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You, Again
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Best Romance (2023)
Can they stop hating each other long enough to fall in love?
A commitment-phobe and a hopeless romantic clash over and over again--until heartbreak and unexpected chemistry bring them together in this clever enemies-to-friends-to-lovers debut romance.
When Ari and Josh first meet, the wrong kind of sparks fly. They hate each other. Instantly.
A free-spirited, struggling comedian who likes to keep things casual, Ari sublets, takes gigs, and she never sleeps over after hooking up. Born-and-bred Manhattanite Josh has ambitious plans: Take the culinary world by storm, find The One, and make her breakfast in his spotless kitchen. They have absolutely nothing in common . . . except that they happen to be sleeping with the same woman.
Ari and Josh never expect their paths to cross again. But years later, as they're both reeling from ego-bruising breakups, a chance encounter leads to a surprising connection: friendship. Turns out, spending time with your former nemesis is fun when you're too sad to hate each other--and too sad for hate sex.
As friends-without-benefits, they find comfort in late-night Netflix binges, swiping through each other's online dating profiles, and bickering across boroughs. It's better than romance. Until one night, the unspoken boundaries of their platonic relationship begin to blur. . . .
With sharp observations and sizzling chemistry, You, Again explores the dynamics of co-ed friendship in this sparkling romantic comedy of modern love in all its forms.
A commitment-phobe and a hopeless romantic clash over and over again--until heartbreak and unexpected chemistry bring them together in this clever enemies-to-friends-to-lovers debut romance.
When Ari and Josh first meet, the wrong kind of sparks fly. They hate each other. Instantly.
A free-spirited, struggling comedian who likes to keep things casual, Ari sublets, takes gigs, and she never sleeps over after hooking up. Born-and-bred Manhattanite Josh has ambitious plans: Take the culinary world by storm, find The One, and make her breakfast in his spotless kitchen. They have absolutely nothing in common . . . except that they happen to be sleeping with the same woman.
Ari and Josh never expect their paths to cross again. But years later, as they're both reeling from ego-bruising breakups, a chance encounter leads to a surprising connection: friendship. Turns out, spending time with your former nemesis is fun when you're too sad to hate each other--and too sad for hate sex.
As friends-without-benefits, they find comfort in late-night Netflix binges, swiping through each other's online dating profiles, and bickering across boroughs. It's better than romance. Until one night, the unspoken boundaries of their platonic relationship begin to blur. . . .
With sharp observations and sizzling chemistry, You, Again explores the dynamics of co-ed friendship in this sparkling romantic comedy of modern love in all its forms.
448 pages, Paperback
First published September 12, 2023
About the author
Kate Goldbeck
1 book811 followersFilm person. Fanfic writer turned pro. Sexual tension enthusiast.
I write funny, emotional stories about the complexities of modern romance. My debut novel is forthcoming from The Dial Press / Random House in 2023.
Rep: Gaia Banks
I write funny, emotional stories about the complexities of modern romance. My debut novel is forthcoming from The Dial Press / Random House in 2023.
Rep: Gaia Banks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 7,395 reviews
September 16, 2023
this book was emotional damage.
this book got the when harry met sally reimagining down right and that’s about it. i love these characters but i also wanted them to die at some points. i understand this book was on the more “realistic” side of things. meaning all the real feeling and emotions and problems us humans deal with but at times it got too real that i was questioning myself saying “am i still reading a romance book?” cuz these characters and their decision making made me so frustrated at times but not enough to stop reading
this book was entertaining, actually laugh out loud funny, nuanced, deep, real, and raw. it goes deeper than the typical conflict to resolution romance. and a part of me feels like i’m gaslighting myself into believing it was great even though it was just good with wasted potential. ari and josh are so layered and different but like magnets to each other; it made my heart burst.
this book got the when harry met sally reimagining down right and that’s about it. i love these characters but i also wanted them to die at some points. i understand this book was on the more “realistic” side of things. meaning all the real feeling and emotions and problems us humans deal with but at times it got too real that i was questioning myself saying “am i still reading a romance book?” cuz these characters and their decision making made me so frustrated at times but not enough to stop reading
this book was entertaining, actually laugh out loud funny, nuanced, deep, real, and raw. it goes deeper than the typical conflict to resolution romance. and a part of me feels like i’m gaslighting myself into believing it was great even though it was just good with wasted potential. ari and josh are so layered and different but like magnets to each other; it made my heart burst.
November 3, 2023
this was a satisfactory romance.
what is was not was when harry met sally.
it was, in fact, a totally fine enemies to lovers story, featuring two people who suck (which is not a criticism). i just...don't know why it had to claim itself to be a gender-swapped retelling of when harry met sally.
the only commonality is that this is enemies to friends to lovers set in new york. these people are not harry, nor are they sally. there is no carrie fisher. there is no magazine writer with mustache. there is no b-plot superior romance. and nothing is up to that impossible par.
so i wish it wasn't set in the first place!
bottom line: read this book and pretend it has no claim upon that perfect movie.
(thanks to the publisher for the e-arc)
---------------------
tbr review)
WHEN HARRY MET SALLY RETELLING?????
what is was not was when harry met sally.
it was, in fact, a totally fine enemies to lovers story, featuring two people who suck (which is not a criticism). i just...don't know why it had to claim itself to be a gender-swapped retelling of when harry met sally.
the only commonality is that this is enemies to friends to lovers set in new york. these people are not harry, nor are they sally. there is no carrie fisher. there is no magazine writer with mustache. there is no b-plot superior romance. and nothing is up to that impossible par.
so i wish it wasn't set in the first place!
bottom line: read this book and pretend it has no claim upon that perfect movie.
(thanks to the publisher for the e-arc)
---------------------
tbr review)
WHEN HARRY MET SALLY RETELLING?????
September 17, 2023
i think if you publish a reylo fanfic you should be legally required to put a giant disclaimer (covering about 70% of the page) on the book cover warning people of the crime you have committed.
"bUt joNathan!! thE GUy on The cOvER lOOKs liKE ADaM DrIVer, diD you NoT SEE??"
i have never closely looked at the cover of an ebook in my entire life and i will not start now. they only exist as ideas. a combination of colours. unless i hold the damn thing in my hands and decide to buy a physical copy i will not give the cover more than a glance. what do you want me to do? zoom in? fuck you.
red flags that should have warned me but alas i am apparently colour blind:
- i should have known this entire experience was doomed when i was genuinely excited for the book and waiting for it to get published. NEVER be excited for things, NEVER!!!!!!
- this has praise from ali hazelwood at the top (which i only noticed a quarter in). every time i see a AH review for a book on goodreads i immediately yeet it from my tbr and erase it from memory. why didn't she post one for this and saved me some time and money!!!
- this quote: "They only let cis men in here if they're accompanied by a woman or nonbinary person."
great stance. peak feminism. i know exactly what type of person you are Kate and i don't want that anywhere near me.
what i also don't understand: i have read fanfiction. i do read fanfiction every once in a while. you really can't argue that just because something is a fanfic that it's automatically badly written. hell, there's some fanfic out there that rivals a beach sunset in its beauty. so why. WHY. is it the ones with the awful writing that always get published. dnf at 37%.
