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The One with the Kiss Cam
It was just one date.
My friend told me I needed more fun in my life, so I reluctantly said yes. Fun wasn’t exactly in my wheelhouse. After watching my own mother’s love life implode time and time again it’s only natural that I have a few rules to protect myself.
Actually, it’s just one rule…
Avoid relationships with men so I don’t get attached.
I wasn’t worried. Getting attached has never been a big problem for me. This guy was just a warm body in a chair. I was here for the basketball game. I was absolutely NOT here for my date.
Or the kiss cam.
Or the kiss.
Or the impromptu evening with the one man who seems bent on throwing my tidy world off of its axis.
But when my life takes a nose dive, he’s also the man who seems bent on proving to me that good men do exist, dreams can come true, and sometimes throwing out the rule book is when the magic really starts to happen.
My friend told me I needed more fun in my life, so I reluctantly said yes. Fun wasn’t exactly in my wheelhouse. After watching my own mother’s love life implode time and time again it’s only natural that I have a few rules to protect myself.
Actually, it’s just one rule…
Avoid relationships with men so I don’t get attached.
I wasn’t worried. Getting attached has never been a big problem for me. This guy was just a warm body in a chair. I was here for the basketball game. I was absolutely NOT here for my date.
Or the kiss cam.
Or the kiss.
Or the impromptu evening with the one man who seems bent on throwing my tidy world off of its axis.
But when my life takes a nose dive, he’s also the man who seems bent on proving to me that good men do exist, dreams can come true, and sometimes throwing out the rule book is when the magic really starts to happen.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2023
About the author
Cindy Steel
7 books1,034 followersCindy Steel was raised on a dairy farm in Idaho. She grew up singing Garth Brooks and Reba McEntire songs at the top of her lungs and learning to solve all of life’s problems while milking cows and driving tractors—rewriting happy endings every time. She met and married a handsome Idaho boy and is the proud mother of two wild and sweet twin boys. Which means she is also now a collector of bugs, sticks, rocks, and slobbery kisses. She loves making breakfast, baking, photography, reading a good book, and staying up way past her bedtime to craft stories that will hopefully make you smile.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,652 reviews
March 10, 2024
Do you believe in love at first kiss?
When I read the premise for this book it looked irresistible! I knew I had to read it.
Nora is on a thoroughly disastrous first date at an NBA game. She desperately counts the minutes until the game is over and she can go back home.
And Just when Nora thinks this evening couldn’t get any worse…
The moment her date steps out to the concession stand, the dreaded kiss cam zooms in on her and a stranger in the seat next to her. Oh great! Well, he is cuter than her current date. And probably a lot less boring. But just the same, he is a complete stranger.
To kiss or not to kiss…that is the question!?
Personal note:
So…I also had a disaster of a first date at a professional basketball game. And like Nora, also the first (and only) NBA game I ever attended. Granted, mine wasn’t as bad as Nora’s. Just the same, I couldn’t wait to leave the game and there was definitely no second date. Wish someone in the seat next to me would have rescued me too! Since life isn’t a rom com, it would take a few more years and many horrendous first dates for him to find me!❤️
Okay, enough about me. Back to the book!
When Nora and the kiss cam stranger also known as Duke run into each other years later, Duke is determined to prove to her good guys do exist. If Nora will just give him a chance she might just see what’s right in front of her.
A very sweet and fun rom com. I listened to the audio and the narrator Justis Bolding did a fabulous job!
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media🎧
When I read the premise for this book it looked irresistible! I knew I had to read it.
Nora is on a thoroughly disastrous first date at an NBA game. She desperately counts the minutes until the game is over and she can go back home.
And Just when Nora thinks this evening couldn’t get any worse…
The moment her date steps out to the concession stand, the dreaded kiss cam zooms in on her and a stranger in the seat next to her. Oh great! Well, he is cuter than her current date. And probably a lot less boring. But just the same, he is a complete stranger.
To kiss or not to kiss…that is the question!?
Personal note:
So…I also had a disaster of a first date at a professional basketball game. And like Nora, also the first (and only) NBA game I ever attended. Granted, mine wasn’t as bad as Nora’s. Just the same, I couldn’t wait to leave the game and there was definitely no second date. Wish someone in the seat next to me would have rescued me too! Since life isn’t a rom com, it would take a few more years and many horrendous first dates for him to find me!❤️
Okay, enough about me. Back to the book!
When Nora and the kiss cam stranger also known as Duke run into each other years later, Duke is determined to prove to her good guys do exist. If Nora will just give him a chance she might just see what’s right in front of her.
A very sweet and fun rom com. I listened to the audio and the narrator Justis Bolding did a fabulous job!
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media🎧
November 27, 2023
Let me set a scene for you. Picture this: the kids are finally in bed, so I settle in on a recliner next to my husband. He's just turned on a basketball game, and I open my kindle, eager to get started on Cindy Steel's newest release.
I've laughed out loud at least three times before I've finished the first chapter. I make my husband mute the basketball game so I can read a few of the funniest passages out loud to him. He turns off the TV a couple of hours later, and I close my book long enough to brush my teeth and climb into bed, where I proceed to NOT SLEEP as I devour this delightful book. By the time I'm finished, it's the wee hours of the next day and my kindle battery is dead so I've had to finish reading on my phone.
The only regret I have is that I'll never be able to read this book for the first time again. Also, I'm a little bit sad that at this current moment paperback sales aren't up yet, because I'm definitely ordering myself (and probably a few other people) a copy of The One with the Kiss Cam.
Cindy Steel is a comedic genius. Her characters are loveable and flawed, and her stories have layers of emotion and humor that blend perfectly. And although most of this story takes place in Salt Lake City, she still manages to take the characters on a jaunt to a farm in Idaho which is enough to satisfy my country-loving heart.
