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Only Lovers in the Building
"This is the beach and pool read of the summer! Fun and sexy with a delicious slow-burn that revolves around a lovable cast of characters.” —Karen Booth, author of Not So Fast
Wanted—no, NEEDED: a summer escape with beach reads, cocktails…and a little romance on the side.
After her legal career comes to a sudden and humiliating end, Liliane Lyon books a restorative summer rental at The Icon, a quintessential Art Deco building in Miami Beach, where her only plan is to bask in the sun, read, and sip cocktails. But soon she’s enchanted by the colorful community, including university professor Benedicto Romero—resident tortured poet, whose sole intention for sabbatical is to indulge in brooding introspection.
When they discover a shared passion for romance novels, Lily and Ben are soon spending hours reading together by the pool, the spark between them unwittingly giving the other residents the impression that they’re experts in matters of the heart…no matter that IRL their disastrous love lives bear little resemblance to the stories they’re reading.
But while Ben and Lily can pinpoint a trope a mile away and give excellent advice to others, they can’t make sense of the sizzling chemistry between them, and the suggestion of a professional podcast suddenly forces them to consider the long-term. So what if it means working even closer together! So what if their banter makes Lily's head spin! It’s the summer of taking chances, but a word to the Miami isn’t the place for growth and rebirth. It’s the place to get messy.
For fans of:
• Slow Burn
• Friends to Lovers
• Close Proximity
• Beachy Reads
• Books About Books
• Black Love
• Eccentric and charming characters ala Only Murders in the Building
Wanted—no, NEEDED: a summer escape with beach reads, cocktails…and a little romance on the side.
After her legal career comes to a sudden and humiliating end, Liliane Lyon books a restorative summer rental at The Icon, a quintessential Art Deco building in Miami Beach, where her only plan is to bask in the sun, read, and sip cocktails. But soon she’s enchanted by the colorful community, including university professor Benedicto Romero—resident tortured poet, whose sole intention for sabbatical is to indulge in brooding introspection.
When they discover a shared passion for romance novels, Lily and Ben are soon spending hours reading together by the pool, the spark between them unwittingly giving the other residents the impression that they’re experts in matters of the heart…no matter that IRL their disastrous love lives bear little resemblance to the stories they’re reading.
But while Ben and Lily can pinpoint a trope a mile away and give excellent advice to others, they can’t make sense of the sizzling chemistry between them, and the suggestion of a professional podcast suddenly forces them to consider the long-term. So what if it means working even closer together! So what if their banter makes Lily's head spin! It’s the summer of taking chances, but a word to the Miami isn’t the place for growth and rebirth. It’s the place to get messy.
For fans of:
• Slow Burn
• Friends to Lovers
• Close Proximity
• Beachy Reads
• Books About Books
• Black Love
• Eccentric and charming characters ala Only Murders in the Building
352 pages, Paperback
First published July 15, 2025
56 people are currently reading
9605 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 362 reviews
August 6, 2025
I'm really sad I didn't love this. I don't even know if I liked it. The premise sounded great but the writing style was... a choice! It was definitely something. For most of the book I wasn't sure if this was a romance or just a fiction book. The dialogue carried heavily in the book; it's 98% dialogue and 2% plot. Which was fine, except the two MC's who I'm supposed to want together are "just friends" for the majority of the book, and they honestly were just better that way. I also just never felt their connection after too many times they "wanted to" but didn't and then were randomly making out for no reason or she's touching his d!ck and then moving on quickly five seconds later. I struggle to find the point or purpose to either of their stories and their relationship together as a whole.
Because this SOUNDS like it should be the perfect romance book, right? She's a romance reader and reviewer (ish in her free time) and he's a romance reader and brooding poet... They read together by the pool and start a podcast and what have you. But it was just so devoid of any personality, I didn't know who these people were (which was crazy considering all they do is talk)
Because this SOUNDS like it should be the perfect romance book, right? She's a romance reader and reviewer (ish in her free time) and he's a romance reader and brooding poet... They read together by the pool and start a podcast and what have you. But it was just so devoid of any personality, I didn't know who these people were (which was crazy considering all they do is talk)
July 11, 2025
3.75 / 5 Stars
This book took me on a bit of a rollercoaster ride, but I ended up liking it! Synopsis: Lily has not received the credit she deserves at her legal firm (because sexism and racism) and when she sees that one of her exes just got married, it pushes her over the edge. She rage quits her job and rents a room for the summer in a beautiful Art Deco apartment complex in Miami, so that she can relax, read romance novels, and figure her life out. But she meets Ben, her charmy and deeply emotionally unavailable neighbor, and they have instant chemistry. They say they’ll just be friends but of course, they end up being the type of friends who are constantly on the brink of boning. Ben and Lily try to navigate their feelings for each other while reading romance novels, writing reviews, and even hosting a podcast.
You will probably like this book if you like:
🌴 Strangers to friends to lovers
📚 She’s leaving at the end of the summer
🌴 Romance books about romance books
📚 Good banter
🌴 Haitian FMC and Cuban MMC
📚 Messy main characters and fun side characters
We should start with the fact that our two main characters are messy and complicated. Ben tells Lily that he is a mess with daddy and commitment issues. His cousin tells Lily that Ben is a mess with daddy and commitment issues. He tells her that most of his relationships have been “fluid” and “undefined” and his most recent relationship ended A WEEK before he met Lily (🚩🚩🚩RED FLAG ALERT 🚨🚨CALL THE COPS 🏃♀️🏃♀️ GIRL RUN). I have seen fewer red flags in dark romance books. AND YET, he was charming AF and I, much like Lily, was down to clown. Sir, I will read a whole book about you and your hot, mixed signal sending ass. And your acts of services. And your exceptional banter.
Lily is also messy. Trying to keep track of how she felt about Ben was hard (it’s her third person POV) because one minute she agrees they should just be friends, the next she wants to knock on his door and kiss him, the next she remembers that she is leaving at the end of the summer and so on. I truly had no clue what she was feeling from minute to minute, which while realistic, is a tad hard as a reader. Also I truly couldn’t tell you why she was caught up on her ex at all (he seems boring and not her type).
But again, the banter really sold me. I LOOOVE a dialogue heavy book and so this was perfect. I also liked that the book had other writing styles like transcripts from their podcast, Ben’s journal entries, Lily’s journal entries, and their joint book reviews. Granted, Lily’s new career trajectory felt a little forced and everything fell into her lap (of course they go viral for their book reviews and get a podcast deal immediately), but that Hollywood, baby. And much like you have to suspend some disbelief with the reformed playboy trope, I felt like you just kind of had to accept that they both decided to get over their relationship issues for each other because … this relationship was different?
If you like any of the tropes and are okay with some very messy relationships, you will probably really enjoy this book. If nothing else, go look at the cover in a bookstore because it is BEAUTIFUL.
Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing | Canary Street Press and NetGalley for providing the eARC! All opinions are my own.
Publication Date: July 15, 2025
______________________
Pre-Read Thoughts: She rage quits her corporate jobs, lives in a gorgeous art deco building in Miami for the summer, and flirts with a hot Cuban man? Honestly, what a dream. And the cover is 😍😍😍.
