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Friends Like This #5
Together Like This
This might be a slippery slope.
Joel Wilkinson is many things. Funny, charming, charismatic, the best snuggler in the world. The boy who I share a bed with every single night… even though we’re not dating.
Did I mention we also kiss sometimes?
Yeah, it’s definitely a slippery slope, but it’s one I want to slide down—just slowly.
Because here’s the thing, I’m messy at best. And Joel… isn’t.
One more thing about him? He’s the most loving, patient guy in existence. He gives me everything I need, often before I realize I need it.
But I know I’m not in a place to give him the same. Joel has been my friend since I was five. He’s been my safe place in hard moments, never giving up on me no matter what I do. I can’t lose that.
No matter how strong I seem right now, knowing me, if I rush into this, I will mess it up.
So I’m taking it slow, blurring lines I refuse to cross, and praying that I don’t push him too far and make him walk away before we ever truly get started.
Together Like This is the fifth book in the Friends Like This series and the first book featuring Sarah and Joel's love story. Though it is a new love story, book five is a direct continuation of the first four books. If you haven’t read them yet, head back to the beginning and jump on the roller coaster in Friends Like This.
Joel Wilkinson is many things. Funny, charming, charismatic, the best snuggler in the world. The boy who I share a bed with every single night… even though we’re not dating.
Did I mention we also kiss sometimes?
Yeah, it’s definitely a slippery slope, but it’s one I want to slide down—just slowly.
Because here’s the thing, I’m messy at best. And Joel… isn’t.
One more thing about him? He’s the most loving, patient guy in existence. He gives me everything I need, often before I realize I need it.
But I know I’m not in a place to give him the same. Joel has been my friend since I was five. He’s been my safe place in hard moments, never giving up on me no matter what I do. I can’t lose that.
No matter how strong I seem right now, knowing me, if I rush into this, I will mess it up.
So I’m taking it slow, blurring lines I refuse to cross, and praying that I don’t push him too far and make him walk away before we ever truly get started.
Together Like This is the fifth book in the Friends Like This series and the first book featuring Sarah and Joel's love story. Though it is a new love story, book five is a direct continuation of the first four books. If you haven’t read them yet, head back to the beginning and jump on the roller coaster in Friends Like This.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 20, 2023
104 people are currently reading
373 people want to read
About the author
Bethany Monaco Smith
46 books193 followersBethany Monaco Smith is a writer-mom. When she’s not busy hanging with her boys, she’s writing cozy small town romances with lots of heart, a bit of steam, and all the feels. She loves happily-ever-afters and cries at every emotional moment, whether reading, writing, or watching. When she’s not mom-ing or writing, you can find her binge-reading on Kindle Unlimited, spending too much time on Instagram, and supporting fellow indie authors. Bethany survives on coffee, rewatching the same TV shows over and over, and her KU subscription. She lives in the Southern Tier of NY with her husband and two sons. You can find out more about Bethany and what she’s working on next on Instagram @bethanymonacosmith
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 11, 2023
I have been so excited for Joel and Sarah! I fall into these stories and relationships and characters lives so hard and fast! This book was addicting and just so dang good! I didn’t want it to end. I can’t wait for more books, characters, and small town romances from this author!
March 10, 2023
I honestly never thought I would find someone more swooning than Aaron but Joel definitely proved me wrong.
I have always loved the little snippets of Joel and Sarah throughout the other four books and loved watching their relationship blossom to what it was.
My heart felt for Sarah and loved watching her grow throughout the book. I’m nervous for the next one and what it means for the two of them after the cliffhanger but I cannot wait to read more.
Another great one!
I have always loved the little snippets of Joel and Sarah throughout the other four books and loved watching their relationship blossom to what it was.
My heart felt for Sarah and loved watching her grow throughout the book. I’m nervous for the next one and what it means for the two of them after the cliffhanger but I cannot wait to read more.
Another great one!
June 3, 2023
Girl I loved this book! This was so good It had me smiling , laughing and drooling ! My favorite type of book, Joel is ummmmm what’s the word a real looker 🥵🥵❤️🔥❤️🔥😘😘😘
February 25, 2023
This book is heartbreaking and heartwarming for an adult, small-town slow-burn romance. I love that the characters read like a family of friends, with each book involving the readers more and more in their lives, values, and friendships. This book does get into some heavy topics, but I love the advice, friendships, and community they have built and upheld. I've enjoyed this series thus far; this is my favorite book yet. I loved the real-life emotional advice and the swoony romantic relationship. Still, I finally felt like one of the friends while reading this book. This is a fantastic read with college-age characters and true life experiences.
The author's notes are very helpful for this story for anyone who the content of this book might trigger. This is Sarah's story; she has been a key character in previous books in this series but has yet to find her happily ever after. Hopefully, it isn't as much of a rollercoaster as her sister Rae and Aaron's story. Sarah and Joel have been circling each other for a while, both having their reasons for keeping things friendly. Sarah has had some past trauma and has her damage to contend with.
