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Trinket Sisters #1
Pixels and Paint
For Emma Trinket, life is a delicate balancing act between loving her family and pursuing interests they don’t understand. When the opportunity arises to finally impress them with her job as a computer programmer, she jumps at it even if it means immersing herself in a world she’s despised since childhood. Unfortunately the one man who could crush her prospects is also the best person to help her navigate the lessons she needs to be a success. Artistic expression is both Carter Anderson’s safe space and his livelihood, but his fading inspiration has him worried about his place in life. His encounters with Emma spark a passion to create that he hasn’t felt in years and he isn’t ready to let go of his new muse even if she’s threatening the sanctity of his art world with her digital technologies. As each tries to gain an advantage from the other, Emma and Carter discover they actually might be more compatible than they thought. Will that be enough to unify their opposing missions or will the real differences between pixels and paint tear them apart?
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2023
16 people are currently reading
611 people want to read
About the author
Kristi Ann Hunter
22books1,596followersKristi Ann Hunter graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in Computer Science but always knew she wanted to write. Kristi is an RWA Golden Heart contest winner, an ACFW Genesis contest winner, and a Georgia Romance Writers Maggie Award for Excellence winner. She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia. Find her online at .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
July 16, 2023
•✿•2�
well, this one wasn't for me.
It was so hard to get through; it was really slow, and yet nothing really developed till the end. I didn't find any chemistry between the main characters; it just went flat and boring.
Carter was so judgmental towards Emma and I feel like it would be so much better if we didn't have his POV because reading it irks me so much. He's kind of a jerk and rude.
Emma was just there; her character isn't doing much for me; she's under control by her family so much and even at the end she's not really doing much about it so there's not much satisfaction about it.
The two are a mixed pick me girl and pick me boy with very stressful miscommunication that makes me want to pull my hair.
The story was so confusing and all over the place, with so much unnecessary information.
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
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When the opportunity arises to finally impress them with her job as a computer programmer, she jumps at it even if it means immersing herself in a world she’s despised since childhood.
...ɱ🪞
well, this one wasn't for me.
It was so hard to get through; it was really slow, and yet nothing really developed till the end. I didn't find any chemistry between the main characters; it just went flat and boring.
Carter was so judgmental towards Emma and I feel like it would be so much better if we didn't have his POV because reading it irks me so much. He's kind of a jerk and rude.
Emma was just there; her character isn't doing much for me; she's under control by her family so much and even at the end she's not really doing much about it so there's not much satisfaction about it.
The two are a mixed pick me girl and pick me boy with very stressful miscommunication that makes me want to pull my hair.
The story was so confusing and all over the place, with so much unnecessary information.
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
------------
When the opportunity arises to finally impress them with her job as a computer programmer, she jumps at it even if it means immersing herself in a world she’s despised since childhood.
...ɱ🪞
August 11, 2023
This is a story of opposites meeting and getting acquainted and then moving on to friendship. Emma works with computers, loves video games, and is sloppy and a casual dresser, with her friends. Her life is compartmentalized, showing her friends and church one side of her, her family another side. Carter is an artist, conservative in his dress, neat as a pin in his home and life. But Emma intrigues him at an art show and he wants to get to know her better. What a time they have together, two opposites, but they do become close. Will their differences be a deal breaker? But the story goes deeper than that as Emma comes to a point where she has to realize that she can be herself with everyone and Carter sees that he needs to overcome his snobby and self-centered view. of the arts. Sweet ending. I am looking forward to reading Emma's twin sister's story.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review, and these are my thoughts.
I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review, and these are my thoughts.
October 28, 2023
Really loved and enjoyed!
This is an opposites attract story about a computer coder and a painter. Super cute combo.
Emma Trinket is a coder in a family of artists and she struggles to relate to them. Like a good sister and daughter, she goes to art events. At one, she meets Carter Anderson who is a very famous artist that she has no clue about. They become unlikely friends and more while Carter starts teaching Emma about the secret behind appreciating art.
As silly as this concept could seem, I found it very entertaining. I really liked reading about these characters and watching their relationship develop. I also appreciated the maturity and personal growth of the characters. The romance was very cute.
The whole art project thing was a bit over my head and I didn't care that much. But what it brought out in the characters was really satisfying.
Recommend!
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for a free e-copy to read and review!
This is an opposites attract story about a computer coder and a painter. Super cute combo.
Emma Trinket is a coder in a family of artists and she struggles to relate to them. Like a good sister and daughter, she goes to art events. At one, she meets Carter Anderson who is a very famous artist that she has no clue about. They become unlikely friends and more while Carter starts teaching Emma about the secret behind appreciating art.
As silly as this concept could seem, I found it very entertaining. I really liked reading about these characters and watching their relationship develop. I also appreciated the maturity and personal growth of the characters. The romance was very cute.
The whole art project thing was a bit over my head and I didn't care that much. But what it brought out in the characters was really satisfying.
Recommend!
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for a free e-copy to read and review!
July 16, 2023
Step into the world of Art and Love with Pixels and Paint by Kristi Ann Hunter! This is a delightful Christian contemporary romance that effortlessly combines the worlds of art, technology, and personal growth. We have GREAT engaging characters, a nice faith element and so many cute and funny moments! This book truly captures the essence of following one's passion and finding unexpected connections. I really related to our main character of Emma � her relaxed style, people-pleasing tendencies, love for video games and other personal interests � so relatable.
In this book, Carter Anderson has been struggling to find inspiration for his paintings � until he sees Emma at a local art showing. Emma’s not too thrilled to be there and he can see it immediately. He is so fascinated with her, and she becomes an inspiration for him to create new art that he hasn’t been able to create in 2 years! She is truly an answer to his prayers.
Emma is a TRUE people pleaser who tries to make her mom, sister, coworkers -everyone happy! Whether it be through her mom and sisters� art events, her fashion choices, or her home décor � she is constantly trying to appeal to their wishes. We see Emma really grow in this book and start to realize it’s ok to just be who she is, regardless of what everyone else wants. She wants her family to be proud of the work she does in her job, so she ends up getting sucked into a project for the art museum that she really isn’t prepared for. That’s when Carter Anderson comes in as they talk all things art appreciation � while getting to know each other on a few dates along the way�.
I am so glad I read this one � it was a great time! If you love a good rom-com, STEM romance and a sweet, lighthearted read, this is it! Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy to honestly read and review.
