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Meet Me #1
Winterwunderglitzern
Victoria liebt die gemütliche Straße voller kleiner Geschäfte und Restaurants, die ihr Zuhause ist. Irgendwann wird auch sie hier ihre selbst entworfenen Kleider verkaufen. Bis dahin arbeitet sie in einer kleinen Weinbar und spart, wo sie nur kann. Doch jetzt soll ausgerechnet hier ein Kaufhaus eröffnen, das alle Ladenbesitzer in Existenzangst versetzt – so kurz vor Weihnachten! Was sie brauchen, ist ein Wunder, das ist allen klar. Und dann begegnet Victoria Oliver Russell, und er macht ihr ein ungewöhnliches Angebot …
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2020
528 people are currently reading
15987 people want to read
About the author
Georgia Toffolo
10 books295 followersGeorgia Valerie Toffolo (born 23 October 1994),[2] also known as Toff, is a British media and television personality. She is best known for appearing on E4 reality television series Made in Chelsea from 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,338 reviews
December 11, 2020
Meet me in London by Georgia Toffolo is a 2020 Mills & Boon publication.
Delightful!
Victoria Scott works as a bartender in Chelsea, but aspires to have a career in fashion design, hoping to one day open her own boutique.
Life has thrown Victoria a couple of tough curves, plus, she’s recently gone through a painful breakup. Now her professional life could be at risk, too, due to the arrival of a new department store opening right at the end of her road.
Oliver is a workaholic under extreme pressure from his mother to get married. He doesn’t have time for romance, and so to get his mother off his back, he’s led her to believe he's seeing someone, but the problem is, his relentless mother is pressuring him to introduce this nonexistent girl to the family.
When Victoria and Oliver literally run into each other the encounter leads to a formal agreement between them- if Victoria will 'pretend' to be his 'temporary' girlfriend, he will help get her designs noticed.
Naturally, the arrangement hits a few snags- for starters, the couple really do have an undeniable chemistry which tempts them to remove the word ‘pretend’ from their arrangement. But, the ‘temporary’ part will arrive all too soon, and the last thing Victoria needs is another broken heart.
Yes, this is a very light contemporary romance, and the premise is not exactly original, but the characters and their poignant backstories give it just the right touch of warmth, emotion, and depth. The cover suggests a holiday theme, but it’s slight and runs in the background.
There is a very full cast of characters in this book- more than I am normally comfortable with, but the author balanced things quite well, and I’m thinking this book could be an anchor for subsequent installments, since Victoria has a few old friends who deserve a story of their own someday.
Overall, this a cute, sweet romance, easy to read, and yet another perfect, protective cocoon of distraction against all the distressing turmoil out there.
4 stars
Delightful!
Victoria Scott works as a bartender in Chelsea, but aspires to have a career in fashion design, hoping to one day open her own boutique.
Life has thrown Victoria a couple of tough curves, plus, she’s recently gone through a painful breakup. Now her professional life could be at risk, too, due to the arrival of a new department store opening right at the end of her road.
Oliver is a workaholic under extreme pressure from his mother to get married. He doesn’t have time for romance, and so to get his mother off his back, he’s led her to believe he's seeing someone, but the problem is, his relentless mother is pressuring him to introduce this nonexistent girl to the family.
When Victoria and Oliver literally run into each other the encounter leads to a formal agreement between them- if Victoria will 'pretend' to be his 'temporary' girlfriend, he will help get her designs noticed.
Naturally, the arrangement hits a few snags- for starters, the couple really do have an undeniable chemistry which tempts them to remove the word ‘pretend’ from their arrangement. But, the ‘temporary’ part will arrive all too soon, and the last thing Victoria needs is another broken heart.
Yes, this is a very light contemporary romance, and the premise is not exactly original, but the characters and their poignant backstories give it just the right touch of warmth, emotion, and depth. The cover suggests a holiday theme, but it’s slight and runs in the background.
There is a very full cast of characters in this book- more than I am normally comfortable with, but the author balanced things quite well, and I’m thinking this book could be an anchor for subsequent installments, since Victoria has a few old friends who deserve a story of their own someday.
Overall, this a cute, sweet romance, easy to read, and yet another perfect, protective cocoon of distraction against all the distressing turmoil out there.
4 stars
December 22, 2021
Rounded down from around 3.5 stars ⭐️ I absolutely love reading cheesy romance novels at this time of year and this one really fit the bill!
Meet Me In London follows Victoria (a young woman with big dreams but no self belief) and Oliver (a billionaire with a family desperate for him to settle down). They make a deal to pretend to be in a relationship but keeping things professional isn’t easy.
I know the fake dating trope isn’t for everyone but I actually quite enjoy it! The ‘will they won’t they’ aspect does always infuriate me a little though, but I find that happening to me with all romance novels. This was great easy reading after a long day. Sometimes I found myself losing focus but that may have been because of how busy my life has been lately.
My favourite thing about this book was the important topics it touched on, I hope these are developed more in the rest of the series! Some people may find some of the topics triggering so I would approach this book with some caution. I loved the focus on loyal and supportive female friends, it was a great reminder of what is truly important in this world and reminded me of my own closest friends. I can’t wait to follow the friends more in the rest of the series!
I would recommend this to anyone who likes an easy to read, cheesy romance novel!
Meet Me In London follows Victoria (a young woman with big dreams but no self belief) and Oliver (a billionaire with a family desperate for him to settle down). They make a deal to pretend to be in a relationship but keeping things professional isn’t easy.
