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The Quit List
He quit believing in love a long time ago. She won't quit until she finds The One... and he's everything she's NOT looking for.
Holly Greene is on a mission to find her happily ever after. And her journey to love does not include a detour to Bad Boy Bartenderville, population Jax Grainger.
Jax may be witty, smart-mouthed, and handsome, but he’s the kind of guy who views love as a four-letter word… and the last thing Holly needs is to waste any more time.
She’s in her seeking Prince Charming era, not her playboy villain era.
But after he saves her from the world’s worst date, Holly sees an opportunity: Jax may not check any of the boxes on her list, but he’s the perfect person to help her find a man who does.
All she has to do is stick to the plan—and stay out of the sexy bartender’s arms.
Easy peasy lemon sque... Oops.
Holly Greene is on a mission to find her happily ever after. And her journey to love does not include a detour to Bad Boy Bartenderville, population Jax Grainger.
Jax may be witty, smart-mouthed, and handsome, but he’s the kind of guy who views love as a four-letter word… and the last thing Holly needs is to waste any more time.
She’s in her seeking Prince Charming era, not her playboy villain era.
But after he saves her from the world’s worst date, Holly sees an opportunity: Jax may not check any of the boxes on her list, but he’s the perfect person to help her find a man who does.
All she has to do is stick to the plan—and stay out of the sexy bartender’s arms.
Easy peasy lemon sque... Oops.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 5, 2024
1241 people are currently reading
15906 people want to read
About the author
Katie Bailey
11 books2,327 followersKatie Bailey is an Amazon top 25 bestselling author of rom coms with relatable characters and tons of chemistry. Her aim with every new love story she writes is to give readers a good laugh, maybe even a bit of a cry, but definitely leave them with a new book boyfriend.
When she’s not busy writing, Katie spends her time chasing twin tornado littles, cursing the cold Canadian winters she endures each year, chugging coffee by the bucketload, and crushing on her husband, who’s the real life inspiration behind all of the fictional men she’s written.
You can connect with Katie on Instagram @authorkatiebailey
When she’s not busy writing, Katie spends her time chasing twin tornado littles, cursing the cold Canadian winters she endures each year, chugging coffee by the bucketload, and crushing on her husband, who’s the real life inspiration behind all of the fictional men she’s written.
You can connect with Katie on Instagram @authorkatiebailey
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,526 reviews
June 16, 2024
4.5⭐
Genre ~ romantic comedy
Setting ~ Georgia
Publication date ~ book ~ April 5, 2024, audio ~ June 11, 2024
Est Page Count ~ 346 (44 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 10 hours 8 minutes
Narrators ~ Abigail Reno, David Bendena
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ slow burn, opposites attract, friends to lovers, no steamage
Holly & Jax
Holly is nearing 30 and ready to find love and goes on date after date after awful date. Jax doesn't believe in love, but offers to help her find the one. It's obvious where the story will lead us, but it was a fun hike there.
I really liked how they became great friends first, which slowly and realistically developed into more. She was pushed out of her comfort zone and loved doing outdoorsy things she never thought she would. He was totally taken by surprise with feelings he never thought he'd feel.
Overall, super sweet, super fun and the banter was top notch. Be sure to check out Katie's other books because I've enjoyed every one I've read so far, well this is only my 3rd but still.
Narration notes:
Abigail did a great job. David did, as well, however he did not sound like he'd be a mountain man at all, which is how Jax is described.
Additional notes:
I haven't read it yet, but Season's Schemings is Maddie's book and she is Jax's step sister. I do wish I had read that one first, but I see nothing written anywhere that these are a series, so how was I suppose to know? Now I know what's happening with her life, so that'll be a bit spoiled if I read it.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ romantic comedy
Setting ~ Georgia
Publication date ~ book ~ April 5, 2024, audio ~ June 11, 2024
Est Page Count ~ 346 (44 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 10 hours 8 minutes
Narrators ~ Abigail Reno, David Bendena
POV ~ dual 1st
Featuring ~ slow burn, opposites attract, friends to lovers, no steamage
Holly & Jax
Holly is nearing 30 and ready to find love and goes on date after date after awful date. Jax doesn't believe in love, but offers to help her find the one. It's obvious where the story will lead us, but it was a fun hike there.
I really liked how they became great friends first, which slowly and realistically developed into more. She was pushed out of her comfort zone and loved doing outdoorsy things she never thought she would. He was totally taken by surprise with feelings he never thought he'd feel.
Overall, super sweet, super fun and the banter was top notch. Be sure to check out Katie's other books because I've enjoyed every one I've read so far, well this is only my 3rd but still.
Narration notes:
Abigail did a great job. David did, as well, however he did not sound like he'd be a mountain man at all, which is how Jax is described.
Additional notes:
I haven't read it yet, but Season's Schemings is Maddie's book and she is Jax's step sister. I do wish I had read that one first, but I see nothing written anywhere that these are a series, so how was I suppose to know? Now I know what's happening with her life, so that'll be a bit spoiled if I read it.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
April 16, 2024
So where can I find a Jax? Bc he’s actual goals🥹🥹 I’ve been seeing pics and teasers of this book for months on Insta and it finally came out and it’s SO GOOD!! Jax is ovbi a walking green flag, the insecurity and the doubts he had was so sweet and I love loved his just love and tenderness for Holly😩😍 I really loved the hiking and wilderness vibes it was so cute and total made the book that much better! And oh my goshhhh the “screw it” moment🫠🦋 Actual goals yall! So many adorable quotes and moments between them, but one of my faves was this:
💋 She’s perfect. Everything I never knew I wanted. Everything I never knew I needed.
I love their banter and how much fun they always have together and ugh I love them so so so much!!!! I’m pretty sure Taylor swift wrote the lyrics “in a world of boys, he’s a gentleman” for Jax🥰 Anyway I’m obsessed read this book!!
Tropes:
🏕️ City girl x country boy
🏕️ Screw it moment
🏕️ Opposites attract
🏕️ Only one tent
🏕️ Clean!
🏕️ Dating coaching
Pages: 342
Language: 🫢
TW⚠️: parent trauma, innuendos
Genre: Romance
Format I read: KU
Would I recommend to others: Yes yes yes
💋 She’s perfect. Everything I never knew I wanted. Everything I never knew I needed.
I love their banter and how much fun they always have together and ugh I love them so so so much!!!! I’m pretty sure Taylor swift wrote the lyrics “in a world of boys, he’s a gentleman” for Jax🥰 Anyway I’m obsessed read this book!!
Tropes:
🏕️ City girl x country boy
🏕️ Screw it moment
🏕️ Opposites attract
🏕️ Only one tent
🏕️ Clean!
🏕️ Dating coaching
Pages: 342
Language: 🫢
TW⚠️: parent trauma, innuendos
Genre: Romance
Format I read: KU
Would I recommend to others: Yes yes yes
June 8, 2025
4.5!!!
I really love Katie Bailey's writing style. It's clear and witty and not cheesy imo.
A fun little dating coaching style story where Holly gets dating help from Jax. Super cute and mega chemistry without being spicy.
Recommend if you like clean rom-coms with mild language.
Tropes & Triggers: dating coach, grump x sunshine, he falls hard, some mild language, innuendoes, kissing.
I really love Katie Bailey's writing style. It's clear and witty and not cheesy imo.
A fun little dating coaching style story where Holly gets dating help from Jax. Super cute and mega chemistry without being spicy.
Recommend if you like clean rom-coms with mild language.
Tropes & Triggers: dating coach, grump x sunshine, he falls hard, some mild language, innuendoes, kissing.
July 20, 2024
4.5 Lost Larping Stars ⭐️
Spicy Level: 0/5 (There are light descriptions of kissing)
It's books like these that make me so happy about going in blind, with no expectations because it leaves yourself open to being blown away! I am in AWE as I didn't know I would be getting a wholesome full-bodied romance while still being a fun ride!
