Initials Only

by Linzvonc

❤️ AN INKITT SUMMER OF ROMANCE WINNER❤️

Truth or Dare at a teenage party is just standard. So when Rose Johnson chooses Dare, she is relieved that all she has to do is send a text to a complete stranger.

Well, a complete stranger to her anyway.

Rose texts the contact she is given, and thinks nothing else of it.

Until he texts her back, and she realises that she has given her number to not only a stranger, but a seemingly annoying, obnoxious player who seems to find teasing her amusing.

But pretty soon Rose finds herself liking him more and more, as he reveals he isn't just a player. Soon Rose is falling for him, and she hasn't even seen met him in real life.

Or has she?

Getting to know someone is hard, but falling in love with them without meeting them?

Easy.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance

246 pages, Paperback

Published September 22, 2021

About the author

Linzvonc is a bestselling author with readers all over the globe. She loves nothing more than snuggling up with her fur babies and creating characters just for her readers. She studied an English Literature and Creative Writing degree level before becoming a writer as her full-time job. She believes there is no real way to write-and to write what you would like to read. If we all tried to do what others do, there wouldn't ever be room for change, and there must always be room for that.

Join Linzvonc's Ream to access new, ongoing works before they are published anywhere else, along with exciting secret announcements!

https://reamstories.com/page/ld4o7ywqjj

Alternatively, join the facebook group especially for Linz's readers: https://tinyurl.com/2b9cm4rr

Reviews

[Brinishia · Rating 5 out of 5]

love

I love your writing. I am one of your erotic reader but this book was also good keep up the good work

[✨ Wendy ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ - Audiobook Review

CUTE 🩷 ADORABLE 🩷 SWEET 🩷 CHARMING These are the words that pop in my mind when I think about this book.

This audio really took me by surprise. It’s not my normal genre; a British Rom-Com, but I am happy that I got the opportunity to listen to it. Thank you BNA. I giggled and smiled throughout the entire book. I never realized calling someone a MF’er could be adorable BUT when it’s said in a posh British accent, that’s exactly what it is… adorable. This entire book was charming. From the cheeky banter to the storyline, all the way to the end. There was even a bit of angst… tiny, but it was there 😉 Zero spice BUT it didn’t really need it. This is a cutesy, sweet, fun story. It was a perfect ending to Valentines Day weekend 🩷

Do I recommend? Yes

[Confessions of a Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

My goodness if this wasn’t just the cutest little story. Rose and Parker James are so heartwarming with their story. They have one of the cutest meet-cutes I have ever read/listened to before. Their text messages back and forth in the beginning are great and they just get better from there.

Watching these two build a foundation for friendship first and then a relationship was very refreshing. Rose is kind of innocent and inexperienced and Parker James is one smooth fella but he has complete respect for her and even though his family life is in somewhat of an upheaval he still manages to want to do good by Rose and treat her like a queen. When the little plot twist/misunderstanding happened I am pretty sure my jaw hit the floor because I couldn't believe what was happening and I was so upset for both Rose and Parker James.

This is one of the cleanest romances I have listened to in a long time and I didn't even notice half the time that the spicy stuff was not there because the story is so dang good. Linzvonc proves that a story can consume the reader/listener with minimal spice because it was the characters of Rose and Parker James that consumed me with all their cuteness and little to no spice.

********AUDIO REVIEW********

My mind was blown away by Caroline Fantozzi and Elliot Matthews. They are both new to me narrators and I absolutely loved them. Both of them are so fitting as Rose and Parker James. Their voices had a very soothing sound to them (and that may have just been the accents) and I found myself not wanting to turn the audio off.

Caroline definitely has that soft spoken/innocent tone that portrayed Rose exquisitely and Elliot, he was great at coming across as cocky and then at other moments having the most loving and tender tone. I cannot wait to listen to these two some more.

[Kaitlyn Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cutesy story ! The book was easy to follow and very charming! It had me giggling thru out the whole thing!