I know the fake dating trope isn’t for everyone but I actually quite enjoy it! The ‘will they won’t they’ aspect does always infuriate me a little though, but I find that happening to me with all romance novels. This was great easy reading after a long day. Sometimes I found myself losing focus but that may have been because of how busy my life has been lately.
My favourite thing about this book was the important topics it touched on, I hope these are developed more in the rest of the series! Some people may find some of the topics triggering so I would approach this book with some caution. I loved the focus on loyal and supportive female friends, it was a great reminder of what is truly important in this world and reminded me of my own closest friends. I can’t wait to follow the friends more in the rest of the series!
I would recommend this to anyone who likes an easy to read, cheesy romance novel!
October 19, 2020
Meet Me In London by Georgia Toffolo is such a cute and enjoyable read.
Oliver and Victoria both do not date and have different reasons for that. The way they interact and hide their feelings is so cute. Oliver is very focused on his business but starts to realize how important other things are.
Meet Me In London is such a great story and perfect for a light read in these difficult times. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Georgia Toffolo. She did an excellent job narrating and really added emotion to the story.
Thank you NetGalley and Mills & Boon/Harper Collins Audio UK for Meet Me In London.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
Oliver and Victoria both do not date and have different reasons for that. The way they interact and hide their feelings is so cute. Oliver is very focused on his business but starts to realize how important other things are.
Meet Me In London is such a great story and perfect for a light read in these difficult times. I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Georgia Toffolo. She did an excellent job narrating and really added emotion to the story.
Thank you NetGalley and Mills & Boon/Harper Collins Audio UK for Meet Me In London.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
June 5, 2025
#1 Meet Me in London - ★★★★★
#2 Meet Me in Hawaii - ★★★★
I am so happy to be part of the blog tour for Meet Me in London by Georgia Toffolo. And not only am I participating, but I also have the privilege to kick it off! Thank you to the amazing team at Mills & Boon, for this opportunity. Below is an image of the Blog Tour Banner – please check out the rest of the book bloggers that are participating as well:
The team were so kind to send me a very beautiful personalised package, including some handmade gifts as well. Check out the Instagram post. The beautiful biscuit is by PippingGoodBiscuits. The personalised bauble with my name by Claires.Crafts. And the handmade clay earrings by OchreHandmade. These are all amazing small business that deserve your attention. And if you cannot support them at this time, at least give them a follow. They are amazing!
Synopsis:
Meet Me In London is a beautiful and emotional Christmas book. It follows Victoria, a designer that hopes to one day showcase her work. And it also follows Oliver, a millionaire and an owner of a big business, who is under pressure from his family to find a woman and settle down.
Oliver makes a deal with Victoria. He will help her showcase her designs and help the children she teaches. In return, she will pretend to be his fiancee on the opening day.
But, as you can imagine, things won’t go to plan. They will start developing feelings towards each other. Furthermore, an accident that happened in the past has scarred Victoria for life, and because of that, she is afraid to open up and trust another man.
My Thoughts:
The romance is beautiful, because it is raw and real. I felt the love, care and lust, as much as I felt the pain, the hurting and the need to protect the other person. The slow-burn pace was also something I really enjoyed. I loved how caring Victoria is, not only with Oliver, but with everyone in her life. Especially the children that she teaches. All she does in life is just give and give, without expecting anything in return. And the fact that she has been so hurt in the past for various reasons is so heartbreaking, and it does make you root for her all the way through.
And I also loved the respect that Oliver showed, always ensuring Victoria is okay and in agreement with whatever comes next. I don’t think this happens too often in romance novels, and it was a really important moment to note. The character development between Victoria and Oliver is amazing, and it all ends up in happy tears. I love how she makes him care more about the people and the community, rather than just his business.
I also loved Oliver’s family. When a millionaire’s family with a family business is represented, we usually see them as bitter and arrogant. And very often, they are rude to the person their son is dating. So I would be lying if I told you I wasn’t expecting that. But this book surprised me in a very positive way. The family of Oliver were very supportive of Victoria (minus the annoying cousin). They made her feel welcome and very loved from the start. She even got along very well with the mother.
The friendship in this book is precious! The lovely bond that Victoria shares with Zoe, Lily and Malie is beautiful! Since the accident in which they all were involved, they have become closer than ever and always supported each other through thick and thin. The friendship that these girls share is something every girl dreams of.
I loved this book so much! It put me in a wonderful Christmas mood, and made me want to decorate my Christmas tree, even though I need to put pumpkins first. 🙂 I really hope Meet Me In London by Georgia Toffolo is made into a Christmas movie. I swear, I will be the first person to watch it!
Also, there is a new book coming out in Spring 2021 called Meet Me in Hawaii, with Malie, one of Victoria’s best friends. It has surfing and I cannot wait for it!
Wishlist | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Ko-fi
#2 Meet Me in Hawaii - ★★★★
I am so happy to be part of the blog tour for Meet Me in London by Georgia Toffolo. And not only am I participating, but I also have the privilege to kick it off! Thank you to the amazing team at Mills & Boon, for this opportunity. Below is an image of the Blog Tour Banner – please check out the rest of the book bloggers that are participating as well:
The team were so kind to send me a very beautiful personalised package, including some handmade gifts as well. Check out the Instagram post. The beautiful biscuit is by PippingGoodBiscuits. The personalised bauble with my name by Claires.Crafts. And the handmade clay earrings by OchreHandmade. These are all amazing small business that deserve your attention. And if you cannot support them at this time, at least give them a follow. They are amazing!
