What do you think?
Rate this book
Jasper Falls #5
My Funny Valentine
From bestselling and award-winning author, Lydia Michaels, comes an enemies-to-lovers, second-chance romance about love and redemption that will steal readers’ hearts!
One bed. No heat. And her childhood enemy.
When Erin heckles comedian Giovanni Mosconi at his final hometown show, he roasts her in front of everyone. She storms out of the bar and straight into a blizzard.
Stranded on the side of the road, she’s not thrilled when the man who just humiliated her tries to rescue her. But one wrong turn lands them both snowed in with a grump–no power, no escape, and one very small bed.
Scorching tension and brutal banter lead to one unforgettable night that should never be mentioned again. But such off-the-charts chemistry isn’t easily forgotten.
An enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, romance that will heat up any cold heart over the winter holidays!
One bed. No heat. And her childhood enemy.
When Erin heckles comedian Giovanni Mosconi at his final hometown show, he roasts her in front of everyone. She storms out of the bar and straight into a blizzard.
Stranded on the side of the road, she’s not thrilled when the man who just humiliated her tries to rescue her. But one wrong turn lands them both snowed in with a grump–no power, no escape, and one very small bed.
Scorching tension and brutal banter lead to one unforgettable night that should never be mentioned again. But such off-the-charts chemistry isn’t easily forgotten.
An enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, romance that will heat up any cold heart over the winter holidays!
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2022
35 people are currently reading
225 people want to read
About the author
Lydia Michaels
73 books1,914 followersLydia Michaels is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than forty novels. She writes heart-clenching, unpredictable romance with dark elements and high heat. Her work is character-driven and bursting with broken heroes and badass females. With a sweet spot for overbearing, territorial types, her deeply emotional books are spicy, emotionally satisfying, and guaranteed to leave readers with many book hangovers.
Lydia is the consecutive winner of the 2018 & 2019 Author of the Year Award from Happenings Media and the recipient of the 2014 Best Author Award from the Courier Times. She has been featured by USA Today, Romantic Times Magazine, the Women in Publishing Summit, and more.
Michaels has been a recognized presence in the author community since starting her career in 2007. She is the CEO of LMC Consulting and a certified author coach specializing in characterization and plot development. She takes great joy in hosting author events celebrating diversity within the book industry. She has bridged connections among many authors since founding renowned events such as the East Coast Author Convention and the Annual Behind the Keys Author Retreat. However, the gem of her work is, by far, her extensive backlist (see LydiaMichaelsBooks.com).
She is happily married to her childhood sweetheart. Her favorite things include cooking Italian cuisine, hosting extravagant dinner parties, sipping martinis, listening to her husband play piano, and escaping to her coastal home on the Jersey Shore. She’s an LGBTQ ally, a BLM supporter, and a firm believer that the patriarchy must burn (women’s rights are human rights).
You can follow Lydia on Instagram, TikTok, & Facebook!
Instagram: @lydia_michaels_books
Facebook: @LydiaMichaels
TikTok: @LydiaMichaels
Lydia is the consecutive winner of the 2018 & 2019 Author of the Year Award from Happenings Media and the recipient of the 2014 Best Author Award from the Courier Times. She has been featured by USA Today, Romantic Times Magazine, the Women in Publishing Summit, and more.
Michaels has been a recognized presence in the author community since starting her career in 2007. She is the CEO of LMC Consulting and a certified author coach specializing in characterization and plot development. She takes great joy in hosting author events celebrating diversity within the book industry. She has bridged connections among many authors since founding renowned events such as the East Coast Author Convention and the Annual Behind the Keys Author Retreat. However, the gem of her work is, by far, her extensive backlist (see LydiaMichaelsBooks.com).
She is happily married to her childhood sweetheart. Her favorite things include cooking Italian cuisine, hosting extravagant dinner parties, sipping martinis, listening to her husband play piano, and escaping to her coastal home on the Jersey Shore. She’s an LGBTQ ally, a BLM supporter, and a firm believer that the patriarchy must burn (women’s rights are human rights).
You can follow Lydia on Instagram, TikTok, & Facebook!
Instagram: @lydia_michaels_books
Facebook: @LydiaMichaels
TikTok: @LydiaMichaels
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
June 18, 2022
This series is like a warm hug. Our characters have struggles and watching them work through it is so special.
This was a great redemption book for Erin and I loved seeing what her pain and issues were. Giovanni was a gem. Loved it.
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
This was a great redemption book for Erin and I loved seeing what her pain and issues were. Giovanni was a gem. Loved it.
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
February 1, 2022
I am not gonna lie. This book was emotional for me. I admit that it got me so hard, that I cried. I don't cry only for the smallest thing, I cry for a books like that too.
The love story within the book was a new beginning for Erin. She has been through soo much and for me she definately deserves to be happy. What I liked about her was, that she was trying to change and let herself be more open with the one person she fell in love with.
Giovanni as a male lead of the story was a really great guy. Yeah, when he was a teenager his behaviour was stupid (sorry people, but that Is the truth 😁). But then again when we all grow up we change. Our lives change, our visions and the way we see other people. He was really good with Erin and I am so glad that he found her again.
I have not read the other books from the "Jasper Falls" series, but as soon as I can I will do it. To be honest around Christmas I actually was looking at the previous book - "Pinning for you" and I wanted to read it. But then again, life stops us from lots of stuff. I will still read the other books and I will do this this year 😉.
*ARC was received for my honest opinion.*
The love story within the book was a new beginning for Erin. She has been through soo much and for me she definately deserves to be happy. What I liked about her was, that she was trying to change and let herself be more open with the one person she fell in love with.
Giovanni as a male lead of the story was a really great guy. Yeah, when he was a teenager his behaviour was stupid (sorry people, but that Is the truth 😁). But then again when we all grow up we change. Our lives change, our visions and the way we see other people. He was really good with Erin and I am so glad that he found her again.
I have not read the other books from the "Jasper Falls" series, but as soon as I can I will do it. To be honest around Christmas I actually was looking at the previous book - "Pinning for you" and I wanted to read it. But then again, life stops us from lots of stuff. I will still read the other books and I will do this this year 😉.
*ARC was received for my honest opinion.*
January 29, 2022
Tears welled in her eyes because she didn't know why she was so screwed up. She'd known cruelty all of her life and, because of that, nothing made her more uncomfortable than kindness. She didn't trust people or their intentions. If she raised her expectations, there would be a further distance to fall when others let her down.
5 stars!!
This book was such an unexpected yet beautiful and heartbreaking surprise. This is my first novel by Lydia Michaels, so when I first started reading I had a hard time identifying the tone of the book. Was it meant to be a light rom-com as I first thought, or was the heavier overtone going to weave itself throughout the entire novel? The answer was that this book is both and so much more, and I devoured every word.