We get multiple povs in this book connecting us with all the characters that matter. Both characters have issues being alone; they both cope in different ways.
One of the things I have come to admire from Bethany Smith's books is the hard truths she lays down in them; they are realistic and spoken in a way in the story that will hit you in the feels every time. The lines are blurry for Sarah and Joel as they constantly strain them to get what they want but can't commit to. This may be a slow burn, but the author starts to get a little more new adult steamy in this book, which was nicely described.
I was doing so good even with the heartfelt words about them; the author has to tap into all the feels with the heartwarming letter, and now I'm a blubbering mess. That letter would have hit anyone at any point in their lives, and it was written beautifully. I love that in this book, it isn't just Sarah and Joel. We also get a little Rae and Aaron, some of the other characters we know and love from the other bonks. These storylines are all interconnected seamlessly.
This book starts to become that romantic story you expect, with slow movements and gestures toward the happy part. Still, their world comes crashing down, and yes, this is the part the author warned about. I love that this group of friends stands together when times are difficult for one of them. They are a fantastic team and come armed with sound advice for life challenges. Each character in this series faces different obstacles.
I admire the honesty between Sarah and Joel; the friendship and support are genuinely what relationships are built on, and the author highlights this perfectly in this story. Baseball is a prevalent theme in this book amongst this group of friends; the author involves it in the story, from the games to the cheerleading. Of course, the relationship in this book may not be a roller coaster. Still, the emotional and family drama is. This ends on a cliffhanger. I want more of Sarah and Joel. I love the way he supports her, and she loves him. This book is truly a fantastic story. I also so want stories for everyone else. This is one epic series of drama, romance, and swoony hot men.
I love the playlist at the end of the book.
The author's notes are very helpful for this story for anyone who the content of this book might trigger. This is Sarah's story; she has been a key character in previous books in this series but has yet to find her happily ever after. Hopefully, it isn't as much of a rollercoaster as her sister Rae and Aaron's story. Sarah and Joel have been circling each other for a while, both having their reasons for keeping things friendly. Sarah has had some past trauma and has her damage to contend with.
We get multiple povs in this book connecting us with all the characters that matter. Both characters have issues being alone; they both cope in different ways.
One of the things I have come to admire from Bethany Smith's books is the hard truths she lays down in them; they are realistic and spoken in a way in the story that will hit you in the feels every time. The lines are blurry for Sarah and Joel as they constantly strain them to get what they want but can't commit to. This may be a slow burn, but the author starts to get a little more new adult steamy in this book, which was nicely described.
I was doing so good even with the heartfelt words about them; the author has to tap into all the feels with the heartwarming letter, and now I'm a blubbering mess. That letter would have hit anyone at any point in their lives, and it was written beautifully. I love that in this book, it isn't just Sarah and Joel. We also get a little Rae and Aaron, some of the other characters we know and love from the other bonks. These storylines are all interconnected seamlessly.
This book starts to become that romantic story you expect, with slow movements and gestures toward the happy part. Still, their world comes crashing down, and yes, this is the part the author warned about. I love that this group of friends stands together when times are difficult for one of them. They are a fantastic team and come armed with sound advice for life challenges. Each character in this series faces different obstacles.
I admire the honesty between Sarah and Joel; the friendship and support are genuinely what relationships are built on, and the author highlights this perfectly in this story. Baseball is a prevalent theme in this book amongst this group of friends; the author involves it in the story, from the games to the cheerleading. Of course, the relationship in this book may not be a roller coaster. Still, the emotional and family drama is. This ends on a cliffhanger. I want more of Sarah and Joel. I love the way he supports her, and she loves him. This book is truly a fantastic story. I also so want stories for everyone else. This is one epic series of drama, romance, and swoony hot men.
I love the playlist at the end of the book.
March 10, 2023
TOGETHER LIKE THIS By Bethany Monaco
This might be a slippery slope.
Joel Wilkinson is many things. Funny, charming, charismatic, the best snuggler in the world. The boy who I share a bed with every single night… even though we’re not dating.
Did I mention we also kiss sometimes?
Yeah, it’s definitely a slippery slope, but it’s one I want to slide down—just slowly.
Because here’s the thing, I’m messy at best. And Joel… isn’t.
One more thing about him? He’s the most loving, patient guy in existence. He gives me everything I need, often before I realize I need it.
But I know I’m not in a place to give him the same. Joel has been my friend since I was five. He’s been my safe place in hard moments, never giving up on me no matter what I do. I can’t lose that.
No matter how strong I seem right now, knowing me, if I rush into this, I will mess it up.
So I’m taking it slow, blurring lines I refuse to cross, and praying that I don’t push him too far and make him walk away before we ever truly get started.
😊What i liked -
✔ Friends To Lovers.
✔ I think I am in love with Joel. He has to be the most patient guy i have read about.(just wish he was real though)
✔ I am as usual very jealous of their bond with each other and the families and friends.
✔ I absolutely fell in love with Sarah's grandparents in this one.
