Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Better Off Friends by Elizabeth Eulberg

For Macallan and Levi, it was friends at first sight. Everyone says guys and girls can’t be just friends, but these two are. They hang out after school, share tons of inside jokes, their families are super close, and Levi even starts dating one of Macallan’s friends. They are platonic and happy that way. Eventually they realize they’re best friends — which wouldn’t be so bad if they didn’t keep getting in each other’s way. Guys won’t ask Macallan out because they think she’s with Levi, and Levi spends too much time joking around with Macallan, and maybe not enough time with his date. They can’t help but wonder . . . are they more than friends or are they better off without making it even more complicated? From romantic comedy superstar Elizabeth Eulberg comes a fresh, fun examination of a question for the ages: Can guys and girls ever really be just friends? Or are they always one fight away from not speaking again — and one kiss away from true love?
Review: I've always loved the movie When Harry Met Sally and was excited when I saw this was going to be loosely based on that movie. I liked Macallan and Levi and it was fun to see their story unfold. They meet and become friends in seventh grade. The story takes place from when they meet until they are seniors in high school. There are some fun moments between the two and I thought they had good chemistry. I wanted to see them actually together. It was sad to see how the both had feelings for each other but were too scared to show it. There's some fun tension as they both date other people and have to put on a brave face. The story is told from both POVs, which I liked. I did think Levi didn't always "sound" like a guy. Their voices were just a little too similar for me.

Overall, it was a fun read. I enjoyed it and would read it again. I've really enjoyed Eulberg's books and look forward to seeing what she comes up with next.

Content: Clean. Mild language (I think one swear word).

Monday, January 13, 2014

Romance Through the Ages

I couldn’t believe it when I saw this collection pop up for sale. Usually these collections can be a little disappointing with maybe one or two good ones. Not in this case, I enjoyed each of these stories. I actually already owned them and still had to buy the collection (killer deal at only .99 for pre-order). This collection contains the works of some of my favorite authors and I hope they come out with more collections in the future.

The Reluctant Bachelorette by Rachael Anderson I loved this one! It’s one of my favorite romantic comedies and one I’ve read a few times. Anderson’s books are charming and always give you a happily ever after.

She Owns the Knight by Diane Darcy Who doesn’t love a Knight? I’m a sucker for a medieval setting and loved this story. It’s a story that pops into my head from time to time.

Pride and Precipitation by Heather Horrocks Horrock’s books are full of fun. Great if you’re looking for a lighthearted romance.

Heart of the Ocean by Heather Moore Moore is a great storyteller. Her books always draw you in. I love a good mystery and a ghost story that isn’t too spooky. Combine that with a little romance and you have a winner.

My Own Mr. Darcy by Karey White Who doesn’t love a good Pride and Prejudice retelling? This was a lot of fun and had endearing characters.

Masquerade by Janette Rallison You can’t read a Rallison book without smiling! I loved this one and have re-read it a few times. I enjoy her YA books, but especially love her grown up books!

Running Barefoot by Amy Harmon I haven’t read this one yet, but I’ve heard great things about the author and look forward to reading this when the collection is released in February.

If you haven’t bought this yet, what are you waiting for? I think the pre-order price of .99 is just until it is released, so hurry!