Untouchable. More fragile that glass and more prickly than a cactus. No one, including herself, knew what to do with such a complicated, difficult person, so they no longer tried.
Erin Montgomery, our tenacious yet vulnerable heroine, was undoubtedly the center of this novel. The prologue introduces us to Erin's unbelievable and horrific childhood in which her father terrorizes his family while putting on a front for the rest of the town. Her mother and brother eventually flee their abusive home, leaving Erin to take the brunt of her father's beatings and unable to connect with another person...until she reconnects with her childhood nemesis, Giovanni Mosconi.
"I want you. I want your soft lips and your sweet body. I want your mind and your secrets. I want your kisses and your moans. But most of all, I want your trust, because I know it's not something you easily give."
Giovanni is an up and coming comedian, trying to make a name for himself when Erin heckles him during his performance in Jasper Falls. After he humiliates her in front of the entire crowd, they end up snowed in together in the same hotel room where Erin allows her mask to slip just enough to leave Giovanni wondering who Erin Montgomery really is. I absolutely loved seeing Giovanni's tenderness and caution towards Erin. Erin is so emotionally scarred from not only the abuse from her father but also the abandonment from both her mother and brother, and my heart just broke for her and her journey to happiness. I devoured this book in two days, and I have to say that it's one of my top reads so far for 2022! ♡
*ARC provided by Valentine PR, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
January 25, 2022
I fell in love with Lydia's writing after reading The Original Sin. So I thought I'd take a leap and read something of hers that wasn't PNR. WOW!!
I have to say, I'm not sure what I was expecting when I started this book, but it wasn't to have non-stop tears in my eyes for the first few chapters. I had to take a little breather to get my emotions under control.
Erin just breaks my heart and if it was possible to bomb the whole damn town she lives in, I would. Hateful people. Oblivious to her pain and suffering.
After being recused during a snowstorm, Erin finds herself trapped with the enemy, Giovanni Mosconi.
After some hateful words are tossed around, they try to make the most of it, and in the process, things heat up between them, but after waking the next day, it's back to reality with tension returning between them.
Giovanni gives off major douche bag vibes when you first get introduced to him but quickly discover that he's really a softy that's struggling with his own demons.
They have a lot of ups and downs, both of them struggling with their own personal issues, but through it all, their connection keeps pulling them back together.
I have to say, the Goodwill game!! ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!! I couldn't stop laughing!! Then Valentine's day happened and I laughed some more and then I cried. So many ups and downs on the emotional rollercoaster.
This is such a beautiful story. It's a great Valentine's romance. I definitely recommend reading this one.
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review**
I have to say, I'm not sure what I was expecting when I started this book, but it wasn't to have non-stop tears in my eyes for the first few chapters. I had to take a little breather to get my emotions under control.
Erin just breaks my heart and if it was possible to bomb the whole damn town she lives in, I would. Hateful people. Oblivious to her pain and suffering.
After being recused during a snowstorm, Erin finds herself trapped with the enemy, Giovanni Mosconi.
After some hateful words are tossed around, they try to make the most of it, and in the process, things heat up between them, but after waking the next day, it's back to reality with tension returning between them.
Giovanni gives off major douche bag vibes when you first get introduced to him but quickly discover that he's really a softy that's struggling with his own demons.
They have a lot of ups and downs, both of them struggling with their own personal issues, but through it all, their connection keeps pulling them back together.
I have to say, the Goodwill game!! ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT!! I couldn't stop laughing!! Then Valentine's day happened and I laughed some more and then I cried. So many ups and downs on the emotional rollercoaster.
This is such a beautiful story. It's a great Valentine's romance. I definitely recommend reading this one.
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review**
January 25, 2022
Lydia Michaels has done it again. I loved My Funny Valentine; it is an incredible enemies to lovers’ love story, the fifth book in her Jasper Falls series. Lydia Michaels continues to show that she is an amazing storyteller. I could not put My Funny Valentine down and I loved every moment on every page. Who doesn't love hot sexy men, strong females, and loving friends who always support one another? I really enjoy how the book is told from the perspective of the main characters. I love getting the insight and feelings from the different characters. My Funny Valentine is a love story filled with heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. I love the lighter moments where I find myself smiling and laughing out loud. My favorite moments are the ones that pull at my heartstrings that cause me to sigh, as I read the heartbreaking moments. My Funny Valentine is filled with such moments, and with so much emotion. It is filled with all those things that we have come to love and expect in a love story, Lydia Michaels truly did not disappoint, especially with the poignant and bittersweet moments that filled this page turner. My Funny Valentine is the story of Giovanni Mosconi, wannabe stand-up comedian and Erin Montgomery. Giovanni heads to O’Malley’s Pub to perform his stand-up routine, while performing Erin heckles him and he responds back with something hurtful. Erin leaves and her car spins off the road because roads are snow covered. After his performance, Giovanni notices the tire tracks as he is heading to the motel where he is staying. Giovanni rescues Erin and they return to his hotel room. The following morning Erin heads home only to discover that her father, the owner of the local hardware store, has died. As Erin and Giovanni begin to spend time together with Erin settling her father’s estate, things change between them. Conversation between them flows so easily, I love that both Erin and Giovanni share secrets with one another that they have not shared with anyone before, especially the secrets that Erin shares about her past and Giovanni shares about how his parents do not support his dreams of being a comedian. Growing up, Erin was the best friend of Giovanni’s cousin Finn McCullough, but she never shared her secrets with him. I love the unexpected plot twist that changes things between them and then reunites them. I loved that My Funny Valentine is a more than just a romance, there are dilemmas that both Erin and Giovanni are facing that need to be resolved, they each need to learn to trust again. Neither one believes that they want a relationship, but their feelings prove otherwise. I love how the storylines get so beautifully resolved. I love all the chances that Erin was willing to make in her own life to have a life with Giovanni, and the changes Giovanni made to have a life with Erin. I love the epilogue and how it went above and beyond the happily ever after. My favorite part was how the title of the book is incorporated into Erin and Giovanni’s love story, because it is the title of the first song that they dance to. My Funny Valentine is filled with poignant and bittersweet moments as well as plot twists. I love the characters and the family dynamic in My Funny Valentine, the characters feel like family and friends. I enjoyed all the interactions between the characters especially their teasing that made me laugh. I loved all the characters in My Funny Valentine, and I am looking forward to reading the other books in the series. Who doesn’t love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? I thoroughly enjoyed My Funny Valentine, who doesn’t love a forced proximity enemies to lovers’ love story. Highly recommend this incredible love story and am so looking forward to reading the other books in the series.
January 27, 2022
What a book! I’ve read all the other books is the Jasper Falls series and thought they were emotional but this one is off the charts. Lydia’s writing is so beautiful and you FEEL the emotions and you read her books but especially with this one.