✔ There was a particular part in the book that absolutely gutted me. (brought back a few memories and was howling)
✔ This book made me laugh, swoon, break my heart and cry all at the same time.
🤔What could have been better -
✔ I have loved Sarah in the other books, but in this one i found her to be a little immature.(I know she has seen a lot of pain but still)
✔ Oh damn that ending is killing me.( I hope i survive till the next one comes out)
📚Who Should read :
👶Beginners
💝Romance Lovers
💕Friends To Lovers Romance
📈My Rating : 4.5/5
Thank You, Bethany Monaco Smith, for a copy.
This might be a slippery slope.
Joel Wilkinson is many things. Funny, charming, charismatic, the best snuggler in the world. The boy who I share a bed with every single night… even though we’re not dating.
Did I mention we also kiss sometimes?
Yeah, it’s definitely a slippery slope, but it’s one I want to slide down—just slowly.
Because here’s the thing, I’m messy at best. And Joel… isn’t.
One more thing about him? He’s the most loving, patient guy in existence. He gives me everything I need, often before I realize I need it.
But I know I’m not in a place to give him the same. Joel has been my friend since I was five. He’s been my safe place in hard moments, never giving up on me no matter what I do. I can’t lose that.
No matter how strong I seem right now, knowing me, if I rush into this, I will mess it up.
So I’m taking it slow, blurring lines I refuse to cross, and praying that I don’t push him too far and make him walk away before we ever truly get started.
😊What i liked -
✔ Friends To Lovers.
✔ I think I am in love with Joel. He has to be the most patient guy i have read about.(just wish he was real though)
✔ I am as usual very jealous of their bond with each other and the families and friends.
✔ I absolutely fell in love with Sarah's grandparents in this one.
✔ There was a particular part in the book that absolutely gutted me. (brought back a few memories and was howling)
✔ This book made me laugh, swoon, break my heart and cry all at the same time.
🤔What could have been better -
✔ I have loved Sarah in the other books, but in this one i found her to be a little immature.(I know she has seen a lot of pain but still)
✔ Oh damn that ending is killing me.( I hope i survive till the next one comes out)
📚Who Should read :
👶Beginners
💝Romance Lovers
💕Friends To Lovers Romance
📈My Rating : 4.5/5
Thank You, Bethany Monaco Smith, for a copy.
March 10, 2023
Together Like This by @bethanymonacosmith book 5 in the Friends Like This series. This starts the journey of Sarah & Joel.
This book! This book was by far my favorite of the series so far! (Just check out all the things I've made!) And not just because I claimed Joel as mine! 🤣 I love Aaron and Rae's story so much but for me I knew I would connect the most to Sarah's character. I think I also needed this book to understand why she always held Joel st a distance. And boy do I now understand and totally get it. This book while not as emotional as past books (**cough cough** Broken **cough cough**) it def rocked me. But I will say for me, having gone through similar situations and having similar feelings it was healing in a sense. And that's what I love most about Bethanys writing. It's real, raw, pulls all the feels and is so freaking relatable.
Joel... oh this man! First off he's mine. 🤣🤣 secondly I swear everytime he opened his mouth or thought I swooned! His heart!! The way he loves!! The way he longs to be loved! He's just the sweetest man that deserves every ounce of happiness and more!!
Sarah and Joel are honestly perfect for eachother. He is the calm in her chaos. And although it's hard to see she's his anchor. They have that deep rooted need to be loved, but also need to give all of their love to everyone. And not many people understand that. They have the commonality of abandonment issues, yes on different levels but there's an understanding.
Although their were definitely moments that rocked me, (you'll have to read to find those!) And that cliffhanger... this book was GOLD!! And I know I'll be living in it until the next one!!because I've been living in it and making all the things since I Beta Read this back in Jan!! Bethany this book was fan-f*cking-tastic!!!
This book! This book was by far my favorite of the series so far! (Just check out all the things I've made!) And not just because I claimed Joel as mine! 🤣 I love Aaron and Rae's story so much but for me I knew I would connect the most to Sarah's character. I think I also needed this book to understand why she always held Joel st a distance. And boy do I now understand and totally get it. This book while not as emotional as past books (**cough cough** Broken **cough cough**) it def rocked me. But I will say for me, having gone through similar situations and having similar feelings it was healing in a sense. And that's what I love most about Bethanys writing. It's real, raw, pulls all the feels and is so freaking relatable.
Joel... oh this man! First off he's mine. 🤣🤣 secondly I swear everytime he opened his mouth or thought I swooned! His heart!! The way he loves!! The way he longs to be loved! He's just the sweetest man that deserves every ounce of happiness and more!!
Sarah and Joel are honestly perfect for eachother. He is the calm in her chaos. And although it's hard to see she's his anchor. They have that deep rooted need to be loved, but also need to give all of their love to everyone. And not many people understand that. They have the commonality of abandonment issues, yes on different levels but there's an understanding.
Although their were definitely moments that rocked me, (you'll have to read to find those!) And that cliffhanger... this book was GOLD!! And I know I'll be living in it until the next one!!because I've been living in it and making all the things since I Beta Read this back in Jan!! Bethany this book was fan-f*cking-tastic!!!
