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Work for It #3
Book Smart
Melanie Hirsch is tired of watching life pass her by…
I’ve spent the last few years watching my dreams of a writing career and true love fade away, settling for a dead-end job and denying my feelings for my best friend - until I find a list of dating advice for single women to “find a husband” in the 1950s. I decide to experiment: try out the 1950s advice on my 21st-century dating pool and write about the results. If love is timeless, some of the dating advice still holds value. Maybe my experiment will launch my writing career. Maybe I’ll get over my best friend and meet someone new. Either way, I’m done watching from the sidelines.
Cameron Whitacre can’t wait forever…
I’ve spent the last few years in love with my best friend, hoping she’ll notice my friendly overtures have more than friendly intentions - but before I realize what’s happening, she declares me her wingman for a dating experiment. This idea could launch her writing career, so I’m trying to be supportive. But her experiment turns my life into a desperation-fueled dumpster fire. I need to show her how I feel without jeopardizing our friendship, all before she falls for someone else.
'Book Smart' is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #3 in the Work For It series, Educated Romance World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
I’ve spent the last few years watching my dreams of a writing career and true love fade away, settling for a dead-end job and denying my feelings for my best friend - until I find a list of dating advice for single women to “find a husband” in the 1950s. I decide to experiment: try out the 1950s advice on my 21st-century dating pool and write about the results. If love is timeless, some of the dating advice still holds value. Maybe my experiment will launch my writing career. Maybe I’ll get over my best friend and meet someone new. Either way, I’m done watching from the sidelines.
Cameron Whitacre can’t wait forever…
I’ve spent the last few years in love with my best friend, hoping she’ll notice my friendly overtures have more than friendly intentions - but before I realize what’s happening, she declares me her wingman for a dating experiment. This idea could launch her writing career, so I’m trying to be supportive. But her experiment turns my life into a desperation-fueled dumpster fire. I need to show her how I feel without jeopardizing our friendship, all before she falls for someone else.
'Book Smart' is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #3 in the Work For It series, Educated Romance World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 14, 2022
191 people are currently reading
4042 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Pennington
4 books75 followersAmanda Pennington is an indie author who lives outside Louisville, Kentucky with her husband in their fixer-upper house. She spends her days working as an editor and her nights writing quirky, closed-door romantic comedies. When she’s not writing feel-good novels, Amanda loves traveling, running, and reading anything within reach. She regularly shares about her current reads and works in progress:
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April 14, 2022
★★LIVE IN KINDLE UNLIMITED★★
The time has come! BOOK SMART by debut author Amanda Pennington is now live in Kindle Unlimited. I'm so excited for you all to read this one!
★★Grab your copy TODAY!★★
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Amazon Print: Coming soon!
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★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
Melanie Hirsch is tired of watching life pass her by…
I’ve spent the last few years watching my dreams of a writing career and true love fade away, settling for a dead-end job and denying my feelings for my best friend – until I find a list of dating advice for single women to “find a husband” in the 1950s. I decide to experiment: try out the 1950s advice on my 21st-century dating pool and write about the results. If love is timeless, some of the dating advice still holds value. Maybe my experiment will launch my writing career. Maybe I’ll get over my best friend and meet someone new. Either way, I’m done watching from the sidelines.
Cameron Whitacre can’t wait forever…
I’ve spent the last few years in love with my best friend, hoping she’ll notice my friendly overtures have more than friendly intentions – but before I realize what’s happening, she declares me her wingman for a dating experiment. This idea could launch her writing career, so I’m trying to be supportive. But her experiment turns my life into a desperation-fueled dumpster fire. I need to show her how I feel without jeopardizing our friendship, all before she falls for someone else.
‘Book Smart’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #3 in the Work For It series, Educated Romance World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
April 25, 2022
Format - E ARC
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️💫 (Rounded up)
Spice- 💋 (only kissing)
Series- Work for it #3
Troupes- Friends to lovers, work place romance,
CW- Stroke and the associated trauma.
Ok y’all know me by now, you know I like my romance steamy and spicy and that I have and probably will again DNF a book because there are no smexy times, especially if I don’t know going in. This is the only reason that this review rating is missing half a star.
That said, I freakin adore this debut novel from Amanda Pennington. Despite the lack of one of my favorite things this book still pulled on my heart strings and gave me all the swoons. Cam is the gold standard in cinnamon roll hero- ness, he is sweet and caring and has been standing by our girl Mel for 5 freakin years just waiting for his chance to tell her his feelings. It’s a real shame he is fictional, cause I want one and would clone him in a heart beat. Mel is my favorite adorkable, nerdy heroine. She’s oblivious, a little short sighted and naive but is an enchanting and hilarious character that you just can’t help loving her.
There are great friendships in this story on both sides and I found myself hoping that Ivy and Toby would get together!
This Sweet an Swoony story has a lot to love, well rounded characters, good pacing and all the worm fuzzy feels, its a great cozy read and I can’t wait to read what Pennington pens for us next!
Rating- ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️💫 (Rounded up)
Spice- 💋 (only kissing)
Series- Work for it #3
Troupes- Friends to lovers, work place romance,
CW- Stroke and the associated trauma.
