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The Sweet Rom"Com" #2
Complex
Tiny Little Lie #1: I want the new resort in Turks and Caicos to open on schedule.
Tiny Little Lie #2:I'm not falling for Luke McKenna.
Unfortunately, those tiny little lies snowballed into something bigger. Much bigger. Now I'm stuck.
It sounds bad. But I'm not a bad person. I'm doing the right thing...I think. I'm telling myself I'm a superhero in heels, saving people I care about.
But the grumpy onsite contractor isn't making things easy. The more I lie and try to stall the hotel opening, the harder he works to complete the project.
Did I mention he's handsome?
And moody?
And brooding?
And my complete opposite in every way?
If the truth about what I've done comes out, Luke will never forgive me. Then I'll have to face another truth: my attraction to him might actually be something more—something worth fighting for.
Tiny Little Lie #2:I'm not falling for Luke McKenna.
Unfortunately, those tiny little lies snowballed into something bigger. Much bigger. Now I'm stuck.
It sounds bad. But I'm not a bad person. I'm doing the right thing...I think. I'm telling myself I'm a superhero in heels, saving people I care about.
But the grumpy onsite contractor isn't making things easy. The more I lie and try to stall the hotel opening, the harder he works to complete the project.
Did I mention he's handsome?
And moody?
And brooding?
And my complete opposite in every way?
If the truth about what I've done comes out, Luke will never forgive me. Then I'll have to face another truth: my attraction to him might actually be something more—something worth fighting for.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 11, 2022
362 people are currently reading
3086 people want to read
About the author
Kortney Keisel
21 books1,423 followersKortney graduated from the University of Utah with an English degree and spent a few years before motherhood teaching 7th and 8th graders how to write a book report, among other things. But after a reading slump, where no plots seemed to satisfy, Kortney pulled out her laptop and started writing the "perfect" love story...or at least she tried. Writing love stories is her job...just kidding. Her real job is taking care of her five awesome kids and spending time with her husband.
Kortney loves a good romance movie or book, warm chocolate chip cookies, and traveling the world.
Connect with Kortney at www.kortneykeisel.com
Kortney loves a good romance movie or book, warm chocolate chip cookies, and traveling the world.
Connect with Kortney at www.kortneykeisel.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 363 reviews
April 18, 2024
4.5/5 🌟 *rounded up
4/5 ❤️🩹
4/5 🥰
0/5 🌶️
0/5 🔎
3/5 😰A
3/5 🎭C
1/5 🎭T
0/5 👻
⚠️⛔️TRIGGERS:⛔️⚠️
Death of a Parent
Infertility
Lies
Manipulation
🗯️💬BOOK BLURB:💬🗯️
Tiny Little Lie #1: I want the new resort in Turks and Caicos to open on schedule.
Tiny Little Lie #2: I'm not falling for Luke McKenna.
Unfortunately, those tiny little lies snowballed into something bigger. Much bigger. Now I'm stuck.
It sounds bad. But I'm not a bad person. I'm doing the right thing...I think. I'm telling myself I'm a superhero in heels, saving people I care about.
But the grumpy onsite contractor isn't making things easy. The more I lie and try to stall the hotel opening, the harder he works to complete the project.
Did I mention he's handsome?
And moody?
And brooding?
And my complete opposite in every way?
If the truth about what I've done comes out, Luke will never forgive me. Then I'll have to face another truth: my attraction to him might actually be something more—something worth fighting for.
Complex is a grumpy/sunshine, and opposites attract romance with witty banter that will keep you laughing. The love story is charged with sizzling chemistry while keeping the romance closed-door.
Complex is the second book in The Sweet Rom "Com" series but can be read as a standalone.
🌎📖OVERALL REVIEWS📖🌎
Courtesy of Storygraph
COMMUNITY REVIEWS
SUMMARY OF 193 REVIEWS
Moods
funny 92%
lighthearted 92%
emotional 51%
hopeful 37%
inspiring 18%
relaxing 14%
sad 14%
adventurous 11%
reflective 11%
challenging 7%
tense 7%
Pace
medium 59%
fast 33%
slow 7%
Plot- or character-driven?
A mix: 47% | Character: 33% | Plot: 19%
Strong character development?
Yes: 90% | N/A: 9%
Loveable characters?
Yes: 70% | It's complicated: 25% | N/A: 5%
Diverse cast of characters?
Yes: 60% | No: 30% | N/A: 10%
Flaws of characters a main focus?
Yes: 76% | It's complicated: 14% | N/A: 9%
Average rating
3.98
🤔🧐🤯MY THOUGHTS:🤯🧐🤔
Out of the books I’ve read in this series; so far this is my favorite. I love how we get glimpses of the other characters we’ve read about in the series too. This is great in the way that we get little updates in how the other couples we’ve read about are doing and progressing.
I think Tessa and Luke are my favorite couple. I’m so happy that Luke understands what Tessa needs and wants and fully supports and loves her. Especially where children are concerned. It’s very touching to have someone like that in a partner. 🩷🩷🩷
RATING KEY:
🌟 Stars - based on the overall plot and theme or idea of the book
❤️🩹 Emotions - based on how emotional I got while reading
🥰 Romance - based on how well I got invested in the love story aspect
🌶️ Spice - based on how the sex scenes were portrayed and written as well as the number of sex scenes
🔎 Mystery - based on how well it kept me guessing who, how and why
😰 Scared/Anxious - based on how scared or anxious the book made me while reading
🎭 Comedy/Tragedy- based on if I laughed or if there was a tragic event and how it affected me. I will mark the Masks with either a C or T to indicate Comedy or Tragedy
👻 Spooky/Creepy -based on if this had any occult or paranormal themes and if those elements creeped me out or gave me anxiety!
4/5 ❤️🩹
4/5 🥰
0/5 🌶️
0/5 🔎
3/5 😰A
3/5 🎭C
1/5 🎭T
0/5 👻
⚠️⛔️TRIGGERS:⛔️⚠️
Death of a Parent
Infertility
Lies
Manipulation
🗯️💬BOOK BLURB:💬🗯️
Tiny Little Lie #1: I want the new resort in Turks and Caicos to open on schedule.