This book took me on a bit of a rollercoaster ride, but I ended up liking it! Synopsis: Lily has not received the credit she deserves at her legal firm (because sexism and racism) and when she sees that one of her exes just got married, it pushes her over the edge. She rage quits her job and rents a room for the summer in a beautiful Art Deco apartment complex in Miami, so that she can relax, read romance novels, and figure her life out. But she meets Ben, her charmy and deeply emotionally unavailable neighbor, and they have instant chemistry. They say they’ll just be friends but of course, they end up being the type of friends who are constantly on the brink of boning. Ben and Lily try to navigate their feelings for each other while reading romance novels, writing reviews, and even hosting a podcast.
You will probably like this book if you like:
🌴 Strangers to friends to lovers
📚 She’s leaving at the end of the summer
🌴 Romance books about romance books
📚 Good banter
🌴 Haitian FMC and Cuban MMC
📚 Messy main characters and fun side characters
We should start with the fact that our two main characters are messy and complicated. Ben tells Lily that he is a mess with daddy and commitment issues. His cousin tells Lily that Ben is a mess with daddy and commitment issues. He tells her that most of his relationships have been “fluid” and “undefined” and his most recent relationship ended A WEEK before he met Lily (🚩🚩🚩RED FLAG ALERT 🚨🚨CALL THE COPS 🏃♀️🏃♀️ GIRL RUN). I have seen fewer red flags in dark romance books. AND YET, he was charming AF and I, much like Lily, was down to clown. Sir, I will read a whole book about you and your hot, mixed signal sending ass. And your acts of services. And your exceptional banter.
Lily is also messy. Trying to keep track of how she felt about Ben was hard (it’s her third person POV) because one minute she agrees they should just be friends, the next she wants to knock on his door and kiss him, the next she remembers that she is leaving at the end of the summer and so on. I truly had no clue what she was feeling from minute to minute, which while realistic, is a tad hard as a reader. Also I truly couldn’t tell you why she was caught up on her ex at all (he seems boring and not her type).
But again, the banter really sold me. I LOOOVE a dialogue heavy book and so this was perfect. I also liked that the book had other writing styles like transcripts from their podcast, Ben’s journal entries, Lily’s journal entries, and their joint book reviews. Granted, Lily’s new career trajectory felt a little forced and everything fell into her lap (of course they go viral for their book reviews and get a podcast deal immediately), but that Hollywood, baby. And much like you have to suspend some disbelief with the reformed playboy trope, I felt like you just kind of had to accept that they both decided to get over their relationship issues for each other because … this relationship was different?
If you like any of the tropes and are okay with some very messy relationships, you will probably really enjoy this book. If nothing else, go look at the cover in a bookstore because it is BEAUTIFUL.
Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing | Canary Street Press and NetGalley for providing the eARC! All opinions are my own.
Publication Date: July 15, 2025
______________________
Pre-Read Thoughts: She rage quits her corporate jobs, lives in a gorgeous art deco building in Miami for the summer, and flirts with a hot Cuban man? Honestly, what a dream. And the cover is 😍😍😍.
June 5, 2025
After abruptly quitting her law job, Lily decides to rent a long term Airbnb and stay in Miami to decompress and work on what she should do next. After meeting her neighbor, Ben, they form a close friendship, largely based on books and reading, and that soon has sparks flying.
I loved so much about this book! The writing was great, the characters diverse and relatable, the relationship a fun friends-to-lovers, and the friendships phenomenal. It’s the perfect beach read (even the setting— Summer in Miami). It did exactly what a rom-com should do: I swooned at the romance and laughed at the comedy. I also enjoyed the parts that had more gravity. It added depth to the story and allowed for character growth.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I loved so much about this book! The writing was great, the characters diverse and relatable, the relationship a fun friends-to-lovers, and the friendships phenomenal. It’s the perfect beach read (even the setting— Summer in Miami). It did exactly what a rom-com should do: I swooned at the romance and laughed at the comedy. I also enjoyed the parts that had more gravity. It added depth to the story and allowed for character growth.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
July 9, 2025
I cannot recommend this book enough! It had literally everything I ever wanted in a romance! Pick this one up immediately!
July 25, 2025
This book is the perfect summer read! I read it by the pool and totally fell in love with the Miami vibes. After quitting her corporate lawyer job, Lily heads to Miami for a reset and meets her neighbor Ben. Sparks fly, of course, but the real charm is how they bond over their shared love of books and slowly go from friends to lovers.
The cast of characters is lovable and fun, and I especially adored the book club get-togethers. This story has all the feel-good charm I want in a romcom.
I did immersion reading with the audiobook, and that was absolutely the way to experience it. Romcoms on audio just hit different, and Harlequin Audio did such a great job.
If you’re looking for a summery romance that’ll make you want to hop a flight to Miami, this one’s for you!
Thanks to Canary Street Press and The Hive for the gifted ARC, and to Harlequin Audio for the ALC
The cast of characters is lovable and fun, and I especially adored the book club get-togethers. This story has all the feel-good charm I want in a romcom.
I did immersion reading with the audiobook, and that was absolutely the way to experience it. Romcoms on audio just hit different, and Harlequin Audio did such a great job.
If you’re looking for a summery romance that’ll make you want to hop a flight to Miami, this one’s for you!
Thanks to Canary Street Press and The Hive for the gifted ARC, and to Harlequin Audio for the ALC
August 1, 2025
This was the perfect, fun summer romance. I need to exist in Nadine’s Miami. I adored Lily and Ben’s romance and love of and connection through their love of romance. This is truly a romance for romance lovers.
July 13, 2025
If you’re looking for a vibrant, summery romance with sizzling chemistry and a side of bookish fun, this is it! Set in colorful, beachy Miami Beach, this story follows neighbors Lily and Ben as they go from casual chats to book club besties to something so much more. Their banter? Flawless. Their chemistry? 🔥🔥 And yes, their two person book club where they write joint reviews might be one of the cutest romance subplots ever.
The slow burn is real, the vibes are immaculate, and the diverse, entertaining cast of side characters adds so much heart. There’s plenty of swoon, but also substance, this one delivers on every level!
📚 Tropes:
💘 Slow Burn
👯 Friends to Lovers
🏠 Neighbors
🏖️ Close Proximity
📖 Books About Books
The slow burn is real, the vibes are immaculate, and the diverse, entertaining cast of side characters adds so much heart. There’s plenty of swoon, but also substance, this one delivers on every level!
📚 Tropes:
💘 Slow Burn
👯 Friends to Lovers
🏠 Neighbors
🏖️ Close Proximity
📖 Books About Books
July 20, 2025
This book was all the vibes I experience being from Miami and living in Miami for the past 20+ years of my life (not born but raised in Miami). That is what caught my attention the most and the fact that this author was inspired by one of my fav shows only murders in the building so I loved that play on the title. Now, getting down to the story, it took off at the beginning with chaos but slowed down and I was not feeling it. Like there was too much filler wording in there and it was not getting to the point fast enough. Overall, being Cuban and the MMC being Cuban had me relating to the story more often than not. But something about the audiobook threw me off (I tried reading and couldn’t get into it completely so then tried the audiobook but the voice was irking me, sorry!). I think it is definitely a cute book but it wasn’t the best for me because I felt like the banter was trying too hard and didn’t come off as natural. I got to about chapter 9 and had to stop reading it.