In this book, Carter Anderson has been struggling to find inspiration for his paintings � until he sees Emma at a local art showing. Emma’s not too thrilled to be there and he can see it immediately. He is so fascinated with her, and she becomes an inspiration for him to create new art that he hasn’t been able to create in 2 years! She is truly an answer to his prayers.
Emma is a TRUE people pleaser who tries to make her mom, sister, coworkers -everyone happy! Whether it be through her mom and sisters� art events, her fashion choices, or her home décor � she is constantly trying to appeal to their wishes. We see Emma really grow in this book and start to realize it’s ok to just be who she is, regardless of what everyone else wants. She wants her family to be proud of the work she does in her job, so she ends up getting sucked into a project for the art museum that she really isn’t prepared for. That’s when Carter Anderson comes in as they talk all things art appreciation � while getting to know each other on a few dates along the way�.
I am so glad I read this one � it was a great time! If you love a good rom-com, STEM romance and a sweet, lighthearted read, this is it! Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a copy to honestly read and review.
December 30, 2024
A charming opposites-attract Christian rom-com, about finding beauty in a different perspective.
Emma Trinket is a tech savvy computer programmer who has never enjoyed her family's more artistic pastimes, always feeling like she never fit into the spaces that they made for her. Carter Anderson is a confident and talented artist, who doesn't enjoy the way that technology threatens to encroach on his sanctuary. But for all her high tech ways, Emma inspires him like no other.
Emma is an endearing heroine, tired of fitting into pre-selected spaces and just getting by, but she doesn't know what else to do. I loved the wonder in her curiosity, and how she likes to know that why of the process. She has a different perspective that challenges Carter to try and see things through her eyes.
Overall, a charming rom-com. Emma was easy to like and cheer for all the way through, quirky and nerdy in a sweet way. I'd never thought of the juxtaposition of classic art and new tech before, and it was fun seeing it all play out. Engaging read that brought of the best and worst of the characters in ways that helped them grow and find something worth fighting for!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Emma Trinket is a tech savvy computer programmer who has never enjoyed her family's more artistic pastimes, always feeling like she never fit into the spaces that they made for her. Carter Anderson is a confident and talented artist, who doesn't enjoy the way that technology threatens to encroach on his sanctuary. But for all her high tech ways, Emma inspires him like no other.
Emma is an endearing heroine, tired of fitting into pre-selected spaces and just getting by, but she doesn't know what else to do. I loved the wonder in her curiosity, and how she likes to know that why of the process. She has a different perspective that challenges Carter to try and see things through her eyes.
Overall, a charming rom-com. Emma was easy to like and cheer for all the way through, quirky and nerdy in a sweet way. I'd never thought of the juxtaposition of classic art and new tech before, and it was fun seeing it all play out. Engaging read that brought of the best and worst of the characters in ways that helped them grow and find something worth fighting for!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 17, 2024
Pixels and Paint was a fine read. I've read some of this author's historical novels, so it was fun to read a contemporary from her.
I struggled a bit in the beginning with the characters and how the story focused on art (just not my interest), but as I kept reading, it got better.
Emma's sister bugged me initially because of the almost snobbish way she critiqued fashion choices...but she did get a little better towards the end, which was nice.
All in all, I liked Pixels and Paint. It was a cute read and I liked the romance for the most part.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I struggled a bit in the beginning with the characters and how the story focused on art (just not my interest), but as I kept reading, it got better.
Emma's sister bugged me initially because of the almost snobbish way she critiqued fashion choices...but she did get a little better towards the end, which was nice.
All in all, I liked Pixels and Paint. It was a cute read and I liked the romance for the most part.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
July 22, 2023
Ooh this was a fun read. I have long been a fan of Kristi's so when she announced a brand-new book and her first contemporary story, I was all in! I loved pretty much everything about this book-my only complaint was at times I absolutely wanted to throttle Amy and Carter. Emma was such a quirky and complicated character; it was interesting getting to know all the sides of her and how that affected her relationships and everything. There was a depth to this story that was super cool. I can't wait for Amy's story!
June 20, 2023
While I found the RomCom to be cute, it did not quite align with my personal taste. The story felt a bit slow in the beginning, and there were a few moments that I did not fully enjoy or understand. Additionally, there seemed to be a miscommunication. While I believe that there is an audience that will truly love the story, it, unfortunately, did not resonate with me.
Thank you Netgalley and the Author for the eARC.
Thank you Netgalley and the Author for the eARC.
July 14, 2023
The banter was fun, I laughed a great deal more than I’d expected! Just a sweet story overall.
June 29, 2023
This was a super cute book. The two of them not knowing exactly what to do when you are dating someone was adorable. He truly saw the best in her and it warmed my heart. I loved seeing him open up space in his house for her.
I received an arc through netgalley.
I received an arc through netgalley.
June 18, 2023
I’m a fan of Kristi Hunter’s regency novels and I was a bit hesitant when she announced she’d be writing a contemporary novel. But I knew I wanted to give it a shot. While I liked the story from the start, it was a bit slow for maybe the first 40%. I enjoyed it when I would pick it up, but found I could also put it down easily. It started to pick up for me after that though. This book will ask you if you know who are just as Emma is asking herself. I was just as fascinated by her though as Carter was and so it was touching watching her discover and reveal her true self. Carter had some discovering to do himself and I loved that he was willing to travel that path, that it wasn’t all left up to her. The story wound up touching my heart and left me a bit teary eyed towards the end. This one didn’t have the humor I’ve come to associate with her Regency novels, but the quirkiness of the characters made up for it. I saw a note at the end that Amy’s story is next and I’ll look forward to that one!
November 12, 2023
Wow, what a super cute and fun story! I love Kristi Ann Hunter’s historical romances and I was beyond excited when she announced she was writing contemporary stories as well!
I’ve been dying to read Pixels and Paint since it released and it most definitely did not disappoint! I loved Emma and I could so relate to her tendency to be a people-pleaser. Her growth and character journey touched my heart deeply as I have similar struggles.
I also loved Carter! He’s such a sweet, caring, and swoon-worthy hero!
I also loved Carter’s grandparents, they were such fun!
I know very little about the art world or computer programming, but this book truly gave me a deeper appreciation for both worlds while always being easily understandable and never “over my head.�
The faith story in this book was done beautifully, and I loved how the characters� faith in Jesus was woven organically into the very fiber of who they are.