March 12, 2023
“Love is complicated. It doesn’t always make sense. It fucks you up—that’s all part of it.”
Sarah and Joel are very quickly becoming favorites of mine when it comes to opposite hearts falling in love. Sarah is guarded and unsure how to love with her whole heart, while Joel falls with his entire being while having the patience of a saint. He is everything for everyone, and she’s trying to remember how to love herself. Though the story focuses on these two, we still get our major sprinkles of the rest of the Ida crew.
Sarah’s story is complex, and the way she handles the chaos of life sometimes makes her forget to slow down and take a moment for herself. She knows her limitations though when things crumble around her…or she at least has an idea of how to recognize her own mental health struggles when that happens. Sarah’s focused for school, but has a hard time when she has to sit with her feelings. She has her found family behind her every step of the way, but would things change if her biological mom came back into the picture somehow?
Joel…ugh he’s the best. He’s patient, aware, there for everyone, and despite the potential of being hurt…ready for anything when it comes to Sarah. Honestly Joel is almost too there for everyone else, and doesn’t always quite know how to be there for himself. He seems to have everything together, but has the past history of his parents not being there affected how he loves?
There are some moments of this book that broke me, and I can’t imagine them not happening. So if there’s anything I need others to know, it’s to be prepared for the emotional rollercoaster that is yet another incredible book by Bethany!
Sarah and Joel are very quickly becoming favorites of mine when it comes to opposite hearts falling in love. Sarah is guarded and unsure how to love with her whole heart, while Joel falls with his entire being while having the patience of a saint. He is everything for everyone, and she’s trying to remember how to love herself. Though the story focuses on these two, we still get our major sprinkles of the rest of the Ida crew.
Sarah’s story is complex, and the way she handles the chaos of life sometimes makes her forget to slow down and take a moment for herself. She knows her limitations though when things crumble around her…or she at least has an idea of how to recognize her own mental health struggles when that happens. Sarah’s focused for school, but has a hard time when she has to sit with her feelings. She has her found family behind her every step of the way, but would things change if her biological mom came back into the picture somehow?
Joel…ugh he’s the best. He’s patient, aware, there for everyone, and despite the potential of being hurt…ready for anything when it comes to Sarah. Honestly Joel is almost too there for everyone else, and doesn’t always quite know how to be there for himself. He seems to have everything together, but has the past history of his parents not being there affected how he loves?
There are some moments of this book that broke me, and I can’t imagine them not happening. So if there’s anything I need others to know, it’s to be prepared for the emotional rollercoaster that is yet another incredible book by Bethany!
March 8, 2023
The moment we’ve been waiting for has arrived. Joel and Sarah’s story surpassed my expectations. This is the fifth book in the series, and from the beginning we’ve seen the evolution of their friendship grow into something so much more.
Sarah deserves a standing ovation for wanting to focus on her mental health and needs first, before becoming romantically involved with Joel. She’s matured over the course of the series and all you want to do is root for her until the very end. When she finally gains the willpower and mindset to move forward in life, more than one situation is going to test her limits.
Joel has the patience and heart of a saint. He is a giving, selfless friend, and caretaker. Although he has a set of parents that are present in his life, they aren’t very present. Their lack of interest stirs abandonment issues within Joel. His personal struggle of feeling needed and wanted is similar to the feelings Sarah is dealing with.
Overall, a fantastic book! And as I’ve mentioned before, Bethany has a way of incorporating real life situations within her books. They are hot topics and relevant in today’s society. Although her books are fictional, it provides hope that there are people always in your corner ready to lift you up when you are down. Or that you can defeat your insecurities without it defining you. Just be ready for the triggers to take a small toll on you emotionally.
Sarah deserves a standing ovation for wanting to focus on her mental health and needs first, before becoming romantically involved with Joel. She’s matured over the course of the series and all you want to do is root for her until the very end. When she finally gains the willpower and mindset to move forward in life, more than one situation is going to test her limits.
Joel has the patience and heart of a saint. He is a giving, selfless friend, and caretaker. Although he has a set of parents that are present in his life, they aren’t very present. Their lack of interest stirs abandonment issues within Joel. His personal struggle of feeling needed and wanted is similar to the feelings Sarah is dealing with.
Overall, a fantastic book! And as I’ve mentioned before, Bethany has a way of incorporating real life situations within her books. They are hot topics and relevant in today’s society. Although her books are fictional, it provides hope that there are people always in your corner ready to lift you up when you are down. Or that you can defeat your insecurities without it defining you. Just be ready for the triggers to take a small toll on you emotionally.
March 10, 2023
Oh Bethany . . . You’ve done it again! I think Sarah and Joel are my favourite couple so far.
This is book 5 in the Friends Like This series, but the first part of Sarah and Joel’s love story. We had glimpses of something between them before, but this is where we really get stuck in and get to know how they truly feel about each other.
