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Heartlanders #1
Things I Should Have Said
When an introverted artist catches feelings for an extroverted executive, exactly how sweaty, awkward and embarrassingly painful will her fall be? (Spoiler alert: very.)
Skye Canton is focused on her goals: Make it as an artist in New York, quit her day job, finally prove herself to her family back in Oklahoma. Noise canceling headphones on, brush in hand, #livingherbestintrovertlife.
All of which gets blown to bits by a gorgeous, smart, magnetic Texas boy turned Manhattan man-about-town.
Matthew James is full of surprises, tempting Skye to give in and reveal her own secrets. Her bestie, her sisters and even her grumpy cat are on TeamMatt. But he doesn’t fit into her well-drawn plans.
Plus, he’s so smooth and so hot…he reminds her of her past, where she learned the hard way - when there’s this much heat, she’s bound to get burned.
This standalone is a smart, steamy, full-length lovers to enemies to lovers, contemporary romance. It’s a reverse grumpy-sunshine with surprise twists, laugh-out-loud banter, a happily ever after, and a sisters group text thread you’ll wish you could join. This is the first book in the Heartlanders Series.
Skye Canton is focused on her goals: Make it as an artist in New York, quit her day job, finally prove herself to her family back in Oklahoma. Noise canceling headphones on, brush in hand, #livingherbestintrovertlife.
All of which gets blown to bits by a gorgeous, smart, magnetic Texas boy turned Manhattan man-about-town.
Matthew James is full of surprises, tempting Skye to give in and reveal her own secrets. Her bestie, her sisters and even her grumpy cat are on TeamMatt. But he doesn’t fit into her well-drawn plans.
Plus, he’s so smooth and so hot…he reminds her of her past, where she learned the hard way - when there’s this much heat, she’s bound to get burned.
This standalone is a smart, steamy, full-length lovers to enemies to lovers, contemporary romance. It’s a reverse grumpy-sunshine with surprise twists, laugh-out-loud banter, a happily ever after, and a sisters group text thread you’ll wish you could join. This is the first book in the Heartlanders Series.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 2, 2022
1052 people are currently reading
2988 people want to read
About the author
Kelsey Humphreys
12 books240 followers“If you don’t laugh out loud or get choked up, I’ve failed.” After tens of millions of video views, comedian Kelsey Humphreys has captured her hilarious, heart-warming characters in book form. Her steamy stories dig into deep truths about love, identity, purpose and family. When she’s not writing romance or creating comedy videos, she is reading, running, mom-ming and wife-ing in Oklahoma. She also writes fantasy romance under the pen name Kay Humphreys.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 319 reviews
November 15, 2022
I’m gonna be fr. I almost stopped reading the book with 30 pages left because I had reached my limit dealing with Skye. I feel bad because the reviews all seemed to really love this book but this one did not click for me.
I didn’t like Skye. I understand that she’s an introvert but that girl angered me to no end. Being an introvert does not excuse someone for being rude, short-tempered, and a bad listener who jumps to every worst possible conclusion??? The character’s anxiety was valid, her fears were very real, but MY GOD. The amount of times she snapped and said something out of pocket to someone who was trying to help her simply because she couldn’t understand her own feelings… not for me, sorry. I don’t understand why her introverted-ness = her being careless with everyone else’s feelings.
I loved all of the other characters. I thought they were wonderful, especially Matt. But Skye felt like that toxic friend that would snap at you and drag you to filth then push you to not be mad at her because she’s “going through something.” I know she made up for everything in the end but damn, I almost didn’t want it to work out because I felt like Matt deserved better.
I didn’t like Skye. I understand that she’s an introvert but that girl angered me to no end. Being an introvert does not excuse someone for being rude, short-tempered, and a bad listener who jumps to every worst possible conclusion??? The character’s anxiety was valid, her fears were very real, but MY GOD. The amount of times she snapped and said something out of pocket to someone who was trying to help her simply because she couldn’t understand her own feelings… not for me, sorry. I don’t understand why her introverted-ness = her being careless with everyone else’s feelings.
I loved all of the other characters. I thought they were wonderful, especially Matt. But Skye felt like that toxic friend that would snap at you and drag you to filth then push you to not be mad at her because she’s “going through something.” I know she made up for everything in the end but damn, I almost didn’t want it to work out because I felt like Matt deserved better.
November 9, 2022
Okay enough read. Thought I was gonna give it a 2.5 (rounded to 3), but then, no…2 is all I can do
•Skye keeps flipping back & forth calling him Matt or Matthew, and I’m not sure why. Like literally in the same paragraph.
•70% in & FINALLY a little spice: “he takes me with his hand” what? And then wipes his fingers on her dress. Ew! Really?
•Skye is just an immature bitch. Not introverted. Like every response is short & mean spirited, and then she gets mad bc Matt (or Matthew?) doesn’t tell her his company is her family’s big rival. How would he know? She’s only said she paints.
•Skye also forces one of her family’s employees to be her fake date, and then makes fun of him for being awkward. Um hello, that’s called sexual harassment! If my boss made me fake date someone in their family I’d probably be awkward too!
•This girl also regularly runs 10+ miles. Sometimes 12-15. Like 1/2 marathons on a weekly basis. Wtf?