Tiny Little Lie #2: I'm not falling for Luke McKenna.
Unfortunately, those tiny little lies snowballed into something bigger. Much bigger. Now I'm stuck.
It sounds bad. But I'm not a bad person. I'm doing the right thing...I think. I'm telling myself I'm a superhero in heels, saving people I care about.
But the grumpy onsite contractor isn't making things easy. The more I lie and try to stall the hotel opening, the harder he works to complete the project.
Did I mention he's handsome?
And moody?
And brooding?
And my complete opposite in every way?
If the truth about what I've done comes out, Luke will never forgive me. Then I'll have to face another truth: my attraction to him might actually be something more—something worth fighting for.
Complex is a grumpy/sunshine, and opposites attract romance with witty banter that will keep you laughing. The love story is charged with sizzling chemistry while keeping the romance closed-door.
Complex is the second book in The Sweet Rom "Com" series but can be read as a standalone.
🌎📖OVERALL REVIEWS📖🌎
Courtesy of Storygraph
COMMUNITY REVIEWS
SUMMARY OF 193 REVIEWS
Moods
funny 92%
lighthearted 92%
emotional 51%
hopeful 37%
inspiring 18%
relaxing 14%
sad 14%
adventurous 11%
reflective 11%
challenging 7%
tense 7%
Pace
medium 59%
fast 33%
slow 7%
Plot- or character-driven?
A mix: 47% | Character: 33% | Plot: 19%
Strong character development?
Yes: 90% | N/A: 9%
Loveable characters?
Yes: 70% | It's complicated: 25% | N/A: 5%
Diverse cast of characters?
Yes: 60% | No: 30% | N/A: 10%
Flaws of characters a main focus?
Yes: 76% | It's complicated: 14% | N/A: 9%
Average rating
3.98
🤔🧐🤯MY THOUGHTS:🤯🧐🤔
Out of the books I’ve read in this series; so far this is my favorite. I love how we get glimpses of the other characters we’ve read about in the series too. This is great in the way that we get little updates in how the other couples we’ve read about are doing and progressing.
I think Tessa and Luke are my favorite couple. I’m so happy that Luke understands what Tessa needs and wants and fully supports and loves her. Especially where children are concerned. It’s very touching to have someone like that in a partner. 🩷🩷🩷
RATING KEY:
🌟 Stars - based on the overall plot and theme or idea of the book
❤️🩹 Emotions - based on how emotional I got while reading
🥰 Romance - based on how well I got invested in the love story aspect
🌶️ Spice - based on how the sex scenes were portrayed and written as well as the number of sex scenes
🔎 Mystery - based on how well it kept me guessing who, how and why
😰 Scared/Anxious - based on how scared or anxious the book made me while reading
🎭 Comedy/Tragedy- based on if I laughed or if there was a tragic event and how it affected me. I will mark the Masks with either a C or T to indicate Comedy or Tragedy
👻 Spooky/Creepy -based on if this had any occult or paranormal themes and if those elements creeped me out or gave me anxiety!
June 27, 2022
The title of this book might be Complex, but this review won't be! It's no secret I'm a huge fan of Kortney Keisel's writing-from Dystopian to RomCom I love it all!!
I was initially hesitant to pick this one up because of the trigger warning. Infertility is a big trigger for me and despite that I'm SO glad I picked this one up. I appreciate the trigger warning and also felt like the infertility aspects of this were a very small part of the plotline, but a huge growth aspect to Tess's overall character arc. It was refreshing to get a character not let that define her and to move forward with positivity.
Other things I love, love, loved about this book were the grump to sunshine, forced proximity, enemies to more tropes! The setting was dreamy and I loved Tess's can-do attitude. Luke was a hoot and I loved his approach to Tess and her crazy antics.
If you want a happy light read that is sure to make you laugh...this is your book!
Trigger Warning: Infertility
Content Warning: Shared house (separate bedrooms/shared bathroom), mild innuendos
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
I was initially hesitant to pick this one up because of the trigger warning. Infertility is a big trigger for me and despite that I'm SO glad I picked this one up. I appreciate the trigger warning and also felt like the infertility aspects of this were a very small part of the plotline, but a huge growth aspect to Tess's overall character arc. It was refreshing to get a character not let that define her and to move forward with positivity.
Other things I love, love, loved about this book were the grump to sunshine, forced proximity, enemies to more tropes! The setting was dreamy and I loved Tess's can-do attitude. Luke was a hoot and I loved his approach to Tess and her crazy antics.
If you want a happy light read that is sure to make you laugh...this is your book!
Trigger Warning: Infertility
Content Warning: Shared house (separate bedrooms/shared bathroom), mild innuendos
Thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
May 25, 2022
Set in Turks and Caicos, this was the perfect breezy romance to binge in the sunshine. When executive assistant Tessa is tasked with overseeing the construction of a resort, her mission to please her boss is disrupted when she's introduced to Luke, the grumpy general contractor.
I'll admit, Tessa was a tough character to initially digest. But while she appears superficial and presumptuous, there is so much more to her. Much like the title suggests, she is complex! I really love the way the story challenged the "not like other girls" mentality. Her insecurities were handled with such care.
On a mission to meet a deadline, Luke has zero patience for Tessa and her team building exercises. The bickering was topnotch! Forced as roommates, I loved the slow burn between them, especially with the awkward blips along the way. It only made the tension stronger!
I'll admit, Tessa was a tough character to initially digest. But while she appears superficial and presumptuous, there is so much more to her. Much like the title suggests, she is complex! I really love the way the story challenged the "not like other girls" mentality. Her insecurities were handled with such care.
On a mission to meet a deadline, Luke has zero patience for Tessa and her team building exercises. The bickering was topnotch! Forced as roommates, I loved the slow burn between them, especially with the awkward blips along the way. It only made the tension stronger!
May 1, 2022
4.5 ⭐
“Two vessels lost at sea , just trying to find our home.”
