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4.75k reviews for:

You Had Me at Hola

Alexis Daria

3.73 AVERAGE


Okay, alright, I admit it! I confess! I like romance novels. And authors like Jemisin, Hoang, and Daria have brought me to my knees.
Though the story was predictable, the obstacles weren’t as intense as they seemed in the characters minds (but then, isn’t that like real life in it of itself?), and every other chapter ended with the ring of a cliffhanger like a telenovela about to take a commercial break— I enjoyed it immensely. In my opinion, the characters had chemistry, and though their romance seemed somewhat quick, it was charming how it was pretty much love at first sight for these two. Hell, it’s in the title!

We follow Jasmine, a badass queen making hefa moves, who got her first big break as a leading lady on Carmen in Charge. Although she’s a hopeless romantic ruled by her lady parts (but we forgive her because she’s an Aries and she can’t help it), she’s reeling from fresh heartbreak and pared opposite the quite, polite, somewhat reclusive seasoned movie star who’s daddy as hell. Literally and figuratively. Jasmine’s cousins Ava and Michelle were so great to get to know. I imagined them as Latinx Mai and Ty Lee. And the rest of the surrounding cast, what little we see of them and how slightly they end up effecting the plot, I liked a whole lot. I liked the representation of a they/them person in there, and the inclusion of Vera and conversations about intimacy we all should be having. I liked the little callbacks the book made to its earlier set ups. I liked the scene where Angel shows up at Jasmine’s abuela’s party and they all treat him like family. I like Yariel, and yes it was soooo cheesy? But I got to be a part of that family for a while, at least while reading it. Thank you Alexis Daria for the warm and optimistic read.

1. Love the representation!! YAS.
2. Ashton should work his ass of to make Jasmine happy.
3. Would love to have Jasmine's character and background to be explored more like, somewhat it feels lacking for me. I want special Jasmine in Charge.
4. Love the Spanish dialogues existence!
funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted relaxing 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

⭐⭐⭐ 3.25 Enjoyed, would recommend
🌶️ Rating: 3.5

I recently read this book with a friend, and it was a delightful palate cleanser. I particularly enjoyed how Alexis seamlessly incorporated Spanglish, making it accessible for those who don't speak Spanish to understand the context.

The story revolves around Jasmine and Ashton, two movie actors working together while trying to resist falling for each other. When the book shifts to the scenes they are filming, it feels like you're reading a story within a story, focusing on their characters rather than the actors themselves. This narrative technique gave the book a charming "Jane the Virgin" vibe that I absolutely loved.

While the romance is described as a slow-burn, it doesn't quite feel that way—in a good sense. If you're in the mood for a light-hearted, romantic comedy, this book is a perfect choice.
funny lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I absolutely adored You Had Me At Hola!
hopeful lighthearted reflective medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
funny lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
emotional funny lighthearted 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

I’m obsessed with this book!! Jasmine and Ashton are two telenovela stars who are also just two emotional softies who want love. They’re both incredibly down to earth, and absolutely perfect for each other. I loved that this romance was less about big gestures and more about falling in love during the small moments. It contrasted beautifully with the chaos of their lives.

I also really enjoyed all of the family dynamics in this one. It reminded me of my own. The fact that Jasmine can’t speak a ton of Spanish really spoke to me, because my Tagalog is rough

THIS IS BOOK IS SO CHARMING, Read it on a day, the rhythm was really good and the chemistry... OMG!!!! The show was really cheese but fun to read, the only thing that I thought was lacking is the similarity with the reality, the ending is just too dreamy, the were already nominee for golden globe AND Tony Award? Come on. But besides that, it was really good and light.