•it’s supposed to be introvert/extrovert, but yeah, no. Skye is not an introvert so much as someone with some serious anxiety who can’t talk to anyone, even in a group of two. She jumps to random conclusions based on nothing! Supposedly she’s 27 but I think my 14 year old is more well adjusted & able to communicate than this crazy bitch!
•I know all romances have a happily ever after, and I’m okay with that. But this felt so…wrong? Like Skye goes crazy pants on Matt/hew, doesn’t speak with him for a month, then jumps in his arms & is like “I love you!” And he was like, “I’ve missed you so much! So much I never tried to call or text or anything!” And she was like “same!” And then they’re back together? And getting engaged 8 months later? Like I’m up for the fantasy, but this was bizarre.
•Skye keeps flipping back & forth calling him Matt or Matthew, and I’m not sure why. Like literally in the same paragraph.
•70% in & FINALLY a little spice: “he takes me with his hand” what? And then wipes his fingers on her dress. Ew! Really?
•Skye is just an immature bitch. Not introverted. Like every response is short & mean spirited, and then she gets mad bc Matt (or Matthew?) doesn’t tell her his company is her family’s big rival. How would he know? She’s only said she paints.
•Skye also forces one of her family’s employees to be her fake date, and then makes fun of him for being awkward. Um hello, that’s called sexual harassment! If my boss made me fake date someone in their family I’d probably be awkward too!
•This girl also regularly runs 10+ miles. Sometimes 12-15. Like 1/2 marathons on a weekly basis. Wtf?
•it’s supposed to be introvert/extrovert, but yeah, no. Skye is not an introvert so much as someone with some serious anxiety who can’t talk to anyone, even in a group of two. She jumps to random conclusions based on nothing! Supposedly she’s 27 but I think my 14 year old is more well adjusted & able to communicate than this crazy bitch!
•I know all romances have a happily ever after, and I’m okay with that. But this felt so…wrong? Like Skye goes crazy pants on Matt/hew, doesn’t speak with him for a month, then jumps in his arms & is like “I love you!” And he was like, “I’ve missed you so much! So much I never tried to call or text or anything!” And she was like “same!” And then they’re back together? And getting engaged 8 months later? Like I’m up for the fantasy, but this was bizarre.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
did-not-finish
December 30, 2022DNF at 14%. I hate reading about characters that are currently in relationships, but have met someone else. I just don’t enjoy it because I don’t believe that love is all feelings. There’s a part that’s just commitment. Dating isn’t commitment. I get that. But I don’t understand why people remain with folks they find to be boring. So, the idea that she’s dating someone for years and now someone hotter has come along and she’s gonna break up with the first guy because he’s boring. But apparently she couldn’t figure out who is boring before she met someone else. This is not a thing I enjoy in a romance
October 28, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book!!
Let me start with the main take-home from this book: I FEEL SEEN. If you’re the type of person who is an introvert and finds social engagement and unwelcome chit-chat draining, then this one is for you!! Skye is us!
This book tells the story of introvert, Skye Canton, who, despite her best efforts to not socialise, meets Matt James on a flight home. After providing her with some comforting support and (briefly) getting to know each other, Matt shows up at Skye’s art show- something even her boyfriend of two years has not done. While finding his moves extremely triggering (hello toxic ex!), Skye attempts to give the outgoing, social butterfly a chance. Things I Should Have Said is a refreshing take on the dynamics of introvert-extrovert relationships, not only between lovers, but family and friends as well.
So, how did I felt represented, without giving too much away; needing time away from people to recharge, needing other people around to form a buffer so that you can become a wallflower, struggling to communicate this with people who fall to the more extrovert side of the scale because it’s a feeling that’s not easy to describe. I particularly loved that the book depicted introverts as the opposite of what society has painted us to be; fragile, cold, snobbish.. you get the picture. Kelsey did an amazing job at illustrating the thought process behind our actions.
I also love that, instead of being a slow burn novel with the end-goal being the main characters finally going on a date or some kind of smutty scene, this book tells the story of what it’s like to date while having personalities that are in opposition. Most importantly, it tells the story of navigating these differences to find common ground (if possible), while highlighting the insecurities that many introverts have during that process. The book demonstrates the ebb and flow of relationships and how you can be ridiculously head-over-heels one moment, and insanely hurt the next.
Given these points, and given how well the book is written, it gets 10/10 on my personal scale of “character development” and “storyline”. I don’t remember the last time I laughed as loud and consistently because of a book. Whether its Skye’s insane awkwardness (again, hard relate) or the witty comments by all characters, Kelsey delivered each line with brilliance. This doesn’t take away from the depth of the story though. I still found myself swooning some moments, and heartbroken at others. At times, I was concerned with the pacing, but then I’d get to a point in the storyline where I’d realise that every part of the storyline serves a purpose. Quite honestly, I can’t wait to hear the story of Skye’s sister Sam, which I understand should be coming out soon.
Let me start with the main take-home from this book: I FEEL SEEN. If you’re the type of person who is an introvert and finds social engagement and unwelcome chit-chat draining, then this one is for you!! Skye is us!
This book tells the story of introvert, Skye Canton, who, despite her best efforts to not socialise, meets Matt James on a flight home. After providing her with some comforting support and (briefly) getting to know each other, Matt shows up at Skye’s art show- something even her boyfriend of two years has not done. While finding his moves extremely triggering (hello toxic ex!), Skye attempts to give the outgoing, social butterfly a chance. Things I Should Have Said is a refreshing take on the dynamics of introvert-extrovert relationships, not only between lovers, but family and friends as well.
