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Once Upon You and Me
Charming fairy tale meets spicy bedtime story in this deliciously enchanting age-gap LGBTQIA+ romance
When Taylor Frost’s boss, Amy, flies him across the country to prep for her daughter’s sweet sixteen at the Storybook Endings Resort in the Catskills, the solo mission is well within his wheelhouse. Taylor is excellent at his job—except, he’s probably not supposed to flirt with the resort’s mountain man of a manager, Ethan Golding. Because the rugged older man is also the birthday girl’s father, aka Amy’s ex-husband. Oops.
For Ethan, his divorce seemed like the bad ending to his romantic story. And now, making his daughter’s sweet sixteen dreams come true is the closest he’ll get to the kind of magic happiness in fairy tales. Until adorable Taylor has him wondering if maybe this is just the beginning of a more erotic kind of bedtime story…
The only problem is Amy. And how very not okay she’d be with the chemistry between her assistant and her ex.
If only forbidden flings ever led to happily-ever-afters…
When Taylor Frost’s boss, Amy, flies him across the country to prep for her daughter’s sweet sixteen at the Storybook Endings Resort in the Catskills, the solo mission is well within his wheelhouse. Taylor is excellent at his job—except, he’s probably not supposed to flirt with the resort’s mountain man of a manager, Ethan Golding. Because the rugged older man is also the birthday girl’s father, aka Amy’s ex-husband. Oops.
For Ethan, his divorce seemed like the bad ending to his romantic story. And now, making his daughter’s sweet sixteen dreams come true is the closest he’ll get to the kind of magic happiness in fairy tales. Until adorable Taylor has him wondering if maybe this is just the beginning of a more erotic kind of bedtime story…
The only problem is Amy. And how very not okay she’d be with the chemistry between her assistant and her ex.
If only forbidden flings ever led to happily-ever-afters…
288 pages, Paperback
First published April 29, 2025
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6046 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 375 reviews
January 7, 2025
Janovsky does it again with Once Upon You and Me! Loved both main characters and rooted all the way for them to work it out. Very much enjoy how well the author creates memorable personalities and provides a balanced take on reality versus fiction. Can't wait to read another one.
Want to read
November 19, 2024E-ARC generously provided by Afterglow Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much!
Excited for another ~spicy~ romance from Timothy Janovsky!
Excited for another ~spicy~ romance from Timothy Janovsky!
March 8, 2025
With the leading character a burly, handsome divorced dad finds himself falling in love with a much younger love interest who happens to work for his ex-wife. This issue made for a lot of tiptoeing around and an slow burn.
I love the characters and how the author built them. They definitely offset each other well, and the most uncomfortable part really was the ex-wife. The guy’s discovery of each other was very sweet and they were very comfortable together, balancing well. There was not a whole lot of that getting to know you awkwardness to get through which was nice.
The setting was perfect and it really enhances the story by the fact that they could have time to get to know each other. While I would rate this as steamy, some of the spicier scenes were moderate and left me a little confused a time or two.
This book dived into a lot of introspection about loneliness after divorce and the difficulty in finding someone to share your life with again, especially when your ex is highly involved in your life.
I was a bit disappointed in the ending because I wanted something more than a long distance, but in the end we got our happily ever after and that is the most important part.
Overall, this book is a sweet read that fulfills our romance needs and desires. From loneliness to a long-distance relationship in less than ideal circumstances. So sweet and a bit steamy for the romantics out there.
~~~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/once-upon-yo...
I love the characters and how the author built them. They definitely offset each other well, and the most uncomfortable part really was the ex-wife. The guy’s discovery of each other was very sweet and they were very comfortable together, balancing well. There was not a whole lot of that getting to know you awkwardness to get through which was nice.
The setting was perfect and it really enhances the story by the fact that they could have time to get to know each other. While I would rate this as steamy, some of the spicier scenes were moderate and left me a little confused a time or two.
This book dived into a lot of introspection about loneliness after divorce and the difficulty in finding someone to share your life with again, especially when your ex is highly involved in your life.
I was a bit disappointed in the ending because I wanted something more than a long distance, but in the end we got our happily ever after and that is the most important part.
Overall, this book is a sweet read that fulfills our romance needs and desires. From loneliness to a long-distance relationship in less than ideal circumstances. So sweet and a bit steamy for the romantics out there.
~~~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/once-upon-yo...
Want to read
September 4, 2024You had me at plus size hero. We don't have nearly enough of those in romance. I am so excited
October 21, 2024
I wanted to love this because it has every element that I’d normally love. However, it fell so flat that I don’t think I’ll ever be able to feel any type of way other than disappointed and annoyed.
Normally I give 1 stars to books I DNF, however, I’ve started to also associate 1 stars with books I finish and wish I just didn’t push through for.
There are so many issues I had with this one, the first one being that the characters are immensely bland and have no defining characteristics that make them memorable. Ethan is a big guy single dad with ADHD, and Taylor is… I honestly don’t know what he is. He’s just the assistant and somehow the only character to be understanding to Ethan ever?