"bUt joNathan!! thE GUy on The cOvER lOOKs liKE ADaM DrIVer, diD you NoT SEE??"
i have never closely looked at the cover of an ebook in my entire life and i will not start now. they only exist as ideas. a combination of colours. unless i hold the damn thing in my hands and decide to buy a physical copy i will not give the cover more than a glance. what do you want me to do? zoom in? fuck you.
red flags that should have warned me but alas i am apparently colour blind:
- i should have known this entire experience was doomed when i was genuinely excited for the book and waiting for it to get published. NEVER be excited for things, NEVER!!!!!!
- this has praise from ali hazelwood at the top (which i only noticed a quarter in). every time i see a AH review for a book on goodreads i immediately yeet it from my tbr and erase it from memory. why didn't she post one for this and saved me some time and money!!!
- this quote: "They only let cis men in here if they're accompanied by a woman or nonbinary person."
great stance. peak feminism. i know exactly what type of person you are Kate and i don't want that anywhere near me.
what i also don't understand: i have read fanfiction. i do read fanfiction every once in a while. you really can't argue that just because something is a fanfic that it's automatically badly written. hell, there's some fanfic out there that rivals a beach sunset in its beauty. so why. WHY. is it the ones with the awful writing that always get published. dnf at 37%.
August 11, 2023
It's like an Emily Henry if the people were...worse. I mean that as a huge compliment.
January 5, 2024
“No one should marry the person who makes them happy. Marry the person you want by your side at your absolute lowest point.”
✨ This is a rant review, because wtf?!✨😭🔪
The Plot- Ari and Josh have been running into each other for years and they hate each other because of the surrounding circumstances that brought them together in the first place. They always meet in the most awkward settings. But when they are both miserable and run into each other again they realize that they can be friends and be miserable together. This is a story about two people who take 9 years to learn about their red flags and trauma bond over it.
”“Maybe there's no such thing as soulmates. Maybe there are only people who trust each other enough to begin something without being assured of the end.”
The Characters - Were insufferable. Unlikable. They are mid 30s acting like they are teenagers giggling in a sex ed class. Then next period they are in a philosophy class. Immature, but then trying to give “deep” advice. There was so little character development or real conversation about their respective faults and things they both need to work on.
👿Josh- was so stubborn and prideful. No personality. He was a codependent, clingy weirdo by the end.
👿Ari- shitty friend. Obsessed with threesomes. Her personality is that she smokes weed and likes to talk about sex. Which there is nothing wrong with that- I know we all talk about sex and act silly with our friends but the author really made it Ari’s whole personality. No added substance.
Writing- A dumpster fire. Cringy. I think the author was just trying too hard to be “fun and hip”
Please see examples below-
🔸 saying “eggplant emoji” in a conversation is cringe lol
🔸 “She sips her drink, hoping her nonchalance gives off nail polish emoji energy."
🔸”She’s on my nude distribution list”
🔸 “Actual heart eyes”
🔸 “ I use the volcano emoji when im about to…cum”
🔸 “Im too sad to fuck someone. I didnt think that was possible”
🔸 “ His smile is insane- his actual teeth are large”
🔸 “ Yoga instructor p*ssy, yeah I think I’m jealous”
🔸 “I truly think arms are the new thighs”
🔸 There’s plenty more. I could write a separate review on just the the dialogue.
🔸The amount of times the term, “threesomes, dildos, vibrators and eggplant emojis” were mentioned in this book is W I L D.
“Maybe being in love is knowing that you'd live it all over again - every part, suffering included - to get right back to the place where you're standing.”
My thoughts- Let me be clear- I did laugh a few times but I was deeply disappointed in this book. I definitely was not the target audience.I can see why some people love this book and why some people hate it. It’s somewhere between reading a silly conversation with your friends in the group chat but it also reads like a wattpad story that was written by a horny teenager. BUT all of sudden the author wanted to be “deep” and throw in life lessons amongst the trashy dialogue lol. Also the third person pov really didn’t work for me. The cringy dialogue really “outshined” the “life lessons”, I did not want these two to end up together. They should have remained friends, or better yet turned back into strangers. I don’t think I would even consider this a romance because I didn’t find anything about their relationship romantic. This book could have been 200 pages shorter if they just acted like adults and communicated.
🗣️ Would I recommend this book? Probably not. Idk it depends who I’m talking to and what they are looking for in a book.
“A best friend is the person who can call you at any hour and say, ‘I have all this bullshit happening in my life and I need you to listen to me vent about it.’ And the other person is supposed to unconditionally respond, ‘That is bullshit and you’re right’ and then offer to fight someone.”
Tropes
✨Eneimes to friends to lovers
✨Opposite attracts
✨Slow burn romance
✨Grumpy/sunshine
✨Angst with hurt/comfort
Playlist
🎶 Toxic- Britney Spears
🎶Talk Too Much- Renee App
🎶Love Is Embarrassing- Olivia Rodrigo
🎶Barracuda- John Cale
🎶Cowboy Like Me- Taylor Swift
🎶Pretty Little Fears- 6LACK, J. Cole
🎶Thinkin’ Bout You- Frank Ocean
🎶Bet U Wanna- Sabrina Carpenter
🎶Fade Into You- Mazzy Star
🎶Red Red Wine- UB40
🎶Unsteady- Gracie Abrams
🎶Exile- Taylor Swift
🎶Beware- Big Sean
🎶Nobody Gets Me - SZA
🎶Matilda- Harry Styles
🎶Cinnamon Girl- Lana Del Rey
🎶Slow Dancing in The Dark- Joji
🎶While We’re Young- Jhene Aikido
🎶Death By A Thousand Cuts- Taylor Swift
🎶Mr. Brightside- The Killers
🎶Anyone Else But You- The Moldy Peaches
🎶Bad Idea Right- Olive Rodrigo
🎶Your Love- The Outfield
🎶Brass Pockets- Pretenders
🎶The Fool- Tin Weaver
✨ This is a rant review, because wtf?!✨😭🔪
The Plot- Ari and Josh have been running into each other for years and they hate each other because of the surrounding circumstances that brought them together in the first place. They always meet in the most awkward settings. But when they are both miserable and run into each other again they realize that they can be friends and be miserable together. This is a story about two people who take 9 years to learn about their red flags and trauma bond over it.
”“Maybe there's no such thing as soulmates. Maybe there are only people who trust each other enough to begin something without being assured of the end.”
The Characters - Were insufferable. Unlikable. They are mid 30s acting like they are teenagers giggling in a sex ed class. Then next period they are in a philosophy class. Immature, but then trying to give “deep” advice. There was so little character development or real conversation about their respective faults and things they both need to work on.
👿Josh- was so stubborn and prideful. No personality. He was a codependent, clingy weirdo by the end.
👿Ari- shitty friend. Obsessed with threesomes. Her personality is that she smokes weed and likes to talk about sex. Which there is nothing wrong with that- I know we all talk about sex and act silly with our friends but the author really made it Ari’s whole personality. No added substance.
