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Three exes in the same wedding.
Two she stayed friends with.
One broke her heart eleven years ago and she hasn’t seen him since.
Zoey is the maid of honor in a wedding with three of her exes, including the groom. She’s been avoiding the best man and her first love, Jonathan, for years. Now they’re staying at the same Lake Tahoe rental and their scheming friends are placing bets. Zoey can be strong, even if it feels like nothing, and everything has changed.
Jonathan screwed up when he went away to college and left Zoey in their hometown of Lillyvale, California. After all this time, he hopes they can be friends and he can apologize properly. However, she is exactly who she was when he was in love with her…and more.
Taking place over a wedding weekend, Here is a hilarious and heartfelt contemporary romance novel that will have Jonathan and Zoey asking: was the journey worth it to get us Here?
Two she stayed friends with.
One broke her heart eleven years ago and she hasn’t seen him since.
Zoey is the maid of honor in a wedding with three of her exes, including the groom. She’s been avoiding the best man and her first love, Jonathan, for years. Now they’re staying at the same Lake Tahoe rental and their scheming friends are placing bets. Zoey can be strong, even if it feels like nothing, and everything has changed.
Jonathan screwed up when he went away to college and left Zoey in their hometown of Lillyvale, California. After all this time, he hopes they can be friends and he can apologize properly. However, she is exactly who she was when he was in love with her…and more.
Taking place over a wedding weekend, Here is a hilarious and heartfelt contemporary romance novel that will have Jonathan and Zoey asking: was the journey worth it to get us Here?
Kindle Edition
First published May 22, 2020
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340 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Bunting
15 books443 followersAuthor of hilarious and heartfelt contemporary romance novels.
Uses Goodreads to track reading and connect with readers.
Strange men who decide to use Goodreads as a dating site...don't.
Uses Goodreads to track reading and connect with readers.
Strange men who decide to use Goodreads as a dating site...don't.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
April 28, 2021
I...read a romance novel? Like a legit, steamy, hot & heavy romance book.
Well, full disclosure: my friend Jenny wrote this book and she sent me an early copy to read & review. I have been following her self-publishing journey for a while now and it's been so fun to be involved in the pre-release process and chat with her about it! But enough of that, let's get to the book review.
What is Here about?
Zoey Benton is 28 years old and a bit of hot mess (no offense). She's about to be the maid of honor in her best friend's wedding in beautiful Tahoe. Except that across the aisle from her, marrying her best friend...is her ex. And his two groomsmen? Also her exes. Yikes.
The best man, Jonathan Turner, was Zoey's first love. And he broke her heart, bad. Now he's here in the same wedding, sharing the same vacation rental as Zoey and the rest of the wedding party. What could go wrong, or terribly right?
The novel follows Zoey over the course of the wedding weekend as she comes to terms with the past—that includes Jonathan and her heartbreak. But it also means facing the future and what she wants out of life.
One thing I really enjoyed, especially as my first foray into romance, is that the novel was much more than just romance. Zoey is a millennial, living with her mom, paying off debt, working tirelessly to make ends meet, and neglecting her personal life to accomplish her goals. But she's also a good friend, a funny character, and a charming protagonist. Her backstory is doled out in small bits, leaving the reader to fill in the gaps and turn the pages to get more information on what exactly happened between her and Jonathan. But it never withholds information just to heighten drama—it all makes sense. There's nothing I hate worse than unnecessary drama incited by lack of communication or misunderstandings that rational, adult humans could have sorted out. Here has none of that.
Additionally, there are quite a few fun side characters that enhance the reading experience and allow the main characters to grow without being plot devices. They feel like a real group of friends—with a few antagonists (I'm looking at you, Derek and Aunt Lisa)—who challenge and support one another to be their best selves.
Sure, I might be a little biased because the author is my friend, but I promise I would not recommend this book if I didn't truly enjoy it. And I did! I ENJOYED A ROMANCE NOVEL. And I think you, especially avid romance readers, would like it too.
Whether you are looking for:
-Characters that jump off the page
-Writing that keeps you rooted in the story
-A page-turning plot that hits all the beats but still keeps you on your toes
-Or just a plain old good reading experience
Here has it all. If your interest is piqued, you can pre-order on Amazon here. The book will be released on May 22, 2020.
Thanks again to Jenny for sharing an early copy of your book with me, and congratulations on a great debut novel!
Well, full disclosure: my friend Jenny wrote this book and she sent me an early copy to read & review. I have been following her self-publishing journey for a while now and it's been so fun to be involved in the pre-release process and chat with her about it! But enough of that, let's get to the book review.
What is Here about?
Zoey Benton is 28 years old and a bit of hot mess (no offense). She's about to be the maid of honor in her best friend's wedding in beautiful Tahoe. Except that across the aisle from her, marrying her best friend...is her ex. And his two groomsmen? Also her exes. Yikes.
The best man, Jonathan Turner, was Zoey's first love. And he broke her heart, bad. Now he's here in the same wedding, sharing the same vacation rental as Zoey and the rest of the wedding party. What could go wrong, or terribly right?
The novel follows Zoey over the course of the wedding weekend as she comes to terms with the past—that includes Jonathan and her heartbreak. But it also means facing the future and what she wants out of life.
One thing I really enjoyed, especially as my first foray into romance, is that the novel was much more than just romance. Zoey is a millennial, living with her mom, paying off debt, working tirelessly to make ends meet, and neglecting her personal life to accomplish her goals. But she's also a good friend, a funny character, and a charming protagonist. Her backstory is doled out in small bits, leaving the reader to fill in the gaps and turn the pages to get more information on what exactly happened between her and Jonathan. But it never withholds information just to heighten drama—it all makes sense. There's nothing I hate worse than unnecessary drama incited by lack of communication or misunderstandings that rational, adult humans could have sorted out. Here has none of that.