The fact that ADHD/neurodivergent representation here is simply a vehicle for these characters to build somewhat of a “deeper” connection is wild to me. It is mentioned a few times early on and then just drops off since Taylor just “gets” Ethan and tells him that it’s okay to be different. This is literally the basis of their relationship apart from physical attraction.
This is advertised as an age gap spicy romance, but it’s pretty mid on both sides of that statement. The age gap is barely addressed as such. They just get together, as it should be, however, it comes up a few times to simply serve as a conflict and in ways I’ve never seen in age gap romances I’ve read before.
The spice started off good, it was a very promising start but then it takes a turn. These characters’ first on bed in seclusion sex scene is actually completely excluded and summarized at the end of a chapter. Never in my years of reading has a “spicy” book done something this outlandish. These characters already have no depth, but now you’re going to take their first moment of intense intimacy away from the reader? I don’t even need a book to be spicy to be good, it’s just a decision that did nothing but make the book immediately a waste of my time.
To follow up with that, their other spice scene picks up from conversations of their first time… the time we literally never see.
Lastly, there are somewhere around 3-4 third act breakup seeming moments that just sucked so bad. This is my first and last book by this author. I’m pretty sure their other books are better, but it’s a one and done.
ARC Received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Normally I give 1 stars to books I DNF, however, I’ve started to also associate 1 stars with books I finish and wish I just didn’t push through for.
There are so many issues I had with this one, the first one being that the characters are immensely bland and have no defining characteristics that make them memorable. Ethan is a big guy single dad with ADHD, and Taylor is… I honestly don’t know what he is. He’s just the assistant and somehow the only character to be understanding to Ethan ever?
The fact that ADHD/neurodivergent representation here is simply a vehicle for these characters to build somewhat of a “deeper” connection is wild to me. It is mentioned a few times early on and then just drops off since Taylor just “gets” Ethan and tells him that it’s okay to be different. This is literally the basis of their relationship apart from physical attraction.
This is advertised as an age gap spicy romance, but it’s pretty mid on both sides of that statement. The age gap is barely addressed as such. They just get together, as it should be, however, it comes up a few times to simply serve as a conflict and in ways I’ve never seen in age gap romances I’ve read before.
The spice started off good, it was a very promising start but then it takes a turn. These characters’ first on bed in seclusion sex scene is actually completely excluded and summarized at the end of a chapter. Never in my years of reading has a “spicy” book done something this outlandish. These characters already have no depth, but now you’re going to take their first moment of intense intimacy away from the reader? I don’t even need a book to be spicy to be good, it’s just a decision that did nothing but make the book immediately a waste of my time.
To follow up with that, their other spice scene picks up from conversations of their first time… the time we literally never see.
Lastly, there are somewhere around 3-4 third act breakup seeming moments that just sucked so bad. This is my first and last book by this author. I’m pretty sure their other books are better, but it’s a one and done.
ARC Received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2025
Thanks to the author, their publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ALC of this novel.
3.25/5 ⭐️
1.5/5 🌶️
This was my second Timothy Janovsky book and it won’t be my last. I loved the characters and giving the bi-rep for an older male. Also giving plus-size man rep too! I love a good age gap romance, especially when it’s MM… add in the forced proximity and the employee/employer (kinda) relationship.
3.25/5 ⭐️
1.5/5 🌶️
This was my second Timothy Janovsky book and it won’t be my last. I loved the characters and giving the bi-rep for an older male. Also giving plus-size man rep too! I love a good age gap romance, especially when it’s MM… add in the forced proximity and the employee/employer (kinda) relationship.
December 30, 2024
Timothy Janovsky does it again with his new novel Once Upon You and Me! A winning combination of spicy romance, heartwarming hurt/comfort, and a dash of family drama, this story had me hooked from the very first page.
I adored watching Taylor and Ethan fall in love. Not only does Timothy Janovsky write a scintillating, super sexy age-gap, but he explores Ethan’s bi-awakening so beautifully. Both men have plenty to sort in their personal lives as well, and Janovsky brings us along for the ride in the most entertaining way.
I’m a huge fan of this clever author’s writing style. He creates such compelling characters, and then tantalizes us with the sublime dynamics between them. If you haven’t delved into any of Timothy Janovsky’s books yet, I highly recommend you do so as soon as possible.
an advanced reader copy of Once Upon You and Me: A Spicy Gay Age-Gap MM Romance was provided by Harlequin - Romance | Afterglow Books by Harlequin, via NetGalley for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
I adored watching Taylor and Ethan fall in love. Not only does Timothy Janovsky write a scintillating, super sexy age-gap, but he explores Ethan’s bi-awakening so beautifully. Both men have plenty to sort in their personal lives as well, and Janovsky brings us along for the ride in the most entertaining way.
