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Cherry on Top
Cherry Davis is turning her part-time influencer gig into a full-time venture. As Cherry on Top, she’s the happy, loved, lesbian lifestyle guide with an enviable relationship, friends, and wardrobe. Reputation is crucial for her business, and if she uses some smoke and mirrors to spice it up? She doesn’t hurt anybody. Everyone else does it too. Trolls might try to tell her she isn’t being authentic, but she’s tougher than they are. Her childhood gave her a thick skin.
Ellis Conrad dreams of becoming a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist. You know what she doesn’t dream of? Debunking politicians, local celebrities, and online influencers for the less-than-reputable site, 11th Commandment. But the truth is important, especially to Ellis, and besides, she really needs the money.
A chance meeting leaves Cherry and Ellis reeling from the unexpected intensity, and they both start to long for a different life, perhaps even one that includes each other. But when Ellis’s search for truth crashes into Cherry’s insta-filter world, do they have any hope at all of a happily ever after?
Ellis Conrad dreams of becoming a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist. You know what she doesn’t dream of? Debunking politicians, local celebrities, and online influencers for the less-than-reputable site, 11th Commandment. But the truth is important, especially to Ellis, and besides, she really needs the money.
A chance meeting leaves Cherry and Ellis reeling from the unexpected intensity, and they both start to long for a different life, perhaps even one that includes each other. But when Ellis’s search for truth crashes into Cherry’s insta-filter world, do they have any hope at all of a happily ever after?
223 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 16, 2022
38 people are currently reading
340 people want to read
About the author
Georgia Beers
61 books1,505 followersLambda and Golden Crown Literary Award-winning author Georgia Beers lives in Rochester, New York. She has been writing for as long as she can remember, and published her first lesbian novel in 2000.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
November 22, 2022
Edit: November 22nd, 2022, audiobook review
Since I reviewed this book not very long ago, I’ll focus on the narration. And the review will be short: I loved it. Lula Larkin is quickly becoming one of my favourite narrators, which is a good thing as she’s narrating a lot of Bold Strokes books these days. The voices she gives the characters have substance and nuance and they fit perfectly. I think she made me like Cherry sooner than I did when I first read the story.
And do you remember what I wrote in my original review about Georgia Beers’ first kiss scenes being some of the best of the best? Yeah, you’re going to want to hear this one. 4.5⭐️
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Romances are, by definition, somewhat predictable: MCs meet -> stuff happens -> HFN or HEA. What’s fascinating isn’t the result, it’s the journey, the “stuff happens” part, how the MCs fall in love, accept that they’re in love, work to make it happen. There are different ways of writing that journey. The twists can be unexpected or, on the contrary, introduced in such a way that the reader is caught in a web of foreboding. Both can be wonderful and both can keep me on the edge of my seat.
Cherry on Top falls in the second category. The delicious stomach-twisting foreboding category. Edge of seat included. One of the main characters – Cherry – is an up-and-coming influencer, the other – Ellis – abhors all things social media. Of course, they’re going to clash. Of course. Why did Georgia Beers have to make them so adorable though? How cruel is that? To be honest (honesty is what this book is all about), Ellis is a lot easier to love than Cherry who, while charming and kind, is, let’s face it, a liar. I don’t care that she lies online, who doesn’t? Her lying to Ellis however? Even by omission? I realise things aren’t black and white, truth vs lies. Life is more complicated than that and some lies are warranted, lifesaving even sometimes. Cherry’s lies? Not so much. As delightful as she is, she’s also greedy. I get wanting a career, I get waiting for the right time to come clean, I get being overwhelmed. I still don’t like how she behaved towards Ellis, and I was looking forward to finding out how Georgia Beers would get her out of the situation and make me want to root for her again.
And yes, Beers did it. I ached for Cherry as much as I ached for Ellis. Both are flawed, both are trying, both are relatable. They’re complex, as is their relationship, and I loved the way they reacted to the first undeniably-big bump on their road to forever, and how life took over, because that’s what life does. Things aren’t straightforward and neither are people. They make mistakes, they learn (or don’t learn, which is another problem), they grow. We’re all works in progress and that’s the story Beers tells, a story of growth and learning from mistakes.
Ellis and Cherry have huge chemistry and it makes the instalust entirely believable. In all aspects, the relationship is at once cute and intense, enthusiastic and tender. Georgia Beers writes excellent first kisses and this one… This one is sweet and passionate, like Ellis, like Cherry.
The instalust, the cheerful tone of the story, the easiness of the start of the relationship could make Cherry on Top seem frivolous. There’s depth to it, however, with both characters dealing with family trauma. It’s also brimming with lovely moments, between Ellis and Cherry, between Cherry and her roommates, Ellis and her colleague Kitty or with her friends. Two scenes involve meeting someone for the first time (besides the MCs’ meet cute) and both are enchanting. The first one shows Ellis being introduced to her cat – from Junebug Farms! – and it made my heart very full. I won’t spoil the second one because I managed to forget I had read about it in another review and I was as surprised as the character, which made the scene all the more powerful. All I’ll say is there was a lot of heart-fullness happening with this story, the perfect counterpoint to the stomach-twisting of the first half or so. 4.5⭐️
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read all my reviews on my blog: Jude in the Stars
Since I reviewed this book not very long ago, I’ll focus on the narration. And the review will be short: I loved it. Lula Larkin is quickly becoming one of my favourite narrators, which is a good thing as she’s narrating a lot of Bold Strokes books these days. The voices she gives the characters have substance and nuance and they fit perfectly. I think she made me like Cherry sooner than I did when I first read the story.
And do you remember what I wrote in my original review about Georgia Beers’ first kiss scenes being some of the best of the best? Yeah, you’re going to want to hear this one. 4.5⭐️
------------------------------------------------
Romances are, by definition, somewhat predictable: MCs meet -> stuff happens -> HFN or HEA. What’s fascinating isn’t the result, it’s the journey, the “stuff happens” part, how the MCs fall in love, accept that they’re in love, work to make it happen. There are different ways of writing that journey. The twists can be unexpected or, on the contrary, introduced in such a way that the reader is caught in a web of foreboding. Both can be wonderful and both can keep me on the edge of my seat.
Cherry on Top falls in the second category. The delicious stomach-twisting foreboding category. Edge of seat included. One of the main characters – Cherry – is an up-and-coming influencer, the other – Ellis – abhors all things social media. Of course, they’re going to clash. Of course. Why did Georgia Beers have to make them so adorable though? How cruel is that? To be honest (honesty is what this book is all about), Ellis is a lot easier to love than Cherry who, while charming and kind, is, let’s face it, a liar. I don’t care that she lies online, who doesn’t? Her lying to Ellis however? Even by omission? I realise things aren’t black and white, truth vs lies. Life is more complicated than that and some lies are warranted, lifesaving even sometimes. Cherry’s lies? Not so much. As delightful as she is, she’s also greedy. I get wanting a career, I get waiting for the right time to come clean, I get being overwhelmed. I still don’t like how she behaved towards Ellis, and I was looking forward to finding out how Georgia Beers would get her out of the situation and make me want to root for her again.
And yes, Beers did it. I ached for Cherry as much as I ached for Ellis. Both are flawed, both are trying, both are relatable. They’re complex, as is their relationship, and I loved the way they reacted to the first undeniably-big bump on their road to forever, and how life took over, because that’s what life does. Things aren’t straightforward and neither are people. They make mistakes, they learn (or don’t learn, which is another problem), they grow. We’re all works in progress and that’s the story Beers tells, a story of growth and learning from mistakes.