Ok y’all know me by now, you know I like my romance steamy and spicy and that I have and probably will again DNF a book because there are no smexy times, especially if I don’t know going in. This is the only reason that this review rating is missing half a star.
That said, I freakin adore this debut novel from Amanda Pennington. Despite the lack of one of my favorite things this book still pulled on my heart strings and gave me all the swoons. Cam is the gold standard in cinnamon roll hero- ness, he is sweet and caring and has been standing by our girl Mel for 5 freakin years just waiting for his chance to tell her his feelings. It’s a real shame he is fictional, cause I want one and would clone him in a heart beat. Mel is my favorite adorkable, nerdy heroine. She’s oblivious, a little short sighted and naive but is an enchanting and hilarious character that you just can’t help loving her.
There are great friendships in this story on both sides and I found myself hoping that Ivy and Toby would get together!
This Sweet an Swoony story has a lot to love, well rounded characters, good pacing and all the worm fuzzy feels, its a great cozy read and I can’t wait to read what Pennington pens for us next!
April 25, 2022
I connected with this debut author’s book from the first page! Between the Mel’s sadness at comparing herself to everyone on social media being successful or in a relationship, to the banter with Cameron devolving into “your mom is…” for a comeback, this was me and my friends, or past friends anyway. The story had so much that was just true and realistic for this day and age. About how we might want to meet someone the “old-fashioned” way of being set up by a friend, or through work or accidental meet up somewhere, it doesn’t seem to happen that way for some of us, Melanie, or me it seems.
Even with all that Melanie wanted, and all that she and Cameron kept misreading or waiting on the other one for, it really again was something I connected with when Cameron called her selfish about being so involved in her own project. Because I know I get that way. And I have to step back and make sure that I’m always asking others what is going on. Even though I know I’m thinking about others all the time, I don’t always do the best at asking them the things I should.
But all the characters were able to move on, and work past those issues, overcome them and be there for their friends. This was a major slow-burn in that our two keep denying themselves the chance until the very end. And while that may be a bit stressful as the reader, again, it is so realistic! I personally would love to have a friend where we had a chat or something that was only sending memes or gifs back and forth. I do have a friend that we share memes constantly, well two if you count one of my cousins. The comic book store guy would totally have won me over with his Lois and Clark bit too. lol
A sweet, fun, perfect romance addition to the SmartyPants Universe World. I read the author’s note on Goodreads that she is working on a book that goes with this one, with two of the side characters, and my fingers are crossed for Ivy and Toby!
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
Even with all that Melanie wanted, and all that she and Cameron kept misreading or waiting on the other one for, it really again was something I connected with when Cameron called her selfish about being so involved in her own project. Because I know I get that way. And I have to step back and make sure that I’m always asking others what is going on. Even though I know I’m thinking about others all the time, I don’t always do the best at asking them the things I should.
But all the characters were able to move on, and work past those issues, overcome them and be there for their friends. This was a major slow-burn in that our two keep denying themselves the chance until the very end. And while that may be a bit stressful as the reader, again, it is so realistic! I personally would love to have a friend where we had a chat or something that was only sending memes or gifs back and forth. I do have a friend that we share memes constantly, well two if you count one of my cousins. The comic book store guy would totally have won me over with his Lois and Clark bit too. lol
A sweet, fun, perfect romance addition to the SmartyPants Universe World. I read the author’s note on Goodreads that she is working on a book that goes with this one, with two of the side characters, and my fingers are crossed for Ivy and Toby!
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
April 18, 2022
Very long, anticlimactic, G rated romance
2.25 Stars
This is my least favorite friends to lovers romance I've ever read. The writing was OK. The storyline had potential, but didn't end up working. The book was too long and dragged.
First peck, yes peck, not kiss doesn't happen until 80% in. Then everything is rushed at the end. We’re told of their love story. We never get to read about it.
2 stars for Cam. The .25 stars for the actual writing.
I'd skip this one.
2.25 Stars
This is my least favorite friends to lovers romance I've ever read. The writing was OK. The storyline had potential, but didn't end up working. The book was too long and dragged.
First peck, yes peck, not kiss doesn't happen until 80% in. Then everything is rushed at the end. We’re told of their love story. We never get to read about it.
2 stars for Cam. The .25 stars for the actual writing.
I'd skip this one.
May 7, 2022
Favorite Quotes:
It is a truth universally acknowledged that faculty and staff meetings are soul destroying. The color in my vision gradually flattened into black and white. I felt the marrow seeping from my very bones, draining away. Soon I would be an empty husk, my insides all withered to the point of blowing away at the slightest puff. The meeting would never end. All of us were destined to die in this conference room. Yes, it’s melodramatic. It’s also 100 percent true.
You always slouch when you eat, but when you have an idea, you sit up straight like you’re afraid the thoughts might fall out of your head if you move the wrong way.
I’d filed it away in the box labeled “Things Not to Think About,” right next to the folder of “Peeing My Pants on Stage During the First-Grade Spelling Bee,” and I’d shoved it in the back of my mental attic, next to the other cobwebby boxes.
Ivy: Remember when the three of us did No-Shave November? Your legs were hairier than Cam’s.
