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Landry Love #1
The Experiment
She’s a hot mess. An awkward, socially inept train wreck. She’s also my temporary fake girlfriend.
I’m not a commitment kind of guy—not anymore. Much to my family’s disapproval, I stick with what works for me: casual relationships.
So why the hell did I agree to a pretend relationship with my neighbour?
Because Emma is an adorable wreck who I want writhing beneath me?
Maybe.
Because there’s something about that sweet, quirky, clumsy woman that gets under my skin?
Probably.
But the blame lies mainly with my well-intentioned family and meddlesome small town. Because in return for helping Emma navigate the dating world, she agreed to be my pretend girlfriend to keep my family off my back.
After our arrangement ends, we’ll part ways.
Now I just have to avoid her adoring gazes, keep my hands from exploring her smooth skin, and remind myself not to devour her pouty lips.
That’s the way it has to be.
Because Emma’s past has made her crave what she’s never experienced—attachments and love—and I plan to stay far away from both.
___________
The Landry Love Series is a set of interconnected, standalone, small-town romance novels.
Landry Love Series
Book One: The Experiment (Jess & Emma)
Book Two: The Denial Game (Taylor & Lauren)
Book Three: The Forever Plan (Evan & Willa)
Book Four: The Love Words (Hayden & Chloe)
I’m not a commitment kind of guy—not anymore. Much to my family’s disapproval, I stick with what works for me: casual relationships.
So why the hell did I agree to a pretend relationship with my neighbour?
Because Emma is an adorable wreck who I want writhing beneath me?
Maybe.
Because there’s something about that sweet, quirky, clumsy woman that gets under my skin?
Probably.
But the blame lies mainly with my well-intentioned family and meddlesome small town. Because in return for helping Emma navigate the dating world, she agreed to be my pretend girlfriend to keep my family off my back.
After our arrangement ends, we’ll part ways.
Now I just have to avoid her adoring gazes, keep my hands from exploring her smooth skin, and remind myself not to devour her pouty lips.
That’s the way it has to be.
Because Emma’s past has made her crave what she’s never experienced—attachments and love—and I plan to stay far away from both.
___________
The Landry Love Series is a set of interconnected, standalone, small-town romance novels.
Landry Love Series
Book One: The Experiment (Jess & Emma)
Book Two: The Denial Game (Taylor & Lauren)
Book Three: The Forever Plan (Evan & Willa)
Book Four: The Love Words (Hayden & Chloe)
358 pages, ebook
First published February 4, 2021
273 people are currently reading
886 people want to read
About the author
Amy Alves
9 books307 followersFollow her: https://amyalvesbooks.com/links
Amy is an avid reader of romance, fantasy, and science fiction. Fine, mostly romance, but she sprinkles in other genres now and then.
She began writing a couple of years ago and it’s been a journey she didn’t know she was meant to take. Now she writes the stories she craves and the characters she hopes are real to someone, somewhere.
Amy is an avid reader of romance, fantasy, and science fiction. Fine, mostly romance, but she sprinkles in other genres now and then.
She began writing a couple of years ago and it’s been a journey she didn’t know she was meant to take. Now she writes the stories she craves and the characters she hopes are real to someone, somewhere.
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June 10, 2021
The Experiment is book one in the Landry Love series by Amy Alves. This is my very first book by Amy and I am completely, head over heels in love. Usually in my review, I would gush or express my excessive swooning over the hero. But not in this case. With this book, I am so in love with the heroine, Emma. This girl! I laughed so much, smiled so much. I told everyone that would listen to me how amazing she is. So now I’m going to tell you!
Emma Mahoney is thirty one years old. Her past is full of rejection and in order to deal with it, she has become withdrawn, introverted. At work, she became known as Em-bot. She’s socially awkward, clumsy and she can’t cook…at all!!! But Emma wants more for herself. So she’s leaving her stressful job in the city and she’s moving to Landry, California where her best and only friend, Lauren lives. She’s determined to learn how to be more social. To learn how to cook. To make friends. And hopefully to meet a man who can love her the way she deserves. But for now, she’ll just admire her sexy neighbor.
Jesse (Jess) Caldwell doesn’t live in Landry but is house sitting for his brother. Six years ago Jess was hurt badly, very badly. So he no longer believes that happily ever after is for him. He doesn’t believe in relationships, for himself anyway. He can’t help but to notice his gorgeous new neighbor and as they become acquainted, and quite frequently seems to have to rescue her, he can’t help but to admit how adorable she is. But she’s his neighbor so he’ll keep his distance. But when she asks him to be her dating coach, to teach her how to find the man who could love her forever, he can’t say no. He’ll help her and then his time will be up when his brother comes home and he’ll leave.
First, I have to say again that for me, Emma just stole this entire book. She was a walking catastrophe. And with every bumble, I fell in love with her more and more. I wasn’t the only one. Try as he might, Jess can’t help but to fall for this wonderful woman who is so brave. Everything she does, every new thing she attempts, she just throws herself in to it, one hundred percent. Soon fake dating turns into real. Feelings grow. As does fear. Jess can’t be what Emma needs. He is not forever material. Their time has an expiration date. He just has to keep reminding himself of that.
I think I will forever remember this book, these two characters. Did Jess make me mad by not allowing himself to let his past go and letting it ruin his future? Yes! But the author still found a way to bring humor into the situation, to make me smile. The next book is called The Denial Game and is Emma’s best friend, Lauren, and Jess’s best friend, Taylor’s book. I am most definitely looking forward to reading this one and anything else Amy Alves writes. I can’t wait!
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Emma Mahoney is thirty one years old. Her past is full of rejection and in order to deal with it, she has become withdrawn, introverted. At work, she became known as Em-bot. She’s socially awkward, clumsy and she can’t cook…at all!!! But Emma wants more for herself. So she’s leaving her stressful job in the city and she’s moving to Landry, California where her best and only friend, Lauren lives. She’s determined to learn how to be more social. To learn how to cook. To make friends. And hopefully to meet a man who can love her the way she deserves. But for now, she’ll just admire her sexy neighbor.
Jesse (Jess) Caldwell doesn’t live in Landry but is house sitting for his brother. Six years ago Jess was hurt badly, very badly. So he no longer believes that happily ever after is for him. He doesn’t believe in relationships, for himself anyway. He can’t help but to notice his gorgeous new neighbor and as they become acquainted, and quite frequently seems to have to rescue her, he can’t help but to admit how adorable she is. But she’s his neighbor so he’ll keep his distance. But when she asks him to be her dating coach, to teach her how to find the man who could love her forever, he can’t say no. He’ll help her and then his time will be up when his brother comes home and he’ll leave.
