big personalities on the opposites which made for epic banter & hot hot chemistry!! I loved everything from the matchmaking grandmas, to the enemies to lovers storyline.
June 30, 2021
A Reformer and a Enthusiast. Meddling Grannies. And a one-in-a-lifetime bid.
You know, I've been reading a lot of romance lately, and oftentimes when you run into the "Enemies turned Lovers" trope, it's hard to believe that these two people who HATED each other three hundred pages ago are now deeply and irrevocably in love - but with Max & Aggie, I'm tempted to believe it!
After being forced to work together (in a very small space mind you) by their grandmothers, Aggie & Max constantly butt heads. Aggie is a free-spirit who is determined to not settle for a job that is anything less than her dream. Max is hard-headed & set in his routine - he has put in A LOT of work to get where he is & away from his silver spoon childhood, and he's not about to let an Enneagram 7 ruin that for him.
But as the two work together and learn that there's more than meets the eye (how cliche right?), they discover they actually have a lot more in common than they originally thought! While Aggie is a drifter, she is also VASTLY determined when she discovers something that is important to her. And while Max is driven and creative, he needs Aggie to see all of the possibilities a project could be.
I will say, one thing that aggravated me about these two was that they were both WAY too stuck in their own heads! Instead of TALKING to each other, many times they ran forward with their assumptions about the other & would take seventeen steps back in their new & precarious relationship. Aggie has a chip on her shoulder about being poor growing up, and she thinks that EVERYONE she meets can see it written all over her face that she didn't come from money. Max is stuck in the idea that Aggie is flighty & can't hold a job, so every time she steps even a little bit out of line or seems to make a decision differently than he would, he flips out!
HOWEVER, while it was irritating to see the two of them continue to backpedal in their relationship every time there was a misunderstanding, it made their reconciliations & deep conversations that much more gratifying to the reader (& I would presume to the characters).
Definitely enjoyed this book!
Which, if you doubt me, I finished it in less than 24 hours. So there's that.
You know, I've been reading a lot of romance lately, and oftentimes when you run into the "Enemies turned Lovers" trope, it's hard to believe that these two people who HATED each other three hundred pages ago are now deeply and irrevocably in love - but with Max & Aggie, I'm tempted to believe it!
After being forced to work together (in a very small space mind you) by their grandmothers, Aggie & Max constantly butt heads. Aggie is a free-spirit who is determined to not settle for a job that is anything less than her dream. Max is hard-headed & set in his routine - he has put in A LOT of work to get where he is & away from his silver spoon childhood, and he's not about to let an Enneagram 7 ruin that for him.
But as the two work together and learn that there's more than meets the eye (how cliche right?), they discover they actually have a lot more in common than they originally thought! While Aggie is a drifter, she is also VASTLY determined when she discovers something that is important to her. And while Max is driven and creative, he needs Aggie to see all of the possibilities a project could be.
I will say, one thing that aggravated me about these two was that they were both WAY too stuck in their own heads! Instead of TALKING to each other, many times they ran forward with their assumptions about the other & would take seventeen steps back in their new & precarious relationship. Aggie has a chip on her shoulder about being poor growing up, and she thinks that EVERYONE she meets can see it written all over her face that she didn't come from money. Max is stuck in the idea that Aggie is flighty & can't hold a job, so every time she steps even a little bit out of line or seems to make a decision differently than he would, he flips out!
HOWEVER, while it was irritating to see the two of them continue to backpedal in their relationship every time there was a misunderstanding, it made their reconciliations & deep conversations that much more gratifying to the reader (& I would presume to the characters).
Definitely enjoyed this book!
Which, if you doubt me, I finished it in less than 24 hours. So there's that.
June 27, 2021
This book reminded me of one of my favorite rom-com books: The Hating Game. I liked the dialogue between the two main characters. But most of all I liked the free spirit Aggie and I liked that how her relationship with Max developed. This is a great summer read and adds it to your reading list.
June 24, 2021
A sexy funny story about two single who get to work together for 2 months and try to resist their feelings . Their grandmothers were amazing characters . It had some very funny moments but also some very sad that made me cry .
I received this novel from net galley and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received this novel from net galley and the publisher as an ARC. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 1, 2021
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Now, let's talk about the book.
I believe this is a debut novel for Lisa Wells and I must say is not as bad as some debut novels are, is not perfect but is not awful either.
It's longer than I would have expected from a romance, but it's easy to read and it comes to an end pretty quickly.
The story revolves around Agnes and Maxwell who couldn't be more different from each other, Agnes (Aggie) lives on the poor and wrong side of the railroad in Kansas City (like...literally) with her grandmother, she graduated bottom of her class from college, and can't keep a job.
Maxwell (Max, or Maxi for his Granny) is rich, well educated and a little bit snob.
The two meet because their respective grandmothers are good friends and love to play matchmaking and since Agnes needs a job and Max is in need of a new assistant, two and two together!
The premises are good, but unfortunately are not very well executed.
