Reviews

Like You Mean It by Jillian Liota

mooncricketjp's review against another edition

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3.0

Ok.

I liked this story but it wasn’t what I was expecting. It was 93% of NOT being in a romantic relationship…They were developing a friendship which was nice to see. Other things weren’t what I typically like having in my romance books, though…

wandereaderr's review against another edition

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4.0

Review to come!

what_rachel_reads's review against another edition

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4.0

A good quick read but I feel a bit hoodwinked that we didn’t get a single spicy scene and we were also robbed of him taking care of her as she goes into labor or helping her out with the newborn.

POV: dual (switches almost every chapter)
Tropes: neighbors, pregnant single mom with a dead, verbally abusive ex, love triangle (H is in a relationship that is subpar and decides to breakup with her for h like 86% through the book)

There was mention of the girlfriend and him having hot sex (not on page) and of her grabbing his dick but all Annie got was a kiss at the very end of the book.

The writing was good and I liked all the characters or at least the parts they played but I really wish it was spicier.

1lukor_3's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful inspiring slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

rotellareads's review against another edition

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5.0

I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! From cover to cover I was captivated and wrapped up in Annie's life and hoping for a happily ever after for her and her kids.

The drama was real, the emotions were high and the feelings were deep. This story about broken, shattered and very pregnant Annie and her determination to pick up the pieces of her life after the loss of her husband just pulled on my heart strings and made me want her to succeed and find happiness!

Sometimes all it takes is the kindness of a stranger to help you get back on your feet and survive another day. Sometimes that stranger happens to be your older, sexy, next door neighbor!

The relationship that developed between Jones and Cole was so sweet and melted my heart! Cole was such a positive and strong role model for Annie's young son and proved to her that honest, goodhearted men do still exist.

The epilogue wrapped up the story so nicely and left me smiling and never wanting it to end!

Thank you to the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

thebookishren's review against another edition

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4.0

Wow.

What an emotional, heartwrenching, heartwarming slow burn story of friendship and love.

I absolutely adored every single character in this book...except Jess.

Cole was simply a beautiful male character with so much compassion and love in his heart.

Annie was a strong, courageous, beautiful mother who carried the weight of the world on her shoulders.

Such a great book.

briewhale's review against another edition

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4.0

A sweet friends-to-lovers romance with a lot of good build up and development. The characters had rich backstories that were intriguing to learn. It was clear to the readers, to Jess, and to some extent, Cole, that a deeper connection between Cole and Annie was going to form right from the start. So I hated that Cole kept denying the chemistry, even though I get why. Despite some frustrating moments (which makes books more interesting, in my opinion) this was a fun and happy love story.

gwensreading's review against another edition

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5.0

I haven't had the pleasure of reading any of Jillian Liota's work before. She provided me an ARC for Like You Mean It and I am happy to share my thoughts.

I really, really, really liked this book. I can tell when I really like a book because 1) I talk about it with my husband, who could care less, 2) I stay up way too late reading it and 3) I sneak in reading while at work. This book ticked all of my boxes and I gave a big happy sigh when I finished it.

Annie is a single mom to Jones and is pregnant with her daughter. She's moved back home to California after her abusive ex dies unexpectedly. She is exhausted with the move and trying to come to terms with her new life. I love when I feel an instant connection with a character. I honestly felt like I could be Annie or she could be my sister/friend/etc. Annie took what life gave her and made the best of it.

Cole is a man who likes his routine. He's a few years older than Annie and pretty settled in his life. He has a work box, relationships box, family box, and friends box. Rarely does his life intersect and he likes it just that way. Cole has been in a long distance relationship for two years and is happy with exactly what he has. Until he meets Annie and Jones.

I loved watching these two slowly fall into love. There was never any cheating (physically or emotionally). Cole was a wonderful friend to Annie when that is exactly what she needed. He accepted her and her son unconditionally which set the foundation for a really beautiful relationship.

I highly recommend this book. It was comfy, heartwarming, and for me a perfect read. I am looking forward to checking out more of Jillian's work.

chelseaisbooked's review against another edition

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5.0

Great easy quick read! Not a lot of drama but still keeps you reading and you can feel the love between the characters.

jennahack's review against another edition

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4.0

True Rating: 4.5

This book was super sugary sweet and I loved it all.

Nothing beats an extremely happy ending.