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Work for It #6
Look Smart
Nate Hanover’s future was set. The perfect girlfriend, the perfect career… He’s the perfect man with the perfect life—until he lost it all this summer. Now he’s not sure about anything, except that no one can know the truth lurking behind his “perfect” facade. Especially not at this week’s high-stakes corporate circus known as Tele-Con.
Natalie McAllister has no time for games. After working nonstop since… ever, she’s one win away from the dream promotion she’s been chasing for years. All she has to do is land the Sandeke Telecom account at this week’s telecom conference and life will be perfect.
But when a chance encounter leads these strangers to an incredible night of intimate soul-searching, “perfect” might look different than they thought. With so much on the line, it’s a good thing they’ll never see each other again. Well, not until the following morning when they learn they’re competing for the same account, their firms despise each other, and a nut-obsessed enigma named Chad Smith is the key to their success. Oh, plus their forbidden connection is still fully charged and more off-limits than ever.
What could go wrong when the perfect night explodes into the perfect storm?
‘Look Smart’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #6 in the Work For It series, Educated Romance World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
Natalie McAllister has no time for games. After working nonstop since… ever, she’s one win away from the dream promotion she’s been chasing for years. All she has to do is land the Sandeke Telecom account at this week’s telecom conference and life will be perfect.
But when a chance encounter leads these strangers to an incredible night of intimate soul-searching, “perfect” might look different than they thought. With so much on the line, it’s a good thing they’ll never see each other again. Well, not until the following morning when they learn they’re competing for the same account, their firms despise each other, and a nut-obsessed enigma named Chad Smith is the key to their success. Oh, plus their forbidden connection is still fully charged and more off-limits than ever.
What could go wrong when the perfect night explodes into the perfect storm?
‘Look Smart’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #6 in the Work For It series, Educated Romance World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 18, 2023
93 people are currently reading
482 people want to read
About the author
Aly Stiles
37 books505 followersLove. Laugh. Cry.
From angsty and dark to snort-laugh funny, Aly writes romance from her soul to yours.
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From angsty and dark to snort-laugh funny, Aly writes romance from her soul to yours.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
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May 23, 2023
★★Live in KU★★
Look Smart by Aly Stiles is finally here! This story in the Work For It series is a wonderful combination of hilarious romcom shenanigans (hello, mernuts) and informed and responsible mental health rep. Definitely check it out. You can read over in Kindle Unlimited ❤
★★Grab your copy TODAY!★★
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3EtS8B3
Amazon UK: https://bit.ly/3EsHQ48
Amazon CA: https://bit.ly/3Eu71mV
Amazon AU: https://bit.ly/418lgr4
★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
Nate Hanover’s future was set. The perfect girlfriend, the perfect career… He’s the perfect man with the perfect life—until he lost it all this summer. Now he’s not sure about anything, except that no one can know the truth lurking behind his “perfect” facade. Especially not at this week’s high-stakes corporate circus known as Tele-Con.
Natalie McAllister has no time for games. After working nonstop since… ever, she’s one win away from the dream promotion she’s been chasing for years. All she has to do is land the Sandeke Telecom account at this week’s telecom conference and life will be perfect.
But when a chance encounter leads these strangers to an incredible night of intimate soul-searching, “perfect” might look different than they thought. With so much on the line, it’s a good thing they’ll never see each other again. Well, not until the following morning when they learn they’re competing for the same account, their firms despise each other, and a nut-obsessed enigma named Chad Smith is the key to their success. Oh, plus their forbidden connection is still fully charged and more off-limits than ever.
What could go wrong when the perfect night explodes into the perfect storm?
‘Look Smart’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #6 in the Work For It series, Educated Romance World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
Want to read
May 18, 2023★★Live in KU★★
WooHOO! 'Look Smart' by Aly Stiles is LIVE in Kindle Unlimited and we have all the excite!! Snap this one up and your TBR will thank you. ❤
★★Grab your copy TODAY!★★
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3EtS8B3
Amazon UK: https://bit.ly/3EsHQ48
Amazon CA: https://bit.ly/3Eu71mV
Amazon AU: https://bit.ly/418lgr4
★ ★ BLURB ★ ★
Nate Hanover’s future was set. The perfect girlfriend, the perfect career… He’s the perfect man with the perfect life—until he lost it all this summer. Now he’s not sure about anything, except that no one can know the truth lurking behind his “perfect” facade. Especially not at this week’s high-stakes corporate circus known as Tele-Con.
