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It's Complicated #2
Never Fall for Your Enemy
Three things I know for sure:
1) I hate Charles Cavendish.
2) I hate Charles Cavendish.
3) Oh, and did I mention I hate Charles Cavendish?
Rich. Over-privileged. Smug. The guy’s far too good looking for his own good, and he’s always got that smirk teasing at the edges of his mouth, telling me what he thinks of me.
And now, my worst nightmare has come true.
Charles Cavendish has moved into my building which means I can’t avoid seeing him everywhere I go. He’s always there, judging me, especially when I come in late at night. Hey, I can’t help it if my “single American girl in London” writing gig means I’ve got to check out every new club in town. Charles is so tightly wound he goes to work before the birds have chirped their first good morning.
He needs to loosen up. Live a little. Actually, I don’t care what he does, just as long as he does it nowhere near me. Because I hate him with the heat of a thousand suns. And I always will.
Only now I’m stuck in an elevator with him.
On Christmas Eve.
Alone.
What’s the worst that could happen?
Never Fall for Your Enemy (especially not at Christmas) is a clean, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy with a smart and sassy American heroine and a swoon-worthy British hero. It’s the second book in the It’s Complicated series and can easily be read as a standalone novel. It is a spin-off of the Love Manor romantic comedy series.
1) I hate Charles Cavendish.
2) I hate Charles Cavendish.
3) Oh, and did I mention I hate Charles Cavendish?
Rich. Over-privileged. Smug. The guy’s far too good looking for his own good, and he’s always got that smirk teasing at the edges of his mouth, telling me what he thinks of me.
And now, my worst nightmare has come true.
Charles Cavendish has moved into my building which means I can’t avoid seeing him everywhere I go. He’s always there, judging me, especially when I come in late at night. Hey, I can’t help it if my “single American girl in London” writing gig means I’ve got to check out every new club in town. Charles is so tightly wound he goes to work before the birds have chirped their first good morning.
He needs to loosen up. Live a little. Actually, I don’t care what he does, just as long as he does it nowhere near me. Because I hate him with the heat of a thousand suns. And I always will.
Only now I’m stuck in an elevator with him.
On Christmas Eve.
Alone.
What’s the worst that could happen?
Never Fall for Your Enemy (especially not at Christmas) is a clean, laugh-out-loud romantic comedy with a smart and sassy American heroine and a swoon-worthy British hero. It’s the second book in the It’s Complicated series and can easily be read as a standalone novel. It is a spin-off of the Love Manor romantic comedy series.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 26, 2021
447 people are currently reading
1428 people want to read
About the author
Kate O'Keeffe
66 books851 followersKate O'Keeffe is a USA TODAY bestselling and award-winning author who writes exactly what she loves to read: laugh-out-loud romantic comedies with swoon-worthy heroes and gorgeous feel-good happily ever afters. She lives and loves in beautiful Hawke's Bay, New Zealand with her family and two scruffy but loveable dogs.
When she's not penning her latest story, Kate can be found hiking up hills (slowly), traveling to different countries around the globe (back when we used to be able to do that), and eating chocolate. A lot of it.
Get a free book when you sign up to Kate's newsletter at kateokeeffe.com.
When she's not penning her latest story, Kate can be found hiking up hills (slowly), traveling to different countries around the globe (back when we used to be able to do that), and eating chocolate. A lot of it.
Get a free book when you sign up to Kate's newsletter at kateokeeffe.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 205 reviews
March 24, 2022
Now, I like Never Fall for Your Enemy very much. Much much better than the first book in this series. Charles and Kennedy certainly have chemistry. I wish I can see more Charles in the story or maybe his POV.
Kennedy is just having one of those day where her lucks run out. Her move to England on the whim, brought her to Charles. They had blind date once and ended up in disaster.
The enemy lover romance is one of my favorite. Miss O' Keeffe done it right this time. I can not help smiling and smirking while listening to the audiobook. The plot is not too heavy. It has some comedy into it. I think Never Fall for Your Enemy is more chick lit because it focuses more on Kennedy's character.
Overall, I was entertained.
4 stars
Kennedy is just having one of those day where her lucks run out. Her move to England on the whim, brought her to Charles. They had blind date once and ended up in disaster.
The enemy lover romance is one of my favorite. Miss O' Keeffe done it right this time. I can not help smiling and smirking while listening to the audiobook. The plot is not too heavy. It has some comedy into it. I think Never Fall for Your Enemy is more chick lit because it focuses more on Kennedy's character.
Overall, I was entertained.
4 stars
August 4, 2022
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Trope: Enemies-to-Lovers
Story: Kennedy Bennett is an American working in London on a working visa. She first met Charles Cavendish on a blind date arranged by her friends. Although she found him attractive, their personalities clashed and the date did not end on a good note. At the same time, Kennedy was having problems with her roommate when an amazing opportunity was presented on her lap to house sit for a famous influencer in posh Notting Hill. To her surprise, she found out her neighbor upstairs is none other than Charles Cavendish.
Likes:
👍 Setting was really cool. Made me wish I lived in London.
👍 Supporting characters were hilarious and endearing.
👍 The conflict between the main couple which happened after they have gotten together managed to tug at my heartstrings. I really related to Kennedy at this moment.
👍 There is a cute but crazy dog in this novel which is always a plus.
Dislikes:
👎 Even though it took a while for the main couple to actually get together, when they did it still felt kind of sudden. It was like they went from hating each other to can't get enough of each other after just one minor incident.
👎 The portrayal of the influencer was so over-the-top that I found myself rolling my eyes.
👎 Kennedy’s dating escapades were kind of cringe.
👎 This was very vanilla. I wish there was a little bit more steam. It's not realistic that these are attractive, single people and all they seem to do is hang out and kiss.