I'd give it fifty stars if I could.
Thanks to Cindy for giving into my pleas for an ARC. All opinions are my own. If you want more, I'll gladly share them, because I won't be shutting up about this book for a long, long time.
I've laughed out loud at least three times before I've finished the first chapter. I make my husband mute the basketball game so I can read a few of the funniest passages out loud to him. He turns off the TV a couple of hours later, and I close my book long enough to brush my teeth and climb into bed, where I proceed to NOT SLEEP as I devour this delightful book. By the time I'm finished, it's the wee hours of the next day and my kindle battery is dead so I've had to finish reading on my phone.
The only regret I have is that I'll never be able to read this book for the first time again. Also, I'm a little bit sad that at this current moment paperback sales aren't up yet, because I'm definitely ordering myself (and probably a few other people) a copy of The One with the Kiss Cam.
Cindy Steel is a comedic genius. Her characters are loveable and flawed, and her stories have layers of emotion and humor that blend perfectly. And although most of this story takes place in Salt Lake City, she still manages to take the characters on a jaunt to a farm in Idaho which is enough to satisfy my country-loving heart.
I'd give it fifty stars if I could.
Thanks to Cindy for giving into my pleas for an ARC. All opinions are my own. If you want more, I'll gladly share them, because I won't be shutting up about this book for a long, long time.
June 17, 2024
a very underrated romance that, in my opinion, you should consider giving a chance
When Nora goes to a basketball game with a guy she met on a dating app, she doesn't expect to be more interested in the other guy sitting next to her, Duke, whom she'd later get put in the Kiss Cam with. After the nicest kiss and a night spent together trying to get Nora out of her comfort zone with the excuse of checking stuff off their bucket lists, they part ways. Only to find each other years later in very different circumstances, but still with Duke wanting to show Nora how to be free and accept all the good things she deserves.
↪ thoughts:
So, my PMS was PMS-ing, and I needed something light and fluffy to stop feeling like I was getting run over by a truck ―which is the general feeling I get during those days―, and turns out I simultaneously picked the wrong and right choice for this. It was not the full escapism I was hoping for since I could relate a little to Nora, we're in somewhat similar situations just not because of the same reasons, but it also gave me what I wanted by reading about two characters getting all the appreciation and love they deserve.
(It was not perfect. I felt that a lot was going on during the first chapters and last ones, but nothing much in the middle. But it made me feel so warm and fuzzy that it's still a solid 4-star. Just wanted to give you a heads-up in case you decide to read it.)
“You can quote every romantic comedy ever made, but you can’t see the guy who loves you standing in front of your face.”↪ plot:
When Nora goes to a basketball game with a guy she met on a dating app, she doesn't expect to be more interested in the other guy sitting next to her, Duke, whom she'd later get put in the Kiss Cam with. After the nicest kiss and a night spent together trying to get Nora out of her comfort zone with the excuse of checking stuff off their bucket lists, they part ways. Only to find each other years later in very different circumstances, but still with Duke wanting to show Nora how to be free and accept all the good things she deserves.
↪ thoughts:
So, my PMS was PMS-ing, and I needed something light and fluffy to stop feeling like I was getting run over by a truck ―which is the general feeling I get during those days―, and turns out I simultaneously picked the wrong and right choice for this. It was not the full escapism I was hoping for since I could relate a little to Nora, we're in somewhat similar situations just not because of the same reasons, but it also gave me what I wanted by reading about two characters getting all the appreciation and love they deserve.
"My entire world held me on his lap with such a look of tenderness that my eyes filled with moisture."Nora, my girl ☹️, my heart hurt so much for her. She's had a rough life so far and doesn't seem to get a break ever, nor from work or from situations that halt the goals she has. Her mother acts like a careless teenager, and as the eldest daughter, she's had all the weight of the world on her shoulders since she was a child. But with Duke, she'll have an opportunity to think about what she wants for herself that's unrelated to her career and learn to rest.
"(...) when I saw you again, I knew my life's mission would be your happiness."Duke is the epitome of a nice guy, but not the Nice Guy™ that leaves you emotionally scarred and angrier at men than you'd ever been, but an actual good man. He's gentle, flirty, caring, supportive, and playful, and brings some peace and reassurance to Nora's life. We don't get his POV (and I know this might turn off a lot of you from this book, but I actually didn't feel it was needed), but little glances of what he thinks from the people closest to him, like his best friends (they were so much fun) and grandparents (whom I adore, and had the softest scenes with both Duke and Nora).
"I kissed the fingers on my hand and leaned in, touching his cheek gently, laughing as he moved them to his lips, kissing each finger on my hand and giving me the feeling of flying."Nora and Duke were made for each other, even though they're not at first glance that similar. They grew up in different circumstances and have gone through different struggles, but they get each other in a way no one else does. He brings her joy, makes her selfish for once in her life, and convinces her to accept the help others want to offer her. She gives him a new perspective on life, makes him bet on himself, and is glad to defend him and brag about the amazing man he is if necessary.
"We were that couple sitting on one side of the table together because I discovered I would literally die if his hand wasn’t on my leg at all times— or caressing my cheek or tucking my hair behind my ear."Their chemistry and conversations have this easygoing nature, and their relationship develops softly and nicely while breaking the other's barriers (mostly Nora's). They reference and play about iconic romcom moments while making their own story a romcom in their way, and it made my heart soft for them. I giggled, felt excited during their meet-cute and when they saw each other again, and even got emotional during the last chapters after seeing Nora get all the love she deserved and Duke being able to proclaim her love to her. 100% exceeded my expectations.
(It was not perfect. I felt that a lot was going on during the first chapters and last ones, but nothing much in the middle. But it made me feel so warm and fuzzy that it's still a solid 4-star. Just wanted to give you a heads-up in case you decide to read it.)
