Reviews

Practice Makes Perfect by Julie James

boo_trixie's review

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5.0

Well, this is it, I’ve now read all of Julie James’ books. They’re a lot of fun. I notice she hasn’t published in a while...I hope it’s because she’s off having fun. And I hope she someday writes more books!

samukele's review

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Awful

sophilozophy's review

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4.0

This book is about two lawyers who don't like each other, but who are both up for partner and have to compete for that one coveted spot. They've spent the last 8 years working themselves into the ground for this opportunity and things are about to change. First their boss wants them both to work together on a very important case. If that isn’t bad enough, now only one of them will be partner. But as things start to get more heated between Payton and J.D., they're finding it harder and harder to stay mad at each other. "Practice Makes Perfect" is a great opposites attract story.

nicole_reads_romance's review against another edition

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5.0

Julie James does sharply dressed, quick-witted lawyers and she does them well. I love the banter and tension she creates not only between her hero and heroine, but her sidekicks are so well written and developed as well. And oh my Darcy, how can I not love any author who slips in such wonderful Pride and Prejudice references?!

"Laugh if you want, but let me tell you something: women go crazy for that book. And even crazier for men who have read it. If I plan to bring a girl back to my place, I might just so happen to leave a copy of it sitting out on my coffee table and, let’s just say, hijinks frequently ensue. And you know what? It’s not a bad bit of storytelling."

It is just so true.

Practice Makes Perfect is hands down my favourite Julie James book to date. The sparks and quips flying back and forth between Payton and J.D. (what does that stand for anyway?!) were fantastic. As was their back story! Without any spoilers their first meeting, put into context of their current situation and with eight years of fighting in between? Loved it!

There were certainly some very did-that-really-just-happen moments (peeky-cheeks?!), and there is also plenty of predictability... But combine the strong lead characters, the wit and humor, with some great writing and I know I'll never be let down when I pick-up a book by Julie James.

laurenjodi's review against another edition

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4.0

Practive Makes Perfect
4 Stars

As lawyers in the same firm, Payton Kendall and J.D. Jameson, have kept their mutual dislike secret by avoiding each other for eight years. Payton resents J.D.'s privileged background and easy charm in a male-dominated profession while J.D. is irritated by Payton's feminist views and contemptuous attitude. Then a new client forces them to put aside their differences, and their animosity quickly turns to attraction. But the revelation that they are competing for the same partnership position puts them at odds again. Can they put aside their rivalry to find happiness together?

It is impossible to ignore the similarities between this book and The Hating Game by Sally Thorne. Yes, James's story was published earlier, but Payton and J.D. cannot hold a candle to Lucy and Josh's hilariously snarky banter and intense chemistry. That said, there are some decidedly funny moments during Payton and J.D.'s prank wars, and their romance is ultimately entertaining despite a couple of rocky moments.

J.D. is not at all appealing in the beginning, mainly due to his chauvinistic perception of women and one particularly egregious comment. However, he does redeem himself, and his obvious love for Peyton makes it impossible not to forgive his initial asshattery. In contrast, Peyton is delightful from the start. She is intelligent, confident, and resourceful and handles her feud with J.D. without resorting to cruel or mean-spirited attacks. They have a strong emotional connection and solid chemistry despite the almost fade-to-black sex scene.

Overall, an entertaining read with an engaging couple, and the resolution to the conflict is very satisfying.

memica's review

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5.0


My reaction when I was reading the book... it was so funny and awesome ... Even tho the first chapter, I had to get into it a lil~
I loved the characters, the story, everything ! Except the 8 years, the writer could have put 3-4 years... but oh well ... I forgive her
Did I say how awesome the book was?

The ending?
Read and you will love it :)

noura_rizk's review

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3.0

Lately I'm on I-Don't-Like-Anything-I-Read state.
So I started this one like 2 weeks ago, read the first 3 chapters then searched for something else to read.
Then 2 days ago I wanted to read something that won't take too much time, so I continued reading this, and I couldn't put it down.
I thought I'd hate the law stuff, but they were few and the story itself was good not too frustrating or boring.

Actual rating 3.5

kerrythefire's review against another edition

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1.0

Honestly, I don't even know how to rate this... I read this in 2023 and it was written in 2009.
I don't really have time for stories about teaching conservative white men to 'understand' and believe in sexism... Or stories that are basically whatabout-ists and apologists for sexual harassment deniers at this point in my life.


I did this to myself. (But you don't have to.)

gurp_reet's review

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I knew before I even started that this book was gonna be one hellva book because hello? its julie james and her books are always epic. I'm so glad I found this author and her books because they are always amazing!! loved this one too!! Would recommend to anyone who loves an office romance with witty banter and handsome as hell hero ;-)

johnm's review

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funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5