Final Verdict:
This was a really cute, feel-good romance and I quickly flew through it. I didn't read the other novels in this fictional world, which I feel you don't need to, but it would probably help to get a better grasp of the other supporting characters.
Trope: Enemies-to-Lovers
Story: Kennedy Bennett is an American working in London on a working visa. She first met Charles Cavendish on a blind date arranged by her friends. Although she found him attractive, their personalities clashed and the date did not end on a good note. At the same time, Kennedy was having problems with her roommate when an amazing opportunity was presented on her lap to house sit for a famous influencer in posh Notting Hill. To her surprise, she found out her neighbor upstairs is none other than Charles Cavendish.
Likes:
👍 Setting was really cool. Made me wish I lived in London.
👍 Supporting characters were hilarious and endearing.
👍 The conflict between the main couple which happened after they have gotten together managed to tug at my heartstrings. I really related to Kennedy at this moment.
👍 There is a cute but crazy dog in this novel which is always a plus.
Dislikes:
👎 Even though it took a while for the main couple to actually get together, when they did it still felt kind of sudden. It was like they went from hating each other to can't get enough of each other after just one minor incident.
👎 The portrayal of the influencer was so over-the-top that I found myself rolling my eyes.
👎 Kennedy’s dating escapades were kind of cringe.
👎 This was very vanilla. I wish there was a little bit more steam. It's not realistic that these are attractive, single people and all they seem to do is hang out and kiss.
Final Verdict:
This was a really cute, feel-good romance and I quickly flew through it. I didn't read the other novels in this fictional world, which I feel you don't need to, but it would probably help to get a better grasp of the other supporting characters.
August 4, 2022
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 (4.5)
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
When Kennedy Bennett first met Charlie Cavendish, they had amazing chemistry. Then she found out he was just like her ex-boyfriend- a stuck-up, rich guy who would never understand someone like her. Now Kennedy finds herself living in the same building as Charlie and unable to avoid his presence. As their paths cross more and more, Kennedy starts to see that maybe her initial impression of Charlie was wrong. And his good looks certainly aren't helping her determination to hate him. Could Charlie actually be a guy worth Kennedy's time?
This book had so much to love! I liked getting to see the blind date that went bad between Charlie and Kennedy. It really set the stage for everything. The forced proximity of living in the same building provided for some nice moments in which Kennedy gets glimpses of who Charlie really is, and I absolutely loved The Ducks- their gossiping and meddling elderly neighbors. Of course, we get lots of great interactions between Kennedy and her friends who are featured in each book in this series. They're such a lovable friend group! Some other great moments in the book included a Rocky Horror Picture Show theme party and the infamous Lady Moo- a crazy dog that Kennedy is pet sitting. When Charlie and Kennedy finally resolve their past issues, the romance really kicks in. That first kiss was so satisfying! And I loved Charlie's New Year's surprise for Kennedy. I thought the conflict at the end played out well, and I liked how they communicated in the moment as well as how everything was resolved in the end. Charlie and Kennedy were just too adorable, and I hope to get more glimpses of them in the next two books!
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
When Kennedy Bennett first met Charlie Cavendish, they had amazing chemistry. Then she found out he was just like her ex-boyfriend- a stuck-up, rich guy who would never understand someone like her. Now Kennedy finds herself living in the same building as Charlie and unable to avoid his presence. As their paths cross more and more, Kennedy starts to see that maybe her initial impression of Charlie was wrong. And his good looks certainly aren't helping her determination to hate him. Could Charlie actually be a guy worth Kennedy's time?
This book had so much to love! I liked getting to see the blind date that went bad between Charlie and Kennedy. It really set the stage for everything. The forced proximity of living in the same building provided for some nice moments in which Kennedy gets glimpses of who Charlie really is, and I absolutely loved The Ducks- their gossiping and meddling elderly neighbors. Of course, we get lots of great interactions between Kennedy and her friends who are featured in each book in this series. They're such a lovable friend group! Some other great moments in the book included a Rocky Horror Picture Show theme party and the infamous Lady Moo- a crazy dog that Kennedy is pet sitting. When Charlie and Kennedy finally resolve their past issues, the romance really kicks in. That first kiss was so satisfying! And I loved Charlie's New Year's surprise for Kennedy. I thought the conflict at the end played out well, and I liked how they communicated in the moment as well as how everything was resolved in the end. Charlie and Kennedy were just too adorable, and I hope to get more glimpses of them in the next two books!
December 21, 2024
So from the very start she meets the hero and although they seem to hit it off she's offended because the hero assumes that she doesn't know polo (a fair assumption as she's from another country) which wasn't maliciously intended and all that spirals in her mind and decides that he's a jerk like her ex. Even though the hero was polite and not condescending.
Anyway I believe that the author aimed for slow burn but in my opinion it had unnecessary scenes.
Overall it was ok, even though I didn't like the heroine.
Anyway I believe that the author aimed for slow burn but in my opinion it had unnecessary scenes.
Overall it was ok, even though I didn't like the heroine.
July 20, 2022
This book was one of my biggest letdowns recently, mostly because I had high expectations. And the only reason…seriously, ONLY reason was Kennedy.
The premise of the story was fine, and I enjoyed the secondary characters, primarily the Ducks. I also really liked Charles. To be honest, I was rooting for him to find someone, anyone, but Kennedy. He was charming, easygoing, and patient. He had loads of potential to be great.