June 25, 2024
4 stars
This one was super cute. My second Cindy Steel book, and I’m a fan of her. The One with the Kiss Cam follows Duke and Nora who meet at a basketball game and become victims of the kiss cam. One kiss and an unforgettable night bonds them together and when they meet again years later, that connection is still there.
Nora was a tough nut to crack. She was a hard worker and a little too stubborn, but still likable. Duke was my favorite of the book. I loved them both together and the ending was the sweetest.
This one was super cute. My second Cindy Steel book, and I’m a fan of her. The One with the Kiss Cam follows Duke and Nora who meet at a basketball game and become victims of the kiss cam. One kiss and an unforgettable night bonds them together and when they meet again years later, that connection is still there.
Nora was a tough nut to crack. She was a hard worker and a little too stubborn, but still likable. Duke was my favorite of the book. I loved them both together and the ending was the sweetest.
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Justis Bolding
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 9h 51m
November 30, 2023
Some books just feel like coming home, and The Kiss Cam is one them. From start to finish I had a goofy smile on my face and adored my front row seat to watching Nora fall in love.
What would you if you had one night, a crazy wager, and the guts to do it all?
The Kiss Cam is rom com but it’s more than that. It’s an incredibly heartfelt and tender story about learning to love, allowing others to take on your burdens and realizing the best parts of falling in love come naturally.
Cindy has mastered witty dialogue and flirting. I think one of my favorite parts about her writing is that it gives me real life nostalgia — I find myself thinking about those days I’ve spent time with my own family, playing outdoors, and finding romance and silliness in small & simple moments.
I love how her characters have true discussions and are free with their feelings and emotions. Cindy creates romance and tension out of real life scenarios that feel authentic to the characters and makes them come alive on the page.
I finished this book with tears in my eyes. I love it so much and it came right at a time I needed it. A very huggable book. Lots of stars…you’ll need this one.
What would you if you had one night, a crazy wager, and the guts to do it all?
The Kiss Cam is rom com but it’s more than that. It’s an incredibly heartfelt and tender story about learning to love, allowing others to take on your burdens and realizing the best parts of falling in love come naturally.
Cindy has mastered witty dialogue and flirting. I think one of my favorite parts about her writing is that it gives me real life nostalgia — I find myself thinking about those days I’ve spent time with my own family, playing outdoors, and finding romance and silliness in small & simple moments.
I love how her characters have true discussions and are free with their feelings and emotions. Cindy creates romance and tension out of real life scenarios that feel authentic to the characters and makes them come alive on the page.
I finished this book with tears in my eyes. I love it so much and it came right at a time I needed it. A very huggable book. Lots of stars…you’ll need this one.
Read
September 10, 2024This was just pure delight
May 15, 2024
3.5-4⭐️ When a horrible blind date leads to the cutest of meet-cutes, complete with a kiss-cam kiss for the books, Nora’s life is forever changed. When two years later, she and Duke are once again in each other’s orbits, he will do whatever it takes to show Nora he is one of the good guys.
Sometimes you just need a super cute rom-com, and this book definitely fits the bill. I am a fan of a good meet-cute and this book is all about it. But don’t be fooled by the adorable cover; there are also deeper themes of pursuing one’s dreams in the midst of hardships and breaking the cycle of toxic relationships. Although the beginning makes this one feel like fiction, so much of the discussions between Nora and Duke feel very raw, real and wholly relatable.
Read if you like:
•meet-cutes
•bad blind dates
•he falls first
•workplace romance
•opposites attract
•small town romance
Thank you Dreamscape Media for the gifted copy.
Sometimes you just need a super cute rom-com, and this book definitely fits the bill. I am a fan of a good meet-cute and this book is all about it. But don’t be fooled by the adorable cover; there are also deeper themes of pursuing one’s dreams in the midst of hardships and breaking the cycle of toxic relationships. Although the beginning makes this one feel like fiction, so much of the discussions between Nora and Duke feel very raw, real and wholly relatable.
Read if you like:
•meet-cutes
•bad blind dates
•he falls first
•workplace romance
•opposites attract
•small town romance
Thank you Dreamscape Media for the gifted copy.
January 12, 2024
Y’all. I couldn’t set this book down. Literally I was GLUED to the story from the first page.
This book had me laughing out loud, giggling, kicking my feet, swooning, and screaming at the characters to make it work!
I loved every moment between Nora & Duke — their sweet heartfelt discussions, their fiery banter, their easy going friendship, their flirting. It was all such a great mix!
This story was so much more than just a romcom. It had depth, heart, and struggle. It had hard lessons to learn and great support systems even if they didn’t come from the people you’d expect!
Seriously I don’t think I could love this book more if I tried! ALL OF THE STARS!
PS…How does one find a Duke? Asking for a friend…
5/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
This book had me laughing out loud, giggling, kicking my feet, swooning, and screaming at the characters to make it work!
I loved every moment between Nora & Duke — their sweet heartfelt discussions, their fiery banter, their easy going friendship, their flirting. It was all such a great mix!
This story was so much more than just a romcom. It had depth, heart, and struggle. It had hard lessons to learn and great support systems even if they didn’t come from the people you’d expect!
Seriously I don’t think I could love this book more if I tried! ALL OF THE STARS!
PS…How does one find a Duke? Asking for a friend…
5/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
February 26, 2024
***I listened to this in February 2023 and LOVED it all over again***
Basketball is my favorite sport and going to games is so much fun! Just based on the cover, blurb and author, I knew I was in for the most deliciously fantastic treat of a romcom, and I wasn’t wrong. “Live in the moment.” That’s sometimes easier said than done, but I love the effort Nora made to do just that…which is kind of what lands her in the opening scene on a blind date.
🏀The whole first chapter had me cringing, gasping and swooning. I mean, c’mon–a kiss cam?