Natalie McAllister has no time for games. After working nonstop since… ever, she’s one win away from the dream promotion she’s been chasing for years. All she has to do is land the Sandeke Telecom account at this week’s telecom conference and life will be perfect.
But when a chance encounter leads these strangers to an incredible night of intimate soul-searching, “perfect” might look different than they thought. With so much on the line, it’s a good thing they’ll never see each other again. Well, not until the following morning when they learn they’re competing for the same account, their firms despise each other, and a nut-obsessed enigma named Chad Smith is the key to their success. Oh, plus their forbidden connection is still fully charged and more off-limits than ever.
What could go wrong when the perfect night explodes into the perfect storm?
‘Look Smart’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #6 in the Work For It series, Educated Romance World, Penny Reid Book Universe.
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April 19, 2023I don't get it. How does Aly Stiles write hilarious books that also hit real topic with heart and angst? Like... how?!?!?!
This was just incredible, but I suppose I should stop being surprised whenever I feel that way about one of her books.
This was just incredible, but I suppose I should stop being surprised whenever I feel that way about one of her books.
Read
May 19, 2023
★★Live in KU★★
★★Grab your copy TODAY!★★
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3EtS8B3
Amazon UK: https://bit.ly/3EsHQ48
Amazon CA: https://bit.ly/3Eu71mV
Amazon AU: https://bit.ly/418lgr4
August 31, 2023
I genuinely can’t understand how this book is rated so high. The plot is chaotic and rushed. The character development is surface level at best. The ‘witty banter’ is ridiculous. One of the basics of writing is to ‘show’ rather than ‘tell’ - this book is just a skimpy plot with subpar writing. Two thumbs down.
June 9, 2025
Story - 4.5
Audible Recording - Female reader - 5
Audible Recording - Male reader - 1.5
The male reader on the audiobook was terrible. Just so bad. The female was fantastic.
The story is great, with a sad hero who has confused his worth with business success. A kick ass heroine who gives fantastic hugs, and takes time to really SEE the hero. And some wild supporting characters.
Audible Recording - Female reader - 5
Audible Recording - Male reader - 1.5
The male reader on the audiobook was terrible. Just so bad. The female was fantastic.
The story is great, with a sad hero who has confused his worth with business success. A kick ass heroine who gives fantastic hugs, and takes time to really SEE the hero. And some wild supporting characters.
May 28, 2023
J'ai beaucoup adoré cette romance, elle met en scène 2 héros qui vont se raconter toute leur vie, leurs blessures, leurs rêves... Pensant qu'ils ne se reverrons plus, ils sont plus honnêtes et sincères l'un envers l'autres qu'avec leur proches. Ces deux êtres connectent bien au-delà de l'attirance physique, à tel point qu'ils passent la nuit à parler et s'endorment tout habillés.
Evidemment le lendemain, ils se retrouvent au même séminaire professionnel, ils travaillent tous les deux pour des entreprises concurrentes et doivent chacun décrocher un contrat avec le même client.
Nate et Nathalie sont tous les deux à une période charnière de leur vie quand il se rencontrent, ils n'osent pas l'évoquer avec leurs amis, du coup l'opportunité de parler à coeur ouvert avec un/une inconnu(e) est comme une parenthèse dans le temps. Ils se disent, que parce qu'ils ne se croiseront plus après cette soirée, autant tout donner. Cette rencontre va aussi être le point de départ d'une remise en question personnelle et professionnelle. Nate et Nathalie sont-il vraiment dans le job de leur rêve, sont-il prêts à laisser passer une histoire l'un avec l'autre, y'a-t-il du sens derrière Chad et sa créature mi-sirène mi-cacahuète ?...
Oui parce que c'était bien sérieux jusqu'à maintenant, alors ajoutons un peu de Chad dans cette histoire et secouons, nous nous retrouvons avec des dialogues surréalistes et des situations absurdes, qui contraste avec la profondeur de cette romance.
J'ai trouvé que l'auteur avait bien décrit l'état dépressif de Nate, car il faut pas se leurrer, ce personnage est en train de tomber dans la dépression la tête la première. Et ce n'est pas Nathalie qui va l'en sortir, mais plutôt l'aider à en prendre conscience et qu'il peut demander de l'aide.
