What do you think?
Rate this book
Never Be The Same
They say opposites attract. They aren’t kidding.
When Casey meets Olivia—the actress she’s driving around for two weeks—she figures it’s going to be all business. Sure, Olivia’s hot and has women throwing themselves at her feet, but Casey is only interested in making the money she needs before going back to Portland. London is full of painful memories, and anyway, perfectly put together celebrities are not really her thing.
Olivia loves being “Susie,” her TV alter ego. She’s sassy, sexy, and never short of admirers, but living her life in the public eye is taking its toll. When her new driver turns out to be tall, dark, and undeniably handsome, Olivia is intrigued. But Casey seems like she has something to hide, and the last thing Olivia needs is someone she can’t trust.
When Casey meets Olivia—the actress she’s driving around for two weeks—she figures it’s going to be all business. Sure, Olivia’s hot and has women throwing themselves at her feet, but Casey is only interested in making the money she needs before going back to Portland. London is full of painful memories, and anyway, perfectly put together celebrities are not really her thing.
Olivia loves being “Susie,” her TV alter ego. She’s sassy, sexy, and never short of admirers, but living her life in the public eye is taking its toll. When her new driver turns out to be tall, dark, and undeniably handsome, Olivia is intrigued. But Casey seems like she has something to hide, and the last thing Olivia needs is someone she can’t trust.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2021
6 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
About the author
M.A. Binfield
4 books16 followersMA Binfield is a hopeless romantic living in the UK with her long-term partner. She loves books, tea, traveling, tea, theater, and tea. She is a frustrated linguist who is overly tall and has always wanted to be left-handed. She’s a passionate public servant and, randomly, a qualified football referee. Home is always where the heart is.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 12, 2021
Trust and betrayal.
This story is unnecessarily long but is still a decent piece. It belongs to the celebrity trope and tells a story about trust and betrayal.
Olivia and Casey live in different worlds - Olivia living the glamorous Hollywood life and Casey living a much more private one - But their worlds collide in London when Olivia ends up being one of the Hollywood celebrities whom Casey is paid to drive around in order to earn some spare cash to help her mother. Two things are immediately clear - The first is that they are attracted to each other. The second is that they are incompatible. But in reality, Olivia and Casey are more similar than they think. They are both kind people, they want the same things in life and in a way they have similar histories. Both of them have been victims of betrayal and both are still haunted by it in different ways. I like the premise of a famous celebrity and her handsome driver having a thing for each other. It is cute. I also like the trust and betrayal theme that goes on. It's a good theme that makes a beautiful story. And this is why I thought they should have had more time to progressively build on communication and earn that trust with each other, instead of blowing hot and cold for such an extended period of time and bailing at the first sign of trouble.
Casey is likable but Olivia is harder to love because she has defensive outbursts and can be a little insensitive or hurtful sometimes. And while I can understand her eagerness to separate her real self from her onscreen persona, constantly reminding people in conversations doesn't feel like the right way to go. That being said, I could still feel the chemistry and the sexual tension that goes on between them and I like that.
Aside from them, there are also two side characters who have feelings for each other. Their story is really cute and I kinda wish we had more of them.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This story is unnecessarily long but is still a decent piece. It belongs to the celebrity trope and tells a story about trust and betrayal.
Olivia and Casey live in different worlds - Olivia living the glamorous Hollywood life and Casey living a much more private one - But their worlds collide in London when Olivia ends up being one of the Hollywood celebrities whom Casey is paid to drive around in order to earn some spare cash to help her mother. Two things are immediately clear - The first is that they are attracted to each other. The second is that they are incompatible. But in reality, Olivia and Casey are more similar than they think. They are both kind people, they want the same things in life and in a way they have similar histories. Both of them have been victims of betrayal and both are still haunted by it in different ways. I like the premise of a famous celebrity and her handsome driver having a thing for each other. It is cute. I also like the trust and betrayal theme that goes on. It's a good theme that makes a beautiful story. And this is why I thought they should have had more time to progressively build on communication and earn that trust with each other, instead of blowing hot and cold for such an extended period of time and bailing at the first sign of trouble.
Casey is likable but Olivia is harder to love because she has defensive outbursts and can be a little insensitive or hurtful sometimes. And while I can understand her eagerness to separate her real self from her onscreen persona, constantly reminding people in conversations doesn't feel like the right way to go. That being said, I could still feel the chemistry and the sexual tension that goes on between them and I like that.
Aside from them, there are also two side characters who have feelings for each other. Their story is really cute and I kinda wish we had more of them.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2021
Just a quick reminder that I rate book based on how much I enjoyed them, not on how much I think they deserve! So my 5 stars for this book is not based on my critical stance of it, but more on my overall enjoyment. I absolutely enjoyed this book!
Review
After fleeing London to escape tortuous humiliation brought on by her ex-girlfriend, Casey finds herself back in town to help her mom deal with an abusive ex-boyfriend. While there she decides, why not earn some money, so she takes on a driving job from her friend, Daniel. The job she's given is to drive around the stars of a popular queer oriented tv show and that includes Olivia Lang. Olivia is at her ends with the show business and Casey proves to be the breath of fresh air she needed.