👍Pros:
-characters love literature
-set in Miami (my hometown)
-kinda based on one of my fav shows
🤔Cons:
-didn’t feel natural
-lily seems extremely awkward
-ben seems unreal (reading the same books as her), trying to give her the key to his apartment
If you want to feel like you’re in Miami while not on vacation, read it. If you agree that these cons just don’t do it for you, don’t read it.
👍Pros:
-characters love literature
-set in Miami (my hometown)
-kinda based on one of my fav shows
🤔Cons:
-didn’t feel natural
-lily seems extremely awkward
-ben seems unreal (reading the same books as her), trying to give her the key to his apartment
If you want to feel like you’re in Miami while not on vacation, read it. If you agree that these cons just don’t do it for you, don’t read it.
July 14, 2025
(Received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.)
This is such a sweet summer read and I really enjoyed it! I love reading about book lovers and people who love reading and talking about books, so the book club / podcast element of this was really fun.
On top of that, I really liked the romance and the banter, and the friend group. It was a sweet, funny book that made me smile. With the setting (summertime in Miami) it would make a fantastic addition to a summer reading list!
This is such a sweet summer read and I really enjoyed it! I love reading about book lovers and people who love reading and talking about books, so the book club / podcast element of this was really fun.
On top of that, I really liked the romance and the banter, and the friend group. It was a sweet, funny book that made me smile. With the setting (summertime in Miami) it would make a fantastic addition to a summer reading list!
August 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read if you like:
☀️ summer romance
☀️ slow burn
☀️ friends to lovers
☀️ forced proximity
☀️ books about books
☀️ single POV
☀️ single timeline
☀️ 1st person POV
☀️ banter
☀️ spice 🌶️
☀️ black authors
I’m sorry to have to admit this but I definitely judge a book based off its cover 🙊🙊 and I was literally obsessed with this one as soon as I saw that gorgeous colourful cover 😍😍
I always love when a story utilizes different formats to tell the story. This one had a bunch of different formats in addition to the narrated story. We have texts, book reviews, comments on social media, notes….. It adds so much fun to the story seeing all these different little POVs almost.
I love books about books!!! I loved the book reviews included in here; I don’t know if I’ve ever seen that in a book 🤪 It just added a little extra fun to the story.
This was a new-to-me author, and I really enjoyed this writing style! I can’t wait to read more by this author in the future 🩷🖤
Thank you so much to Nadine Gonzalez and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review 💕💕
Read if you like:
☀️ summer romance
☀️ slow burn
☀️ friends to lovers
☀️ forced proximity
☀️ books about books
☀️ single POV
☀️ single timeline
☀️ 1st person POV
☀️ banter
☀️ spice 🌶️
☀️ black authors
I’m sorry to have to admit this but I definitely judge a book based off its cover 🙊🙊 and I was literally obsessed with this one as soon as I saw that gorgeous colourful cover 😍😍
I always love when a story utilizes different formats to tell the story. This one had a bunch of different formats in addition to the narrated story. We have texts, book reviews, comments on social media, notes….. It adds so much fun to the story seeing all these different little POVs almost.
I love books about books!!! I loved the book reviews included in here; I don’t know if I’ve ever seen that in a book 🤪 It just added a little extra fun to the story.
This was a new-to-me author, and I really enjoyed this writing style! I can’t wait to read more by this author in the future 🩷🖤
Thank you so much to Nadine Gonzalez and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review 💕💕
July 3, 2025
This book opens with Liliane making a bold choice to leave her job. She's had enough, feels a little unhinged and decides since she is in Miami, she might as well stay and enjoy a few books by the pool. She figures, she doesn't mind the view of the sexy bartender either.
Zoom a few pages forward and Liliane has some new found family AND a small pool size bookclub going, featuring Ben, who turns out to be so much more than the local bartender.
I fell in love with each slightly eccentric character and felt kindred spirits with Lily throughout. I'm also a pretty big fan of books about books! This is a quick and rather light read for the summer.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for an advanced listeners copy, I couldn't put it down!
Zoom a few pages forward and Liliane has some new found family AND a small pool size bookclub going, featuring Ben, who turns out to be so much more than the local bartender.
I fell in love with each slightly eccentric character and felt kindred spirits with Lily throughout. I'm also a pretty big fan of books about books! This is a quick and rather light read for the summer.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio for an advanced listeners copy, I couldn't put it down!
August 21, 2025
This Audiobook was quite literally the perfect summer listen. Lily and Ben are chefs kiss. Their chemistry is HOT and I found myself literally fanning myself in public during some of those flirting scenes. The entire cast of characters is charismatic and enjoyable to hear about, I felt invested in all of the side characters which doesn’t always happen for me in romance books. I really enjoyed the narration and all in all I had an absolute blast listening to this audiobook!
August 5, 2025
This book had some fun summery vibes and I enjoyed the found family aspect. I had trouble connecting with the main characters and couldn’t really get into their story.
July 28, 2025
Perfect summer romance!! Loved it.
Thank you HTP books & Harlequin audio for the ALC
Thank you HTP books & Harlequin audio for the ALC
July 26, 2025
It suited him. Everything about his life suited him. His profession, hobbies, apartment, car, and clothes—it all suited him. This was the way to be. Figure out who you are and build your world accordingly. Nothing added or subtracted. "
Летни страсти в космополитен град след като избягаш от живота на макс в урбанистичния хаос на друг мегаполис ми предложи Only Lovers In Building на Nadine Gonzalez. В началото й се налагаше да проявя воля, да не я затворя и да не я обявя за лош избор на лятото. Но търпението и толерантността ми към книгите ми се отплатиха. Блажено се разтворих в разнообразието от характери, разсъждения, избори и гледни точки. Насладих се на многото точни и реалистични разговори и едва смогвах да водя записки в електронния си дневник. Правех промени, допълвах и обмислях докато стигнах до извода, че всъщност Only Lovers In Building е УАУУУ! Да четем книги е като котешка трева за героите от книгата. Затова много от читателите бързо ще се познаят в тях и ще приемат всичките им странности като отражение на себе си. Или като урок за лична употреба.
Неща, които си взех присърце от тази книга:
= Влиянието на отсъстващият родител !
Дори и хич да те се появява на хоризонта, родителската фигура играе роля в живота на детето си. А когато присъства физически от време на време, а емоционално - хич, то това, което сътворява с психиката и самочувствието на детето е още по - смачкващо!Ролята на отсъстващия баща - онзи, който, дали физически е сред семейството си, но душата му дебне нови хоризонти, или е решил, че не е готов да оттоваря за жена и дете, той винаги ще остави скрит гняв и неудовлетворение. Ще бъде споменаван с мъка и ще остави спомен за самота и отчужденост.
= Въпросът дали хората се променят?
От моята камбанария се вижда, че хората не се променят чак толкова много, че да захвърлят природните дадености и ДНК-Ато си. Може да ни се струва, че възрастта, грешките и опита биха зачеркнали лоши навици и залитания, но, истината е НЕ! Това се отнася и за нас самите!
= Как да разсъждавам въху прочетена книга, търсейки оправдание за постъпките и на най - неприятния ми герой.