As always Bethany tackles difficult subjects with heartfelt honesty, sensitivity and respect. I always feel so deeply for her characters and everything they go through. I really care for them and I am always rooting for them. I loved Rae and Aaron’s story throughout the first four books in the series, and I’m glad we get to see more of their future continued even with the focus shifted more into Sarah and Joel. I connected with some of the issues that Rae faced, but I connect with the way that Sarah deals with her issues and how she reacts.
These books have an overall wholesome feeling in the sense that they have small town, found family, tight knit friendship group vines. But they also bring some spice too! The spice is not the driving plot line, it just flows naturally within the plot. For me that makes it the perfect mix.
I do still sometimes find all of the extra side characters hard to keep up with, but there’s a few I have my eyes on!
I’m already looking forward to the next instalment in this series later in the year.
This is book 5 in the Friends Like This series, but the first part of Sarah and Joel’s love story. We had glimpses of something between them before, but this is where we really get stuck in and get to know how they truly feel about each other.
As always Bethany tackles difficult subjects with heartfelt honesty, sensitivity and respect. I always feel so deeply for her characters and everything they go through. I really care for them and I am always rooting for them. I loved Rae and Aaron’s story throughout the first four books in the series, and I’m glad we get to see more of their future continued even with the focus shifted more into Sarah and Joel. I connected with some of the issues that Rae faced, but I connect with the way that Sarah deals with her issues and how she reacts.
These books have an overall wholesome feeling in the sense that they have small town, found family, tight knit friendship group vines. But they also bring some spice too! The spice is not the driving plot line, it just flows naturally within the plot. For me that makes it the perfect mix.
I do still sometimes find all of the extra side characters hard to keep up with, but there’s a few I have my eyes on!
I’m already looking forward to the next instalment in this series later in the year.
March 11, 2023
1-Second-Summary -
All hearts are on the line as Sarah and Joel finally open up about their feelings and start a new chapter in their relationship - Are they finally ready to be with each other?
Review
Ahhh!!! Another awesome read from Bethany! This have got to my one of my TOP faves!!
This one really just hit home! Loved Joel and Sarah's dynamic and how they slowly started to open up to each other emotionally and open up to work on their issues together.
Joel and Sarah have not have a smooth ride and despite all the challenge these faced, they have come out stronger for it - which I adored reading! The journey and story of growth was just beautiful! I love their connection.
Always a highlight is the love and support that all of them receive from their chosen family and I really liked how much this one showed the importance of having reliable friends - who show up and choose you!
Love is choice and its choosing to love despite everything that really makes these relationships work. ***SWOON*** I'm not tearing up I swear!
Absolutely loved this HEARTTHROB of a book and re-connecting with this awesome group of characters. You really get to grow and be a part of their stories and I'm so excited to see what's next for all of them!!
Forever swooning over forever-kinda-love,
Stay safe and keep on reading,
Ellie
All hearts are on the line as Sarah and Joel finally open up about their feelings and start a new chapter in their relationship - Are they finally ready to be with each other?
Review
Ahhh!!! Another awesome read from Bethany! This have got to my one of my TOP faves!!
This one really just hit home! Loved Joel and Sarah's dynamic and how they slowly started to open up to each other emotionally and open up to work on their issues together.
Joel and Sarah have not have a smooth ride and despite all the challenge these faced, they have come out stronger for it - which I adored reading! The journey and story of growth was just beautiful! I love their connection.
Always a highlight is the love and support that all of them receive from their chosen family and I really liked how much this one showed the importance of having reliable friends - who show up and choose you!
Love is choice and its choosing to love despite everything that really makes these relationships work. ***SWOON*** I'm not tearing up I swear!
Absolutely loved this HEARTTHROB of a book and re-connecting with this awesome group of characters. You really get to grow and be a part of their stories and I'm so excited to see what's next for all of them!!
Forever swooning over forever-kinda-love,
Stay safe and keep on reading,
Ellie
March 11, 2023
Bethany Bethany Bethany why oh why do you do it to me...
This book just wow.
Heartbreak, heart full, sadness. Grief, love and more ..
Totally not what i expected as a plot but damn shit hot i am ready for every single page.
The true rawest emotions that are showcased throughout this book show just how much care thought and attention Bethany has brought to the serious as a heartattack issues brought up throughout this story.
I think for as much as i have loved all the books so far this one for its character growth and allround relatability is literally the most simcere and pure combination.
I love Bethany ability to bring so much pain and anguish to the forefront and yet with the bond and support systems these guys have its literally as nstualas breathing to be there every step of the way...
After the holy canoli ending....i sure as shiznizz can not wait for this story to get its rightful ending whether thats in the arms of the love that forever gives....or the love that gives conditionally and takes more than ever possible in return... without grams as a voice of reason...where shall the path lead...
Whilst this books not full of your hot ss hades kink and smut it is relatable like no other just like all precious books. You love themand become invested because they are you .
Roll on the next installement to crash into Ida.
This book just wow.
Heartbreak, heart full, sadness. Grief, love and more ..
