A review by ghh2023
A Guide to Being Just Friends by Sophie Sullivan

hopeful lighthearted relaxing slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

A Guide to Just Being Friends was seriously a great time. I had no idea that this book was in a series but I am seriously tempted to go out and buy the other two books. I really adored Wes and Hailey's story. The author did an amazing job writing a story that was believable but still really fun. I liked how she portrayed Hailey as an independent woman who was hesitant to ask for help. I think that there are many stubborn people out there who are feel too full of pride to ask for help. It is amazing that she has goals and aspirations for her own business and she works really hard to make them a reality on her own. The discussion surrounding discrepancies in finances was also really good. There are too many people out there with Wes's money who are never truly loved because everyone is constantly chasing after their money. I like how Hailey made it a point to express that she didn't want his money and that she was only with him for him. That really strengthened the authenticity of their relationship and made it even cuter than it was before. This book didn't feel as insta-lovey as many books do because it took place over the course of a year or so. It was really fun to stay in this world so long. I really enjoyed the banter between Wes and his brothers because they really helped each other during the highs and lows of their lives. Wes's opinions on relationships were really valid because I would imagine it would be hard to believe in a relationship if you never had a good role model of one. But, I am so glad that he decided to take a chance on Hailey at the end of the book. The scene at the wedding and in the backyard are so so cute. You can really tell that he put in his romcom movie research. I could write about this book for so much longer but I am going to stop here. I know that every time that I look at this book on my shelf it is going to bring a smile to my face. I really liked it and I will definitely try to read some more of her books in the future!!