In .Never Be The Same MA Binfield introduces us to Casey and Olivia, two incompatible people with an exhilarating chemistry between them. This is the first book by M.A. Binfield that I have read and it's definitely not going to be the last. Binfield gives us lovable characters and entertaining drama that together created a recipe for a hard to put down book.
Casey is probably my favourite character from this novel. Suffering from the weight of a giant chip on her shoulder from the way her ex screwed her over, Casey initially resents the memories and shame that comes with returning to London. The last thing she expected was the fall in love with hot actress Olivia Lang. Yet despite how much the world has let her down she's still the kindest soul in this book that you just can't help but feel sorry for her.
Olivia is the exact opposite. The second she feels screwed over, disrespected or embarrassed she acts out and gets defensive to the person who did it. She is very self centered and not at the very least aware of it. Which is actually a small problem I had with this book. There wasn't that much emphasis on character development which to me is what makes the perfect novel. The redeemable trait of Olivia though is how caring of a person she is.
This book also had entertaining side character such as Olivia's friends, Louise and Liam who also star on the tv show with her.
It's been a while since I've read such a drama filled book that kept me this glued to my phone. I absolutely recommend this book! It makes such an entertaining and easy read.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC in return for a honest review.
Review
After fleeing London to escape tortuous humiliation brought on by her ex-girlfriend, Casey finds herself back in town to help her mom deal with an abusive ex-boyfriend. While there she decides, why not earn some money, so she takes on a driving job from her friend, Daniel. The job she's given is to drive around the stars of a popular queer oriented tv show and that includes Olivia Lang. Olivia is at her ends with the show business and Casey proves to be the breath of fresh air she needed.
In .Never Be The Same MA Binfield introduces us to Casey and Olivia, two incompatible people with an exhilarating chemistry between them. This is the first book by M.A. Binfield that I have read and it's definitely not going to be the last. Binfield gives us lovable characters and entertaining drama that together created a recipe for a hard to put down book.
Casey is probably my favourite character from this novel. Suffering from the weight of a giant chip on her shoulder from the way her ex screwed her over, Casey initially resents the memories and shame that comes with returning to London. The last thing she expected was the fall in love with hot actress Olivia Lang. Yet despite how much the world has let her down she's still the kindest soul in this book that you just can't help but feel sorry for her.
Olivia is the exact opposite. The second she feels screwed over, disrespected or embarrassed she acts out and gets defensive to the person who did it. She is very self centered and not at the very least aware of it. Which is actually a small problem I had with this book. There wasn't that much emphasis on character development which to me is what makes the perfect novel. The redeemable trait of Olivia though is how caring of a person she is.
This book also had entertaining side character such as Olivia's friends, Louise and Liam who also star on the tv show with her.
It's been a while since I've read such a drama filled book that kept me this glued to my phone. I absolutely recommend this book! It makes such an entertaining and easy read.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC in return for a honest review.
August 17, 2021
I think I like each new book by MA Binfield more than the last one. I’m always looking forward to reading her new release.
Casey fled London for Portland after a very ugly breakup. She flies back a year later to help her mother with big boyfriend problems. To make some money while she’s away from her new job, Casey agrees to work as a driver to the stars of an American TV show shooting in London for a few weeks. Olivia is one of the actresses Casey finds herself driving around, and even though sparks of lust fly between the two women from the beginning, they rub each other the wrong way. Can an American TV star and her British driver find common ground and drive away together into the sunset?
Despite their obvious chemistry, Casey and Olivia are convinced they’re incompatible. On paper, they are. One is a TV star accustomed to fame and luxury, the other has been hurt by a wannabe YouTube influencer. They’re actually both rather shy and have both been betrayed by exes who used them.
I don’t mind instalust but instalove is a little harder to write convincingly. Binfield makes it work, however, by building the tension up slowly and steadily despite the story being told over a rather short period of time. There’s a completely opposite romance happening in the wings, between two best friends, and the two storylines contrast nicely.
It’s always entertaining to watch characters trying to resist mutual attraction, in particular when there’s an enemies-to-lovers arc. In this novel, “enemies” is too strong a word but the relationship gets off on the wrong foot and afterwards, the MCs take turns shying away from the attraction.
I also like the way the author takes tropes and turns them over. I’m tired of the miscommunication trope for example, but the way it’s used here, with the characters getting called out on it by their friends, makes it feel new.
There are a few editing issues, such as the same turn of phrase in close proximity. Nothing huge but enough for me to notice.
All in all, Never Be The Same is a not-too-angsty but not drama-free romance.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Casey fled London for Portland after a very ugly breakup. She flies back a year later to help her mother with big boyfriend problems. To make some money while she’s away from her new job, Casey agrees to work as a driver to the stars of an American TV show shooting in London for a few weeks. Olivia is one of the actresses Casey finds herself driving around, and even though sparks of lust fly between the two women from the beginning, they rub each other the wrong way. Can an American TV star and her British driver find common ground and drive away together into the sunset?
Despite their obvious chemistry, Casey and Olivia are convinced they’re incompatible. On paper, they are. One is a TV star accustomed to fame and luxury, the other has been hurt by a wannabe YouTube influencer. They’re actually both rather shy and have both been betrayed by exes who used them.