I loved the general idea but I've found the plot a little bit too crowded and sometimes a little messy, this should have been an "enemies to lover" but I've read a lot about lovers and a little of the enemies part.
Max and Aggie like each other from chapter 2 and start to flirt, I thought it was way too soon, let them fight and hate each other, everything else can develop throughout the rest of the book.
I also think the way Agnes flirts is a little too racy and Max gets aroused way too quickly (he just looks at her and BOOM!).
There's also too much drama, the relationship between Max and his father, the background of the main characters, the main characters present, Aggie's mother...too much on the plate.
Some events are not credible , but hey, if those are the circumstances given by the author one has to believe them...so I just let it go.
The ending it's fun and looks like a movie ending, the Epilogue is a very nice closure.
Now, let's talk about what I actually liked: The characters.
I think Agnes and Max are very well written, they have their own personality and have a reason to be that way (finally, I've read too many books with dull and plain characters lately).
Their arc is also well written, they both try to hide the best part of themselves that comes out at the end.
The reasons why the characters behave the way they do and have the personalities they have are much more profound than one would expect and the author explains it masterfully (they both have a painful background).
My favorite was Aggie, the best quote of the book? Hold the rocks, leave the bottle . SO FUN!
She's a force of nature and is very fun to read, maybe she could flirt more subtly but she's still the "comic relief" of this book.
The grandmothers are awesome and so sweet, just as I thought a Midwestern granny would be.
Such peaches (to quote Aggie again).
So, as I said, the plot is a little bit messy and too crowded, but the characters writing balances that pretty well.
To be a debut novel I wasn't that disappointed and I really hope Lisa Wells will come out with another book, her characters are unique and fun.
Thanks to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity of reviewing this book.
Now, let's talk about the book.
I believe this is a debut novel for Lisa Wells and I must say is not as bad as some debut novels are, is not perfect but is not awful either.
It's longer than I would have expected from a romance, but it's easy to read and it comes to an end pretty quickly.
The story revolves around Agnes and Maxwell who couldn't be more different from each other, Agnes (Aggie) lives on the poor and wrong side of the railroad in Kansas City (like...literally) with her grandmother, she graduated bottom of her class from college, and can't keep a job.
Maxwell (Max, or Maxi for his Granny) is rich, well educated and a little bit snob.
The two meet because their respective grandmothers are good friends and love to play matchmaking and since Agnes needs a job and Max is in need of a new assistant, two and two together!
The premises are good, but unfortunately are not very well executed.
I loved the general idea but I've found the plot a little bit too crowded and sometimes a little messy, this should have been an "enemies to lover" but I've read a lot about lovers and a little of the enemies part.
Max and Aggie like each other from chapter 2 and start to flirt, I thought it was way too soon, let them fight and hate each other, everything else can develop throughout the rest of the book.
I also think the way Agnes flirts is a little too racy and Max gets aroused way too quickly (he just looks at her and BOOM!).
There's also too much drama, the relationship between Max and his father, the background of the main characters, the main characters present, Aggie's mother...too much on the plate.
Some events are not credible , but hey, if those are the circumstances given by the author one has to believe them...so I just let it go.
The ending it's fun and looks like a movie ending, the Epilogue is a very nice closure.
Now, let's talk about what I actually liked: The characters.
I think Agnes and Max are very well written, they have their own personality and have a reason to be that way (finally, I've read too many books with dull and plain characters lately).
Their arc is also well written, they both try to hide the best part of themselves that comes out at the end.
The reasons why the characters behave the way they do and have the personalities they have are much more profound than one would expect and the author explains it masterfully (they both have a painful background).
My favorite was Aggie, the best quote of the book? Hold the rocks, leave the bottle . SO FUN!
She's a force of nature and is very fun to read, maybe she could flirt more subtly but she's still the "comic relief" of this book.
The grandmothers are awesome and so sweet, just as I thought a Midwestern granny would be.
Such peaches (to quote Aggie again).
So, as I said, the plot is a little bit messy and too crowded, but the characters writing balances that pretty well.
To be a debut novel I wasn't that disappointed and I really hope Lisa Wells will come out with another book, her characters are unique and fun.
Thanks to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity of reviewing this book.
June 30, 2021
This review first appeared here: https://saschadarlington.me/2021/06/2...
Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous, a rom-com by Lisa Wells, is, for the most part flirty and fun.
In the past year Aggie Johanssen (disregard the name in the blurb as it’s not the same as in the book) has been through more jobs than can be imagined, which makes her Meemaw worry about her. Her Meemaw arranges for her to get an interview with Max Treadwell, who buys and flips properties. Max recognizes that his own grandmother and Aggie’s are up to something, but he agrees to give Aggie an interview to be his temporary assistant until his permanent one returns from maternity leave. He just doesn’t promise to his grandmother that the interview alone won’t make Aggie go screaming out of the building.
Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous has a lot of promise and manages to come through on a lot of it. Aggie and Max are both fun characters, although Aggie’s obsession with the fact that she comes from the wrong side of the tracks gets old really quickly merely from the fact that it’s mentioned so very often. Her lack of self-esteem, which is sometimes at odds with her confident sauciness, makes her question things that should be self-evident if she thought about them. And, actually that’s one of the bothersome things here because Aggie is smart. A person is not going to offer you a job if they’re just intent on getting rid of you. That doesn’t make sense.
Regardless, I let those things go (evidently mostly) because Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous did prove to be fun escapist fare. And I let it the little things that didn’t make sense go until the end. I expected a grand gesture but the end fizzled out like a dud firework. But even worse than the fizzling was that sex was pretty much being used as the apology, which is wrong on so many levels after they parted the way they did. Wrong. Just wrong. I thought it demeaning that anyone would think that insulting words and bad behavior could be dismissed by sex–even in a long term relationship that might be pushing it.
Up until the ending, this was a pretty solid, above-average read. The question is: how much emphasis do we put on the end in a rom-com? At the very least, we should come away feeling happy and even the epilogue didn’t get me there. For that reason, that ending dropped a solid point from this rating. Maybe others won’t mind the ending as much as I did.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous, a rom-com by Lisa Wells, is, for the most part flirty and fun.
In the past year Aggie Johanssen (disregard the name in the blurb as it’s not the same as in the book) has been through more jobs than can be imagined, which makes her Meemaw worry about her. Her Meemaw arranges for her to get an interview with Max Treadwell, who buys and flips properties. Max recognizes that his own grandmother and Aggie’s are up to something, but he agrees to give Aggie an interview to be his temporary assistant until his permanent one returns from maternity leave. He just doesn’t promise to his grandmother that the interview alone won’t make Aggie go screaming out of the building.
Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous has a lot of promise and manages to come through on a lot of it. Aggie and Max are both fun characters, although Aggie’s obsession with the fact that she comes from the wrong side of the tracks gets old really quickly merely from the fact that it’s mentioned so very often. Her lack of self-esteem, which is sometimes at odds with her confident sauciness, makes her question things that should be self-evident if she thought about them. And, actually that’s one of the bothersome things here because Aggie is smart. A person is not going to offer you a job if they’re just intent on getting rid of you. That doesn’t make sense.
Regardless, I let those things go (evidently mostly) because Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous did prove to be fun escapist fare. And I let it the little things that didn’t make sense go until the end. I expected a grand gesture but the end fizzled out like a dud firework. But even worse than the fizzling was that sex was pretty much being used as the apology, which is wrong on so many levels after they parted the way they did. Wrong. Just wrong. I thought it demeaning that anyone would think that insulting words and bad behavior could be dismissed by sex–even in a long term relationship that might be pushing it.
Up until the ending, this was a pretty solid, above-average read. The question is: how much emphasis do we put on the end in a rom-com? At the very least, we should come away feeling happy and even the epilogue didn’t get me there. For that reason, that ending dropped a solid point from this rating. Maybe others won’t mind the ending as much as I did.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, author Lisa Wells, and Entangled: Amara publishing for giving me a free arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own .
4 stars
The title of this story drew me to it. The story had me laughing out loud and held my interest until the very end.
Agnes, is a poor woman from the wrong side of the tracks, and Max, is a a rich man who grew up with money, the right education, and a bit of a snob.
These two will meet in most unexpected way when their meddlesome grandmother orchestra Aggie to interview for the personal assistant job at Max's company. As they both are not willing to allow their grandmothers to have their way, Max and Aggie set out to make the other working conditions miserable.
The author did a great just developing the characters and their backstories. I defiantly was pulling for Aggie to find her place in the world despite her not so great childhood. I thought Aggie was good for Max. She brought out his playful side, at times, and helped him secure major clients. The grandmothers were a hoot and I would have liked to see them make more appearances throughout the story.
The premise of the book was a great hook, but the story fell a little sort of my expectations. I am a huge fan of the enemies to lovers troupe and this story had the marks for such a troupe, but by chapter 2, they seemed to have moved passed enemies and right into the flirting banter. It seemed like they were pulling things over on each other in order to avoid the building attraction between them rather than feelings of hate. Some of their pranks were a little over the top and were not realistic if they took place within a professional workplace. I thought the attraction between them was more like insta-lust. He seemed to have a lot of hard ons just by looking at her. I also did not really like how much they did not trust each other in the relationship they were building. It seemed one or both of the characters would misread or misunderstand a situation, then would precede to pull away from the relationship without talking things out! I am not a huge fan of lack of communication as a plot device! It becomes very annoying quickly. The ending was very sweet and I was glad to read the epilogue! For a debut novel, this was an above average book! I would recommend those who are looking for an office romance, boss/employee, poor woman/rich man book. I look forward to another new release from this author in the future.
4 stars
The title of this story drew me to it. The story had me laughing out loud and held my interest until the very end.
Agnes, is a poor woman from the wrong side of the tracks, and Max, is a a rich man who grew up with money, the right education, and a bit of a snob.