Synopsis:
Meet Me In London is a beautiful and emotional Christmas book. It follows Victoria, a designer that hopes to one day showcase her work. And it also follows Oliver, a millionaire and an owner of a big business, who is under pressure from his family to find a woman and settle down.
Oliver makes a deal with Victoria. He will help her showcase her designs and help the children she teaches. In return, she will pretend to be his fiancee on the opening day.
But, as you can imagine, things won’t go to plan. They will start developing feelings towards each other. Furthermore, an accident that happened in the past has scarred Victoria for life, and because of that, she is afraid to open up and trust another man.
My Thoughts:
The romance is beautiful, because it is raw and real. I felt the love, care and lust, as much as I felt the pain, the hurting and the need to protect the other person. The slow-burn pace was also something I really enjoyed. I loved how caring Victoria is, not only with Oliver, but with everyone in her life. Especially the children that she teaches. All she does in life is just give and give, without expecting anything in return. And the fact that she has been so hurt in the past for various reasons is so heartbreaking, and it does make you root for her all the way through.
And I also loved the respect that Oliver showed, always ensuring Victoria is okay and in agreement with whatever comes next. I don’t think this happens too often in romance novels, and it was a really important moment to note. The character development between Victoria and Oliver is amazing, and it all ends up in happy tears. I love how she makes him care more about the people and the community, rather than just his business.
I also loved Oliver’s family. When a millionaire’s family with a family business is represented, we usually see them as bitter and arrogant. And very often, they are rude to the person their son is dating. So I would be lying if I told you I wasn’t expecting that. But this book surprised me in a very positive way. The family of Oliver were very supportive of Victoria (minus the annoying cousin). They made her feel welcome and very loved from the start. She even got along very well with the mother.
The friendship in this book is precious! The lovely bond that Victoria shares with Zoe, Lily and Malie is beautiful! Since the accident in which they all were involved, they have become closer than ever and always supported each other through thick and thin. The friendship that these girls share is something every girl dreams of.
I loved this book so much! It put me in a wonderful Christmas mood, and made me want to decorate my Christmas tree, even though I need to put pumpkins first. 🙂 I really hope Meet Me In London by Georgia Toffolo is made into a Christmas movie. I swear, I will be the first person to watch it!
Also, there is a new book coming out in Spring 2021 called Meet Me in Hawaii, with Malie, one of Victoria’s best friends. It has surfing and I cannot wait for it!
Wishlist | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Ko-fi
December 5, 2021
I really enjoyed this one! If you're looking for a heartfelt story that takes place over Christmas time, give this one a try.
Victoria and Oliver are both likable and endearing characters. They come for very different backgrounds, but are each facing struggles they need to overcome. When Oliver proposes a fake engagement to Victoria, which would benefit them both, she agrees. What ensues is a touching and engaging story with a great message.
As Victoria and Oliver get to know more about each other and those most important to them, their lives take a turn neither was expecting. The story takes place during Christmas time, but that's not the focus of the story. Overall, this is a story about love, family, and choosing the life you want.
This is my first book by this author, and I'm now looking forward to reading the next books in this series. I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed it. I recommend it, since the book is read by the author herself.
Victoria and Oliver are both likable and endearing characters. They come for very different backgrounds, but are each facing struggles they need to overcome. When Oliver proposes a fake engagement to Victoria, which would benefit them both, she agrees. What ensues is a touching and engaging story with a great message.
As Victoria and Oliver get to know more about each other and those most important to them, their lives take a turn neither was expecting. The story takes place during Christmas time, but that's not the focus of the story. Overall, this is a story about love, family, and choosing the life you want.
This is my first book by this author, and I'm now looking forward to reading the next books in this series. I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed it. I recommend it, since the book is read by the author herself.
October 14, 2020
DNF @ 42%.
This wasn’t exactly what I would term a success and if ever there were a book that was not my cuppa, this is it.
Life is too short to do things you don’t want to do.”
Sometimes I should just trust my gut before I decide to even read a book. I gave this a fair crack but the characters, Oliver and Victoria, were simply not my kind of people, and despite the odd occasion when their chemistry seemed to show wee glimmers of hope, I generally found them both shallow and dull. And I think it’s best I leave it at that.
Copy received courtesy of Mills & Boon via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
This wasn’t exactly what I would term a success and if ever there were a book that was not my cuppa, this is it.
Life is too short to do things you don’t want to do.”
Sometimes I should just trust my gut before I decide to even read a book. I gave this a fair crack but the characters, Oliver and Victoria, were simply not my kind of people, and despite the odd occasion when their chemistry seemed to show wee glimmers of hope, I generally found them both shallow and dull. And I think it’s best I leave it at that.
Copy received courtesy of Mills & Boon via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
November 5, 2021
3.5 stars
TW infertility
This was a cute holiday romance, but it didn't really feel like anything special. By the end, I had kind of lost interest in the story. Victoria and Oliver meet, and Oliver asks Victoria to act as his girlfriend for his family. Victoria is a designer and is in way of her head when it comes to being with someone like Oliver. He's wealthy and the head of a department store and Victoria is dealing with some personal things that have turned her off from dating. The romance was cute and I enjoyed how they were fake dating and then started to like each other. Oliver is also a very wealthy hero who can whisk the heroine off to Paris for a date whenever he wants. He has a complicated family and that comes into play throughout the story. I enjoyed how Victoria was a designer and was putting on a fashion show with her students. There just wasn't anything that amazing or something I was excited to read as the story went on.