First, I have to say again that for me, Emma just stole this entire book. She was a walking catastrophe. And with every bumble, I fell in love with her more and more. I wasn’t the only one. Try as he might, Jess can’t help but to fall for this wonderful woman who is so brave. Everything she does, every new thing she attempts, she just throws herself in to it, one hundred percent. Soon fake dating turns into real. Feelings grow. As does fear. Jess can’t be what Emma needs. He is not forever material. Their time has an expiration date. He just has to keep reminding himself of that.
I think I will forever remember this book, these two characters. Did Jess make me mad by not allowing himself to let his past go and letting it ruin his future? Yes! But the author still found a way to bring humor into the situation, to make me smile. The next book is called The Denial Game and is Emma’s best friend, Lauren, and Jess’s best friend, Taylor’s book. I am most definitely looking forward to reading this one and anything else Amy Alves writes. I can’t wait!
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
April 18, 2021
Beautiful and wholesome
I adored this book. A brilliant read from Alves.
Set in the small town of Landry, Emma meets Jess and he decides to help her to learn the rules of dating after a not so pleasant past and experience with men.
Jess is determined to stay away from women after having his trust broken horribly.
The slow burn, steam and connection between the two is everything.
Will they give in to their feelings?
I fell in love with the characters they were so wholesome.
I can't wait to read more by this author.
I adored this book. A brilliant read from Alves.
Set in the small town of Landry, Emma meets Jess and he decides to help her to learn the rules of dating after a not so pleasant past and experience with men.
Jess is determined to stay away from women after having his trust broken horribly.
The slow burn, steam and connection between the two is everything.
Will they give in to their feelings?
I fell in love with the characters they were so wholesome.
I can't wait to read more by this author.
![Profile Image for Amy [Book Addict Reviews].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1572307419i%2F47676940._UY200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
February 1, 2021
The Experiment is a fantastic debut novel from Amy Alves. I completely fell in love with this story the moment I started it.
Emma left her corporate job in Seattle and heads to Landry to stay with her best friend. Jess is housing sitting in Landry for his brother and just needs an escape. Jess is fresh out of a relationship and just isn’t looking for anything and Emma is social awkward and just doesn’t know anything when it comes to dating, which leads her to turn to Jess for his assistance.
I adored these two characters and their relationship with each other. It was full of laughs and steam. They have insane amounts of chemistry from the start. Their story is sweet and you can’t help but fall in love from the start.
The town of Landry is also a fun little small town, especially its rather interesting book club and that had me dying of laughter! I can’t wait to return to Landry and to see more of these wonderful characters that Amy has created.
If you’re looking for a small town, faking dating romance this is one I’d highly recommend!
Emma left her corporate job in Seattle and heads to Landry to stay with her best friend. Jess is housing sitting in Landry for his brother and just needs an escape. Jess is fresh out of a relationship and just isn’t looking for anything and Emma is social awkward and just doesn’t know anything when it comes to dating, which leads her to turn to Jess for his assistance.
I adored these two characters and their relationship with each other. It was full of laughs and steam. They have insane amounts of chemistry from the start. Their story is sweet and you can’t help but fall in love from the start.
The town of Landry is also a fun little small town, especially its rather interesting book club and that had me dying of laughter! I can’t wait to return to Landry and to see more of these wonderful characters that Amy has created.
If you’re looking for a small town, faking dating romance this is one I’d highly recommend!
January 28, 2021
This is a beautiful story about two people overcoming their past and falling in love.
This book was very fun to read and lots of LOLing!! At times I could literally not stop laughing.
I loved every minute of reading this book! I am super excited and can't wait for the rest of the series!
I have a feeling this author will become one of my favorites!
This book was very fun to read and lots of LOLing!! At times I could literally not stop laughing.
I loved every minute of reading this book! I am super excited and can't wait for the rest of the series!
I have a feeling this author will become one of my favorites!
August 22, 2021
This was my first book by Amy Alves and I am glad I took a chance on the Experiment. I am a fan of meeting by chance and small town romances, and this book has all the feels. Jess and Emma wind up being next-door neighbors as she bravely starts a new life in a new town, all alone. I admire her smarts, sass, and spunk, and how she puts herself out there, even though she is often insecure and it’s not easy. I found her character very likeable and relatable and routed for her the entire time.
Jess is a techy with a mysterious past, house sitting for his doctor brother while he is working oversees. He’s only interested in a casual relationship for reasons which are revealed later on in the story, and even though he was broken, he had lots of heart and just needed the right woman to heal it.
I just loved how they became best friends and lovers, their witty banter and flirting, and how at ease they were with one another. Loved how they could open up to one another and be their true selves, and how safe she felt in his arms. She had nothing to loose right, he wasn’t promising her forever, just right now, and I loved how even though she hoped things would change, she lived in the moment and really brought out the best in him and was able to reflect on her own future goals. They had loads of steamy sexy times, and when the time came, as hard as it was for her, she had self-respect, wasn’t a pushover, and let him go.
But have no fear, because this is a rom-com after all! Your tears will turn to joy as these two navigate their relationship and finally get to their own happily ever after. I loved the ending and how his big grand gestures and heartfelt revelation, and all of the supporting characters in this small town. I hope to read more from this talented author.
Jess is a techy with a mysterious past, house sitting for his doctor brother while he is working oversees. He’s only interested in a casual relationship for reasons which are revealed later on in the story, and even though he was broken, he had lots of heart and just needed the right woman to heal it.
I just loved how they became best friends and lovers, their witty banter and flirting, and how at ease they were with one another. Loved how they could open up to one another and be their true selves, and how safe she felt in his arms. She had nothing to loose right, he wasn’t promising her forever, just right now, and I loved how even though she hoped things would change, she lived in the moment and really brought out the best in him and was able to reflect on her own future goals. They had loads of steamy sexy times, and when the time came, as hard as it was for her, she had self-respect, wasn’t a pushover, and let him go.
But have no fear, because this is a rom-com after all! Your tears will turn to joy as these two navigate their relationship and finally get to their own happily ever after. I loved the ending and how his big grand gestures and heartfelt revelation, and all of the supporting characters in this small town. I hope to read more from this talented author.
January 14, 2021
I received a copy from the author in exchange for review.
I love small-town romances, specifically following a character starting fresh in a new town. And the town of Landry was absolutely charming with its gossiping community and rambunctious book club meetings.