Ellis and Cherry have huge chemistry and it makes the instalust entirely believable. In all aspects, the relationship is at once cute and intense, enthusiastic and tender. Georgia Beers writes excellent first kisses and this one… This one is sweet and passionate, like Ellis, like Cherry.
The instalust, the cheerful tone of the story, the easiness of the start of the relationship could make Cherry on Top seem frivolous. There’s depth to it, however, with both characters dealing with family trauma. It’s also brimming with lovely moments, between Ellis and Cherry, between Cherry and her roommates, Ellis and her colleague Kitty or with her friends. Two scenes involve meeting someone for the first time (besides the MCs’ meet cute) and both are enchanting. The first one shows Ellis being introduced to her cat – from Junebug Farms! – and it made my heart very full. I won’t spoil the second one because I managed to forget I had read about it in another review and I was as surprised as the character, which made the scene all the more powerful. All I’ll say is there was a lot of heart-fullness happening with this story, the perfect counterpoint to the stomach-twisting of the first half or so. 4.5⭐️
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read all my reviews on my blog: Jude in the Stars
July 19, 2022
False reality.
I like that the romance is sweet and simple. The start of the relationship was easy and the characters were pretty eager to commit to each other. But as they kept a part of themselves from each other, I also wanted to follow through to see how the potential conflict would play out and I was glad that it wasn't overdramatic and overcomplicated.
As for the storyline, I'm ambivalent about the topic of the false reality of social media. Cherry deliberates for a long time about coming clean to Ellis about being a semi-popular social media influencer who makes up fake postings and I'm not sure if I was able to connect with Cherry on this because I didn't think it would have been a dealbreaker with Ellis in the first place.
Nice, sweet and rather low angst book but I don't think it's Georgia Beers' best.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I like that the romance is sweet and simple. The start of the relationship was easy and the characters were pretty eager to commit to each other. But as they kept a part of themselves from each other, I also wanted to follow through to see how the potential conflict would play out and I was glad that it wasn't overdramatic and overcomplicated.
As for the storyline, I'm ambivalent about the topic of the false reality of social media. Cherry deliberates for a long time about coming clean to Ellis about being a semi-popular social media influencer who makes up fake postings and I'm not sure if I was able to connect with Cherry on this because I didn't think it would have been a dealbreaker with Ellis in the first place.
Nice, sweet and rather low angst book but I don't think it's Georgia Beers' best.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2022
Georgia Beers has written a beguiling yet socially relevant romance in Cherry on Top. Social media influencers are rarely who they portray themselves to be which has resulted and is resulting in extreme detrimental affects on impressionable followers. Judging oneself against a false and manipulated perfection can be soul crushing.
Cherry Davis strives to be a someone of influence on all social media platforms. She is willing to edit herself and her photos to garner more follows. Ellis Conrad, on the other hand, lives unencumbered by any social media. She dreams of one day being an award winning journalist as she manages a diner for her living. The attraction is there from day one when Ellis and Cherry meet in the diner. Half truths and omissions hang over the budding romance until their two hidden truths collide.
Although we all see a train wreck coming you still want to watch. So can be said for Cherry on Top. The inevitable will happen. The journey to and through the inevitable is what is mesmerizing. Beers has simply outdone herself. Crafting her romance around an important and necessary social critique is an exceptionally brilliant use of her well honed talents.
Brava Ms Beers, brava.
I received an advance review copy from Bold Strokes Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Cherry Davis strives to be a someone of influence on all social media platforms. She is willing to edit herself and her photos to garner more follows. Ellis Conrad, on the other hand, lives unencumbered by any social media. She dreams of one day being an award winning journalist as she manages a diner for her living. The attraction is there from day one when Ellis and Cherry meet in the diner. Half truths and omissions hang over the budding romance until their two hidden truths collide.
Although we all see a train wreck coming you still want to watch. So can be said for Cherry on Top. The inevitable will happen. The journey to and through the inevitable is what is mesmerizing. Beers has simply outdone herself. Crafting her romance around an important and necessary social critique is an exceptionally brilliant use of her well honed talents.
Brava Ms Beers, brava.
I received an advance review copy from Bold Strokes Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 22, 2022
“Cherry on Top” by Georgia Beers is a surprising sort of opposites attract romance.
Cherry Davis is trying to become a social media influencer so she can quit her day job as an insurance adjuster. She meets Ellis Conrad and sparks start flying. Ellis hates all social media so Cherry holds off on telling Ellis about her dreams of being an influencer, as you can imagine this doesn’t go well.
I’ll be honest, the first half of this didn’t really blow me away. I like Beers’ books so while I was still entertained, this felt more or less like all of Beers’ books. Two women meet, there’s a pretty quick connection and then they’re all in love. However, she changed it up a little bit in this one.
The almost obligatory dark moment happens fairly early on and Cherry and Ellis spend the rest of the book working themselves back to each other. And I loved it! There’s some deception going on from almost the beginning on Cherry’s part so you know that’s going to blow up in her face. I was so happy to see that Beers didn’t wait until the 90% mark came and then try to rush them back together which would not have been satisfactory for me. While Cherry shoulders a lot of the blame, they both had things they needed to overcome and move on from to be together and I loved how they worked towards that on their own.
I definitely recommend this if you love a sweet, low angst romance.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Cherry Davis is trying to become a social media influencer so she can quit her day job as an insurance adjuster. She meets Ellis Conrad and sparks start flying. Ellis hates all social media so Cherry holds off on telling Ellis about her dreams of being an influencer, as you can imagine this doesn’t go well.
I’ll be honest, the first half of this didn’t really blow me away. I like Beers’ books so while I was still entertained, this felt more or less like all of Beers’ books. Two women meet, there’s a pretty quick connection and then they’re all in love. However, she changed it up a little bit in this one.
The almost obligatory dark moment happens fairly early on and Cherry and Ellis spend the rest of the book working themselves back to each other. And I loved it! There’s some deception going on from almost the beginning on Cherry’s part so you know that’s going to blow up in her face. I was so happy to see that Beers didn’t wait until the 90% mark came and then try to rush them back together which would not have been satisfactory for me. While Cherry shoulders a lot of the blame, they both had things they needed to overcome and move on from to be together and I loved how they worked towards that on their own.
I definitely recommend this if you love a sweet, low angst romance.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 8, 2022
Georgia Beers always gets ragged on in her reviews about her books being formulaic and "same ol' same ol'." I just read 'Cherry On Top' and I didn't want to put it down. I loved the chemistry of the main characters and I really felt them falling for one another. I thought the premise was unique about a public influencer contrasting with someone who is against social media. It was sweet and deep and probably enjoyed it more than most books this year.
August 4, 2022
Georgia Beers is one of my favourite authors in this genre, but I’m going to come right out and say this isn’t her best. Or maybe, more accurately, this one doesn’t suit my personal tastes.
Cherry is an upcoming influencer, already this is something I can’t stand. Especially all the fakeness she puts in. I do like that Beers writes about all the editing and glamourising of Cherry’s life. Cherry meets Ellis at her local diner, where Ellis is the manager. The chance meeting that comes after at Junebug Farms (way to go Georgia Beers to keep Junebug relevant and lovely) is what sets off what seems to be a very easy and fun relationship between two people who seem eager to commit. They happen to omit some parts of their life and I was interested in finding out how that would play out. I didn’t expect it like this, I was expecting something juicer, more angsty maybe. What bothered me most about this book was the language they used, even in text. These women are early thirties and they text like teenagers? I’m in the same age bracket but please smack me when I start texting or talking like this. I don’t and neither do my friends.