********************
I really loved this romance, it features 2 heroes who will tell each other their whole lives, their wounds, their dreams... Thinking that they will never see each other again, they are more honest and sincere than with their loved ones. These two beings connect well beyond physical attraction, so much so that they spend the night talking and fall asleep fully clothed.
Of course the next day, they find themselves at the same professional seminar, they both work for competing companies and must each win a contract with the same client.
Nate and Nathalie are both at a pivotal time in their lives when they meet, they don't dare mention it with their friends, so the opportunity to talk openly with a stranger is like a parenthesis in time. They think that, because they won't meet again after this evening, they might as well tell everything. This meeting will also be the starting point for personal and professional questioning. Are Nate and Natalie really in their dream job, are they ready to let go of a story with each other, is there any meaning behind Chad and his half-mermaid half-peanut creature ?...
Yes because it was very serious until now, so let's add a little Chad in this story and shake, we find ourselves with surreal dialogues and absurd situations, which contrasts with the depth of this romance.
I found that the author had described Nate's depressive state well, because make no mistake, this character is falling head first into depression. And it's not Nathalie who's going to get him out of it, but rather help him realize it and that he can ask for help.
- Read as an ARC-
Evidemment le lendemain, ils se retrouvent au même séminaire professionnel, ils travaillent tous les deux pour des entreprises concurrentes et doivent chacun décrocher un contrat avec le même client.
Nate et Nathalie sont tous les deux à une période charnière de leur vie quand il se rencontrent, ils n'osent pas l'évoquer avec leurs amis, du coup l'opportunité de parler à coeur ouvert avec un/une inconnu(e) est comme une parenthèse dans le temps. Ils se disent, que parce qu'ils ne se croiseront plus après cette soirée, autant tout donner. Cette rencontre va aussi être le point de départ d'une remise en question personnelle et professionnelle. Nate et Nathalie sont-il vraiment dans le job de leur rêve, sont-il prêts à laisser passer une histoire l'un avec l'autre, y'a-t-il du sens derrière Chad et sa créature mi-sirène mi-cacahuète ?...
Oui parce que c'était bien sérieux jusqu'à maintenant, alors ajoutons un peu de Chad dans cette histoire et secouons, nous nous retrouvons avec des dialogues surréalistes et des situations absurdes, qui contraste avec la profondeur de cette romance.
J'ai trouvé que l'auteur avait bien décrit l'état dépressif de Nate, car il faut pas se leurrer, ce personnage est en train de tomber dans la dépression la tête la première. Et ce n'est pas Nathalie qui va l'en sortir, mais plutôt l'aider à en prendre conscience et qu'il peut demander de l'aide.
********************
I really loved this romance, it features 2 heroes who will tell each other their whole lives, their wounds, their dreams... Thinking that they will never see each other again, they are more honest and sincere than with their loved ones. These two beings connect well beyond physical attraction, so much so that they spend the night talking and fall asleep fully clothed.
Of course the next day, they find themselves at the same professional seminar, they both work for competing companies and must each win a contract with the same client.
Nate and Nathalie are both at a pivotal time in their lives when they meet, they don't dare mention it with their friends, so the opportunity to talk openly with a stranger is like a parenthesis in time. They think that, because they won't meet again after this evening, they might as well tell everything. This meeting will also be the starting point for personal and professional questioning. Are Nate and Natalie really in their dream job, are they ready to let go of a story with each other, is there any meaning behind Chad and his half-mermaid half-peanut creature ?...
Yes because it was very serious until now, so let's add a little Chad in this story and shake, we find ourselves with surreal dialogues and absurd situations, which contrasts with the depth of this romance.
I found that the author had described Nate's depressive state well, because make no mistake, this character is falling head first into depression. And it's not Nathalie who's going to get him out of it, but rather help him realize it and that he can ask for help.
- Read as an ARC-
September 26, 2023
This was the stupidest romance I've ever read. True, it's partly because of the two books that came before it. There was a slightly funny bit in the first book about a marketing plan and a few stupid business people, and the second book killed the horse and started beating it. By book three what had been a small dumb bit took over the plot, and the horse was rotten and every time the mernuts or Chad came on the page it was like I was being sprayed with bits of zombie horse detritus. I hate-read the book so that I could properly rant to my bookclub, because it was so dumb.