TW infertility
This was a cute holiday romance, but it didn't really feel like anything special. By the end, I had kind of lost interest in the story. Victoria and Oliver meet, and Oliver asks Victoria to act as his girlfriend for his family. Victoria is a designer and is in way of her head when it comes to being with someone like Oliver. He's wealthy and the head of a department store and Victoria is dealing with some personal things that have turned her off from dating. The romance was cute and I enjoyed how they were fake dating and then started to like each other. Oliver is also a very wealthy hero who can whisk the heroine off to Paris for a date whenever he wants. He has a complicated family and that comes into play throughout the story. I enjoyed how Victoria was a designer and was putting on a fashion show with her students. There just wasn't anything that amazing or something I was excited to read as the story went on.
September 3, 2023
This was so cute!! It honestly read like a cheesy Hallmark or Netflix Original Christmas movie. That's some of the highest praise from me, I'm a ho for those 😂
----
Fake engagement?
Christmas?
London?
Sign me the fuck up!
----
Fake engagement?
Christmas?
London?
Sign me the fuck up!
April 28, 2021
A real festival of pants, and not in a good or sexy way.
On the plus side, it's easy to read. Mostly, it wasn't hard to pick up and continue reading. It's not that it was entertaining, but it wasn't hardgoing either. It's not interesting, but nor is it exactly boring. What it is is totally, agressively banal.
I have no problem with romantic stories and/or fluff - I love a good romcom, I consume ludicrous murder mysteries at a rate of noughts. But here, firstly, there is scarcely any plot - they are both incredibly beautiful, they meet and they like each other instantly and basically they keep on liking each other till the end. Some really nice things happen to them and those around them, some candid conversations are had, and that's about it. There's no peril, no suspense, no vinegar, nothing to grab on to for interest. Plot-wise, this isn't a short story never mind 300+ pages.
Ok then so what about the characters? Well about two thirds of the book is us inside their heads listening to their internal monologues - and unforunately they turn out to be two of the most boring people in fiction. Endlessly talking to themselves about themselves in endless cliches, round and round we go, listening to them tell themselves why they can't be together, even though they clearly can and so end up coming across as navel-gazing idiots. There are ostensible reasons why she, in particular, "can't" get involved with him but it's clearly nonsense from the off - the only reason they aren't together from the first night they meet is because the writer needs to spin this out for 321 pages. It feels neverending.
There's also a plot hook, incredibly undercooked, about faking being his fiancee to satisfy his parents. This should be a classic romcom device, and a vehicle for some nice light comedy. But no - the writer forgets to do the com and plays it completely straight and sincere. It's like a shadow of a comedy: it has the shape of one but none of the content or features - indeed no content or features at all, just an off-colour, novel-shaped blob where an actual novel (with a story, characters) should be. And the writing is horrible - no one can think or talk in this book except in the most glib and cliched, heavy-handed, militantly unhumourous ways.
After all the treacle of these idealised 2D stick figures being really gorgeous and really nice to each other and really caring about each other and being really nice to each other's family/friends/students and making each other better people (we know this coz the narrative is CONSTANTLY telling us that this is happening, without any actual evidence) and changing the lives of underprivileged black teenagers and being really sensitive and socially conscious and 'hating inequality' despite being the most staggeringly privileged and vacuous twats in England - after all this, I felt like I'd eaten a triple portion of candyfloss: full of sickly sweet, but completely malnourished. I went straight to a nasty hardboiled crime novel just to clean up and cleanse the pallette. And I haven't even talked about our main character's dreary group of galpals, who all love and support each other totally and completely (again, we are told this a LOT) via the medium of suffocating niceness and witless, humour-free bants.
Horrible.
On the plus side, it's easy to read. Mostly, it wasn't hard to pick up and continue reading. It's not that it was entertaining, but it wasn't hardgoing either. It's not interesting, but nor is it exactly boring. What it is is totally, agressively banal.
I have no problem with romantic stories and/or fluff - I love a good romcom, I consume ludicrous murder mysteries at a rate of noughts. But here, firstly, there is scarcely any plot - they are both incredibly beautiful, they meet and they like each other instantly and basically they keep on liking each other till the end. Some really nice things happen to them and those around them, some candid conversations are had, and that's about it. There's no peril, no suspense, no vinegar, nothing to grab on to for interest. Plot-wise, this isn't a short story never mind 300+ pages.
Ok then so what about the characters? Well about two thirds of the book is us inside their heads listening to their internal monologues - and unforunately they turn out to be two of the most boring people in fiction. Endlessly talking to themselves about themselves in endless cliches, round and round we go, listening to them tell themselves why they can't be together, even though they clearly can and so end up coming across as navel-gazing idiots. There are ostensible reasons why she, in particular, "can't" get involved with him but it's clearly nonsense from the off - the only reason they aren't together from the first night they meet is because the writer needs to spin this out for 321 pages. It feels neverending.
There's also a plot hook, incredibly undercooked, about faking being his fiancee to satisfy his parents. This should be a classic romcom device, and a vehicle for some nice light comedy. But no - the writer forgets to do the com and plays it completely straight and sincere. It's like a shadow of a comedy: it has the shape of one but none of the content or features - indeed no content or features at all, just an off-colour, novel-shaped blob where an actual novel (with a story, characters) should be. And the writing is horrible - no one can think or talk in this book except in the most glib and cliched, heavy-handed, militantly unhumourous ways.