Leaving her corporate position in Seattle after a near sexual assault, Emma chooses Landry as her town of escape. With his own past to reflect on, Jess, the house-sitting neighbour, is intrigued by the quirky woman next door.
A socially awkward heroine—Emma was pure joy to read about! There’s so many hilarious moments to giggle over. The initial meeting between Jess and Emma was a highlight of the story. Jess was such a treat, too, always encouraging Emma to never settle for less than she deserves.
While this begins as a fake dating romance, with Jess agreeing to coach Emma on how to date, I wanted a little more complexity to their situation. Their moments together were adorable, especially the ongoing joke of Emma’s terrible cooking and social skills, but I think I was craving a bit more resistance between them.
Overall, this was a cute debut. The glimpses of the secondary characters and their future romances was a nice tease!
3.5 stars
I love small-town romances, specifically following a character starting fresh in a new town. And the town of Landry was absolutely charming with its gossiping community and rambunctious book club meetings.
Leaving her corporate position in Seattle after a near sexual assault, Emma chooses Landry as her town of escape. With his own past to reflect on, Jess, the house-sitting neighbour, is intrigued by the quirky woman next door.
A socially awkward heroine—Emma was pure joy to read about! There’s so many hilarious moments to giggle over. The initial meeting between Jess and Emma was a highlight of the story. Jess was such a treat, too, always encouraging Emma to never settle for less than she deserves.
While this begins as a fake dating romance, with Jess agreeing to coach Emma on how to date, I wanted a little more complexity to their situation. Their moments together were adorable, especially the ongoing joke of Emma’s terrible cooking and social skills, but I think I was craving a bit more resistance between them.
Overall, this was a cute debut. The glimpses of the secondary characters and their future romances was a nice tease!
3.5 stars
February 3, 2021
The Experiment ● The Landry Love Series- Book 1
*ARC Review*
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
@amyalves.author
Am I allowed to give 6 stars? Is that a thing? Cause it needs to be!
Emma is a quirky, socially awkward woman who uproots her life & relocates to Landry after a traumatic experience. Jess is house sitting for his brother, who is Emma's neighbor. After several awkward, hilarious encounters- Jess agrees to be Emma's dating coach and Emma will be his fake girlfriend to appease his family. Neither of them ever expected the feelings that would develop...
I. Could. Not. Stop. Laughing 🤣 I seriously don't think I've laughed out loud this much while reading, probably ever. I have been messaging Amy the last 2 nights about so many hilarious parts. This book has everything- it made me want to laugh, cry, scream, roll my eyes- you name it. In addition to be hysterically funny and oh so steamy, the story has some beautiful, sincere life lessons about not letting the past dictate your future & allowing yourself to feel again.
This is my first read by @amyalves.author and I absolutely adored it. It's a slow burn, HEA.This is for sure the best book I've read in quite awhile ❤
*ARC Review*
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
@amyalves.author
Am I allowed to give 6 stars? Is that a thing? Cause it needs to be!
Emma is a quirky, socially awkward woman who uproots her life & relocates to Landry after a traumatic experience. Jess is house sitting for his brother, who is Emma's neighbor. After several awkward, hilarious encounters- Jess agrees to be Emma's dating coach and Emma will be his fake girlfriend to appease his family. Neither of them ever expected the feelings that would develop...
I. Could. Not. Stop. Laughing 🤣 I seriously don't think I've laughed out loud this much while reading, probably ever. I have been messaging Amy the last 2 nights about so many hilarious parts. This book has everything- it made me want to laugh, cry, scream, roll my eyes- you name it. In addition to be hysterically funny and oh so steamy, the story has some beautiful, sincere life lessons about not letting the past dictate your future & allowing yourself to feel again.
This is my first read by @amyalves.author and I absolutely adored it. It's a slow burn, HEA.This is for sure the best book I've read in quite awhile ❤
July 13, 2021
Cute Heroine drives the story
This was a recommended read from a trusted friend. I was looking for a light hearted fun romance. And this fit the brief.
Things I Loved:
- Heroine. Besides a romantic story watching her bloom as a person was endearing.
- Lauren & Taylor hmmm looking forward to this story
Things to consider:
- 54% slump for me. I find with longer books i start wandering from the page. Not boring. Just not as engaged. This is a debut so as the author grows, hopefully i will see more immersive read.
Great story, loved the connection among this small town embracing this quirky heroine. Definitely a read it, because next couple’s set up has me very curious.
This was a recommended read from a trusted friend. I was looking for a light hearted fun romance. And this fit the brief.
Things I Loved:
- Heroine. Besides a romantic story watching her bloom as a person was endearing.
- Lauren & Taylor hmmm looking forward to this story
Things to consider:
- 54% slump for me. I find with longer books i start wandering from the page. Not boring. Just not as engaged. This is a debut so as the author grows, hopefully i will see more immersive read.
Great story, loved the connection among this small town embracing this quirky heroine. Definitely a read it, because next couple’s set up has me very curious.
February 3, 2021
Emma is socially awkward and determined to turn her life around after having a job that controlled her life and an assault experience. Jess is the bad boy next door whom is house sitting for his brother for an extended time... and he’s definitely not socially awkward. Emma assigns him as her dating coach with the purpose of learning the ins and outs of a successful relationship.
This is a debut novel of an indie author, Amy Alves. It’s such a joy to follow along with authors and read their material as they grow in their career. I gotta tell y’all, this debut knocked it out of the park. I was obsessed with the dating coach/fake dating trope and the connection that the two characters had. Emma being a socially awkward, blurt-out-words woman provided such an amusing perspective, but I do love that we get the perspective of the male character (aka Green Eyes) also!
Would recommend this novel!
This is a debut novel of an indie author, Amy Alves. It’s such a joy to follow along with authors and read their material as they grow in their career. I gotta tell y’all, this debut knocked it out of the park. I was obsessed with the dating coach/fake dating trope and the connection that the two characters had. Emma being a socially awkward, blurt-out-words woman provided such an amusing perspective, but I do love that we get the perspective of the male character (aka Green Eyes) also!
Would recommend this novel!
September 24, 2021
Let me first start by saying that, how much I love small town romances. The town of Landry was so unique & pleasing.
I loved Emma, how she portrayed a girl next door vibe, while dealing with a trauma from her past life.
I loved how carefree she was yet felt things so deeply.
Whereas Jess came across the entire opposite. I adored Jess. After going through a failed relationship in his past, he was very guarded, emotionally unavailable & reserved.
But I loved the fact how he was very casual & quirky around Emma.
And their first meeting had me laughing so hard😝 along with a tons of other encounters such as the book club & Emma's terrible cooking.