The corporate espionage plot in all three books is nonsense, isn't funny, and adds nothing to the romance or character development. It takes away from the couples, and what is supposed to be over the top funny is actually dumb. It's not good, and it was barely funny the first time. I was nearly incandescent with rage by the time we got to the stripping lessons scene. I want to sue for emotional damages.
In addition to what some can argue is a matter of taste, because humor is subjective, the book also has some structure problems. The whole basis of Nate and Natalie's relationship is this incredible night where they share their deepest and darkest secrets. And we get to see none of it, despite it coming up multiple times. Imagine if every scene with Chad was instead a flashback to that night as they built intimacy and trust through deep conversation and Chad was dead?
That doesn't even touch the issues with Nate's depression and the careless way it's treated by the other characters and the author. "Falling in love" over a five day period with someone in a depressive episode who's brain is lying to them isn't a basis for a relationship. Especially when it's at a conference far from home. Normally, Smartypants books do a decent job with mental illness rep, but this was not good.
I hated almost everything about this, and if she writes a book about Chad, I will be both disgusted and unsurprised.
The corporate espionage plot in all three books is nonsense, isn't funny, and adds nothing to the romance or character development. It takes away from the couples, and what is supposed to be over the top funny is actually dumb. It's not good, and it was barely funny the first time. I was nearly incandescent with rage by the time we got to the stripping lessons scene. I want to sue for emotional damages.
In addition to what some can argue is a matter of taste, because humor is subjective, the book also has some structure problems. The whole basis of Nate and Natalie's relationship is this incredible night where they share their deepest and darkest secrets. And we get to see none of it, despite it coming up multiple times. Imagine if every scene with Chad was instead a flashback to that night as they built intimacy and trust through deep conversation and Chad was dead?
That doesn't even touch the issues with Nate's depression and the careless way it's treated by the other characters and the author. "Falling in love" over a five day period with someone in a depressive episode who's brain is lying to them isn't a basis for a relationship. Especially when it's at a conference far from home. Normally, Smartypants books do a decent job with mental illness rep, but this was not good.
I hated almost everything about this, and if she writes a book about Chad, I will be both disgusted and unsurprised.
May 8, 2023
Nate Hanover thought he had it all: the job, the girl, the friends, the life. Until he didn't. Everything is falling apart and the last chance he has to pull himself together is this Tele-Con corporate crazy "retreat" where he'll have to pitch his company's services to the Sandeke group. He'll have to do all that while trying to keep the façade that all is well to his best friends, who are also attending this circus. And did that I mention that the ex is there too, and she is his boss now?
Natalie McAllister is in it to win it. No one is going to stand between her and the Sandeke account that will lead to her promotion. But Fate puts Nate on her path. And a night of incredible emotional connection, where they shared their most inner secrets, has her starting to question what she wants in her life. Too bad Nate is the obstacle on her road to success? Or is he?
OMG, I love how Aly Styles writes and how she's able to keep her signature tortured heroes even in a rom com! You fall for Nate immediately. It's clear that he is in a bad place (probably depressed) and Natalie is the one who sees through all the protective walls he has put up. "I'm fine" is his go-to answer and it breaks your heart because you know how much "not fine" he is.
They are amazing together and you root for them because they are just perfect for each other. And they have the swooniest (and longest) one night-stands ever!
This is a complete standalone but if you read Play Smart, you'll catch up with some familiar characters and, yes, the MERNUTS are back! Oh, and we get make strippers! Win win!
A great book that is fun to read while approaching some very important topics like mental health.
Possible triggers: MMC is in a bad place mentally and emotionally
Natalie McAllister is in it to win it. No one is going to stand between her and the Sandeke account that will lead to her promotion. But Fate puts Nate on her path. And a night of incredible emotional connection, where they shared their most inner secrets, has her starting to question what she wants in her life. Too bad Nate is the obstacle on her road to success? Or is he?
OMG, I love how Aly Styles writes and how she's able to keep her signature tortured heroes even in a rom com! You fall for Nate immediately. It's clear that he is in a bad place (probably depressed) and Natalie is the one who sees through all the protective walls he has put up. "I'm fine" is his go-to answer and it breaks your heart because you know how much "not fine" he is.
They are amazing together and you root for them because they are just perfect for each other. And they have the swooniest (and longest) one night-stands ever!