Erin - sweet Erin needs a hug, someone to love her, to feel seen and needed. Her story will break your heart but watching her fight will have you cheering for her. She has faced a lot in her life and some may question her decisions….abuse has a way of doing that to people.
Giovanni is a comedian but he’s at a crossroads in his life. Him and Erin cannot stand one another but a chance encounter has them in a slippery situation. Giovanni hasn’t had the greatest support system but he grows up a lot in this book. Once you peel away some of the layers he’s a very kind and compassionate man.
Although there is a sad undertone there are some really funny and smexy times in the book. The “clothing” completion is one of my favorite scenes in the book.
Congratulations to Lydia on another wonderful, emotional, and beautiful story. I requested an arc and I’m leaving my honest review.
Erin - sweet Erin needs a hug, someone to love her, to feel seen and needed. Her story will break your heart but watching her fight will have you cheering for her. She has faced a lot in her life and some may question her decisions….abuse has a way of doing that to people.
Giovanni is a comedian but he’s at a crossroads in his life. Him and Erin cannot stand one another but a chance encounter has them in a slippery situation. Giovanni hasn’t had the greatest support system but he grows up a lot in this book. Once you peel away some of the layers he’s a very kind and compassionate man.
Although there is a sad undertone there are some really funny and smexy times in the book. The “clothing” completion is one of my favorite scenes in the book.
Congratulations to Lydia on another wonderful, emotional, and beautiful story. I requested an arc and I’m leaving my honest review.
January 24, 2022
My Funny Valentine is a wonderful read. There may be a trigger or two for some, but this is one book you will not be able to put down. Erin is not well liked in town and comes off a certain way. She has her reasons for putting up her walls like she does. She is more of an outsider in her small town even if she is a local. Giovanni is the town funny man. He works hard trying to prove he doesn't need to join the family lumber company and can make it as a comedian. One night with Erin has Giovanni seeing her in a whole new light. I love the chemistry and the emotions that flow throughout this one. You will see Erin and Giovanni change in so many different ways in this one. You feel for Erin as she struggles with what she has been hiding. There are just enough giggle moments to give the lightness this book needs. I could not put it down. I loved every moment of this one. You need to one click this one.
January 27, 2022
Lydia Michaels has done a wonderful job on this book. How do you tell a story of a villain? The anti-hero has the right of a successful happy ending? Erin has been the villain of many stories but nobody knew she had a villain of her own. It is not hard to hate Erin (and many do) but it is harder to see why she is like that, somehow her pain (although physical) was invisible to her teachers, her boyfriend and all the city. Therefore, she hated them all and could not be happy. Giovanni is a stand up comedy actor and is looking for his place in his craft and in the world, he hated Erin too... But, somehow after a night trapped in the snow they got close and it is difficult not to see who she really is.
These characters are not loving, beautiful or right. They are right for each other and it is a journey to find out.
I really loved this book!!
These characters are not loving, beautiful or right. They are right for each other and it is a journey to find out.
I really loved this book!!
February 13, 2022
This was kind of a sad story about a young girl who lives with an abusive father and is abandoned by both her mother and brother. Left to grow up in a small town where everyone loves her father and no one knows the real emotional damage he's inflicted on her. Erin pushes everyone away and is scared to be truly intimate with anyone, even her childhood best friend and first love. Driving home in a snow storm after drinking too much she drives into the ditch and gets rescued by Giovanni, a man she's never gotten along with. Forced to shelter alone together and wait out the storm things heat up and the two go from enemies to lovers pretty quickly but their relationship is a rocky one. The best part of the book for me was when Erin and Giovanni finally started to heal each other's hurts and figure out how to make being together possible. Great on audio narrated by Amber Battaglia, this story does have a sweet happy ending to make up for all the pain in the beginning and middle.
January 23, 2022
Wow! I couldn’t wait for Erin’s story and this did not disappoint. Lydia Michaels has such an amazing writing style that will draw you in, like you are literally there with each character. She kept this style consistent throughout this book, she takes us through the unknown struggles of Erin Montgomery has been through more then anyone can imagine-Giovanni was the unknowing perfect match for her. Loved this book a must read!!!!! ❤️❤️
May 7, 2022
“My Funny Valentine” is an amazing enemies-to-lovers story with fantastic character development.
Read full review in the 2022 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2022 May issue of InD'tale Magazine.
January 27, 2022
All reviews posted at Tales of Love, Life, and Murder
This story was so different from my expectations. I anticipated a rom-com with some angst, full of biting with and heated banter but this was much darker. Erin’s childhood is dark and dangerous with a father beloved by the entire town who’s actually a monster behind closed doors. He beats his wife and children mercilessly, tormenting them to no end with his endless rage and cruelty. Erin’s just a small child when her heartless mother flees, abandoning her children and never looking back. The beatings are split evenly between Erin and her older brother but at least their father is proud of Harrison’s football career, whereas he never has a single good thing to say about her.
She misses lots of school so nobody will see the bruises and is often forced to skip her homework to handle the domestic chores. Her existence is painful to imagine and while she has the world best bestie in Finn, even he has no idea what home is like for Erin or the horrors she suffers. The details of her childhood are bleak and heartbreaking. We have children whose mother runs away, they miss lots of school and schoolwork, have constant injuries and the little girl doesn’t even have her own clothes, she’s forced to wear her brother’s hand-me-downs. Yet not a single person in this town does a damn thing for her. Not one teacher or any other adult ever asks her if she’s safe. Everyone loves her father but nobody gives his children even a moment’s notice.
Her brother flees when Erin is fifteen. Harrison refuses to take her with him even though she begs for him not to leave her with the monster. Finn is her only friend and she’s picked on by everyone else in school yet even as teenagers, nobody ever thinks to ask if she’s okay, what home is like, where her mother and brother have gone. This is my first book in the Jasper Falls series and the circumstances of Erin’s life there kind of turns me off because what kind of awful town and horrible people live here? But I’m intrigued enough by the way the story unfolds to want to know more so I will check out other books in the series.
Erin’s childhood has formed her into a lonely introvert with no friends and not a single shred of self-confidence. She wants nothing more than to live without fear and pain but even at thirty, she doesn’t believe she can make it on her own. She still lives with her abusive father, treated like a servant, working in his hardware store because she can’t imagine a better life being a possibility. Giovanni is just another one of Erin’s enemies, another person who let her know she wasn’t wanted and when he returns, they still loathe one another. But they’re forced together and slowly begin to become curious about each other. He wants to know what made this beautiful woman so off-limits that she can’t even have a simple conversation with an acquaintance without lashing out. But Erin can’t open up to anyone because she doesn’t even have the emotional capacity to understand it herself.