Holly is looking for her forever man. After finally giving up on the man she's been pining for at work (about time too cause he's a bloody arsehole and not just because he was stringing her along) she decided to start going on dates... The problem is, that everyone she goes on a date with turns out to be an awful date after an awful date. She keeps going to the same restaurant for her dates and so soon one of the bartenders, Jax, notices and they get to talking. Jax MOST DEFINITELY IS NOT THE "GOING STEADY RELATIONSHIP" type and more of a "fling" person. He's also about to change jobs and start his own business guiding trails. So despite their sexual attraction, he is not what Holly is looking for in a partner. But he does have an excellent read on people and their character... so he becomes Holly's dating coach. Now Holly just has to remind herself not to fall for her coach.
I think Jax stole the show. He is the epitome of a green flag. MY GOD! While he might initially be implied to be a player because of his smart mouth and wicked banter, he is so thoughtful, generous, genuine and protective. Like he is so sweet you'd get a toothache from him but enjoy every minute. Throughout the book all the little displays of kindness, considerate actions and gestures he does, MADE MY HEART SWOON! The man PACKED A VANILLA MILKSHAKE and carried it on his back during a gruelling hike just to make sure if Holly didn't like the hike, she'd have something nice at the end of it! Like COME ON! Why can't every man be so romantic and dreamy? He makes Holly push her boundaries and find the version of herself that makes her HAPPY! He is just the perfect portrayal of what you want in a supportive partner, prospective boyfriend, fiancé, husband, or whatever label you want to define a good relationship.
Holly is also pretty much a sweetheart but has the type of personality that makes her seem very gentle and soft, oftentimes leading to people walking all over her (especially her arsehole boss.) She doesn't know what she wants and who she wants to be or what she wants out of a relationship. I loved how in this not only did she form such a profound connection with Jax but she learned to love herself. She grows and starts realising that before she can be happy as a part of a relationship, she needs to be happy with herself.
What I also loved about this is that it mirrored my philosophy and model on what I think about love and what makes a relationship work. That being, you cannot look for a relationship or someone to COMPLETE you, you should look for someone who COMPLIMENTS you. My one is a little more thinking about shapes but it implies the same...
In a relationship where someone completes you, think of yourself as making a circle, which some people say is often the strongest type of relationship because you are "whole". The problem with this is, that you're dependent on each other to be whole, if you remove one half all you're left with is a broken half circle, that cannot exist by itself. Now think of someone who compliments you. This means independently you both should already be a complete circle. You need to ensure that you, yourself, are a whole person and that you meet a whole person. Now if you bring two circles together, you're not getting a circle, you're going to get an infinity sign (I know it's corny but it's sweet ok). Ultimately you bring out the incalculable best in each other, you support each other, you make each other stronger, and you respect each other. Together you can conquer the world...AND If you separate these two - you are still left as a whole.
This was what Jax and Holly's relationship was like. They were the support and cheerleaders each other needed when making difficult decisions and were there for each other through small and big milestones. No matter what each other was going through they were by each other's side. And while Holly had to learn to find her whole before she and Jax came together it was just stunning to see a relationship portrayed in a book that I believe had such a monumental foundation of what makes a relationship work. The banter between the two was top notch and the progression of friends to lovers was PERFECTION! It felt natural and meant to be.
This book also made me cry, but not because it was sad, well maybe not sad for everyone but for me it was... It just had a mention of a short day hike up Stone Mountain and that hike and mountain is one of the really special memories I have of my mom from before she passed... It's also why I giggle every time I sniffle when it's cold...
The Tropes:
▶ Dual Pov
▶ Slow Burn
▶ Dating Coach
▶ Strangers to Lovers
▶ Opposites Attract
▶ Banter
▶ Cinnamon Roll
▶ No Third Act Breakup
▶ One Tent/One Bed
▶ Cute Dog
and Micro Tropes:
▷ Good Girl
▷ Mistaken for Married
▷ Use Me
▷ Grey Sweatpants
▷ Spicy/Steamy Water Scene
▷ He Brings her food and drinks
Overall this was a genuinely cute, sweet and heartwarming story. I commend Katie Bailey who managed to make my smut-loving heart form such an attachment to characters and fall in love with a story that was closed door.
Thank you to Katie Bailey, Dreamscape Media and Netgalley for my gifted Audio copy!
All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Spicy Level: 0/5 (There are light descriptions of kissing)
It's books like these that make me so happy about going in blind, with no expectations because it leaves yourself open to being blown away! I am in AWE as I didn't know I would be getting a wholesome full-bodied romance while still being a fun ride!
Holly is looking for her forever man. After finally giving up on the man she's been pining for at work (about time too cause he's a bloody arsehole and not just because he was stringing her along) she decided to start going on dates... The problem is, that everyone she goes on a date with turns out to be an awful date after an awful date. She keeps going to the same restaurant for her dates and so soon one of the bartenders, Jax, notices and they get to talking. Jax MOST DEFINITELY IS NOT THE "GOING STEADY RELATIONSHIP" type and more of a "fling" person. He's also about to change jobs and start his own business guiding trails. So despite their sexual attraction, he is not what Holly is looking for in a partner. But he does have an excellent read on people and their character... so he becomes Holly's dating coach. Now Holly just has to remind herself not to fall for her coach.
I think Jax stole the show. He is the epitome of a green flag. MY GOD! While he might initially be implied to be a player because of his smart mouth and wicked banter, he is so thoughtful, generous, genuine and protective. Like he is so sweet you'd get a toothache from him but enjoy every minute. Throughout the book all the little displays of kindness, considerate actions and gestures he does, MADE MY HEART SWOON! The man PACKED A VANILLA MILKSHAKE and carried it on his back during a gruelling hike just to make sure if Holly didn't like the hike, she'd have something nice at the end of it! Like COME ON! Why can't every man be so romantic and dreamy? He makes Holly push her boundaries and find the version of herself that makes her HAPPY! He is just the perfect portrayal of what you want in a supportive partner, prospective boyfriend, fiancé, husband, or whatever label you want to define a good relationship.
Holly is also pretty much a sweetheart but has the type of personality that makes her seem very gentle and soft, oftentimes leading to people walking all over her (especially her arsehole boss.) She doesn't know what she wants and who she wants to be or what she wants out of a relationship. I loved how in this not only did she form such a profound connection with Jax but she learned to love herself. She grows and starts realising that before she can be happy as a part of a relationship, she needs to be happy with herself.
What I also loved about this is that it mirrored my philosophy and model on what I think about love and what makes a relationship work. That being, you cannot look for a relationship or someone to COMPLETE you, you should look for someone who COMPLIMENTS you. My one is a little more thinking about shapes but it implies the same...
In a relationship where someone completes you, think of yourself as making a circle, which some people say is often the strongest type of relationship because you are "whole". The problem with this is, that you're dependent on each other to be whole, if you remove one half all you're left with is a broken half circle, that cannot exist by itself. Now think of someone who compliments you. This means independently you both should already be a complete circle. You need to ensure that you, yourself, are a whole person and that you meet a whole person. Now if you bring two circles together, you're not getting a circle, you're going to get an infinity sign (I know it's corny but it's sweet ok). Ultimately you bring out the incalculable best in each other, you support each other, you make each other stronger, and you respect each other. Together you can conquer the world...AND If you separate these two - you are still left as a whole.
This was what Jax and Holly's relationship was like. They were the support and cheerleaders each other needed when making difficult decisions and were there for each other through small and big milestones. No matter what each other was going through they were by each other's side. And while Holly had to learn to find her whole before she and Jax came together it was just stunning to see a relationship portrayed in a book that I believe had such a monumental foundation of what makes a relationship work. The banter between the two was top notch and the progression of friends to lovers was PERFECTION! It felt natural and meant to be.
This book also made me cry, but not because it was sad, well maybe not sad for everyone but for me it was... It just had a mention of a short day hike up Stone Mountain and that hike and mountain is one of the really special memories I have of my mom from before she passed... It's also why I giggle every time I sniffle when it's cold...
The Tropes:
▶ Dual Pov
▶ Slow Burn
▶ Dating Coach
▶ Strangers to Lovers
▶ Opposites Attract
▶ Banter
▶ Cinnamon Roll
▶ No Third Act Breakup
▶ One Tent/One Bed
▶ Cute Dog
and Micro Tropes:
▷ Good Girl
▷ Mistaken for Married
▷ Use Me
▷ Grey Sweatpants
▷ Spicy/Steamy Water Scene
▷ He Brings her food and drinks
Overall this was a genuinely cute, sweet and heartwarming story. I commend Katie Bailey who managed to make my smut-loving heart form such an attachment to characters and fall in love with a story that was closed door.