[Jayne Cormack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Initials only is such a perfect book, while not as steamy some of the other books you come to expect from Linz it is the perfect journey of exploring friendship
The wholesome nature of this book filled with an intrigue as to who exactly they are talking to blends with the idea that you can just fall for someone without ever seeing their face is beautiful. their connection transcends anything else they know each other long before they decide they want to be together.

[Just4_me · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly creative and original premise and story line! Perfectly crafted characters, with amazing character development! The slow burn of the main characters was tantalizing! Linzvonc creates character chemistry like no other! Total page turner

[C.A.Chalklen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an amazing read. Absolutely couldn't put it down and Parker has set my sights sky high for sexy book boyfriends. Thank you.

[Gigi Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this story. Doesn’t contain the highly erotic story like others written by Linzvonc, but perfectly wonderful! Highly recommended.

[Amy Hallett]

As an adult reading this teenage romance, I loved this. The characters felt real and relatable. The situations were real, not over the top and unlike a lot of romance books, didn't have an overbearing, jealous and possessive male. It was also a touch unique. If my nieces were just a few years older, I would happily share this book with them.

[Analou Chua-Fermin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is like a chick flick in a book. Very cute, not as steamy as other stories but it is beautifully written that you wouldn’t mind.

[Lexie Spa · Rating 3 out of 5]

These two just don’t make sense to me

[Sylup · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book isn’t escapism it’s exposure therapy.

Parker has so many red flags he’s the whole fire nation and his personality does a whole 540degree pirouette every second chapter.

[Joanne]

The story of Rose and PJ is a refreshing take on modern romance, beginning with a game of truth or dare that sets the stage for a whirlwind unconventional textual relationship. Their journey from strangers to friends, and eventually more, is filled with delightful twists and the kind of banter that keeps readers hooked. Rose, a college student exploring the complexities of relationships for the first time, finds herself intrigued by PJ's persistent yet respectful pursuit. Despite her initial hesitations and the pressure from PJ's past, their evolving friendship becomes a safe space for both to navigate their personal growth. PJ, an electrician in training, emerges as a green flag amidst the chaos, offering unwavering support and understanding. Their story is a testament to the beauty of serendipitous connections and the power of genuine companionship in discovering one's path, especially when stepping out from under parental guidance.
Elliot Matthews and Caroline Fantozzi did a remarkable job bringing Rose and PJ to life. Elliot's swoony, sultry voice perfectly complemented PJ's flirty personality, adding layers of charm and allure to the character. Despite the closed-door romance, it's intriguing how the story is laced with innuendos, creating a captivating and suggestive atmosphere. Meanwhile, Caroline's portrayal of Rose is equally impressive, capturing her journey from naivety to sophistication. This dynamic between the characters, highlighted by the performers' voices, undoubtedly adds depth and richness to the storytelling, making the experience memorable and engaging for listeners.

[Emily Johnston (Booked.Up.With.Emily) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so cute, sweet, and fun! This really brought me back to my college days! It felt like such a throwback to those times when things felt like the end of the world, but they were pretty insignificant in the scope of things.

Anyways, now that I am done reminiscing. This book was so sweet! Rose is dared to text a random number, but doesn't know their name and only their initials. She doesn't expect the person, PJ, to text back, but when he does, they form this unique and quirky friendship. They are polar opposites in every way, but even just through their text exchanges, you can tell that they are really changing one another in the best ways!

When their friendship goes from behind a screen to real life, they were able to slip into a friendship easily. But what happens when one or both of them catches feelings? They want totally different things, so they know it can never work, but they have to be willing to try.

I really enjoyed this book! I keep saying sweet, but it really was. The narrators Caroline Fantozzi and Elliot Matthews did a great job - I loved the accents and how they really made me believe that each character was how they were. Caroline brought out Rose's naivety and Elliot was able to give off the playboy vibes for PJ, just from his voice. And I loved that it was in duet narration!

Overall, I really enjoyed and highly recommend!

