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rellimreads's review against another edition
5.0
11/19/2020: Update - Audiobook! (Goes live on Monday, 11/23!)
Dual narration by Brian Pallino and Emma Wilder was fantastic. While I loved the narrators for What I'm Looking For - I like Grey's decision to give each couple in the series their own narrators. Pallino & Wilder both do a wonderful job on a variety of voices, accents, and emotions. While I truly enjoyed the book when I read it - the audio brings it up another level. I was brought to tears and laughed out loud. There's a "tape rewind" noise that provides a unique way to differentiate the flashback sections from the current storyline.
10/22/2020: RELEASE DAY!!!!!
10/4/2020: Forget About Me is the 2nd book in Grey’s Boston Classics series set in the late 80s. You could start here as there aren’t any spoilers for Will & Kate’s story (other than they end up together – but this is romance, so yeah). However, I definitely recommend book 1, What I’m Looking For and the free prequel novella, Signed, Sealed, & Delivered.
Insert small grumble here about the fact that this is labeled “Historical”. Seriously, I’m that old??? Anyway…
I was so excited to get to read this! This incorporates one of my favorite tropes: Best Friend’s Sister/Brother’s Best Friend and the added bonus of an adorable dog. What I really enjoyed here is that while it’s a cohesive addition to the series – it’s definitely a unique story. Ben & Lucy were brought together in friendship as children by Lucy’s brother, Tony and then torn apart as young lovers by his death. Forget About Me has it’s fair share of grief and growing pains to go along with it’s hilarious RomCom status. Add in the constant stream of music referenced from Lucy’s obsession with mixtapes and this is a truly delightful story. (Have your Spotify or Amazon Music app ready!)
I’ll admit, I am not a fan of flashbacks – the story regularly takes the main characters on trips down memory lane, mostly to 7 years earlier – but Grey weaves them in so well that instead of disrupting the flow they reveal bits of information and emotion at the perfect times. While there are numerous sexy scenes for Ben & Lucy, I truly enjoy romance where I get to know the characters individually and together as a couple. I want to believe that these people belong together and I’m thrilled that’s exactly what I get. In some respects, we get their love story twice – young love as new adults at 21 & 18 and again at 28 & 25 with more life experience and self-awareness.
I am now eagerly awaiting the audiobook. Not only is this a story I can enjoy multiple times, after the fantastic job Joe Arden & Karen White did with What I’m Looking For – I can’t wait for this in my ears.
Extra little note. Grey’s Pinterest for Ben. Wow!
I received a free advanced copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
10/2/2020: Spending the weekend in Boston!
9/26/2020: Guess who has an ARC?!?!?! I’m spending this weekend listening to book 1, “What I’m Looking For”
Dual narration by Brian Pallino and Emma Wilder was fantastic. While I loved the narrators for What I'm Looking For - I like Grey's decision to give each couple in the series their own narrators. Pallino & Wilder both do a wonderful job on a variety of voices, accents, and emotions. While I truly enjoyed the book when I read it - the audio brings it up another level. I was brought to tears and laughed out loud. There's a "tape rewind" noise that provides a unique way to differentiate the flashback sections from the current storyline.
10/22/2020: RELEASE DAY!!!!!
10/4/2020: Forget About Me is the 2nd book in Grey’s Boston Classics series set in the late 80s. You could start here as there aren’t any spoilers for Will & Kate’s story (other than they end up together – but this is romance, so yeah). However, I definitely recommend book 1, What I’m Looking For and the free prequel novella, Signed, Sealed, & Delivered.
Insert small grumble here about the fact that this is labeled “Historical”. Seriously, I’m that old??? Anyway…
I was so excited to get to read this! This incorporates one of my favorite tropes: Best Friend’s Sister/Brother’s Best Friend and the added bonus of an adorable dog. What I really enjoyed here is that while it’s a cohesive addition to the series – it’s definitely a unique story. Ben & Lucy were brought together in friendship as children by Lucy’s brother, Tony and then torn apart as young lovers by his death. Forget About Me has it’s fair share of grief and growing pains to go along with it’s hilarious RomCom status. Add in the constant stream of music referenced from Lucy’s obsession with mixtapes and this is a truly delightful story. (Have your Spotify or Amazon Music app ready!)
I’ll admit, I am not a fan of flashbacks – the story regularly takes the main characters on trips down memory lane, mostly to 7 years earlier – but Grey weaves them in so well that instead of disrupting the flow they reveal bits of information and emotion at the perfect times. While there are numerous sexy scenes for Ben & Lucy, I truly enjoy romance where I get to know the characters individually and together as a couple. I want to believe that these people belong together and I’m thrilled that’s exactly what I get. In some respects, we get their love story twice – young love as new adults at 21 & 18 and again at 28 & 25 with more life experience and self-awareness.