I’m a huge fan of this clever author’s writing style. He creates such compelling characters, and then tantalizes us with the sublime dynamics between them. If you haven’t delved into any of Timothy Janovsky’s books yet, I highly recommend you do so as soon as possible.
an advanced reader copy of Once Upon You and Me: A Spicy Gay Age-Gap MM Romance was provided by Harlequin - Romance | Afterglow Books by Harlequin, via NetGalley for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
June 19, 2025
3.5 🫶🏻
this was charming and sweet! i always love an age gap moment, a little forbidden and hot, and i loved being at the fairytale resort in the catskills. i spent my childhood there often, and it reminded me of those times. their connection was a little distant but i did still have a good time. i really just didn't like the ex wife and how negatively present she was in the book. also, i do love adhd rep but i feel like this one inched a little too close to "he's so special for how he thinks" and it felt like taylor kinda infantilized him a little...!
this was charming and sweet! i always love an age gap moment, a little forbidden and hot, and i loved being at the fairytale resort in the catskills. i spent my childhood there often, and it reminded me of those times. their connection was a little distant but i did still have a good time. i really just didn't like the ex wife and how negatively present she was in the book. also, i do love adhd rep but i feel like this one inched a little too close to "he's so special for how he thinks" and it felt like taylor kinda infantilized him a little...!
August 13, 2025
Taylor is tasked with planning his boss’s daughter’s sweet sixteen only to fall for the birthday girl’s rugged dad, Ethan. Their chemistry is undeniable, but with Ethan’s ex (and Taylor’s boss) in the way, a happy ending won’t come easy.
This romance had all the ingredients for a charming, steamy read. An enchanting setting, a forbidden attraction, and an age-gap twist. Unfortunately, the execution left much to be desired.
Taylor and Ethan’s relationship had potential, but their characters felt underdeveloped. Taylor was reduced to a bundle of quirks without real depth, while Ethan never quite moved beyond the brooding mountain man archetype. The age gap felt like more of a marketing hook than an actual theme in the story.
To make matters worse, despite teasing a “spicy bedtime story,” the book barely delivered on the steam. The few intimate moments felt rushed and unmemorable, making the romance feel more lukewarm than fiery.
That said, the setting was charming, and there were some genuinely sweet moments between Taylor and Ethan that kept me engaged. I wanted to love this story, and while I enjoyed parts of it, I couldn’t help but feel it could have been so much more. With stronger character development and better execution of its themes, this could have been a truly magical read.
⭐⭐.5 rounding up for Nana
As always, shout-out to my homies at Netgally and the publisher for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
This romance had all the ingredients for a charming, steamy read. An enchanting setting, a forbidden attraction, and an age-gap twist. Unfortunately, the execution left much to be desired.
Taylor and Ethan’s relationship had potential, but their characters felt underdeveloped. Taylor was reduced to a bundle of quirks without real depth, while Ethan never quite moved beyond the brooding mountain man archetype. The age gap felt like more of a marketing hook than an actual theme in the story.
To make matters worse, despite teasing a “spicy bedtime story,” the book barely delivered on the steam. The few intimate moments felt rushed and unmemorable, making the romance feel more lukewarm than fiery.
That said, the setting was charming, and there were some genuinely sweet moments between Taylor and Ethan that kept me engaged. I wanted to love this story, and while I enjoyed parts of it, I couldn’t help but feel it could have been so much more. With stronger character development and better execution of its themes, this could have been a truly magical read.
⭐⭐.5 rounding up for Nana
As always, shout-out to my homies at Netgally and the publisher for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
April 29, 2025
Thanks Netgally and Harlequin for the arc
Happy release day!
★ ★ ★ ★
Books like this is the reason why I love reading
This was such an enjoyable read for me. I loved all the character, even Amy who I learned to understand. The only thing I didn’t like about the book was the ending which felt kinda rushed. Other than that this was an amazing book and I can’t wait to read more from Timothy Janovksy.
Happy release day!
★ ★ ★ ★
Books like this is the reason why I love reading
This was such an enjoyable read for me. I loved all the character, even Amy who I learned to understand. The only thing I didn’t like about the book was the ending which felt kinda rushed. Other than that this was an amazing book and I can’t wait to read more from Timothy Janovksy.
May 27, 2025
4.5⭐️
Super cute queer romance book! It’s about a divorced dad who falls for his ex-wife’s assistant, so it’s a bit of a forbidden/secret romance for the sake of him keeping his job. It delves into the topic of loneliness after divorce and is a sweet storyline.
Super cute queer romance book! It’s about a divorced dad who falls for his ex-wife’s assistant, so it’s a bit of a forbidden/secret romance for the sake of him keeping his job. It delves into the topic of loneliness after divorce and is a sweet storyline.
April 16, 2025
I had high hopes for this book, based on the description, and expected a hot, fun romance. Alas, this was a little disappointing for a couple of reasons...
First off, the characters were bland and underdeveloped, and in the form of the ex-wife rather one-dimensional. Neither Ethan nor Taylor ever moved beyond their initial description, and there was no real growth for either of them.
Secondly, I didn't warm up to either MC, and I didn't buy their romance - it seemed that it was more of a forced proximity kind of relationship than something that really developed over time. It just didn't convince me that they had actual feelings for each other that would be worth risking their jobs, seeing how they're both employed, more or less, by Ethan's ex-wife.
Thirdly, even though I was promised steam, there wasn't much of it to be found in the pages of this book. And while I don't need steam to enjoy a romance novel, I do need the blurb to set expectations appropriately, and the promise of a "spicy bedtime story" was not met here.
I did enjoy the setting of this book in an enchanted wonderland created by Ethan and his ex-wife, a magical fairytale resort, and I quite liked Ethan's interactions with the guests.
