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Work In Progress
Dear God, Can I please return her?
I know I asked for a hot, amazing woman to shake things up, but this is not what I had in mind. Not even close.
Sure, she's a high-flying executive with mesmerizing eyes that hypnotize me, killer legs, wild hair –
Ugh.
Anyway, Reagan and I are polar opposites.
First of all – she is New York, I am small-town Harmon Valley.
She is also bossy, career-obsessed, and oh, a royal pain in my ass.
Now you’re telling me that we need to live AND work together under one roof for two months?
This is going to be a disaster.
Work in Progress is a light-hearted lesbian romantic comedy between two women from different worlds with plenty of laughs, chemistry, and a healthy dose of forced proximity.
I know I asked for a hot, amazing woman to shake things up, but this is not what I had in mind. Not even close.
Sure, she's a high-flying executive with mesmerizing eyes that hypnotize me, killer legs, wild hair –
Ugh.
Anyway, Reagan and I are polar opposites.
First of all – she is New York, I am small-town Harmon Valley.
She is also bossy, career-obsessed, and oh, a royal pain in my ass.
Now you’re telling me that we need to live AND work together under one roof for two months?
This is going to be a disaster.
Work in Progress is a light-hearted lesbian romantic comedy between two women from different worlds with plenty of laughs, chemistry, and a healthy dose of forced proximity.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 18, 2022
171 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Lucas
9 books103 followersOlivia lives by the ocean with her partner and a crew of spirited pets who keep life interesting. She’s happiest near the beach or on a trail, loves wine nights with friends, and has a soft spot for truly terrible reality TV. She finds humor in almost everything, believes in the power of a good love story, and occasionally does nothing at all—with great enthusiasm.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 6, 2022
This was a whim that didn't work out. I just got tired of trying to reconcile things that didn't make sense. Reagan is supposedly an in-charge and driven business woman who gets things done and rises despite opposition. So why is she putting up with being stuck in a disgusting room with things that don't work and cobwebs in the corners? She owns this joint. So putting up with that treatment is weak and stupid. I think I was done when her foot dropped through the stairs. This building she's supposedly renovating to sell is a piece of crap. And I'd see that as a setup for her to fail by her boss, only that'd take him being more than a cardboard cutout of a sexist imbecile. Or author manipulation, which come to think of it, is actually pretty likely.
Because the whole thing smacks of author manipulation. Reagan putting up with antagonistic nonsense. Naomi . . . okay, everything about Naomi, really, including the requisite friends group.
So yeah, one star. It's a light romcom, with a lot of farce, so I'm probably taking it more seriously than intended. I just couldn't roll with the flow, though, so I'm dropping out.
Because the whole thing smacks of author manipulation. Reagan putting up with antagonistic nonsense. Naomi . . . okay, everything about Naomi, really, including the requisite friends group.
So yeah, one star. It's a light romcom, with a lot of farce, so I'm probably taking it more seriously than intended. I just couldn't roll with the flow, though, so I'm dropping out.
September 2, 2022
4 - 4,5 ⭐️
Entertaining book with many hilarious moments in it. Had to laugh a lot 😃 which was a bonus.
Entertaining book with many hilarious moments in it. Had to laugh a lot 😃 which was a bonus.
August 29, 2022
Not everyone will enjoy this book.
It’s supposed to be witty and funny, it is, but could be better. With alternating first person POV chapters between our MCs Naomi and Reagan, it gets a bit too much at times. Naomi’s chapters are funnier than Reagan’s, although neither are really up to my liking. There is something in the writing that is missing for me, I can’t really get into it. The writing pulls me out of the story more often than it transports me into this book.
This just isn’t the book for me, it’s a shame because a book with some humour would be right up my alley.
It’s supposed to be witty and funny, it is, but could be better. With alternating first person POV chapters between our MCs Naomi and Reagan, it gets a bit too much at times. Naomi’s chapters are funnier than Reagan’s, although neither are really up to my liking. There is something in the writing that is missing for me, I can’t really get into it. The writing pulls me out of the story more often than it transports me into this book.
