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Tomlin Takahashi #1
Tomlin
Growing up in a male-dominated world and restoring classic cars, Dani Winters is hardened by life and its disappointments. Abandoned by her mom as a child and raised by her dad in an apartment above the repair shop, Dani is used to watching the success of others with every vintage car she restores.
Tomlin Takahashi, a three-time Olympian, and world-renowned Judo champion meet his match in Dani Winters after she refuses to take on his car preservation project. Used to winning in life, he does not like being rejected and sets out to change her mind. Whatever the cost.
Dani despises men flashing their money to get their way. When Tomlin Takahashi breaks her best friend’s heart and walks in months later, wanting to jump the line on her year-long restoration waitlist, it brings out the worst in her.
Tomlin is Book One of a duet. A full-length novel with no cliffhangers but Dani and Tomlin's story continues in Book Two.
It is a single POV, enemies-to-lover, slight age gap, forced proximity romance containing dark themes. Content warnings are available on the author’s website.
Tomlin Takahashi, a three-time Olympian, and world-renowned Judo champion meet his match in Dani Winters after she refuses to take on his car preservation project. Used to winning in life, he does not like being rejected and sets out to change her mind. Whatever the cost.
Dani despises men flashing their money to get their way. When Tomlin Takahashi breaks her best friend’s heart and walks in months later, wanting to jump the line on her year-long restoration waitlist, it brings out the worst in her.
Tomlin is Book One of a duet. A full-length novel with no cliffhangers but Dani and Tomlin's story continues in Book Two.
It is a single POV, enemies-to-lover, slight age gap, forced proximity romance containing dark themes. Content warnings are available on the author’s website.
484 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2023
61 people are currently reading
2329 people want to read
About the author
Gigi Meier
19 books149 followersGIGI MEIER retired from a thirty-year career in corporate America to write romance novels about strong female characters and their complicated, swoon-worthy men. She loves telling stories and figuring out why her characters do what they do. With heartbreaking angst, panty-dropping lust, and enviable love, her stories linger long after you close the book.
When GiGi is not eating over her laptop, she likes to spend time in the pool with her children, walk her furry babies, and film videos for Instagram. Whether working out with her trainer, attending a book club, or hosting a game night, she loves connecting with new people and making friends.
Learn more about GiGi:
www.GiGiMeier.com
www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier
https://www.facebook.com/groups/autho...
https://gigimeier.substack.com
When GiGi is not eating over her laptop, she likes to spend time in the pool with her children, walk her furry babies, and film videos for Instagram. Whether working out with her trainer, attending a book club, or hosting a game night, she loves connecting with new people and making friends.
Learn more about GiGi:
www.GiGiMeier.com
www.instagram.com/authorgigimeier
https://www.facebook.com/groups/autho...
https://gigimeier.substack.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
February 27, 2023
I was gifted the e-book by the author in exchange for a honest review. I LOVED this book.
A sport-romance and there is no American football, soccer or hockey involved? Tomlin is a Judoka, which you don´t find often in books, so as someone who did Judo for 11 years, that fell in love with a Judoka during my time, I understand like no one Tomlins´ charm. The whole point of Judo is being calm, collected and calculated, all of which Tomlin represents in my opinion.
Dani on the other hand, the polar opposite, she´s hot-heated, sarcastic and does not like to be told what to do. It was thrilling to read about her evolution from some mechanic in Canton to what she is at the end. Working through a lot of issues where she needed to reflect her behaviour as well as choices. At first glance she´s cold and doesn´t like to be socially active in any way or form. But progressing the book her sensible, vulnerable side was shown and I enjoy that. She is not your normal female main character. She isn´t some damsel in distress that needs saving nor would she want that. She´s Dani and that´s it, she is her own person, all her own trauma that she´s working through.
Of course Tomlin is kind of the catalist for everything that happens to her throughout the book, but if he hadn´t happened none of the good things Dani does throughout the book would´ve happened and I am forever thankful for Tomlin to be pushing her to be the best version. She does the same way the other way around.
Their relationship is portrayed realisticly with the constant pushing away and pushing towards each other. They´re taking their time and follow the flow not like in almost every other romance novel where the main couple meets, fall in love after knowing each other for two minutes of knowing each other and are together by the end of the next 75 hours. Which is absolutley refreshing. I loved reading their progress of a romantic relationship.
I absolutley cannot wait for the next book. I need Dani to be at a Judo competition, to see what kind of pressure Tomlin is really under as competitions approach and on the day of them, this period is not only super stressful and exhausting but you do not have time to eat at all (in my experience). I want her sitting in the stands, watching all these different people that share a passion for the way of judo, how coaches treat their athletes not only good, as most streamed comps show but the bad side as well. I need her to understand what Tomlin has to go through at his fathers hands.
Thank you again Gigi for letting me discover my new favorite romance! I am so excited for the next release and best believe i´ll get the sequel on the day of the release no matter the cost. I need to know how their story progresses <3
A sport-romance and there is no American football, soccer or hockey involved? Tomlin is a Judoka, which you don´t find often in books, so as someone who did Judo for 11 years, that fell in love with a Judoka during my time, I understand like no one Tomlins´ charm. The whole point of Judo is being calm, collected and calculated, all of which Tomlin represents in my opinion.