I absolutely loved this book! I loved Compared but omg this was AMAZING!! I absolutely loved Tessa and Luke together and I just loved how their story panned out ❤️
The story does include infertility and there is a trigger warning at the beginning and I found that Kortney Keisel handled this superbly.
Tessa was such a fierce character and I loved how she found herself in the end and realised she was beautiful inside and out and I fricking adored that Luke saw this from the (near) start.
Luke oh wow Luke even though he comes off as a grump he was just the sweetest and most caring male lead, I absolutely loved him so much 😍
Him and Tessa had the chemistry and banter and my all time favourite thing is that even though they were opposites they found something that they had in common and it was just something so simple and beautiful🌠😭
I had so much fun reading this book and reading more about the Johnson family 🥰and Kortney Keisel is such a fantastic writer!
I received an early ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review - Complex is out May 17th and I 10000% recommend that you check it out!!
“Two vessels lost at sea , just trying to find our home.”
I absolutely loved this book! I loved Compared but omg this was AMAZING!! I absolutely loved Tessa and Luke together and I just loved how their story panned out ❤️
The story does include infertility and there is a trigger warning at the beginning and I found that Kortney Keisel handled this superbly.
Tessa was such a fierce character and I loved how she found herself in the end and realised she was beautiful inside and out and I fricking adored that Luke saw this from the (near) start.
Luke oh wow Luke even though he comes off as a grump he was just the sweetest and most caring male lead, I absolutely loved him so much 😍
Him and Tessa had the chemistry and banter and my all time favourite thing is that even though they were opposites they found something that they had in common and it was just something so simple and beautiful🌠😭
I had so much fun reading this book and reading more about the Johnson family 🥰and Kortney Keisel is such a fantastic writer!
I received an early ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review - Complex is out May 17th and I 10000% recommend that you check it out!!
May 16, 2022
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 (4.5)
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: infertility, death of a parent and cheating mentioned briefly
Ever since learning she can't have children, Tessa Johnson has put all her focus into being successful at her career. So when her boss sends her to Turks and Caicos to delay the opening of a new hotel, Tessa is determined to do whatever it takes. The only problem is the contractor, Luke McKenna, is a broody workaholic who doesn't like Tessa leading team-building activities and wearing high heels on a construction site. As Tessa tries to waste time, Luke only seems to work harder to get the job finished. But these complete opposites can't deny their physical attraction to each other and soon find themselves opening up and spending more time together than they originally intended. Will love distract them both from doing their jobs?
Kortney Keisel has done it again! After reading the first two Johnson siblings' stories, I was excited to see how things would play out for Tessa. When she first meets Luke she does come across as superficial and high maintenance, but we soon learn that it's all for show and a way to cover for her insecurities. The beginning of the book did move a little slow, since Tessa and Luke try to avoid each other and work towards opposing goals. Luckily the second half of the book is where things kick into high gear with steamy chemistry and tender moments between the two leads. That hot kiss behind the bushes and their secret makeout sessions on the jobsite were top notch. But most of all, I adored the moments when Tessa was vulnerable and really opened up to Luke about her infertility, the loss of her mom, and her insecurities about her job and her appearance. The way Luke reacted in those moments was so sweet. I was nervous as we got to the main conflict in the book, but I felt like it was resolved well without being brushed off too easily. And I was so excited to get some glimpses of Ben, the love interest in Brooke's story that's coming next. Friends to lovers is a favorite of mine, and I look forward to reading that one!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: infertility, death of a parent and cheating mentioned briefly
Ever since learning she can't have children, Tessa Johnson has put all her focus into being successful at her career. So when her boss sends her to Turks and Caicos to delay the opening of a new hotel, Tessa is determined to do whatever it takes. The only problem is the contractor, Luke McKenna, is a broody workaholic who doesn't like Tessa leading team-building activities and wearing high heels on a construction site. As Tessa tries to waste time, Luke only seems to work harder to get the job finished. But these complete opposites can't deny their physical attraction to each other and soon find themselves opening up and spending more time together than they originally intended. Will love distract them both from doing their jobs?
Kortney Keisel has done it again! After reading the first two Johnson siblings' stories, I was excited to see how things would play out for Tessa. When she first meets Luke she does come across as superficial and high maintenance, but we soon learn that it's all for show and a way to cover for her insecurities. The beginning of the book did move a little slow, since Tessa and Luke try to avoid each other and work towards opposing goals. Luckily the second half of the book is where things kick into high gear with steamy chemistry and tender moments between the two leads. That hot kiss behind the bushes and their secret makeout sessions on the jobsite were top notch. But most of all, I adored the moments when Tessa was vulnerable and really opened up to Luke about her infertility, the loss of her mom, and her insecurities about her job and her appearance. The way Luke reacted in those moments was so sweet. I was nervous as we got to the main conflict in the book, but I felt like it was resolved well without being brushed off too easily. And I was so excited to get some glimpses of Ben, the love interest in Brooke's story that's coming next. Friends to lovers is a favorite of mine, and I look forward to reading that one!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
May 6, 2022
I have a lot of thoughts about this one.
First, I STRUGGLED with the beginning of this book. The MC was just too superficial for me. She threw a fit over tiny little things that made no sense (Just put the hard hat on girl!). However, as the book progressed, she gave up the act and started acting like herself. At that point, I started enjoying it a lot more.
I really liked the setting and all the side characters. Kortney did not add any details as an afterthought, and I felt that I knew the side characters almost as much as the main couple.
I also appreciated how Tessa and Luke didn't hold a grudge forever. Once they decided to move past their disagreement (for lack of a better term), they moved past it.
I would recommend this to fans of Kortney's other book and to fans of rom-com in general.
Tropes: enemies to lovers
Content: kissing, discussions about how Tessa can't have children, lots of noticing
3.5 Stars
*I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.
First, I STRUGGLED with the beginning of this book. The MC was just too superficial for me. She threw a fit over tiny little things that made no sense (Just put the hard hat on girl!). However, as the book progressed, she gave up the act and started acting like herself. At that point, I started enjoying it a lot more.