These two will meet in most unexpected way when their meddlesome grandmother orchestra Aggie to interview for the personal assistant job at Max's company. As they both are not willing to allow their grandmothers to have their way, Max and Aggie set out to make the other working conditions miserable.
The author did a great just developing the characters and their backstories. I defiantly was pulling for Aggie to find her place in the world despite her not so great childhood. I thought Aggie was good for Max. She brought out his playful side, at times, and helped him secure major clients. The grandmothers were a hoot and I would have liked to see them make more appearances throughout the story.
The premise of the book was a great hook, but the story fell a little sort of my expectations. I am a huge fan of the enemies to lovers troupe and this story had the marks for such a troupe, but by chapter 2, they seemed to have moved passed enemies and right into the flirting banter. It seemed like they were pulling things over on each other in order to avoid the building attraction between them rather than feelings of hate. Some of their pranks were a little over the top and were not realistic if they took place within a professional workplace. I thought the attraction between them was more like insta-lust. He seemed to have a lot of hard ons just by looking at her. I also did not really like how much they did not trust each other in the relationship they were building. It seemed one or both of the characters would misread or misunderstand a situation, then would precede to pull away from the relationship without talking things out! I am not a huge fan of lack of communication as a plot device! It becomes very annoying quickly. The ending was very sweet and I was glad to read the epilogue! For a debut novel, this was an above average book! I would recommend those who are looking for an office romance, boss/employee, poor woman/rich man book. I look forward to another new release from this author in the future.
July 23, 2021
A riotous enemies to lovers romantic comedy, Lisa Wells’ Aggie the Horrible vs Max the Pompous Ass will have readers laughing out loud from page one.
Wild child Aggie Johansson might be desperate for a job, but she isn’t so desperate that she would accept a position working for the insufferable, infuriating and downright aggravating golden-boy entrepreneur Max Treadwell. Aggie knows that if she doesn’t accept the job then she would end up breaking the hearts of the two matchmaking grandmothers who had set this interview with Max up for her, so in order not to cause them any unnecessary stress or anguish, she is going to do whatever it takes to make sure that Max doesn’t hire her. Unfortunately, her plan quickly goes up in smoke!
The last person Max wants to hire is Aggie. She is every employer’s worst nightmare and she has been fired so many times, he’s lost count. Max might have promised his grandmother he’d give Aggie a job, but if she refuses to take him up on his offer, then it won’t be his fault. With his company about to sign on the dotted line for a major deal, the last thing Max wants to concern himself with is a screw-up personal assistant, however, little does he realize that not only will he and Aggie end up working together, but he will also end up stunned by an unexpected twist of fate that will compel him to look at her in a completely different light.
Once upon a time, Aggie and Max couldn’t stand the sight of one another, but now it’s keeping their hands off one another that’s the problem!
Lisa Wells’ Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous Ass is such great fun! Hilarious, heartfelt and irresistible, this workplace romantic comedy sizzles with red-hot chemistry, witty banter and steamy sensuality. The one-liners come thick and fast, the dialog is razor sharp and the heat generated by Aggie and Max will certainly send readers’ temperatures soaring through the roof.
Fun, uplifting and so delicious I devoured this book in a single sitting, Lisa Well’s Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous Ass is a superb romantic comedy readers will thoroughly enjoy.
Wild child Aggie Johansson might be desperate for a job, but she isn’t so desperate that she would accept a position working for the insufferable, infuriating and downright aggravating golden-boy entrepreneur Max Treadwell. Aggie knows that if she doesn’t accept the job then she would end up breaking the hearts of the two matchmaking grandmothers who had set this interview with Max up for her, so in order not to cause them any unnecessary stress or anguish, she is going to do whatever it takes to make sure that Max doesn’t hire her. Unfortunately, her plan quickly goes up in smoke!
The last person Max wants to hire is Aggie. She is every employer’s worst nightmare and she has been fired so many times, he’s lost count. Max might have promised his grandmother he’d give Aggie a job, but if she refuses to take him up on his offer, then it won’t be his fault. With his company about to sign on the dotted line for a major deal, the last thing Max wants to concern himself with is a screw-up personal assistant, however, little does he realize that not only will he and Aggie end up working together, but he will also end up stunned by an unexpected twist of fate that will compel him to look at her in a completely different light.
Once upon a time, Aggie and Max couldn’t stand the sight of one another, but now it’s keeping their hands off one another that’s the problem!
Lisa Wells’ Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous Ass is such great fun! Hilarious, heartfelt and irresistible, this workplace romantic comedy sizzles with red-hot chemistry, witty banter and steamy sensuality. The one-liners come thick and fast, the dialog is razor sharp and the heat generated by Aggie and Max will certainly send readers’ temperatures soaring through the roof.
Fun, uplifting and so delicious I devoured this book in a single sitting, Lisa Well’s Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous Ass is a superb romantic comedy readers will thoroughly enjoy.