Pixels and Paint was a delight to read and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it!
Highly recommend!
I cannot wait for Kristi Ann Hunter’s next book. I’m assuming Amy will be featured in the next Trinket Sisters novel, and I’m super excited about her story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
I’ve been dying to read Pixels and Paint since it released and it most definitely did not disappoint! I loved Emma and I could so relate to her tendency to be a people-pleaser. Her growth and character journey touched my heart deeply as I have similar struggles.
I also loved Carter! He’s such a sweet, caring, and swoon-worthy hero!
I also loved Carter’s grandparents, they were such fun!
I know very little about the art world or computer programming, but this book truly gave me a deeper appreciation for both worlds while always being easily understandable and never “over my head.�
The faith story in this book was done beautifully, and I loved how the characters� faith in Jesus was woven organically into the very fiber of who they are.
Pixels and Paint was a delight to read and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it!
Highly recommend!
I cannot wait for Kristi Ann Hunter’s next book. I’m assuming Amy will be featured in the next Trinket Sisters novel, and I’m super excited about her story!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
dnf
July 25, 2023I saw so many loving this book, and I am trying to read more CF, but I found this extremely hard to get into. I couldn't make it past the 2nd chapter. It was boring, and I hated the overall language of this book. I felt like the writing was intended to be sophisticated to fit the whole artsy vibe, but I did not like the writing style at all. I tried multiple times to give it a sincere and honest effort, but I just couldn't force myself to continue. Since I did DNF at 9%, I don't think it's fair to give a star rating.
June 9, 2023
Emma doesn’t understand the life that her mother, aunt, and her twin sister love so much but she loves her family and so she tries to be someone she really isn’t and inadvertently hides herself from them.
Meeting Carter Anderson should be a one-time opportunity but instead, she keeps meeting up with him, even though they are definitely at opposite ends, she is with technology, and he is an artist with his medium being painting.
I really liked the relationship between Carter and Emma, and how they bump along as they attempt to get to know each other. Their interactions with each other, friends, and family were endearing. I wasn’t sure if I would like a contemporary setting from Kristi Ann Hunter from her usual historical/regency fare and, while I didn’t think it was amazing, I did really like the character development and that is something I have always enjoyed from Ms. Hunters regency novels, and I think with time they will only get better. Overall, Pixels and Paints was worth my time.
My gratitude to Netgalley and Independent Book Publisher Association. All opinions expressed are mine.
Meeting Carter Anderson should be a one-time opportunity but instead, she keeps meeting up with him, even though they are definitely at opposite ends, she is with technology, and he is an artist with his medium being painting.
I really liked the relationship between Carter and Emma, and how they bump along as they attempt to get to know each other. Their interactions with each other, friends, and family were endearing. I wasn’t sure if I would like a contemporary setting from Kristi Ann Hunter from her usual historical/regency fare and, while I didn’t think it was amazing, I did really like the character development and that is something I have always enjoyed from Ms. Hunters regency novels, and I think with time they will only get better. Overall, Pixels and Paints was worth my time.
My gratitude to Netgalley and Independent Book Publisher Association. All opinions expressed are mine.
July 6, 2023
I've read a couple of Kristi Ann Hunter's regency books before and LOVED them, so when I saw she was indie publishing a contemporary book, I knew I'd want to read it! And boy, am I glad I did.
I liked seeing the dynamic between Emma and her twin sister, Amy (whose real names are Emerald and Amethyst-side note, I love those names!). It was actually kind of nice to see twins who don't always get along, and who do have some secrets from one another. It was also great watching the beginnings of healing in their relationship.
I enjoyed seeing the blending of technology and art with Emma and Carter, and how they can complement one another. How two such different...mediums?...can meld together. But also, the similarities between them.
While this didn't elicit any big emotional reactions within me, it was a fun, lighthearted read. The perfect beach read, in my opinion.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
I liked seeing the dynamic between Emma and her twin sister, Amy (whose real names are Emerald and Amethyst-side note, I love those names!). It was actually kind of nice to see twins who don't always get along, and who do have some secrets from one another. It was also great watching the beginnings of healing in their relationship.
I enjoyed seeing the blending of technology and art with Emma and Carter, and how they can complement one another. How two such different...mediums?...can meld together. But also, the similarities between them.
While this didn't elicit any big emotional reactions within me, it was a fun, lighthearted read. The perfect beach read, in my opinion.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
January 8, 2024
{When a man thinks he’s lost the most important thing in his life (aka Emma, his living contradiction and muse), it becomes all he can think about}
Love, love, love this book!! After many struggles and trials and tribulations as soon as the new year hit, I FINALLY found a book that I was able to read and love 🤦🏻♀� I was absolutely despairing that I would ever get out of my momentary reading slump that hit HARD! And then…I found this gem!! Absolutely superb! I have never read anything quite like this and I LOVED it! There was just something insanely intriguing and appealing to me about a girl who hates art and an artist utterly captivated by she who hates art 🤌🏻 The romance was so on point and had me giggling and melting simultaneously 🫠♥️ And the tears, we mustn’t forget the tears for they were quite abundant throughout the last half of this book 😭 It was SO BEAUTIFUL!! For Kristi Ann Hunter’s first attempt at a contemporary story, this was a smashing success! Guys, go read this book, like NOW!! Emma’s journey to self discovery is something you do not want to miss out on!
Love, love, love this book!! After many struggles and trials and tribulations as soon as the new year hit, I FINALLY found a book that I was able to read and love 🤦🏻♀� I was absolutely despairing that I would ever get out of my momentary reading slump that hit HARD! And then…I found this gem!! Absolutely superb! I have never read anything quite like this and I LOVED it! There was just something insanely intriguing and appealing to me about a girl who hates art and an artist utterly captivated by she who hates art 🤌🏻 The romance was so on point and had me giggling and melting simultaneously 🫠♥️ And the tears, we mustn’t forget the tears for they were quite abundant throughout the last half of this book 😭 It was SO BEAUTIFUL!! For Kristi Ann Hunter’s first attempt at a contemporary story, this was a smashing success! Guys, go read this book, like NOW!! Emma’s journey to self discovery is something you do not want to miss out on!
March 15, 2025
Pixels and Paint is Kristi Ann Hunter's first contemporary romance and I am here for it! She also writes historical fiction with humor.