Writing- A dumpster fire. Cringy. I think the author was just trying too hard to be “fun and hip”
Please see examples below-
🔸 saying “eggplant emoji” in a conversation is cringe lol
🔸 “She sips her drink, hoping her nonchalance gives off nail polish emoji energy."
🔸”She’s on my nude distribution list”
🔸 “Actual heart eyes”
🔸 “ I use the volcano emoji when im about to…cum”
🔸 “Im too sad to fuck someone. I didnt think that was possible”
🔸 “ His smile is insane- his actual teeth are large”
🔸 “ Yoga instructor p*ssy, yeah I think I’m jealous”
🔸 “I truly think arms are the new thighs”
🔸 There’s plenty more. I could write a separate review on just the the dialogue.
🔸The amount of times the term, “threesomes, dildos, vibrators and eggplant emojis” were mentioned in this book is W I L D.
“Maybe being in love is knowing that you'd live it all over again - every part, suffering included - to get right back to the place where you're standing.”
My thoughts- Let me be clear- I did laugh a few times but I was deeply disappointed in this book. I definitely was not the target audience.I can see why some people love this book and why some people hate it. It’s somewhere between reading a silly conversation with your friends in the group chat but it also reads like a wattpad story that was written by a horny teenager. BUT all of sudden the author wanted to be “deep” and throw in life lessons amongst the trashy dialogue lol. Also the third person pov really didn’t work for me. The cringy dialogue really “outshined” the “life lessons”, I did not want these two to end up together. They should have remained friends, or better yet turned back into strangers. I don’t think I would even consider this a romance because I didn’t find anything about their relationship romantic. This book could have been 200 pages shorter if they just acted like adults and communicated.
🗣️ Would I recommend this book? Probably not. Idk it depends who I’m talking to and what they are looking for in a book.
“A best friend is the person who can call you at any hour and say, ‘I have all this bullshit happening in my life and I need you to listen to me vent about it.’ And the other person is supposed to unconditionally respond, ‘That is bullshit and you’re right’ and then offer to fight someone.”
Tropes
✨Eneimes to friends to lovers
✨Opposite attracts
✨Slow burn romance
✨Grumpy/sunshine
✨Angst with hurt/comfort
Playlist
🎶 Toxic- Britney Spears
🎶Talk Too Much- Renee App
🎶Love Is Embarrassing- Olivia Rodrigo
🎶Barracuda- John Cale
🎶Cowboy Like Me- Taylor Swift
🎶Pretty Little Fears- 6LACK, J. Cole
🎶Thinkin’ Bout You- Frank Ocean
🎶Bet U Wanna- Sabrina Carpenter
🎶Fade Into You- Mazzy Star
🎶Red Red Wine- UB40
🎶Unsteady- Gracie Abrams
🎶Exile- Taylor Swift
🎶Beware- Big Sean
🎶Nobody Gets Me - SZA
🎶Matilda- Harry Styles
🎶Cinnamon Girl- Lana Del Rey
🎶Slow Dancing in The Dark- Joji
🎶While We’re Young- Jhene Aikido
🎶Death By A Thousand Cuts- Taylor Swift
🎶Mr. Brightside- The Killers
🎶Anyone Else But You- The Moldy Peaches
🎶Bad Idea Right- Olive Rodrigo
🎶Your Love- The Outfield
🎶Brass Pockets- Pretenders
🎶The Fool- Tin Weaver
Read
September 25, 2023I still do not know how I feel about this book oops
September 21, 2023
This is absolutely my kind of sassy, smart, sarcastic, extra emotional, and angsty, yet entertaining, unique, modern love story that takes place in my all-time favorite city in the world: New York! Did I mention it also includes my favorite tropes, including enemies to lovers and grumpy meets the sunshine (or a pretentious chef meets a gamophobic comedian suffering from commitment issues)?
The story follows Ari, a quick-witted, direct, smart, sassy, and sunshiny aspiring comedian who moves to New York. However, instead of performing, she mostly serves drinks, babysits children, works as a cashier, or takes assistant jobs, while working with an improvising theater team in her spare time. Josh is an aspiring chef who wants to take over the culinary world with his ambitious plans, including finding the love of his life to prepare breakfast for every morning. His father owns East Village’s famous kosher deli, Brodsky, but Josh has no intention of working in the family business. He has bigger plans!
Two of them meet in the wrong place at the wrong time. When Ari plans for an uneventful night with an appointment to her vibrator, she receives a text from her roommate Natalie, whom she casually hooks up with, saying that she is stuck in traffic and needs her to welcome her special visitor. Ari realizes the visitor is the same Tall Sweater Nightmare Man who rejected to make a donation for bobcats and argued with her in the middle of the street on the same night. The same guy enters their apartment with his grocery bags to cook a special dinner for Natalie. He insists he’s Natalie’s boyfriend, even though Ari and Natalie are still friends with benefits! Of course, loathing at first sight eventually blooms between them after Josh’s condemning attitude and Ari’s smart-ass comments. The night ends with a disastrous argument.
A few years later, they meet again, and as expected, their fight ends as Ari says the last word (let’s rephrase: she takes the last unforgettable action).
The third time is not a charm. But at least they don’t kill each other.
A few years later, they meet at their lowest points and cling to each other to keep their heads above the water. Their long phone calls, texts, and movie marathons slowly turn into a special friendship. And even more, but both of them still suffer from their worst breakups. Could they heal, destroy their own emotional barriers, and give a chance for happiness?
This is a fantastic debut! I laughed so hard! I fell in love with the cover, especially the male character’s resemblance to Adam Driver on the cover, which is a marvelous detail. If this book is adapted into a Netflix movie, it will be one of my classics that I watch more than five times, reciting each line (of course, Adam Driver would be a great choice as Josh, and Selena Gomez might be a great Ari; at least, the girl on the cover looks like her!), crying and laughing out loud at the most powerful scenes. I know I’m rambling, but when you find something special, you want to talk about how it makes you feel, and honestly, this book made me ecstatic! My emotions are all over the place! Thank you, Kate Goldbeck, for writing this book!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Dial Press Trade Paperback for sharing this amazing book’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts
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The story follows Ari, a quick-witted, direct, smart, sassy, and sunshiny aspiring comedian who moves to New York. However, instead of performing, she mostly serves drinks, babysits children, works as a cashier, or takes assistant jobs, while working with an improvising theater team in her spare time. Josh is an aspiring chef who wants to take over the culinary world with his ambitious plans, including finding the love of his life to prepare breakfast for every morning. His father owns East Village’s famous kosher deli, Brodsky, but Josh has no intention of working in the family business. He has bigger plans!
Two of them meet in the wrong place at the wrong time. When Ari plans for an uneventful night with an appointment to her vibrator, she receives a text from her roommate Natalie, whom she casually hooks up with, saying that she is stuck in traffic and needs her to welcome her special visitor. Ari realizes the visitor is the same Tall Sweater Nightmare Man who rejected to make a donation for bobcats and argued with her in the middle of the street on the same night. The same guy enters their apartment with his grocery bags to cook a special dinner for Natalie. He insists he’s Natalie’s boyfriend, even though Ari and Natalie are still friends with benefits! Of course, loathing at first sight eventually blooms between them after Josh’s condemning attitude and Ari’s smart-ass comments. The night ends with a disastrous argument.