So, how did I felt represented, without giving too much away; needing time away from people to recharge, needing other people around to form a buffer so that you can become a wallflower, struggling to communicate this with people who fall to the more extrovert side of the scale because it’s a feeling that’s not easy to describe. I particularly loved that the book depicted introverts as the opposite of what society has painted us to be; fragile, cold, snobbish.. you get the picture. Kelsey did an amazing job at illustrating the thought process behind our actions.
I also love that, instead of being a slow burn novel with the end-goal being the main characters finally going on a date or some kind of smutty scene, this book tells the story of what it’s like to date while having personalities that are in opposition. Most importantly, it tells the story of navigating these differences to find common ground (if possible), while highlighting the insecurities that many introverts have during that process. The book demonstrates the ebb and flow of relationships and how you can be ridiculously head-over-heels one moment, and insanely hurt the next.
Given these points, and given how well the book is written, it gets 10/10 on my personal scale of “character development” and “storyline”. I don’t remember the last time I laughed as loud and consistently because of a book. Whether its Skye’s insane awkwardness (again, hard relate) or the witty comments by all characters, Kelsey delivered each line with brilliance. This doesn’t take away from the depth of the story though. I still found myself swooning some moments, and heartbroken at others. At times, I was concerned with the pacing, but then I’d get to a point in the storyline where I’d realise that every part of the storyline serves a purpose. Quite honestly, I can’t wait to hear the story of Skye’s sister Sam, which I understand should be coming out soon.
October 23, 2022
There was something here. I liked the romance whenever it doesn’t lean too heavily on the miscommunication/willful non-communication to keep the tension going. The deeper parts of their relationship were great and they had this natural fun side when they were together I really liked. Skye’s friendships were very genuine, fun and supportive. The way the author portrayed the introvert experience in this book, also very nice. Incorporating text messages and social media posts nicely into the story, also well done, great.
What I didn’t like about this book however was some of the writing style, that just wasn’t my thing, and well the constant misogynist speech. If it had come from some dude or was in this to make a point about something this probably wouldn’t have bothered me this much but 99% of it came from our female main character. I get insecure behavior, I really do, I understand struggling with jealousy, but the horrible comments Skye kept making about other women - women she in all but one case never met, mind you - were not that. Calling women ‘bimbos’, ‘tramps’, ‘hoes’, ‘skanks’, etc. goes beyond insecurities and just makes you a nasty person. Do we genuinely need to resort on women-on-women hating over a man of all things? Or was this supposed to be entertaining?
I was provided an ARC by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
What I didn’t like about this book however was some of the writing style, that just wasn’t my thing, and well the constant misogynist speech. If it had come from some dude or was in this to make a point about something this probably wouldn’t have bothered me this much but 99% of it came from our female main character. I get insecure behavior, I really do, I understand struggling with jealousy, but the horrible comments Skye kept making about other women - women she in all but one case never met, mind you - were not that. Calling women ‘bimbos’, ‘tramps’, ‘hoes’, ‘skanks’, etc. goes beyond insecurities and just makes you a nasty person. Do we genuinely need to resort on women-on-women hating over a man of all things? Or was this supposed to be entertaining?
I was provided an ARC by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
February 21, 2023
This is an introvert’s rom-com dream of a book! I’ve never related to the thought process of a main character more.
I laughed, I felt literally anxious while reading, I even got a little choked up. This book has some real character development that I sometimes feel like rom-coms are missing.
I loved the Canton sisters and the dynamic between the family — can’t wait to read more.
Still giving the book a 5-star rating, but I wish we had more of Matthew and Skye’s [future relationship] at the very end. While I genuinely enjoyed the end, I wanted an extended epilogue or maybe another chapter a little further into the future. But maybe that’s what the next books will give us a glimpse of?
I laughed, I felt literally anxious while reading, I even got a little choked up. This book has some real character development that I sometimes feel like rom-coms are missing.
I loved the Canton sisters and the dynamic between the family — can’t wait to read more.
Still giving the book a 5-star rating, but I wish we had more of Matthew and Skye’s [future relationship] at the very end. While I genuinely enjoyed the end, I wanted an extended epilogue or maybe another chapter a little further into the future. But maybe that’s what the next books will give us a glimpse of?
November 19, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
Wow, this is such a great palette cleanser book. Exactly what I needed!! I forgot how much I enjoyed romcoms!
I’m an introvert so I related to this book so much. “Why did simple questions make me so nervous?” Felt that.. 😅
I love Skye, the MFC. She is so relatable. Her “thoughts” were so comical I couldn’t stop laughing.
Matt, the MMC. Is so charming!! He’s absolutely perfect!!
Sam, she’s such a hoot! I adore her character! Never a dull moment with her character. I can’t wait to read her book!
🌶️
Wow, this is such a great palette cleanser book. Exactly what I needed!! I forgot how much I enjoyed romcoms!
I’m an introvert so I related to this book so much. “Why did simple questions make me so nervous?” Felt that.. 😅
I love Skye, the MFC. She is so relatable. Her “thoughts” were so comical I couldn’t stop laughing.
Matt, the MMC. Is so charming!! He’s absolutely perfect!!