Additionally, there are quite a few fun side characters that enhance the reading experience and allow the main characters to grow without being plot devices. They feel like a real group of friends—with a few antagonists (I'm looking at you, Derek and Aunt Lisa)—who challenge and support one another to be their best selves.
Sure, I might be a little biased because the author is my friend, but I promise I would not recommend this book if I didn't truly enjoy it. And I did! I ENJOYED A ROMANCE NOVEL. And I think you, especially avid romance readers, would like it too.
Whether you are looking for:
-Characters that jump off the page
-Writing that keeps you rooted in the story
-A page-turning plot that hits all the beats but still keeps you on your toes
-Or just a plain old good reading experience
Here has it all. If your interest is piqued, you can pre-order on Amazon here. The book will be released on May 22, 2020.
Thanks again to Jenny for sharing an early copy of your book with me, and congratulations on a great debut novel!
Read
June 1, 2022It’s difficult to put into words what this book means to me. Quite frankly, writing this book changed my life.
I hope you read it.
And if you read it, I hope you laugh your ass off. I hope you fall in love with these characters. I hope you root for Zoey, since a little piece of me lives in her.
Most of all, I hope you chase your dream, whatever it is.
Read HERE: mybook.to/HereUniversalLink
I hope you read it.
And if you read it, I hope you laugh your ass off. I hope you fall in love with these characters. I hope you root for Zoey, since a little piece of me lives in her.
Most of all, I hope you chase your dream, whatever it is.
Read HERE: mybook.to/HereUniversalLink
May 29, 2021
2 ⭐⭐ - Meh!
===========
I can't even imagine why our Zeroine fell in love with this moron.
Zero wasn't even a good boyfriend.
He kicked her onto the curb the moment he went to college and found another woman. And he married this other woman and only dumped her because she cheated on him.
They were 11 years apart, 11 long years. Aff!
He easily replaced her with a new model and moved on.
Zeroine is a mess, her life imploded and she had to go back to live with her mother. She is insecure and has never recovered after being dumped by Zero.
===========
I can't even imagine why our Zeroine fell in love with this moron.
Zero wasn't even a good boyfriend.
He kicked her onto the curb the moment he went to college and found another woman. And he married this other woman and only dumped her because she cheated on him.
They were 11 years apart, 11 long years. Aff!
He easily replaced her with a new model and moved on.
Zeroine is a mess, her life imploded and she had to go back to live with her mother. She is insecure and has never recovered after being dumped by Zero.
Brady had been a good friend to him for all those years, even driving all night to be with him when he first found out his wife was cheating on him.
“Yeah, I didn’t think Nikki was great for you. Really a downgrade from Zoey, in my opinion. Even before Nikki did what she did,” Makenna said.
Jonathan nodded. “A scorpion once made it into my house. Nikki screamed so loud I thought she found a dead body.” Zoey’s face fell at the mention of his ex-wife.
In high school, her entire future revolved around Jonathan.
The breakup with Jonathan was the first time she’d really doubted herself.
Here was this boy who decimated her heart when she was seventeen, and they were fine. What was done was done.
It had been a long time for Jonathan, probably over six months since he had been with a woman. There had been two women after his divorce, one he dated for a few months, and another that was just physical over the course of a couple weeks.
If he had known back then what he knew now, he would have never said what he said.
“I missed Drunk Zoey,” Jonathan said. “It’s too bad you didn’t appreciate this when you had it. It took a shitty marriage for you to realize what you had.” Jonathan froze in his seat.
She knew in her heart that he hadn’t cheated on her. Still, he let himself be tempted, hanging around a girl he was attracted to instead of cutting it off immediately because he loved Zoey. Because he wanted only her.
After that phone call, he had tried to call her exactly once. Then Caroline let her know that he was officially dating Nikki.
Instead, he gave up easily and married Nikki.
“But why?” Zoey said. Her voice grew louder. “What was it about her?” “She didn’t need me,” Jonathan said. “She was independent, and she had her own thing going on. She spoke her mind. She told me what was wrong.”
Zoey looked around. No note. A note fell under the umbrella of do nice things.
He and Zoey had been the couple everyone envied in high school. They spent every waking moment they could together; they never tired of one another. When she was anxious, he was calm. When he got too in his own head, she pulled him out.
“Are you shitting me? She threw a pie at you?” Jonathan nodded. Dan slapped him on the back. “That is the funniest fucking thing I have ever heard.”
“I always thought you were an angel. Unlike that devil woman Jonathan married instead of you.” He cringed but saw that Zoey took it seemingly well, still with soft eyes and a flick of a grin on her lips.
December 6, 2020
I really really enjoyed this book! I loved the storyline and some things made me laugh out loud. The humor and the dialogue is so on point for me. I’m excited to read the other books in the series!
May 26, 2020
Romance novels are a dime a dozen - but good romance novels like this one are a little more rare. Especially debuts. This is a fun look at a woman whose life isn't just a mess, but is complicated by three exes in her immediate friend group. And they're all in the wedding of one of the couples.
There are some interesting characters here. Zoey is funny and conflicted and generally a bumbling mess. She's an odd amalgamation of an overplanning, goal-oriented, exhausted bundle of uncertainty and insecurity. It was interesting to see her gradually realise how skewed her perspective has grown while trying to figure out what she wants. Jonathan, the love interest, is the guy who did his best at the time but then grew up. He's the injection of realism that kind of anchored the story. Everybody screws up when they're trying to grow up, and Jonathan learned that lesson well. Watching the love story unfold with all the history was sweet.
There are a whole host of other characters, which is always nice. Lots more stories to be told. I think my favorite will be Dan, because he both made me laugh and broke my heart just a tiny bit. The thing that strikes me about the characters is that they don't seem to be cardboard cut-outs of people with lives. They seemed unique, if relatively unexplored.