A few years later, they meet again, and as expected, their fight ends as Ari says the last word (let’s rephrase: she takes the last unforgettable action).
The third time is not a charm. But at least they don’t kill each other.
A few years later, they meet at their lowest points and cling to each other to keep their heads above the water. Their long phone calls, texts, and movie marathons slowly turn into a special friendship. And even more, but both of them still suffer from their worst breakups. Could they heal, destroy their own emotional barriers, and give a chance for happiness?
This is a fantastic debut! I laughed so hard! I fell in love with the cover, especially the male character’s resemblance to Adam Driver on the cover, which is a marvelous detail. If this book is adapted into a Netflix movie, it will be one of my classics that I watch more than five times, reciting each line (of course, Adam Driver would be a great choice as Josh, and Selena Gomez might be a great Ari; at least, the girl on the cover looks like her!), crying and laughing out loud at the most powerful scenes. I know I’m rambling, but when you find something special, you want to talk about how it makes you feel, and honestly, this book made me ecstatic! My emotions are all over the place! Thank you, Kate Goldbeck, for writing this book!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Dial Press Trade Paperback for sharing this amazing book’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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February 10, 2024
blushing, giggling, kicking my feet, screaming into the void
November 29, 2023
3.5 rounded down
Writing: solid | Plot: interesting | Ending: awww??
SYNOPSIS
After a disastrous first meeting, Ari and Josh seem destined to bumping into each other. Years later they trauma bond form a friendship to commiserate over their shitty relationships. But you know what they say: there's a thin line between love and hate.
MY OPINION
Blerrghhh, another tough one to rate. Firstly, I've never seen When Sally Met Harry, so I can't comment on whether this is a strong retelling or not. Secondly, if you're expecting a light-hearted, funny read, give this one a big ole skip because the second half is straight up TURMOIL. However, the first half is legit funny. I loved the banter between Ari and Josh; if you're looking for that roast-me-on-a-spit type of banter, you'll definitely find it here. And thirdly, this is an extremely contemporary romance. There's the full gauntlet of 'relationships' and sexualities and genders in this book. So if you have 'traditional' values, save yourself the wrinkles and pick up something with a cat on the cover and the words 'cherry blossom lane' in the title.
I appreciated Josh's character development throughout the book, but Ari's growth was stunted. Initially, Josh reminded me of Schmidt from New Girl. He's pretentious and not afraid to let everyone know it. The worst part is I agreed with some of his sentiments, especially when it comes to eating meatballs from a furniture chain. It just doesn't make sense to me and I'm someone who likes a fish filet from McDonalds. Puzzle that one out Big Al (Albert Einstein). Anyways, I wish we could've seen the same growth in Ari. Mans was doing therapy and practicing self-awareness while she was vaping on an air mattress and being as hypocritical as possible. I also wasn't a big fan of her token wokeism. It didn't really have a place in this book. You can't moan about materialism and then get turned on by Egyptian cotton sheets. Enjoy that polyester blend with a single-digit thread count.
All in all, I found this mostly enjoyable but I wish the turmoil in the second half had been reduced to at least a quarter. And there were definitely some things that didn't make sense like how was Josh's dad barely turning a profit yet his inheritance was enough to be unemployed while living in a swanky NY apt for over a year? The strongest part was their friendship, but yet it was the shortest part of the book. I did appreciate that there was ZERO slut-shaming in this book. I was scared that Josh was gonna have a "but what if she leaves me for a guy OR girl" moment but Ari's extracurricular activities were thankfully never an issue. I will definitely read this author's next book because when it was funny, it was FUNNNYYYYY.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: banter between Ari and Josh was fantastic, legit funny, very modern and contemporary, strong character growth for Josh, I liked the timeline jumps (IMO more preferable than insta-love), great writing
Cons: didn't need the random wokeisms from Ari, her character growth was too stagnant, too much time spent in turmoil
___
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Writing: solid | Plot: interesting | Ending: awww??
SYNOPSIS
After a disastrous first meeting, Ari and Josh seem destined to bumping into each other. Years later they
MY OPINION
Blerrghhh, another tough one to rate. Firstly, I've never seen When Sally Met Harry, so I can't comment on whether this is a strong retelling or not. Secondly, if you're expecting a light-hearted, funny read, give this one a big ole skip because the second half is straight up TURMOIL. However, the first half is legit funny. I loved the banter between Ari and Josh; if you're looking for that roast-me-on-a-spit type of banter, you'll definitely find it here. And thirdly, this is an extremely contemporary romance. There's the full gauntlet of 'relationships' and sexualities and genders in this book. So if you have 'traditional' values, save yourself the wrinkles and pick up something with a cat on the cover and the words 'cherry blossom lane' in the title.
I appreciated Josh's character development throughout the book, but Ari's growth was stunted. Initially, Josh reminded me of Schmidt from New Girl. He's pretentious and not afraid to let everyone know it. The worst part is I agreed with some of his sentiments, especially when it comes to eating meatballs from a furniture chain. It just doesn't make sense to me and I'm someone who likes a fish filet from McDonalds. Puzzle that one out Big Al (Albert Einstein). Anyways, I wish we could've seen the same growth in Ari. Mans was doing therapy and practicing self-awareness while she was vaping on an air mattress and being as hypocritical as possible. I also wasn't a big fan of her token wokeism. It didn't really have a place in this book. You can't moan about materialism and then get turned on by Egyptian cotton sheets. Enjoy that polyester blend with a single-digit thread count.
All in all, I found this mostly enjoyable but I wish the turmoil in the second half had been reduced to at least a quarter. And there were definitely some things that didn't make sense like how was Josh's dad barely turning a profit yet his inheritance was enough to be unemployed while living in a swanky NY apt for over a year? The strongest part was their friendship, but yet it was the shortest part of the book. I did appreciate that there was ZERO slut-shaming in this book. I was scared that Josh was gonna have a "but what if she leaves me for a guy OR girl" moment but Ari's extracurricular activities were thankfully never an issue. I will definitely read this author's next book because when it was funny, it was FUNNNYYYYY.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: banter between Ari and Josh was fantastic, legit funny, very modern and contemporary, strong character growth for Josh, I liked the timeline jumps (IMO more preferable than insta-love), great writing
Cons: didn't need the random wokeisms from Ari, her character growth was too stagnant, too much time spent in turmoil
___
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March 28, 2023Hi, this is my book and I'm so excited that you're remotely interested in reading it. I wanted to let you know what you can expect. So consider this a non-exhaustive CW about some of the issues, topics, and representation that come up in YOU, AGAIN: conversations about breakups and divorce and characters who are healing and struggling through that, non-monogamy, bisexual protagonist, a variety of issues with being estranged from parents, depression, characters who feel comfortable with sex but uncomfortable with intimacy.
There are sex scenes in this book and a bit of very frank conversation about sex.