Kennedy was the absolute downfall - one of the shittiest heroines I’ve read about. She has a massive chip on her shoulder because of her ex and she just hasn’t moved on. She checks his social media DAILY. Girl, move on. Its been two years. She meets Charlie and since he is rich and handsome, she assumes he must be an asshole like her ex and treats him like crap. She gets offended when he asks if she understands polo…but she doesn’t, so what did he do wrong exactly? At every turn, she snaps at him, misconstrues what he says and runs hot and cold. And he patiently puts up with her shit. Then there is a big misunderstanding at the end and she flips on him…but did she really expect him to break workplace confidentiality for someone he’s been dating for a few weeks? She wanted to be put first before his father and job. Why? It’s unreasonable!! And then it was resolved by a simple apology. The whole thing was just bizarrely wrapped up and felt off. Oh, and she calls him “dude” all the time. My guess is the author was trying to Americanize her speech, but a 30 year old doesn’t walk around saying “dude” to love interests.
As crappy as she was, this also really suffered by not having the two main characters have more time together in the first 60%. By the half way point they have had 3 interactions…all very short. Most of the novel is about her crappy job, friends and apartment. And the stories/chapters about the dog? I assume they were meant to be funny but they were annoying and I found it ridiculous. This is not a rom com in the least.
I suspect this was meant to be a slow burn, but without time together there isn’t really a burn. It was just slow and boring.
The premise of the story was fine, and I enjoyed the secondary characters, primarily the Ducks. I also really liked Charles. To be honest, I was rooting for him to find someone, anyone, but Kennedy. He was charming, easygoing, and patient. He had loads of potential to be great.
Kennedy was the absolute downfall - one of the shittiest heroines I’ve read about. She has a massive chip on her shoulder because of her ex and she just hasn’t moved on. She checks his social media DAILY. Girl, move on. Its been two years. She meets Charlie and since he is rich and handsome, she assumes he must be an asshole like her ex and treats him like crap. She gets offended when he asks if she understands polo…but she doesn’t, so what did he do wrong exactly? At every turn, she snaps at him, misconstrues what he says and runs hot and cold. And he patiently puts up with her shit. Then there is a big misunderstanding at the end and she flips on him…but did she really expect him to break workplace confidentiality for someone he’s been dating for a few weeks? She wanted to be put first before his father and job. Why? It’s unreasonable!! And then it was resolved by a simple apology. The whole thing was just bizarrely wrapped up and felt off. Oh, and she calls him “dude” all the time. My guess is the author was trying to Americanize her speech, but a 30 year old doesn’t walk around saying “dude” to love interests.
As crappy as she was, this also really suffered by not having the two main characters have more time together in the first 60%. By the half way point they have had 3 interactions…all very short. Most of the novel is about her crappy job, friends and apartment. And the stories/chapters about the dog? I assume they were meant to be funny but they were annoying and I found it ridiculous. This is not a rom com in the least.
I suspect this was meant to be a slow burn, but without time together there isn’t really a burn. It was just slow and boring.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2021
A mug of Christmas holiday cheer! Some witty banter, light on the sexual atmosphere and two main characters I could take or leave. Just an average quick holiday read.
March 16, 2022
After reading the first in this series and bumping into Kennedy & Charlie I was so excited to see their story unfold. I especially wanted to know the reason for Kennedy’s hostility toward him. When I finished the epilogue, my hopes and excitement were dashed into a pit of disappointment.
When Kenny & Charlie first met she was overly judgmental and literally nit-picked at everything he did and said. I get that she had a bad experience with her rich/privileged ex. But after discovering that Charlie was ridiculously wealthy, she just projected her negative feelings for her ex onto him, which was not only annoying but also unfair. What irritated me even more was the fact that she called Charles judgey when really she was the only one exhibiting that quality. She also overacted/jumped to conclusions for literally everything.
While Charlie was sweet he could not carry this story alone. The romance was boring, their chemistry was non existent and they got together too quickly. I skimmed a lot. The only thing I enjoyed was seeing Zara, Asher and the rest of the gang again.
Content: Clean
When Kenny & Charlie first met she was overly judgmental and literally nit-picked at everything he did and said. I get that she had a bad experience with her rich/privileged ex. But after discovering that Charlie was ridiculously wealthy, she just projected her negative feelings for her ex onto him, which was not only annoying but also unfair. What irritated me even more was the fact that she called Charles judgey when really she was the only one exhibiting that quality. She also overacted/jumped to conclusions for literally everything.
While Charlie was sweet he could not carry this story alone. The romance was boring, their chemistry was non existent and they got together too quickly. I skimmed a lot. The only thing I enjoyed was seeing Zara, Asher and the rest of the gang again.
Content: Clean
July 29, 2022
Ever since Kennedy met Charlie, they have had a enemy-ish situation going on. In her defense she did like him but that was before she found he was just like any other rich-stuck up guy. So when fate brings them closer everytime, their hate relationship blooms into something more.
My 2nd Christmas in July book & what a delight this was. I'm a big fan of Kate's writing, which always has its own charm.
Kennedy & Charlie's banter was too enjoyable. I loved their relationship progress with has a very exciting lift moment.
The book is filled with so many hilarious moments such as matchmaking neighbors, dog named Lady Moo, & what not.
Loved the friendship group & ye satisfying romance between the 2. Can't wait for more in the series.
My 2nd Christmas in July book & what a delight this was. I'm a big fan of Kate's writing, which always has its own charm.
Kennedy & Charlie's banter was too enjoyable. I loved their relationship progress with has a very exciting lift moment.
The book is filled with so many hilarious moments such as matchmaking neighbors, dog named Lady Moo, & what not.
Loved the friendship group & ye satisfying romance between the 2. Can't wait for more in the series.
January 10, 2024
Gave me butterflies!
Ahhh I ADORED this! I haven’t had butterflies like this in a long time and the sweetness of this story made me feel as if I was falling in love for the first time again! That first kiss scene was perfection and I will be thinking of it on replay every day for a long time!
Ahhh I ADORED this! I haven’t had butterflies like this in a long time and the sweetness of this story made me feel as if I was falling in love for the first time again! That first kiss scene was perfection and I will be thinking of it on replay every day for a long time!