Dani on the other hand, the polar opposite, she´s hot-heated, sarcastic and does not like to be told what to do. It was thrilling to read about her evolution from some mechanic in Canton to what she is at the end. Working through a lot of issues where she needed to reflect her behaviour as well as choices. At first glance she´s cold and doesn´t like to be socially active in any way or form. But progressing the book her sensible, vulnerable side was shown and I enjoy that. She is not your normal female main character. She isn´t some damsel in distress that needs saving nor would she want that. She´s Dani and that´s it, she is her own person, all her own trauma that she´s working through.
Of course Tomlin is kind of the catalist for everything that happens to her throughout the book, but if he hadn´t happened none of the good things Dani does throughout the book would´ve happened and I am forever thankful for Tomlin to be pushing her to be the best version. She does the same way the other way around.
Their relationship is portrayed realisticly with the constant pushing away and pushing towards each other. They´re taking their time and follow the flow not like in almost every other romance novel where the main couple meets, fall in love after knowing each other for two minutes of knowing each other and are together by the end of the next 75 hours. Which is absolutley refreshing. I loved reading their progress of a romantic relationship.
I absolutley cannot wait for the next book. I need Dani to be at a Judo competition, to see what kind of pressure Tomlin is really under as competitions approach and on the day of them, this period is not only super stressful and exhausting but you do not have time to eat at all (in my experience). I want her sitting in the stands, watching all these different people that share a passion for the way of judo, how coaches treat their athletes not only good, as most streamed comps show but the bad side as well. I need her to understand what Tomlin has to go through at his fathers hands.
Thank you again Gigi for letting me discover my new favorite romance! I am so excited for the next release and best believe i´ll get the sequel on the day of the release no matter the cost. I need to know how their story progresses <3
April 26, 2023
Just finished the ARC for this book. Check your triggers!!
Tomlin is a three-time Olympian, and world-renowned Judo champion. Dani is a car preservationist. They are polar opposites and when she refuses to take on his car preservation project, He sets out to change her mind. Whatever the cost. This is an enemies-to-ALMOST lovers, slight age gap, forced proximity romance containing dark themes.
4.5⭐️ I really wanted to give it 5 star but the sexual tension was soo close to being acted on but wasn’t and left ME frustrated 🤣🤣 bring on book2!!!!
Tomlin is a three-time Olympian, and world-renowned Judo champion. Dani is a car preservationist. They are polar opposites and when she refuses to take on his car preservation project, He sets out to change her mind. Whatever the cost. This is an enemies-to-ALMOST lovers, slight age gap, forced proximity romance containing dark themes.
4.5⭐️ I really wanted to give it 5 star but the sexual tension was soo close to being acted on but wasn’t and left ME frustrated 🤣🤣 bring on book2!!!!
October 20, 2024
Love this!
The complicated relationship with Tomlin and Dani keeps you at the edge of your seat. Such a good read. I cannot wait to read the second book!
The complicated relationship with Tomlin and Dani keeps you at the edge of your seat. Such a good read. I cannot wait to read the second book!
March 15, 2023
Received as an ARC for an honest review:
Dani is a strong FMC. You get that in the first chapter. She's got a sailors mouth, and she's used to acting tough to fit into a male dominated world.
Tomlin is presented right away as stuck up. I'm sorry, but it's true. It's enemies to lovers, so I expect tension.
Tomlin stealing her food constantly is a little quirk I find endearing enough that makes me like him more. Idk food is my love language. I love to cook for others, and this to me, while annoying is also endearing.
Hamilton might be my favorite cop character written. I'm just saying. The whole questioning of Carl is perfect.
Carl and Judd made me so mad. Absolutely rage filled reading about these two. Carl, especially. How, after all this time, is she nothing more than just an employee? Like, really? And Judd can go right to hell. Like for real. they both can end, and if there is no justice, I'm gonna be pissed I know this kind of stuff happens all the time, but in books, I like to see justice served.
The truth about Tomlin's car. Like the real truth. Knowing how much Dani's dad meant to her. Their shared life experiences. That last chapter. My heart, seriously. Knowing this push and pull would have been different. That moment between the two of them and the ending oh my heart.
This ends on a cliffhanger. Thankfully, the other half of the duet is slated for a month after the first book.
Initial immediate thoughts upon finishing:
🔺️Book two is coming out soon, right????
🔺️This is a great plot - the slowest of burns so much push and pull between our two MCs. For our smut readers besides one heavy make-out scene, that's it for our spice, but I love enemies to lovers, and sometimes it takes time to build, especially when they don't know each other. And their chemistry is off the charts.
🔺️I also love that this is not your typical sports romance/car romance book. It's not hockey or football. He's not the mechanic. She's the mechanic and a damn good one classic car restoration to be specific, and he's a Judo champion. This book you hear more about the cars and his judo is more in the background I'm thinking the second part of the duet is more judo based.
🔺️I need to know what happens with Isla, Anna, Eli, and that subplot. Same with Lars and his family.
🔺️Please tell me Carl and Judd don't get away with all this?! Why were the calling/ texting so much but did all that extra stuff?!
🔺️what about her bbf and the boyfriend?