This is a complete standalone but if you read Play Smart, you'll catch up with some familiar characters and, yes, the MERNUTS are back! Oh, and we get make strippers! Win win!
A great book that is fun to read while approaching some very important topics like mental health.
Possible triggers: MMC is in a bad place mentally and emotionally
May 31, 2023
Oh my gosh, I almost had forgotten about Chad and his Mer-Nuts. Lol. This was a wonderful story, and even with all the hilariousness of it, there were some definitely emotional bits as well. The banter between Nate and Natalie is so good. But beyond that they just are so good at communication. Being able to really talk to each other and listen to each other. Except when emotions get in the way of hearing what is being said or realizing the subtext. One thing I love though, is that the characters, once they were alone, realized they had misheard or misinterpreted the previous interaction.
But it was so much more than just what was going on between the two characters romantically, and so much more than just the craziness of the Teleconference. Both characters, especially Nate, had a lot they were dealing with outside of those two things, and it added into the story and made it just as full as I’ve read lately. It wasn’t a long story, but so much depth, and so much humor, it was honestly one of my favorites this year so far.
I also loved getting time with characters we knew from other books in this series, as well as Martin Sandeke’s appearance. Not to mention the characters that were ones as a reader I definitely loved to hate. Martin’s father, Nate’s ex and co-workers, Nat’s co-workers were also people that weren’t great in my book.
Another winner from Aly Stiles, and I hope she keeps writing in this world!
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
But it was so much more than just what was going on between the two characters romantically, and so much more than just the craziness of the Teleconference. Both characters, especially Nate, had a lot they were dealing with outside of those two things, and it added into the story and made it just as full as I’ve read lately. It wasn’t a long story, but so much depth, and so much humor, it was honestly one of my favorites this year so far.
I also loved getting time with characters we knew from other books in this series, as well as Martin Sandeke’s appearance. Not to mention the characters that were ones as a reader I definitely loved to hate. Martin’s father, Nate’s ex and co-workers, Nat’s co-workers were also people that weren’t great in my book.
Another winner from Aly Stiles, and I hope she keeps writing in this world!
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature.
May 18, 2023
When Nate Hanover and Natalie McAllister find themselves drawn to each other at a hotel hosting multiple conferences, they spend the night opening up to one another, thinking they’ll never see each other again.
Then they both walk into the same session at the telecom conference the next day. As regional sales people. For the same region. From competing firms. Both after the same account.
And what a conference it is. The Tele-Con is bonkers, primarily due to the antics of a few key individuals from Sandeke Telecom—the account Nate and Natalie are both chasing.
This one is laugh-out-loud hilarious, and the chemistry between Nate and Natalie is on fire. Aly Stiles strikes a great balance between entertaining and emotional. Readers get to see the emotional intimacy and tenderness between the main characters as well as the humor and steam.
I enjoyed the audiobook version. Narrators Ryan Lee Dunlap and Savannah Gilmore capture the hilarity, the emotion, and the sparks between Nate and Natalie. I listened at 1.5x speed.
I received an advance copy of the audiobook from Smartypants Romance. All review opinions are my own.
Then they both walk into the same session at the telecom conference the next day. As regional sales people. For the same region. From competing firms. Both after the same account.
And what a conference it is. The Tele-Con is bonkers, primarily due to the antics of a few key individuals from Sandeke Telecom—the account Nate and Natalie are both chasing.
This one is laugh-out-loud hilarious, and the chemistry between Nate and Natalie is on fire. Aly Stiles strikes a great balance between entertaining and emotional. Readers get to see the emotional intimacy and tenderness between the main characters as well as the humor and steam.
I enjoyed the audiobook version. Narrators Ryan Lee Dunlap and Savannah Gilmore capture the hilarity, the emotion, and the sparks between Nate and Natalie. I listened at 1.5x speed.
I received an advance copy of the audiobook from Smartypants Romance. All review opinions are my own.
May 18, 2023
Would it be bad to say that the number one reason I was looking forward to this book, was because of a hilarious side characters?
Don’t get me wrong Aly Styles wrote an excellent work related romance, but Chad is one of those characters that you will never forget!
Hilarious and completely goofy, Chad eventually becomes endearing. He brought so much laughter to this book.
Nate and Natalie have this insta lust/love romance, in a gorgeous resort setting, with both of their coworkers trying to convince them to seduce each other. I do love that we had definite villains in this book, and I definitely hated them.
