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Almost Perfect #1
Loving Jake
An alternative cover for this ASIN can be found here.
Kimberly Urbane has been in love with Jake Taylor since junior high. Too bad Jake has always thought of her as one of his best friend’s little sisters, and Kimberly has always been too shy to prove him otherwise. That is until he unexpectedly comes back into town, needing a room to rent, and Kimberly has one available. Well, sort of.
Jake Taylor is no longer interested in love thanks to a bitter divorce years ago. His life as an international journalist, traveling around the world with nothing to tie him down, suits him just fine - until a visit back to his hometown threatens to change his mind.
Jake never paid much attention to his friend’s kid sister and her obvious crush on him, but now they’re both all grown up and she’s so much harder to resist. Jake knows he can’t possibly give Kimberly the future and family she wants and deserves, but as his feelings for her grow so does his fear of ultimately letting her down.
Even though long days, and even longer nights, prove that there’s an undeniable attraction between Kimberly and Jake, Kimberly fears it isn’t enough to convince Jake to stay.
Loving Jake will take you on a wild roller coaster of emotions following Jake and Kimberly as they go from friends to lovers in this sexy romance.
Kimberly Urbane has been in love with Jake Taylor since junior high. Too bad Jake has always thought of her as one of his best friend’s little sisters, and Kimberly has always been too shy to prove him otherwise. That is until he unexpectedly comes back into town, needing a room to rent, and Kimberly has one available. Well, sort of.
Jake Taylor is no longer interested in love thanks to a bitter divorce years ago. His life as an international journalist, traveling around the world with nothing to tie him down, suits him just fine - until a visit back to his hometown threatens to change his mind.
Jake never paid much attention to his friend’s kid sister and her obvious crush on him, but now they’re both all grown up and she’s so much harder to resist. Jake knows he can’t possibly give Kimberly the future and family she wants and deserves, but as his feelings for her grow so does his fear of ultimately letting her down.
Even though long days, and even longer nights, prove that there’s an undeniable attraction between Kimberly and Jake, Kimberly fears it isn’t enough to convince Jake to stay.
Loving Jake will take you on a wild roller coaster of emotions following Jake and Kimberly as they go from friends to lovers in this sexy romance.
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 12, 2019
419 people are currently reading
400 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Lanay
10 books53 followersLisa Lanay fell in love with romance novels in high school and after years of writing stories in her head, she decided to turn on the computer and bring them to life! Lisa loves to travel, has a passion for rescue dogs and preserving our beaches, and enjoys a great glass of white wine. Today, Lisa enjoys writing the Almost Perfect Series with lots of humor and of course handsome Heroes & strong, attractive Heroines, oh yeah, and a rescue dog or two! She is currently working on Book #6 Enticing Luke. To learn more about Lisa and her books, visit lisalanay.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
September 3, 2019
This story took a turn that I wasn't expecting and that's such a good thing! The two MCs were incredibly cute together in the beginning and will send you on a roller coaster of emotions from start to finish. There's no doubt you'll be rooting for them to get together the entire time and the ending will leave a satisfied grin on your face. I'm very much looking forward to the next installment in this series, Zane as he was a well-written and rounded secondary character.
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June 21, 2020
Nice... until the sudden change of hart by H after 6 months of absence and some pages later all was well with 3 kids. Too rushed, or too slow before the finale, depends on how you look at it. Could have been a 4*.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2019
A positive story about a youthful crush and a chance to meet again many years later. I am excited to read Taming Zane because the author included the 1st chapter and it sounds like a different romance.
November 23, 2019
Loving Jake by Lisa Lanay a four-star read that will bring the heat, this is number one in the Almost Perfect series and shows promise of a good series. This is well done, but can be a little predictable at times, but overall, I liked the writing. This one will have you wondering all the way, Jake and Kimberly really will make you wonder, they will play with your emotions and make you guess. Jake was well done and not overly done like we can find in some romance stories.
September 16, 2019
In a good way, this was so frustrating. Jake, Kimberly, get it together is what I found myself thinking on more than one occasion. When they finally did get it.. and boy did they get it..it was great. I don't normally read this style, but found myself interested in the friends to lovers trope and the author did a great job of bringing them together and bringing me along for the ride. If you enjoy this style then this is a must read.