Thank you to Katie Bailey, Dreamscape Media and Netgalley for my gifted Audio copy!
All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 12, 2024
It's so refreshing to find closed-door romcoms that still bring mature, sizzling tension! After a string of downright terrible dates at the Full Moon Bar & Bistro, hopeless romantic Holly Greene could use some help with her search for the one. Enter Jax Grainger, the charming but romantically off-limits bartender with dating advice!
The banter-heavy friendship these two develop was smile inducing! Jax was such a genuinely kindhearted guy, continually caring for Holly throughout the story. I loved seeing his fear of commitment being tested by finally recognizing what love can truly mean. And in turn, Holly realizing that perhaps Jax is the perfect person to complement her life.
"I spent all this time helping you tackle your quit list, but it turns out, I can't quit you, Holly. And what's more, I don't think I want to."
The humour was great, the kisses were scorching, and I am always a big fan of characters partaking in outdoorsy adventures (Jax is a certified wilderness guide)! It was a fun time!
(heat level: kissing only)
The banter-heavy friendship these two develop was smile inducing! Jax was such a genuinely kindhearted guy, continually caring for Holly throughout the story. I loved seeing his fear of commitment being tested by finally recognizing what love can truly mean. And in turn, Holly realizing that perhaps Jax is the perfect person to complement her life.
"I spent all this time helping you tackle your quit list, but it turns out, I can't quit you, Holly. And what's more, I don't think I want to."
The humour was great, the kisses were scorching, and I am always a big fan of characters partaking in outdoorsy adventures (Jax is a certified wilderness guide)! It was a fun time!
(heat level: kissing only)
January 29, 2025
What crack was put into this book? I'm OBSESSED!
Holly and Jax are just TOO cute! Their chemistry and banter were absolutely perfect. Their friendship just flowed so naturally, and I loved how they clicked from the start. Holly is such a hoot, and her inner thoughts had me laughing out loud. Honestly, I related to her so much, it’s almost concerning.
This book was steamy without being spicy, and had me smiling like a fool the entire time. If you want a clean rom-com that still gives you all the butterflies, THIS IS IT.
I already know I’ll be rereading this. It’s the kind of book you’ll come back to over and over. If you haven’t read Season’s Schemings yet, do yourself a favor and read that first for the full experience.
Read this if you like:
❤️🔥 Friends to More
❤️🔥 Dating Lessons
❤️🔥 Only One Tent
❤️🔥 Screw It Moment
🚨🚨 TW: Toxic relationship, cheating (not between MCs), gaslighting
Holly and Jax are just TOO cute! Their chemistry and banter were absolutely perfect. Their friendship just flowed so naturally, and I loved how they clicked from the start. Holly is such a hoot, and her inner thoughts had me laughing out loud. Honestly, I related to her so much, it’s almost concerning.
This book was steamy without being spicy, and had me smiling like a fool the entire time. If you want a clean rom-com that still gives you all the butterflies, THIS IS IT.
I already know I’ll be rereading this. It’s the kind of book you’ll come back to over and over. If you haven’t read Season’s Schemings yet, do yourself a favor and read that first for the full experience.
Read this if you like:
❤️🔥 Friends to More
❤️🔥 Dating Lessons
❤️🔥 Only One Tent
❤️🔥 Screw It Moment
🚨🚨 TW: Toxic relationship, cheating (not between MCs), gaslighting
August 11, 2025
”Sweet dreams Holly,” “How could I have anything but sweet dreams when I’m with you?”
4.25 ★ | 16+
the quit list | katie bailey
⇨ 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 💬
okay, after reading this author’s debut, The Roommate Situation , I was convinced she wasn’t for me. I didn’t all particularly like that book if you couldn’t tell, but The Quit List has officially redeemed Katie Bailey for me!
It was adorable, it had a fun, interesting plot, and the narrators for this audiobook were a thousand times better than the ones in The Roommate Situation.
⇨ 𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐭 🗒️🩵🥾
Holly is looking for a solid man to settle down with, one who has a steady job, wants a family, is good with kids, and treats her right. But lately? Her dates have been getting farther and farther from what she’s looking for. Enter: Jaxon Granger the hot and broody bartender!
After saving Holly from an especially sketchy date, Jax agrees to help Holly find the perfect man in exchange for Holly’s help, using her marketing skills to boost the launch of his wilderness exploration guide company.
⇨ 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 💛🫂💬
It was cuteeee. I was promised she fell first he fell harder and that is what I got, no question 🤭
Jax’s teasing, Holly’s rambling, and both’s banter was everything and I loved their interactions so much!
*minor spoiler but its a romance book so its not like its really that much of a spoiler*
The epilogue was also everything! I usually don’t like epilogue proposals but this one I really did enjoy and felt it complimented the story.
*end of the spoiler-not-really-spoiler*
⇨ 𝐬𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 🌻🌲🥾
As someone who loves hiking, loves the smokies, and was going to do a backpacking trip just like theirs before mine unfortunately got canceled due to my dad’s health reasons, the setting was literally A DREAM for me. I absolutely loved imagining their time at Jax’s cabin, when they were hiking, at their camp, all of it. Even if you aren’t a big nature person, I’m sure the setting would still be enjoyable for everyone and it might even inspire you to try hiking! (I really suggest it)
⇨ 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 🩵
Holly ‘Hollywood’ Greene 👒🗒️👗
I didn’t love the narrator for Holly, but I enjoyed Holly’s character. She was funny, and her inner thoughts made sense. Not really much else to say about her lol.
Jax Granger 🪵🍺🦮
Ngl, I just finished the OUaBH series and totally imagined Jax’s name being spelt Jacks (also I was listening to it so it was easy to 🤭)
His nickname for Holly, ‘Hollywood’ was insanely adorable 😭
Also this man?! I want a guy like this (obvi he would be younger) but like, he’s hot, outdoorsy, treats women right, likes a slow life, has a dog named freaking Rick Astley?! He was amazing and he is 100% what made this book for me.
overall this was fun and I’d recommend it!
content considerations:
romance: 3/5 (lots of angst, pining, some light lust. Lots of teasing that has sexual undertones to it.
Pretty descriptive and steamy kissing and affection. The main characters share a tent ((not by choice, and all that happens is snuggles. All the clothes stay on haha)) and then later the characters sleep together one night. Jax is shirtless and they make out before falling asleep but all that is mentioned in passing, not described, and there’s no mention or insinuation of going past kissing.)
language: 3/5 (lots of d*mn, h*ll, some sh*t and *ss)
other:
alchohol
(holly goes to a club with her friend and some nhl hockey players, she has a couple strong drinks and get drunk, but doesn’t do anything stupid. Jax is a bartender so there’s a lot of mention of alcohol, but in the sense of it’s his job.)
family trauma
(Jax has a deadbeat dad and grew up in a horrible family environment where his mom left him at a young age, and then his dad cheated on his stepmom continuously as he was growing up. Jax takes his family history as a opportunity to know how not to treat women though, and while he doesn’t remember his family ((besides his sister)) with fondness, he has healed)
manipulative relationships
(Holly’s past relationship was very toxic and manipulative in college, and since then she had waited on that guy, hoping that even after he broke up with her, that they were meant to be. She let him push her around for years, but Jax helps her learn to stand up for herself and to know her worth)
4.25 ★ | 16+
the quit list | katie bailey
⇨ 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 💬
okay, after reading this author’s debut, The Roommate Situation , I was convinced she wasn’t for me. I didn’t all particularly like that book if you couldn’t tell, but The Quit List has officially redeemed Katie Bailey for me!
It was adorable, it had a fun, interesting plot, and the narrators for this audiobook were a thousand times better than the ones in The Roommate Situation.
⇨ 𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐭 🗒️🩵🥾
Holly is looking for a solid man to settle down with, one who has a steady job, wants a family, is good with kids, and treats her right. But lately? Her dates have been getting farther and farther from what she’s looking for. Enter: Jaxon Granger the hot and broody bartender!