Cameron: I would’ve felt emasculated if I hadn’t been so impressed.
Mel: It wasn’t that bad.
Ivy: Yes, it was. How many razors did you go through to cut it all back?
Cameron: Be honest. You know you didn’t use razors. You used chainsaws and weedwhackers.
You think I feel the same way about your grandpa as I did all those years ago when we first met? Or the way I did on our wedding day? Well, I don’t. Back then, love was like Fourth of July sparklers in my chest. Right now, love is making him hot coffee and breakfast each morning even after we got in a fight the day before and he spent all night snoring in my ear...
My Review:
I initially waffled on how to rate this one as the writing was witty, easy to fall into, and cleverly amusing, although I was finding the pacing and protracted foot-dragging, and immature behavior of the main character more than a bit tedious. However, some people are that tiresomely clueless and self-involved, so all in all the storylines were engaging, humorous, keenly observant, giggle-snort worthy, and wryly entertaining. Perusing all my highlighted favorites removed all doubt, leading me to go all-in with a well-deserved 5-stars.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that faculty and staff meetings are soul destroying. The color in my vision gradually flattened into black and white. I felt the marrow seeping from my very bones, draining away. Soon I would be an empty husk, my insides all withered to the point of blowing away at the slightest puff. The meeting would never end. All of us were destined to die in this conference room. Yes, it’s melodramatic. It’s also 100 percent true.
You always slouch when you eat, but when you have an idea, you sit up straight like you’re afraid the thoughts might fall out of your head if you move the wrong way.
I’d filed it away in the box labeled “Things Not to Think About,” right next to the folder of “Peeing My Pants on Stage During the First-Grade Spelling Bee,” and I’d shoved it in the back of my mental attic, next to the other cobwebby boxes.
Ivy: Remember when the three of us did No-Shave November? Your legs were hairier than Cam’s.
Cameron: I would’ve felt emasculated if I hadn’t been so impressed.
Mel: It wasn’t that bad.
Ivy: Yes, it was. How many razors did you go through to cut it all back?
Cameron: Be honest. You know you didn’t use razors. You used chainsaws and weedwhackers.
You think I feel the same way about your grandpa as I did all those years ago when we first met? Or the way I did on our wedding day? Well, I don’t. Back then, love was like Fourth of July sparklers in my chest. Right now, love is making him hot coffee and breakfast each morning even after we got in a fight the day before and he spent all night snoring in my ear...
My Review:
I initially waffled on how to rate this one as the writing was witty, easy to fall into, and cleverly amusing, although I was finding the pacing and protracted foot-dragging, and immature behavior of the main character more than a bit tedious. However, some people are that tiresomely clueless and self-involved, so all in all the storylines were engaging, humorous, keenly observant, giggle-snort worthy, and wryly entertaining. Perusing all my highlighted favorites removed all doubt, leading me to go all-in with a well-deserved 5-stars.
May 6, 2022
Okay read, nothing bad just story didn't do it for me.
April 29, 2022
Friends to more is one of my favorite tropes and if it's a slow burn romance, even better. That combo made Amanda C. Pennington's debut, Book Smart, the perfect book for me.
Mel and Cameron have been friends for years. They both have feelings for one another, but neither has said anything. As their romance is a slow burn it made all the little moments they share so sweet. It was easy to see how much they cared about each other and how important their friendship was.
I really enjoyed the writing style and loved that she made the book dual POV. This is a sweet, fun read and I am looking forward to reading more from Amanda!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
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Bookstagram Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cc8sNS7Pvgj/
Mel and Cameron have been friends for years. They both have feelings for one another, but neither has said anything. As their romance is a slow burn it made all the little moments they share so sweet. It was easy to see how much they cared about each other and how important their friendship was.
I really enjoyed the writing style and loved that she made the book dual POV. This is a sweet, fun read and I am looking forward to reading more from Amanda!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
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Bookstagram Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cc8sNS7Pvgj/
April 15, 2022
This book had a very weird premise, that in my opinion, painted the h in a not so flattery light. Applying dating advice from the 50s in today’s context put her in some stupid and dangerous situations. Also, the motivation she had for starting her so called project was shallow at best.
Mel was really self involved and it made me glad Cameron called her out in it, and I think he deserved a better apology for the way she lashed out because of his advice.
The second star was just because of Cameron.
Mel was really self involved and it made me glad Cameron called her out in it, and I think he deserved a better apology for the way she lashed out because of his advice.
The second star was just because of Cameron.
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March 9, 2022I have never read a book with this premise before! I love it when that happens.
April 20, 2022
First of all I love this cover, it pops and grabs your attention!
The premise of this book is fantastic, and I really enjoyed getting in Mel and Cam’s heads. Cams back story was so enthralling, and his family dynamics was terrific.
This is a slow burn closed door sweet romance. I would have loved to see Mel and Cam together in their HEA a little bit more, but having it be closed door was not a detriment!
I would love to know more backstory on their friend Ivy, so hopefully we’ll get her story as some point, she was so mysterious! The writing in this book was great and it’s hard to believe this is a debut novel! I look forward to the next thing this author writes.