A great debut which releases on 4th Feb. Make sure to check it out.
September 28, 2021
Oh my... I'm swooning😍😍😍😍
This book had it all. I'm feeling soo much right now. Ahhh... All the mazing feels.
Jess has been betrayed before by a woman he thought would be his forever. But when you get hurt that badly, you lose your ability to trust someone and open your heart again.
Emma has just shifted to town of Landry. She's always been a hard worker and a driven woman. She has made a successful career for herself. But something happens that makes her leave it all behind and start new.
Jess is house sitting for his brother Garrett. After a interesting encounter with his new neighbor, he's curious to see who's that.
Emma is embarrassed because everytime she meets her new neighbor something happens that leaves her cowering in shame. But for Jess it's all in good fun.
OMG... I have to say Stella and her book club antics were freaking madenning and absolutely hilarious. She's one crazy lady for sure and her gang of craziacs. 😂😂
When a cooking incident gone wrong starts a discussion of how Emma could practice dating with Jess. Even though Jess is only in town for a couple of months, yet it seems like a good idea for her to get to learn from him.
They start their so called getting to know with running routines which quickly turn to cooking together dates and visiting parents for dinner dates.
Without realising when their so called practice turns to real feelings and emotions, they both still carry on. Even when Emma starts feeling deeply Jess is still adamant about ending this.
Ahhh... I hated how idiotic Jess was. Not ready to open himself up but ready to give up. He so deserved how Emma later behaves with him.
I loved Taylor and Lauren and I can't definitely feel something brewing there too. Lauren is such an amazing friend to Emma. Going out, helping her vent and helping her move on Lauren is the best friend every girl wants. Same is Taylor. He doesn't back down to make Jess face his mistakes and plan things to make him realise his foolishness.
But I have to say, I loved Jess' family the most. Especially his mother was a total gem and such a sweetheart. Even though Jess starts the fake dating thing for her. But she is just so welcoming and sweet towards Emma. I loved his mother. Especially how she assists Emma in helping to learn how to cook.
I had fun and was laughing everytime Emma did a cooking attempt. Especially that lasagna. Oh my..😳😳😳😂😂😂
But the best... Those last chapters.. Ahhhh... I was freaking swooning and all melting over just how sweet Jess was and how Emma can't help but feel for him.
Ahhhh..... This one was absolutely amazing swoon worthy ride for sure. Loved loved this one. ❤️❤️❤️
This book had it all. I'm feeling soo much right now. Ahhh... All the mazing feels.
Jess has been betrayed before by a woman he thought would be his forever. But when you get hurt that badly, you lose your ability to trust someone and open your heart again.
Emma has just shifted to town of Landry. She's always been a hard worker and a driven woman. She has made a successful career for herself. But something happens that makes her leave it all behind and start new.
Jess is house sitting for his brother Garrett. After a interesting encounter with his new neighbor, he's curious to see who's that.
Emma is embarrassed because everytime she meets her new neighbor something happens that leaves her cowering in shame. But for Jess it's all in good fun.
OMG... I have to say Stella and her book club antics were freaking madenning and absolutely hilarious. She's one crazy lady for sure and her gang of craziacs. 😂😂
When a cooking incident gone wrong starts a discussion of how Emma could practice dating with Jess. Even though Jess is only in town for a couple of months, yet it seems like a good idea for her to get to learn from him.
They start their so called getting to know with running routines which quickly turn to cooking together dates and visiting parents for dinner dates.
Without realising when their so called practice turns to real feelings and emotions, they both still carry on. Even when Emma starts feeling deeply Jess is still adamant about ending this.
Ahhh... I hated how idiotic Jess was. Not ready to open himself up but ready to give up. He so deserved how Emma later behaves with him.
I loved Taylor and Lauren and I can't definitely feel something brewing there too. Lauren is such an amazing friend to Emma. Going out, helping her vent and helping her move on Lauren is the best friend every girl wants. Same is Taylor. He doesn't back down to make Jess face his mistakes and plan things to make him realise his foolishness.
But I have to say, I loved Jess' family the most. Especially his mother was a total gem and such a sweetheart. Even though Jess starts the fake dating thing for her. But she is just so welcoming and sweet towards Emma. I loved his mother. Especially how she assists Emma in helping to learn how to cook.
I had fun and was laughing everytime Emma did a cooking attempt. Especially that lasagna. Oh my..😳😳😳😂😂😂
But the best... Those last chapters.. Ahhhh... I was freaking swooning and all melting over just how sweet Jess was and how Emma can't help but feel for him.
Ahhhh..... This one was absolutely amazing swoon worthy ride for sure. Loved loved this one. ❤️❤️❤️
February 1, 2021
Title: The Experiment
Author: Amy Alves
Hero/Heroine: Jess and Emma
Trope: Fake Relationship
THE GOOD 😁
The characters for me made this book incredible. Emma, having experienced sexual assault at the hands of her ex boss, was determined to change her outlook on life and love. Moving to a new town, she finds herself living next door to Jess, confident, good looking and relationship averse. Emma was brilliant; with her lack of brain to mouth filter and a distinct lack of social skills, she was just adorable. Combine this with Jess’s humour and charm and you have the perfect couple. Even though you’re given the impression that Jess has no interest in spending any longer with the same woman than is absolutely necessary, he spends a considerate amount of time coaching Emma in the ins and outs (*snorts*) of relationships, all the while helping her restore her confidence. Agreeing to an experiment to help Emma navigate her way around a relationship soon turns into something neither of them were expecting. And I was here for all of it. Also want to point out how fabulous Emma’s best friend Lauren is, I’m praying she has her own book as she’s too big of a character to not have a story written about her (was that hint subtle enough? No?)
THE BAD 🙁
Nothing bad as such, but boy did I feel a significant amount of anger toward Jess and how he acted in a particular part of the book. But that’s good right? To feel anger toward a fictional character?
OVERALL THOUGHTS: Stunning debut from a promising new indie author, definitely one to watch
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the author for gifting me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Author: Amy Alves
Hero/Heroine: Jess and Emma
Trope: Fake Relationship
THE GOOD 😁
The characters for me made this book incredible. Emma, having experienced sexual assault at the hands of her ex boss, was determined to change her outlook on life and love. Moving to a new town, she finds herself living next door to Jess, confident, good looking and relationship averse. Emma was brilliant; with her lack of brain to mouth filter and a distinct lack of social skills, she was just adorable. Combine this with Jess’s humour and charm and you have the perfect couple. Even though you’re given the impression that Jess has no interest in spending any longer with the same woman than is absolutely necessary, he spends a considerate amount of time coaching Emma in the ins and outs (*snorts*) of relationships, all the while helping her restore her confidence. Agreeing to an experiment to help Emma navigate her way around a relationship soon turns into something neither of them were expecting. And I was here for all of it. Also want to point out how fabulous Emma’s best friend Lauren is, I’m praying she has her own book as she’s too big of a character to not have a story written about her (was that hint subtle enough? No?)