Sam, she’s such a hoot! I adore her character! Never a dull moment with her character. I can’t wait to read her book!
November 1, 2023
This is a unique situation in that I’m not giving the book four stars because I like the romance. In fact, I don’t think the couple should be together and don’t believe they’d last in real life, but I really loved and related to the MFC so much. Her anxieties, introvertedness, family dynamics, everything was so spot on. The overall discussion on coping mechanisms and everything was very relatable. Even with her relationship with Paul. All very accurate.
I really didn’t care for Matthew and everything that the author was writing in favor of him I didn’t like so it was pretty counteractive for me. It’s tough for extreme introverts and extroverts to be together and I think this book showed how it doesn’t work 😂 (despite it supposedly being the opposite).
Side note, I absolutely wanted Skye to be with the guy she fake dated for like one minute - quiet, shy, wealthy, British businessman? The story writes itself!! 😂🙌
I really didn’t care for Matthew and everything that the author was writing in favor of him I didn’t like so it was pretty counteractive for me. It’s tough for extreme introverts and extroverts to be together and I think this book showed how it doesn’t work 😂 (despite it supposedly being the opposite).
Side note, I absolutely wanted Skye to be with the guy she fake dated for like one minute - quiet, shy, wealthy, British businessman? The story writes itself!! 😂🙌
October 7, 2023
DNF. Incredibly terrible. Incredibly boring . Lots of gross stuff . And Skye is seriously so immature that Matt is constantly defending himself without haven’t done anything offensive . She’s insufferable. The whole card company talk was the most boring of all.
March 30, 2023
It really should be a 4.5. Only as a comparison to Things I over Shared, which was a 5 for me :) which I obviously read first. Because I am a real life Sam and wouldn’t dare do anything logical, like read a series in order 😆
Excited to read Things I Wrote About, next!
Excited to read Things I Wrote About, next!
December 21, 2024
Cute!
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: opposites attract
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥
Not my typical read. A lot lighter and less smexy times, lol, but I still really enjoyed it. I really liked that it was the heroine that needed to grovel and did a grand gesture. It was definitely needed, lol. A little slow in spots, but moved well overall with a ton of laugh out loud moments and a couple of really emotional ones. Definitely invested in these characters and Ill likely give this author another go with the sister's book.
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trope: opposites attract
Angst: 😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥
Not my typical read. A lot lighter and less smexy times, lol, but I still really enjoyed it. I really liked that it was the heroine that needed to grovel and did a grand gesture. It was definitely needed, lol. A little slow in spots, but moved well overall with a ton of laugh out loud moments and a couple of really emotional ones. Definitely invested in these characters and Ill likely give this author another go with the sister's book.
January 31, 2024
This book was 4.5 but rounded down because while I loved Skye, I struggled in some portions. I am immediately picking up the next one though so there’s that 😂
December 8, 2022
Skye meets Matt on a bumpy plane ride. Talk about a rom-com meet cute first scene! These two can’t be any more different. She is not looking for love, but the universe seem to have a different plan for her.
Storyline was written beautifully. Well crafted. Had lots of oozing charm and a fun vibe.
I found myself giggling a few times in an un-lady like manner if I have to confess. By the end of it, it just left me with a feel good aftermath.
This one was a great portrayal of the dynamics one can expect in an extrovert-introvert relationship. I loved seeing the contrast between the MCs with their two opposing personalities and how they invested to make their relationship work despite the challenges they stumbled across.
I adored Skye’s clumsiness and inner monologues. Matt was such a sweetheart. Doting, fun, and respectful. He truly appreciated her as she is. The author brilliantly managed to portray a healthy relationship by giving value and worth to Skye’s insecurities & anxiety and allowing Matt to be his outgoing self without feeling guilty.
The sisters clan .. sincerely the best! I looked forward to reading more and more of their back and forth messaging embedded throughout the story. Completely hooked. The bickers. The jokes. The comebacks. Hilarious!
This is my first read for the author and let me tell you, it ain’t going to be my last. I’m already hyped up to read Sam’s story. Predicting another marvelous read.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read ARC of this book.
Storyline was written beautifully. Well crafted. Had lots of oozing charm and a fun vibe.
I found myself giggling a few times in an un-lady like manner if I have to confess. By the end of it, it just left me with a feel good aftermath.
This one was a great portrayal of the dynamics one can expect in an extrovert-introvert relationship. I loved seeing the contrast between the MCs with their two opposing personalities and how they invested to make their relationship work despite the challenges they stumbled across.
I adored Skye’s clumsiness and inner monologues. Matt was such a sweetheart. Doting, fun, and respectful. He truly appreciated her as she is. The author brilliantly managed to portray a healthy relationship by giving value and worth to Skye’s insecurities & anxiety and allowing Matt to be his outgoing self without feeling guilty.
The sisters clan .. sincerely the best! I looked forward to reading more and more of their back and forth messaging embedded throughout the story. Completely hooked. The bickers. The jokes. The comebacks. Hilarious!
This is my first read for the author and let me tell you, it ain’t going to be my last. I’m already hyped up to read Sam’s story. Predicting another marvelous read.
Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read ARC of this book.