The premise of this book is fantastic, and I really enjoyed getting in Mel and Cam’s heads. Cams back story was so enthralling, and his family dynamics was terrific.
This is a slow burn closed door sweet romance. I would have loved to see Mel and Cam together in their HEA a little bit more, but having it be closed door was not a detriment!
I would love to know more backstory on their friend Ivy, so hopefully we’ll get her story as some point, she was so mysterious! The writing in this book was great and it’s hard to believe this is a debut novel! I look forward to the next thing this author writes.
April 26, 2022
Timing is everything, isn't it? I mean, Cam tried to find the right moment to step into Mel's life romantically for years, but the timing was always off. She'd either just met someone or she was dealing with break-up fallout. He didn't want to be the rebound guy, so he held himself back. Meanwhile, Mel thinks Cam absolutely doesn't think of her as anything more than a friend. So she shoves down her budding feelings time and time again and tells herself she's content with their friendship.
Then Mel decides to try the 1950s dating advice to find a husband and Cam sees his chance to declare himself slipping by again. He's also doesn't stop her from trying it. After all, he won't stand in the way of Mel's happiness and this is something she wants to do. And if she happens to find someone while practicing this truly terrible advice, well... so it goes.
Friendship, pie, a much needed and rather eye-opening conversation that has Mel stepping up her game, a dreaded interview, and a kiss that utterly takes Mel by surprise. Recalibrating your expectations isn't always easy, but both Cam and Mel do what they need to get where they need to go. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Then Mel decides to try the 1950s dating advice to find a husband and Cam sees his chance to declare himself slipping by again. He's also doesn't stop her from trying it. After all, he won't stand in the way of Mel's happiness and this is something she wants to do. And if she happens to find someone while practicing this truly terrible advice, well... so it goes.
Friendship, pie, a much needed and rather eye-opening conversation that has Mel stepping up her game, a dreaded interview, and a kiss that utterly takes Mel by surprise. Recalibrating your expectations isn't always easy, but both Cam and Mel do what they need to get where they need to go. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
April 9, 2022
I am absolutely shocked that Book Smart is a debut novel. This sweet and funny friends-to-lovers story is incredibly well-written.
Mel is an aspiring writer, unlucky in love, who stumbles upon an article featuring 1950s dating advice for single women. In a quest to determine whether any of the advice still holds value, she launches a dating experiment, determined to heed some of the decades-old advice and write about the results.
Mel enlists the help and support of her two best friends, Ivy and Cameron — the same Cameron who has been in love with Mel since they met five years ago.
That’s right, Cameron has spent the last five years hoping Mel will notice him and realize his feelings for her. Now, he has a front row seat to her dating experiment and her efforts to charm other men. He needs to make a move before it’s too late.
This novel has been billed as a “sweet” romance. If it were a movie, it would probably carry a PG or PG13 rating. There are a couple of kisses in the story, with a reference to a bit more action in the epilogue. It’s a book you could read and recommend to your own parents or grandparents.
That said, it’s also very entertaining. Mel’s dating experiment is a series of misadventures. It’s fun to watch them each play out. There’s a little bit of other man drama that adds a touch of angst, but all is well that ends well.
The concept is creative, and the characters are engaging. I absolutely loved Cam and his backstory, which add a lot of depth and nicely balanced the comedy. Ivy is pretty mysterious, and I’d love to read her story (hopefully with cameos by Mel and Cam so we can see more of them together.)
Mel is an aspiring writer, unlucky in love, who stumbles upon an article featuring 1950s dating advice for single women. In a quest to determine whether any of the advice still holds value, she launches a dating experiment, determined to heed some of the decades-old advice and write about the results.
Mel enlists the help and support of her two best friends, Ivy and Cameron — the same Cameron who has been in love with Mel since they met five years ago.
That’s right, Cameron has spent the last five years hoping Mel will notice him and realize his feelings for her. Now, he has a front row seat to her dating experiment and her efforts to charm other men. He needs to make a move before it’s too late.
This novel has been billed as a “sweet” romance. If it were a movie, it would probably carry a PG or PG13 rating. There are a couple of kisses in the story, with a reference to a bit more action in the epilogue. It’s a book you could read and recommend to your own parents or grandparents.
That said, it’s also very entertaining. Mel’s dating experiment is a series of misadventures. It’s fun to watch them each play out. There’s a little bit of other man drama that adds a touch of angst, but all is well that ends well.
The concept is creative, and the characters are engaging. I absolutely loved Cam and his backstory, which add a lot of depth and nicely balanced the comedy. Ivy is pretty mysterious, and I’d love to read her story (hopefully with cameos by Mel and Cam so we can see more of them together.)
April 6, 2022
What attracted me to this one I have to be honest is the cover. Plus that blurb was really unique and interesting. This had a friends to lovers vibe to it so I wanted to see how it plays out.