Thank you to Blue Nose Audio for the ALC.

[Jammie Bebout · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored this audiobook! It’s classified as a sweet romance, and that’s exactly what it is. Truth be told, I’m not usually a fan of clean or closed-door romances, but I just couldn’t help but fall in love with this one. The story is so incredibly smoopy (if that’s not a word, it should be) that it not only pulls on your heart strings, it plays an entire symphony with them. Rose is eighteen and a “good girl” who’s drawn into a game of Truth or Dare at a party where she’s dared to text a stranger asking if they want a strip tease. The last thing she expects is for the recipient of the text to text her back the next day or for him to be genuinely interesting and easy to talk to. What follows is a very swoony, extremely witty, heartwarming dance between these two that swings from anonymous texting to friends to romance with plenty of back and forth between the latter. But it ends with an entirely satisfying and romantic HEA which I absolutely loved! This story was wonderfully narrated in duet by Caroline Fantozzi and Elliot Matthews. Both were new voices for me, but I thought both turned in absolutely brilliant performances. Their lovely British accents, the cadence of their voices, and their individual narration styles just worked perfectly together, bringing the charming and captivating words of Linzvonc to life beautifully.

[Meghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

ALC Review

Narrated by Elliot Matthews and Caroline Fantozzi.

Elliot and Caroline really captures Rose and PJ. Beautiful voices for each character and they truly brought the characters to life. Elliot has a swoony sultry voice that works well for PJ and his flirty personality..closed door romance but laced with innuendos. I loved that. Caroline showed us Rose's naivtity, and the sophisticated woman she is.

This was a really cute closed door romance. ( with a spicy bonus scene for us that want the details)

Rose is a college student, and at a party with her best friend she is dared to text a stranger and ask if they want a striptease.
The text leads to friendship, then meeting and then more. Ugh, there story was so up and down and the way their lives overlapped was an interesting twist.

The other end of the text message is PJ, an electrician in training, not wanting a relationship and is still hounded by his ex. Rose is so new to the thought of a boyfriend, that she keeps him in the friend zone for a bit, despite PJ being relentless in trying to get more-which surprised him.

I loved their banter and the round about way they found each other. He's such a green flag and so sweet, really great for Rose. Especially while all this is so new to her, ( and him too) finding her way without her parents watch.

Thank you BNA for the ALC

[CMM · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 ✨
I received an alc of this story from BNA. Thank you again for allowing me the opportunity. (Audio drops tomorrow - 2/25)

First off, this was my second book from this author. I read one of her holiday stories back in December and it was a nice little novella perfect for small town/Christmas reads. I saw another one of her books was available and instantly wanted to try another one. Im glad I did because I actually enjoyed this one even more! It’s a cute young adult romance set in England. The story gave me the same sort of vibes as a rom com you might come across in the early 2000s. Parker and Rose are adorable and infuriatingly stubborn lol but I trusted the process and it paid off.

I’d recommend this one to anyone who is looking for a sweet young adult story.
(While there is discussion of spice… this is not a spicy book!)

I’ve never listened to either of these narrators before but I absolutely adored them and I would easily pick up anything they narrated. I know that some people struggle with British accents and slang, but I actually found this was very easy to listen to and at different speeds. I also found that their voices suited the story perfectly. (Elliot Matthews and Caroline Fantozzi)

Cute! I’ll read more of linzvonc!

[XenyMarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love me a cheeky playboy packed with banter and innuendo, and Parker James has it all!

Rose and PJ'S relationship started in the most random way, when as a result of a dare, Rose had to text a complete stranger offering a striptease. From there, they became "modern day pen pals" and would text, speak, and even watch shows together over the phone, without even knowing what the other person looked like. They ended up developing feelings for each other, but their journey to actually being in a relationship was not one without hardships.