The obvious conflict was as expected, and I did appreciate the solution the author gave his MCs. Overall, this book comes in at three stars.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. **
First off, the characters were bland and underdeveloped, and in the form of the ex-wife rather one-dimensional. Neither Ethan nor Taylor ever moved beyond their initial description, and there was no real growth for either of them.
Secondly, I didn't warm up to either MC, and I didn't buy their romance - it seemed that it was more of a forced proximity kind of relationship than something that really developed over time. It just didn't convince me that they had actual feelings for each other that would be worth risking their jobs, seeing how they're both employed, more or less, by Ethan's ex-wife.
Thirdly, even though I was promised steam, there wasn't much of it to be found in the pages of this book. And while I don't need steam to enjoy a romance novel, I do need the blurb to set expectations appropriately, and the promise of a "spicy bedtime story" was not met here.
I did enjoy the setting of this book in an enchanted wonderland created by Ethan and his ex-wife, a magical fairytale resort, and I quite liked Ethan's interactions with the guests.
The obvious conflict was as expected, and I did appreciate the solution the author gave his MCs. Overall, this book comes in at three stars.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. **
Want to read
November 5, 2024"spicy gay age-gap romance"
ahh, such a cute cover!
ahh, such a cute cover!
August 13, 2025
If you love an age gap, boss’s ex-husband, single father, lumber-daddy, then do I have the book for you! Once Upon You and Me is what happens when you cross a sweet stars-in-your-eyes, butterflies in the belly, reads fairy tales out loud to you at bedtime romance with a passionate haven’t-been-properly-DUCKED-in-too-damn-long, need-you-like-air, smutty story and you better believe I like for that midway mark. Because who doesn’t love spice?
Everything I could have asked for is between these pages. When I read The Hunger Games, I was immediately taken with Gale because a man who can shoot a bow and arrow (and hit the target, obvi) is sexy AF. Albeit, Gale wasn’t end game, for obvious reasons, but that’s neither here nor there. So the fact that our single daddy, who’s giving lumber-sexual in all the right ways, is good with his hands (and archery), definitely made me hot and bothered! TMI? I say NAYYYYY!
I really enjoyed the story, even though I started out my reading journey with it a little rocky. I began reading this late at night and after a long day of work, passed out some point towards the end. I did end up starting the entire book over again, which made it feel much longer than its 7 hour listening time.
Everything I could have asked for is between these pages. When I read The Hunger Games, I was immediately taken with Gale because a man who can shoot a bow and arrow (and hit the target, obvi) is sexy AF. Albeit, Gale wasn’t end game, for obvious reasons, but that’s neither here nor there. So the fact that our single daddy, who’s giving lumber-sexual in all the right ways, is good with his hands (and archery), definitely made me hot and bothered! TMI? I say NAYYYYY!
I really enjoyed the story, even though I started out my reading journey with it a little rocky. I began reading this late at night and after a long day of work, passed out some point towards the end. I did end up starting the entire book over again, which made it feel much longer than its 7 hour listening time.
May 3, 2025
3.5 stars. This was a very quick and easy listen and a similar experience to most of Janovsky's books for me. I enjoy the characters and the relationship for the most part but there is not a ton of depth. It always feels a little bit like I'm reading a movie.
I didn't love the characterization of the ex-wife - even as it got better at the end. And I do find Janovsky's writing a little on the nose at times but it's mostly earnest and sweet so I keep going back for more because I know it will be a reliable easy listen.
The narration for this book was a little flat - without a ton of differentiation between the characters. I think Mark Sanderlin's delivery is a better fit for this author.
I received an audio Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Harlequin Audio in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't love the characterization of the ex-wife - even as it got better at the end. And I do find Janovsky's writing a little on the nose at times but it's mostly earnest and sweet so I keep going back for more because I know it will be a reliable easy listen.
The narration for this book was a little flat - without a ton of differentiation between the characters. I think Mark Sanderlin's delivery is a better fit for this author.
I received an audio Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley and Harlequin Audio in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2025
It took me awhile to get into this, but I’m happy I trekked on! Age Gap romance hasn’t always been for me, but this was a delight.
Timothy writes spicy heartfelt rom coms with such ease. I loved the way Taylor & Ethan’s relationship developed. I was rooting for them as soon as they hit it off.
I loved the setting of this story too.
Lots of introspection into ADHD & loneliness. I felt like Timothy wrote with care for his characters & readers.
Thank you to Harlequin Audio for the duo ALC for this & Timothy’s next book!
Timothy writes spicy heartfelt rom coms with such ease. I loved the way Taylor & Ethan’s relationship developed. I was rooting for them as soon as they hit it off.
I loved the setting of this story too.
Lots of introspection into ADHD & loneliness. I felt like Timothy wrote with care for his characters & readers.
Thank you to Harlequin Audio for the duo ALC for this & Timothy’s next book!
Want to read
August 18, 2025This is a book in my local library, that I know has also been recommended to me a few times. I love a mlm book, but the tag erotica is throwing me off. Is this spicy? The age gap is throwing me off. If so I will just mark this as a not to read book, because it is absolutely not my type, and I also won't be leaving a star review because it's not a book that Ive read.