I don’t mind instalust but instalove is a little harder to write convincingly. Binfield makes it work, however, by building the tension up slowly and steadily despite the story being told over a rather short period of time. There’s a completely opposite romance happening in the wings, between two best friends, and the two storylines contrast nicely.
It’s always entertaining to watch characters trying to resist mutual attraction, in particular when there’s an enemies-to-lovers arc. In this novel, “enemies” is too strong a word but the relationship gets off on the wrong foot and afterwards, the MCs take turns shying away from the attraction.
I also like the way the author takes tropes and turns them over. I’m tired of the miscommunication trope for example, but the way it’s used here, with the characters getting called out on it by their friends, makes it feel new.
There are a few editing issues, such as the same turn of phrase in close proximity. Nothing huge but enough for me to notice.
All in all, Never Be The Same is a not-too-angsty but not drama-free romance.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 17, 2021
“Never Be the Same” is MA Binfield’s opposites-attract celebrity romance. Casey Byrne is back in London after a year in Portland. She left London after an awful breakup and isn’t excited to be back. She came back to help out her mom, who has fallen on hard times. She takes a job driving around celebrities as a way to make extra money. Olivia Lang is the star of a popular LGBTQIA+ tv series. She’s in London for a couple of weeks to promote her show and film a few episodes. While neither is looking for love, they can’t seem to stay away from one another either.
Casey and Olivia have both been betrayed and hurt by their previous relationships and are carrying around a lot of baggage. Neither one is the type for a fling but they know there’s no future for a relationship. Not only do they live in different places but Casey is very much against the limelight and everything that comes with being with a celebrity.
I’ll admit, I truly liked this book. For whatever reason I really click with Binfield’s writing and have enjoyed everything I’ve read by her so far. I’m not saying this is perfect, it isn’t, but I still enjoyed it very much. I love how she writes her characters and how much depth and personality she gives them. This is just over 300 pages and for a romance, that’s a lot. The time span for “Never Be the Same” is just over two weeks so a lot happens in a short time span. Insta-love is never a favorite of mine but with the length worked here because while it was a short time span, it never felt like it was only two weeks.
There are a couple reasons why I’m not giving this 5 stars. Firstly, the miscommunication and assumptions Casey and Olivia make had me wanting to bang my head on the wall several times. Because of their trust issues they seemed to assume the worst or would jump to conclusions and it happened a lot, especially with Olivia. And I understood why it was happening but after a while it got tiresome and I was ready for them to learn and move on a lot sooner than they actually did. Another thing was the constant back and forth. I think a lot of the back and forth was a consequence of the miscommunication and again, I was ready for them to move on before they got the memo.
Casey and Olivia have a nice group of friends and I enjoyed their different dynamics. Liam and Louise are Olivia’s best friends and I liked what they brought to the story. They were quick to point out whenever Olivia was being stupid and with Casey’s best friend, David, they wouldn’t give them a free pass to be idiots.
I’m not sure this will be everyone’s cup of tea but if you like drama and the celebrity trope I think you’ll like this one.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Casey and Olivia have both been betrayed and hurt by their previous relationships and are carrying around a lot of baggage. Neither one is the type for a fling but they know there’s no future for a relationship. Not only do they live in different places but Casey is very much against the limelight and everything that comes with being with a celebrity.
I’ll admit, I truly liked this book. For whatever reason I really click with Binfield’s writing and have enjoyed everything I’ve read by her so far. I’m not saying this is perfect, it isn’t, but I still enjoyed it very much. I love how she writes her characters and how much depth and personality she gives them. This is just over 300 pages and for a romance, that’s a lot. The time span for “Never Be the Same” is just over two weeks so a lot happens in a short time span. Insta-love is never a favorite of mine but with the length worked here because while it was a short time span, it never felt like it was only two weeks.
There are a couple reasons why I’m not giving this 5 stars. Firstly, the miscommunication and assumptions Casey and Olivia make had me wanting to bang my head on the wall several times. Because of their trust issues they seemed to assume the worst or would jump to conclusions and it happened a lot, especially with Olivia. And I understood why it was happening but after a while it got tiresome and I was ready for them to learn and move on a lot sooner than they actually did. Another thing was the constant back and forth. I think a lot of the back and forth was a consequence of the miscommunication and again, I was ready for them to move on before they got the memo.
Casey and Olivia have a nice group of friends and I enjoyed their different dynamics. Liam and Louise are Olivia’s best friends and I liked what they brought to the story. They were quick to point out whenever Olivia was being stupid and with Casey’s best friend, David, they wouldn’t give them a free pass to be idiots.
I’m not sure this will be everyone’s cup of tea but if you like drama and the celebrity trope I think you’ll like this one.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2021
I think I should give a warning before you continue reading my review or at the very least a heads up. I enjoyed this book, but the comments I have might make it seem like I didn't.
So, what are the comments? Our mains, Olivia and Casey know each other for a mere two weeks, have a fight close to the 85% mark (way too late) and utter I-love-yous when they make up. And I'm not even talking about what happens next or at the same time really. They move fast! Maybe that's the way to go when you are a single lesbian in your mid-thirties?