"The way you see the world isn't the only way to see it."
I adored Pixels and Paint. You basically have two awkward people who are learning to be awkward together. Emma and her twin sister, Amy, are worlds apart. Amy is a fashion designer and Emma only cares about being comfortable. At one of Amy's art shows, Emma meets Carter. Not knowing who he is, she is brutally honest about her love, or lack thereof for art.
Read for:
🎨opposites attract
🎨twin sisters-polar opposites
🎨computer programmer/artist
🎨witty banter
🎨character growth
🎨story with depth
🎨wonderful characters
🎨look book-Emma can only wear outfits from this book!
🎨beginning of series
I can't wait for book two to be written. I look forward to more from Emma and Carter and learning what secrets Amy is keeping from Emma.
"The way you see the world isn't the only way to see it."
I adored Pixels and Paint. You basically have two awkward people who are learning to be awkward together. Emma and her twin sister, Amy, are worlds apart. Amy is a fashion designer and Emma only cares about being comfortable. At one of Amy's art shows, Emma meets Carter. Not knowing who he is, she is brutally honest about her love, or lack thereof for art.
Read for:
🎨opposites attract
🎨twin sisters-polar opposites
🎨computer programmer/artist
🎨witty banter
🎨character growth
🎨story with depth
🎨wonderful characters
🎨look book-Emma can only wear outfits from this book!
🎨beginning of series
I can't wait for book two to be written. I look forward to more from Emma and Carter and learning what secrets Amy is keeping from Emma.
September 20, 2023
Thanks @netgalley for this review copy!
We have 2 pov’s in this book, Emma and Carter.
Emma loved her family, especially her twin sister. She goes to an art gallery with her sister. And there Emma and Carter meet. He is one of the artists.
They agree to go out as just friends. But we all know where this is going to, right? 😁
Personally I’m not really into art, but the cover of the book spoke to me (not literally, I’m not getting crazy).
Emma is a real weirdo girl. And I absolutely loved her. She is quirky and cute and funny.
Carter is the more serious one. Grumpy vs sunshine, although Carter isn’t really grumpy.
Though I’m not into art, this book was very original because of it.
It had all the right ingredients. I loved it! It was funny, had a great romance and was unique.
We have 2 pov’s in this book, Emma and Carter.
Emma loved her family, especially her twin sister. She goes to an art gallery with her sister. And there Emma and Carter meet. He is one of the artists.
They agree to go out as just friends. But we all know where this is going to, right? 😁
Personally I’m not really into art, but the cover of the book spoke to me (not literally, I’m not getting crazy).
Emma is a real weirdo girl. And I absolutely loved her. She is quirky and cute and funny.
Carter is the more serious one. Grumpy vs sunshine, although Carter isn’t really grumpy.
Though I’m not into art, this book was very original because of it.
It had all the right ingredients. I loved it! It was funny, had a great romance and was unique.
February 21, 2024
I have heard great things about this author's work and knowing that this is her first contemporary romance, I jumped at the chance to read it! The premise of opposites attract, with Carter being an artist and Emma being a computer programmer was fun. There were so many scenes that had me laughing (especially the diner scene lol).
Emma's dynamic with her twin sister was one of my favorite parts of the story. I'm all about a complicated family relationship arc and this one definitely had one. Emma's journey of recognizing how she masked parts of herself because of her family's standards was very real and I loved how Carter made her feel comfortable with showing her true self.
I felt there wasn't really a balance between seeing the main characters' trying to understand the others' passions. I understand that Emma had to find an appreciation for art because of her project, but Carter didn't put much effort into personally appreciating technology or her work. I also felt that the faith elements were sometimes just thrown in unnaturally.
Overall, a sweet romance!
Thanks to Netgalley and the author for an advanced digital copy. All opinions are my own.
Emma's dynamic with her twin sister was one of my favorite parts of the story. I'm all about a complicated family relationship arc and this one definitely had one. Emma's journey of recognizing how she masked parts of herself because of her family's standards was very real and I loved how Carter made her feel comfortable with showing her true self.
I felt there wasn't really a balance between seeing the main characters' trying to understand the others' passions. I understand that Emma had to find an appreciation for art because of her project, but Carter didn't put much effort into personally appreciating technology or her work. I also felt that the faith elements were sometimes just thrown in unnaturally.
Overall, a sweet romance!
Thanks to Netgalley and the author for an advanced digital copy. All opinions are my own.
February 21, 2024
3.5 rounded down.
There are some things I really liked about this book and things I didn't really care for, but I think the good outweighed the bad, so I gave this one a little boost on Stroygraph. Still, I would ever relate this to my other 4star reads so I rounded down here.
First, I really liked Emma. She was a really interesting and brilliant protagonist and I loved some of her lines, especially the ones about art because me? I am soooo not crafty nor artistic nor any of that. Paintings are pretty boring for me too. Hahaha.
But I did NOT like Carter. At all. I admit sometimes, he was at least POLITE but my god, even at 85% of the book, he was ridiculing Emma for her disinterest in paintings. It's going to take A LOT of time for him to get over his fear of technology and I hope that he can do that, but he definitely is still not there by the end of this book. He's like 10% over his issues and needs a lot of forward movement to get farther. Emma, I feel, has had WAAAAAY more growth over the course of the book than Carter and that is one of my big complaints about it. I do feel like these two are going to have a lot of struggles over the next few years - they're going to be coming back to these problems for a while before they settle into something solid. Which is not a feeling I like when I finish a romance.
As far as the writing style goes, I really liked how thoughtful the author was. She really did do a good job of giving even rude statements a light tone. She was tasteful and polite. I was pretty impressed! However, I didn't particularly enjoy the immense amount of inner dialogue these two had. Sometimes the inner dialogue was so obtrusive that it distracted me from ACTUAL dialogue. And there were even times when I was like "You thought about this 4 chapters ago, why am I hearing it again?" - for example, he comments on "Will she be early, late, or on time" twice in the book at two different times, and it's just such a weird thing to think on the like 4th planned meeting.