I feel like the story left a few lose ends, like Fletcher (w̶h̶i̶c̶h̶ ̶I̶ ̶a̶m̶ ̶g̶l̶a̶d̶ ̶I̶ ̶w̶a̶s̶ ̶w̶r̶o̶n̶g̶ ̶a̶b̶o̶u̶t̶ ̶h̶i̶m̶ ̶b̶e̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶f̶a̶t̶h̶e̶r̶ 😅), and at times I had to remind myself I was reading about 18/20 year olds whenever I wanted to slap one of them for making not so smart decisions, but, this last bit, to me translates to the author doing an excellent job at portraying her characters.

Overall, the story was a fun and easy read with some good banter. Also, the story has no on page sə×ụal interactions, which makes it a perfect read for teenagers.

Quote: "Now. I want my striptease."

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Initials Only
By Linzvonc
Narrated by Caroline Fantozzi, Elliot Matthews

Did you ever send a text to a complete stranger? Rose Johnson takes the dare, and texts the stranger knowing only their initials. There is no chance the person would text back. If you don't know the person, you ignore it. But PJ didn't. He texted back. And now Rose is in a quandry. Should she answer him? Is it a guy or a girl? Well, the answers come quick and furious, leading to phone calls, to meeting him. But they are just friends. Nothing more. Acquaintances from a miscellaneous text. Until it's more. This is a fun, quick listen that had me from the first text. It's full of witty banter, great personality and a budding love that is just a joy to follow. I love Parker. He is so protective, and though a player by reputation, he has a loyal heart. Rose is full of surprises. She is innocent yet, not. This is a great new adult romance, had me smiling and falling in love.

Caroline Fantozzi and Elliot Matthews give a fantastic duet performance. Their chemistry is pouring through the texts and the phone calls making the relationship bloom and grow. I loved these two and enjoyed the book.

[Molly Jaber (Audiobooks And Sweet Tea) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely adorable! That's the best way to describe this book. The characters are beautifully chiseled and captivating, the plot line is fun, and the author just became one I'm adding to my must reads list! This is a British Rom-Com in its finest!

A closed door romance blossoms between Rose & PJ when she's dared to text a stranger's number. It starts off as a college Truth or Dare moment, but, these two go beyond that initial texting. They text, they banter and when they meet in person? Wowsers! They continue the friendship, but the sparks fly. The attraction builds. The banter continues. And once they give into their attraction? We get an amazing scene, and all the swoony, "ahhhhh" moments that will make you smile.

𝐶𝑎𝑟𝑜𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝐹𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑜𝑧𝑧𝑖 was great for portraying Rose! She gives the character her innocence feel, and truly captured the heart of Rose! 𝐸𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑜𝑡 𝑀𝑎𝑡𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑤𝑠 and all his British accent glory gave life to PJ! I melted for him! These two were a perfect pairing!

If you're looking for a low spice, with all the feels and attractions, then grab this one up. It's sweet, fast & fun! A perfect palate cleanser for darker romance lovers.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

LINZVONC's Initials Only is a dazzling romp through the delightful realm of modern romance. Imagine being dared to text a stranger and then discovering that every unexpected response sparks a journey of heart-fluttering fun! The story follows Rose, a bold, curious soul who takes a leap of faith with one simple dare, only to find herself entwined in a friendship that blossoms into something truly enchanting.

Enter PJ, the suave and playful stranger who seems almost too perfect to be true. Their chemistry is electric from the very first text, and as the narrative unfolds, their connection grows into a beautiful, unexpected friendship. Caroline Fantozzi and Elliot Matthew breathe life into Rose and PJ with performances that are nothing short of perfection, making every witty exchange and tender moment feel utterly real.

Light, fast-paced, and refreshingly sweet, Initials Only is the perfect pick-me-up read that leaves you grinning long after the final page. While it may not pack the fiery spice of a steamy romance, its charm lies in its pure, unadulterated joy and the magical spark of a daring conversation that turns into something unforgettable. LINZVONC proves once again that sometimes, all it takes is a little courage to text a stranger, and that bold leap can lead to a five-star story filled with heart and humor!