Although you wouldn't know it from reading that list, this book is also funny. At least, I've been told that.
If you're a person who is here because my mom sent you, please know that, in her words, "this book is pretty racy."
People who have not seen When Harry Met Sally have enjoyed this book!
There are sex scenes in this book and a bit of very frank conversation about sex.
Although you wouldn't know it from reading that list, this book is also funny. At least, I've been told that.
If you're a person who is here because my mom sent you, please know that, in her words, "this book is pretty racy."
People who have not seen When Harry Met Sally have enjoyed this book!
October 7, 2023
This was so much worse than a Emily Henry book 🥹 side eyeing everyone who gave it more than one star.
The fmc was so gross and unlikeable, her obsession with sex and threesomes (with married couples) was acc concerning. Not her asking if he’s open to threesomes after SHE (ew) proposed to him 🤢
Josh had the personality of stale bread. No wonder all his girlfriends left him 😒 bring back toxic masculinity bc I can’t deal with insecure men anymore
The only goodish quote in the whole book 🫶🏻
“Do you think I don’t know what it’s like to be hurt?” Josh sits up on his elbow. “You’re the only good thing in my life.”
The fmc was so gross and unlikeable, her obsession with sex and threesomes (with married couples) was acc concerning. Not her asking if he’s open to threesomes after SHE (ew) proposed to him 🤢
Josh had the personality of stale bread. No wonder all his girlfriends left him 😒 bring back toxic masculinity bc I can’t deal with insecure men anymore
The only goodish quote in the whole book 🫶🏻
“Do you think I don’t know what it’s like to be hurt?” Josh sits up on his elbow. “You’re the only good thing in my life.”
August 10, 2023
When Harry Met Sally fans-assemble! Reading this book was like being wrapped in the comfort of a warm hug while sipping a hot cup of tea, if only for the nostalgia of the aforementioned movie and millennial timeliness. While maybe a bit longer than necessary in page count, this one has delightful Jewish and bi rep, while also establishing a platonic friendship before the relationship turns romantic (we love to see it). If you’re looking for stories to add to your fall TBR, don’t forget to put this one on the list!
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
March 31, 2024
“Maybe there's no such thing as soulmates. Maybe there are only people who trust each other enough to begin something without being assured of the end.”
I really don't know what exactly I feel about this book. It was fine I guess? It's not a bad book and it was actually good considering this is Kate's debut novel. My main problem is that I had very high expectations from this book after reading the synopsis and the fact that this is a modern reimagining of When Harry Met Sally, but this book lacked depth. I liked how the author explored the enemies to friends to lovers trope in this book and how she navigated Josh and Ari's feelings for each other throughout the book.
You, Again is more than just a typical romance story. It's about two people who are complete opposites of each other, who hated each other for years but one night they become friends because being lonely is the hardest thing. Ari and Josh are struggling with their careers and relationships but formed a peculiar but a funny camaraderie when they both realised it's better to be friends with the person you hated for years than be lonely in a New York City. Their friendship is a routine of “How to be pathetically alone, together.” The story dealt with some realistic topics of life and how humans in reality deal with their emotions, feelings and problems—which was really annoying and frustrating but understandable. Also, the queer representation and sex positivity was done so well in this book.
The writing is the biggest issue for my not liking this book because this book is written in third pov but the author changed it from Josh to Ari's perspective or vice-verse whenever she felt the need to do it and it was very confusing at times to follow the story-line. I think the author wanted this book to be read like a movie script while also keeping the elements of an actual book but failed miserably at both the things. But I know Kate can do better.
➸ Ari: She was fine. She was quirky, funny and pathetic who's only forefront thought is to have sex with married couples. I like sex and gender positivity in books but to make it the character's whole personality is really not that interesting. But I liked how she tried to change her behaviour about how she can't and won't even do romantic relationships ever again because she's affraid of the uncertainties in the future and glad to know she was the one who did the airport run to get back to Josh and to confess her love and not the other way around because Josh did deserved better.
➸ Josh: He is so much better than Ari. He is uptight, high-acheiving, wants a perfect happily ever after for himself because he is THE guy who thinks he can keep a girl happy if he gives all of himself to someone he loves. He's trying to navigate his career as a chef and his long-term-long-distance realtionships in NYC because he thinks he can and will have a perfect and happily married life with kids one day but all he gets in return is a broken heart and broken career. Ari helped him put together his life after the huge failure of his broadway and I liked how in the end he realised his true potential and his true self.
╰┈➤ Josh & Ari
Josh and Ari's first and several meetings over the course of eight years were catastrophic disasters until they became friends one night. The romance was cute, their banter was witty and fresh and something that added the fun element to the story to the emotional damage side of the story. I liked their friendship the most and how they developed trust and love for each other even though they both were in denial for months. Their late movie nights and how Josh was there for Ari everytime she needed him was so sweet. Their struggles with their love lifes was mostly a 'them' issue because Josh is a super-secure relationship type of guy and Ari is a sex and threesome obsessed girl who don't do perfect romantic relationships. It was good to see how they tried to come out of their comfort zones and tried to be better for each other while also discovering who and what they want to be as an individual in life.
There was a longest third-act breakup in the ending and the author dragged it for atleast a year until Ari one day magically realises that not even a job in a different city can heal the Josh shaped hole in her heart. The big gesture in the end was cute and everything you want when the characters are finally confessing their love to each other after realising how they were the biggest fools for not seeing what was always in front of their eyes. The epilogue was cute but gave me second hand embarrassment because why the hell Ari did bring threesome when they just had a proposal?
This book is not for everyone but this is THE book for you if you want something cute and funny with classic rom-com vibes and a toxic and dramatic modern reimagining of When Harry Met Sally.
I really don't know what exactly I feel about this book. It was fine I guess? It's not a bad book and it was actually good considering this is Kate's debut novel. My main problem is that I had very high expectations from this book after reading the synopsis and the fact that this is a modern reimagining of When Harry Met Sally, but this book lacked depth. I liked how the author explored the enemies to friends to lovers trope in this book and how she navigated Josh and Ari's feelings for each other throughout the book.
“Why are people so eager to bury a genuine friendship under the weight of a romantic relationship?”
You, Again is more than just a typical romance story. It's about two people who are complete opposites of each other, who hated each other for years but one night they become friends because being lonely is the hardest thing. Ari and Josh are struggling with their careers and relationships but formed a peculiar but a funny camaraderie when they both realised it's better to be friends with the person you hated for years than be lonely in a New York City. Their friendship is a routine of “How to be pathetically alone, together.” The story dealt with some realistic topics of life and how humans in reality deal with their emotions, feelings and problems—which was really annoying and frustrating but understandable. Also, the queer representation and sex positivity was done so well in this book.
“Maybe being in love is knowing that you'd live it all over again - every part, suffering included - to get right back to the place where you're standing.”
The writing is the biggest issue for my not liking this book because this book is written in third pov but the author changed it from Josh to Ari's perspective or vice-verse whenever she felt the need to do it and it was very confusing at times to follow the story-line. I think the author wanted this book to be read like a movie script while also keeping the elements of an actual book but failed miserably at both the things. But I know Kate can do better.