Cameron and Mel plus Ivy round out a trio of best friends. I like their relationship good camaderie. It was obvious that Cameron had a crush on Mel but didn't do anything since he didn't know how she felt and all that. It took a while for him to acknowledge it to want to do something. I get that what Cameron went through affected him, I can relate in a way. Cam is great, though he hides behind humor, he's dependable, smart and loyal. Doesn't hurt he's
Well of course the whole 50's dating experiment Mel is doing played a part. That whole part was funny. The mishaps and the duds. But with Mel's bestfriends there it was ok. Slowly Mel is noticing more of Cam but she's also unsure. There was a hurdle that somewhat made things propelled in a way. Mel might miss something great in front her if she keeps looking at something else. The confession part was pretty darn sweet. I took a while but it was worth it.
This was cute and funny. Like most Smartypants books they have a nice message. This one is appreciation friendships and relationships you have instead of looking for more or seeing what was there all along. True love is timeless indeed. I like the characters. I don't remember reading this author before but I enjoyed this one. The premise was really uncommon but a good touch.
Cameron and Mel plus Ivy round out a trio of best friends. I like their relationship good camaderie. It was obvious that Cameron had a crush on Mel but didn't do anything since he didn't know how she felt and all that. It took a while for him to acknowledge it to want to do something. I get that what Cameron went through affected him, I can relate in a way. Cam is great, though he hides behind humor, he's dependable, smart and loyal. Doesn't hurt he's
Well of course the whole 50's dating experiment Mel is doing played a part. That whole part was funny. The mishaps and the duds. But with Mel's bestfriends there it was ok. Slowly Mel is noticing more of Cam but she's also unsure. There was a hurdle that somewhat made things propelled in a way. Mel might miss something great in front her if she keeps looking at something else. The confession part was pretty darn sweet. I took a while but it was worth it.
This was cute and funny. Like most Smartypants books they have a nice message. This one is appreciation friendships and relationships you have instead of looking for more or seeing what was there all along. True love is timeless indeed. I like the characters. I don't remember reading this author before but I enjoyed this one. The premise was really uncommon but a good touch.
Read
April 11, 2022Amanda Pennington's debut was JUST what I was in the mood for. This slow burn friends-to-lovers romance had all the sweet and a pining hero who was EVERYTHING.
Cameron and Mel have an awesome friendship and it was fun to watch their relationship evolve on the page. I love stories where the main characters have a foundation. And that was Mel and Cam. The stability and love in their friendship gave them a steady base to build their HEA.
The premise of the story and Melanie's goals were so unique. I loved this story and think Amanda Pennington's debut is a wonderful addition to the Smartypants universe.
Cameron and Mel have an awesome friendship and it was fun to watch their relationship evolve on the page. I love stories where the main characters have a foundation. And that was Mel and Cam. The stability and love in their friendship gave them a steady base to build their HEA.
The premise of the story and Melanie's goals were so unique. I loved this story and think Amanda Pennington's debut is a wonderful addition to the Smartypants universe.
April 16, 2022
LOVED IT!!
I need to start this review off by saying this was Amanda Pennington’s debut novel and it totally didn’t feel like it. Her characters were funny, snarky, unique, and interesting. I’m now looking forward to reading any future books she writes. 😁
I always love when stories have best friend groups. The joking, teasing, and the group text messages all help liven up the story. In this group, we have Ivy, Melanie, and Cameron. Cam and Mel both have liked each other from their first meeting but keep their feelings hidden to not ruin their friendship. They both have things they are trying to overcome while still keeping their feelings from the other.
Gah! Best friends-to-lovers is always hard for me because you know how they each feel about one another and you literally want to knock each MC on the side of the head to snap some sense into them. I totally felt that here, but I liked it. It was a SLOW burn where there’s a lot of tension and missed chances to make a move. If you’re a fan of tension and slow burns, this is definitely for you! I totally fell in love with Cameron and his nerdy brain right alongside Mel. 😍😍 And that ending!!! I could have done with ten more chapters of Mel and Cam together. They were adorable and sooo in love. I loved it!!
It was adorable and I’m now dying to read Ivy’s story. I really hope she gets her story told. 🤞🏻
I need to start this review off by saying this was Amanda Pennington’s debut novel and it totally didn’t feel like it. Her characters were funny, snarky, unique, and interesting. I’m now looking forward to reading any future books she writes. 😁
I always love when stories have best friend groups. The joking, teasing, and the group text messages all help liven up the story. In this group, we have Ivy, Melanie, and Cameron. Cam and Mel both have liked each other from their first meeting but keep their feelings hidden to not ruin their friendship. They both have things they are trying to overcome while still keeping their feelings from the other.
Gah! Best friends-to-lovers is always hard for me because you know how they each feel about one another and you literally want to knock each MC on the side of the head to snap some sense into them. I totally felt that here, but I liked it. It was a SLOW burn where there’s a lot of tension and missed chances to make a move. If you’re a fan of tension and slow burns, this is definitely for you! I totally fell in love with Cameron and his nerdy brain right alongside Mel. 😍😍 And that ending!!! I could have done with ten more chapters of Mel and Cam together. They were adorable and sooo in love. I loved it!!
It was adorable and I’m now dying to read Ivy’s story. I really hope she gets her story told. 🤞🏻
October 17, 2022
2.5
Ce livre est l’exemple parfait de pourquoi friends to lovers n’est pas ma trope préférée. J’avais juste envie de dire au personnage masculin de se déniaiser. Je le trouvais lourd de dire sans cesse que le personnage féminin ne réalise pas qu’il est intéressé alors qu’il n’ose rien lui dire.