October 27, 2021
I received a copy from Hidden Gems; this is my honest review. DNF 58%
-Too much drama, immaturity, false impressions, bigotry and the likes. The offenses are all in her head and I just got tired of her stupidity.
-If your dog is being banned from pet stores, maybe it's time to get it some training. You have no right to change the dog's name - it's not yours. Also, dogs don't hear their names properly, just the sound like an homonym and Lady M and Lady Moo don't sound the same so the dog shouldn't answer to it.
-Any chapters with Penelope's Pooches are a treat in itself.
-Charlie is a gentleman, fun to be around, sensible, and didn't like to talk about the family business nor the family estates.
-Please use big words the correct way. Wherewithal means money and she's talking about taking out the eyes from the dog's poop. I'm not sure what she meant to say.
-Kennedy keeps going on and on and on about her father being a construction worker and her mother is a cleaning lady.
Kennedy is too quick to judge: "rubs his privilege in your face" - He keeps downsizing it. She thinks Charlie is condescending; I think she's the one who's it. "show a row of straight, orthodontically perfect teeth". Many people have those naturally. "I've learned something ... clearly doesn't have a life at all". Where did she get that? He keeps saying he has (office) work to do.
But she's also an hypocrite: "I let out a contended sigh. This place ... whole lot fancier ... starting to feel like home.". "which we both know ..." add anything here; she assumes everything and always wrong about it.
-Then we have Edina who would loose her job if people knew what she was asking of Kennedy. You cannot force your employee to go on blind dates and get to tell about them. What's next? One night stands?
-I had to LOL on this one because she truly believes herself and yet she is wrong: "I'm a journalist. I can sniff out a fake story a hundred yards away." She's wrong again with her journalist nose expertise later on too. My second LOL is when she says he's enjoying her humiliation - it wasn't even humiliating!!!
-If Kennedy needed help with her relationship it's probably because, instead of discussing the problems, she answers "you know why". Who's a mind reader here? No one.
-Too much drama, immaturity, false impressions, bigotry and the likes. The offenses are all in her head and I just got tired of her stupidity.
-If your dog is being banned from pet stores, maybe it's time to get it some training. You have no right to change the dog's name - it's not yours. Also, dogs don't hear their names properly, just the sound like an homonym and Lady M and Lady Moo don't sound the same so the dog shouldn't answer to it.
-Any chapters with Penelope's Pooches are a treat in itself.
-Charlie is a gentleman, fun to be around, sensible, and didn't like to talk about the family business nor the family estates.
-Please use big words the correct way. Wherewithal means money and she's talking about taking out the eyes from the dog's poop. I'm not sure what she meant to say.
-Kennedy keeps going on and on and on about her father being a construction worker and her mother is a cleaning lady.
Kennedy is too quick to judge: "rubs his privilege in your face" - He keeps downsizing it. She thinks Charlie is condescending; I think she's the one who's it. "show a row of straight, orthodontically perfect teeth". Many people have those naturally. "I've learned something ... clearly doesn't have a life at all". Where did she get that? He keeps saying he has (office) work to do.
But she's also an hypocrite: "I let out a contended sigh. This place ... whole lot fancier ... starting to feel like home.". "which we both know ..." add anything here; she assumes everything and always wrong about it.
-Then we have Edina who would loose her job if people knew what she was asking of Kennedy. You cannot force your employee to go on blind dates and get to tell about them. What's next? One night stands?
-I had to LOL on this one because she truly believes herself and yet she is wrong: "I'm a journalist. I can sniff out a fake story a hundred yards away." She's wrong again with her journalist nose expertise later on too. My second LOL is when she says he's enjoying her humiliation - it wasn't even humiliating!!!
-If Kennedy needed help with her relationship it's probably because, instead of discussing the problems, she answers "you know why". Who's a mind reader here? No one.
December 4, 2021
3.5-4 Cute Holiday Chick Lit
Plot: Kennedy has a grudge against rich men after a bad experience with an ex. Being set up on a date with silver spoon Charlie obviously does not go well. However, Charlie is not her ex. She finds this out when they become neighbors and slowly falls for the man she thought represented all that she hated.
Things I liked:
1. the Ducks- this is the group of gossiping older women in their building. Adored them. They added more color and humor.
2. Lady Moo- the dog's Winnie the Pooh fetish just added the random details a story needs to personalize it.
3. The cow udder robe. Enough said.
4. Carl/Rocky- their first date sounded fun, and what happens after had me literally laughing out loud.
5. Lottie. The museum quirk was interesting! And her hopefulness to snag her dream guy. I'm excited to read her book next.
Things that Didn't Work:
1. There wasn't enough fire between the two. Kennedy had it, but was basically shooting shots at a brick wall. It was obvious Charlie always liked her and any time he offended her was accidental. It didn't contribute to the enemies to lovers troupe I love. Kennedy just seemed hung up and overly dramatic out of almost nowhere.
2. Charlie. He was a lot boring. And their alone time and the way they texted didn't mesh well with who he was. The usage of BFF and XOXO didn't seem real. His character was kind of all over, not dynamic or well-formed.
3. Everything that happened after they got together. I was bored. And the twist they used has been done a lot before and didn't expand the story enough because it happened and was done with so fast.
I still did enjoy this. I would look forward to their interactions, Kennedy's work assignments and her gaggle of gal pals. It was cute, just not great. Ess about the romance/romcom, more a piece of cute chick lit.
Plot: Kennedy has a grudge against rich men after a bad experience with an ex. Being set up on a date with silver spoon Charlie obviously does not go well. However, Charlie is not her ex. She finds this out when they become neighbors and slowly falls for the man she thought represented all that she hated.
Things I liked:
1. the Ducks- this is the group of gossiping older women in their building. Adored them. They added more color and humor.