After all the treacle of these idealised 2D stick figures being really gorgeous and really nice to each other and really caring about each other and being really nice to each other's family/friends/students and making each other better people (we know this coz the narrative is CONSTANTLY telling us that this is happening, without any actual evidence) and changing the lives of underprivileged black teenagers and being really sensitive and socially conscious and 'hating inequality' despite being the most staggeringly privileged and vacuous twats in England - after all this, I felt like I'd eaten a triple portion of candyfloss: full of sickly sweet, but completely malnourished. I went straight to a nasty hardboiled crime novel just to clean up and cleanse the pallette. And I haven't even talked about our main character's dreary group of galpals, who all love and support each other totally and completely (again, we are told this a LOT) via the medium of suffocating niceness and witless, humour-free bants.
Horrible.
December 1, 2021
This was a cute holiday read but I will put a note of caution out there because I think some aspects of the content could be triggering for some. Some of the trigger warnings for this novel would be for: Family Illness, Infertility, Traumatic Injury, Traumatic Injury Causing Paralyzation, Car Accident Causing Death.
Overall, simply put, this book was a good read. However, I will say that I'm conflicted and still undecided surrounding my feelings towards the discussion and narrative regarding the outlook on Zoe's injury along with the importance placed on Victoria's "secret". I could easily see how portions of this novel could be considered problematic but I also could see the opposite argument based on how positive Oliver eventually reacts to Victoria.
If you are looking for a holiday read that is not purely a happy ending, maybe pick this one up because the story has quite a bit of depth to it. But I will say there are other heartwarming and thought provoking holiday reads that have left a better impression on me.
***Thank you to HCCFrenzy and Harlequin Romance for providing me with an e-ARC to read and review***
Overall, simply put, this book was a good read. However, I will say that I'm conflicted and still undecided surrounding my feelings towards the discussion and narrative regarding the outlook on Zoe's injury along with the importance placed on Victoria's "secret". I could easily see how portions of this novel could be considered problematic but I also could see the opposite argument based on how positive Oliver eventually reacts to Victoria.
If you are looking for a holiday read that is not purely a happy ending, maybe pick this one up because the story has quite a bit of depth to it. But I will say there are other heartwarming and thought provoking holiday reads that have left a better impression on me.
***Thank you to HCCFrenzy and Harlequin Romance for providing me with an e-ARC to read and review***
August 8, 2021
Four and a half Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒
Meet Me in London by Georgia Toffolo is the first book in her new series Meet Me. It’s an endearing, heartwarming love story that entails a fake engagement between two people who have good reasons not to fall in love.
Victoria is an aspiring designer who works in a bar, teaches designing to underprivileged girls, and works on her own vintage designs. When she literally bumps into the owner of the new department store being built near her bar, sparks fly, but neither Victoria nor Oliver want a relationship or any complications to their busy lives. Oliver is the only son of the very wealthy owners of a string of high-end department stores. He is busy undoing the mess his cousin, Andrew made with the store opening in Chelsea, near Victoria’s bar. His father and mother are pressuring him to find a wife and settle down, mostly because his father’s health is failing, and he wants his son to take over the business, and be settled.
Oliver is too busy cleaning up his cousin’s mess, and doesn’t have time to mess with a relationship, and is tired of his mother set him up, so he proposes a deal with Victoria to pose as his fiance for only one day, the opening of his store. What can go wrong?
Meet Me in London is a delightful, but somewhat predictable, romance that includes a strong set of friends for Victoria, and a lovely set of parents for Oliver. The chemistry between Victoria and Oliver is strong and believable, as they both fight their attraction to each other. The pacing was perfect, as I was drawn into this story from the very beginning, and I couldn’t stop until the story ended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Meet Me in London by Georgia Toffolo is the first book in her new series Meet Me. It’s an endearing, heartwarming love story that entails a fake engagement between two people who have good reasons not to fall in love.
Victoria is an aspiring designer who works in a bar, teaches designing to underprivileged girls, and works on her own vintage designs. When she literally bumps into the owner of the new department store being built near her bar, sparks fly, but neither Victoria nor Oliver want a relationship or any complications to their busy lives. Oliver is the only son of the very wealthy owners of a string of high-end department stores. He is busy undoing the mess his cousin, Andrew made with the store opening in Chelsea, near Victoria’s bar. His father and mother are pressuring him to find a wife and settle down, mostly because his father’s health is failing, and he wants his son to take over the business, and be settled.
Oliver is too busy cleaning up his cousin’s mess, and doesn’t have time to mess with a relationship, and is tired of his mother set him up, so he proposes a deal with Victoria to pose as his fiance for only one day, the opening of his store. What can go wrong?
Meet Me in London is a delightful, but somewhat predictable, romance that includes a strong set of friends for Victoria, and a lovely set of parents for Oliver. The chemistry between Victoria and Oliver is strong and believable, as they both fight their attraction to each other. The pacing was perfect, as I was drawn into this story from the very beginning, and I couldn’t stop until the story ended.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 9, 2022
This was an amazing Christmas RomCom we all needed. The fake relationship between a wealthy department store owner and a vintage clothing designer was super cute! I really loved Victoria and Oliver…The writing was fresh, adorable, charming, and oh so delightfully British.
Meet Me In London was a fantastic escape read I devoured over a weekend!
Meet Me In London was a fantastic escape read I devoured over a weekend!
January 17, 2021
Absolutely loved this story. I have to highly recommend reading it.
November 13, 2020
This book hit me right in the feels 😍 I actually teared up... twice. What a magical Chrismassy love story and the perfect book for me to read right now. The best mix of soppy romance, sexual chemistry, family and friendship with a subtle festive cheer.