After saving Holly from an especially sketchy date, Jax agrees to help Holly find the perfect man in exchange for Holly’s help, using her marketing skills to boost the launch of his wilderness exploration guide company.
⇨ 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 💛🫂💬
It was cuteeee. I was promised she fell first he fell harder and that is what I got, no question 🤭
Jax’s teasing, Holly’s rambling, and both’s banter was everything and I loved their interactions so much!
*minor spoiler but its a romance book so its not like its really that much of a spoiler*
The epilogue was also everything! I usually don’t like epilogue proposals but this one I really did enjoy and felt it complimented the story.
*end of the spoiler-not-really-spoiler*
⇨ 𝐬𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 🌻🌲🥾
As someone who loves hiking, loves the smokies, and was going to do a backpacking trip just like theirs before mine unfortunately got canceled due to my dad’s health reasons, the setting was literally A DREAM for me. I absolutely loved imagining their time at Jax’s cabin, when they were hiking, at their camp, all of it. Even if you aren’t a big nature person, I’m sure the setting would still be enjoyable for everyone and it might even inspire you to try hiking! (I really suggest it)
⇨ 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 🩵
Holly ‘Hollywood’ Greene 👒🗒️👗
I didn’t love the narrator for Holly, but I enjoyed Holly’s character. She was funny, and her inner thoughts made sense. Not really much else to say about her lol.
Jax Granger 🪵🍺🦮
Ngl, I just finished the OUaBH series and totally imagined Jax’s name being spelt Jacks (also I was listening to it so it was easy to 🤭)
His nickname for Holly, ‘Hollywood’ was insanely adorable 😭
Also this man?! I want a guy like this (obvi he would be younger) but like, he’s hot, outdoorsy, treats women right, likes a slow life, has a dog named freaking Rick Astley?! He was amazing and he is 100% what made this book for me.
overall this was fun and I’d recommend it!
content considerations:
romance: 3/5 (lots of angst, pining, some light lust. Lots of teasing that has sexual undertones to it.
Pretty descriptive and steamy kissing and affection. The main characters share a tent ((not by choice, and all that happens is snuggles. All the clothes stay on haha)) and then later the characters sleep together one night. Jax is shirtless and they make out before falling asleep but all that is mentioned in passing, not described, and there’s no mention or insinuation of going past kissing.)
language: 3/5 (lots of d*mn, h*ll, some sh*t and *ss)
other:
alchohol
(holly goes to a club with her friend and some nhl hockey players, she has a couple strong drinks and get drunk, but doesn’t do anything stupid. Jax is a bartender so there’s a lot of mention of alcohol, but in the sense of it’s his job.)
family trauma
(Jax has a deadbeat dad and grew up in a horrible family environment where his mom left him at a young age, and then his dad cheated on his stepmom continuously as he was growing up. Jax takes his family history as a opportunity to know how not to treat women though, and while he doesn’t remember his family ((besides his sister)) with fondness, he has healed)
manipulative relationships
(Holly’s past relationship was very toxic and manipulative in college, and since then she had waited on that guy, hoping that even after he broke up with her, that they were meant to be. She let him push her around for years, but Jax helps her learn to stand up for herself and to know her worth)
July 25, 2024
5/5
THIS WAS SO CUTE. JUST, PLEASE, GO READ IT. I just love how original are the characters and how they fell in love with each other. Everything about this book is authentic and breaks new ground.
"I miss you, too. It’s stupid, but I kind of wish you could be here right now. A crack of light suddenly illuminates the room, and I look up to see that my door is being pushed open. “Aubs?” I murmur in confusion. “It’s me.” That gravelly, deep, familiar voice fills the room"
THIS WAS SO CUTE. JUST, PLEASE, GO READ IT. I just love how original are the characters and how they fell in love with each other. Everything about this book is authentic and breaks new ground.
"I miss you, too. It’s stupid, but I kind of wish you could be here right now. A crack of light suddenly illuminates the room, and I look up to see that my door is being pushed open. “Aubs?” I murmur in confusion. “It’s me.” That gravelly, deep, familiar voice fills the room"
June 2, 2024
Це дуже-дуже мило! В якийсь момент мені навіть здавалося, що зможу їх полюбити ще більше, ніж Медді з Себом, але в кінці було так солодко-ванильно, що не дуже характерно для їх характерів, що я передумала 😅🤭
Мені сподобалася, що герої ніби зверталися до нас, читачів, роздумуючи і обговорюючи свої проблеми. Це саме та книга, в якій пара не кидається у стосунки, не думаючи про майбутнє (хоча це фактично провідна ідея книги, та, але вони обдумують свої рішення, як вони можуть вплинути на кожного) і вчаться ставити СЕБЕ на перше місце.
«Увесь цей час я чекала, що з'явиться якийсь чарівний принц із казки і врятує мене. Але Джекс навчив мене, як врятувати себе. Як стояти на власних ногах і боротися за те, чого я хочу. Хапатися за життя і все, що воно може запропонувати. Мені потрібен партнер, а не рятівник»
Мені дуже сподобалося!
Ведмедик 🐻, який живе і працює в горах, не дуже любить комунікації та людей. І білочка 🐿️, яка тільки починає розуміти свою внутрішню силу та врешті-решт змогла зрозуміти, що для неї є правильним!
Тільки мені здається, що Джейк в першій книзі був більш грозним 🤔 тут він прям булочка-булочка з перших глав.
Я ставлю 3/5 лише через те, що мені не вистачило драми або чогось такого «ВАУ» (знаю, що це було зазначено в тропах, але Бог мені суддя 🤣❤️) . А ще я така ж фанатка природи, як і Медді (сумлінно намагаюся виправитися). А перша половина книги 5/5 однозначно!
Мені сподобалася, що герої ніби зверталися до нас, читачів, роздумуючи і обговорюючи свої проблеми. Це саме та книга, в якій пара не кидається у стосунки, не думаючи про майбутнє (хоча це фактично провідна ідея книги, та, але вони обдумують свої рішення, як вони можуть вплинути на кожного) і вчаться ставити СЕБЕ на перше місце.
«Увесь цей час я чекала, що з'явиться якийсь чарівний принц із казки і врятує мене. Але Джекс навчив мене, як врятувати себе. Як стояти на власних ногах і боротися за те, чого я хочу. Хапатися за життя і все, що воно може запропонувати. Мені потрібен партнер, а не рятівник»
Мені дуже сподобалося!
Ведмедик 🐻, який живе і працює в горах, не дуже любить комунікації та людей. І білочка 🐿️, яка тільки починає розуміти свою внутрішню силу та врешті-решт змогла зрозуміти, що для неї є правильним!
Тільки мені здається, що Джейк в першій книзі був більш грозним 🤔 тут він прям булочка-булочка з перших глав.
Я ставлю 3/5 лише через те, що мені не вистачило драми або чогось такого «ВАУ» (знаю, що це було зазначено в тропах, але Бог мені суддя 🤣❤️) . А ще я така ж фанатка природи, як і Медді (сумлінно намагаюся виправитися). А перша половина книги 5/5 однозначно!
June 15, 2024
4/5 🌟
4/5 ❤️🩹
4/5 🥰
.5/5 🌶️
0/5 🔎
1/5 😰😱
3/5 🎭😂
0/5 🎭😭
0/5 👻
1/5 🔬
3/5 🔫
2/5 🏥
4/5 ✍🏼
0/5 🥱
⚠️⛔️TRIGGERS:⛔️⚠️
Toxic Relationship
Profanity
Infidelity (not from main characters)
Sexual Content
Pregnancy
Medical Content
Injury/Injury Detail
Abandonment
Gaslighting
🗯️💬BOOK BLURB:💬🗯️
He quit believing in love a long time ago. She won't quit until she finds 'the one'...
And he's everything she's NOT looking for.
Get ready for a brand new, laugh out loud rom com from the bestselling author of So That Happened and I Think He Knows - releasing this winter!