July 21, 2023
Why the f did Skye always fall, trip, injure herself or other ? Why the f Matt is always with someone when he’s supposed to be on a date with Skye ? Why the f did Skye always happen to catch Matt with some handsy chick ? WHY AND WHAT DO THOSE ADD TO THE STORY ???? WHAT WAS SO POINT OF PAUL SERIOUSLY ?????? And why does she sweat so much and can’t stop talking about it ? Some things are really a mystery to me.
I really don’t like Skye. She’s annoying and whiny, judgmental toward literally everyone and jealous of her own friends and sisters. AND the most insecure mc i’ve ever read about I think.
Also she literally thinks about her ex RYAN way much than she think about Matt (in the first half at least). And let’s not talk about Paul because right after her break up, she doesn’t think about him at all. She stayed with him for two years for goddamn hell.
This book is from only her POV, so yeah, at times it was torture.
Nothing happened for the first 400. Basically they meet and then they date sometimes. With other people 80% of the time. And that’s all. And then there’s the big drama (no spoiler sorry) and that was actually not that bad. The drama could have been a bit more thorough, it felt really rushed. It was a span of a few weeks I think ? Anyway. The two stars are only for the story because it is quite good. Too bad for the rest (Skye, and all the scenes that for me didn’t add anything to the storyline and development)
I skipped most of the middle part and I’m not proud.
I really don’t like Skye. She’s annoying and whiny, judgmental toward literally everyone and jealous of her own friends and sisters. AND the most insecure mc i’ve ever read about I think.
Also she literally thinks about her ex RYAN way much than she think about Matt (in the first half at least). And let’s not talk about Paul because right after her break up, she doesn’t think about him at all. She stayed with him for two years for goddamn hell.
This book is from only her POV, so yeah, at times it was torture.
Nothing happened for the first 400. Basically they meet and then they date sometimes. With other people 80% of the time. And that’s all. And then there’s the big drama (no spoiler sorry) and that was actually not that bad. The drama could have been a bit more thorough, it felt really rushed. It was a span of a few weeks I think ? Anyway. The two stars are only for the story because it is quite good. Too bad for the rest (Skye, and all the scenes that for me didn’t add anything to the storyline and development)
I skipped most of the middle part and I’m not proud.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2023
Three and a half stars.
Meet Skye Canton, introverted artist, keen to tell you she's nothing like Zooey Deschanel. She doesn't like talking to people and she doesn't want people to know that she's one of the Oklahoma Cantons that own the national brand Canton Cards.
On a turbulent flight to New York Skye meets Matt James, a hoodie wearing numbers guy into IT and app development. A brief encounter, a connection, but they part ways without exchanging numbers. Until Matt turns up at Skye's art exhibition three months later. Matt is smooth, a people-person, Skye's exact opposite, and it turns out that they aren't just on opposing sides when it comes to (American) football.
As I've said, I'm reading these out of order and this is not my favourite so far. Some of the reveals seemed a bit obvious. Matt was really not fleshed out as a character in the same way as say Emerson or Dennis are in the second and fifth books. Also, Skye just seemed to have too many issues, TBH I didn't really see why Matt fell in love with her. But putting aside those negatives (which are only in comparison to the latter books) this was a fast-paced, engaging opposites attract romance.
Read on my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
Meet Skye Canton, introverted artist, keen to tell you she's nothing like Zooey Deschanel. She doesn't like talking to people and she doesn't want people to know that she's one of the Oklahoma Cantons that own the national brand Canton Cards.
On a turbulent flight to New York Skye meets Matt James, a hoodie wearing numbers guy into IT and app development. A brief encounter, a connection, but they part ways without exchanging numbers. Until Matt turns up at Skye's art exhibition three months later. Matt is smooth, a people-person, Skye's exact opposite, and it turns out that they aren't just on opposing sides when it comes to (American) football.
As I've said, I'm reading these out of order and this is not my favourite so far. Some of the reveals seemed a bit obvious. Matt was really not fleshed out as a character in the same way as say Emerson or Dennis are in the second and fifth books. Also, Skye just seemed to have too many issues, TBH I didn't really see why Matt fell in love with her. But putting aside those negatives (which are only in comparison to the latter books) this was a fast-paced, engaging opposites attract romance.
Read on my Kindle Unlimited subscription.
November 2, 2022
Thanks to Kelsey Humphreys and NetGalley for the ARC of this book!!
Skye is as introverted as it gets. She is living in New York working on her art. Matt is an outgoing people person working in the city.
I friken ADORED this book!! You got romance and comedy. And I mean COMEDY! I laughed so much through this entire book. Being an introvert myself, I was dying with Skye’s internal overthinking. It was so accurate… us over thinkers are a bit nuts.
Aside from being the best comedy filled romance I have read this year, the story itself was so great. Matt was so lovable and Skye was so awkward but gosh did they mesh well. The way Matt let her be who she was and their sweet interactions. I had to force myself not to blow through this book because I wanted to live in this world as long as possible.
This book had me blushing and crying laughing. I mean, that epilogue, come on!! I can’t recommend it enough if you like romcoms!
The only thing I don’t like about this book is that we have to wait for more from the Canton sisters!
Read if you like:
Reverse grumpy/sunshine
Opposites attract
Introvert/Extrovert
New York setting
Skye is as introverted as it gets. She is living in New York working on her art. Matt is an outgoing people person working in the city.
