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No One Does It Like You
College sweethearts reunite to restore more than just an old inn in this new romance by Katie Shepard, author of Sweeten the Deal. When’s the best time to tell your ex that you want them back? Probably not in the middle of a Category 3 hurricane. But when Broadway actor Tom Wilczewski is about to dive into the floodwaters to rescue his co-lead, he calls the ex-wife he hasn’t seen in ten years to swear he still loves her and ask for a chance to make things right. Two months later, Rose Kelly is tired of seeing pictures of her ex-husband Tom rescuing Hollywood darling Boyd Kellagher. Not that she’s jealous. Of course not. She’s far too busy taking care of her elderly aunt and worrying about the storm damage to the family B&B on Martha’s Vineyard to miss the love of her life. But after belatedly hearing Tom’s voicemail, Rosie asks him to follow through on his promises for once by helping her fix the inn. Thinking this is the perfect way to win her back, Tom agrees. When they get there, things are…less than ideal. Rosie expected the inn to be in better shape. She expected it to have more beds. And she expected more help from her actual family—not from Tom and the rest of his Broadway cast. But Rosie begins to wonder if maybe the life she expected isn’t the one she really wants. If she and Tom can repair the inn together, can they possibly repair the damage to the relationship they both thought was long gone?
384 pages, Paperback
Published September 3, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
August 29, 2024
2.5 stars. RTC!
December 5, 2024
it’s pretty rare for me to hate both main characters but here we are
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October 16, 2024DNF 30%
Why would she ask Tom to help her when he doesn’t have a handy bone in his body? I love a good second chance romance, but this was not it for me.
Why would she ask Tom to help her when he doesn’t have a handy bone in his body? I love a good second chance romance, but this was not it for me.
August 31, 2024
This wasn't my favorite second chance dual POV kind of romance but it had a unique premise in which college sweethearts, Tom and Rose (Rosie), who have been divorced for ten years try to reconcile after a category 3 hurricane uproots both their lives.
Bisexual actor Tom's life flashed before his eyes when he gets caught in the hurricane and he vows to try to repair his relationship with Rose - the one big regret of his life was letting her go. Rose meanwhile is stuck trying to repair her family's inn in the aftermath of the storm and Tom volunteers to help her with the renovations.
Throw in some of Tom's castmates, Rosie's elderly ill aunt and Tom's ex boyfriend, mega movie star, Boyd Kellagher and things definitely get out of hand. But everyone bands together to help the couple and they do eventually find their way back to one another.
While I liked the narration by Savannah Peachwood, I wasn't a huge fan of the two main characters as a couple and struggled to buy into their second chance romance. Just an okay read for me and not one I would go out of my way to recommend. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
Steam level: a couple open door scenes
Bisexual actor Tom's life flashed before his eyes when he gets caught in the hurricane and he vows to try to repair his relationship with Rose - the one big regret of his life was letting her go. Rose meanwhile is stuck trying to repair her family's inn in the aftermath of the storm and Tom volunteers to help her with the renovations.
Throw in some of Tom's castmates, Rosie's elderly ill aunt and Tom's ex boyfriend, mega movie star, Boyd Kellagher and things definitely get out of hand. But everyone bands together to help the couple and they do eventually find their way back to one another.
While I liked the narration by Savannah Peachwood, I wasn't a huge fan of the two main characters as a couple and struggled to buy into their second chance romance. Just an okay read for me and not one I would go out of my way to recommend. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
Steam level: a couple open door scenes
September 10, 2024
This book was so bad, I couldn’t get past chapter 6. It’s worse than terrible. It’s not funny, it’s not sweet, and the gay boyfriend trope goes on and on, it was so annoying. They were both 34 year old immature kids. And the ‘eat the rich’ just was the icing on this crap cake. The fact that the ARC reviews are all 5 stars and real readers have 1 and 2 stars, tells me that the 3.5 rating that this book has is way too high.
October 11, 2024
3 stars ⭐️ — This one was a sweet surprise. I was finally pulled out of my book slump that seemed never ending and I have Katie Shepard to thank for that.
No One Does It Like You had such an interesting premise filled with the sweetest internal thoughts and moments that I couldn't help but smile at. There were many pragmatic insights as to the nuances of long term relationships that I found incredibly refreshing.
Rose, the FMC, definitely acted overly naive at times and could've had most of her questions answered if she'd just asked, but that's one of the classic irritants you typically run in to when trying to prolong a story. Tom's sweetness and longing to change for the better made up for it though. This story would have benefited from being cut by 50 or so pages as well.
I'm very glad I picked this one up on a whim. I wasn't aware Katie Shepard was the author of Bear with Me Now which I've been highly anticipating, but even more so now that I know I'm a fan of her writing. I'm looking forward to being a completist of her work.
Quotes worth remembering 🌩️💌🏹✨
• "You look good too," he quickly said. "You still look like my wife."
• Remember when we thought we'd die holding hands in the same nursing home? Ah, yes, we were young once, weren't we?
• Do you remember when we were in love, Rosie?
• Tom's music was supposed to have been the soundtrack to her life.
• "Why do you think? You were over here." He gave her a tired smile. "And I wanted to be over here with you."
• Regret wasn't something to fear. Regret had pointed his way home. Regret had brought him here.
• (...) I'm going to love you all the days of my life."
• No, love me, please. Just do it in a way she might notice. Do it in a way that mattered. Say it and make me believe it.
• He'd always known he loved Rosie like he loved breathing. Knowing he wanted her was the easy part—the hard part was knowing how to have her.
• (...) and, once again, she'd told him to go when she didn't mean it at all.
No One Does It Like You had such an interesting premise filled with the sweetest internal thoughts and moments that I couldn't help but smile at. There were many pragmatic insights as to the nuances of long term relationships that I found incredibly refreshing.
Rose, the FMC, definitely acted overly naive at times and could've had most of her questions answered if she'd just asked, but that's one of the classic irritants you typically run in to when trying to prolong a story. Tom's sweetness and longing to change for the better made up for it though. This story would have benefited from being cut by 50 or so pages as well.