🌎📖OVERALL REVIEWS📖🌎
Courtesy of Storygraph
COMMUNITY REVIEWS
SUMMARY OF 228 REVIEWS
Moods
lighthearted 93%
funny 83%
hopeful 46%
adventurous 38%
inspiring 25%
relaxing 23%
emotional 20%
reflective 7%
challenging 3%
Pace
medium 61%
fast 29%
slow 9%
Plot- or character-driven?
Character: 55% | A mix: 39% | Plot: 3% | N/A: 1%
Strong character development?
Yes: 92% | No: 3% | It's complicated: 2% | N/A: 1%
Loveable characters?
Yes: 98% | It's complicated: 1%
Diverse cast of characters?
No: 70% | N/A: 16% | Yes: 9% | It's complicated: 3%
Flaws of characters a main focus?
Yes: 63% | It's complicated: 21% | No: 10% | N/A: 4%
Average rating
4.21 ⭐️
🤔🧐🤯MY THOUGHTS:🤯🧐🤔
I think this is one of the better rom coms I’ve read this year. It was undeniably sweet and romantic. There were a few parts that made me smile but not gut busting hilarious. I know I’d love to find a Jax Granger for myself. He was/is the perfect guy and chivalrous to a fault. A very feel good romance that I didn’t realize I needed until I read it!! Holly is one lucky lady!
This was just released and Katie Bailey is a new to me author. If this book is any indication of what to expect from her, I’ll definitely be looking for more of her books!
RATING KEY:
🌟 Stars - based on the overall plot and theme or idea of the book
❤️🩹 Emotions - based on how emotional I got while reading
🥰 Romance - based on how well I got invested in the love story aspect
🌶️ Spice - based on how the sex scenes were portrayed and written as well as the number of sex scenes
🔎 Mystery - based on how well it kept me guessing who, how and why
😰 Scared🫣/Anxious😱 - based on how scared or anxious the book made me while reading
🎭 Comedy😂/Tragedy😭
-based on if I laughed or if there was a tragic event and how it affected me. I will mark the Masks with either a C or T to indicate Comedy or Tragedy
👻 Spooky😵💫/Creepy🧟♀️ -based on if this had any occult or paranormal themes and if those elements creeped me out or gave me anxiety!
🔬 Sci-Fi -based on the Science Fiction in the book as well as the Dystopian elements.
🔫 Action/Thriller -based on if I thought this was more of a spy action type of thriller.
🏥 Medical Content -based on the amount and the accuracy of any medical content or if the book is supposed to be a medical style thriller.
✍🏼 Writing Style -based on if I enjoyed the writing style or not and how the author portrayed the world, characters, concept, plot etc.
🥱 Boredom -based on if I was bored if it held my interest or if I’d rather be doing something else 😴
🙅🏻♀️ DNF -based on if the book is just stupid, boring, childish, overly ridiculous etc.
4/5 ❤️🩹
4/5 🥰
.5/5 🌶️
0/5 🔎
1/5 😰😱
3/5 🎭😂
0/5 🎭😭
0/5 👻
1/5 🔬
3/5 🔫
2/5 🏥
4/5 ✍🏼
0/5 🥱
⚠️⛔️TRIGGERS:⛔️⚠️
Toxic Relationship
Profanity
Infidelity (not from main characters)
Sexual Content
Pregnancy
Medical Content
Injury/Injury Detail
Abandonment
Gaslighting
🗯️💬BOOK BLURB:💬🗯️
He quit believing in love a long time ago. She won't quit until she finds 'the one'...
And he's everything she's NOT looking for.
Get ready for a brand new, laugh out loud rom com from the bestselling author of So That Happened and I Think He Knows - releasing this winter!
🌎📖OVERALL REVIEWS📖🌎
Courtesy of Storygraph
COMMUNITY REVIEWS
SUMMARY OF 228 REVIEWS
Moods
lighthearted 93%
funny 83%
hopeful 46%
adventurous 38%
inspiring 25%
relaxing 23%
emotional 20%
reflective 7%
challenging 3%
Pace
medium 61%
fast 29%
slow 9%
Plot- or character-driven?
Character: 55% | A mix: 39% | Plot: 3% | N/A: 1%
Strong character development?
Yes: 92% | No: 3% | It's complicated: 2% | N/A: 1%
Loveable characters?
Yes: 98% | It's complicated: 1%
Diverse cast of characters?
No: 70% | N/A: 16% | Yes: 9% | It's complicated: 3%
Flaws of characters a main focus?
Yes: 63% | It's complicated: 21% | No: 10% | N/A: 4%
Average rating
4.21 ⭐️
🤔🧐🤯MY THOUGHTS:🤯🧐🤔
I think this is one of the better rom coms I’ve read this year. It was undeniably sweet and romantic. There were a few parts that made me smile but not gut busting hilarious. I know I’d love to find a Jax Granger for myself. He was/is the perfect guy and chivalrous to a fault. A very feel good romance that I didn’t realize I needed until I read it!! Holly is one lucky lady!
This was just released and Katie Bailey is a new to me author. If this book is any indication of what to expect from her, I’ll definitely be looking for more of her books!
RATING KEY:
🌟 Stars - based on the overall plot and theme or idea of the book
❤️🩹 Emotions - based on how emotional I got while reading
🥰 Romance - based on how well I got invested in the love story aspect
🌶️ Spice - based on how the sex scenes were portrayed and written as well as the number of sex scenes
🔎 Mystery - based on how well it kept me guessing who, how and why
😰 Scared🫣/Anxious😱 - based on how scared or anxious the book made me while reading
🎭 Comedy😂/Tragedy😭
-based on if I laughed or if there was a tragic event and how it affected me. I will mark the Masks with either a C or T to indicate Comedy or Tragedy
👻 Spooky😵💫/Creepy🧟♀️ -based on if this had any occult or paranormal themes and if those elements creeped me out or gave me anxiety!
🔬 Sci-Fi -based on the Science Fiction in the book as well as the Dystopian elements.
🔫 Action/Thriller -based on if I thought this was more of a spy action type of thriller.
🏥 Medical Content -based on the amount and the accuracy of any medical content or if the book is supposed to be a medical style thriller.
✍🏼 Writing Style -based on if I enjoyed the writing style or not and how the author portrayed the world, characters, concept, plot etc.
🥱 Boredom -based on if I was bored if it held my interest or if I’d rather be doing something else 😴
🙅🏻♀️ DNF -based on if the book is just stupid, boring, childish, overly ridiculous etc.
February 13, 2025
* - Dual POV.
* - Friends to lovers.
* - Very few if any expletives.
* - No graphic intimacy scenes - very clean.
* - No third act breakup.
"That's it, Hol. You need to find someone to complement you, not complete you. You're already a whole person all on your own, but to find your equal partner, you first need to pursue who you are and what you want in life. Find what brings you joy and makes you happy, and then find a person to share all that with you and even add to it. And in the process, you'll be checking off all the items on your Quit List."
I loved this quote the MMC Jax says to Holly, the MFC. Any leading female character who pursues and is successful in a career she loves earns my support and respect. Thinking she needs a man to complete her because she's about to turn 30, not so much.
This story is about Holly, a 29 year old woman who has a life plan to secure a job in the hospitality industry and get married. She's accomplished the first part but not the latter. Currently, Holly works with her ex-boyfriend (Dylan) at an older upscale Atlanta hotel that seems to cater to the geriatric crowd. When Dylan continues to lead her on about getting back together but never pulls the trigger, she decides to move on from him by subscribing to a dating app while continuing to work at the hotel. (Feel free to call me a sceptic, but I've never understood why people use these dating programs. Why can't individuals seeking romance meet each other the old fashioned way - like in a bar? On "three-for-one" nights?)
Moving right along. Jaxon, the MMC is a bartender at a high end restaurant. Due to what he experienced growing up with a serial cheating father and being abandoned by his mother, he is determined to never marry and doesn't want a long term commitment relationship. He loves hiking and has just earned his Certified Wilderness Guide status. His plan is to open his own guided backcountry excursions company. In the meantime and throughout about 60% of the book, he keeps his bartending job before transitioning to his new base camp cabin.