В книгите стремежът е героите да са триизмерни и възможно най - близо до образа на някой, когото можем да срещнем на тазгодишната си почивка или на стар познат, завърнал се от странстване и оставил преди това торба с извинения и гафове. В героите търсим качества на мъжа / жената - мечта. Искаме да прочетем на страниците за ситуаци, поведение и преживявания, които биха ни направили щастливи. АКО на партньора до нас някога му хрумне да ни опознае! И заради това на нас, читателите, ни е трудно да прогледнем извън бленуваната романтика и реалистично да преценим, че ако образът от романа ни се върне при нас с обяснения, извинения, опити да загърбим миналото и с молби за втори шанс, най - вероятно ще искаме да не се срещаме с него на една и съща улица, като си спомним мъките, болката и самотата, на които ни е подложил в миналото. Още по - малко да минем още веднъж през целия ритуал на сближаването. Това е упражниние за мазохисти! Което обикновено доказва правотата на по - горната теза, че хората не се променят. ( Разговорът между Лили и Бен по време на подкоста за книги в глава 20 беше много поучителен!)
= Да имаш с кого да разговаряш за хобито или професията си е много важно нещо!
Да четем една книга сами е удоволствие. Но да я обсъдим с приятел ( дори и да е такъв само до края на лятото) е щастие! Някой е преминал като теб през целия роман и си е направил собствени отметки и е придобил собствени впечатления, които после те карат да погледнеш от друг ъгъл на постъпки, на поведение и реакции. Твоята пристрастност и неговия реализъм могат да дадат живот на героите и да говорите за тях като за хора около вас , с всичките им странности и слабости.
= Да прослушам някой - друг подкаст за книги... Е , хайде, поне един!
Не съм най - горещият почитател на подкастите! Все едно да слушам радио предаване с гости и водещ. Не се виждам в това! Но ако подкастът е като на Лили и Бен и динамично, забавно и увлекателно предложи сравнение между книгите и тропите в тях със реалните ситуации в живота ни - с удоволствие! Защото, колкото и да четем книги, за да избягаме от реалността, не рязко се питаме как бихме реагирали, ако попаднем в подобно положение или този готин тип/ мадама ни забележат ( някъде в градския транспорт, вероятно!😃)? И обратното е възможно - да сме преживели за себе си нещо и после да открием, че в някой роман героите реагират на подобно предизвикателство по различен начин.
* “Life dangles a good thing in front of your eyes and takes it away.”
* " Striving for a happy ending at every turn is the best way to get lost. Endings matter just as much as beginnings. "
Щастливите моменти с добри книги са безценни! Но ако има какво да си отнесем от сюжета, героите или финала им, то времето, прекарано в четене, е повече от момент. Остава за дълго!
* " Take what you can get, Kylie,” Noah said. “Not everything has to last until the end of time.”
Летни страсти в космополитен град след като избягаш от живота на макс в урбанистичния хаос на друг мегаполис ми предложи Only Lovers In Building на Nadine Gonzalez. В началото й се налагаше да проявя воля, да не я затворя и да не я обявя за лош избор на лятото. Но търпението и толерантността ми към книгите ми се отплатиха. Блажено се разтворих в разнообразието от характери, разсъждения, избори и гледни точки. Насладих се на многото точни и реалистични разговори и едва смогвах да водя записки в електронния си дневник. Правех промени, допълвах и обмислях докато стигнах до извода, че всъщност Only Lovers In Building е УАУУУ! Да четем книги е като котешка трева за героите от книгата. Затова много от читателите бързо ще се познаят в тях и ще приемат всичките им странности като отражение на себе си. Или като урок за лична употреба.
Неща, които си взех присърце от тази книга:
= Влиянието на отсъстващият родител !
Дори и хич да те се появява на хоризонта, родителската фигура играе роля в живота на детето си. А когато присъства физически от време на време, а емоционално - хич, то това, което сътворява с психиката и самочувствието на детето е още по - смачкващо!Ролята на отсъстващия баща - онзи, който, дали физически е сред семейството си, но душата му дебне нови хоризонти, или е решил, че не е готов да оттоваря за жена и дете, той винаги ще остави скрит гняв и неудовлетворение. Ще бъде споменаван с мъка и ще остави спомен за самота и отчужденост.
= Въпросът дали хората се променят?
От моята камбанария се вижда, че хората не се променят чак толкова много, че да захвърлят природните дадености и ДНК-Ато си. Може да ни се струва, че възрастта, грешките и опита биха зачеркнали лоши навици и залитания, но, истината е НЕ! Това се отнася и за нас самите!
= Как да разсъждавам въху прочетена книга, търсейки оправдание за постъпките и на най - неприятния ми герой.
В книгите стремежът е героите да са триизмерни и възможно най - близо до образа на някой, когото можем да срещнем на тазгодишната си почивка или на стар познат, завърнал се от странстване и оставил преди това торба с извинения и гафове. В героите търсим качества на мъжа / жената - мечта. Искаме да прочетем на страниците за ситуаци, поведение и преживявания, които биха ни направили щастливи. АКО на партньора до нас някога му хрумне да ни опознае! И заради това на нас, читателите, ни е трудно да прогледнем извън бленуваната романтика и реалистично да преценим, че ако образът от романа ни се върне при нас с обяснения, извинения, опити да загърбим миналото и с молби за втори шанс, най - вероятно ще искаме да не се срещаме с него на една и съща улица, като си спомним мъките, болката и самотата, на които ни е подложил в миналото. Още по - малко да минем още веднъж през целия ритуал на сближаването. Това е упражниние за мазохисти! Което обикновено доказва правотата на по - горната теза, че хората не се променят. ( Разговорът между Лили и Бен по време на подкоста за книги в глава 20 беше много поучителен!)
= Да имаш с кого да разговаряш за хобито или професията си е много важно нещо!
Да четем една книга сами е удоволствие. Но да я обсъдим с приятел ( дори и да е такъв само до края на лятото) е щастие! Някой е преминал като теб през целия роман и си е направил собствени отметки и е придобил собствени впечатления, които после те карат да погледнеш от друг ъгъл на постъпки, на поведение и реакции. Твоята пристрастност и неговия реализъм могат да дадат живот на героите и да говорите за тях като за хора около вас , с всичките им странности и слабости.
= Да прослушам някой - друг подкаст за книги... Е , хайде, поне един!
Не съм най - горещият почитател на подкастите! Все едно да слушам радио предаване с гости и водещ. Не се виждам в това! Но ако подкастът е като на Лили и Бен и динамично, забавно и увлекателно предложи сравнение между книгите и тропите в тях със реалните ситуации в живота ни - с удоволствие! Защото, колкото и да четем книги, за да избягаме от реалността, не рязко се питаме как бихме реагирали, ако попаднем в подобно положение или този готин тип/ мадама ни забележат ( някъде в градския транспорт, вероятно!😃)? И обратното е възможно - да сме преживели за себе си нещо и после да открием, че в някой роман героите реагират на подобно предизвикателство по различен начин.
* “Life dangles a good thing in front of your eyes and takes it away.”
* " Striving for a happy ending at every turn is the best way to get lost. Endings matter just as much as beginnings. "
Щастливите моменти с добри книги са безценни! Но ако има какво да си отнесем от сюжета, героите или финала им, то времето, прекарано в четене, е повече от момент. Остава за дълго!
* " Take what you can get, Kylie,” Noah said. “Not everything has to last until the end of time.”