I'm very glad I picked this one up on a whim. I wasn't aware Katie Shepard was the author of Bear with Me Now which I've been highly anticipating, but even more so now that I know I'm a fan of her writing. I'm looking forward to being a completist of her work.
Quotes worth remembering 🌩️💌🏹✨
• "You look good too," he quickly said. "You still look like my wife."
• Remember when we thought we'd die holding hands in the same nursing home? Ah, yes, we were young once, weren't we?
• Do you remember when we were in love, Rosie?
• Tom's music was supposed to have been the soundtrack to her life.
• "Why do you think? You were over here." He gave her a tired smile. "And I wanted to be over here with you."
• Regret wasn't something to fear. Regret had pointed his way home. Regret had brought him here.
• (...) I'm going to love you all the days of my life."
• No, love me, please. Just do it in a way she might notice. Do it in a way that mattered. Say it and make me believe it.
• He'd always known he loved Rosie like he loved breathing. Knowing he wanted her was the easy part—the hard part was knowing how to have her.
• (...) and, once again, she'd told him to go when she didn't mean it at all.
September 7, 2024
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley, Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I enjoyed No One Does It Like You even though it wasn't too realistic. The main characters Rosie and Tom were likeable. They are speaking the first time in 10 years. Tom reached out to her when he thought he might die. Rosie returned his call to see if he would help her when no one else would. They aren't perfect people but they do care about others.
Tom and Rosie were married 10 years ago and he never really wanted to divorce. He just didn't understand what Rosie wanted or needed. Now he is determined to have the women he has always loved back in his life.
Rosie is trying to help her elderly aunt, Max, repair the inn after the hurricane. The Inn has been the place where the family always gathered for holidays and events. Rosie had her wedding there. Unfortunately, other than Max, Rosie's family are crap. They just want to sell and aren't interested in helping Rosie or Max or having family events.
Tom is going to take it on and no matter what, show Rosie he will be there and be what she needs. Things are a huge mess, really a disaster. Rosie with her allergies and asthma can't really do the work and Tom isn't really experienced in construction. Her family won't help with anything. I was especially appalled by the cousin who managed the property ( and is paid to do it) hadn't done a thing even to remove foodstuffs there after the hurricane and just left them to rot. I wouldn't be letting them manage the property in the future.
Tom, wants help from a female actor who is good with design, and reluctantly lets other people from his upcoming Broadway play, come and help. They care about Tom and if he cares about Rosie they will help. Boyd is a quite well-known star and he brings "groupies" who are surprisingly helpful, along with others who want his star to shine on them.
Even after things are renovated, her family wants Max to sell to pay for her care. They expect Rosie to figure it out, Max's care and finances, and sell the inn so they don't have to do anything. Tom and Rosie have different ideas and I loved them.
Review copy was received from NetGalley, Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I enjoyed No One Does It Like You even though it wasn't too realistic. The main characters Rosie and Tom were likeable. They are speaking the first time in 10 years. Tom reached out to her when he thought he might die. Rosie returned his call to see if he would help her when no one else would. They aren't perfect people but they do care about others.
Tom and Rosie were married 10 years ago and he never really wanted to divorce. He just didn't understand what Rosie wanted or needed. Now he is determined to have the women he has always loved back in his life.
Rosie is trying to help her elderly aunt, Max, repair the inn after the hurricane. The Inn has been the place where the family always gathered for holidays and events. Rosie had her wedding there. Unfortunately, other than Max, Rosie's family are crap. They just want to sell and aren't interested in helping Rosie or Max or having family events.
Tom is going to take it on and no matter what, show Rosie he will be there and be what she needs. Things are a huge mess, really a disaster. Rosie with her allergies and asthma can't really do the work and Tom isn't really experienced in construction. Her family won't help with anything. I was especially appalled by the cousin who managed the property ( and is paid to do it) hadn't done a thing even to remove foodstuffs there after the hurricane and just left them to rot. I wouldn't be letting them manage the property in the future.
Tom, wants help from a female actor who is good with design, and reluctantly lets other people from his upcoming Broadway play, come and help. They care about Tom and if he cares about Rosie they will help. Boyd is a quite well-known star and he brings "groupies" who are surprisingly helpful, along with others who want his star to shine on them.
Even after things are renovated, her family wants Max to sell to pay for her care. They expect Rosie to figure it out, Max's care and finances, and sell the inn so they don't have to do anything. Tom and Rosie have different ideas and I loved them.
September 18, 2024
A fun story with a bunch of delightfully offbeat characters and a romance that was filled with nostalgia and some unfortunate miscommunication--even a lack of communication at times. I'm a sucker for a second chance romance and this one was a decade in the making for Rose & Tom. There were a lot of issues and feelings to sort through. And there was whole lot going on in both of their lives, which got more complicated with the motley crew hanging around them constantly, but it all ended in the sweetest of ways. If you've read Katie Shepard's previous two books, look out for some major Easter eggs as well! Full review to follow.
August 19, 2024
No One Does It Like You is a second-chance contemporary romance about a couple who have been divorced for ten years. Tom and Rose met and married young. The stars and hearts in their eyes quickly faded and broke, and they have been plodding along through the last decade, neither really happy in their lives.
Rose has a large family whom she loves and is devoted to. (Maybe too devoted.) Especially a favorite aunt, Max, who owns an inn on Matha's Vineyard. Worn and aged, a hurricane looks like it may be the straw that broke the inn's back. While everyone else in the family votes to sell the property, Rose is determined to fix it up and fill it once more with her extended family. She's fueled by happy memories of her childhood but frustrated by the lack of support from everyone around her.
Tom is an actor who, after long years of mediocrity, may finally be poised to kick-start a Broadway career. Caught driving during the same hurricane that wrecks Rose's inn, Tom's co-star Boyd attempts to drive through a flooded road with disastrous and life-threatening results. Tom steps in to save Boyd's life after calling Rose and leaving her a message, confessing that he still loves her, has never stopped loving her, and would do anything to get back together.