The main characters first meet when Holly's fifth or sixth "Spark" match (Keith) turns out to be a real tool (much like the others she's gone out with). Their date is in the same restaurant where Jax is working. When Keith becomes hostile, Jax saves Holly and asks her why she matched with him. Her response, "He had all his teeth and didn't send me dick picks?" makes Jax laugh. While he finds Holly attractive and enjoys her sense of humor, he's not interested in dating her because he knows she's looking for her "soulmate". And that's something he cannot provide. While Holly finds Jax attractive, she believes he's a "player" and doesn't fit her criteria for a husband.
Jax tells Holly she doesn't know how to "read" people and proves his ability to do so by telling her things about the type of men she's gone out with that are quite true. When she realizes he's correct, she seeks him out for his help. Jax becomes her "dating coach" in exchange for her expertise in setting up a booking website for his guide company. She also aids him in marketing his entity because he's clueless in this area. They form a strong friendship and he respects her professional abilities to the point where he thinks he's getting the better end of the deal. (He is.)
Over the remainder of the book, the reader learns how Holly rebuilds her self esteem, climbs out of the box she's been in for too long, and likes the challenges Jax presents to her. We also read how Jax struggles with his developing feelings for Holly.
I rated this 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. I deducted a star because the author took three chapters to describe Holly and Jax's first real kiss. I got whiplash from reading Jax's indecision about 'should I or shouldn't I kiss her? Wait, maybe not? Oh, what the heck.' I also deducted half a star because the author used the age old "tingly or electric" shock feeling that characters experience when they touch in some small way. (If I had a nickel for every time I read a "tingly" snippet, I would have at least $10,000.00.) Okay, I'm kidding. Sort of.
The story is predictable, but in a good way. I like to end on a nice note. This book is a follow-up story to Ms. Bailey's holiday "Season's Scheming's" (book 1 of the Cyclones Christmas series). Since her writing has funny banter and texts between the main characters, I will definitely read more of her work. And lastly, Jax is about two years younger than Holly. She respects his maturity and knowledge. I just love it when an author creates a slightly younger male character than his romantic interest. ♥
🪁 2/100
🪁 #10 -on Bingo board. Main character works in a restaurant/bar.
* - Friends to lovers.
* - Very few if any expletives.
* - No graphic intimacy scenes - very clean.
* - No third act breakup.
"That's it, Hol. You need to find someone to complement you, not complete you. You're already a whole person all on your own, but to find your equal partner, you first need to pursue who you are and what you want in life. Find what brings you joy and makes you happy, and then find a person to share all that with you and even add to it. And in the process, you'll be checking off all the items on your Quit List."
I loved this quote the MMC Jax says to Holly, the MFC. Any leading female character who pursues and is successful in a career she loves earns my support and respect. Thinking she needs a man to complete her because she's about to turn 30, not so much.
This story is about Holly, a 29 year old woman who has a life plan to secure a job in the hospitality industry and get married. She's accomplished the first part but not the latter. Currently, Holly works with her ex-boyfriend (Dylan) at an older upscale Atlanta hotel that seems to cater to the geriatric crowd. When Dylan continues to lead her on about getting back together but never pulls the trigger, she decides to move on from him by subscribing to a dating app while continuing to work at the hotel. (Feel free to call me a sceptic, but I've never understood why people use these dating programs. Why can't individuals seeking romance meet each other the old fashioned way - like in a bar? On "three-for-one" nights?)
Moving right along. Jaxon, the MMC is a bartender at a high end restaurant. Due to what he experienced growing up with a serial cheating father and being abandoned by his mother, he is determined to never marry and doesn't want a long term commitment relationship. He loves hiking and has just earned his Certified Wilderness Guide status. His plan is to open his own guided backcountry excursions company. In the meantime and throughout about 60% of the book, he keeps his bartending job before transitioning to his new base camp cabin.
The main characters first meet when Holly's fifth or sixth "Spark" match (Keith) turns out to be a real tool (much like the others she's gone out with). Their date is in the same restaurant where Jax is working. When Keith becomes hostile, Jax saves Holly and asks her why she matched with him. Her response, "He had all his teeth and didn't send me dick picks?" makes Jax laugh. While he finds Holly attractive and enjoys her sense of humor, he's not interested in dating her because he knows she's looking for her "soulmate". And that's something he cannot provide. While Holly finds Jax attractive, she believes he's a "player" and doesn't fit her criteria for a husband.
Jax tells Holly she doesn't know how to "read" people and proves his ability to do so by telling her things about the type of men she's gone out with that are quite true. When she realizes he's correct, she seeks him out for his help. Jax becomes her "dating coach" in exchange for her expertise in setting up a booking website for his guide company. She also aids him in marketing his entity because he's clueless in this area. They form a strong friendship and he respects her professional abilities to the point where he thinks he's getting the better end of the deal. (He is.)
Over the remainder of the book, the reader learns how Holly rebuilds her self esteem, climbs out of the box she's been in for too long, and likes the challenges Jax presents to her. We also read how Jax struggles with his developing feelings for Holly.
I rated this 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. I deducted a star because the author took three chapters to describe Holly and Jax's first real kiss. I got whiplash from reading Jax's indecision about 'should I or shouldn't I kiss her? Wait, maybe not? Oh, what the heck.' I also deducted half a star because the author used the age old "tingly or electric" shock feeling that characters experience when they touch in some small way. (If I had a nickel for every time I read a "tingly" snippet, I would have at least $10,000.00.) Okay, I'm kidding. Sort of.
The story is predictable, but in a good way. I like to end on a nice note. This book is a follow-up story to Ms. Bailey's holiday "Season's Scheming's" (book 1 of the Cyclones Christmas series). Since her writing has funny banter and texts between the main characters, I will definitely read more of her work. And lastly, Jax is about two years younger than Holly. She respects his maturity and knowledge. I just love it when an author creates a slightly younger male character than his romantic interest. ♥
🪁 2/100
🪁 #10 -on Bingo board. Main character works in a restaurant/bar.
April 10, 2024
A low stress, fluffy read with likable characters and no breakup. This was a soft and steady, slow-burn, friends to lovers. There were some dating coach and adventure guide elements that put Holly and Jax in cute situations. They had good banter and growth. I was really happy the whole time I was reading.
April 3, 2025
SIX. FREAKING. STARS. RTC
April 4, 2024
Favorite quote: Find someone to complement you, not complete you.
Sum of this book in 5 words or less: N/A
—————————
Themes: business owner, only one tent, hiking, strangers to friends to lovers
—————————
Thoughts:
I received a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Short summary - Holly is looking for the one and has been going on some pretty terrible dates at Jax’s bar. Jax isn’t looking for anything and is starting his own business. Jax helps Holly figure out who can be the one for her, with a Hit List & then a Quit List.
This book was absolutely refreshing. Holly & Jax’s journey into the woods on the 3 day hike was perfect. I loved the addition of the LARPers in the middle of the woods - and them calling Holly Jax’s wife. I feel like that solidified their feelings for each other.
Jax helped Holly see that her ex, Dylan, was good for nothing. The fact that she finally left her job with him as her manager was the cherry on top. After leaving her job she ran off with Jax to his cabin and started her own business.
Like I said, this book was refreshing and I loved it!!
Sum of this book in 5 words or less: N/A
—————————
Themes: business owner, only one tent, hiking, strangers to friends to lovers
—————————
Thoughts:
I received a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Short summary - Holly is looking for the one and has been going on some pretty terrible dates at Jax’s bar. Jax isn’t looking for anything and is starting his own business. Jax helps Holly figure out who can be the one for her, with a Hit List & then a Quit List.
This book was absolutely refreshing. Holly & Jax’s journey into the woods on the 3 day hike was perfect. I loved the addition of the LARPers in the middle of the woods - and them calling Holly Jax’s wife. I feel like that solidified their feelings for each other.
Jax helped Holly see that her ex, Dylan, was good for nothing. The fact that she finally left her job with him as her manager was the cherry on top. After leaving her job she ran off with Jax to his cabin and started her own business.
Like I said, this book was refreshing and I loved it!!
September 11, 2024
exceeded my expectations!