I really liked the setting and all the side characters. Kortney did not add any details as an afterthought, and I felt that I knew the side characters almost as much as the main couple.
I also appreciated how Tessa and Luke didn't hold a grudge forever. Once they decided to move past their disagreement (for lack of a better term), they moved past it.
I would recommend this to fans of Kortney's other book and to fans of rom-com in general.
Tropes: enemies to lovers
Content: kissing, discussions about how Tessa can't have children, lots of noticing
3.5 Stars
*I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own and a positive review was not required.
May 19, 2022
I Liked Everything!
I loved this one. Very fun, filled with fireworks of all kinds. I liked the characters, the setting, the friction- everything. Tessa is my favorite.
I loved this one. Very fun, filled with fireworks of all kinds. I liked the characters, the setting, the friction- everything. Tessa is my favorite.
July 11, 2022
I loved the first book in The Sweet Rom "Com" series so immediately bought this one after I finished it. This one was also very sweet with that enemies to lovers, grumpy sunshine feel that I can never get enough of.
Tessa is a very career ambitious woman and ends up taking an opportunity that she believes will impress her self centered boss, Colleen. Unfortunately this opportunity means going against her better judgement and sabotaging the opening of a new hotel her company is building in order to help save her boss from getting in trouble for going over budget. Tessa meets the head contractor, Luke, and they end up clashing from day one. Luke has pegged Tessa as another corporate soulless person who has come in to boss him and his crew around. With time he begins to realize that there is a lot more to Tessa than meets the eye.
Both the main characters have a lot of hurt in their past and begin to slowly work through it so they can really be happy. The book covers tough topics like infertility and infidelity. Be warned you'll become invested in their love story.
"I lied when I said women don't like grumpy men like Luke. Mr. Darcy, the most brooding man of them all, is beloved by women around the world."
Tessa is a very career ambitious woman and ends up taking an opportunity that she believes will impress her self centered boss, Colleen. Unfortunately this opportunity means going against her better judgement and sabotaging the opening of a new hotel her company is building in order to help save her boss from getting in trouble for going over budget. Tessa meets the head contractor, Luke, and they end up clashing from day one. Luke has pegged Tessa as another corporate soulless person who has come in to boss him and his crew around. With time he begins to realize that there is a lot more to Tessa than meets the eye.
Both the main characters have a lot of hurt in their past and begin to slowly work through it so they can really be happy. The book covers tough topics like infertility and infidelity. Be warned you'll become invested in their love story.
"I lied when I said women don't like grumpy men like Luke. Mr. Darcy, the most brooding man of them all, is beloved by women around the world."
June 22, 2022
4.5 ⭐️
If I had to describe this book in one word, it would be fun! It was such an enjoyable read that kept me hooked all the way through!
I loved Tessa and Luke’s dynamic and how it progressed throughout the story! It was a fun rendition of the grumpy-sunshine trope (one of my favorites!) and kept me excitedly waiting for them to admit their feelings ☺️
I also really liked how Tessa’s character was written. She isn’t always the most likable, but her struggles feel authentic and relatable. Kourtney Keisel writes serious topics with grace, incorporating them into the story while maintaining an overarching positive tone. Tessa was different from the typical rom-com heroine, and I’m so glad that her character got a moment to shine!
Overall, this was another great rom-com from Kourtney Keisel and I look forward to finishing the series!!
If I had to describe this book in one word, it would be fun! It was such an enjoyable read that kept me hooked all the way through!
I loved Tessa and Luke’s dynamic and how it progressed throughout the story! It was a fun rendition of the grumpy-sunshine trope (one of my favorites!) and kept me excitedly waiting for them to admit their feelings ☺️
I also really liked how Tessa’s character was written. She isn’t always the most likable, but her struggles feel authentic and relatable. Kourtney Keisel writes serious topics with grace, incorporating them into the story while maintaining an overarching positive tone. Tessa was different from the typical rom-com heroine, and I’m so glad that her character got a moment to shine!
Overall, this was another great rom-com from Kourtney Keisel and I look forward to finishing the series!!
December 13, 2022
I really, really enjoyed this opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers, workplace romance that takes place on Turks and Caicos as the project manager is sent to delay the opening of a new resort and finds herself falling for the grumpy contractor against her will.
I loved the premise of this story, the chemistry between the two MCs and I really loved each of their back stories! Luke has anger issues over his father's treatment of his mom and Tessa learned at a young age that she was born with a rare genetic condition called Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) Syndrome that left her without a uterus and without the ability to give birth to children of her own.
Equally funny and heartfelt and great on audio. This was my new favorite book of the series and I can't wait to listen to the next one when it comes out as an audiobook! Recommended for fans of Sarah Adams, Emma St. Clair or Savannah Scott.
Steam level: kissing only
TW: infertility, death of a parent, toxic parental relationship
I loved the premise of this story, the chemistry between the two MCs and I really loved each of their back stories! Luke has anger issues over his father's treatment of his mom and Tessa learned at a young age that she was born with a rare genetic condition called Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) Syndrome that left her without a uterus and without the ability to give birth to children of her own.
Equally funny and heartfelt and great on audio. This was my new favorite book of the series and I can't wait to listen to the next one when it comes out as an audiobook! Recommended for fans of Sarah Adams, Emma St. Clair or Savannah Scott.
Steam level: kissing only
TW: infertility, death of a parent, toxic parental relationship
May 20, 2022
I have loved every book Kortney Keisel writes, and this one was the same!! 😍 Wooow I love her writing style, the way she so effortlessly weaves humor into it, and how even though it’s a rom-com, it still deals with tough subjects such as losing your mom and infertility. This book was a dream, in setting (tropical island🏝😍!) story, and romance.