Rudeness is her defense mechanism because the entire world has rejected her since the day she was born. She reactively lashes out when people are nice to her because she’d rather push everyone away than wait for them to abandon her, which is guaranteed because everyone does. Giovanni wants to understand her and show her that she’s worthy of so much more, but she doesn’t want to let him. Their story is tough and emotional because of her tragic past but his determination is hopeful and sweet. This reads fine as a standalone but I felt like I was probably missing A LOT of context by not having read the earlier books in the series. The characters didn’t have the depth I wanted, but I suspect the real issue is that I’m missing the necessary background to fully appreciate their complexities.
Regardless, I liked the characters even when they were abrasive and lashing out because they’re so real. And I love their story because it’s one of redemption when all appears to be lost.
January 21, 2022
My Funny Valentine by Lydia Michaels is a story about a young woman, Erin Montgomery, whose father, Ward, owned the town hardware store and was highly regarded in the community. However, if they only knew his family's secrets about his behavior behind closed doors. Growing up, Erin's best friend and lover was Finnegan McCullough until he fell in love with Mallory. Giovanni Mosconi, McCullough's cousin, always thought he was funnier than he actually was. Nevertheless decided to become a stand-up comedian. He was in town doing a show at O'Malley's Pub when she mocked his performance. Later that night, a blizzard finds Erin needing a rescue by none other than her childhood nemesis.
There is a reason Lydia Michaels is an award-winning author, and it has to do with her way of hooking her readers into the story, making them invested in what she has to say. Lydia always brings poignant social issues to the forefront.
There are quite a few one-liners that I adore.
"She was made of nails & spit & tar and whatever else they used to glue demons together."
"You look like Elton John & Liberoce's love child- if he were an extra on the Sopranos."
"Madame Jezebel McHuffinpuff III panderer of flesh & connoisseur of men."
"Lord Luther Van Tiger, Duke great, great, great-grandson of Beau Brummell the English dandy & fashion leader of the regency-break dancer extraordinaire."
"That ridiculous outfit is stirring a serious response in my psychedelic pants, madame."
"The stars love the sky."
There is a reason Lydia Michaels is an award-winning author, and it has to do with her way of hooking her readers into the story, making them invested in what she has to say. Lydia always brings poignant social issues to the forefront.
There are quite a few one-liners that I adore.
"She was made of nails & spit & tar and whatever else they used to glue demons together."
"You look like Elton John & Liberoce's love child- if he were an extra on the Sopranos."
"Madame Jezebel McHuffinpuff III panderer of flesh & connoisseur of men."
"Lord Luther Van Tiger, Duke great, great, great-grandson of Beau Brummell the English dandy & fashion leader of the regency-break dancer extraordinaire."
"That ridiculous outfit is stirring a serious response in my psychedelic pants, madame."
"The stars love the sky."
January 22, 2022
Erin had an extremely dysfunctional childhood. Her mother left when she was young and her father was a mean man. Even as an adult Erin choose to stay with her father and help him run the hardware store in their small town of Jasper Falls. Giovanni is a stand up comedian trying to become a star. His father wants him to give up and join the family business but he wants to follow his dream. After a night of being stranded in a snowstorm Giovanni and Erin’s hate for each other turns into something else. This was a great quick read. There was some quick banter that had me laughing hysterically. Then there was some raw emotional stuff that had me feeling really bad for both of them. They both found each other at a real good time in their lives, they were able to help each other while helping themselves. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
January 24, 2022
Wow! What an emotional rollercoaster! My heart went out to Erin. She had such a miserable childhood, so she put up walls around her heart, so high and so strong, that it would take someone special to bring them down. Giovanni is an aspiring comedian, trying to make money doing what he loves. He never got along with Erin, but when she is stranded in a blizzard, he knows he has to help her. Suddenly, hate becomes lust, and then slowly something more. Will Giovanni ever be able to get Erin's walls down? Can Erin trust him with her secrets and with her heart? Another amazing book in the Jasper Falls series!
February 1, 2022
This book was so much in the best ways. The writing was superb. I felt like I was there in the story and it played like a movie as I read. This story will take you on an emotional roller coaster so beware. The author knows just how to bring out the emotions with her words and even though I bawled my eyes out I loved this book. Read it!
February 2, 2022
This book is the 5th book in the Jasper Falls series, it can be read as a standalone however to get a better idea of the characters and the environment, I would advise reading the previous books before going into this one.
Erin, wow. First up, I would like to point out, in the previous books, she was not my favourite character. She was nowhere close, she was rude and all around, not a nice person. In this book, however, we see a completely different side to her and wow what a tough life she had! Giovanni, oh Giovanni, what a sweetheart. He can be awkward at times but you got to love him and his personality. Trying to make it as a comedian, Giovanni is the perfect person to try and tear down Erin's walls. He is patient and so sweet!
I loved this enemies-to-lovers book. The dual POV really gave a greater understanding to the characters which I really enjoyed.
Overall I would recommend this book.
Thank you to the author, audible UK and Valentine pr for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Triggers: Abuse
Erin, wow. First up, I would like to point out, in the previous books, she was not my favourite character. She was nowhere close, she was rude and all around, not a nice person. In this book, however, we see a completely different side to her and wow what a tough life she had! Giovanni, oh Giovanni, what a sweetheart. He can be awkward at times but you got to love him and his personality. Trying to make it as a comedian, Giovanni is the perfect person to try and tear down Erin's walls. He is patient and so sweet!
I loved this enemies-to-lovers book. The dual POV really gave a greater understanding to the characters which I really enjoyed.
Overall I would recommend this book.
Thank you to the author, audible UK and Valentine pr for a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Triggers: Abuse
February 2, 2022
I really loved this emotional read from start to finish, and I'm not alright LOL. Erin has had so much pain in her life that I found myself ready to bawl my eyes out on her behalf to be honest, and that's not a normal thing for me since I hate crying like you wouldn't believe. The town she lived in wasn't great either so in that respect, I wanted to level it as I was reading. See, Lydia Michaels really messed with my heart & emotions with this story, and I'm still not over it. Giovanni was her enemy in school, and now as an adult, he's trying to make it in comedy. She ends up heckling him at a show, and he destroys her in front of everyone, so I wasn't his biggest fan to be honest. As luck (or fate) would have it, they end up stranded during a snowstorm which is either the best or worst thing to happen to them as they have no choice but to interact. My Funny Valentine was a book that no one should pass up as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
December 26, 2025
4.5 Stars for My Funny Valentine ( Jasper Falls #5)
I read this before listening so I did have some preconceived ideas on how I thought this story should sound and Amber Battaglia did a wonderful job with the narration, she really had me believing I was in the same room visiting Jasper Falls.