🏀I loved how bucket lists played such a big and entertaining role in this story.
🏀The “movie scenes” were the sweetest and so highly entertaining.
🏀Duke. There’s something about that name because I haven’t encountered a Duke I haven’t loved or swooned over. He’s the sugary sprinkles on top of every sweet confection.
🏀The flirtatious banter, covert looks and sizzling interactions made me feel like a smitten kitten.
🏀The whole story kept a smile on my face and made me laugh out loud more than once. It was like turning a hangry me loose in an all-you-can-eat buffet. I couldn’t gorge myself fast enough on the words that stuck in my heart and the scenes that played out in my head, and then closed the book feeling full, satisfied and insanely happy.
Cindy Steel is such a great writer and this is definitely a story not to be missed! I loved everything about it oh, so much.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
Basketball is my favorite sport and going to games is so much fun! Just based on the cover, blurb and author, I knew I was in for the most deliciously fantastic treat of a romcom, and I wasn’t wrong. “Live in the moment.” That’s sometimes easier said than done, but I love the effort Nora made to do just that…which is kind of what lands her in the opening scene on a blind date.
🏀The whole first chapter had me cringing, gasping and swooning. I mean, c’mon–a kiss cam?
🏀I loved how bucket lists played such a big and entertaining role in this story.
🏀The “movie scenes” were the sweetest and so highly entertaining.
🏀Duke. There’s something about that name because I haven’t encountered a Duke I haven’t loved or swooned over. He’s the sugary sprinkles on top of every sweet confection.
🏀The flirtatious banter, covert looks and sizzling interactions made me feel like a smitten kitten.
🏀The whole story kept a smile on my face and made me laugh out loud more than once. It was like turning a hangry me loose in an all-you-can-eat buffet. I couldn’t gorge myself fast enough on the words that stuck in my heart and the scenes that played out in my head, and then closed the book feeling full, satisfied and insanely happy.
Cindy Steel is such a great writer and this is definitely a story not to be missed! I loved everything about it oh, so much.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
November 19, 2023
So so so good. I have absolutely loved everything Cindy Steel has written and this book is no different. The banter and chemistry between Duke and Nora is off the charts. Seriously, everything a romance-lover wants is in this read. I almost wish ok could read it again for the first time.
May 29, 2024
Cute rom com. Some parts were literally laugh out loud funny.
I loved the movie references:
“A Walk to Remember”
“Wedding Crashers”
“Dirty Dancing”
“Hope over fear” ❤️
I loved the movie references:
“A Walk to Remember”
“Wedding Crashers”
“Dirty Dancing”
“Hope over fear” ❤️
February 17, 2024
This is the perfect closed door romantic comedy. I don’t remember the last time I read a book and had a smile on my face for the entire time. It’s perfect. I finished in a day and now that it’s done I wish I could go back and reread it again for the first time. The narrator, Justus Bolding was amazing narrating the humor in this hilarious book.
•Opposites attract
•Meet cute
•Second chances
•Right person, wrong time
•cinnamon roll
Thank you to Cindy Steel, Dreamscape Media, and NetGalley for an audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
•Opposites attract
•Meet cute
•Second chances
•Right person, wrong time
•cinnamon roll
Thank you to Cindy Steel, Dreamscape Media, and NetGalley for an audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2024
2024 REREAD
My comfort romcom. Duke is unmatched. He makes me laugh and swoon. Love the plot around the kiss cam and bucket lists. So much tension with it being a workplace romance too!
2023 READ
NEW ALL-TIME FAVORITE.
I sat down to read a quick chapter, and I ended up reading The One with the Kiss Cam in one sitting with a huge, stupid smile on my face. I loved every chapter, every word of this book. The meet-cute is adorable with two strangers getting caught on a kiss cam at a basketball game, and I love how the romance develops after that. The banter is TOP NOTCH. I couldn't stop smiling and laughing and squealing. Every word between Duke and Nora carries weight. I also love the depth to their characters, especially Nora. She has amazing character growth throughout the book, and I love how her relationship with Duke grows too. They have incredible chemistry.
I will reread this book at least once a year. It is heartwarming, funny, and literal perfection. I will be forcing everyone I love to read this.
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5
Thank you, Cindy Steel, for the arc!
Trigger/Content Warnings: toxic parent, parent abandonment, mild injury, kisses
My comfort romcom. Duke is unmatched. He makes me laugh and swoon. Love the plot around the kiss cam and bucket lists. So much tension with it being a workplace romance too!
2023 READ
NEW ALL-TIME FAVORITE.
I sat down to read a quick chapter, and I ended up reading The One with the Kiss Cam in one sitting with a huge, stupid smile on my face. I loved every chapter, every word of this book. The meet-cute is adorable with two strangers getting caught on a kiss cam at a basketball game, and I love how the romance develops after that. The banter is TOP NOTCH. I couldn't stop smiling and laughing and squealing. Every word between Duke and Nora carries weight. I also love the depth to their characters, especially Nora. She has amazing character growth throughout the book, and I love how her relationship with Duke grows too. They have incredible chemistry.
I will reread this book at least once a year. It is heartwarming, funny, and literal perfection. I will be forcing everyone I love to read this.
Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5
Thank you, Cindy Steel, for the arc!
Trigger/Content Warnings: toxic parent, parent abandonment, mild injury, kisses
November 19, 2023
4.5
Perfectly bingeable from the first page! I quickly noticed a smile on my face as I got into this book.
A romcom that has enough reality to make it feel relatable, yet fun and sweet, and makes you remember the butterflies you feel when you find your person.
I loved that the characters were rounded with family background drama (don't we all have a little bit of this). They were each trying to find and make their way in their young lives amongst school, jobs, friends and rent.
This book had the perfect ingredients to make a delicious, fresh, romantic comedy that sent me directly to her backlist to find more.
Sidenote, I did read Faking Christmas last year by Cindy Steel which led me to this one, and I highly recommend that one for you!
Perfectly bingeable from the first page! I quickly noticed a smile on my face as I got into this book.
A romcom that has enough reality to make it feel relatable, yet fun and sweet, and makes you remember the butterflies you feel when you find your person.
I loved that the characters were rounded with family background drama (don't we all have a little bit of this). They were each trying to find and make their way in their young lives amongst school, jobs, friends and rent.
This book had the perfect ingredients to make a delicious, fresh, romantic comedy that sent me directly to her backlist to find more.
Sidenote, I did read Faking Christmas last year by Cindy Steel which led me to this one, and I highly recommend that one for you!
November 18, 2023
I adored everything about this book. From the beginning to the present to the end I didn't want to stop reading. If it wasn't for sleep, I wouldn't have. I'm already trying to figure out when I can reread it. Such a great book.
November 18, 2023
So heartfelt and a new comfort read. This is how hallmark movies should be made.
Full review soon.
Full review soon.
May 12, 2024
Nora meets Luke while on a bad first date with another guy at a basketball game. While he’s away getting food, Nora and Luke end up on the kiss cam! After a series of events, they end up spending the evening together as friends, trying to accomplish a couple bucket list items before Nora’s pending move to another state.
When Nora moves back they run into each other, and it’s soon clear neither has forgotten the night they shared together. But could they have a future?
This is a really cute and fun romance. I liked the characters and what they brought out in each other. Good narration as well. Nice to mix up with more serious books.
When Nora moves back they run into each other, and it’s soon clear neither has forgotten the night they shared together. But could they have a future?
This is a really cute and fun romance. I liked the characters and what they brought out in each other. Good narration as well. Nice to mix up with more serious books.
May 21, 2024
Overall I enjoyed this one and I thought the characters had some pretty adorable moments together. But I will say my enjoyment was mainly in the beginning and it went downhill after that. The beginning was so cute and sweet and gave me such high hopes for Duke and Nora but after the time jump I felt like the cuteness went away. There was a different vibe to the story after that and for me it took away the lighthearted sweetness that I was hoping would continue for these characters.
November 16, 2023
Okay, first let me just say that the meet cute in this book is the absolute best ever! It can’t be beat.
I loved this book. Cindy Steel is one of my favorite romcom authors. She knows how to write men. And Duke is definitely top book boyfriend material. That man knows how to flirt. He had me swooning so many times. Nora is a girl I think most women can relate to. Maybe not her exact predicament but that she tries to take care of everything and has a hard time accepting help. I loved the way Duke was always there for her, willing to help whether she needed a good laugh or emotional support.
This book was funny!! The banter, the nicknames, and the back and forth notes had me giggles so many times. Read this book, and you’ll laugh, swoon, and maybe shed a few happy tears too.
Thanks to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
📖
🔥 kissing
I loved this book. Cindy Steel is one of my favorite romcom authors. She knows how to write men. And Duke is definitely top book boyfriend material. That man knows how to flirt. He had me swooning so many times. Nora is a girl I think most women can relate to. Maybe not her exact predicament but that she tries to take care of everything and has a hard time accepting help. I loved the way Duke was always there for her, willing to help whether she needed a good laugh or emotional support.
This book was funny!! The banter, the nicknames, and the back and forth notes had me giggles so many times. Read this book, and you’ll laugh, swoon, and maybe shed a few happy tears too.
Thanks to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
📖
🔥 kissing
May 25, 2024
3.5 STARS rounded down
And I'm deducting an entire star for that awful epilogue😖
This one had some really great moments, but somehow they didn't coalesce into a higher rating for me. I kept getting hit with the strong impression that the author's sense of the world clashed with mine Something just wasn't right.
And I'm deducting an entire star for that awful epilogue😖
This one had some really great moments, but somehow they didn't coalesce into a higher rating for me. I kept getting hit with the strong impression that the author's sense of the world clashed with mine Something just wasn't right.
December 1, 2023
2.5 stars
What I loved -
- Laugh out loud humor!
- Fabulous writing
- Natural and engaging banter
- Flirty, successful, caring and attractive hero who is the main pursuer
- Fantastic meet cute and subsequent first chapter!
- Hard working heroine who understandably feels embarrassed by her situation when she runs into the hero again.
- No explicit content while still having great chemistry.
What didn’t work for me -
- The main plot conflict leaned heavily on a negative motivation (in other words, the conflict exists inside the FMC’s head, in the way she thinks, so the reader is waiting for the character to change her mind and then the conflict is resolved. Many books have a bit of this, but too much and it becomes an issue. In this case, it became an issue.)
- (TW. This happens at the very beginning of the book, right after chapter 1, but I’ll put it behind a spoiler tag just to be safe.)
- The heroine was very frustrating! what successful, hot guy would keep pursuing this girl???
The more I got to know her the more I realized she was:
> emotionally unavailable
> consistently made fear-based decisions
> constantly pushed away the hero
> had trust issues even though the hero proved himself again and again
> had difficulty being vulnerable
> was too busy to be fun (it took massive effort on the hero’s part, with her dragging her feet, to get her to let her hair down. And she was sure to keep reminding him that this was unusual behavior for her, in other words, don’t expect her to be fun frequently)
Finally at the end of the book he called her out on her fear based decisions. Hallelujah! And then there was a lot of her consciously working through her issues.
But by this time I was totally unengaged.
It was a slow process of detachment for me. I resisted it for a long time because THIS IS CINDY STEELE, one of my fave authors! And the banter and the humor and the chemistry were sky high!
But the longer I read, the more the negative motivation pulled me out of the book.
The conflict was between me (the reader) and the main character, and I kept having to put the book down because I felt… frustrated/disappointed/let down by the FMC.
The first inkling I had that this might be a thing was in chapter 2 when Still, I was willing to forgive this since the book was just beginning. Little did I know what the book had in store for me!!
With that being said, many other readers will be able to overlook this conflict aspect and enjoy the fantastic elements that are in this book. (Refer to list of what I liked.) :)
Cindy Steele is still a phenomenal author. As a reader, not everything she writes is going to appeal to me. So I still say go ahead and try it out! You may love it!
Content- clean, no swearing
Read this on KU
What I loved -
- Laugh out loud humor!
- Fabulous writing
- Natural and engaging banter
- Flirty, successful, caring and attractive hero who is the main pursuer
- Fantastic meet cute and subsequent first chapter!
- Hard working heroine who understandably feels embarrassed by her situation when she runs into the hero again.
- No explicit content while still having great chemistry.
What didn’t work for me -
- The main plot conflict leaned heavily on a negative motivation (in other words, the conflict exists inside the FMC’s head, in the way she thinks, so the reader is waiting for the character to change her mind and then the conflict is resolved. Many books have a bit of this, but too much and it becomes an issue. In this case, it became an issue.)
- (TW. This happens at the very beginning of the book, right after chapter 1, but I’ll put it behind a spoiler tag just to be safe.)
- The heroine was very frustrating! what successful, hot guy would keep pursuing this girl???
The more I got to know her the more I realized she was:
> emotionally unavailable
> consistently made fear-based decisions
> constantly pushed away the hero
> had trust issues even though the hero proved himself again and again
> had difficulty being vulnerable
> was too busy to be fun (it took massive effort on the hero’s part, with her dragging her feet, to get her to let her hair down. And she was sure to keep reminding him that this was unusual behavior for her, in other words, don’t expect her to be fun frequently)
Finally at the end of the book he called her out on her fear based decisions. Hallelujah! And then there was a lot of her consciously working through her issues.
But by this time I was totally unengaged.
It was a slow process of detachment for me. I resisted it for a long time because THIS IS CINDY STEELE, one of my fave authors! And the banter and the humor and the chemistry were sky high!
But the longer I read, the more the negative motivation pulled me out of the book.
The conflict was between me (the reader) and the main character, and I kept having to put the book down because I felt… frustrated/disappointed/let down by the FMC.
The first inkling I had that this might be a thing was in chapter 2 when Still, I was willing to forgive this since the book was just beginning. Little did I know what the book had in store for me!!
With that being said, many other readers will be able to overlook this conflict aspect and enjoy the fantastic elements that are in this book. (Refer to list of what I liked.) :)
Cindy Steele is still a phenomenal author. As a reader, not everything she writes is going to appeal to me. So I still say go ahead and try it out! You may love it!
Content- clean, no swearing
Read this on KU
February 20, 2024
Edited to add the audio review:
This book just may be the ultimate romcom book. Duke is the PERFECT book boyfriend, and I just wanted this story to continue indefinitely. This is one you'll want to savor.
I. Love. This. Book. I love it so much that when I saw the audiobook on NetGalley, I knew I had to listen to it!
The narrator did a FANTASTIC job, and Duke was just as perfect in the audiobook as in the paperback.
This book just may be the ultimate romcom book. Duke is the PERFECT book boyfriend, and I just wanted this story to continue indefinitely. This is one you'll want to savor.
I. Love. This. Book. I love it so much that when I saw the audiobook on NetGalley, I knew I had to listen to it!
The narrator did a FANTASTIC job, and Duke was just as perfect in the audiobook as in the paperback.
February 7, 2024
There are Closed Door Romances I read and then there are ones I devour and this was definitely one I could not stop thinking about and reading!
To me most of the time the guy can make or break a book and this one just has one of my all time favorite MMCs now! I absolutely adore Duke! He is the perfect blend of someone who will serve and do the sweetest things, but still be confident and all man. I love that he could bring Nora out of her shell and help her become the best version of herself, but at the same time be patient enough to let her move at her own pace. And be okay knowing she isn't perfect, but his perfect other half.
Nora was such a complicated character with so much on her plate. I loved that she was self sufficient and that she would do anything for those that relied on her. I love that we got to see her grow and become someone Duke saw from day one. I love that we get to watch her walls around her heart come down and change her mindset from fear to hope.
This book just made me smile over and over! It truly just leaves you with a smile on your face and ready to create your own bucket list! If you want a heart warming romcom that just brings all the best feelings give this one a go asap!
I was a little wary to try it after seeing all the great reviews but it really does live up to the hype and more!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2.5 (A little more descriptive making out but no mention of tongue)
Mild Swearing (5 Hel*, 1 JackA**)
Single First Person POV (Nora)
To me most of the time the guy can make or break a book and this one just has one of my all time favorite MMCs now! I absolutely adore Duke! He is the perfect blend of someone who will serve and do the sweetest things, but still be confident and all man. I love that he could bring Nora out of her shell and help her become the best version of herself, but at the same time be patient enough to let her move at her own pace. And be okay knowing she isn't perfect, but his perfect other half.
Nora was such a complicated character with so much on her plate. I loved that she was self sufficient and that she would do anything for those that relied on her. I love that we got to see her grow and become someone Duke saw from day one. I love that we get to watch her walls around her heart come down and change her mindset from fear to hope.
This book just made me smile over and over! It truly just leaves you with a smile on your face and ready to create your own bucket list! If you want a heart warming romcom that just brings all the best feelings give this one a go asap!
I was a little wary to try it after seeing all the great reviews but it really does live up to the hype and more!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 2.5 (A little more descriptive making out but no mention of tongue)
Mild Swearing (5 Hel*, 1 JackA**)
Single First Person POV (Nora)
November 26, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5)
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: brief mentions of abandonment and a toxic relationship with a parent
It was just supposed to be a simple date with a guy she met online. But Nora never expected the Kiss Cam to zero in on her and the handsome stranger next to her. It was a moment that led to a night of spontaneity and memories that she couldn't get out of her head. Nora has never had much luck in life, but this one little kiss might change everything.