This just isn’t the book for me, it’s a shame because a book with some humour would be right up my alley.
April 16, 2024
Another laugh-a-minute book by Olivia Lucas. So, you have a solid plot line with changeable weather mixed in with a group of borderline eccentric characters, a couple of loveable pets, a physical attraction that won’t be denied and an almost derailed HEA. Colour it with all sorts of funnies, from sarcasm to slapstick, and it will lift your spirits. Oh, and don’t read it in a public place.
September 12, 2023
Quite difficult to read, verbose. Could have done with a good editor. Enjoyed first quarter and last quarter. Skip read the middle and didn’t seem to miss anything. Was it a comic novel?
August 30, 2022
3.75⭐️
January 1, 2024
3 ★ | Naomi got increasingly annoying as the book went on. She just grated on me CONTINUOUSLY. Like why was she so annoying? Enemies to lovers. Rich / Poor. A somewhat enjoyable and light romcom. Couldn’t rate higher when one of the MCs just annoyed the hell out of me especially as it was predominantly her POV.
August 10, 2022
The story is told from the view of both MCs and I think, that you get to read more Naomi chapters which is cool because she’s the funnier one. 😄
Overall: 3,5 stars
(Might be considered as a little spoiler)
I’d say, it’s a typical enemies to lovers kind of story, of course with something else happening after they’ve become lovers, so they part ways, but get back together in the end, which was a little predictable, can’t lie about that. Their breakup could’ve been avoided, if Reagan had told Naomi why she had to leave.
Besides that, I really liked the characters, even Hunter as the “villain” of the story (really, not literally, don’t get the wrong idea 😄). The dialogues are funny and there’s no unnecessary narrative.
Even though I don’t really like first POV books (call me weird, but some things just sound cringe to me written in first POV), it’s fun and easy to read, and would recommend it.
Overall: 3,5 stars
(Might be considered as a little spoiler)
I’d say, it’s a typical enemies to lovers kind of story, of course with something else happening after they’ve become lovers, so they part ways, but get back together in the end, which was a little predictable, can’t lie about that. Their breakup could’ve been avoided, if Reagan had told Naomi why she had to leave.
Besides that, I really liked the characters, even Hunter as the “villain” of the story (really, not literally, don’t get the wrong idea 😄). The dialogues are funny and there’s no unnecessary narrative.
Even though I don’t really like first POV books (call me weird, but some things just sound cringe to me written in first POV), it’s fun and easy to read, and would recommend it.
March 26, 2023
Great read
Life takes a turn and priorities often change. Our journey often shifts when it comes to following our heart and when we let ourselves we just might find a HEA.
Life takes a turn and priorities often change. Our journey often shifts when it comes to following our heart and when we let ourselves we just might find a HEA.
August 16, 2023
ugh this was so good !!!!
August 11, 2022
Hilarious read. Very likable characters and easy to read from start to finish. Will definitely read more of this author's work. A pleasant change from all the heavy stuff Ive been reading lately.
August 5, 2022
A fun read
This is a pretty good enemies to lovers type story. The two main characters Naomi and Reagan have what can only be described as a rocky beginning but enough forced time together and they slowly start to tolerate and even like each other.
This is a pretty good enemies to lovers type story. The two main characters Naomi and Reagan have what can only be described as a rocky beginning but enough forced time together and they slowly start to tolerate and even like each other.
July 28, 2025
3/5 - sapphic, contemporary, enemies to lovers, small town, mc has dog. Pretty good, but a bit disappointing compared to the other works I’ve read from Lucas. There is some decent humor to be found, but this book felt more like some Hallmark-type romcom and was rather forgettable in the end. The third act conflict was easy to see coming, but I felt like it could have been resolved with an incredibly simple conversation and was frustratingly contrived.