June 28, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
This book follows the Aggie, a woman from the "wrong side of the tracks" and Max, who was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, as they are forced together due to the meddling of their two grandmothers. This book takes place in Kansas City and Aggie & her grandmother lay the Southern Charm™ on thick. Neither Max nor Aggie want to be set up by their grandmothers, but both wish to please & honor them, so they go along with the scheming while trying to pull their own punches. The book quickly goes from Max and Aggie hating each other to them liking each other (while still saying they hate each other), with talk of like-like and jealousy. This would be what I consider an enemies to lovers story, but it isn't so clearly delineated as others you might read with this troupe.
Spoilers below in terms of pros/cons:
Overall, this was an easy read that I did enjoy, and I would give it a 3.5/4 out of 5. Pick it up if you want a nice weekend enemies to lovers.
This book follows the Aggie, a woman from the "wrong side of the tracks" and Max, who was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, as they are forced together due to the meddling of their two grandmothers. This book takes place in Kansas City and Aggie & her grandmother lay the Southern Charm™ on thick. Neither Max nor Aggie want to be set up by their grandmothers, but both wish to please & honor them, so they go along with the scheming while trying to pull their own punches. The book quickly goes from Max and Aggie hating each other to them liking each other (while still saying they hate each other), with talk of like-like and jealousy. This would be what I consider an enemies to lovers story, but it isn't so clearly delineated as others you might read with this troupe.
Spoilers below in terms of pros/cons:
Overall, this was an easy read that I did enjoy, and I would give it a 3.5/4 out of 5. Pick it up if you want a nice weekend enemies to lovers.
July 25, 2021
More accurately: Aggie the perptual victim vs. Max the dickmatized
Aggie has decided everyone judges/hates her because she grew up poor. She wields that as a sword and shield. Very HOW DARE YOU JUDGE ME FOR GROWING UP POOR (uhm.. they didn't even know that) I ONLY DID *irresponsible/selfish thing* because *insert overly specific sob story about growing up poor*
When does something that happened between the ages of 1 and 4 stop being an OK excuse for shitty behavior? Seriously. Also. How did she grow up in an impoverished area but was the ONLY poor kid at school?
Anytime someone DOES like her she flat out asks them "oh you grew up poor too?" Bro y'all were talking about coffee, left field much?
Throughout the whole book she tell Max she's banging another guy. For reasons. And then is upset he's not pledging to love her forever and ever. Literally. She tells Max she had sex with Bill the day after she and Max fool around, and what Max and her had was just a one off. And then is like SEE HE DIDN'T REALLY WANT ME BECAUSE I GREW UP POOR.
Later she thinks to herself how Max didn't complain about wearing a condom. Uhm... she has repeatedly made it seem like she's banging/blowing other guys soooo... yeah.... he thinks he had sex with someone with numerous partners... not seeing how a condom would seem optional to him...
Her redundant going nowhere issues take up so much page that it overtook Max. Did he have hinted issues, yes. Did they get developed, no.
So when Max's dad is there to magic wand away their issues(30 years of "it isn't what it looked like") while also playing the judgmental villain/wake up call that Max should have listened to Aggie's latest sob story excuse, it doesn't work. Sure that's what's on the page/happens but I mean. No. Unbelievable. Those dots do not connect.
You could easily cut out at least 100 pages without impacting the plot/characters.
Aggie has decided everyone judges/hates her because she grew up poor. She wields that as a sword and shield. Very HOW DARE YOU JUDGE ME FOR GROWING UP POOR (uhm.. they didn't even know that) I ONLY DID *irresponsible/selfish thing* because *insert overly specific sob story about growing up poor*
When does something that happened between the ages of 1 and 4 stop being an OK excuse for shitty behavior? Seriously. Also. How did she grow up in an impoverished area but was the ONLY poor kid at school?
Anytime someone DOES like her she flat out asks them "oh you grew up poor too?" Bro y'all were talking about coffee, left field much?
Throughout the whole book she tell Max she's banging another guy. For reasons. And then is upset he's not pledging to love her forever and ever. Literally. She tells Max she had sex with Bill the day after she and Max fool around, and what Max and her had was just a one off. And then is like SEE HE DIDN'T REALLY WANT ME BECAUSE I GREW UP POOR.
Later she thinks to herself how Max didn't complain about wearing a condom. Uhm... she has repeatedly made it seem like she's banging/blowing other guys soooo... yeah.... he thinks he had sex with someone with numerous partners... not seeing how a condom would seem optional to him...
Her redundant going nowhere issues take up so much page that it overtook Max. Did he have hinted issues, yes. Did they get developed, no.
So when Max's dad is there to magic wand away their issues(30 years of "it isn't what it looked like") while also playing the judgmental villain/wake up call that Max should have listened to Aggie's latest sob story excuse, it doesn't work. Sure that's what's on the page/happens but I mean. No. Unbelievable. Those dots do not connect.
You could easily cut out at least 100 pages without impacting the plot/characters.