A lot of reviews said they didn’t really like Tessa, but I personally loved her! She was a complex character, with deep rooted fears and insecurities that made her act over the top at times. She puts on this act of being a self absorbed, flirtatious, vain girl, and while she is some of that, her character is so much more. She’s caring and funny, and wants to do what’s right, even if how she gets there isn’t always the right way. And Luke, ohh I think I fell in love!! 😍😍😍 He’s the perfect swoony, grumpy guy who really has such a soft heart. I loved his personality and how he fought his attraction to Tessa, but slowly gave in as he learned more about her. Also his character as a construction contractor was spot on, as my dad works in remolding and looks pretty identical to the guy on the cover, just make the cargo shorts pants. 🤣
I couldn’t stop laughing throughout this book at all of the Corporate Cares events. I mean can you IMAGINE walking into a spa room to see all of your working construction men laid out getting massages and face masks?? 😂😂😂 As I said earlier, Kortney knows how to write humor, and I’m all here for it. 😆
I love the Johnson family and all of their quirky dynamics!! Each one feels so developed and are hilarious together. 😆😂 I can’t wait for Brooke and Ben’s story in Complete!! If you haven’t read this series by Kortney Keisel yet, what are you doing??!! Do yourself a favor and read it!!
A lot of reviews said they didn’t really like Tessa, but I personally loved her! She was a complex character, with deep rooted fears and insecurities that made her act over the top at times. She puts on this act of being a self absorbed, flirtatious, vain girl, and while she is some of that, her character is so much more. She’s caring and funny, and wants to do what’s right, even if how she gets there isn’t always the right way. And Luke, ohh I think I fell in love!! 😍😍😍 He’s the perfect swoony, grumpy guy who really has such a soft heart. I loved his personality and how he fought his attraction to Tessa, but slowly gave in as he learned more about her. Also his character as a construction contractor was spot on, as my dad works in remolding and looks pretty identical to the guy on the cover, just make the cargo shorts pants. 🤣
I couldn’t stop laughing throughout this book at all of the Corporate Cares events. I mean can you IMAGINE walking into a spa room to see all of your working construction men laid out getting massages and face masks?? 😂😂😂 As I said earlier, Kortney knows how to write humor, and I’m all here for it. 😆
I love the Johnson family and all of their quirky dynamics!! Each one feels so developed and are hilarious together. 😆😂 I can’t wait for Brooke and Ben’s story in Complete!! If you haven’t read this series by Kortney Keisel yet, what are you doing??!! Do yourself a favor and read it!!
September 19, 2022
The main character just didn’t do it for me. I get that she’s in her early twenties, that she’s loyal to a fault, that she adores her role model despite not knowing a lot about her as a human. But if someone is asking you to sabotage or vandalize company property, maybe reevaluate the situation. Maybe get more details. Maybe don’t just blindly obey.
Was I this stupid at 24? Stupid in other ways, of course (drunken weekends, bad haircuts, flip flops in an airport), but these all just hurt me and definitely didn’t impact my employment. Just not for me.
Was I this stupid at 24? Stupid in other ways, of course (drunken weekends, bad haircuts, flip flops in an airport), but these all just hurt me and definitely didn’t impact my employment. Just not for me.
July 13, 2022
Laugh out loud romcom
This book was so fun! I can't wait to read the rest of the series! It was a great, clean read.
This book was so fun! I can't wait to read the rest of the series! It was a great, clean read.
June 10, 2022
“—Two vessels lost at sea, just trying to find our homes. —I hug her closer. I think I may have already found mine.”
•• What’s this about? ••
Since she was young (and found out that she’ll never be able to have children), Tessa has been focus on her job and trying to be a successful woman. And now, she has the opportunity to get a huge promotion at her work. The only thing she has to do is to delay the opening of the new hotel at Turks and Caicos.
But that’s not going to be easy. She has to deal with the moody, grumpy and handsome contractor. Luke is the exact opposite of Tessa in every single was. And not only that, they have to be roommates during the next two months.
So while Tessa is trying to stall the hotel opening (and fighting against the inevitable attraction for Luke), she knows that every single lie might hurt both of them at the end.
•• What do I think about it? ••
Since I read Compared, I fell in love with Kortney’s writing. I always fall in love with her characters and I can’t stop laughing while I’m reading. And obviously this wasn’t the exception.
This is an enemies-to-lovers, opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, coworkers, slow burn, forced proximity romantic comedy novel. Yeah, so many clichés that made love the story even more.
I can’t even describe how much I loved Luke and Tessa’s story. I always wanted to read Tessa’s love story because she always made me laugh in the sibling’s chat group. And this might be my favorite book from the series.
Tessa was an incredible character. She was strong, determined and giving the one hundred percent at everything she did. Tessa was also a woman focused on her look and always trying to be a perfect woman (and I loved when she noticed that she didn’t need all that to be perfect). But not only that, she had this tough past with her infertility and always feeling so insecure once she met a new man. Tessa was also really and extremely witty with every meet-and-cute and silly activity she did to delay the project.
“I’m not perfect, but it’s okay. I’m realizing that I can still have value even with my imperfections.”
Luke, on the other hand, is the perfect book boyfriend. He is this grumpy man focus at his job, so you can understand why he was so angry at Tessa and her activities.
“I’m not used to making women laugh. But when it comes to Tessa, I’d like to do it again and again.”
Tessa and Luke’s relationships was so cute because they started as enemies giving witty comment at each other and always making each other’s lives a complete nightmare. Then they became enemies with feeling for each other, and these scenes were the cutest. They trying to hide their feelings was hilarious, they were completely blind.
Some of my favorite scenes were: their first call, when they met at the airport, the first brunch, the awkward shower scene, the zoom video call, mother’s day, the fishing day, THE EPILOGUE… and SO MANY MORE.
My favorite thing: “Luke McKenna: Building five. Room 508. Luke has never texted me before, and although it’s just a text, it feels super romantic.” SO FUCKING ROMANTIC.
So yeah, everything was so damn perfect. If you read it, you are going to fall in love with every single character (Luke, Tessa, Nano, the subcontractors, Lauren, Kate, Brooke, Ben…), you are going to laugh so hard with every single clever thing Tessa and Luke did and said, and you might cry a little bit with Tessa’s issues.
Basically, you should read Kortney’s Series because the name is perfect for it, they ARE Sweet Rom Coms with lots of romance and tons of comedy.
---PRE REVIEW---
5 stars aren't enough!