THE BAD 🙁
Nothing bad as such, but boy did I feel a significant amount of anger toward Jess and how he acted in a particular part of the book. But that’s good right? To feel anger toward a fictional character?
OVERALL THOUGHTS: Stunning debut from a promising new indie author, definitely one to watch
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the author for gifting me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 31, 2021
I'm not a person who reads a lot of romance stories, but I had an opportunity to read the book and the premise sounded interesting enough, so I gave it a shot. And I'm really glad I did.
I was pulled into the story instantly, and I finished it quickly! The author's writing style is engaging, and I found the dialogue between characters natural and believable. This alone allowed me to like the characters and become invested in their story. Both Jess and Emma were characters I felt like I understood and ultimately rooted for. They were also entertaining and there was a lot of funny, sweet, and steamy moments between them.
While the overall story naturally had predictable moments, I appreciated that there were a number of directions I didn't see coming. I like reading a story where surprises encourage me to keep reading! I enjoyed the slow burn, the unexpected, and the story as a whole.
I will certainly keep reading the other books in the series when they come out, and Amy Alves will be an author I will gladly put in my "to read" list!
I was pulled into the story instantly, and I finished it quickly! The author's writing style is engaging, and I found the dialogue between characters natural and believable. This alone allowed me to like the characters and become invested in their story. Both Jess and Emma were characters I felt like I understood and ultimately rooted for. They were also entertaining and there was a lot of funny, sweet, and steamy moments between them.
While the overall story naturally had predictable moments, I appreciated that there were a number of directions I didn't see coming. I like reading a story where surprises encourage me to keep reading! I enjoyed the slow burn, the unexpected, and the story as a whole.
I will certainly keep reading the other books in the series when they come out, and Amy Alves will be an author I will gladly put in my "to read" list!
April 21, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
Want to hold your breath for 20 mins straight, just read this book!!
Amy Alves Killed my heart! But fixed it by the end, which i appreciated!
This was my first read from Amy, and I’m hooked!
The town of Landry is a fun small town,with some interesting characcters and events that had me dying from laughing.
Emma had me laughing at almost every page, with her thinking, the way she acted and her talking.
Jess made me made more than a few times, but his charm made up for alot of it.
a slow burn, but oh so worth it!!
I really enjoyed this book. One i need on my bookshelf! A reread 100%
🔥🔥🔥
Want to hold your breath for 20 mins straight, just read this book!!
Amy Alves Killed my heart! But fixed it by the end, which i appreciated!
This was my first read from Amy, and I’m hooked!
The town of Landry is a fun small town,with some interesting characcters and events that had me dying from laughing.
Emma had me laughing at almost every page, with her thinking, the way she acted and her talking.
Jess made me made more than a few times, but his charm made up for alot of it.
a slow burn, but oh so worth it!!
I really enjoyed this book. One i need on my bookshelf! A reread 100%
February 3, 2021
I adored this debut release by Amy Alves.
It's such a fun, cute read, filled to bursting with laugh out loud moments and characters you can't help but fall in love with.
Emma is so adorably awkward, you're rooting for her from the start, and Jess is such a sweetheart, despite his best intentions to remain unaffected. I loved watching their relationship develop, and the dialogue between the two is hilarious! I found myself giggling at my kindle on so many occasions.
The town of Landry has sucked me in, and I can't wait to read more!
It's such a fun, cute read, filled to bursting with laugh out loud moments and characters you can't help but fall in love with.
Emma is so adorably awkward, you're rooting for her from the start, and Jess is such a sweetheart, despite his best intentions to remain unaffected. I loved watching their relationship develop, and the dialogue between the two is hilarious! I found myself giggling at my kindle on so many occasions.
The town of Landry has sucked me in, and I can't wait to read more!
June 11, 2021
Eu só queria um bom livro pra passar o tempo. Sabe aquela justificava não é você, sou eu ?! Pois é vou usar aqui, não é que o livro é ruim, é que as vezes eles me aborrecem por nada, são tantos livros que eu leio , que muitos deles acabam sendo a mesma coisa SEMPRE. E as vezes só me cansa a vista mesmo . Então não é que o livro seja ruim, é só que me deu sono. ( E pq meus gostos são peculiares , como diria algum personagem por aí)
May 2, 2021
A-MA-ZING!
I can’t even begin to describe how good this book is! I couldn’t put it down! I’ve never laughed so much. Fantastic read. Can’t wait to get stuck into the next book of the series.
I can’t even begin to describe how good this book is! I couldn’t put it down! I’ve never laughed so much. Fantastic read. Can’t wait to get stuck into the next book of the series.
May 8, 2021
HOLY COW
I just finished this book, I'd been in a bad slump and oh my gosh. I adore Emma and Jess. This book had me laughing, crying, I was literally having to put my phone down and walk away at parts! Ah 10/10 READ. THIS.BOOK. !!!!!!!!
I just finished this book, I'd been in a bad slump and oh my gosh. I adore Emma and Jess. This book had me laughing, crying, I was literally having to put my phone down and walk away at parts! Ah 10/10 READ. THIS.BOOK. !!!!!!!!
January 25, 2021
What do you get when you mix one socially awkward girl in need of a relationship coach and one jaded guy who has written off all romantic relationships? One hilarious and steamy romance! I don’t think I’ve met a character that I truly connected with until I read about Emma. Her inner and honestly sometimes outer monologue left me laughing out loud. Jess on the other hand tries to play the “love ‘em and leave ‘em” type but has this inner sweetness brought out by Emma. The author not only writes wonderful main characters but let’s not forget the rest of the characters of Landry (everyone should have a friend like Lauren!) who really bring together this world that I as a reader want to step into. This sweet and truly heartfelt read has been one of my favorites in recent memory. Can’t wait for the rest of the Landry series!
January 17, 2021
A small town romance that sucks you in and let you fall in love with each character.
Jess is a dream guy, unfortunately he lets his past dedicates his future.
At first Emma is really awkward, she is a big mess but, I loved her. She is so funny and quirky and I could relate to her feelings.
From the first moment Jess and Emma have a strong connection. The chemistry between them was palpable and their banter was hilarious.