➸ Ari: She was fine. She was quirky, funny and pathetic who's only forefront thought is to have sex with married couples. I like sex and gender positivity in books but to make it the character's whole personality is really not that interesting. But I liked how she tried to change her behaviour about how she can't and won't even do romantic relationships ever again because she's affraid of the uncertainties in the future and glad to know she was the one who did the airport run to get back to Josh and to confess her love and not the other way around because Josh did deserved better.
“No one should marry the person who makes them happy. Marry the person you want by your side at your absolute lowest point.”
➸ Josh: He is so much better than Ari. He is uptight, high-acheiving, wants a perfect happily ever after for himself because he is THE guy who thinks he can keep a girl happy if he gives all of himself to someone he loves. He's trying to navigate his career as a chef and his long-term-long-distance realtionships in NYC because he thinks he can and will have a perfect and happily married life with kids one day but all he gets in return is a broken heart and broken career. Ari helped him put together his life after the huge failure of his broadway and I liked how in the end he realised his true potential and his true self.
“I’m scared, okay? We could really, really hurt each other.”
“Do you think I don’t know what it’s like to be hurt?” Josh sits up on his elbow. “You’re the only good thing in my life.”
╰┈➤ Josh & Ari
Josh and Ari's first and several meetings over the course of eight years were catastrophic disasters until they became friends one night. The romance was cute, their banter was witty and fresh and something that added the fun element to the story to the emotional damage side of the story. I liked their friendship the most and how they developed trust and love for each other even though they both were in denial for months. Their late movie nights and how Josh was there for Ari everytime she needed him was so sweet. Their struggles with their love lifes was mostly a 'them' issue because Josh is a super-secure relationship type of guy and Ari is a sex and threesome obsessed girl who don't do perfect romantic relationships. It was good to see how they tried to come out of their comfort zones and tried to be better for each other while also discovering who and what they want to be as an individual in life.
“Your soulmate gives you the greatest possible sense of belonging,” he says with genuine conviction. “They heal your existential wound. It’s the basis of modern love.”
There was a longest third-act breakup in the ending and the author dragged it for atleast a year until Ari one day magically realises that not even a job in a different city can heal the Josh shaped hole in her heart. The big gesture in the end was cute and everything you want when the characters are finally confessing their love to each other after realising how they were the biggest fools for not seeing what was always in front of their eyes. The epilogue was cute but gave me second hand embarrassment because why the hell Ari did bring threesome when they just had a proposal?
This book is not for everyone but this is THE book for you if you want something cute and funny with classic rom-com vibes and a toxic and dramatic modern reimagining of When Harry Met Sally.
July 11, 2023
nora ephron would love this
September 11, 2023
4.5⭐️
An absolute delight 🥹🫶🏼
An absolute delight 🥹🫶🏼
November 7, 2023
so it turns out the cover reminding me of when harry met sally wasn't a coincidence, this is marketed as a retelling! sadly this just did not resonate with me at all, i couldn't stand anybody in this book other than radhya 😭 considering the movie this is inspired by relies heavily on the charm of meg ryan (legend) and billy crystal (the only male actor who has ever truly nailed the finesse of sport bitching), it's not surprising that this concept doesn't work if you don't connect with the characters. this did get better after the first 150 pages but even then i just never found myself truly invested, it felt like i was reading about tropes rather than people and the attempts to make the story more modern were so awkwardly shoved in that it just felt more "how do you do fellow kids" than anything. :( was refreshing to see a female mc with an avoidant attachment style though ngl, more of that pls :)) asking for a friend....
September 22, 2023
this is the best romance ive read all year if not ever
Goldbeck pretty much nailed this romcom based on when harry met sally. No dramatic plot point or external conflicts, just the evolution of a relationship through conversations spanning years, their personal hang ups and neurosis the only thing keeping them apart.
The banter is 10/10
The New York setting on NYE makes this the perfect fall/winter/holiday read
Goldbeck pretty much nailed this romcom based on when harry met sally. No dramatic plot point or external conflicts, just the evolution of a relationship through conversations spanning years, their personal hang ups and neurosis the only thing keeping them apart.
The banter is 10/10
The New York setting on NYE makes this the perfect fall/winter/holiday read
April 2, 2024
First half of this was an easy 5 stars. The second half was still enjoyable, but messy in a way that I can't really pinpoint what exactly didn't work for me? Still a great read overall but not the absolute new favorite I hoped it might be.
Very much looking forward to whatever Goldbeck puts out next in the hopes that that one will work even better for me!
Very much looking forward to whatever Goldbeck puts out next in the hopes that that one will work even better for me!
September 12, 2023
It’s an age old story… she’s a struggling comedian with commitment issues who only does one-night-stands. He’s an uptight asshole chef who believes in “the one” and “happily ever after.” And they both happen to be boning the same chick.
I actually can’t believe this is a debut novel. I loved it so much. The writing reminded me a lot of Emily Henry! Very witty, humorous, great chemistry, banter and tension between the mc’s with the perfect amount of depth and thoughtfulness.
Ari was so damn funny. She had me laughing out loud so many times which is fitting considering she is a comedian. Josh was a total pretentious asshole at first and by the end he was still sort of a pretentious asshole but he was also sweet and cute and mischievously dirty ���
Initially I was kinda like “ugh it’s dual POV” because I don’t always love that but quickly I understood why and really appreciated it. Also, this really did give MAJOR “When Harry met Sally” vibes. I already want to read it again!
Thank you to NetGalley and Randomhouse publishing/Dial Press Trade Paperback for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
I actually can’t believe this is a debut novel. I loved it so much. The writing reminded me a lot of Emily Henry! Very witty, humorous, great chemistry, banter and tension between the mc’s with the perfect amount of depth and thoughtfulness.
Ari was so damn funny. She had me laughing out loud so many times which is fitting considering she is a comedian. Josh was a total pretentious asshole at first and by the end he was still sort of a pretentious asshole but he was also sweet and cute and mischievously dirty ���
Initially I was kinda like “ugh it’s dual POV” because I don’t always love that but quickly I understood why and really appreciated it. Also, this really did give MAJOR “When Harry met Sally” vibes. I already want to read it again!
Thank you to NetGalley and Randomhouse publishing/Dial Press Trade Paperback for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
November 8, 2023
i’ve never read a better romcom in my life. when harry met sally has LONG been my favorite movie, and i was SO surprised to how well this “held up” to the bones of the story. it’s a rather loose retelling, which i think actually does the entire story a huge service. it somehow captures the Ephron on vibes PERFECTLY while also perfectly adapting to a more diverse and modern 2020s cast. as a huuuge emily henry girly, this was everything i love about emily henry And More??? Whaaaattt?? happy week of bi visibility to my new fav bi character Ever MWAHH TY to penguin audio for the ARC!
August 10, 2023
Definitely a love-hate conflicted story for me.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I love a great enemies to lovers romance. The love-hate dynamic is usually a fine line and it’s fun to see the characters tiptoeing across a line that sometimes becomes a great divide. That is especially evident in this book.