The story has some pretty hilarious moments. The dialogue was snappy and I think as this author continues to write, the snark will just get more and more clever. She's certainly on the right track with this book.
No book is perfect and certainly this one has its flaws. But overall, it was a fun ride. You can't really ask for more than a great romance with the promise of more to come from Lillyvale.
This ARC was generously provided to me by the author.
There are some interesting characters here. Zoey is funny and conflicted and generally a bumbling mess. She's an odd amalgamation of an overplanning, goal-oriented, exhausted bundle of uncertainty and insecurity. It was interesting to see her gradually realise how skewed her perspective has grown while trying to figure out what she wants. Jonathan, the love interest, is the guy who did his best at the time but then grew up. He's the injection of realism that kind of anchored the story. Everybody screws up when they're trying to grow up, and Jonathan learned that lesson well. Watching the love story unfold with all the history was sweet.
There are a whole host of other characters, which is always nice. Lots more stories to be told. I think my favorite will be Dan, because he both made me laugh and broke my heart just a tiny bit. The thing that strikes me about the characters is that they don't seem to be cardboard cut-outs of people with lives. They seemed unique, if relatively unexplored.
The story has some pretty hilarious moments. The dialogue was snappy and I think as this author continues to write, the snark will just get more and more clever. She's certainly on the right track with this book.
No book is perfect and certainly this one has its flaws. But overall, it was a fun ride. You can't really ask for more than a great romance with the promise of more to come from Lillyvale.
This ARC was generously provided to me by the author.
September 4, 2021
Free on Amazon!
I actually could relate to Zoey. I mean, it sounds horrible that she had to go to a wedding with three of her exes in it. I probably would have made something up just so I didn't have to go.
So I really liked Zoey and could understand her insecurities and fears.
But I didn't like Jonathan, and I didn't like how all their friends kept pushing them together. He really hurt Zoey, and for me, that would have been almost unforgivable (if Zoey were my friend, of course). Also, why on earth did he marry Nikki, if she was so awful and he never really loved her? Honestly, it didn't make sense. Getting married is a big decision, and in this book, it sounded a bit like his marriage was just something that happened to him.
I actually could relate to Zoey. I mean, it sounds horrible that she had to go to a wedding with three of her exes in it. I probably would have made something up just so I didn't have to go.
So I really liked Zoey and could understand her insecurities and fears.
But I didn't like Jonathan, and I didn't like how all their friends kept pushing them together. He really hurt Zoey, and for me, that would have been almost unforgivable (if Zoey were my friend, of course). Also, why on earth did he marry Nikki, if she was so awful and he never really loved her? Honestly, it didn't make sense. Getting married is a big decision, and in this book, it sounded a bit like his marriage was just something that happened to him.
December 4, 2020
I just... didn't get this book. The way all of Zoey's friends basically ganged up on her so she'd hook up with her ex during her best friend's wedding was just... ridiculous. What bride, in her right mind, would want to add that kind of potential drama and stress to her wedding weekend? None of the characters felt all that real or authentic, everyone seemed like a caricature of a real person, or just a stereotype. Throw in the fact that Zoey keeps mentioning how badly her and Johnathan's relationship ended, and he keeps mentioning how he did her wrong, but then more than halfway through the book we finally find out what he did. That's it. That's all he did.
All in all, I wouldn't recommend this book. It reads like a made for tv rom com and despite the fact that everyone in the book is pushing 30, they act like they're 14 and freshmen in high school. The writing itself was fine, but story itself isn't worth it.
All in all, I wouldn't recommend this book. It reads like a made for tv rom com and despite the fact that everyone in the book is pushing 30, they act like they're 14 and freshmen in high school. The writing itself was fine, but story itself isn't worth it.
May 8, 2020
(ARC REVIEW) I highly enjoyed this hilarious debut from Jenny Bunting! There were many many genuine laugh out loud moments, all tangled up in this heart warming second chance romance.
Zoey doesn't have her life together- the love of her life left her unexpectedly and her life spun out from there. Working three jobs to make ends meet, she doesn't know what she wants from life other than to pay off her student loan debts. To her chagrin, she has to spend a weekend with her ex during her best friend's friends wedding. As much as she tried to avoid Jonathan (and her problems!) she can't avoid him (or her problems!) and is soon drawn to him. Can she find it in her heart to forgive him and move on with her life, or will she continue to let the past hurt and define her?
I really enjoyed watching Zoey's journey unfold. We've all been lost before and unsure what path to take- or at least I sure have so I definitely related to her there. Jonathan is steadfast in his resolve to make things right, which I appreciated. It would be easy to jump to disliking him because of what happened in the past, but he's written sympathetically and we all made dumb mistakes when we were 18.
This debut novel left me with a smile on my face and a warmth in my belly. I can't wait to read the rest of the Here In Lillyvale series! 4.5 stars
Zoey doesn't have her life together- the love of her life left her unexpectedly and her life spun out from there. Working three jobs to make ends meet, she doesn't know what she wants from life other than to pay off her student loan debts. To her chagrin, she has to spend a weekend with her ex during her best friend's friends wedding. As much as she tried to avoid Jonathan (and her problems!) she can't avoid him (or her problems!) and is soon drawn to him. Can she find it in her heart to forgive him and move on with her life, or will she continue to let the past hurt and define her?
I really enjoyed watching Zoey's journey unfold. We've all been lost before and unsure what path to take- or at least I sure have so I definitely related to her there. Jonathan is steadfast in his resolve to make things right, which I appreciated. It would be easy to jump to disliking him because of what happened in the past, but he's written sympathetically and we all made dumb mistakes when we were 18.