May 31, 2020
Unfortunately, I didn't enjoy Lisa Lanay's "Loving Jake" as much as I hoped I would. The main characters, Kimberly and Jake, weren't very well-developed, so I was left with a lot of unanswered questions at the end of the book. For example, what happened to Jake's parents that led to his grandfather raising him and his brother? What prompted their move from Texas to California, especially considering that his grandfather loved Texas so much?
Neither Jake nor Kimberly was particularly likeable, either. Kimberly seemed painfully naive and immature to me. She was convinced she loved Jake from the very beginning of the book based solely on memories she had of him from years before, but she didn't really know him and never mentioned anything specific that she even liked about him, other than perhaps his long hair. She also seemed to think that she could convince him they belonged together just by parading around in skimpy clothing and luring him into bed with her. Sex doesn't automatically equal love, and it was ridiculous for Kimberly to think that sleeping with Jake would be enough to convince him to give up his beloved career to stay in California with her forever.
However improbably, something about Kimberly's harebrained scheme must have actually worked because Jake had to try and talk himself out of being in love with her about a third of the way through the story. There was basically no relationship development up to that point, so it felt very much like insta-love to me. What really bothered me about their relationship, however, was their complete lack of ability to communicate. Instead of talking to each other, they both kept assuming that they already knew what the other one wanted, so they didn't give their partner agency over choices that directly affected them.
In addition to my issues with the characters and their relationship development, I was not a fan of certain aspects of the author's writing style. For example, phone calls were narrated only from one side (kind of like when a comedian is trying to tell a joke), which led to a lot of awkward repetition that wouldn't happen in real life. The narrative would have had a better flow if both sides of the conversation had been included. Also, there was no indication of how much time passed as the story progressed, which led to some confusion since there were apparently time jumps of several days/weeks between some of the chapters. A simple header saying something like "3 days later" inserted at the beginning of the chapter would provide some much-needed clarity.
Overall, while this wasn't the worst book I've ever read, I really can't recommend it. I will give the author another shot, however.
*ARC provided by the author/publisher via Hidden Gems Books. All opinions expressed are my own.
Neither Jake nor Kimberly was particularly likeable, either. Kimberly seemed painfully naive and immature to me. She was convinced she loved Jake from the very beginning of the book based solely on memories she had of him from years before, but she didn't really know him and never mentioned anything specific that she even liked about him, other than perhaps his long hair. She also seemed to think that she could convince him they belonged together just by parading around in skimpy clothing and luring him into bed with her. Sex doesn't automatically equal love, and it was ridiculous for Kimberly to think that sleeping with Jake would be enough to convince him to give up his beloved career to stay in California with her forever.
However improbably, something about Kimberly's harebrained scheme must have actually worked because Jake had to try and talk himself out of being in love with her about a third of the way through the story. There was basically no relationship development up to that point, so it felt very much like insta-love to me. What really bothered me about their relationship, however, was their complete lack of ability to communicate. Instead of talking to each other, they both kept assuming that they already knew what the other one wanted, so they didn't give their partner agency over choices that directly affected them.
In addition to my issues with the characters and their relationship development, I was not a fan of certain aspects of the author's writing style. For example, phone calls were narrated only from one side (kind of like when a comedian is trying to tell a joke), which led to a lot of awkward repetition that wouldn't happen in real life. The narrative would have had a better flow if both sides of the conversation had been included. Also, there was no indication of how much time passed as the story progressed, which led to some confusion since there were apparently time jumps of several days/weeks between some of the chapters. A simple header saying something like "3 days later" inserted at the beginning of the chapter would provide some much-needed clarity.
Overall, while this wasn't the worst book I've ever read, I really can't recommend it. I will give the author another shot, however.
*ARC provided by the author/publisher via Hidden Gems Books. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 2, 2019
This is an awesome summer read! Its the type of book that once you pick it up you can't put it down. The story between Jake and Kimberly is a very romantic story, with some comedy. I love that this book is apart of a series!
May 29, 2019
I have to be honest that I am not one for romance novels, but I thought I would give this book a shot because the price was right, and the storyline didn't seem like it would be totally cliche. After finishing this book, I can say that I would recommend this book to any romance novel fanatics, especially because this is just the first book in a new series and because there were many surprising plot twists that are not present in your average romance novels. 10/10 would recommend!
June 20, 2019
Great read! Will keep you wanting to know more. Perfect love story for any true romantic!
January 25, 2020
Based on reviews I was convinced I was going to love this book. One word - meh.