August 16, 2022
A great book
I loved this book. It had me laughing out loud a few times. Definitely recommend. I even read out loud to my wife who also laughed. It was amazing.
I loved this book. It had me laughing out loud a few times. Definitely recommend. I even read out loud to my wife who also laughed. It was amazing.
July 22, 2022
Loved this book! Author fast becoming a favourite. Guaranteed laughs and romance!
December 30, 2022
I can't stop smiling. It's rare that a book makes me grin from ear-to-ear, but that's where I find myself on this chilly winter morning. I laughed aloud so often that I worried I would wake my partner sleeping in the next room.
I won't say this is a perfect novel. After all, it desperately needs editing. There are misspellings, grammar, and syntax issues throughout. I wish I could edit it myself, because it deserves the attention. This is the highest praise I can give a novel with these issues. The plot and characters are so great I was able to look beyond the obvious shortcomings and enjoy it.
My only other complaint is that the pace of the novel is quite quick despite its page count. Some scenes need a bit of breathing room. I felt like I was living in my partner's ADHD brain for a bit, because there's just so much going on at all times that it can be overwhelming. But, again, this is an issue an editor would be able to assist with.
The rest of this novel? An absolute joy. The humor won't be for everyone, but it was definitely FOR me. It's snarky and biting. And I really enjoyed the dialogue. I'm usually critical of dialogue because so much of what is written sounds robotic. Here, sentences are fragmented and chaotic - just like real conversation. It breathes life into scenes.
And the romance? I felt like the bubble of love the main characters existed in stretched out to me. It was a spell I was not eager to break - something almost tangible in the way love grips two people and won't let go. I especially enjoyed the pantry scene. I almost doubled over in tears of laughter. And, I loved the soup scene as it's very similar to a predicament between my partner and I and a particular batch of cornbread. I fell over myself to tell her it was good when it definitely wasn't and she caught me in the act. Guilty as charged!
I really wish this story was edited. I know I'm beating a dead horse, but that is because in my heart this is a 5-Star book. But, for today, this is a 4-star book that I'm strongly recommending.
I won't say this is a perfect novel. After all, it desperately needs editing. There are misspellings, grammar, and syntax issues throughout. I wish I could edit it myself, because it deserves the attention. This is the highest praise I can give a novel with these issues. The plot and characters are so great I was able to look beyond the obvious shortcomings and enjoy it.
My only other complaint is that the pace of the novel is quite quick despite its page count. Some scenes need a bit of breathing room. I felt like I was living in my partner's ADHD brain for a bit, because there's just so much going on at all times that it can be overwhelming. But, again, this is an issue an editor would be able to assist with.
The rest of this novel? An absolute joy. The humor won't be for everyone, but it was definitely FOR me. It's snarky and biting. And I really enjoyed the dialogue. I'm usually critical of dialogue because so much of what is written sounds robotic. Here, sentences are fragmented and chaotic - just like real conversation. It breathes life into scenes.
And the romance? I felt like the bubble of love the main characters existed in stretched out to me. It was a spell I was not eager to break - something almost tangible in the way love grips two people and won't let go. I especially enjoyed the pantry scene. I almost doubled over in tears of laughter. And, I loved the soup scene as it's very similar to a predicament between my partner and I and a particular batch of cornbread. I fell over myself to tell her it was good when it definitely wasn't and she caught me in the act. Guilty as charged!
I really wish this story was edited. I know I'm beating a dead horse, but that is because in my heart this is a 5-Star book. But, for today, this is a 4-star book that I'm strongly recommending.
November 25, 2022
Madcap cast of characters
This is the first novel by Olivia Lucas I’ve read. I enjoyed it and would choose her works again.
Lucas presents her main characters, Naomi and Reagan, with both serious and humorous sides and creates a comical, quirky “chosen” family embracing Naomi at the Brior Inn in upstate New York.