Victoria was an amazing character and the fact she's a Fashion Designer probably made me love her even more (as I'm a tad obsessed with fashion if you didn't know...), and Oliver is the book boyfriend I didn't know I wanted.
The cover is gorgeous and I'm so so lucky that I had a chance to read this because I am obsessed. I love that the series is going to be continued with the story of each of the four friends and I hope I get to read more of Victoria and Oliver's romance because I want a love like theirs!!
If this book at all intrigues you then please rush and buy it now and get sucked in too ❤
Victoria was an amazing character and the fact she's a Fashion Designer probably made me love her even more (as I'm a tad obsessed with fashion if you didn't know...), and Oliver is the book boyfriend I didn't know I wanted.
The cover is gorgeous and I'm so so lucky that I had a chance to read this because I am obsessed. I love that the series is going to be continued with the story of each of the four friends and I hope I get to read more of Victoria and Oliver's romance because I want a love like theirs!!
If this book at all intrigues you then please rush and buy it now and get sucked in too ❤
July 14, 2020
This is a great Christmas / Winter book with many emotional moments, many cute moments and it is very fairytale like. I loved how British it felt, but found the characters a little difficult to connect to.
Victoria is a designer who is currently working as a bar manager. She's recently been cheated on by an absolutely awful ex (Peter sucks). I liked her personality but she wasn't very rounded - a perfect angel who helps disadvantaged kids but lacked confidence in her own work.
Oliver is the son of Eric Russell, owner of Russel and Co. who own department stories. Oliver's been sent to a new store in Chelsea to kick of its opening - but there's a problem: his family really want him to get married and be happy.
When Victoria and Oliver meet, they come to a fake engagement arrangement to make Oliver's family happy. Oliver also gives Victoria and her fashion design students a fashion show on the opening day of the new store.
So honestly much of this book is unrealistic (Victoria can rent a two bed flat in London by herself and provide free teaching and materials for kids on a bar manager's salary, for instance). The writing and dialogue is also clumsy in places. But it is really uplifting and definitely made me a bit sad in places. Overall it's sweet and not bad for a debut, but could definitely have felt more real.
Victoria is a designer who is currently working as a bar manager. She's recently been cheated on by an absolutely awful ex (Peter sucks). I liked her personality but she wasn't very rounded - a perfect angel who helps disadvantaged kids but lacked confidence in her own work.
Oliver is the son of Eric Russell, owner of Russel and Co. who own department stories. Oliver's been sent to a new store in Chelsea to kick of its opening - but there's a problem: his family really want him to get married and be happy.
When Victoria and Oliver meet, they come to a fake engagement arrangement to make Oliver's family happy. Oliver also gives Victoria and her fashion design students a fashion show on the opening day of the new store.
So honestly much of this book is unrealistic (Victoria can rent a two bed flat in London by herself and provide free teaching and materials for kids on a bar manager's salary, for instance). The writing and dialogue is also clumsy in places. But it is really uplifting and definitely made me a bit sad in places. Overall it's sweet and not bad for a debut, but could definitely have felt more real.
February 19, 2021
This book is perfect for a light read.
The story flows smoothly. Both the main characters Oliver and Victoria are very likable. Victoria’s friendship with her friends is so amazing and it’s one that gives major friendship goals.
It’s both cute and enjoyable! I had fun time reading it and will be eagerly waiting for the next one!
The story flows smoothly. Both the main characters Oliver and Victoria are very likable. Victoria’s friendship with her friends is so amazing and it’s one that gives major friendship goals.
It’s both cute and enjoyable! I had fun time reading it and will be eagerly waiting for the next one!
January 31, 2022
the dialogue was so cringe bye
October 20, 2021
I'm so pleasantly surprised by this book! This is definitely for people who felt wronged by Abbi Jimenez book the best friend zone and female characters who have to deal with infertility. However, I'm taking a star off because the heroine took so long to be honest with our hero about her fertility issues.
This one surprised me because judging by the cover, it doesn't look like a fun chick lit novel but a more serious one. However, it is fun and bubbly and it surprised me since I usually hate fake dating. But this one worked. The other thing that bothered me was that they were so sexually attracted to each other. LMAO like calm down for a bit.
This one surprised me because judging by the cover, it doesn't look like a fun chick lit novel but a more serious one. However, it is fun and bubbly and it surprised me since I usually hate fake dating. But this one worked. The other thing that bothered me was that they were so sexually attracted to each other. LMAO like calm down for a bit.
October 26, 2020
Amazing book)
[***Full review closer to publication***]
Well, now it is published, I can give my review)) First of all thanks for NetGalley, Publishers and the Author for giving me an opportunity to read this wonderful book!
Even tho ,this book is a little bit similar to some other books I've read, it gives hope and light in its own way)) The main heroine is very optimistic, brave and always caring for others. Although, there isn't always a good happy ending in real life, we shouldn't lose hope and dream no matter what.
[***Full review closer to publication***]
Well, now it is published, I can give my review)) First of all thanks for NetGalley, Publishers and the Author for giving me an opportunity to read this wonderful book!
Even tho ,this book is a little bit similar to some other books I've read, it gives hope and light in its own way)) The main heroine is very optimistic, brave and always caring for others. Although, there isn't always a good happy ending in real life, we shouldn't lose hope and dream no matter what.
September 29, 2021
One of my top 5 for September! https://www.instagram.com/tv/CUaPx0UJ...
October 13, 2021
Both Oliver and Victoria have their own reasons not to date, but after their meeting at a bar, they can’t get each other out of their minds. With a mutual benefit in mind, they begin fake dating, but slowly the lines begin to blur. Were there even lines to begin with?