But the fact my local library has an ebook, and an audiobook makes me very curious about this one. That and it has been recommended to me a few times, but a lot of spice? Heavy spice? Puts me off a book .
But the fact my local library has an ebook, and an audiobook makes me very curious about this one. That and it has been recommended to me a few times, but a lot of spice? Heavy spice? Puts me off a book .
April 13, 2025
This is a super cute contemporary romance. I adored the characters. And I really love how the internal turmoil with Ethan struggling with the age difference, the complicated interpersonal relationship and some self-esteem over his attraction and relationship with Taylor. It felt really real and relatable. Taylor is just precious and I love him. Aside from those two characters, the others felt pretty flat, though (without giving too many spoilers) one does have some character development near the end. The spice was great, the slow build and attraction between the 2 main characters was paced really well. The narrator did a great job with the character voices and personalities. I enjoyed the sound of the narrator's voice.
My only down side was I did find myself zoning out a bit on the story at times and missing pieces. Not sure what wasn't keeping my attention, but something wasn't, hence the 4 stars instead of 5. But overall, an enjoyable audiobook if anyone is looking for a cute and cozy LGBT+ standalone romance with a HEA.
My only down side was I did find myself zoning out a bit on the story at times and missing pieces. Not sure what wasn't keeping my attention, but something wasn't, hence the 4 stars instead of 5. But overall, an enjoyable audiobook if anyone is looking for a cute and cozy LGBT+ standalone romance with a HEA.
April 20, 2025
This story focuses on a divorced dad who is not necessarily looking for love but finds it with an unexpected someone. I am not usually a fan of the age gap/forbidden love trope but this story was very cute & gave me all fairy tale vibes. Taylor & Ethan were such a charming couple. The Catskills were the perfect setting as well. I would definitely recommend this sweet & spicy story for a quick read. 4 STARS!
Thank you NetGalley, Timothy Janovsky, & Harlequin Audio for this ALC!
Thank you NetGalley, Timothy Janovsky, & Harlequin Audio for this ALC!
March 12, 2025
When I first read the blurb for Once Upon Me & You, I absolutely knew I wanted to read it.
And while, the book was able to keep my attention, I felt myself not being as drawn to the characters. More often than not, I was being told about everything, rather than shown which made the book difficult to get into. Also the book breezed around multiple heavy topics/representations and gave the vibe that they were thrown in to be superficially inclusive.
I also wouldn’t really call this a “charming fairy tale meets spicy bedtime story” as the spice was…where exactly? However, the archery lessons were done so well and I wish that had been a little more developed.
Personally I have liked some of Janovsky’s books in the past, this one simply didn’t work that well for me.
Thank you to Netgalley, Harlequin Romance, and Timothy Janovsky for an advanced reader copy to enjoy and review.
And while, the book was able to keep my attention, I felt myself not being as drawn to the characters. More often than not, I was being told about everything, rather than shown which made the book difficult to get into. Also the book breezed around multiple heavy topics/representations and gave the vibe that they were thrown in to be superficially inclusive.
I also wouldn’t really call this a “charming fairy tale meets spicy bedtime story” as the spice was…where exactly? However, the archery lessons were done so well and I wish that had been a little more developed.
Personally I have liked some of Janovsky’s books in the past, this one simply didn’t work that well for me.
Thank you to Netgalley, Harlequin Romance, and Timothy Janovsky for an advanced reader copy to enjoy and review.
May 15, 2025
I was really enjoying this until I wasn’t. This was a sweet love story between Ethan and Taylor until Amy showed up and it just became irritating. The third act break up is so tiresome. Some authors carry it off and it works perfectly into the plot. In this case , I just wanted to slap them both. In fact, if I hadn’t been listening I doubt I would have finished.
I loved the dog, and I loved the setting. The writing style was fine. Even though they were only together for six days there was a slow build up to their relationship that really worked for me.
I didn’t like Amy because she was made out to be a complete bitch for most of the book. Then she has a complete turn around with no explanation as to why. I didn’t like how they got back together either. I think the thing I disliked the most was I didn’t get emotional when they got back together. (I would list this as a spoiler but they almost always get back together.) I guess my expectations were too high and I was disappointed.
I loved the dog, and I loved the setting. The writing style was fine. Even though they were only together for six days there was a slow build up to their relationship that really worked for me.
I didn’t like Amy because she was made out to be a complete bitch for most of the book. Then she has a complete turn around with no explanation as to why. I didn’t like how they got back together either. I think the thing I disliked the most was I didn’t get emotional when they got back together. (I would list this as a spoiler but they almost always get back together.) I guess my expectations were too high and I was disappointed.
April 8, 2025
Oooof I really struggled with this one… I have loved the author’s previous works, New Adult and You Had Me At Happy Hour being two of my faves, but this one just fell flat for me for a number of reasons. There were some bits I really enjoyed but I just felt I wanted more from this book.
Stuff I liked:
- The setting. As a Disney adult, I absolutely loved the concept of a fairytale themed hotel and resort. I actually wanted to see more of life at the resort.
- The premise. Icy, fierce Personal assistant and hopeless romantic hotel manager; I expected a sort of enemies to lovers vibe but that was not delivered. The idea was good though.