May 17, 2020
Lisa Lanay, ‘Loving Jake’.
The Almost Perfect Series.
As a Hidden Gems ARC reader I received a free copy and promised an honest review. Here it is.
Rating: 3 (of 5 stars).
In general: Second chance for youth crush.
Main characters:
- Kimberly Urbane.
She’s a fashion photographer for a magazine.
Since her youth Kim had a crush on Jake, her brother George’s best friend. But she was too shy to show it and Jake felt that you shouldn’t date the sister of your best friend.
- Jake Taylor.
He’s an international reporter. Jake left his home town 4 years ago. He married and divorced because he couldn’t have children and his wife didn’t accept his aversion against new medical tests. Now he returns to his home town to look after his old granddad. He’s offered a room in Kim’s house by Carly, a matchmaking sister of Kim and George. But Jake convinced himself that he’s unsuitable to have a permanent relationship in spite of his growing feelings for Kimberly.
The author, Lisa Lanay, then describes how Kimberly tries to let her new roommate fall in love with her yet. And they have a great connection, but can Jake overcome his frustrations from his first marriage? The author creates an interesting, but not very original plot in the answer on this question.
But left me with one big question: How is it possible that an intelligent journalist, after the discussions with his first wife about the subject, needs the help of a lovely old lady in a plane to realize that adoption is also a possibility to overcome his problems with Kim? Or, at all, why doesn’t he know that all his fears about his health could be unfound?
But all in all I enjoyed reading about the love life of these two wonderful main characters.
R. Huiszoon.
The Almost Perfect Series.
As a Hidden Gems ARC reader I received a free copy and promised an honest review. Here it is.
Rating: 3 (of 5 stars).
In general: Second chance for youth crush.
Main characters:
- Kimberly Urbane.
She’s a fashion photographer for a magazine.
Since her youth Kim had a crush on Jake, her brother George’s best friend. But she was too shy to show it and Jake felt that you shouldn’t date the sister of your best friend.
- Jake Taylor.
He’s an international reporter. Jake left his home town 4 years ago. He married and divorced because he couldn’t have children and his wife didn’t accept his aversion against new medical tests. Now he returns to his home town to look after his old granddad. He’s offered a room in Kim’s house by Carly, a matchmaking sister of Kim and George. But Jake convinced himself that he’s unsuitable to have a permanent relationship in spite of his growing feelings for Kimberly.
The author, Lisa Lanay, then describes how Kimberly tries to let her new roommate fall in love with her yet. And they have a great connection, but can Jake overcome his frustrations from his first marriage? The author creates an interesting, but not very original plot in the answer on this question.
But left me with one big question: How is it possible that an intelligent journalist, after the discussions with his first wife about the subject, needs the help of a lovely old lady in a plane to realize that adoption is also a possibility to overcome his problems with Kim? Or, at all, why doesn’t he know that all his fears about his health could be unfound?
But all in all I enjoyed reading about the love life of these two wonderful main characters.
R. Huiszoon.
October 24, 2019
This book has it all: cute cover, crisp descriptive writing, great dialogue, well-developed characters, and a story that delivers!
"There was a flock of butterflies partying down in her stomach, and it felt as if a few of them may have made their way to her throat and were looking for an exit." Lanay writes this about the main character, Kimberly, as we experience her seeing her high school crush for the first time -- all grown up. What a great line. I knew exactly how Kimberly felt. And I lived through every feeling she had afterwards, thanks to Lanay's gift for weaving a story.
"I know a relationship with Jake won't be perfect...I think he's almost perfect...and...that's good enough for me."
I could go on and on with the emotional lines that for an ordinary author might feel cheesy, but not so with Lanay. There were some laughs, which is another sign of a good book for me. And there were also tears. The good kind, where I was agonizing over the circumstances, frustrated they weren't resolving themselves, while also knowing somehow it would all work out in the end.
I loved the book so much I kept putting off reading the last one and a half chapters. I wanted to savour every word. Every earned tear. Every inward smile. Though I'd predicted the end from the middle of the book, the actual unfolding of it was more poignant than I could have imagined.
Thank goodness I own this book so I can reread it another day!
"There was a flock of butterflies partying down in her stomach, and it felt as if a few of them may have made their way to her throat and were looking for an exit." Lanay writes this about the main character, Kimberly, as we experience her seeing her high school crush for the first time -- all grown up. What a great line. I knew exactly how Kimberly felt. And I lived through every feeling she had afterwards, thanks to Lanay's gift for weaving a story.