June 29, 2025
After Lily abruptly quits her NYC corporate law job during a retreat in Miami, she decides to stay in Miami for the rest of the summer. She moves into the Icon, an Art Deco building filled with many interesting tenants, where she promptly meets her love interest, Ben, a mysterious literary translator/professor/bartender. The two have instant chemistry but spend the summer going from friends to co-book reviewers and co-book podcasters to lovers.
I enjoyed this fun Miami summer romance! The story between Lily and Ben was a nice take on the lovers to friends, miscommunication trope, and it was fun that they were both avid readers and reviewers (relatable).
My only complaints were there were times I thought the dialogue was a bit lacking, there were so many interesting characters with interesting backstories, but they all spoke the same way sometimes. The ending also felt a little rushed, with all of the main conflict being resolved in the last chapter.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for the advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest review!
I enjoyed this fun Miami summer romance! The story between Lily and Ben was a nice take on the lovers to friends, miscommunication trope, and it was fun that they were both avid readers and reviewers (relatable).
My only complaints were there were times I thought the dialogue was a bit lacking, there were so many interesting characters with interesting backstories, but they all spoke the same way sometimes. The ending also felt a little rushed, with all of the main conflict being resolved in the last chapter.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for the advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest review!
August 1, 2025
Only Lovers in the Building by Nadine Gonzalez (2025)
9h 47m narrated by Aure Nash, 352 pages
Genre: Contemporary Romance, African-American Romance
Featuring: Miami, Florida; Newly Unemployed, Manhattan, New York; BookTokers, Lawyer - Attorney, Apartment, Apartment Living, Bartender, Book Club - Buddy Reads, Neighbors Trope, Sex - Detailed, Caribbean Cultures, Literary Translator, Synopsis Style Book Reviews for Fictional Books and Authors, Just For The Summer - Fling Trope, Podcasters, Fourth of July, Slow Burn, Family Drama, Book Tropes, Friends-to-Enemies-to-Friends-to-Lovers Trope, Close Proximity Trope, Book About Books
Rating as a movie: NC-17 for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Breakfast At Tiffany's" by Deep Blue Something, "Bridal Chorus" by Richard Wagner, Barbra Streisand, Celia Cruz
Books and Authors mentioned: Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert, Notting Hill by Richard Curtis, Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky, The Warren Buffett Way by Robert G. Hagstrom, A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, Sex and the City by Candace Bushnell, Breakfast At Tiffany's by Truman Capote, Breakfast at Tiffany's by George Axelrod, Nora Roberts, The Graduate by Charles Webb, Clueless by Amy Heckerling [based on Emma by Jane Austen]
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🏢🍸🐬🌴🎙📚
My thoughts: 📱2% 9:31 Chapter One - I'm doing that thing where I play a little of each book to find out which one is the most interesting, and this one is not it.
What a difference a mood makes. The vibe I was getting in Chapter One was so different that I restarted the book. I then spent the day with this story. It was a fun story. Although I dislike book reviews that recap the story, it was needed here since the majority of the stories only existed within this book. I will be on the lookout for more from this author, not sure I want to tackle a new series at the moment, so it'll be a wait. On a side note, I don’t like Goodreads' new logo.
Recommend to others: Yes. This was a fun story, with heat and drama that doesn’t overpower the main plot.
9h 47m narrated by Aure Nash, 352 pages
Genre: Contemporary Romance, African-American Romance
Featuring: Miami, Florida; Newly Unemployed, Manhattan, New York; BookTokers, Lawyer - Attorney, Apartment, Apartment Living, Bartender, Book Club - Buddy Reads, Neighbors Trope, Sex - Detailed, Caribbean Cultures, Literary Translator, Synopsis Style Book Reviews for Fictional Books and Authors, Just For The Summer - Fling Trope, Podcasters, Fourth of July, Slow Burn, Family Drama, Book Tropes, Friends-to-Enemies-to-Friends-to-Lovers Trope, Close Proximity Trope, Book About Books
Rating as a movie: NC-17 for adult content
Songs for the soundtrack: "Breakfast At Tiffany's" by Deep Blue Something, "Bridal Chorus" by Richard Wagner, Barbra Streisand, Celia Cruz
Books and Authors mentioned: Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë, Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert, Notting Hill by Richard Curtis, Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky, The Warren Buffett Way by Robert G. Hagstrom, A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, Sex and the City by Candace Bushnell, Breakfast At Tiffany's by Truman Capote, Breakfast at Tiffany's by George Axelrod, Nora Roberts, The Graduate by Charles Webb, Clueless by Amy Heckerling [based on Emma by Jane Austen]
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🏢🍸🐬🌴🎙📚
My thoughts: 📱2% 9:31 Chapter One - I'm doing that thing where I play a little of each book to find out which one is the most interesting, and this one is not it.
What a difference a mood makes. The vibe I was getting in Chapter One was so different that I restarted the book. I then spent the day with this story. It was a fun story. Although I dislike book reviews that recap the story, it was needed here since the majority of the stories only existed within this book. I will be on the lookout for more from this author, not sure I want to tackle a new series at the moment, so it'll be a wait. On a side note, I don’t like Goodreads' new logo.
Recommend to others: Yes. This was a fun story, with heat and drama that doesn’t overpower the main plot.
they-told-me-to-read-it
July 8, 2025
July 9, 2025
Five glowing, exuberant stars!!
Full review coming soon!
Full review coming soon!
May 6, 2025
I ate this book up! I signed up for the ARC because I live in Miami. I didn’t realize that the author did as well until the acknowledgments at the end. It was so fun to read stories about places I’ve been to. And the book very much has a Miami vibe, it’s fine, funny, and light. Even the darker topics in the book are handled in a very subtle way that doesn’t leave negative feelings.
This is definitely the perfect summer read for a day at the beach on Crandon, while yelling at your kids, not to touch the man o’ wars! 😂
The found the family and instant support the friendship group forms in this book is definitely true of my experience in Miami.
I joined a book club and bam 14 best friends, easy peazy.
Ride or die !
I think there is so much superficiality in Miami that when you find someone(s) you click with here, you hold onto them for dear life, and you are not willing to risk them at all.
The book might be a romance, but it is also a story of friendships. Yes, there was initial attraction between the main characters, both of them wanted more but we’re willing to take less if that meant keeping their friendship. Both characters cared so much that they weren’t willing to lose the other, even if it meant there would be no romance.
And if that isn’t the romance you want then I don’t know what is! Someone that loves you and once you’re happiness more than their own.
Even though I love how everything wrapped up in the book, I really want this to become a series.
You get to know the side characters so well that you don’t want to not be able to find out how their lives shape ip and their love stories and. Hopefully, it will!
This is definitely the perfect summer read for a day at the beach on Crandon, while yelling at your kids, not to touch the man o’ wars! 😂
The found the family and instant support the friendship group forms in this book is definitely true of my experience in Miami.
I joined a book club and bam 14 best friends, easy peazy.
Ride or die !
I think there is so much superficiality in Miami that when you find someone(s) you click with here, you hold onto them for dear life, and you are not willing to risk them at all.
The book might be a romance, but it is also a story of friendships. Yes, there was initial attraction between the main characters, both of them wanted more but we’re willing to take less if that meant keeping their friendship. Both characters cared so much that they weren’t willing to lose the other, even if it meant there would be no romance.
And if that isn’t the romance you want then I don’t know what is! Someone that loves you and once you’re happiness more than their own.
Even though I love how everything wrapped up in the book, I really want this to become a series.