2. Lady Moo- the dog's Winnie the Pooh fetish just added the random details a story needs to personalize it.
3. The cow udder robe. Enough said.
4. Carl/Rocky- their first date sounded fun, and what happens after had me literally laughing out loud.
5. Lottie. The museum quirk was interesting! And her hopefulness to snag her dream guy. I'm excited to read her book next.
Things that Didn't Work:
1. There wasn't enough fire between the two. Kennedy had it, but was basically shooting shots at a brick wall. It was obvious Charlie always liked her and any time he offended her was accidental. It didn't contribute to the enemies to lovers troupe I love. Kennedy just seemed hung up and overly dramatic out of almost nowhere.
2. Charlie. He was a lot boring. And their alone time and the way they texted didn't mesh well with who he was. The usage of BFF and XOXO didn't seem real. His character was kind of all over, not dynamic or well-formed.
3. Everything that happened after they got together. I was bored. And the twist they used has been done a lot before and didn't expand the story enough because it happened and was done with so fast.
I still did enjoy this. I would look forward to their interactions, Kennedy's work assignments and her gaggle of gal pals. It was cute, just not great. Ess about the romance/romcom, more a piece of cute chick lit.
November 2, 2021
The sparks that have sizzled between Charlie and Kennedy from the first moment we saw them on the page together have made me desperate to know how their story would turn out. This is, and yet isn’t, what I was expecting their story to be. The Kennedy I thought I had gotten to know in the previous books, both in this and the Love Manor series, was a little different than the woman I saw featured between these covers. I have to say, I wasn’t her biggest fan for most of this book. Mind you, Charlie wasn’t always number one on my ‘favorite people’ list either, so I’d say they balanced each other out that way. Their journey from enemies to lovers is filled with miscommunication and missteps. There’s also plenty of outlandish situations and hilarity along the way. Now that I finally know what Kennedy’s happy ever after looks like, I’m more than ready to turn my attention to the next member of the London Babes to find her forever.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Booksprout.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book through Booksprout.
March 4, 2022
may be great
But it wasn’t by the 50% point. That’s chapter 12, if you’re counting.
So far, our assumed H, and h, have had-maybe-half a dozen short, snippy conversations. Snippy particularly on the part of the h.
The H seems amenable to moving on. The h seems more inclined to hold a grudge.
Mostly though, it’s been inane, childish conversations between a nearly 30 year old adult, and her equally mature friends. Except the conversations are more the kind one may overhear in a middle school cafeteria.
Silly, childish, and too slow moving to hold my interest any longer, I’m closing it, and moving on.
But it wasn’t by the 50% point. That’s chapter 12, if you’re counting.
So far, our assumed H, and h, have had-maybe-half a dozen short, snippy conversations. Snippy particularly on the part of the h.
The H seems amenable to moving on. The h seems more inclined to hold a grudge.
Mostly though, it’s been inane, childish conversations between a nearly 30 year old adult, and her equally mature friends. Except the conversations are more the kind one may overhear in a middle school cafeteria.
Silly, childish, and too slow moving to hold my interest any longer, I’m closing it, and moving on.
November 29, 2021
DNF 36% boring
December 29, 2023
Move over Mr. Darcy...Mr. Cavendish is in town!
This was my first read by this author and it was a TON of fun! If you love extremely witty banter, this is a book for you. There are laugh-out-loud moments right from page one.
Kennedy is an almost 30-year-old American woman working for a magazine in London. Her friends try and set her up with the rich and dashing Charlie Cavendish, but Kennedy immediately writes him off when she assumes his wealth represents all the things she hated about her previous failed relationship with a wealthy man. Charlie is clearly not going to be easily removed from her life as we soon find out. Kennedy takes on a long-term house-sitting job in a high-end building only to realize that Charlie is living in the flat directly above hers. He continues to pursue her and man oh man did I love his cool and collected responses to all of Kennedy’s sarcasm. This Brit had my heart! And with a name like Cavendish, how could he not? (swoon) LOL
Aside from her unexpected discovery of Mr. Cavendish living in the same building, she is simultaneously overwhelmed by a group of neighborly old ladies who aren’t at all hesitant in playing matchmaker.
Take all these already awesome components of a story and throw in a crazy little dog with an unhealthy Winnie the Pooh obsession. Or how about a crazy blind date involving a grown man with an unhealthy obsession with gold shorts and a blond wig!? Oh yes, you heard me right. HaHa
Ultimately a great lesson on teaching us not to assume and jump to conclusions of others. Comedic chaos plus a clean and closed-door romance makes for a fantastic read. I look forward to discovering even more from Kate O’Keeffe.
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This was my first read by this author and it was a TON of fun! If you love extremely witty banter, this is a book for you. There are laugh-out-loud moments right from page one.
Kennedy is an almost 30-year-old American woman working for a magazine in London. Her friends try and set her up with the rich and dashing Charlie Cavendish, but Kennedy immediately writes him off when she assumes his wealth represents all the things she hated about her previous failed relationship with a wealthy man. Charlie is clearly not going to be easily removed from her life as we soon find out. Kennedy takes on a long-term house-sitting job in a high-end building only to realize that Charlie is living in the flat directly above hers. He continues to pursue her and man oh man did I love his cool and collected responses to all of Kennedy’s sarcasm. This Brit had my heart! And with a name like Cavendish, how could he not? (swoon) LOL
Aside from her unexpected discovery of Mr. Cavendish living in the same building, she is simultaneously overwhelmed by a group of neighborly old ladies who aren’t at all hesitant in playing matchmaker.
Take all these already awesome components of a story and throw in a crazy little dog with an unhealthy Winnie the Pooh obsession. Or how about a crazy blind date involving a grown man with an unhealthy obsession with gold shorts and a blond wig!? Oh yes, you heard me right. HaHa
Ultimately a great lesson on teaching us not to assume and jump to conclusions of others. Comedic chaos plus a clean and closed-door romance makes for a fantastic read. I look forward to discovering even more from Kate O’Keeffe.