"I know a relationship with Jake won't be perfect...I think he's almost perfect...and...that's good enough for me."
I could go on and on with the emotional lines that for an ordinary author might feel cheesy, but not so with Lanay. There were some laughs, which is another sign of a good book for me. And there were also tears. The good kind, where I was agonizing over the circumstances, frustrated they weren't resolving themselves, while also knowing somehow it would all work out in the end.
I loved the book so much I kept putting off reading the last one and a half chapters. I wanted to savour every word. Every earned tear. Every inward smile. Though I'd predicted the end from the middle of the book, the actual unfolding of it was more poignant than I could have imagined.
Thank goodness I own this book so I can reread it another day!
June 8, 2020
Jake and Kim are both likable enough, and I found myself rooting for their HEA; however, there are a few things about the book that turned me off. First of all, I just couldn't accept the premise that they couldn't get together because Jake thought he was sterile. The author tries to substantiate his case by telling us how his first wife refused to adopt, but, seriously, does Jake honestly think that all women will feel that way? And has he ever heard of sperm donors in case his love interest should want to become pregnant?
The other thing that bothered me was the overuse of internal dialogue. Ms. Lanay, the reader doesn't have to know everything the characters are thinking at all times and all the reasons they think that way, especially when many of their thoughts are repetitious.
In addition, the dialogue in many cases was stilted. In some cases, it seemed more like speeches than a conversation between two people. In other cases, there was so much internal dialogue going on in the midst of a conversation that it was impossible for the reader to remember the last statement or question that had been made.
I feel bad writing this because Ms. Lanay did a good job of creating sympathetic characters using a writing style free of the grammar errors that are so prevalent in books nowadays. If she could just work on dialogue and internal dialogue, she'd get much higher scores from me in the future.
The other thing that bothered me was the overuse of internal dialogue. Ms. Lanay, the reader doesn't have to know everything the characters are thinking at all times and all the reasons they think that way, especially when many of their thoughts are repetitious.
In addition, the dialogue in many cases was stilted. In some cases, it seemed more like speeches than a conversation between two people. In other cases, there was so much internal dialogue going on in the midst of a conversation that it was impossible for the reader to remember the last statement or question that had been made.
I feel bad writing this because Ms. Lanay did a good job of creating sympathetic characters using a writing style free of the grammar errors that are so prevalent in books nowadays. If she could just work on dialogue and internal dialogue, she'd get much higher scores from me in the future.
November 12, 2019
Loving Jake (Almost Perfect Series Book 1)
By: Lisa Lanay
5 out of 5 stars
The story Loving Jake (Almost Perfect Series Book 1) by Lisa Lanay is a contemporary romance book. It is a story that pulled me in from the beginning and didn’t let me go until the final page. It is a book that is romantic and has wonderful characters. I loved reading about Kimberly Urbane and Jake Taylor. Kimberly had always had a crush on Jake. When he suddenly needs a place to stay, Kimberly lets him stay in her spare room. The attraction between them is undeniable. Both of them have feelings for the other. Can Kimberly get Jake to act on his? Jake is a man who after the heartbreak of his divorce decides that relationships and romance are not for him. That doesn’t mean that he doesn’t see how beautiful Kimberly is and want more with her. What does the future hold for Kimberly and Jake? Will they find a HEA? Read this book to find out. This story has moments that will make you laugh, moments that are sad, and also heartwarming moments. The book had my emotions going up and down the entire time I was reading it. There are romantic scenes that you will love reading. Don’t miss out on a wonderful story that has amazing characters. I highly recommend it.
By: Lisa Lanay
5 out of 5 stars
The story Loving Jake (Almost Perfect Series Book 1) by Lisa Lanay is a contemporary romance book. It is a story that pulled me in from the beginning and didn’t let me go until the final page. It is a book that is romantic and has wonderful characters. I loved reading about Kimberly Urbane and Jake Taylor. Kimberly had always had a crush on Jake. When he suddenly needs a place to stay, Kimberly lets him stay in her spare room. The attraction between them is undeniable. Both of them have feelings for the other. Can Kimberly get Jake to act on his? Jake is a man who after the heartbreak of his divorce decides that relationships and romance are not for him. That doesn’t mean that he doesn’t see how beautiful Kimberly is and want more with her. What does the future hold for Kimberly and Jake? Will they find a HEA? Read this book to find out. This story has moments that will make you laugh, moments that are sad, and also heartwarming moments. The book had my emotions going up and down the entire time I was reading it. There are romantic scenes that you will love reading. Don’t miss out on a wonderful story that has amazing characters. I highly recommend it.
