A review by heabooknerd
A Lot like Love by Julie James

5.0

A LOT LIKE LOVE is one of my favorite books and a perfect example of how excellent a writer Julie James is. I can't resist a fake dating trope because I love the tension created between the love interests and this was done well in this book. Nick and Jordan banter and spar throughout as they unsuspectingly begin to fall for each other. I loved the slow burn they have as they try to resist, especially Nick who doesn't do relationships because of his undercover work. But for all his bluster, Nick can't help but fall for Jordan's sarcasm, witty comebacks, and her selfless devotion to her brother. I loved Jack Pallas in SOMETHING ABOUT YOU but Nick embodies the tall, dark, and dangerous label. He's growly, rough, and a badass and the complete opposite of every guy Jordan has dated in the past. But Jordan is no snob and she recognizes the strong protector underneath the "don't fuck with me face". Nick might have some stereotypical ideas about being a man but he never hesitates to treat Jordan with respect and he doesn't back away from starting something real with Jordan. These two had so much chemistry and I'm glad they don't jump into things too fast.

From the first page I loved Jordan and she's the exact type of person I'd be friends with. The sarcasm and jokes exchanged with her brother were so great and even though the Rhodes family isn't good at communication and expressing their feelings, you can really feel the love between brother, sister, and father. On top of that, I loved how down to earth Jordan was. She might be the heiress to a fortune, but she never once looks down on Nick as being out of her league or not good enough for her; she takes people as they are on their own merits. And the way she flirts and banters with Nick during their fake dating was great. Jordan's not afraid to go after what she wants and she's confident in her own skin and that's incredibly sexy; something Nick doesn't miss.

I love everything about this book and for me, it's perfect. From the characters to the writing to the plot, it just checks all my boxes of an excellent romance. I can't recommend this book enough to anyone looking for a great contemporary romance with a light touch of suspense.

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Favorite Quotes:

“Boyfriend, huh? I didn’t realize we had taken things to that level.”

“Oh, I’m sorry—this is my first undercover operation,” Jordan said. “I’m a little unclear about the rules. Are we seeing other people in this fake relationship?”

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He might’ve known zilch about cabernet, pinot, and all the other wine varietals, but her kiss was something he’d have no problem describing: luscious, rich, and tantalizing.

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Jordan opened her mouth to say something, then shut it. She threw her hands into the air. “How do you always do that? You tiptoe right to the edge of thoroughly pissing me off, then somehow you sweet-talk your way out of it.”

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You came into my life and messed the whole thing up and now I’m screwed. Because I’m in love with you. As in balls-out, head-over-heels, watching-Dancing-with-the-Stars -on-Monday-nights, wine-and-bubble-bath kind of love. Hell, I think I’d even wear a scarf indoors for you.”

Jordan smiled, her eyes misty, as she touched his cheek. “That’s the best kind of love.”