For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Bookstagram at: aliciasbooksanctuary
December 8, 2022
i absolutely loved the enemies to lovers vibes in this book!!
kennedy has really intrigued me since i read the previous book and i loved reading her point of view. She’s easy going and her personality is everything!! The chemistry between Charles and Kennedy is also just written really well. Their moments catch your attention quickly and make you look forward to them.
Overall I’m loving these books and the characters. The story flows great and the characters are all so interesting.
kennedy has really intrigued me since i read the previous book and i loved reading her point of view. She’s easy going and her personality is everything!! The chemistry between Charles and Kennedy is also just written really well. Their moments catch your attention quickly and make you look forward to them.
Overall I’m loving these books and the characters. The story flows great and the characters are all so interesting.
November 2, 2021
I was really excited to finally read Kennedy's story. Charlie is the sweetest and I really liked his character. Kenney was very stubborn and I kept wanting to tell her to lay her past behind and see Charlie for who he really was. Once they had their elevator moment for me, I completely loved the last half of the book.
This is a clean romance with some great kissing.
This is a clean romance with some great kissing.
December 13, 2022
uhh honestly didnt vibe with me that well. didn't like the writing style and the plot was wayyyy too rushed throughout. fav character - Miss Moo (the dog). Or Barbara and the ducks (Old ladies not actual ducks). The characters could have been fun if explored more but they weren't. wayy too fastpaced.
December 20, 2023
Cute, fun and funny, this was a satisfying romance, especially being set during the holidays. Aside from Lady Moo and the ducks, though, there wasn’t much that makes it stand out from others in the genre.
August 2, 2023
Cute ! Love a holiday enemies to lovers read
December 24, 2023
3.5⭐️
October 26, 2021
The book is well written and not graphic (which I did like), just not my preferred type of heroine. There were some funny situations in there as well with the dog.
November 12, 2021
3.5/5 stars (rounded up to 4)
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Before I get into my review, I want to start off by saying that this is the first book I've read from this author, so I was not familiar with these characters like other readers were. This book reads like a stand-alone so it wasn't necessary to read the other books, but I might have been more attached to the story if I had read the previous books.
Kennedy moves into a new apartment, only to find out that the guy who lives above her is none other than Charlie Cavendish. Kennedy and Charlie had previously gone on a blind date that did not end well and haven't spoken to each other since. When they end up stuck in an elevator together on Christmas Eve, the two are forced to deal with each other for a while. However, Charlie might not be as terrible as Kennedy thinks he is.
I thought this was a cute story! I especially loved the side characters, including the gossipy old ladies who lived in the building and Lady Moo! The story itself was enjoyable, and I think it would make an excellent read for a romance lover looking for a cute Christmas love story!
My main problem was Kennedy herself. I didn't really care for her that much. Charlie, on the other hand, was a character I really enjoyed and I think Kennedy gave him a hard time for no reason at the beginning. My thoughts on Kennedy might have been different if I read the other books she was in, but based on this book alone, I just didn't like her.
Contemporary romance fans, if you're looking for a cute Christmas read (which is also clean!), this is one I suggest checking out! It instantly made me wish I was spending Christmas in London!
I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Before I get into my review, I want to start off by saying that this is the first book I've read from this author, so I was not familiar with these characters like other readers were. This book reads like a stand-alone so it wasn't necessary to read the other books, but I might have been more attached to the story if I had read the previous books.
Kennedy moves into a new apartment, only to find out that the guy who lives above her is none other than Charlie Cavendish. Kennedy and Charlie had previously gone on a blind date that did not end well and haven't spoken to each other since. When they end up stuck in an elevator together on Christmas Eve, the two are forced to deal with each other for a while. However, Charlie might not be as terrible as Kennedy thinks he is.
I thought this was a cute story! I especially loved the side characters, including the gossipy old ladies who lived in the building and Lady Moo! The story itself was enjoyable, and I think it would make an excellent read for a romance lover looking for a cute Christmas love story!
My main problem was Kennedy herself. I didn't really care for her that much. Charlie, on the other hand, was a character I really enjoyed and I think Kennedy gave him a hard time for no reason at the beginning. My thoughts on Kennedy might have been different if I read the other books she was in, but based on this book alone, I just didn't like her.
Contemporary romance fans, if you're looking for a cute Christmas read (which is also clean!), this is one I suggest checking out! It instantly made me wish I was spending Christmas in London!
November 11, 2023
It's been a long time since I've read a book where the "heroine" is this unlikable. Kennedy has massive self esteem issues that she takes out on a perfectly nice guy who made one unfortunate comment. Rather than giving him the benefit of the doubt, waiting to see if it was a one off or pattern, she jumps to the worst conclusion and spends the next 60-75% of the book being rude, judgemental and righteously indignant. Also, despite living in London, she argues that the American terms are the "correct" terms - it's a minor issue, but bugs me as playing into the "ugly American" stereotype.
Even when he apologizes and she admits maybe she maybe some assumptions, it doesn't take anything at all for her to jump right back into self imposed victimhood. She expects Charlie to completely understand her needs and feeling at all times (even if he's completely unaware of her issues, such as when they meet) but has no empathy for Charlie.
There are some great supporting characters, and Penelope's Pooches is amazing! Beyond that, I've never been happier to hear "The End"
Even when he apologizes and she admits maybe she maybe some assumptions, it doesn't take anything at all for her to jump right back into self imposed victimhood. She expects Charlie to completely understand her needs and feeling at all times (even if he's completely unaware of her issues, such as when they meet) but has no empathy for Charlie.