Another visit to Jasper Falls and another great addition to the series but be warned Erin and Giovanni’s story is not all sweetness and light, this is an emotional roller coaster and I do feel the need to point out there maybe triggers for some readers. This is a beautifully written story that touches on subject matters that a lot of authors would steer clear off and Lydia Michaels did a wonderful job taking us on Erin and Giovanni’s journey.
Erin hasn’t had an easy life but her motto has always been the best form of defence is attack but the only person she can’t use her own motto for is her Dad and that leads to a miserable life. Erin has built walls to protect herself and it’s going to take a very special man to break them down so could Giovanni be that man.
Giovanni is an aspiring stand-up comedian who left Jasper Falls many years ago but back in town for one show he finds himself rescuing Erin from her car when she has an accident in a blizzard. Stranded in one room has this couple finding things out about each other as they pass the time and suddenly lust becomes hate and then moves into so much more…….
A beautifully written, emotional roller coaster that will touch you on so many levels, it’s not just a story about love, it’s about finding yourself and learning to trust. A great addition to the Jasper Falls series and I’m excited to see where we get taken next in this series.
I read this before listening so I did have some preconceived ideas on how I thought this story should sound and Amber Battaglia did a wonderful job with the narration, she really had me believing I was in the same room visiting Jasper Falls.
Another visit to Jasper Falls and another great addition to the series but be warned Erin and Giovanni’s story is not all sweetness and light, this is an emotional roller coaster and I do feel the need to point out there maybe triggers for some readers. This is a beautifully written story that touches on subject matters that a lot of authors would steer clear off and Lydia Michaels did a wonderful job taking us on Erin and Giovanni’s journey.
Erin hasn’t had an easy life but her motto has always been the best form of defence is attack but the only person she can’t use her own motto for is her Dad and that leads to a miserable life. Erin has built walls to protect herself and it’s going to take a very special man to break them down so could Giovanni be that man.
Giovanni is an aspiring stand-up comedian who left Jasper Falls many years ago but back in town for one show he finds himself rescuing Erin from her car when she has an accident in a blizzard. Stranded in one room has this couple finding things out about each other as they pass the time and suddenly lust becomes hate and then moves into so much more…….
A beautifully written, emotional roller coaster that will touch you on so many levels, it’s not just a story about love, it’s about finding yourself and learning to trust. A great addition to the Jasper Falls series and I’m excited to see where we get taken next in this series.
January 30, 2022
4 star Review My Funny Valentine (Jasper Falls #5) by Lydia Michaels
AUDIO:
Having met Erin Montgomery is a previous book I really disliked her. Now having read My Funny Valentine, I understand all that she has been through and the circumstances that made her into the woman she has become. Please take note that this story may cause triggers for some so be prepared.
This was an emotional roller coaster of a read that tugged at my heart strings. Erin’s childhood was horrible and she suffered a great deal emotionally and physically. To the people of Jasper Falls, Erin’s father Ward was an upstanding member of the community but if they only knew his treatment of his children they would have been horrified. Her only friend was Finnegan (Finn) McCullough who was always there to help her.
The journey that Erin Montgomery and her childhood frenemy Giovanni Mosconi (cousin of Finn) went through was at times heart breaking. When Giovanni returns to Jasper Falls, the stand up comedian retaliates after Erin heckles his performance.
The narrator Amber Battaglia did a credible job in portraying all the emotions that Erin goes through and she brought the characters to life. Her voice was easy to listen to and she drew me in with her performance.
When fate puts these two together, the sparks fly. We all know there’s a fine line between love and hate and passion soon ignites between this fiery couple. The walls that Erin has surrounded herself with in order to avoid pain and further heartache will be hard to tear down.
The chemistry between them was intense but the connection between them is strong. Will Giovanni be prepared for the truth when it comes to light? Can Erin take a leap of faith and put her trust in him?
One click and find out.
AUDIO:
Having met Erin Montgomery is a previous book I really disliked her. Now having read My Funny Valentine, I understand all that she has been through and the circumstances that made her into the woman she has become. Please take note that this story may cause triggers for some so be prepared.
This was an emotional roller coaster of a read that tugged at my heart strings. Erin’s childhood was horrible and she suffered a great deal emotionally and physically. To the people of Jasper Falls, Erin’s father Ward was an upstanding member of the community but if they only knew his treatment of his children they would have been horrified. Her only friend was Finnegan (Finn) McCullough who was always there to help her.
The journey that Erin Montgomery and her childhood frenemy Giovanni Mosconi (cousin of Finn) went through was at times heart breaking. When Giovanni returns to Jasper Falls, the stand up comedian retaliates after Erin heckles his performance.
The narrator Amber Battaglia did a credible job in portraying all the emotions that Erin goes through and she brought the characters to life. Her voice was easy to listen to and she drew me in with her performance.
When fate puts these two together, the sparks fly. We all know there’s a fine line between love and hate and passion soon ignites between this fiery couple. The walls that Erin has surrounded herself with in order to avoid pain and further heartache will be hard to tear down.
The chemistry between them was intense but the connection between them is strong. Will Giovanni be prepared for the truth when it comes to light? Can Erin take a leap of faith and put her trust in him?
One click and find out.
February 10, 2022
Erin was nine when her mother had finally had enough of her father's abuse and left. Deserting her and her older brother without a word of goodbye. She was fifteen when Harrison also left her behind.
Erin is now in her thirties and didn't understand why she had returned to Jasper Falls and was working for her dad at his hardware store. She had no one to turn to as everyone in this town hated her and admired her father. No one would ever believe the nightmare she lived. She had pushed everyone away her entire life as getting close just meant pain - because everyone she had cared about had deserted her.
She had even been mean to her best friend since kindergarten when she figured out that he had no plans to leave Jasper Falls and was going to join his family's lumber business. So when she hears him speaking to his daughter while she was waiting for her dad's prescription she tried to make herself invisible, but he saw her immediately and invited her to the town's pub since his cousin was in town and would be performing.
Giovanni was back in his hometown. The last place he wanted to be. He loved his family, but they had never failed to let him know what they thought of his career choice as a stand-up comic. His career was stagnating and he wasn't sure how to get it back on track he hated that he might have to work for his family's business after all.
He was on stage at O'Malley's when he heard someone make a loud comment and realized he had material gold in front of him. Erin Montgomery - the town witch. After leaving O'Malley's he was the only idiot on the road driving in this blizzard. Instead of staying with any of his massive family, he was staying at a motel outside of town.
As he was fighting to see the highway before him he notices figures eights across the highway and treads leading into the trees. After sliding down the embankment to help, he realizes it was Erin. His enemy. And he was now stuck with her in the freezing cold since he now had a dead battery.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. This is the first book in the series that I have read, but I will definitely be adding the rest of the series to my TBR list.