This was such a cute- feel good- gives you butterflies kind of book. Slow burn, clean romance. Holly is trying to find a husband. A serial dater, constantly looking to find her soulmate in all the wrong places. After a horrible date, Holly meets Jax. A commitment-phobic lone wolf bartender. Then begins an unlikely friendship where Jax becomes her dating coach. Slowly the feelings grow. Throw in a 3 day hike and some other antics and it’s a well written, well rounded story. Would definitely read more from this author.
This was such a cute- feel good- gives you butterflies kind of book. Slow burn, clean romance. Holly is trying to find a husband. A serial dater, constantly looking to find her soulmate in all the wrong places. After a horrible date, Holly meets Jax. A commitment-phobic lone wolf bartender. Then begins an unlikely friendship where Jax becomes her dating coach. Slowly the feelings grow. Throw in a 3 day hike and some other antics and it’s a well written, well rounded story. Would definitely read more from this author.
May 14, 2024
4/5 ⭐️
Мені історія дуже нагадувала особливо на початку The Holly Dates. Навіть ім'я головної героїні однакове :)
Але я чудово відпочила. Я посміхалася від діалогів головних героїв, очікувала коли ж вони скажуть один одному, що це не тимчасово.
Чудовий ромком на вечір, щоб ні про що не думати та насолодитися історією.
Мені історія дуже нагадувала особливо на початку The Holly Dates. Навіть ім'я головної героїні однакове :)
Але я чудово відпочила. Я посміхалася від діалогів головних героїв, очікувала коли ж вони скажуть один одному, що це не тимчасово.
Чудовий ромком на вечір, щоб ні про що не думати та насолодитися історією.
July 26, 2024
THIS WAS SO CUTE!!!!!
May 5, 2024
Клас😍🤗❤️🩹
June 7, 2024
pre-read: there's no plot atm but the dude is hot soooooo
*adds to tbr*
pre-read, again: got approved for the arc and realized this released back on my birthday so what a win for everyone involved.
You know what? This book was fun at the start. I loved Holly and Jackson’s POVs. They were so much fun together and I enjoyed their banter so much.
But:
Admittedly, I didn’t know what the plot was. Even when reading the summary over and over, I couldn’t grasp what the book was about. I loved the start cause Holly was so funny. However, it became a little boring. This book transitioned into my background noise.
Damn, maybe I was underwhelmed.
Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC!
pre-read, again: got approved for the arc and realized this released back on my birthday so what a win for everyone involved.
You know what? This book was fun at the start. I loved Holly and Jackson’s POVs. They were so much fun together and I enjoyed their banter so much.
But:
Admittedly, I didn’t know what the plot was. Even when reading the summary over and over, I couldn’t grasp what the book was about. I loved the start cause Holly was so funny. However, it became a little boring. This book transitioned into my background noise.
Damn, maybe I was underwhelmed.
Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC!
August 21, 2024
Nice. Maybe a little more drama could make it better.
April 21, 2024
I’m apparently in the minority here so you may choose to take this with a grain of salt. This started out with high hopes and lost me along the way. There was entirely too much telling and not showing. I didn’t feel like I got to know either one of them individually or as a couple aside from what I was told was happening. After three days in the wilderness we’re told “I've learned so much about my mountain man guide, and about who I am as a person when my everyday life is stripped away” but like that’s it?! I would have loved to be there for those conversations!
One of my biggest pet peeves came with all the sudden ending to scenes and time skipping. There were some great set ups that we never see wrapped up (park date, game night, drop off at her house, the waterfall scene, to name a few) that could have been used to get me truly invested in their relationship. It just felt like the author wanted to speed time along without making the book 500 pages but it was done at the expense of any emotional investment for the reader.
I also had a hard time picturing Jax as a rugged mountain man. I kept seeing him as an all black wearing bartending hipster. Again with the telling and not showing! It could have been that we’re introduced to him in the bar scene and shown him working there…but just told that he’s passionate about the outdoors. We see very little evidence of that passion until we’ve spent too much time behind the bar with him.
Overall this was a readable rom-com as it wasn’t a DNF but not one I would recommend. It was slow and I just didn’t really care about anyone or anything that I was reading about.
One of my biggest pet peeves came with all the sudden ending to scenes and time skipping. There were some great set ups that we never see wrapped up (park date, game night, drop off at her house, the waterfall scene, to name a few) that could have been used to get me truly invested in their relationship. It just felt like the author wanted to speed time along without making the book 500 pages but it was done at the expense of any emotional investment for the reader.
I also had a hard time picturing Jax as a rugged mountain man. I kept seeing him as an all black wearing bartending hipster. Again with the telling and not showing! It could have been that we’re introduced to him in the bar scene and shown him working there…but just told that he’s passionate about the outdoors. We see very little evidence of that passion until we’ve spent too much time behind the bar with him.
Overall this was a readable rom-com as it wasn’t a DNF but not one I would recommend. It was slow and I just didn’t really care about anyone or anything that I was reading about.
March 31, 2024
Last year I read my first Katie Bailey book, and became completely obsessed and immediately read the rest of her books. Sweet, funny romances with Taylor references? Just gimme. So I can honestly say I was a little feral to read this one. And it was even better than everything I hoped for. 🫶
Synopsis:
Holly is almost 30 and has wasted too much of her time. She’s ready to find her future husband. But all her online dates are less than desirable.
Enter Jax - the bartender at the restaurant where she takes all her online dates. He has no interest in a relationship, but very good at reading people. Holly convinces him to help her and to be her dating coach. What can go wrong?
My Thoughts:
It was perfect. That is all.
Except that’s not all. Okay, a man who wants to live solo in nature, likes hiking and camping and the outdoors, is not a MMC I knew I needed in my life. But then Jax chopped wood and I got it. 🙃😂
Jax and Holly are just the perfect compliments to each other. The banter was top notch. The tension was sizzling. And the romance was so sugary sweet. All around a great romcom.
What You’ll Find:
🪵 Wood Chopping
💪 Forearms
💋 Forehead Kisses
🐶 Rescue Dog
⛺️ Only One Tent
😷 He takes care of her
Synopsis:
Holly is almost 30 and has wasted too much of her time. She’s ready to find her future husband. But all her online dates are less than desirable.
Enter Jax - the bartender at the restaurant where she takes all her online dates. He has no interest in a relationship, but very good at reading people. Holly convinces him to help her and to be her dating coach. What can go wrong?
My Thoughts:
It was perfect. That is all.
Except that’s not all. Okay, a man who wants to live solo in nature, likes hiking and camping and the outdoors, is not a MMC I knew I needed in my life. But then Jax chopped wood and I got it. 🙃😂
Jax and Holly are just the perfect compliments to each other. The banter was top notch. The tension was sizzling. And the romance was so sugary sweet. All around a great romcom.
What You’ll Find:
🪵 Wood Chopping
💪 Forearms
💋 Forehead Kisses
🐶 Rescue Dog
⛺️ Only One Tent
😷 He takes care of her
May 27, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you, NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this cute wild rom-com.
This book is for all the TikTok girlies in love with the most famous lumberjack ever Thoren Bradley, because yes, the MMC is him and no one will ever change my mind about it. I don´t know if the author did it purposefully but the result is still a book the same - not that I´m complaining -.
This book follows Holly and Jack. She is in search of the one, he doesn´t want to be emotionally attached to anyone, but when he sees Holly on a streak of horrible dates in the restaurant he works at, Jack decides to coach her to find the perfect man. Little did he know that maybe he didn´t fit even one of Holly´s parameters, but she sure fit his.
As rom-coms go, this one was full of 4 stars. Enjoyed it and it´s a perfect cute and fun read for the summer.
Dreamscape Media always has the best productions and here they prove it again. Loved the voice actors, their voices were so soothing and engaging I couldn´t stop listening. I basically finished it in one session.
Thank you, NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this cute wild rom-com.
This book is for all the TikTok girlies in love with the most famous lumberjack ever Thoren Bradley, because yes, the MMC is him and no one will ever change my mind about it. I don´t know if the author did it purposefully but the result is still a book the same - not that I´m complaining -.
This book follows Holly and Jack. She is in search of the one, he doesn´t want to be emotionally attached to anyone, but when he sees Holly on a streak of horrible dates in the restaurant he works at, Jack decides to coach her to find the perfect man. Little did he know that maybe he didn´t fit even one of Holly´s parameters, but she sure fit his.
As rom-coms go, this one was full of 4 stars. Enjoyed it and it´s a perfect cute and fun read for the summer.
Dreamscape Media always has the best productions and here they prove it again. Loved the voice actors, their voices were so soothing and engaging I couldn´t stop listening. I basically finished it in one session.
July 17, 2024
“Good girl,” should be illegal.
July 12, 2024
додаю авторку в список улюблених, бо які ж чудові історії вона пише! тут немає кринжу, немає тупих персонажів, немає miscommunication і драми на рівному місці. зате є ідеальні чоловіки, багато witty banter і оцих всіх жартиків, а також багато нормального спілкування і ще більше дуже милих (і місцями навіть трошки хотних) моментів. загалом, я в любові, ще одна історія і персонажі, в які я захохана, обов'язково прочитаю решту книжок авторки.
April 2, 2024
“because being there for someone is showing up when it matters.”
・❥・
i am such a sucker for friends to lovers and bonus points when it’s strangers to friends to lovers, extra extra bonus points if there’s dating coach thrown in the mix too… so of course i just absolutely devoured this book. holly and jax are just so so precious and their friendship is one of my favs! i loved their communication throughout the story and of course their banter was just top tier.
i truly think katie bailey’s writing has gotten better and better in each of her books. she just does such an amazing job with chemistry both in the platonic and romantic sense. i simply have nothing bad to say about this book. it was such a perfect sweet romcom for sure a must read for my romcom girlies. jax and holly will have you kicking your feet and squealing into your pillow instantly.
hugeee thank you to the author for this advanced reader copy! im so so blessed! the quit list comes out this week april 5th, 2024 so be sure get your copy! 🩵🏕️
・❥・
i am such a sucker for friends to lovers and bonus points when it’s strangers to friends to lovers, extra extra bonus points if there’s dating coach thrown in the mix too… so of course i just absolutely devoured this book. holly and jax are just so so precious and their friendship is one of my favs! i loved their communication throughout the story and of course their banter was just top tier.
i truly think katie bailey’s writing has gotten better and better in each of her books. she just does such an amazing job with chemistry both in the platonic and romantic sense. i simply have nothing bad to say about this book. it was such a perfect sweet romcom for sure a must read for my romcom girlies. jax and holly will have you kicking your feet and squealing into your pillow instantly.
hugeee thank you to the author for this advanced reader copy! im so so blessed! the quit list comes out this week april 5th, 2024 so be sure get your copy! 🩵🏕️
January 31, 2025
«Знайди когось, хто доповнить тебе, а не завершить».
Ця цитата ідеально описує всю книгу. Важливо знайти партнера, а не просто кохану людину. Знайти того, хто буде тебе підтримувати і заохочувати до здійснення мрій. Того, хто ставитеме ваші стосунки на перше місце. Того, хто не буде ідеальним, але буде обирати тебе кожного дня.
Ця історія легка та комфортна, наповнена гумором, хімією та глибокими сенсами. Вона вчить поважати себе та не лише мріяти про щось, а йти до своїх мрій. А також вона про те, як не обирати мудаків 😅
«Він зробив набагато більше, ніж просто врятував мене. Він допоміг мені розширити мої можливості, щоб я могла врятувати себе сама».
«Любов віддає, а не бере. Будує, а не руйнує. Додає, а не забирає».
5/5 ⭐. Це на всі 100 відсотків моя історія та герої. Люблю, коли життя героя настільки резонує, що ти відчуваєш його, як частину себе. Неодмінно повернусь до цієї книги!
Ця цитата ідеально описує всю книгу. Важливо знайти партнера, а не просто кохану людину. Знайти того, хто буде тебе підтримувати і заохочувати до здійснення мрій. Того, хто ставитеме ваші стосунки на перше місце. Того, хто не буде ідеальним, але буде обирати тебе кожного дня.
Ця історія легка та комфортна, наповнена гумором, хімією та глибокими сенсами. Вона вчить поважати себе та не лише мріяти про щось, а йти до своїх мрій. А також вона про те, як не обирати мудаків 😅
«Він зробив набагато більше, ніж просто врятував мене. Він допоміг мені розширити мої можливості, щоб я могла врятувати себе сама».
«Любов віддає, а не бере. Будує, а не руйнує. Додає, а не забирає».
5/5 ⭐. Це на всі 100 відсотків моя історія та герої. Люблю, коли життя героя настільки резонує, що ти відчуваєш його, як частину себе. Неодмінно повернусь до цієї книги!
February 10, 2025
I enjoyed the story but I couldn't connect with the romance or characters. This is a closed door romance, there are no love scenes but there was quite a few innuendos spoken throughout and a few swear words.
2.5⭐
2.5⭐
November 19, 2024
Holly and Jax were fun characters. Poor Holly has been dating trying to find the right guy for her but just keeps having awful dates. Enter Jax. A bartender at the restaurant where Holly goes for her weekly dates. When he steps in to rescue her, that starts a sweet friendship. These two together were just wonderful. I loved Jax's cheering Holly on and helping her to see that she is a good person and worth more than she has been treated like from her boss and ex-boyfriend, and all of the blind dates she's been on. I loved how she came to realize more about what she truly wants and not being afraid to try new things and go for what she loves.
And Holly in turn helps Jax as well with coming to realize that he isn't the sum of his past and the heartache he carries around. I just loved their friendship and how they grew to love each other, especially through their adventures! Super cute!
Content: There are some mild swear words scattered throughout and a few mild innuendos. There is mention of alcohol and drinking and some hangovers. The characters share a tent but nothing happens between them, and they share a bed later on as well with nothing happening between them.
I listened to the audiobook through my library's digital services. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
And Holly in turn helps Jax as well with coming to realize that he isn't the sum of his past and the heartache he carries around. I just loved their friendship and how they grew to love each other, especially through their adventures! Super cute!
Content: There are some mild swear words scattered throughout and a few mild innuendos. There is mention of alcohol and drinking and some hangovers. The characters share a tent but nothing happens between them, and they share a bed later on as well with nothing happening between them.
I listened to the audiobook through my library's digital services. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
April 8, 2024
“I’m the temporary distraction, not the happily ever after. “
This book is everything I wanted it to be, but I should have known–it’s Katie Bailey and her writing is pure addictive magic.
Holly is a dating machine, trying to find her soulmate but she keeps ending up with duds. She wants all the adventure and commitment but loaded with lots of sparks and fireworks. I love her fiery personality and bold attitude as things turn, with Jax’s help, and she tackles her quit list.
Let’s talk about Jax for a minute. Not only does he have a barbed wire mouth, he’s all black and gray, a lone wolf mixed with a mountain man, with tattoos, a van called Edna, and a dog named Rick to boot. And he can read people, which makes him an excellent mentor for Holly.
I loved the witty banter between these two, as well as the jealous and screw it moments. I loved the way they mixed together in nature and the way they pushed and complemented each other. One tent? One sleeping bag? Crazy situations after another? Check, check, and check. This is one book I didn’t want to quit.
⚠️frequent mild language; innuendo; slightly edgy banter; steamy kissing
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
This book is everything I wanted it to be, but I should have known–it’s Katie Bailey and her writing is pure addictive magic.
Holly is a dating machine, trying to find her soulmate but she keeps ending up with duds. She wants all the adventure and commitment but loaded with lots of sparks and fireworks. I love her fiery personality and bold attitude as things turn, with Jax’s help, and she tackles her quit list.
Let’s talk about Jax for a minute. Not only does he have a barbed wire mouth, he’s all black and gray, a lone wolf mixed with a mountain man, with tattoos, a van called Edna, and a dog named Rick to boot. And he can read people, which makes him an excellent mentor for Holly.
I loved the witty banter between these two, as well as the jealous and screw it moments. I loved the way they mixed together in nature and the way they pushed and complemented each other. One tent? One sleeping bag? Crazy situations after another? Check, check, and check. This is one book I didn’t want to quit.
⚠️frequent mild language; innuendo; slightly edgy banter; steamy kissing
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
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