This debut novel left me with a smile on my face and a warmth in my belly. I can't wait to read the rest of the Here In Lillyvale series! 4.5 stars
August 31, 2020
UPDATE: Read the 2nd one (Hustle). SKIP THIS ONE. Just skip it. It's better that way.
While second chance romance are usually my jam, this pretty much flat lined beginning to end. Prepare to skim. So much extraneous fluff.
Zoey and Jonathan are high school sweethearts, that ended badly. 11 years later their friends push them to get back together. I didn't get why. The more their teen romance was described I REALLY didn't get why. They never seem to evolve to a solid in the present couple. More like an attempt to relive their "glory high school love." There's no spark between them, no new bond. You only want them together so the book will end.
It got so boring. After they "break up" again and get back together again, there's chapter after chapter of unnecessary step by step descriptions. Fucking summarize it in an epilogue. Feel free to keep the meh epilogue as a second one.
Someone needs to slash about 20% of this and point out where chemistry/bonding opportunities could be.
While second chance romance are usually my jam, this pretty much flat lined beginning to end. Prepare to skim. So much extraneous fluff.
Zoey and Jonathan are high school sweethearts, that ended badly. 11 years later their friends push them to get back together. I didn't get why. The more their teen romance was described I REALLY didn't get why. They never seem to evolve to a solid in the present couple. More like an attempt to relive their "glory high school love." There's no spark between them, no new bond. You only want them together so the book will end.
It got so boring. After they "break up" again and get back together again, there's chapter after chapter of unnecessary step by step descriptions. Fucking summarize it in an epilogue. Feel free to keep the meh epilogue as a second one.
Someone needs to slash about 20% of this and point out where chemistry/bonding opportunities could be.
March 16, 2021
My favorite part of this was that when I thought everything was wrapping up and we were going to get a ride off into the sunset generic happy ending, I still had 40% left in the book! It was refreshing to see the messiness of relationships as well as the happiness. This was so much fun.
(I actually did a snort laugh at one point in the book. I never laugh out loud at books but one part got me.)
I’m excited to continue with these books in this series. I really felt like the side characters were fleshed out really well. I particularly intrigued to read from Addison’s point of view. I felt like she was hiding a lot and I’m looking forward to learning more about her.
(I actually did a snort laugh at one point in the book. I never laugh out loud at books but one part got me.)
I’m excited to continue with these books in this series. I really felt like the side characters were fleshed out really well. I particularly intrigued to read from Addison’s point of view. I felt like she was hiding a lot and I’m looking forward to learning more about her.
January 30, 2021
I was asked to read this book by a review team I'm part of. Here is my honest review.
I really wanted to like this book. The premise is laugh out loud funny. There is some really funny and witty parts. But something happened in this book for me. The third person pov was odd and all the going ons and characters were a bit too much and distracted from the main characters reconnecting. I think there was alot of repeatition and I need scenes especially at the end. I was hoping for them to have more connection during the weekend end on Monday waking up then having maybe a longer in the future epilogue.
I really wanted to like this book. The premise is laugh out loud funny. There is some really funny and witty parts. But something happened in this book for me. The third person pov was odd and all the going ons and characters were a bit too much and distracted from the main characters reconnecting. I think there was alot of repeatition and I need scenes especially at the end. I was hoping for them to have more connection during the weekend end on Monday waking up then having maybe a longer in the future epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2020
DNF.
Quickest preview yet. The writer made the h a complete, awkward idiot and of course the H is right there to see it. It was particularly cringe making this time, too.
Ugh. Why? Just...why?
So anyway, that's me out and another writer for my blacklist.
Quickest preview yet. The writer made the h a complete, awkward idiot and of course the H is right there to see it. It was particularly cringe making this time, too.
Ugh. Why? Just...why?
So anyway, that's me out and another writer for my blacklist.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2020
** I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review **
I have read and will read just about any trope out there. Enemies to lovers? All day, every day. Opposites attract? Yup. Mermaid motorcycle gang reverse harem? Give it to me.
HOWEVER,
What I had not read was a second chance romance featuring the heroine’s best friend’s wedding in which the best man, a groomsmen, and THE GROOM HIMSELF are all her ex-boyfriends.
I mean how can you not read this book?
Zoey is struggling with her place in the world. After leaving a job she knows she doesn’t fit, working various odds and ends to pay the debt she’s accumulated, and feeling left behind while her friends grow and move on in life, Zoey feels stuck. As the maid of honor in her bestie’s wedding, she’s determined to get through the weekend in one piece - even if it means she has to encounter her high school sweetheart who broke her heart and never put it back together. She has one weekend where she can forget all the troubles of life and have fun with her friends. Right?
Recently divorced, new and improved Jonathan didn’t know what to expect seeing the one that got away all these years later, but it certainly wasn’t her looking even better than before and still having the snappy personality that made him fall in love in the first place. Shortly after seeing her again and realizing how much his heart missed hers, he’s made up his mind: it’s time to get his girl back.... and do it right this time, once and for all.
I had so much fun reading about this merry band of crazies. From Zoey’s rambling, to Caroline’s bridezilla moments, Makenna’s blunt commentary, and Dan’s.... well Dan’s Dan-ness (I stan Dan!), and Jonathan’s self growth, I loved every second of it.
To me, the true moral of this novel is that timing is everything. Sometimes, like Zoey and Jonathan, we have to let the one’s we love go in order to grow and evolve so that when we meet again, it can be forever. This book was honest and truthful in all of its experiences, whether that be naive young love or finding yourself again after setbacks. It highlights struggles most of us know well: debt, failed career paths, moving back home, feeling like a failure, and working to communicate what we mean. I really appreciated the representation of therapy (especially a man in therapy!) and the truth in that sometimes things hurt us and it leaves a lasting effect on everything we do going forward. Seeing Jonathan take accountability for his mistakes and watching Zoey realize she’d make her fair share of questionable choices had me on the edge of my seat. I loved the vulnerability and raw honesty of this second chance relationship.