There’s a good balance of angst and hilarious in this book, though I almost had to set the book aside to calm myself down due to the job related angst/anxiety. This part was so well written!
We get to revisit some of our favorite characters, not only from Aly’s books, but from Penny’s too. With a great mental health rep, this was a great end of this series! And don’t worry, that one character might have gotten his HEA along the way too.
Don’t get me wrong Aly Styles wrote an excellent work related romance, but Chad is one of those characters that you will never forget!
Hilarious and completely goofy, Chad eventually becomes endearing. He brought so much laughter to this book.
Nate and Natalie have this insta lust/love romance, in a gorgeous resort setting, with both of their coworkers trying to convince them to seduce each other. I do love that we had definite villains in this book, and I definitely hated them.
There’s a good balance of angst and hilarious in this book, though I almost had to set the book aside to calm myself down due to the job related angst/anxiety. This part was so well written!
We get to revisit some of our favorite characters, not only from Aly’s books, but from Penny’s too. With a great mental health rep, this was a great end of this series! And don’t worry, that one character might have gotten his HEA along the way too.
May 18, 2023
As always Aly Stiles knows how to reach all the emotions, this one is very funny but strong on romance. Nate is a character with struggles and she doesn't shy away from showing them despite the lighthearted nature of the rom-com.
I loved the connection between Nate and Nat, they really understand each other and see the truth behind the words spoken. Their connection is immediate and reaches a deep level almost instantly which continues despite everything against them. Nat is such strong character, I love her trust and honesty and strong morals (and also her snarky humour!)
Who doesn't love Chad, he reaches a whole new level of crazy ideas in this book and it looks like Roger and his team may be on the same wavelength, their scenes had me in stitches.
I loved the connection between Nate and Nat, they really understand each other and see the truth behind the words spoken. Their connection is immediate and reaches a deep level almost instantly which continues despite everything against them. Nat is such strong character, I love her trust and honesty and strong morals (and also her snarky humour!)
Who doesn't love Chad, he reaches a whole new level of crazy ideas in this book and it looks like Roger and his team may be on the same wavelength, their scenes had me in stitches.
May 10, 2023
Full review to come from LitBuzz
Nate and Natalie stole my heart from the get-go. Their Insta-attraction was tampered with their level-headedness but I just loved the fact that their actions spoke louder than their words.
Of course Chad once again stole the show. There’s also fantastic mental health talk and representation, excellent discussions on sex and sexual freedom, and overall another book from Aly Stiles that shouldn’t be missed.
Nate and Natalie stole my heart from the get-go. Their Insta-attraction was tampered with their level-headedness but I just loved the fact that their actions spoke louder than their words.
Of course Chad once again stole the show. There’s also fantastic mental health talk and representation, excellent discussions on sex and sexual freedom, and overall another book from Aly Stiles that shouldn’t be missed.
August 12, 2023
Aly Stiles definitely puts the com in rom com in her books in this series. They’re so fun and completely got me out of a book slump. 4.5 Stars.
May 19, 2023
All the Stars, All the Laughs, All the Feels
Aly Santos has done it yet again. Her top notch humor is only rivaled by her ability to get to the heart of the broken human characters she introduced us to. Through this series we have caught glimpses of Nate here and there as Marcos' and Nash's stories were told. I wasn't prepared to get so invested in him, especially after Nash (it's always the guitarists for me!) but Nate has an irresistible story to tell.
But no review of any of Aly's Smartypants contributions would be complete without mention of Chad and his MerNuts. 🧜♀️🥜 Chad just gets better with every installment. Okay "better" may be a stretch but his weirdness is wonderful. And there had better be more coming because I have to know what becomes of him after his pivotal final scene in this one.
I could hardly put this one down! Now I need to go rehydrate because between laughing myself to tears and wiping angsty tears I'm feeling a bit wrung. And not wanting it to end. Absolutely highest recommendations!
Aly Santos has done it yet again. Her top notch humor is only rivaled by her ability to get to the heart of the broken human characters she introduced us to. Through this series we have caught glimpses of Nate here and there as Marcos' and Nash's stories were told. I wasn't prepared to get so invested in him, especially after Nash (it's always the guitarists for me!) but Nate has an irresistible story to tell.
