Reviews

The Least Amount Of Awful by Jennifer Millikin

jackiet23's review against another edition

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5.0

From the moment I started *The Least Amount of Awful*, I knew I was in for a deeply moving and heartfelt journey. Jennifer Millikin has a way of crafting characters that feel incredibly real, and Colbie Jones is no exception. As someone who has experienced the complexities of estranged family relationships, Colbie’s story resonated with me on a profound level.

Colbie’s life is all about maintaining control and avoiding pain, which made her initial reaction to her boyfriend’s betrayal relatable and poignant. Her decision to face her estranged father, Emmett, after his injury took immense courage, and it’s this bravery that drew me into her story. The small-town setting added a layer of charm and authenticity, making the narrative even more engaging.

Jake Whittier, with his fierce loyalty to Emmett and initial hostility towards Colbie, provided the perfect counterbalance. His character development throughout the story was beautifully done. As a single dad, Jake’s protective nature and dedication to his son mirrored qualities I deeply admire in real-life heroes. Watching Colbie and Jake’s relationship evolve from antagonistic to something deeper was a testament to Millikin’s skill in writing slow-burn romance.

One of the highlights for me was Colbie’s interaction with Jake’s son. Those moments were tender and genuine, adding depth to Colbie’s character as she navigated her unexpected new role. The gradual thawing of Jake’s animosity towards Colbie, driven by her undeniable sincerity and growing competence in running her father’s business, was satisfying and heartwarming.

*The Least Amount of Awful* is more than just a romance novel. It’s a story about healing, forgiveness, and the unexpected paths life can take. Jennifer Millikin has created a beautiful narrative that will stay with me for a long time. If you’re looking for a book that combines heartache, hope, and a healthy dose of small-town charm, this is the one to read.

napoleonbonerfarte's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

demyajanayxo's review

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emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

rainydaymeg's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes

4.75

Seeing the two main characters grow, the choices they make, was lovely. This book had me grinning and sniffling in equal measure and my heart both soared and broke a little more than once. 

damariz's review against another edition

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5.0

Such a cute story. Definitely had me tearing up a few times. Ending felt rushed but I still enjoyed it.

debbie_thune's review against another edition

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5.0

Jake is a single dad - his ex walked out of their lives when Robbie was an infant. 10 years later, he's working hard as the foreman for Emmett Jones' construction company. But when Emmett is injured on the job and his mostly estranged daughter Colbie comes to visit, Emmett asks Colbie to take over the business while he recuperates.

Colbie doesn't have a good relationship with her father, but that's really her mother's fault. Jake has no relationship with Robbie's mother, but now she's back almost 11 years later, trying to change the status of her non-relationship with her son.

Colbie and Jake have UBER sparks, and she is so good for him. They each give each other the right kind of insight for the big drama surrounding both of their lives at the present.

I'm loving Jennifer Millikin's books.

cheyantonina's review against another edition

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emotional funny hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

baleyharrett's review against another edition

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emotional medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

jjreads3's review

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challenging emotional lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix

2.75

ciwyw's review

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fast-paced

4.5