🔺️Hamilton, there has to be something more there he's a great character!
🔺️I'm really excited that book 2 comes out soon!
Dani is a strong FMC. You get that in the first chapter. She's got a sailors mouth, and she's used to acting tough to fit into a male dominated world.
Tomlin is presented right away as stuck up. I'm sorry, but it's true. It's enemies to lovers, so I expect tension.
Tomlin stealing her food constantly is a little quirk I find endearing enough that makes me like him more. Idk food is my love language. I love to cook for others, and this to me, while annoying is also endearing.
Hamilton might be my favorite cop character written. I'm just saying. The whole questioning of Carl is perfect.
Carl and Judd made me so mad. Absolutely rage filled reading about these two. Carl, especially. How, after all this time, is she nothing more than just an employee? Like, really? And Judd can go right to hell. Like for real. they both can end, and if there is no justice, I'm gonna be pissed I know this kind of stuff happens all the time, but in books, I like to see justice served.
The truth about Tomlin's car. Like the real truth. Knowing how much Dani's dad meant to her. Their shared life experiences. That last chapter. My heart, seriously. Knowing this push and pull would have been different. That moment between the two of them and the ending oh my heart.
This ends on a cliffhanger. Thankfully, the other half of the duet is slated for a month after the first book.
Initial immediate thoughts upon finishing:
🔺️Book two is coming out soon, right????
🔺️This is a great plot - the slowest of burns so much push and pull between our two MCs. For our smut readers besides one heavy make-out scene, that's it for our spice, but I love enemies to lovers, and sometimes it takes time to build, especially when they don't know each other. And their chemistry is off the charts.
🔺️I also love that this is not your typical sports romance/car romance book. It's not hockey or football. He's not the mechanic. She's the mechanic and a damn good one classic car restoration to be specific, and he's a Judo champion. This book you hear more about the cars and his judo is more in the background I'm thinking the second part of the duet is more judo based.
🔺️I need to know what happens with Isla, Anna, Eli, and that subplot. Same with Lars and his family.
🔺️Please tell me Carl and Judd don't get away with all this?! Why were the calling/ texting so much but did all that extra stuff?!
🔺️what about her bbf and the boyfriend?
🔺️Hamilton, there has to be something more there he's a great character!
🔺️I'm really excited that book 2 comes out soon!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. For me, It is their constant banter that I find absolutely hilarious. The sexual tension is just their hanging out in the open for everyone to see but them. There are also some deeper more heartfelt moments when they discuss their past traumas, that almost had me in tears. I love Dani's feisty nature. She never backs down from a fight. Tomlin is laid back but is willing to challenge Dani in every confrontation. Quick easy read. I definitely recommend this book.
Book #2 Release date TBD
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Book #2 Release date TBD
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 10, 2023
3 stars
The book was ok. Danny and Tomlin become friends and business partners when some life circumstances happen. Unfortunately, I did not feel any chemistry between the main characters of this story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book was ok. Danny and Tomlin become friends and business partners when some life circumstances happen. Unfortunately, I did not feel any chemistry between the main characters of this story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 24, 2023
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC!
Tomlin is long, reads at a snail's pace, and not a whole lot happens. It took me forever to get through this book, and it left me feeling incredibly unsatisfied in the end.
Dani and Tomlin are so toxic for each other, it's unreal. I'd really rather see her with Hamilton; they're super cute together, and I love how they interact with each other. She has absolutely zero chemistry with Tomlin, and all they do is snipe at each other, insult each other, and argue. This is cushioned by a handful of softer moments with them, but zero romance or spice at all. I don't even know that I'd call it a slow burn.....that might still be moving too fast for this book.
I don't feel like I got a good grasp on any information in this book. It took ages to find out exactly who Tomlin was, what happened to Dani's dad, and what happened to Tomlin's mom. Everything got hinted around forever, but nothing actually got explained until at least halfway through the book. The plot didn't seem to go anywhere. It felt repetitive and that I just kept reading the same type of scene over and over. I didn't even get any major scenes with actual car restoration, which I was really disappointed about. Most of the action seemed to happen outside the book.
These characters were extremely unlikable. They seemed to have exactly one personality trait, and that was it; there was next to no character development throughout the book. All Dani did was explode into a raging, violent temper, and she was extremely judgmental for absolutely no reason. Tomlin was a total enigma and couldn't seem to decide what his personality was.
Honestly, the only things that saved this from a one star was Hamilton, Lars, and Eli. I really enjoyed their characters a lot! They were fun, and I found myself genuinely interested in their storylines over anything else that was happening.
Tomlin is long, reads at a snail's pace, and not a whole lot happens. It took me forever to get through this book, and it left me feeling incredibly unsatisfied in the end.
Dani and Tomlin are so toxic for each other, it's unreal. I'd really rather see her with Hamilton; they're super cute together, and I love how they interact with each other. She has absolutely zero chemistry with Tomlin, and all they do is snipe at each other, insult each other, and argue. This is cushioned by a handful of softer moments with them, but zero romance or spice at all. I don't even know that I'd call it a slow burn.....that might still be moving too fast for this book.