August 12, 2021
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I’m a bit torn on Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous Ass. There were parts of this story that I absolutely adored, namely the matchmaking grandmothers. And other parts where I really wanted to give up on Aggie or Max ever finding a way to that expected happy ending. Of course, there were outside influences involved here as well, mainly Max’s father (oh, if only I could have reached into the book to tell that jerk what I thought of him).
In all, this story was good, I’m certain there is an audience that will love it – but I was just okay with this story because I couldn’t really like either main character. I need to at least like a character, need to want to see a change or something good come out of their actions within the story.
Most of what you really need to know before picking up Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous Ass can be found in the cover description. The story that follows is full of likable characters trying to get two unlikable characters together for a job and perhaps for a lifetime. Aggie was so over the top, well, horrible to Max. I understood that part of her actions was intended to ensure that he’d fire her so they didn’t have to work together, but there were times when I felt she crossed a line. Max, well, he needed to cut daddy dearest loose and become his own man, in my opinion. Through misunderstandings, both naturally occurring and on purpose, Max and Aggie will eventually find their way to each other. It’s simply an… interesting journey to get to that point.
This was a 3.5 star read for me, I’ll round up at the appropriate locations.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
I’m a bit torn on Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous Ass. There were parts of this story that I absolutely adored, namely the matchmaking grandmothers. And other parts where I really wanted to give up on Aggie or Max ever finding a way to that expected happy ending. Of course, there were outside influences involved here as well, mainly Max’s father (oh, if only I could have reached into the book to tell that jerk what I thought of him).
In all, this story was good, I’m certain there is an audience that will love it – but I was just okay with this story because I couldn’t really like either main character. I need to at least like a character, need to want to see a change or something good come out of their actions within the story.
Most of what you really need to know before picking up Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous Ass can be found in the cover description. The story that follows is full of likable characters trying to get two unlikable characters together for a job and perhaps for a lifetime. Aggie was so over the top, well, horrible to Max. I understood that part of her actions was intended to ensure that he’d fire her so they didn’t have to work together, but there were times when I felt she crossed a line. Max, well, he needed to cut daddy dearest loose and become his own man, in my opinion. Through misunderstandings, both naturally occurring and on purpose, Max and Aggie will eventually find their way to each other. It’s simply an… interesting journey to get to that point.
This was a 3.5 star read for me, I’ll round up at the appropriate locations.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
September 14, 2021
Aggie Johansson is a lot of things, but a nobody isn't one of them. She's funny. She's energetic. She's a force that will turn your word upside-down and make you glad for it. She's not an invisible nobody"
Title: Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous Ass
Author: Lisa Wells
Type: Standalone
Genres: Adult, Romance, Work Romance, Enemies to Lovers
If you are a fan of enemies to lovers romance this will be right up your alley. I had so much fun reading this book. I do feel that it is not 100% a real enemies to lovers romance but more an "I want to be your enemy but I am failing at it" type of romance. Aggie and Max's chemistry is evident in all the short and sweet scenes that lead up to a big climax. The story is a little slow burn and we get all the tension before anything really happens between our main characters, and I really enjoyed the way Lisa Wells built this sense of dread and necessity.
Aggie has been in and out of jobs for a while now and her grandma has decided that she needs to get her life together hence her grandmother's best friend basically pushes her to her grandson's company. In order to please both parties, Aggie and Max decide to work for each other but not before they try really hard to make each other undesirable. When this doesn't work out they start a good work relationship filled with sexual tension as they both seem to want more than they can have. Workplace romances are a hit or miss for me, and I found that this book was a definitive hit.
The story is cliche enough that it markets well, but it has the correct amount of unique events and quirks in the characters that separate them from any other work place and enemies to lovers romance. I found myself enjoying both Max and Aggie and related to their inner dilemmas.
* I received this eArc from Netgalley and Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review *
--- 3.5 stars ---
Title: Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompous Ass
Author: Lisa Wells
Type: Standalone
Genres: Adult, Romance, Work Romance, Enemies to Lovers
If you are a fan of enemies to lovers romance this will be right up your alley. I had so much fun reading this book. I do feel that it is not 100% a real enemies to lovers romance but more an "I want to be your enemy but I am failing at it" type of romance. Aggie and Max's chemistry is evident in all the short and sweet scenes that lead up to a big climax. The story is a little slow burn and we get all the tension before anything really happens between our main characters, and I really enjoyed the way Lisa Wells built this sense of dread and necessity.
Aggie has been in and out of jobs for a while now and her grandma has decided that she needs to get her life together hence her grandmother's best friend basically pushes her to her grandson's company. In order to please both parties, Aggie and Max decide to work for each other but not before they try really hard to make each other undesirable. When this doesn't work out they start a good work relationship filled with sexual tension as they both seem to want more than they can have. Workplace romances are a hit or miss for me, and I found that this book was a definitive hit.
The story is cliche enough that it markets well, but it has the correct amount of unique events and quirks in the characters that separate them from any other work place and enemies to lovers romance. I found myself enjoying both Max and Aggie and related to their inner dilemmas.