What is good? I like the way the story is told, both characters have been betrayed in their last and are dealing with some trust issues. They gradually start to communicate more and better, this solidifies their relationship. But with everything I come back to it's just two weeks...Casey is Olivia’s driver while she and her co-stars do some PR for their immensely popular LGBTQ tv series (screams L-Word to me). Casey is in London doing this odd job for her friend because her mom needs her. Their are many stories interwoven and that is what keeps this book interesting, but again, so much happens in just two weeks.
The supporting characters Louise and Liam are cute too, I could have done with a little more of the both of them.
Most of the book takes place over 2 weeks, but all of a sudden from the 85% mark onwards time moves a lot quicker, but still a bit slow, I don't know how t describe it to be honest. As I said the big drama comes way too late, I'm deducting a star for it. Somehow I did enjoy this book although you wouldn't say so after reading this review. I'm giving 3.5 stars but because of the late drama it's 3.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
So, what are the comments? Our mains, Olivia and Casey know each other for a mere two weeks, have a fight close to the 85% mark (way too late) and utter I-love-yous when they make up. And I'm not even talking about what happens next or at the same time really. They move fast! Maybe that's the way to go when you are a single lesbian in your mid-thirties?
What is good? I like the way the story is told, both characters have been betrayed in their last and are dealing with some trust issues. They gradually start to communicate more and better, this solidifies their relationship. But with everything I come back to it's just two weeks...Casey is Olivia’s driver while she and her co-stars do some PR for their immensely popular LGBTQ tv series (screams L-Word to me). Casey is in London doing this odd job for her friend because her mom needs her. Their are many stories interwoven and that is what keeps this book interesting, but again, so much happens in just two weeks.
The supporting characters Louise and Liam are cute too, I could have done with a little more of the both of them.
Most of the book takes place over 2 weeks, but all of a sudden from the 85% mark onwards time moves a lot quicker, but still a bit slow, I don't know how t describe it to be honest. As I said the big drama comes way too late, I'm deducting a star for it. Somehow I did enjoy this book although you wouldn't say so after reading this review. I'm giving 3.5 stars but because of the late drama it's 3.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
January 24, 2022
I have enjoyed each MA Binfield book that I have read. I vibe with her stories and the type of drama that is created. In this story, we have a driver-for-now who is charged to chauffer a celebrity around for a couple of weeks. Binfield does a good job of making you feel like they have fallen for each other in such a short timeframe.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2021
This was a long one but definitely worth the time to read. It's great.
I found Casey annoying at the start and thought she had a massive chip on her shoulder, then she goes and admits it out loud and it endeared me to her. Olivia was sweet... even during her diva-like moments. A great story all around... even with all the back and forth drama between the mains.
I found Casey annoying at the start and thought she had a massive chip on her shoulder, then she goes and admits it out loud and it endeared me to her. Olivia was sweet... even during her diva-like moments. A great story all around... even with all the back and forth drama between the mains.
October 30, 2021
I am always a sucker for a celebrity romance. I think it's one of my favorite types of romances to read. I think because it gives me a glimpse of what being famous would really be like and then adding being a lesbian/queer on top of it adds that flavor that I really like. Never Be the Same does not disappoint.
Casey and Olivia are an unlikely couple. Casey is the hired "help" and Olivia is the actress who is nothing like everyone thinks she is. These two have an instant attraction to one another and they both feel compelled to spend time with one another, but they have complications because of misunderstanding and also because of their experiences with past girlfriends. It really adds some depth to the story. Also because this romance takes place in a short amount of the time, the author must really build a compelling story to show how these two can really fall for one another. Sometimes it works out and other times I have seen it fail epically. Binfield has the touch needed to pull off this instant kind of love. I came away believing in the love at first site sort of love.
4 stars
This arc was provided by net galley and the publisher for an honest review.
Casey and Olivia are an unlikely couple. Casey is the hired "help" and Olivia is the actress who is nothing like everyone thinks she is. These two have an instant attraction to one another and they both feel compelled to spend time with one another, but they have complications because of misunderstanding and also because of their experiences with past girlfriends. It really adds some depth to the story. Also because this romance takes place in a short amount of the time, the author must really build a compelling story to show how these two can really fall for one another. Sometimes it works out and other times I have seen it fail epically. Binfield has the touch needed to pull off this instant kind of love. I came away believing in the love at first site sort of love.
4 stars
This arc was provided by net galley and the publisher for an honest review.
January 11, 2023
This is M.A. Binfield's third book, which means I've read them all. And even though the second two books haven't been on par with her first, she remains an author I'm happy to revisit. Honestly, though, this one was okay. It's not a book I'll rave about and it's not a book I'm going to really criticize. It was fine. And that's all I can really say about that.
A brief synopsis: Casey has returned home to London after a year of being away. She left after her world was turned upside down after her YouTube-influencer girlfriend cheated on her and then, very publicly, made Casey out to be the villain in the relationship and making London a place Casey felt she needed to escape. But she's back to help her mom sort through her own devastating breakup and, since she needs the money, her best friend has hired her to drive for his chauffeur service. As a part of this gig, she's tasked with driving 4 stars from a hit queer TV show who are in Europe for a fan tour and to film some scenes. Olivia is one of the show's star--actually she's the show's big star--and she's struggling between who she is (and her love of acting) with the public perception that she's the character she plays and the intrusiveness of fame. And now she has to be around this driver she finds to be incredibly attractive and has never seen the show but who has no desire to live any part of her life in the public eye. Needless to say, things are complicated.