All in all, this book is wonderful. You’ll fall in love with quirky, endearingly awkward Zoey and smooth, charming Jonathan, as well as the other characters along the way. A great introduction to Jenny Bunting, I can’t wait to see what happens next in Lillyvale!
I have read and will read just about any trope out there. Enemies to lovers? All day, every day. Opposites attract? Yup. Mermaid motorcycle gang reverse harem? Give it to me.
HOWEVER,
What I had not read was a second chance romance featuring the heroine’s best friend’s wedding in which the best man, a groomsmen, and THE GROOM HIMSELF are all her ex-boyfriends.
I mean how can you not read this book?
Zoey is struggling with her place in the world. After leaving a job she knows she doesn’t fit, working various odds and ends to pay the debt she’s accumulated, and feeling left behind while her friends grow and move on in life, Zoey feels stuck. As the maid of honor in her bestie’s wedding, she’s determined to get through the weekend in one piece - even if it means she has to encounter her high school sweetheart who broke her heart and never put it back together. She has one weekend where she can forget all the troubles of life and have fun with her friends. Right?
Recently divorced, new and improved Jonathan didn’t know what to expect seeing the one that got away all these years later, but it certainly wasn’t her looking even better than before and still having the snappy personality that made him fall in love in the first place. Shortly after seeing her again and realizing how much his heart missed hers, he’s made up his mind: it’s time to get his girl back.... and do it right this time, once and for all.
I had so much fun reading about this merry band of crazies. From Zoey’s rambling, to Caroline’s bridezilla moments, Makenna’s blunt commentary, and Dan’s.... well Dan’s Dan-ness (I stan Dan!), and Jonathan’s self growth, I loved every second of it.
To me, the true moral of this novel is that timing is everything. Sometimes, like Zoey and Jonathan, we have to let the one’s we love go in order to grow and evolve so that when we meet again, it can be forever. This book was honest and truthful in all of its experiences, whether that be naive young love or finding yourself again after setbacks. It highlights struggles most of us know well: debt, failed career paths, moving back home, feeling like a failure, and working to communicate what we mean. I really appreciated the representation of therapy (especially a man in therapy!) and the truth in that sometimes things hurt us and it leaves a lasting effect on everything we do going forward. Seeing Jonathan take accountability for his mistakes and watching Zoey realize she’d make her fair share of questionable choices had me on the edge of my seat. I loved the vulnerability and raw honesty of this second chance relationship.
All in all, this book is wonderful. You’ll fall in love with quirky, endearingly awkward Zoey and smooth, charming Jonathan, as well as the other characters along the way. A great introduction to Jenny Bunting, I can’t wait to see what happens next in Lillyvale!
May 20, 2020
While I love a good romance, second-chance romances are not my jam.
Here by Jenny Bunting has me second-guessing everything I thought I knew about my reading tastes.
This story is all about former high school sweethearts Zoey and Jonathon reconnecting 11 years after their break-up when they're both in the wedding party for their best friends, Caroline and Brady. Zoey has always done her best to avoid Jonathon over the past 11 years post-split, but now she has no choice but to interact with the guy who broke her heart years before. Jonathon, who's been through his own journey, is ready to reconcile with Zoey and be friends again -and maybe even hope for something more?
From the first chapter, I was laughing out loud (that barista scene did me in, y'all). I knew Jenny would be funny from following her on Instagram, but still I wasn't prepared for exactly how hilarious her writing would be. The banter, the jokes, the spiraling inner monologues - it all had me dying. And the romance between our two main characters was so good! The reason I shy away from second-chance romances is because typically I don't see enough personal growth or change from either side to make me believe that they'll survive a second shot at love. However, Zoey and Jonathon both grew up in the time they were apart and it really felt like their second-chance was believable. We get the perspectives of both Zoey and Jonathon in this and that really increased my enjoyment of reading experience because I felt like I always knew where both character's heads and hearts were at on the issues they were working through.
Also, as someone who just turned 27, I fully related to Zoey's fear of failure and how she was still sorting life out. It was comforting to read about a character who didn't have every box checked and not be shamed for it, but rather have a support system around her to lift her up and encourage her to take a risk.
One thing to note: this book is STEAMY. Be aware of that before you go in lol. It definitely had me BLUSHING.
The biggest thing I loved from this first book in the Here in Lillyvale series is the friend group. They're real and hilarious and feel like the crew you want to kick back with every weekend for a good time. It did a great job of introducing you to each person and getting you to love them just enough to have you ready for their book in the series.
(If you want to know my favorite, it's Dan. Dan is a sweetheart, but also a riot. I need Dan's HEA.)
Here by Jenny Bunting gets a 5 star rating for me. I couldn't have had more fun reading this book if I tried. I will definitely be continuing on with this series.
*eARC provided by author for an honest review
Here by Jenny Bunting has me second-guessing everything I thought I knew about my reading tastes.
This story is all about former high school sweethearts Zoey and Jonathon reconnecting 11 years after their break-up when they're both in the wedding party for their best friends, Caroline and Brady. Zoey has always done her best to avoid Jonathon over the past 11 years post-split, but now she has no choice but to interact with the guy who broke her heart years before. Jonathon, who's been through his own journey, is ready to reconcile with Zoey and be friends again -and maybe even hope for something more?