I don't feel like I got a good grasp on any information in this book. It took ages to find out exactly who Tomlin was, what happened to Dani's dad, and what happened to Tomlin's mom. Everything got hinted around forever, but nothing actually got explained until at least halfway through the book. The plot didn't seem to go anywhere. It felt repetitive and that I just kept reading the same type of scene over and over. I didn't even get any major scenes with actual car restoration, which I was really disappointed about. Most of the action seemed to happen outside the book.
These characters were extremely unlikable. They seemed to have exactly one personality trait, and that was it; there was next to no character development throughout the book. All Dani did was explode into a raging, violent temper, and she was extremely judgmental for absolutely no reason. Tomlin was a total enigma and couldn't seem to decide what his personality was.
Honestly, the only things that saved this from a one star was Hamilton, Lars, and Eli. I really enjoyed their characters a lot! They were fun, and I found myself genuinely interested in their storylines over anything else that was happening.
April 5, 2023
This book. I love it. Tomlin's personality is adorable, at time I just want to squish his cheeks. Then others times I'd want to climb him like a tree. It was definitely a job well done when it comes to defining him as a person. Even with this book being written from Dani's point of view, everything was super fleshed out when it came to Tomlin. He's so sweet and considerate, but at the same time he's human and has his quirks and bad days.
Dani. I like Dani. She's weird and crass and I love it. Normally characters like this seem over-the-top but her personality blends really well into the story. I like how she can see her own flaws and eventually works towards improving them. She's not all "I'm perfect the way I am and I'm going to keep offending people until the day I die and nothing is wrong with that." The more the story progresses. She sees that the way she approaches people can be wrong and that her language choice isn't the best in most circumstances.
I love how the story wasn't just linear and predictable. It kept me on my toes and kept my interested. I started it last night and finished it this morning so that says a lot about it. The ending is open for the next book in the duet, but it doesn't leave me pulling my hair out. I want more, but I wasn't left unresolved if that makes sense.
I highly HIGHLY recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, because I think the book was awesome.
Dani. I like Dani. She's weird and crass and I love it. Normally characters like this seem over-the-top but her personality blends really well into the story. I like how she can see her own flaws and eventually works towards improving them. She's not all "I'm perfect the way I am and I'm going to keep offending people until the day I die and nothing is wrong with that." The more the story progresses. She sees that the way she approaches people can be wrong and that her language choice isn't the best in most circumstances.
I love how the story wasn't just linear and predictable. It kept me on my toes and kept my interested. I started it last night and finished it this morning so that says a lot about it. The ending is open for the next book in the duet, but it doesn't leave me pulling my hair out. I want more, but I wasn't left unresolved if that makes sense.
I highly HIGHLY recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, because I think the book was awesome.
April 5, 2024
**Review for the Tomlin Takahashi Duet**
I was surprised at the depth of topics raised and the character development in this duet. Tomlin and Dani are a classic enemies to lovers, polar opposites pairing. Their push and pull interactions makes the story an infuriating slow burn and insightful personal growth journey. A shared experience of grief and love of cars, causes an unlikely partnership. The sequel does bring everything to a head for Dami, and if you don't mind a lot of internal processing and confrontations, everyone finds their HEA.
Fav Quote:
“Don’t leave. I lashed out. I pulled a Dani, so you need to pull a Tomlin and forgive me.”... “Pull a Dani? Is that some sort of phrase for freaking out?” Proud of himself, he winks. “Freaking out, starting fights, running away without resolving anything, you name it, but yes, I just coined it. I’m glad you like it.” I can’t stop smiling at him because he sat with my sadness and swam in it with me. Then made me apologize and insulted me at the same time. Truly an art form.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I can't stop daydreaming and telling everyone about this book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - A great read with all the feels. I would read again.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book but wouldn't it read again.
⭐⭐ - Usually in the DNF pile or I suffered until the end for whatever reason.
⭐- Just no.
I was surprised at the depth of topics raised and the character development in this duet. Tomlin and Dani are a classic enemies to lovers, polar opposites pairing. Their push and pull interactions makes the story an infuriating slow burn and insightful personal growth journey. A shared experience of grief and love of cars, causes an unlikely partnership. The sequel does bring everything to a head for Dami, and if you don't mind a lot of internal processing and confrontations, everyone finds their HEA.
Fav Quote:
“Don’t leave. I lashed out. I pulled a Dani, so you need to pull a Tomlin and forgive me.”... “Pull a Dani? Is that some sort of phrase for freaking out?” Proud of himself, he winks. “Freaking out, starting fights, running away without resolving anything, you name it, but yes, I just coined it. I’m glad you like it.” I can’t stop smiling at him because he sat with my sadness and swam in it with me. Then made me apologize and insulted me at the same time. Truly an art form.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I can't stop daydreaming and telling everyone about this book.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - A great read with all the feels. I would read again.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book but wouldn't it read again.
⭐⭐ - Usually in the DNF pile or I suffered until the end for whatever reason.
⭐- Just no.
March 5, 2023
They say opposites attract, and well Dani and Tomlin couldnt be more different.
They meet in a very unconventional way and not on good terms. Tomlin later recruits Dani to help him but it isnt that easy.
The ending of this book had me so on edge and I cannot wait for book two to see the continuation of what happens.