Lydia Michaels has written an amazing book that had me both laughing and crying. I cried so much for Erin and her childhood. The damage from her abusive father ran deep and her mistrust of everyone was a massive hurdle for her to overcome. Giovanni was the jokester in his family, but after being forced to spend the night with Erin he realized that she wasn't the person everyone thought she was and he was determined to break down her walls.
This book is action-packed from page one and I was unable to put the book down. It is very intense and highly emotional so be prepared to have your Kleenex nearby. This is one of the best enemies to lovers stories I have read. Highly recommend! Looking forward to Erin's brother Harrison's story.
Erin is now in her thirties and didn't understand why she had returned to Jasper Falls and was working for her dad at his hardware store. She had no one to turn to as everyone in this town hated her and admired her father. No one would ever believe the nightmare she lived. She had pushed everyone away her entire life as getting close just meant pain - because everyone she had cared about had deserted her.
She had even been mean to her best friend since kindergarten when she figured out that he had no plans to leave Jasper Falls and was going to join his family's lumber business. So when she hears him speaking to his daughter while she was waiting for her dad's prescription she tried to make herself invisible, but he saw her immediately and invited her to the town's pub since his cousin was in town and would be performing.
Giovanni was back in his hometown. The last place he wanted to be. He loved his family, but they had never failed to let him know what they thought of his career choice as a stand-up comic. His career was stagnating and he wasn't sure how to get it back on track he hated that he might have to work for his family's business after all.
He was on stage at O'Malley's when he heard someone make a loud comment and realized he had material gold in front of him. Erin Montgomery - the town witch. After leaving O'Malley's he was the only idiot on the road driving in this blizzard. Instead of staying with any of his massive family, he was staying at a motel outside of town.
As he was fighting to see the highway before him he notices figures eights across the highway and treads leading into the trees. After sliding down the embankment to help, he realizes it was Erin. His enemy. And he was now stuck with her in the freezing cold since he now had a dead battery.
I loved this book! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. This is the first book in the series that I have read, but I will definitely be adding the rest of the series to my TBR list.
Lydia Michaels has written an amazing book that had me both laughing and crying. I cried so much for Erin and her childhood. The damage from her abusive father ran deep and her mistrust of everyone was a massive hurdle for her to overcome. Giovanni was the jokester in his family, but after being forced to spend the night with Erin he realized that she wasn't the person everyone thought she was and he was determined to break down her walls.
This book is action-packed from page one and I was unable to put the book down. It is very intense and highly emotional so be prepared to have your Kleenex nearby. This is one of the best enemies to lovers stories I have read. Highly recommend! Looking forward to Erin's brother Harrison's story.
February 1, 2022
True to form I picked up a series smack bang in the middle of it, well…. Five books in anyway. I didn’t know.
Erin Montgomery needs to escape her life and the godforsaken town she lives in. She’s an outcast, when really people should have been empathising with her, for not hightailing away from the place at the first opportunity. Instead, she stays put, accepting the abuse doled out to her by her ass of a father. What’s worse, people in the community have known she’s been treated appallingly, and they have known her struggles but have turned a blind eye. When Erin goes for a night out, she bares the brunt of a local comedian’s ‘humour’ (his name is Giovanni Masconi) and leaves the bar in tears as nothing has changed. After a car crash she finds herself in close quarters with Giovanni and neither of them are happy about it.
Giovanni is essentially a bit of a bully early on - from an affluent, known family, but wanting to break free of the ties binding him to the town. He quickly changes his opinion of Erin and pursues her shamelessly. Erin is scared to open up due to her background of trauma - she’s unwilling to trust, having been repeatedly let down in the past. She’s got a prickly, tough exterior and her default defence is attack and then withdrawal.
If you like intergenerational stories, enemies to lovers (and they really are enemies), forced proximity, a feisty female protagonist and a surprisingly romantic (though not particularly funny IMO) comedian then MY FUNNY VALENTINE will sit well on your to be read list.
Thanks to Valentine PR for an advanced reading copy of this book.
Erin Montgomery needs to escape her life and the godforsaken town she lives in. She’s an outcast, when really people should have been empathising with her, for not hightailing away from the place at the first opportunity. Instead, she stays put, accepting the abuse doled out to her by her ass of a father. What’s worse, people in the community have known she’s been treated appallingly, and they have known her struggles but have turned a blind eye. When Erin goes for a night out, she bares the brunt of a local comedian’s ‘humour’ (his name is Giovanni Masconi) and leaves the bar in tears as nothing has changed. After a car crash she finds herself in close quarters with Giovanni and neither of them are happy about it.
Giovanni is essentially a bit of a bully early on - from an affluent, known family, but wanting to break free of the ties binding him to the town. He quickly changes his opinion of Erin and pursues her shamelessly. Erin is scared to open up due to her background of trauma - she’s unwilling to trust, having been repeatedly let down in the past. She’s got a prickly, tough exterior and her default defence is attack and then withdrawal.
If you like intergenerational stories, enemies to lovers (and they really are enemies), forced proximity, a feisty female protagonist and a surprisingly romantic (though not particularly funny IMO) comedian then MY FUNNY VALENTINE will sit well on your to be read list.
Thanks to Valentine PR for an advanced reading copy of this book.
February 2, 2022
With such a sweet and heartwarming title and cover, I was definitely not expecting what I read.
Intense, suspenseful and full of angst, this story was a real heart wrenching emotional story for me.
In fact, this enemies to lovers story, was full of twists and surprises!
Our heroine Erin, had been introduced in prior installments and here we have her story and we begin to understand why she was so standoffish and not very likable.
Wow, this story for me was at times tough to read. Erin is the survivor of a painful and horrific sad past, causing her to be a loner, introverted and off putting individual. In fact, her favorite defense mechanism is to be rude. So when she meets stand up comedian Giovanni she did not hold back with her heckling when she didn’t like his act.
Ooh but our heroine Erin has met her match in Giovanni. He gives as good as he takes, and despite their fiery and contrary temperament, sparks fly and interest ignites.
The triggers of the story were well written and gave their story more depth and complexity.
Despite the heavy elements of Erin’s story, this really was a heartfelt story of love and redemption.
What happens between them you’ll have to read and find out.
4.5 stars!
Intense, suspenseful and full of angst, this story was a real heart wrenching emotional story for me.
In fact, this enemies to lovers story, was full of twists and surprises!
Our heroine Erin, had been introduced in prior installments and here we have her story and we begin to understand why she was so standoffish and not very likable.
Wow, this story for me was at times tough to read. Erin is the survivor of a painful and horrific sad past, causing her to be a loner, introverted and off putting individual. In fact, her favorite defense mechanism is to be rude. So when she meets stand up comedian Giovanni she did not hold back with her heckling when she didn’t like his act.
Ooh but our heroine Erin has met her match in Giovanni. He gives as good as he takes, and despite their fiery and contrary temperament, sparks fly and interest ignites.