Also, and I HAVE to comment on this because I was SO immensely disappointed..... THE GAME NIGHT. UGH. I don't know why I get my hopes up every time that game night will be ACTUAL game night. Like, you've got software programmers and they don't even play strategic board games??? TRIVIAL PURSUIT AND TELEPHONE PICTIONARY? THAT'S WHAT YOU PLAY AS 30 YEAR OLD ADULTS?? FLIPPING PICTIONARY. (And also, Carter decides to draw weird pictures to mess with Jason because he finds it funny and apparently that wins him points because afterwards Jason is enthralled with him. And I'm like "If someone did that to me, I'd probably stab them with the dry erase marker.") This is all a personal rant because I was so pumped for a worker placement or engine building or SOMETHING actually fun and strategic that makes your mind work instead of spitting out facts or drawing stupid pictures. /endrant
Overall, I don't think I will be reading Amy's story because the main thing I liked about this one was the STEM protagonist and we all know Amy is not. hahaha. Also I did not particularly like Amy at all. Oof. I didn't really like anyone BUT Emma actually.... Jason was really frustrating because of the design thing - which I say was his fault, he never should have let Emma do the design by herself. BAD MANAGEMENT dude. ANYWAY, ranting over. I should go.
There are some things I really liked about this book and things I didn't really care for, but I think the good outweighed the bad, so I gave this one a little boost on Stroygraph. Still, I would ever relate this to my other 4star reads so I rounded down here.
First, I really liked Emma. She was a really interesting and brilliant protagonist and I loved some of her lines, especially the ones about art because me? I am soooo not crafty nor artistic nor any of that. Paintings are pretty boring for me too. Hahaha.
But I did NOT like Carter. At all. I admit sometimes, he was at least POLITE but my god, even at 85% of the book, he was ridiculing Emma for her disinterest in paintings. It's going to take A LOT of time for him to get over his fear of technology and I hope that he can do that, but he definitely is still not there by the end of this book. He's like 10% over his issues and needs a lot of forward movement to get farther. Emma, I feel, has had WAAAAAY more growth over the course of the book than Carter and that is one of my big complaints about it. I do feel like these two are going to have a lot of struggles over the next few years - they're going to be coming back to these problems for a while before they settle into something solid. Which is not a feeling I like when I finish a romance.
As far as the writing style goes, I really liked how thoughtful the author was. She really did do a good job of giving even rude statements a light tone. She was tasteful and polite. I was pretty impressed! However, I didn't particularly enjoy the immense amount of inner dialogue these two had. Sometimes the inner dialogue was so obtrusive that it distracted me from ACTUAL dialogue. And there were even times when I was like "You thought about this 4 chapters ago, why am I hearing it again?" - for example, he comments on "Will she be early, late, or on time" twice in the book at two different times, and it's just such a weird thing to think on the like 4th planned meeting.
Also, and I HAVE to comment on this because I was SO immensely disappointed..... THE GAME NIGHT. UGH. I don't know why I get my hopes up every time that game night will be ACTUAL game night. Like, you've got software programmers and they don't even play strategic board games??? TRIVIAL PURSUIT AND TELEPHONE PICTIONARY? THAT'S WHAT YOU PLAY AS 30 YEAR OLD ADULTS?? FLIPPING PICTIONARY. (And also, Carter decides to draw weird pictures to mess with Jason because he finds it funny and apparently that wins him points because afterwards Jason is enthralled with him. And I'm like "If someone did that to me, I'd probably stab them with the dry erase marker.") This is all a personal rant because I was so pumped for a worker placement or engine building or SOMETHING actually fun and strategic that makes your mind work instead of spitting out facts or drawing stupid pictures. /endrant
Overall, I don't think I will be reading Amy's story because the main thing I liked about this one was the STEM protagonist and we all know Amy is not. hahaha. Also I did not particularly like Amy at all. Oof. I didn't really like anyone BUT Emma actually.... Jason was really frustrating because of the design thing - which I say was his fault, he never should have let Emma do the design by herself. BAD MANAGEMENT dude. ANYWAY, ranting over. I should go.
June 13, 2023
With Pixels and Paint, Hunter delivers a fresh take on contemporary romance with all the hilarity and heart readers of the genre will treasure. I was enthralled with the opposites-attract contrasts between the leading couple, and I deeply appreciated the flipped stereotypes throughout the story.
The comedic timing of Hunter’s style is spot-on in this contemporary setting. Fans of her past work in the Regency genre will be happy to hear her voice is applied quite well in the 21st century, especially in pop culture references, snarky humor, one hilarious (and brave!) bit that unfolds at a diner, and in little details like trivial pursuit and droning philosophical artists.
The interplay between Carter and Emma, from the intriguing first scene of their meeting, is clever and full of tension. Their relationship evolves from offering perspective on art and its merits and emotion to one of friendship and camaraderie. The connection between them is easy, and every time they are together on page it’s delightful to witness just how their opposite personalities fit. My favorite part about their romance is how each inspires some soul-searching and sacrifice in opening a space and life to another person.
Aside from the romance aspect, the secondary characters appropriately play influential parts in Emma’s and Carter’s lives. Carter’s grandparents, especially, are endearing and lend witty wisdom at the right moments. I adored the platonic friendship Emma shares with her bff and boss, Jason � that’s just another way this novel is non-stereotypical. And, Emma’s family and sister are a significant part in the larger themes of the novel, particularly in exploring identity and the dangers of compartmentalizing relationships.
Fans of Melissa Tagg and Bethany Turner should check out Hunter’s first foray into the contemporary genre � I’m hopeful and highly anticipating the buzz this story will create!
Thank you to the Netgalley for the review copy. This is my honest review.
The comedic timing of Hunter’s style is spot-on in this contemporary setting. Fans of her past work in the Regency genre will be happy to hear her voice is applied quite well in the 21st century, especially in pop culture references, snarky humor, one hilarious (and brave!) bit that unfolds at a diner, and in little details like trivial pursuit and droning philosophical artists.
The interplay between Carter and Emma, from the intriguing first scene of their meeting, is clever and full of tension. Their relationship evolves from offering perspective on art and its merits and emotion to one of friendship and camaraderie. The connection between them is easy, and every time they are together on page it’s delightful to witness just how their opposite personalities fit. My favorite part about their romance is how each inspires some soul-searching and sacrifice in opening a space and life to another person.
Aside from the romance aspect, the secondary characters appropriately play influential parts in Emma’s and Carter’s lives. Carter’s grandparents, especially, are endearing and lend witty wisdom at the right moments. I adored the platonic friendship Emma shares with her bff and boss, Jason � that’s just another way this novel is non-stereotypical. And, Emma’s family and sister are a significant part in the larger themes of the novel, particularly in exploring identity and the dangers of compartmentalizing relationships.