I loved the bickering, attitude and humor between these two. It all worked so well. There is so much sexual tension throughout this book.
Dani is a very strong personality used to being on her own and is content in her current bubble. I love that Tomlin has pushed her to go outside her comfort zone and It was great to see her gradually grow throughout the book.
I really liked that the book wasn't just about Dani and Tomlin though. Saving Isla, fostering Anna and learning how to be a dog mom from Eli, and you cant forget about the run ins with Hamilton. So many extra things that didn't need to be in there but added so much to the story and helped to build Dani's character and relationship.
If you are looking for a single POV, grumpy-sunshine, enemies to lovers romance THIS IS IT!
They meet in a very unconventional way and not on good terms. Tomlin later recruits Dani to help him but it isnt that easy.
The ending of this book had me so on edge and I cannot wait for book two to see the continuation of what happens.
I loved the bickering, attitude and humor between these two. It all worked so well. There is so much sexual tension throughout this book.
Dani is a very strong personality used to being on her own and is content in her current bubble. I love that Tomlin has pushed her to go outside her comfort zone and It was great to see her gradually grow throughout the book.
I really liked that the book wasn't just about Dani and Tomlin though. Saving Isla, fostering Anna and learning how to be a dog mom from Eli, and you cant forget about the run ins with Hamilton. So many extra things that didn't need to be in there but added so much to the story and helped to build Dani's character and relationship.
If you are looking for a single POV, grumpy-sunshine, enemies to lovers romance THIS IS IT!
March 11, 2023
Oh my, I loved this book! It’s been a hot minute since I found myself invested in a characters story and begging for the slow burn to move faster, but I flat out yelled at Dani and Tomlin in this book.
Dani’s character- she’s crazy independent, mouthy, with street smarts for days, but she’s also a little broken from her fathers death. She has a vulnerability to her that she hides beneath her sailors mouth and her double D’s.
Tomlin- the two bonus scenes from his POV at the end gave me the greatest insight to his character because he seems so indecisive throughout, like he’s afraid of making a commitment. He’s rich, strong, and smart, but he’s afraid of being hurt.
The supporting characters!!!! Anna, Isla, Hamilton, Eli, Lars. I LOVE them. I feel like they are Dani’s found family and I can’t wait to see more of them in the second book.
Now, GiGi, turn the heat up on this slow burn and get a fire going. I’m ready for some sparks!! 10/10 would recommend!
I was given an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Dani’s character- she’s crazy independent, mouthy, with street smarts for days, but she’s also a little broken from her fathers death. She has a vulnerability to her that she hides beneath her sailors mouth and her double D’s.
Tomlin- the two bonus scenes from his POV at the end gave me the greatest insight to his character because he seems so indecisive throughout, like he’s afraid of making a commitment. He’s rich, strong, and smart, but he’s afraid of being hurt.
The supporting characters!!!! Anna, Isla, Hamilton, Eli, Lars. I LOVE them. I feel like they are Dani’s found family and I can’t wait to see more of them in the second book.
Now, GiGi, turn the heat up on this slow burn and get a fire going. I’m ready for some sparks!! 10/10 would recommend!
I was given an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 7, 2023
I was expecting this to be a light breezy read…it was so much more
March 13, 2023
Four and a half stars!
I received this through Book Sirens, as an ARC read.
I loved it!
So many awesome characters, our Hero and Heroine, having been through a lot in their young lives, and more keeps getting thrown at them! Most of the side characters are just awesome, and some of them really need a story of their own.
Danielle is the best. She's loud mouthed and swears like a sailor, but that just makes her all the more lovable. When she meets Tomlin (again) after keying his car ( LOL yup, she's that kinda girl). She still doesn't like him and finds he's so straight-laced it's not funny. Well, it is, really. They are complete opposites aside from their love of old cars.
I loved the banter that they threw at each other, right from the word go. The chemistry was there, they just denied it all the way through!
This is not a complete story, so be prepared for book two!
I'm waiting with baited breath to read book two now!
I received this through Book Sirens, as an ARC read.
I loved it!
So many awesome characters, our Hero and Heroine, having been through a lot in their young lives, and more keeps getting thrown at them! Most of the side characters are just awesome, and some of them really need a story of their own.
Danielle is the best. She's loud mouthed and swears like a sailor, but that just makes her all the more lovable. When she meets Tomlin (again) after keying his car ( LOL yup, she's that kinda girl). She still doesn't like him and finds he's so straight-laced it's not funny. Well, it is, really. They are complete opposites aside from their love of old cars.
I loved the banter that they threw at each other, right from the word go. The chemistry was there, they just denied it all the way through!
This is not a complete story, so be prepared for book two!
I'm waiting with baited breath to read book two now!
March 23, 2023
This book was really great and the debut novel by Author Gigi Meier.
Dani is a foul mouthed and hot headed mechanic who specializes in car restorations. She has an encounter with Tomlin, after her friends break up and he sought her out to restore his car- which Danj was not happy about at all. Tomlin is a rich Judo expert and is always calm cool and collected. They are polar opposites which throughout the book you can see how they complement each other;Tomlin was always pushing Dani to be her best self.
This was a slow burn enemies to lovers, grumpy sunshine romance book.