- The archery lessons; makes me want to have a go!
- Nana the dog, enough said.
Stuff I struggled with:
- Amy’s character. She was written as the stereotypical ‘bitch-ex wife’ who was constantly belittling Taylor and Ethan and controlling her daughter Samara. She’s Asian-American, but other than that one line of description, we don’t get any more than that. She’s unsympathetic to Ethan’s ADHD (more on that in a bit) and seems to be an ‘evil’ caricature who only cares about work and money that the MCs are tiptoeing around rather than an actual person.
- Taylor’s character. He’s introduced as this icy, sharp personal assistant with cold hands and a colder glare… which immediately morphs into a sweet loving caretaker? It’s a total 180 in the first few chapters. In the beginning, Taylor is apprehensive about meeting Ethan because Amy has told him so much bad stuff about him… yet as soon as Taylor sees him, he’s smitten because he’s hot? Idk, the Taylor in the first few chapters is not the Taylor in the rest of the book and I feel like another round of editing would have fixed that issue.
- Ethan’s character. So this book is touted as having ADHD rep with Ethan being diagnosed late in life, and references are made throughout to Ethan being scatterbrained… which okay, is one symptom for some people, but other that that, we don’t get a whole lot of insight into this neurodiversity that allegedly has shaped his whole life. Again, ADHD presents differently in different people but I just don’t know if this felt like a genuine portrayal or if it was just added for a box ticking exercise here.
- The miscommunication. There was some really stupid miscommunication in this book. Taylor makes an off handed comment about Ethan being the tallest of this brothers and Ethan immediately takes offence and assumes Taylor is calling him fat? (Even though he self-describes as fat). And similarly, when Ethan asks if Taylor usually goes for older men, Taylor takes immediate offence assuming that Ethan only wants him because he’s younger (even though at this point they’ve allegedly developed a deep intimacy and connection). These men are acting like snappy teenagers and not actual adults and it really threw me out of the story.
- The pacing. All of this happens in a week. I understand that people can fall for each other quickly, but this was fast-burn to the extreme. By the end of the week when Taylor leaves, they’re both full on brokenhearted.
- The third act breakup. When Amy inevitably finds out about their whirlwind affair, she fires Taylor and he goes home… and Ethan is furious at Taylor because he ‘didn’t stay and fight for them’. MY DUDE he’s 27, has lost his income, his found family and his future career all in one swoop and you’re mad he went home to lick his wounds rather than stay and fight for a SIX DAY LONG RELATIONSHIP???
- The resolution. After throwing a complete fit over her ex-husband and personal assistant sleeping together (which, last time I checked is completely legal?!) and firing Taylor, she comes around with seemingly no reason and gives them her blessing. I could understand if her daughter had said something to her, but apparently Amy came to this conclusion on her own? After already wrecking Taylor’s life? Idk…
There are other bits that riled me up as well, but I feel like I’ve dogpiled on this book enough 😹 Needless to say, I will continue to read Janovsky’s books because there are some I really liked, but this one was an absolute miss for me 😅
Thanks to Mills & Boon for an eARC of this book via NetGalley.
Stuff I liked:
- The setting. As a Disney adult, I absolutely loved the concept of a fairytale themed hotel and resort. I actually wanted to see more of life at the resort.
- The premise. Icy, fierce Personal assistant and hopeless romantic hotel manager; I expected a sort of enemies to lovers vibe but that was not delivered. The idea was good though.
- The archery lessons; makes me want to have a go!
- Nana the dog, enough said.
Stuff I struggled with:
- Amy’s character. She was written as the stereotypical ‘bitch-ex wife’ who was constantly belittling Taylor and Ethan and controlling her daughter Samara. She’s Asian-American, but other than that one line of description, we don’t get any more than that. She’s unsympathetic to Ethan’s ADHD (more on that in a bit) and seems to be an ‘evil’ caricature who only cares about work and money that the MCs are tiptoeing around rather than an actual person.
- Taylor’s character. He’s introduced as this icy, sharp personal assistant with cold hands and a colder glare… which immediately morphs into a sweet loving caretaker? It’s a total 180 in the first few chapters. In the beginning, Taylor is apprehensive about meeting Ethan because Amy has told him so much bad stuff about him… yet as soon as Taylor sees him, he’s smitten because he’s hot? Idk, the Taylor in the first few chapters is not the Taylor in the rest of the book and I feel like another round of editing would have fixed that issue.
- Ethan’s character. So this book is touted as having ADHD rep with Ethan being diagnosed late in life, and references are made throughout to Ethan being scatterbrained… which okay, is one symptom for some people, but other that that, we don’t get a whole lot of insight into this neurodiversity that allegedly has shaped his whole life. Again, ADHD presents differently in different people but I just don’t know if this felt like a genuine portrayal or if it was just added for a box ticking exercise here.
- The miscommunication. There was some really stupid miscommunication in this book. Taylor makes an off handed comment about Ethan being the tallest of this brothers and Ethan immediately takes offence and assumes Taylor is calling him fat? (Even though he self-describes as fat). And similarly, when Ethan asks if Taylor usually goes for older men, Taylor takes immediate offence assuming that Ethan only wants him because he’s younger (even though at this point they’ve allegedly developed a deep intimacy and connection). These men are acting like snappy teenagers and not actual adults and it really threw me out of the story.