Totally not what i expected as a plot but damn shit hot i am ready for every single page.
The true rawest emotions that are showcased throughout this book show just how much care thought and attention Bethany has brought to the serious as a heartattack issues brought up throughout this story.
I think for as much as i have loved all the books so far this one for its character growth and allround relatability is literally the most simcere and pure combination.
I love Bethany ability to bring so much pain and anguish to the forefront and yet with the bond and support systems these guys have its literally as nstualas breathing to be there every step of the way...
After the holy canoli ending....i sure as shiznizz can not wait for this story to get its rightful ending whether thats in the arms of the love that forever gives....or the love that gives conditionally and takes more than ever possible in return... without grams as a voice of reason...where shall the path lead...
Whilst this books not full of your hot ss hades kink and smut it is relatable like no other just like all precious books. You love themand become invested because they are you .
Roll on the next installement to crash into Ida.
March 16, 2023
This is the start of Sarah and Joel's story in the spotlight. It is the first book of this series I have read, and while I was able to follow and enjoy their story as a stand-alone, it is probably best to read the other books in the series. I will be going back to read the other books in this series since I enjoyed this one so much and I I'll be waiting anxiously for the next instalment of Sara and Joel's story!
I truly enjoyed going through their highs and lows with them and knowing as much as they love one another, they have a lot of baggage and stuff to work through to be their best selves for each other. Once they truly get there, it is oh so sweet, but I really loved that as soon as they get to a good place with their feeling for one another, it doesn't mean that everything in their lives is perfect.
It's beautifully written, and I think it's not only a story of the two main characters, but of the close group of life-long friends that support and love each other and are really a family they chose for themselves.
They deal with mental health issues, love issues, family dramas and they are all truly there for one another and it's a pleasure to go through it all with them.
I truly enjoyed going through their highs and lows with them and knowing as much as they love one another, they have a lot of baggage and stuff to work through to be their best selves for each other. Once they truly get there, it is oh so sweet, but I really loved that as soon as they get to a good place with their feeling for one another, it doesn't mean that everything in their lives is perfect.
It's beautifully written, and I think it's not only a story of the two main characters, but of the close group of life-long friends that support and love each other and are really a family they chose for themselves.
They deal with mental health issues, love issues, family dramas and they are all truly there for one another and it's a pleasure to go through it all with them.
March 11, 2023
I loved this book tremendously. Chefs kiss. I can’t wait for what’s to come next.
Sarah and Joel ♥️ ♥️ ♥️
This book is right for you if you love slow, emotional stories. You will not be disappointed. You will be on a roller coaster you want to get on again. The characters were so loving and delightful throughout the book. You will be in your feelings when reading this fantastic story. The only thing is that it’s left on a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for the next book to come.
Rating: 5/5
💙 Lifelong friends to lovers
💙 The swooniest cinnamon roll hero
💙 A messy but extremely strong heroine
💙 Angst and pining
💙 He falls first
💙 Kick-ass friend group
💙 College romance
💙 Fighting through mental health struggles
💙 Learning to let love in & trust
💙 Coffee, cute dates, and fondue
💙 Some 🔥 moments
💙 An emotional roller coaster
💙 All the feels!
💙 The start of another epic romance
Sarah and Joel ♥️ ♥️ ♥️
This book is right for you if you love slow, emotional stories. You will not be disappointed. You will be on a roller coaster you want to get on again. The characters were so loving and delightful throughout the book. You will be in your feelings when reading this fantastic story. The only thing is that it’s left on a cliffhanger. I can’t wait for the next book to come.
Rating: 5/5
💙 Lifelong friends to lovers
💙 The swooniest cinnamon roll hero
💙 A messy but extremely strong heroine
💙 Angst and pining
💙 He falls first
💙 Kick-ass friend group
💙 College romance
💙 Fighting through mental health struggles
💙 Learning to let love in & trust
💙 Coffee, cute dates, and fondue
💙 Some 🔥 moments
💙 An emotional roller coaster
💙 All the feels!
💙 The start of another epic romance
March 11, 2023
You’re going to swoon since chapter 1
My emotions were everywhere. Bethany knows how to write intense stories. You are going to love Together Like This. Joel is definitely the swooniest she have every written. In this story my heart broke at so many point, not only for the MCs but for many other characters in the story. Can’t wait for all those stories to come (Jesse, Jamie, Trevor, Hyla & Mackie). Joel and Sarah’s story are definitely emotional, full of love and spiciness. I’m emotional so I cried, I laughed like crazy sometimes and definitely most of the time I swoon and swoon and swoon a little more. At some point I can related with Sarah’s thinking and emotions, she’s definitely more stronger than she thinks. I love how Joel is the perfect fit for her and how they are the perfect nauseating couple right now ( Although Rae and Aaron are #1 in that department lol). Can’t wait for the next book and the future for this series.