The triggers of the story were well written and gave their story more depth and complexity.
Despite the heavy elements of Erin’s story, this really was a heartfelt story of love and redemption.
What happens between them you’ll have to read and find out.
4.5 stars!
February 5, 2022
My Funny Valentine
Jasper Falls, Book 5
By: Lydia Michaels
Narrated by: Amber Battaglia
Jasper Falls is a series of small town romances, but this one is by far the most emotional of them. Erin lives with her father, an abusive man that has no love for anything but his hardware store. Now grown, she finds herself stuck in this situation. The girl no one likes, the constant bullying and teasing, and her horrible home life has her like a hamster on a wheel, unable to get off. That is until Giovanni. When Giovanni comes into her life, he is like a force, making her feel but unable to penetrate the fear she feels. He is an upcoming comedian, facing his own failures but he continues his pursuit of Erin. Until he too finds himself in a dark place, unable to find his success. Will these two people find their way out and their way to happiness? Lydia Michaels has taken us on a roller coaster of emotions with this book. It's has relevant issues, and they are not sugar coated in any way. She invests your heart, makes want to take care of these two and find their way. We do get to visit with some of the the other characters we have previously met too, giving us that glimpse of their future, which is always fun. This is a fantastic listen, one to take to heart and show how we don't always know what goes on behind closed doors.
Amber Battaglia is our storyteller and she does a wonderful job. There are a lot of emotions in this one, times that you will cringe and others you will love. She uses her voices to delve into the story and have us feel it all. It's a great performance, and I will be watching for more from her.
Jasper Falls, Book 5
By: Lydia Michaels
Narrated by: Amber Battaglia
Jasper Falls is a series of small town romances, but this one is by far the most emotional of them. Erin lives with her father, an abusive man that has no love for anything but his hardware store. Now grown, she finds herself stuck in this situation. The girl no one likes, the constant bullying and teasing, and her horrible home life has her like a hamster on a wheel, unable to get off. That is until Giovanni. When Giovanni comes into her life, he is like a force, making her feel but unable to penetrate the fear she feels. He is an upcoming comedian, facing his own failures but he continues his pursuit of Erin. Until he too finds himself in a dark place, unable to find his success. Will these two people find their way out and their way to happiness? Lydia Michaels has taken us on a roller coaster of emotions with this book. It's has relevant issues, and they are not sugar coated in any way. She invests your heart, makes want to take care of these two and find their way. We do get to visit with some of the the other characters we have previously met too, giving us that glimpse of their future, which is always fun. This is a fantastic listen, one to take to heart and show how we don't always know what goes on behind closed doors.
Amber Battaglia is our storyteller and she does a wonderful job. There are a lot of emotions in this one, times that you will cringe and others you will love. She uses her voices to delve into the story and have us feel it all. It's a great performance, and I will be watching for more from her.
January 28, 2022
After reading and enjoying the first two books in The Order of the Vampires series by Lydia Michaels – not to mention, eagerly anticipating the rest of the series – I was excited to dive into more of the author’s work. Although My Funny Valentine is the fifth book in the Jasper Falls series, along with containing characters from the McCullogh Mountain series, this story worked perfectly fine as a standalone. I confess, it left me wanting to go and read about the other characters I was introduced to. This, however, was because I was curious about their stories and not because I did not understand this one.
My Funny Valentine was a story that hit me with the feels from the start, pulling me in deep and ensuring I finished the book in a single sitting. I adored it, was hooked on every detail, and there were a few points where the heavy emotion had me considering giving this a five-star rating. I’ll be honest and say that I came close, only rounding my rating down because I felt things moved a little too quickly. That’s just me, though, and I’m sure many will disagree. After all, the story was packed with emotion – the good and the bad – and it had me unable to put it down.
All in all, this was a great introduction to non-paranormal work from the author. I’ll certainly be reading more of the Jasper Falls and the McCullogh Mountain series.
My Funny Valentine was a story that hit me with the feels from the start, pulling me in deep and ensuring I finished the book in a single sitting. I adored it, was hooked on every detail, and there were a few points where the heavy emotion had me considering giving this a five-star rating. I’ll be honest and say that I came close, only rounding my rating down because I felt things moved a little too quickly. That’s just me, though, and I’m sure many will disagree. After all, the story was packed with emotion – the good and the bad – and it had me unable to put it down.
All in all, this was a great introduction to non-paranormal work from the author. I’ll certainly be reading more of the Jasper Falls and the McCullogh Mountain series.
February 1, 2022
“He loved her more than the stars loved the sky.”
4/5 ⭐️
Absolutely love this one. From the beginning to the very end, I wanted it all. This is also my first book by this author and I am really pleased.
This story is is filled with a love that’s both heartbreaking and heartwarming. I even had some laugh out loud moments throughout the book.
Reading about Erin just makes you want to give her a hug. She deserves all the love and more. I love how Lydia’s writing made us feel what Erin was feeling. I’m happy after dealing with many hardships, she was able to get her happy ending.
Giovanni is definitely a character you grow to love. He’s a comedian with not the best support system on his side. He also hates Erin, but after they’re forced to stay together, he learns there’s more to her then what shows.
These characters are definitely characters you can relate to. They have their past, hardships and figuring it all out.
I definitely recommend giving this a read. I’m so happy I did.
Thank you @valentinepr and Grey’s promotions for an ARC exchange for a honest review
4/5 ⭐️
Absolutely love this one. From the beginning to the very end, I wanted it all. This is also my first book by this author and I am really pleased.
This story is is filled with a love that’s both heartbreaking and heartwarming. I even had some laugh out loud moments throughout the book.
Reading about Erin just makes you want to give her a hug. She deserves all the love and more. I love how Lydia’s writing made us feel what Erin was feeling. I’m happy after dealing with many hardships, she was able to get her happy ending.
Giovanni is definitely a character you grow to love. He’s a comedian with not the best support system on his side. He also hates Erin, but after they’re forced to stay together, he learns there’s more to her then what shows.
These characters are definitely characters you can relate to. They have their past, hardships and figuring it all out.
I definitely recommend giving this a read. I’m so happy I did.
Thank you @valentinepr and Grey’s promotions for an ARC exchange for a honest review
February 4, 2022
This book was surprisingly pretty heavy. It had triggers of physical and emotional abuse. The "funny" in the title comes from the hero being a stand-up comedian. There's really not much else funny in the book. That being said, My Funny Valentine is a highly emotional story. It has a enemies to friends trope and a forced proximity trope.
Erin has seen little love in her life and has suffered abuse. She is one messed up gal. It has made emotional intimacy exceedingly difficult for her. That becomes apparent after she is stranded with one of her childhood enemies during a snowstorm. Giovanni has had no use for Erin, but starts to see wisps of a different woman as he spends more time with her. The question is whether Erin's behavior will drive Giovanni away or could he be destined to leave her regardless of any changes she makes?