Cindy Steel has done it again! I honestly went into this one nervous about the premise, but I shouldn't have doubted one of my favorite closed door authors. Cindy took a wild setup and created a connection between two strangers that had me completely hooked from the beginning. Those opening chapters put a grin on my face and made me want to abandon all responsibilities to find out what would happen next between Duke and Nora. I liked how these two characters came from opposite backgrounds but were still able to form a connection and understand each other. Duke never looked down on Nora and instead appreciated her drive and determination. Sure, he was a bit sneaky with some of the ways he helped her out, but I liked how he wanted to help relieve some of her burdens without coming across as superior. The flirtatious moments these two shared were really cute, and I thoroughly enjoyed the "work" trip that involved some adorably meddlesome grandparents. As usual with Cindy's writing, there was some delightful banter, steamy kisses, and just the right amount of tension. I look forward to seeing where she goes next with this new series!
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: brief mentions of abandonment and a toxic relationship with a parent
It was just supposed to be a simple date with a guy she met online. But Nora never expected the Kiss Cam to zero in on her and the handsome stranger next to her. It was a moment that led to a night of spontaneity and memories that she couldn't get out of her head. Nora has never had much luck in life, but this one little kiss might change everything.
Cindy Steel has done it again! I honestly went into this one nervous about the premise, but I shouldn't have doubted one of my favorite closed door authors. Cindy took a wild setup and created a connection between two strangers that had me completely hooked from the beginning. Those opening chapters put a grin on my face and made me want to abandon all responsibilities to find out what would happen next between Duke and Nora. I liked how these two characters came from opposite backgrounds but were still able to form a connection and understand each other. Duke never looked down on Nora and instead appreciated her drive and determination. Sure, he was a bit sneaky with some of the ways he helped her out, but I liked how he wanted to help relieve some of her burdens without coming across as superior. The flirtatious moments these two shared were really cute, and I thoroughly enjoyed the "work" trip that involved some adorably meddlesome grandparents. As usual with Cindy's writing, there was some delightful banter, steamy kisses, and just the right amount of tension. I look forward to seeing where she goes next with this new series!
November 18, 2023
Thank you to the author for an eARC.
THIS BOOK.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Cindy Steel really is absolutely incredible at creating beautiful rom-coms. Books that make you smile, swoon, squeeze your heart and cheer on the characters. I loved this one so much. The meet cute was clever and the story that followed brought out all the feels.
The banter and dialogue between Duke and Nora had me grinning like a fool for most of the book. This had reverse grumpy x sunshine vibes and it was immaculate. The office setting had me waiting for any moment that would force them together and it did not disappoint. Add in some eccentric and sweet side characters and this was a recipe for a five star book from the get go.
One of my favorite (more subtle) aspects was that Duke and Nora argued. I actually enjoy seeing this in romances. When things need to be said and discussed and really letting those walls come down, and that they also worked together too!! Some of those closing scenes sent me. Nora finally got the break and love she deserved and Duke just being completely gone for Nora from the get-go is everything I could hope for.
READ THIS BOOK Y’ALL.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: manipulative parenting situations
THIS BOOK.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Cindy Steel really is absolutely incredible at creating beautiful rom-coms. Books that make you smile, swoon, squeeze your heart and cheer on the characters. I loved this one so much. The meet cute was clever and the story that followed brought out all the feels.
The banter and dialogue between Duke and Nora had me grinning like a fool for most of the book. This had reverse grumpy x sunshine vibes and it was immaculate. The office setting had me waiting for any moment that would force them together and it did not disappoint. Add in some eccentric and sweet side characters and this was a recipe for a five star book from the get go.
One of my favorite (more subtle) aspects was that Duke and Nora argued. I actually enjoy seeing this in romances. When things need to be said and discussed and really letting those walls come down, and that they also worked together too!! Some of those closing scenes sent me. Nora finally got the break and love she deserved and Duke just being completely gone for Nora from the get-go is everything I could hope for.
READ THIS BOOK Y’ALL.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Trigger/Content Warnings: manipulative parenting situations
November 18, 2023
What. A. Book. 😍
I started this late last night and was loathe to have to put it down for something so inconvenient as sleep, haha. 😂 But I started up again first thing when I woke up, balancing my phone in one hand & making my breakfast with the other. Worth every minute!
Nora was one of those characters that I just *got*. She has issues with trust & boundaries. She’s trying so hard but can never really get ahead. And fun & spontaneity aren’t in her schedule unless she’s under duress to pencil them in. Plus, I loved how she was a taller girlie, too. 🥰
Duke came out of nowhere and was exactly what Nora needed! He brought fun & adventure to her life, but also consistently showing up for her. He wasn’t going anywhere, even when she was terrified he would. He has the sweetest relationship with his grandparents (who I absolutely adore!), and the friendship dynamics between Duke, Ryan, and Mike were the best!
The heart of the story was everything! Learning to trust after your heart’s been abused too many times. Constructing healthy boundaries. The true definition of success. Choosing love over fear. Just the whole thing was *chefs kiss*! 😘
I’ve got so many highlights I NEED a physical copy soon to tab up for myself!
I started this late last night and was loathe to have to put it down for something so inconvenient as sleep, haha. 😂 But I started up again first thing when I woke up, balancing my phone in one hand & making my breakfast with the other. Worth every minute!
Nora was one of those characters that I just *got*. She has issues with trust & boundaries. She’s trying so hard but can never really get ahead. And fun & spontaneity aren’t in her schedule unless she’s under duress to pencil them in. Plus, I loved how she was a taller girlie, too. 🥰
Duke came out of nowhere and was exactly what Nora needed! He brought fun & adventure to her life, but also consistently showing up for her. He wasn’t going anywhere, even when she was terrified he would. He has the sweetest relationship with his grandparents (who I absolutely adore!), and the friendship dynamics between Duke, Ryan, and Mike were the best!