Overal this is a super low angst book and maybe because of that, and the superficial influencer stuff, it falls a little flat for me. Beers’ writing is always comfortable and good, but I can’t help thinking this feels a bit lacklustre and just going with the motions. In my opinion the later chapters, after the “lies” have come out are what redeems this book. It shows the depth I know Beer is capable of writing. While still keeping it fun and light. We just didn’t get enough of it in this book. Only 3.25 stars.
*ARC provided by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
Cherry is an upcoming influencer, already this is something I can’t stand. Especially all the fakeness she puts in. I do like that Beers writes about all the editing and glamourising of Cherry’s life. Cherry meets Ellis at her local diner, where Ellis is the manager. The chance meeting that comes after at Junebug Farms (way to go Georgia Beers to keep Junebug relevant and lovely) is what sets off what seems to be a very easy and fun relationship between two people who seem eager to commit. They happen to omit some parts of their life and I was interested in finding out how that would play out. I didn’t expect it like this, I was expecting something juicer, more angsty maybe. What bothered me most about this book was the language they used, even in text. These women are early thirties and they text like teenagers? I’m in the same age bracket but please smack me when I start texting or talking like this. I don’t and neither do my friends.
Overal this is a super low angst book and maybe because of that, and the superficial influencer stuff, it falls a little flat for me. Beers’ writing is always comfortable and good, but I can’t help thinking this feels a bit lacklustre and just going with the motions. In my opinion the later chapters, after the “lies” have come out are what redeems this book. It shows the depth I know Beer is capable of writing. While still keeping it fun and light. We just didn’t get enough of it in this book. Only 3.25 stars.
*ARC provided by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
August 21, 2022
When you sit down with a Georgia Beers book in your lap, you know you are in for a good read. Georgia Beers writes some excellent stories. Cherry on top, no exceptions... As the humour, the chemistry and a great storyline. It's a fantastic read, but I wouldn't have expected anything less.
The story, a romance, tells the story of Cherry Davis, an influencer and Ellis Conrad, an up-and-coming journalist. We see a romance blossom, ups and downs and roll along with the ‘laughs’ along the way..
I've given Cherry on top a 4 out of 5.
The story, a romance, tells the story of Cherry Davis, an influencer and Ellis Conrad, an up-and-coming journalist. We see a romance blossom, ups and downs and roll along with the ‘laughs’ along the way..
I've given Cherry on top a 4 out of 5.
August 6, 2022
Georgia Beers has written another delightful romance with her newest novel, Cherry on Top. Ms. Beers can always be relied on to write love stories that will melt your heart, and this book fits right into that category.
This story takes the reader into the world of social media and especially online influencers, something I have very little knowledge of. Cherry Davis wants to become a full-time online influencer so she can finally quit her dead end job in insurance. She works hard at her online profile and sometimes fudges the truth a bit to make herself appear more perfect to her followers. Ellis Conrad dreams of being an award winning journalist but is currently the manager of a small café in town so she can help keep her disabled sister in a good care home. There is definite chemistry when the two women meet, but then Ellis lands a writing job with 11th Commandment, a site that exposes politicians, local celebrities and online influencers that are less than truthful.
I have to admit I had a bit of trouble at first connecting with Cherry, probably because I didn’t understand what an influencer is and why or how she could make that into a full-time business. Once I got into the tale, though, I understood the motivations of both Cherry and Ellis. There is a fair amount of angst connected with both characters’ pasts that affects their actions with each other. While the setting is not as important in this character-driven story, the author did a good job describing where this tale takes place. The romance is every bit as lovely as you expect from a novel by Georgia Beers.
I enjoyed reading this love story, and even learned a few things about our online world. I recommend this book to all romance lovers.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
This story takes the reader into the world of social media and especially online influencers, something I have very little knowledge of. Cherry Davis wants to become a full-time online influencer so she can finally quit her dead end job in insurance. She works hard at her online profile and sometimes fudges the truth a bit to make herself appear more perfect to her followers. Ellis Conrad dreams of being an award winning journalist but is currently the manager of a small café in town so she can help keep her disabled sister in a good care home. There is definite chemistry when the two women meet, but then Ellis lands a writing job with 11th Commandment, a site that exposes politicians, local celebrities and online influencers that are less than truthful.
I have to admit I had a bit of trouble at first connecting with Cherry, probably because I didn’t understand what an influencer is and why or how she could make that into a full-time business. Once I got into the tale, though, I understood the motivations of both Cherry and Ellis. There is a fair amount of angst connected with both characters’ pasts that affects their actions with each other. While the setting is not as important in this character-driven story, the author did a good job describing where this tale takes place. The romance is every bit as lovely as you expect from a novel by Georgia Beers.
I enjoyed reading this love story, and even learned a few things about our online world. I recommend this book to all romance lovers.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
July 25, 2022
This is a story about newbie social media influencer Cherry Davis and restaurant and wanabe writer Ellis Conrad. Cherry works as an insurance adjuster by day and influencer at night. She alters her posts with filters and “lies” to get more followers. Ellis has a sister who is severely handicapped and works 3 jobs to help pay for her round the clock care. Everyday Cherry comes into the dinner we’re Ellis works and they meet up with instant attraction. Ellis has a side job of writing up investigative reports on false web postings, exposing shady businesses and influencers.
In general I avoid social media at all costs, except my friends on GR. I’ve liked all the Beers books I’ve read to date so I took a chance on this one, even though the subject matter was not at all what I want to read about. However, I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed this book. That is 100% due to Beers’ writing ability. Both MCs were real people and easy to relate to. And the side characters enhanced the book even more, especially Cherry’s BFF Shea. She had her head on straight was always there to help Cherry work out her problems.
The romance between these two MCs was very slow burn with lots of stops and starts. But once again failure to communicate reared it’s ugly head and they slid backwards.
I really enjoyed this book much to my surprise. And I recommend it to all of Georgia Beers many fans.
ARC received for an honest and voluntary review.
In general I avoid social media at all costs, except my friends on GR. I’ve liked all the Beers books I’ve read to date so I took a chance on this one, even though the subject matter was not at all what I want to read about. However, I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed this book. That is 100% due to Beers’ writing ability. Both MCs were real people and easy to relate to. And the side characters enhanced the book even more, especially Cherry’s BFF Shea. She had her head on straight was always there to help Cherry work out her problems.
The romance between these two MCs was very slow burn with lots of stops and starts. But once again failure to communicate reared it’s ugly head and they slid backwards.
I really enjoyed this book much to my surprise. And I recommend it to all of Georgia Beers many fans.
ARC received for an honest and voluntary review.
April 10, 2023
Lovely romance set in „deeper waters“
This is another lovely sweet romance by Georgia Beers with two female main characters who are just ordinary leading an ordinary life: I loved how Beers started gradually to introduce us and the both of them and then leads us deeper and deeper into their backgrounds and the revelation of the deeper waters of seemingly ordinary lives. I also liked the exploration of the pitfalls of social media - nothing is ever what it seems until it is.
The chemistry between the two was great and the twists of their new relationships were convincing. The cameo appearance of Junebug farms and the wonderful cat getting her forever home were welcome additions. I was a bit puzzled though how often Ellis emphasized that she has lost all her family and that she is alone when she has a perfectly lovely aunt present in her life.