This was cute, the writing was good, the plot was good but it just wasn’t for me. I don’t know if it was because I’ve already read too much fake dating but this one definitely needed something more to stand out. I felt like the book was too short and the chemistry built up was just packed up tight.
Nevertheless, it’s definitely a good, quick read, for the holiday season!
This was cute, the writing was good, the plot was good but it just wasn’t for me. I don’t know if it was because I’ve already read too much fake dating but this one definitely needed something more to stand out. I felt like the book was too short and the chemistry built up was just packed up tight.
Nevertheless, it’s definitely a good, quick read, for the holiday season!
October 25, 2021
Aspiring clothes designer Victoria Scott is an aspiring designer, who spends her days working in a bar in Chelsea, and her evenings designing vintage clothes. Oliver Russell is in Chelsea to take over the opening of the family's newest store that his cousin has bungled. Neither of them are interested in dating due to things in their pasts, but they agree to a fake relationship that will benefit them both.
I really enjoyed Meet Me in London. It was an enjoyable and fun story. I enjoyed the fake girlfriend/fiancée trope. Both Victoria and Oliver are likable characters who want to help others. Oliver's family has always wanted him to take over for his father, but it is not what he wants. Now that his father is having health problems, he steps up. I liked his mother and how she wants him to be happy, thinking he just needs to find the right person to love. Victoria wants to help the neighbourhood businesses as well as the design students she works with, so this fake relationship benefits her, but when she starts falling for Oliver, she needs to get out fast. The way they interact and hide their feelings towards one another is so cute. This is an enjoyable Christmas romance with other issues included. Themes deal with infertility, family pressure, guilt, jealousy and fall out from secrets. Of course there is a happily ever after, so even though it is not all smiles along the way, there is an uplifting and happy ending. The audiobook was narrated by the author and she does a nice job. She added emotion to the story using tone and expression. I definitely recommend this one to those looking for a fun and enjoyable Christmas read. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
I really enjoyed Meet Me in London. It was an enjoyable and fun story. I enjoyed the fake girlfriend/fiancée trope. Both Victoria and Oliver are likable characters who want to help others. Oliver's family has always wanted him to take over for his father, but it is not what he wants. Now that his father is having health problems, he steps up. I liked his mother and how she wants him to be happy, thinking he just needs to find the right person to love. Victoria wants to help the neighbourhood businesses as well as the design students she works with, so this fake relationship benefits her, but when she starts falling for Oliver, she needs to get out fast. The way they interact and hide their feelings towards one another is so cute. This is an enjoyable Christmas romance with other issues included. Themes deal with infertility, family pressure, guilt, jealousy and fall out from secrets. Of course there is a happily ever after, so even though it is not all smiles along the way, there is an uplifting and happy ending. The audiobook was narrated by the author and she does a nice job. She added emotion to the story using tone and expression. I definitely recommend this one to those looking for a fun and enjoyable Christmas read. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
December 22, 2021
A fake girlfriend. But make it look real. Will Oliver Russell be able to appease his interfering but well-meaning mother? He is soon to find out when he meets Victoria Scott. WIll she pretend to be his girlfriend during the holiday season?
Perhaps she will but what will she get in return? What Victoria wants more than anything is to own her own boutique. Things are not going well on that end as a new department store soon to open might just wipe away all of her dreams.
Perhaps this story is light on substance but it was a true delight. Tropes work for me and this one definitely did just that. Strangers to fake dating to love in an enjoyable ride in this debut. I hope to read the other three books in this series.
Many thanks to HQN and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Perhaps she will but what will she get in return? What Victoria wants more than anything is to own her own boutique. Things are not going well on that end as a new department store soon to open might just wipe away all of her dreams.
Perhaps this story is light on substance but it was a true delight. Tropes work for me and this one definitely did just that. Strangers to fake dating to love in an enjoyable ride in this debut. I hope to read the other three books in this series.
Many thanks to HQN and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
December 3, 2020
I received this book on audio from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
CW: Illness of a parent, infertility discussions.
This book feels a bit like The Wedding Date meets You've Got Mail.
When Victoria meets Oliver, she tells herself not to fall for his handsome face when his family business threatens to ruin the rest of the street. However, soon Oliver proposes a deal - Victoria will pose as his fianceé in front of his family, desperate to see him matched up, and he in turn will help her out on the day of the store's opening by not only inviting the local traders to get involved but also allow her to host a fashion show. Victoria agrees but soon the pair find themselves with all too-real feelings.
This was pretty much what I expected to be which was a sweet, lovely contemporary book that was a great one to start off my official season of festive reads. The Christmas feels in this book are not strong at all, and Christmas doesn't really play a huge part in it (in fact it ends before Christmas Day) so you can read this book any time of the year.
The writing was strong, and the story was also well-thought out with both Victoria and Oliver being well-structured, fleshed-out characters with backgrounds and hopes, dreams and regrets. There was a bit too much hesitant tip-toeing around each other at times that got frustrating to read but there was a definitely a lovely chemistry between the characters with just enough hint of spice to add in some sexiness as well.
Victoria's infertility is a huge thing in this book for her - and she discusses it a lot, and sometimes in a negative way such as she feels she's not whole or broken in some way, and no man would want to be with her because of it. This could trigger some readers who might be sensitive to the subject. It's also used as a weapon to hurt her on more than one occasion as well which was unpleasant.