Lucas creates a few scenes that reminded me of Janet Evanovich’s outrageously comical writing; other interactions and incidents are humorous but Lucas sets them up less obviously so sometimes the joke calls for a second take.
Lucas, like her novel, impressed me as a work in progress. I look forward to reading her later books to see how she’s developing as an author. I sense she could become one of my favorites.
This is the first novel by Olivia Lucas I’ve read. I enjoyed it and would choose her works again.
Lucas presents her main characters, Naomi and Reagan, with both serious and humorous sides and creates a comical, quirky “chosen” family embracing Naomi at the Brior Inn in upstate New York.
Lucas creates a few scenes that reminded me of Janet Evanovich’s outrageously comical writing; other interactions and incidents are humorous but Lucas sets them up less obviously so sometimes the joke calls for a second take.
Lucas, like her novel, impressed me as a work in progress. I look forward to reading her later books to see how she’s developing as an author. I sense she could become one of my favorites.
December 13, 2024
Storylines are good
I enjoy this author's books as a whole. The plots aren't unique but they're engaging and enjoyable. The supporting characters are often more enjoyable than the main characters. There's usually relatable humor and characters in the books and this is one is no different. Several points of humor and funny things happen.
What continues to stand out are the editing errors.
In this one there's mention of Transformers. "Decepticons" is entered in as Deceptions... Many letters left off of words here and there. I have read 3 books of hers so far and this is in ALL of her books. Please Edit, multiple Sapphic Groups have readers that do this free. Please utilize bc they're distracting.
Overall, worth the read.
I enjoy this author's books as a whole. The plots aren't unique but they're engaging and enjoyable. The supporting characters are often more enjoyable than the main characters. There's usually relatable humor and characters in the books and this is one is no different. Several points of humor and funny things happen.
What continues to stand out are the editing errors.
In this one there's mention of Transformers. "Decepticons" is entered in as Deceptions... Many letters left off of words here and there. I have read 3 books of hers so far and this is in ALL of her books. Please Edit, multiple Sapphic Groups have readers that do this free. Please utilize bc they're distracting.
Overall, worth the read.
November 22, 2022
love finds a way …
Naomi wasn’t seeking love and Reagan was too driven to forge ahead in her career. Naomi is comfortable in a small, accepting town and Reagan is from a frenetic big city. Finding each other was serendipitous … love was present during the relationship dance. Strong characters were relatable and it was a gift watching them grow. The secondary characters were crucial to the plot. I was continually annoyed by Hunter. She’s an interesting character. A very good read that I didn’t want to end. I highly and enthusiastically recommend this and any other works by Olivia Lucas. Thank you Peace
Naomi wasn’t seeking love and Reagan was too driven to forge ahead in her career. Naomi is comfortable in a small, accepting town and Reagan is from a frenetic big city. Finding each other was serendipitous … love was present during the relationship dance. Strong characters were relatable and it was a gift watching them grow. The secondary characters were crucial to the plot. I was continually annoyed by Hunter. She’s an interesting character. A very good read that I didn’t want to end. I highly and enthusiastically recommend this and any other works by Olivia Lucas. Thank you Peace
September 14, 2022
This is an enemies to lovers tale set amidst the remodel of a rundown inn. Naomi presents as a little immature while Reagan is emotionally isolated. The story arc is confusing at times and there are a few plot holes. These primarily revolve around Reagan's job with the big city corporate owners. That aside, there are several amusing scenes and Naomi often has an unusual and entertaining view of the world around her. There is a decent supporting cast that provides insights into the main characters. The story ends with the anticipated HEA and a gallery showing of Naomi's nude paintings.
April 16, 2024
F-u-n-n-y!
Another laugh-a-minute book by Olivia Lucas. So, you have a solid plot line with changeable weather mixed in with a group of borderline eccentric characters, a couple of loveable pets, a physical attraction that won’t be denied and an almost derailed HEA. Colour it with all sorts of funnies, from sarcasm to slapstick, and it will lift your spirits. Oh, and don’t read it in a public place.