The story really had a dark side. I just want to know why no one got this girl some professional help!
I listened to the video version of this book. The narration was pretty good. Thanks to Valentine PR for the gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
Erin has seen little love in her life and has suffered abuse. She is one messed up gal. It has made emotional intimacy exceedingly difficult for her. That becomes apparent after she is stranded with one of her childhood enemies during a snowstorm. Giovanni has had no use for Erin, but starts to see wisps of a different woman as he spends more time with her. The question is whether Erin's behavior will drive Giovanni away or could he be destined to leave her regardless of any changes she makes?
The story really had a dark side. I just want to know why no one got this girl some professional help!
I listened to the video version of this book. The narration was pretty good. Thanks to Valentine PR for the gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
February 9, 2022
Standup comedian, Giovanni Mosconi, is back home in Jasper Falls and is doing his act at a local bar. When Erin Montgomery heckles him, he lets her have it with a full roasting in front of everyone. When the two childhood enemies are snowed in together, lines begin to blur. Can they learn to trust each other and build something new together?
I've really enjoyed this series and this book is no exception. While the subject matter can be hard to read for some, this book's well-written and done well. I love Erin and Giovanni as characters and the way they learn more about themselves as they come together. The way they each have a need that has never been met before makes for an emotional read. I was drawn into this engaging story and kept hooked from beginning to end. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. I highly recommend both book and series which I think is best read in order even though each book could be a stand-alone. You get a better feel for the town and the characters by reading the books in order.
I've really enjoyed this series and this book is no exception. While the subject matter can be hard to read for some, this book's well-written and done well. I love Erin and Giovanni as characters and the way they learn more about themselves as they come together. The way they each have a need that has never been met before makes for an emotional read. I was drawn into this engaging story and kept hooked from beginning to end. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. I highly recommend both book and series which I think is best read in order even though each book could be a stand-alone. You get a better feel for the town and the characters by reading the books in order.
February 15, 2022
My Funny Valentine is book five in the Jasper Falls series and is a second chance bully romance about love and redemption that will break your heart and put you back together again in the most beautiful way.
Erin Montgomery is a relentless, hard on the outside yet super vulnerable heroine. We are introduced to Erin and her shockingly horrific childhood in the prologue. It tells us how her family are terrorised by her father Ward who is a pillar of the community. Her mother and brother flee the abuse leaving Erin at the mercy of the vicious man and unable to let anyone get close.
Giovanni Moscani is our cocky, aspiring comedian hero of the story. He grew up in Jasper Falls but has been touring with his comedy act. He’s home to visit his family and do a comedy gig. It’s at this gig that Erin heckles him, and he retaliates by humiliating her in front of a good chunk of the town. The two end up snowed in together where Erin’s hard-faced persona slips which allows Giovanni a glimpse of who the real Erin Montgomery is.
I was totally captivated with Amber Battaglia’s narration. This is my first-time hearing Amber’s work, and I can’t think of a better introduction than her bringing Erin and Giovanni to life.
I loved My Funny Valentine, even if Erin broke my heart and had the tears flowing, Giovanni swiftly put my heart back together again and had me swooning.
My favourite quote of the book
“I want you. I want your soft lips and your sweet body. I want your mind and your secrets. I want your kisses and your moans. But most of all, I want your trust, because I know it’s not something you easily give.”
Erin Montgomery is a relentless, hard on the outside yet super vulnerable heroine. We are introduced to Erin and her shockingly horrific childhood in the prologue. It tells us how her family are terrorised by her father Ward who is a pillar of the community. Her mother and brother flee the abuse leaving Erin at the mercy of the vicious man and unable to let anyone get close.
Giovanni Moscani is our cocky, aspiring comedian hero of the story. He grew up in Jasper Falls but has been touring with his comedy act. He’s home to visit his family and do a comedy gig. It’s at this gig that Erin heckles him, and he retaliates by humiliating her in front of a good chunk of the town. The two end up snowed in together where Erin’s hard-faced persona slips which allows Giovanni a glimpse of who the real Erin Montgomery is.
I was totally captivated with Amber Battaglia’s narration. This is my first-time hearing Amber’s work, and I can’t think of a better introduction than her bringing Erin and Giovanni to life.
I loved My Funny Valentine, even if Erin broke my heart and had the tears flowing, Giovanni swiftly put my heart back together again and had me swooning.
My favourite quote of the book
“I want you. I want your soft lips and your sweet body. I want your mind and your secrets. I want your kisses and your moans. But most of all, I want your trust, because I know it’s not something you easily give.”
February 2, 2022
Erin was an abused child. Her father was mean to his family, but the people of the town loved him. She never spoke about her abuse. If people suspected, they did nothing to help. She adopted some of his mean traits to protect herself… and people stayed away from her. Now she’s older and still, her father takes his anger out on her. And this night, she decides she’s done.
Giovanni comes from a big, happy, Italian family. His family owns a lumberyard and it was always thought that they’d all grow up and take it over. Giovanni doesn’t want anything to do with it. He wants to do stand up. He’s funny, but dark and edgy, and his career is slow to take off. At a show in his home town, he uses the girl everyone hates to bolster his act. When he finds her car in the ditch and sees she’s been crying, he wonders if her accident was his fault.
What happens when two people who dislike each other are stuck together due to bad weather? When he, inadvertently, finds out things about her that no one ever bothered to discover before. The accident, and their time together, make him curious, make him have feelings he shouldn’t, and start them down a path neither would have expected.
Lydia Michaels is excellent with words, and using them to really make you think. How did an entire town ignore what was happening to a small child for all these years? Some people suspected but no one ever did anything. Can Erin ever really trust anyone? This book dealt with this very well and with a whole lot of I don’t want this story to end action. I recommend this for everyone.
Giovanni comes from a big, happy, Italian family. His family owns a lumberyard and it was always thought that they’d all grow up and take it over. Giovanni doesn’t want anything to do with it. He wants to do stand up. He’s funny, but dark and edgy, and his career is slow to take off. At a show in his home town, he uses the girl everyone hates to bolster his act. When he finds her car in the ditch and sees she’s been crying, he wonders if her accident was his fault.
What happens when two people who dislike each other are stuck together due to bad weather? When he, inadvertently, finds out things about her that no one ever bothered to discover before. The accident, and their time together, make him curious, make him have feelings he shouldn’t, and start them down a path neither would have expected.
Lydia Michaels is excellent with words, and using them to really make you think. How did an entire town ignore what was happening to a small child for all these years? Some people suspected but no one ever did anything. Can Erin ever really trust anyone? This book dealt with this very well and with a whole lot of I don’t want this story to end action. I recommend this for everyone.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews