A review by nerdyholler
Difficult by Brianne Gillen

emotional funny hopeful 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? No

4.25

I bought this book and it sat in my TBR for way too long. Once I started reading, I was instantly kicking myself for having not read it earlier. There was so much I liked about this book! The 1940s old Hollywood setting was a nice change of pace from other romances and both leads were very likeable. I love how independent Lois was and her desire to try and maintain control over her career and story after being labeled as "difficult" years ago. Nick was great as someone who was in her corner but also didn't try to stifle her independence or become her knight in shining armor. The friendship and mutual respect as the basis of their relationship was so nice, even if there was a bit of love/lust at first sight. Fake marriage isn't my favorite trope but it absolutely works here as part of the Hollywood publicity machine where everyone but the general public is aware of what's going on. 

This is a low spice work with just a couple of sex scenes. The focus is definitely more on the relationship than the sex with just a little heat sprinkled around.