But no review of any of Aly's Smartypants contributions would be complete without mention of Chad and his MerNuts. 🧜♀️🥜 Chad just gets better with every installment. Okay "better" may be a stretch but his weirdness is wonderful. And there had better be more coming because I have to know what becomes of him after his pivotal final scene in this one.
I could hardly put this one down! Now I need to go rehydrate because between laughing myself to tears and wiping angsty tears I'm feeling a bit wrung. And not wanting it to end. Absolutely highest recommendations!
July 28, 2023
I'm really struggling on how to review this book. On the one hand, I thought the characters, that is the main characters, we're very compelling. I especially appreciated Nate's struggle and how that was portrayed. I also thought the essential premise of the story was also very engaging. Where I struggled was in two areas.
One, the one-dimensionality of some of the side characters became irritating to me. I think partially because there were so many of them and it became challenging to mediate that. In fact about halfway through I ended up skipping to the end and reading the rest of the book backwards or rather in reverse.
Two, while on the one hand I really appreciated or enjoyed the silliness of one of the minor plot points, it too became a bit frustrating after a while. Again, that's just for me and it may simply be that this style of writing is not one of my favorite genres, but I did struggle with that a bit.
I did appreciate the commentary or at least I interpreted it to be a commentary on one popular type of approach to the corporate world.
One, the one-dimensionality of some of the side characters became irritating to me. I think partially because there were so many of them and it became challenging to mediate that. In fact about halfway through I ended up skipping to the end and reading the rest of the book backwards or rather in reverse.
Two, while on the one hand I really appreciated or enjoyed the silliness of one of the minor plot points, it too became a bit frustrating after a while. Again, that's just for me and it may simply be that this style of writing is not one of my favorite genres, but I did struggle with that a bit.
I did appreciate the commentary or at least I interpreted it to be a commentary on one popular type of approach to the corporate world.
May 21, 2023
Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear business causal.
There aren’t many emotions I actually show while reading. I, naturally, am just a more stoic person (…or is it aloof? Maybe both? Whatever. Doesn’t matter,) and that crosses into just about every aspect of my life. So when I sit down and read a book and said book has me laughing loud enough to wake the dog, angry enough to need to pace, and happy enough that I actually smile, it’s gold. This book is a relatable riot. It’s a cocktail of lovable (some confusing) characters, witty banter, office drama, empathy, struggle, and strippers which I easily chugged in 6 hours and would much love a refill of.
Also…Three cheers for the undercover potato walnut! And bring on the lemur thongs!
There aren’t many emotions I actually show while reading. I, naturally, am just a more stoic person (…or is it aloof? Maybe both? Whatever. Doesn’t matter,) and that crosses into just about every aspect of my life. So when I sit down and read a book and said book has me laughing loud enough to wake the dog, angry enough to need to pace, and happy enough that I actually smile, it’s gold. This book is a relatable riot. It’s a cocktail of lovable (some confusing) characters, witty banter, office drama, empathy, struggle, and strippers which I easily chugged in 6 hours and would much love a refill of.
Also…Three cheers for the undercover potato walnut! And bring on the lemur thongs!
May 25, 2023
What a fun audio book to listen to! Nate's life is a mess now he is at a conference where it is do or die for his job. Meeting the amazing Natalie during this time in his life was not a good thing. Soon he learns that he is in competition for the same bid with Natalie. Nate's depression in his life is something we all must be prepared to deal with. Reaching out to friends and family does not mean you are a burden. Seeking help does not make you weak.
I loved these two together!
I loved these two together!
June 25, 2023
Look Smart.
I love the books in this series that are by Aly Stiles. As ever the show is completely stolen by Chad and Reedweather. Their conversations are hilarious.
This romcom needs a Rom to go with the Com and that is provided by Nate and Natalie who are business competitors but feel an instant mutual attraction. It's all going against Natalies rules, and Nate is hiding his own secrets.
I love the books in this series that are by Aly Stiles. As ever the show is completely stolen by Chad and Reedweather. Their conversations are hilarious.
This romcom needs a Rom to go with the Com and that is provided by Nate and Natalie who are business competitors but feel an instant mutual attraction. It's all going against Natalies rules, and Nate is hiding his own secrets.
September 11, 2023
I really enjoyed this, and it was a lovely change to have the MMC be the struggling character.
I loved the quirky humour, and the bizarreness of Chad making a reappearance.
A great addition to the Smartypants Collection.