Thanks to the Bold Strokes Books and netgalley for the ARC. The review is written voluntarily.
This is another lovely sweet romance by Georgia Beers with two female main characters who are just ordinary leading an ordinary life: I loved how Beers started gradually to introduce us and the both of them and then leads us deeper and deeper into their backgrounds and the revelation of the deeper waters of seemingly ordinary lives. I also liked the exploration of the pitfalls of social media - nothing is ever what it seems until it is.
The chemistry between the two was great and the twists of their new relationships were convincing. The cameo appearance of Junebug farms and the wonderful cat getting her forever home were welcome additions. I was a bit puzzled though how often Ellis emphasized that she has lost all her family and that she is alone when she has a perfectly lovely aunt present in her life.
Thanks to the Bold Strokes Books and netgalley for the ARC. The review is written voluntarily.
August 29, 2022
Cherry on Top by Georgia Beers, narrated by Lula Larkin
A hot romance with some food for thought
Georgia Beers is the author of more than forty Sapphic novels and a trailblazer in the genre. Her romances always portray multilayered characters, strong chemistry and sizzling sex scenes. Cherry on top is no exception.
Cherry Davis is a part-time influencer who dreams of growing her followers base, it doesn’t matter if on her way to cyber fame she presents a filtered version of herself. Ellis Conrad wants to achieve great things as a journalist but she’s stuck with a part-time job as a writer for a less than reputable online site. When both women meet, they feel an instant attraction that eventually develops into much more. But will they be able to find their happily ever after if there are secrets and almost irreconcilable differences between them?
Cherry on top is a hot romance with some food for thought. The title and cover suggest a levity that this book only partially has. Ms. Beers describes why social media is such a controversial issue and through her characters, she shows us its positives but especially its negatives. For example, how people try to present an ideal image of themselves that is far from reality, how this relates to a filtered body image they try to stage, and the serious matter of cyberbullying.
As usual, Ms. Beers creates strong chemistry between the mains and makes their instant attraction credible and hot. Cherry is a controversial character, she embodies and represents how some people use social media. She’s had a tough life and it shows in her struggles. Even though many people won’t agree with her choices, the magic of Georgia Beers’s writing will possibly make the readers understand and empathise with her inner conflict.
Reading this book is like watching a car going full speed towards a cliff, you know what’s coming but you can’t stop looking. Cherry’s life choices have inevitable consequences for her budding relationship with Ellis so much so that you’ll want to knock some sense into her. Ellis seems too good to be true but somehow Ms. Beers manages to make their relationship woes feel realistic. I always appreciate that in a novel.
The audiobook version is narrated by Lula Larkin who did a very good job. She brings the perfect mood and tone to each scene. Her performance of the deep emotional moments, as well as the lighter ones, is spot on. Ms. Larkin brings the story to life and makes the written words even better. 4.5 stars.
Length: 9 hrs and 7 mins
A hot romance with some food for thought
Georgia Beers is the author of more than forty Sapphic novels and a trailblazer in the genre. Her romances always portray multilayered characters, strong chemistry and sizzling sex scenes. Cherry on top is no exception.
Cherry Davis is a part-time influencer who dreams of growing her followers base, it doesn’t matter if on her way to cyber fame she presents a filtered version of herself. Ellis Conrad wants to achieve great things as a journalist but she’s stuck with a part-time job as a writer for a less than reputable online site. When both women meet, they feel an instant attraction that eventually develops into much more. But will they be able to find their happily ever after if there are secrets and almost irreconcilable differences between them?
Cherry on top is a hot romance with some food for thought. The title and cover suggest a levity that this book only partially has. Ms. Beers describes why social media is such a controversial issue and through her characters, she shows us its positives but especially its negatives. For example, how people try to present an ideal image of themselves that is far from reality, how this relates to a filtered body image they try to stage, and the serious matter of cyberbullying.
As usual, Ms. Beers creates strong chemistry between the mains and makes their instant attraction credible and hot. Cherry is a controversial character, she embodies and represents how some people use social media. She’s had a tough life and it shows in her struggles. Even though many people won’t agree with her choices, the magic of Georgia Beers’s writing will possibly make the readers understand and empathise with her inner conflict.
Reading this book is like watching a car going full speed towards a cliff, you know what’s coming but you can’t stop looking. Cherry’s life choices have inevitable consequences for her budding relationship with Ellis so much so that you’ll want to knock some sense into her. Ellis seems too good to be true but somehow Ms. Beers manages to make their relationship woes feel realistic. I always appreciate that in a novel.
The audiobook version is narrated by Lula Larkin who did a very good job. She brings the perfect mood and tone to each scene. Her performance of the deep emotional moments, as well as the lighter ones, is spot on. Ms. Larkin brings the story to life and makes the written words even better. 4.5 stars.
Length: 9 hrs and 7 mins
September 23, 2022
This is the first book by Georgia Beers I have read and honestly I cannot get over the fact, that her books never ever apperad in my Goodreads recommenations. What people write those algorithms and why have they no clue, what I really like? I mean I mainly read and review sapphic romance and Georgia Beers writes exactly what I like most! Light hearted, humorous yet spellbinding tales about characters that are easy to fall in love with. At least that is what this one is, anyway.
What I paticularly liked here is the fact, that even the obligatory "black moment" isn't overly dramatised: nobody gets run over by a bus, shot by a villain, kidnapped or otherwise tortured. Georgia Beers is kind with her characters but doesn't let them get off free with their errors of judgement either.
I find her writing very much to my liking. Both heroines here, Cherry and Ellis keep hiding a certain "grey area" of their lives, which doesn't really help building a base for mutual trust and that - of course - comes back to bite both in the ass. The plot twist that follows is absolutely ingenious, as it involves several side characters, that are written and built just as well as the two heroines.
For me this was a very enjoyable read and my favourite line: "Sweet baby Jesus on a skateboard" still makes me smile at random moments during my day :) I will certainly look at more of her work and Cherry on Top, that I read as paperback, has now joined my top favourite shelf.
What I paticularly liked here is the fact, that even the obligatory "black moment" isn't overly dramatised: nobody gets run over by a bus, shot by a villain, kidnapped or otherwise tortured. Georgia Beers is kind with her characters but doesn't let them get off free with their errors of judgement either.
I find her writing very much to my liking. Both heroines here, Cherry and Ellis keep hiding a certain "grey area" of their lives, which doesn't really help building a base for mutual trust and that - of course - comes back to bite both in the ass. The plot twist that follows is absolutely ingenious, as it involves several side characters, that are written and built just as well as the two heroines.
For me this was a very enjoyable read and my favourite line: "Sweet baby Jesus on a skateboard" still makes me smile at random moments during my day :) I will certainly look at more of her work and Cherry on Top, that I read as paperback, has now joined my top favourite shelf.
August 20, 2022
With the advent of social media, we can present ourselves in any way we see fit. Sometimes, it's as our authentic selves', other times, it's as the person we wish we were. Cherry Davis is working hard on her "brand" and it isn't always who she is. She uses filters and talks about her nonexistent girlfriend, but it's a means to an end.
Ellis Conrad is the manager at the Sunny Side Up diner and also an aspiring journalist. She loathes social media and has valid reasons for her feelings. As the two women get to know each other better and the feelings deepen, will their blossoming relationship survive when Cherry's social media status comes to light?