Dani and Tomlin had a lot of really great banter back and forth between then and they kept denying their feelings for each other , which did portray a realistic relationship and I really enjoyed reading that story line. I found myself sucked in and wanting to know more about Dani and Tomlin and the rest of the great supporting characters. This is the first book of a series.
Definitely would recommend.
Dani is a foul mouthed and hot headed mechanic who specializes in car restorations. She has an encounter with Tomlin, after her friends break up and he sought her out to restore his car- which Danj was not happy about at all. Tomlin is a rich Judo expert and is always calm cool and collected. They are polar opposites which throughout the book you can see how they complement each other;Tomlin was always pushing Dani to be her best self.
This was a slow burn enemies to lovers, grumpy sunshine romance book.
Dani and Tomlin had a lot of really great banter back and forth between then and they kept denying their feelings for each other , which did portray a realistic relationship and I really enjoyed reading that story line. I found myself sucked in and wanting to know more about Dani and Tomlin and the rest of the great supporting characters. This is the first book of a series.
Definitely would recommend.
March 24, 2023
This book! This story is incredible! Gigi knows how to write characters that are the underdogs of their story, easy to love, and become a Phoenix rising from the ashes. The story of Dani and Tomlin is fantastic and so endearing. I love that Dani is written as a sassy and salty character with a soft side. Tomlin is pretentious and arrogant with his own demons.
Dani restores classic cars for a living. Even though she is a woman, she is well known in her trade and has clients lining up around the corner. When Tomlin wants her to restore his car, she flat our refuses, which only makes Tomlin want to chase her more. When Dani's life is turned upside down, she learns that dealing with Tomlin may not be so bad. I mean....he is hot AF! And they might have more in common than they think.
Dani restores classic cars for a living. Even though she is a woman, she is well known in her trade and has clients lining up around the corner. When Tomlin wants her to restore his car, she flat our refuses, which only makes Tomlin want to chase her more. When Dani's life is turned upside down, she learns that dealing with Tomlin may not be so bad. I mean....he is hot AF! And they might have more in common than they think.
March 20, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed this story and the cover…. wow….
Straight off the bat the chemistry between Tomlin and Dani was scorching hot.
The thing with characters like Dani, there has to be a happy balance between being sassy and straight up being a total biarch. Dani, for me, was mostly just way over the top and I actually dislike characters like this.
Tomlin seemed nice and enjoyed his character.
It was a bit of a slow burn. The story coasted along at a nice pace with things happening all along the way. Very easy to read story. Great secondary characters which I hope are in the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Straight off the bat the chemistry between Tomlin and Dani was scorching hot.
The thing with characters like Dani, there has to be a happy balance between being sassy and straight up being a total biarch. Dani, for me, was mostly just way over the top and I actually dislike characters like this.
Tomlin seemed nice and enjoyed his character.
It was a bit of a slow burn. The story coasted along at a nice pace with things happening all along the way. Very easy to read story. Great secondary characters which I hope are in the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 11, 2023
I had the wonderful opportunity to both beta read and be an ARC reader for this book and I loved it both times. The characters are so dynamic and, even though Dani is a difficult person to love, she grew on me. I love her sailor mouth and her willingness to fight for the weak and downtrodden, for anyone who can't fight for themselves. Tomlin, on the other hand, I adored from the start. Excellent writing and great story. I'm so excited to see where it goes.
May 1, 2023
When you find your heart hurting for a character, you know this author can write characters well. Dani was the main character for me, the strength and feistiness she had right from the very start had me rooting for her. It also made the more tender moments all the more heartfelt. No spoilers but if you’re a fan of slow burn and enemies to lovers, this book is for you.
Looking forward to book 2 and a continuation of their story!
Looking forward to book 2 and a continuation of their story!
March 31, 2023
Tomlin meets Dani when she returns his belongings from his ex, her best friend. Tomlin is intrigued by Dani but she's far from interested. When they meet again nothing has changed and Dani is even more difficult. What is instore for these two as their from enemies to lovers relationship develops? A good read.
January 22, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. It was gifted by the author and I am seriously going to have to get it in print too. The girl Dani has so trauma she is working through then there is Tamlin who is part of the reason for her stuff. This is one of those push and pull romances and I love that. This was seriously a great book
April 5, 2023
I really liked reading this book. So much that I already pre-ordered pt 2. She had a lot of sass where he was calm and well mannered. Great combination fora couple. They actually balanced each other out. They learned from each other. She learned to calm down and not take everything as a criticism. He learned to open up. Their paths met for a reason. I can't wait to read more about them.
May 3, 2023
I admire Dani's unwavering strength when it comes to dealing with difficult situations. She tackles challenges head-on, never backing down. It's clear that her resilience is a defining trait, making her one of the strongest female characters I've come across in my reading. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and am now onto book 2!
March 1, 2023
The rich, fully fleshed out characters jump off the pages and into your imagination. Tomlin is full of surprises, it is an unexpected, weird but very addicting story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2023
Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC!
This is my first book written by Gigi Meier.
I loved the story about Dani and Tomlin, but I think it was maybe 30 pages to long.
This is my first book written by Gigi Meier.
I loved the story about Dani and Tomlin, but I think it was maybe 30 pages to long.