Fans of Melissa Tagg and Bethany Turner should check out Hunter’s first foray into the contemporary genre � I’m hopeful and highly anticipating the buzz this story will create!
Thank you to the Netgalley for the review copy. This is my honest review.
December 31, 2023
Great romance. I really enjoyed both the main characters!!
September 5, 2023
A tale as old as…the modern computer. Art vs. technology. Can you really like both? The two main characters certainly don’t think so.
Emma is a computer programmer who has compartmentalized her life into one her family approves of and then who she actually is. An opportunity arises for her to finally prove that her job is more than tech support to her family, she jumps on a project for an art museum, except she hates art.
Carter is an artist who has recently lost his inspiration until he walks into a gallery showing one evening to find a woman who very clearly hates art. Suddenly he wants to paint again. He learns of her new technology project for the art museum and the art-lover decides to help the art-hater so that he can keep his muse around and maybe convince her at the same time that technology has no place in an art museum.
Will their views on each other’s professions get in the way of what might be standing right in front of them?
The book was super cute, and I can definitely relate with Emma’s want for a quiet lifestyle. I thought the pace was a little slow, but overall was very enjoyable.
Thank you NetGalley for a free copy of this book where I give my unbiased and true review.
Emma is a computer programmer who has compartmentalized her life into one her family approves of and then who she actually is. An opportunity arises for her to finally prove that her job is more than tech support to her family, she jumps on a project for an art museum, except she hates art.
Carter is an artist who has recently lost his inspiration until he walks into a gallery showing one evening to find a woman who very clearly hates art. Suddenly he wants to paint again. He learns of her new technology project for the art museum and the art-lover decides to help the art-hater so that he can keep his muse around and maybe convince her at the same time that technology has no place in an art museum.
Will their views on each other’s professions get in the way of what might be standing right in front of them?
The book was super cute, and I can definitely relate with Emma’s want for a quiet lifestyle. I thought the pace was a little slow, but overall was very enjoyable.
Thank you NetGalley for a free copy of this book where I give my unbiased and true review.
August 9, 2023
Ok - I'm not USUSALLY a fan of contemporary fiction. I read only a few here and there, and only if they are clean romance, and no bad language...and possibly have a good 'rom-com' vibe...
This book is officially my favorite contemporary rom-com(ish) of all time!
To be honest, the beginning was a little shaky for me and it took me a while to get fully invested in in this story. But then page after page I was getting into it more and more! Pretty soon, I was scheduling my day around being able to read as much as I can to see what happens next!
The romance is clean with nice kissing. No questionable content at all - thank you very much!
The storyline is really great - and pretty original (to me!).
I laughed out loud several times. I also cried just a bit near the end when things got super emotional and Carter and Emma are working things out.
I love the gentle references to God and faith. There could have been a little more in my opinion - but that's just a thing for me personally.
I received an ARC from the publisher, but am not required to give a good review.
This review is my honest opinion. I genuinely loved this book!
I highly recommend it! I know I will read it again!
💜 💜
This book is officially my favorite contemporary rom-com(ish) of all time!
To be honest, the beginning was a little shaky for me and it took me a while to get fully invested in in this story. But then page after page I was getting into it more and more! Pretty soon, I was scheduling my day around being able to read as much as I can to see what happens next!
The romance is clean with nice kissing. No questionable content at all - thank you very much!
The storyline is really great - and pretty original (to me!).
I laughed out loud several times. I also cried just a bit near the end when things got super emotional and Carter and Emma are working things out.
I love the gentle references to God and faith. There could have been a little more in my opinion - but that's just a thing for me personally.
I received an ARC from the publisher, but am not required to give a good review.
This review is my honest opinion. I genuinely loved this book!
I highly recommend it! I know I will read it again!
💜 💜
November 1, 2023
I have been on a quest to find romance books that aren't smutty. (Personal preference.) I actually really liked this one. It is considered a Christian romance but wasn't preachy and didn't force feed religion to the reader. I enjoyed how this book highlighted actually developing a friendship between partners and not just getting carried away with physical intimacy. The story itself was pretty good too. I look forward to reading more from this author!
August 10, 2023
Tem um tempinho que ouço falar dos livros da Kristi, em especial os de época, que não costumam ser meu forte mas já haviam me deixado curiosa sobre. Então, quando me deparei com esse lançamento contemporâneo dela esse ano, já aproveitei a chance de leitura. Honestamente? Não sabia muito o que esperar da leitura, exceto por saber a autora escreve romances clean e com cosmovisão cristã também. Isso por si só já me agradou, digo logo de cara, mas vamos falar mais a fundo do que achei.
Pixels and Paint é de fato um romance clean e bem leve em outros contextos também, incluindo o quesito interação do casal, que se aproxima aos poucos e desenvolve uma amizade bacana antes junto, mas o livro é mais do que o romance como foco. Ele está ali, na verdade, só para ajudar nossos protagonistas a, ao mesmo tempo em que lidam um com o outro, se permitem enfim colocar em cheque à respeito de questões que ou eles viviam ignorando a resolução ou simplesmente não percebiam existir. Isso é mais forte principalmente em torno da Emma, nossa mocinha que vive um certo complexo desde a faculdade, por sentir que não atinge as expectativas da mãe, diferente de sua irmã que seguiu a carreira da família no design e não na programação.
Muito ligada em tecnologia, Emma já é um tanto distante no quesito arte, ainda mais a exposta em museus, depois de anos sendo arrastada até eles por sua família e se sentindo tão deslocada. Os dilemas dela dentro e fora desse âmbito familiar, pessoal e até profissional são de longe um dos pontos altos do livro, ao nos colocar tanto para ver um pouco do que ela sente e passa, tanto por culpa dela quanto da família, quanto, ao mesmo tempo, nos faz refletir sobre, para além de todo o gosto por arte e seu significado, o nosso propósito com o trabalho que fazemos, não importa qual seja ele.