With no support from her family, Rose turns to Tom. Did he really mean what he said about doing anything? Would he head to the Vineyard in the middle of January and help her fix things up? Tom readily agrees despite having no construction-related skills at all. He figures he'll wing it all, and he will ultimately win his ex-wife back.
Once they arrive at Martha's Vineyard, everything starts to crumble for me as a reader. Plot points and details seem to appear randomly with little or no set-up. In too many scenes, I felt like I was joining a story already in progress or trying to understand the punchline of an inside joke. For example, despite hearing Tom's message that he would do anything to get back together with her and asking him if he meant what he said, Rose seems genuinely confused that Tom thinks they are getting back together. Their interactions are awkward and almost uncomfortable at times. I wondered if they two ever actually talked to one another! Seventy-five percent of the story felt like a comedy of errors without the humor.
I struggled to connect with or care for the characters, but I read to the end in the hopes that, somehow, everything would come together. My hope was in vain. And so, I can only give this book two stars--an "it was okay." But you know what I always say: Not every book is for every reader. Though this one wasn't for me, it could be one you will really enjoy!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for inviting me to read and review an advanced readers' copy of No One Does It Like You in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Rose has a large family whom she loves and is devoted to. (Maybe too devoted.) Especially a favorite aunt, Max, who owns an inn on Matha's Vineyard. Worn and aged, a hurricane looks like it may be the straw that broke the inn's back. While everyone else in the family votes to sell the property, Rose is determined to fix it up and fill it once more with her extended family. She's fueled by happy memories of her childhood but frustrated by the lack of support from everyone around her.
Tom is an actor who, after long years of mediocrity, may finally be poised to kick-start a Broadway career. Caught driving during the same hurricane that wrecks Rose's inn, Tom's co-star Boyd attempts to drive through a flooded road with disastrous and life-threatening results. Tom steps in to save Boyd's life after calling Rose and leaving her a message, confessing that he still loves her, has never stopped loving her, and would do anything to get back together.
With no support from her family, Rose turns to Tom. Did he really mean what he said about doing anything? Would he head to the Vineyard in the middle of January and help her fix things up? Tom readily agrees despite having no construction-related skills at all. He figures he'll wing it all, and he will ultimately win his ex-wife back.
Once they arrive at Martha's Vineyard, everything starts to crumble for me as a reader. Plot points and details seem to appear randomly with little or no set-up. In too many scenes, I felt like I was joining a story already in progress or trying to understand the punchline of an inside joke. For example, despite hearing Tom's message that he would do anything to get back together with her and asking him if he meant what he said, Rose seems genuinely confused that Tom thinks they are getting back together. Their interactions are awkward and almost uncomfortable at times. I wondered if they two ever actually talked to one another! Seventy-five percent of the story felt like a comedy of errors without the humor.
I struggled to connect with or care for the characters, but I read to the end in the hopes that, somehow, everything would come together. My hope was in vain. And so, I can only give this book two stars--an "it was okay." But you know what I always say: Not every book is for every reader. Though this one wasn't for me, it could be one you will really enjoy!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for inviting me to read and review an advanced readers' copy of No One Does It Like You in exchange for my honest thoughts.
September 4, 2024
Rosie is adamant that Windward Inn, which was damaged in a hurricane, has to be saved. She can't do it alone. And no one in her family will help her, because they are all adamant that they should sell it. Then she remembers that her ex-husband, Tom, left her a message, telling her that if she needed anything, ever, she only had to ask. So she does.
This second chance romance. I'm usually a fan of second chance romances, but I am slowly figuring out that I am not such a fan of second chance romances where both main characters used to be married. Even more so when, like in this case, I don't feel a connection with, or between the characters. I would've liked better communication between them, I hate miscommunication, and this story had loads. I loved the LGBTQ+ rep, and it was a quick read.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This second chance romance. I'm usually a fan of second chance romances, but I am slowly figuring out that I am not such a fan of second chance romances where both main characters used to be married. Even more so when, like in this case, I don't feel a connection with, or between the characters. I would've liked better communication between them, I hate miscommunication, and this story had loads. I loved the LGBTQ+ rep, and it was a quick read.
I received an advance review copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 15, 2024
I’m a sucker for a second chance romance and for any story that centres around home renovations, especially that of a run down inn. However, this time those two ingredients weren’t enough to save the meal.
when Broadway actor Tom Wilczewski is about to dive into the floodwaters of a hurricane to rescue his co-lead, he calls the ex-wife he hasn’t seen in ten years to swear he still loves her and ask for a chance to make things right.
Two months later, Rose Kelly is tired of seeing pictures of her ex-husband Tom rescuing Hollywood darling Boyd Kellagher. Not that she’s jealous. Of course not. She’s far too busy taking care of her elderly aunt and worrying about the storm damage to the family B&B on Martha’s Vineyard to miss the love of her life. But after belatedly hearing Tom’s voicemail, Rosie asks him to follow through on his promises for once by helping her fix the inn. Thinking this is the perfect way to win her back, Tom agrees.
Unfortunately there wasn’t much I liked about this one other than the LGBTQ+ representation and how short the audio was. The characters came off as super immature and the miscommunication was through the roof. The book felt like the author was trying to do too much but throwing in as many topics as they could. Also the narration was amateurish and the male voices were poorly done. This also led me to be confused ALOT on who was actually speaking and resulted in me getting the characters continuously mixed up(especially the male MCs). For me it was way too steamy and kinky but this just a personal preference.
Overall, It was an easy listen but I’m glad it’s over.
Thanks to prhaudio for the ALC. this one is out September 3rd
when Broadway actor Tom Wilczewski is about to dive into the floodwaters of a hurricane to rescue his co-lead, he calls the ex-wife he hasn’t seen in ten years to swear he still loves her and ask for a chance to make things right.
Two months later, Rose Kelly is tired of seeing pictures of her ex-husband Tom rescuing Hollywood darling Boyd Kellagher. Not that she’s jealous. Of course not. She’s far too busy taking care of her elderly aunt and worrying about the storm damage to the family B&B on Martha’s Vineyard to miss the love of her life. But after belatedly hearing Tom’s voicemail, Rosie asks him to follow through on his promises for once by helping her fix the inn. Thinking this is the perfect way to win her back, Tom agrees.
Unfortunately there wasn’t much I liked about this one other than the LGBTQ+ representation and how short the audio was. The characters came off as super immature and the miscommunication was through the roof. The book felt like the author was trying to do too much but throwing in as many topics as they could. Also the narration was amateurish and the male voices were poorly done. This also led me to be confused ALOT on who was actually speaking and resulted in me getting the characters continuously mixed up(especially the male MCs). For me it was way too steamy and kinky but this just a personal preference.
Overall, It was an easy listen but I’m glad it’s over.
Thanks to prhaudio for the ALC. this one is out September 3rd
August 13, 2024
3.5 stars
“That’s was not a good place. So, no, not where we left off. Forward? Backward. Not sure which way. But someplace else.”
“But I just need the same thing I always needed.”
“You.”
“I should have done this years ago.”
“Done what?”
“Anything.”
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley!
Pub date Sept 3
This book was cute!! I think it is a great palette cleanser and easy read. The writing is easy to follow and I found myself laughing a lot! The spicy scenes were funny cause they were just so real lolol which is refreshing to read at times.
I also liked the community that was built throughout the story too. How social media was used to bring people together that would have never met before, and how it connected them to resources that they needed! I honestly found the main MMC to kinda childish so he bothered me at times, but him and his friend Boyd were really funny together so it made up for it.
If you love a second chance rom com this is for you!
“That’s was not a good place. So, no, not where we left off. Forward? Backward. Not sure which way. But someplace else.”
“But I just need the same thing I always needed.”
“You.”
“I should have done this years ago.”
“Done what?”
“Anything.”
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley!
Pub date Sept 3
This book was cute!! I think it is a great palette cleanser and easy read. The writing is easy to follow and I found myself laughing a lot! The spicy scenes were funny cause they were just so real lolol which is refreshing to read at times.
I also liked the community that was built throughout the story too. How social media was used to bring people together that would have never met before, and how it connected them to resources that they needed! I honestly found the main MMC to kinda childish so he bothered me at times, but him and his friend Boyd were really funny together so it made up for it.
If you love a second chance rom com this is for you!
Read
March 1, 2024Hi friends! I wrote this book. CW below and in the author’s note (major spoilers).
This book depicts the pregnancy of a minor character, discussions of infertility, a car crash, dangerous weather, animal peril, ableism, misogyny and biphobia, illness of an elderly relative, graphic language, and explicit sexual content.
I hope you enjoy!
<3 Shep
This book depicts the pregnancy of a minor character, discussions of infertility, a car crash, dangerous weather, animal peril, ableism, misogyny and biphobia, illness of an elderly relative, graphic language, and explicit sexual content.
I hope you enjoy!
<3 Shep
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2024
Tom risks his life to save his co-star. Very heroic. Very selfless. Before he does, he calls and leaves a message for his ex-wife, Rose, telling her that he still loves her and would do anything from her. Two months later, Rose finally gets the message and shows up on Tom's doorstep to see if he would come help her fix up her family's failing inn.
This was a cute one! Here's what I liked:
The side-characters: I liked Rose an Tom but the side characters in this one really sold me. I loved the crazy man that is Boyd and his groupie followers. The villains in this one are obvious but you still get into their story.
The Florida Man: Rose and Tom have a little thing that when Tom does something crazy, she tells him to not Florida man it. This made me laugh so hard because it's so clever.
The setting: I loved the inn and the town. It gave a good cute quality to the story.
Overall, this was a good romcom with some spice sprinkled in.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for the gifted audiobook!
This was a cute one! Here's what I liked:
The side-characters: I liked Rose an Tom but the side characters in this one really sold me. I loved the crazy man that is Boyd and his groupie followers. The villains in this one are obvious but you still get into their story.
The Florida Man: Rose and Tom have a little thing that when Tom does something crazy, she tells him to not Florida man it. This made me laugh so hard because it's so clever.
The setting: I loved the inn and the town. It gave a good cute quality to the story.
Overall, this was a good romcom with some spice sprinkled in.
Thank you to the author and the publisher for the gifted audiobook!
October 1, 2024
I hate to leave bad reviews on a book, but this one really didn’t do it for me. The characters were kind of annoying and I wasn’t rooting for them to get back together. I also felt like the plot was all over the place and it was hard to follow the POV changes. I do wish I could’ve enjoyed this, cause the concept was cool, but I just didn’t
December 17, 2024
This is my new fav romance author fr fr. Sweet and funny and real, with some knockout lines. I need to get a physical copy to highlight them. Not quite as good as the other two but nice. Finished on the flight
October 31, 2024
3.5
I really enjoyed a lot of the book, but there was just too much miscommunication trope going on for me to truly love it. That being said, I'm definitely going to pick up Kate's other books as I liked her writing style.
I really enjoyed a lot of the book, but there was just too much miscommunication trope going on for me to truly love it. That being said, I'm definitely going to pick up Kate's other books as I liked her writing style.
November 7, 2024
Pitomost, ale reading slump to zažene
Read
November 25, 2024This was such a cute romcom. Tom is an idiot and Rose is a control freak, and they finally figure it out.
March 3, 2024
I was lucky to get an arc of this and I read it in a day! This was a second chance romance that may be my new favorite. The characters had so much depth and it gave me real Abby Jimenez vibes. The side characters were hilarious. I loved it all!
September 2, 2024
Thank you to PRH Audio for the gifted audiobook.
On paper, this sounds like a book I’d LOVE — second chance, he’s down bad, home reno, found family, Martha's Vineyard! But it just didn’t come together well and left me more confused than satisfied.
The characters came off hot and cold — I couldn’t predict how they’d react to anything since they were so inconsistent, which left me a little on edge while reading. I couldn’t connect their actions to their motivations and didn’t have a strong sense of who they were. They felt like characters in a book, not real people (the horror!).
The plot also left me a little confused — why did she go to him for help 10 years after their divorce? How are all these people just dropping everything to renovate her house? How are they actually getting this done with no one with any experience whatsoever working on it?
One thing I did love about NODILY is the message that marriage requires work and open communication. The MCs admitted that they didn’t fully understand that when they got married young and it led to their break up, and I find this really relatable. I love how, ten years later, they still really love each other and know enough about themselves to try and make it work again. It’s very sweet!
Audio: I liked but did not love the narration. Savannah Peachwood performs the entire story and at points, she just sounded tired/resigned. Maybe as part of her performance? But it just seemed like a lot and not always at the right moments for the characters. Not a bad audiobook by any means and still very enjoyable… just not quite the highest tier for me.
Overall ratings
Exact star rating: 3.19
10-pt star rating: 3
5-pt star rating: 3
Attribute ratings
Characters: 3
Atmosphere/Setting: 4.5
Writing Style: 4
Plot/Pacing: 2.5
Intrigue: 3
Logic: 2.5
Enjoyment: 3
On paper, this sounds like a book I’d LOVE — second chance, he’s down bad, home reno, found family, Martha's Vineyard! But it just didn’t come together well and left me more confused than satisfied.
The characters came off hot and cold — I couldn’t predict how they’d react to anything since they were so inconsistent, which left me a little on edge while reading. I couldn’t connect their actions to their motivations and didn’t have a strong sense of who they were. They felt like characters in a book, not real people (the horror!).
The plot also left me a little confused — why did she go to him for help 10 years after their divorce? How are all these people just dropping everything to renovate her house? How are they actually getting this done with no one with any experience whatsoever working on it?
One thing I did love about NODILY is the message that marriage requires work and open communication. The MCs admitted that they didn’t fully understand that when they got married young and it led to their break up, and I find this really relatable. I love how, ten years later, they still really love each other and know enough about themselves to try and make it work again. It’s very sweet!
Audio: I liked but did not love the narration. Savannah Peachwood performs the entire story and at points, she just sounded tired/resigned. Maybe as part of her performance? But it just seemed like a lot and not always at the right moments for the characters. Not a bad audiobook by any means and still very enjoyable… just not quite the highest tier for me.
Overall ratings
Exact star rating: 3.19
10-pt star rating: 3
5-pt star rating: 3
Attribute ratings
Characters: 3
Atmosphere/Setting: 4.5
Writing Style: 4
Plot/Pacing: 2.5
Intrigue: 3
Logic: 2.5
Enjoyment: 3
August 20, 2024
Thank you to Berkley and NetGally for providing me with a digital copy of “No One Does It Like You” by Kate Shepard in exchange for an honest review.
Ten years ago, Tom Wilczewski and Rose Kelly were madly, deeply in love. College sweethearts that met and wed before they were ready for that level of commitment, their marriage fell apart. Tom’s been pining for Rose ever since and in a moment of fear and regret, he leaves her a voicemail, telling her so.
Unfortunately, Rose doesn’t get the message the right way. It was her old number and it’s not until some time later, she hears his confession. In the meantime, Rose’s life is falling apart. Her beloved aunt’s beloved inn on Martha’s Vineyard has been seriously damaged in a storm and her huge, totally unsupportive family wants to just sell the property and move on. Rose is NOT HAVING IT, of course. So when she hears Tom’s message, she immediately takes advantage of his feelings to rope him into helping renovate the inn. Something along the lines of proving himself when he let her down so badly before. (It’s pretty manipulative, honestly, since he makes it clear that he wants her back and she not only puts a price tag on that conversation, but then proceeds to avoid it.)
What follows is a modern day, screwball romantic comedy, wherein sweet, not-super-bright Tom struggles mightily to regain his wife’s love, and stubborn-to-point-of-delusional Rose clings to a Big Misunderstanding to avoid her feelings for Tom. Does the inn get renovated? Yes. By Tom, Tom’s co-stars, and some of Tom’s dedicated fans. There are adventures with bees, falling off rooftops, and a lot of highly improbable scenarios. Don’t go looking for any deep, serious issues here; this is strictly a fun frolic through a bird-themed hotel renovation.
If we’re being honest, it is a messy, messy story and at times, Rose is hard to like. Tom wasn’t a great partner straight out of college, but forcing him into labor that he is TOTALLY unqualified for seems like an immature approach to dealing with their past problems or advancing their current relationship.
Recommended for anyone who enjoys a second chance trope, readers who like their romance performed by a full Broadway cast’s worth of characters, and for people who love the words wacky, zany, and unpredictable.
Ten years ago, Tom Wilczewski and Rose Kelly were madly, deeply in love. College sweethearts that met and wed before they were ready for that level of commitment, their marriage fell apart. Tom’s been pining for Rose ever since and in a moment of fear and regret, he leaves her a voicemail, telling her so.
Unfortunately, Rose doesn’t get the message the right way. It was her old number and it’s not until some time later, she hears his confession. In the meantime, Rose’s life is falling apart. Her beloved aunt’s beloved inn on Martha’s Vineyard has been seriously damaged in a storm and her huge, totally unsupportive family wants to just sell the property and move on. Rose is NOT HAVING IT, of course. So when she hears Tom’s message, she immediately takes advantage of his feelings to rope him into helping renovate the inn. Something along the lines of proving himself when he let her down so badly before. (It’s pretty manipulative, honestly, since he makes it clear that he wants her back and she not only puts a price tag on that conversation, but then proceeds to avoid it.)
What follows is a modern day, screwball romantic comedy, wherein sweet, not-super-bright Tom struggles mightily to regain his wife’s love, and stubborn-to-point-of-delusional Rose clings to a Big Misunderstanding to avoid her feelings for Tom. Does the inn get renovated? Yes. By Tom, Tom’s co-stars, and some of Tom’s dedicated fans. There are adventures with bees, falling off rooftops, and a lot of highly improbable scenarios. Don’t go looking for any deep, serious issues here; this is strictly a fun frolic through a bird-themed hotel renovation.
If we’re being honest, it is a messy, messy story and at times, Rose is hard to like. Tom wasn’t a great partner straight out of college, but forcing him into labor that he is TOTALLY unqualified for seems like an immature approach to dealing with their past problems or advancing their current relationship.
Recommended for anyone who enjoys a second chance trope, readers who like their romance performed by a full Broadway cast’s worth of characters, and for people who love the words wacky, zany, and unpredictable.
August 25, 2024
I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group for choosing me.
Where can I find a Tom for myself?! He's such a swoony main character. He's genuine, sweet, and adorable. I love that he didn't attempt to act blameless and absolutely respect him for owning up to his flaws and mistakes. I was team Tom the entire book, even when Rose was unsure.
Rose is awesome! She's sweet, loving, and genuinely a good person. She's such a relatable character (Tom, too). I found so many similarities with both of them, but she resonated with me a bit more. It was kind of like looking in the mirror, I know what it's like to have those same insecurities, and I couldn't stop smiling when she found her confidence. Her family sucks. Literally. They are all awful except for Aunt Max they can all disappear.
This book made me tear up, made me smile, and made me laugh out loud at times. It was the book I needed without even knowing I needed it. There's a blurb on the back cover by Julie Soto, "The coziness of small-town meets the yearning of a second chance... A swoony love story full of lovable characters." - I couldn't say it any better than that. I love Tom and Rose and their story. It was a hug I didn't realize I needed, a much needed laugh that squeezed my heart and held on until the end. Their story felt like coming up for air after holding your breath for far too long. It was such a beautiful story. There was pain and heartache laced throughout, but there was also healing, redemption, and love. Lots of love. I love Ximena, Boyd, and Adrian, and, of course, the fangirls who chipped in at the B and B, they were all wonderful characters.
I'll be thinking of Tom, Rose and the rest of them for a long time. They have officially taken up a corner of my heart. In my head, they will be at the B and B, living it up. ❤️
Where can I find a Tom for myself?! He's such a swoony main character. He's genuine, sweet, and adorable. I love that he didn't attempt to act blameless and absolutely respect him for owning up to his flaws and mistakes. I was team Tom the entire book, even when Rose was unsure.
Rose is awesome! She's sweet, loving, and genuinely a good person. She's such a relatable character (Tom, too). I found so many similarities with both of them, but she resonated with me a bit more. It was kind of like looking in the mirror, I know what it's like to have those same insecurities, and I couldn't stop smiling when she found her confidence. Her family sucks. Literally. They are all awful except for Aunt Max they can all disappear.
This book made me tear up, made me smile, and made me laugh out loud at times. It was the book I needed without even knowing I needed it. There's a blurb on the back cover by Julie Soto, "The coziness of small-town meets the yearning of a second chance... A swoony love story full of lovable characters." - I couldn't say it any better than that. I love Tom and Rose and their story. It was a hug I didn't realize I needed, a much needed laugh that squeezed my heart and held on until the end. Their story felt like coming up for air after holding your breath for far too long. It was such a beautiful story. There was pain and heartache laced throughout, but there was also healing, redemption, and love. Lots of love. I love Ximena, Boyd, and Adrian, and, of course, the fangirls who chipped in at the B and B, they were all wonderful characters.
I'll be thinking of Tom, Rose and the rest of them for a long time. They have officially taken up a corner of my heart. In my head, they will be at the B and B, living it up. ❤️
December 26, 2024
DNF @ 62%
Out On: September 3, 2024
This book started out with a lot of potential for me to love it. A second chance romance with renovations? Count me in! However, as the book progresses, it kind of just got weirder and weirder. I think that Rosie is a great FMC and following along with her passion for renovating her family's inn was inspiring. It's just Tom and co. that had me feeling a little weird. I just couldn't get over the weird and frankly obsessive fans for Tom and Boyd. The chapter I just finished reading is what officially put me off the book and it very clearly put Rosie into a weird place mentally. So unfortunately I am going to have to bid this book farewell.
P.S. I'm sure there are some closed door mods to come in this book, but i did not make it quite that far into the story.
Thank you so much to Berkley Publishing Group for this advanced copy on NetGalley!🤍
Out On: September 3, 2024
This book started out with a lot of potential for me to love it. A second chance romance with renovations? Count me in! However, as the book progresses, it kind of just got weirder and weirder. I think that Rosie is a great FMC and following along with her passion for renovating her family's inn was inspiring. It's just Tom and co. that had me feeling a little weird. I just couldn't get over the weird and frankly obsessive fans for Tom and Boyd. The chapter I just finished reading is what officially put me off the book and it very clearly put Rosie into a weird place mentally. So unfortunately I am going to have to bid this book farewell.
P.S. I'm sure there are some closed door mods to come in this book, but i did not make it quite that far into the story.
Thank you so much to Berkley Publishing Group for this advanced copy on NetGalley!🤍
September 14, 2024
This story and characters were just bad altogether
September 7, 2024
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley, Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I enjoyed No One Does It Like You even though it wasn't too realistic. The main characters Rosie and Tom were likeable. They are speaking the first time in 10 years. Tom reached out to her when he thought he might die. Rosie returned his call to see if he would help her when no one else would. They aren't perfect people but they do care about others.
Tom and Rosie were married 10 years ago and he never really wanted to divorce. He just didn't understand what Rosie wanted or needed. Now he is determined to have the women he has always loved back in his life.
Rosie is trying to help her elderly aunt, Max, repair the inn after the hurricane. The Inn has been the place where the family always gathered for holidays and events. Rosie had her wedding there. Unfortunately, other than Max, Rosie's family are crap. They just want to sell and aren't interested in helping Rosie or Max or having family events.
Tom is going to take it on and no matter what, show Rosie he will be there and be what she needs. Things are a huge mess, really a disaster. Rosie with her allergies and asthma can't really do the work and Tom isn't really experienced in construction. Her family won't help with anything. I was especially appalled by the cousin who managed the property ( and is paid to do it) hadn't done a thing even to remove foodstuffs there after the hurricane and just left them to rot. I wouldn't be letting them manage the property in the future.
Tom, wants help from a female actor who is good with design, and reluctantly lets other people from his upcoming Broadway play, come and help. They care about Tom and if he cares about Rosie they will help. Boyd is a quite well-known star and he brings "groupies" who are surprisingly helpful, along with others who want his star to shine on them.
Even after things are renovated, her family wants Max to sell to pay for her care. They expect Rosie to figure it out, Max's care and finances, and sell the inn so they don't have to do anything. Tom and Rosie have different ideas and I loved them.
Narration:
I have enjoyed this narrator in the past. I was comfortable with her voices. She really did a great job with a deeper voice for Tom as he had a lot of lines and we spent a lot of time in his head. I listened at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from NetGalley, Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I enjoyed No One Does It Like You even though it wasn't too realistic. The main characters Rosie and Tom were likeable. They are speaking the first time in 10 years. Tom reached out to her when he thought he might die. Rosie returned his call to see if he would help her when no one else would. They aren't perfect people but they do care about others.
Tom and Rosie were married 10 years ago and he never really wanted to divorce. He just didn't understand what Rosie wanted or needed. Now he is determined to have the women he has always loved back in his life.
Rosie is trying to help her elderly aunt, Max, repair the inn after the hurricane. The Inn has been the place where the family always gathered for holidays and events. Rosie had her wedding there. Unfortunately, other than Max, Rosie's family are crap. They just want to sell and aren't interested in helping Rosie or Max or having family events.
Tom is going to take it on and no matter what, show Rosie he will be there and be what she needs. Things are a huge mess, really a disaster. Rosie with her allergies and asthma can't really do the work and Tom isn't really experienced in construction. Her family won't help with anything. I was especially appalled by the cousin who managed the property ( and is paid to do it) hadn't done a thing even to remove foodstuffs there after the hurricane and just left them to rot. I wouldn't be letting them manage the property in the future.
Tom, wants help from a female actor who is good with design, and reluctantly lets other people from his upcoming Broadway play, come and help. They care about Tom and if he cares about Rosie they will help. Boyd is a quite well-known star and he brings "groupies" who are surprisingly helpful, along with others who want his star to shine on them.
Even after things are renovated, her family wants Max to sell to pay for her care. They expect Rosie to figure it out, Max's care and finances, and sell the inn so they don't have to do anything. Tom and Rosie have different ideas and I loved them.
Narration:
I have enjoyed this narrator in the past. I was comfortable with her voices. She really did a great job with a deeper voice for Tom as he had a lot of lines and we spent a lot of time in his head. I listened at my usual 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
September 3, 2024
In No One Does It Like You, a divorced couple gets a second chance at love when they work together to renovate her family’s poorly maintained, recently flooded bed and breakfast on Martha’s Vineyard. Now, that isn’t all that happens in this story, but that’s the main crux that brings them together again.
In all honesty, this book isn’t quite what I expected when I signed up to read and review it. I thought it was a contemporary romance or romantic comedy, but it’s more of a literary or women’s fiction romance instead. Which threw me for the first few chapters, I admit, but something about the story and the characters kept me reading, and I’m really glad that I did.
Rosie and Tom are two vastly different people. She’s independent and used to doing things for herself and Tom is more laid-back, used to having things done for him. In the ten years they’ve been divorced, some things about Tom have changed but others have remained the same. He still forgets things, and Rose still makes a list of things that need to be done. It’s quite the contrast and yet, they work well together. Filling in the missing parts in each other while also giving each other different ways of looking at things.
I love that this book mentioned fandom and shipping. That was a fun find for me, and I love that the characters, especially the theater actors, embraced their creativity and devotion to their characters and pairings.
If you’re looking for a slow burn romance with great characterization and writing, No One Does It Like You is a good book to pick up. It’s a little bit different as far as character archetypes go, but that isn’t a bad thing. Instead, it affords readers the chance to view the world through another lens,, one that may not fully make sense at first but definitely becomes clearer the further into the story one dives.
This one has a mild heat level, in my opinion, so if you’re looking for a read with a lot of steam, this book probably isn’t the one. But what this book lacks in steam, it makes up for in character emotion and vulnerability in the face of adversity. So maybe keep that in mind as well.
In all honesty, this book isn’t quite what I expected when I signed up to read and review it. I thought it was a contemporary romance or romantic comedy, but it’s more of a literary or women’s fiction romance instead. Which threw me for the first few chapters, I admit, but something about the story and the characters kept me reading, and I’m really glad that I did.
Rosie and Tom are two vastly different people. She’s independent and used to doing things for herself and Tom is more laid-back, used to having things done for him. In the ten years they’ve been divorced, some things about Tom have changed but others have remained the same. He still forgets things, and Rose still makes a list of things that need to be done. It’s quite the contrast and yet, they work well together. Filling in the missing parts in each other while also giving each other different ways of looking at things.
I love that this book mentioned fandom and shipping. That was a fun find for me, and I love that the characters, especially the theater actors, embraced their creativity and devotion to their characters and pairings.
If you’re looking for a slow burn romance with great characterization and writing, No One Does It Like You is a good book to pick up. It’s a little bit different as far as character archetypes go, but that isn’t a bad thing. Instead, it affords readers the chance to view the world through another lens,, one that may not fully make sense at first but definitely becomes clearer the further into the story one dives.
This one has a mild heat level, in my opinion, so if you’re looking for a read with a lot of steam, this book probably isn’t the one. But what this book lacks in steam, it makes up for in character emotion and vulnerability in the face of adversity. So maybe keep that in mind as well.
December 9, 2024
*Title: No One Does It Like You-standalone
*Release date: 9/3/24 | Read: 12/8/24
*Author: Katie Shepard -I've read Sweeten the Deal and gave it 3⭐
*Format: audiobook
*Narrator: Savannah Peachwood-loved the Boston accent from Rose's father
*Run time: 9:30
*Setting: NY, Martha's Vineyard, & Boston
*Genre: Rom Com
*Tropes: 2nd chance romance, college sweethearts, marriage/divorce, family drama, LGBTQIA+ rep, found family, pregnancy
*Look out for: hurricane-H, caretaker of elderly relative-h, ableism, fertility treatments, h has illness-asthma
*Synopsis: After ten years apart, Tom is still in love with Rose. They married at 22 and were divorced a year later because Tom had no clue what marriage was. When he's facing death driving through a hurricane, he records Rose a message that he still loves her and always will. Rose's family inn -Windward- has been damaged by the storm, and she's the only family member who doesn't want to sell it. She plans to renovate but she needs help. After hearing Tom's voice over the phone, she goes to him for help- which he happily agrees to. The more time they spend together old feelings come back and Tom tries to right his wrongs.
*Characters
* Rose Kelly-h 34, CIO of a charity foundation
*Tom Wilczewski-H 34, a Broadway actor
*Boyd Kellagher-cast member
*Ximena-cast member
*Max-Rose's elderly aunt she takes care of
*Adrian-BFF to Tom and Rose, main H from Sweeten the Deal
*Review: I enjoyed this 2nd chance romance between Tom and Rose. Tom tried so hard to do right by Rose, sometimes overthinking. He was compensating for Rose's lack of familial support and love. Her father, cousins, and even Max-though I'll forgive her-didn't care about all Rose did/does for the family. I'm not sure how I feel about Boyd because I'm confused by his relationship with Tom. Even with all the drama, it ends in HEA.
*Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
*Spice level- 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
*Release date: 9/3/24 | Read: 12/8/24
*Author: Katie Shepard -I've read Sweeten the Deal and gave it 3⭐
*Format: audiobook
*Narrator: Savannah Peachwood-loved the Boston accent from Rose's father
*Run time: 9:30
*Setting: NY, Martha's Vineyard, & Boston
*Genre: Rom Com
*Tropes: 2nd chance romance, college sweethearts, marriage/divorce, family drama, LGBTQIA+ rep, found family, pregnancy
*Look out for: hurricane-H, caretaker of elderly relative-h, ableism, fertility treatments, h has illness-asthma
*Synopsis: After ten years apart, Tom is still in love with Rose. They married at 22 and were divorced a year later because Tom had no clue what marriage was. When he's facing death driving through a hurricane, he records Rose a message that he still loves her and always will. Rose's family inn -Windward- has been damaged by the storm, and she's the only family member who doesn't want to sell it. She plans to renovate but she needs help. After hearing Tom's voice over the phone, she goes to him for help- which he happily agrees to. The more time they spend together old feelings come back and Tom tries to right his wrongs.
*Characters
* Rose Kelly-h 34, CIO of a charity foundation
*Tom Wilczewski-H 34, a Broadway actor
*Boyd Kellagher-cast member
*Ximena-cast member
*Max-Rose's elderly aunt she takes care of
*Adrian-BFF to Tom and Rose, main H from Sweeten the Deal
*Review: I enjoyed this 2nd chance romance between Tom and Rose. Tom tried so hard to do right by Rose, sometimes overthinking. He was compensating for Rose's lack of familial support and love. Her father, cousins, and even Max-though I'll forgive her-didn't care about all Rose did/does for the family. I'm not sure how I feel about Boyd because I'm confused by his relationship with Tom. Even with all the drama, it ends in HEA.
*Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
*Spice level- 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
September 4, 2024
“The only thing I ever knew for sure about my life was that I wanted you in it,” Tom said. “You’re the planner, Rosie. But you’re my only plan.”
I'm a huge fan of second chance romances and we rarely get to see a second chance book where divorced exes get back together, which is why I was very excited to read this one. I've read books by Katie Shepard before and I enjoyed her writing so I was expecting a lot from this book. The beginning was very enjoyable and I liked Tom & Rosie but these characters were supposed to be in their thirties so I was expecting them to be a lot more mature but both of them were still somewhat childish tbh.
“I spent a decade waiting for you to call me and tell me I could come home. Well, I could have called too, any day before I did. That’s what this is. Come home. I miss you. I love you. I want you in every single one of the days of my life, the good ones and the bad ones. Come home whenever you’re sure. I already am.”
Still, I liked the chemistry between Rosie & Tom and the way he was always so straight forward about his point of getting back together was nice because there was so much miscommunication between them in the past, so it was refreshing to see that Tom was really trying. Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and some instance made me laugh but some side characters except Adrian & Ximena were so annoying. Body was supposed to be this cheeky, Hollywood hot shot and here were some instances where I found him to be funny but other than that, him and Rosie's entire family irritated me so much. Rosie deserved to be treated better by her family and I'm so glad that Tom understood that and made things easy for her in the end. And I really liked the last chapter, it was very cute but the ending felt really abrupt tbh. So it was just an okay read for me.
I'm a huge fan of second chance romances and we rarely get to see a second chance book where divorced exes get back together, which is why I was very excited to read this one. I've read books by Katie Shepard before and I enjoyed her writing so I was expecting a lot from this book. The beginning was very enjoyable and I liked Tom & Rosie but these characters were supposed to be in their thirties so I was expecting them to be a lot more mature but both of them were still somewhat childish tbh.
“I spent a decade waiting for you to call me and tell me I could come home. Well, I could have called too, any day before I did. That’s what this is. Come home. I miss you. I love you. I want you in every single one of the days of my life, the good ones and the bad ones. Come home whenever you’re sure. I already am.”
Still, I liked the chemistry between Rosie & Tom and the way he was always so straight forward about his point of getting back together was nice because there was so much miscommunication between them in the past, so it was refreshing to see that Tom was really trying. Overall, I enjoyed reading this book and some instance made me laugh but some side characters except Adrian & Ximena were so annoying. Body was supposed to be this cheeky, Hollywood hot shot and here were some instances where I found him to be funny but other than that, him and Rosie's entire family irritated me so much. Rosie deserved to be treated better by her family and I'm so glad that Tom understood that and made things easy for her in the end. And I really liked the last chapter, it was very cute but the ending felt really abrupt tbh. So it was just an okay read for me.
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