I friken ADORED this book!! You got romance and comedy. And I mean COMEDY! I laughed so much through this entire book. Being an introvert myself, I was dying with Skye’s internal overthinking. It was so accurate… us over thinkers are a bit nuts.
Aside from being the best comedy filled romance I have read this year, the story itself was so great. Matt was so lovable and Skye was so awkward but gosh did they mesh well. The way Matt let her be who she was and their sweet interactions. I had to force myself not to blow through this book because I wanted to live in this world as long as possible.
This book had me blushing and crying laughing. I mean, that epilogue, come on!! I can’t recommend it enough if you like romcoms!
The only thing I don’t like about this book is that we have to wait for more from the Canton sisters!
Read if you like:
Reverse grumpy/sunshine
Opposites attract
Introvert/Extrovert
New York setting
October 29, 2022
In this book, introverted Skye meets extroverted Matt on an airplane. She’s not looking for love but in this sunshine meets grumpy book full of banter, family drama, and real life issues, she may get the happy ending she thinks doesn’t exist after all.
I was expecting a typical romantic comedy when I picked up this book, but I was blown away by all of the issues that Skye faced. She was actually depicted as a real life person who had a real life problems. As a real life introvert myself, I could relate to a lot of what she was feeling. I could make that connection. It was amazing to see the journey that Skye went on throughout this book and how she fought to get where she ended up at the end. Was she perfect? Of course not. But the author understood the character and that was what was important.
Matt was the epitome of an extrovert and was exhausting at times. However, he excepted Skye as she was and never tried to change her. He applauded her and her accomplishments. For that, I was definitely pulling for these two.
Thanks to NetGalley and Magnamour for this ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was expecting a typical romantic comedy when I picked up this book, but I was blown away by all of the issues that Skye faced. She was actually depicted as a real life person who had a real life problems. As a real life introvert myself, I could relate to a lot of what she was feeling. I could make that connection. It was amazing to see the journey that Skye went on throughout this book and how she fought to get where she ended up at the end. Was she perfect? Of course not. But the author understood the character and that was what was important.
Matt was the epitome of an extrovert and was exhausting at times. However, he excepted Skye as she was and never tried to change her. He applauded her and her accomplishments. For that, I was definitely pulling for these two.
Thanks to NetGalley and Magnamour for this ARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 3, 2022
OMG!! This was such a good romance. It’s different than what I’m used to reading (meaning not as toxic) but so so so good. I’m normally the type of reader than NEEDS dual pov, but i didn’t even notice this was single pov until half way through & it didn’t bother me at all. OKAY onto the book lol. Skye is an artist trying to prove herself without her big family’s name. She’s an anxious, introverted, overthinking, HOT MESS (her words not mine). Sounds like someone I know (it’s me btw). Matt is in the tech world as a cofounder & president of companies (a put together man - what more could you ask for)!!! This story was so SO sweet. He’s always reassuring her, loves all the parts she hates about herself, and he is so determined to get his girl. I was laughing my ass off for most of it as well, the characters are SO FUNNY! I loved this book, couldn’t put it down. I stopped reading my other books just cause i was so into this. DEFINITELY RECOMMEND
April 10, 2023
actual - 3.5
It’s always so hard to read negative reviews about a book and see the reason for them was the FMC, especially when you relate to almost everything she says/does. You get this retrospective “is this how people see me????” “Am I this bad?” And it’s just a downhill spiral from there. She reminded me a lot of Nesta from ACOTAR - you’ll either love her or hate her.
This book started off a little rough for me - parts of the writing had me confused because it was so cryptic (literally thought Paul was a buzz-buzz toy or a cat - not an actual human) and unclear.
The rest of the story was cute, the anxiety and panic that Skye has is very real, and it’s very hard to understand when someone is not treating you in a malicious way when that’s how your brain reacts.
Matt was adorable and so sweet. I really enjoyed his sunshine extrovert ways.
Low steam and a tiny bit of angst, this was a cute look at how some anxious introverts cope with life and love.
It’s always so hard to read negative reviews about a book and see the reason for them was the FMC, especially when you relate to almost everything she says/does. You get this retrospective “is this how people see me????” “Am I this bad?” And it’s just a downhill spiral from there. She reminded me a lot of Nesta from ACOTAR - you’ll either love her or hate her.
This book started off a little rough for me - parts of the writing had me confused because it was so cryptic (literally thought Paul was a buzz-buzz toy or a cat - not an actual human) and unclear.
The rest of the story was cute, the anxiety and panic that Skye has is very real, and it’s very hard to understand when someone is not treating you in a malicious way when that’s how your brain reacts.
Matt was adorable and so sweet. I really enjoyed his sunshine extrovert ways.
Low steam and a tiny bit of angst, this was a cute look at how some anxious introverts cope with life and love.
January 2, 2026
Kelsey Humphreys is a new author to me, and I'm her latest fan! I really enjoyed this book, and not just because I, as a person on the more extreme end of the introvert/extrovert scale, could truly relate to Skye. Among other things, her need for alone time was very understandable to me! Some will say her comments about the other women in Matthew’s life were misogynistic, but I think she was just really insecure. Speaking of Matthew, he was the perfect match for her, and I loved their banter. Yes, the big surprise and the ending were a little predictable to me, but I eagerly took the journey to get there. I also always appreciate a heartfelt groveling, and this one was especially meaningful. I loved the sisters’ relationships and I’m looking forward to Sam’s book, and eventually (hopefully) stories for Sadie and Sally too!