- The pacing. All of this happens in a week. I understand that people can fall for each other quickly, but this was fast-burn to the extreme. By the end of the week when Taylor leaves, they’re both full on brokenhearted.
- The third act breakup. When Amy inevitably finds out about their whirlwind affair, she fires Taylor and he goes home… and Ethan is furious at Taylor because he ‘didn’t stay and fight for them’. MY DUDE he’s 27, has lost his income, his found family and his future career all in one swoop and you’re mad he went home to lick his wounds rather than stay and fight for a SIX DAY LONG RELATIONSHIP???
- The resolution. After throwing a complete fit over her ex-husband and personal assistant sleeping together (which, last time I checked is completely legal?!) and firing Taylor, she comes around with seemingly no reason and gives them her blessing. I could understand if her daughter had said something to her, but apparently Amy came to this conclusion on her own? After already wrecking Taylor’s life? Idk…
There are other bits that riled me up as well, but I feel like I’ve dogpiled on this book enough 😹 Needless to say, I will continue to read Janovsky’s books because there are some I really liked, but this one was an absolute miss for me 😅
Thanks to Mills & Boon for an eARC of this book via NetGalley.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2025
Was kindly sent this as an ARC by Mills and Boon/Harper Collins. I absolutely loved this! Just the right amount of spice, drama and sap. I'm new to romance books and this is a great one to start with. I'm a sucker for LGBT romance and the neurodiverse representation was so refreshing. Couldn't put this down, I just wish there was a sequel! I will be checking out the author's other work for sure.
June 22, 2025
This book is a perfect palette cleanser if you’re reading a heavier book or just want a cute, fun, and spicy romance! There is ADHD rep in here as well as anxiety rep too! My only qualm with this book was how much Ethan described Taylor quite often as a twink. I know it isn’t a derogatory or dirty word, but the constant use of it felt gross since it is an age gap romance (which I love!) Otherwise, quick and easy read!
April 11, 2025
I've been a fan of Timothy Janovsky's since his debut and every book is different, yet I love every single one!
This book had me constantly wanting more. I could not put it down (and I didn't want to!) because I was loving every moment of it. I loved getting to know Taylor and Ethan and how, while they are so different, they had their similarities that they could bond over. How friendship could turn to more so seamlessly, even in a situation that it really shouldn't have coexisted. I loved both of the characters, I loved the growth we saw, and I loved seeing how much they cared for each other! With the location being Storybook Endings Resort, I loved the nods to fairytales, and how much they were interwoven into the story. It was done so well that I felt nostalgic while reading and felt pulled into the book even more so.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the later in life ADHD diagnosis and seeing how Ethan was learning his own brain and doing what he could. It was so insightful to see him call the things out, even just in his head. And the way that Taylor treated his ADHD was absolutely beautiful.
Highly recommend picking up every Timothy Janovsky book, but absolutely loved this one!
Little synopsis in my own words:
Ethan has been on his own for the past 5 years after his divorce. His ex-wife and daughter moved to CA, across the country from Storybook Endings resort, and their own little cottage. He's still managing the location while his ex-wife continues to grow the business they started together, but separated from during the divorce. He has his best friend, and employee, Gabriel, and his dog, Nana. Besides that, he has the calls with his daughter, and the resort to take care of.
Taylor has been the assistant of Amy Lu for the past few years, hoping this'll open the doors to a job in hospitality. He becomes a trusted part of her life, which is why she trusts him to go alone to their first location to set up for her daughter's sixteenth birthday party, and do the various admin things necessary. He flies across the country just to be met with Ethan. He knows only what his boss has shared about her ex-husband, and not all of it kind. But he takes this assignment seriously, this could be his way to prove he would be a great asset to the new location opening soon, so he can't let anything, or anyone distract him.
Thank you to Harlequin and Netgalley for the ARC.
This book had me constantly wanting more. I could not put it down (and I didn't want to!) because I was loving every moment of it. I loved getting to know Taylor and Ethan and how, while they are so different, they had their similarities that they could bond over. How friendship could turn to more so seamlessly, even in a situation that it really shouldn't have coexisted. I loved both of the characters, I loved the growth we saw, and I loved seeing how much they cared for each other! With the location being Storybook Endings Resort, I loved the nods to fairytales, and how much they were interwoven into the story. It was done so well that I felt nostalgic while reading and felt pulled into the book even more so.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the later in life ADHD diagnosis and seeing how Ethan was learning his own brain and doing what he could. It was so insightful to see him call the things out, even just in his head. And the way that Taylor treated his ADHD was absolutely beautiful.
Highly recommend picking up every Timothy Janovsky book, but absolutely loved this one!
Little synopsis in my own words:
Ethan has been on his own for the past 5 years after his divorce. His ex-wife and daughter moved to CA, across the country from Storybook Endings resort, and their own little cottage. He's still managing the location while his ex-wife continues to grow the business they started together, but separated from during the divorce. He has his best friend, and employee, Gabriel, and his dog, Nana. Besides that, he has the calls with his daughter, and the resort to take care of.