There are some great supporting characters, and Penelope's Pooches is amazing! Beyond that, I've never been happier to hear "The End"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2022
2.5 stars. The scenes with Charlie and Kennedy were so well done—super cute and swoony. I have all the heart eyes... But the rest of the book was hard to get through.
The Longer Take
The neighbors tried to be charming but mostly annoyed me, and there are a lot of digressions about the dog. (This is the same as in the prequel; and again it was hard to figure out what to think. Like, most of the dog scenes seem to be a satire of dogs and dog lovers—but that seems like it might be awkward since so many scenes are about the dog? A reader who loves dogs might like reading a book that talks about dogs so much, but then she might also be offended at how dogs and dog lovers are portrayed?) I also found the tone a little too preachy when it came to British English vs. American English. The author has clearly spent time in the UK, but the tone got to be burdensome. Too bad, really, because I just loved Charlie and Kennedy.
The Longer Take
The neighbors tried to be charming but mostly annoyed me, and there are a lot of digressions about the dog. (This is the same as in the prequel; and again it was hard to figure out what to think. Like, most of the dog scenes seem to be a satire of dogs and dog lovers—but that seems like it might be awkward since so many scenes are about the dog? A reader who loves dogs might like reading a book that talks about dogs so much, but then she might also be offended at how dogs and dog lovers are portrayed?) I also found the tone a little too preachy when it came to British English vs. American English. The author has clearly spent time in the UK, but the tone got to be burdensome. Too bad, really, because I just loved Charlie and Kennedy.
December 12, 2023
I got about 20% of the way through this story and just couldn't keep reading as one of the main characters was just so ridiculous. It seems so unrealistic to judge every guy based on the one who dropped her for someone else, assuming any guy who has money will treat her the same way. Like when she met Charlie and almost from the start took a snarky attitude with her. And she checks her ex's social media account EVERY day for the past 2 years-what is she, a glutton for punishment? Kennedy seemed to basically not like what her life was like yet not really do anything about it except to move from California to London for a job to get away from her ex and his new love. I guess for me most of the story had to with things other than the romance, so it felt kind of rushed when they did get together.
December 7, 2021
This was a fun enough read, but I most likely will not read it again. Kennedy comes off as immature for large chunks of the book to me, and, while she does have reasons for her issues, I feel like she is quick to come to conclusions and be immediately dismissive, especially on the blind date and later on for having only been in a relationship such a short period of time.
My sympathies and empathies lie with Charlie.
Hyper Lady Moo, the dog, is a fun and quirky addition and the busybody Ducks in the apartment building are definitely a humorous highlight.
There is a cavalier reference to Anne Frank that I feel like is in poor taste. I feel like in 2021, people should know better than to make comments like that.
My sympathies and empathies lie with Charlie.
Hyper Lady Moo, the dog, is a fun and quirky addition and the busybody Ducks in the apartment building are definitely a humorous highlight.
There is a cavalier reference to Anne Frank that I feel like is in poor taste. I feel like in 2021, people should know better than to make comments like that.
October 30, 2021
**I received a copy from Hidden Gems in exchange for my review. **
This book was a typical light hearted romance that followed all the stereotypical tropes of this genre. If you are looking for a warm comfort read you have found it. I have rated this book 3 stars as I personally disliked the main character and found her to have few redeeming qualities and in fact showcased the qualities she accused her main love interest of exhibiting and thus causing her “hatred” of him. I found this book to be very predictable and a bit flat emotionally. However, if what you want is a feel good book that has the happy ending and a cute dog to boot - well this book is for you.
This book was a typical light hearted romance that followed all the stereotypical tropes of this genre. If you are looking for a warm comfort read you have found it. I have rated this book 3 stars as I personally disliked the main character and found her to have few redeeming qualities and in fact showcased the qualities she accused her main love interest of exhibiting and thus causing her “hatred” of him. I found this book to be very predictable and a bit flat emotionally. However, if what you want is a feel good book that has the happy ending and a cute dog to boot - well this book is for you.
August 21, 2022
Overall I found this to be an enjoyable book. There were several parts that actually made me laugh out loud so that's a plus in the rom com department. It has the classic trope of the relationship imploding when one party doesn't want to listen to the other so they can't explain themselves or apologize so that's pretty predictable but at least it doesn't drag on forever. The parts with Carl had me dying. You'll have to read it to get it but he was something else. And it was so nice to see Kennedy find her HEA after first showing up in the Dating Mr. Darcy series and then finding her way to this series.
August 1, 2022
When the MCs met again, I was really excited about where the book seemed to be going, that scene was funny, there were charming extra characters, I could feel some kind of something between the MCs, so much potential. It’s not that the book crashed and burned, it’s more that it never really took off. I was almost an hour away from the end when the MCs got together and a lot of their relationship building was yadda yadda-ed over to get to the climax. This audiobook was over 9 hours long, how was only 1/4 of the story (and I’m being generous here) dedicated to the actual romancing? That’s obscene. What filled out all that other time? Honestly, I’m not sure because it wasn’t that interesting. There was a lot about the fem MC’s job, like a lot, which I know was part of the climax but still, we heard more about the articles she was writing than the male MC. And another large chunk was dedicated to the hijinx with and conversations between her and her friends that had fuck all to do with the romance itself. It wasn’t horrible to listen to, the writing was good, but I absolutely sped up the playback 0.5x. Even the narration was slowly paced.
I can easily say I didn’t like the fem MC. She was self-interested, immature, judgmental, had an inferiority complex (which is not necessarily a sin in and of itself, but made for nasty combinations when paired with a temper) and a bitch. As many enemies to lovers books as I’ve read, I’ve never come across one where the fem MC called the male MC an outright liar. Jesus. That’s harsh and unfounded. A quick Google fact check in the moment would have put those thoughts to rest before she fricken voiced them and made herself look like an ass. There were a couple other things she did that rubbed me the wrong way but I don’t remember them at the moment because it took me a while to finish this. Anywho, there were cute moments like her relationship with the dog, but the way she treated the male MC, then basically had a little over an hour (total) to not only mend fences but build a relationship and fall in love with the male MC was unbelievable.