Georgia Beer has been one of my favorite authors since I began reading sapphic romances. Her characters are so engaging and relatable and book after book, I always find myself becoming more of a fan of her writing. This story is another that will go on my list of favorites. Ellis is such a wonderful character. I felt so much empathy for everything she has gone through, and no one could possibly deserve happiness more.
Cherry is a wonderful character as well, even though I wanted to shake her a few times but in the end I loved her just as much as I did Ellis. Cherry is someone who doesn't see herself as being enough and tries so hard to cultivate an image of what she wants to be rather than being content with the amazing person she is.
Cherry on Top is another wonderful story from one of the greatest writers in sapphic fiction. It made me smile but it also made me think about how we all present ourselves on social media. What makes social media unique, is that we can put the best version of ourselves out there for the world to see. It isn't always who we authentically are but more the person we aspire to be.
This is more than a romance with two incredibly charming and wonderful characters. It is a reminder that you shouldn't have to compromise who you are to fit into a box that society wants to put you into. Georgia Beers once again creates a couple with wonderful chemistry who will warm your heart.
An ARC was provided by Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Ellis Conrad is the manager at the Sunny Side Up diner and also an aspiring journalist. She loathes social media and has valid reasons for her feelings. As the two women get to know each other better and the feelings deepen, will their blossoming relationship survive when Cherry's social media status comes to light?
Georgia Beer has been one of my favorite authors since I began reading sapphic romances. Her characters are so engaging and relatable and book after book, I always find myself becoming more of a fan of her writing. This story is another that will go on my list of favorites. Ellis is such a wonderful character. I felt so much empathy for everything she has gone through, and no one could possibly deserve happiness more.
Cherry is a wonderful character as well, even though I wanted to shake her a few times but in the end I loved her just as much as I did Ellis. Cherry is someone who doesn't see herself as being enough and tries so hard to cultivate an image of what she wants to be rather than being content with the amazing person she is.
Cherry on Top is another wonderful story from one of the greatest writers in sapphic fiction. It made me smile but it also made me think about how we all present ourselves on social media. What makes social media unique, is that we can put the best version of ourselves out there for the world to see. It isn't always who we authentically are but more the person we aspire to be.
This is more than a romance with two incredibly charming and wonderful characters. It is a reminder that you shouldn't have to compromise who you are to fit into a box that society wants to put you into. Georgia Beers once again creates a couple with wonderful chemistry who will warm your heart.
An ARC was provided by Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
September 1, 2022
I really wanted to like this more than I did, but unfortunately it missed the mark for me but I truly think it was due to the influencer focus. I just really couldn't connect with Cherry at all. I really disliked her attitude towards influencing, and at times her unethical decision-making.
I think this is definitely one of those instances where it's me, not the book, that led to my lacklustre thoughts.
As always, I'm looking forward to reading what's next from Beers.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
I think this is definitely one of those instances where it's me, not the book, that led to my lacklustre thoughts.
As always, I'm looking forward to reading what's next from Beers.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2022
Cherry on Top follows the story of Cherry and Ellis who have differing opinions on social media. This difference of opinion begins with a small lie by omission that blooms into major problems for Cherry and Ellis as their relationship is just getting started. This caught my eye as I have been thinking about deleting a few of my own social media accounts and was curious how this could play out. While I enjoyed the book, the relationship drama was more about the lies by omission than social media usage itself. I would have liked them to have a bit more discussion on the social media front though. Ellis and Cherry were great MCs and I really liked both of their friend groups as well. They both are without family for the most part and seem to bond well together in the struggle with that. Cherry ends up having some old family issues come up and Ellis provides great support for her, even while they are in the middle of a disagreement. The dilemma over perceived perfection in influencers is brought up a few times and I think Cherry and Ellis handle it very well in the end. It was a great read and another hit for Georgia Beers.
August 6, 2022
This story was a surprise. It started very slow..a bit too slow for my liking. So I was concerned whether it would keep my interest. But then it started to build and build. Then the romance started and then a big probkem and then a big discovery and more problems. Oh my, how will this all resolve.
Beers tackles the ever growing media "influencers" gig and all the pluses and negatives involved.
Interesting emotional story with good characters, strong romance and plenty of problems. And a happy ending of course.
Beers tackles the ever growing media "influencers" gig and all the pluses and negatives involved.
Interesting emotional story with good characters, strong romance and plenty of problems. And a happy ending of course.
August 6, 2022
I always appreciate a good romance that follows “the formula” in which I can figure out early on in the story what’s going to happen, but I still end up enjoying it a lot, as it was the case with this story.
In this first standalone novel since her Swizzle Stick Romance trilogy, Georgia Beers brings us of the story of Cherry, a social media influencer (wannabe?) and Ellis who manages a diner by day and writes articles for a not so reputable website at night.
At first, I thought the social media influencer angle would make this book less interesting to me, being a social media hater myself :P but it ended up being one of the most interesting aspects of the story. The story develops at a good pace in a sweet romance with likeable main and secondary characters.
And as always after finishing a new Georgia Beers release, now to patiently wait for the next one :)
In this first standalone novel since her Swizzle Stick Romance trilogy, Georgia Beers brings us of the story of Cherry, a social media influencer (wannabe?) and Ellis who manages a diner by day and writes articles for a not so reputable website at night.
At first, I thought the social media influencer angle would make this book less interesting to me, being a social media hater myself :P but it ended up being one of the most interesting aspects of the story. The story develops at a good pace in a sweet romance with likeable main and secondary characters.
And as always after finishing a new Georgia Beers release, now to patiently wait for the next one :)
August 7, 2022
I wasn’t sure how much I would enjoy the latest release from Georgia Beers. I’m not a follower of social media influencers and Cherry Davis, one of the MCs in Cherry on Top is the epitome of the modern-day influencer. However, when she wasn’t playing it up for her online following, Cherry was quite likable. Add to the mix Ellis Conrad and an instant mutual attraction, and we get a sweetly romantic story that flows seamlessly as the two fall hard and fast.
Ellis is trying to make it as a journalist while working as a manager in hospitality to make ends meet. She has put her happiness aside to prioritise the care of her younger sister, but meeting Cherry changes everything for her. Cherry is working in insurance while trying to make it big as a social media influencer, and she is on the rise. She documents her life and lives for the thrill of new followers and free promotional goodies. After meeting Ellis and feeling unable to share her greatest ambition in life, Cherry finds herself hiding Cherry on Top from a woman who has hidden no part of herself from Cherry. Guilt, confusion and a lot of miscommunication lead to heartache and tears.
But, being a Georgia Beers novel, there is sure to be a happily ever after. Cherry on Top was written exceptionally well, introducing a topic that is so relevant in today’s society and affects people from all over the world. I liked who Cherry ended up becoming because it was the person she felt most comfortable portraying to the world.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through NetGalley for my honest review
Ellis is trying to make it as a journalist while working as a manager in hospitality to make ends meet. She has put her happiness aside to prioritise the care of her younger sister, but meeting Cherry changes everything for her. Cherry is working in insurance while trying to make it big as a social media influencer, and she is on the rise. She documents her life and lives for the thrill of new followers and free promotional goodies. After meeting Ellis and feeling unable to share her greatest ambition in life, Cherry finds herself hiding Cherry on Top from a woman who has hidden no part of herself from Cherry. Guilt, confusion and a lot of miscommunication lead to heartache and tears.