August 23, 2023
Good story but I didn’t like the FMC
I really liked this book as a story but the main character, Skye, was not it for me. I’m also an introvert so I get a lot of her anxiety but she was also just plain immature to me. Just because you have anxiety doesn’t mean you get to treat people badly when you can’t process your own feelings. Besides that, she was ok. The whole book is from her perspective so the lashing out and lack of communication with her loved ones just got to be a bit too much.
Matt was great! I loved him. I honestly think he deserves better than Skye buuuut overall it was a cute story. I’m looking forward to the rest of the books in the series. I think I will like all the other sisters POV better.
I really liked this book as a story but the main character, Skye, was not it for me. I’m also an introvert so I get a lot of her anxiety but she was also just plain immature to me. Just because you have anxiety doesn’t mean you get to treat people badly when you can’t process your own feelings. Besides that, she was ok. The whole book is from her perspective so the lashing out and lack of communication with her loved ones just got to be a bit too much.
Matt was great! I loved him. I honestly think he deserves better than Skye buuuut overall it was a cute story. I’m looking forward to the rest of the books in the series. I think I will like all the other sisters POV better.
Read
November 2, 2022I DNF’d 100 pages in, no star rating.
Quick review- I appreciate the ARC this author sent, but I quickly realized this book is not for me. The FMC is not just introverted- she’s incredibly shallow and insecure. A lot of misogynistic internal (and sometimes external) dialogue. I just couldn’t root for her as a character.
I am super appreciative of the PR package this author sent me and will be reading her next books in hopes that I enjoy it more. ❤️
Quick review- I appreciate the ARC this author sent, but I quickly realized this book is not for me. The FMC is not just introverted- she’s incredibly shallow and insecure. A lot of misogynistic internal (and sometimes external) dialogue. I just couldn’t root for her as a character.
I am super appreciative of the PR package this author sent me and will be reading her next books in hopes that I enjoy it more. ❤️
January 5, 2023
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
Grumpy sunshine
I really enjoyed this one! The banter was so much fun and I felt like I was laughing alongside the main characters.
I loved the FMC Skye and fell in love with Matthew, the MMC too!
There were some parts that felt a little slow for me, but overall I enjoyed this book and I think it is a great first installment in the Heartlanders series. :)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Enemies to lovers
Grumpy sunshine
I really enjoyed this one! The banter was so much fun and I felt like I was laughing alongside the main characters.
I loved the FMC Skye and fell in love with Matthew, the MMC too!
There were some parts that felt a little slow for me, but overall I enjoyed this book and I think it is a great first installment in the Heartlanders series. :)
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 16, 2022
An introverted artist falls for an extroverted executive.... Skye just wants to make it an artist and avoid everyone... Matthew tempts her to reveal everything...
Love Matthew and Skye. The LOL moments overwhelms me. So many sassy and snarky dialogue too. Totally enjoyed it.
Thanks to the publisher for the arc.
Love Matthew and Skye. The LOL moments overwhelms me. So many sassy and snarky dialogue too. Totally enjoyed it.
Thanks to the publisher for the arc.
April 10, 2024
I am all for an introvert/extrovert rom com but this one just didn’t quite hit the mark for me. Skye was too self centered and obsessed with being an introvert (I feel like it was a wack on the head with it) and Matt was too one dimensional. I did love the meet cute on the plane though…
November 20, 2022
#ThingsIShouldHaveSaid by @thekelseyhumphreys rated ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 stars) on #goodreads and #storygraph
I knew from the first page I’d love this book 😍 that meet cute was just (excuse the just) brilliant!
Matt looked like a standout guy from the very start - and by the end of the book, I forgot just how sweet he was from the first scene, because he did so many sweet things from start to finish!
Skye was unique, and such an individual book character - one like I’d never read before, which I loved. She was exceptionally talented, but her clumsy, introverted, wonderfully sassy self shone through at all times - even in the darkest of moments.
I really loved how Skye’s art was described and explained - it was beautifully done - I could completely imagine her art process, studio and artwork, and the surroundings of New York and because of this, these sections of the book particularly gripped me.
Of course, I also love a rivalry - and I kinda figured it was coming but certainly not at that level. I didn’t want my heart broken because I was obsessed with both Matt and Skye - together and separately, and I really did feel for them both at this twist in their story.
I’m becoming a little less fond of the miscommunication trope, but I found these scenarios were done tactfully - which explanation into why Skye couldn’t communicate her feelings properly, throughout the book and towards the end. Although, her reasoning broke my heart (women unite against cheating men!).
The family business storyline was intriguing, and I really liked the introductions into all of the side characters; her sisters and friends, and cannot wait to see where their stories takes us. I particularly loved Sam and Sadie - I’m excited to hear their voices (I hope they each get a book), and it would be nice to hear more of Dad too. I liked the card company references, seeing as my first job was in a card/gift company, it took me back to those times.
The ending was just perfection and everything I wanted - I even shed a little tear of happiness. I’m so glad I read this via ARC, and can’t wait to purchase a physical copy and delve into Book 2!
I knocked half a star off because sometimes Skye broke my heart with her language and behaviour towards Matthew - I felt it was one time too many.