You get to know the side characters so well that you don’t want to not be able to find out how their lives shape ip and their love stories and. Hopefully, it will!
Read
May 15, 2025DNF at 25%
I could barely make it the 25% I’m so sorry. This was just… idk not for me. The FMC was so annoying to me and the MMC also.. didn’t do it for me lol
I was already rolling my eyes and annoyed 5% in so… I’m calling it quits.
Thanks to NetGalley for arc!
I could barely make it the 25% I’m so sorry. This was just… idk not for me. The FMC was so annoying to me and the MMC also.. didn’t do it for me lol
I was already rolling my eyes and annoyed 5% in so… I’m calling it quits.
Thanks to NetGalley for arc!
June 17, 2025
A summer escape with love, friendship, and tons of self discovery
Book Stats:
📖: 347 pages
Genre: Rom Com
Publisher: Canary Street Press
Format: eARC / Single POV FMC
Series: Standalone
Themes:
🌴: A live song to Miami
🌴 : Self discovery
🌴 : Summer romance
Representation:
🏝️: Cuban MMC
🏝️: Haitian FMC/bilingual French speaker
🏝️: Caribbean native/Queer bestie
Tropes:
💗: Corporate girl boss
💗: Professor MMC
💗: Neighbors to Lovers
🥵: Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️
Potential Triggers: **check authors page/socials for full list.
Short Synopsis:
After impulsively quitting her job, Lily decides to take a summer, long sabbatical and sunny Miami to reset and recharge. Little does she know she will meet the most amazing friends that turned into family and the most sultry next-door neighbor who turns into a soulmate. But what's gonna happen at the end of the summer? Will their love endure??
General Thoughts:
This book ended up hitting very middle of the road for me. The side characters really shined in this novel and I loved that we got to see as much of them as we did. In fact, I would be super excited to read books about the side characters in future installments. Unfortunately, for me, our main characters did not sizzle as much as I would've loved them too.
The premise of this book is absolutely summer romance and poolside read in a pergola. It hit those notes extremely well. This was definitely an ode to sunny Miami and it's wonderful summer months. I wish those sunny and sizzling vibes had translated into our main characters. Lily was a little bit easier for me overall. While she did maintain kind of a pessimistic attitude throughout the book, it felt realistic and organic due to the fact that that is how I would expect someone to react when they are impulsively jobless and not sure where they're going with their life within the next few months. I had a little bit more trouble with Ben because I feel like his character was extremely wishy-washy. One minute he was a smoldering bartender with tattoos and a life plan, and the next minute he was completely indecisive, emotionally unavailable and not sure where he was going with life. I couldn't keep up.
I did find the romance to be fairly intriguing, however. I enjoyed the way the romance unfolded more towards the second half of the book then in the beginning, but it all tied together really nicely. I was satisfied with that aspect of the book.
I really enjoyed the book club aspect of this novel. At the beginning, I wasn't too thrilled about it because it used a lot of social media aspects and I don't really love that in my books typically. But the way it was utilized in this book really did hit for me because it was more of Book tracking apps versus "real" social media. The way that the book club translated into the podcast was really fun and refreshing. I thought it was a unique premise and I enjoyed reading the transcripts of the podcast throughout the book.
In conclusion, this was a decent introduction to this author. While I don't think I'll run out to read her backlog immediately, I would be interested to see what is coming up soon and if I'm looking for a sunny Miami based read, I think I'd pick up one of her books again. I did stay pretty entertained throughout so that is definitely a plus column entry.
Disclaimer: I read this book via free eARC from NetGalley and canary street press All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Book Stats:
📖: 347 pages
Genre: Rom Com
Publisher: Canary Street Press
Format: eARC / Single POV FMC
Series: Standalone
Themes:
🌴: A live song to Miami
🌴 : Self discovery
🌴 : Summer romance
Representation:
🏝️: Cuban MMC
🏝️: Haitian FMC/bilingual French speaker
🏝️: Caribbean native/Queer bestie
Tropes:
💗: Corporate girl boss
💗: Professor MMC
💗: Neighbors to Lovers
🥵: Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️
Potential Triggers: **check authors page/socials for full list.
Short Synopsis:
After impulsively quitting her job, Lily decides to take a summer, long sabbatical and sunny Miami to reset and recharge. Little does she know she will meet the most amazing friends that turned into family and the most sultry next-door neighbor who turns into a soulmate. But what's gonna happen at the end of the summer? Will their love endure??
General Thoughts:
This book ended up hitting very middle of the road for me. The side characters really shined in this novel and I loved that we got to see as much of them as we did. In fact, I would be super excited to read books about the side characters in future installments. Unfortunately, for me, our main characters did not sizzle as much as I would've loved them too.
The premise of this book is absolutely summer romance and poolside read in a pergola. It hit those notes extremely well. This was definitely an ode to sunny Miami and it's wonderful summer months. I wish those sunny and sizzling vibes had translated into our main characters. Lily was a little bit easier for me overall. While she did maintain kind of a pessimistic attitude throughout the book, it felt realistic and organic due to the fact that that is how I would expect someone to react when they are impulsively jobless and not sure where they're going with their life within the next few months. I had a little bit more trouble with Ben because I feel like his character was extremely wishy-washy. One minute he was a smoldering bartender with tattoos and a life plan, and the next minute he was completely indecisive, emotionally unavailable and not sure where he was going with life. I couldn't keep up.
I did find the romance to be fairly intriguing, however. I enjoyed the way the romance unfolded more towards the second half of the book then in the beginning, but it all tied together really nicely. I was satisfied with that aspect of the book.
I really enjoyed the book club aspect of this novel. At the beginning, I wasn't too thrilled about it because it used a lot of social media aspects and I don't really love that in my books typically. But the way it was utilized in this book really did hit for me because it was more of Book tracking apps versus "real" social media. The way that the book club translated into the podcast was really fun and refreshing. I thought it was a unique premise and I enjoyed reading the transcripts of the podcast throughout the book.
In conclusion, this was a decent introduction to this author. While I don't think I'll run out to read her backlog immediately, I would be interested to see what is coming up soon and if I'm looking for a sunny Miami based read, I think I'd pick up one of her books again. I did stay pretty entertained throughout so that is definitely a plus column entry.
Disclaimer: I read this book via free eARC from NetGalley and canary street press All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.
June 15, 2025
Only Lovers in the Building by Nadine Gonzalez was such a fun read. The perfect book for kicking off summer reading.
Lily is an attorney on the brink of a midlife crisis. After seeing that her ex-boyfriend just got married, and on top of that, getting passed over for recognition on a deal she’s been pouring herself into...she snaps. Honestly, I don't blame her and I have been there. In the middle of a conference, she quits her job and decides to spend the summer unemployed in Miami.
At first, I was hesitant. I live in South Florida, and I'll be honest. Summers here are brutal. Not sexy. It's hellishly hot and very rainy. But I went along with it anyway because I was having a lot of fun.
When Lily moves into her new building, she meets a sexy bartender named Ben. Ben is Latino, and I loved seeing his culture represented on the page. As a Latina in South Florida, it made me instantly connect with the story even more.
Ben also translates poetry and is genuinely recognized for his work. He’s prestigious, successful, kind, smart, and passionate, but he’s also working through some commitment issues and emotional baggage from his very famous father.