November 24, 2019
5 Star
Loving Jake (Almost Perfect Series Book 1) by Lisa Lanay is a book I absolutely loved. I literally locked myself in a room to not be disturbed while reading. I got lost in the pages, the story for me flowed and the characters are simply amazing they are relatable and very well developed. This is my first read by this Author but definitely not my last. Jake and Kimberly both of them at times frustrated me to the point where I wanted slap them but at other times they both pulled at my heartstrings. Kimberly is Greg’s sister and he is Jake’s friend which means she was off limits, but she has been in love with him since forever and everyone knew it . Jake is back in town to take care of his grandfather . He’s ata friends party and is in need of a place to stay. So he ends up at Kimberly’s ( Kim) house. There is no denying the attraction between these two, but his past is keeping him from moving forward. These two hook up and definitely raises the temperature in the room. Can he leave the past where it belongs and move forward? Can these two have a future together? Can they help each other? Find out what happens next in this absolute must read Book that I can’t recommend enough. I can’t wait to Zane’s story next.
Loving Jake (Almost Perfect Series Book 1) by Lisa Lanay is a book I absolutely loved. I literally locked myself in a room to not be disturbed while reading. I got lost in the pages, the story for me flowed and the characters are simply amazing they are relatable and very well developed. This is my first read by this Author but definitely not my last. Jake and Kimberly both of them at times frustrated me to the point where I wanted slap them but at other times they both pulled at my heartstrings. Kimberly is Greg’s sister and he is Jake’s friend which means she was off limits, but she has been in love with him since forever and everyone knew it . Jake is back in town to take care of his grandfather . He’s ata friends party and is in need of a place to stay. So he ends up at Kimberly’s ( Kim) house. There is no denying the attraction between these two, but his past is keeping him from moving forward. These two hook up and definitely raises the temperature in the room. Can he leave the past where it belongs and move forward? Can these two have a future together? Can they help each other? Find out what happens next in this absolute must read Book that I can’t recommend enough. I can’t wait to Zane’s story next.
November 15, 2019
Loving Jake (Almost Perfect Series Book 1) by Lisa Lanay
5 +++++ Stars
Oh my gosh I loved this book!! Being my first by this author I wasn't sure what to expect and it went beyond what I could have hoped for. I loved these people Jake and Kimberly were awesome and I was so totally invested in their story from the first couple pages. Not only the leads but I loved the secondary as well. The miscommunication between Jake and Kimberly had me wanting to crawl into the book and slap them both upside the head. I did though feel so bad for Jake, his story and the way it was told broke my heart, then mended it just as quick. The hospital scene took my breath away!!
This was an original story that at times I thought would go a certain way yet this author found ways to keep it fresh and unique and I appreciated that. I fell head over heels for gramps even if he was a bit difficult at times and he broke my heart.
This was an awesome start to a new series, one that I know I will read over and over again. I can not wait for Zanes story and also anything else this author writes..
Can't recommend this enough, it had all the feels and I loved it!
5 +++++ Stars
Oh my gosh I loved this book!! Being my first by this author I wasn't sure what to expect and it went beyond what I could have hoped for. I loved these people Jake and Kimberly were awesome and I was so totally invested in their story from the first couple pages. Not only the leads but I loved the secondary as well. The miscommunication between Jake and Kimberly had me wanting to crawl into the book and slap them both upside the head. I did though feel so bad for Jake, his story and the way it was told broke my heart, then mended it just as quick. The hospital scene took my breath away!!
This was an original story that at times I thought would go a certain way yet this author found ways to keep it fresh and unique and I appreciated that. I fell head over heels for gramps even if he was a bit difficult at times and he broke my heart.
This was an awesome start to a new series, one that I know I will read over and over again. I can not wait for Zanes story and also anything else this author writes..
Can't recommend this enough, it had all the feels and I loved it!