The author developed a unique dynamic between her main characters in that their enemy era did truly last a long time. This book is written over years of time, and with that aspect, it was a long journey for them to come to grips with the reality of their feelings.
There’s a huge dynamic in this book where most everything is built on his and her failures in life. It’s a long story of some success, and then crushing defeat. It’s a story of good friends who continually support you. But the author also dives into an extreme inability to believe in yourself or find yourself worthy of one single thing.
In many aspects, this book was exhausting. The female lead seemed to be so incapable of functioning in simple conversation, and sharing herself that at some points it was difficult to read. There were points where I just shook my head and wondered how someone could hate their life and themself as much as they do. Shallow friendships and shallow continual hookups were better than having a relationship with someone she really loved but couldn’t admit it to herself or him.
And speaking of him, after a crushing blow with his arrogance and failed business, he, too, hid himself from the world. Afraid to put himself out there again because of the ridicule. But at least he was willing to try for her affection, cared for, and supported her emotionally more than it was worth. He seriously had to work hard to try to have any kind of relationship with her and that too was exhausting. I kept thinking I hope she was worth it in the end.
But that is not to say there is not lightness too. Goldbeck added wit and plenty of humor with snarky comebacks and banter that keeps the story light and very funny. Ari is a comedian after all. But you can also feel the hurt and the pain that keep these characters from moving forward and getting out of their bad phases.
This book reminded me a lot of some of the past popular young adult novels that were built only on conversation, arguing, and spinning of their wheels continually.
While the author finally brought it together for a happily ever after, it took a lot of time, hurt feelings, and broken hearts to mend. I truly commend Josh for not catapulting immediately, because honestly, having to emotionally support someone that broken is definitely something one should question if they handle it in the long run.
I know my review and thoughts will be an unpopular opinion because many (most) of you are going to absolutely love this book. The author seriously has mad writing skills. You, Again is an interesting dynamic. Romantic, but for me, it failed to give me that heartwarming excitement that we should feel when two people fall in love and have a beautiful relationship in the end. With the passage of so much time in the story, it took on a whole other realm that lost me along the way.
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/you-again-by...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I love a great enemies to lovers romance. The love-hate dynamic is usually a fine line and it’s fun to see the characters tiptoeing across a line that sometimes becomes a great divide. That is especially evident in this book.
The author developed a unique dynamic between her main characters in that their enemy era did truly last a long time. This book is written over years of time, and with that aspect, it was a long journey for them to come to grips with the reality of their feelings.
There’s a huge dynamic in this book where most everything is built on his and her failures in life. It’s a long story of some success, and then crushing defeat. It’s a story of good friends who continually support you. But the author also dives into an extreme inability to believe in yourself or find yourself worthy of one single thing.
In many aspects, this book was exhausting. The female lead seemed to be so incapable of functioning in simple conversation, and sharing herself that at some points it was difficult to read. There were points where I just shook my head and wondered how someone could hate their life and themself as much as they do. Shallow friendships and shallow continual hookups were better than having a relationship with someone she really loved but couldn’t admit it to herself or him.
And speaking of him, after a crushing blow with his arrogance and failed business, he, too, hid himself from the world. Afraid to put himself out there again because of the ridicule. But at least he was willing to try for her affection, cared for, and supported her emotionally more than it was worth. He seriously had to work hard to try to have any kind of relationship with her and that too was exhausting. I kept thinking I hope she was worth it in the end.
But that is not to say there is not lightness too. Goldbeck added wit and plenty of humor with snarky comebacks and banter that keeps the story light and very funny. Ari is a comedian after all. But you can also feel the hurt and the pain that keep these characters from moving forward and getting out of their bad phases.
This book reminded me a lot of some of the past popular young adult novels that were built only on conversation, arguing, and spinning of their wheels continually.
While the author finally brought it together for a happily ever after, it took a lot of time, hurt feelings, and broken hearts to mend. I truly commend Josh for not catapulting immediately, because honestly, having to emotionally support someone that broken is definitely something one should question if they handle it in the long run.
I know my review and thoughts will be an unpopular opinion because many (most) of you are going to absolutely love this book. The author seriously has mad writing skills. You, Again is an interesting dynamic. Romantic, but for me, it failed to give me that heartwarming excitement that we should feel when two people fall in love and have a beautiful relationship in the end. With the passage of so much time in the story, it took on a whole other realm that lost me along the way.
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/you-again-by...
September 12, 2023
i’ve been holding off on a review while i processed my feelings because i was very conflicted on how i felt about this book but fuck it. i think i loved it. it was messy and hot and slightly infuriating and relatable and fun and angsty and emotional and raw and real and hilarious all at once. It was truly unlike anything I’ve ever read and has such a unique voice. I can definitely see how this book may be polarizing and not for everyone. but is was for ME and my hot mess, angsty, commitment-phobe, reylo loving brain
Shelved as 'dnf'
January 28, 2024Girl, stop talking about sex 24/7. It’s tiresome. Let me get to know other sides of you.
Ah, the other side of you is that you love to get high?
Never mind then.
Ah, the other side of you is that you love to get high?
Never mind then.
February 7, 2024
I decided to change my rating from 4.5 to a 5 star ⭐️💁🏻♀️
manifested a 5 star read just by looking at the cover and I wasn't wrong. The fact that THIS BOOK is a debut novel blows my mind. The writing was utterly perfect ( I have 0 complaints). At first, the story is building up so it could be a little frustrating waiting for that slow burn to hit but when it hits ... IT HITS.
Josh and Ari were so funny since the first time that they met. The went from disliking each other to truly DESPISE each other, to then become friends, and then best friends, and then it was impossible to stop from there. I did cried a few times, especially in the third act and I felt my heart breaking a little ngl 😭
The last 30% of the book was what did it for me. The sarcasm, the hurt, the back and forth, everything was leading to that perfect ending and I couldn't be more happy 🥹
This was the perfect rom-com. I think that if you love Ali Hazel-woods writing and Sarah Ogle you are gonna love this one.
For me it was beautiful and so ROMANTIC (don't get me started on the spice aspect because that truly was super HOT 🌶️🥵)
God, I love them together. They are the perfect representation of Sally and Harry (from When Henry Met Sally). I did saw the resemblance and the inspiration and it did not disappoint!!!!!
Thank you to The Dial Press for the Arc 🤍
manifested a 5 star read just by looking at the cover and I wasn't wrong. The fact that THIS BOOK is a debut novel blows my mind. The writing was utterly perfect ( I have 0 complaints). At first, the story is building up so it could be a little frustrating waiting for that slow burn to hit but when it hits ... IT HITS.
Josh and Ari were so funny since the first time that they met. The went from disliking each other to truly DESPISE each other, to then become friends, and then best friends, and then it was impossible to stop from there. I did cried a few times, especially in the third act and I felt my heart breaking a little ngl 😭
The last 30% of the book was what did it for me. The sarcasm, the hurt, the back and forth, everything was leading to that perfect ending and I couldn't be more happy 🥹
This was the perfect rom-com. I think that if you love Ali Hazel-woods writing and Sarah Ogle you are gonna love this one.