My only trouble (and it was only a tiny half a star really) was that I couldn't really get into the business talk, and felt myself disconnecting slightly.
But, overall, a fab read!
I loved the quirky humour, and the bizarreness of Chad making a reappearance.
A great addition to the Smartypants Collection.
My only trouble (and it was only a tiny half a star really) was that I couldn't really get into the business talk, and felt myself disconnecting slightly.
But, overall, a fab read!
December 8, 2023
Funny and Deep = A Perfect Love Story
Nate and Natalie come to life because of the beautiful mind of author Aly Stiles. She paints such a moving picture of characters not always comfortable in their own skin, facing fears, feeling for others without accepting how much you need them to feel for you! All of that happens on the pages of Look Smart, along with many tremendous laugh out loud moments. Grab this book now.
Nate and Natalie come to life because of the beautiful mind of author Aly Stiles. She paints such a moving picture of characters not always comfortable in their own skin, facing fears, feeling for others without accepting how much you need them to feel for you! All of that happens on the pages of Look Smart, along with many tremendous laugh out loud moments. Grab this book now.
June 27, 2023
A Fun Conference Romance
I really enjoyed Nate and Natalie's story - I never thought of a romantic comedy taking place at a conference, but it worked and paved the way for some hilarious situations. And at this point, I really want Chad to have his own story because I can't even envision what such a story would be like. Looking forward to more books by Stiles.
I really enjoyed Nate and Natalie's story - I never thought of a romantic comedy taking place at a conference, but it worked and paved the way for some hilarious situations. And at this point, I really want Chad to have his own story because I can't even envision what such a story would be like. Looking forward to more books by Stiles.
August 6, 2023
Story of Natalie and Nate who meet at a conference have a one-night stand which both would like to be more (but struggle with their own issues) until they find out they're rivals.
Nate's got an interesting backstory.
This is a spinoff involving Sandeke Communications and Martin makes a cameo... as does his awful father. The scenes involving Chad are spot on and hilarious.
Nate's got an interesting backstory.
This is a spinoff involving Sandeke Communications and Martin makes a cameo... as does his awful father. The scenes involving Chad are spot on and hilarious.
May 24, 2023
Outstanding!!
Aly totally did it again! This book was hilarious and has one of the best epilogues ever! Thanks for ending how you did! Between mernut mascots and cousin cheese, be prepared to literally laugh out loud as you read this!
Aly totally did it again! This book was hilarious and has one of the best epilogues ever! Thanks for ending how you did! Between mernut mascots and cousin cheese, be prepared to literally laugh out loud as you read this!
June 3, 2023
You guys! I loved this book! It features Nate & Nat, who are rivals at a communications conference competing for a certain client, though they don’t realize that at first.
They are drawn to each other in a way they don’t understand, but are helpless to ignore.
I think Aly did a great job of keeping what could possibly be an angsty story very sweet & light.
Also it should be noted that each interaction with Chad & Reed will have you laughing and scratching your head at how absurd they are. 😂😂
Look Smart has been another great addition to the Smartypants Romance world!
They are drawn to each other in a way they don’t understand, but are helpless to ignore.
I think Aly did a great job of keeping what could possibly be an angsty story very sweet & light.
Also it should be noted that each interaction with Chad & Reed will have you laughing and scratching your head at how absurd they are. 😂😂
Look Smart has been another great addition to the Smartypants Romance world!
June 5, 2023
I really like this author’s style and this book was no different. I adore Nate and Natalie and the competition gives me life. I mean, it's crazy and all but, hey you do what you need to. These two are so perfect together, just made for each other. Heartwarming and beautiful.
June 28, 2023
So funny and heartfull
Nate and Natalie meet of chance and soulful conversations are great, but it was everything else that made me laugh out loud with this book. I'm happy Chad got his happy ending too, he deserved.
Nate and Natalie meet of chance and soulful conversations are great, but it was everything else that made me laugh out loud with this book. I'm happy Chad got his happy ending too, he deserved.
July 2, 2023
Three and a half.
Loved the romance though the Chad ridiculousness is still more annoying than funny. There were a few places in the book that seemed like a thesaurus had gone rogue. (head front? How about face?)
Loved the romance though the Chad ridiculousness is still more annoying than funny. There were a few places in the book that seemed like a thesaurus had gone rogue. (head front? How about face?)
July 18, 2025
I did not like this book and didn't finish it. I could not connect with either character
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