November 16, 2019
In Loving Jake, the first book in the Almost Perfect series, by author Lisa Lanay we meet Jake Taylor, a journalist who returns home to take care of his grandfather. While attending a party at his old friend’s house, he runs into his best friends’ little sister, Kimberly. Kim has been in love with Jake for twenty years but was always too shy to do anything about it. When Jake turns up at Kim’s house looking to rent her extra bedroom Kim decides to take the bull by the horns and make him fall, I love with her. Unfortunately, Jake is hiding a secret from Kim that keeps him from returning her affection, will Jake let his secret hold him back from what he truly desires?
This was the first time I have read anything by this author and I don’t think it will be the last. At times the story was choppy but it was entertaining if you can look past that. I did find Jake to be a little whiny at times but I enjoyed the character of Kim. I felt sorry for Kim at times but she didn’t let her situation and unrequited love keep her down. I look forward to reading more in this series and from this author.
This was the first time I have read anything by this author and I don’t think it will be the last. At times the story was choppy but it was entertaining if you can look past that. I did find Jake to be a little whiny at times but I enjoyed the character of Kim. I felt sorry for Kim at times but she didn’t let her situation and unrequited love keep her down. I look forward to reading more in this series and from this author.
November 23, 2019
Loving Jake is the first book in the Almost Perfect series by Lisa Lanay. It was the first time I had read any of this author’s work so was unsure what to expect. The blurb drew me in as it seemed like just the sort of book I would enjoy and I’m so glad I chose to read it as I loved it and now have a new author to add to my list.
Kimberley has loved Jake since high school where he was her brother’s friend. Now back in town for a while he needs somewhere to stay and Kimberley just happens to have a spare room.
Needless to say there’s a lot of angst as the 2 of them skirt around each other and Jake tries to fight his growing attraction to his friend’s little sister. There’s a lot of humour too as Kimberley tries everything to make Jake notice her as a grown woman and not the little girl who followed him everywhere.
This is a really great story with great characters, not only the 2 main characters. I loved Kimberley’s meddling sister who did everything to push the 2 of them together. Another character, Zane is going to be the focus of the 2nd book in this series and I can’t wait to read it.
Kimberley has loved Jake since high school where he was her brother’s friend. Now back in town for a while he needs somewhere to stay and Kimberley just happens to have a spare room.
Needless to say there’s a lot of angst as the 2 of them skirt around each other and Jake tries to fight his growing attraction to his friend’s little sister. There’s a lot of humour too as Kimberley tries everything to make Jake notice her as a grown woman and not the little girl who followed him everywhere.
This is a really great story with great characters, not only the 2 main characters. I loved Kimberley’s meddling sister who did everything to push the 2 of them together. Another character, Zane is going to be the focus of the 2nd book in this series and I can’t wait to read it.
November 21, 2019
Loving Jake is the first book in the Almost Perfect Series by Lisa Lanay. It is the first I have read by her, but I am anxiously awaiting book 2. The book is well written, with strong fun characters. I was upset by the direction the book was heading, but I am happy the way it ended. It wrapped up nicely, while leaving an opening for the second book in the series.
Kimberly has been in love with Jake since she was a kid. He is a friend of her brother's and has thus been off limits. When Jake comes back to town, and shows up at a party, Kimberly's sister decides to start the wheels turning. She lies and says Kimberly has a room for rent, when Jake mentions he will be in town for a while and needs a place to stay. At first Kimberly is shocked, embarrassed, star struck... but then she decides it could be perfect. It's easier for someone to fall in love with you, when they are under the same roof and spending hours with you. But sometimes things don't work out as you want them to. Buckle your seat belt and prepare for a roller coaster ride.
Kimberly has been in love with Jake since she was a kid. He is a friend of her brother's and has thus been off limits. When Jake comes back to town, and shows up at a party, Kimberly's sister decides to start the wheels turning. She lies and says Kimberly has a room for rent, when Jake mentions he will be in town for a while and needs a place to stay. At first Kimberly is shocked, embarrassed, star struck... but then she decides it could be perfect. It's easier for someone to fall in love with you, when they are under the same roof and spending hours with you. But sometimes things don't work out as you want them to. Buckle your seat belt and prepare for a roller coaster ride.
November 23, 2019
I was excited to read this one but once I started I wasn’t too excited anymore. It seemed boring, slow and too much in her head thinking. I thought “well too much isn’t going to happen in this book”.
But ladies....just hang in and keep going! This turns into an un-freaking-believable story. I ended up staying up until I had turned the last page.
I really started to like Jake and feel his plight as the story progressed. He seems like an honest to goodness guy who got burned. When he visited his Grandpa for a “talk”. That was so sweet and lovely. I liked being in his head for a while to know what he was thinking vs his actions and what he was saying to Kimberly.