There’s clear attraction between Lily and Ben, but both are so hesitant to act on it because they’re scared of losing their friendship. Instead, they start a book club and eventually a podcast where they share their thoughts on love and romance novels. It’s sweet, and their chemistry really blossoms in such a natural way, it makes their bond feel really authentic.
I loved their banter, and also really loved the side characters—the neighbors in the building were all so vibrant. It felt very true to Miami culture.
My only critique is that the writing style took a bit of getting used to. It felt a little inconsistent at times and very dialogue heavy. The conflict toward the end also wrapped up really quickly, in the last 10 pages or so...so it did feel a little rushed. I was kind of left wondering what the plan for Lily and Ben was and what their next step would be in terms of their previous baggage, but truthfully, this is a fun read and not one that you're meant to over-analyze.
Still, I had such a great time with this book. It’s charming, exciting, and a perfect summer read. I’m so excited to share this one with my audience.
Lily is an attorney on the brink of a midlife crisis. After seeing that her ex-boyfriend just got married, and on top of that, getting passed over for recognition on a deal she’s been pouring herself into...she snaps. Honestly, I don't blame her and I have been there. In the middle of a conference, she quits her job and decides to spend the summer unemployed in Miami.
At first, I was hesitant. I live in South Florida, and I'll be honest. Summers here are brutal. Not sexy. It's hellishly hot and very rainy. But I went along with it anyway because I was having a lot of fun.
When Lily moves into her new building, she meets a sexy bartender named Ben. Ben is Latino, and I loved seeing his culture represented on the page. As a Latina in South Florida, it made me instantly connect with the story even more.
Ben also translates poetry and is genuinely recognized for his work. He’s prestigious, successful, kind, smart, and passionate, but he’s also working through some commitment issues and emotional baggage from his very famous father.
There’s clear attraction between Lily and Ben, but both are so hesitant to act on it because they’re scared of losing their friendship. Instead, they start a book club and eventually a podcast where they share their thoughts on love and romance novels. It’s sweet, and their chemistry really blossoms in such a natural way, it makes their bond feel really authentic.
I loved their banter, and also really loved the side characters—the neighbors in the building were all so vibrant. It felt very true to Miami culture.
My only critique is that the writing style took a bit of getting used to. It felt a little inconsistent at times and very dialogue heavy. The conflict toward the end also wrapped up really quickly, in the last 10 pages or so...so it did feel a little rushed. I was kind of left wondering what the plan for Lily and Ben was and what their next step would be in terms of their previous baggage, but truthfully, this is a fun read and not one that you're meant to over-analyze.
Still, I had such a great time with this book. It’s charming, exciting, and a perfect summer read. I’m so excited to share this one with my audience.
August 21, 2025
This book had everything that I would normally love and relate to in a rom-com set in my hometown adjacent city of Miami, FL (anyone reading this born and/or raised in Hialeah?). The FMC is a lawyer and I am lawyer adjacent by way of being a paralegal. The MMC is Cuban American as am I. They both connect through their love of books, get together to discuss books, co-review books and eventually set up a podcast to...you guessed it, continue to discuss books. So what was the problem? Great question, let me tell you.
Lily came off as a total badass walking out of that meeting during the work seminar. But this was the only time I felt her being a powerful and strong woman in the story. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with walking out on a job that does not appreciate you, her finding a place to stay and sustaining herself in one of the most expensive cities in the world without steady income is incredible unrealistic, trust me, I would know. I don't care how much money she had in savings, its not plausible. Strike one.
The romance...I didn't believe an ounce of it. I have watched BAD telenovelas with more believable romances than this story had. The banter was not cute, or witty, or anything similar to a rom-com. It was forced and felt like it came out of nowhere and was hanging on for dear life. IT DID NOT MAKE SENSE. Also, let's take a moment to talk about the constant reminder that FWB was all MMC was willing to offer and that Lily was not a casual relationship person. Oh you missed that bit? Don't worry, you will be reminded. CONSTANTLY. But they acted like a couple anyway and Lily kept hoping he would change his mind. Gross. Girl, you don't need this BS. Strike two.
I mostly listened to this book on audio and also read a good chunk on my kindle. The narrators were cringe. The dialogue was already pretty bad but they somehow made it worse. When it got to be too much, I would switch to kindle, and the writing was just not it. The novel was so dialogue heavy it was hard to picture anything going on. Say less and show me more. Strike three.
I am truly annoyed that I could not get into this one or even like it. I kept hoping it would get better if I just kept at it. It did not.
Lily came off as a total badass walking out of that meeting during the work seminar. But this was the only time I felt her being a powerful and strong woman in the story. While there is absolutely nothing wrong with walking out on a job that does not appreciate you, her finding a place to stay and sustaining herself in one of the most expensive cities in the world without steady income is incredible unrealistic, trust me, I would know. I don't care how much money she had in savings, its not plausible. Strike one.
The romance...I didn't believe an ounce of it. I have watched BAD telenovelas with more believable romances than this story had. The banter was not cute, or witty, or anything similar to a rom-com. It was forced and felt like it came out of nowhere and was hanging on for dear life. IT DID NOT MAKE SENSE. Also, let's take a moment to talk about the constant reminder that FWB was all MMC was willing to offer and that Lily was not a casual relationship person. Oh you missed that bit? Don't worry, you will be reminded. CONSTANTLY. But they acted like a couple anyway and Lily kept hoping he would change his mind. Gross. Girl, you don't need this BS. Strike two.
I mostly listened to this book on audio and also read a good chunk on my kindle. The narrators were cringe. The dialogue was already pretty bad but they somehow made it worse. When it got to be too much, I would switch to kindle, and the writing was just not it. The novel was so dialogue heavy it was hard to picture anything going on. Say less and show me more. Strike three.
I am truly annoyed that I could not get into this one or even like it. I kept hoping it would get better if I just kept at it. It did not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2025
★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ 4.25/5
beach reads, supportive book club friends, & a possible summer love all in one building? I WISH I could dive into this story! 😎
—— BRIEF SYNOPSIS
This book starts off strong with Lily Lyon taking a sudden leap of faith & a much needed break at a rental in Miami ☀️ Her only plan is to recharge with plenty of reading. But she soon meets others in the building who set her on a path towards self-discovery & taking chances
—— MAIN CHARACTERS
Lily & her neighbor, Ben Romero bond over their love of reading & reviewing romance books, so they start a book club that quickly grows to include their neighbors. We get to read Lily & Ben’s full book reviews & their deep analyses of those romance novels make you take a closer look at that genre. It also makes you think about the book itself, so it’s very meta
—— WHAT I LOVED
The banter is so satisfying, but I really appreciate that Lily also forms other strong connections. The character development & world building are so well done! I wish I could hang out with these lovable characters. They do drink a lot though 😂 so, I’d be their sober friend, which is totally ok!
—— WHAT I DIDN’T LOVE
Some unnecessary elements make the plot kind of chaotic, yet it’s still enjoyable & somewhat predictable
—— REASONS TO READ THIS
This book is perfect for vacation, the beach, a book club, a buddy read, or whenever you want to escape into a beautiful setting. It’s an accurate representation of the book world, including bookish social media creators.