The male MC didn’t have much depth to him. He was charming, don’t get me wrong, but the only thing I knew about him was he was handsome, dashing (which is virtually the same thing), a work-a-holic, a loyal son, and an exercise junkie. I didn’t really get a deep look into his character or how he was as a businessman. For all that working, who the hell knows what he did in his father’s company day-to-day other than jump when his dad said so.
This walking away in the middle of the climax conversation is starting to get on my nerves. Someone just walking away from you when you’re talking to them without a “I need to table this for now, give me a bit”, whether you were the one that fucked up or not, is incendiary for a lot of people (it would be for me, for sure) because it’s super disrespectful and not conducive to addressing the problem. By walking away, this fem MC is telling me she doesn’t want to fix the problem, or have any kind of resolution, whether that’s true or not, and that immediately makes me mad at her (at all romance characters who do it and don’t stay true to the “leave me the fuck alone and take a long walk off a short pier” vibe they give off). Walking away happens a lot in romance books, I would say it’s in a majority of the climaxes I read within the genre and that’s getting to be really annoying. What I wouldn’t give for an articulate, mature MC who can say “I can see what your intentions were (or can’t see, whichever really) but I hate how you went about it because xyz and I’m gonna need a bit to be alone to really process whether I want to continue in this relationship.” I’m not saying the fem MC in this book should have thought the climax event was a non-issue, just that she could have told him that his loyalty to his family, while generally would be a good thing, fucked over her life, and she’s worried about what he may do the next time his loyalty to his family and her interests are in opposite sides. It would also be great if romance MCs give the other person time to defend themselves, or respond at all before they make their grand exit. It’s not fair to drop an emotional bombshell while insisting someone else listen to your opinion without giving that same undivided attention to the other person, especially when it comes to topics that involve both people. All of this is said with the caveat that if the offender sincerely apologizes for the way they handled the conversation later, then all is good. Character flaws are real and okay with me, but there has to be growth and not just “a unicorn farted glitter all over the couple and now they both get along again and everything (all their, usually, valid issues with each other) is fine”.
I don’t know how I feel about the male MC offering to get the fem MC another job. I don’t know if I completely blame him for not telling the fem MC about the magazine getting axed in the first place, but their conversation about it could have been better.
All in all it was a well-written book and that’s about all I can say, as in the word choice was strong and the way things were described was solid. The author just lost me with everything else.
I can easily say I didn’t like the fem MC. She was self-interested, immature, judgmental, had an inferiority complex (which is not necessarily a sin in and of itself, but made for nasty combinations when paired with a temper) and a bitch. As many enemies to lovers books as I’ve read, I’ve never come across one where the fem MC called the male MC an outright liar. Jesus. That’s harsh and unfounded. A quick Google fact check in the moment would have put those thoughts to rest before she fricken voiced them and made herself look like an ass. There were a couple other things she did that rubbed me the wrong way but I don’t remember them at the moment because it took me a while to finish this. Anywho, there were cute moments like her relationship with the dog, but the way she treated the male MC, then basically had a little over an hour (total) to not only mend fences but build a relationship and fall in love with the male MC was unbelievable.
The male MC didn’t have much depth to him. He was charming, don’t get me wrong, but the only thing I knew about him was he was handsome, dashing (which is virtually the same thing), a work-a-holic, a loyal son, and an exercise junkie. I didn’t really get a deep look into his character or how he was as a businessman. For all that working, who the hell knows what he did in his father’s company day-to-day other than jump when his dad said so.
This walking away in the middle of the climax conversation is starting to get on my nerves. Someone just walking away from you when you’re talking to them without a “I need to table this for now, give me a bit”, whether you were the one that fucked up or not, is incendiary for a lot of people (it would be for me, for sure) because it’s super disrespectful and not conducive to addressing the problem. By walking away, this fem MC is telling me she doesn’t want to fix the problem, or have any kind of resolution, whether that’s true or not, and that immediately makes me mad at her (at all romance characters who do it and don’t stay true to the “leave me the fuck alone and take a long walk off a short pier” vibe they give off). Walking away happens a lot in romance books, I would say it’s in a majority of the climaxes I read within the genre and that’s getting to be really annoying. What I wouldn’t give for an articulate, mature MC who can say “I can see what your intentions were (or can’t see, whichever really) but I hate how you went about it because xyz and I’m gonna need a bit to be alone to really process whether I want to continue in this relationship.” I’m not saying the fem MC in this book should have thought the climax event was a non-issue, just that she could have told him that his loyalty to his family, while generally would be a good thing, fucked over her life, and she’s worried about what he may do the next time his loyalty to his family and her interests are in opposite sides. It would also be great if romance MCs give the other person time to defend themselves, or respond at all before they make their grand exit. It’s not fair to drop an emotional bombshell while insisting someone else listen to your opinion without giving that same undivided attention to the other person, especially when it comes to topics that involve both people. All of this is said with the caveat that if the offender sincerely apologizes for the way they handled the conversation later, then all is good. Character flaws are real and okay with me, but there has to be growth and not just “a unicorn farted glitter all over the couple and now they both get along again and everything (all their, usually, valid issues with each other) is fine”.
I don’t know how I feel about the male MC offering to get the fem MC another job. I don’t know if I completely blame him for not telling the fem MC about the magazine getting axed in the first place, but their conversation about it could have been better.
All in all it was a well-written book and that’s about all I can say, as in the word choice was strong and the way things were described was solid. The author just lost me with everything else.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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