De plus, les tomes précédents avaient un peu de spice, donc même si c’est une autre auteure, je m’attendais à la même chose, mais ce n’est pas le cas. Je n’ai pas enlevé d’étoiles pour ça, mais j’aurais aimé le savoir!
Ce livre est l’exemple parfait de pourquoi friends to lovers n’est pas ma trope préférée. J’avais juste envie de dire au personnage masculin de se déniaiser. Je le trouvais lourd de dire sans cesse que le personnage féminin ne réalise pas qu’il est intéressé alors qu’il n’ose rien lui dire.
De plus, les tomes précédents avaient un peu de spice, donc même si c’est une autre auteure, je m’attendais à la même chose, mais ce n’est pas le cas. Je n’ai pas enlevé d’étoiles pour ça, mais j’aurais aimé le savoir!
April 16, 2022
This is a slow burn, closed-door romance. Slooow burn. Cam and Melanie have been friends for 5 years and they’ve had feelings for each for that long that they haven’t acted on. They’ve both held themselves back for various reasons over the years, but ultimately they don’t want to risk ruining their amazing friendship now.
Getting to see both sides of the story, I really just wanted to shake them both and tell them to just go for it!
But it is fun to see Melanie try to modernize all these crazy (and sometimes dangerous) dating ideas from the 50’s. All these ideas made me glad I was not trying to find a date back them. I loved how Cam was always there for supporting Mel, even when he wasn’t particularly supportive of the whole idea. He never let her down!
When someone seems to be a real threat to future of the Cam/Mel relationship, Cam finally steps up. And, it’s wonderful!
The end is all worth it because as Cam says, ‘…no one can love you as much as someone who had already spent five years of his life feeling crazy about you.” These two are just meant to be!
I received an early reader copy from the publisher and these are my honest opinions.
Getting to see both sides of the story, I really just wanted to shake them both and tell them to just go for it!
But it is fun to see Melanie try to modernize all these crazy (and sometimes dangerous) dating ideas from the 50’s. All these ideas made me glad I was not trying to find a date back them. I loved how Cam was always there for supporting Mel, even when he wasn’t particularly supportive of the whole idea. He never let her down!
When someone seems to be a real threat to future of the Cam/Mel relationship, Cam finally steps up. And, it’s wonderful!
The end is all worth it because as Cam says, ‘…no one can love you as much as someone who had already spent five years of his life feeling crazy about you.” These two are just meant to be!
I received an early reader copy from the publisher and these are my honest opinions.
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April 18, 2022I had a lot of fun reading this.
I liked the characters. Mel was a little dense when it came to recognising Cameron’s feelings for her, but overall she was very likeable.
Cameron was a goodguy ™ character and fiercely protective of Mel. I loved how head over heels he was for her. I can’t help it, I’m a sucker for the guy falls first trope.
Another thing I liked was that the book didn’t solely focus on the romance, but that there was also a good amount of focus on friendships, too.
Now to my (very minor) criticism: there were a few too many mom jokes in the beginning and there was an HP reference, and I can’t stand those in books.
Overall a very good read!
[I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.]
I liked the characters. Mel was a little dense when it came to recognising Cameron’s feelings for her, but overall she was very likeable.
Cameron was a goodguy ™ character and fiercely protective of Mel. I loved how head over heels he was for her. I can’t help it, I’m a sucker for the guy falls first trope.
Another thing I liked was that the book didn’t solely focus on the romance, but that there was also a good amount of focus on friendships, too.
Now to my (very minor) criticism: there were a few too many mom jokes in the beginning and there was an HP reference, and I can’t stand those in books.
Overall a very good read!
[I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.]
April 3, 2022
This story by debut author is fantastic right out of the gate!
This is a sloooow burn of a story and it was perfectly done.
This is the story of Mel and Cameon. Co-workers and friends.
Mel is a go-getter. She is focused but sometimes can't see the forest through the trees. She loves her little group of friends and decides she needs her friends help in a new idea for a book. She needed wingfolks for her "mancounters".
Cameron is such a delicious find! He is one of Mel's best friends, but he wants to be so much more. But things in his past have left some inner scars that sways the way he interacts with Mel.
The flow of this story is perfect and the subtle ways that Cameron showed how much he cared for Mel was so swoony.
Secondary characters were perfect in their own ways, I am actually hoping that some of them get their own stories soon.
Again I say what a fantastic debut story from this soon to be well known author. (That’s my prediction…)
This is a sloooow burn of a story and it was perfectly done.
This is the story of Mel and Cameon. Co-workers and friends.
Mel is a go-getter. She is focused but sometimes can't see the forest through the trees. She loves her little group of friends and decides she needs her friends help in a new idea for a book. She needed wingfolks for her "mancounters".
Cameron is such a delicious find! He is one of Mel's best friends, but he wants to be so much more. But things in his past have left some inner scars that sways the way he interacts with Mel.
The flow of this story is perfect and the subtle ways that Cameron showed how much he cared for Mel was so swoony.