I loved Victoria's girl gang in this book, and having checked this is the first book in a four-part series so the other books will follow the other girls. I'm really happy about this as you could tell there was so much more to tell and to come for all Victoria's friends. And I do really enjoy a series that follows different people in a group with their own romances, and lovely cameos of the couples we've already read and matched.
CW: Illness of a parent, infertility discussions.
This book feels a bit like The Wedding Date meets You've Got Mail.
When Victoria meets Oliver, she tells herself not to fall for his handsome face when his family business threatens to ruin the rest of the street. However, soon Oliver proposes a deal - Victoria will pose as his fianceé in front of his family, desperate to see him matched up, and he in turn will help her out on the day of the store's opening by not only inviting the local traders to get involved but also allow her to host a fashion show. Victoria agrees but soon the pair find themselves with all too-real feelings.
This was pretty much what I expected to be which was a sweet, lovely contemporary book that was a great one to start off my official season of festive reads. The Christmas feels in this book are not strong at all, and Christmas doesn't really play a huge part in it (in fact it ends before Christmas Day) so you can read this book any time of the year.
The writing was strong, and the story was also well-thought out with both Victoria and Oliver being well-structured, fleshed-out characters with backgrounds and hopes, dreams and regrets. There was a bit too much hesitant tip-toeing around each other at times that got frustrating to read but there was a definitely a lovely chemistry between the characters with just enough hint of spice to add in some sexiness as well.
Victoria's infertility is a huge thing in this book for her - and she discusses it a lot, and sometimes in a negative way such as she feels she's not whole or broken in some way, and no man would want to be with her because of it. This could trigger some readers who might be sensitive to the subject. It's also used as a weapon to hurt her on more than one occasion as well which was unpleasant.
I loved Victoria's girl gang in this book, and having checked this is the first book in a four-part series so the other books will follow the other girls. I'm really happy about this as you could tell there was so much more to tell and to come for all Victoria's friends. And I do really enjoy a series that follows different people in a group with their own romances, and lovely cameos of the couples we've already read and matched.
October 15, 2020
TW: Car crash, Infertility
3.5 stars
This was a really rather sweet and endearing love story that was not only a cute romance but also a book about the importance of friendships and about being true to yourself. There are some serious issues which added a good deal of depth to the story but didn't overwhelm the happy dreamy vibe.
Victoria the lead female was a really interesting character. I loved that she is a budding fashion designer but works in a bar and helps teach disadvantaged teenagers to design and make clothes. She was such a kind character and I liked her from the start.
Oliver the lead male is a wealthy owner of department stores. He is kind and hardworking but also feels trapped by the family business and wants to do something else.
It was great how the characters grew together and learnt from one another.
The storyline was decent, it was obvious what would happen but I didn't mind that too much.
I unfortunately struggled with the beginning of the book as the writing and story didn't get off to the best start. However, I am glad I stuck with it as I did enjoy it as a fun, cute easy read. The writing was unfortunately a little lacking finesse. It was often quite clunky and the dialogue felt forced, unnatural and didn't flow. There was also A LOT of cheesy and over the top moments which I think could have been changed to make the book better.
Overall it was a decent debut by Georgia Toffolo and one I would recommend if you are looking for a cute and easy read. I think I will read the second book in this series which continues with a story from one of Victoria's friend.
Please note that I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
This was a really rather sweet and endearing love story that was not only a cute romance but also a book about the importance of friendships and about being true to yourself. There are some serious issues which added a good deal of depth to the story but didn't overwhelm the happy dreamy vibe.
Victoria the lead female was a really interesting character. I loved that she is a budding fashion designer but works in a bar and helps teach disadvantaged teenagers to design and make clothes. She was such a kind character and I liked her from the start.
Oliver the lead male is a wealthy owner of department stores. He is kind and hardworking but also feels trapped by the family business and wants to do something else.
It was great how the characters grew together and learnt from one another.
The storyline was decent, it was obvious what would happen but I didn't mind that too much.
I unfortunately struggled with the beginning of the book as the writing and story didn't get off to the best start. However, I am glad I stuck with it as I did enjoy it as a fun, cute easy read. The writing was unfortunately a little lacking finesse. It was often quite clunky and the dialogue felt forced, unnatural and didn't flow. There was also A LOT of cheesy and over the top moments which I think could have been changed to make the book better.
Overall it was a decent debut by Georgia Toffolo and one I would recommend if you are looking for a cute and easy read. I think I will read the second book in this series which continues with a story from one of Victoria's friend.
Please note that I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2021
♥︎Una lettura piacevole e rilassante.
Un romance leggero con una trama fluida e ben strutturata, personaggi simpatici e facili da apprezzare.
Non diventerà uno dei miei libri preferiti, ma se cercate una storia veloce, che non vi impegni e che vi faccia staccare un po' dalla realtà ve la consiglio.♥︎
Un romance leggero con una trama fluida e ben strutturata, personaggi simpatici e facili da apprezzare.
Non diventerà uno dei miei libri preferiti, ma se cercate una storia veloce, che non vi impegni e che vi faccia staccare un po' dalla realtà ve la consiglio.♥︎
December 18, 2023
3.75/5 sometimes british humor gets cringey
November 23, 2021
Another one in my holiday pre-reading, but this is set during the holidays without really being about them.
If You've Got Mail were about clothing/fabrics rather than books, that would be the first part of this book. Add a fake relationship and a reluctant love interest and that's the rest!
If You've Got Mail were about clothing/fabrics rather than books, that would be the first part of this book. Add a fake relationship and a reluctant love interest and that's the rest!
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