This would make a great movie! The only similarities to the TV show, Only Murders in the Building, are that everyone seems to know each other & their antics are very entertaining. But instead of solving mysteries, these MCs solve relationship issues & talk about books. That’s my kind of friend group! 🫶🏽
📖 Thank you to The Hive, Harper Collins, Harper Audio, and NetGalley for ARCs of this novel!
🎧 The audiobook is great on its own, but I’m glad I got to read multiple formats. The narrator, Aure Nash is fantastic & made it easy to keep track of different characters & elements
beach reads, supportive book club friends, & a possible summer love all in one building? I WISH I could dive into this story! 😎
—— BRIEF SYNOPSIS
This book starts off strong with Lily Lyon taking a sudden leap of faith & a much needed break at a rental in Miami ☀️ Her only plan is to recharge with plenty of reading. But she soon meets others in the building who set her on a path towards self-discovery & taking chances
—— MAIN CHARACTERS
Lily & her neighbor, Ben Romero bond over their love of reading & reviewing romance books, so they start a book club that quickly grows to include their neighbors. We get to read Lily & Ben’s full book reviews & their deep analyses of those romance novels make you take a closer look at that genre. It also makes you think about the book itself, so it’s very meta
—— WHAT I LOVED
The banter is so satisfying, but I really appreciate that Lily also forms other strong connections. The character development & world building are so well done! I wish I could hang out with these lovable characters. They do drink a lot though 😂 so, I’d be their sober friend, which is totally ok!
—— WHAT I DIDN’T LOVE
Some unnecessary elements make the plot kind of chaotic, yet it’s still enjoyable & somewhat predictable
—— REASONS TO READ THIS
This book is perfect for vacation, the beach, a book club, a buddy read, or whenever you want to escape into a beautiful setting. It’s an accurate representation of the book world, including bookish social media creators.
This would make a great movie! The only similarities to the TV show, Only Murders in the Building, are that everyone seems to know each other & their antics are very entertaining. But instead of solving mysteries, these MCs solve relationship issues & talk about books. That’s my kind of friend group! 🫶🏽
📖 Thank you to The Hive, Harper Collins, Harper Audio, and NetGalley for ARCs of this novel!
🎧 The audiobook is great on its own, but I’m glad I got to read multiple formats. The narrator, Aure Nash is fantastic & made it easy to keep track of different characters & elements
August 15, 2025
This was a cutesy read with an EXTREMELY INSTANT love/friendship. I mean, I know that's the basis for insta love tropes, but I don't think I've ever read a book where everyone connected almost from page 1 so deeply. I think this book should be read lightheartedly with vacationy vibes in mind where everything is kind of happy go lucky easy street, & everyone gets along.I don't think that readers should go into this book very seriously or expecting a romance with much depth or plot majority of the book is dialogue and in the book they are buddy reading books so they discuss those books via podcast so it is tons of conversation happening throughout the entire book.
Narrator: I personally liked the narrator and her ability to change her voice almost completely so that each character sounds nothing like the other.
None of the characters really stood out to me.They all were pretty likable and each had a sort of romance happening in their own lives the pacing was extremely unrealistically fast and at times the conversations/responses felt forced and unnatural. With that being said, I would still recommend it to someone who wants a cutesy quick read that's pretty straightforward and uncomplicated. I don't regret reading this book it was cute.
Narrator: I personally liked the narrator and her ability to change her voice almost completely so that each character sounds nothing like the other.
None of the characters really stood out to me.They all were pretty likable and each had a sort of romance happening in their own lives the pacing was extremely unrealistically fast and at times the conversations/responses felt forced and unnatural. With that being said, I would still recommend it to someone who wants a cutesy quick read that's pretty straightforward and uncomplicated. I don't regret reading this book it was cute.
June 27, 2025
This book has a lot of elements that are right up my alley. Bookish main characters, a slow-burn, with strangers-to-friends-to-lovers, Latinx representation, an FMC who stands up for herself, and quirky side characters.
This combination of themes made me excited but, unfortunately, the execution didn't land where I thought it would/could have landed. I wanted more focused personal development and backstory on these characters, it just felt like there was a lot they both needed to work through. This next thing is 100% a me thing, but I have a hard time getting invested in stories that have a focus on social media elements. Here, we have the two main characters co-writing reviews of their book club reads. Obviously I’m all about book reviews, but when the focus becomes on posts going viral, I lose interest. Once they switched to the podcast format, I felt slightly more invested in everything else that was happening, but there was still something missing. I spent days reading just a tiny bit at a time and not feeling any pull to pick it back up, and that’s just not how I like to feel about reading.
Overall, this felt like a very middle-of-the-road book. I’d say pick it up if you want something very unserious, light, summer-themed (poolside/Miami setting), but that won’t elicit feels.
Thanks to the publisher (Harlequin Trade Publishing) & NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Pub date: 7/15/25
This combination of themes made me excited but, unfortunately, the execution didn't land where I thought it would/could have landed. I wanted more focused personal development and backstory on these characters, it just felt like there was a lot they both needed to work through. This next thing is 100% a me thing, but I have a hard time getting invested in stories that have a focus on social media elements. Here, we have the two main characters co-writing reviews of their book club reads. Obviously I’m all about book reviews, but when the focus becomes on posts going viral, I lose interest. Once they switched to the podcast format, I felt slightly more invested in everything else that was happening, but there was still something missing. I spent days reading just a tiny bit at a time and not feeling any pull to pick it back up, and that’s just not how I like to feel about reading.
Overall, this felt like a very middle-of-the-road book. I’d say pick it up if you want something very unserious, light, summer-themed (poolside/Miami setting), but that won’t elicit feels.
Thanks to the publisher (Harlequin Trade Publishing) & NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Pub date: 7/15/25
July 8, 2025
I originally picked up Only Lovers in the Building because the title and cover immediately caught my eye, but I stayed for the characters.
This story was such a fun surprise! I absolutely loved the two main characters. Both smart, successful, and full of chemistry. Their banter and dynamic felt natural and compelling from the start.
The book also included so many of my favorite elements: a podcast, a summer vacation setting, a charming little book club, and of course, a slow-burn romance that pays off in the best ways.
The side characters, especially the other residents in the building, really brought the story to life. Each one had a distinct and quirky personality that made the building feel like its own little world.
Overall, this was a feel good, romantic, and engaging read with just the right balance of heart and humor. If you’re looking for something light but layered, definitely give this one a try!
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This story was such a fun surprise! I absolutely loved the two main characters. Both smart, successful, and full of chemistry. Their banter and dynamic felt natural and compelling from the start.
The book also included so many of my favorite elements: a podcast, a summer vacation setting, a charming little book club, and of course, a slow-burn romance that pays off in the best ways.
The side characters, especially the other residents in the building, really brought the story to life. Each one had a distinct and quirky personality that made the building feel like its own little world.
Overall, this was a feel good, romantic, and engaging read with just the right balance of heart and humor. If you’re looking for something light but layered, definitely give this one a try!
*I received an advanced reader copy of this book through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
August 20, 2025
3.75 stars. I LOVED the premise, liked the main characters, really enjoyed the secondary characters, and it had the perfect setting. The story stalled a little for me 3/4 of the way through but the ending finally picked up the pace. I’m excited to read some of Nadine Gonzales’s previous books.
August 3, 2025
I was squealing, laughing, kicking my feet, and swooning the entire book. The characters are all messy with all their gossiping but it ends up making the perfect summer romance story. Immediately add to TBR.
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