I am now eagerly awaiting the audiobook. Not only is this a story I can enjoy multiple times, after the fantastic job Joe Arden & Karen White did with What I’m Looking For – I can’t wait for this in my ears.
Extra little note. Grey’s Pinterest for Ben. Wow!
I received a free advanced copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
10/2/2020: Spending the weekend in Boston!
9/26/2020: Guess who has an ARC?!?!?! I’m spending this weekend listening to book 1, “What I’m Looking For”
pattyfgd's review against another edition
5.0
Karen Grey has caught my heart with this fun, second chance romance. The second in her Boston Classics series and features Ben and Lucy as they meet again years after the death of her brother. Now years later, Ben returns, a successful model to,his quiet hometown and the sparks still fly. But is that enough to again? Grey weaves in 80's music which I love, realistic life issues of grief, guilt and loss as well as falling in love again. The secondary characters bring matchmaking and sage advice, and Puck the dog is a joy. Laugh, cry, and love all bring this story to life and made for a fantastic listen.
Brian Pallino and Emma Wilder are a wonderful team and truly enhance the story. Pallino's portrayal of Ben gives us all the feelings this man has. His inflections and nuances create his personality perfectly. Wilder comes through as Lucy. She is amazing with her voice as she gives us each emotion. She easily fills into her character. These two were incredible together.
Brian Pallino and Emma Wilder are a wonderful team and truly enhance the story. Pallino's portrayal of Ben gives us all the feelings this man has. His inflections and nuances create his personality perfectly. Wilder comes through as Lucy. She is amazing with her voice as she gives us each emotion. She easily fills into her character. These two were incredible together.
bookdrgn's review against another edition
4.0
This was a little hit and miss for me. I liked Ben and Lucy individually, and as friends, but I’m not convinced they work as a couple.
I wasn’t a fan of the religious scenes, I understand Catholic guilt, and the loss of someone important, but I did like the second, slightly progressive priest. But both Ben and Lucy feel guilty for something out of their control and guilt is nothing if not a blanket we wrap around ourselves to avoid the world at times.
I enjoyed Ben reconnecting with his father and even Lucy’s Mom, their short scene together was emotional and touching.
I loved Lucy branching out and starting a business the professional relationship she started with Kate. It’s a different side of 80's romance I haven’t seen before.
The progression was a bit slow until around the 65% mark when things sped up. While I appreciated the flashbacks with Tony, they were a bit ubiquitous and lengthy.
I received an eARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review. All opinions are my own.
I wasn’t a fan of the religious scenes, I understand Catholic guilt, and the loss of someone important, but I did like the second, slightly progressive priest. But both Ben and Lucy feel guilty for something out of their control and guilt is nothing if not a blanket we wrap around ourselves to avoid the world at times.
I enjoyed Ben reconnecting with his father and even Lucy’s Mom, their short scene together was emotional and touching.
I loved Lucy branching out and starting a business the professional relationship she started with Kate. It’s a different side of 80's romance I haven’t seen before.
The progression was a bit slow until around the 65% mark when things sped up. While I appreciated the flashbacks with Tony, they were a bit ubiquitous and lengthy.
I received an eARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review. All opinions are my own.
kkaste's review
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
whatcha_listening_to's review against another edition
4.0
Back and forth doesn't always work for me, but this was done so well. I really liked getting the story from younger Lucy and Ben. It was fitting and we get to see just how close they once were.
It gives us that feeling that there is more to the relationship and that they might just maybe be able to heal and move forward together.
The road is rocky but I think they were both on pause for a time and bumping into each other again is exactly what they both needed to move forward.
The family interaction added that extra layer of insight and forgivens. My heart was in my throat.
The narration was amazing Bian Pallino was a favorite of mine and he is very missed. Emma does an amazing job with Lucy.
It gives us that feeling that there is more to the relationship and that they might just maybe be able to heal and move forward together.
The road is rocky but I think they were both on pause for a time and bumping into each other again is exactly what they both needed to move forward.
The family interaction added that extra layer of insight and forgivens. My heart was in my throat.
The narration was amazing Bian Pallino was a favorite of mine and he is very missed. Emma does an amazing job with Lucy.
lisaluvsliterature's review against another edition
5.0
I grew up in the 80s, so I pretty much love all things to do with that decade. This story was a lot of fun to read with all of those little tidbits in it. I really liked the dynamic between the characters and the way the author played it all out. Of course the dog Puck added so much levity and sweetness to the story, even a bit of heartache towards the end. Which really layered on some of the drama even as Lucy and Ben were coming to realize what they’d done wrong and needed to fix. And I have to say that I definitely like the way the author kept them from dragging their issues out, for the most part, just for added drama. Because if you’ve read many of my reviews, you know that is a pet peeve. I will just say that I think Ben dragged out not telling Lucy way longer than needed.