April 1, 2023
Hope you like character dialogue. This one's loaded with it.
Tomlin hinges on the reader liking the main leads and their banter. If you read the first two chapters and feel immediately turned off, there's a good chance you won't like the rest of the book. It's really the entire glue of the story. Make or break, to be frank. There's no in between.
I appreciated the subplots such as caring for a runaway child and highlighting how messed up North America's foster home system is. How there's easy acceptance for a (very camp) gay character. Adding to that are Dani's own blatant mistreatment in her work environment, and how she's often sexualized rather than being taken seriously for her actual talents. These aspects were relatable and added depth.
As far as the main plot, however, it's obvious that Tomlin is leading readers to finish with the sequel. Both of the main leads' characters arcs feel stretched out to accommodate the other book. Most of the important beats focus on the relationship growing rather than external factors. So tough luck if you wanted intimate details on anything else.
Despite being a car restorer, there's not a single scene of Dani doing actual car restoring. At least one would have been nice to really get into Dani's head about what it is that attracts her to it. Yes, it's due to her intimate connection with her father and his teachings. Yet we're not given that in her own thoughts and craft. We're often repeatedly told that she's good through her own summarizations and multiple character commentary.
The most egregious aspect is how Hollywood Asian Tomlin felt to me. From his backstory, to him being rich, to his need for perfectionism, and even how his father is like, "You must not bring dishonor to the family name." Including the Harry Potter woe of having an Asian love interest with two surnames as their full name. Takahashi is a fine and legitimate Japanese surname, but Tomlin is a rare English given name (more often reminds me of a football coach). Borderline anime. Perhaps that will be explained away as his mother's loving quirk in the sequel, but it sounds really farfetched with what we're given.
That's not including how toxic the main relationship can be at times. To be brief without spoiling, I can understand why both characters act as they do and where they're coming from. It's still not for me.
I can see how Tomlin may appeal, and that's all right. I'm hoping the sequel will cater to the readers who desire that sincerely romantic conclusion.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Tomlin hinges on the reader liking the main leads and their banter. If you read the first two chapters and feel immediately turned off, there's a good chance you won't like the rest of the book. It's really the entire glue of the story. Make or break, to be frank. There's no in between.
I appreciated the subplots such as caring for a runaway child and highlighting how messed up North America's foster home system is. How there's easy acceptance for a (very camp) gay character. Adding to that are Dani's own blatant mistreatment in her work environment, and how she's often sexualized rather than being taken seriously for her actual talents. These aspects were relatable and added depth.
As far as the main plot, however, it's obvious that Tomlin is leading readers to finish with the sequel. Both of the main leads' characters arcs feel stretched out to accommodate the other book. Most of the important beats focus on the relationship growing rather than external factors. So tough luck if you wanted intimate details on anything else.
Despite being a car restorer, there's not a single scene of Dani doing actual car restoring. At least one would have been nice to really get into Dani's head about what it is that attracts her to it. Yes, it's due to her intimate connection with her father and his teachings. Yet we're not given that in her own thoughts and craft. We're often repeatedly told that she's good through her own summarizations and multiple character commentary.
The most egregious aspect is how Hollywood Asian Tomlin felt to me. From his backstory, to him being rich, to his need for perfectionism, and even how his father is like, "You must not bring dishonor to the family name." Including the Harry Potter woe of having an Asian love interest with two surnames as their full name. Takahashi is a fine and legitimate Japanese surname, but Tomlin is a rare English given name (more often reminds me of a football coach). Borderline anime. Perhaps that will be explained away as his mother's loving quirk in the sequel, but it sounds really farfetched with what we're given.
That's not including how toxic the main relationship can be at times. To be brief without spoiling, I can understand why both characters act as they do and where they're coming from. It's still not for me.
I can see how Tomlin may appeal, and that's all right. I'm hoping the sequel will cater to the readers who desire that sincerely romantic conclusion.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 19, 2023
Dani is a motor mechanic who restores vintage cars and has seen the rough side of life. She has had to look after herself and fight for her survival since the passing of her dad left her alone as a teenager. Tomlin is an entitled rich man in her opinion with the gall to expect her to drop all of her current clients on her waiting list to put his car first. She has absolutely no idea how much a string of events will completely change her life.
Gigi Meier is a wonderfully talented author. I love her writing style, I love her characters and I love her plot development. Dani is a very strong character, the perfect protagonist. She is flawed and damn I felt her pain. When Meier writes a character, you feel like you really know them, inside and out. Tomlin was another interesting character, but so were the other minor characters; Eli, Hamilton, Isla, I am so invested that I want to learn more about them all. The plot moved at a perfect pace and it never felt like things were lagging. The only complaint I have is the ending. I know it is part of a duet and I knew this before I started reading, so totally on me, it just took some of the satisfaction out of it for me. I’ll definitely be getting the next book though to discover how things end. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from BookSirens. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
Gigi Meier is a wonderfully talented author. I love her writing style, I love her characters and I love her plot development. Dani is a very strong character, the perfect protagonist. She is flawed and damn I felt her pain. When Meier writes a character, you feel like you really know them, inside and out. Tomlin was another interesting character, but so were the other minor characters; Eli, Hamilton, Isla, I am so invested that I want to learn more about them all. The plot moved at a perfect pace and it never felt like things were lagging. The only complaint I have is the ending. I know it is part of a duet and I knew this before I started reading, so totally on me, it just took some of the satisfaction out of it for me. I’ll definitely be getting the next book though to discover how things end. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book from BookSirens. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
May 30, 2025
“Even his feet are nice. Rare for a guy.”