I thought a lot of the drama of the novel was a bit too contrived. Too many secrets are withheld for the sake of providing drama and it felt forced. There are also too many characters that lack any subtlety (i.e. villains are really villainous). And when one thing would be solved and/or revealed something else was still there. And I get needing tension to tell a story, but it felt like tension for the sake of tension and not because the plot actually required it.
Binfield also makes some errors in dialogue where American characters are saying things with British phrases that stood out. Those weren't dealbreakers for me, but it was distracting. This novel should have had a British and an American editor to catch those. And if it did, then that's not acceptable. I'm not sure how much budget BSB has for that though.
I really liked Olivia's character. Not only is she likeable, but she also felt like the most multidimensional of the characters. Casey was much harder to warm up to because she's kind of judgemental and really stiff. I know why Olivia likes her, but I don't think I liked her very much, and so it was hard to root for her and root for her for Olivia.
In summary:
Did I enjoy it? Yes, for the most part.
Will I reread it? I highly doubt it.
Would I recommend it? I think if you keep your expectations low, you're not going to regret spending your time with this novel.
A brief synopsis: Casey has returned home to London after a year of being away. She left after her world was turned upside down after her YouTube-influencer girlfriend cheated on her and then, very publicly, made Casey out to be the villain in the relationship and making London a place Casey felt she needed to escape. But she's back to help her mom sort through her own devastating breakup and, since she needs the money, her best friend has hired her to drive for his chauffeur service. As a part of this gig, she's tasked with driving 4 stars from a hit queer TV show who are in Europe for a fan tour and to film some scenes. Olivia is one of the show's star--actually she's the show's big star--and she's struggling between who she is (and her love of acting) with the public perception that she's the character she plays and the intrusiveness of fame. And now she has to be around this driver she finds to be incredibly attractive and has never seen the show but who has no desire to live any part of her life in the public eye. Needless to say, things are complicated.
I thought a lot of the drama of the novel was a bit too contrived. Too many secrets are withheld for the sake of providing drama and it felt forced. There are also too many characters that lack any subtlety (i.e. villains are really villainous). And when one thing would be solved and/or revealed something else was still there. And I get needing tension to tell a story, but it felt like tension for the sake of tension and not because the plot actually required it.
Binfield also makes some errors in dialogue where American characters are saying things with British phrases that stood out. Those weren't dealbreakers for me, but it was distracting. This novel should have had a British and an American editor to catch those. And if it did, then that's not acceptable. I'm not sure how much budget BSB has for that though.
I really liked Olivia's character. Not only is she likeable, but she also felt like the most multidimensional of the characters. Casey was much harder to warm up to because she's kind of judgemental and really stiff. I know why Olivia likes her, but I don't think I liked her very much, and so it was hard to root for her and root for her for Olivia.
In summary:
Did I enjoy it? Yes, for the most part.
Will I reread it? I highly doubt it.
Would I recommend it? I think if you keep your expectations low, you're not going to regret spending your time with this novel.
November 1, 2021
MA Binfield writes really well - this is my 3rd book read by her, all 5*s. It builds nicely, with a good group of back characters. Neither MC is perfect, but hey, they are good people I'm rooting for.
August 5, 2022
First book by this author, but won't be my last
November 29, 2024
This is another diamond from my TBR shelves! I thoroughly enjoyed this book! A beautiful opposites attract, slow burn love story! I fell in love with Casey and Olivia! Definitely worth the read and 5 stars!
October 15, 2021
Casey returns home to London to help her mom out of a difficult situation with her boyfriend and needs to face the reasons why she left her life behind a year ago. To make some money while staying in London she becomes a driver for her best friends company and her job is driving around 3 actors from a very popular American show.
Due to her ex she has an aversion to people who chase fame and she thinks Olivia is a perfect example of an actress with diva qualities. As it should in a romance they discover they like eachother but will their different lifestyles turn out to be too much for them to overcome?
I liked this one, it was a longer than usual book, especially since most of the story spans a timeline of 2 weeks give or take. Both Casey and Olivia have their flaws and while I understood their reactions in certain situations I also felt that after some time and they were growing closer they could have stopped jumping to conclusions. My interest in their relationship lessened a bit towards the ends because I felt their was no growth in their communication and connection and the big break up was the prime example. But overall a solid read again from M.A. Binfield, I'll surely want to pick up her future books.
***An ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for a honest review ***
Due to her ex she has an aversion to people who chase fame and she thinks Olivia is a perfect example of an actress with diva qualities. As it should in a romance they discover they like eachother but will their different lifestyles turn out to be too much for them to overcome?
I liked this one, it was a longer than usual book, especially since most of the story spans a timeline of 2 weeks give or take. Both Casey and Olivia have their flaws and while I understood their reactions in certain situations I also felt that after some time and they were growing closer they could have stopped jumping to conclusions. My interest in their relationship lessened a bit towards the ends because I felt their was no growth in their communication and connection and the big break up was the prime example. But overall a solid read again from M.A. Binfield, I'll surely want to pick up her future books.