But I loved the two of the them together so much! Honestly, the more I read about Lucy’s brother that had died, Ben’s best friend, the less I really liked him. I mean he had some issues as a person that needed to be worked on. In the end I loved the story, wish I could have Lucy come help me train my dogs, and look forward to reading more by this author in the future!
Review first published on Lisa Loves Literature.
But I loved the two of the them together so much! Honestly, the more I read about Lucy’s brother that had died, Ben’s best friend, the less I really liked him. I mean he had some issues as a person that needed to be worked on. In the end I loved the story, wish I could have Lucy come help me train my dogs, and look forward to reading more by this author in the future!
Review first published on Lisa Loves Literature.
lianareadsblog's review against another edition
4.0
Forget about me is the second book in the Boston Classic novels series and can be read as a stand-alone but I’m going back to read the first one as well because I’m hooked to know more about these characters.
My favourite trope is second chance romance and this book has a bit of everything. From great character development, angsty moments, a cute meddling puppy and the expected laugh out loud moments to a beautiful love story of redemption and chemistry between them after so many years apart.
Contemporary romance lovers will enjoy this quick read perfect for the cold weather and a cup of hot chocolate.
My favourite trope is second chance romance and this book has a bit of everything. From great character development, angsty moments, a cute meddling puppy and the expected laugh out loud moments to a beautiful love story of redemption and chemistry between them after so many years apart.
Contemporary romance lovers will enjoy this quick read perfect for the cold weather and a cup of hot chocolate.
currant7's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I enjoyed reading Forget About Me even more than Book 1 in the series! There were so many good 80s quotes and references that I firmly believed the book was meant for me! I did most, if not all (my young story is different also from hers) of what Lucy did - from making mixtapes to updating my Filofax (which I still have and sometimes refer to up to this day!).
Firstly, I LOVE LOVE LOVE this book cover. Of course, the whole book series is fantastic, and I remember having a few covers in them, but this book got me started with the series and the author! I remember seeing this cute and colorful cover as a newbie in the book community and immediately was drawn to it. I don't know if it's the color, the art, or even the poses of Lucy, Ben, and even Puck, BUT the whole book made me gravitate to it. It was only later that I am now able and privileged to read this book, and it still holds the same wonder and excitement as I remembered before.
Secondly, I enjoyed the author's technique of incorporating the mix tape songs at the beginning of the chapters. It sets the stage for the upcoming chapters and is an excellent trip down memory lane. I couldn't help but find some songs and play them in the background as I read through the chapters. It is a very well-thought-out list!
Thirdly, I like seeing growth in a series. It's not only insta-love and internal conflicts that hook a reader like myself to a story. I invest in a book because of the thought-provoking, heavy topics and issues. I love the book's portrayal of sometimes the ugly side of life - wroth with loss, tragedy, and abandonment. The traumatic event had an impactful and lasting rippling effect on so many people that it was debilitating for both MCs. I love the road to healing for any book and how Lucy and Ben pushed through their lives and inspired others because of their coincidental working relationship. It is one of my favorite outcomes in the story.
Forget About Me is a beautifully written story about young love, tragic loss, second chances, and healing for all. I enjoyed the love story of Ben and Lucy - the trials and victories through songs and Shakespeare! The book will entertain and captivate readers by bringing everyone back to the 80s!
aquariandancer's review against another edition
4.0
Boston Classics Book Two.
Ben Porter is tired of the grind of his modeling career in Los Angeles, so coming home to help his dad is the perfect excuse to get away! When Lucy Minola looks up to see none other than the man who broke her heart seven years ago, her fight or flight reflexes kick in. Lucy jumps at the opportunity the injured dog Ben brought in gives her to be connected to him again, but also to make him pay for leaving. When Ben lands a role in a play that requires his dog to perform, he begs for Lucy's help. With the past between them, can a dog and a play possibly bridge the gap?
If you're looking for a fun, second-chance romance with Shakespeare, pups and the 80s, this is the book for you!
Ben Porter is tired of the grind of his modeling career in Los Angeles, so coming home to help his dad is the perfect excuse to get away! When Lucy Minola looks up to see none other than the man who broke her heart seven years ago, her fight or flight reflexes kick in. Lucy jumps at the opportunity the injured dog Ben brought in gives her to be connected to him again, but also to make him pay for leaving. When Ben lands a role in a play that requires his dog to perform, he begs for Lucy's help. With the past between them, can a dog and a play possibly bridge the gap?
If you're looking for a fun, second-chance romance with Shakespeare, pups and the 80s, this is the book for you!
apex's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0