But, being a Georgia Beers novel, there is sure to be a happily ever after. Cherry on Top was written exceptionally well, introducing a topic that is so relevant in today’s society and affects people from all over the world. I liked who Cherry ended up becoming because it was the person she felt most comfortable portraying to the world.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books through NetGalley for my honest review
September 24, 2022
The concept of this story was an interesting one. Cherry, is an insurance adjuster by day and a social media influencer by night. Her goal is to obtain as many followers as possible through whatever means necessary. She’s okay with editing mistakes, blemishes, to make everything look perfect. She’s also content having her followers believe she has a girlfriend. When she meets Ellis, a diner manager by day and writer by night, she’s immediately smitten and the feeling is very much mutual. The problem is that the closer they become, Cherry continues to omit the influencer part of her life.
This is a good story but not nearly as good as other Georgia Beers books. Our main characters each have a lot of baggage but it’s handled well. I just found the first 60% to be a bit boring and I continued reading because I’m a huge GB fan. There isn’t a ton of drama and angst it’s more about accepting yourself and being honest about who you are.
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a good story but not nearly as good as other Georgia Beers books. Our main characters each have a lot of baggage but it’s handled well. I just found the first 60% to be a bit boring and I continued reading because I’m a huge GB fan. There isn’t a ton of drama and angst it’s more about accepting yourself and being honest about who you are.
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2022
Fabulous!
Cherry, an online influencer is just trying to enjoy life and turn her passion into a successful carer but not being in a relationship makes that more challenging, so she isn’t being her authentic self for her followers. When she meets Ellis one morning in her favourite diner, Cherry and Ellis finding a spark and suddenly both of them are longing for a different life.
This was such an adorable story, really relatable to modern day challenges we all face if we have any type of online presence and also in being successful in careers and building the life we think we want. I love how Georgia used both these things to explore two very different approaches using Cherry and Ellis’ lives and how intimately it meant we got to know them because we were getting the whole picture when they weren’t.
My heart broke for Ellis because the challenges she were facing were emotionally deep and to carry that around while working a job that you weren’t dreaming off is exhausting. When she totally fell for Cherry there were so many cute moments but it came with the sinking feeling that if she found out what Cherry’s online life was representing there would obviously be upset and confusion. There were other surprises, very unexpected ones throughout that added extra depth and mystery to Cherry and Ellis’ lives and potentially threatened any happiness they might find together.
Everything was so vivid and rich, it made the story deliciously moreish and I just couldn’t put it down. From the fantastic title, to the amazing characters, to the fantastic story, everything was perfect and I didn’t want it to end. Really hope there will be more from Cherry and Ellis in future, because they are too cute together and I haven’t had nearly enough of them!
Cherry, an online influencer is just trying to enjoy life and turn her passion into a successful carer but not being in a relationship makes that more challenging, so she isn’t being her authentic self for her followers. When she meets Ellis one morning in her favourite diner, Cherry and Ellis finding a spark and suddenly both of them are longing for a different life.
This was such an adorable story, really relatable to modern day challenges we all face if we have any type of online presence and also in being successful in careers and building the life we think we want. I love how Georgia used both these things to explore two very different approaches using Cherry and Ellis’ lives and how intimately it meant we got to know them because we were getting the whole picture when they weren’t.
My heart broke for Ellis because the challenges she were facing were emotionally deep and to carry that around while working a job that you weren’t dreaming off is exhausting. When she totally fell for Cherry there were so many cute moments but it came with the sinking feeling that if she found out what Cherry’s online life was representing there would obviously be upset and confusion. There were other surprises, very unexpected ones throughout that added extra depth and mystery to Cherry and Ellis’ lives and potentially threatened any happiness they might find together.
Everything was so vivid and rich, it made the story deliciously moreish and I just couldn’t put it down. From the fantastic title, to the amazing characters, to the fantastic story, everything was perfect and I didn’t want it to end. Really hope there will be more from Cherry and Ellis in future, because they are too cute together and I haven’t had nearly enough of them!
July 23, 2022
Cherry Davis dreams of being a successful social media influencer and has even failed to tell her followers that her relationship has ended. That little white lie is not a problem until she meets, and falls for, Ellis Conrad who has a deep-seated dislike of people who populate Cherry’s world. Cherry isn’t honest with Ellis at first and by the time she decides she has to tell her the truth Cherry realizes it’s too late.
Every reader will know that the conflict between the two main characters will be about Cherry having not told Ellis about her online persona. Even knowing what’s coming most readers will continue reading the book because the two main characters are engaging and well written. After Cherry finds out the truth, Beers rushes to the end by having Cherry change who she is too easily and without conflict thus giving up the dream she’s been working toward as if it had never been that important.
Fans of Beers will undoubtedly love this book, readers new to Beers will get a taste for how talented an author Beers is but should understand that this is not the best book Beers has written.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
Every reader will know that the conflict between the two main characters will be about Cherry having not told Ellis about her online persona. Even knowing what’s coming most readers will continue reading the book because the two main characters are engaging and well written. After Cherry finds out the truth, Beers rushes to the end by having Cherry change who she is too easily and without conflict thus giving up the dream she’s been working toward as if it had never been that important.
Fans of Beers will undoubtedly love this book, readers new to Beers will get a taste for how talented an author Beers is but should understand that this is not the best book Beers has written.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
July 17, 2022
I’m never disappointed with a Georgia Beers novel and this is no exception. Cherry Davis has a day job as an insurance adjuster but dreams of being a social media influencer. She is working on expanding her brand and isn’t above having a fake girlfriend because that is what the fans want. Cherry meets gorgeous Ellis Conrad at the diner that she manages. There are sparks, flirting and sweet beginnings of a romance. Ellis doesn’t love social media. She blames it in part for her sister now living in a care center. Karma is real and their different viewpoints are going to an obstacle.
I really enjoyed the simpleness of the two MCs. They have regular jobs, a few trusted friends and are trying to live good lives. There are other complications in the story but I won’t share everything. I like that when Cherry really needs someone it is Ellis she turns to and who comes running whether things are good between them or not. I liked Beers latest series more than this story because there was more humor. But this is still a good read worth recommending. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the simpleness of the two MCs. They have regular jobs, a few trusted friends and are trying to live good lives. There are other complications in the story but I won’t share everything. I like that when Cherry really needs someone it is Ellis she turns to and who comes running whether things are good between them or not. I liked Beers latest series more than this story because there was more humor. But this is still a good read worth recommending. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2022
So this is Georgia Beers' 32nd book and holy cow it shows, this woman CAN WRITE!
I knew when I first read "The secret poet" I found a gold mine of great reads, I've gone through them all since and was never disappointed.
"Cherry on top" covers a topic I haven't seen in sapphic novels before and I'm glad Beers chose to write about it. She mentions in the acknowledgments how she found it interesting to have two characters with opposing opinions on social media fall for each other and she mastered this, nailed it on the head actually.
Cherry and Ellis are meant to be and I loved their fateful meeting, never has love at first sight been described so beautifully. Both have good reasons for their takes on social media and influencers and I was anxiously waiting for the big blow up.
I think their reactions to this were real and brutally true to life, a little bit of heartache and breaking of trust but of course we got our happy ending, done through great dialouge and great character development.
Apart from the freaking phenomenal romance, the whole story was just great, I loved the supporting characters and the pacing of it all. 100% recommend, even if you're not into the socials like me, I still loved it and actually learned a little bit as well.
eARC received from the publisher via NetGalley
I knew when I first read "The secret poet" I found a gold mine of great reads, I've gone through them all since and was never disappointed.