My emotions were everywhere. Bethany knows how to write intense stories. You are going to love Together Like This. Joel is definitely the swooniest she have every written. In this story my heart broke at so many point, not only for the MCs but for many other characters in the story. Can’t wait for all those stories to come (Jesse, Jamie, Trevor, Hyla & Mackie). Joel and Sarah’s story are definitely emotional, full of love and spiciness. I’m emotional so I cried, I laughed like crazy sometimes and definitely most of the time I swoon and swoon and swoon a little more. At some point I can related with Sarah’s thinking and emotions, she’s definitely more stronger than she thinks. I love how Joel is the perfect fit for her and how they are the perfect nauseating couple right now ( Although Rae and Aaron are #1 in that department lol). Can’t wait for the next book and the future for this series.
March 13, 2023
This book is going to break your heart, bring you to tears in both happy and sad moments throughout. Joel is super sweet and you will love him even more after this novel. I’ve been loving on Joel since the first book of this series. He is an amazing friend and loyal to a fault. He will do anything for those he holds near and dear to his heart! He will never stop caring and working towards his own happiness even if it could all fall apart. Sarah has baggage and has had a rough past but she also has a huge support network if she’d be willing to let them in. She can be frustrating at times so be prepared for that but they are amazing characters which makes it hard to not fall for them. This story will bring you joy, happiness, heartache, passion, and love but as always there are lots to overcome and the road is never easy! Happy Reading!!
July 13, 2023
*Friends to lovers
*He falls first
*Waits for her
*Childhood trauma
*Part of a series
This is book 5 in the “Friends Like This” series and we are now following Sarah and Joel’s love story. You have to read all the other books first in the series. There are a lot of characters and they all play such an important role in everyone’s life, a family built out of friendship.
I absolutely love this series and have loved watching each character grow. Joel and Sarah might be my favorite couple so far, maybe…. Aaron Freaking Cooper is hard to forget. The way Joel is so patient, caring, and kind to Sarah is so perfect. He knows how broken she really is and he just loves through it. I freaking love this series. I cannot wait for the next book. SPOILER*****LEFT ON A HUGE CLIFFHANGER!
*He falls first
*Waits for her
*Childhood trauma
*Part of a series
This is book 5 in the “Friends Like This” series and we are now following Sarah and Joel’s love story. You have to read all the other books first in the series. There are a lot of characters and they all play such an important role in everyone’s life, a family built out of friendship.
I absolutely love this series and have loved watching each character grow. Joel and Sarah might be my favorite couple so far, maybe…. Aaron Freaking Cooper is hard to forget. The way Joel is so patient, caring, and kind to Sarah is so perfect. He knows how broken she really is and he just loves through it. I freaking love this series. I cannot wait for the next book. SPOILER*****LEFT ON A HUGE CLIFFHANGER!
March 10, 2023
Friends to lovers is my favorite trope and this book does it to absolute perfection. I devoured this book and am looking forward to the next installment.
Joel is absolutely in love with his best friend, Sarah. He knows she isn't ready for a relationship, but he will be waiting for her once she is. His devotion to her made me sigh all throughout the book.
Sarah is in love with Joel, but is afraid that she will mess things up and lose him as a friend. She wants to progress slowly and Joel is on board with that.
This book includes the whole friend group, so we can catch up with them. But what is up with that cliffhanger?
Joel is absolutely in love with his best friend, Sarah. He knows she isn't ready for a relationship, but he will be waiting for her once she is. His devotion to her made me sigh all throughout the book.
Sarah is in love with Joel, but is afraid that she will mess things up and lose him as a friend. She wants to progress slowly and Joel is on board with that.
This book includes the whole friend group, so we can catch up with them. But what is up with that cliffhanger?
August 17, 2023
I could gush all day about how much I love Sarah and Joel, especially Joel. The way he loves her, so steadfast and patient. It made my heart so happy.
It was nice to still get little snippets of A and R’s POV as well. Basically this amazing group of friends has made me realise how lacking my own life is. I’m not mad about it though because while reading I was thinking how they are more mature than probably half the world so I’m not the only one falling behind.
The way that Bethany writes about real situations is what draws me into her stories. Yes, they may be fictional but they have me in copious amounts of tears. I will be sad once we reach the end of this world in Ida.
It was nice to still get little snippets of A and R’s POV as well. Basically this amazing group of friends has made me realise how lacking my own life is. I’m not mad about it though because while reading I was thinking how they are more mature than probably half the world so I’m not the only one falling behind.
The way that Bethany writes about real situations is what draws me into her stories. Yes, they may be fictional but they have me in copious amounts of tears. I will be sad once we reach the end of this world in Ida.
March 3, 2023
I loved finally getting to see Joel and Sarah’s story come to life, there were so many amazing parts to the start of their story and also so many heartbreaking ones, there were definitely some parts that really hit home, which made it feel even more real and made it so much easier to picture everything. The emotions in this book flowed from the pages and made me laugh, cry, and feel absolutely every emotion with the characters every single step of the way. I absolutely loved the start of their story and cannot wait for more of Joel and Sarah.
March 7, 2023
😭 All of the stars and ALL of the emotions I can't even!