Secondary characters were perfect in their own ways, I am actually hoping that some of them get their own stories soon.
Again I say what a fantastic debut story from this soon to be well known author. (That’s my prediction…)
April 3, 2022
Melanie is ready to find love. Finding an article about dating in the 50’s she thinks she has finally found her way and also an idea for a book. Now to get her best friends Ivy and Cameron involved.
Cameron has been in love with Mel for 5 years but afraid to lose her friendship is he tells her how he feels. Now Mel has this crazy idea about dating tips. Has he lost his chance?
I wanted Melanie to open her eyes to what was in front of her and Cameron to be brave to speak his mind. Cheering these two on to finding their one!
Cameron has been in love with Mel for 5 years but afraid to lose her friendship is he tells her how he feels. Now Mel has this crazy idea about dating tips. Has he lost his chance?
I wanted Melanie to open her eyes to what was in front of her and Cameron to be brave to speak his mind. Cheering these two on to finding their one!
April 8, 2022
This was a slow burn friends to lovers, close door romance that pulls at your heart on all the pages. This story was extremely witty and full of very smart and fun banter between Melanie and Cameron as well as their mutual best friend, Ivy both in person and in text. The book's entire dynamic was upbeat and left you feeling lighter and happier.
As for the romance, the two main characters spend much of the book as friends and trying to navigate their secret feelings so there is some angst and some feelings of unrequited love but it still feels positive.
I loved Mel's 1950's dating advice project which created lots of very silly situations that the group often had to figure out how to help her through. The more we got to know about Cameron the more I loved him. He holds high honors in my imaginary book boyfriend hall of fame. I also LOVED the switch in him once they finally became a couple.
Highly recommend for fans of the closed door trope!
As for the romance, the two main characters spend much of the book as friends and trying to navigate their secret feelings so there is some angst and some feelings of unrequited love but it still feels positive.
I loved Mel's 1950's dating advice project which created lots of very silly situations that the group often had to figure out how to help her through. The more we got to know about Cameron the more I loved him. He holds high honors in my imaginary book boyfriend hall of fame. I also LOVED the switch in him once they finally became a couple.
Highly recommend for fans of the closed door trope!
April 7, 2022
I just finished Book Smart and I feel a loss of words to describe how much I enjoyed it!
I loved the slow burn between Mel & Cam. I really enjoyed seeing how strong their friendship was, and seeing their fears about the possibility of more. Yes there were times that I just wanted to grab them by the shoulders and shout, “OHMIGOSH! Open your eyes!!” But I think that overall it felt more realistic. Change is scary and the risk of losing a best friend can make someone even more wary of taking that jump.
Amanda definitely has a way of writing that brings you into her world (though I definitely pictured my old college campus 😂) and feel a part of the book. I’m very excited to see what she creates next!
I loved the slow burn between Mel & Cam. I really enjoyed seeing how strong their friendship was, and seeing their fears about the possibility of more. Yes there were times that I just wanted to grab them by the shoulders and shout, “OHMIGOSH! Open your eyes!!” But I think that overall it felt more realistic. Change is scary and the risk of losing a best friend can make someone even more wary of taking that jump.
Amanda definitely has a way of writing that brings you into her world (though I definitely pictured my old college campus 😂) and feel a part of the book. I’m very excited to see what she creates next!
April 7, 2022
This was a lovely treat and I am so happy I won this ARC of the debut novel of Amanda Pennington!!
I love the friends to lovers trope and the blurb just left me laughing so hard I couldn't wait to read it. The idea of adapting the dating advices from the 1950s to now was pure comedy, and it didn't disappoint! I just fell in love with the characters right away and was looking forward to each "mancounter", both to see how it would go and of course how Cameron would react. Cam is such a gem, I want him for myself!
I really do hope to see more of Ivy, and Toby (pretty please?) and if there had been just a little bit more steam this would have been 5+ stars, but we'll go with 4.75-5 for the moment ;)
I love the friends to lovers trope and the blurb just left me laughing so hard I couldn't wait to read it. The idea of adapting the dating advices from the 1950s to now was pure comedy, and it didn't disappoint! I just fell in love with the characters right away and was looking forward to each "mancounter", both to see how it would go and of course how Cameron would react. Cam is such a gem, I want him for myself!
I really do hope to see more of Ivy, and Toby (pretty please?) and if there had been just a little bit more steam this would have been 5+ stars, but we'll go with 4.75-5 for the moment ;)
April 15, 2022
This is a slow burn romance but it also was well written and held my attention even so. Cameron and Mel will capture your heart. I love slow burn when it’s written in such a way it seems very real life and I root for the characters! I loved it.This is also my first book by Amanda but I look forward to reading more.
April 22, 2022
Melanie and Cameron have been friends for a few years, both working at the same college.
Cameron wants a chance with Melanie, who is now embarking on a dating project following a 1950s dating book. Will this give Cameron the push to admit how he really feels.
A great read, emotional at times especially when Cameron is talking about his past.
Cameron wants a chance with Melanie, who is now embarking on a dating project following a 1950s dating book. Will this give Cameron the push to admit how he really feels.