From the first chapter, I was laughing out loud (that barista scene did me in, y'all). I knew Jenny would be funny from following her on Instagram, but still I wasn't prepared for exactly how hilarious her writing would be. The banter, the jokes, the spiraling inner monologues - it all had me dying. And the romance between our two main characters was so good! The reason I shy away from second-chance romances is because typically I don't see enough personal growth or change from either side to make me believe that they'll survive a second shot at love. However, Zoey and Jonathon both grew up in the time they were apart and it really felt like their second-chance was believable. We get the perspectives of both Zoey and Jonathon in this and that really increased my enjoyment of reading experience because I felt like I always knew where both character's heads and hearts were at on the issues they were working through.
Also, as someone who just turned 27, I fully related to Zoey's fear of failure and how she was still sorting life out. It was comforting to read about a character who didn't have every box checked and not be shamed for it, but rather have a support system around her to lift her up and encourage her to take a risk.
One thing to note: this book is STEAMY. Be aware of that before you go in lol. It definitely had me BLUSHING.
The biggest thing I loved from this first book in the Here in Lillyvale series is the friend group. They're real and hilarious and feel like the crew you want to kick back with every weekend for a good time. It did a great job of introducing you to each person and getting you to love them just enough to have you ready for their book in the series.
(If you want to know my favorite, it's Dan. Dan is a sweetheart, but also a riot. I need Dan's HEA.)
Here by Jenny Bunting gets a 5 star rating for me. I couldn't have had more fun reading this book if I tried. I will definitely be continuing on with this series.
*eARC provided by author for an honest review
January 4, 2021
I pick up a lot of books that claim to be "RomComs" and they just don't hit the right funny bone for me, but this book absolutely hit the mark for me. The characters were distinct, and the banter wasn't forced. The comedy came from a place of real genuine connection, and that (to me) is what makes a great romcom / romance book.
You could tell the connection between the two MCs was strong from the very beginning. The side characters added just enough spice and life to the plot without taking over. The conflict and emotional was relateable and realistic.
This was a great way to kick off my 2021 reading, and I am definitely going to pick up the next two books that are out from this series. I recommend this book for anyone looking for a book that will make you *actually* laugh out loud while reading, and that gives you all the feelings before landing at the HEA.
You could tell the connection between the two MCs was strong from the very beginning. The side characters added just enough spice and life to the plot without taking over. The conflict and emotional was relateable and realistic.
This was a great way to kick off my 2021 reading, and I am definitely going to pick up the next two books that are out from this series. I recommend this book for anyone looking for a book that will make you *actually* laugh out loud while reading, and that gives you all the feelings before landing at the HEA.
May 11, 2020
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy of the book from the author!
Zoey Benton is a 28 year old adrift in life. She has no career path, she's living at home with her mother, and she's got a mountain of debt. The only glimmer of hope is her best friend's impending wedding. Except, she's got not one, not two, but three exes in the wedding party.
Jonathan Turner is a man on a mission. Eleven years ago, he said goodbye to the best thing that ever happened to him. This weekend is his chance to set things right with the girl of his dreams. The only problem- they haven't spoken since that fateful breakup.
Will this wedding party crash and burn? Or will Zoey and Jonathan find their second chance at happily ever after?
I loved how relatable the characters are in this story. Both Zoey and Jonathan feel like real, breathable people. I had so much fun getting to know them. Plus, all of the side characters were great. Zoey and Jonathan have a great group of friends, and it was so refreshing to see female characters in a romance novel champion each other instead of plotting against each other.
This is a quick, fun, and steamy read. Perfect for the summer! Whether you're near the beach, pretending to be at the beach, or stuck inside...Here by Jenny Bunting is a summer must read you don't want to miss.
Zoey Benton is a 28 year old adrift in life. She has no career path, she's living at home with her mother, and she's got a mountain of debt. The only glimmer of hope is her best friend's impending wedding. Except, she's got not one, not two, but three exes in the wedding party.
Jonathan Turner is a man on a mission. Eleven years ago, he said goodbye to the best thing that ever happened to him. This weekend is his chance to set things right with the girl of his dreams. The only problem- they haven't spoken since that fateful breakup.
Will this wedding party crash and burn? Or will Zoey and Jonathan find their second chance at happily ever after?
I loved how relatable the characters are in this story. Both Zoey and Jonathan feel like real, breathable people. I had so much fun getting to know them. Plus, all of the side characters were great. Zoey and Jonathan have a great group of friends, and it was so refreshing to see female characters in a romance novel champion each other instead of plotting against each other.
This is a quick, fun, and steamy read. Perfect for the summer! Whether you're near the beach, pretending to be at the beach, or stuck inside...Here by Jenny Bunting is a summer must read you don't want to miss.
May 18, 2020
Funny, sweet and heart warming!
I was laughing out. And when I wasn’t laughing, I was smiling ear to ear. This book gave me all the grins.
The characters were totally relatable and sweet. I loved all their little quirks.
Zoey and Jonathon were MADE FOR EACH OTHER.
It was so much fun to go on the ups and downs with them, like being in the front row of a rollercoaster, at a wedding with not one, not two, but three ex-boyfriends, including the groom.
Jenny Bunting’s wit and humor hooked me and made me a big fan. I love her writing style and the way she puts the reader right in the center of the story.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book.*
I was laughing out. And when I wasn’t laughing, I was smiling ear to ear. This book gave me all the grins.
The characters were totally relatable and sweet. I loved all their little quirks.
Zoey and Jonathon were MADE FOR EACH OTHER.
It was so much fun to go on the ups and downs with them, like being in the front row of a rollercoaster, at a wedding with not one, not two, but three ex-boyfriends, including the groom.
Jenny Bunting’s wit and humor hooked me and made me a big fan. I love her writing style and the way she puts the reader right in the center of the story.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book.*
May 30, 2020
I was provided an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
It was fun to switch it up reading a romance novel, which is outside of my go-to genres. I enjoyed the wedding party setting and emphasis on strong female friendships in the storyline. The main character’s relationship with her exes and other prominent male characters was also very refreshing to read! I liked that while the plot centered around a love story, the main character’s independence, career goals and sense of self still shined through as a major focus point.