Another laugh-a-minute book by Olivia Lucas. So, you have a solid plot line with changeable weather mixed in with a group of borderline eccentric characters, a couple of loveable pets, a physical attraction that won’t be denied and an almost derailed HEA. Colour it with all sorts of funnies, from sarcasm to slapstick, and it will lift your spirits. Oh, and don’t read it in a public place.
August 16, 2022
Laugh out loud material in the best possible way!
Excellent novel, first I've read of Lucas. Most definitely not my last!
Incredibly funny, witty and entertaining.
Brilliant moments and a fabulous HEA
A definite must read!
Already downloading more from Lucas and excited to keep reading!
Excellent novel, first I've read of Lucas. Most definitely not my last!
Incredibly funny, witty and entertaining.
Brilliant moments and a fabulous HEA
A definite must read!
Already downloading more from Lucas and excited to keep reading!
October 9, 2022
fun read
I enjoyed the character interactions, including friends & neighbors. Makes one wish small towns could really be so cohesive. The main characters are different enough to make the story interesting. Too many grammatical errors, however. I don’t deduct points, but it is irritating & slows down reading.
I enjoyed the character interactions, including friends & neighbors. Makes one wish small towns could really be so cohesive. The main characters are different enough to make the story interesting. Too many grammatical errors, however. I don’t deduct points, but it is irritating & slows down reading.
June 24, 2023
Phenomenal!
Rags to riches and pursuing a high rise career, then tumbling into the back of beyond. There meeting the headstrong beautiful artist that makes you question everything you ever thought you wanted. This setting makes for a phenomenal love story with relatable characters and witty humor.
Rags to riches and pursuing a high rise career, then tumbling into the back of beyond. There meeting the headstrong beautiful artist that makes you question everything you ever thought you wanted. This setting makes for a phenomenal love story with relatable characters and witty humor.
May 29, 2024
Super Cute
Loved this book, it had the appropriate amount of push and pull between characters. It had of course the HEA. BUT I would love to maybe read a book about how Kate and Avery get together after of course denying their feelings for each other. Just thinking out loud in a review hoping the author perhaps reads them or has already started this book….
Loved this book, it had the appropriate amount of push and pull between characters. It had of course the HEA. BUT I would love to maybe read a book about how Kate and Avery get together after of course denying their feelings for each other. Just thinking out loud in a review hoping the author perhaps reads them or has already started this book….
January 4, 2025
I don’t generally like this chatty style of writing, but this was surprisingly engaging and charming. I enjoyed the beginning but it skipped very quickly from enemies to insta love, a lot of inconsistencies and pacing issues as well. The ending was fun and it was an okay read, but could use some developmental editing and is not the style for everyone
October 16, 2022
cute story
The store starts out different than your typical romance and had some really funny parts. But the whole book is set in the USA so the characters shouldn’t be speaking British.
The store starts out different than your typical romance and had some really funny parts. But the whole book is set in the USA so the characters shouldn’t be speaking British.
May 15, 2023
title reflects the book
The book was a nice story but using Australian/British words when the characters are supposed to be in New York was confusing. The book also needs editing a lot of grammatical errors.
The book was a nice story but using Australian/British words when the characters are supposed to be in New York was confusing. The book also needs editing a lot of grammatical errors.
July 13, 2024
Slowww start
I took forever to get into this book, I had to make myself keep reading through the first half as I just couldn’t get the story straight. It picked up after that and there is an HEA. So, there’s that.
I took forever to get into this book, I had to make myself keep reading through the first half as I just couldn’t get the story straight. It picked up after that and there is an HEA. So, there’s that.
July 21, 2024
I adore the way Olivia Lucas can get me to fall in love with her characters. I loved this book. The characters were so well written and I felt every emotion as if it was my own. I love a book that can make me laugh, cry and swoon and this one definitely did that.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews