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In Walked Trouble
Today is the day. After checking her salty attitude and grinding for years, bartender Remi James is getting the promotion she deserves. Finally, finally, she’ll be approved for a home loan—her only dream since her unstable upbringing. Remi is floating on air. Until she walks into work to discover that the promotion has become a one-time cash bonus, and she’s got competition. Willowy, blonde, ridiculously gorgeous competition.
Maya Marek is supposed to be in Minnesota completing her Nursing Masters. Not back in Seattle, living with her family and getting a job at a local bar. But tuition costs money that Maya doesn’t have. Yet. So, if Remi thinks heated glares will intimidate Maya into giving up, she's dead wrong. The money is Maya's, and no amount of snarky comments, pouty lips, and to-die-for curves will get in her way. Remi and Maya are rivals. That’s why they’re so aware of each other in the tight space behind the bar, and in the walk-in refrigerator� right? But, somewhere between fighting over recipe developments and sharing embarrassing karaoke songs, something shifts. Can Remi and Maya dare to sacrifice their dreams to reach for something new?
A spicy, queer, enemies-to-lovers romance. Fans of Ashley Herring Blake, Casey McQuiston, and Alexis Hall will fall hard for this feel-good romance!
Maya Marek is supposed to be in Minnesota completing her Nursing Masters. Not back in Seattle, living with her family and getting a job at a local bar. But tuition costs money that Maya doesn’t have. Yet. So, if Remi thinks heated glares will intimidate Maya into giving up, she's dead wrong. The money is Maya's, and no amount of snarky comments, pouty lips, and to-die-for curves will get in her way. Remi and Maya are rivals. That’s why they’re so aware of each other in the tight space behind the bar, and in the walk-in refrigerator� right? But, somewhere between fighting over recipe developments and sharing embarrassing karaoke songs, something shifts. Can Remi and Maya dare to sacrifice their dreams to reach for something new?
A spicy, queer, enemies-to-lovers romance. Fans of Ashley Herring Blake, Casey McQuiston, and Alexis Hall will fall hard for this feel-good romance!
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 26, 2024
295 people are currently reading
14.3k people want to read
About the author
Dana Hawkins
7books134followersDana Hawkins is a contemporary romance author of fun and sparkly stories. When not searching the country for the perfect cup of piping hot Americano, she spends her time chasing her kids and rewatching �90s movies. After living for twenty years in Seattle, she recently trekked back to her hometown in Minnesota. She is a huge romance-genre book nerd and borderline obsessed with happy-ever-afters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
April 30, 2025
Average read!
Could not even connect with the couple or their somewhat trying chemistry -- plus the storytelling was mediocre one minute then meh the next..
--: 2.5 stars for the title and writing the book!
Could not even connect with the couple or their somewhat trying chemistry -- plus the storytelling was mediocre one minute then meh the next..
--: 2.5 stars for the title and writing the book!
March 30, 2024
This book definitely has some redeeming qualities, but overall it did not work for me. To start with the pros, as someone who grew up outside of Seattle and loves the city so deeply, I feel the author executed this setting really well. I will say there were some moments that felt spatially confused, like Remi getting on I-5 to travel from South Lake Union to presumably First Hill to get to a hospital, but I can let those slide. Having a good portion of the book set in a restaurant was something I enjoyed. I haven't read any restaurant/cooking focused romances this year and I feel they always have a fun amount of high stress and tension for the characters. Finally, I liked that this book had a protagonist that had been in the foster system as I haven't come across that often in the romance books I've read.
As far as issues I had with this book, the way Harper was written was so strange to me. The way she spoke and acted was reminiscent of a seven year old and not a tweenager/teen. I think a lot of authors struggle with writing the way that kids act and speak and as a result they come off sounding too young. I found the third act conflict of this book truly insufferable. Having the start of their big fight be that they gave up their bonuses for each other was a baffling choice. Then to follow that up with Maya getting angry about Remi revealing to Gabriella that they were dating, was so strange. It's not that these couldn't be conflicts that were executed well it just felt that we were dancing around the real conflict and struggle of their relationship, Maya going back to Minnesota for her Masters. What annoyed me most was that when that conflict was resolved it was done so very quickly in a way that felt anticlimactic. Also I'm sorry it is insane that Maya would give up on pursuing her masters at U of M. As someone currently interviewing for Masters programs, it is so hard to get in and nobody that put in the effort to get into their dream school would drop it. I understand that she was worried about her sister, but come on the girl is a nurse and would know that blood sugar crashes sometimes just happen to people with diabetes. It's not like here sister needs round the clock care all of a sudden they just need to alter their routine a bit. I totally understand Maya's desire to be around family, but come on girl its an eighteen month program it'll fly by. I think it would have been more compelling for Maya to acknowledge her sisters independence and to go back to school. I would have liked for her and Remi to do long distance so that Remi could work through her fear of abandonment and then they can get their happily ever after. Instead it felt like Maya sacrificed a lot of hard work for no reason.
Thanks to the folks over at Storm Publishing for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
As far as issues I had with this book, the way Harper was written was so strange to me. The way she spoke and acted was reminiscent of a seven year old and not a tweenager/teen. I think a lot of authors struggle with writing the way that kids act and speak and as a result they come off sounding too young. I found the third act conflict of this book truly insufferable. Having the start of their big fight be that they gave up their bonuses for each other was a baffling choice. Then to follow that up with Maya getting angry about Remi revealing to Gabriella that they were dating, was so strange. It's not that these couldn't be conflicts that were executed well it just felt that we were dancing around the real conflict and struggle of their relationship, Maya going back to Minnesota for her Masters. What annoyed me most was that when that conflict was resolved it was done so very quickly in a way that felt anticlimactic. Also I'm sorry it is insane that Maya would give up on pursuing her masters at U of M. As someone currently interviewing for Masters programs, it is so hard to get in and nobody that put in the effort to get into their dream school would drop it. I understand that she was worried about her sister, but come on the girl is a nurse and would know that blood sugar crashes sometimes just happen to people with diabetes. It's not like here sister needs round the clock care all of a sudden they just need to alter their routine a bit. I totally understand Maya's desire to be around family, but come on girl its an eighteen month program it'll fly by. I think it would have been more compelling for Maya to acknowledge her sisters independence and to go back to school. I would have liked for her and Remi to do long distance so that Remi could work through her fear of abandonment and then they can get their happily ever after. Instead it felt like Maya sacrificed a lot of hard work for no reason.
Thanks to the folks over at Storm Publishing for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2024
With In Walked Trouble, Dana Hawkins has written another sweetly poignant love story that had me hooked from cover to cover and cemented herself as one of my must-read authors.
Back again are the clever chapter titles (this time featuring names of alcoholic beverages instead of coffee) and well-developed characters with backstories that make you empathize with their actions and root for their futures. The chemistry between Remi and Maya is electric, the spice is steamy, and the angst and ultimate conflict resolution is believable and didn’t feel rushed. As a bonus this book is on KU, so do yourself a favor and read it today!
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher and all opinions are my own.
Back again are the clever chapter titles (this time featuring names of alcoholic beverages instead of coffee) and well-developed characters with backstories that make you empathize with their actions and root for their futures. The chemistry between Remi and Maya is electric, the spice is steamy, and the angst and ultimate conflict resolution is believable and didn’t feel rushed. As a bonus this book is on KU, so do yourself a favor and read it today!
I received an ARC from Netgalley and the publisher and all opinions are my own.
April 6, 2024
3.5/5
In Walked Trouble is an enemies-to-lovers queer romance wrapped in loads of cuteness. I had a great time reading this. The conflict felt genuine and was understandable. I love when romance books are dual POV and this one was. The back stories as well as the arcs of both the characters were equally well developed. It's very readable and I had a lot of fun reading it. The audiobook for this one is also really good. So i recommend that.
Thanks to the author, publisher and netgalley for the e-arc.
In Walked Trouble is an enemies-to-lovers queer romance wrapped in loads of cuteness. I had a great time reading this. The conflict felt genuine and was understandable. I love when romance books are dual POV and this one was. The back stories as well as the arcs of both the characters were equally well developed. It's very readable and I had a lot of fun reading it. The audiobook for this one is also really good. So i recommend that.
Thanks to the author, publisher and netgalley for the e-arc.
July 22, 2024
Really enjoyed this book - stand alone although (read the small print) number 2 in the series! Excellent writing, caught the angst of the Foster Child well. Impressive. Recommended.
April 8, 2024
A rivals to lovers Sapphic romance between two bartenders competing for the same prize. I enjoyed this one but more for the great disability rep in the one MC's sister who had type one diabetes than the actual romance which fell a little flat for me and I really didn't enjoy the third act break-up! Recommended for fans of authors like Meryl Wilsner. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
Steam level: open door
Steam level: open door
March 27, 2024
It took a really long time for me to warm up to this story. First, the competition premise didn’t make much sense to me. Remi James has put four years and her all into a bartending job and feels like she is finally going to get the big promotion and salaried spot that she deserves. But instead her boss changes it to a cash payout bonus and puts a new hire, Maya Marek, in as her competition. Maya is planning to go away to get her master degree in a few months so why would you upset a multi year employee with a competition and why invest in someone who will be leaving, this makes zero business sense. Of course both could use the money. Secondly, I don’t drink so all the bar beverage mixing and creating cocktails was not interesting to me. And lastly Remi is difficult to like.
Of course both have their back stories. One lost her dad as a teen, the other grew up in foster care. If I hadn’t read and enjoyed the author’s previous novel, Not In the Plan (Jan 2024) I may have stopped reading. Around the fifty percent point I started connecting more with the characters. Maya is especially sweet and willing to make compromises even when Remi pushes her away. And Remi really needs some good therapy.
This eventually is a nice workplace romance but I wouldn’t call them enemies as within a few days they are working well together. I think this book just didn’t connect as much story wise for me. Others clearly have enjoyed it more.
Of course both have their back stories. One lost her dad as a teen, the other grew up in foster care. If I hadn’t read and enjoyed the author’s previous novel, Not In the Plan (Jan 2024) I may have stopped reading. Around the fifty percent point I started connecting more with the characters. Maya is especially sweet and willing to make compromises even when Remi pushes her away. And Remi really needs some good therapy.
This eventually is a nice workplace romance but I wouldn’t call them enemies as within a few days they are working well together. I think this book just didn’t connect as much story wise for me. Others clearly have enjoyed it more.
March 21, 2024
5 ⭐️ Ugh my heart!! In Walked Trouble is a sapphic enemies-to-lovers romance that will have you laughing and feeling all the feels. The characters and dialogue absolutely drive this story; the main two characters (Remi and Maya) are well-developed, and their alternating perspectives strike the perfect balance between current events and providing necessary backstory to better understand and relate them.
Another huge win in this book for me is the accurate type 1 diabetes representation. As a T1D myself, I get so excited when diabetes is correctly portrayed in media (as it so rarely is). It’s clear that this author has a connection to type 1 diabetes or otherwise did their research and for that I’m so grateful!! Though it’s certainly not a focal point of the book, it made this T1D smile.
My heart feels so full and warm after finishing this treasure of a story. Do yourself a favor and add this to your TBR, as it’s set to release on March 26, 2024!
Huge thank you to NetGalley, Dana Hawkins, and Storm Publishing for the free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Another huge win in this book for me is the accurate type 1 diabetes representation. As a T1D myself, I get so excited when diabetes is correctly portrayed in media (as it so rarely is). It’s clear that this author has a connection to type 1 diabetes or otherwise did their research and for that I’m so grateful!! Though it’s certainly not a focal point of the book, it made this T1D smile.
My heart feels so full and warm after finishing this treasure of a story. Do yourself a favor and add this to your TBR, as it’s set to release on March 26, 2024!
Huge thank you to NetGalley, Dana Hawkins, and Storm Publishing for the free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
March 27, 2024
This was an engaging rivals to lovers sapphic romance that had 2 traumatized FMCs. Maya was the ultimate perfectionist, trying to control everything in her life. Remi was grumpy and guarded, chasing a sense of home she didn’t have when she was growing up.
90% of this book was cozy and low stakes, with one instance of something high stakes happening. Both MCs had a supportive friend that helped them through their own bull.
I wanted to give this 5 stars, but the grovel and reparations were sorely lacking near the end of the book. I wanted to see more of the moments that came after dealing with their fight.
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: hospitalization, grief, foster care, child abandonment
90% of this book was cozy and low stakes, with one instance of something high stakes happening. Both MCs had a supportive friend that helped them through their own bull.
I wanted to give this 5 stars, but the grovel and reparations were sorely lacking near the end of the book. I wanted to see more of the moments that came after dealing with their fight.
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: hospitalization, grief, foster care, child abandonment
January 21, 2025
Oh how I love messy lesbians but messy lesbians with a backstory? Yes please and thank you. The amount of emotions Dana manages to pack in without letting it drag down the romance is so impressive. Also love the characters, their rivals to lovers was the perfect amount of give and take. Highly recommend.
March 3, 2024
3.5
First of all, I must thank NetGalley and Storm Publishing for letting me read this book beforehand.
Overall, I did enjoy this book. The characters felt real and sincere, with flaws and depth, and I found the narration light and entertaining. I liked how the chemistry between Maya and Remi built, a slow burn enemies to lovers if that makes sense? As an asexual person I prefer the tension building than the explicit scenes per se, so I did enjoy that said tension to the fullest.
Regarding the characters, I liked how the past of both protagonists is covered. It is done with understanding and patience, although I would have liked Maya to be a little more assertive. During the arguments they have, it is always Maya who has to give in, even in the fight towards the end of the book.
Aspects I didn't like so much were the denouement and the narrative. The denouement felt rushed and I got a bit frustrated with how the whole thing was handled. Some parts of it felt a bit too over the top or unnecessary. Also, I have the same problem as before, Maya is always the one who has to give in and reach out Remi. On the other hand, I found the narrative too obvious in the sense that most things are given chewed up. Things that could be implied implicitly through devices like behaviors and dialogue are explained directly from the narrative and in this case took me out of the story a bit.
All in all, I found it a quick and entertaining read. I wonder if at some point Dana will write Sophie's story!
First of all, I must thank NetGalley and Storm Publishing for letting me read this book beforehand.
Overall, I did enjoy this book. The characters felt real and sincere, with flaws and depth, and I found the narration light and entertaining. I liked how the chemistry between Maya and Remi built, a slow burn enemies to lovers if that makes sense? As an asexual person I prefer the tension building than the explicit scenes per se, so I did enjoy that said tension to the fullest.
Regarding the characters, I liked how the past of both protagonists is covered. It is done with understanding and patience, although I would have liked Maya to be a little more assertive. During the arguments they have, it is always Maya who has to give in, even in the fight towards the end of the book.
Aspects I didn't like so much were the denouement and the narrative. The denouement felt rushed and I got a bit frustrated with how the whole thing was handled. Some parts of it felt a bit too over the top or unnecessary. Also, I have the same problem as before, Maya is always the one who has to give in and reach out Remi. On the other hand, I found the narrative too obvious in the sense that most things are given chewed up. Things that could be implied implicitly through devices like behaviors and dialogue are explained directly from the narrative and in this case took me out of the story a bit.
All in all, I found it a quick and entertaining read. I wonder if at some point Dana will write Sophie's story!
February 14, 2024
Overall 3
Spice 2
This was the second book by this author. Set in Seattle, it's about a woman wanting to make her family proud and believes the only way to do that is to own her own place and get the lead bartender position. Love is the last thing on her mind. In walks the women that shakes all her plans up. What starts as a enemies at works starts a beautiful friendship. This relationship develops faster in this book than the first book, so the story seemed rushed. There was a third act breakup but in the end they get the HEA.
Tropes
Bartender
Enemies to lovers
Sapphic
Spice 2
This was the second book by this author. Set in Seattle, it's about a woman wanting to make her family proud and believes the only way to do that is to own her own place and get the lead bartender position. Love is the last thing on her mind. In walks the women that shakes all her plans up. What starts as a enemies at works starts a beautiful friendship. This relationship develops faster in this book than the first book, so the story seemed rushed. There was a third act breakup but in the end they get the HEA.
Tropes
Bartender
Enemies to lovers
Sapphic
March 15, 2024
This book, unfortunately, did not hit for me. It felt like I was reading a first draft. The POV’s were confusing and frankly inconsistent, and the characters had nothing in common besides trauma bonding. But I am glad I read it! Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
June 29, 2024
3.5⭐️
I had a bit of trouble getting into the story because the stakes weren’t high enough for me, and let’s be honest, in Remi’s shoes, if my boss was even considering giving a bonus to a new bartender when I had worked my ass off for four years, I would quit! But after getting to know the characters, I was invested. The enemies-to-lovers trope added some spice without being dragged out for too long. They are both endearing with difficult backgrounds and both chase something to feel complete. Remi was my favorite character. I really understood her need for stability and the way she fights to have a home until she realizes home can be someone and not just a roof. It was touching, and her character growth was satisfying.Maya's character was really likable too, and I was glad I could see diabetes type 1 representation with Maya's sister.
The third-act breakup was legitimate and very understandable given Remi's backstory. The poor girl would need some therapy. But the sequence of fights before the breakup was a bit too much for me and frustrating for me to read.
But overall, this was a well-paced and sweet story to read.
I had a bit of trouble getting into the story because the stakes weren’t high enough for me, and let’s be honest, in Remi’s shoes, if my boss was even considering giving a bonus to a new bartender when I had worked my ass off for four years, I would quit! But after getting to know the characters, I was invested. The enemies-to-lovers trope added some spice without being dragged out for too long. They are both endearing with difficult backgrounds and both chase something to feel complete. Remi was my favorite character. I really understood her need for stability and the way she fights to have a home until she realizes home can be someone and not just a roof. It was touching, and her character growth was satisfying.Maya's character was really likable too, and I was glad I could see diabetes type 1 representation with Maya's sister.
The third-act breakup was legitimate and very understandable given Remi's backstory. The poor girl would need some therapy. But the sequence of fights before the breakup was a bit too much for me and frustrating for me to read.
But overall, this was a well-paced and sweet story to read.
October 1, 2024
I'm frustrated.
First, the good. The bartending scenes were fun. Maya's and Remi's love was so pure and sweet and made me feel super happy through the camping trip. I was on board. Full steam ahead. Maya's family dynamic was solid. The backstories of Remi and Maya were well-developed. And the transition from enemies to lovers was handled smoothly.
Now, the frustration. I can rarely stomach a third-act breakup. They are not for me. It's an overdone trope that stops all character development. Really brings the story to a grinding halt. Sprinkle in miscommunication, and I start seeing red. The last 30 pages of this book were such a struggle when I was cruising along prior to that section.
The breakup happens too late, and the climb out of the pit Maya and Remi were thrown into isn't believable.
The epilogue seemed like a random grab-bag that left most of the plot threads unresolved. And these were plot threads I spent 300 pages getting invested in.
In the end, I'm left disappointed because the first 2/3 of this book put butterflies in my tummy. And then I watched the final 30 pages trample them all.
First, the good. The bartending scenes were fun. Maya's and Remi's love was so pure and sweet and made me feel super happy through the camping trip. I was on board. Full steam ahead. Maya's family dynamic was solid. The backstories of Remi and Maya were well-developed. And the transition from enemies to lovers was handled smoothly.
Now, the frustration. I can rarely stomach a third-act breakup. They are not for me. It's an overdone trope that stops all character development. Really brings the story to a grinding halt. Sprinkle in miscommunication, and I start seeing red. The last 30 pages of this book were such a struggle when I was cruising along prior to that section.
The breakup happens too late, and the climb out of the pit Maya and Remi were thrown into isn't believable.
The epilogue seemed like a random grab-bag that left most of the plot threads unresolved. And these were plot threads I spent 300 pages getting invested in.
In the end, I'm left disappointed because the first 2/3 of this book put butterflies in my tummy. And then I watched the final 30 pages trample them all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2024
This was such a fun LGBTQ+ book for Pride month! The story follows two women as they compete against each other for a large cash bonus at work, and fall in love as they work. It had mild hints of enemy to lovers, and hints of spice too!
I enjoyed the character development and how well their backstories were maintained. Remi is a badass who protects her heart of stone as a former foster child who has no one; while Maya had a healthy and happy childhood and loves fiercely. They balanced each other out perfectly and led to a well rounded love story.
Highly recommend for a fast read!
I enjoyed the character development and how well their backstories were maintained. Remi is a badass who protects her heart of stone as a former foster child who has no one; while Maya had a healthy and happy childhood and loves fiercely. They balanced each other out perfectly and led to a well rounded love story.
Highly recommend for a fast read!
Read
March 2, 2024In Walked Trouble is an Adult Romance. It’s the sister novel of Not In The Plan but can be read as a standalone. Along that vein, it was so fun to see Ben again and a small cameo from Charlie and Mack.
The story is dual pov and follows Remi and Maya. Remi has been working at Nueve’s for four years and is finally getting the promotion she’s been working towards, except there is no promotion. Her boss hired a new bartender and they are competing for a cash bonus.
Remi wants the money so she can buy a home and have roots for the first time in her life. Maya is desperate for the cash because she’s racked up quite the student loan bill and is attending a masters program in the fall.
While Remi and Maya get off on the wrong foot and really embrace their role as rivals for the cash prize, their relationship slowly turns to more. The characters deal with some heavy topics/trauma both from their past and present, but the author works hard to keep the tone of the novel on the lighter end and to really highlight queer joy.
Publication date: March 26th 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for a copy of this eARC.
The story is dual pov and follows Remi and Maya. Remi has been working at Nueve’s for four years and is finally getting the promotion she’s been working towards, except there is no promotion. Her boss hired a new bartender and they are competing for a cash bonus.
Remi wants the money so she can buy a home and have roots for the first time in her life. Maya is desperate for the cash because she’s racked up quite the student loan bill and is attending a masters program in the fall.
While Remi and Maya get off on the wrong foot and really embrace their role as rivals for the cash prize, their relationship slowly turns to more. The characters deal with some heavy topics/trauma both from their past and present, but the author works hard to keep the tone of the novel on the lighter end and to really highlight queer joy.
Publication date: March 26th 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for a copy of this eARC.
March 17, 2024
2.5 stars rounded down. The first half of this book was really good and the last half just sucked. It is not really enemies to lovers which was also disappointing. They’re work place rivals for a couple chapters and then get along perfectly. Remi was toxic as fuck and needs therapy not a girlfriend.
June 4, 2024
I loved this book.
The best part of it :
- Both Remi and Maya are amazing characters I got attached to. I loved their personalities, their stories and their struggles.
- I liked most of the writing. Especially their struggles like Remi struggling to feel included and loved.
- The side characters also were all likeable ! I loved Maya's family and also Remi's.
- I loved the fact that Maya decided to apply to the closest University. It felt like the best choice for her and made me happy.
The things I didn't like :
- The drama at the end was too much and felt a bit forced. Like Gabriella being mad at the fact that they gave up the bonus and took out her choice? WTF ? I really don't see a reason to be mad. Plus, the whole thing about '' I don't want to be pitied '' is a shitty reason to get mad at someone and start a whole drama about it. It really felt forced on the characters.
- The pity thing was a big thing and I really don't understand it. There was a whole chapter of conversation between the MCs and the author basically just said the things not to say because they were pity related and proceeded to make the character say the right things. It made it feel really unnatural. Who actually hears someone saying they've been in foster care their whole life and look like they're '' reading a grocery list '' ? It just felt emotionless to me.
I know about shitty situations and I've been seeing everywhere lately everyone disgusted by ''pity behavior'' and I just don't understand it. Like... Don't you know what empathy is ?
- Also, kinda sad that they simply didn't split the bonus. This was such the obvious best thing to do.
But overall I really liked this story. I had a great time reading this book !
The best part of it :
- Both Remi and Maya are amazing characters I got attached to. I loved their personalities, their stories and their struggles.
- I liked most of the writing. Especially their struggles like Remi struggling to feel included and loved.
- The side characters also were all likeable ! I loved Maya's family and also Remi's.
- I loved the fact that Maya decided to apply to the closest University. It felt like the best choice for her and made me happy.
The things I didn't like :
- The drama at the end was too much and felt a bit forced. Like Gabriella being mad at the fact that they gave up the bonus and took out her choice? WTF ? I really don't see a reason to be mad. Plus, the whole thing about '' I don't want to be pitied '' is a shitty reason to get mad at someone and start a whole drama about it. It really felt forced on the characters.
- The pity thing was a big thing and I really don't understand it. There was a whole chapter of conversation between the MCs and the author basically just said the things not to say because they were pity related and proceeded to make the character say the right things. It made it feel really unnatural. Who actually hears someone saying they've been in foster care their whole life and look like they're '' reading a grocery list '' ? It just felt emotionless to me.
I know about shitty situations and I've been seeing everywhere lately everyone disgusted by ''pity behavior'' and I just don't understand it. Like... Don't you know what empathy is ?
- Also, kinda sad that they simply didn't split the bonus. This was such the obvious best thing to do.
But overall I really liked this story. I had a great time reading this book !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2024
4/5⭐️
I love Dana and her books! They're always so sweet and fun and a lil spicy!
The plot is well constructed and understandable, the main characters are relatable and amazing, the side characters always add to the storyline!
Remi and Maya start their story as work enemies. They're fighting for the bartending bonus while also fighting the demons in their heads and ghosts from their pasts.
Both strong and independent women who had to grow up early, with walls 10ft up around their hearts. Slowly, each of them start to make cracks in the other's heart and what started as a desperate competition for money turns into something more.
The trust and loyalty building between them was so lovely to witness! Throughout the months, Maya and Remi start to find themselves, get a sense of belonging and peace that was missing in their lives!
If you love some feel good, low conflict books, I 100% recommend Dana Hawkins books!
Couldn't forget to shoutout the clever chapter names!! Loved it in Not in the Plan and love it here!!
Thank you so much Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!💜
I love Dana and her books! They're always so sweet and fun and a lil spicy!
The plot is well constructed and understandable, the main characters are relatable and amazing, the side characters always add to the storyline!
Remi and Maya start their story as work enemies. They're fighting for the bartending bonus while also fighting the demons in their heads and ghosts from their pasts.
Both strong and independent women who had to grow up early, with walls 10ft up around their hearts. Slowly, each of them start to make cracks in the other's heart and what started as a desperate competition for money turns into something more.
The trust and loyalty building between them was so lovely to witness! Throughout the months, Maya and Remi start to find themselves, get a sense of belonging and peace that was missing in their lives!
If you love some feel good, low conflict books, I 100% recommend Dana Hawkins books!
Couldn't forget to shoutout the clever chapter names!! Loved it in Not in the Plan and love it here!!
Thank you so much Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!💜
March 5, 2024
Rating: 3.5
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Genre: Sapphic romcom
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Tropes: enemies to lovers, found family
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Main Concepts: Remi really wants to buy a house and to do so, she needs to get promoted. Her boss, Gabriella, calls Remi into her office and in hopes that it’s the news Remi finally wants, she calls her loan officer to tell him she’ll have the money soon. In walks Maya, the new bartender that Gabriella hires to shake things up and bring in new sales, becomes way more than Remi could have ever imagined.
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Spice level: 1/5
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Overall thoughts:
Overall, I do think this book is a cute sapphic read and does have a lot of character growth and depth. Remi and Maya are super cute together and really balance each other out. On the other hand, I do feel like the pacing was fast and somethings were kinda of just thrown together. The time jumps were a little unexpected to me and I would have enjoyed the book more without them. I do recommend this book for the cute found family trope and some of the chemistry though.
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Genre: Sapphic romcom
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Tropes: enemies to lovers, found family
.
Main Concepts: Remi really wants to buy a house and to do so, she needs to get promoted. Her boss, Gabriella, calls Remi into her office and in hopes that it’s the news Remi finally wants, she calls her loan officer to tell him she’ll have the money soon. In walks Maya, the new bartender that Gabriella hires to shake things up and bring in new sales, becomes way more than Remi could have ever imagined.
.
Spice level: 1/5
.
Overall thoughts:
Overall, I do think this book is a cute sapphic read and does have a lot of character growth and depth. Remi and Maya are super cute together and really balance each other out. On the other hand, I do feel like the pacing was fast and somethings were kinda of just thrown together. The time jumps were a little unexpected to me and I would have enjoyed the book more without them. I do recommend this book for the cute found family trope and some of the chemistry though.
February 16, 2024
Love love love Dana Hawkins' romances! This is the second book of hers I read in just a few weeks and I was hooked once again. Her fast-paced writing and deeply-layered characters kept me glued to the pages of In Walked Trouble, eager to read each development of Maya and Remi's rivals-to-lovers story.
Their bartenders antics were brilliant and funny, their times with Maya's family and with Gabrielle heart-warming... and their late-evening conversations about their pasts, their fears and their hopes were so beautiful to read - they were truly the foundation of their relationship.
One of my favourite quotes is:
What did happiness look like in the now, not after graduation� not when life settled� not when she “had time.� What did it look like even temporarily? Was temporary happiness worth potential heartache?
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for giving me the chance to read this novel in advance in exchange for an honest review.
Their bartenders antics were brilliant and funny, their times with Maya's family and with Gabrielle heart-warming... and their late-evening conversations about their pasts, their fears and their hopes were so beautiful to read - they were truly the foundation of their relationship.
One of my favourite quotes is:
What did happiness look like in the now, not after graduation� not when life settled� not when she “had time.� What did it look like even temporarily? Was temporary happiness worth potential heartache?
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for giving me the chance to read this novel in advance in exchange for an honest review.
April 14, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I was immediately excited to read this book when seeing it was set in Seattle, a beautiful city close to my heart. There were some descriptions throughout this book that made me feel so homesick for the city, and I absolutely loved that!
This story alternates between following Remi and Maja, although still told in 3rd person. In chapter one, I was Team Remi all the way, but after a few chapters of getting to know the characters, I liked both of them.
Another thing I appreciated was the formatting - specifically, that each chapter is numbered AND has a funny title that's bartender/drinks themed!
This story gave definite romcom vibes, with rivalry between the two women that turned to attraction that turned to love—but not without bumps in the road! All in all, I found this to be a cute sapphic romance novel and I'd definitely be open to reading more books in this series! ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5.
I was immediately excited to read this book when seeing it was set in Seattle, a beautiful city close to my heart. There were some descriptions throughout this book that made me feel so homesick for the city, and I absolutely loved that!
This story alternates between following Remi and Maja, although still told in 3rd person. In chapter one, I was Team Remi all the way, but after a few chapters of getting to know the characters, I liked both of them.
Another thing I appreciated was the formatting - specifically, that each chapter is numbered AND has a funny title that's bartender/drinks themed!
This story gave definite romcom vibes, with rivalry between the two women that turned to attraction that turned to love—but not without bumps in the road! All in all, I found this to be a cute sapphic romance novel and I'd definitely be open to reading more books in this series! ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5.
February 18, 2024
Oh my goshhhh. I’ve never wanted to give a character a big loving squeeze quite as much as I wanted to bear hug Remi throughout this whole story!
Maya and Remi are sassy enemies, but an even sweeter couple. Both of these characters are struggling with life in their own right, but when their paths cross and money is on the line... things get real.
Their slow burn was so, so adorable and loving (eventually).
I would love for both of these characters to seek out a little therapy, together and as individuals, but I was (am) rooting for them all the way through.
It was great to revisit Mack, Charlie, and Ben from Not In The Plan also! In Walked Trouble was a wonderful series follow-up (or stand-alone, if you’d rather).
This story is a charming exploration of family, found family, compassion, and surrendering control. Great read!
Maya and Remi are sassy enemies, but an even sweeter couple. Both of these characters are struggling with life in their own right, but when their paths cross and money is on the line... things get real.
Their slow burn was so, so adorable and loving (eventually).
I would love for both of these characters to seek out a little therapy, together and as individuals, but I was (am) rooting for them all the way through.
It was great to revisit Mack, Charlie, and Ben from Not In The Plan also! In Walked Trouble was a wonderful series follow-up (or stand-alone, if you’d rather).
This story is a charming exploration of family, found family, compassion, and surrendering control. Great read!
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February 20, 2024DNF at 22%
There was nothing about this book that made me want to keep reading. The characters were bland and annoying and nothing really happened plot wise. Remi was mean and entitled and her only motivation was that she� really wanted to buy a house?? I’m sure this is elaborated on later in the book but without an explanation of why this is so important to her I had a hard time rooting for her. Maya had better motivations for wanting the money but her character still felt a little flat and her actions felt immature.
I also wanted more from the setting - this book takes place in Seattle but despite name dropping some landmarks and neighborhoods it felt like it could have taken place anywhere.
I’ve only seen positive reviews so maybe this book gets better but I just couldn’t bring myself to keep reading
Thanks to NetGalley and Storm for the ARC!
There was nothing about this book that made me want to keep reading. The characters were bland and annoying and nothing really happened plot wise. Remi was mean and entitled and her only motivation was that she� really wanted to buy a house?? I’m sure this is elaborated on later in the book but without an explanation of why this is so important to her I had a hard time rooting for her. Maya had better motivations for wanting the money but her character still felt a little flat and her actions felt immature.
I also wanted more from the setting - this book takes place in Seattle but despite name dropping some landmarks and neighborhoods it felt like it could have taken place anywhere.
I’ve only seen positive reviews so maybe this book gets better but I just couldn’t bring myself to keep reading
Thanks to NetGalley and Storm for the ARC!
February 22, 2024
Overall, I thought this book was fine. I liked that each chapter was named after a drink; that was cute. It was an easy read, with alternating POVs to move the story along. The spice was decent, though there were a couple of fade to black moments despite the spice itself being pretty descriptive. I liked Maya a lot, and I really really liked all the side characters. Remi...I found...difficult. She was an abrasive character who was deeply flawed and in need of serious therapy, which is absolutely fine if there is then growth and that realization by the character by the end of the book. But she never fully got there for me and the "love will conquer all" end felt too cliche. The competition also wrapped up with minimal flair, despite being a central part of the beginning of the story. It was also advertised as enemies to lovers but it was more work place rivals than a true enemies to lovers so that bothered me as well.
March 17, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for access to this novel. I really enjoyed both FMCs and their perspectives. This competitors to lovers story pitted Remi (who has been bartending for years at Gabriella's bar) against Maya (a new hire and the daughter of Gabriella's friend Laney) in a battle to win a bartending competition put on by their boss. I loved how Remi's idea of family grew in the novel from her roommate and foster sibling Ben, her boss Gabriella, and parental safe space figure Darius to include Maya and her family. Although there was quite a bit of trauma bonding and this contributed to the conflict in the novel, I wasn't frustrated by the conflict and enjoyed the ending a lot!
March 4, 2024
I would like to thank Storm Publishing, NetGalley, and Dana Hawkins for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This book was cute! In my opinion it was more of work place rivals instead of enemies to lovers which was a bit off for me. It was a very simple/easy read and very enjoyable/cute at times! Maya in my opinion was adorable! I felt for her and everything going on with her family.. Remi really bothered me at times.. she just had so many deep rooted issues within her and never got the help she desperately needed.. the ending was very predictable and nothing special. The chapters being written after drinks was pretty cool!
2.5 rounded to 3 stars!
This book was cute! In my opinion it was more of work place rivals instead of enemies to lovers which was a bit off for me. It was a very simple/easy read and very enjoyable/cute at times! Maya in my opinion was adorable! I felt for her and everything going on with her family.. Remi really bothered me at times.. she just had so many deep rooted issues within her and never got the help she desperately needed.. the ending was very predictable and nothing special. The chapters being written after drinks was pretty cool!
2.5 rounded to 3 stars!
March 4, 2024
This book is cute and I liked it. The characters are deep, their traumas very well written, and the chemistry between them is really hot. I love slow burn and I love enemies to lovers (also here it’s not an enemies to lovers but a rivals to lovers, please tagged the books properly!) and this book left me satisfied in that way.
But there was something off for me. Remi never get the psychological help she needed and Maya is always the one who had to resolve things between them. The final resolution felt a little bit rush, but in the end the book was cute. It’s an enjoyable reading.
Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the arc!
But there was something off for me. Remi never get the psychological help she needed and Maya is always the one who had to resolve things between them. The final resolution felt a little bit rush, but in the end the book was cute. It’s an enjoyable reading.
Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the arc!
March 26, 2024
This was a fast heartfelt lesbian romance that will make you giggle and cry. Was a little too quirky and millennial feeling at times but Maya and Remi had such great chemistry that I could push through. They both feel really fleshed out and their flaws were on display like Remi's wall around her heart and Maya's control over everything in her life. I felt like I was on their emotional roller coaster with them. But both girls figured out that life doesn't always go according to plans and you end up falling in love with the competition.
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