"Cherry on top" covers a topic I haven't seen in sapphic novels before and I'm glad Beers chose to write about it. She mentions in the acknowledgments how she found it interesting to have two characters with opposing opinions on social media fall for each other and she mastered this, nailed it on the head actually.
Cherry and Ellis are meant to be and I loved their fateful meeting, never has love at first sight been described so beautifully. Both have good reasons for their takes on social media and influencers and I was anxiously waiting for the big blow up.
I think their reactions to this were real and brutally true to life, a little bit of heartache and breaking of trust but of course we got our happy ending, done through great dialouge and great character development.
Apart from the freaking phenomenal romance, the whole story was just great, I loved the supporting characters and the pacing of it all. 100% recommend, even if you're not into the socials like me, I still loved it and actually learned a little bit as well.
eARC received from the publisher via NetGalley
August 12, 2022
3/5 stars
I am a big fan of Georgia Beers’ books, so I was very excited when I saw this new release. You always know that you are going to get an enjoyable, easy to read and loveable story by Beers, and this one was really no different. At its heart, this was a more straightforward girl meets girl story. It felt refreshingly stripped back to what I love about romance, with the awkward meetings to the first date and getting to know each other stages. There was a lot of great chemistry between Cherry and Ellis, which made them a great pair to explore..
While I think this was a really enjoyable book overall with great romance and side characters, I have more complex feelings about the side stories and conflict of the book. While the characters’ relationships were great to explore, their jobs, motivations and overall the conflict between them felt much more surface level. Like Ellis wanting to be a serious journalist was mentioned and touched on in her side job (which was barely mentioned by the way), but it did feel like it was just there to set up the conflict rather than as well developed in its own right. I think Cherry’s career, motivations and friendships were more developed, but even still the conflict really could be seen from miles away. And talking about the conflict, I think it’s dealt with in a very quick and ‘under-the-rug’ kind of way. It’s like all the pieces for a greasy story were there, but it felt a bit rushed towards the end.
I am a big fan of Georgia Beers’ books, so I was very excited when I saw this new release. You always know that you are going to get an enjoyable, easy to read and loveable story by Beers, and this one was really no different. At its heart, this was a more straightforward girl meets girl story. It felt refreshingly stripped back to what I love about romance, with the awkward meetings to the first date and getting to know each other stages. There was a lot of great chemistry between Cherry and Ellis, which made them a great pair to explore..
While I think this was a really enjoyable book overall with great romance and side characters, I have more complex feelings about the side stories and conflict of the book. While the characters’ relationships were great to explore, their jobs, motivations and overall the conflict between them felt much more surface level. Like Ellis wanting to be a serious journalist was mentioned and touched on in her side job (which was barely mentioned by the way), but it did feel like it was just there to set up the conflict rather than as well developed in its own right. I think Cherry’s career, motivations and friendships were more developed, but even still the conflict really could be seen from miles away. And talking about the conflict, I think it’s dealt with in a very quick and ‘under-the-rug’ kind of way. It’s like all the pieces for a greasy story were there, but it felt a bit rushed towards the end.
November 18, 2022
4 stars. Cherry Davis is a part time influencer and she wants to turn into full time. She pretends to have a girlfriend on the socials since it gets her more follows. She meets Ellis Conrad and they both feel the spark. They both keep running into each other, as Elis works at the diner Cherry visits often. Cherry decides to not tell Ellis that she is trying to be an influencer since Elis does not like influencer. Otherwise, Cherry and Elis cannot help but keep spending time together.
I always enjoy Georgia Beers and I enjoyed this one. It was a solid book and I would definitely recommend this one. The dynamic between the characters was good, but there was one reason I did not give it 5 stars. The drama between the two characters was very predictable in this book. I enjoyed reading it and I read it pretty fast as it was an easy good read.
I always enjoy Georgia Beers and I enjoyed this one. It was a solid book and I would definitely recommend this one. The dynamic between the characters was good, but there was one reason I did not give it 5 stars. The drama between the two characters was very predictable in this book. I enjoyed reading it and I read it pretty fast as it was an easy good read.
August 20, 2022
I really love the book cover for 'Cherry on Top', I just think it looks beautiful. The typography , blurred lights back ground and the cherry that has dropped in some water.
When I seen what the book was about it piqued my interest. This is because it was following Cherry who wants to be a fulltime social media influencer and Elis , restaurant manager and start up write who views influences completely different.
This felt fresh , todays age , yet it was very maturely done. When I think 'Influencer' , I think very over the top young adult chatting about , sometimes obscure stuff. I don't mean to demoralize anyone that does that because people do enjoy it , even if its not my cup of tea, I can't dinner I have been trapped in the Tic Toc twilight zone. Georgia Beers wrote Cherry beautifully and the way she wrote her influencing was done very tastefully.
Instantaneously the chemistry between Elis and Cherry is off the roof. I mean ouch , that fire is hot, hot, hot. You can't help but to be routing for them. There journey of love is very believable and being to lovely women you as the reader cant help falling in love with them as well.
There is a little angst in the book, but once again Beers wrote this with a nice pace and nothing to dramatic or over the top , which I really enjoyed.
Its not secret that I am a massive Beers fan and once again I really enjoyed this book. It might not be everyone's cup of tea but if you take the time out to look as the writing , dialogue , you can really appreciate the talent that Beers brings to all her stories.
Thank you Netgallery for a ARC e-book copy for an honest review and thank you to the author Georgia Beers for approving this.
When I seen what the book was about it piqued my interest. This is because it was following Cherry who wants to be a fulltime social media influencer and Elis , restaurant manager and start up write who views influences completely different.
This felt fresh , todays age , yet it was very maturely done. When I think 'Influencer' , I think very over the top young adult chatting about , sometimes obscure stuff. I don't mean to demoralize anyone that does that because people do enjoy it , even if its not my cup of tea, I can't dinner I have been trapped in the Tic Toc twilight zone. Georgia Beers wrote Cherry beautifully and the way she wrote her influencing was done very tastefully.
Instantaneously the chemistry between Elis and Cherry is off the roof. I mean ouch , that fire is hot, hot, hot. You can't help but to be routing for them. There journey of love is very believable and being to lovely women you as the reader cant help falling in love with them as well.
There is a little angst in the book, but once again Beers wrote this with a nice pace and nothing to dramatic or over the top , which I really enjoyed.
Its not secret that I am a massive Beers fan and once again I really enjoyed this book. It might not be everyone's cup of tea but if you take the time out to look as the writing , dialogue , you can really appreciate the talent that Beers brings to all her stories.
Thank you Netgallery for a ARC e-book copy for an honest review and thank you to the author Georgia Beers for approving this.
July 29, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book happens slowly then all at once.
We are introduced to Cherry and Ellis and since their first interaction we can see the spark between them. Though individually (and on the surface) they may seem like totally opposites, when we go deeper we see they have this need of love and family in common. Cherry had a hard upbringing, and now wants to be a full time influencer, but she has an online persona different than her true self - and all the criticism regarding this was very relevant to our society nowadays. Ellis also had a hard time regarding her family, both parents are dead, and the only sister she has is in a care facility, alive but not really there; Ellis also loves to write and now got a gig with writing.... exposés. All the omission Cherry did got me on my seat ready to see how it would all blow up, but when it did it wasn't the way I expected. I was kinda mad that Ellis was so pissed at Cherry because of the omission (because Ellis has such strong views on social media and how it affects people) but she exposed one of Cherry's friends and it was ok (I know she left her gig after that. But that was an awful thing that happened!) It was good to show us nobody is perfect and things aren't black and white.