The epilogue was great! Perfectly rounding the story out.
This is a first time author for me. This story turns out great. I worry that the beginning (maybe 20%) could cause people to give up on the story. The characters..I liked Jake. Kimberly was different but she grew on me. As secondary characters Grandpa Zach was a fav. Carly turned out to be a good friend/sister.
But ladies....just hang in and keep going! This turns into an un-freaking-believable story. I ended up staying up until I had turned the last page.
I really started to like Jake and feel his plight as the story progressed. He seems like an honest to goodness guy who got burned. When he visited his Grandpa for a “talk”. That was so sweet and lovely. I liked being in his head for a while to know what he was thinking vs his actions and what he was saying to Kimberly.
The epilogue was great! Perfectly rounding the story out.
This is a first time author for me. This story turns out great. I worry that the beginning (maybe 20%) could cause people to give up on the story. The characters..I liked Jake. Kimberly was different but she grew on me. As secondary characters Grandpa Zach was a fav. Carly turned out to be a good friend/sister.
November 25, 2019
Loving Jake written by Lisa Lanay is the first installment in the Almost Perfect series. I decided to read this book on a whim because it seemed like one that I would enjoy… I was correct. This was a short and sweet book that I highly liked! The writing in this book is flawless and paired with the perfect character descriptions and catchy story line, it was hard to put down. The characters in this book were likable as well as being easy to relate to. This story is more than the simple “two people meet and fall in love” because Jake and Kimberly have known each other most of their lives. Throughout this whole story I was on the back and forth of “man ya’ll need to get it together” and “no, don’t do that”. It was frustrating at times with some decisions that were being made but in all honesty I can see why things were the characters were making those awful decisions. Things finally fall in to place and IT WAS PERFECT! The ending of the book is the sweetest thing ever. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book in the series!
November 14, 2019
Loving Jake (Almost Perfect Series Book 1) by Lisa Lanay. Ok first off I’m a sucker for a friends to lovers book, and it’s even better if it’s just a little forbidden. This author knows romance and I’m excited to read more. Jake and Kimberly both frustrated me and made me love them. I couldn’t put this book down from start to finish I was hooked. The characters are complex and relatable, and I couldn’t help but root for each of them for different reasons. The author has a wonderful way of drawing the readers in and making us forget it’s a book. It’s well written and paced nicely never feeling rushed or lacking anything. I’d have to say this story is in my top five favorites for this year. I can’t wait to see where the author takes readers next. Five stars and highly recommend.
November 18, 2019
What started as a teenage crush on her big brother’s best friend turned into an eventual happily ever after for Kimberly & an unexpected one for Jake as well.
Kimberly had loved Jake for 22 years and when he returned into her life after a bitter marriage and divorce, she was no longer the sly little kitten he remembered.
I thoroughly enjoyed this page-turner. There were so many elements and twist & turns that I never expected. And full of laughter & tears. I’m struggling to summarize this wonderful story without giving away any of the surprises. How Lisa Lanay has managed to weave so many themes into one story is amazing!
#lovingjake #almostperfectseries #lisalanay #review #itsybitsybookbits #romance
Kimberly had loved Jake for 22 years and when he returned into her life after a bitter marriage and divorce, she was no longer the sly little kitten he remembered.
I thoroughly enjoyed this page-turner. There were so many elements and twist & turns that I never expected. And full of laughter & tears. I’m struggling to summarize this wonderful story without giving away any of the surprises. How Lisa Lanay has managed to weave so many themes into one story is amazing!
#lovingjake #almostperfectseries #lisalanay #review #itsybitsybookbits #romance
November 20, 2019
Loving Jake is the first book in the Almost Perfect series by Lisa Lanay. Lanay is a new author to me and I started to read the story with my eyes wide open. This story has comedy, romance, misunderstandings, and situations that will make you laugh.Lanay has a great plot line and engaging characters. They are complex complicated characters whose life is about to turn about. Kim lives with Jake and they did not know that one of their friends, Jack was going to be bunking with them for a little bit. There were moments of great anticipation thinking that Lanay was going to go right and instead goes to the opposite way. This book has a lot of emotions that takes you on a roller coaster ride. Will Kim and Jake get along with their new bunkmate Jack or will there be a break up?