I loved the sex scènes because Amy Alves managed to create a hot, erotic scene without using the explicit words. I admire it if a writer can do that.
I liked the pace of the story, nothing got dragged out and it all kept moving along.
The side characters were a nice addition too. Personally, I really liked how Millie helped Emma with her cooking and basically showed her what it is to be in a loving family.
I can't believe this is Amy Alves debut novel. She chose a trope that has been used many times before her, but she managed to make it hers. The Experiment is an entertaining, funny, sweet, sexy story with a beautiful message. Let the past be the past. Live in the present and follow your heart.
Jess is a dream guy, unfortunately he lets his past dedicates his future.
At first Emma is really awkward, she is a big mess but, I loved her. She is so funny and quirky and I could relate to her feelings.
From the first moment Jess and Emma have a strong connection. The chemistry between them was palpable and their banter was hilarious.
I loved the sex scènes because Amy Alves managed to create a hot, erotic scene without using the explicit words. I admire it if a writer can do that.
I liked the pace of the story, nothing got dragged out and it all kept moving along.
The side characters were a nice addition too. Personally, I really liked how Millie helped Emma with her cooking and basically showed her what it is to be in a loving family.
I can't believe this is Amy Alves debut novel. She chose a trope that has been used many times before her, but she managed to make it hers. The Experiment is an entertaining, funny, sweet, sexy story with a beautiful message. Let the past be the past. Live in the present and follow your heart.
January 31, 2021
So, I'm more or a fan of darker romance stories but The Experiment is a wonderful cute small town love story.
Even though this book isn't my normal type, I really enjoyed it! There was countless time that Amy had me laughing because her character Emma isn't good in any form of social situations. Let me just say there's a bit in a supermarket involving the lovely Jess, that will leave you in stitches.
Jess and Emma both have difficult back stories. Jess having been hurt by a previous love, and Emma completely overhauling her life after a traumatic event. They're adorable together and you'll be routing for them the whole time!
If you're looking for a feel good, funny novel (with a little hit of drama thrown in) - then this is it.
A wonderful novel from Amy Alves.
Even though this book isn't my normal type, I really enjoyed it! There was countless time that Amy had me laughing because her character Emma isn't good in any form of social situations. Let me just say there's a bit in a supermarket involving the lovely Jess, that will leave you in stitches.
Jess and Emma both have difficult back stories. Jess having been hurt by a previous love, and Emma completely overhauling her life after a traumatic event. They're adorable together and you'll be routing for them the whole time!
If you're looking for a feel good, funny novel (with a little hit of drama thrown in) - then this is it.
A wonderful novel from Amy Alves.
January 9, 2021
Arc read for an honest review 💛
can’t believe this is Amy’s debut novel. I absolutely loved it! I read it in a few hours, I couldn’t put it down. I’m such a sucker for fake dating trope, especially in a small town where everybody knows your business.
Emma is such a socially awkward train-wreck and I loved it, she compares her social skills to a head of cabbage and she wasn’t wrong. 😂
Jess is her neighbour, he’s housesitting for his brother. He recently had his heart broken and betrayed so he’s not looking for anything serious.
Well, we all know when you’re not looking, that’s when the best things come along.
If you want a read that’s funny, sweet, steamy and emotional, than this is it. I can’t wait for book two, Emma’s best friend Lauren is hilariously feisty.
can’t believe this is Amy’s debut novel. I absolutely loved it! I read it in a few hours, I couldn’t put it down. I’m such a sucker for fake dating trope, especially in a small town where everybody knows your business.
Emma is such a socially awkward train-wreck and I loved it, she compares her social skills to a head of cabbage and she wasn’t wrong. 😂
Jess is her neighbour, he’s housesitting for his brother. He recently had his heart broken and betrayed so he’s not looking for anything serious.
Well, we all know when you’re not looking, that’s when the best things come along.
If you want a read that’s funny, sweet, steamy and emotional, than this is it. I can’t wait for book two, Emma’s best friend Lauren is hilariously feisty.
March 28, 2021
Out Now! 4.5 Stars! Bring on more Landry Love!
It's not an experiment to read this book, it an absolute pleasure!
Emma - after being assaulted by her former boss, she moves to the small town to start afresh. She wants to focus on building herself back up and look at finding The One, with whom she can share the unconditional love she never really received in her past. She enlists the help of her gorgeous, yet temporary neighbour, to be her dating guide. Can he help her come out of her shell? Can she start to feel whole again? Will her already fragile heart get broken in the process?
Jess - having been burned by an ex-fiancé, he's closed himself off to any sort of romantic relationship and has only been having casual hook-ups for the last 6 years. When he agrees to housesit for his brother, he doesn't expect to gravitate so strongly to the gorgeous yet quirky women next door. To get his mother off his back about finding someone to settle down with, he agrees to help Emma if, in return, she pretends to be his girlfriend at a family event. What happens when she starts to break down his walls? Can he open himself up again?
This book has the 4 H's! Humour, Heat, Heartbreak & a HEA!
Even though I did want to slap Jess at points, I could see he was trying to protect himself. I won't say anymore to avoid spoilers...
I can't wait to see more of Lauren & Taylor and Chloe & Hayden, plus Garrett!
A great start to what I hope is a great series!
It's not an experiment to read this book, it an absolute pleasure!
Emma - after being assaulted by her former boss, she moves to the small town to start afresh. She wants to focus on building herself back up and look at finding The One, with whom she can share the unconditional love she never really received in her past. She enlists the help of her gorgeous, yet temporary neighbour, to be her dating guide. Can he help her come out of her shell? Can she start to feel whole again? Will her already fragile heart get broken in the process?
Jess - having been burned by an ex-fiancé, he's closed himself off to any sort of romantic relationship and has only been having casual hook-ups for the last 6 years. When he agrees to housesit for his brother, he doesn't expect to gravitate so strongly to the gorgeous yet quirky women next door. To get his mother off his back about finding someone to settle down with, he agrees to help Emma if, in return, she pretends to be his girlfriend at a family event. What happens when she starts to break down his walls? Can he open himself up again?
This book has the 4 H's! Humour, Heat, Heartbreak & a HEA!
Even though I did want to slap Jess at points, I could see he was trying to protect himself. I won't say anymore to avoid spoilers...
I can't wait to see more of Lauren & Taylor and Chloe & Hayden, plus Garrett!
A great start to what I hope is a great series!
March 29, 2021
“Always, Emma. ‘We’ means you and me. I’ll eat anything, do anything, if we can be ‘we’ again.”