I have a rule now, if a book makes me sleep at three in the morning, it deserves all my love.
•• What’s this about? ••
Since she was young (and found out that she’ll never be able to have children), Tessa has been focus on her job and trying to be a successful woman. And now, she has the opportunity to get a huge promotion at her work. The only thing she has to do is to delay the opening of the new hotel at Turks and Caicos.
But that’s not going to be easy. She has to deal with the moody, grumpy and handsome contractor. Luke is the exact opposite of Tessa in every single was. And not only that, they have to be roommates during the next two months.
So while Tessa is trying to stall the hotel opening (and fighting against the inevitable attraction for Luke), she knows that every single lie might hurt both of them at the end.
•• What do I think about it? ••
Since I read Compared, I fell in love with Kortney’s writing. I always fall in love with her characters and I can’t stop laughing while I’m reading. And obviously this wasn’t the exception.
This is an enemies-to-lovers, opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, coworkers, slow burn, forced proximity romantic comedy novel. Yeah, so many clichés that made love the story even more.
I can’t even describe how much I loved Luke and Tessa’s story. I always wanted to read Tessa’s love story because she always made me laugh in the sibling’s chat group. And this might be my favorite book from the series.
Tessa was an incredible character. She was strong, determined and giving the one hundred percent at everything she did. Tessa was also a woman focused on her look and always trying to be a perfect woman (and I loved when she noticed that she didn’t need all that to be perfect). But not only that, she had this tough past with her infertility and always feeling so insecure once she met a new man. Tessa was also really and extremely witty with every meet-and-cute and silly activity she did to delay the project.
“I’m not perfect, but it’s okay. I’m realizing that I can still have value even with my imperfections.”
Luke, on the other hand, is the perfect book boyfriend. He is this grumpy man focus at his job, so you can understand why he was so angry at Tessa and her activities.
“I’m not used to making women laugh. But when it comes to Tessa, I’d like to do it again and again.”
Tessa and Luke’s relationships was so cute because they started as enemies giving witty comment at each other and always making each other’s lives a complete nightmare. Then they became enemies with feeling for each other, and these scenes were the cutest. They trying to hide their feelings was hilarious, they were completely blind.
Some of my favorite scenes were: their first call, when they met at the airport, the first brunch, the awkward shower scene, the zoom video call, mother’s day, the fishing day, THE EPILOGUE… and SO MANY MORE.
My favorite thing: “Luke McKenna: Building five. Room 508. Luke has never texted me before, and although it’s just a text, it feels super romantic.” SO FUCKING ROMANTIC.
So yeah, everything was so damn perfect. If you read it, you are going to fall in love with every single character (Luke, Tessa, Nano, the subcontractors, Lauren, Kate, Brooke, Ben…), you are going to laugh so hard with every single clever thing Tessa and Luke did and said, and you might cry a little bit with Tessa’s issues.
Basically, you should read Kortney’s Series because the name is perfect for it, they ARE Sweet Rom Coms with lots of romance and tons of comedy.
---PRE REVIEW---
5 stars aren't enough!
I have a rule now, if a book makes me sleep at three in the morning, it deserves all my love.
January 12, 2023
4.5 stars.
Once again- kortney keisel delivers a hilarious and heartwarming rom com. This one was so so cute. I loved the slow build of Tessa and Luke.
Instantly dropping everything and reading the next in the series.
Once again- kortney keisel delivers a hilarious and heartwarming rom com. This one was so so cute. I loved the slow build of Tessa and Luke.
Instantly dropping everything and reading the next in the series.
September 13, 2025
Finally finished this, wooo
May 21, 2022
A beachy beach read
This is a really cute story - which may sound like I'm "damning with faint praise", but I promise I'm not. It just really fits.
Tessa is ditzy but not dumb. Definitely overly trusting, but that's naive not dumb - a lack of life experience rather than a lack of intelligence.
Luke is a thundercloud to Tessa's sunshine because he's had an overdose of that kind of life experience and isn't interested in acquiring more.
Tessa's teasing & provoking of Luke was pretty amusing. Luke may be a grumpy bear but he's still a good guy at heart. Their whole enemies-to-lovers' trajectory is absolutely the best part of the book.
The plot itself is pretty thin & the ending requires some suspension of disbelief, but the development of their relationship is fun enough that it's not too difficult to do.
The sibling interactions are entertaining, and I especially enjoy seeing their ongoing family expansion.
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
This is a really cute story - which may sound like I'm "damning with faint praise", but I promise I'm not. It just really fits.
Tessa is ditzy but not dumb. Definitely overly trusting, but that's naive not dumb - a lack of life experience rather than a lack of intelligence.
Luke is a thundercloud to Tessa's sunshine because he's had an overdose of that kind of life experience and isn't interested in acquiring more.
Tessa's teasing & provoking of Luke was pretty amusing. Luke may be a grumpy bear but he's still a good guy at heart. Their whole enemies-to-lovers' trajectory is absolutely the best part of the book.
The plot itself is pretty thin & the ending requires some suspension of disbelief, but the development of their relationship is fun enough that it's not too difficult to do.
The sibling interactions are entertaining, and I especially enjoy seeing their ongoing family expansion.
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
July 19, 2022
Fun entertaining read! Great character growth. The tension is perfect. Loved it!
January 30, 2023
4 stars
Sweet and cute! I loved Tessa's character (mainly because she seems a tad bit like me lol)
Sweet and cute! I loved Tessa's character (mainly because she seems a tad bit like me lol)
August 13, 2023
So cute and fun! The couple reminded me a lot of Luke and Lorelei in Gilmore Girls so if you like that vibe then I highly recommend this book!!! 4.5 ⭐️
May 18, 2022
Read if you love:
🔨 Enemies to lovers
🔨 Grumpy/sunshine
🔨 Opposites attract
🔨 Island resorts
🔨 Friendship bracelets
🔨 The North Star
🔨 Sloooooooow burn
🔨 Sizzling kisses
This is the first book I’ve read by Kortney Keisel and it will -without a doubt- not be my last. Tessa and Luke have completely stolen my heart! Luke McKenna is what book boyfriend dreams are made of. The grumpiest of the grumpy but with a heart of gold you just can’t help but fall in love with. Tessa is initially made out to seem like a vapid corporate lackey, but she is truly complex (ha). I love how her many layers are revealed to both the reader and Luke. She has so much to offer and her bubbly nature is contagious as Luke so begrudgingly finds out for himself.