* I received this eArc from Netgalley and Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review *
--- 3.5 stars ---
July 10, 2021
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What a fun read!!! This is a workplace romcom that includes witty banter, spicy trivia scenes, and meddling grandmas.
Aggie is a free spirited woman who has been through jobs like a revolving door for the last 18 months. She was raised by her MeeMaw on the wrong side of the tracks in Kansas City. However, she is determined to have her family name finally be one of respect instead of looked down upon.
Max is a self-made business man who grew up in the high society lifestyle. He buts his work above all else and love is not something he has ever had on his radar.
Both Aggie and Max's grandmothers have befriended one another and have decided to play matchmaker. Max needs a new assistant, and Aggie. needs a job that lasts more than two weeks. Aggie and Max see this for exactly what it is, and are determined to let put their grandmothers in their place. However, even though they are quite the opposite, their attraction for one another is instant (though they try their hardest to resist).
I loved these characters and their dialogue with one another. Aggie is very "fly by the seat of her pants" and Max is orderly and structured. However, you root for these two. Aggie is determined not to be seen as the poor little girl from the bad side of town, however, this is what gets in her way of owning up to her feelings.
This book is a perfect summer read! It is fast paced and entertaining. I love books that can have me laughing, crying, and fanning myself from all the "heat", all at the same time.
https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMd4k4wA9/
**You can see more book reviews and recommendations on my TikTok: @bethlovesbooks
What a fun read!!! This is a workplace romcom that includes witty banter, spicy trivia scenes, and meddling grandmas.
Aggie is a free spirited woman who has been through jobs like a revolving door for the last 18 months. She was raised by her MeeMaw on the wrong side of the tracks in Kansas City. However, she is determined to have her family name finally be one of respect instead of looked down upon.
Max is a self-made business man who grew up in the high society lifestyle. He buts his work above all else and love is not something he has ever had on his radar.
Both Aggie and Max's grandmothers have befriended one another and have decided to play matchmaker. Max needs a new assistant, and Aggie. needs a job that lasts more than two weeks. Aggie and Max see this for exactly what it is, and are determined to let put their grandmothers in their place. However, even though they are quite the opposite, their attraction for one another is instant (though they try their hardest to resist).
I loved these characters and their dialogue with one another. Aggie is very "fly by the seat of her pants" and Max is orderly and structured. However, you root for these two. Aggie is determined not to be seen as the poor little girl from the bad side of town, however, this is what gets in her way of owning up to her feelings.
This book is a perfect summer read! It is fast paced and entertaining. I love books that can have me laughing, crying, and fanning myself from all the "heat", all at the same time.
https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMd4k4wA9/
**You can see more book reviews and recommendations on my TikTok: @bethlovesbooks
August 15, 2021
Aggie the Horrible vs. Max the Pompus Ass • Lisa Wells
•
•
While Max’s assistant is on maternity leave, his grandmother offers to step in. Well it doesn’t last long before she decides that being his assistant is too much and comes up with a plan, have Max hire her friends granddaughter Aggie, and if they fall in love that would make the two grandmothers overjoyed.
While both Aggie and Max both have their own plan to sabotage the interview they also don’t want to disappoint their own grandmothers, so they have no choice but to work with each other.
•
Some parts I really enjoyed in this book but others I felt didn’t keep my attention.
The meddling grandmothers were great and so enjoyable! Aggie while some aspects of her I did enjoy like her no filter and sense of humour, I found her semi relatable in the fact that she wants to find a job she loves but I didn’t like how she was basically living off her grandmother who is working 3 jobs to stay afloat.
Max I enjoyed as a character, he did seem a little stiff in the beginning but softened quickly. The banter between the two was really enjoyable!
•
However there were some aspects of the storyline that were introduced and never really talked about but then brought up later on that I would have liked to see how they came about. Also sometimes when both Max and Aggie are together with their grandmothers it can get confusing. I wish there would have been more use of the names instead of just the term grandma, when both were present.
•
•
Thank you to @NetGalley for the eArc in exchange for an honest review. #AggietheHorriblevsMaxthePompousAss #NetGalley
•
•
While Max’s assistant is on maternity leave, his grandmother offers to step in. Well it doesn’t last long before she decides that being his assistant is too much and comes up with a plan, have Max hire her friends granddaughter Aggie, and if they fall in love that would make the two grandmothers overjoyed.
While both Aggie and Max both have their own plan to sabotage the interview they also don’t want to disappoint their own grandmothers, so they have no choice but to work with each other.
•
Some parts I really enjoyed in this book but others I felt didn’t keep my attention.
The meddling grandmothers were great and so enjoyable! Aggie while some aspects of her I did enjoy like her no filter and sense of humour, I found her semi relatable in the fact that she wants to find a job she loves but I didn’t like how she was basically living off her grandmother who is working 3 jobs to stay afloat.
Max I enjoyed as a character, he did seem a little stiff in the beginning but softened quickly. The banter between the two was really enjoyable!