Nosso mocinho, por outro lado, já precisa se permitir se desapegar um pouco desse significado em tudo o que faz, e, com a ajuda da Emma, acompanhamos o Carter começar a descontrair mais, se divertir mais, e ver a vida com mais leveza do que a pressão de antes, uma vez que a simples presença da Emma em sua vida também o ajuda com o bloqueio criativo que vinha sofrendo e ele se sente de novo voltando a pintar do jeito que realmente gosta, com o propósito que, no fundo, seu coração anseia, mas que já tinha um tempo não ocorria com muita facilidade. Carter também não é lá muito fã de tecnologia e mais ainda quando ela entra em choque com a arte como na proposta de Emma para os tours no museu, mas aos poucos o vemos se dar conta de que tudo é questão de equilíbrio e de como é feito, até que ponto permitimos algo ou não. São dois personagens um tanto opostos, vendo assim por alto, mas é interessante como, ainda assim, eles também são tão parecidos em outros aspectos, em especial no social, e é bom vê-los se abrindo e se desenvolvendo de verdade com a ajuda um do outro e mesmo sozinhos também em alguns momentos.
É nesse ponto que, particularmente, a história acaba funcionando mais se suas expectativas não ficarem no romance, porque mesmo existindo sim e sendo até bem fofo, não me cativou tanto quanto eu esperava, diferente dos plots individuais da Emma e do Carter e da relação prévia deles enquanto tratavam sobre a tecnologia no museu. Então, quando o romance começou a acontecer, foi bacana, mas ainda não foi de cheio na trama, senti que o foco estava mesmo era no desenvolvimento do casal, o que já vale super.
Só uma ressalva para o final que é uma gracinha, mas ao mesmo tempo senti ser meio apressado em um momento ou outro, especialmente rumo a uma certa resolução ali, e que, aliado com o plot do romance que não me ganhou como esperado, colaborou como um todo para eu ficar com aquele sentimento de "faltou algo" no final, sabe? Mas isso não tira o mérito da história até ali e, no mais, eu com certeza recomendo a leitura, e inclusive já quero o livro da irmã da Emma, a Amy, porque especialmente depois dela no final desse, imagino o quão interessante seu plot deverá ser futuramente.
Pixels and Paint é de fato um romance clean e bem leve em outros contextos também, incluindo o quesito interação do casal, que se aproxima aos poucos e desenvolve uma amizade bacana antes junto, mas o livro é mais do que o romance como foco. Ele está ali, na verdade, só para ajudar nossos protagonistas a, ao mesmo tempo em que lidam um com o outro, se permitem enfim colocar em cheque à respeito de questões que ou eles viviam ignorando a resolução ou simplesmente não percebiam existir. Isso é mais forte principalmente em torno da Emma, nossa mocinha que vive um certo complexo desde a faculdade, por sentir que não atinge as expectativas da mãe, diferente de sua irmã que seguiu a carreira da família no design e não na programação.
Muito ligada em tecnologia, Emma já é um tanto distante no quesito arte, ainda mais a exposta em museus, depois de anos sendo arrastada até eles por sua família e se sentindo tão deslocada. Os dilemas dela dentro e fora desse âmbito familiar, pessoal e até profissional são de longe um dos pontos altos do livro, ao nos colocar tanto para ver um pouco do que ela sente e passa, tanto por culpa dela quanto da família, quanto, ao mesmo tempo, nos faz refletir sobre, para além de todo o gosto por arte e seu significado, o nosso propósito com o trabalho que fazemos, não importa qual seja ele.
Nosso mocinho, por outro lado, já precisa se permitir se desapegar um pouco desse significado em tudo o que faz, e, com a ajuda da Emma, acompanhamos o Carter começar a descontrair mais, se divertir mais, e ver a vida com mais leveza do que a pressão de antes, uma vez que a simples presença da Emma em sua vida também o ajuda com o bloqueio criativo que vinha sofrendo e ele se sente de novo voltando a pintar do jeito que realmente gosta, com o propósito que, no fundo, seu coração anseia, mas que já tinha um tempo não ocorria com muita facilidade. Carter também não é lá muito fã de tecnologia e mais ainda quando ela entra em choque com a arte como na proposta de Emma para os tours no museu, mas aos poucos o vemos se dar conta de que tudo é questão de equilíbrio e de como é feito, até que ponto permitimos algo ou não. São dois personagens um tanto opostos, vendo assim por alto, mas é interessante como, ainda assim, eles também são tão parecidos em outros aspectos, em especial no social, e é bom vê-los se abrindo e se desenvolvendo de verdade com a ajuda um do outro e mesmo sozinhos também em alguns momentos.
É nesse ponto que, particularmente, a história acaba funcionando mais se suas expectativas não ficarem no romance, porque mesmo existindo sim e sendo até bem fofo, não me cativou tanto quanto eu esperava, diferente dos plots individuais da Emma e do Carter e da relação prévia deles enquanto tratavam sobre a tecnologia no museu. Então, quando o romance começou a acontecer, foi bacana, mas ainda não foi de cheio na trama, senti que o foco estava mesmo era no desenvolvimento do casal, o que já vale super.
Só uma ressalva para o final que é uma gracinha, mas ao mesmo tempo senti ser meio apressado em um momento ou outro, especialmente rumo a uma certa resolução ali, e que, aliado com o plot do romance que não me ganhou como esperado, colaborou como um todo para eu ficar com aquele sentimento de "faltou algo" no final, sabe? Mas isso não tira o mérito da história até ali e, no mais, eu com certeza recomendo a leitura, e inclusive já quero o livro da irmã da Emma, a Amy, porque especialmente depois dela no final desse, imagino o quão interessante seu plot deverá ser futuramente.
November 19, 2024
Reasons I enjoyed this book: Christian fiction, rom-com, challenging, emotional, funny, hopeful, inspiring, lighthearted moments, reflective, slow-paced, personal growth
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
My full review will have spoilers, so I want to start by saying that I loved this rom-com. I found it funny, smart, and entertaining. I felt connected to the characters and even found bits of myself in Emma. The audiobook is also wonderfully narrated - 5 stars!
Possible spoilers - Book Discussion/Thoughts ahead. I would love feedback if you agree or disagree with me:
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
My full review will have spoilers, so I want to start by saying that I loved this rom-com. I found it funny, smart, and entertaining. I felt connected to the characters and even found bits of myself in Emma. The audiobook is also wonderfully narrated - 5 stars!