This books make you feel everything and is an absolute page turner. The character growth as usual is one of the best I've ever read 😍
I love that we got to see Rae and Aaron!
I swear Bethany is the only author who can make me cry but makes me want to come back for me 😂 I'm weird I know
But if you want to read a book that makes you feel "🥹" one page and "😂" the next! This book is for you!!
Well read it regardless because I need to know your thoughts because I'm obsessed
This books make you feel everything and is an absolute page turner. The character growth as usual is one of the best I've ever read 😍
I love that we got to see Rae and Aaron!
I swear Bethany is the only author who can make me cry but makes me want to come back for me 😂 I'm weird I know
But if you want to read a book that makes you feel "🥹" one page and "😂" the next! This book is for you!!
Well read it regardless because I need to know your thoughts because I'm obsessed
March 10, 2023
Oh my gosh, this book couldn’t have been more perfect. I’ve been anticipating Sarah and Joel’s story for a while now, and it did not disappoint!!! Yes, this book was an emotional rollercoaster, but I thought it was very well written. Sarah and Joel have been best friends since they were very young kids, and the complexity and strength of their bond is obvious in their every interaction with each other. I loved watching their relationship grow and develop over the course of the novel, and as for that ending… I can’t wait to see what happens next!!!
March 10, 2023
swooning
If you thought the first three books were good then you are not ready for Joel! He isone of the swooniest (yes I am calling that a word) book boyfriend I have found in a long while! He is more on the level of Nick than Aaron even hoped to be. The way he loves Sarah is what goals are made of. Despite her learning to love herself trauma and all, she show what it means to keep fighting, they was she spirals is the most factual way I have seen in a long time. this dipicted what I would say is the most accurate way.
If you thought the first three books were good then you are not ready for Joel! He isone of the swooniest (yes I am calling that a word) book boyfriend I have found in a long while! He is more on the level of Nick than Aaron even hoped to be. The way he loves Sarah is what goals are made of. Despite her learning to love herself trauma and all, she show what it means to keep fighting, they was she spirals is the most factual way I have seen in a long time. this dipicted what I would say is the most accurate way.
March 16, 2023
I could have told you this would be a 5 star read without even reading it. But of course, I read it, because Bethany’s writing makes me feel everything and I knew I couldn’t miss Sarah and Joel’s story. Y’all! Do. NOT. Miss. This. Series! If you want friendships that will last lifetimes, found family, and love like you couldn’t imagine, you need to read Bethany’s books. I shipped HARD for Sarah and Joel from the very beginning, but their story couldn’t be rushed or faked. These two beautifully broken people needed each other in a profoundly deep way and I’m so glad I got to experience it!
March 11, 2023
I loved this book! The added baseball element to the story made it even better. I also loved that Joel is studying to become an athletic trainer as that was my dream job growing up.
I absolutely loved this line from the book; “Relationships are hard. Falling in love is hard. It’s scary and the only reassurance you have is your trust in the person you’re with.” as it's so true and something I've experienced.
"Together Like This" is another great read from Bethany Monaco Smith. 🙂
I absolutely loved this line from the book; “Relationships are hard. Falling in love is hard. It’s scary and the only reassurance you have is your trust in the person you’re with.” as it's so true and something I've experienced.
"Together Like This" is another great read from Bethany Monaco Smith. 🙂
February 27, 2023
I think Sarah and Joel are my new favorite couple!! I loved watching them start to grow and Sarah let her guard down and let Joel in and finally confess she was ready. I love how Joel is always there for her and never rushes her, he always knows what she needs to calm her down. I can’t wait for more of their story.
March 3, 2023
Omg this book. I thought we all fell in love with Rae and Ace within the story but watch Joel and Sarah love story blossom was truly amazing. I love that any book of Bethany’s I pick up I feel as though you in the story with them. It’s amazing and can’t wait to see what happens, we all hate cliffhangers but she sure has a way of making up for them later.
March 8, 2023
I've enjoyed all of Bethany's books and this is no different. I've been waiting for Joel and Sarah's book, something about that Joelskies.... lol I truly do adore his character. It was fun to get POV's from more than just the two main MC's as we've been following along with all the friends' journeys thus far. Can't wait to see what happens next.
March 10, 2023
Sarah and Joel's story! These two are currently my favorite. They both hate being alone and struggle with it in their own way. I love how patient Joel is with Sarah. You still have all of the same characters and their story continues throughout as well. Ugh! I need more! Be sure to check trigger warnings and be ready for a cliffhanger.
March 10, 2023
I have loved every book in this series and Joel and Sara lived up to the bar that Aaron and Rea set! This book had all the feels and so much tension. These two were perfect for each other and I’m so glad they started to realize it. And the cliff hanger! Oh man Ms. Smith hurry up with the next one!
March 11, 2023
Great book! Love Joel and Sarah! Wonderful edition to the series. However this does contain discussions on attempted suicide and self harm. I wouldn't read it if you haven't read the other books in the series yet. I've read all the books in the series and loved them all. Be sure to check the trigger warnings.
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