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sfbookgirl's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Talk about steam! How to Fail at Flirting is not shy about getting to steamy stuff within the first few chapters. When Professor Naya (pronounced like papaya) Tuner’s friends convince her to get out in the dating scene again, Naya takes it seriously. But when her one-night-stand turns out to be the man of her dreams, Naya finds herself in trouble.
I was shocked to learn that this is Denise William’s debut novel. It’s so good. The pacing, the writing, the dialogue; it’s all there. Williams does an amazing job tackling difficult issues in academia, abusive and toxic relationships, and race all within 343 pages. Also, gotta love a main character that is obsessed with Star Wars. And you can’t forget the punny dad jokes. Overall, I really loved this one. Five big stars from me!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Racism, Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual content, Sexual violence, and Toxic relationship
leo_sd's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
This book was a sweet romance book that had a few darker or more tense twists. I loved the charter development, especially within the relationship. Also, I loved the found family aspect! Some of the conflict at the end like the drunk texts seemed over the top. I would have preferred a larger more drawn out flaw to be explored or just not have the texts there. text It was a good book, fun quick read. Please look at content warnings!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence
Moderate: Rape and Sexual assault
Minor: Racial slurs and Racism
lizflynn's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
I really loved this romance! The conflicts and problems the couple faces are realistic and serious, and I love when romance books involve the main character’s friends, work, family etc. Basically, this is a sweet romance that is based in reality, and the characters are in their 30s so it’s a bit more relatable for me.
Naya’s ex, Davis is a piece of trash so trigger warnings whenever his character is involved. Just be aware that there is intimate partner violence and verbal/emotional abuse discussed on the page. Naya’s journey of processing her trauma and healing is rewarding to read, and I appreciated the scenes where she stood up for herself.
CW: misogyny, intimate partner abuse, verbal abuse, trash ex-boyfriends, overly confident but incompetent white men.
Naya’s ex, Davis is a piece of trash so trigger warnings whenever his character is involved. Just be aware that there is intimate partner violence and verbal/emotional abuse discussed on the page. Naya’s journey of processing her trauma and healing is rewarding to read, and I appreciated the scenes where she stood up for herself.
CW: misogyny, intimate partner abuse, verbal abuse, trash ex-boyfriends, overly confident but incompetent white men.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, and Misogyny
Moderate: Sexism, Racism, and Infidelity
lexiereadsbooks's review against another edition
emotional
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, and Stalking
Moderate: Infidelity, Misogyny, Racism, and Sexism
lexa's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Everything I love in a romance... tackling tough topics, swoony moments, a few laughs, and of course that happily ever after.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, and Toxic relationship
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Infidelity, Misogyny, Racism, and Vomit
jnb2796's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, Toxic relationship, and Violence
Minor: Sexual violence, Sexual assault, and Racism
biblio_jordyn's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
📚Book Review📚
How To Fail at Flirting by @nicwillwrites follows Naya, a university professor whose department is currently in jeopardy, as she tries to tackle the get a life “to-do list” her friends have made for her...and that’s how she meets charming and funny Jake, and her attempt at one night stand turns into something else entirely. Naya and Jake connect immediately, and while she’s still trying to heal and rebuild her confidence after her abusive ex boyfriend, Naya and Jake find they have other complications on the horizon.
Okay, I loved this book.
It tackled issues of being multiracial which I felt very connected to and I could roll my eyes with Naya because of all the things that happen all the time.
It talked about the trauma of an abusive relationship and the strength it takes to heal.
It showed how hard it is speak up when the abuse happens to you.
I loved the cute moments, to cut the heavy ones. I felt myself smiling a lot in the book.
I loved how the book, overall, was mostly about healing, as opposed to the trauma.
I loved that they talked about coping mechanisms, therapy and had resources at the end of the book.
But what did I love most? I loved the portrayal of Jake and Naya’s relationship. At NO POINT, does Jake try to “fix her.” He shows support and understanding and uplifts her to be all that SHE wants to be.
“Right now, I want to wrap you in my arms and protect you from everything [...] But you don’t need me or anyone else to do that.”
Naya is a badass. And if you like badass female leads and a romance that makes you swoon and you’re okay with the triggers? I’d definitely recommend this book.