-Dani
“If I weren’t playing southern belle, I’d switch to horny hooker.”
-Dani
Dani is unstable at best. Even when people are being kind to her, she deliberately acts like a delinquent just to piss them off. All for fun. Tomlin needs to find a female fighter at his next meet to come and beat the sense into her. How can someone be offered as much as she was, yet still be so ungrateful when she literally has nothing? The need to DNF by chapter 3 was STRONG. If this wasn’t a book I had paid for, I purchased Tomlin and Takahashi on a recommendation from a book friend, I would have. That said, whether I paid for it for not, I will not be continuing with this series. Dani ruined it for me. Tomlin and Hamilton’s stories would have been interesting. If by any chance Dani, or anyone similar, is in their story, I will yeet my Kindle into the Gulf of Mexico with conviction.
-Dani
“If I weren’t playing southern belle, I’d switch to horny hooker.”
-Dani
Dani is unstable at best. Even when people are being kind to her, she deliberately acts like a delinquent just to piss them off. All for fun. Tomlin needs to find a female fighter at his next meet to come and beat the sense into her. How can someone be offered as much as she was, yet still be so ungrateful when she literally has nothing? The need to DNF by chapter 3 was STRONG. If this wasn’t a book I had paid for, I purchased Tomlin and Takahashi on a recommendation from a book friend, I would have. That said, whether I paid for it for not, I will not be continuing with this series. Dani ruined it for me. Tomlin and Hamilton’s stories would have been interesting. If by any chance Dani, or anyone similar, is in their story, I will yeet my Kindle into the Gulf of Mexico with conviction.
March 6, 2023
I was given this book as an arc for an honest review. This book is a slow burn.
Dani is a car preservationist. She brings old cars back to life. Tomlin is her best friends ex. He has an old car that needs restoring and Dani is the best on the west coast. Their chemistry is explosive!! I can’t wait until the next book to see if their friendship/business relationship crosses the line into more. I also can’t wait to see if Isla gets out of the foster system. There are so many entangled stories and characters that I am invested in!!!
The story was great. Don’t go into the book thinking there is loads of spice. The chemistry is off the charts. Hopefully there isn’t a long wait for the next one! I need to know what happens with all of these characters.
Dani is a car preservationist. She brings old cars back to life. Tomlin is her best friends ex. He has an old car that needs restoring and Dani is the best on the west coast. Their chemistry is explosive!! I can’t wait until the next book to see if their friendship/business relationship crosses the line into more. I also can’t wait to see if Isla gets out of the foster system. There are so many entangled stories and characters that I am invested in!!!
The story was great. Don’t go into the book thinking there is loads of spice. The chemistry is off the charts. Hopefully there isn’t a long wait for the next one! I need to know what happens with all of these characters.
July 5, 2023
Summary:
Dani has had to fight against many obstacles in her life, including being a woman in the male-dominated world of car restoration. When she crosses paths with a wealthy would-be client, her life implodes and he is there to help her pick up the pieces.
Title: Tomlin (Book 1) and Takahashi (Book 2)
Dani and Tomlin
Author: GiGi Meier
@gigimeiermedia
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️ 4/5
Tropes:
Slow Burn
Enemies to Lovers
Miscommunication
Triggers:
Mention of r*pe and SA
Parent loss
Violence
Harassment
Whitney’s Thoughts:
Book 1 is way more of a slow burn/world building and book 2 is quite spicy. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to root for Dani until I realized her immaturity and roughness was part of the point of the story 😅 Very compelling read—could put it down!
Dani has had to fight against many obstacles in her life, including being a woman in the male-dominated world of car restoration. When she crosses paths with a wealthy would-be client, her life implodes and he is there to help her pick up the pieces.
Title: Tomlin (Book 1) and Takahashi (Book 2)
Dani and Tomlin
Author: GiGi Meier
@gigimeiermedia
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️ 4/5
Tropes:
Slow Burn
Enemies to Lovers
Miscommunication
Triggers:
Mention of r*pe and SA
Parent loss
Violence
Harassment
Whitney’s Thoughts:
Book 1 is way more of a slow burn/world building and book 2 is quite spicy. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to root for Dani until I realized her immaturity and roughness was part of the point of the story 😅 Very compelling read—could put it down!
April 2, 2023
I wasn't a fan of this one. Yes Tomlin was a sport guy technically with Judo, but there was a lack of sports in this one. And Gigi, she was a woman who hated her self image, so I could not relate to this character. The book also moved very slow as you were reading, and it took forever to get through for me, and I love to read. The ending left the reader extremely unsatisfied with a weird hook like there is another book coming? I am not sure if there is another book, but I am sure that the ending wasn't a very good or happy one for the reader either. Overall, I was not a fan of this book but I am sure that others are, so ya'll should take it for a spin and see what you think:)
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