***An ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for a honest review ***
August 16, 2021
I was really excited going into this read of "Never Be the Same" by MA Binfield and I was not disappointed. A lesbian celebrity romance? Count me in!
I'm always excited to see representation of LGBTQIA+ characters in romance and I think the author did a great job of creating complex and complete characters without making it just about being a lesbian or gay - it was about the full human experience - flawed, uncertain, and sometimes insecure. But also filled with friends, family, healing, laughter and happiness. Don't get me wrong, I love all kinds of stories but I did really enjoy the storyline and the varied characters that Binfield created and that kept me invested and hooked.
Our main heroines, Olivia and Casey, come from very different walks of life but are both recovering from betrayal and hurt from previous relationships. Trust does not come easy and though I understood that, I would still get a little miffed at the assumptions and lack of communication between the two of them. They came together with lots of baggage and had a lot to work through - within themselves and together - and I often found myself growling "Would you just say what you mean!? All this turmoil could be avoided and we could get to the kissing!!!" Clearly, I was invested!
Olivia comes from the glitz and glam of stardom, the feature character of a hit TV show. We find, though, that all the extra hubbub that comes with fame is really taking its toll on her. She loves the acting but not all the extra crazy that comes along with it.
Casey returns home to London to help her mom out and takes a job driving Olivia and the rest of the cast around for two weeks. Casey uses the job to avoid reliving the heartache and drama that made her escape London for the US just a year or so before. But what she finds is Olivia, a stunningly gorgeous actress who does not fit the stereotypical mold of a spoiled diva.
Over the next two weeks, the initial spark of attraction develops further and though they both know they're leaving, will be separated, they cannot deny the feelings they have for each other. Two weeks is an incredibly short amount of time (uhaul joke anyone?!) but also, given their level of attraction and spark, I understood that for this to have a chance, it needed to move fast. I bought it.
I will say that sometimes the story dragged a little... the pace could have been a little faster or the story a wee bit shorter. However, I still really enjoyed this book. I loved the backdrop of London, I enjoyed the secondary characters and I was happy to see how Olivia and Casey eventually found their way.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
I'm always excited to see representation of LGBTQIA+ characters in romance and I think the author did a great job of creating complex and complete characters without making it just about being a lesbian or gay - it was about the full human experience - flawed, uncertain, and sometimes insecure. But also filled with friends, family, healing, laughter and happiness. Don't get me wrong, I love all kinds of stories but I did really enjoy the storyline and the varied characters that Binfield created and that kept me invested and hooked.
Our main heroines, Olivia and Casey, come from very different walks of life but are both recovering from betrayal and hurt from previous relationships. Trust does not come easy and though I understood that, I would still get a little miffed at the assumptions and lack of communication between the two of them. They came together with lots of baggage and had a lot to work through - within themselves and together - and I often found myself growling "Would you just say what you mean!? All this turmoil could be avoided and we could get to the kissing!!!" Clearly, I was invested!
Olivia comes from the glitz and glam of stardom, the feature character of a hit TV show. We find, though, that all the extra hubbub that comes with fame is really taking its toll on her. She loves the acting but not all the extra crazy that comes along with it.
Casey returns home to London to help her mom out and takes a job driving Olivia and the rest of the cast around for two weeks. Casey uses the job to avoid reliving the heartache and drama that made her escape London for the US just a year or so before. But what she finds is Olivia, a stunningly gorgeous actress who does not fit the stereotypical mold of a spoiled diva.
Over the next two weeks, the initial spark of attraction develops further and though they both know they're leaving, will be separated, they cannot deny the feelings they have for each other. Two weeks is an incredibly short amount of time (uhaul joke anyone?!) but also, given their level of attraction and spark, I understood that for this to have a chance, it needed to move fast. I bought it.
I will say that sometimes the story dragged a little... the pace could have been a little faster or the story a wee bit shorter. However, I still really enjoyed this book. I loved the backdrop of London, I enjoyed the secondary characters and I was happy to see how Olivia and Casey eventually found their way.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
July 17, 2021
Never Be the Same is wonderful escapism reading. Casey returns home to London to try and figure out her mom's latest financial troubles caused the latest loser boyfriend. To help get some quick money her friend arranges for her to an on-call, full time driver for some actors in town for two weeks of promoting their tv show at fan events and interviews. Olivia is the breakout star of the tv show. Her character Susie is sexy and bold but Olivia is quieter, careful and she has been burned by others in the past.
After not getting off on the right foot Casey and Olivia have moments where things click for them. It is a full two weeks of slow burn, will they or won't they get together. And what will it mean if they do as they live in different parts of the world. I love London as the setting as it is one of my favorite cities. Both Olivia and Casey are great separate and together. Casey is a little harder to read as she is dealing with returning to London after a very messy breakup. (I did wonder why Casey's friend David stays friends with the ex.) The other actors, friends and Casey's mom help add extra depth to the storyline. There is some angst and drama stirred up by others but this is a romance and you are waiting for the HEA.