I did feel as if the plot wrapped up rather quickly toward the end with a perfect bow - but was glad to see the story come to a happy ending.
Definitely a fun summer read and solid debut from a new romance author!
It was fun to switch it up reading a romance novel, which is outside of my go-to genres. I enjoyed the wedding party setting and emphasis on strong female friendships in the storyline. The main character’s relationship with her exes and other prominent male characters was also very refreshing to read! I liked that while the plot centered around a love story, the main character’s independence, career goals and sense of self still shined through as a major focus point.
I did feel as if the plot wrapped up rather quickly toward the end with a perfect bow - but was glad to see the story come to a happy ending.
Definitely a fun summer read and solid debut from a new romance author!
May 25, 2020
I volunteered to read this ARC for an honest review. I absolutely loved this story about Jonathan and Zoey. He's a year older than her. They dated in high school but broke up when she was a senior and he was confused about another girl. Now they are going to be in the same wedding. Actually her and three of her ex's. They haven't talked for 11 years and a lot has changed for them. Great HEA in the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 2, 2021
I really enjoyed this book and loved watching Zoey and Jonathan fall in love again. This second chance romance has a lot of heart, steam and humor! There were such great friendships too, and I found myself grinning like an idiot and laughing out loud with how fun all the different relationships were. I loved all the supporting characters and am looking forward to continuing the series!
May 23, 2020
The first book in the Here in Lillyvale series a well written second chance for Zoey Elizabeth Benton and Jonathan Turner. This is a new Author for me and I want to read the next book in this series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 15, 2020
I am probably the least qualified person to rate this book because 1) I have never read a romance novel and have nothing to compare this to and 2) I am completely biased because my friend wrote this book - (yay Jenny)! This is a sweet and sassy contemporary romance that I’m sure you will enjoy if you like this genre! I can’t say I’ll continue reading romance, but I’ll definitely continue this series.
May 24, 2020
This was a great book that was full of pages with well developed characters and engaging storyline and plenty of chemistry to keep me entertained.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 26, 2020
Adorable, sexy, relatable. I loved this book. I haven’t finished a book this fast in decades. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
January 22, 2022
My first book by Jenny Bunting and I enjoyed it. Not too much angst and I laughed quite a bit. I want to continue the series. 4.25 stars.
December 29, 2022
Second Chance 💕💕
I love second chance romance. It’s one of my favorite romance tropes because sometimes you just don’t get the right ending with a first (or second) love.
Zoey & Jonathan are exes that are in the same wedding & while Zoey has spent the last 11 years avoiding him, he has spent the last 11 years dealing with the mistake he made that ended their relationship. This story dealt with real life concerns and relationship issues & I really enjoyed the love story they found for themselves.
I love second chance romance. It’s one of my favorite romance tropes because sometimes you just don’t get the right ending with a first (or second) love.
Zoey & Jonathan are exes that are in the same wedding & while Zoey has spent the last 11 years avoiding him, he has spent the last 11 years dealing with the mistake he made that ended their relationship. This story dealt with real life concerns and relationship issues & I really enjoyed the love story they found for themselves.
May 9, 2021
I absolutely LOVED this!
This is my first book by this author and I absolutely loved it. I am so picky about my books. I’ve had such a hard time getting into anything lately. But once I started reading this.. I was sucked in immediately and hung on every word. ( I’m a big skimmer when I get bored but I did not want to miss one word of this book). The rest of this review may contain spoilers....
First of all.. every single character was hilarious. I loved them all—but Zoey was in a class by herself. I loved her so much. She was hysterical without even trying. She had anxiety and it made her have no filter but it made her all the more endearing. I understood and felt every emotion she was feeling in this book. My heart broke for her, I cried for her, I cheered for her when she finally let loose on Jonathan how he broke her heart and destroyed her.
I loved Jonathan too. I even understood why he was confused about another girl when he went off to college (11 years prior). This ultimately broke them up. But the fact that he married that girl was kind of hard to get over. Even though they divorced—if he always loved Zoey, why did he end up marrying someone else? Which in turn put Zoey over the edge. Even though she tried so hard to move on, she was literally heartbroken for eleven years. And I totally understood why she wanted nothing to do with Jonathan when she saw him again.
He wants her forgiveness and is willing to do anything to get it and be friends. She tries to fight it. Their interactions were hilarious but also adorable. Of course they end up falling back in love almost immediately because they never really stopped loving each other.
But Zoey’s anxiety kind of gets in the way a little and I totally understood it and didn’t blame her one bit. In fact, I felt like Jonathan should have to fight tooth and nail to get her back after what he put her through. And he does, but also she realizes that they’ve both changed and grown up and she’s willing to take a chance on him again. I just loved every word of this and I can’t wait to read the rest of this series!!
This is my first book by this author and I absolutely loved it. I am so picky about my books. I’ve had such a hard time getting into anything lately. But once I started reading this.. I was sucked in immediately and hung on every word. ( I’m a big skimmer when I get bored but I did not want to miss one word of this book). The rest of this review may contain spoilers....
First of all.. every single character was hilarious. I loved them all—but Zoey was in a class by herself. I loved her so much. She was hysterical without even trying. She had anxiety and it made her have no filter but it made her all the more endearing. I understood and felt every emotion she was feeling in this book. My heart broke for her, I cried for her, I cheered for her when she finally let loose on Jonathan how he broke her heart and destroyed her.