I don’t usually read small-town romance, but every once in a while, I pick one up and am reminded that they are so good for the soul, especially when as well-written as Amy Alves’s THE EXPERIMENT.
This sweet, charming, laugh-out-loud rom-com features an endearingly awkward heroine and her sexy (temporary) neighbor who embark on a fake relationship and, in the process, fall (in)conveniently in love.
When we first meet Emma and Jess, both are broken and more than a little reluctant to acknowledge the sparks flying between them. I adored Emma, in particular. Socially inept and introverted, she made me laugh throughout the book but also brought out all of my protective instincts. I wanted to give her a big, big hug for the cold upbringing she endured. (I also wanted to punch her ex boss, but I digress).
The other star of the book was the banter between the two leads. Man, can Amy Alves string together some delightful dialogue! Throw in a gossipy small town, an amazing supporting cast (more Lauren and Taylor, please!), and you’ve got the recipe for a charming read to help you escape from the harsh realities of your daily to-do list.
Anyways, I smiled my way through Emma and Jess’s (mis)adventures, and I know you will too!
Brava, Amy, on an amazing debut! I can’t wait to return to Landry!
I don’t usually read small-town romance, but every once in a while, I pick one up and am reminded that they are so good for the soul, especially when as well-written as Amy Alves’s THE EXPERIMENT.
This sweet, charming, laugh-out-loud rom-com features an endearingly awkward heroine and her sexy (temporary) neighbor who embark on a fake relationship and, in the process, fall (in)conveniently in love.
When we first meet Emma and Jess, both are broken and more than a little reluctant to acknowledge the sparks flying between them. I adored Emma, in particular. Socially inept and introverted, she made me laugh throughout the book but also brought out all of my protective instincts. I wanted to give her a big, big hug for the cold upbringing she endured. (I also wanted to punch her ex boss, but I digress).
The other star of the book was the banter between the two leads. Man, can Amy Alves string together some delightful dialogue! Throw in a gossipy small town, an amazing supporting cast (more Lauren and Taylor, please!), and you’ve got the recipe for a charming read to help you escape from the harsh realities of your daily to-do list.
Anyways, I smiled my way through Emma and Jess’s (mis)adventures, and I know you will too!
Brava, Amy, on an amazing debut! I can’t wait to return to Landry!
February 24, 2021
I loved this book. It's a feel good romance, that leaves you with a huge smile. Emma is the kind of hilarious clumsy heroine we all love to see, and the thing I love the most about her is the way she is direct and open. It made a nice change from other books I have read where the heroine shies away from admitting what she wants.
This book is wholesome and sweet and a perfect read if you're looking for some easy reading with a fun romance.
I also love the hint at other romances and hope this becomes a series! An amazing first book from Amy Alves and I am excited to read whatever comes next from her.
This book is wholesome and sweet and a perfect read if you're looking for some easy reading with a fun romance.
I also love the hint at other romances and hope this becomes a series! An amazing first book from Amy Alves and I am excited to read whatever comes next from her.
October 7, 2022
This book was amazing. The book is set in a small town of Landry, which personally I don’t read small town, but love this story. Emma meets Jess and which he decides after a while that he will help her to learn rules of dating after her not great past and experience with dating. Jess is determine to stay away from women since he has had trust broken horribly.
This book is so amazing from the very beginning and I finished this book in a couple days. The book is filled with laughter and steamy. The chemistry that you get from the beginning is unreal. It is a sweet story that you cant help to fall in love with this amazing story from the very beginning.
This book is so amazing from the very beginning and I finished this book in a couple days. The book is filled with laughter and steamy. The chemistry that you get from the beginning is unreal. It is a sweet story that you cant help to fall in love with this amazing story from the very beginning.
October 27, 2021
ugh-could’ve been good but just wasn’t!
So I’m jumping right in on what what so wrong with this story-the heroine-the premise just didn’t jive with the character. The character starts out being this strong, highly intelligent, finance CFO who goes through a trauma, moves to a small town and turns into a backward, bumbling, never dated ding bat!!!!
And the alcohol abuse-she’s a “trauma survivor”, Tami g self defense, but then she’ll get blitzed and stumble to a stranger guy’s home for the night?! So stupid I couldn’t finish. It’s like the author couldn’t make up her mind as to who her main character was, and sadly neither was very likeable!!!
So I’m jumping right in on what what so wrong with this story-the heroine-the premise just didn’t jive with the character. The character starts out being this strong, highly intelligent, finance CFO who goes through a trauma, moves to a small town and turns into a backward, bumbling, never dated ding bat!!!!
And the alcohol abuse-she’s a “trauma survivor”, Tami g self defense, but then she’ll get blitzed and stumble to a stranger guy’s home for the night?! So stupid I couldn’t finish. It’s like the author couldn’t make up her mind as to who her main character was, and sadly neither was very likeable!!!
April 4, 2021
The Experiment
Amy Alves
The Experiment begins with the male protagonist, Jess finding out that his fiancé has been cheating and robbing him. Both, literally and figuratively. He ends up breaking up with her & tries to move on with his life. But moving on for him means shying away from commitment and living a bachelor’s life, that is, until he meets Emma. Emma is a shy girl, who, due to an incident has moved to live in a small town called Landry. Little does she know, she would find more in this little town that she expected.
The Experiment is a wonderful & captivating slow-burn, small town Romance novel. The readers are gradually introduced to the main characters and placed into the setting of the story. The book is penned from third person perspective & was fast paced. There was always something happening in the lives of the protagonists. The story-line was relatively unique & the writing style of the author was vivid and descriptive.
The characters were well-penned and were realistic. I adored the character of Emma. She was very sweet and caring. During some of the scenes, I wanted to step into the novel and smack Jess across his head. The side characters were also beautifully penned and it did not feel as if they were just lingering on the side lines.
However, I figured that there was very little emphasis placed on Emma’s back story and too much emphasis placed on Jess’. Where on the one hand, the actions of Jess were solely governed by apprehensions which he developed due to his past experiences, on the other hand, Emma’s past had little to no hold over her actions and personality. In the same way, Emma’s family life was also kept pretty much obscured and Jess’ familial life was not.
However, the redeeming quality of the novel was the inhuman (and endearing) amount of swoon and Romance stuffed in the book. During the climax, I found myself shedding a couple of tears and awing at the marvel the author has presented her readers.
If you are a Romance fanatic, The Experiment will be a palatable choice for you.
“𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.”