At over 300 pages it is a little longer that similar type romances. But that just means I get to enjoy more time with the characters. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
After not getting off on the right foot Casey and Olivia have moments where things click for them. It is a full two weeks of slow burn, will they or won't they get together. And what will it mean if they do as they live in different parts of the world. I love London as the setting as it is one of my favorite cities. Both Olivia and Casey are great separate and together. Casey is a little harder to read as she is dealing with returning to London after a very messy breakup. (I did wonder why Casey's friend David stays friends with the ex.) The other actors, friends and Casey's mom help add extra depth to the storyline. There is some angst and drama stirred up by others but this is a romance and you are waiting for the HEA.
At over 300 pages it is a little longer that similar type romances. But that just means I get to enjoy more time with the characters. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2021
Wow, I wasn't expecting much from the book and I certainly didn't expect to have a tough fight between four to five stars
.
Much had to do with the troop of employee and boss - star and someone common that I read in the synopsis but it is so well written that it is a clear enemy to lovers with the anguish of indecision to say what you think or feel in the first moments of a new relationship.
steamy but with so much chemistry between the characters it is impossible not to fall in love with them and that blessed slow, very slow burn that leads them to very steamy and romantic scenes.
.
Both Casey and Olivia find it difficult to open up and trust others, both because previous relationships where there was cheating and violation of trust.
.
So Olivia is a big star of a queer tv show where she stars as a lawyer, femfatale and womanizer while Casey returned to London after a year to help her mom get through a bad time after the ending of an abusive relationship. Casey needs money to help her mother and this is how she ends up agreeing to be a driver for these tv stars during her stay in England
.
I really loved reading this book and meeting another amazing writer, thanks to Bold Strokes Books for give me this great book in exchange for my honest opinion
.
Much had to do with the troop of employee and boss - star and someone common that I read in the synopsis but it is so well written that it is a clear enemy to lovers with the anguish of indecision to say what you think or feel in the first moments of a new relationship.
steamy but with so much chemistry between the characters it is impossible not to fall in love with them and that blessed slow, very slow burn that leads them to very steamy and romantic scenes.
.
Both Casey and Olivia find it difficult to open up and trust others, both because previous relationships where there was cheating and violation of trust.
.
So Olivia is a big star of a queer tv show where she stars as a lawyer, femfatale and womanizer while Casey returned to London after a year to help her mom get through a bad time after the ending of an abusive relationship. Casey needs money to help her mother and this is how she ends up agreeing to be a driver for these tv stars during her stay in England
.
I really loved reading this book and meeting another amazing writer, thanks to Bold Strokes Books for give me this great book in exchange for my honest opinion
November 22, 2021
SO SO
Casey is back in London but she’s not happy about it. She just wants to make some money to help her mom out of a bad situation and get back to Portland, away from all the painful memories she left behind. Her best friend hires her to drive the cast of a hit US series around to interviews etc. Olivia’s character is an outgoing, flirty and flashy, all the things she’s really not and it is starting to get old. When she meets Casey, they seem to hit it off but there are a lot of things keeping them apart. Can they find a way to common ground or will the things they have buried keep them apart???
This is a good, not great but a nice enough read.with a lot of angst and anticipation. Casey has a lot to heal from and it was good to see her finding her way back to peace. Olivia‘s got a lot of things going on in her life, not all of them leave her feeling good about herself. I liked watching her figure things out and discover what is important to her. As a couple they are sweet and seem to bring out the best in each other but there is so much standing in their way. This was a good way to spend a lazy day and get a dose of warm fuzzies.
Casey is back in London but she’s not happy about it. She just wants to make some money to help her mom out of a bad situation and get back to Portland, away from all the painful memories she left behind. Her best friend hires her to drive the cast of a hit US series around to interviews etc. Olivia’s character is an outgoing, flirty and flashy, all the things she’s really not and it is starting to get old. When she meets Casey, they seem to hit it off but there are a lot of things keeping them apart. Can they find a way to common ground or will the things they have buried keep them apart???
This is a good, not great but a nice enough read.with a lot of angst and anticipation. Casey has a lot to heal from and it was good to see her finding her way back to peace. Olivia‘s got a lot of things going on in her life, not all of them leave her feeling good about herself. I liked watching her figure things out and discover what is important to her. As a couple they are sweet and seem to bring out the best in each other but there is so much standing in their way. This was a good way to spend a lazy day and get a dose of warm fuzzies.
December 21, 2021
This was a cute feel good for the summer read. There was quite a bit of drama and some angst throughout the story. The relationship between Casey and Olivia started out kind of rocky ,but got really interesting when they started to get to know and understand each other. Casey really stood out to me, because she had so much that she was dealing with, because of her mother's problems and her ex girlfriend not wanting to just let old feelings and hurt go. I thought the supporting characters were really good and helped to push the story along. This is the first book from this author I have read, but it won't be the last. I would definitely recommend this to my friends and family.
September 29, 2021
An ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I gotta say I just love a slowburn. These two couldn't be more different but their connection is instant and real. I enjoyed seeing them both be confused and try to be a better person to impress the other. Didn't always go as smoothly though which was an interesting read. I also really loved the side characters. Can Louise and David be my friends?