I loved Jonathan too. I even understood why he was confused about another girl when he went off to college (11 years prior). This ultimately broke them up. But the fact that he married that girl was kind of hard to get over. Even though they divorced—if he always loved Zoey, why did he end up marrying someone else? Which in turn put Zoey over the edge. Even though she tried so hard to move on, she was literally heartbroken for eleven years. And I totally understood why she wanted nothing to do with Jonathan when she saw him again.
He wants her forgiveness and is willing to do anything to get it and be friends. She tries to fight it. Their interactions were hilarious but also adorable. Of course they end up falling back in love almost immediately because they never really stopped loving each other.
But Zoey’s anxiety kind of gets in the way a little and I totally understood it and didn’t blame her one bit. In fact, I felt like Jonathan should have to fight tooth and nail to get her back after what he put her through. And he does, but also she realizes that they’ve both changed and grown up and she’s willing to take a chance on him again. I just loved every word of this and I can’t wait to read the rest of this series!!
February 19, 2023
She is the maid of honor for her best friend's wedding. The problem is her 3 ex boyfriends are in the wedding party. Including the one guy that broke her when she was seventeen.
Zoey had dreams eleven years ago of leaving her home town and moving to Phoenix to join the love of her life living there. But when Jonathan called one night requesting a break, Zoey's whole world crumbled. Now her best friend is getting married and Jonathan is just one of these exes in the wedding party. This will be the first time seeing Jonathan face to face and she is anxious for it all to be over and done.
Jonathan left his home town but left his heart behind with his girlfriend, Zoey. A few months after moving and attending college, he was conflicted about them remaining a couple. When he voiced his fears, his whole world ended. Now, years later he is reuniting with his old friends for a wedding and hopes to reconnect a friendship with the girl he never forgot.
Their first encounter is both embarrassing and endearing. Zoey is conflicted about seeing Jonathan again. Jonathan just wants to have a conversation and clear the air. Once that happens, the two try to remain friendly but old feelings are definitely there. Soon, confessions and apologies are exchanged and two fall back into one another. For Jonathan, Zoey is the only person for him and he isn't going to let her go again. For Zoey, she has played his scenario before and it went terribly. She is going to have to find a way to let go of her past to find her future.
Dual POV. Second chance romance.
This story was cute and light on emotional side. The two MCs fall for each other again fast. After the emotional turmoil and heartbreak they have one conversation and become physical again under the idea that they are just having temporary fun. Zoey is a mess and emotionally stunted. Overall the story is cute. The HEA and epilogue are nice.
Zoey had dreams eleven years ago of leaving her home town and moving to Phoenix to join the love of her life living there. But when Jonathan called one night requesting a break, Zoey's whole world crumbled. Now her best friend is getting married and Jonathan is just one of these exes in the wedding party. This will be the first time seeing Jonathan face to face and she is anxious for it all to be over and done.
Jonathan left his home town but left his heart behind with his girlfriend, Zoey. A few months after moving and attending college, he was conflicted about them remaining a couple. When he voiced his fears, his whole world ended. Now, years later he is reuniting with his old friends for a wedding and hopes to reconnect a friendship with the girl he never forgot.
Their first encounter is both embarrassing and endearing. Zoey is conflicted about seeing Jonathan again. Jonathan just wants to have a conversation and clear the air. Once that happens, the two try to remain friendly but old feelings are definitely there. Soon, confessions and apologies are exchanged and two fall back into one another. For Jonathan, Zoey is the only person for him and he isn't going to let her go again. For Zoey, she has played his scenario before and it went terribly. She is going to have to find a way to let go of her past to find her future.
Dual POV. Second chance romance.
This story was cute and light on emotional side. The two MCs fall for each other again fast. After the emotional turmoil and heartbreak they have one conversation and become physical again under the idea that they are just having temporary fun. Zoey is a mess and emotionally stunted. Overall the story is cute. The HEA and epilogue are nice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2021
Nice quick read
When I keep at a book pretty much from start to finish, it means I'm enjoying it. My first read by Jenny Bunting, When I just sat I'm looking forward to checking out the next one. The love of Zoeys life is going to be the best man at her best friends were while she is Maid of Honour. Only problem being 11 years earlier he broke her heart into pieces and went of and married someone else. She did a pretty good job of keeping away from him, never being anywhere he was and making sure her friends knew never to talk about her to him. So the weekend of the wedding is here, and he's back, divorced and looking sexier than ever. Will her resolve hold out? I'll let you find that out for yourself.
When I keep at a book pretty much from start to finish, it means I'm enjoying it. My first read by Jenny Bunting, When I just sat I'm looking forward to checking out the next one. The love of Zoeys life is going to be the best man at her best friends were while she is Maid of Honour. Only problem being 11 years earlier he broke her heart into pieces and went of and married someone else. She did a pretty good job of keeping away from him, never being anywhere he was and making sure her friends knew never to talk about her to him. So the weekend of the wedding is here, and he's back, divorced and looking sexier than ever. Will her resolve hold out? I'll let you find that out for yourself.
May 25, 2021
Actually more of 3.5 stars, but it’s a debut and I think the author shows promise, so I rounded up.
I went back and forth on my feelings for the book. At the beginning, I found Zoey hilarious and the book a lot of fun. I did feel like the relationship moved way too fast when compared to Zoey’s feelings at the beginning. That did settle down, though, and they had to deal with some real issues after the wedding weekend. I also want to say I loved their friends.
While the book did have some weaknesses, I think it’s a strong debut and I will be reading more from this author.
I went back and forth on my feelings for the book. At the beginning, I found Zoey hilarious and the book a lot of fun. I did feel like the relationship moved way too fast when compared to Zoey’s feelings at the beginning. That did settle down, though, and they had to deal with some real issues after the wedding weekend. I also want to say I loved their friends.
While the book did have some weaknesses, I think it’s a strong debut and I will be reading more from this author.
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