This story is one big swoon fest. It’s filled with fantastic banter and cringeworthy moments. The slow burn is killer — just how I like it. I swear I almost died a few times. I just cannot say enough good things about this book and I’m totally butchering this review. But that’s how it goes with the books I love the mostest. Complex is my book crack and if you love enemies to lovers, slow burn, angst, tension and kisses that make you 🥵 then this book is probably for you. From start to finish, I was invested in Luke and Tessa’s story. They are thoughtful characters full of depth and flaws and they just fit so perfect well together. Luke + Tessa 4eva.
TW: infertility (The author lovingly provides a detailed trigger warning at the beginning of the book.)
*Thank you to the author for an ARC. My thoughts are my own.
🔨 Enemies to lovers
🔨 Grumpy/sunshine
🔨 Opposites attract
🔨 Island resorts
🔨 Friendship bracelets
🔨 The North Star
🔨 Sloooooooow burn
🔨 Sizzling kisses
This is the first book I’ve read by Kortney Keisel and it will -without a doubt- not be my last. Tessa and Luke have completely stolen my heart! Luke McKenna is what book boyfriend dreams are made of. The grumpiest of the grumpy but with a heart of gold you just can’t help but fall in love with. Tessa is initially made out to seem like a vapid corporate lackey, but she is truly complex (ha). I love how her many layers are revealed to both the reader and Luke. She has so much to offer and her bubbly nature is contagious as Luke so begrudgingly finds out for himself.
This story is one big swoon fest. It’s filled with fantastic banter and cringeworthy moments. The slow burn is killer — just how I like it. I swear I almost died a few times. I just cannot say enough good things about this book and I’m totally butchering this review. But that’s how it goes with the books I love the mostest. Complex is my book crack and if you love enemies to lovers, slow burn, angst, tension and kisses that make you 🥵 then this book is probably for you. From start to finish, I was invested in Luke and Tessa’s story. They are thoughtful characters full of depth and flaws and they just fit so perfect well together. Luke + Tessa 4eva.
TW: infertility (The author lovingly provides a detailed trigger warning at the beginning of the book.)
*Thank you to the author for an ARC. My thoughts are my own.
May 20, 2022
Complex by Kortney Kiesel
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
____________________________________________________
Story Notes
I've always loved the Grumpy/Sunshine stories so I was super excited about this latest one from Kortney promising this beloved trope. And, boy, did she bring it with the writing! It was sharp, smart, hilarious, swoony and all around adorable to read this marvelous story. Tessa was just the right mixture of snark and sweet that really gave stoic Luke a run for his money. The banter between them was hilarious and I loved watching them dance around their attraction to each other. Both of them had a lot to learn about the other and how people aren't always what they seem on first sight. But when they finally got it....whew! All the sparks and swoon for that first kiss!! Adding to this awesomeness, we had some fun conversations with side characters that had me crying with laughter. I love Tessa's siblings and the construction guys in Turks and Caicos. Obviously, I loved this story and I really believe others will too. So, grab your copy ASAP and get ready for a story you'll want to read again and again. I can hardly wait for the next "Com" story to come out....I am totally here for all of these!
I received a temporary complimentary ARC of this story from Kortney via Bookfunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am most pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
____________________________________________________
Story Notes
I've always loved the Grumpy/Sunshine stories so I was super excited about this latest one from Kortney promising this beloved trope. And, boy, did she bring it with the writing! It was sharp, smart, hilarious, swoony and all around adorable to read this marvelous story. Tessa was just the right mixture of snark and sweet that really gave stoic Luke a run for his money. The banter between them was hilarious and I loved watching them dance around their attraction to each other. Both of them had a lot to learn about the other and how people aren't always what they seem on first sight. But when they finally got it....whew! All the sparks and swoon for that first kiss!! Adding to this awesomeness, we had some fun conversations with side characters that had me crying with laughter. I love Tessa's siblings and the construction guys in Turks and Caicos. Obviously, I loved this story and I really believe others will too. So, grab your copy ASAP and get ready for a story you'll want to read again and again. I can hardly wait for the next "Com" story to come out....I am totally here for all of these!
I received a temporary complimentary ARC of this story from Kortney via Bookfunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review but am most pleased to do so. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
May 1, 2022
“There’s something special about being loved unconditionally—despite our mistakes, flaws, and shortcomings. That’s the kind of love that I always hoped for but wasn’t sure I deserved.”
I honestly wasn’t sure I was going to like Tessa. In the beginning of the book she came across VERY superficial and judgmental. I’m typically never a big fan of characters who know how attractive they are, and know that people like them for their appearance. HOWEVER, her growth arc was absolutely incredible. The entire book shows us that she isn’t just another pretty face who uses her looks to her advantage. Tessa is insanely insecure and naive and ends up being the one being taken advantage of-I was surprised at how attached I got to her.
Tessa and Luke’s chemistry is bananas! THE BANTER! This is the type of enemies to lovers where their feelings sort of hit them over the head, and it was kind of precious to see both of them fall and realize that they’re falling. So cute!
I didn’t care for the side plot with Colleen, but I 100% understand it as a plot vehicle, and it was an important part in Tessa’s growth arc, but I still didn’t like it very much.
In general though, this was a cute, easy read RomCom. I think I do prefer Compared over this one, but this was sweet.
I was given an ARC by the author. All opinions are my own.
I honestly wasn’t sure I was going to like Tessa. In the beginning of the book she came across VERY superficial and judgmental. I’m typically never a big fan of characters who know how attractive they are, and know that people like them for their appearance. HOWEVER, her growth arc was absolutely incredible. The entire book shows us that she isn’t just another pretty face who uses her looks to her advantage. Tessa is insanely insecure and naive and ends up being the one being taken advantage of-I was surprised at how attached I got to her.
