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A review by teagzreads
Not Here to Make Friends by Jodi McAlister
funny
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
This one had a rocky start but I stuck with it. I almost had to DNF in the first half, because it wasn’t holding my interest. If it wasn’t an ARC I likely wouldn’t have picked it back up. It does pick up in the second half and I was more invested, I’m glad I finished it.
I liked the idea of a romance book centred around a reality dating show, but unfortunately I have read others I enjoyed more. I think this one had a bit too much focus on the inner workings of making the show, and it took away from the romance development. Even in the then portions of the timeline where we’re learning their history, it was more focused on the show production. I think it could have been utilized differently to create more build up. If you’re a reality dating show super fan, you might actually love those parts!
I wanted Murray’s pining to pay off and I became more invested in the romance in the second half. I also wanted to know what was going on in Lily’s head. She was interesting, and unpredictable. A bit unhinged and in need of therapy, but undeniably fascinating. Even if her nickname “Lily Fireball” made me cringe. I also liked how diverse the cast of characters were, but I wished some of the side characters had been more fleshed out.
A fine time, but not a personal favourite for me.
**Thank you to Atria Books for providing me with an advanced copy! All opinions are my own**
I liked the idea of a romance book centred around a reality dating show, but unfortunately I have read others I enjoyed more. I think this one had a bit too much focus on the inner workings of making the show, and it took away from the romance development. Even in the then portions of the timeline where we’re learning their history, it was more focused on the show production. I think it could have been utilized differently to create more build up. If you’re a reality dating show super fan, you might actually love those parts!
I wanted Murray’s pining to pay off and I became more invested in the romance in the second half. I also wanted to know what was going on in Lily’s head. She was interesting, and unpredictable. A bit unhinged and in need of therapy, but undeniably fascinating. Even if her nickname “Lily Fireball” made me cringe. I also liked how diverse the cast of characters were, but I wished some of the side characters had been more fleshed out.
A fine time, but not a personal favourite for me.
**Thank you to Atria Books for providing me with an advanced copy! All opinions are my own**
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death