How To Fail at Flirting by @nicwillwrites follows Naya, a university professor whose department is currently in jeopardy, as she tries to tackle the get a life “to-do list” her friends have made for her...and that’s how she meets charming and funny Jake, and her attempt at one night stand turns into something else entirely. Naya and Jake connect immediately, and while she’s still trying to heal and rebuild her confidence after her abusive ex boyfriend, Naya and Jake find they have other complications on the horizon.
Okay, I loved this book.
It tackled issues of being multiracial which I felt very connected to and I could roll my eyes with Naya because of all the things that happen all the time.
It talked about the trauma of an abusive relationship and the strength it takes to heal.
It showed how hard it is speak up when the abuse happens to you.
I loved the cute moments, to cut the heavy ones. I felt myself smiling a lot in the book.
I loved how the book, overall, was mostly about healing, as opposed to the trauma.
I loved that they talked about coping mechanisms, therapy and had resources at the end of the book.
But what did I love most? I loved the portrayal of Jake and Naya’s relationship. At NO POINT, does Jake try to “fix her.” He shows support and understanding and uplifts her to be all that SHE wants to be.
“Right now, I want to wrap you in my arms and protect you from everything [...] But you don’t need me or anyone else to do that.”
Naya is a badass. And if you like badass female leads and a romance that makes you swoon and you’re okay with the triggers? I’d definitely recommend this book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, and Domestic abuse
Moderate: Sexual assault
Minor: Racism
elinmln's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
funny
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
3.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, Sexual assault, and Toxic relationship
Minor: Cancer, Misogyny, Racism, Sexism, and Vomit
sarahholliday's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
I really adored this book.
I listened to the audio version, and appreciated how well the narrator captured each character.
I love a romance that doesn't shy away from big issues, baggage, trauma, and redemption, and 'How to Fail at Flirting' delivers on all fronts.
Naya is a strong, admirable heroine. Jake is a dreamy, just-flawed-enough leading man to really draw you in. The supporting cast is well drawn and serves the story well, though they all could have been a bit more fleshed out. The dialogue felt a bit stilted at times--it's really hard to write jokes that don't come off as forced or cheesy--but overall the writing is solid.
There's plenty of steam, supported by a plot that deals with more than flirty texts and bedroom eyes. This is the love story of two real, three-dimensional people, and I loved every minute of it.
I listened to the audio version, and appreciated how well the narrator captured each character.
I love a romance that doesn't shy away from big issues, baggage, trauma, and redemption, and 'How to Fail at Flirting' delivers on all fronts.
Naya is a strong, admirable heroine. Jake is a dreamy, just-flawed-enough leading man to really draw you in. The supporting cast is well drawn and serves the story well, though they all could have been a bit more fleshed out. The dialogue felt a bit stilted at times--it's really hard to write jokes that don't come off as forced or cheesy--but overall the writing is solid.
There's plenty of steam, supported by a plot that deals with more than flirty texts and bedroom eyes. This is the love story of two real, three-dimensional people, and I loved every minute of it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Misogyny, and Toxic relationship
Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders and Racism
ricareviews's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This is a love story, but also a story about trauma and domestic abuse. That's something a potential reader needs to be aware of before starting reading this. Additionally, there are some steamy elements sparkled in, which some of you might not enjoy. Overall, this is a lot darker and spicier than the premise and the cover may suggest. Now that that's out of the way, here's what I thought about the book itself.
The book was simply wonderful! I connected with all the characters, especially our main character, Naya. The writing was gorgeous and the story kept me constantly on my tiptoes, excited for what was going to happen next. I seldom find a contemporary romance that I like this much - I'm happy to say that I completely loved this! Everything here worked for me: from the plot itself to the characters and their quirky humor, to the angst and the steamy elements. This feels like a really strong debut from an author I hope to hear more from in the future. I can't wait for what Denise Williams has in store for all of us!
If you're looking for a contemporary romance that has the perfect amount of romance and tension look no further.
The book was simply wonderful! I connected with all the characters, especially our main character, Naya. The writing was gorgeous and the story kept me constantly on my tiptoes, excited for what was going to happen next. I seldom find a contemporary romance that I like this much - I'm happy to say that I completely loved this! Everything here worked for me: from the plot itself to the characters and their quirky humor, to the angst and the steamy elements. This feels like a really strong debut from an author I hope to hear more from in the future. I can't wait for what Denise Williams has in store for all of us!
If you're looking for a contemporary romance that has the perfect amount of romance and tension look no further.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, and Sexual content
Moderate: Rape and Sexual assault
Minor: Alcoholism, Vomit, and Racism