Tessa and Luke’s chemistry is bananas! THE BANTER! This is the type of enemies to lovers where their feelings sort of hit them over the head, and it was kind of precious to see both of them fall and realize that they’re falling. So cute!
I didn’t care for the side plot with Colleen, but I 100% understand it as a plot vehicle, and it was an important part in Tessa’s growth arc, but I still didn’t like it very much.
In general though, this was a cute, easy read RomCom. I think I do prefer Compared over this one, but this was sweet.
I was given an ARC by the author. All opinions are my own.
May 23, 2022
I don't even know where to begin about this book. I absolutely LOVED it!!!! I can't even count the number of times I laughed out loud. I'm glad no one was around because they would have thought I was crazy.
Kortney gives a trigger warning about infertility and she handled the topic perfectly. As a person with PCOS I could totally relate to Tessa and my heart ached for her every time she talked about children.
I almost highlighted the whole darn book. The chemistry between Tessa and Luke was perfect. They kept fighting their attraction for eachother but you just knew I the end they'd end up together.
From their first phone conversation, to their meeting at the airport, Tessa putting things away in her room and meeting some of the wildlife, the early morning fishing in the boat and the poor outcome of her fishing pole, her lying coming to the surface and the meeting of her family.
I mean I could go on and on but it's probably best you just read it for yourself and fall I love with another Johnson sibling.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for a review.
Kortney gives a trigger warning about infertility and she handled the topic perfectly. As a person with PCOS I could totally relate to Tessa and my heart ached for her every time she talked about children.
I almost highlighted the whole darn book. The chemistry between Tessa and Luke was perfect. They kept fighting their attraction for eachother but you just knew I the end they'd end up together.
From their first phone conversation, to their meeting at the airport, Tessa putting things away in her room and meeting some of the wildlife, the early morning fishing in the boat and the poor outcome of her fishing pole, her lying coming to the surface and the meeting of her family.
I mean I could go on and on but it's probably best you just read it for yourself and fall I love with another Johnson sibling.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for a review.
August 13, 2025
Me ha gustado mucho la historia de la pequeña, tiene muchos puntos agradables para la lectura. Es un chica que al final no se deja pisotear y que gracias a su inventiva y a su forma de ser tan cariñosa consigue mantenerse fuerte en su trabajo. Lo malo no es tan malo si lo bueno le gana por ciento 💪🏼☺️
August 25, 2022
Didn’t like how this story went and the things the characters were doing.
January 20, 2023
LUKE IS SUCH A SOFTIE <33
September 30, 2023
La historia, el humor y el romance fueron fantásticos.
May 14, 2022
I really loved this book! I love this series so far and I think this edition fit nicely with the others while still being so unique! I love that Tessa's personality was the exact personality most romance heroines make fun of/diss. She's a girly girl and unapologetic about it!
At first I was a little concerned with just how prissy she could be, but her character development was worth the read! I loved Luke as well, the perfect grump to her sunshine. He was one of those grumps that has a mushy center which was sweet. He had good character development as well!
I thought the chemistry was great! The enemies to lovers aspect was fun and interesting as they stepping in and out of love throughout the book.
Keisel handled the topic of infertility well! It wasn't glossed over, but it also wasn't made out to be Tessa's entire personality. She made occasional jokey quips, but nothing was over the line in my opinion.
I'm ready for the next book in the series for sure!
(I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review)
At first I was a little concerned with just how prissy she could be, but her character development was worth the read! I loved Luke as well, the perfect grump to her sunshine. He was one of those grumps that has a mushy center which was sweet. He had good character development as well!
I thought the chemistry was great! The enemies to lovers aspect was fun and interesting as they stepping in and out of love throughout the book.
Keisel handled the topic of infertility well! It wasn't glossed over, but it also wasn't made out to be Tessa's entire personality. She made occasional jokey quips, but nothing was over the line in my opinion.
I'm ready for the next book in the series for sure!
(I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review)
July 14, 2022
The problem with reading a book by Kortney Keisel is the high probability of loving it, and then having to wait for her next book to release. I absolutely adore her Desolation series, but this “Com” series is just getting better and better with each book.
Despite being a trigger warning, and a personal challenge in my life, I came to love how Tessa handled her infertility. It was done in a really optimistic, and yet totally realistic way that just makes you appreciate Kortney’s writing even more.
The grump and sunshine trope was done very well and I really enjoyed the romantic journey Tessa and Luke go on. And while I normally hate when lying/partial truths are a part of the plot and are a hard pill for me to swallow in any book or movie, again, Kortney wrote it in a way that didn’t seem unrealistic. The personal struggles both Luke and Tessa are dealing with helped move the plot along and really just ended up bringing them closer. I’ve never been more happy to read about about a construction site with some great romance and fun flirting added.
I was extremely happy with how things worked out and it gave me that happy, content feeling at the end of a good book.
And while these are definite romantic “com”edies I definitely appreciate and love how Kortney creates perfectly “com”patible and “com”plimenting couples. See what I did there?
This book is perfect for anyone looking for a fun, clean RomCom by a great author.
Despite being a trigger warning, and a personal challenge in my life, I came to love how Tessa handled her infertility. It was done in a really optimistic, and yet totally realistic way that just makes you appreciate Kortney’s writing even more.
The grump and sunshine trope was done very well and I really enjoyed the romantic journey Tessa and Luke go on. And while I normally hate when lying/partial truths are a part of the plot and are a hard pill for me to swallow in any book or movie, again, Kortney wrote it in a way that didn’t seem unrealistic. The personal struggles both Luke and Tessa are dealing with helped move the plot along and really just ended up bringing them closer. I’ve never been more happy to read about about a construction site with some great romance and fun flirting added.
I was extremely happy with how things worked out and it gave me that happy, content feeling at the end of a good book.
And while these are definite romantic “com”edies I definitely appreciate and love how Kortney creates perfectly “com”patible and “com”plimenting couples. See what I did there?
This book is perfect for anyone looking for a fun, clean RomCom by a great author.
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