When I say this book happens slowly is because we see their relationship get built, we know there's a tension there with the omission, but when it all blows up there's a lot of things that happen at the same time and it's mostly at the last 7 chapters of the book.
All in all it was great reading this book, I loved the side characters as well. It's a quick read too.
This book happens slowly then all at once.
We are introduced to Cherry and Ellis and since their first interaction we can see the spark between them. Though individually (and on the surface) they may seem like totally opposites, when we go deeper we see they have this need of love and family in common. Cherry had a hard upbringing, and now wants to be a full time influencer, but she has an online persona different than her true self - and all the criticism regarding this was very relevant to our society nowadays. Ellis also had a hard time regarding her family, both parents are dead, and the only sister she has is in a care facility, alive but not really there; Ellis also loves to write and now got a gig with writing.... exposés. All the omission Cherry did got me on my seat ready to see how it would all blow up, but when it did it wasn't the way I expected. I was kinda mad that Ellis was so pissed at Cherry because of the omission (because Ellis has such strong views on social media and how it affects people) but she exposed one of Cherry's friends and it was ok (I know she left her gig after that. But that was an awful thing that happened!) It was good to show us nobody is perfect and things aren't black and white.
When I say this book happens slowly is because we see their relationship get built, we know there's a tension there with the omission, but when it all blows up there's a lot of things that happen at the same time and it's mostly at the last 7 chapters of the book.
All in all it was great reading this book, I loved the side characters as well. It's a quick read too.
December 19, 2022
This has been another case of a predictable formula in which, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear what is going to happen. Of course, when one of the protagonists skips important details at the beginning of a relationship, it is quite clear that sooner or later the thing is going to blow up in her face. It's quite disappointing for me when I sense that things are going to be like this. But I have to admit that this time, even knowing that it was going to happen, the misunderstanding and its subsequent resolution have been less frustrating than other times.
Cherry with her perfect facade, artificially perfected, is positive and optimistic, until she isn't. There is no such thing as perfection, things are not black or white. Ellis hates falsehood and social media has enough of that. So when she and Cherry start dating and Cherry, who wants to be an influencer, notices that Ellis is not very comfortable with publishing her life, secrets or half-truths begin.
The story is on the soft side, without much fanfare or exaggeration. The two female leads are quite level-headed and mature, so the drama is tolerable thanks to that. And on the whole it has been a pleasant story.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
Cherry with her perfect facade, artificially perfected, is positive and optimistic, until she isn't. There is no such thing as perfection, things are not black or white. Ellis hates falsehood and social media has enough of that. So when she and Cherry start dating and Cherry, who wants to be an influencer, notices that Ellis is not very comfortable with publishing her life, secrets or half-truths begin.
The story is on the soft side, without much fanfare or exaggeration. The two female leads are quite level-headed and mature, so the drama is tolerable thanks to that. And on the whole it has been a pleasant story.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
August 5, 2022
Loved the first chapter, a light frothy feel to it. The second chapter, from the second mains point of view, was well written, but it felt a bit written by someone that uses coffee shops and can imagine what it is like and is supportive of the staff role but not the manager role. (This could of course be unconscious bias on my part?)
Amaerican novels often age their characters in relation to school or college but as a UKer I am sometimes not sure what the ages folk are. This is no exception. The light banter and language suggests younger than the other info is hinting at so I’m a bit confused. It’s not an age gap, so the ages aren’t relevant but just pulling me out a bit. Gosh I’m being picky with this book! Me deffo, not the book! The book is as well written as any classic Georgia Beers. Not only are the conversations frothy but so too are the descriptions and internal thoughts. This makes for an enjoyable, smile on my face read. However, I know there will be conflict, and I’m expecting it, and I think that is what is making me picky about the immediate banter, and not buying in to the mains interaction (‘tho loving their interaction🤷🏻♀️because I know it is going to blow up. Now every romance that comes to mind has meet/ break up/make up so it's not like the plot arc is a shock, but what is so well done is the land mine that we suddenly see about 30% in. It’s not the one I expected from the blurb but it was kind of hidden in plain sight and suddenly we have the spectre of conflict that was needed and missing. 40% in and the spectre of the BIG OMISSION is preventing me enjoying the burgeoning relationship, and if I’m totally honest it is impacting my enjoyment of the really well crafted sentences and pithy banter that Beers has put together. I am pretty sure once it all works out I will reread this quickly so I can enjoy how well written the chat is. Well the plot bomb has gone off, with another unexpected one. This is so well written. The section in the storage unit I found so well balanced I was emotional reading it.
Well, I write reviews as I’m reading books. I’ve done it with this too but it hasn’t really worked because the book is the whole thing not the first part where I was really picky, or the second part where the whole “doesn’t just tell her” arc, so beloved by many writers, not so much by this reader, happened but actually the complete piece and it is a Classic Beers! It gave me all the feels, as the young things don’t say!
Amaerican novels often age their characters in relation to school or college but as a UKer I am sometimes not sure what the ages folk are. This is no exception. The light banter and language suggests younger than the other info is hinting at so I’m a bit confused. It’s not an age gap, so the ages aren’t relevant but just pulling me out a bit. Gosh I’m being picky with this book! Me deffo, not the book! The book is as well written as any classic Georgia Beers. Not only are the conversations frothy but so too are the descriptions and internal thoughts. This makes for an enjoyable, smile on my face read. However, I know there will be conflict, and I’m expecting it, and I think that is what is making me picky about the immediate banter, and not buying in to the mains interaction (‘tho loving their interaction🤷🏻♀️because I know it is going to blow up. Now every romance that comes to mind has meet/ break up/make up so it's not like the plot arc is a shock, but what is so well done is the land mine that we suddenly see about 30% in. It’s not the one I expected from the blurb but it was kind of hidden in plain sight and suddenly we have the spectre of conflict that was needed and missing. 40% in and the spectre of the BIG OMISSION is preventing me enjoying the burgeoning relationship, and if I’m totally honest it is impacting my enjoyment of the really well crafted sentences and pithy banter that Beers has put together. I am pretty sure once it all works out I will reread this quickly so I can enjoy how well written the chat is. Well the plot bomb has gone off, with another unexpected one. This is so well written. The section in the storage unit I found so well balanced I was emotional reading it.
Well, I write reviews as I’m reading books. I’ve done it with this too but it hasn’t really worked because the book is the whole thing not the first part where I was really picky, or the second part where the whole “doesn’t just tell her” arc, so beloved by many writers, not so much by this reader, happened but actually the complete piece and it is a Classic Beers! It gave me all the feels, as the young things don’t say!
August 16, 2022
Loved it. Great story about what happens when you combine what it means to be an influencer on social media to what happens when real life situations come in to play. I liked that there's not one story being told here, but several interwoven together to make a cohesive book. The relationship between Cherry the influencer and Ellis the restaurant manager was sweet and cute from the beginning, I liked that they started out as friends first before becoming lovers. This was kind of a slow burn romance that built throughout this story. There is quite a bit of drama and family angst for both main characters. The supporting characters were well written and I loved the addition of Nuggets the cat he had such a beautiful personality and his interactions with Ellis and Cherry were such sweet moments. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family and I look forward to what's next from this author.
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