Amy Alves
The Experiment begins with the male protagonist, Jess finding out that his fiancé has been cheating and robbing him. Both, literally and figuratively. He ends up breaking up with her & tries to move on with his life. But moving on for him means shying away from commitment and living a bachelor’s life, that is, until he meets Emma. Emma is a shy girl, who, due to an incident has moved to live in a small town called Landry. Little does she know, she would find more in this little town that she expected.
The Experiment is a wonderful & captivating slow-burn, small town Romance novel. The readers are gradually introduced to the main characters and placed into the setting of the story. The book is penned from third person perspective & was fast paced. There was always something happening in the lives of the protagonists. The story-line was relatively unique & the writing style of the author was vivid and descriptive.
The characters were well-penned and were realistic. I adored the character of Emma. She was very sweet and caring. During some of the scenes, I wanted to step into the novel and smack Jess across his head. The side characters were also beautifully penned and it did not feel as if they were just lingering on the side lines.
However, I figured that there was very little emphasis placed on Emma’s back story and too much emphasis placed on Jess’. Where on the one hand, the actions of Jess were solely governed by apprehensions which he developed due to his past experiences, on the other hand, Emma’s past had little to no hold over her actions and personality. In the same way, Emma’s family life was also kept pretty much obscured and Jess’ familial life was not.
However, the redeeming quality of the novel was the inhuman (and endearing) amount of swoon and Romance stuffed in the book. During the climax, I found myself shedding a couple of tears and awing at the marvel the author has presented her readers.
If you are a Romance fanatic, The Experiment will be a palatable choice for you.
“𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.”
February 3, 2021
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
From debut author Amy Alves comes a fun, fast-paced romcom that deals with personal ghosts, endurance tests, and some fun-loving, way-too-involved-in-your-love-life best friends.
Emma is in need of a fresh start, and hopes that moving to the small town of Landry will be the fix that she’s looking for. Fleeing from the ghosts of her past, she’s striving to heal herself by completely rerouting her brain to form a new outlook on love. She wants to feel for real. And who is the person she proposes to help her? It’s none other than her new, gorgeously handsome neighbour, Jess.
Jess isn’t looking for love or anything resembling a relationship. He’s perfectly fine living his life of zero emotional commitment, thank you very much. So, it’s needless to say that when his new neighbour, who he admits is good looking and wouldn’t mind taking around the block, suggests a fake dating, teach me-how-to-date scheme, he has a very hard time saying no. So, he doesn’t.
This novel is full of witty banter and sexually awkward innuendoes that made me tip my head back in laughter. The small town setting gave me Gilmore Girls vibes, especially with how nosey everyone is. But what drew me into this novel’s story is the theme of personal acceptance and overcoming great obstacles. Both Emma and Jess are struggling with the demons of their pasts while actively trying to digest what their new-found relationship really means. By no means are either of these characters perfect, but they are perfect for each other. They just have to figure that out for themselves (with a little help from their friends!).
If you’re a fan of fake dating, interventions from meddling best friends, and small town communities spewing the facts and indulging in drunken activities, this book is definitely for you!
From debut author Amy Alves comes a fun, fast-paced romcom that deals with personal ghosts, endurance tests, and some fun-loving, way-too-involved-in-your-love-life best friends.
Emma is in need of a fresh start, and hopes that moving to the small town of Landry will be the fix that she’s looking for. Fleeing from the ghosts of her past, she’s striving to heal herself by completely rerouting her brain to form a new outlook on love. She wants to feel for real. And who is the person she proposes to help her? It’s none other than her new, gorgeously handsome neighbour, Jess.
Jess isn’t looking for love or anything resembling a relationship. He’s perfectly fine living his life of zero emotional commitment, thank you very much. So, it’s needless to say that when his new neighbour, who he admits is good looking and wouldn’t mind taking around the block, suggests a fake dating, teach me-how-to-date scheme, he has a very hard time saying no. So, he doesn’t.
This novel is full of witty banter and sexually awkward innuendoes that made me tip my head back in laughter. The small town setting gave me Gilmore Girls vibes, especially with how nosey everyone is. But what drew me into this novel’s story is the theme of personal acceptance and overcoming great obstacles. Both Emma and Jess are struggling with the demons of their pasts while actively trying to digest what their new-found relationship really means. By no means are either of these characters perfect, but they are perfect for each other. They just have to figure that out for themselves (with a little help from their friends!).
If you’re a fan of fake dating, interventions from meddling best friends, and small town communities spewing the facts and indulging in drunken activities, this book is definitely for you!
April 8, 2021
***Thank you to the Author for giving me the opportunity to review this book for an honest review***
This story was such a nice refresher from what I normally read. I am usually more into the dark fantasy books and this was a way to lighten up my heavy reads.
I always talk about “world-building” when it comes to the fantasy/paranormal books I normally read but let us take a moment to reflect on the Author’s ability to create an entire town of Landry that was so believable I really wish I could visit!!
When Emma leaves her job and Seattle behind, from an event that happened (I cannot tell you the event, that would spoil things). She chooses to settle within the Landry city limits.
Enter Jess the neighbor next door who really is not her neighbor but a house sitter who really takes an interest in Emma. He may not be looking for anything as he just got out of a relationship but these two pair up in a beautiful way.
Emma turns to Jess for help on entering the dating world. She is awkward when it comes to encounters with people and she needs Jess to help her.
Here starts the “fake” relationship which…. I cannot tell you more than that!
I felt like this book was very wholesome, new and fresh and really is an enjoyable read. I gave it 5 raging stars because it was so good for me, the one who usually prefers the darker side of books. I truly cannot wait to start the next book in the series!
This story was such a nice refresher from what I normally read. I am usually more into the dark fantasy books and this was a way to lighten up my heavy reads.
I always talk about “world-building” when it comes to the fantasy/paranormal books I normally read but let us take a moment to reflect on the Author’s ability to create an entire town of Landry that was so believable I really wish I could visit!!
When Emma leaves her job and Seattle behind, from an event that happened (I cannot tell you the event, that would spoil things). She chooses to settle within the Landry city limits.
Enter Jess the neighbor next door who really is not her neighbor but a house sitter who really takes an interest in Emma. He may not be looking for anything as he just got out of a relationship but these two pair up in a beautiful way.
Emma turns to Jess for help on entering the dating world. She is awkward when it comes to encounters with people and she needs Jess to help her.
Here starts the “fake” relationship which…. I cannot tell you more than that!
I felt like this book was very wholesome, new and fresh and really is an enjoyable read. I gave it 5 raging stars because it was so good for me, the one who usually prefers the darker side of books. I truly cannot wait to start the next book in the series!
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