For me it was beautiful and so ROMANTIC (don't get me started on the spice aspect because that truly was super HOT 🌶️🥵)
God, I love them together. They are the perfect representation of Sally and Harry (from When Henry Met Sally). I did saw the resemblance and the inspiration and it did not disappoint!!!!!
Thank you to The Dial Press for the Arc 🤍
January 7, 2024
3 stars
I really wanted to love this friends to lovers debut novel. I picked it up because I loved the cover and it was in the running for the Goodreads choice awards best romance. Unfortunately I found the heroine insufferable. She had her likable moments, but overall she drove me batty. I did, however, love the hero, the friend group, and the setting of the book. The writing was strong as well, it was just a miss for me.
I really wanted to love this friends to lovers debut novel. I picked it up because I loved the cover and it was in the running for the Goodreads choice awards best romance. Unfortunately I found the heroine insufferable. She had her likable moments, but overall she drove me batty. I did, however, love the hero, the friend group, and the setting of the book. The writing was strong as well, it was just a miss for me.
Audio book source: Libby
Story Rating: 3 stars
Narrators: Kristen DiMercurio
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 11h 5m
September 20, 2023
This book has captivated many romcom lovers and for a good reason! I've heard other reviewers compare this story to When Harry Met Sally and I totally see the similarities. This book has a very similar 90s romantic comedy vibe and is filled with witty banter, inside jokes, and real life struggles.
This story focuses on our two main characters Ari and Josh and the development of their enemies-to-friends-to-lovers relationship over the span of multiple years. I found both MCs to be very well developed though slightly annoying at times, which made them all the more realistic and lovable. This is a book I will be thinking about for a while and cannot wait to read more from this debut author!
Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story focuses on our two main characters Ari and Josh and the development of their enemies-to-friends-to-lovers relationship over the span of multiple years. I found both MCs to be very well developed though slightly annoying at times, which made them all the more realistic and lovable. This is a book I will be thinking about for a while and cannot wait to read more from this debut author!
Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2023
3.5 stars
This was a cute romance! Definitely read more fiction since it spans so many years and is more centered around the characters' lives and where they are versus solely focusing on the romance. This has When Harry Met Sally vibes because the characters meet over a span of many years and can't really stand each other until their third or fourth meeting. I liked the journey the characters went on and seeing them realize they were falling in love with each other. They both had relationships they were working through and understanding what they wanted out of life. It was a bit slow throughout the middle, so I was more passively listening to the audiobook than anything, but it was an enjoyable read!
This was a cute romance! Definitely read more fiction since it spans so many years and is more centered around the characters' lives and where they are versus solely focusing on the romance. This has When Harry Met Sally vibes because the characters meet over a span of many years and can't really stand each other until their third or fourth meeting. I liked the journey the characters went on and seeing them realize they were falling in love with each other. They both had relationships they were working through and understanding what they wanted out of life. It was a bit slow throughout the middle, so I was more passively listening to the audiobook than anything, but it was an enjoyable read!
April 27, 2024
Ari absolutely has a personality disorder.
And while people with personality disorders deserve to be loved, I simply don't want to read it in my romance books!
Shoutout to the cover because I love it. It just contained a book with an extremely insufferable heroine.
And while people with personality disorders deserve to be loved, I simply don't want to read it in my romance books!
Shoutout to the cover because I love it. It just contained a book with an extremely insufferable heroine.
September 11, 2023
This book is going to land perfectly for the readers it was written for. I am not that reader.
Josh is the “staid, hard on the outside/softer on the inside, trying to step out of his family’s shadow” guy.
Ari is another iteration of Sally Rooney Girl, Jessa Johansson, Fleabag, or any one of the other ✨chaotic bisexual millennial white woman✨ characters who are seen as groundbreaking or revelatory to the usual audience for books like this because they’re avatars for them to commiserate or slum it with.
It’s been done…plenty…in similar, but more effective, ways. At least in other versions of these tropes the characters have usually been more likable, or relatable, or even pitiable. Pity would have been preferable to the consistent underlying annoyance I felt with Ari and Josh.
TL;DR - Pick this one up if you think Lena Dunham and Karley Sciortino are vanguards of feminist thought, you signed up for Hulu just to watch Normal People, you know what ENM means without googling it, or your life is so charmed that you read romcom books so you can suffer vicariously in your leisure time.
*I am still actively annoyed after reading this, so I may come back after cooling down and bump this up a star because I typically reserve 1 star for books that cut me off in traffic…but probably not.
Josh is the “staid, hard on the outside/softer on the inside, trying to step out of his family’s shadow” guy.
Ari is another iteration of Sally Rooney Girl, Jessa Johansson, Fleabag, or any one of the other ✨chaotic bisexual millennial white woman✨ characters who are seen as groundbreaking or revelatory to the usual audience for books like this because they’re avatars for them to commiserate or slum it with.
It’s been done…plenty…in similar, but more effective, ways. At least in other versions of these tropes the characters have usually been more likable, or relatable, or even pitiable. Pity would have been preferable to the consistent underlying annoyance I felt with Ari and Josh.
TL;DR - Pick this one up if you think Lena Dunham and Karley Sciortino are vanguards of feminist thought, you signed up for Hulu just to watch Normal People, you know what ENM means without googling it, or your life is so charmed that you read romcom books so you can suffer vicariously in your leisure time.
*I am still actively annoyed after reading this, so I may come back after cooling down and bump this up a star because I typically reserve 1 star for books that cut me off in traffic…but probably not.
November 27, 2023
Before I bash this one (just a lil’ bit), can we just take one moment to delight in all that is the perfect Autumn cartoon cover? Soooooo good.
Now for the bashing. First, Goodreads’ effing LIIIIIIEEEEESSSSSSS that the Kindle version of this is 368 pages. My copy was 441 and lemme tell you the perfect amount of pages for a rom com is 325 and not a paragraph more . . . .
Which leads to the absolute lack of character development whatsoever and a real slog for the first 100+ pages. Really, the only thing I ever got to know about Ari was . . . .
I’m all for sex positivity, but good lord, we’re talking about a grown ass woman and she had no other personality traits than being a bangbot????? Josh’s development wasn’t much better, but at least we got to climb around in his head a wee bit more.
But then . . . . . .
Maybe it was simply nostalgia, but my heart grew three sizes the day I read this one once Josh and Ari decided . . . .
3.5 Stars
Now for the bashing. First, Goodreads’ effing LIIIIIIEEEEESSSSSSS that the Kindle version of this is 368 pages. My copy was 441 and lemme tell you the perfect amount of pages for a rom com is 325 and not a paragraph more . . . .
Which leads to the absolute lack of character development whatsoever and a real slog for the first 100+ pages. Really, the only thing I ever got to know about Ari was . . . .
I’m all for sex positivity, but good lord, we’re talking about a grown ass woman and she had no other personality traits than being a bangbot????? Josh’s development wasn’t much better, but at least we got to climb around in his head a wee bit more.
But then . . . . . .
Maybe it was simply nostalgia, but my heart grew three sizes the day I read this one once Josh and Ari decided . . . .
3.5 Stars
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