There was a little typo in Loc 4122 - 93%, Lauren was written as Laruen.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the Advanced Review Copy - I am leaving this review voluntarily and everything said above are my opinions founded by my reading of the book.
#book #books #bookish #bookworm #bookshelf #booklover #bookreview #bookstagram #booktok #arc #bookrecommendations
I knew from the first page I’d love this book 😍 that meet cute was just (excuse the just) brilliant!
Matt looked like a standout guy from the very start - and by the end of the book, I forgot just how sweet he was from the first scene, because he did so many sweet things from start to finish!
Skye was unique, and such an individual book character - one like I’d never read before, which I loved. She was exceptionally talented, but her clumsy, introverted, wonderfully sassy self shone through at all times - even in the darkest of moments.
I really loved how Skye’s art was described and explained - it was beautifully done - I could completely imagine her art process, studio and artwork, and the surroundings of New York and because of this, these sections of the book particularly gripped me.
Of course, I also love a rivalry - and I kinda figured it was coming but certainly not at that level. I didn’t want my heart broken because I was obsessed with both Matt and Skye - together and separately, and I really did feel for them both at this twist in their story.
I’m becoming a little less fond of the miscommunication trope, but I found these scenarios were done tactfully - which explanation into why Skye couldn’t communicate her feelings properly, throughout the book and towards the end. Although, her reasoning broke my heart (women unite against cheating men!).
The family business storyline was intriguing, and I really liked the introductions into all of the side characters; her sisters and friends, and cannot wait to see where their stories takes us. I particularly loved Sam and Sadie - I’m excited to hear their voices (I hope they each get a book), and it would be nice to hear more of Dad too. I liked the card company references, seeing as my first job was in a card/gift company, it took me back to those times.
The ending was just perfection and everything I wanted - I even shed a little tear of happiness. I’m so glad I read this via ARC, and can’t wait to purchase a physical copy and delve into Book 2!
I knocked half a star off because sometimes Skye broke my heart with her language and behaviour towards Matthew - I felt it was one time too many.
There was a little typo in Loc 4122 - 93%, Lauren was written as Laruen.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for the Advanced Review Copy - I am leaving this review voluntarily and everything said above are my opinions founded by my reading of the book.
#book #books #bookish #bookworm #bookshelf #booklover #bookreview #bookstagram #booktok #arc #bookrecommendations
December 2, 2024
Adorkable!
I really enjoyed this book—it was absolutely adorable! The story of an extrovert and an introvert navigating their relationship was so relatable, with plenty of hilarious moments that had me laughing out loud and a few emotional ones that brought me to tears.
The romance was full of swoony moments, and while I usually prefer dual points of view, getting the male main character’s perspective in the final chapter was a nice touch and made up for it. The third-act breakup—a trope I don’t typically enjoy—was resolved quickly and felt believable, especially as the characters’ backstories unfolded.
I did find some parts a little wordy, and I would’ve preferred an epilogue instead of being directed to subscribe to a newsletter for bonus content—that was frustrating. However, the secondary characters were so well-written and enjoyable that I’m excited to read the next book in the series.
Overall, while not perfect, this was a delightful read that left me happy and looking forward to more from the author.
I really enjoyed this book—it was absolutely adorable! The story of an extrovert and an introvert navigating their relationship was so relatable, with plenty of hilarious moments that had me laughing out loud and a few emotional ones that brought me to tears.
The romance was full of swoony moments, and while I usually prefer dual points of view, getting the male main character’s perspective in the final chapter was a nice touch and made up for it. The third-act breakup—a trope I don’t typically enjoy—was resolved quickly and felt believable, especially as the characters’ backstories unfolded.
I did find some parts a little wordy, and I would’ve preferred an epilogue instead of being directed to subscribe to a newsletter for bonus content—that was frustrating. However, the secondary characters were so well-written and enjoyable that I’m excited to read the next book in the series.
Overall, while not perfect, this was a delightful read that left me happy and looking forward to more from the author.
June 29, 2025
I genuinely don’t think I’ve ever disliked an FMC more. Seriously giving us introverted gals a bad rep.
Sure, not every FMC it’s going to be vulnerable and soft. We love our sassy, fiery FMC’s. But, Skye it’s just a genuine mole she’s cruel to her family and to our golden retriever MMC.
And what I genuinely don’t understand is there was this big emphasis from Skye where Matt didn’t know himself because he doesn’t spend time with himself; yet, she’s the most emotionally stunted and retarded character I’ve ever read.
Sure, not every FMC it’s going to be vulnerable and soft. We love our sassy, fiery FMC’s. But, Skye it’s just a genuine mole she’s cruel to her family and to our golden retriever MMC.
And what I genuinely don’t understand is there was this big emphasis from Skye where Matt didn’t know himself because he doesn’t spend time with himself; yet, she’s the most emotionally stunted and retarded character I’ve ever read.
October 29, 2022
5 ⭐️: Absolutely loved it. I swear I saw every piece of art. I loved our quirky lead in Skye. And I loved Matthew’s heart. What a great love story, y’all! And yes, as Skye said, they follow a pattern but it’s when the words lift off the pages and into your heart that book magic happens. And I loved what happens in “Things I Should Have Said!” Books don’t have to be spicy to be romantic and downright beautiful. It was real. Authentic. Painful at times. Witty. Just a great book! Great for fun. Great for book clubs. Great for the beach or by the fire. Loved it!
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