The heart of the story was everything! Learning to trust after your heart’s been abused too many times. Constructing healthy boundaries. The true definition of success. Choosing love over fear. Just the whole thing was *chefs kiss*! 😘
I’ve got so many highlights I NEED a physical copy soon to tab up for myself!
February 27, 2024
So so so so good!!!! This will definitely be my top recommendation for awhile. It was hilariously funny but also so realistic with the issue that the main character was facing. I love how she found herself and how he unashamedly helped her but also helped her see why. They had to come to some serious compromises and I was so happy to see how this one ended.
🌀Synopsis
Nora has always been nervous to date because she doesn’t want to follow in her mom’s footsteps. When she decides to finally take a chance, it’s a disaster. The only good pet of the night is when the kids can is panning the crowd and lands on her and her not date neighbor. He’s handsome and nice but she’s not one to kiss someone when she’s on a date with someone else. The crowd is adamant though and so they kiss, deeply. It’s wonderful. It’s just too bad she’s leaving in a few days to help her grandma. She ends up leaving with the kiss cam guy, whose name is actually Duke and the two have a fun-filled night before Nora leaves town.
Now, a few years later she’s back and ready to get her life back on track. She’s cleaning office buildings at night to try to save to finish college when she sees him. She can only avoid him for so long before he finally catches up and finally hears what is going on. His company is having an internship competition that will pay for college and when she’s selected to be part of it she’s determined to leave things with him in the past. Only, he’s not leaving it alone. Between Dr.Peppers, Cokes, and notes these two find a way back into each others hearts and it’s so adorable.
🌀Synopsis
Nora has always been nervous to date because she doesn’t want to follow in her mom’s footsteps. When she decides to finally take a chance, it’s a disaster. The only good pet of the night is when the kids can is panning the crowd and lands on her and her not date neighbor. He’s handsome and nice but she’s not one to kiss someone when she’s on a date with someone else. The crowd is adamant though and so they kiss, deeply. It’s wonderful. It’s just too bad she’s leaving in a few days to help her grandma. She ends up leaving with the kiss cam guy, whose name is actually Duke and the two have a fun-filled night before Nora leaves town.
Now, a few years later she’s back and ready to get her life back on track. She’s cleaning office buildings at night to try to save to finish college when she sees him. She can only avoid him for so long before he finally catches up and finally hears what is going on. His company is having an internship competition that will pay for college and when she’s selected to be part of it she’s determined to leave things with him in the past. Only, he’s not leaving it alone. Between Dr.Peppers, Cokes, and notes these two find a way back into each others hearts and it’s so adorable.
March 25, 2024
A bad date at a basketball game, a kiss cam and a fateful night between two strangers that was essentially love at first kiss!
I LOVED this premise! When Nora and Duke meet at a basketball game, while Nora is on a disastrous first date with someone else, the sparks immediately fly. Unfortunately, Nora is moving to care for her ailing grandmother so the two lose each other, just as they found each other.
Years later, the two meet again and Duke does everything in his power to win her over. He was so supportive and caring. I loved their chemistry and the bucket list. Duke’s grandparents were so sweet (loved them!) and the dynamic between him and his friends was awesome.
The opposites attract vibes, he falls first & workplace romance vibes gave me all the happy heart feels.
I LOVED this premise! When Nora and Duke meet at a basketball game, while Nora is on a disastrous first date with someone else, the sparks immediately fly. Unfortunately, Nora is moving to care for her ailing grandmother so the two lose each other, just as they found each other.
Years later, the two meet again and Duke does everything in his power to win her over. He was so supportive and caring. I loved their chemistry and the bucket list. Duke’s grandparents were so sweet (loved them!) and the dynamic between him and his friends was awesome.
The opposites attract vibes, he falls first & workplace romance vibes gave me all the happy heart feels.
January 2, 2024
Well, that’s the way to start the year with a 5⭐️read!!! I loved this book. It was cute, sweet, witty and just a feel good book! I wanted to get to the end to see what happened, but I also didn’t want it to end!! The beginning of the book was so funny, and it was just something completely different and new! Loved it!
December 8, 2023
5 stars aren't enough for how much I loved this book!
.
Cindy Steel is one of my very favorite authors, and this book might be her best yet. She took me on quite the emotional rollercoaster, and I loved every second of it.
.
I laughed hysterically at parts, particularly in the beginning chapters. I got teary-eyed at other parts. She really has a gift for instilling so much emotion into her characters and their stories.
.
"It's not your problem to fix, " I insisted, taking on a fighting stance with arms folded and my heart bleeding on my sleeve.
"But I want it to be, " he said softly. "But even if that never happens, I wanted you to have someone in your corner. Everybody needs help sometimes. It doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you."
.
I can't wait to read this again!
.
I received a free copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
.
12/8/23: Why, yes, I did read this again. I loved it just as much the second time.
.
Cindy Steel is one of my very favorite authors, and this book might be her best yet. She took me on quite the emotional rollercoaster, and I loved every second of it.
.
I laughed hysterically at parts, particularly in the beginning chapters. I got teary-eyed at other parts. She really has a gift for instilling so much emotion into her characters and their stories.
.
"It's not your problem to fix, " I insisted, taking on a fighting stance with arms folded and my heart bleeding on my sleeve.
"But I want it to be, " he said softly. "But even if that never happens, I wanted you to have someone in your corner. Everybody needs help sometimes. It doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you."
.
I can't wait to read this again!
.
I received a free copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
.
12/8/23: Why, yes, I did read this again. I loved it just as much the second time.
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