•
However there were some aspects of the storyline that were introduced and never really talked about but then brought up later on that I would have liked to see how they came about. Also sometimes when both Max and Aggie are together with their grandmothers it can get confusing. I wish there would have been more use of the names instead of just the term grandma, when both were present.
•
•
Thank you to @NetGalley for the eArc in exchange for an honest review. #AggietheHorriblevsMaxthePompousAss #NetGalley
July 11, 2021
I wanted to read this book from the moment I saw it on NetGalley. My request to read the book was initially denied but the publisher later invited me to read it. It’s no secret that I love an enemies to lovers romance and while that’s how the book started, the pair weren’t really enemies after chapter 3 or 4, and it turned into an office romance, which is fine, but not my favorite.
I really enjoyed myself until the ending where it dropped the ball on properly resolving everything. Considering how crappy Max was the entire book he needed to do a whole lot more groveling. Some of the things he did were out of ignorance but he was never held accountable for really anything he did. Like the title says, he was an ass, but he did not cease to be an ass as the book progressed. He did not have any sort of redemption arc or show any signs of growth by the end of the book which was disappointing. I liked Aggie more than I liked Max, but honestly she needed therapy and more than a boyfriend.
As I said, I did actually really enjoy the book and it was a fun escape. There was a lot of funny moments and some fun banter. I adored both of the grandmothers meddling in their grandchildren’s lives. However, where the ending was not great, it leaves a sour note on my overall impression of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed myself until the ending where it dropped the ball on properly resolving everything. Considering how crappy Max was the entire book he needed to do a whole lot more groveling. Some of the things he did were out of ignorance but he was never held accountable for really anything he did. Like the title says, he was an ass, but he did not cease to be an ass as the book progressed. He did not have any sort of redemption arc or show any signs of growth by the end of the book which was disappointing. I liked Aggie more than I liked Max, but honestly she needed therapy and more than a boyfriend.
As I said, I did actually really enjoy the book and it was a fun escape. There was a lot of funny moments and some fun banter. I adored both of the grandmothers meddling in their grandchildren’s lives. However, where the ending was not great, it leaves a sour note on my overall impression of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2021
Okay, so enemies to lovers is my absolute favourite trope. With this in mind, I was really excited to read this story. The positives: there are plenty of funny moments, and the sexual chemistry sizzles from the start. The problem with that? There's little tension. We know they're REALLY attracted to each other, so it's inevitable.
My biggest problem though is that, while the premise of the girl from the wrong side of the tracks falling for the trust fund guy seems like a perfect opposites attract, I did struggle with Aggie's work history. Listen, I'm all for people finding a job they love, and which is the perfect fit. What I have a problem with, however, is a young woman doing that while her elderly grandmother supports her. What's more, having been raised in a low income family, the very notion that Aggie wouldn't have even bothered working a job she hated, purely to tide her over, was ludicrous. She talks about failing lessons in high school to get out of school trips her Meemaw could't afford. That's the kind of experience that makes you strive to earn money.
Overall though, I enjoyed the story. I just wish some of the events (like the entire cat situation) weren't quite so outlandish and unbelievable.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to give an honest review.
My biggest problem though is that, while the premise of the girl from the wrong side of the tracks falling for the trust fund guy seems like a perfect opposites attract, I did struggle with Aggie's work history. Listen, I'm all for people finding a job they love, and which is the perfect fit. What I have a problem with, however, is a young woman doing that while her elderly grandmother supports her. What's more, having been raised in a low income family, the very notion that Aggie wouldn't have even bothered working a job she hated, purely to tide her over, was ludicrous. She talks about failing lessons in high school to get out of school trips her Meemaw could't afford. That's the kind of experience that makes you strive to earn money.
Overall though, I enjoyed the story. I just wish some of the events (like the entire cat situation) weren't quite so outlandish and unbelievable.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to give an honest review.
July 30, 2021
Coco Chanel famously said “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” And,“It is always better to be underdressed.”
‘Aggie the Horrible vs Max the Pompous Ass’layered every possible trope and character arc and left the house with a Mister T level of jewelry on.
It is horrendously overdressed.
Obviously, I read romance as an escape and I’m not expecting a slavish devotion to realism but everything in this book made me want to howl. Not in the good way
Office romance is not necessarily a favourite trope of mine, and I especially loathe the boss/assistant power dynamic implications, especially when an author makes the assistant (usually female) a back-talking, game-playing, do-as-I-please person who uses their sexuality as a weapon. As if that balances things out.
The mains are each packing a tractor-trailer load of issues - like, ALL of the issues and it goes on for 46 chapters plus an epilogue.
I couldn’t relate to any of the characters and I didn’t find any of their motivations or choices believable.
Aggie screws up so colossally and Max’s response? “Oh, wow. I’ve been in love with her this whole time.”
I hate leaving reviews like this because writing a book and putting it out there is such a seriously amazing achievement.
Thank you to Entangled and NetGalley for providing a copy in exchange for my honest review.
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