A great read, emotional at times especially when Cameron is talking about his past.
April 23, 2022
great book
I Loved it! Slow burn, but great payoff for sticking with it. Timeless story of best friends walking the line.
I Loved it! Slow burn, but great payoff for sticking with it. Timeless story of best friends walking the line.
April 14, 2022
Everything happens in its own time, even love. That is what Mel and Cam discover. After being friends for years, and both hiding stronger feelings, its finally their time. Mel decides to try to find a husband using tips from an old 1950’s article Cam feels like he’s losing his chance all over again, especially when a possible candidate emerges. He finally takes that big step to put himself in the game. Although in the past they did not want to risk their friendship, sometimes you have to take the big risk for the even bigger reward, your own HEA. This was a sweet, slowburn romance and I think people definitely should take a chance in picking up this great debut novel by Amanda Pennington.
May 6, 2022
If you miss the glory days of rom-com cinema, then this book is absolutely for you.
Mel has been secretly in love with her best friend for the last five years ever since their first meet cute at orientation for their jobs at the University. Her zany plans to implement dating advice from the 1950’s puts her out there but also pushes her friend Cameron to the brink of sanity.
Cameron is the slow burn hero that I adore. He’s steadfast and full of enduring love…even if he is a bit slow when it comes to speaking his truths instead of showing them.
Mel and Cameron’s slow realization to their shared feelings is the stuff I live for and Amanda Pennington has injected so many wonderful pining feelings that I was right there with Ivy while she watched her friends dance around their feelings. And there’s even a walk-on appearance!
I honestly cannot believe this is a debut novel. Amanda Pennington writes with humor, precision, and so many wonderful feelings that if you’re not cheering for Cameron and Mel by the end are you even a romance reader?
Such a well done story and a perfect addition to the Work For It series!
Full LitBuzz review can be found here: https://www.thelitbuzz.com/2022/04/bo...
Mel has been secretly in love with her best friend for the last five years ever since their first meet cute at orientation for their jobs at the University. Her zany plans to implement dating advice from the 1950’s puts her out there but also pushes her friend Cameron to the brink of sanity.
Cameron is the slow burn hero that I adore. He’s steadfast and full of enduring love…even if he is a bit slow when it comes to speaking his truths instead of showing them.
Mel and Cameron’s slow realization to their shared feelings is the stuff I live for and Amanda Pennington has injected so many wonderful pining feelings that I was right there with Ivy while she watched her friends dance around their feelings. And there’s even a walk-on appearance!
I honestly cannot believe this is a debut novel. Amanda Pennington writes with humor, precision, and so many wonderful feelings that if you’re not cheering for Cameron and Mel by the end are you even a romance reader?
Such a well done story and a perfect addition to the Work For It series!
Full LitBuzz review can be found here: https://www.thelitbuzz.com/2022/04/bo...
June 19, 2022
this book….
okay so this book is a “we both like eachother but we don’t know that the other person likes the other person” so they finally confess their feelings for one another at the end.
the thing that kept me holding on was the fact that our mmc previously suffered from a stroke. this was such an original and unheard of piece of information to assign to a character that made me want to keep going to see how giving the character this trauma to work through would translate throughout the book.
the fmc is someone looking for love? but she’s also a writer and tutor. so she decides to take the 1950s approach of attracting a man and that seems to fail with every attempt. all of the weird instances she ends up being in based off of her attempts of tricking guys to notice her fail in funny ways.
ivy is our side character and we don’t know much about her except for the fact that she is flirty and might suffer from low self-esteem therefore she overcompensates through being flirty.
these three are all professors/tutors/staff at a college. there’s a friends to lovers trope and it is a true slowburn.
tw: attempts at drugging a person’s drink at the bar, past stroke and recovery process
2/5 stars
okay so this book is a “we both like eachother but we don’t know that the other person likes the other person” so they finally confess their feelings for one another at the end.
the thing that kept me holding on was the fact that our mmc previously suffered from a stroke. this was such an original and unheard of piece of information to assign to a character that made me want to keep going to see how giving the character this trauma to work through would translate throughout the book.
the fmc is someone looking for love? but she’s also a writer and tutor. so she decides to take the 1950s approach of attracting a man and that seems to fail with every attempt. all of the weird instances she ends up being in based off of her attempts of tricking guys to notice her fail in funny ways.
ivy is our side character and we don’t know much about her except for the fact that she is flirty and might suffer from low self-esteem therefore she overcompensates through being flirty.
these three are all professors/tutors/staff at a college. there’s a friends to lovers trope and it is a true slowburn.
tw: attempts at drugging a person’s drink at the bar, past stroke and recovery process
2/5 stars
July 27, 2022
There were a lot of cute elements to this story and I wanted to love it. Unfortunately the male main character just felt inauthentic to me. I wish the story had just been told from the female main character's point of view or third person because the male main character felt like a female author trying to write a male perspective. The perspective was good and added to the story but it just didn't sound like a guy to me which messed up the whole story. This is just my own opinion though. Lots of other people seem to have really enjoyed the story as is so take it for what it's worth. This was a very clean romance with little language or steam as well which is always nice.
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