Taylor has been the assistant of Amy Lu for the past few years, hoping this'll open the doors to a job in hospitality. He becomes a trusted part of her life, which is why she trusts him to go alone to their first location to set up for her daughter's sixteenth birthday party, and do the various admin things necessary. He flies across the country just to be met with Ethan. He knows only what his boss has shared about her ex-husband, and not all of it kind. But he takes this assignment seriously, this could be his way to prove he would be a great asset to the new location opening soon, so he can't let anything, or anyone distract him.
Thank you to Harlequin and Netgalley for the ARC.
June 23, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
This is a cute story that’s aided by the charming setting of a fairytale-themed resort. I enjoyed getting to see the various aspects of the resort and the way the fairytale and “happy endings” themes then carry over into the story itself with some nice little touches. There is also an interesting through line involving archery, which is a sport that Ethan learned from his father and which he now teaches at the resort, and which he then shares with Taylor. So I think Janovsky does a nice job here both creating the setting and then building the elements of the resort into the larger story.
This story overall is cute and an easy read, and there are some fun moments relating the resort and the theming. And there is a very sweet dynamic between the men that has some nice and touching moments. I wanted a little more development of the characters, as well as the conflicts, to really make this one a total hit for me, but overall it is an entertaining story.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
This is a cute story that’s aided by the charming setting of a fairytale-themed resort. I enjoyed getting to see the various aspects of the resort and the way the fairytale and “happy endings” themes then carry over into the story itself with some nice little touches. There is also an interesting through line involving archery, which is a sport that Ethan learned from his father and which he now teaches at the resort, and which he then shares with Taylor. So I think Janovsky does a nice job here both creating the setting and then building the elements of the resort into the larger story.
This story overall is cute and an easy read, and there are some fun moments relating the resort and the theming. And there is a very sweet dynamic between the men that has some nice and touching moments. I wanted a little more development of the characters, as well as the conflicts, to really make this one a total hit for me, but overall it is an entertaining story.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
March 19, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Thank you to Harlequin Romance and NetGalley for this advanced copy of “Once Upon You and Me”
In this queer fairytale setting of a book we follow Ethan who owns a Disney esque style resort and Taylor who is the assistant of Ethan’s ex wife. Taylor is sent out to help with Ethan’s daughter’s birthday party which is at the resort and also to scope out the property to get ideas for a future property being built. Immediate attraction happens but nothing is physically done until a forced proximity situation happens.
I’ve been a fan of Janovsky’s work for a while and honestly his last two books have kind of disappointed me. I didn’t really feel the chemistry between the two MMC’s, the big conflict towards the end irritated me, and I really only liked the daughter.
I didn’t love this book but I didn’t hate it either. I felt like we could have been given more in many aspects of the book, character development and spice/tension being the two major ones
Thank you to Harlequin Romance and NetGalley for this advanced copy of “Once Upon You and Me”
In this queer fairytale setting of a book we follow Ethan who owns a Disney esque style resort and Taylor who is the assistant of Ethan’s ex wife. Taylor is sent out to help with Ethan’s daughter’s birthday party which is at the resort and also to scope out the property to get ideas for a future property being built. Immediate attraction happens but nothing is physically done until a forced proximity situation happens.
I’ve been a fan of Janovsky’s work for a while and honestly his last two books have kind of disappointed me. I didn’t really feel the chemistry between the two MMC’s, the big conflict towards the end irritated me, and I really only liked the daughter.
I didn’t love this book but I didn’t hate it either. I felt like we could have been given more in many aspects of the book, character development and spice/tension being the two major ones
August 4, 2025
This book was so cute!! I loved Ethan & Taylor together might be a new favorite couple of mine and I think I have a new autobuy author too because this was my fourth?? Third?? Book by Timothy and I loved it again. Small town romance with one bed trope and an age gap romance yes plz!!
New favorite read five out of five stars! Please check out his books if u want something light and easy I think I'm getting out of my reading slumps with my 3 reads from August so far!!
READING SLUMP WHO???
New favorite read five out of five stars! Please check out his books if u want something light and easy I think I'm getting out of my reading slumps with my 3 reads from August so far!!
READING SLUMP WHO???
May 15, 2025
I mean, come on?
Age gap, camp setting, awkwardness, cutie stolen moments.
Break my heart why don't ya?!
Another banger (pun intended) from Timothy Janovsky and I cannot wait to see what he does next!
Much love to Harlequin for my PR box filled with cute things and a delicious book!
Age gap, camp setting, awkwardness, cutie stolen moments.
Break my heart why don't ya?!
Another banger (pun intended) from Timothy Janovsky and I cannot wait to see what he does next!
Much love to Harlequin for my PR box filled with cute things and a delicious book!
April 9, 2025
I really adored the main characters Ethan and Taylor and loved listening to their growth throughout the book. Both of them had some individual work to do in order to be ready for a relationship and it was nice feeling connected to them and rooting for their success :) I am excited to read more novels by Timothy Janovsky in the future! Thank you Netgalley and Harlequin Audio for an audio ARC of Once Upon You and Me for exchange of my honest review.
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