Five stars for a performance that leaves you dreaming of sweet, serendipitous connections.

[Charity King · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’ve got a lot to say about this book 🤨

1) The author calls this a “lovely sweet romance” and I would have to disagree. The definition of “sweet romance” can be somewhat subjective, but this had scenes of intense make-outs, mentions of sex, quite a lot of language, and a lot of sexual innuendo. I would say this was much more a steamy, closed-door book.

2) This “romance” was toxic, toxic, TOXIC. Parker was practically made of red flags and was not likable. He was disrespectful and just didn’t redeem himself by the end. I don’t think Rose fell in love with him, she was just infatuated and caught up in the desire. I really don’t feel like there was any true building up of their relationship and romance. It was just drama and attraction.

3) Parker’s character did a complete 180 in the middle of the story and it made NO sense. It was never explained and it felt like he was basically two different people in the book.

[Lauri Walston · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the great opportunity to listen to this book! This isn't normally my go to kinda book, but it had my hooked from the very beginning. It was a good, fluffy, romantic book. Lighthearted with some drama and banter will have you giggling. I started listening to it this morning and finished it by dinner. The narrators to the audio were fantastic and in my favorite style (duet). I loved the build-up of the characters and the slow burn of the book. I love the authors writing and will be reading other books of hers. Definitely go check the audio out that debuts on the 25th of Feb 2025.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Alc review*

📚 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🎧🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Another brilliant read from linzvonc

An amazing listen
Loved it had it finished in a few hours
Full of banter and real-life issues
Great read for a teenager/young adult

And some of the story is a relatable read.

Rose, beautiful, not very confident, very serious, always has her guard up.

Sheena, the best friend stunning, up for a good time, Party girl, *favourite character*

PJ, charming, cheeky, stubborn, kind. Mysterious.

A few twists in the story

I'd love a book two of how the characters are as adults.

[Melissa Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book! The FMC is a college student and kind of a “good girl” who gets dragged to a party where she is coerced to play Truth or Dare. Her dare is to text a random number something silly and dirty. The next day the number texts her back. A whole beautiful, fun friendship blossoms and of course they finally fall in love. It’s a very sweet, closed door romance (so it is appropriate for YA readers) and I enjoyed every second of it. I adored the narrators and their depiction was perfect. I highly recommend this book!

[Christina T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly I loved the whole game to text someone without knowing their name it made the meet-cute soooo much better! Was absolutely adorable and made me invested heavily into seeing where it went… and the fact he turned up to go away with her even after a minor fall out.. just proved he was a good guy.. honestly I loved it.. actually I read it again but now I might just re read it one more time.. or two!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming

I love, love, LOVE this book! This is the kind of book you can read and re-read because it’s funny, and it’s sweet, and you’ll fall in love with the characters over and over again. I love PJ so much, I want one for myself. He’s everything I want in a book boyfriend, and probably in a real life boyfriend.

This is the first book I’ve read by Linzvonc, but it’s definitely not my last.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Narrators. Caroline Fantozzi and Elliott Matthews
Performed in Duet

Parker and Rose

A game of Truth and Dare. Rose takes a Dare to text an unknown number given to her by a one of the other players. This leads to an usual friendship.
I enjoyed this story. Young Love some high school antics.
I thought the narrators did a greeting job with side characters. Each voice was easily distinguishable. Both authors are new to me and I would hope to hear more from them.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

quick sweet read 🥰

Rose is eighteen year old A level student who goes to a party with her bff and ups up choosing to do a dare rather than tell a truth

PJ ends up getting a text from an unknown number asking if he wants a strip tease 😜

When these two start texting, what could go wrong 🤪 or right 😜

[Bookskee · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.7 stars
I love me a romance with a bunch of texting so I decided to pick this one up.

It was cute and fun. I was wondering why it felt a bit immature and a bit messy till I read the author's note and then it made sense.

Nothing too serious, enjoyed and appreciated because it helped divert a slump.

Reccomend for teenaged hearts.
❤️