November 20, 2019
LOVING JAKE is a book in the "Almost Perfect" series and for me it was more than almost perfect.
This book is totally in my wheelhouse. It is a lighter romance and while there is angst, it is done in such a way that I was cheering both the H/h on. There is humor and family and a few open door sex scenes. There is also an amazing dog named Daisy (because "calling a St Bernard Lily would be silly").
The story was detailed and easy to follow. There was a very strong beginning, middle, and end.
There are a few characters (Carly and Damien) who have a very involved backstory and I wonder if their book has already been written. As this is the first book I've read by this author, I will be checking out her other books.
I absolutely recommend this romcom.
This book is totally in my wheelhouse. It is a lighter romance and while there is angst, it is done in such a way that I was cheering both the H/h on. There is humor and family and a few open door sex scenes. There is also an amazing dog named Daisy (because "calling a St Bernard Lily would be silly").
The story was detailed and easy to follow. There was a very strong beginning, middle, and end.
There are a few characters (Carly and Damien) who have a very involved backstory and I wonder if their book has already been written. As this is the first book I've read by this author, I will be checking out her other books.
I absolutely recommend this romcom.
November 23, 2019
Loving Jake (Almost Perfect Series Book 1) by Lisa Lanay is a contemporary romance that will tug on those heart strings invoking every emotion available from hate and love, pain and happiness, envy and passion and then some. Lisa has written the wonderful characters in such a way that you cannot help falling in love with them. They are well written and well-rounded so as to be life like and Lisa has created a world that you want to be a part of, take the journey with them and try to hold them together. You want to take away the pain, the drama, the angst and fill them up with everything good. It doesn’t matter how many contemporary romances there are written if the writer does a good job and Miss Lisa did a great job.
Add this to your TBR but add it to the top.
Add this to your TBR but add it to the top.
November 25, 2019
Loving Jake (Almost Perfect Series Book 1) by Lisa Lanay. I loved this contemporary romance so much! Its the story of Jake Taylor and Kimberly Urbane. Jake is recently divorced and has decided that relationships are not for him. Kimberly has always had a crush on Jake so when he suddenly needs a place to stay and she has an extra bedroom she offers it to Jake. Sparks fly once he moves in. There is an instant attraction between the two. Another issue Jake has is Kimberly is his best friend Greg's sister which means she should be off limits. Will they give in to their attraction to each other or will Jake let his past keep him from the love he deserves? This is such a great love story and it will get you all in your feelings! Be prepared to be sucked in cause its an awesome read!
January 25, 2020
I have kindle unlimited and my taste varies, but I saw this title and I had to read it. First because my boyfriend's name is Jake and it felt like if I didn’t read it, there was something wrong with me. Secondly because I love reading new authors and Lisa Lanay is a new author for me. Jake and Kimberly are our two main characters. I fell in love with Kimberly right away, she reminded me of myself when I was younger. I loved the interaction between Jake and Kimberly so much, I literally read this book in less than a day ( I think 5 hours total because my kids needed to eat supper haha). This book is funny and full of heart and heartbreak. I absolutely cannot wait to read Taming Zane!!! Great job by Lisa!
January 28, 2020
Loving Jake by Lisa Lanay
Looking for a Weekend Read?
Lisa Lanay is a new to me author and I have to say, she’s off with a bang in my books! Loving Jake is a funny, sweet contemporary romance with some spicy scenes led up to with a slow burn.
When Jake, the H of the book, finds himself in needs a place to stay, the last place he expects to land is with Kimberly. Their relationship is often derailed by bad info and crazy misunderstanding until they finally get it together!
The characters are well-developed and interesting. Her plot is easy to follow with many ups and down with a dose of angst built in. If you’re looking for a fun read with some hot scenes, this book is for you. For me, I’m looking forward to book two in her Almost Perfect Series.
Looking for a Weekend Read?
Lisa Lanay is a new to me author and I have to say, she’s off with a bang in my books! Loving Jake is a funny, sweet contemporary romance with some spicy scenes led up to with a slow burn.
When Jake, the H of the book, finds himself in needs a place to stay, the last place he expects to land is with Kimberly. Their relationship is often derailed by bad info and crazy misunderstanding until they finally get it together!
The characters are well-developed and interesting. Her plot is easy to follow with many ups and down with a dose of angst built in. If you’re looking for a fun read with some hot scenes, this book is for you. For me, I’m looking forward to book two in her Almost Perfect Series.
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