Possible spoilers - Book Discussion/Thoughts ahead. I would love feedback if you agree or disagree with me:
May 21, 2023
Oh my goodness, what a great book! I have loved Kristi Ann Hunter's regency era books for a long while now, but this was her first contemporary romance and did she ever deliver! This was a can't-put-it-down marathon read that kept me up way past my bedtime.
Emma is a chameleon who tries to please everyone. She's gotten so good at it that she can compartmentalize her life into very specific boxes--work, home life, family life--and those well-defined areas of her life shall never meet! Except that she can't quite keep her opinions against some unfortunate works of art out of her body language.
Carter is an artist who studies human body language and emotion for a living. He sees Emma's not-so-enthusiastic response to an art gallery showing and can't help to try to figure out this enigma. An eye-opening conversation leads to his further fascination with the mystery that is Emma Trinket.
I loved this story from beginning to end. The first-person narrative with dual POVs was wonderfully executed and let me fall in love with both characters. Carter is so incredibly kind and encouraging, though he isn't perfect by any means. His views about art are well-thought-out and engaging. I loved the way he supported Emma (especially that one dinner scene about halfway through the book!)
Emma is so likeable. She actually reminds me of someone I know in real life, and her frustrated responses to the way people view her programming job is word-for-word what my friend has said to me many times (especially when I once referred to her as IT! lol!). But her heartache is also very relatable and makes you want to wrap her up in a hug.
There are so many wonderful elements to this story and I can't wait for it to come out on paperback copy because I fully intend to gift this to friends!
Rated G
--little to no violence
--no language
--clean romance without on-page spice (just plenty of sweet and swoony scenes!)
--no torture
I received this ebook free from NetGalley. My opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
Emma is a chameleon who tries to please everyone. She's gotten so good at it that she can compartmentalize her life into very specific boxes--work, home life, family life--and those well-defined areas of her life shall never meet! Except that she can't quite keep her opinions against some unfortunate works of art out of her body language.
Carter is an artist who studies human body language and emotion for a living. He sees Emma's not-so-enthusiastic response to an art gallery showing and can't help to try to figure out this enigma. An eye-opening conversation leads to his further fascination with the mystery that is Emma Trinket.
I loved this story from beginning to end. The first-person narrative with dual POVs was wonderfully executed and let me fall in love with both characters. Carter is so incredibly kind and encouraging, though he isn't perfect by any means. His views about art are well-thought-out and engaging. I loved the way he supported Emma (especially that one dinner scene about halfway through the book!)
Emma is so likeable. She actually reminds me of someone I know in real life, and her frustrated responses to the way people view her programming job is word-for-word what my friend has said to me many times (especially when I once referred to her as IT! lol!). But her heartache is also very relatable and makes you want to wrap her up in a hug.
There are so many wonderful elements to this story and I can't wait for it to come out on paperback copy because I fully intend to gift this to friends!
Rated G
--little to no violence
--no language
--clean romance without on-page spice (just plenty of sweet and swoony scenes!)
--no torture
I received this ebook free from NetGalley. My opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
August 24, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Emerald "Emma" Trinket has never been a "fancy dress at a gala" sort of girl. However, that's all her mother and twin sisterlike to do as "cultured" people of Atlanta's boutique fashion scene. In fact, while at an art gallery opening, Emma meets Carter and admits, out loud, for probably the first time ever that she hates art. Her technological brain just doesn't "get it".
Carter Anderson, renowned hyper realism painter, takes Emma's admission in stride. He's found a new muse. A contradiction, Emma is as our of place in the art world as a wetsuit in a bridal shop. Intrigued by her admission and determined to help her understand, Carter takes her under his wing to help her understand her work project to design an interactive tour guide for an art museum.
Pixels and Paint is one of the best slow burn romances I've ever read. I read the full spectrum of spice and this books has no spice but the burn is there. Emma and Carter's relationship feels hyper realistic, in that it takes awhile for them to admit they like each other to themselves and move to the next step and be partners. It's honestly refreshing in the current novel industry where it seems like everyone goes from attraction to sex in less than a week. While there's nothing wrong with that, I truly enjoyed this change of pace.
The narrative constructed, while semi predictable given the typical romance book formula, was highly enjoyable. Both MCs needed to understand who they were individually and how they were seeing the other before they could get to the end of the book. I really liked that Carter didn't just fawn over her project proposal just because he likes her. He gave her honest feedback as an artist.
Emma's finding herself arc was so well done. It wasn't an overly crazy transformation, it felt just right. Finding the right clothes is 90% of the battle for her to be who she is! I also really liked her pushing herself with work.
Finally, this book was decidedly funny! I found so many tidbits hilarious and legitimately laughed multiple times. Highly enjoyable though a bit long for my liking. Solid 4 stars!
Emerald "Emma" Trinket has never been a "fancy dress at a gala" sort of girl. However, that's all her mother and twin sisterlike to do as "cultured" people of Atlanta's boutique fashion scene. In fact, while at an art gallery opening, Emma meets Carter and admits, out loud, for probably the first time ever that she hates art. Her technological brain just doesn't "get it".
Carter Anderson, renowned hyper realism painter, takes Emma's admission in stride. He's found a new muse. A contradiction, Emma is as our of place in the art world as a wetsuit in a bridal shop. Intrigued by her admission and determined to help her understand, Carter takes her under his wing to help her understand her work project to design an interactive tour guide for an art museum.
Pixels and Paint is one of the best slow burn romances I've ever read. I read the full spectrum of spice and this books has no spice but the burn is there. Emma and Carter's relationship feels hyper realistic, in that it takes awhile for them to admit they like each other to themselves and move to the next step and be partners. It's honestly refreshing in the current novel industry where it seems like everyone goes from attraction to sex in less than a week. While there's nothing wrong with that, I truly enjoyed this change of pace.
The narrative constructed, while semi predictable given the typical romance book formula, was highly enjoyable. Both MCs needed to understand who they were individually and how they were seeing the other before they could get to the end of the book. I really liked that Carter didn't just fawn over her project proposal just because he likes her. He gave her honest feedback as an artist.
Emma's finding herself arc was so well done. It wasn't an overly crazy transformation, it felt just right. Finding the right clothes is 90% of the battle for her to be who she is! I also really liked her pushing herself with work.
Finally, this book was decidedly funny! I found so many tidbits hilarious and legitimately laughed multiple times. Highly enjoyable though a bit long for my liking. Solid 4 stars!
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