I gotta say I just love a slowburn. These two couldn't be more different but their connection is instant and real. I enjoyed seeing them both be confused and try to be a better person to impress the other. Didn't always go as smoothly though which was an interesting read. I also really loved the side characters. Can Louise and David be my friends?
August 29, 2021
Slow to build trust is the underlying theme in this story of opposites attract. An actress who has a very public breakup and fears losing herself as fans confuse her with her outrageous, promiscuous TV character. An ex pat come home to resolve family drama, make some extra cash for family and, hopefully, avoid the woman who broke her heart. It's amazing how much story, emotion is packed in to a story that is supposed to span just a few weeks. A good weekend read.
July 25, 2021
Chemistry - check
Great characters - check
Great storyline - check
Kept me wanting to turn the pages - check
This is a great read, I highly recommend for those who enjoy lesfic books.
Thanks to Netflix for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Great characters - check
Great storyline - check
Kept me wanting to turn the pages - check
This is a great read, I highly recommend for those who enjoy lesfic books.
Thanks to Netflix for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
April 5, 2023
Netgalley Review:
This was great! I loved the premise, I loved the characters and the story kept me reading (past when I should have been sleeping). 4 stars and I will read more from this author!
This was great! I loved the premise, I loved the characters and the story kept me reading (past when I should have been sleeping). 4 stars and I will read more from this author!
August 26, 2025
2,8. Casey killed the romance for me. Serious to the point of being allergic to fun and judgy like it’s her full-time job. Also her constant assumptions about people were exhausting. I kept trying to cut her slack because of her “struggles,” but I just couldn’t like her.
I liked Olivia, she was authentic and sweet. If Casey wasn’t so uptight maybe I would like them together.
And then… tall, dark and handsome. Again? Really? We already had that in One Small Step. At this point I’m convinced the author just copy-pasted the same fantasy.
The MCs spent the whole time tiptoeing around each other until page 350. They said that the attraction was instant but I never understood why. Even their sex scenes felt like awkward performance reviews—“Wow, that was amazing!” “No, YOU were amazing!” I was waiting for someone to hand out a certificate of achievement.
I loved the side characters.
Louise and Liam, Olivia’s best friends and coworkers had a thing going on between them and it was way more interesting than the main love story. I would like to know more about them being best friends to lovers. It gives a depth to their romance.
In short: flat, recycled and annoying at some points. Do yourself a favor and just read One Small Step. Same author, way better book. The tension and chemistry is over the top.
Giving 3 starts because although I didn’t like it a lot the writing was good with no errors and I have read worst.
I liked Olivia, she was authentic and sweet. If Casey wasn’t so uptight maybe I would like them together.
And then… tall, dark and handsome. Again? Really? We already had that in One Small Step. At this point I’m convinced the author just copy-pasted the same fantasy.
The MCs spent the whole time tiptoeing around each other until page 350. They said that the attraction was instant but I never understood why. Even their sex scenes felt like awkward performance reviews—“Wow, that was amazing!” “No, YOU were amazing!” I was waiting for someone to hand out a certificate of achievement.
I loved the side characters.
Louise and Liam, Olivia’s best friends and coworkers had a thing going on between them and it was way more interesting than the main love story. I would like to know more about them being best friends to lovers. It gives a depth to their romance.
In short: flat, recycled and annoying at some points. Do yourself a favor and just read One Small Step. Same author, way better book. The tension and chemistry is over the top.
Giving 3 starts because although I didn’t like it a lot the writing was good with no errors and I have read worst.
May 30, 2025
This novel caters perfectly to readers who appreciate the nuanced development of slow-burn romances, offering a satisfying journey as the central relationship unfolds. The narrative expertly explores the captivating tension inherent in an opposites-attract dynamic, where contrasting personalities find an undeniable connection. Readers will be drawn into the emotional vulnerability displayed by the characters as they cautiously reveal their true selves, fostering a sense of intimacy and realism within the burgeoning romance. Adding a delightful layer of charm, the story features witty banter exchanged between the main characters, injecting humor and highlighting their intellectual sparring as they navigate their individual trust issues. The core of the story lies in watching these guarded individuals gradually learn to open up and place their faith in one another, creating a deeply resonant and emotionally rewarding reading experience.
August 22, 2021
I finished this book but for some reason forgot to make a comment. the first part was very enjoyable specially when they started to get to know each other but I thought the story was longer than needed and so I lost interest, I don't know if it was the story or the timing of my reading however I felt disconnected to the characters and the interaction started to be forced. regardless I would highly recommend this for ppl who love celebrity romance. its well written
August 14, 2021
Thank you Netgalley for this LGBTQI+ ARC. An enjoyable summer read, but at times the pace was slow and felt like almost too slow of a build.
August 28, 2021
Enjoyable. Read
Just what I needed a sweet romance. The characters are very interesting and likable. Every story needs a villian this one has two what fun. The characters problems are the villains and insecurity. Very enjoyable read thanks.
Just what I needed a sweet romance. The characters are very interesting and likable. Every story needs a villian this one has two what fun. The characters problems are the villains and insecurity. Very enjoyable read thanks.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews